Fab Fertility

Alex from @rockabyemaybe & I have been on a FFIF hiatis for awhile, bc, well, LIFE - but we finally got our shit together and decided to record a reunion episode after almost two years. We catch eachother and everyone up on what we have been up to in our fertility and IVF  journeys, what's next, and of course serve up all the usual crazy banter. We've missed y'all! Exciting news coming for the podcast as a whole soon...

We have missed our podcast fam but we are back! Once you hear what we have been up to, we hope you'll understand our hiatus. On this episode Alex and I catch up, Alex shares her MASSIVE news, and we answer a bunch of listener questions. Good to be back - #fertilityfuckitfriday

After a hiatis from the pod to get my shit & schedule in order, I am back with all new (and improved, IMO) programming for the show. I will quickly share what is in store for season 2, including how YOU will be able to vote on the topics I cover. Thank you for sticking around, being patient & being a BADASS infertility warriors!

On our inaugural episode of FFIF: Roast or Toast, we pick apart the new Hulu original movie, False Positive - a thriller/suspense film about a woman who undergoes a fucked up and entirely unrealistic version of IVF to start her family. There is a villain - spoiler, it's Pierce Brosnan. Spoiler 2: this is a roast, not a toast. We promise a shit-ton of laughs whether you've watched the film of not. But you'll def want to watch bc it is so ridic. If you guys like this, we will do it once a month!

On today's episode, Alex and I give you tips on traveling with medication during treatment and discuss the weirdest place we've ever given ourselves or gotten shots. We also discuss clear purses, eyebrows & Alex catches me up on the latest Britney Spears news #freebritney

On this episode, Alex and I address the use of #infertility at every stage of your journey to and through parenthood. Alex educates me on what a soggy cracker is (ummmm.... what???!!!!) and we share what events we would compete in if there was an, "Infertility Olympics"! Per usual, we end answering some listener Q's. 

Alex and I small talk like two blue-haired BFFs about the Olympic trials, the weather and COVID and then dive into listener Q & A (both fun and serious) involving betas, Chick-fil-a, why birthdays suck so bad when you're battling infertility, and why Alex and I have avoided TTC the old fashion way during our IVF cycles. We also talk about shrimp and pink champagne... listen to find out why!

This episode is quick but action packed! We "hit the ground jogging" discussing mosaicism (fun fact, Alex & I both have frozen mosaic embryos). We then have a friendly debate on full bum versus nighttime panties vernacular, talk about Hulu, and round our chat with a list of our favorite fertility/infertility products. 

Heyyyyy youuuuu guyyysssss - we are SO happy to be back and better than ever for season 2. Alex brings us up to speed on her surrogacy journey, we discuss our Starbucks orders and our romper requirements and give advice on fertility fundraising, answer listener questions and leave you with all the randomness you've been missing!

Holy shit! It is the LAST episode of season 1! Alex and I have quite the spirited conversation about butts so buckle up. Alex shares about her current IVF cycle and surrogacy journey, we get into how to cope with Mother's Day triggers, answer a few questions from all of you, and round out the season with a conspiracy theory and the introduction of our NEW hashtag #WUITTHEHELL

This is the LAST Wednesday episode of season one before I take a brief hiatus the remainder of May. I will be back in June with an all new season full of new guests, new topics and tons of inspiration. I asked you all to vote on what topic you wanted covered on this last ep, and you all chose my top advocacy tips. While this episode isn't long, it captures the most critical tips I have learned over the past three years and used in my own journey to advocate for what I wanted and what my body needed. I hope you can apply some of these strategies into your own journey!

This episode is a hot mess - from our basket of bothers, to Alex's in depth (& very exciting) surrogacy/IVF update to answering serious & silly questions submitted by you, we cover a lot of shit! We answer how to deal with shit hurdles you come across during treatments & also what to do what you are getting differing opinions from different doctors. Also, in case you're curious what names we think are sexy & what animals we think would be rude if they could talk, this is the episode for you - LOL! Enjoy!

There is only so much a doctor or nurse who have never experienced these procedures can tell you. Only true warriors who have been through it can tell you the real deets. After going through five retrievals and five transfers and talking to SO many of you through Fab Fertility and Fertility Rally, I feel very equipped to cover this topic with you. This was far and away one of the most voted for topics when I asked you all what you wanted to hear in future episodes. I hope this episode leaves you educated and/or shaking your head, YES! 

On this episode, Alex and I laugh... A LOT. We answer a couple of questions about the plan for FFIF going forward, discuss NIAW and answer the listener question, "Why the wait between retrievals and genetic test results sucks so hard?" We then have quite the spirited conversation about butt stuff including plastic poop hammocks and talk about the "right way" to say certain words and ask YOU to cast your vote on IG...

