In this conversation, Keltie interviews her colleague and mentor, Merle Bombardieri — author of The Baby Decision, clinical social worker, and parent decision coach — about the decision to have or not have children. You'll hear them discuss: How couples can navigate disagreements on this topic and find a solution that works for both partners. Why there's no obligation to do anything special as a childfree person, and also, many childfree individuals end up doing extraordinary things.  Some of the more recent factors that Merle has seen over her 45-year career, which are making the Kids or Childfree decision more difficult. Tips for addressing a fear of pregnancy and loss of control over one's body during pregnancy and child birth. The societal pressures and expectations surrounding the Kids or Childfree decision — plus guidance on how to navigate these concerns and make an informed choice. Why having one child could be an excellent — yet often-overlooked — option for fence-sitters. The existential questions and mortality that can be stirred up by this decision, and the importance of curiosity and self-trust in the decision-making process.   As mentioned in the show: Find Merle online at thebabydecision.com. Instagram: instagram.com/thebabydecision Facebook: facebook.com/thebabydecision About Merle: Merle Bombardieri, MSW, LICSW, has been a private practice clinical social worker and psychotherapist for over 30 years. She specializes in parenthood decision-making, infertility, adoption, and making the most of a childfree life. The first edition of her book The Baby Decision was published in 1981. She lives in St. Petersburg, Florida, and Peterborough, New Hampshire.  — Join an upcoming Kids or Childfree Workshop here: kidsorchildfree.com/workshop Check out our free resources here, or at kidsorchildfree.com/free-resources And don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Kids or Childfree Podcast if you love what you’re hearing! You can leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, or a rating on Spotify. Find us online at www.kidsorchildfree.com. Instagram: www.instagram.com/kidsorchildfree TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kidsorchildfree