Me, You, & Who?! Creating happy families via egg donation and surrogacy

• The One Decision That Changed Everything

  Heather shares the raw truth of her surrogacy journey—from saying “yes” to IVF, managing gestational diabetes, and giving birth during a hurricane. Discover the emotional highs, unexpected challenges, and the powerful connection between surrogate and intended parents.Takeaways:Why Heather chose surrogacyIVF challenges and medical realitiesThe importance of advocacy and communicationTrust between surrogate and intended parentsLabor and delivery during unexpected crisesPostpartum recovery and emotional complexityLinksInstagramTiktokFacebookYouTubeVimeoApple PodcastSpotifyYelpPinterestGoogle

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• Surrogacy Is Emotional: A Therapist Explains How to Navigate It All

  Are you navigating the emotional rollercoaster of infertility or surrogacy—or supporting someone who is? This episode will make you feel seen.Whitney is joined by fertility counselor and licensed clinical social worker Kelli Johnson, who has helped countless intended parents work through the mental and emotional load of building a family. They dive deep into the often unspoken truths about this journey—like how grief and hope can live side by side—and why acknowledging both is so important.You’ll walk away with:Insight into the emotional highs and lows of surrogacyTips for building stronger communication with your surrogateThe power of therapy and peer support through every stageWhether you're early in the process or already matched, this conversation will leave you feeling more grounded, supported, and empowered to take the next step.LinksWillow and Wildflower CounselingInstagramTiktokFacebookYouTubeVimeoApple PodcastSpotifyYelpPinterestGoogle

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• Married to a Surrogate: Real Talk with 5 Husbands

  What’s it really like when your wife decides to become a surrogate? In this unique and candid episode, Whitney sits down with five husbands whose wives are not only surrogates but also team members at Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions. These dads and partners pull back the curtain to share what the surrogacy journey looks like from their point of view.They talk about everything from their first reactions to the idea of surrogacy, how they came to understand and support the process, and the incredible moments of meeting intended parents and witnessing the births of babies their families helped bring into the world.You’ll hear honest reflections on how surrogacy impacted their marriages, family life, and kids, along with their advice for other partners who might be unsure about saying “yes” to this journey. If you're a spouse, partner, or just curious about how surrogacy affects the whole family, this episode is full of insight, laughter, and powerful perspective.Takeaways-Surrogacy is a profound journey that impacts the entire family.-Initial reactions to the idea of surrogacy can vary widely among partners.-Understanding the surrogacy process is crucial for both the surrogate and her partner.-Meeting the intended parents can make the surrogacy journey feel real and meaningful.-Family dynamics play a significant role in the surrogacy experience.-The emotional journey of surrogacy is filled with highs and lows.-Delivery day is a pivotal moment that solidifies the purpose of surrogacy.-Support during the pregnancy is essential for the surrogate and her family.-Reflections on the journey highlight the lasting bonds formed between families.-Advice for potential surrogates and their partners emphasizes communication and education.LinksInstagramTiktokFacebookYouTubeVimeoApple PodcastSpotifyYelpPinterestGoogle

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• S3 E30 Who?! From OB-GYN to Intended Parent: Dr. Audrey Puentes on Surrogacy and Support

  In today’s episode, Whitney is joined by Dr. Audrey Puentes, a board-certified OB-GYN and intended parent who brings a rare and valuable perspective to the surrogacy conversation. As someone who has supported patients through pregnancy and delivery, and also walked the surrogacy journey herself, Audrey understands both sides in a way that few can.This episode is packed with helpful, practical information specifically for intended parents. We will cover everything from prenatal testing and key pregnancy milestones to the transition from fertility clinic to OB care, how to navigate appointments with your surrogate, and what to expect on delivery day. Audrey also walks us through topics like C-sections, skin-to-skin, discharge planning, and postpartum expectations for surrogates.Whether you're just starting the process or preparing for the birth of your baby, this conversation offers clear guidance, real-world insight, and reassurance from someone who truly gets it, both professionally and personally.Takeaways- Surrogacy can be a daunting process for intended parents.- Medical professionals also experience emotional challenges during surrogacy.- Choosing the right OB-GYN is crucial for a supportive experience.- Intended parents should communicate openly with their surrogate and medical team.- Understanding the timeline of appointments can alleviate anxiety.- Routine screenings are essential for monitoring pregnancy health.- Genetic testing provides valuable information about the fetus.- Intended parents should feel empowered to ask questions during appointments.- The transition from fertility clinic to OB care can feel overwhelming.- Intended parents can choose appointments to attend based on their significance.- Induction may be planned for convenience, especially for out-of-state parents- The hospital setup and who can be present during delivery should be discussed beforehand.- Every pregnancy and delivery experience is unique, requiring tailored communication.- Discharge for surrogates can vary, but a 24-hour stay is ideal.- Milk supply may take time to establish.- It's important to prepare for the unique aspects of C-section deliveries.- Every family's journey is unique, and there is no wrong way to build a family.LinksEgg Donor & Surrogate SolutionsInstagramTiktokFacebookYouTubeVimeoApple PodcastSpotifyYelpPinterestGoogle

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• S3E29 Who?! More Than a Match: Surrogacy, Connection, & Community

  SummaryIn this heartfelt episode, Whitney and Alyx dive into the emotional, practical, and life-changing aspects of surrogacy. Alyx shares what inspired her to become a surrogate, the importance of researching and finding the right match, and the legal and medical preparations that go into the journey. She also reflects on the powerful relationships built with her intended parents, the support she received from her family, and the emotional highs and lows leading up to delivery. With an emphasis on communication, community involvement, and trust, this conversation highlights the joy of creating families and the lasting impact surrogates have on the lives of those they help.Takeaways-Alyx's journey into surrogacy began after having her first daughter.-Community support is crucial in the surrogacy process.-Matching with intended parents should feel right, not rushed.-Alyx's husband was initially surprised but ultimately supportive.-Researching surrogacy led Alyx to connect with experienced surrogates.-The matching process can be stressful but rewarding.-It's important to listen to your gut when choosing intended parents.-Alyx's first meeting with her intended parents was filled with excitement.-Legal and medical steps are essential in the surrogacy journey.-Alyx received a care package from her intended mom, showcasing their support.-Alyx documented her surrogacy journey beautifully.-Explaining surrogacy to children can be simple and sweet.-The support from family and friends is crucial during surrogacy.-Transfer Day was filled with anticipation and nerves.-Positive pregnancy tests brought excitement and anxiety.-Community involvement made the journey more special.-The heartbeat confirmation was a significant milestone.-The joy of seeing intended parents with their baby is fulfilling.-Surrogacy can change lives in profound ways.-Open communication is crucial for a successful surrogacy experience.-Surrogates should follow their hearts and listen to their bodies.-The relationship between surrogates and intended parents can become like family.-Postpartum care and support are important for surrogates.-Celebrating milestones with intended parents enhances the experience.-Surrogacy is a journey filled with joy and fulfillment.-The experience of surrogacy can inspire future journeys.LinksInstagramTiktokFacebookYouTubeVimeoApple PodcastSpotifyYelpPinterestGoogle

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