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The Waiting Well - Infertility, Faith-based Encouragement, Trying to Conceive, Fertility
Why does God seem to give babies so easily to people who don't even want them—while others pray and wait for years? In this episode, we confront this painful question head-on, unpack what it reveals about our hearts, and anchor ourselves in truth about God's sovereignty and goodness.
In this episode, I'm answering the most common questions I get about fertility treatment—the ones my patients ask me 20 times a day. Whether you're trying to conceive naturally, going through IUI, or navigating IVF, I'm covering the practical guidance you need about medications, lifestyle choices, and what's safe during your fertility journey. Tune in on Dr. Aimee's Website. I explore what matters most when dealing with infertility: what's safe during treatment, what to avoid, and how to optimize your egg quality without unnecessary restrictions. From managing IVF medication side effects to understanding when you can exercise or travel, I'm giving you practical fertility doctor advice you can use during ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, and embryo transfer. In this episode, we cover: • Progesterone administration (oral vs. vaginal) and managing side effects • Alcohol and coffee consumption during fertility treatment and pregnancy • Exercise guidelines during IVF based on your cycle stage • Safe medications for colds, constipation, nausea, and pain • What's safe for reproductive health: Botox, hair coloring, massage, saunas • Sex during fertility treatment—timing and the concept of "outercourse" • Travel, acupuncture, and lifestyle adjustments for preconception health Other ways to connect: Subscribe to my YouTube channel for more fertility tips Join Egg Whisperer School Subscribe to the newsletter to get updates Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh is one of America's most well known fertility doctors. Her success rate at baby-making is what gives future parents hope when all hope is lost. She pioneered the TUSHY Method and BALLS Method to decrease your time to pregnancy. Learn more about the TUSHY Method and find a wealth of fertility resources at www.draimee.org. Keywords: Fertility treatment, IVF tips, trying to conceive, TTC, infertility, egg retrieval, embryo transfer, IUI, fertility journey, getting pregnant, women's health, reproductive health, fertility support, preconception health, IVF do's and don'ts, fertility medication, egg quality, ovarian stimulation, fertility lifestyle, fertility wellness, fertility diet, progesterone, fertility doctor, fertility advice, PCOS, fertility over 40
Dr. Natalie Crawford, board-certified OB-GYN and REI, answers your fertility questions. Questions Answered: 1. A 30-year-old in a same-sex couple with anovulatory PCOS managed on metformin, high AMH, and otherwise normal labs moved from failed IUIs to IVF and had 19 mature eggs but only 4 fertilized despite good donor sperm—what could explain low fertilization rates and how should the next steps be approached? 2. 35 and trying for baby number two, and her 40-year-old husband has been on the GLP-1 medication Zepbound for four months—are there known effects of GLP-1s on male fertility, and should men discontinue them while trying to conceive? 3. A patient with PCOS and mildly elevated thyroid levels is experiencing medication interactions and was prescribed 2.5 mg of methylfolate— is this dose appropriate, and should she be taking methylfolate, folic acid, or both? 4. A patient with endometriosis underwent two egg retrievals, one with estrogen priming that triggered an endometriosis flare and resulted in very high estrogen levels and poor egg maturity—are there stimulation protocols better suited for patients with endometriosis undergoing IVF? 5. A 38-year-old planning IUI with donor sperm, normal fertility workup, AMH of 3.3, and a personal history of being a twin is deciding between natural versus medicated cycles— which approach is more successful while minimizing twin risk and preserving future fertility goals? Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want your questions answered on the next episode? Ask them here! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/qa-submissions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
If you're gearing up for IUI, IVF, ICSI, a frozen transfer, or even just thinking about stepping into a fertility clinic, this episode is going to completely change how you think about "getting ready" for treatment. Instead of hoping the right protocol or clinic is enough, you'll learn how to turn the months before treatment into one of the most powerful tools you have to influence egg and sperm quality, implantation, and live birth. You'll also get a peek inside my brand‑new Fertility Treatment Prep Program and how it walks you through my 3 core non negotiable pillars for treatment success, so you aren't piecing this together alone from Google and Instagram. Episode Highlights: Why most clinics don't have the time or structure to guide you through full‑body preparation and what that means for your results. What IUI and IVF success rates by age actually look like, and how lifestyle and health status can shift those odds. The critical 90‑day window: how egg and sperm development, gut health, and immune balance are shaped months before treatment. How lowering systemic inflammation can improve implantation, pregnancy, and live birth rates in IVF. Why oxidative stress damages eggs and sperm and how strengthening antioxidant defenses can protect DNA and support better outcomes. The role of the immune system, gut–liver axis, and vaginal/uterine microbiome in creating a truly receptive environment for embryo transfer. How the Fertility Treatment Prep Program turns these into a step‑by‑step, partner‑friendly roadmap you can layer alongside your clinic plan If you're LOVING this podcast, please follow and leave a rating and review below. PLUS FOLLOW MY INSTAGRAM PAGE HERE FOR BITE SIZED TTC TIPS! Related Links: Fertility Treatment Prep Program - Get 50% OFF Here For The Launch Party (sale expires Feb 1, 2026) Need 1:1 support? Apply for Private Fertility Coaching with Nora here For full show notes and related links: https://www.naturallynora.ca/blog/174 Grab Your FREE Resources: Just starting your TTC journey? Download my Eat To Get Pregnant Guide Having trouble getting and staying pregnant? Download my Top 3 Things To Do When You're Not Getting Pregnant Wondering what supplements to take to help you conceive? Download my Fertility Foundations Supplement Guide Please Note: The contents of this podcast are for educational and informational purposes only. The information is not to be interpreted as, or mistaken for, clinical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.
What if the very thing you're doing to try to get pregnant—constant researching, Googling, and “fixing”—is actually keeping your body from conceiving?If you find yourself stuck in fertility research mode, jumping from podcast to podcast, protocol to protocol, this quick episode explains why that pattern keeps your nervous system in chronic stress. In this episode, you'll learn...-Why over-researching fertility keeps your nervous system stuck in fight-or-flight-How stress from “fix-it mode” quietly disrupts ovulation, progesterone, and implantation-A simple awareness reset you can use immediately to help your body shift into safetyPress play to discover why putting the information down may be the most fertile move you can make right now—and how to support your body without more overwhelm.
Send us a textFertility tests can look perfect on paper—and pregnancy still doesn't happen.In this episode of Taco Bout Fertility Tuesday, Dr. Mark Amols breaks down why many fertility treatments, especially IUI, are built on assumptions rather than certainty. Tests like the HSG can confirm that fallopian tubes are open, but they cannot prove that the tubes are functional. Semen analysis can look normal, but it cannot confirm that sperm can reach the egg or successfully fertilize it.This gap between testing and reality is why IUI often requires a leap of faith—and why it works well for some patients but not for others.In this episode, Dr. Amols covers:What fertility tests can—and cannot—tell usWhy “normal results” don't guarantee pregnancyWhy IUI is assumption-based by designWho is more likely to succeed with IUIWhy patients with long-standing infertility face harder decisionsThe difference between assumption-based treatment (IUI) and information-based treatment (IVF)Why IVF often provides answers even when it doesn't lead to pregnancyIf you've ever wondered why IUIs fail despite normal testing—or whether it's time to move on to IVF—this episode explains the logic behind those decisions without pressure or judgment.Thanks for tuning in to another episode of 'Taco Bout Fertility Tuesday' with Dr. Mark Amols. If you found this episode insightful, please share it with friends and family who might benefit from our discussion. Remember, your feedback is invaluable to us – leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred listening platform. Stay connected with us for updates and fertility tips – follow us on Facebook. For more resources and information, visit our website at www.NewDirectionFertility.com. Have a question or a topic you'd like us to cover? We'd love to hear from you! Reach out to us at TBFT@NewDirectionFertility.com. Join us next Tuesday for more discussions on fertility, where we blend medical expertise with a touch of humor to make complex topics accessible and engaging. Until then, keep the conversation going and remember: understanding your fertility is a journey we're on together.
