Episodes

4d ago

Welcome back to the Regretful Parents series. This week, Erika and Kristen read and react to a post from the Regretful Parents subreddit titled “Feel Like I’ve Ruined My Life.” Spoiler alert: he kind of has. A 29-year-old man agrees to an ultimatum — have a baby before 30 or never — and now finds himself exhausted, resentful, intimacy-deprived, and being pressured for more kids he absolutely does not want. The hosts break down the red flags, the insanity of reproductive ultimatums, and why choosing hypothetical future children over your actual partner is… deeply unwell behavior. Along the way, they discover one of the smartest parenting arrangements they’ve ever seen, question why people keep doing this to themselves, and remind everyone (once again) that ultimatums are not love. Topics include: Reproductive ultimatums 🚩 Regret after agreeing to parenthood Why “one and done” is a complete sentence A surprisingly genius split-parenting strategy And yet another reminder to PLEASE use your brain 🔗 Find everything we do at DinkyPod.com 💸 Support us on Patreon (emotionally, financially, spiritually) And as always: don’t get pregnant. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Dec 16

We're sitting down with Rachael Eckles. In this conversation, Rachael shares her journey to becoming child-free, her career evolution from law and bioethics to fiction writing, and her advocacy for women's health. She discusses the impact of her education and health experiences on her life choices, the importance of diverse voices in publishing, and her desire to empower women through her writing and publishing platform. Rachael Eckles discusses her journey as an independent author and publisher, emphasizing the importance of providing access to publishing for others. She shares her experiences in building Aphrodite Books, her motivations for writing, and the impact of her childfree lifestyle on her creative process. Rachael also highlights the significance of empowering diverse voices in literature and the freedom to choose one's own path in life. Connect with Rachael on Instagram Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode — it helps people find the show! Merch is here!!! Get your merch NOW! Erika is taking a group of childfree travelers to VIETNAM — and it’s an artsy adventurer's dream itinerary! Buy your tickets while they last. Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack , Instagram , TikTok , and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Dec 11

In this episode, Erika and Kristen dive into a jaw-dropping Reddit post titled “I Am A Roller Coaster Of Regret And Acceptance.” From religious guilt to missed abortions, dating struggles as a single parent, and the crushing realities of living with family, this story sparks one of our most chaotic discussions yet. We unpack: Why people banking on miscarriage is not a life plan The real statistics about pregnancy loss How religion traps people — especially women — in unwanted parenthood Why telling single parents to “just make more money” is useless advice The myth of “plenty of good men who will raise your kid” Dating with kids and the harsh math of shrinking romantic options What realistic support actually looks like for regretful parents Why child support and 50/50 custody are not as simple as Reddit makes it sound How societal expectations sabotage women’s independence Plus: Erika threatens to hand out abortions like Oprah gives out cars Kristen Googles miscarriage stats mid-episode Speculation on whether these Reddit commenters are bots A brief detour into Europe trips, face masks, and alleged co-host hatred A public reminder: STOP GETTING PREGNANT Perfect for listeners who: Are childfree or childfree-curious Love dark humor, honesty, and chaos Want a realistic look at the consequences of accidental parenthood Enjoy commentary on Reddit’s wildest regret-parent stories 💬 Have a regretful parent story? Email us at dinky@dinkypod.com — we might read yours on a future episode. ✈️ Want to travel with us? Check out upcoming trips at dinkypod.com. 🎧 Listen or watch more of Dinky Find us on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. 👉 Join our Patreon for bonus episodes, unfiltered commentary, and exclusive trip info. Final reminder: Don’t. Get. Pregnant. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Dec 4

In today’s Regretful Parents episode, Erika and Kristen dive into a viral story from the I Regret Having Children Facebook page — and this time, it’s not a confession but a financial horror story. An Ohio mom’s TikTok exploded online after revealing the NICU bill for her premature quadruplets: $4.04 million. Erika and Kristen unpack the wild reality of childbirth costs in America, why one medical complication can financially ruin a family overnight, and how unpredictable — and brutally expensive — pregnancy and birth can be. Inside this episode: • A NICU bill for quadruplets that hit $4 million • Why childbirth and complications are financially catastrophic in the U.S. • Parents of twins facing $11 million in NICU charges • How insurance actually works (and doesn’t) for medically complex births • Hidden hospital costs, nonsense itemized charges & billing scams • Why “just have kids” ignores medical and financial reality • The emotional toll of raising premature or medically fragile infants • Why the childfree movement keeps gaining traction • The fear, uncertainty, and chaos behind “miracle baby” stories • Why influencers oversimplify parenthood into “children are a blessing” • U.S. healthcare vs. Europe’s systems — and who ends up paying 📌 FOLLOW US Instagram & TikTok: @dinkypod Trips, events, and childfree meetups: DinkyPod.com Thanks, Dink Squad — and remember: don’t get pregnant. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Dec 2

Today we are joined by the hilarious Liza Treyger, otherwise known as Glitter Cheese on social media. Liza is a comedian you may know from Netflix’s The Degenerates and Survival of the Thickest or her hit podcast That’s Messed Up: An SVU Podcast , where she dives deep into Law & Order episodes, true crime, and pop culture. She’s hilarious and if you love Dinky, you’ll love Liza. Connect with Liza on Instagram. Merch is here ! \Erika is taking a group of childfree travelers to VIETNAM — and it’s an artsy adventurer's dream itinerary! ONLY 12 SEATS REMAIN AT TIME OF PUBLICATION! Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack , Instagram , TikTok , and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Nov 27

Welcome back to our Regretful Parents series. In this episode, Kristen and Erika react to a Reddit post titled “ Motherhood Has Been Hell As An Anxious Person ,” where an overwhelmed mom explains how becoming a parent completely destroyed her mental health, sleep, and sense of stability. This is one of the most honest Reddit parenting stories we’ve covered. Before having kids, the original poster felt her anxiety was under control. She had routines, sleep, self-care, time for exercise, friendships, and a stable lifestyle. But motherhood brought sleep deprivation, overstimulation, constant responsibility, and the loss of basic personal freedom. Her anxiety returned with a vengeance, leaving her controlling, exhausted, and unable to maintain her own mental or physical health. We discuss: • What happens when anxious people become parents • Sleep deprivation and the mental health collapse it can cause • The myth that motherhood is always fulfilling or “worth it” • Why self-care is not selfish, especially for parents • How societal pressure pushes people to have kids they aren’t prepared for • The fear of being labeled selfish for prioritizing mental health • Why so many parents feel regret but cannot say it out loud • Neurodivergence, overstimulation, and sensory overload in parenting • How childfree people often avoid these struggles by choice If you’re exploring the childfree lifestyle, questioning parenthood, managing anxiety, or looking for honest conversations about modern parenting, this episode dives into the real challenges parents face—but aren’t allowed to talk about. More episodes and resources: DinkyPod.com Follow us on Instagram and TikTok: @dinkypod Join our childfree community and group trips at DinkyPod.com Patreon for weekly bonus episodes and ad-free content: patreon.com/dinkypod Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 00:17 Why anxiety and motherhood often collide 02:00 How sleep deprivation destroys mental health 05:00 The motherhood myth and societal pressure 07:00 Why parents don’t expect the loss of freedom 10:00 Self-care vs. “selfishness” 13:00 Neurodivergence and sensory overload 18:00 The fear of constant danger 20:00 Final thoughts Keywords: motherhood anxiety, anxious mom, regretting motherhood, regretful parents, parenting burnout, sleep deprivation mom, overwhelmed mom, childfree by choice, should I have kids, mental health and parenting, Reddit stories, Dinky Pod, Kristen and Erika, parenting regret, motherhood expectations, anxious parents, overstimulation parenting Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Nov 20

Welcome back to another episode in our Regretful Parents series — where we dive deep into stories from the Regretful Parents subreddit. Today’s post comes from a woman who is 7 weeks pregnant, spiraling with anxiety, and realizing she may not actually want a baby — even though her husband does. She’s 35, terrified of change, and suddenly questioning everything. In this episode, we talk about: ✨ Fear-based pregnancies and panic spirals ✨ Pressure from partners who want kids ✨ Why “children are funny” is NOT a reason to reproduce ✨ Abortion, guilt, intuition, and regret ✨ Why parenthood is a lifetime contract you cannot return ✨ The hard truth: You can divorce your husband… you cannot divorce your child If you're childfree, childfree-curious, or just fascinated by the realities people rarely talk about, this episode is for you. 🎧 LISTEN TO THE PODCAST: Want more than just the heavy stuff? Our Dinky Pod podcast dives into travel, comedy, interviews, astrology, politics, and all things childfree life. Search Dinky wherever you get your podcasts. 💬 LET’S CONNECT: Instagram, TikTok, YouTube — @DinkyPod 👇 Tell us in the comments: What would you do in her situation? #regretfulparents #redditstories #childfree #childfreebychoice #parentregret #childfreewomen #unexpectedpregnancy #abortionstories #relationshipadvice #pregnancyregret #redditreadings #dinkypod Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Nov 18

This episode’s returning guest is Maggie Dickens, licensed therapist and the host of Unapologetically Childfree. Maggie’s built an incredible space for childfree women who are done holding it all together for everyone else and ready to feel as supported as everyone else. She’s got a mix of therapy smarts, real talk, and a calming energy that makes you want to exhale and finally stop carrying everyone’s emotional baggage. In this episode, Maggie joins to talk through how to stop being the entire village and do it guilt-free. And today, just in time for the holidays, she’s sharing some strategies to regulate your nervous system. Connect with Maggie on Instagram. SMALL BUSINESS OF THE WEEK: Contact Taylor of Oxley Consulting Services for support in building personalized administrative solutions to help you make real progress in your life + in your business. Merch is here !!! New Dinky trip alert!! Erika is taking a group of childfree travelers to VIETNAM — and it’s an artsy adventurer's dream itinerary! Buy your tickets while they last. Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack , Instagram , TikTok , and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Nov 13

Welcome back our Regretful Parents series! In this episode, Erika and Kristen react to a viral Reddit post from a parent who openly regrets having kids — and his reasons why will make your jaw drop. From religious guilt and peer pressure to capitalism and walkable cities, this conversation breaks down why so many parents are speaking out about regret, exhaustion, and the myth of “the village.” We dive into: The viral Reddit post titled “For the ones lurking and seeking answers” Why some people regret having kids — and what they wish they’d known The impact of religion, social pressure, and capitalism on family planning The myth of “it takes a village” and what parents actually need: money, services, and walkable cities Why billionaires and late-stage capitalism are part of the parenting crisis GET MORE: Find us on YouTube Follow us on Instagram & TikTok: @dinkypod Join our community: Find childfree friends, connect with other fence-sitters, and join our next trip at dinkypod.com . Timestamps: 00:00 Intro – The “Regretful Parents” series 00:21 The viral Reddit post 01:00 The “sex drive” rant 03:00 Religion, guilt, and regret 05:00 “You need a village” vs “You need services” 06:00 Capitalism, billionaires, and burnout 08:00 Dinky Pod community & Patreon Keywords: regretful parents, childfree podcast, childfree lifestyle, should I have kids, parent regret, Reddit parenting, childfree women, childfree couples, religious guilt parenting, capitalism parenting crisis, late stage capitalism, Dinky Pod, Erika and Kristen, fence sitters, walkable cities parenting Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Nov 6

