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  • In this episode of IVFDADDIES, Richard Westoby, speaks with Emma Whitney, an experienced embryologist, about the importance of reproductive health education, the complexities of infertility, and the role of embryologists in fertility treatments. They discuss the often-misleading success rates of fertility clinics, the need for informed decision-making, and the significance of clear communication between patients and healthcare providers. Emma emphasizes the importance of understanding what constitutes success in fertility treatments and encourages listeners to ask critical questions when seeking treatment.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Reproductive Health Education

    02:40 The Role of an Embryologist

    05:37 Understanding Success Rates in IVF

    09:20 The Importance of Patient-Centric Care

    12:16 Navigating the IVF Journey

    15:02 Questions to Ask Your Fertility Clinic

    17:51 The Reality of Multiple Births in IVF

    20:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Education on reproductive health is crucial for young people.

    Many people are unaware of the causes of infertility.

    An embryologist plays a vital role in fertility treatments.

    Success rates in clinics can be misleading.

    Patients should ask about their chances of success based on their individual circumstances.

    Communication and support from the clinic are essential for patient care.

    Understanding the difference between pregnancy rates and live birth rates is important.

    Patients should be aware of the potential for multiple births in fertility treatments.

    Grieving for lost dreams is a part of the fertility journey.

    Informed decision-making can lead to better outcomes in fertility treatments.

    Sound Bites

    "What is success?"

    "Will you treat me?"

    "How are we going to communicate?"

    Titles

    The Importance of Reproductive Health Education

    Understanding Infertility: What You Need to Know

  • In this episode of the IVF Daddies podcast, hosts and guests BOLKO ALEKSIEV and NAOMI TEAL from MABO WELLNESS delve into personal journeys of health and wellness, focusing on Crohn's disease, nutrition, and fertility challenges. They discuss the emotional toll of fertility testing, the importance of open conversations about reproductive health, and the various options available for those facing fertility issues. The conversation highlights the significance of understanding one's body, the impact of nutrition on health, and the need for supportive dialogue around fertility and personal choices.

    Takeaways

    The journey to wellness often stems from personal health challenges.

    Nutrition plays a crucial role in managing chronic conditions like Crohn's disease.

    Fertility testing can be an emotional rollercoaster for couples.

    Open conversations about fertility are essential for understanding options.

    It's important to question medical advice and seek second opinions.

    The societal pressure to have children can be overwhelming.

    Women often feel the burden of fertility issues more acutely than men.

    There are various paths to parenthood beyond traditional methods.

    Understanding one's body is key to making informed health decisions.

    It's okay to not have a clear answer about wanting children.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Wellness and Personal Journeys

    02:59 Understanding Crohn's Disease and Its Impact

    05:50 The Role of Nutrition in Managing Health

    08:43 Fertility Testing and Its Emotional Toll

    11:13 Navigating Medical Advice and Options

    14:31 Societal Pressures and Personal Choices

    17:07 Exploring Future Possibilities and Options

    20:04 Empowerment Through Knowledge and Choices

    Keywords

    IVF, wellness, Crohn's disease, nutrition, fertility, emotional health, health journey, personal stories, reproductive health, holistic health

    Sound Bites

    "Food is thy medicine."

    "It's not as easy as that."

    "It's okay to not know."

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  • In this conversation, Richard Westoby and his friend Kat discuss the journey of fertility, cancer diagnosis, and the emotional and physical challenges that come with it. They explore the importance of family, the impact of cancer on personal aspirations, and the options available for building a family after such experiences. The discussion highlights the significance of early detection, the complexities of treatment, and the emotional rollercoaster that accompanies these life-altering events.

    "United by Unique" is the powerful theme for World Cancer Day in 2025. Cancer is never just a diagnosis; it’s a deeply personal and transformative journey that touches every part of a person's life. For our wonderful friend Kat, this journey began with a decision to freeze her eggs — a choice that unknowingly led to the discovery of her cancer. What followed was a courageous path through treatment, showing how sometimes, even in the face of the unknown, our lives take unexpected turns toward healing and hope.

    Sound Bites

    "I think, as said, we met in Malta."

    "I was clearly very emotional about it."

    "I joined Surrogacy UK."