Today's guest is Rachel Swanson — MS, RD, LDN — one of the most in-demand nutritionists in the country, known for helping people optimize performance using deeply science-backed, totally personalized care. She's also the author of the brand-new book Trying!: A Science-Backed Plan to Optimize Your Fertility. On today's episode, Ali and Rachel flip the fertility conversation on its head with what Rachel calls Fertility 2.0 — a proactive, preventative approach that goes way beyond eggs and sperm to focus on the whole body: your gut, metabolism, sleep, oral health, even your partner's kissing hygiene (yes, really). This convo was originally aired as part of Fertility Rally Live #10.For more on Fertility Rally, follow IG: @fertilityrallyFor more on Rachel, go to www.rachelswanson.comIG: @rachelsrxEPISODE SPONSORS: THE WORK OF ART BOOK SERIESAli's Children's Book Series about IVF, IUI and Family Building Through Assisted Reproductive Technology https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksThe latest book in the Work of ART series, “You Are a Work of ART," is for every kiddo born through ART -- and the people who love them.Order "Work of ART," "Beautiful Bird" and "You Are a Work of ART," now at https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksFERTILITY RALLYIG: @fertilityrallywww.fertilityrally.comNo one should go through infertility alone. Join the Worst Club with the Best Members at fertilityrally.com. We offer 5 to 6 support groups per week, three private Facebook groups, tons of curated IRL and virtual events, and an entire community of more than 500 women available to support you, no matter where you are in your journey.Join today at link in bio on IG @fertilityrally or at www.fertilityrally.com/membershipPHERDALIG: @pherdal_sciencePherDal is the world's first and only FDA-cleared, sterile, at-home insemination kit designed to help people build their families in the comfort of home. Created by parents who've been there, PherDal is safe, simple, and affordable—putting more options in your hands as you grow your family. Explore at PherDal.com.Go to PherDal.com today and use code INFERTILEAF for $10 off.BELIIG: @belibabywww.belibaby.com Are you thinking about growing your family? Whether you're just starting to plan or are actively trying to conceive, preconception health is key. Beli has vitamins to help both women and men optimize their health before pregnancy. With essential nutrients like Folate, Iodine, and Zinc, Beli ensures your body is ready for this exciting next step. Give yourself and your future baby the best foundation for a healthy start.Visit Belibaby.com today and use code IAF15 for 15% off your first order. Our Sponsors:* BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist. Sign up today and get 10% off at BetterHelp.comOur Sponsors:* BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist. Sign up today and get 10% off at BetterHelp.com Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/infertile-af-infertility-and-modern-family-building-through-art/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Have you been told your labs look “normal,” yet you still can't get or stay pregnant—and no one can tell you why?If you're dealing with unexplained infertility, recurrent loss, or failed implantation, this episode reveals why conventional care often misses what actually matters.In this episode, you'll learn...-The five root causes of infertility that are rarely addressed but critical for ovulation, implantation, and sustaining pregnancy-How chronic stress, inflammation, and undernourishment signal your body that it's not safe to conceive—even with “perfect” labs-Why your fertility symptoms are messages from your body, not signs that it's brokenPress play to uncover the real reasons your body may be holding back from pregnancy—and what it actually needs to feel safe, supported, and ready to conceive.
The Waiting Well - Infertility, Faith-based Encouragement, Trying to Conceive, Fertility
If you're praying, obeying God, practicing spiritual disciplines—and still not pregnant—this episode speaks directly to the frustration and confusion you're carrying. We'll unpack why faithfulness doesn't guarantee outcomes, what infertility reveals about our hearts, and how to keep trusting God when the waiting feels unfair.
Are PMS, short cycles, or low progesterone signs that your luteal phase is missing a critical mineral?If you're trying to conceive and struggling with implantation, anxiety after ovulation, cramping, spotting, or a short luteal phase, this episode breaks down why magnesium is essential for progesterone signaling, stress regulation, and cycle stability — and why so many women are unknowingly deficient.In this episode, you'll learn..-How magnesium directly supports progesterone receptors, implantation, and uterine blood flow-Why low magnesium increases stress hormones that suppress fertility-Simple food and supplement strategies to restore magnesium for luteal phase healthHit play to discover how restoring magnesium can stabilize your luteal phase, calm PMS, and support healthy implantation naturally.
I'm thrilled to share this conversation with my friend and colleague, Dr. Jaime Knopman, a reproductive endocrinologist and author of the newly released book Own Your Fertility. Dr. Knopman brings clarity, honesty, and courage to the conversations our patients need now more than ever. In this episode, are talking fertility-doctor-to-fertility-doctor about egg freezing, IVF success rates, and fertility preservation strategies. If you're wondering when to freeze your eggs, how age affects fertility, or what "fertility tests" actually tell you, this conversation is for you. Read the full show notes on Dr. Aimee's website. We dive deep into the science of fertility decline, debunk common myths about getting pregnant, and discuss practical steps for fertility preservation. Dr. Knopman shares her powerful "fertility puzzle" and "fertility treatment ladder" frameworks that help patients understand their options. We also cover the emotional aspects of infertility, pregnancy loss, and how to build resilience through your fertility journey. In this episode, we cover: Why fertility declines at age 32 and what AMH testing really tells you Egg freezing success rates and how many eggs you actually need The truth about monthly pregnancy chances (hint: it's not 50/50) IVF treatment options explained: from IUI to embryo transfer Fertility myths debunked: hormone balancing, ovulation tracking, and the "fertility test" How to talk to your doctor about fertility preservation and family planning Real patient success story: 10 frozen eggs, 1 embryo, 1 healthy baby Resources: Dr. Jaime Knopman's book: Own Your Fertility (on Amazon) Dr. Jaime Knopman Instagram Dr. Jaime Knopman website Do you have questions about IVF? Click here to join Dr. Aimee for The IVF Class. The next live class call is on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 4 pm PST, where Dr. Aimee will explain IVF and Egg Freezing, and there will be time to ask her your questions live on Zoom. Other ways to follow Dr. Aimee: Visit my YouTube channel for more fertility tipsSubscribe to the newsletter to get updatesJoin The Egg Whisperer SchoolRequest a Consultation with Dr. Aimee Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh is one of America's most well‑known fertility doctors. Her success rate at baby‑making gives future parents hope when all hope is lost. She pioneered the TUSHY Method and BALLS Method to decrease your time to pregnancy. Learn more about the TUSHY Method and find a wealth of fertility resources at www.draimee.org.
What Happens When the Future You Planned Doesn't Happen When fertility treatments end without a baby, you don't just grieve the child you hoped for. You grieve the future you were building your life around. In this episode of The So Now What? Podcast, you explore post-traumatic growth after infertility and why it matters for women who are childless not by choice. Not in a toxic-positivity way. Not as a lesson you were supposed to learn. But as a way to understand what happens after years of trying, waiting, and living in a fertility holding pattern. If you've ever thought, I'm not the same person I was before IVF, this episode helps you understand why—and what becomes possible next. In this episode, you'll hear: Why infertility and fertility treatments do count as trauma, even if no one ever named it that way How years of IVF, IUI, medical procedures, and waiting shaped your nervous system and identity Why the end of fertility treatments feels so disorienting, not just sad What post-traumatic growth actually means and what it does not mean The seismic "rebuild" moment that happens when the life you planned no longer exists The five areas where post-traumatic growth often shows up after infertility Why growth is optional, not required, and only happens when you feel safe enough How to move forward without erasing your dream of motherhood or minimizing what you endured What it looks like to find a starting point again after the fertility holding pattern ends Why post-traumatic growth matters after infertility You didn't go through infertility to grow. You didn't suffer for a reason. And you don't need to reframe your loss to justify moving forward. Post-traumatic growth simply explains what happens when your assumptions about the future break and you're left asking, So now what? This episode helps you see that wanting forward movement does not mean you're forgetting what mattered. It means you're ready to stop living in permanent disappointment and start building a life that feels connected, grounded, and meaningful—on your terms. Thrive After Infertility This episode reflects the core work you do inside Thrive After Infertility, the coaching program created for women who have completed fertility treatments and are ready to stop feeling incomplete because fertility treatments failed. Inside Thrive, you learn how to: Move out of the fertility holding pattern Reconnect with your body and nervous system Navigate relationships in a world full of parents Create meaning and direction for the decades ahead Growth doesn't come from time passing. It comes from learning how to intentionally rebuild after loss. Free resource mentioned in this episode If you've ever been told, "You can always adopt," or "Everything happens for a reason," and didn't know how to respond, download the free guide: The Top 27 Things People Say When You're Childless (and How to Respond)
Have you stopped birth control but still feel like your hormones — and fertility — haven't bounced back?If you're trying to conceive and experiencing irregular cycles, PMS, low progesterone, acne, anxiety, or unexplained fertility struggles, this episode reveals why simply stopping birth control isn't enough — and what your body actually needs to heal so it can ovulate, implant, and support a healthy pregnancy.In this episode, you'll discover...-What birth control truly does to your hormones, ovaries, liver, gut, and nutrient stores-The exact nutrients and body systems that must be restored to support ovulation and progesterone-How to actively help your body feel safe, nourished, and ready for conception after birth controlPress play to learn how to intentionally heal your hormones after birth control so your body can naturally prepare for a healthy conception.