Select Regretful Parents episodes are being uploaded to the podcast feed — to watch the full series, visit Dinky Podcast on our YouTube! Welcome back to our Regretful Parents series, where hosts Erika and Kristen read and react to posts from parents who regret having kids. This episode dives into a Reddit confession titled “4 A.M. Thoughts” — a raw look at the exhaustion, resentment, and grief that some parents feel behind closed doors. Erika and Kristen unpack it all: 🐶 The dog that remembers the “before times” ☕ The cold coffee and endless morning chaos 😩 The invisible labor of motherhood 🧠 The mental load and emotional burnout Timestamps: 00:36 – The “4 A.M. Thoughts” Reddit post 06:00 – The emotional toll of motherhood 10:00 – When parenthood feels like a prison sentence 15:00 – Quiet mornings, lost freedom, and what-ifs 18:00 – Unpacking lore about Charles Dickens' wife story (yikes) 22:00 – Final thoughts 💬 Join the Discussion: Would you go back to bed at 4 a.m.? Or stay up to savor the time with your dog? 💡 About the Show: Regretful Parents is part of the Dinky Podcast, where Erika and Kristen explore child-free living, parental regret, and the culture around choosing (or not choosing) kids. 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts! 🌐 Visit DinkyPod.com for more information + to learn about our trips #RegretfulParents #ChildFreeByChoice #ParenthoodRegret #DinkyPodcast #ChildFreeCommunity #Antinatalism #ParentBurnout #MomRegret #RealParenthood #DINKLife #ChildFreeLiving #ParenthoodUnfiltered #PodcastClips #RedditStories Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Nov 4

Today we’re joined by the hilarious Natasha Vaynblat, a New York–based comedian and writer embracing the childfree life. You’ve seen her work on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon , and her debut stand-up album We’re All Dads Here was named one of Paste’s Best Comedy Albums and featured in Vulture’s “5 Albums to Watch Right Now.” Natasha is also the creator and star of the award-winning digital Comedy Central series Your Worst Fears: Confirmed , which hilariously brings our most irrational anxieties to life. In this episode, Natasha opens up about her journey to embracing a childfree identity, how it’s shaped her comedy, and what it means to carve your own path. Catch Natasha Live: Natasha is currently performing her show “Childless Freak ” at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater in NYC on November 8, 2025. Connect with Natasha on Instagram Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode — it helps people find the show! Merch is here!!! Get your merch NOW! New Dinky trip alert!! Erika is taking a group of childfree travelers to VIETNAM — and it’s an artsy adventurer's dream itinerary! Buy your tickets while they last. Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack , Instagram , TikTok , and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Oct 30

In the spirit of Halloween, Kristen and Erika decided to give you ALL the bonus Halloween content! Enjoy!!! If you don’t immediately recognize her name, you may know the famous nursery rhyme: Lizzie Borden took an axe, she gave her mother 40 whacks; when she saw what she had done, she gave her father 41. Besides her infamy in American crime history, she was also a woman who never had kids. In this episode, we’re going to review the case and the aftermath — and question: was she the killer? This is sure to be a fan-favorite among those who love our rambling. Want more bonus content? Sign up for the Patreon! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Merch is here!!! Get your merch NOW! New Dinky trip alert!! Erika is taking a group of childfree travelers to VIETNAM — and it’s an artsy adventurer's dream itinerary! Buy your tickets while they last. Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack , Instagram , TikTok , and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Oct 30

In the spirit of Halloween, Kristen and Erika decided to give you ALL the bonus Halloween content! Enjoy!!! This past summer, Kristen visited Salem, MA — the city best known for one of the most devastating events of early American history: the Salem Witch Trials. Given some parallels and stereotypes between witches and childfree women (i.e., childless cat ladies), Kristen + Erika wanted to revisit this event in history and focus on some key details of the witches themselves. The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Wanna re-read the blog Kristen read about childfree witches? See it here . Erika is taking a group of childfree travelers to VIETNAM — and it’s an artsy adventurer's dream itinerary! Buy your tickets while they last. Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack , Instagram , TikTok , and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Oct 21

For nearly 175 years — from 1563 until its repeal in 1736 — this act stood as part of Scotland’s law. In that time, it is estimated that 3,000 to 5,000 people were accused of witchcraft. Of those, a staggering 84 percent were women. Torture, often in the form of sleep deprivation and relentless interrogation, was routine. Executions followed — frequently by strangulation or burning — and their bodies were often destroyed so they could not even be buried, denied the final dignity of rest.Our guests know this story better than anyone. Today, we’re joined by Claire Mitchell KC — a distinguished Scottish lawyer, specialising in criminal defence, constitutional and human rights law. She is co-founder of the Witches of Scotland campaign, which seeks posthumous pardons, a memorial, and an official apology for those persecuted under the Witchcraft Act. Zoe Venditozzi is a writer, teacher, and co-campaigner. Born and raised in Fife, she brings storytelling, archival curiosity, and moral urgency to this mission. Her literary debut Anywhere’s Better Than Here won the Guardian’s Not the Booker popular prize; now with Claire she’s co-author of How to Kill a Witch: A Guide for the Patriarchy. Their new book weaves together legal history, archival testimony, fictional vignettes, and sharp critique. It lifts the stories of those accused — women, and a few men — out of dusty court records and into the present. It asks: how did this system become possible, and how do we make amends? Merch is here!!! Get your merch NOW! SMALL BUSINESS OF THE WEEK: Thornback Acupuncture with Dr. Rachel Oristano . New Dinky trip alert!! Erika is taking a group of childfree travelers to VIETNAM — and it’s an artsy adventurer's dream itinerary! Buy your tickets while they last. The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack , Instagram , TikTok , and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Oct 7

It’s October, which means it’s the start of Spooky Season. If you’ve been listening to Dinky for the past three years, you know we always do a Halloween episode – two of which have included our favorite, recurring guest star, Sapphire Sandalo . You might recognize her as a co-host on the Travel Channel TV shows ‘ Ghost Town Terror ’ or from her appearances on ‘Paranormal Caught on Camera.’ She also has her own award-winning podcast, Stories With Sapphire. Today, Sapphire rejoins the Dinky crew to chat about her new short film, as well as chat about witches. And this year we’re trying something new – we’re doing a whole month of spooky childfree tales across our Patreon bonus & regular episodes, including more stories spotlighting childfree witches and more spooky childfree/childless women. Learn more about Sapphire’s new short film, BREEDER , and support the film HERE. Soft re-launching MERCH! (Shh.) Get your merch HERE . New Dinky trip alert!! Erika is taking a group of childfree travelers to VIETNAM — and it’s an artsy adventurer's dream itinerary! Buy your tickets while they last. The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack , Instagram , TikTok , and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Sep 23

In this episode, Erika and Kristen dive into the complexities of marriage, exploring whether it is truly hard or if it depends on circumstances. They share personal experiences, discuss societal expectations, and analyze YOUR feedback via Instagram Stories. Plus, we touch on the impact of children in marriage and the importance of communication and compatibility. Soft re-launching MERCH! (Shh.) Get your merch HERE. New Dinky trip alert!! Erika is taking a group of childfree travelers to VIETNAM — and it’s an artsy adventurer's dream itinerary! Buy your tickets while they last. Only two more weeks to book your tickets and join us for our CHRISTMAS MARKETS trip. The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack , Instagram , TikTok , and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube for Regretful Parents content. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Sep 9

Today we are talking through one of our favorite topics: DEATH. Kristen and Erika talk about the importance of making a will, the ins and outs of what happens with your property after you die, and how to make a will today for free. (For legal purposes this is not legal advice. Consult a lawyer for verifiable information.) Timestamps: 2:33 - Dink Yourself 11:46 - Let’s talk about wills 18:36 - Who gets your property if you don’t have a will? 20:46 - What is probate & why is it bad? 25:54 - When should you update your will? 26:26 - Where do I get a will? 36:31 - How to establish a free will 40:48 - What’s in Kristen’s will? New Dinky trip alert!! Erika is taking a group of childfree travelers to VIETNAM — and it’s an artsy adventurer's dream itinerary! Buy your tickets while they last. The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack , Instagram , TikTok , and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Aug 26

We have something very special for you today — about a month ago, we had bestselling author Andrea Bartz join our Patreon book club for a discussion about her new book, The Last Ferry Out. Andrea was on the show previously on one of our best-performing episodes on childfree representation in the media, so go back and listen to that episode! Our Christmas Markets magic trip in Germany is now open to everyone! Buy your tickets while you still can. The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Substack , Instagram , TikTok , and Threads at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Aug 12

In this follow-up to our first tradwives episode, we dive into the toxic world of the manosphere and the concept of “princess treatment.” From Andrew Tate wannabes to algorithm-fed misogyny, we unpack how these online communities are radicalizing young men, feeding the male loneliness epidemic, and warp ideas about relationships. What you’ll hear in this episode: What the manosphere is, who’s in it, and how it’s damaging men AND women The role of YouTube algorithms in fueling extremist content Why beauty standards for men are moving backward while women’s are evolving How patriarchy, entitlement, and unrealistic dating expectations feed each other The male loneliness epidemic and why “man up” culture is part of the problem Important links: Mexico City Weekend : Cutoff date Aug. 20, 2025 Christmas Markets Girls’ Trip : Prague, Berlin & beyond The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jul 29

Before we talk about today’s episode, consider taking a trip with Dinky! We have two amazing trips: A long weekend in Mexico City , and a Christmas Markets adventure in Germany. Is your childfree choice written in the stars? In this episode, we sit down with astrologer Christina Garcia to explore what astrology reveals about the decision not to have children. Christina reads Erika + Kristen’s birth charts and walks us through the placements and patterns that might point to a childfree path. We dive into the houses and signs that speak to parenting, autonomy, and purpose — and unpack how astrology can validate, affirm, or even challenge how we see ourselves. Whether you're a chart-curious skeptic or a full-blown astro girlie, this is a juicy one. The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jul 15

