“There's something incredibly dangerous to the status quo about us no longer feeling ashamed for choosing lives that are right for us, and within that choosing to direct our creative life force energy that we all embody into whatever we so choose.” - Ruby Warrington

Today I delve into the complex and often ignored topic of non-motherhood with author Ruby Warrington. Ruby wrote “Women Without Kids” to challenge the prevailing societal narratives surrounding motherhood and unravel the inherent binary thinking that erases the diversity of human relationships and caregiving experiences.

We explore the broad motherhood spectrum, which encompasses women who are unable to have children and those who consciously choose not to. Ruby passionately dissects the harmful effects of pronatalism, an ideology that values parents over non-parents within a colonial capitalist framework.

Throughout our conversation, we emphasize the vital role of non-parents, particularly women, in societal transformation amid the daunting challenges of climate impact and economic collapse. Furthermore, we explore the notion of deviance and shame associated with choosing alternative paths in life and how shedding shame can unleash our creative potential and empower us to challenge the status quo.

Also in this episode:

Ruby Warrington is creator of the term Sober Curious. Author of the 2018 book and million download podcast of the same title, her work has spearheaded a global movement to reevaluate our relationship to alcohol. Other works include Material Girl, Mystical World (2017), The Numinous Astro Deck  (2019), and The Sober Curious Reset (2020). With 20+ years’ experience as a lifestyle journalist and editor, Ruby is known as an astute cultural commentator and true thought leader. She is also the founder of self-publishing incubator Numinous Books. Her new book, Women Without Kids, is out now.

Links:

Ruby’s Website: https://www.rubywarrington.com/

Ruby’s Books: https://www.rubywarrington.com/books/

Women Without Kids Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/women-without-kids/id1642683714

Women without Kids Retreat at Krippalu Center in June https://kripalu.org/presenters-programs/women-without-kids

Get bonus episodes on substack! ⁠⁠https://depthwork.substack.com/⁠⁠

Reclaiming All Parts of You: Healing the Roots of Shame and Insecurity [Free workbook & meditation download] https://witty-creator-9045.ck.page/e89cafda64

Research:

Gateway women, Jody Day https://gateway-women.com/

Regretting Motherhood by Orna Donath https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/552538/regretting-motherhood-by-orna-donath/

Disclaimer: The DEPTH Work Podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Any information on this podcast in no way to be construed or substituted as psychological counseling, psychotherapy, mental health counseling, or any other type of therapy or medical advice.