On this episode, Chicago travel/food/lifestyle blogger & IVF mama to baby Gwen shares her infertility story. Kit is a fragile X carrier which resulted in diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), making TTC extremely difficult, leading her and her hubby Charles to IVF. Kit has always prided herself in being able to maintain her identity amidst it all and provides some advice on how to not lose yourself while going through treatment. Follow Kit HERE Check out Kit's website HERE  

On this episode, Alex and I tell you what about our respective cities are bothering us. Then we get into the dreaded April Fools' Day drama that lurks around our community each and every year. Alex gives some updates on her surrogacy journey and then we answer the question, "How do I balance hope and fear going into a repeat IVF cycle?"

On this episode, I interview Founder & CEO of Juliet, Heather Smith. Heather founded Juliet after navigating her own fertility journey where she has pursued single motherhood. Through her two healthcare products, pregnancy test & ovulation tests, she has created a more supportive, stigma & shame free experience, built to bring comfort and certainty to moms in the making. No more inconvenient trips to the grocery store. No more unwanted conversations with well-meaning checkout clerks. No more uncomfortable questions from your mail carrier. Just the healthcare products women need and the support we crave, in one convenient spot that make you feel fucking empowered, not ashamed or uncomfortable. Can I get a HELL YEAH?!  Follow Juliet HERE Check out the Juliet website HERE

On this episode, I talk with Mindee Thompson from @lipsticktolunges about her family building journey. From an easy first pregnancy, to devastating family prognosis, to the discovery of a genetic condition in her second child, to the necessity of IVF to keep growing their family, this story is full of twists & turns. Shedding light on why IVF is needed for genetic reasons isn't a topic I have covered beyond my own diagnosis so I am so thankful to Mindee for letting us into her world to learn. Follow Mindee HERE

The Vag Van - I bet you're wondering what that is. Listen to find out! On this week's episode, we dis hard on daylight savings time because it blows. Alex gives an update on her surrogacy journey - LOTS of juicy & amazing deets this week. Then we get to the remaining questions you asked last week including how to cope with triggers, donor egg IVF accounts to follow, our personal experience with reproductive immunology, & of course some fun ones thrown in too.

On this episode, I interview the author of the newly-released book, "I Had a Miscarriage: A Memoir, A Movement," Jessica Zucker. We talk about how her life & career as a psychologist specializing in reproductive & maternal mental health forever changed when she experienced a later term loss at 16 weeks. All of of a sudden, she deeply understood her patients like she never had before. The impact the loss had on her life never left her, & after having her second child, she decided it was time to enact cultural change. Since then, she has done powerful work through her popular #ihadamiscarriage social media campaign, & now, through the book where she invites us into her home & office to understand the ins & outs of loss, the effect it has on your soul, your relationships, and your life as a whole. 

While this episode starts off animal heavy, don't worry, we bring the good fertility stuff. We answer some of your questions including how to navigate fertility friendships at different stages, our thoughts on superstitions, and getting in the right financial headspace when you began to get overwhelmed. Alex also gives a juicy update on her surrogacy journey! 

On this episode I interview a fellow TTC sister and listener of the Fab Fertility podcast, Hollie Overton. I don't want to give too much away about Hollie's amazing story, but let's just say her IVF journey results in a TRIPLE happy ending. Hollie and I share a passion for self advocacy and interest in reproductive immunology and its potential benefits when all other medical interventions and tests aren't working. Our conversation focuses around those two things with some other fun anecdotes mixed in. Enjoy! Follow Hollie HERE

On this episode, Alex and I discuss how full our plates are with work, family planning and everything in between. We discuss the importance of boundaries and learning to just say no. When your plate is too full you constantly feel like you're falling short and that is so toxic for your already compromised mental health that has come as a result of infertility. We get into what a circus insurance claims can be and Alex shares the latest on her surrogacy journey!

On this episode I interview the amazing Austin-based dermatologist and mama of one adorable baby boy, Kellie Reed. We talk all about hormones and their effect on our skin along with what products and treatments you can and can't use or schedule while you are trying to conceive or pregnant. Kellie gives us all of her top tips, favorite products, and even shares her own personal skin regimen of the moment. We even get into nipple care... you know I had to go there! Enjoy!

This episode is short and sweet! We are in a bit of disarray (especially me) after all the snow we have gotten, but we had to make sure you got your FFIF fix this week. We discuss random acts of kindness we have experienced in our amazing community lately and answer two community questions, one about dealing with treatments at work and the other about recoveries for various infertility procedures including D&Cs, laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, transfers and retrievals.  

