For International Men’s Day 2026, Michael, Berenice and Sarah talk with Ben (UK-born, Sydney-based coach and speaker) and Ed Ismail (actor, writer and podcaster), who are both childless not by choice. They ask what “The Future Is Everyone” means when so much of the imagery and language around IMD centres on fatherhood. They also cover legacy and mentoring, who looks after us in later life, the pressure men carry, silent grief, and what they’re most proud of.
Meet Our Guests
Ben has a technology career and now works in consulting, speaking and coaching. He and his wife Jo presented a World Childless Week webinar on grieving and moving on.
Ed Ismail is an actor, writer and podcaster from England. He uses his writing, whether poetry or plays, to explore and express his feelings about being childless not by choice. He has interviewed childless men and is keen to meet more people on their childless journey. For fun and creative inspiration, Ed interviews actors and performers of all kinds on the Don’t Think, Act! podcast, available wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Helpline details
UK: Contact the Samaritans on freephone 116 123, they're open 24 hours and are there to listen and Mind.
USA: Suicide Prevention
Canada: Canada Crisis
Australia: Beyond Blue
Pink Therapy (UK): Directory of LGBTQIA+ friendly therapists.
Access our Toolkit for resources
Many of our guests have channels online and blogs so you can follow what they do and read their words. Head to our podcast page, and click on the episode image to access the show notes and further reading.
Disclaimer
The Full Stop podcast and content posted by The Full Stop Community CIC is presented solely for general information, and educational purposes. The guests’ views may not represent those of the Full Stop Community CIC, online community members or the co-directors. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user’s own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.
