In this heartfelt solo episode of By Chance, Elizabeth opens up about the tender reality of being in an emotional in-between space. She had a different topic planned—but instead, she chose to show up exactly as she is. No sugarcoating. No pretending. Just real talk about the loneliness, the inner questioning, and the quiet doubts that surface in the messy middle of life. If you’ve been feeling a little off lately or wondering if you’re doing enough, this episode is here to remind you: you are not alone.

You’ll hear:

• Why life doesn’t always feel like sunshine and joy, even after beautiful experiences
• What it means to let things be messy instead of trying to fix them
• How emotional fog and creative burnout show up (and how to name it)
• The reality of working from home, running a business, and feeling isolated
• What small rituals can ground you during tough seasons
• Why rest, prayer, and gentle self-compassion matter more than ever
• A loving reminder that this, too, shall pass

Connect with Elizabeth:

IG: @bychanceavenue

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Mentioned in this episode:

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

In today's episode, Elizabeth shares a powerful reflection that surfaced during a recent tapping meditation. As she continues to embrace the transitions of midlife and the complexities of a child-free path, she opens up about the subtle yet profound fears many may carry—ones that often go unspoken. From the fear of being alone to wondering about legacy, invisibility, and connection, Elizabeth gives these emotions a voice in hopes of releasing their quiet grip and creating space for peace, clarity, and possibility.

What you’ll learn:

• What tapping meditation is and why it’s especially powerful for emotional release
• The surprising fears that surfaced around being child-free
• How acknowledging quiet fears can shift your mindset
• Why giving language to internal emotions can help you move forward
• The beauty of redefining completeness and fulfillment

Questions answered in this episode:

• What is tapping meditation (EFT) and how does it work?
• How do subconscious fears impact healing and growth?
• What kinds of fears are common for women navigating life without children?
• Can naming your fears really change how you feel?
• What does a meaningful, child-free life look like beyond the traditional narrative?

Connect with Elizabeth:

IG: @bychanceavenue

Stay connected & up to date with all things By Chance

Want to share your story? Apply to be a guest!

Mentioned in this episode:

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

Elizabeth's husband Victor joins her behind the mic in this episode to share highlights from their recent cruise through the beautiful Croatia! From the stunning Adriatic coastline to meaningful conversations with new friends, this episode is a heartfelt reflection and reminder of what it means to explore the world as a childless couple, the immense and healing joy of intentional travel, and the unexpected comfort of meeting others on similar paths. With laughter, gratitude, and a few noodles in tow, they recount how Croatia exceeded all expectations.

What you’ll learn:

• How small-group travel fosters deeper, more intimate connections
• What it’s like to travel with friends as a couple without children
• Reflections on aging, activity, and redefining the future as a childless-by-chance couple
• The power of meeting like-minded travelers from around the world
• Why shoulder-season travel is often the best-kept secret
• Balancing group dynamics with personal exploration on a cruise
• How travel has shifted from an escape to a source of healing and perspective
• Emotional takeaways from spontaneous connections, including with another childless woman
• The benefits of traveling with parents who don’t center every conversation on their kids
• Why Croatia’s natural and historical beauty left such a lasting impact

Questions answered in this episode:

• What makes a small cruise ideal for couples without children?
• How does travel look different when you’re childless by chance?
• What’s it like to travel with friends who are parents but still prioritize adventure?
• How can travel help you process grief, growth, and purpose?
• What does Croatia offer that surprised Elizabeth and Victor the most?

Connect with Elizabeth:

IG: @bychanceavenue

Stay connected & up to date with all things By Chance

Want to share your story? Apply to be a guest!

Mentioned in this episode:

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

In this episode, Elizabeth shares how she is navigating life after the hard parts—the grief, the waiting, the heaviness. She opens up about the subtle, messy, and deeply personal process of moving forward, not through radical reinvention, but by embracing curiosity, rest, joy, and simplicity. Elizabeth offers a gentle, encouraging reminder that healing doesn't have to be linear, and the next chapter doesn't need a title yet.

What you'll learn:

• Why moving forward doesn’t have to be a grand transformation
• How to embrace joy without guilt after seasons of grief or waiting
• The power of curiosity in rediscovering yourself
• Why redefining yourself is a continuous, evolving process
• Simple, meaningful ways to reconnect with your authentic self
• How to find peace in the “in-between” seasons of life

Questions answered in this episode:

• What does it mean to move forward when you’re no longer in survival mode?
• How can we navigate the “waiting room” phase of life without losing ourselves?
• What does joy look like when it's no longer tied to achievement or productivity?
• How can we build a life that acknowledges loss without being defined by it?
• What if we don’t know what the next big chapter looks like yet?