    Chapters

    00:00 Adventurous Beginnings

    02:00 The Decision to Freeze Eggs

    04:01 Facing Cancer: The Diagnosis

    05:56 Navigating Treatment and Surgery

    10:11 Life After Hysterectomy

    12:00 The Impact of Cancer on Family Planning

    16:58 Exploring Surrogacy and Future Options

    22:04 Reflections on Egg Freezing and Hope

    Takeaways

    The importance of early detection in cancer treatment.

    Navigating the emotional challenges of fertility and cancer.

    The role of friendship and support during difficult times.

    Understanding the implications of PCOS on fertility.

    The significance of having options for family planning.

    The impact of surgical procedures on recovery and future health.

    Adjusting to hormonal changes after surgery.

    The challenges of second cancer diagnosis and treatment.

    Advocacy and sharing personal stories to inspire others.

    Exploring surrogacy as a viable option for family building.

  • In this episode of IVF Daddies, Rich Vaughn from the International Fertility Law Group discusses the implications of recent executive orders regarding birthright citizenship and surrogacy. The conversation explores the constitutional basis of birthright citizenship, the nuances of the executive order, and the potential impact on intended parents using surrogacy services in the U.S. Amidst concerns and uncertainties, Rich emphasizes the importance of understanding legal rights and navigating the challenges that may arise for families in the surrogacy process.

    Takeaways

    Birthright citizenship is part of the 14th Amendment.

    Executive orders cannot override constitutional rights.

    The executive order suggests a new interpretation of citizenship.

    Prong one of the order targets children of illegal immigrants.

    Prong two raises concerns for children born to temporary visa holders.

    Intended parents may face challenges in obtaining citizenship for their children.

    Legal status of parents affects citizenship rights of children.

    Temporary travel documents may be needed for international parents.

    There are always alternative solutions to legal challenges.

    Clarity on the executive order is expected as litigation unfolds.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Birthright Citizenship and Executive Orders

    02:41 Understanding the 14th Amendment and Birthright Citizenship

    05:32 Implications of Trump's Executive Order

    08:20 Legal Challenges and Court Proceedings

    10:47 Potential Outcomes for Surrogacy and Citizenship

    13:39 Conclusion and Future Considerations

    Sound Bites

    "This week has been monumental."

    "There's always a solution."

    "You're a superstar, thank you very much."

  • Dicover more about Louisa's website

    Takeaways

    The power is already within us, and sometimes we just need a push.

    Discipline is key to achieving results in life.

    Health choices can significantly impact fertility and overall well-being.

    PCOS can be managed and even reversed through lifestyle changes.

    Self-care is crucial for parents to be effective caregivers.

    Parenting comes with pressures that can lead to comparison and self-doubt.

    Therapy can help couples navigate the challenges of parenthood and fertility.

    Creating awareness about one's health is the first step to improvement.

    Individual health journeys are unique and require tailored approaches.

    It's important to focus on personal growth and self-acceptance in parenting.

    Summary

    In this episode of the IVF Daddies podcast, host Julio speaks with Louisa, a certified life coach, about personal growth, health challenges, and the journey of parenthood. They discuss the importance of discipline, the power within us, and how to navigate health issues like PCOS. Louisa shares her experience with fertility, the significance of self-care for parents, and the pressures of parenting in today's world. The conversation also touches on the value of therapy in relationships and the need for awareness in individual health journeys.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Connection

    02:51 The Power Within Us

    06:09 Navigating PCOS and Health Choices

    11:48 The Journey to Parenthood

    17:57 Post-Pregnancy Health and Self-Care

    23:56 Parenting Perspectives and Challenges

    30:03 Therapy and Relationship Dynamics

    35:52 Awareness and Individual Health Journeys

    Sound Bites

    "Discipline gets results."

    "You need both 50-50."

    "Comparison is a big killer."

    Keywords

    IVF, surrogacy, PCOS, parenting, self-care, therapy, health, fertility, life coaching, personal growth

  • Takeaways

    The fertility community acts as first responders during crises.

    Safety protocols for frozen tissue are robust and reliable.

    Real-time monitoring of storage conditions is critical.

    Collaboration among fertility centers enhances patient care.

    Emergency communication systems are in place for patient updates.

    Contingency plans exist for relocating frozen tissue if needed.

