Childless And Moving Onward

The Unseen Pain of Father’s Day for Women Who Longed to Be a Mom

If you’ve ever felt like holidays shine a spotlight on your grief—this episode is for you.
You’ll hear the honest, heartfelt reflections of Gail Miller, a physician, life coach, and woman who knows the pain of being childless not by choice. Today, she is discussing the often-overlooked challenges that come with Father’s Day.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why Father’s Day can be just as triggering for childless women as Mother’s Day
The hidden challenges of strained relationships, complicated grief, and feeling like an outsider
How to navigate these emotional triggers with self-compassion and boundaries
Practical ways to protect your heart and find moments of peace during the holidays
This conversation is real, vulnerable, and filled with hope. We talk about invisible grief, coping with social expectations, and creating your own path to healing—even when life doesn’t go as planned.
If you’ve ever felt unseen in your pain—or wondered how to get through Father’s Day with your dignity intact—hit play.
This one’s for you.
Subscribe now for real talk, compassion, and hope delivered every Tuesday.
Resources:Finding You: Beyond Motherhood Group Coaching Program coming soon!Join the waitlist: https://path-onward.kit.com/8d4b621a3b Free Support Group: https://pathonward.com/support-group/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whenbeingchildlessisntbychoice/
Stay connected with us:Dr. Gail Miller: https://pathonward.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childlesspathonward/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathonwardlifecoaching Full transcript and more: https://pathonward.com/61-the-unseen-pain-of-fathers-day-for-women-who-longed-to-be-a-mom/

The Power of Community - You're Not Alone with Carrie Brauninger

If you’ve ever felt like the grief of childlessness was too heavy to carry alone—this episode is for you.
You’ll hear the heartfelt journey of Carrie Brauninger, a woman who knows what it’s like to grieve a life without children—and find a way to reclaim meaning and joy.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why building community is essential for healing after childlessness
How Carrie challenged misconceptions about what it means to be childless
The inspiration behind her Sonder Sisterhood
How creativity and support can transform pain into purpose
This conversation is raw, emotional, and deeply uplifting. We talk about grief, finding your people, and rewriting your story—even when life doesn’t go as planned.
If you’ve ever felt alone in your journey—or wondered if you could find joy again—hit play. This one’s for you.
Subscribe now for real talk, compassion, and hope delivered every Tuesday.
More from Carrie Brauninger:Website: www.sondersisterhood.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sondersisterhood Instagram: @sondersisterhood and @theotherpathcoNot Less: An Adult Coloring Book For The Childless Not By Choice Person: https://a.co/d/1riaVzX 
Resources:Finding You: Beyond Motherhood Group Coaching Program coming soon! Join the waitlist: https://path-onward.kit.com/8d4b621a3b Free Support Group: https://pathonward.com/support-group/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whenbeingchildlessisntbychoice/
Stay connected with us:Dr. Gail Miller: https://pathonward.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childlesspathonward/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathonwardlifecoaching Full transcript and more: https://pathonward.com/60-the-power-of-community-youre-not-alone-with-carrie-brauninger/ 

Tell Them to Put the Pity Away and Try Support Instead

If you’ve ever felt the sting of someone’s pity—this episode is for you.
In Episode 59, Dr. Gail Miller gets real about the kind of pity that too often finds its way to women who are childless not by choice. Drawing from her own story, she unpacks why pity—no matter how well-intentioned—can deepen feelings of grief, shame, and isolation.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why true empathy empowers—while pity disconnects
How to protect your peace without explaining or apologizing for your life
Why pity often says more about someone else’s discomfort than your pain
The power of fierce self-compassion in setting boundaries and reclaiming worth
This conversation is thoughtful, validating, and full of empowering insights. We talk about emotional boundaries, reclaiming dignity, and building resilience in the face of misunderstanding.
If you’ve ever wished people would see you instead of feeling sorry for you—hit play.
You deserve to be met with respect, not pity.
Subscribe now for real talk, compassion, and hope delivered every Tuesday.
Resources:Finding You: Beyond Motherhood Group Coaching Program coming soon! Join the waitlist: https://path-onward.kit.com/8d4b621a3b Free Support Group: https://pathonward.com/support-group/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whenbeingchildlessisntbychoice/
Stay connected with us:Dr. Gail Miller: https://pathonward.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childlesspathonward/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathonwardlifecoaching Full transcript and more: ​​https://pathonward.com/59-tell-them-to-put-the-pity-away-and-try-support-instead/ 

Who Ties Your Laces?