Connect with Elizabeth:

IG: @bychanceavenue

Stay connected & up to date with all things By Chance

Want to share your story? Apply to be a guest!

Mentioned in this episode:

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

In part two of this powerful virtual fireside chat, Elizabeth Tiglao-Guss welcomes back a heartfelt conversation with an inspiring panel of women navigating the complexities of May—especially around Mother’s Day. With honesty and grace, they explore the many emotions that come with infertility, loss, and living a childless life. Together, they share rituals, creative practices, and wisdom about honoring their stories, identities, and emotions during triggering seasons. This episode is a compassionate reminder that you’re not alone—and your path forward matters.

What you’ll learn:

• Ways to reframe and personalize the meaning of Mother’s Day
• How creativity and journaling can support grief and healing
• How boundaries help protect emotional energy during triggering times
• What it means to explore labels like “childless” and “child-free”
• How community—virtual or local—creates powerful solidarity
• Suggestions for what to do with old IVF supplies or baby items
• Why it’s okay to “lurk” in support groups before you’re ready to share
• How to gently hold multiple emotions at once: grief and joy
• Real talk on when (and how) to consider ending the fertility journey
• Personal practices and rituals to reclaim joy and calm

Questions answered in this episode:

• How do you redefine May and Mother’s Day when they’re emotionally difficult?
• What does it look like to give yourself space and permission to feel?
• How can you use creative expression—like writing, cooking, or coloring—to heal?
• What do I do with leftover IVF medications and supplies?
• How do I know when it’s time to stop trying to conceive?
• Is it okay to change my mind about my path forward?
• Why does language like “child-free” or “childless” matter to some people?
• Where can I find community if I feel alone in this experience?
• How do we keep showing up for ourselves through grief and growth?

Connect with Elizabeth:

IG: @bychanceavenue

Stay connected & up to date with all things By Chance

Want to share your story? Apply to be a guest!

Connect with the Guests:

Kathleen Guthrie Woods

• Website: KathleenGuthrieWoods.com
• Instagram: @kathleenguthriewoods
• Book: The Mother of All Dilemmas (Available on Amazon)

Carrie:

• Instagram: @bloomingwithcare
• TikTok: @bloomingwithcare
• Website & Newsletter: bloomingwithcare.com

Samantha De Cosmo:

• Instagram: @sam.decosmo
• Blog: apurposeinpain.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

In this special live fireside chat, Elizabeth Tiglao-Guss hosts a raw, heartfelt conversation with three remarkable women—Kathleen Guthrie Woods, Carrie, and Sam—as they explore life without children and the unique grief, healing, and freedom that accompany this journey. Set intentionally around Mother's Day and Mental Health Awareness Month, this episode offers deep validation, honest storytelling, and a powerful reminder: you are not alone. Whether you are grieving, redefining, or simply seeking community, this space welcomes all.

What you'll learn:

• The nuances of identifying as childless, child-free, or neither—and why language matters
• Why honoring your grief is key to reclaiming joy and agency
• The challenges and misconceptions around adoption and IVF
• How Mother’s Day can feel for those without children—and ideas for creating new rituals
• How creativity (writing, cooking, coloring, and more) can become powerful tools for healing
• Tips for setting boundaries and practicing self-compassion during emotional milestones

Questions answered in this episode:

• What does it mean to be “childless by chance, not by choice”?
• How can I cope with triggering comments like “just adopt” or “you’ll change your mind”?
• Is there a “right time” to stop pursuing parenthood? How do I know?
• What should I do with IVF supplies or baby items after loss?
• How can I support myself (or others) during Mother’s Day or similar grief triggers?

Connect with Elizabeth:

IG: @bychanceavenue

Stay connected & up to date with all things By Chance

Want to share your story? Apply to be a guest!

Connect with the Guests:

Kathleen Guthrie Woods

• Website: KathleenGuthrieWoods.com
• Instagram: @kathleenguthriewoods
• Book: The Mother of All Dilemmas (Available on Amazon)

Carrie:

• Instagram: @bloomingwithcare
• TikTok: @bloomingwithcare
• Website & Newsletter: bloomingwithcare.com

Samantha De Cosmo:

• Instagram: @sam.decosmo
• Blog: apurposeinpain.com

Mentioned in this episode:

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

In this deeply personal and heartfelt episode, Elizabeth Tiglao-Guss continues the conversation around National Infertility Awareness Week by sharing her own untold story. She speaks directly to those whose journeys didn’t end with a miracle baby, shedding light on the physical, emotional, and mental toll of infertility treatments and the often invisible aftermath. Elizabeth offers powerful reminders that healing looks different for everyone and that every story, no matter the ending, is worthy and whole.