In this episode of the Heal Your Hormones podcast, Dr. Danielle is joined by fertility preservation specialist, Dr. Knopman, ND to discuss the important topic of egg freezing, exploring its significance in women's health, fertility planning, and preventative care. They delve into the ideal timing for egg freezing, the emotional aspects of the process, and the myths surrounding fertility. The conversation also touches on the impact of the pandemic on fertility preservation, considerations for the LGBTQ community, and future technologies in the field. Dr. Knopman emphasizes the importance of knowledge and data in empowering women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.About Dr. Knopman, MD:Dr. Jaime M. Knopman is a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist with years of experience in PCOS, IUI, and IVS treatment as well as gestational surrogacy. She serves as the Director of Fertility Preservation for CCRM Fertility of New York and is the author of Own Your Fertility. To learn more about Dr. Knopman or buy her book, click the links below.InstagramConnect with her at CCRMOwn Your Fertility on Amazon Let's ConnectInterested in becoming a client? Schedule your strategy call here.Join the newsletter here!Order Your Own Labs - LabShopFullscript Supplement Dispensary
On this episode, Ali is joined by Jared Walker—author of The Empty Nest and founder of the non-profit Dollar For—for one of the most raw and important conversations we've had in a while. It's so great to hear a guy's perspective on infertility, and Jared and his wife are still in the thick of it. There's no neat ending here, no bow tied on the story—and that's exactly why this conversation matters. Ali and Jared talk about how he and his wife grew up together (he's best friends with her brother); what happened when they started trying to build their family, including a devastating pregnancy loss; and where they are today. Jared shares how infertility has shaped his marriage, his identity, and his understanding of hope—while simultaneously building a nonprofit that helps people eliminate crushing medical debt. This episode is for anyone who is tired of “success stories only,” who feels stuck in the wait, or who needs permission to say: this is really hard—and I'm still here.For more, go to https://dollarfor.org and https://theemptynestbook.com/EPISODE SPONSORS: THE WORK OF ART BOOK SERIESAli's Children's Book Series about IVF, IUI and Family Building Through Assisted Reproductive Technology https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksThe latest book in the Work of ART series, “You Are a Work of ART," is for every kiddo born through ART -- and the people who love them.Order "Work of ART," "Beautiful Bird" and "You Are a Work of ART," now at https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksFERTILITY RALLYIG: @fertilityrallywww.fertilityrally.comNo one should go through infertility alone. Join the Worst Club with the Best Members at fertilityrally.com. We offer 5 to 6 support groups per week, three private Facebook groups, tons of curated IRL and virtual events, and an entire community of more than 500 women available to support you, no matter where you are in your journey.Join today at link in bio on IG @fertilityrally or at www.fertilityrally.com/membershipPHERDALIG: @pherdal_sciencePherDal is the world's first and only FDA-cleared, sterile, at-home insemination kit designed to help people build their families in the comfort of home. Created by parents who've been there, PherDal is safe, simple, and affordable—putting more options in your hands as you grow your family. Explore at PherDal.com.Go to PherDal.com today and use code INFERTILEAF for $10 off.BELIIG: @belibabywww.belibaby.com Are you thinking about growing your family? Whether you're just starting to plan or are actively trying to conceive, preconception health is key. Beli has vitamins to help both women and men optimize their health before pregnancy. With essential nutrients like Folate, Iodine, and Zinc, Beli ensures your body is ready for this exciting next step. Give yourself and your future baby the best foundation for a healthy start.Visit Belibaby.com today and use code IAF15 for 15% off your first order. Our Sponsors:* BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist. Sign up today and get 10% off at BetterHelp.comOur Sponsors:* BetterHelp makes it easy to get matched online with a qualified therapist. Sign up today and get 10% off at BetterHelp.com Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/infertile-af-infertility-and-modern-family-building-through-art/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Waiting Well - Infertility, Faith-based Encouragement, Trying to Conceive, Fertility
Infertility doesn't just delay motherhood — it confronts your theology. In this episode, Courtney speaks to the woman who loves Jesus but feels worn down by unanswered prayers, offering a Christ-centered way to wait with peace, truth, and hope. You don't have to lose your faith in the waiting.
In this episode, I talk openly about God after the death of my son, Brody—what my faith looks like now, what it doesn't, and how it has changed in ways I never expected. I share my honest thoughts, doubts, anger, comfort, and the quiet moments where belief feels complicated but still present. I also dive into what it's like to parent after loss—how grief shows up in anxiety, how it lives in my body and my thoughts, and the things that genuinely help me when the fear gets loud. This isn't about having it all figured out; it's about surviving, regulating, and finding ways to feel safe in a world that no longer feels predictable. Finally, I talk about the way Brody's death reshaped how I show up in the world. The attitude I try to carry. The energy I try to contribute. The way loss softened me, sharpened me, and changed how I treat others—and myself. I also talk about a lot of other random stuff too LOL This episode is for anyone navigating faith after loss, parenting with grief, or trying to live gently and intentionally after their world has been shattered. You're not alone here.
Have you been told your hormones are “out of balance” — but no one has explained why ovulation still isn't happening?If you're struggling with PCOS, irregular cycles, or unexplained ovulation issues, this episode breaks down a critical piece of the fertility puzzle most women are missing: how insulin signaling affects your hormones and ovaries — and why inositol may be the missing link for restoring ovulation naturally.In this episode you'll...-A clear understanding of how inositol supports hormone balance and ovulation — with or without PCOS-The exact difference between myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol, and the best to support egg quality-Practical guidance on how to safely incorporate inositol into your fertility plan without harming ovulationPress play now to discover how one targeted nutrient could help restore ovulation, balance hormones, and move you closer to getting pregnant naturally.
The Waiting Well - Infertility, Faith-based Encouragement, Trying to Conceive, Fertility
Have you been told your labs are “normal,” yet you're still struggling to get or stay pregnant with PCOS?In this episode, Dr. Katie Wood is joined by registered dietitian and functional medicine practitioner Caitlin Johnson to uncover the advanced labs, metabolic factors, and root causes that most OBs and fertility doctors overlook—so you can stop guessing and start making informed decisions about your fertility and pregnancy health.In this episode you'll...-Learn which hormone, metabolic, and inflammatory labs are essential for understanding your unique type of PCOS-Discover how insulin resistance, stress hormones, and thyroid health impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes-Understand how to naturally reduce risks like miscarriage, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth with PCOSPress play now to uncover the PCOS fertility insights that could change how you approach getting—and staying—pregnant.