    Air quality monitoring is essential for embryo safety.

    The community's support is vital during challenging times.

    Patients can be moved to partner facilities for ongoing treatment.

    The fertility industry is united in its response to emergencies.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to IVF During Crisis

    01:57 Ensuring Safety of Frozen Tissue

    05:44 Emergency Protocols for Natural Disasters

    10:21 Handling Active Treatment During Emergencies

    12:42 Community Collaboration in Fertility Care

    Summary

    In this conversation, Dr. Huang discusses the impact of recent crises in Los Angeles on fertility care, emphasizing the importance of safety protocols for frozen tissue, emergency response strategies, and the collaboration among fertility centers to ensure patient care during emergencies. The dialogue highlights the resilience of the community and the proactive measures taken to safeguard patients' reproductive materials and health.

    Sound Bites

    "We could message patients in real time."

    "We have contingency plans to finish treatments."

    "It's brought us together despite the hardship."

  • In this episode of the IVF Daddy's podcast, hosts Michael Snaric and George share their journey of becoming parents through IVF and surrogacy. They discuss the challenges they faced, including finding the right surrogate, navigating the NICU experience, and the importance of building a supportive community for LGBTQIA+ families. They also highlight their upcoming event aimed at making the family-building process more approachable and fun, featuring drag queens and a focus on inclusivity.

    Takeaways

    They connected on wanting children from their first date.

    The IVF journey was expedited due to family health concerns.

    Finding a supportive surrogate was crucial to their journey.

    The NICU experience was challenging but manageable.

    They emphasize the importance of a strong support system.

    Planning date nights is essential for maintaining balance.

    They actively seek to build a community for gay dads.

    Their upcoming event aims to make IVF discussions fun.

    Inclusivity in parenting is a key focus for them.

    They advocate for LGBTQIA+ families based on their experiences.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the IVF Journey

    05:59 Finding the Right Surrogate

    12:01 Navigating Parenthood Together

    18:14 Building a Supportive Community

    23:47 Upcoming Events and Advocacy

    Keywords

    IVF, LGBTQIA+, surrogacy, parenting, community, NICU, gay dads, family building, support system, drag queens

  • In this episode of the IVF Daddies podcast, hosts Julio and Richard explore the intersection of reality TV and important topics surrounding women's health, fertility, and parenting. They discuss how reality shows have opened up conversations about painful periods, endometriosis, egg freezing, sperm donation, and the emotional aspects of parenthood. The hosts emphasize the importance of education and breaking taboos surrounding these issues, highlighting the role of public figures in normalizing discussions about fertility and women's rights.

    Chapters

    00:00 Reality TV as a Source of Information

    02:52 Understanding Women's Health Issues

    06:03 Egg Freezing and Fertility Options

    08:52 Sperm Donation and Its Implications

    12:12 The Emotional Aspects of Parenthood

    15:01 Abortion and Women's Rights

    17:48 The Role of Reality TV in Education

    21:12 Navigating Parenthood Decisions

    Takeaways

    Reality TV can be a surprising source of information.

    Many women suffer in silence regarding painful periods.

    Endometriosis is often misdiagnosed or ignored.

    Egg freezing is a viable option for women.

    Sperm donation can create complex family dynamics.

    The emotional journey of parenthood is significant.

    Abortion is a personal choice that should be respected.

    Reality TV can educate viewers on important issues.

    Infertility affects a significant portion of the population.

    Open discussions can help break societal taboos.

    Sound Bites

    "Reality TV is my source of information."

    "Freezing eggs is a great option."

    "It takes a village to raise a child."

    "Keep your doors open for family options."

    "Thank you for breaking taboos."

    Keywords

    IVF, reality TV, women's health, egg freezing, sperm donation, abortion, fertility, endometriosis, surrogacy, parenting decisions

  • In this conversation, Richard Westby from IVF Daddies interviews Dr. Carrie Wambach about Ozempic, a medication primarily used for diabetes management that has shown additional benefits, particularly in weight loss and fertility. Dr. Wambach explains how Ozempic works by decreasing insulin resistance and normalizing hormones like LH and testosterone, which can lead to improved ovulation and egg quality. The discussion also covers the implications of Ozempic on pregnancy, including the need to stop the medication before conception and its potential to lower pregnancy risks associated with higher BMI. Overall, the conversation highlights the multifaceted benefits of Ozempic and its role in enhancing reproductive health.