What if the very thought of pregnancy or giving birth filled you with terror — not just discomfort or anxiety, but real, paralyzing fear?In this episode, Erika and Kristen explore tokophobia, an often-overlooked condition defined by the Cleveland Clinic as an extreme fear of childbirth. Tokophobia can affect people so severely that they may go to great lengths to avoid pregnancy altogether. For those who do become pregnant, the fear can overshadow what many new parents expect to be a joyful time. We unpack the psychological and cultural roots of this condition, share firsthand accounts from those living with it, and discuss how tokophobia intersects the choice to remain childfree. Whether you've experienced this fear yourself, or are just hearing about it for the first time, this episode offers validation, insight, and a fresh perspective on reproductive autonomy. In This Episode, We Cover: 🧠 The difference between primary and secondary tokophobia, and how each type manifests 📊 Statistics from the Norwich Medical School on the prevalence of childbirth-related anxiety and severe fear 🧪 Kristen’s deep dive into the Wijma Delivery Expectancy Questionnaire (W-DEQ) — including her own results 😨 Erika’s personal experience with extreme physical reactions to discussions of pregnancy 🧵 How tokophobia, PTSD, and general fear of childbirth exist on a spectrum — and why misdiagnosis matters 💊 The limited treatment options for tokophobia, including therapy and planned cesarean births 🗣️ Emotional Reddit confessions from those with tokophobia, and how the childfree identity often overlaps with the condition ⚖️ The impact of abortion restrictions on those with tokophobia — and how forced pregnancy can feel life-threatening to some 🧵 Why “being a woman” can feel like a burden when reproductive autonomy is at stake 💬 Join the Conversation: Have you experienced tokophobia or a fear of pregnancy? Tell us your story or weigh in on the conversation at @dinkypod on Instagram, or email us at dinky@dinkypod.com. Rate & Review: If you found this episode validating, eye-opening, or just super interesting, don’t forget to follow and leave us a review! It helps other childfree listeners find us. TAKE A TRIP WITH DINKY: Mexico City Weekend 1: Oct 9 - 12 8 Days In Germany + Prague for Christmas Markets: Dec. 6 - 13 (GIRLS TRIP) Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jun 30

A lot to unpack in this episode! Today we are talking about Trump's "Big Beautiful Bill": what it includes and, most importantly, what's at stake for Americans when it comes to Medicaid, increasing federal debt, AI, and impacts specific to "childless adults." Note: We’re recording this on June 20, 2025 and the Senate won’t even start debating the bill until at least June 22, 2025. So, some details about this conversation MAY have updates by the time this episode goes live, but the generalizations should remain in tact. Take a trip with Dinky: We have two long weekend trips to: Mexico City Weekend 1: Oct 9 - 12 Mexico City Weekend 2: Oct. 16 - 19 (GIRLS TRIP) Plus 8 Days In Germany + Prague for Christmas Markets: Dec. 6 - 13 (GIRLS TRIP ) The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jun 17

Our guest today needs no introduction, as you’ve likely seen her all over your FYP educating the masses on midlife and menopause. Tamsen Fadal is the bestselling author of How To Menopause: Take Charge of Your Health, Reclaim Your Life, and Feel Even Better Than Before , the host of the Tamsen Show Podcast , and the creator, producer, and executive producer of the PBS documentary The M Factor: Shredding The Silence On Menopause. Beyond that, she is also a 12-time Emmy award-winning journalist and documentarian. Her regular appearances in media outlets include Oprah Daily, The Today Show, The New York Times, and The Harvard Business Review. Long story short? She’s a big fucking deal and we’re so excited to have her with us today! Take a trip with Dinky: We have two long weekend trips to: Mexico City Weekend 1: Oct 9 - 12 Mexico City Weekend 2: Oct. 16 - 19 (GIRLS TRIP) Plus 8 Days In Germany + Prague for Christmas Markets: Dec. 6 - 13 (GIRLS TRIP ) The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Wanna get your finances in order? Use our link to sign up for a FREE 34 day trial of YNAB (You Need A Budget) and support the show. Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jun 3

Today we’re revisiting a crowd fave: regretful parents! We spiced it up this time and went to a new source for regretful parents content: Facebook’s “I Regret Having Children” page. Can you imagine anything more depressing than posting about regretting parenthood on Facebook?? Me either! Tune in for a great recap of three stories found on Meta's worst platform. We have two long weekend trips to: Mexico City Weekend 1: Oct 9 - 12 Mexico City Weekend 2: Oct. 16 - 19 (GIRLS TRIP) Plus 8 Days In Germany + Prague for Christmas Markets: Dec. 6 - 13 (GIRLS TRIP) Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

May 20

R. O. Kwon is the author of the two best selling books — The Incendiaries and Exhibit , the second of which received a New York Times Editors’ Choice award. Kwon’s writing has appeared in The New York Times, New Yorker, Time, Vanity Fair, The Guardian, and beyond — often writing about abortion rights, being childfree, as well as her identities as an Asian American and queer woman. Born in Seoul, Kwon has lived most of her life in the United States. You can find more info on ordering her books here . We have two long weekend trips to: Mexico City Weekend 1: Oct 9 - 12 Mexico City Weekend 2: Oct. 16 - 19 (GIRLS TRIP) The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

May 6

Let’s talk about the SAVE act — the new legislation moving through Congress that has TikTok worried that many women and trans people will no longer be eligible to vote. If you’re unfamiliar, the SAVE Act would require all Americans to prove their citizenship with documentation unavailable to millions and upend the way every American citizen registers to vote. We have two long weekend trips to Mexico City going live on May 7! Mexico City Weekend 1: Oct 9 - 12 Mexico City Weekend 2: Oct. 16 - 19 (GIRLS TRIP) The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Apr 22

If you’ve been thinking about joining Dinky on a trip but not yet quite sold, this is the episode for you! In March, Dinky took 20 members of the Dink Squad to the bucket list destination every person who wanted to become an archeologist dreamt of going: Egypt. In this episode, we’ll recount the experience and share some audio clips from the travelers — and hopefully inspire you, too, to add Egypt to your list of travel spots to visit! The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Apr 8

Enjoy this full preview of the our bonus episodes! The Dinky Patreon is officially live — join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Today we are joined by Caitlin Easter, who has been practicing family law in Oregon since 2016. Her and her fiancee are proudly childfree by choice, a decision reinforced by what she witnesses in her career as a divorce and child custody attorney. We’ll be talking to her about her day-to-day as well as her legal "thesis,” which argued why women shouldn't get married in the 21st century. Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. Buy your own Dinky x Cheese Grotto pairing box! Use DINKYPOD10 at checkout. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Apr 4

To get access to the full episode, subscribe to our Patreon . In the second part of this stupid series, Kristen and Erika explore one of our favorite topics, The Muppets, and whether or not each character would have had kids or been childfree by choice. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Mar 25

Today we are talking about a cult adjacent to Tradwives: the Momfluencer. According to Wikipedia: “A mom influencer or momfluencer is a mother who shares the early moments of motherhood on social media, often utilizing sites such as Instagram.” Or, as Vox reports, “The simplest definition (of a momfluencer) is someone who has monetized her maternal identity on social media.” We’ll be covering the world of momfluencing in more detail, including the notorious cases of the Stauffers & Ruby Franke. The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to weekly, ad-free episodes, chat with us & other childfree pals in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. Buy your own Dinky x Cheese Grotto pairing box! Use DINKYPOD10 at checkout. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Mar 19

To get access to the full episode, subscribe to our Patreon . Today we are joined by Caitlin Easter, who has been practicing family law in Oregon since 2016. Her and her fiancee are proudly childfree by choice, a decision reinforced by what she witnesses in her career as a divorce and child custody attorney. We’ll be talking to her about her day-to-day as well as her legal "thesis,” which argued why women shouldn't get married in the 21st century. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Mar 11

Today we are speaking with Dr. Emily Sbiroli, a board-certified Emergency Medicine physician based in Southern California. She has expertise in climate medicine, healthcare sector decarbonization, and clinician education in these issues. She holds a Diploma in Climate Medicine from the University of Colorado and completed the National Physician Fellowship in Climate and Health Science Policy in 2022. She serves as course director for the University of Colorado’s Sustainable Health Systems curriculum, and consults on healthcare climate mitigation for US, Latin American, and Caribbean health systems. The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to bonus episodes, chat with us in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. Buy your own Dinky x Cheese Grotto pairing box! Use DINKYPOD10 at checkout. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Mar 4

Enjoy Erika sweating over whether she knows high school education material about her body. To get access to the full episode, subscribe to our Patreon . Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Feb 25

Our guest today needs no introduction, as she’s the guest of our most-beloved episode . That’s right, we’re talking to Marcia Drut-Davis to cap off our three-part series on childfree trailblazers. Now 82 years young, Marcia is a pioneer of the childfree lifestyle and author of two books: ‘Confessions Of A Childfree Woman’ and ‘What? You Don’t Want Children?’ In 1974, Marcia revealed her childfree status on national television on a groundbreaking segment of ‘60 Minutes.’ We’ll be asking her all about the fabulous adventures she’s had in the past few years, what advice she has on making intergenerational friendships and so much more. Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to bonus episodes, chat with us in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Buy your own Dinky x Cheese Grotto pairing box! Use DINKYPOD10 at checkout. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Feb 18

To get access to the full episode, subscribe to our Patreon . Today, we are reading some of the most disturbing parent-related posts on “the Reddit,” where I created a Dinkypod account signed up for every SubReddit related to having kids, from r/pregnant, r/parenting, and our personal favorite – r/regretfulparents. We will react in real time to some of these posts. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Feb 11

Today, we’re kicking off the second episode in our series on childfree trailblazers with a conversation with Marie Bernardy. Marie and her husband, Bill, met in 1968 and have been married since 1974. She served as Development Director for Planned Parenthood (in both CA and OR); Vice-President for Development at two CA hospitals, and Executive Director of two library foundations in both California and Oregon. After reading a Time article about the National Organization for Non Parenthood , she and Bill became involved in the St. Louis chapter,helping to grow its membership and visibility. Eventually both Marie and Bill served on theNON/NAOP board, each as President. Marie’s presidency coincided with the dissolution of theorganization in 1982. Marie & Bill made many local and several national appearances (including a Phil Donahue segment on the “Today” show) on behalf of NAOP. We ask her about her experience receiving physical threats, nasty late night phone calls, and a several weeks-long “dialogue” in the newspaper with the Archbishop of St. Louis, who called for their excommunication were some darks spots in an otherwise exciting, fulfilling and educational journey with NAOP. Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to bonus episodes, chat with us in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more! Buy your own Dinky x Cheese Grotto pairing box! Use DINKYPOD10 at checkout. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram , TikTok , Threads , and BlueSky at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Feb 4

To get access to the full episode, subscribe to our Patreon . In this stupid episode, Kristen (buzzed) and Erika (high) explore one of our favorite topics, The Muppets, and whether or not each character would have had kids or been childfree by choice. Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. Buy your own Dinky x Cheese Grotto pairing box! Use DINKYPOD10 at checkout. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jan 28

We’re kicking off the first episode in a series on childfree trailblazers with a conversation with Joan Eisenstodt. An Ohio native, Joan moved to Washington, DC in 1978 and worked in the hospitality industry by trade. She was an early member of The National Organization for Non-Parents, which later became the National Alliance For Optional Parenthood, before shutting down during the Reagan administration. Joan has been featured in publications like The Washington Post, New Legacy Radio, and more. In this episode, we talk with her about her experiences seeking sterilization in the 1970s, how she’s feeling about the current political climate, and more. Dinky is now on Substack — free of charge! Subscribe now to access exclusive content, unhinged memes, guest articles, and stay up to date on the podcast. The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to bonus episodes, chat with us in the Dinky Discord, join our virtual book club, and more. Buy your own Dinky x Cheese Grotto pairing box! Use DINKYPOD10 at checkout . Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jan 22