Tis a new year my friends and honestly, it's the same shit. In this episode, I get super vulnerable you guys. I even go a little Tony Robbins on ya...I will say I'm super proud of myself for what I did in 2025 when it came to my health and wellness. I went IN trying to get my physical health and mental health back on track. Like GLP-1s, I did Ketamine, back to working out consistently, bible study, being present with my babies, changing up career paths, getting grief coach and educator certified, finding that balance with motherhood and grief, and just trying to get ME back...Well it was tough but I made it and I am proud but no one talks about that "Dig Out"...Where you have to consistently dig yourself out of a dark place all the time. It's honorable and shitty but we have to do it. I dive into this phenomena in hopes to hype you up and share that it's hard for me too.This is real life, I'm always honest with y'all and I always will be.Hope this helps mama
This episode is a powerful conversation pulled from Fertility Rally Live in November 2025,, where we gathered an incredible panel to talk candidly about surrogacy — from every angle.Moderated by Jessie Jaskulsky of Surrogacy Simplified, the panel includes surrogacy mama Sarrah Strimmel Bentley, experienced surrogate Emily Westerfield, and surrogacy mama Alexandra French of The Surrogacy Foundation for an honest, nuanced discussion about what surrogacy really looks like — emotionally, logistically, ethically, and financially. Covered in the chat: How people arrive at surrogacy (and how complicated that decision can be)The relationship between intended parents and gestational carriersCommon misconceptions and hard truthsWhat surprised them most along the wayWhat they wish they'd known before startingWhether you're just beginning to explore surrogacy from an Intended Parent or Surrogate POV, deep in the process, supporting someone who is, or simply want to better understand this path to parenthood, this conversation is thoughtful, real, and incredibly informative. As always — no sugarcoating, no toxic positivity, just real stories from people who've lived it. EPISODE SPONSORS: THE WORK OF ART BOOK SERIESAli's Children's Book Series about IVF, IUI and Family Building Through Assisted Reproductive Technology https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksThe latest book in the Work of ART series, “You Are a Work of ART," is for every kiddo born through ART -- and the people who love them.Order "Work of ART," "Beautiful Bird" and "You Are a Work of ART," now at https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksFERTILITY RALLYIG: @fertilityrallywww.fertilityrally.comNo one should go through infertility alone. Join the Worst Club with the Best Members at fertilityrally.com. We offer 5 to 6 support groups per week, three private Facebook groups, tons of curated IRL and virtual events, and an entire community of more than 500 women available to support you, no matter where you are in your journey.Join today at link in bio on IG @fertilityrally or at www.fertilityrally.com/membershipPHERDALIG: @pherdal_sciencePherDal is the world's first and only FDA-cleared, sterile, at-home insemination kit designed to help people build their families in the comfort of home. Created by parents who've been there, PherDal is safe, simple, and affordable—putting more options in your hands as you grow your family. Explore at PherDal.com.Go to PherDal.com today and use code INFERTILEAF for $10 off.BELIIG: @belibabywww.belibaby.com Are you thinking about growing your family? Whether you're just starting to plan or are actively trying to conceive, preconception health is key. Beli has vitamins to help both women and men optimize their health before pregnancy. With essential nutrients like Folate, Iodine, and Zinc, Beli ensures your body is ready for this exciting next step. Give yourself and your future baby the best foundation for a healthy start.Visit Belibaby.com today and use code IAF15 for 15% off your first order. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/infertile-af-infertility-and-modern-family-building-through-art/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Have you been looking at the calendar and thinking, another year has passed and I'm still not pregnant?If the end of the year feels heavy and you're questioning whether you've made any real progress on your fertility journey, this episode is for you.In this episode, you'll learn...-How to define fertility progress beyond pregnancy tests and timelines-A powerful reflection to help you recognize growth you may have overlooked-How to intentionally enter the new year with more peace and less pressurePress play to reflect on how far you've come and step into the new year feeling grounded, hopeful, and proud of your fertility journey.
We've officially made it to the final episode of 2025 and I wanted to end this year with a conversation that feels grounding, empowering, and deeply needed. In today's episode, I'm sharing a powerful coaching moment that came up inside my TTC Accelerator, one that applies to any big decision you're facing, especially on your fertility journey. If you've ever felt stuck overthinking whether it's time for a fertility clinic, IUI, IVF, functional testing, joining a program, changing jobs, ending a relationship, or making any hard choice, this episode will help you know what the next best step is for you.Ways to work with Corinne: Join the Mind Your Hormones Method, HERE! (Use code PODCAST for 10% off!!)Mentioned in this episode: Check out GutPersonal products here & their testing packages HERE! Code CORINNE saves you 10% on supplements (& on testing!) or take the GutPersonal Quiz to find out exactly which supplements are best for your unique situation! TTC Accelerator - details & the link apply!FREE TRAINING! How to build a hormone-healthy, blood-sugar-balancing meal! (this is pulled directly from the 1st module of the Mind Your Hormones Method!) Access this free training, HERE!Join the Mind Your Hormones Community to connect more with me & other members of this community!Come hang out with me on Instagram: @corinneangealicaOr on TikTok: @corinneangelicaEmail Fam: Click here to get weekly emails from meMind Your Hormones Instagram: @mindyourhormones.podcast Disclaimer: always consult your doctor before taking any supplementation. This podcast is intended for educational purposes only, not to diagnose or treat any conditions.
Are you doing "everything" right for your fertility—but still not getting pregnant?If you're tracking your cycle, taking supplements, eating well, and timing intercourse perfectly but you still struggle to get and stay pregnant, this episode may reveal the missing piece.In this episode, you'll discover:-How poor sleep disrupts ovulation, progesterone, egg quality, and sperm health-Why cortisol, melatonin, blood sugar, insulin, and thyroid function all depend on quality sleep-Simple, pressure-free ways to improve sleep that actually support fertilityPress play to learn how optimizing your sleep could be the most powerful—and overlooked—fertility tool you've been missing.
This week on Two Parents & A Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Lucky Sekhon — board-certified OB-GYN and fertility doctor— to break down fertility in a way that's clear, calm, and actually helpful. We start with the true fertility basics: what you need to know, what tests actually matter, when you should start thinking about fertility before trying, and the biggest myths she wishes would disappear — including the idea that fertility is only a “woman's problem.” This episode is heavily audience Q&A–driven, covering the most common causes of infertility (for women and men), why infertility feels more and more common, the “fertility cliff” after 30 (it's not as steep as you're made to think!), secondary infertility, and how long to try naturally before seeking help. We close with a walkthrough of treatment options (IUI vs. IVF), thoughts on hormonal birth control and fertility, and how friends and family can truly support someone going through infertility or loss. If you want real context and less panic, this one's for you. Also - check out Dr. Lucky's book, The Lucky Egg: Understanding Your Fertility & How to Get Pregnant NOW, coming out January 13th! Timestamps: 00:00:00 Welcome back to Two Parents & A Podcast! 00:00:29 Introduction to Dr. Lucky Sekhon 00:04:15 If someone wants to understand their fertility, what are the first basic things they should know and tests or checks that actually matter? 00:12:38 How early should people start thinking about their fertility before they want to start a family? 00:15:50 What's the biggest fertility myth you wish people would stop believing? 00:17:38 Men are 50% of the equation — what should they understand about their fertility? 00:20:28 What should men do to prepare their bodies when trying to conceive? 00:22:50 What are common habits men do that could be hurting their sperm health? 00:26:55 Audience Question: What are the most common causes of infertility in women? In men? 00:29:49 Audience Question: Why does it seem like so many people in their 20s and 30s are dealing with infertility today? 00:33:27 Audience Question: After 30 is there really a steep fertility cliff? 00:38:57 Audience Question: What is the fertility “cost” of waiting a little longer? 00:40:58 Audience Question: Can you explain secondary infertility? 