    Takeaways

    Ozempic is primarily for diabetes but has other benefits.

    It decreases insulin resistance, aiding in weight management.

    Normalizes LH levels, improving ovulation in women.

    Can lead to better egg quality and regular periods.

    Lowering BMI before pregnancy can reduce risks.

    Higher weight is linked to complications in pregnancy.

    Ozempic may lower inflammation, benefiting fertility.

    Pregnancy rates are reportedly increasing with Ozempic use.

    The timing of stopping Ozempic before pregnancy is crucial.

    Lifestyle changes can further enhance fertility outcomes.

    Keywords

    Ozempic, diabetes management, weight loss, fertility, pregnancy, insulin resistance, hormonal balance, health benefits

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Ozempic and Its Uses

    03:11 Mechanisms of Action and Benefits for Women

    06:01 Impact on Fertility and Pregnancy Outcomes

    Sound Bites

    "We're seeing your LH normalize."

    "We don't know quite how to study it."

    "Pregnancy rates are going up."

  • In this conversation, Dr. Andy Huang discusses the realities of IVF and surrogacy, debunking myths surrounding women's choices in pregnancy and the confidentiality measures taken in fertility clinics. He emphasizes that most women desire to experience pregnancy but may face challenges that lead them to consider surrogacy. Additionally, he highlights the importance of privacy for patients, especially celebrities, and the lengths to which his clinic goes to ensure discretion.

    Takeaways

    The majority of women seeking IVF want to experience pregnancy.

    Surrogacy is often a necessity rather than a choice for many.

    Confidentiality is a top priority in fertility clinics.

    Patients are treated equally, regardless of their celebrity status.

    Privacy measures include private appointments and discreet waiting areas.

    Many patients are hesitant to discuss their fertility struggles openly.

    The healthcare system provides robust support for pregnant women.

    Gestational carriers are often experienced mothers, reducing risks.

    Celebrities often seek privacy due to public scrutiny.

    The journey to parenthood can be emotionally challenging for many.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to IVF and Surrogacy Misconceptions

    02:54 Understanding the Journey of Fertility Treatments

    05:46 Maintaining Confidentiality in Fertility Clinics

    Keywords

    IVF, surrogacy, fertility, confidentiality, pregnancy, maternal health, celebrity, healthcare, reproductive health, gestational carrier

    Sound Bites

    "We treat everybody the same here."

    "It's nobody's business; it's them."

    "It's an honor to be here today."

  • It's hard to open up about personal life.

    Social media can be a source of support.

    Divorce can lead to new beginnings.

    Children's feelings should guide parenting decisions.

    Being a stepdad comes with unique challenges.

    Communication is key in co-parenting.

    Setting boundaries is essential for harmony.

    Quality time strengthens family bonds.

    Understanding roles in blended families is crucial.

    Respecting the other parent's role fosters cooperation.

    In this episode of the IVF Daddies podcast, hosts Julio and Junior delve into the complexities of parenting, co-parenting, and the unique challenges faced by step-parents. They share personal stories and insights about navigating relationships, setting boundaries, and the importance of communication in blended families. The conversation highlights the emotional weight of parenting decisions and the joy of building meaningful connections with children.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Personal Insights

    02:49 Navigating Relationships and Parenting Dynamics

    06:07 Understanding the Role of a Stepparent

    08:57 Communication and Boundaries in Co-Parenting

    12:09 The Challenges of Parenting and Step-Parenting

    14:56 Quality Time and Building Relationships

    17:49 Conclusion and Reflections on Parenting

    Keywords

    IVF, parenting, co-parenting, step-parenting, family dynamics, relationships, LGBTQ+ families, personal stories, communication, boundaries

    Sound Bites

    "I'm a little bit nervous, but I'm excited."

    "It's hard for me to allow you in."

    "He feels like he has three dads."

    "I never want to take their place."

  • In this episode of the IVF Daddies podcast, Romain shares his journey of becoming a father through surrogacy in the United States, the challenges he faced as a French citizen, and the dynamics of co-parenting after divorce. He discusses the cultural differences in parenting, the legal complexities of surrogacy in France, and the impact of celebrity status on family life. The conversation emphasizes the importance of putting children first and navigating the complexities of modern family structures.

