What does it mean to choose a childfree path and still feel deeply connected to the next generation? And how can ancient practices like astrology, tarot, and archetypal healing help us navigate uncertainty, fulfillment, and purpose?

In this episode, Emily Paulsen speaks with Fiona Hillery, astrologer, tarot reader, Feng Shui alchemist, and founder of Esoteric Empowerment. Fiona’s work has guided everyone from Fortune 500 leaders to everyday seekers toward greater clarity, resilience, and empowerment by using esoteric tools not as fortune-telling tricks, but as frameworks for growth.

Their conversation explores Fiona’s own “dark night of the soul” that led her from the corporate media world into spiritual practice, how astrology and tarot can serve as blueprints for both self-awareness and business strategy, and why she believes embracing the “Auntie” archetype is a powerful, affirming path for childfree women. Together they unpack the ways cultural narratives, backlash, and archetypes shape how women define themselves—and how curiosity, intuition, and community can offer another way forward.

This episode is for anyone curious about living with greater alignment, exploring childfree identity through new lenses, or learning how ancient tools can empower modern decisions—in life, business, and beyond.

Key Takeaways

• The power of initiation: A “dark night of the soul” often serves as a catalyst, stripping away what no longer aligns and opening the door to deeper soul truths.

• Astrology as blueprint: Beyond horoscopes, astrology provides a personalized map for gifts, challenges, and timing—meeting people where they are without bypassing the work.

• Tools for clarity: Tarot and astrology aren’t about predicting the future but helping individuals reconnect with inner wisdom and navigate uncertainty with more confidence.

• The Auntie archetype: Choosing not to have children doesn’t exclude nurturing roles—being an aunt (by blood or chosen family) can offer fulfillment, connection, and community impact.

• Business applications: Esoteric practices can foster empathy, collaboration, and even revenue growth when applied to leadership, team dynamics, and decision-making.

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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

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The guest on this episode, Fiona Hillery, is an intuitive consultant, spiritual writer, and conscious communications executive, currently serving as VP of Brand Communications at HigherDOSE. A world-weaver blending mysticism with modern life, she’s contributed to The Cut, Coveteur, Refinery29, and Vice, while guiding thousands of clients, from Hollywood celebrities to Fortune 500 CEOs, with her tarot and astrology readings.

Connect with Fiona:

Website: www.esoteric-empowerment.com

Instagram: @fiona.hillery