What you'll learn:

• The emotional and physical aftermath of infertility treatments
• How long-term hormone treatments can impact mental and physical health
• The ongoing healing journey after unsuccessful fertility treatments
• The importance of reconnecting with your body post-trauma
• How small daily choices can support physical and emotional healing
• Why it's critical to honor grief and healing, even without a "happy ending"
• Ways to show yourself grace, even when healing feels messy
• How to listen to your body with gentleness instead of shame
• Simple practices to begin rebuilding a compassionate relationship with your body
• Why your story still matters, even if it doesn’t fit traditional narratives

Questions answered in this episode:

• What happens to your body and mental health after years of infertility treatments?
• How can you start healing after reproductive trauma?
• Why don’t we hear more about the physical aftermath of infertility?
• How can small, simple daily practices support deep healing?
• How can you move forward when you feel disconnected from your body?
• What does it mean to love your body again after loss?

Connect with Elizabeth:

IG: @bychanceavenue

Stay connected & up to date with all things By Chance

Want to share your story? Apply to be a guest!

Mentioned in this episode:

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, host Elizabeth Tiglao-Guss sits down with her longtime friend Jenny Tsa for a deeply personal dialogue on infertility, identity, and cultural expectations. Jenny opens up for the first time about her journey through career-driven stress, shifting family plans, and how she came to peace with a life without children. Together, they explore how honoring your story—even when it doesn’t go as planned—can be a radical act of self-love and healing, especially within the Asian community.

What you'll learn:

• The impact of chronic stress on fertility and hormonal health
• How cultural expectations around motherhood affect Asian women
• The emotional evolution from “childless by choice” to “childless by chance”
• Why adopting a broader perspective on life paths can bring peace
• How freedom, travel, and self-defined success can be sources of fulfillment

Questions answered in this episode:

• How does high stress in demanding careers affect a woman’s body and fertility?
• What is it like to navigate infertility within a culture that values silence and family continuation?
• Can you find peace and fulfillment without children in a family-oriented culture?
• How do you process grief and acceptance when your life takes an unexpected turn?

Connect with Jenny:

Website: jennytsa.com

Connect with Elizabeth:

IG: @bychanceavenue

Stay connected & up to date with all things By Chance

Want to share your story? Apply to be a guest!

In this episode, Elizabeth shares a message from the heart—recorded on a day she didn’t feel like showing up, but did anyway. It’s a powerful reminder that you don’t have to be perfectly inspired or put together to be worthy of showing up for yourself.

Whether you’re moving through grief, menopause, fatigue, or emotional healing, this episode gives you permission—to rest, to feel, to slow down, to redefine your path, and most of all, to be human.

What you'll hear:

• Why your worth isn't tied to your productivity, progress, or energy levels
• How to offer yourself grace and permission slips in seasons of healing
• That you can feel joy and grief—at the same time
• Practical, compassionate reminders that help you honor where you are, not where you think you should be
• That moving slowly doesn’t mean you’re not moving at all—and you are absolutely not behind

Connect with Elizabeth:

IG: @bychanceavenue

Stay connected & up to date with all things By Chance

Want to share your story? Apply to be a guest!

Mentioned in this episode:

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

In this deeply moving episode, Elizabeth sits down with fertility care practitioner and founder of Woven Natural Fertility Care, Caitlin Estes With a master of divinity and years of experience supporting women, Caitlin shares her heartfelt approach to understanding and honoring a woman’s cycle—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

This conversation touches on infertility, grief, hormonal imbalance, and the quiet courage it takes to move forward without children. Caitlyn’s compassionate wisdom offers a gentle reminder: You are worthy of healing, care, and joy—no matter where you are on your journey.

Caitlin Estes is a Certified FertilityCare Practitioner and owner of Woven Natural Fertility Care. After completing her Master of Divinity degree, the Lord called her to surprising work -- fertility education -- and he's continued to show up ever since. When not educating women, she enjoys hiking, cross stitching, and traveling with her family.

What you'll hear:

• What fertility awareness methods are and how they can empower you—even if you’re no longer trying to conceive
• Why understanding your cycle is crucial to your overall health, not just for pregnancy
• How to reconnect with your body after infertility or loss
• The power of faith, grief, and grace in the healing process
• Why you’re still whole and worthy, regardless of motherhood
• A fresh, loving perspective on menopause, purpose, and life beyond the dream of having children

Connect with Caitlin:

Instagram

Youtube

Substack

Connect with Elizabeth:

IG: @bychanceavenue

Stay connected & up to date with all things By Chance

Want to share your story? Apply to be a guest!

Mentioned in this episode:

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.

Whether you’re in the thick of grief or finally starting to feel like yourself again, there’s a name for where you are and a roadmap waiting for you.