    Takeaways

    Romain's journey to fatherhood through surrogacy in California.

    The importance of firsthand information in the surrogacy process.

    Navigating the legal complexities of surrogacy in France.

    Coping with divorce while prioritizing children's needs.

    Cultural differences in parenting between France and the U.S.

    The role of celebrity in shaping public perception of LGBTQ+ families.

    The significance of co-parenting and shared custody arrangements.

    Challenges faced by LGBTQ+ families in conservative environments.

    The evolving legal landscape for surrogacy in Europe.

    The emotional impact of societal judgment on family dynamics.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Surrogacy and Family Dynamics

    02:53 Navigating Surrogacy in the United States

    05:46 The Journey to Parenthood: Challenges and Triumphs

    09:03 Coping with Divorce and Co-Parenting

    11:55 Cultural Differences in Parenting: France vs. USA

    14:46 Legal Recognition of Parentage in France

    18:03 The Impact of Celebrity on Family Dynamics

    20:59 Conclusion and Future Aspirations

    Sound Bites

    "It's a big agency. So we were reassured."

    "You have to put away your French mind."

    "We didn't succeed in our wedding, but we succeeded in our divorce."

    Sound Bites

    "It's a big agency. So we were reassured."

    "You have to put away your French mind."

    "We didn't succeed in our wedding, but we succeeded in our divorce."

  • We are happy People are listening, and it's great info.

    Richard and Julio learned a lot at the IVF conference.

    Confidentiality is crucial in celebrity IVF cases.

    Celebrities often face the same struggles as others.

    IVF can be a personal journey, not a public spectacle.

    Psychological support is essential during the IVF process.

    Cultural perspectives can influence IVF experiences.

    Maintaining boundaries is important for emotional health.

    The journey to parenthood can be filled with highs and lows.

    Family planning is a deeply personal decision.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Podcast Journey

    02:56 Insights from the IVF Conference

    06:11 Celebrity IVF Experiences

    09:05 Emotional Aspects of IVF

    12:08 Cultural Perspectives on IVF

    14:54 Conclusion and Reflections

    Sound Bites

    "People are listening, but it's great info."

    "I learned a little bit more, still a lot more to dig."

    "It's nobody's business, this is your business."

    Keywords

    IVF, surrogacy, celebrity experiences, emotional journey, cultural perspectives, podcasting, parenting, reproductive health, medical insights, family planning

  • In this episode of the IVF Daddy's podcast, hosts Julio and Richard discuss the evolving landscape of gay fatherhood, reflecting on their own experiences compared to newer generations. They explore the balance between personal life and parenting, societal perceptions of gay dads, and the reality of raising children in a modern context. The conversation highlights the progress made in acceptance and understanding, while also addressing the challenges that remain.

    The experience of gay fatherhood has evolved significantly over the years.

    Modern gay dads can plan their social lives around parenting more easily.

    Societal acceptance of gay families has improved, but scrutiny remains.

    Parenting styles and societal expectations have changed with time.

    The importance of showing children a balanced life beyond just parenting.

    Gay dads often face different standards of scrutiny compared to straight couples.

    The narrative around gay parenting is often sensationalized in media.

    Real-life experiences of gay dads are often more mundane than portrayed.

    The conversation around parenting should include the right to maintain personal lives.

    Understanding and acceptance are key to the evolution of family dynamics.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Evolution of Gay Fatherhood

    02:53 Balancing Parenthood and Personal Life

    05:49 Societal Perceptions of Gay Dads

    09:10 The Reality of Gay Parenting

    12:03 Conclusion and Reflections on Parenting

    "It's really interesting how the kids is not a barrier."

    "We could raise a family just like anybody else."

    "I think it's very different now to how it was then."

    IVF, surrogacy, gay dads, parenting, societal perceptions, family life, LGBTQ+

  • In this episode of the IVF Daddies podcast, Richard and Damien discuss their personal journeys through surrogacy, the challenges faced, and the importance of education and transparency in the surrogacy process. They explore the complexities of surrogacy laws in Australia, the financial aspects of surrogacy, and the altruistic motivations of surrogates. The conversation emphasizes the need for trust and understanding in the surrogacy journey, debunking myths and celebrating the incredible role of surrogates in helping families grow.