On this episode Alex and I talk about a lot of random shit. Quarantine date nights, our favorite Valentine's Day treats, favorite pizza toppings, and our preferred Dunkaroo icing flavors (how is that for specific)?! We also answer a ton of questions about infertility including how to get your partner on board with IVF, how to stay positive when you get a positive beta after you've experienced loss and more.

On today's episode Alex and I talk about how our bodies and bad habits are what's bothering us. We answer several questions submitted by you, both fertility and non-fertility related. Sex during treatments, our go-to supplements, what we'd do if we hung out IRL, our preference on sea or space and much more. It's a mixed bag in this episode and we are all about it. If we didn't get to your question this we, we promise we will next episode!

You guys LOVE episodes with fertility doctors so I am PUMPED to bring you my interview with Dr. Roohi Jeelani. Roohi is a RE at VIOS Fertility Institute in Chicago. She is a big voice on social media, sharing both insight into her personal and professional life. What makes Roohi extra special is she is a fertility patient herself. At the time of this interview, she is gearing up for an embryo transfer. We talk about her personal journey and then she rapid fire answers questions submitted by YOU! Follow Roohi HERE Visit the VIOS Fertility Institute website HERE

In this episode, Alex and I debate whether or not to wear panties/thongs with leggings. Who knew this question from a listener would create such a hilarious and involved convo?! We also discuss when we exercise throughout treatment, talk about our beloved Peloton app/bike, and a smattering of other relatable fertility-related topics. Oh! And let me not forget the guest appearance from Scotch.

On this episode I bring back my girl, Candace Van Wade aka @operationbabybump, creator of Loss Lovey (@losslovey), and host of The Infertili-TEA Podcast to tell the story of her new business baby. Don't worry, for those who follow Candace, we definitely talk about her rainbow baby Hazel some too. Candace is one of the most passionate, empathetic, and hilarious women I know. Her love for our infertility community has no doubt helped me through some of my dark days and I hope she does the same for you! Listen to my first interview with Candace HERE Follow Candace on Instagram HERE Follow Loss Lovey on Instagram HERE Shop Loss Lovey HERE Check our Candace & Daniel's pod HERE Visit www.theinfertilitea.com

Today we talk about Alex's yeast saga, her at home remedies and diet restrictions. We also discuss what NOT to say to people who have experienced loss of any kind. We talk about our husbands' passive aggressive comments about our wine/Claw consumption and discuss FFIF merch and future group spin socials!

On this episode, I give some advice on what to ask at your IVF consultation. Whether this is your very first consult, your 4th WTF consult (I have been there), or your second/third/fourth opinion (I have been there too), this episode will be your friend. These are all of the questions I wish I had asked along the way. They are a collection of my mistakes, best practices I have learned and advice I have gotten from other warriors and physicians. I hope it helps!

On this episode I put my podcast editing skills to the test with a surprise intro! We talk about Alex's non-vaginal yeast infection and COVID test as well as our tendency in the infertility community to be extremely superstitious and paranoid. We also play a fun game, "weirdest shit you've Googled this week" and invite you to join us for a FFIF Peloton ride! 

After our NYE episode with Cori & Kaylee, Alex & I contemplate what our show's rating would be. We talk about how we screw up of medication doses, what is bothering us, Alex's latest test results, my recent appointment and more!

Jenna is an amazing Rae Dunn addicted doctor-to-be pursuing IVF to start her family. With a diagnosis of PCOS and empty follicle syndrome, it is has proven to be an uphill battle. Jenna shares about what her and her husband have been through up until this point including a miscarriage a week before their wedding and a failed IVF cycle. Jenna is a glass half full kind of gal, sharing the lessons she has learned every step of the way.  Follow Jenna HERE Read more about Jenna and her journey on her blog HERE

I can only describe this episode as, "for mature audiences only with a crass sense of humor." We had a blast shooting the shit, telling stories, and laughing our assess off. We hope it has the same effect on you!

In this episode, I list the top 10 most downloaded podcast episodes in 2020 and share what is coming in 2021! 1. Episode 100: Natalie Crawford, MD Tells All! 2. Episode 92: An Incredible Adoption & Infertility Story w/ Holly Durst Julian 3. Episode 94: Let's Get Real About Infertility, MFI & IVF Success w/ Millie Brooks 4. Episode 72: Uplevel Your Understanding of Embryology 5. Episode 96: Real AF Infertility Talk w/ Monica Caron (@my_so_called_ivf) 6. Episode 95: FFIF: We Answer Your Q's! 7. Episode 84: Mild IVF Stimulation, Ovarian Rejuvenation, & IVF Over 40 w/ Dr. David Knight 8. Episode 38: FFIF: The Two Week "Weight" 9. Episode 109: FFIF: Our Best Show Yet! 10: Episode 57: The IVF Mega Episode w/ Dr. Mark Trolice

Alex and I tell some funny stories, we discuss "the post" that shook the infertility world, and catch you up on the latest with Alex's journey towards surrogacy.