To access the full bonus episode, sign up for our Patreon. In this episode, we dive into Shit People Say, our recurring segment where we discuss the dumb shit that people have the audacity to say out loud. In this edition, Kristen and Erika chat about various social media comments that have pissed us off (well, Kristen anyway). Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jan 14

Our guest today is Maggie Dickens . Maggie is a licensed therapist and relationship coach and with her Unapologetically Childfree community of more than 80,000 worldwide, she shares expert guidance. We recently joined Maggie on her podcast , where we screamed into the void about the recent election results (be sure to check that out!) and knew her experience as an expat in Portugal would be interesting for listeners who may also be feeling like they want to flee America for Europe, too. Follow Maggie on Instagram . The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to bonus episodes, the Dinky Discord channel, our virtual book club and more! Buy your own Dinky x Cheese Grotto pairing box! Use DINKYPOD10 at checkout. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jan 7

To access the full bonus episode, sign up for our Patreon. In this episode, we dive into Shit People Say, our recurring segment where we discuss the dumb shit that people have the audacity to say out loud. In this edition, Kristen and Erika chat about a legendary Facebook post that’s been making the rounds on Reddit and Twitter where a mom laments birthing extra kids because her “selfish daughter” is childfree, and we discuss which history-altering circumstances would make us open to having kids. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Dec 31, 2024

Today, we’re talking to a very special guest: Todd Warner. Todd has been a long-time Dinky community member — but when we met him at our Portland Happy Hour in October, we knew we had to sit down to talk with him more about his life. I think it’s safe to call Todd an activity junkie: as a typical Oregonian, he was an avid hiker, biker, skier, boat enthusiast, and beyond. Unfortunately, in the early 2010s, Todd started to notice his body taking on limitations — and ultimately was diagnosed with an ultra-rare and likely fatal disease known as Valosin Containing Protein disease , often referred to as VCP. So, today we’ll be talking with Todd about his life, his experience living with VCP, and if he has any regrets about not having kids. Follow Todd on Instagram and donate to find a cure for VCP. The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to bonus episodes, the Dinky Discord channel, our virtual book club and more! Buy your own Dinky x Cheese Grotto pairing box! Use DINKYPOD10 at checkout. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Dec 24, 2024

To access the full bonus episode, sign up for our Patreon. Our guest today is Manon de Visser , a biologist from the Netherlands — who first reached out to us to provide more information about ‘The Man With 1000 Kids’ — but our conversation went so much further, including sneaky fuckers and childfree animals. Manon’s expertise varies from studying animals in zoos, museums, and universities, and she also runs her own science communication company, ' Wild DNA ' (Which, BTW, You can find her on Instagram with her handle @wild_DNA ). Multitasking is clearly in her DNA, as she is about to complete her PhD in evolutionary genetics! She happily lives in her cozy home in the Netherlands with her husband, two cats, and an elderly rabbit. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Dec 17, 2024

TW: This episode contains mentions of SA, death, and other upsetting topics. Being unalived by your children is one of the many unthinkable horrors of parenting and a top reason for NOT having kids. Few cases have sparked as much social commentary, media frenzy, and public debate as that of the Menendez brothers. For over 35 years, Erik and Lyle Menendez have remained in the spotlight, ever since the brutal murder of their parents in Beverly Hills in 1989 — an event that continues to captivate and divide the public. Their story has recently resurfaced given the potential for them to be released from prison. Tune in now to learn more! Wanna learn more about this case? Here is our research list: What Happened To The Menendez Brothers' $14.5 Million Inheritance As Netflix Series Divides Viewers Dateline episode about the Menendez Brothers ABC’s Inside the Menendez Movement Menendez Brothers Speak Directly to TikTok Movement, Share Differing Views on Hope Amid Renewed Case Interest The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to bonus episodes, the Dinky Discord channel, our virtual book club and more! Buy your own Dinky x Cheese Grotto pairing box! Use DINKYPOD10 at checkout. DINKY MERCH is now live for the holidays! We lied in this episode — Egypt is actually now sold out. Get on the waitlist!: Adventures In Egypt With Erika Of Dinky Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. Follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Dec 16, 2024

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Dec 3, 2024

In late September 2024, we took an epic trip to Switzerland with 20 other childfree gals — and in today’s episode we’ll be recapping the highs and lows of our experiences, sharing some of our recommendations if you ever make your way to Switzerland, as well as snippets from the tiny mic interviews we did with several attendees. Join Erika for the next Dinky trip: Adventures In Egypt With Erika Of Dinky The Dinky Patreon is officially live! Join now to support the show + gain access to bonus episodes, the Dinky Discord channel, and more! Buy your own Dinky x Cheese Grotto pairing box! Use DINKYPOD10 at checkout. DINKY MERCH is now live for the holidays! Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. Also, follow us on YouTube. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Dec 3, 2024

To access the full bonus episode, sign up for our Patreon. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Nov 26, 2024

To access the full bonus episode, sign up for our Patreon. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Nov 20, 2024

To access the full bonus episode, sign up for our Patreon. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Nov 12, 2024

Donald Trump has (once again) won the United States presidential election — despite 34 felony counts, 1 conviction, 2 cases pending, 2 impeachments, and 6 bankruptcies. That means a Republican White House, a Republican leaning Supreme Court, a Republican majority in the Senate, and a likely Republican House of Representatives. With Republicans at the helm, so much is at stake for our democracy — particularly for women and the childfree. And that’s where the 4B movement comes in. In this episode we’ll cover the 4B movement, what it is, how it’s growing into a 5B, 6B, and 7B movement, why childfree women are embracing it, and what it means for our future. Read the book Flowers of Fire: The Inside Story of South Korea's Feminist Movement and What It Means for Women's Rights Worldwide Read an interview with Nayoung Kim , one of Korea’s 4B activists, and watch this YouTube interview from Asian Boss . Buy your own Dinky x Cheese Grotto pairing box! Use DINKYPOD10 at checkout. DINKY MERCH IS NOW LIVE FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Join the next Dinky trip: Adventures In Egypt With Erika Of Dinky Support this show. (We haven’t launched the Patreon yet, lol) Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Nov 5, 2024

Today we’re talking with Jessica Sennett, an award-winning entrepreneur and inventor of Cheese Grotto , a cheese storage line for the home and restaurant. She has been recognized internationally for her innovation within the dairy industry, and received the 2019 Best Equipment Award at the World Dairy Innovations Awards Conference in Portugal. In 2018, her business was selected for Agropur's first dairy innovation cohort in Canada where her product was tested in a dairy lab and proven to keep cheese fresher than professional cheese paper. She has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Wine Spectator, Saveur, and more. We're talking to her today particularly to discuss our new & exclusive cheese box, available now! Buy your own Dinky x Cheese Grotto pairing box! Use DINKYPOD10 at checkout. Join the next Dinky trip: Adventures In Egypt With Erika Of Dinky Support this show. (We haven’t launched the Patreon yet, lol) Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Oct 22, 2024

It’s our favorite episode of the year! Today, we’re joined by two of our besties — friends of the pod, Mrs. Mikee Garcia and Sapphire Sandalo. Join us as we discuss the horrifying topic of “parricide” and partake in a round of Spooky Would You Rather? Plus, test your knowledge of cryptids and see if you know more than our guest hosts (but don’t worry: you definitely know more than Erika.) Mikee is a TikToker under the handle @mrs.mikeegarcia — she’s a 3rd degree black belt in Taekwondo, a curly girl who loves to help women embrace their natural hair, and a DINK who is an active voice in the childfree community. We’re also joined by paranormal historian and expert, guest Sapphire Sandalo . You might recognize her as a co-host on the Travel Channel TV shows “Ghost Town Terror” or from her appearances on “Paranormal Caught on Camera.” She also has her own award-winning podcast, Stories With Sapphire . Support this show. (We haven’t launched the Patreon yet, lol) Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Oct 8, 2024

This might be our most requested episode EVER. In August, the United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy issued an advisory with the claim that parenting is a hazard to your health and mental well-being . The full document from the Surgeon General is roughly 30 pages and let me tell you, if you thought parenting sounded horrible before, let me tell you: it’s worse than you think! We’ll get into what the study found, and discuss what they’re recommending as opportunities to lessen parental stress. Take the ANXIETY and DEPRESSION screenings. Join Dinky’s Peloton group! Support this show. (We haven’t launched the Patreon yet, lol) Our Portland meetup is officially *SOLD OUT.* Stay tuned for future opportunities! Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Sep 24, 2024

As childfree content creators, we often hear from folks who are considering fostering or adoption. That’s why today, we’re talking to probably one of the best voices on the topic. Angela Tucker, a transracial adoptee, is a filmmaker and author challenging the dominant adoption paradigms by centering adoptee voices in the mainstream. Angela is a Black woman adopted from foster care to a white family. Her story has been chronicled in ‘Closure’ , a documentary about the search for her biological parents, as well as in her book ‘You Should Be Grateful’ which was released in 2023. She’s also the founder of The Adopted Life, a consulting company where she offers workshops and mentorship, with a mission to help center adoptee stories and bring clarity and truth narratives about race, class, and identity. She has advised the writers of Broadway’s ‘Jagged Little Pill’ as well as NBC’s ‘This Is Us’. If you enjoy this episode, be sure to check out her podcast, ‘The Adoptee Next Door.’ Angela lives in Seattle, Washington with her husband, Emmy-award winning filmmaker Bryan Tucker. Follow Angela on Instagram . Support this show. (We haven’t launched the Patreon yet, lol) Our Switzerland trip + Portland meetups are officially *SOLD OUT.* Stay tuned for future trips! Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Sep 10, 2024

Two years ago on Reddit, user dettispaghetti wrote on the truechildfree subreddit on a post titled “Euthanasia will be an option when we're old and decrepit.” Saying, “Seriously... the answer to the age old question of who will change your diapers when you're old is no one. People will not be dying agonizing cancer deaths in a few decades either. Whenever people have asked me this I have always told them I am never going to be an old hag suffering in pain regardless of whether I have children or not. Euthanasia is already becoming legalized in more and more places, by the time we're old it will be widely available and accessible to old people who can't fend for themselves. I would never waste my money or my children's money paying for assisted living or whatever, even if I had kids that money would go to them instead of prolonging my misery. Some people sell their houses so they can pay for assisted living which is a waste of your life's work and you are taking that money from whoever would inherit the house. This point of view will be the norm when we're old, quality of life is what is important, not quantity.” So, today we’re talking about physician-assisted a death — the practice of receiving, essentially, legalized suicide support to end your life on your terms. We’ll be looking at the pros and cons, where it’s actually legal, how we feel about it, and more. Read more about death with dignity from our sources: EuroNews: Euthanasia in Europe: Where is assisted dying legal? Statista (InfoGraph): Where Most People Die by Assisted Suicide CNN: Physician-Assisted Suicide Fast Facts Support this show. Our Switzerland trip + Portland meetups are officially *SOLD OUT.* Stay tuned for future trips! Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Aug 27, 2024