    Keywords

    IVF, surrogacy, family building, intended parents, surrogates, financial transparency, education, challenges, altruism, myths

    00:00 Introduction to Family Building Journeys

    02:39 Navigating Surrogacy: Challenges and Choices

    09:05 The Importance of Education in Surrogacy

    17:00 Understanding Costs and Financial Transparency

    25:00 The Role of Surrogates and Altruism in Surrogacy

    35:12 Debunking Myths and Celebrating Surrogates

    Takeaways

    Surrogacy can be a long and challenging journey.

    Education is crucial for intended parents navigating surrogacy.

    Financial transparency is essential in the surrogacy process.

    Surrogacy laws vary significantly between countries.

    Surrogates often have altruistic motivations for helping families.

    The media tends to focus on negative surrogacy stories.

    Trust is a key factor in choosing a surrogacy agency.

    Costs in surrogacy can be unpredictable and vary widely.

    Surrogates undergo extensive screening processes before being matched.

    Celebrating surrogates is important for recognizing their contributions.

    NewGen Families was founded by Damien Chambers after
    becoming a Parent through Surrogacy.
    After many years facilitating Surrogacy journeys, we were inspired
    to create a modern agency that is focused on improving the
    experience for both Surrogates and Future Parents.
    We are proud to say that all members of our team have between
    5-12 years experience building families through Surrogacy.

    "I had always wanted to be a dad."

    "My journey was a long one."

    "It's tough in Australia because there's a supply and demand issue."

  • In this episode of the IVF Daddies podcast, the host engages in a heartfelt conversation with Carey, a surrogate, exploring her journey into surrogacy, the emotional and physical challenges she faced, and the importance of mental health support throughout the process. They discuss the dynamics of being a surrogate, the relationships formed with intended parents, and the unique experiences of postpartum as a surrogate. The conversation highlights the altruistic motivations behind surrogacy and the profound impact it has on families.

    Carey Flamer-Powell, Founder and Director

    Carey Flamer-Powell, Founder and Director of Surrogacy Mentor, is an experienced gestational surrogate, surrogacy agency founder and surrogacy non-profit co-founder, with over a decade of experience in the surrogacy industry.​ She also currently serves as the co-Vice President of SEEDS, The Society for Ethics in Egg Donation and Surrogacy.

    As the Founder and former owner of All Families Surrogacy, an award-winning gestational surrogacy agency, Carey spent 6 years helping hundreds of surrogates and parents navigate their journeys. Carey also co-founded and served as Co-President of the Oregon Surrogacy Professionals Association (OSPA), served as the LGBTQ Surrogacy Advisor for Parents Via Egg Donation (PVED), and has served on several committees for SEEDS over the years.

    Carey brings her vast surrogacy expertise to Surrogacy Mentor®, in addition to over 25 years in business operations management and PR, to help surrogates find the right agency for them.

    In this episode of the IVF Daddies podcast, the host engages in a heartfelt conversation with Carrie, a surrogate mother, exploring her journey into surrogacy, the emotional complexities involved, and the importance of mental health support throughout the process. Carrie shares her motivations for becoming a surrogate, the challenges of failed transfers, and the unique bond she formed with the intended parents. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of surrogacy, emphasizing the need for strong support networks and the normalization of diverse family structures.

    Takeaways

    Carey's's journey into surrogacy began with her own experience of becoming a parent.

    She felt a strong desire to give back after her own successful pregnancy.

    Gestational surrogacy involves carrying a baby that is not genetically related to the surrogate.

    Failed transfers can lead to feelings of guilt for surrogates.

    A strong support network is crucial for surrogates during the process.

    Mental health support is now integrated into the surrogacy process.

    Surrogates often face unique social situations when explaining their role.

    The bond between a surrogate and intended parents can be profound.

    Surrogates do not typically feel a parental connection to the baby they carry.