If you’ve ever felt judged for a life you didn’t choose—this episode is for you.
In Episode 58, Dr. Gail Miller opens with a quote that hits home: “Don’t let anyone who hasn’t been in your shoes tell you how to tie your laces.” From there, she dives into a powerful conversation about empathy, boundaries, and self-trust for women who are childless not by choice.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How unsolicited advice often invalidates lived experience—and why it matters
The emotional toll of being judged by people who haven’t lived your reality
Why setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s an act of self-preservation
This episode is direct, validating, and full of practical wisdom. We talk about criticism, emotional resilience, and the courage it takes to reclaim your story.
If you’ve ever felt silenced or misunderstood—hit play. You don’t have to explain your life to anyone.
Subscribe now for real talk, compassion, and hope delivered every Tuesday.
 
Resources:Finding You: Beyond Motherhood Group Coaching Program coming soon! Join the waitlist: https://path-onward.kit.com/8d4b621a3b Free Support Group: https://pathonward.com/support-group/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whenbeingchildlessisntbychoice/
Stay connected with us:Dr. Gail Miller: https://pathonward.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childlesspathonward/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathonwardlifecoaching Full transcript and more: https://pathonward.com/58-who-ties-your-laces/ 

Why Do We Need Validation?

If you've ever felt invisible or judged for not having children—this episode is for you.
In this episode, Gail Miller explores how to rebuild your sense of identity and self-worth when life hasn’t followed the path you imagined. In this heartfelt conversation, Gail speaks directly to the unique challenges women face when navigating involuntary childlessness—especially in a world that still defines success by motherhood and traditional family roles.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How to honor your grief while still moving forward
How to develop emotional independence and confidence without children
How you can cultivate a stronger sense of self-worth—without relying on external approval
This episode is empowering, honest, and full of practical support for healing from childlessness. Whether your path was shaped by circumstance, timing, or heartbreak, this space is for you.
If you’re ready to break free from societal judgment and start honoring your story, press play. Let’s move onward—together.
Subscribe now for real talk, compassion, and hope delivered every Tuesday.
Resources:Finding You: Beyond Motherhood Group Coaching Program coming soon! Join the waitlist: https://path-onward.kit.com/8d4b621a3b Free Support Group: https://pathonward.com/support-group/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whenbeingchildlessisntbychoice/
Stay connected with us:Dr. Gail Miller: https://pathonward.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childlesspathonward/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathonwardlifecoaching Full transcript and more: https://pathonward.com/57-why-do-we-need-validation/

Finding Your Way Through the Heartache of Mother's Day

If you dread Mother’s Day and feel like the world forgets your grief—this episode is for you.
Dr. Gail Miller, physician, life coach, and speaker, holds space for the tender emotions that surface during this time of year for women who are childless not by choice. With honesty and warmth, Gail shares her own story and offers gentle guidance for navigating a holiday that can feel both invisible and overwhelming.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
Why Mother’s Day can feel like a spotlight on loss—and how to soften its impact
How feeling your feelings—rather than suppressing them—opens the door to healing
You’re not alone—how shared pain can foster connection and resilience
This conversation is compassionate, grounding, and filled with hope. Gail reminds us that it’s okay to step away, to grieve, and to honor your experience in a way that feels true to you.
If you’re seeking comfort and clarity around this difficult day, you’re not alone. Press play. Let’s move onward—together.
Subscribe now for real talk, compassion, and hope delivered every Tuesday.
Resources:Finding You: Beyond Motherhood Group Coaching Program coming soon! Join the waitlist: https://path-onward.kit.com/8d4b621a3b Free Support Group: https://pathonward.com/support-group/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whenbeingchildlessisntbychoice/
Stay connected with us:Dr. Gail Miller: https://pathonward.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childlesspathonward/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathonwardlifecoaching Full transcript and more:https://pathonward.com/56-finding-your-way-through-the-heartache-of-mothers-day/ 

"I Didn't Take Action”: Unpacking the Complexity of Childless By Circumstance

If you’ve ever silently carried the weight of “I didn’t do enough” on your path to motherhood—this episode is for you.
Dr. Gail Miller explores the complex emotions behind being childless not by choice. In this heartfelt conversation, she sheds light on the quiet grief many women carry—especially those whose path to childlessness was shaped by timing, health struggles, or other life circumstances beyond their control.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
Why the phrase “I didn’t take action” often masks deep pain and societal pressure
The many valid, untold journeys to involuntary childlessness
How to release shame and self-blame, and begin healing
The importance of validating your experience—even when others don’t
This conversation is honest, healing, and deeply human. Gail reminds us that pain doesn’t require permission—and that your experience is valid, no matter how it unfolded.
If you’re ready to let go of the “what ifs” and reclaim your peace, you’ll want to listen in. Let’s move onward—together.
Subscribe now for real talk, compassion, and hope delivered every Tuesday.
Resources:Finding You: Beyond Motherhood Group Coaching Program coming soon! Join the waitlist: https://path-onward.kit.com/8d4b621a3b Free Support Group: https://pathonward.com/support-group/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whenbeingchildlessisntbychoice/
Stay connected with us:Dr. Gail Miller: https://pathonward.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childlesspathonward/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathonwardlifecoaching Full transcript and more: https://pathonward.com/55-i-didnt-take-action-unpacking-the-complexity-of-childless-by-circumstance/

