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

What you’ll learn:

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

Questions answered in this episode:

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

Connect with Elizabeth:

IG: @bychanceavenue

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Connect with the Guests:

Kathleen Guthrie Woods

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

Carrie:

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

Samantha De Cosmo:

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