    The emotional recovery after birth can differ significantly for surrogates.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Surrogacy Journey

    02:48 The Decision to Become a Surrogate

    06:02 Understanding Gestational Surrogacy

    08:55 Emotional Challenges of Failed Transfers

    11:47 Mental Health Support in Surrogacy

    14:57 Living Life While Pregnant for Others

    18:07 The Connection with Intended Parents

    21:00 Postpartum Experience as a Surrogate

    23:50 Maintaining Relationships After Birth

    Keywords

    surrogacy, gestational surrogacy, emotional challenges, mental health, support network, intended parents, pregnancy, IVF, family dynamics, parenting

  • The conversation revolves around the decision of what to do with frozen embryos. The speakers discuss the ethical and emotional considerations involved in embryo donation and adoption. They explore the concept of embryos as assets versus embryos as life, and the implications of these perspectives. The conversation also touches on the benefits of embryo donation for women and LGBTQIA individuals, as well as the societal and personal factors that influence decision-making.

    Takeaways

    Embryo donation and adoption are options for individuals with frozen embryos who do not want to use them.

    The decision of what to do with frozen embryos involves ethical and emotional considerations.

    There is a distinction between viewing embryos as assets versus viewing them as life.

    Embryo donation can be a more affordable option for individuals who need assistance in conceiving.

    Embryo donation and adoption can empower women and LGBTQIA individuals.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Personal Context

    01:26 The Decision of What to Do with Frozen Embryos

    07:25 Ethical Considerations: Embryos as Assets or Life?

    14:07 Embryo Donation: Empowering Women and LGBTQIA Individuals

    20:50 Embryo Donation: A More Affordable Option

    24:35 The Conceptualization of Embryos

    Sound Bites

    "What am I going to do with them? They're currently sitting frozen."

    "Giving them to somebody else to then have as a child and then to raise as a child as their own."

    "Genetically, but again all a family needs is love."

    Keywords

    embryo donation, embryo adoption, frozen embryos, ethical considerations, emotional considerations, assets versus life

  • Maya, a psychotherapist and filmmaker, shares her experience with embryo donation and discusses her work with Empower with Moxie, an embryo donation organization. She explains the difference between embryo adoption and embryo donation, emphasizing the importance of education and support for individuals considering embryo donation. Maya highlights the need for a more personal and connected approach to embryo donation, where donors and recipients have the opportunity to know each other and maintain a consensual connection. She also addresses the ethical and legal implications of embryo donation and the challenges of navigating the complex landscape of fertility treatment. Moxie matching is a platform that connects embryo donors and recipients, allowing them to create profiles and find their ideal match. The platform is inclusive and provides options for single women and LGBTQ families. Moxie also offers education and support for individuals navigating embryo donation, including genetic and medical counseling. After a match is made, Moxie facilitates meetings between donors and recipients to ensure compatibility. The ownership of remaining embryos after a successful donation can either revert back to the original donors or be jointly decided by the recipients. Moxie emphasizes the importance of expanding the definition of family and providing children with access to their genetic siblings.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Setting the Safe Word

    03:08 Embryo Donation as the Next Best Option

    07:13 The Types of Families Donating Embryos and Their Motivations

    10:13 The Paralysis of Decision-Making and the Emotional Connection to Embryos

    13:13 The Difference Between Embryo Adoption and Embryo Donation

    16:33 Creating a Personal and Connected Approach to Embryo Donation

    21:30 The Need for Education and Support in Embryo Donation

    25:33 The Landscape of Embryo Donation and the Importance of Clear Terminology

    27:24 Moxie Matching: Connecting Embryo Donors and Recipients

    29:15 Inclusivity in Embryo Donation: Options for Single Women and LGBTQ Families

    32:56 Education and Support: Genetic and Medical Counseling for Embryo Donation

    40:22 Expanding the Definition of Family: Access to Genetic Siblings

    Takeaways

    Embryo adoption refers to the practice of treating embryo donation as a traditional adoption, which can create legal and ethical complications.

    Education and support are crucial for individuals considering embryo donation, as it is not the right choice for everyone and requires careful consideration of the emotional and psychological implications.

    Empower with Moxie is an embryo donation organization that aims to provide a more personal and connected approach to embryo donation, ensuring that donors and recipients have the opportunity to know each other and maintain a consensual connection.

    The platform is inclusive and provides options for single women and LGBTQ families.

    Moxie offers education and support for individuals navigating embryo donation, including genetic and medical counseling.

