What does it mean to reflect on the life paths we didn’t take? In this deeply engaging episode, Emily Paulsen and Janet Alexandersson explore the concept of the “ghost ship life”—those alternate futures we let sail away—and the profound insights they can offer.

Janet, a creative force and founder of Piggy Bank Legal, joins Emily for a heartfelt conversation about curiosity, creativity, decision-making, and what it means to live intentionally. Drawing inspiration from Cheryl Strayed’s “The Ghost Ship That Didn’t Carry Us,” they consider how choices shape our identities, the courage to follow your instincts, and the power of letting go of the “what ifs.”

This conversation isn’t just about asking big questions—it’s about discovering how to honor the life you’ve chosen, celebrate its unique beauty, and create meaning in every step forward. So, what’s your ghost ship life? And how does it shape the one you’re living today?

Key Takeaways:

• Curiosity as a Compass: How embracing curiosity can guide our choices and deepen our understanding of ourselves and others.

• The Art of Letting Go: Why acknowledging the “ghost ships” of our lives can help us embrace our current path with more clarity and gratitude.

• Intentional Living: Practical ways to align your decisions with your values while exploring alternate paths through imagination and reflection.

• Reframing Relationships: From friendship to community, how meaningful connections can take many forms beyond traditional family structures.

• Decision-Making Frameworks: Janet’s approach to navigating crossroads with courage, curiosity, and a willingness to grow.

**The article referenced in this episode can be read here: https://therumpus.net/2011/04/21/dear-sugar-the-rumpus-advice-column-71-the-ghost-ship-that-didnt-carry-us/

—

Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are . She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way.

Learn more about Emily on her website: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com

And connect with her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curiouslifeofachildfreewoman/

—

The guest on this episode is Janet Alexandersson, a creative at heart – sprouting new side and art projects every year. She is also the founder of the boutique law firm Piggy Bank Legal. She helps professionals add revenue streams through licensing by offering a unique combination of business advisory and legal services. Janet is celebrating 20 years as a lawyer and loves to chat about entrepreneurship, licensing, creativity and philosophy.

Learn more about her work on her website: janetalexandersson.com.