Our guest today is Israa Nasir , a psychotherapist, speaker, and founder of the digital mental health brand Well.Guide on Instagram. Israa was born in Pakistan, and raised between Saudi Arabia and Toronto — but she’s also lived in the Middle East, South Asia, and the United States. This, along with her mixed-cultural identity has given her a unique perspective on the challenges of cross-cultural experiences and life transitions. Her work on mental health has been featured in Business Insider, NBC News, Teen Vogue and more. Plus, her new book ‘Toxic Productivity: Reclaim Your Time and Emotional Energy in a World That Always Demands More’ comes out in November 2024 and is available for pre-order now. DINK YOURSELF: Donate to the Columbia Gorge Humane Society GoFundMe Read Israa’s article, ​​8 Tips for Talking About Mental Health With Your Asian Family MERCH HAS ARRIVED! Get yours before it’s gone ! Support this show. Our Switzerland trip + Portland meetup are officially *SOLD OUT.* Stay tuned for future events! Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Aug 6, 2024

In this episode, Kristen and Erika unpack — gestures broadly — everything happening in the world — before ultimately discussing the new Netflix docuseries ‘The Man With 1000 Kids’ — which primarily tells the story of Jonathan Meijer, a Dutch sperm donor accused of fathering somewhere between 500 and 3,000 children via sperm donation, and defrauding vulnerable families in the Netherlands and around the world. Tune in to hear our thoughts on the documentary and much more! Articles referenced: NYT article: The Sperm Kings Have a Problem: Too Much Demand Newsweek article: How the Unregulated Sperm Market Is Creating an Online Baby Boom Daily Mail: Inside The World Of Super Sperm Donors Watch the Elon Musk clip from TikTok , referenced in Shit People Say. DINK YOURSELF: Learn more about Litter Robot . MERCH HAS ARRIVED! Get yours before it’s gone ! Wanna join our Portland-area meetup? Fill out this form. Support this show. Our Switzerland trip is officially *SOLD OUT.* Stay tuned for future trips! Today's podcast is brought to you by Childfree Wealth , a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping childfree and permanently childless people live their best life without kids. Visit their website to get started — and tell them we sent you! Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jul 23, 2024

By popular demand, this episode will cover everything you need to know about Project 2025. If you’re unfamiliar, many are calling Project 2025 a “dystopian right-wing blueprint to overhaul America,” under the assumption that former President and convicted felon Donald Trump is elected to a second term as president. We’ll discuss abortion, women’s rights, and why it matters for you. Most importantly, we’ll talk about what you can do to make sure this insanity doesn’t make it to the White House. Wanna read more about Project 2025? Here are some articles that guided our research: (BBC) Project 2025: A wish list for a Trump presidency, explained (PEOPLE) What Is Project 2025? Inside the Far-Right Plan Threatening Everything from the Word 'Gender' to Public Education (ALJAZEERA) What could Project 2025 mean for the rest of the world? (BLOOMBERG) Trump, Project 2025 and Spreading Abortion Misinformation Don’t want to live in a world where the government tracks your miscarriages? Sign up to volunteer or donate in the 2025 election. Visit Vote Save America. DINK YOURSELF: Learn more about Litter Robot and Unbound Merino. Support this show. Our Switzerland trip is officially *SOLD OUT.* Stay tuned for future trips! Today's podcast is brought to you by Childfree Wealth , a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping childfree and permanently childless people live their best life without kids. Visit their website to get started — and tell them we sent you! Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @diypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jul 9, 2024

Today, we’re talking with Danni Duncan: one of the most-well known childfree creators on the internet. You’ll recognize Danni from her incredible New Zealand accent, where she resides with her husband Alex and two cats, Stan and Billie. She’s a self-proclaimed homebody and known for spending her day rearranging her home. She loves fashion, good wine, and books — and spends all her money on eating at restaurants and a bit of travel here and there. Find Danni on Instagram and TikTok . You can also follow her new project, The Others Club as well as get updates on h er new home. Support this show. Wanna go to Switzerland with us ? Learn more and book now . Warning: only one month left before bookings close!! Today's podcast is brought to you by Childfree Wealth , a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping childfree and permanently childless people live their best life without kids. Visit their website to get started — and tell them we sent you! Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jun 25, 2024

In this episode, we’re joined by Krystal the Hot Mess Healer — she’s a spiritual coach, animal sanctuary director, fitness and wellness entrepreneur, and yes: a retired stripper. We’re gonna talk to her about the sex work industry, the things men said about their “baby mommas” in private, and so much more. Follow Krystal the Hot Mess Healer on TikTok . Read more about The Baldwins and their new stupid show. Watch the four hour Star Wars video review on YouTube . If you’d like to donate to the sanctuary via PayPal, find them at @upwarddogs. For eco-tourism reservations and to zoom in to the twice weekly donation-only yoga class email upwarddogsyoga@gmail.com Support this show. Wanna go to Switzerland with us ? Learn more and book now. Today's podcast is brought to you by Childfree Wealth , a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping childfree and permanently childless people live their best life without kids. Visit their website to get started — and tell them we sent you! Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jun 11, 2024

We! Love! Teachers! That’s why, in this episode, we’re talking to a legendary, hilarious educator known on TikTok as MyTeacherFace with nearly 700k followers at the time of publication. Dr. Jessica Hawk has been an educator for 32 years and teaches advanced placement English to seniors and a film analysis class in New Jersey — with very exciting things on the horizon! Tune in to hear her thoughts on why so many teachers are childfree, what it’s like to come from four generations of childfree women, and what’s next for her career. Follow Jessica on TikTok and Instagram . Wanna go to Switzerland with us ? Learn more and book now. Today's podcast is brought to you by Childfree Wealth , a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping childfree and permanently childless people live their best life without kids. Visit their website to get started — and tell them we sent you! Support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @diypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

May 28, 2024

Grab the Kleenex, because this interview gets *emotional!* Chelsea Devantez is an Emmy-nominated writer, comedian, director, and host of the podcast Glamorous Trash. Before she entered into an overall television deal with 20th Century Fox, she was Jon Stewart’s Head Writer for Apple TV+'s The Problem with Jon Stewart. Other television credits include Not Dead Yet, Girls5Eva, and Bless this Mess, among others. In 2020, Chelsea wrote, directed, and starred in the 2020 SXSW film, Basic, and is set to direct her feature debut this fall and her memoir will be published in June 2024 — titled I Shouldn't Be Telling You This (But I'm Going To Anyway). Follow Chelsea on Instagram and pre-order her memoir now. Wanna go to Switzerland with us ? Learn more and book your trip! Today's podcast is brought to you by Childfree Wealth , a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping childfree and permanently childless people live their best life without kids. Visit their website to get started — and tell them we sent you! Support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @diypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

May 14, 2024

Somedays, it really feels like the trolls have it out for childfree folks — but no one knows this more than our friend Mikee. You’ve probably seen her on TikTok, where she has nearly 17k followers under the username @mrs.mikeegarcia. Mikee is a 29-year-old 3rd degree black belt in Taekwondo, a curly girl who loves to help women embrace their natural hair, and a DINK who is an active voice in the childfree community. In this episode, we’ll be talking with her about her experiences as a content creator — and unfortunately, what it was like to get doxxed for being vocally childfree. Support this show. Follow Mikee on TikTok and Instagram . Learn more about Incogni , the software that removes your personal info from the internet. Watch Dominique Baker’s perfume TikTok and grab some Maison Francis Kurkdijan Paris . Get yourself some Salt & Straw Ice Cream. Wanna go to Switzerland with us ? Learn more and book now. Today's podcast is brought to you by Childfree Wealth , a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping childfree and permanently childless people live their best life without kids. Visit their website to get started — and tell them we sent you! Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @diypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Apr 30, 2024

Today we are excited to chat with a “pleasure doula,” Sara Elise : an autistic, Black & Indigenous, queer, femme, who works primarily in the hospitality, well-being, and food industries. She has graduated business school, worked on Wall Street, and has been featured in Playboy, Nylon, Bon Appetit, StyleLikeU, and was one of BK Magazine’s 50 Most Fascinating People of 2022 . She has modeled for brands like Sephora, Mercedes Benz, Madewell, and Instagram, and she is the author of A Recipe for More , her debut book which launched May 2023. Wanna go to Switzerland with us ? Learn more and book now. Today's podcast is brought to you by Childfree Wealth , a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping childfree and permanently childless people live their best life without kids. Visit their website to get started — and tell them we sent you! Support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @diypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Apr 16, 2024

If you’re a Millennial or Gen Z, there’s a good chance you were raised on shows from Disney Channel and Nickelodeon. By now, you’ve probably heard about the documentary ‘Quiet on Set’ which covers the untold story of the abusive environment inside '90s kids' television. So, as two people who love pop culture and aren’t having kids because the planet is awful, we have to talk about it. Wanna go to Switzerland with us ? Learn more and book now. Today's podcast is brought to you by Childfree Wealth , a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping childfree and permanently childless people live their best life without kids. Visit their website to get started — and tell them we sent you! Support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Apr 2, 2024

“Trad wife” is the new buzzword in pop culture — and we can’t seem to escape it, no matter how hard we try. While it might seem harmless and dumb on the surface, trad wife culture is deeply rooted in pronatalism. If you’re not familiar with the term, pronatalism is the policy or practice of promoting childbirth or encouraging people to have children. Today, pronatalism & pronatalist policies are on the rise all around us — from ads on television to the decisions from the Supreme Court. So, today we’re giving you an introductory lesson on pronatalism — the origins, the consequences, and what we can do about it. To register to vote, visit vote.gov. To read the AITA Reddit thread discussed in Shit People Say, click here. Wanna go to Switzerland with us ? Learn more and book now. Today's podcast is brought to you by Childfree Wealth , a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping childfree and permanently childless people live their best life without kids. Visit their website to get started — and tell them we sent you! Support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Mar 19, 2024

Today we are honored to be joined by Ali Davis, a cult and childhood torture survivor. Ali grew up under Bill Gothard's teachings (otherwise known as the fundamentalist Christian cult portrayed in ‘Shiny Happy People’). Due in large part to Ali’s childhood experiences, she is now in her early 30s and childfree by choice. Ali is passionate about raising awareness of non-war related childhood torture and is the founder and Executive Director of the pretti graffiti foundation — the first and only nonprofit in the US dedicated to securing humanitarian aid for other survivors. Follow pretti graffiti foundation on Instagram. Visit the pretti graffiti foundation website to learn more or donate . To shop Erika’s mentioned lip stain, visit Wonderskin . (Not an ad.) Wanna go to Switzerland with us ? As of publishing, there are only 6 spots left so don’t waste time! Book now. Today's podcast is brought to you by Childfree Wealth , a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping childfree and permanently childless people live their best life without kids. Visit their website to get started — and tell them we sent you! Support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Mar 5, 2024