    After a successful donation, the ownership of remaining embryos can either revert back to the original donors or be jointly decided by the recipients.

    Maya is the CEO and co-founder of ⁠EM•POWER with Moxi⁠, a company focused on education, support and matching/logistics for directed embryo donation. She is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and⁠ psychotherapist⁠ in the field of reproductive medicine and a fertility advocate. Several years ago, Maya and her TV producer husband Noah made a feature length film documenting their tumultuous journey to parenthood, which ended with the birth of their daughter who was conceived via embryo donation. The film, called ⁠One More Shot⁠, debuted on Netflix in January 2018 and is now available on Amazon Prime.

    EM•POWER with Moxi: ⁠www.empowerwithmoxi.com/⁠ IG: empowerwithmoxi FB:@empowerwithmoxi

    One More Shot: ⁠http://www.onemoreshotfilm.com/⁠

  • In this episode, the Julio and Richard discuss the topic of twins, as they themselves are parents of twins. They explore the concept of twins in the context of IVF and surrogacy, discussing the reasons why some people choose to have twins and the risks associated with twin pregnancies. They also delve into the different types of twins, such as identical and fraternal twins, and the various ways in which twins can be conceived. The hosts also touch on the importance of reproductive rights and the impact of the upcoming US elections on these rights.

    Keywords

    twins, IVF, surrogacy, risks, types of twins, reproductive rights, US elections

    Takeaways

    The hosts share their personal experience of having twins through IVF and surrogacy.

    Twin pregnancies are riskier than single pregnancies, and there are potential risks for both the surrogate and the babies.

    The definition of twins can vary, but the hosts believe that twins are embryos that are carried by the same person at the same time.

    The decision to have twins is influenced by factors such as cost, success rates, and the desire for siblings to grow up together.

    Reproductive rights and the ability to make choices about one's own body are important issues, especially in the context of IVF and surrogacy.

    Sound Bites

    "Today we're going to be talking about twins."

    "If you get two embryos and then you put in the same surrogate, they're twins."

    "Anybody telling a woman what they can do to their body is wrong."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction: Exploring the World of Twins

    06:18 Understanding the Risks and Considerations of Twin Pregnancies

    08:13 Different Types of Twins: Identical vs. Fraternal

    11:26 Defining Twins: Carried by the Same Person at the Same Time

    14:20 Factors Influencing the Decision to Have Twins

    26:16 The Importance of Reproductive Rights in IVF and Surrogacy

    Titles

    Factors Influencing the Decision to Have Twins

    Exploring the World of Twins in IVF and Surrogacy

  • In this episode, Julio and Richard discuss the topic of formula feeding for babies. They share their personal experiences and address common questions and misconceptions surrounding formula feeding. They also touch on the stigma associated with formula feeding and the availability of different types of formula. The conversation concludes with a discussion on diapers and the importance of having support and guidance during the early stages of parenthood.

    Keywords

    formula feeding, breast milk, breastfeeding, stigma, surrogate, nutrition, baby care, diapers

    Takeaways

    Formula feeding is a common and valid choice for parents who are unable or choose not to breastfeed.

    There is a stigma surrounding formula feeding, but it is important to respect the choices and preferences of individual parents.

    Formula comes in different stages for different ages, and there are various options available, including vegan formulas.

    Breast milk can be donated or purchased from breast milk banks, but it is ultimately up to the surrogate or birth parent to decide if they want to pump breast milk.

    Having support and guidance, such as a maternity nurse, can be invaluable for new parents navigating the world of formula feeding and baby care.

    Demystifying Formula Feeding: A Valid Choice for Parents

    Breast Milk Options: Donating, Pumping, and Breast Milk Banks

    Sound Bites

    "Did you give your twins breast milk or formula? I was like, no, it was obvious."

    "Is milk food? For a baby, there's not a lot to chew until a certain age."

    "Breast is best. Trying to promote breastfeeding and all those different things."

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction: The Question of Formula Feeding

    07:05 Is Milk Food? Understanding the Role of Formula

    10:59 The Stigma and Promotion of Breastfeeding

    18:28 The Taste of Breast Milk and Formula Ingredients

    25:09 Exploring the Composition of Formula

    26:28 Potty Training and the Importance of Support