00:43:48 Audience Question: How long should people try naturally before seeking help? 00:45:20 Audience Question: Thoughts on hormonal birth control pills and how they affect fertility short-term and long-term? 00:50:30 Audience Question: What treatment options are available for women dealing with infertility? 00:58:24 Audience Question: How can friends and family best support couples struggling with infertility or loss? 00:59:53 Thank you for listening! #twoparentsandapod ----- Thank you to our sponsors this week: *Fabletics: Get 80% off everything on Fabletics when you sign up as a VIP at https://www.fabletics.com/TWOPARENTS. *Magnetic Me: Make changing time easier for you and your little one with Magnetic Me's smart magnetic closures. New customers get 15% off their first order at https://www.MagneticMe.com. *Nurture Life: Get 55% off your first order + free shipping at https://www.nurturelife.com/TWOPARENTS with code TWOPARENTS. ----- Follow Two Parents & A Podcast: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/twoparentsandapod TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@twoparentsandapod Follow Alex Bennett: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/justalexbennett TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@justalexbennett Follow Harrison Fugman: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/harrisonfugman TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@harrisonfugman Find our guest: Website | https://theluckyegg.com/ Book | https://static.macmillan.com/static/smp/lucky-egg-9781250408716/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/lucky.sekhon TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@drluckyegg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's an encore presentation of one of our favorite episodes! Ali's very special guest today is Elizabeth Carr, the first person born in the U.S. — in 1981 — via in vitro fertilization. "My birth was so widely publicized that my first press conference was at three days old," Elizabeth says. "I didn't get here like everybody else." Elizabeth shares what it's been like to live under media scrutiny since the moment she was born (check out the NOVA documentary about her life). She also explains why her parents did IVF in the first place, what the IVF landscape was like back then, how the actual procedure worked (so much has changed!) and the incredible work she's doing today to advocate for IVF and reproductive rights. She also shares how the pope, when she was born, called her "a child of the devil." For more, check out https://ejordancarr.com/ and her IG: @ejordan12 EPISODE SPONSORS: THE WORK OF ART BOOK SERIESAli's Children's Book Series about IVF, IUI and Family Building Through Assisted Reproductive Technology https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksThe latest book in the Work of ART series, “You Are a Work of ART," is for every kiddo born through ART -- and the people who love them.Order "Work of ART," "Beautiful Bird" and "You Are a Work of ART," now at https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksFERTILITY RALLYIG: @fertilityrallywww.fertilityrally.comNo one should go through infertility alone. Join the Worst Club with the Best Members at fertilityrally.com. We offer 5 to 6 support groups per week, three private Facebook groups, tons of curated IRL and virtual events, and an entire community of more than 500 women available to support you, no matter where you are in your journey.Join today at link in bio on IG @fertilityrally or at www.fertilityrally.com/membershipPHERDALIG: @pherdal_sciencePherDal is the world's first and only FDA-cleared, sterile, at-home insemination kit designed to help people build their families in the comfort of home. Created by parents who've been there, PherDal is safe, simple, and affordable—putting more options in your hands as you grow your family. Explore at PherDal.com.Go to PherDal.com today and use code INFERTILEAF for $10 off.BELIIG: @belibabywww.belibaby.com Are you thinking about growing your family? Whether you're just starting to plan or are actively trying to conceive, preconception health is key. Beli has vitamins to help both women and men optimize their health before pregnancy. With essential nutrients like Folate, Iodine, and Zinc, Beli ensures your body is ready for this exciting next step. Give yourself and your future baby the best foundation for a healthy start.Visit Belibaby.com today and use code IAF15 for 15% off your first order. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/infertile-af-infertility-and-modern-family-building-through-art/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Have you been quietly holding back your desire for baby this holiday season—afraid of hoping too much or getting hurt again?The holidays can amplify longing, grief, comparison, and the pressure of timelines—especially when you're trying to conceive.In this episode, you'll experience:-A deeper understanding of why declaring your desire for baby matters on a subconscious and nervous system level-A simple, embodied holiday fertility intention practice you can return to anytime-A sense of calm, clarity, and self-trust—without feeling rushed, behind, or brokenPress play to gently declare your desire for baby and anchor into a calm, supportive fertility intention you can carry with you through the holidays.
Are you worried that one holiday meal—or one indulgent week—could ruin your chances to get pregnant?If you're trying to conceive, the holidays can feel overwhelming—pressure to indulge, fear of messing up your hormones, and guilt after eating certain foods.By listening to this episode, you'll discover...-How holiday foods impact your hormones, blood sugar, inflammation, and ovulation-The biggest fertility-disrupting eating mistakes you could be making during the holidays-A realistic, supportive way to enjoy holiday meals while protecting your fertility and nervous systemPress play to learn how you can fully enjoy the holidays and support your fertility at the same time—without FOMO, guilt, fear, or burnout.
The Waiting Well - Infertility, Faith-based Encouragement, Trying to Conceive, Fertility
When God feels silent during your trying-to-conceive journey, it's easy to feel discouraged, confused, and spiritually exhausted. In this episode, Christian infertility coach Courtney Duinker shares four biblical steps to take when God feels quiet while trying to conceive. Rooted in Scripture and real-life experience, this episode helps women navigating infertility learn how to find God in the silence, strengthen their faith while waiting for pregnancy, and trust God's presence even when prayers feel unanswered. If you're struggling to hear God during TTC or infertility, this episode offers hope, truth, and practical next steps to keep walking with Him in the wait.
A daughter remembers the rodeo comment. Amanda was nine when classmates, teachers, and even other parents struggled to understand why her mom was carrying a baby for someone else. That early clash with stigma sent her searching for answers—how embryos work, why genetics matter, and what safety really looks like—while her family navigated emergency deliveries, NICU visits, and a community learning on the fly.Years later, the roles flipped. After a lifetime of “easy” pregnancies around her, Amanda faced irregular cycles and a PCOS diagnosis. She takes us inside the real cadence of IUI: dawn ultrasounds, letrozole and menopur, trigger timing, and the quiet choice to keep it private. You'll feel the weight of a Black Friday clinic visit before hosting Thanksgiving, a Christmas Day beta drawn into the wrong vial, and the constant tug between hope and self-protection. Her second pregnancy arrived spontaneously eleven months postpartum—proof that fertility doesn't follow neat rules—and it came with ER scares, a toddler at home, and the kind of fatigue most people don't see.We compare surrogacy then and now, from four-embryo transfers to today's standards, and talk about how intended parents can transform the experience by acknowledging the surrogate's kids. We also dig into what real support looks like when a sibling becomes a surrogate: legal caution, money anxiety, and the emotional work of staying steady in a tough delivery room. Amanda shares grounded advice for families, intended parents, and anyone facing infertility: seek facts, set boundaries, and let your plan fit your life, not the internet's timeline.If this conversation moved you, follow the show, share it with someone who needs it, and leave a review so more families can find clear, compassionate guidance on surrogacy and fertility.Send us a texthttps://stopsitsurrogate.com
Are you taking CoQ10 for fertility — but still not getting pregnant?If you've been told CoQ10 is a “must-have” fertility supplement but you're unsure whether it's actually helping you, this episode breaks down what CoQ10 really does for egg and sperm quality, how it supports fertility at the cellular level, and why it may not be the right antioxidant for everyone.In this episode, you'll discover:-How CoQ10 supports mitochondrial energy and why that matters for egg and sperm quality-The role oxidative stress plays in implantation, embryo quality, and miscarriage risk-How to choose the right form and dose of CoQ10 — and when it may not be the best optionPress play to learn whether CoQ10 is the fertility support your body truly needs and how to optimize your cellular energy for conception.