Unapologetically You: Celebrating Life's Unique Achievements

If you’ve ever felt overlooked because your accomplishments don’t fit the traditional mold—listen in.
Dr. Gail Miller, physician, life coach, and speaker, invites us to reconsider what it means to celebrate ourselves—especially as women who are childless not by choice. In a world that often measures success by marriage and motherhood, Gail offers a new lens—one that honors personal growth, resilience, and the quiet victories that rarely get acknowledged.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
Why recognizing your own milestones matters—emotionally and physically
How celebration can shift your self-worth and sense of identity
Ways to reclaim your joy, even when society overlooks your path
This conversation is empowering, affirming, and full of gentle reminders that your journey is worthy of celebration.
If you’re ready to start honoring your life exactly as it is—you’ll want to tune in. Let’s keep moving onward—together.
Subscribe now for real talk, compassion, and hope delivered every Tuesday.
Resources:Finding You: Beyond Motherhood Group Coaching Program coming soon! Join the waitlist: https://path-onward.kit.com/8d4b621a3b Free Support Group: https://pathonward.com/support-group/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whenbeingchildlessisntbychoice/
Stay connected with us:Dr. Gail Miller: https://pathonward.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childlesspathonward/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathonwardlifecoaching Full transcript and more: https://pathonward.com/54-unapologetically-you-celebrating-lifes-unique-achievements/ 

Unwanted Opportunity for Renewal; What if You’re Not Ready?

If you’ve ever wondered how to begin again when life hasn’t gone the way you imagined—this episode is for you.  
Dr. Gail Miller, physician, life coach, and speaker, explores what renewal really looks like for women without children. Drawing from her own experience and the stories she’s heard along the way, Gail dives deep into the emotional terrain of invisible grief, unmet expectations, and the courage it takes to reimagine your future.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How to move through grief when society doesn’t always acknowledge it
Why self-compassion is the foundation of any fresh start
How to approach the idea of renewal 
This conversation is tender, validating, and full of hope. We talk about loss, identity, healing—and the power of choosing yourself, again and again.
If you’re ready to step into a new chapter, you’ll want to hear this. Hit play. Let’s move onward—together.
Subscribe now for real talk, compassion, and hope delivered every Tuesday.
Resources:Finding You: Beyond Motherhood Group Coaching Program coming soon! Join the waitlist: https://path-onward.kit.com/8d4b621a3b Free Support Group: https://pathonward.com/support-group/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whenbeingchildlessisntbychoice/
Stay connected with us:Dr. Gail Miller: https://pathonward.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childlesspathonward/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathonwardlifecoaching Full transcript and more: https://pathonward.com/53-unwanted-opportunity-for-renewal-what-if-youre-not-ready/ 

Childless and Coping: When Soothing Hurts More Than It Heals with Maureen Benkovich

If you've ever felt like you're carrying unseen grief—this episode is for you.
You'll hear the raw, powerful story of Maureen Benkovich, a former pharmaceutical sales rep turned life coach, who knows what it’s like to quietly grieve the life you imagined—and try to numb that pain with alcohol.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
What gray area drinking is and how it holds you back from healing
How Maureen coped with multiple miscarriages and the heartbreak of a failed adoption
The benefits Maureen found from support groups
The surprising role of self-compassion, gratitude, and neuroplasticity in healing
This conversation is honest, emotional, and deeply empowering. We talk about invisible grief, addiction, rebuilding your identity, and finding joy even when life doesn’t go as planned.
If you’ve ever felt alone in your pain—or wondered if things could ever feel better—hit play. This one’s for you.
Subscribe now for real talk, compassion, and hope delivered every Tuesday.
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More from Maureen Benkovich:Website: https://www.soberfitchick.com/ Schedule a free discovery call: https://calendly.com/soberfitchick/45min?month=2025-04 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soberfitchickllc/ 
Resources:Living the Life Unexpected by Jody Day: https://www.amazon.com/Living-Life-Unexpected-Meaningful-Fulfilling/dp/1509809031 Free Support Group: https://pathonward.com/support-group/Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/whenbeingchildlessisntbychoice/Finding You: Beyond Motherhood Group Coaching Program coming soon! Join the waitlist: https://path-onward.kit.com/8d4b621a3b 
Stay connected with us:Dr. Gail Miller: https://pathonward.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/childlesspathonward/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pathonwardlifecoaching Full transcript and more: https://pathonward.com/52-childless-and-coping-when-soothing-hurts-more-than-it-heals-with-maureen-benkovich/