This episode of ‘Circling the Rabbit Hole’ podcast, hosted by Dr. Claire, features guests Muthoni and Rix, for candid conversation on an increasingly popular yet still controversial lifestyle choice ie. opting to be child-free.
Today’s discussion aims to destigmatise this choice, moving away from negative connotations associated with "childlessness" or “being barren”. We contextualise this lifestyle choice to our society and culture here in Kenya, as Muthoni and Rix share their personal experiences, highlighting the combative reactions women often face compared to men when making this choice.
Muthoni, having never envisioned herself as a parent, talks us through how she arrived at her decision and what action she has taken to ensure she lives a life true to herself, her beliefs and passions. At the same time, Rix reveals that his decision stemmed from just how much "parenting" he had already done for his family and himself. His realisation that parenthood is a demanding vocation very few are truly prepared for.
The episode also explores the medical aspects of contraception, with Muthoni recounting being denied a tubal ligation at age 23 due to her age and societal expectations that denied her body autonomy, while Rix discusses the cultural resistance men face regarding the vasectomy procedure, despite it being a simpler procedure for couples looking to prevent pregnancy, having completed their family size. The conversation concludes with advice to "choose your hard" and not to have a child for someone else, emphasising that the decision should be a personal and well-reasoned one.
Connect with my guests today:
Onyango Otieno @rixpoet is a mental health activist, SRHR storyteller, podcast host, and all-around troublemaker, who is committed to using his voice to speak up against toxic masculinity and SGBV.
Muthoni Gitau @iammuthonigitau is a content creator, YouTuber, podcaster, DIY queen, and proud cat mom, who uses art and creativity to create a safe space for young people navigating everyday life and its challenges in modern-day Kenya.
Related episodes:
Creating awareness on suicide prevention
https://youtu.be/O5Rv8a6ZA48?si=trApYodrXB09ON8-
Gen Z & Maandamano: Safeguarding your mental
health https://youtu.be/TeceokYGJOc?si=AwIn2hEPA0Mx8M_bCTRH podcast
Location partner:
@ashleyfurniturekenya
@fairdealfurniture
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