Today, Ali is talking to René Byrd, a British-born singer, songwriter, and media personality known for her powerful voice, soulful pop and R&B style, and her bold, heartfelt storytelling. On this episode, she tells her deeply personal egg freezing, infertility and family building journey, including giving birth to her son via IVF at age 48. Rene talks about the retreat that changed her life for the better, meeting her future husband in a bar (and how she knew she would build her family with him), and facing backlash when she became a mom in her late forties. She also shares the lessons she's learned regarding advocacy, fertility awareness and maternal wellbeing. Follow on IG: @Renebyrdofficial @Renebyrdofficialglobal EPISODE SPONSORS: THE WORK OF ART BOOK SERIESAli's Children's Book Series about IVF, IUI and Family Building Through Assisted Reproductive Technology https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksThe latest book in the Work of ART series, “You Are a Work of ART," is for every kiddo born through ART -- and the people who love them.Order "Work of ART," "Beautiful Bird" and "You Are a Work of ART," now at https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksFERTILITY RALLYIG: @fertilityrallywww.fertilityrally.comNo one should go through infertility alone. Join the Worst Club with the Best Members at fertilityrally.com. We offer 5 to 6 support groups per week, three private Facebook groups, tons of curated IRL and virtual events, and an entire community of more than 500 women available to support you, no matter where you are in your journey.Join today at link in bio on IG @fertilityrally or at www.fertilityrally.com/membershipPHERDALIG: @pherdal_sciencePherDal is the world's first and only FDA-cleared, sterile, at-home insemination kit designed to help people build their families in the comfort of home. Created by parents who've been there, PherDal is safe, simple, and affordable—putting more options in your hands as you grow your family. Explore at PherDal.com.Go to PherDal.com today and use code INFERTILEAF for $10 off.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/infertile-af-infertility-and-modern-family-building-through-art/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/infertile-af-infertility-and-modern-family-building-through-art/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Dr. Natalie Crawford, OBGYN and REI, sits down with licensed acupuncturist Sadie Minkoff to discuss how acupuncture fits into the bigger picture of hormones, stress, and fertility. They explore how this approach can work alongside traditional medical care so you can feel more informed and less alone on your fertility journey. Key Topics: 1. What Acupuncture Really Is - Rethinking what “needles” actually mean in this setting - Seeing acupuncture as part of a larger, whole‑body system - How this approach aims to gently “nudge” the body 2. Fertility, Hormones, and Stress - How stress and inflammation can interfere with hormones and ovulation - Ways acupuncture may calm the nervous system and support balance - Why “normal tests” don't always mean your body feels normal 3. Using Acupuncture on the Fertility Journey - How it can be used when TTC spontaneously, with IUI, or with IVF - Why timing sessions around your cycle and treatments can matter - How it may support egg quality, implantation, and early pregnancy 4. Finding Care and Knowing Your Options - What to look for in a fertility‑focused acupuncturist - What a typical first visit and follow‑up might look like - Options if you can't access in‑person care, including at‑home support Check out Sadie's Practice Website https://reproductiveacupuncture.com/ Follow Sadie's Practice on IG @sageacupunctureaustin Pre-order Dr. Crawford's debut book, The Fertility Formula, now! https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Want to receive my weekly newsletter? Sign up at nataliecrawfordmd.com/newsletter to receive updates, Q&A, special content, and freebies If you haven't already, please rate, review, and follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes every Tuesday. Plus, be sure to follow along on Instagram @nataliecrawfordmd, check out Natalie's YouTube channel Natalie Crawford MD, and if you're interested in becoming a patient, check out Fora Fertility. Join the Learn at Pinnacle app to earn FREE CE Credit for listening to this episode! This episode is brought to you by The Pinnacle Podcast Network! Learn more about Pinnacle at http://learnatpinnacle.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What if the very tools you're using to track ovulation are the reason you're missing your fertile window every single month?If you've been relying on cycle tracking apps or LH strips and still aren't getting pregnant, you're not alone—and it may not be your body that's the problem. In this episode, you'll discover...-Clarity on why apps and ovulation strips can give false confidence about your fertile window-A deeper understanding of how to confirm ovulation with key fertility signs that give you a full, accurate picture of your cycle-Which tracking tools actually empower you to time conception with confidencePress play now to learn how to stop guessing, start confirming ovulation, and finally take advantage of every fertile cycle with clarity and confidence.
The Waiting Well - Infertility, Faith-based Encouragement, Trying to Conceive, Fertility
For the woman afraid of choosing wrong, this episode offers a faith-filled framework for discerning fertility decisions with God in the waiting.
Carter's mama, Amy and I, first recorded 3.5 years ago, not long after we both lost our sons. At the time, we were still deep in survival mode—learning how to breathe, how to exist, how to live in a world that had permanently changed.In this episode, we come back together to talk about life now.We talk honestly about:Parenting after lossWhat grief looks like years later (spoiler: it doesn't disappear)Expanding our families while still carrying our first babies with usThe tension of joy and sorrow coexistingHow motherhood after loss reshapes who you are, how you parent, and how you move through the worldThis isn't a “look how far we've come” conversation. It's just a real one. Two moms with 2 on earth and one in the sky. Grief didn't end. It evolved. Love didn't shrink. It expanded. And our sons are still very much part of our everyday lives.If you're navigating parenting after loss, considering growing your family again, or wondering what life can look like years down the road—this conversation is for you.Find Amy on Instagram:@amyycampisiHer Charity Org Carters Classic WebsiteFind your Loss Posse at LOSSLINK.COM*************************************NOTE: I am not a doctor or a therapist. This podcast is not in place of therapy. The views of my guests are not always reflective of my own. I am just a real life loss mom describing her experiences with life after loss. These are my experiences, and I'm putting it out there so you feel less alone. Always do your own research and make informed decisions!For more REAL TALK about baby loss and grief, hit subscribe to be notified when another episode drops!Instagram @thekatherinelazarYoutube: @thekatherinelazarEmail: thekatherinelazar@gmail.comWebsite: www.katherinelazar.com Some helpful resources:https://countthekicks.org/https://www.measuretheplacenta.org/https://www.pushpregnancy.org/https://www.tommys.org/ Local to Atlanta:https://www.northsidepnl.com/
On today's episode, Ali is joined by Tara Carlyle—influencer, girl mom, and outspoken advocate for women navigating infertility, including the reality of secondary infertility. Tara shares her personal journey and the emotional whiplash of struggling to conceive again after already having a child—grappling with guilt, grief, and what it's like to feel dismissed by the medical system. Tara also talks about her advocacy work for a TTC blood panel and deeper investigation into women's health, especially when symptoms are brushed off or labeled “normal.” Follow Tara on IG: @taracarlyleEPISODE SPONSORS: THE WORK OF ART BOOK SERIESAli's Children's Book Series about IVF, IUI and Family Building Through Assisted Reproductive Technology https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksThe latest book in the Work of ART series, “You Are a Work of ART," is for every kiddo born through ART -- and the people who love them.Order "Work of ART," "Beautiful Bird" and "You Are a Work of ART," now at https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksFERTILITY RALLYIG: @fertilityrallywww.fertilityrally.comNo one should go through infertility alone. Join the Worst Club with the Best Members at fertilityrally.com. We offer 5 to 6 support groups per week, three private Facebook groups, tons of curated IRL and virtual events, and an entire community of more than 500 women available to support you, no matter where you are in your journey.Join today at link in bio on IG @fertilityrally or at www.fertilityrally.com/membershipPHERDALIG: @pherdal_sciencePherDal is the world's first and only FDA-cleared, sterile, at-home insemination kit designed to help people build their families in the comfort of home. Created by parents who've been there, PherDal is safe, simple, and affordable—putting more options in your hands as you grow your family. Explore at PherDal.com.Go to PherDal.com today and use code INFERTILEAF for $10 off.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/infertile-af-infertility-and-modern-family-building-through-art/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Are your daily tech habits quietly overheating your pelvis, damaging egg and sperm quality, and sabotaging your fertility without you even knowing it?The devices you use every single day—laptops, phones, earbuds, smartwatches—emit EMFs and heat can interfere with the reproductive repair your body relies on for healthy conception.In this episode, you'll discover...-A clear understanding of how EMFs and device heat directly impact egg quality, sperm quality, inflammation, and reproductive hormone balance.-The three biggest tech habits silently sabotaging fertility and increasing pelvic heat and oxidative stress.-Simple, low-effort tech-boundary shifts that instantly reduce EMF exposure and protect reproductive health while trying to conceive.Press play now to learn the quick, science-backed tech swaps that instantly protect your fertility and support healthier eggs, stronger sperm, and a smoother TTC journey.
This week Gi sits down with women's health nutritionist GQ Jordan, whose philosophy centres on listening to and nourishing your body - and making healthy eating feel simple and achievable.GQ opens up about her personal journey with IUI and IVF, sharing how nutrition can play a role in supporting our bodies through fertility treatment and beyond.She also opens up to Gi about her experience of baby loss and navigating grief. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Are you assuming your partner's fertility is “fine” because his semen analysis came back "normal"—and could that be the very thing blocking pregnancy?!Most couples don't realize that 50% of all fertility challenges involve male factors, yet men rarely receive thorough testing. A basic semen analysis only scratches the surface and completely overlooks hidden issues.In this episode, you'll learn...-A clear understanding of why a standard semen analysis does not confirm healthy or optimal sperm—and what deeper issues it often misses.-The hidden male-factor problems that contribute to infertility, poor embryo development, and miscarriage.-The exact steps couples can take right now—including advanced testing, lifestyle upgrades, and targeted support—to rapidly improve sperm quality in as little as 90 days.Press play now to learn how addressing male fertility today can dramatically boost your chances of conceiving, reduce miscarriage risk, and help you build the healthiest family possible.
