What happens when you create something and it exceeds your expectations while raising completely new questions?

In this solo episode, Emily reflects on the first year of Curious Life of a Childfree Woman. She shares what it's been like to host a childfree podcast, how the show has exceeded her expectations, and the questions that have emerged along the way. Emily discusses the problem she thought she was solving when she started the show versus what people assumed she was creating, and why finding the balance between exploring varied topics and maintaining a childfree perspective has been more challenging than expected.

Emily offers an honest conversation about the uncertainties that still exist, whether every guest should be childfree or if expertise should take priority, and what it means to create something meaningful in a world overstuffed with content. She asks for listener input on how to refine the show going forward while staying true to the core mission of curiosity, connection, and providing a space where parenthood isn't part of the conversation.

Ultimately, this is a reminder that honesty and transparency matter more than polished professionalism, and that building community means asking questions together rather than pretending to have all the answers.

Key Takeaways:

• The original problem was creating space without parenting talk: Emily wanted a place to explore interesting topics where parenting wouldn't dominate the conversation, making content more relatable for childfree listeners.

• The show isn't about telling childfree stories exclusively: While childfree is one layer of identity, the goal is to explore varied topics from a childfree perspective rather than making every episode about being childfree.

• The sweet spot is harder to define than expected: Finding the balance between holding space for the childfree perspective without limiting conversations to one identity has been challenging to communicate.

• Should expertise or childfree status take priority: Emily questions whether every guest should be childfree or if having the best expert on a topic matters more, even if they happen to be a parent.

• Community input shapes the show's future: Rather than presenting a polished plan, Emily asks listeners for feedback on what they've lacked or craved in the podcast space as childfree women.

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We're bringing the podcast into the real world with our first ever in-person event! An evening of curiosity and conversation hosted in downtown Chicago, February 19th, 2026. Picture an intimate dinner party stacked with speakers, all guests from some of your favorite episodes, and space to make new childfree friends. Seats are limited so you can read all the details and get your ticket by visiting https://www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com/2026-event

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Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.

Learn more about Emily at: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com

Connect on Instagram: @curiouslifeofachildfreewoman

Join the Curious Life Club on Substack @curiouslifeofachildfreewoman