It’s almost spring, so naturally, we’re looking for excuses to DINK ourselves with a 2024 vacation. Your irresponsible, unhinged childfree besties have done the research on all things childfree vacations — including locations, best times of year, and childfree travel groups. Last but not least, we will also be chatting about our Lazy Girls trip, including a deep dive on the itinerary and what we’re looking forward to most. Wanna go to Switzerland with us ? As of publishing, there are only 8 spots left so don’t waste time! Book now. Today's podcast is brought to you by Childfree Wealth , a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping childfree and permanently childless people live their best life without kids. Visit their website to get started — and tell them we sent you! Looking for other travel options? Here are a few recs: WildShe Retreats The Philippines with Danni Duncan Greece with Childfree Millennial CF Travel Connect Support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Feb 20, 2024

If there’s one thing childfree people hear over and over and over again, it’s that someday we’ll wake up and realize we made a mistake — and be saddled with tremendous regret over our choice to be childfree. So, today we’ll be talking to Marcia Drut-Davis — an 81 year old pioneer of the childfree lifestyle and author of two books: Confessions Of A Childfree Woman and What? You Don’t Want Children? Marcia also revealed her childfree status on national television in 1974 on a segment of ‘60 Minutes.’ We’ll be asking her about her choice to remain childfree — and finding out if she has any regrets today. We wanna go on vacation with you! Fill out our survey to help us figure out where we’re going! Survey closes on February 27, 2023 at 11:59PM PST. Today's podcast is brought to you by Childfree Wealth , a life and financial planning firm dedicated to helping childfree and permanently childless people live their best life without kids. Visit their website to get started — and tell them we sent you! Support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Feb 6, 2024

It’s a mailbag episode!! We had such a blast answering listener questions last season that we’re coming at you with a fresh batch. We’ve pulled some of our favorite questions that listeners like you have sent in over DMs and email — so let this serve as a reminder: if you have a question or a comment, you can always reach us at dinky@dinkypod.com! Cheese Grotto graciously offered us an affiliate code! Use code DinkyPod10 for 10% off any Cheese Grotto order. Click HERE to see the Instagram post discussed about your top reasons to not have kids. To watch the Instagram Reel referenced in Shit People Say, click HERE . Donate to support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram, Threads , and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jan 23, 2024

Have you ever thought, “Wow, I wish i could just leave everything behind and travel the globe with a community of other childfree women?” Well, then this episode was designed for you. We’ll be talking with the childfree content creator known on social media as @WildShe . Through her work, she’s creating a community for childfree, travel-loving, free-spirited women to unite and challenge social norms. Having traveled and lived globally, mostly solo, for more than 10 plus plus years, she is probably best known for organizing childfree women’s group trips in places like Bali, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Costa Rica and beyond. Tune in to hear her story and a really, truly riveting game of Mad Libs. Wanna learn more about WildShe? You can find her on Instagram and TikTok . Plus, join her Facebook Group and learn more about her childfree adventures and retreats. Donate to support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Jan 9, 2024

It’s a new year and we know fans of Dinky aren’t just childfree — they’re also big fans of true crime. So, our 2024 gift to you is Dinky with a slice of murder. In this episode we’re covering the famous story that made us all think deeply about the ethics of procreation: Gypsy Rose Blanchard and her mother Dee Dee. Plus, we unpack the news that Gypsy plans to have kids post-prison . Donate to support this show. Shop our merch. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Dec 26, 2023

Listeners, strap in for a thriller of an episode. We’re talking to New York Times bestselling author and childfree superstar Andrea Bartz . Andrea Bartz is a journalist and author of her hit novels like The Spare Room, The Lost Night, The Herd, and Reese’s Book Club pick We Were Never Here . Her work has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, Marie Claire, Vogue , and many other outlets, and she's held editorial positions at Glamour, Psychology Today, and Self , among other publications. Tune in to hear her thoughts on the intersection of being childfree by choice, writing childfree characters, coming out as queer during the podcast, and what it’s like to be trolled online for your lifestyle. Please take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Wanna connect with Andrea Bartz? Find her on Instagram and buy The Spare Room here. Donate to support this show. Shop our merch. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Dec 12, 2023

In this episode, we’re diving into the topic of codependency . You might be asking yourself, what does codependency have to do with being childfree? Well, with some estimates suggesting that over 90-percent of the American population demonstrates some form of codependent behavior — childfree folks are no exception. So today, we’ll be talking to codependency coach Jo Westood on overcoming people pleasing tendencies in your childfree life, setting boundaries, and most importantly: how to deal with the toxic garbage your family will spew during the holiday season — especially around your choice to not have kids. Please take a moment to leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify! Wanna connect with Jo Westwood? Find her on Instagram , her website , or sign up for her weekly email series Codependency Curious . Donate now to support this show. Shop our merch. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Nov 28, 2023

Today, we’re going to be talking about the commodification of pregnancy. Specifically, we’re taking a deep dive into the complicated world of surrogacy: the process in which a person carries and delivers a child for a couple or individual. We’ll be learning about the different types of surrogacy, how surrogates are compensated (that is, if payment is even allowed in your state!) — and discuss if surrogacy overall is even ethical. It’s a heady one, but a good one. To learn more about surrogacy laws by state, visit THIS site. Donate now to support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Nov 14, 2023

Is it just me, or do we all dream about shirking societal norms and living with our childfree besties in a shared, intentional community — something like the Golden Girls? In today’s episode, Erika and Kristen dive deep into why intentional communities might just be the answer to childfree living we’ve been looking for. We’ll be talking about the broad strokes of the topic: from types of intentional communities that exist, to the logistics around shared property, and more. To learn more about intentional communities, we recommend checking out the Foundation for Intentional Communities website. Donate now to support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Oct 31, 2023

Our first episode on regretful parents was such a hit, we wanted to dive even deeper. In this episode, we’re joined by Orna Donath, a sociologist who probably knows more about parental regret than anyone on the planet. She is the author of the book, ‘Regretting Motherhood’ — which covers her study of 23 women on their experiences with regret over their role as mothers. You can buy Orna’s book HERE to read it yourself. To find the article on orgs to support in Israel and Palestine, visit CharityWatch. Become a monthly subscriber to support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Oct 17, 2023

To celebrate the launch of Season 4 and Halloween in one fell swoop, we’re joined by paranormal historian and expert Sapphire Sandalo. You might recognize her as a co-host on the Travel Channel TV shows like ‘Ghost Town Terror’ or ‘Paranormal Caught On Camera.’ She also has her own award-winning spooky podcast, 'Stories With Sapphire.' Additionally, October is Filipino American History Month, and as a Filipino-American, Sapphire shares her thoughts on the cultural pressures of being childfree as an Asian American. You can find Sapphire on TikTok and Instagram . Become a monthly subscriber to help support the show Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/dinky--5953015/support .

Aug 15, 2023

The season three finale has arrived! To celebrate, we’re interviewing Dominique Baker, an award-winning skin and hair expert in her 40s who has been featured in WhoWhatWear, Style Canada, The Guardian and more. Plus, we catch up with Nick, one of the listeners we recently set up on a date via Instagram’s new app Threads, and it’s a WILD story. To shop Erika’s skincare routine: The Wayfair makeup organizer Olay Total Effects Revitalizing Foaming Face Wash Dr. Andrew Weil Mega-Mushroom Relief & Resilience Soothing Treatment Lotion Good Molecules Lightweight Daily Moisturizer Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant Black Girl Sunscreen Broad Spectrum Ilia C Beyond Triple Serum SPF 40 Tatcha Indigo Overnight Repair Youth To The People Peptides + C Energy Eye Concentrate with Vitamin C and Caffeine Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Exfoliating Peeling Solution Pond's Cold Cream Cleanser Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm To shop Kristen’s skincare routine: Vanicream Moisturizing Cream with Pump derma e Vitamin C Serum Color Science Sunforgettable® Total Protection™ Face Shield Classic SPF 50 Sunforgettable® Total Protection™ Brush-On Shield SPF 50 The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% The Ordinary Azelaic Acid 10% Suspension Brightening Cream Dermstore Deep Cleansing Oil CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser Midnight Recovery Concentrate Paula’s Choice BHA Supergoop! PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50 with Sunflower Extract To shop Dominique Baker’s recommendations: dermalogica powerbright dark spot serum La Roche Posay Hyalu B5 Pure Hyaluronic Acid Serum EltaMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 Become a monthly subscriber to help this show stay ad-free: Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Aug 1, 2023

Listeners, today is all about YOU. This may be our third season, but it’s also our first season doing a mailbag episode! You all sent in a ton of great questions on Instagram — from how to deal with your childfree status in professional settings, to our best dating advice, to coping with in-laws, and so much more! Become a monthly subscriber to help this show stay ad-free. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Jul 18, 2023

I know what you’re thinking: what does artificial intelligence have to do with a DINK lifestyle? Surprisingly, more than you think! In this episode, we explore a common philosophical question in antinatalist circles: Should artificial intelligence be given the ability to experience pain and suffering? Plus, we chat about recent statements from Mo Gawdat, a former Google X exec, on why he’s urging people to hold off on having kids as a result of the rise of artificial intelligence. You can find the New York Time’s story on if it’s ethically wrong to have kids here. To learn more about the discussion between Sam Harris and David Benatar, visit here. If you want to fuck around and find out about AI, you can try out ChatGPT here. Become a monthly subscriber to help this show stay ad-free. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Jul 4, 2023

Believe it or not, this episode marks Dinky’s one year anniversary! To celebrate, we’ll be talking to one of the biggest (and favorite) childfree influencers on TikTok. You may know her on the internet as z00mie, but she’s known as Abigail Porter IRL. Tune in to hear us chat with her about the origins of her mega-viral “free birth control” series on TikTok, the craziest things she’s learned about being childfree online, the “girl with the list”, and so much more. Be sure to follow z00mie, aka Abigail, on TikTok and Instagram . Become a monthly subscriber to help this show stay ad-free. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinky@dinkypod.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Jun 20, 2023

In this episode, Kristen and Erika are joined by Dr. Jay Zigmont, the founder of Childfree Wealth, a financial planning service that supports your life without kids. We’ll be talking about the basics of financial planning as people without kids as well as some out-of-the-box approaches to retiring that are exclusively designed for childfree lifestyles. While millennials may be in a sad state when it comes to financial planning and retirement, this episode is designed to help you feel inspired and ready to think *differently.* We also perform a riveting dramatic re-enactment of our comments section. Trust me when I say, you’ll want to listen until the end. If you’re interested in contacting Childfree Wealth , visit their website . You can also find Dr. Jay Zigmont and Childfree Wealth on Instagram . To listen to the Childfree Wealth Podcast, visit Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7yC4VzL0yGt757vhXZZQX4 Wanna read Dr. Jay’s book? Download a free copy here . Here are two articles he recommended from his blog, one on long-term care and the other on caring for elderly family members . If you’d like to read the article Kristen cites, visit Big Think for their article on ‘Will Millennials Ever Be Able To Retire?’ To review the top paying jobs we discuss, visit CNBC . Become a monthly subscriber to help this show stay ad-free. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Jun 6, 2023

