29. Merle Bombardieri, MSW, LICSW on Navigating The Baby Decision

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 childbirth.
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: thebabydecision
Facebook: 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.
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[@LiamODonovan-l6e]

Childfree people will always be valid. You are always interesting. I love your videos