Alex discusses her second surrogacy agency consult & her convo with a Canadian surrogate. We get into a long conversation about how nothing ever goes according to plan with infertility. Surprise cycle cancellations, uncooperative bodies, weird test results - we have experienced it all. We tend to always fall in that special 1% of people that weird shit happens to. If you feel like infertility is kicking your ass & want to laugh about uterine biopsies, we got you!

I am SO excited to bring you this episode with Cori & Kaylee, the co-hosts of The Angry Infertiles podcast. They answer hard questions RE toxic positivity, firing your doctor, & infertility during the holidays. If you know these two (and me, let's be honest) you bet your ass we cover plenty of inappropriate topics & drop plenty of f-bombs. These two live & die by keeping it real & I respect the hell out of that. They have created a space for people to feel ok being angry about infertility. Infertility sucks & there isn't always time for the silver lining BS. 

On today's episode we laugh a lot! We talk about the postal service, penises (yes, that is the plural form of penis, we checked), fundraising, pregnancy announcements & so much more!

I have become so invested in Brooke's journey on Instagram. The way she shares it, the relatable things she sheds light on, and her candidness are things we can all appreciate. I have watched her account go from one about her home to one where she discusses hard topics, blasts stigmas, and says things others think but don't say. I admire what she is doing and asked her to come on and talk about the evolution of her journey.

On today's episode Alex and I explain why we often get mistaken as men, Alex's latest procedures and appointments that include her triple uterine biopsy and surrogacy consult, and all about what triggers infertiles during the holidays. 

What is the deal with idolizing celebs in the infertility community, anyway? I give my (perhaps unpopular) opinion on this. We dive deep into what is next for Alex on her journey and also discuss our normal random topics such as our Black Friday finds and more!

In this episode, I chat with Emma Belle (@emmakbelle) -- infertility warrior, mental health & trauma mentor & podcast host living in Dubai. Emma suffered an incredible loss a few short weeks ago that resulted from making an extremely hard decision to terminate her pregnancy for medical reasons. She gets into every detail, sharing her journey that lead to her pregnancy and her baby's diagnosis. She also sheds light on living with mental illness and how it has inspired her to start her coaching business. Follow Emma HERE Check out Emma's podcast HERE Visit Emma's website HERE

Dr. Alyssa Snider is the director of genetic counseling at IGENOMIX. She turned what was a career in the lab into a career working with patient to navigate the difficulties of IVF as a genetic counselor. Her knowledge in both the lab and working with patients made for an incredible episode. She answers all of the Q's submitted by all of you listeners/followers plus many many more!

Alex & I are back and just as nutty as ever! On this episode we talk about Alex's recent failed cycle and all the things that fucking suck about failed transfers. We give advice on how to move forward and also just acknowledge it blows. We come up with some rather creative ways to fundraise for treatments and go off on more tangents than you could ever wish for.

In October I asked you all on Instagram, "How Can I Help?" This episode is an attempt to answer many of the questions I got answered on that post. The questions cover a wide array of topics so it jumps around quite a bit. I hope it helps! Disclaimer - I am not a doctor - my answers are based on personal experience and my research. Love y'all!

Endometriosis is a part of infertility that is so interesting to me, but that I don't know much about. I am so excited to bring you this episode with April Christina because she is not only a blast, but so knowledgeable on the subject. Having dealt with endo most of her life, she sheds light on how to find the right doctor, excision versus ablation, and how it is currently affecting her fertility.  Follow April on Insta HERE Follow April's IVF journey on her YouTube channel HERE

On this week's edition of Fertility Fuck it Friday, Alex & I answer a couple of questions from listeners about how to deal with judgey friends when it comes to COVID, how to approach IVF for the first time and how to deal with Halloween triggers. And of course we sprinkle in random shit like bows, TV recs and more!

Alice Rose is the co-founder of Cat + Alice, a company that offers fertility events and consulting in the UK! Alice has been through her own incredibly hard journey so brings her experience and passion for the TTC community to her work. On today's episode we talk through her journey and share tips & tricks on how to cope with your own journey.