In this episode, we’re joined by journalist and thought-leader Ruby Warrington who recently published her fourth book, Women Without Kids: The Revolutionary Rise Of An Unsung Sisterhood. You’ve probably seen this book all over social media, but for those who are unfamiliar, Ruby’s latest book was intended to be a radical reframing of everything it means NOT to be a mom. Instead of continuing to paint women without kids as sad, self-obsessed, or somehow dysfunctional, what if we saw them as boldly forging a first-in-a-civilization vision for a fully autonomous womankind? As Ruby says in her book: “What if being a woman without kids were in fact its own kind of legacy?” We also read some of our favorite listener reviews and engage in a heated conversation in our Shit People Say segment about men saying “women have too many rights.” And naturally, we swoon over Internet Daddy Pedro Pascal. Become a monthly subscriber to help this show stay ad-free. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

May 23, 2023

Antinatalism. Parents and trolls love to talk shit about this controversial philosophy on the internet, but few truly understand it. Today we will be discussing the misconceptions that piss us off, debunking common myths, and setting the record straight on everything from if antinatalists hate kids to the belief that antinatalists are “pro-death.” In this episode, we also Dink Ourselves by reading YOUR comments on Instagram — and unpack a truly batshit series of comments from parents in our Shit People Say segment. To learn more about antinatalism, read the FAQs . You can find New Yorker’s profile of antinatalism and David Benatar HERE . Become a monthly subscriber to help this show stay ad-free. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

May 9, 2023

For many women, a childfree life isn’t a choice. According to the CDC, nearly 20% of women are unable to get pregnant after one year of trying. The inability to have a child affects 6.7 million women in the U.S. — about 11% of the reproductive-age population. That’s why today, we’re talking about those who are childless — rather than childfree — from the struggle to get pregnant to how to overcome the grief process. In this episode, we’re joined by content creator Tiffany J. Marie to hear about her journey with infertility. Tiffany lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband Phil and their two cats, Audrey and Luna. Her writing can be found on Instagram and Medium. Her online community is a place that strives to create a positive atmosphere for childfree and childless people to connect and engage. Thank you to Jessica in Austin, TX for sending in your listener question! Want to send us a question or comment? Email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. To read the article about Brooke Shields and her mom from our Shit Celebs Say segment, visit People.com Become a monthly subscriber to help this show stay ad-free! Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Apr 25, 2023

Did you know that Reddit’s Regretful Parents subreddit has over 72k members? Today’s episode covers the topic of regretful parenting — a doozy of a subject! While it may be taboo, there are more and more parents coming clean about their lived experiences, whether it’s through social research or social media forums like Reddit. In this episode, we talk about the primary reasons parents regret, the sociology behind it all — and more. Read Newsweek's piece titled, 'I Regret Having Children': The Moms United In An Uncomfortable Truth' Tap this link to purchase a copy of Orna Donath’s book, Regretting Motherhood. To read the article from our Shit Parents Say segment, tap here. To support this show, click here. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Apr 11, 2023

If you’ve downloaded the Co-Star app or asked a Tinder date what time they were born, today’s episode is for you. In this episode, we’ll be talking about the intersection of astrology and family planning (or, rather, planning to not have a family) with our special guest, astrologer Jessica Lanyadoo. With more than twenty-five years of experience as a consulting Astrologer & psychic medium, Jessica Lanyadoo believes no topic is off limits or unworthy of kindness. Lanyadoo has lectured extensively and is the host of the popular twice weekly Astrology + Advice show, Ghost of a Podcast, the author of Astrology For Real Relationships, and the creator of the astrology pro-tool, Astrology for Days. She can also be found all over the internet and at lovelanyadoo.com To sign up for Jessica’s class The Moon In You on April 16th, click here. To get a copy of the book ‘The Road’ by Cormac McCarthy, visit Bookshop.org. To support this show, tap here. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Feb 21, 2023

On this Season 2 finale, we’re joined by TikTok star Rachel Diamond, known by her handle @ rachelandrue . She is an actor, writer, and fellow podcaster who is vocally childfree and sterilized. With more than 118,000 followers to date, she joins us to chat through everything from her sterilization journey to life as a childfree content creator. You can access the Childfree Doctors thread HERE . For more information on the Sterilization Preparations Binder resource, visit THIS link. Dr. Danielle from Episode 9 also offered: Physicians performing vasectomies Gynecologists who will perform a tubal sterilization Join us in playing Smash or Pass, Disney men edition . To learn more about the illustrious Jeff Conaway, visit his Wikipedia . To support this show, visit Anchor.com Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com . --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Feb 7, 2023

If we paid our guests by the hour, this would be our most expensive episode ever. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Danielle (an OBGYN in New York) and Dr. Alli (a urologist in California) to talk about abortion, sterilization, vasectomy, birth control, women’s reproductive rights and so much more! Trust us when we say, we asked ALL the dumb questions so you don’t have to. Click HERE to buy a copy of ‘Ejaculate Responsibly’ by Gabrielle Stanley Blair. Listen to Dr. Alli’s second favorite podcast, You Are Not Broken. Please join us on watching ‘MILF Manor’ on TLC or Discovery+ To read about the illustrious Jeff Conaway, visit his Wikipedia. To support this show, visit our page at Anchor.com Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Jan 24, 2023

It’s time to talk about STEPPARENTS! Pop culture references like ‘Cinderella’s evil stepmother and the ‘Parent Trap’s Meredith Blake have given us a negative perception of the role. Stepparents – and stepmothers in particular — have been painted as cruel, home-wrecking villains. But realistically, if you’re not interested in having biological kids of your own, perhaps being a stepparent is the best of both worlds: you get the joys of raising a child, without ever having to suffer through pregnancy — and with only a fraction of the responsibility! Today, we’ll be joined by Chloe Steinhoff-Smith. Yes, that’s right — the design mastermind behind our podcast cover art, and a bonafide, honest to goodness stepmom. We’ll talk to her about her experience, the ups and downs of stepparent-hood, and get her best advice for people who might be considering becoming stepparents themselves. To read about the illustrious Jeff Conaway, visit his Wikipedia. Take the quiz!: What Kind Of Stepparent Are You? To follow Chloe Steinhoff-Smith, check her out on Instagram . To support this show, visit https://anchor.fm/dinky-podcast Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com . For the love of god, please share the show with friends. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Jan 10, 2023

The decision to be childfree might leave you with one big question: how do I meet childfree friends? You’re not alone; it’s one of the most commonly searched childfree topics on Google. In this episode, we’re talking about our own journeys and struggles to form childfree community – plus offering advice on how to take the first step in finding like-minded friends. Tap HERE to watch the TikTok about Kim Kardashian’s dogs. To support this show, visit us on Anchor . Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com . --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Dec 27, 2022

According to ‘The Atlantic’, millennials recently overtook boomers as the largest pet-owning cohort of Americans; by some estimates, more than half of them have a dog. The pet-ownership rate is even higher among those with a college education and a stable income—the same people who are most likely to delay marriage and parenthood beyond the timelines set by previous generations. So should you just stop at pet ownership or continue down the path of human parenthood? In this episode, we will review how pets vs. children impact your health, happiness, and more. To learn more about the effects children and pets have on health and life expectancy, check out these articles: https://www.health.com/condition/pregnancy/reproductive-history-health-risks https://www.mrhc.org/blog/news/does-not-having-kids-cause-health-issues-in-women/ https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/blog/understanding-how-having-children-can-affect-your-health/ https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/keeping-pets-and-people-healthy/how.html https://www.parents.com/news/giving-birth-later-in-life-could-mean-you-live-longer-according-to-a-new-study/ https://www.vice.com/amp/en/article/gyxqxw/how-having-kids-could-affect-your-lifespan https://www.verywellhealth.com/pets-and-longevity-2223874 For more info on brain changes when interacting with kids or pets, visit: https://www.thebritishacademy.ac.uk/blog/understanding-how-having-children-can-affect-your-health/ https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/many-same-brain-regions-are-activated-when-mothers-look-their-pets-or-their-children-180952946/ To support this show, visit https://anchor.fm/dinky-podcast Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Dec 13, 2022

Nothing defines the holidays more than brutal conversations with family. Going home for the holidays leaves you especially vulnerable to parents asking when you’re gonna settle down and pop out a couple grandchildren. On this special episode, we’re joined by Gabrielle Moss, author of How To Tell Your Parents You Don’t Want Kids on Bustle.com, as well as Paperback Crush: The Totally Radical History of '80s and '90s Teen Fiction , and GLOP: Nontoxic, Expensive Ideas That Will Make You Look Ridiculous And Feel Pretentious . Moss joins to breaks down her top tips on how delivering the news with compassion. If you’re sweating the conversation, this episode is for you. To buy one of Gabrielle’s books, visit Bookshop.org. For the full story on Kylie Jenner’s son, Wolf, check out this story at People . Tap HERE to support this show. Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok . If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com . --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Nov 29, 2022

Black Friday and Cyber Monday might be over — but the residual effects of capitalism will stick with you for a lifetime! It’s the most anticipated time of year, so it’s only appropriate that we release one of our most anticipated episodes, and the topic that’s America’s #1 friend: capitalism. What do capitalism and choosing to be childfree have in common? Actually, a lot! Tune in to hear us unpack the topic and dig deep on why billionaires are really counting on procreation. For the full list of the most popular toys of the 90s, read the full list HERE . To learn more about the history of capitalism, visit Wikipedia . Yes, really. For more on Jennifer Aniston’s journey with IVF and childlessness , read her feature in Allure. To support this show, give back by clicking HERE . Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com . --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Nov 15, 2022

The holidays are right around the corner and that means one thing: people are about to say some really awful sh!t to you about your decision to remain childfree. If you’re bubbling with anxiety about how to respond when people ask “who will take care of you when you’re old?” or tell you “you’re selfish” — we’ve got you covered. It’s high tide to prep your reactions so you’re in peak position to clap back at Aunt Kathy. To learn more about the $25k necklace Tristan Thompson gave to his daughter, god speed. To see Brittany Mahomes “sexy maternity shoot ” visit People.com: --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Oct 28, 2022

We’re talking about children who see dead people, kids who believe they’re reincarnated, and the stressed out parents who birthed them. Kristen and Erika also introduce a brand new segment: The Celebrity Playground! Tune in to hear it all — but warning: you might wanna leave the lights on and your IUD in. If you want to learn more about the psychology of why kids see ghosts, read this article from WaPo. If you want to hear more horrifying stories from parents, there are several articles where parents share creepy things their kids said. There's also a Reddit thread on the topic. Click here to buy ‘Return To Life: Extraordinary Cases Of Children Who Remember Past Lives’. To learn more about time slips, we recommend this article on Medium. To learn more about how babies’ brains look similar to a person on LSD, check out this article. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Oct 25, 2022

Welcome back to Season 2 of Dinky! In this season premiere, Kristen and Erika catch up on what happened during the break — from weddings, to health scares, and beyond. We introduce some new changes and cover what’ll be new in this season, including more celeb content, and a deeper dive on antinatalism and being childfree. Plus, we’re joined by Matt Simpson, the creator of the Parenting Simulator from Season 1. Listen in to hear him reveal the real reason he created the game, his takes on how to know if parenting is right for you, and more. ‘My Five Wives’ is available to stream on Discovery+ To follow Matt Simpson, find him on Twitter To play the Parenting Simulator yourself, download the app HERE. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Aug 29, 2022