The Waiting Well - Infertility, Faith-based Encouragement, Trying to Conceive, Fertility
A short, powerful reminder from Simeon's story that God is working even when you're still waiting for a baby.
Missed Rally Live #10? No worries! In this special episode, we're bringing you the powerful Rally Live #10 keynote from Sarah Herron—reality TV alum, writer, advocate, and founder of SheLift. While many of you first met Sarah on The Bachelor, her true impact has come from the way she's chosen to tell her own infertility story: with honesty, vulnerability, humor, and a fierce commitment to helping others feel less alone. In her keynote, Sarah opens up about living with a limb difference, navigating infertility, experiencing profound pregnancy loss, and redefining resilience on her own terms. She speaks candidly about grief, identity, mental health, and the unexpected places strength can be found. Her words remind us that we can hold joy and heartbreak at the same time—and that there is power in embracing our imperfections. She also talks about being a twin mom and a "Forever mom" to her sweet son, Oliver, who she honors every day. Follow Sarah on IG: @sarahherronEPISODE SPONSORS: THE WORK OF ART BOOK SERIESAli's Children's Book Series about IVF, IUI and Family Building Through Assisted Reproductive Technology https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksThe latest book in the Work of ART series, “You Are a Work of ART," is for every kiddo born through ART -- and the people who love them.Order "Work of ART," "Beautiful Bird" and "You Are a Work of ART," now at https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksFERTILITY RALLYIG: @fertilityrallywww.fertilityrally.comNo one should go through infertility alone. Join the Worst Club with the Best Members at fertilityrally.com. We offer 5 to 6 support groups per week, three private Facebook groups, tons of curated IRL and virtual events, and an entire community of more than 500 women available to support you, no matter where you are in your journey.Join today at link in bio on IG @fertilityrally or at www.fertilityrally.com/membershipPHERDALIG: @pherdal_sciencePherDal is the world's first and only FDA-cleared, sterile, at-home insemination kit designed to help people build their families in the comfort of home. Created by parents who've been there, PherDal is safe, simple, and affordable—putting more options in your hands as you grow your family. Explore at PherDal.com. Go to PherDal.com today and use code INFERTILEAF for $10 off. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/infertile-af-infertility-and-modern-family-building-through-art/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Are hidden endocrine disruptors in your everyday household products silently sabotaging your fertility?If you've been trying to conceive or struggling with hormone issues, your cleaning supplies, skincare, and even your candles might be playing a bigger role than you think. In this episode, you'll discover:-The most common household items that disrupt hormone balance-How these toxins directly impact fertility for both men and women-Simple, affordable product swaps that dramatically lower your daily exposureHit play to learn how to reduce hidden toxins and instantly create a more fertility-friendly home environment.
Send us a textIn this eye-opening episode, Dr. Amols tackles a question most patients are too embarrassed to ask out loud: Does getting a second opinion mean you're cheating on your fertility doctor?Inspired by a real patient interaction, he breaks down why fertility care feels so personal, why patients often feel guilty seeking outside input, and why no confident doctor should ever take it personally. You'll hear how second opinions can validate your plan, reveal new options, and ultimately strengthen your confidence — not sabotage your treatment.You'll learn: • Why fertility patients feel “loyalty pressure” • Why two good doctors can disagree and both be right • When a second opinion is helpful (and when it's panic shopping) • What records to bring and what questions to ask • The red flags that mean you're in the wrong clinic • How to advocate for yourself without the guiltThis episode is your permission slip to put your peace of mind first. Your journey deserves clarity — not loyalty tests.Thanks for tuning in to another episode of 'Taco Bout Fertility Tuesday' with Dr. Mark Amols. If you found this episode insightful, please share it with friends and family who might benefit from our discussion. Remember, your feedback is invaluable to us – leave us a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred listening platform. Stay connected with us for updates and fertility tips – follow us on Facebook. For more resources and information, visit our website at www.NewDirectionFertility.com. Have a question or a topic you'd like us to cover? We'd love to hear from you! Reach out to us at TBFT@NewDirectionFertility.com. Join us next Tuesday for more discussions on fertility, where we blend medical expertise with a touch of humor to make complex topics accessible and engaging. Until then, keep the conversation going and remember: understanding your fertility is a journey we're on together.
For some couples, conception looks quick and effortless. For others, it's a long, humbling journey that asks you to rethink everything you thought you knew about your body, your faith, and your timeline. In this episode of the Nutritional Therapy and Wellness Podcast, host Jamie Belz talks with Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (FNTP) and fertility mentor Calista (Callie) Chammas, founder of Nourish with Calista, to explore a raw, hopeful, deeply bio-individual look at growing a family in an increasingly infertile world. After graduating from the Nutritional Therapy Association in 2019, Calista found her calling in fertility through the fires of her own journey - 13 years on the pill, post-birth-control chaos, "unexplained infertility," medicated cycles, IUI, IVF, and a 42-week home birth. She and her husband now await the arrival of their second child. Calista works with women and families navigating both simple and complex fertility challenges, using ancestral nutrition, targeted lifestyle shifts, nervous-system regulation, precise Functional Blood Chemistry analysis, and the Foundations of Health as taught through the Nutritional Therapy Association, to help restore ovulation and optimize the environment for conception. She is also co-creating a powerful upcoming program, Nourish Your Radiant Fertility - bridging functional nutrition and Traditional Chinese Medicine for truly holistic preconception support. Together, Jamie and Callie dig into the realities behind falling fertility rates, the aftermath of long-term birth control use, why ovulation is the real monthly vital sign, how labels like "infertile" can quietly shape outcomes, and why safety, mindset, and nervous-system regulation may matter as much as lab work. They share accessible, affordable Foundations of Health: nutrient-dense ancestral foods, blood-sugar balance, mineral-rich hydration, stress regulation, sleep, nature exposure, circadian rhythm, and community support - and speak to the financially and ethically complicated aspects of IVF. Bio-individuality refuses the false choice between "all conventional" and "all holistic." This episode is especially for couples navigating the gray zone—those who want to understand why their body is struggling, who don't want to be reduced to a diagnosis, and who want a real pathway forward, whether they use natural methods, IVF, or both. Topics Discussed: Hypothalamus–Pituitary–Ovarian (HPO) axis Post-birth-control syndrome Ovulation as a vital sign "Unexplained infertility" and medical labeling Nervous system regulation/parasympathetic activation Fertility & safety signaling Ancestral nutrient-dense foods Blood sugar regulation & Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) (insulin resistance of the ovaries) Mineral-rich hydration/electrolytes Circadian rhythm & morning sunlight Nature exposure for nervous system balance Stress perception Natural-cycle embryo transfer Ethical Considerations in Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) Medical gaslighting & advocating for yourself Male factor infertility & sperm DNA fragmentation Community support during fertility journeys Boundaries with family/pressure dynamics Identity vs. diagnosis reframing Fortifying the Foundations of Health: Nutrient-dense diet, hydration, digestion, blood sugar regulation, sleep, stress, joyful movement Related and Complementary Podcast Episodes: Episode 71: A Fertility Journey to Natural Pregnancy Through Foundational Healing Episode 61: PCOS Root Cause Episode 28: Blood Sugar 101 - Hope for Reversing Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes Episode 29: Quick Tips for Blood Sugar Episode 62: MORE Quick Tips for Blood Sugar Episode 9: Food For Fertility Episode 66: SIBO Symptoms and Solutions Episode 6: The Dr. Francis M Pottenger Episode Episode 69: The Dr. Weston A Price Episode Episode 46: Wellness 101 Episode 60: Super Foods, Super Kids Episode 4: Bio-Individuality Episode 11: Digestive Hell (Learn DIGESTION from the NTA's founder, Gray Graham) Episode 10: Optimal Wellness Starts Here (How DIGESTION is supposed to work!) Episode 53: Dr. Lindsey Berkson on Hormones Episode 37: Autism Can Be Reversed Nutritional Therapy Association (NTA) Connect with Callie: Nourish Your Radiant Fertility (Callie's course - coming soon) www.nourishwithcalista.com @nourishwithcalista NTA's Six-Week Course: FOUNDATIONS OF HEALING Other Resources Mentioned: Real Food for Fertility – Lily Nichols & Lisa Hendrickson-Jack Real Food for Pregnancy – Lily Nichols Real Food for Gestational Diabetes – Lily Nichols Hormones, Cycles & Coming Off the Pill Beyond the Pill – Dr. Jolene Brighten Period Repair Manual – Dr. Lara Briden Dr. Mindy Pelz Spiritual & Emotional Support When God Says "Wait" – Elizabeth Laing Thompson Spirit Babies – Walter Makichen Child Health & Recovery Documenting Hope (Helping children heal and reverse their diagnoses) Subscribe to the Nutritional Therapy and Wellness Podcast so you never miss an episode. If you're listening on Apple Podcasts, take 30 seconds to leave a 5-star rating and review. 