In this season's finale, we’ve been saving the best for last!!! Kristen & Erika love reality television, celebrity news, and gossip — so we finally combined our favorite topics of all time to discuss the intersection of the childfree lifestyle and celebrities. This episode is all about childfree icons and the pressures of having children as seen in pop culture. To enjoy a nice sit down dinner, visit your local Red Lobster. To play along with the Parenting Simulator, download the app here . Here’s a comprehensive list of every article we referenced during our conversation: https://www.harpersbazaar.com/uk/celebrities/news/g21965029/11-celebrities-on-not-having-children/ https://www.reddit.com/r/childfree/comments/w36tp5/who_are_your_favorite_childfree_celebrities/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=ios_app&utm_name=iossmf https://www.wellesley.edu/news/2014/04/node/41168 https://screenrant.com/best-tv-shows-about-married-couples-without-children/amp/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Aug 25, 2022

This bonus is special conversation that was cut from our episode on the declining birth rate on the factors behind Japan's shrinking population, and the genius way Japanese women have handled the inequality in parenting relationships. To learn more about Japan's shrinking population, read this article from the New York Times . To enjoy a nice sit down dinner, visit your local Red Lobster: https://www.redlobster.com/ To play along with the Parenting Simulator, download the app here: https://www.choiceofgames.com/user-contributed/parenting-simulator/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Aug 23, 2022

Whether you’ve seen it mentioned by Elon Musk on Twitter or in a panic article by the New York Times, you’ve probably heard buzz lately about concerns about the declining birth rate. In this episode, we discuss the global trend, how different countries are tackling the issue, how it will affect millennials in particular, and chat through how worried we really should be. Try out our TikTok filter & find out what sit down dinner you are: https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTRfS22r1/ To learn more about the declining birth rates worldwide, visit: https://worldpopulationreview.com/country-rankings/total-fertility-rate To learn about the impacts COVID had on birth rates, read this article by NYT: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/05/05/us/us-birthrate-falls-covid.html To learn more on why folks are freaking out over it, read this article by WaPo: https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/to-your-health/wp/2017/06/30/the-u-s-fertility-rate-just-hit-a-historic-low-why-some-demographers-are-freaking-out/ Check out this article on how Social Security will be impacted: https://feeds.aarp.org/retirement/social-security/questions-answers/how-much-longer-will-social-security-be-around.html?_amp=true To enjoy a nice sit down dinner, visit your local Red Lobster: https://www.redlobster.com/ To play along with the Parenting Simulator, download the app here: https://www.choiceofgames.com/user-contributed/parenting-simulator/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Aug 16, 2022

If you’re in your 20s or 30s, there’s a good chance you’ve lost friends as people you knew started to have kids. In today’s episode, Kristen and Erika chat about how to cope when you’re the last childfree person in your friend group, and the best and worst advice the internet has to offer on maintaining friendships with friends after they become parents. Have a question? Email us at dinkypod@gmail.com . Read “Hi, From Your Childless Friend” by A Cup Of Jo. More stats on being childfree: https://time.com/241/having-it-all-without-having-children/ On parents staying friends with childfree folks: https://archive.nytimes.com/parenting.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/08/06/can-parents-stay-friends-with-the-child-free/ To buy yourself fresh flowers, visit bouqs.com To enjoy a nice sit down dinner, visit your local Red Lobster: https://www.redlobster.com/ To play along with the Parenting Simulator, download the app here: https://www.choiceofgames.com/user-contributed/parenting-simulator/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Aug 9, 2022

What defines a family? To some, family is about blood relations. For others, family is something you develop with people you love and trust. If you’ve ruled out having biological children, what other options are there to form alternative family arrangements? In this episode, we discuss adoption, foster care, and other “unconventional” family structures. Have a question? Email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. To learn more about adoption and the trauma adopted children experience, buy a copy of ‘Primal Wound’: https://bookshop.org/a/56255/9780963648006 If you’d like to learn more about celebs who were adopted, visit Popsugar.com: https://www.popsugar.com/celebrity/Celebrities-Who-Were-Adopted-37979874/amp To read on about celebs who were estranged from their parents, visit Ranker.com: https://www.ranker.com/list/celebrities-who-are-estranged-from-their-parents/celebrity-lists Our research on family structures came from ifstudies.org: https://ifstudies.org/blog/more-than-60-of-u-s-kids-live-with-two-biological-parents/ On adoption: https://adoptionnetwork.com/how-long-does-it-take-to-adopt-a-child/ https://adoptionart.org/adoption/private-adoption-vs-agency-adoption/ https://time.com/6051811/private-adoption-america/ https://adoptionswithlove.org/adoptive-parents/how-long-does-it-take-to-adopt https://www.holtinternational.org/top-10-myths-about-adopting-from-china/ https://childrenofallnations.com/adoption-programs/asia/china-adoption/#requirements On fostering: https://www.childrensrights.org/newsroom/fact-sheets/foster-care/ On childfree alternatives: https://thesocietypages.org/ccf/2014/08/11/childfree-is-family-friendly/ To enjoy a nice sit down dinner, visit your local Red Lobster: https://www.redlobster.com/ To play along with the Parenting Simulator, download the app here: https://www.choiceofgames.com/user-contributed/parenting-simulator/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Aug 5, 2022

Imagine a red button that, when pressed, would instantly end human life and suffering. Would you press it? Kristen and Erika debate this concept in a special bonus episode from the cutting room floor of our Antinatalism episode. Enjoy! Wanna connect with us on social media? You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @dinkypod. If you have a question or comment, email us at dinkypod@gmail.com. If you’re a fan of the show, please remember to subscribe — bonus points for the extra special fans who leave us a glowing review. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Aug 2, 2022

Grab some oat milk, because this episode is spicy! This week, Kristen and Erika ask a tough question: is procreation morally wrong? In other words, they discuss the philosophical topic of antinatalism: a controversial perspective that argues that “humans should abstain from procreation because it is morally wrong.” We chat through the theory’s major concepts, as well as everyone’s favorite topics: veganism, depression, and human suffering! (Look, it might sound like you’ll need to double up on a dose of Zoloft before tuning into the episode — but trust us, we keep it fun.) The data about unintended pregnancies can be found at: https://www.unfpa.org/press/nearly-half-all-pregnancies-are-unintended-global-crisis-says-new-unfpa-report To learn more about Antinatalism, visit Stop Having Kids: https://www.stophavingkids.org/ To read more from David Benetar (truly no relation to Pat Benetar), check out his argument in The New Yorker: https://www.newyorker.com/culture/persons-of-interest/the-case-for-not-being-born Watch Mr. Smith’s monologue from The Matrix (since we know you ran here for this, specifically) visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JrBdYmStZJ4 To enjoy a nice sit down dinner, visit your local Red Lobster: https://www.redlobster.com/ To play along with the Parenting Simulator, download the app here: https://www.choiceofgames.com/user-contributed/parenting-simulator/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Jul 26, 2022

Fencesitters, unite!! If you’re questioning whether having kids is right for you, this episode has got you covered. We’re covering the top tools — from workbooks to influencers and beyond — to explore in order to make a decision and get off the fence. To read the article by parenting clarity therapist Ann Davidson (not Pete Davidson’s mom…), visit Vox.com . For more on the declining millennial birth rate . Snag a copy of ‘The Baby Decision ’ Snag a copy of ‘Motherhood: Is It For Me?’ To follow Cleo Abrams on TikTok, visit: https://www.tiktok.com/@cleoabram To enjoy a nice sit down dinner, visit your local Red Lobster. To play along with the Parenting Simulator, download the app here: https://www.choiceofgames.com/user-contributed/parenting-simulator/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Jul 19, 2022

This week, we’re talking about everyone’s favorite topic: MONEY. We share our hot takes on baby showers, unpack how much it really costs to raise a child, and compare the financial tolls of having a child biologically vs adopting or fostering. To buy a Peloton for yourself, visit onepeloton.com and use code BX7RW2 to get $100 off your purchase. To read more about the pay disparity between men and women after giving birth, read these articles: https://www.cnbc.com/2019/10/16/womens-earnings-drop-after-having-a-childbut-mens-do-not.html https://www.nber.org/digest/apr11/how-childbearing-affects-womens-wages To enjoy a nice sit down dinner, visit your local Red Lobster: https://www.redlobster.com/ To play along with the Parenting Simulator, download the app here: https://www.choiceofgames.com/user-contributed/parenting-simulator/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Jul 12, 2022

Parents often say that the happiest day of their lives is the day their children were born… But is that true? Do kids *actually* make you happier — or lead to more meaningful lives? This week, Erika and Kristen consult the stats to see what the research reveals about the impact parenting has on your happiness. (Spoiler: it’s not great.) To enjoy a nice sit down dinner, visit your local Red Lobster: https://www.redlobster.com/ To reference the study about Texas mothers: https://www.amazon.com/All-Joy-No-Fun-Parenthood/dp/B01L9E1R66 To read the additional data we reference, visit these links: https://positivepsychology.com/parenthood-paradox/ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/why-bad-looks-good/202102/why-many-single-women-without-children-are-so-happy To play along with the Parenting Simulator, download the app here: https://www.choiceofgames.com/user-contributed/parenting-simulator/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Jul 5, 2022

This special bonus episode is only for the truly deranged souls who want to listen to the BONUS EXTENDED full quiz on if you're ready to become a parent. TAKE THE QUIZ: https://www.thequiz.com/are-you-ready-to-be-a-parent/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Jul 5, 2022

In this episode, Kristen and Erika weigh the pros and cons of parenting based on their personal opinions and what they’ve found on the Internet. Does the miracle of life outweigh a lack of sleep? Is it ethical to bring life into the world to gain a built-in friend? To enjoy a nice sit down dinner, visit your local Red Lobster: https://www.redlobster.com/ To shop the hair dryer mentioned by Kristen in Dink Yourself: https://www.bioionic.com/10x-ultralight-speed-dryer-new-black To follow along with the quiz and discover if you’re ready to be a parent, visit: https://www.thequiz.com/are-you-ready-to-be-a-parent/ To reference the article we discuss on the Pros and Cons of parenting: https://parentspluskids.com/blog/pros-and-cons-of-having-kids To play along with the Parenting Simulator, download the app here: https://www.choiceofgames.com/user-contributed/parenting-simulator/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support

Jul 5, 2022

Kristen and Erika introduce Dinky, a podcast to navigate the decision around becoming parents or remaining childfree as two women in dual income, no kid households through lighthearted (aka ridiculous) conversations. In this episode, they unpack the WHY behind the series and share their personal goals for the first season. To book the Obama impersonator (Reggie Brown) that Kristen referenced in Dink Yourself, visit: http://reggiebrownobamaimpersonator.com/2020/03/16/reggie-brown-is-now-on-cameo/ To play along with the Parenting Simulator, download the app here: https://www.choiceofgames.com/user-contributed/parenting-simulator/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dinky-podcast/support