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On this week's episode, Ali sits down with an icon and pioneer in the infertility community: double-board certified REI and infertility warrior Dr. Natalie Crawford. Natalie opens up about her four pregnancy losses before having her two kiddos, being both sides of the stirrups as doctor and patient, and what it's really like to navigate infertility as someone who “knows too much.” She talks about bucking the system when it came to social media; co-founding her boutique clinic in Austin, TX, Fora Fertility (and why she decided to start her own thing); and her new book, The Fertility Formula. Natalie also talks about how to advocate for yourself in the exam room, how her patients inspired parts of the book; and what she wants every fertility patient to hear right now.For more, and to preorder The Fertility Formula, go to www.nataliecrawfordmd.comIG: @nataliecrawfordmdEPISODE SPONSORS: THE WORK OF ART BOOK SERIESAli's Children's Book Series about IVF, IUI and Family Building Through Assisted Reproductive Technology https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksThe latest book in the Work of ART series, “You Are a Work of ART," is for every kiddo born through ART -- and the people who love them.Order "Work of ART," "Beautiful Bird" and "You Are a Work of ART," now at https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksFERTILITY RALLYIG: @fertilityrallywww.fertilityrally.comNo one should go through infertility alone. Join the Worst Club with the Best Members at fertilityrally.com. We offer 5 to 6 support groups per week, three private Facebook groups, tons of curated IRL and virtual events, and an entire community of more than 500 women available to support you, no matter where you are in your journey.Join today at link in bio on IG @fertilityrally or at www.fertilityrally.com/membershipPHERDALIG: pherdal_sciencePherDal is the world's first and only FDA-cleared, sterile, at-home insemination kit designed to help people build their families in the comfort of home. Created by parents who've been there, PherDal is safe, simple, and affordable—putting more options in your hands as you grow your family. Explore at PherDal.com.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/infertile-af-infertility-and-modern-family-building-through-art/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
The Waiting Well - Infertility, Faith-based Encouragement, Trying to Conceive, Fertility
To the Woman Whose Arms Are Empty This Thanksgiving: Finding Peace and Hope in the Waiting If you're walking into Thanksgiving week with a quiet ache — longing for the baby you've prayed for and wondering how to be thankful when your arms are still empty — this episode was written just for you. In today's episode, Courtney shares an open letter straight from her heart to yours. She speaks to the woman sitting at the table surrounded by laughter yet feeling unseen, the one trying to hold gratitude and grief in the same breath. Through powerful Scripture, tender encouragement, and reminders of God's unchanging goodness, you'll find comfort in knowing that you are not forgotten — you are being formed. Whether you're navigating infertility, pregnancy loss, or another season of waiting, this heartfelt letter will help you slow down, exhale, and see that even in the ache, God is still near. You'll walk away reminded that: ✨ You don't have to perform gratitude to be loved by God. ✨ Your tears are sacred — and seen. ✨ The wait isn't wasted when it's held in His hands. ✨ Gratitude and grief can coexist in a heart anchored in Christ. This Thanksgiving, may you find peace in the waiting and hope in the One who never stops working behind the scenes of your story. Referenced Scriptures: Psalm 34:18 • Psalm 27:14 • 1 Thessalonians 5:18 • Romans 8:28 THIS WEEK & NEXT WEEK ONLY - save 20% on any of my devotionals or courses! Use Code THANKFUL at check out!
Episode 192: How Childless Women Can Navigate the Holidays Ahead The holiday season can feel emotionally heavy when you're childless after infertility. In this episode, Lana explains why Thanksgiving and Christmas can stir up overwhelm, anxiety, numbness, and confusion when you always imagined this season with a child of your own. You'll learn how your brain and nervous system respond during this time of year, why nothing about your reaction means you're doing anything wrong, and how to feel more grounded and supported as the holidays approach. The holidays can feel complicated when you're childless after infertility. That knot in your stomach during Thanksgiving or Christmas is not your imagination. Whether you are done with fertility treatments, still navigating IVF or IUI, or childless by circumstance, this season can shine a spotlight on the life you thought you would be living by now. In this episode, you learn why the holidays often stir up so much emotion and why nothing about your experience means you're doing anything wrong. You'll understand how your brain and nervous system interpret this season, why old neural pathways get activated, and why your reactions are very normal for women who are childless after infertility or childless not by choice. Inside the episode, you'll learn: • How neural pathways built during your fertility journey impact your holidays • Why unpredictability around the holidays activates your nervous system • Why numbness is normal when the season feels emotionally loaded • Why family gatherings can trigger isolation even when you're loved • How to stop blaming yourself for how you feel this time of year • How to stay grounded when traditions center around children • Why you don't have to sit out of Christmas just because you don't have kids If you want real tools and support to help you feel more prepared and confident this year, join my free live class on Tuesday, December 16 at 11:30 AM Central: How to Deal with Your Family, Create Traditions, and Manage Celebrations Without Kids Register here! You deserve to feel grounded, steady, and in control of the rooms you walk into this season. And if you want help responding to the comments people make when they don't understand your experience, download my free guide HERE! The Top 27 Things People Say When You're Childless and How to Respond.
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Ali sits down with Connie, a proud Single Mom by Choice whose path to motherhood was anything but traditional—and exactly right for her. Growing up with a Black military dad and a Taiwanese “Tiger Mom,” Connie always felt the weight of expectations about what family should look like. But as she approached her late 30s, knowing she always wanted to have kids, she decided to freeze her eggs. Later, her best friend gave her the clarity she needed: “Connie, if you want your baby, go get your baby. You don't need to do it the traditional way.” Connie opens up about what it was like navigating the SMBC journey as a woman of mixed race, including the emotional complexity of donor selection and the lack of Black sperm donors in U.S. banks. She shares how she found an amazing doctor and clinic, Dr. Joshua Klein of Extend Fertility -- aka Ali's doctor! Connie also talks about navigating IVF, getting pregnant (with twins!), giving birth during Covid and what life is like today, as a single mom of two five-year-olds.EPISODE SPONSORS: BEAUTIFUL BIRD AND WORK OF ARTAli's Children's Book Series about IVF, IUI and Family Building Through Assisted Reproductive Technology https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksThe latest book in the Work of ART series, “Beautiful Bird” tells the story of three parents, one incredible boy and a family built with love—and a little bit of science.Pre-orders are available now! The first 150 copies will be Personalized, Signed and Numbered! Don't miss out on this limited edition! Tap the link in bio and stories to order your copy today.When Helen decides to have a baby on her own, she welcomes Jack Bird into the world through IUI with the help of her friend, Aaron. But when Jack is born and needs extra care in the NICU, Aaron and his partner, Blake, fall in love with Jack, too. Together, the three join forces to raise Jack, proving that family isn't about how you start—it's about how you grow.Order yours now at https://www.infertileafgroup.com/booksFERTILITY RALLYIG: @fertilityrallywww.fertilityrally.comNo one should go through infertility alone. Join the Worst Club with the Best Members at fertilityrally.com. We offer 5 to 6 support groups per week, three private Facebook groups, tons of curated IRL and virtual events, and an entire community of more than 500 women available to support you, no matter where you are in your journey.Join today at link in bio on IG @fertilityrally or at www.fertilityrally.com/membershipPHERDALIG: pherdal_sciencePherDal is the world's first and only FDA-cleared, sterile, at-home insemination kit designed to help people build their families in the comfort of home. Created by parents who've been there, PherDal is safe, simple, and affordable—putting more options in your hands as you grow your family. Explore at PherDal.com.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/infertile-af-infertility-and-modern-family-building-through-art/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy