Podcasts about stork'd

In this Stork'd Munchkin, James Mahan discusses how surrogacy law differs in each state and what you need to know in terms of contracts and such.   If you loved this Stork'd Munchkin, check out the full episode wherever you listen to podcasts!   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Stork'd - Spotify  Surrogates Corner - Website Surrogates Corner - Instagram Surrogates Corner - LinkedIn  

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Gail Sexton Anderson discusses the role Donor Concierge plays in finding their clients' surrogates and the process around that.   If you loved this Stork'd Munchkin, check out the full episode wherever you listen to podcasts!   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Stork'd - Spotify  Donor Concierge - Website  

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Gail Sexton Anderson discusses the role of characteristics and DNA in finding a donor and potential complexities and tips when choosing a donor.   If you loved this Stork'd Munchkin, check out the full episode wherever you listen to podcasts!   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Stork'd - Spotify  Donor Concierge - Website

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Emily Silver discusses the mission of Nurture by NAPS to provide clients with individualized care backed by medical research and her own experiences as a mother.     If you loved this Stork'd Munchkin, check out the full episode wherever you listen to podcasts!   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Stork'd - Spotify  Nurture by Naps - Instagram Nurture by Naps - Website  

Emily Silver, co-founder of Nurture by NAPS, offers resources, support, and education to parents throughout pregnancy, postpartum, and toddlerhood. Whether expecting your first, second, or third child, Emily provides evidence-based professional insights to help you navigate a journey filled with cherished memories, even during the often stressful and sleepless period of welcoming a newborn into your home. NAPS is committed to providing genuine support and evidence-based education. Emily addresses the challenges of dealing with social media critics who may guilt-trip you for not adhering to their perceived parenting norms. If you've recently given birth or know someone who could benefit from Emily's expertise, don't miss this episode of Stork'd.   IN THIS EPISODE: [2:10] Emily shares her backstory of not having children, founding Nurture by NAPS, having three children and offering support and education to parents [6:11] Discussion regarding other countries offering institutionalized support services for new parents, which are not provided in the US and mental health needs for parents [10:25] Emily reveals her situation during pregnancy and how a program like NAPS would have made all the difference, and she discusses what NAPS offers [15:24] Emily believes parents should be able to get advice without judgment, using breastfeeding as an example [20:19] Discussion regarding sleep training, the need for support and education for new parents and what Emily would like to see in the future [30:10] Emily discusses what family means to her   KEY TAKEAWAYS: Do not let anyone, including social media, guilt you into making decisions regarding your child that do not come from your heart and how you desire to nurture and parent your baby. Our nation is woefully behind in offering services to new moms because the services are privatized.  Other countries do a much better job because it is a part of their healthcare system. Asking for support is critical when you have your new baby. So, don't be afraid to ask and narrow down the list of who you would trust to help or to give you advice.    RESOURCE LINKS: Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Nurture by Naps - Instagram Nurture by Naps - Website   BIOGRAPHY:   Emily's passion for educating and supporting families stems from her personal experience dealing with loss. She lost a sister to SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), has had multiple miscarriages, and has dealt with the anxiety and the stigma that comes with taking medication while pregnant and breastfeeding. You can be assured that taboo topics are just not taboo for Emily! Emily began her career in General Medicine before working as a Labor & Delivery nurse, where she met NAPS co-founder Jamie O'Day. While working in Labor & Delivery, Emily went back to school to get her master's degree in nursing and become a Family Nurse Practitioner. She practiced as a Nurse Practitioner in an OBGYN office for several years before running NAPS full time with Jamie. Emily best supports families through NAPS by pulling from her vast medical background, and her own experiences with pregnancy and parenting as a mother of three girls. After graduating from Boston College, Emily received her graduate degree from UMass Boston. Emily is a Family Nurse Practitioner and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). She lives in Charlestown, MA with her husband, AJ, three daughters Grace (age 7), Madelyn (age 5), Eloise (age 1), and dog Maisey (age 9).

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Emily Silver discusses her experiences as a first time mom trying to “do it all” and how those experiences have translated to her work in Nurture by NAPS.     If you loved this Stork'd Munchkin, check out the full episode wherever you listen to podcasts!   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Stork'd - Spotify  Nurture by Naps - Instagram Nurture by Naps - Website  

Today, Ali is talking to solo mom by choice Julia Karol about everything from when she decided to embark on the solo parenting route to where she is today. Julia talks about freezing her eggs, why she prefers the term "solo parent by choice" to "single parent by choice;" the complex, interesting process of choosing a sperm donor; going through IUIs; and what happened when Covid hit and the clinics shut down (think at-home insemination). She also talks about the financial side of assisted reproductive technology and using a sperm donor, the legal documents one needs as a solo parent; having her son; what happened when she told friends she wanted a second child; and what's going on with her family building journey now.  TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: Solo parent by choice vs. single parent by choice; IUIs; IVF; choosing a sperm donor; the financial side of ART; anxiety; miscarriage; pregnancy via IUI; dating as a solo parent; secondary infertility EPISODE SPONSORS: WORK OF ART Children's Book about IVF https://www.infertileafgroup.com/books Ali wrote her first children's book, and it's available for pre-order now! “Work of ART” is the story of an IVF kiddo the day he learns he is a “work of ART” (born via IVF and Assisted Reproductive Technology). For young readers 4-8. Hardcover. Written by Ali Prato; Illustrated by Federico Bonifacini The first 200 copies will be numbered, personalized and shipped free in the U.S. There is also a non-personalized version available! Order yours now at https://www.infertileafgroup.com/books For bulk orders of 10 or more books, go to https://www.infertileafgroup.com/bulk-order-request FERTILITY RALLY @fertilityrally www.fertilityrally.com No 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/membership Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Gina Ballard discusses why she fosters teens instead of young children and the difference that that makes in the lives of those teens and for society as a whole.   If you loved this Stork'd Munchkin, check out the full episode wherever you listen to podcasts!   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Stork'd - Spotify  Gina Nicole - Website Gine Nicole - Instagram  

Gina Ballard approaches everything in life with an open heart, a willingness to stand in truth, deep compassion and a lot of humor and her family journey embodies all of those traits.  Gina is a passionate advocate for fostering. She and her husband focus on providing a safe, welcoming home for teenagers in the foster care system and have most recently adopted a teenage son.  Prior to becoming a foster parent, she and her first husband experienced setbacks to their family building due to a PCOS diagnosis.  Gina ultimately meets the love of her life and navigates complicated and imperfect family dynamics with her step children.  Eventually, Gina finds mentoring and fostering and builds a support community for other foster parents.  In this episode of Stork'd, Gina candidly shares her expert insights on these aspects of family-building, holding nothing back. With authenticity and openness, she delves into various complex topics and situations. When Gina defines her family, she beautifully refers to them as  the "Godspot" and "Opulent Threads." Gina's life and stories will inspire you, especially for those considering foster parenting. Don't miss out on this empowering episode.   IN THIS EPISODE:   [2:21] Gina introduces herself, shares all of her roles in life and compares the dark days that she and Julia went through to when Saturn comes back to the point of your birth [4:46] Gina walks through the changes that occurred after her divorce and how a disastrous text message led to a positive outcome  [15:52] Gina discusses foster parenting and how it differs from the parenting or step-parenting roles and how becoming a step-parent evolved to mentoring and then to becoming a foster parent [25:45] How do you prepare your home for a foster child, providing respite for foster families and the foster-parenting community [36:12] Gina explains why she wanted to become a foster parent and how they decided to adopt their son [46:46] Gina discusses the myths of fostering and adopting [52:19] Gina expresses what family means to her   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   Step-parenting may be one of the most challenging ways to build and define a family. The best approach when step-parenting is to express yourself on what is right and wrong. Don't become a doormat because you may explode after holding your emotions. In some cases, you may not be able to mend the relationship.  There is an enormous need for foster parents for teens. Babies and younger children are easier to place, and teens are left to age out if not taken into a foster family. Foster parents need to be sensitive to the child's environment in their new home. Specifically, their bedrooms should reflect who they are and their interests. RESOURCE LINKS: Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  www.ginanicole.net Gina Nicole - Website Gine Nicole - Instagram BIOGRAPHY:  Gina Nicole Ballard is an Intuitive Copywriter, Subtle Energy Medicine, and Feng Shui Practitioner by day and a Foster Mom by night. She is passionate about connecting with empaths, heart-centered entrepreneurs, and those struggling to embody who they came to be. She works with people to move out of their past and into their future and is devoted to empowering youth to come home to their gifts and live in full alignment.  

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Gina Ballard discusses a time she spoke up about a suspected foster neglect situation and how that situation was a catalyst to shift from mentoring teens to fostering teens.   If you loved this Stork'd Munchkin, check out the full episode wherever you listen to podcasts!   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Stork'd - Spotify  Gina Nicole - Website Gine Nicole - Instagram  

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Carey Cook discusses the hard decisions she made in her fertility journey and learning how to trust your body's signals. Learning what a “yes” and “no” feel like in your body.   If you loved this Stork'd Munchkin, check out the full episode wherever you listen to podcasts!   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Stork'd - Spotify  Embodied Pride - Website Embodied Pride - Instagram  

Carey Cook, a Fertility Coach and Self-Care Strategist is dedicated to supporting the LGBTQ+ community as they navigate the intricacies of building a family. Carey shares her journey with IUI, Reciprocal IVF and ultimately embryo donation.  She shares how she and her wife found their embryo donor, how they each experienced emotional reactions to the experience of sharing or not sharing a genetic relationship with your child, and how the embryo donation experience has shaped their child's half sibling group.     In this episode, Carey shares how to pivot your expectations as your fertility path changes, and how to use your own body and intuition to make decisions that are right for you.  This episode of Stork'd is more than just a conversation—it's a valuable opportunity for a free therapeutic experience. You don't want to miss out.   IN THIS EPISODE: [3:00] Carey shares her family planning journey [6:45] Carey talks what the genetic composition of their child would look like based on the provided options  [10:12] Carey talks about the feelings surrounding being genetically connected.  [12:08] Carey walks through the decision to do a private embryo donation and the multiple ways of finding a donor [21:22] Carey discusses the type of therapy she practices, how your body gives you clues to support your decisions and how she teaches her clients to know the difference between what a yes or a no feels like [25:00] The process after the embryo donor decision is made and deciding  how much communication you want [31:37] Carey discusses the information she can share with her child when the time comes, and she talks about the differences between the  LGBTQ+ and straight communities going through this journey [34:21] Discussion surrounding society's opinions of what is right and wrong for gays and solo parents and the questions that Carey's clients have for her [39:00] Carey talks about her soul family; she defines what family means to her and reminds the listener there are many free sources on the internet and social media   KEY TAKEAWAYS: When a couple cannot have a child, they sometimes say, “If we don't, it's okay.” That statement is more than likely said to protect their emotions.” There is a lot of grief associated with failed treatments for having children. Being genetically connected to your child is an emotion that some people need to have. It troubles them when they think about it. Other people are happy to have a child and don't emotionally deal with genetics. There are multiple ways of finding donated embryos. Each has different caveats that the recipient needs to research before deciding.   RESOURCE LINKS: Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Embodied Pride - Website Embodied Pride - Instagram   BIOGRAPHY:  Carey Cook, Fertility Coach and Self-Care Strategist, is passionate about helping people who are spiraling into the anxious abyss of expanding their families. I have a MA in Counseling Psychology and 13+ years helping people move through trauma and transform their lives. I help people get out of their heads and into their bodies so they feel more connected to their fertility process in a trusting, confident way. During my own fertility process, I witnessed how wildly hetero the whole process is. That's why I started Embodied Pride. This is a dedicated space for LGBTQ+ to explore our unique needs around growing their families.  I believe that the entire fertility journey goes beyond the person who wants to grow a baby in their uterus. The fertility journey is happening for all persons who are creating and welcoming a new baby. You are on a whole fertility journey if you are a partner or using a surrogate. You are on this journey whether you are using your own sperm, egg or womb or using donors. Embodied Pride is for all persons who are a part of the whole fertility journey.  

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Carey Cook discusses her personal experience when somebody chose her to be the recipient of their embryos. She explains her thoughts and feelings around the process and trusting her intuition.   If you loved this Stork'd Munchkin, check out the full episode wherever you listen to podcasts!   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Stork'd - Spotify  Embodied Pride - Website Embodied Pride - Instagram  

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Deb Flashenberg discusses the big internal change that happens after becoming a parent and how to navigate your new identity. How you can match your authenticity from the old you to the new you.  If you loved this Stork'd Munchkin, check out the full episode wherever you listen to podcasts!   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Stork'd - Spotify  Prenatal Yoga Center - Website Prenatal Yoga Center - Instagram  

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Deb Flashenberg delves into the topic of pelvic floor health, indicating  when it is time to see a Pelvic Floor Therapist and highlighting the common issue of postpartum loss of bladder control and dispelling the notion that it is unavoidable.   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Stork'd - Spotify  Prenatal Yoga Center - Website Prenatal Yoga Center - Instagram  

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Jenna Hermans shares the questions to ask yourself when facing your fears. Jenna also shares the experiences she is having being a step-mom and the experiences she faces with her own step-parents.     Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Jenna Hermans - Website Jenna Hermans - Instagram

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Jenna Hermans shares her journey to meeting her husband and becoming a step-mom. She describes her concerns and fears of becoming a step-parent from her experience with her own step-parents. She also tells us about her boundaries she makes in the decision making process around her step-kids.   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Jenna Hermans - Website Jenna Hermans - Instagram  

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Dr. Gertrude Lyons shares the profound moment she had in Ireland when she experienced a voice speaking to her that reassured her that she and her husband have a family, regardless if they have a child or not. This led her to take the pressure off conceiving a child and open “space.” One month later, she conceived her child.   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Dr. Gertrude Lyons - Website Dr. Gertrude Lyons - Instagram  

In this Stork'd Munchkin, Dr. Gertrude Lyons shares how she's taken the word “mother” and is rewriting what it means on an individual level and on a bigger picture level. Listen to how she defines “motherhood” and “mothering” to become more inclusive and life-giving.   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Dr. Gertrude Lyons - Website Dr. Gertrude Lyons - Instagram  

Jodi Klaristenfeld shares her harrowing experience with preeclampsia and HELLP Syndrome which nearly claimed her life and that of her unborn daughter. Jodi shares the signs and symptoms of what to look out for to help prevent preeclampsia.   RESOURCE LINKS: Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube  Flrrish - Instagram Flrrish - Website

Welcome to Season 6! In this Stork'd Munchkin episode, I will preview what to expect in Season 6 of Stork'd. Season 6 explores evolution - how do we grow and change as our family lives evolve? You will find the guests of Season 6 to be open hearted, relatable, candid and real about their family building journeys as together we explore  disappointment, change, joy, new identities, and our relationship to how we think our lives should look.   Resources: Stork'd Website Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram Stork'd - YouTube 

Welcome to a special mini episode of Stork'd! How do you show up for people? This week, I offer you a compilation of podcast episodes about showing up for others, from the voices of Stork'd guests, offering their best nuggets of wisdom. You will hear directly from previous guests about how we show up for the people we love and how we like to be supported during the really murky emotional times -such as the loss of a loved one, when a child is in the NICU, during a divorce, a health crisis or anything that feels especially HEAVY.  Listen to Alona, Aaron, Chelsea, Tracy, Brooke, Amanda and Tara share how they show up for people in their life.    Links: Alona Episode - https://www.storkdpodcast.com/season5podcast/episode18 Aaron Episode - https://www.storkdpodcast.com/season3podcast/episode5 Chelsea Episode - https://www.storkdpodcast.com/season4podcast/episode6 Tracy Episode - https://www.storkdpodcast.com/season4podcast/episode17 Brooke Episode - https://www.storkdpodcast.com/podcast/7 Amanda Episode - https://www.storkdpodcast.com/season5podcast/episode4 Tara Episode - https://www.storkdpodcast.com/season3podcast/episode6   Stork'd Website - https://www.storkdpodcast.com/ Stork's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/storkd_podcast/

What does “Family” mean to you? Today's guest Julia Karol began to ask herself this question at the start of the pandemic. To get answers she turned to friends, family, neighbors, and experts. Along the way she found many answers and stumbled upon many variations of family. From alternative families, the family positivity movement, to solo parenting Julia was able to choose the path to a family that best suited her.  In today's episode of Yoga| Birth| Babies I speak with Stork'd host Julia Karol about the many different types of families and specifically her journey as a solo parent. What I really enjoyed about this conversation is how stretched me beyond what I see on an everyday basis. It's a really great conversation and I think you're going to get a lot out of this. Get the most out of each episode by checking out the show notes with links, resources and other related podcasts at: prenatalyogacenter.com Don't forget to grab your FREE guide, 5 Simple Solutions to the Most Common Pregnancy Pains HERE  If you love what you've been listening to, please leave a rating and review! Yoga| Birth|Babies (Apple) or on Spotify! To connect with Deb and the PYC Community:  Instagram & Facebook: @prenatalyogacenter Youtube: Prenatal Yoga Center Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Can an astrologer predict the best time to do IVF? In the latest episode of Stork'd, Julia and Nicola Smuts Allsop delve into her journey as a fertility astrologer and how she predicts the “lucky time” for conception. Nicola's personal experiences with infertility lend a captivating touch to her narrative. She discusses the influence of diverse planetary alignments on a couple's fertility prospects and also addresses the naysayers. In addition, Nicola expresses her conviction in the impact of the "placebo effect." Enjoy this enlightening installment of Stork'd.   IN THIS EPISODE:   [02:39] Nicola shares the story of her early career and how she became a fertility astrologer [09:38] Nicola feels it's important to have a “witness” or someone to walk with you through your infertility journey, and she discusses her research  [16:28] Nicola addresses the naysayers of astrology and what one would expect who used her services [25:35] Nicola shares various client stories, the trends she sees in who comes to her and the patterns that are presenting  [38:30] Nicola discusses how society has affected fertility and what circumstances need to exist for her to give up on a client [44:28] What does Nicola tell a couple who most likely will not get pregnant [49:51] What is Nicola's family situation currently, and how does she define family   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   There are questions or concerns a woman would not tell a doctor but would discuss with a fertility astrologer. A fertility astrologer listens to clients and does not project their ideas onto them. Knowing when bad times are coming and when they will be over is helpful for a person to deal with the situation.   RESOURCE LINKS:   Stork'd - Facebook   Stork'd - Instagram   Stork'd - YouTube    Fertility Astrology - Website   Nicola Smuts Allsop - Instagram   Fertility Astrology: A Modern Medieval Textbook   BIOGRAPHY:  Nicola Smuts Allsop is a consulting astrologer living in the United Kingdom. Originally from South Africa, she completed her first studies at the Rod Suskin School of Astrology in Cape Town and completed a Diploma in Medieval Astrology with Astro Logos (Bernadette Brady) in the UK. Nicola has recently graduated from Canterbury Christ Church University with a Master's Degree in Myth, Cosmology and The Sacred.   Author of the newly published FERTILITY ASTROLOGY, A Modern Medieval Textbook, Nicola has specialized in this field and has undergone fertility treatment herself. She is a mother of two adult children and can empathize and understand the pain and desperation of trying to conceive.   Nicola lectures internationally on her fertility work, and her research and methods in this field are pioneering and unique.   Her success in diagnosing fertility issues in charts and finding potentially fertile times to try In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) and other reproductive treatments has been published in The Sunday Times (London), The London Times, and the Daily Mail. Her work has also been featured on national television (Free Spirit, Top Billing) in South Africa.   Many couples are extremely grateful to her for the valuable, time-saving advice and recommendations she can provide to maximize the potential for conception. Her practical knowledge of the process of IVF and other reproductive treatments is extensive, and her personal experience of infertility makes her a compassionate and caring professional.

How do you define family? Has your family changed over the decades and the definition of family has changed as well? On today's show, you will meet Julia Karol, a mom, creative leader, warm friend, animal lover, champion of alternative families, and host of the podcast, Stork'd. Stork'd is one woman's exploration to discover the many modern ways people define and create family. Join Julia and I as we explore the concept of today's modern family and share our journeys in defining and creating our own families. Enjoy!  

Special delivery! One Alternative Family with Fertility and Sperm Complications on the side. Julia Karol, host of the Stork'd podcast, sits down with with Biz to talk different familial configurations, rude billboards, and going it alone.Listen to the Stork'd podcast wherever fine pods are cast. Learn more about Julia and Stork'd by visiting her website, www.storkdpodcast.com.Thank you to all our listeners who support the show as monthly members of MaximumFun.org. Go to MaximumFun.org/join to become a member!Share a personal or commercial message on the show! Details at MaximumFun.org/Jumbotron.Visit our Linktree for our website, merch, and more! https://linktr.ee/onebadmotherYou can suggest a topic or a guest for an upcoming show by sending an email to onebadmother@maximumfun.org.Show MusicSummon the Rawk, Kevin MacLeod (www.incompetech.com)Ones and Zeros, Awesome, Beehive SessionsMom Song, Adira Amram, Hot Jams For TeensTelephone, Awesome, Beehive SessionsMama Blues, Cornbread Ted and the ButterbeansMental Health Resources:Therapy for Black Girls – Therapyforblackgirls.comDr. Jessica Clemmens – https://www.askdrjess.comBLH Foundation – borislhensonfoundation.orgThe Postpartum Support International Warmline - 1-800-944-4773 (1-800-944-4PPD)The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline - 1-800-662-4357 (1-800-662-HELP)Suicide Prevention Hotline: Call or chat. They are here to help anyone in crisis. Dial 988 for https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org and there is a chat option on the website.Crisis Text Line: Text from anywhere in the USA (also Canada and the UK) to text with a trained counselor. A real human being.USA text 741741Canada text 686868UK text 85258Website: https://www.crisistextline.orgNational Sexual Assault: Call 800.656.HOPE (4673) to be connected with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider in your area.https://www.rainn.orgNational Domestic Violence Hotline: https://www.thehotline.org/help/Our advocates are available 24/7 at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) in more than 200 languages. All calls are free and confidential.They suggest that if you are a victim and cannot seek help, ask a friend or family member to call for you.Teletherapy Search: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling

Journalist Maressa Brown joins Julia to discuss her new book, Raising Baby by the Stars. She explains how astrology can teach you about your child and support your parenting. Maressa also made a few major life pivots that found her restructuring her life as a married woman employed in lifestyle journalism in NYC to a single woman freelance writing for women's magazines in LA.  Now engaged, Maressa and her fiancé are currently going through IVF, and Maressa shares the raw emotions of being in the midst of a fertility journey. Don't miss this episode of Stork'd.    IN THIS EPISODE:   [03:07] Maressa shares who she is and how astrology framed her life from infancy. She also discusses moving from one form of journalism to another [11:56] Maressa outlines how a child's natal chart will reflect what they become and what characteristics they will have [14:13] Discussion of the north and south nodes and how they connect with the planets. She talks about Gemini, Mercury and Aquarius [17:01] Maressa shares that there are connections between a child's planetary placement and the parents and how astrology becomes another tool in your toolkit of parenting [25:12] Maressa discusses how she met her fiancé and how she created the life she dreamed of, and the most significant challenge she faced moving from New York to LA [34:42] Maressa discusses her infertility journey and how she and her fiancé handle the discouragement and encourage one another [42:22] Maressa tells how you need to stand up for yourself going through the IVF process, and she expresses what family means to her   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   Maressa's book discusses how astrology predicts your child's emotional well-being and how they grow, learn, and develop. A parent can clash with their child because of their signs A person needs to stand up for themselves when seeing a doctor. Self-advocacy is critical.     RESOURCE LINKS: Stork'd - Facebook   Stork'd - Instagram   Stork'd - YouTube    Maressa Brown - Website   Maressa Brown - Facebook   Maressa Brown - Instagram   BIOGRAPHY:   I'm a Los Angeles-based journalist, author, and astrologer with nearly two decades of professional experience covering lifestyle, astrology, parenting, and pop culture. Whether I'm delivering expert-voiced astrology writing, doing one-on-one interviews with celebrities like Jane Fonda, Channing Tatum, Serena Williams, Jimmy Fallon, or Mindy Kaling, developing and penning my signature monthly horoscopes for publications like InStyle or brands like Geico or Neutrogena, or tackling in-depth features on buzzworthy trends, my copy is conversational and substantive. I have appeared in live and taped-to-air video segments as a commentator on WGN-TV and Good Morning America. My content area specialties include Health, Love & Sex, Astrology, Parenting, Pop Culture, News & Politics, Beauty & Style, On Camera, and Branded Content. A graduate of Emerson College, I'm also a member of the International Society for Astrological Research (ISAR) and the Authors Guild.

HeHe Stewart, advocate, educator and founder of Maternity Concierge and The Birth Lounge, joins Julia to discuss pregnancy, informed consent and the education of the birthing process. HeHe is passionate about helping people prepare for a pregnancy and birth experience. She educates women on their rights, the role of the hospital and physician and topics you may have yet to consider. This episode is for anyone who has childbirth in the future, along with your support team. You don't want to miss this educational episode of Stork'd.   IN THIS EPISODE:   ● [00:00] Julia shares who HeHe Stewart is and the many educational resources she has made available [02:25] HeHe explains the services she provides and how she came to start her business [08:21] The critical need to bridge the gap between patients and providers [13:18] Julia outlines the changes within the system that need to change and four takeaways from the education she provides [18:44] How do you know what you don't know medically, and what if your doctor/hospital is not following your plan [28:06] Six decisions from HeHe's list of 175 decisions you could make [32:54] HeHe discusses how she works with clients and how to overcome fear and trauma and the percentages involved [42:30] What is the ambiance of the labor room [44:16]  HeHe defines her definition of family   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   The policy of a hospital is not a law. Therefore, you can say no thank you. Also, find a doctor who honors your plan for birthing or change doctors until you find a doctor who is on the same page. Women in the past felt they had no say or control over their bodies.  That is a fallacy.  Informed consent is your right, and women need to champion that concept. Educate yourself before the pregnancy so you know the options, the process, and the what-ifs so you can make an informed decision.   RESOURCE LINKS:   Stork'd - Facebook   Stork'd - Instagram   Stork'd- YouTube   HeHe Stewart - Facebook   HeHe Stewart - Website   HeHe Stewart - Instagram   Birth Lounge/Tranquility - Podcast   Birth Lounge - TicTok   Birth Lounge - Instagram   Birth Lounge - App   ABOUT: HeHe Stewart   As a doula, I view my role as the guardian of the energy of your birth experience. I want you to be informed, in control, and supported. I believe in you and your body. I believe you are strong and courageous. I believe in trusting the process and surrounding yourself with love, warmth, encouragement, kindness, and serenity. I believe birth is a magical and transformative time in your life, your partner's life, and your baby's life. I want you to feel respected and relaxed at your birth. I want your birth to be a pleasant memory that you carry with you for the rest of your life and are happy to share with others. There is no right or wrong; there is only what's right for you.  I'm here to help you explore, discover, and advocate your wants and needs to have the birth experience you've always wanted. I believe there is a need for self-care and compassion in the care of expectant parents. It is important that every parent feels supported in their choices after discussing all possible options. It's imperative that parents have access to judgment-free spaces, educators, and support. That's what I want to be for all my clients and their partners.

Family styles are changing, and today we're unpacking all of it.  We're discussing solo parenting by choice, and what that means. Doing Relationships Right podcast is BACK with all new guest episodes! This week we have Stork'd Podcast host and solo mom by choice Julia Karol! Listen to this episode, head over to jenniferhurvitz.com, and subscribe so you don't miss her What's Happenin' Hurvitz monthly newsletter!  Listen to Doing Relationships Right as we unpack this and much more.   Where to Find Julia: Website: https://www.storkdpodcast.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storkd_podcast/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/storkd     Get a copy of my NEW BOOK! Midlife Priceless: A Dating Coach's Guide to *Finally* Doing Relationships Right HERE!  Here's the link to my Online Dating Course: DOING DATING RIGHT!    Join the Facebook Group and leave a question for a future episode: https://www.facebook.com/groups/doingdivorcerightpodcast   Where to find me: Website: https://jenniferhurvitz.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenniferhurvitzbiz/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doingrelationshipsright/

Artist and painter Michelle Armas joins Julia on Stork'd to discuss her unbelievable journey to adopt her daughter. Michelle shares a little about her experience with discomfort, pain, and medical gaslighting due to endometriosis. After very uncomfortable fertility treatments, Michelle and her husband follow their hearts (and an original vision Michelle had of herself with a daughter) to begin the adoption process. Surprisingly (fate? Luck?) Michelle and her husband have an unbelievable adoption process. Where most prospective parents can wait months or even years to be approved and matched with a child, for Michelle it only took 4 days.    Julia and Michelle discuss the idea that love is expansive and that adoption is one way of expressing that love. They discuss the complicated but open relationship Michelle has with her daughter's birth mother and they discuss how love, and family inform the energetics and aesthetics of Michelle's stunning (and highly coveted) art. They discuss creating your family as a rebellious act that requires radical self love to believe you deserve the family of your dreams. Listen to these and other interesting concepts in this episode of Stork'd.     IN THIS EPISODE:    [02:24] Michelle introduces herself and what motivates her. She describes her family circle  [04:15] What Michelle's fertility experience looked like and the trauma caused by the medical community  [08:13] Her husband's thoughts about a world family - “if there's a child who needs a home and you have a home to offer and you have love in your heart to give a child, then that's, you know, a match made in heaven.”  [10:29] Michelle shares her unusual 4-day adoption journey and the emotional meeting with the birth mom  [18:04] What is the relationship between Michelle and the birth mom, Alba? What is the relationship between her daughter and her birth mother?  [23:17] Michelle talks about the boundaries she has set for her daughter and the values she hopes her daughter will have as as she grows up  [28:34] Michelle reflects on how reading articles about adoption in Self magazine as a teenager first inspired her to consider adoption  [33:19]Julia and Michelle discuss how it's hard to say “everything worked out” because with adoption, everything has a little twinge of pain: the joy of adoption comes with the pain of relinquishing a child  [37:41] Michelle explains her meaning of family, and how capturing the essence of family and motherhood informs and shapes her art  [42:05] Michelle teaches art classes and shares how she loves to do commissions    KEY TAKEAWAYS:    The world would be a better place if parents were open to adoption.  Adoptive and birth parents can have various contact schedules set up during adoption. In some ways, it's like negotiating after a divorce.     RESOURCE LINKS:    Stork'd - Facebook     Stork'd - Instagram     Stork'd- YouTube     Michelle Armas - Website    Michelle Armas Art - Facebook    https://www.instagram.com/michellearmas007/    BIOGRAPHY:  Michelle Armas is an abstractionist painter working mostly on canvas and linen with acrylics, oils, and pastels. She has a graduate degree in Graphic Design from the Portfolio Center in Atlanta. After school, she was thrilled to land her dream job at Landor in New York. After a short time, though, she realized she needed more spontaneous creativity in my life, so she began creating intricate oil paintings in the evenings and weekends. Soon those paintings started to sell and gain attention, and once she moved back to Atlanta, she began to work full-time as an artist.  

In this episode we discuss:How did you decide it was time to become a solo mom by choice?How did you tell your friends/family and how did they perceive it?Tell us a little bit about navigating the donor conception industry.share with us the alternative family structures and what you've learned from them?You're also a working mom. How is life as a solo mom? mentally/financiallyA little more about Julia: She is building her family – her way! After an unexpected breakup with the partner she thought she would start a family with, Julia took her future into her own hands. She began exploring her options for motherhood and ultimately made the decision to embark on a fertility journey to become a solo parent while recording the first season of her podcast, Stork'd.Stork'd is not only a sounding board for diverse voices, but has unfolded as Julia's audio diary – documenting her journey from decision to treatment, pregnancy to birth, and now follows her journey as a solo mom to her son. Julia continues to open up honest, funny, raw, and especially healing conversations looking at what creating a family really means and how it might show up differently than expected. She seeks to explore all the aspects and beautifully unique definitions of family with her community, firmly believing that you get to define your family in whatever way you want. Empowering parents of all different walks or those seeking, Julia says, "there will always be hardships in life, but you have the power to choose your hard, so do so with conviction."InstagramPodcastWebsite________________________________________________________________Did you love this episode? BUY ME A COFFEE for support!Find me on Instagram@balkanina@mamaknowspodcastFind me on TikTokBalkaninaSubscribe to my NewsletterPrivate Facebook Motherhood-Podcast CommunityMama Knows FBDisclaimer: This podcast does not provide any medical advice, it is for informational purposes only!

When the dating pool isn't what you want and your biological clock is ticking what are you to do? Have you considered choosing to become a solo parent? That is exactly what the founder of Stork'd, Julia Karol did when life didn't turn out as planned and she was tired of waiting to have a child. We talk about the tough conversations she had with herself, friends, and family, how she chose a sperm donor, and much more.

Julia Karol is back to talk about how she chose a sperm donor (think online dating) and what the process to creating the new modern family looked like for her. How DO you choose a sperm donor? Is the sperm bank allowed to tell you how many times that sperm has been chosen? We encourage you to listen to Julia's podcast Stork'd where she interviews other people sharing their stories, helping no one feel alone. Stork'd is not only a sounding board for diverse voices, but has unfolded as Julia's audio diary – documenting her journey from decision to treatment, pregnancy to birth, and now follows her journey as a solo mom to her son. Julia continues to open up honest, funny, raw, and healing conversations looking at what creating a family really means and how it might show up differently than expected. For more on Julia and her podcast check out https://www.storkdpodcast.com/ and @storkd_podcast.Want our podcasts sent straight to your phone? Text us the word "Podcast" to +1 (917) 540-8715 and we'll text you the new episodes when they're released!Tune in for new Cat & Nat Unfiltered episodes every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday!Follow @catandnatunfiltered on Instagram: https://instagram.com/catandnatunfilteredOur new book "Mom Secrets" is now available! Head to www.catandnat.ca/book to grab your autographed copy! Come see us LIVE on tour!! To see a full list of cities and dates, go to https://catandnattour.com.Follow our parenting platform - The Common Parent - over on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thecommonparentBecome a Member of The Common Parent, our ultimate parenting toolkit for parents of teens and tweens for just $74.99/year: https://thecommonparent.comGet a FREE “Thoughts Between Us” Journal with The Common Parent Annual Membership: Click Here!Make sure you subscribe to our YouTube channel for our new cooking show and our #momtruth videos: https://bitly.com/catnatyoutubeCheck out our Amazon Lives here: https://bitly.com/catnatamazonliveOrder TAYLIVI here: https://taylivi.comGet personalized videos from us on Cameo: https://cameo.com/catandnatCome hang with us over on https://instagram.com/catandnat all day long.And follow us on https://tiktok.com/@catandnatofficial! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Majka Burhardt, the author of the book More, joins Julia on Stork'd to explore the joys and challenges of early parenthood. They delve into the transformative effect of having a child on one's sense of self and discuss whether it necessitates letting go of activities you love.   What are some strategies for carving out time in a busy schedule? How do you maintain relationships with your partner? What does it mean to want “more”? This is a raw look at navigating early childhood.  Listen as Julia and Majka discuss creating a family and how to maintain your identity.     IN THIS EPISODE:    [02:29] Majka shares who she is and her beliefs about the whole person that can do many things well  [07:23] The book is the real-time story of Majka's life, how it all came about and the realization that “Oh, I'm pregnant with twins.”  [15:07] Majka talks about not having to give things up but making space  [19:52] What is the blurry timeline to achieve all the things we want to accomplish along with parenting  [22:35] Getting away from the role models of what women do and what men do and dividing up responsibilities among the parents  [25:19] Discussion of allowing to feel the “feelings” when things are hard and how different parenting is in each generation  [30:44] Raising resilient kids  [33:26] How did Majka's relationship with her husband change after the birth of the twins  [40:19] Parenting with privilege and who is this book written for    KEY TAKEAWAYS:    It is a fallacy that if you aren't at a certain percentage of achievement in whatever topic you are debating regarding parenting, you aren't authentic.   You can feel successful in parenting by giving yourself grace and changing the due date of when things need to be done. Give yourself a break.  We must remember that we discuss little humans with feelings, emotions and ideas when discussing parenting.    RESOURCE LINKS:    Stork'd - Facebook     Stork'd - Instagram     Stork'd- YouTube     Majka Burhardt - Website    Majka Burhardt - Facebook    Majka Burhardt - Linkedin    Majka Burhardt - Instagram    More - The Book - Available on Amazon    BIOGRAPHY:  Majka Burhardt has a passion for creating unusual connections. As a professional climber, social entrepreneur, author, mother of twins, and filmmaker Majka has spent more than two decades leading multi-stage international ventures focused on current issues of environmental and cultural significance spanning Africa, Europe, South, and North America.  Majka is the Founder and Executive Director of Legado, an international organization that helps secure Thriving Futures for people and the places they call home. Legado originated in 2011 during a pioneering climbing and conservation research expedition to Mozambique and is supported today by some of the world's most influential social change funders and decision-makers.  Majka is the author of More: Life at the Edge of Adventure and Motherhood (Pegasus Books '23), a Next Big Idea Club Must Read. More is an intense and emotional journey born at the confluence of motherhood, adventure, career, and marriage. Raw, candid, and galvanizing, the book is a passionate and poignant testament to the enduring power of love and our lifelong journey to understand ourselves as we strive to always pursue more. 

Elizabeth Carr, author and advocate, is the first IVF baby born in the United States and the first medicated IVF Baby in the world. She joins Julia to discuss her journey from conception through her 41 years of an IVF advocate. Elizabeth's parent's story is impressive, particularly regarding the lack of general knowledge about IVF, yet they pioneered this journey of building their family.  She will discuss how IVF has affected who she is, the ups and downs of naysayers, and why she continues to be the voice of advocacy for IVF - especially now that it is facing increased public political opposition. Don't miss this information-packed episode of Stork'd.     IN THIS EPISODE:    [00:00] Julia shares who Elizabeth Carr is; the first IVF baby                 [06:51]  Elizabeth reflects on her parent's journey through infertility up through her birth   [14:41] What does it mean to grow up as the ‘miracle baby' and how it affected her teens, and even young adulthood  [21:49] What some of the most challenging and hurtful conversations are regarding her birth  [27:04] Legislation that would ban IVF and why she still carries that advocacy torch  [34:30] Elizabeth comments on a few top changes she would make if given the opportunity  [38:05] Couples should be encouraged to ask questions and be told about all the different ways of building a family as a second opinion. The industry would be better for it  [45:05] Elizabeth comments on studies regarding risks for the mother and deviations between an IVF child from other children, and she explains genetic testing available  [53:29] Elizabeth gives her definition of family    KEY TAKEAWAYS:    Feeling safe about the doctor you are working with makes all the difference. Don't settle.  Find that doctor who makes you feel secure.  The child born of IVF knows how much they are loved and wanted.   Couples walking through the infertility journey should have all options presented to them.     RESOURCE LINKS:    Stork'd - Facebook     Stork'd - Instagram     Stork'd- YouTube     Elizabeth Carr - Instagram    Elizabeth Carr - Podcast    Elizabeth Carr - Website    Elizabeth Carr - Twitter    ABOUT ELIZABETH CARR:  I'm a seasoned journalist, podcast host, event host, on-air expert, and keynote speaker. From my industry-insider view as a patient advocate and the first in vitro baby born in the United States back in 1981, let me help you frame the reproductive discussions you need to have with your friends, family, and at a corporate level. 

She is building her family her way! We loved talking with Julia Karol about her journey to becoming a solo mom by choice so much that we needed to make it a two part series. After an unexpected breakup with the partner she thought she would start a family with, Julia took her future into her own hands. She began exploring her options for motherhood and ultimately made the decision to embark on a fertility journey to become a solo parent while recording the first season of her podcast, Stork'd. For more of Julia's journey and her podcast check out https://www.storkdpodcast.com/ and @storkd_podcast.Want our podcasts sent straight to your phone? Text us the word "Podcast" to +1 (917) 540-8715 and we'll text you the new episodes when they're released!Tune in for new Cat & Nat Unfiltered episodes every Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday!Follow @catandnatunfiltered on Instagram: https://instagram.com/catandnatunfilteredOur new book "Mom Secrets" is now available! Head to www.catandnat.ca/book to grab your autographed copy! Come see us LIVE on tour!! To see a full list of cities and dates, go to https://catandnattour.com.Follow our parenting platform - The Common Parent - over on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thecommonparentBecome a Member of The Common Parent, our ultimate parenting toolkit for parents of teens and tweens for just $74.99/year: https://thecommonparent.comGet a FREE “Thoughts Between Us” Journal with The Common Parent Annual Membership: Click Here!Make sure you subscribe to our YouTube channel for our new cooking show and our #momtruth videos: https://bitly.com/catnatyoutubeCheck out our Amazon Lives here: https://bitly.com/catnatamazonliveOrder TAYLIVI here: https://taylivi.comGet personalized videos from us on Cameo: https://cameo.com/catandnatCome hang with us over on https://instagram.com/catandnat all day long.And follow us on https://tiktok.com/@catandnatofficial! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome back to the New Mom Boss Podcast! I'm excited to introduce Julia Karol, my special guest who is leading the way for alternative family structures. Julia hosts a podcast called Stork'd, where she invites everyday friends, family, neighbors, and experts to share their journey of what it means to create and define a family. In this episode, we dive into some really important topics, including why alternative structures need support, single parenting, and the family positivity movement that Julia is starting. She shares incredible insights that she's discovered in motherhood and also shares her heart for all types of families, even if they don't fit the “traditional” mold. So make sure to tune in and share it with your friends who might be embarking on this road and need additional support! Some big takeaways are:We should celebrate and tell the stories of families that look different from ours. Our families are intimately connected with our values system.It takes a village to raise a child, but to also transition a woman into postpartum.Take a listen and learn more by reading the show notes! www.newmomboss.com/blog/154Join my new program, First Year Club!www.newmomboss.com/fyc Guest Resources: Stork'd Website: www.storkdpodcast.com Stork'd Socials:  Instagram | Facebook | YoutubeLooking for pregnancy support?Join the waitlist for the Prepping For Postpartum Workshop!www.newmomboss.com/pfp-waitlistWork with me 1:1!www.newmomboss.com/guidance Follow me on social media!Instagram: www.instagram.com/newmomboss/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/newmomboss

Keegan Prue, the author of The IVF Dad,  joins Julia to share the story of infertility he and his wife Olivia experienced. Keegan wrote this book from a man's perspective, and he puts pen to paper to help other men as well as couples to deal with this disappointment and to help them work through the feelings and the process.  You will hear the details of this couple's journey through infertility with nothing held back. Today's conversation is authentic and encouraging. Don't miss this episode of Stork'd.     IN THIS EPISODE:    [00:00] Julia shares facts regarding men being silent on the subject of  infertility  [04:02] Keegan shares his personal and professional background, how he and Olivia met and what their goals were for a family before realizing they weren't getting pregnant  [12:29] The disappointment of not getting pregnant and their journey to get educated on infertility. Olivia's regular OBGYN gives inaccurate information. Next step – Reproductive Endocrinologist (RE) and IVF treatments were recommended  [20:01] Regular conversations between the couple, education and exploring options before the diagnosis prepared them to step into IVF more readily, as well as clarifying why they wanted to have a family  [24:30] Keegan shares the experience of becoming pregnant twice and the miscarriages. Other means of having children are explored  [34:55] As a couple, they discussed nurturing one another and recognizing that self-care is needed. They decided to advocate more strongly for themselves when meeting with the RE doctor. Welcoming their first child, Eliza  [42:51] Keegan tells what prompted him to write the book, The IVF Dad, and he shares his definition of family    KEY TAKEAWAYS:    To become pregnant, don't rely on a general OB GYN to determine hormone levels, etc. Instead, when there is a problem, go to the experts in the field of infertility.  It is critical to discuss what you need from your partner during difficulties.  Everyone's needs are different; sometimes, a person just needs space.  There are many resources available to educate oneself about infertility. Avail yourself of the social media community as well as seek professional help.    RESOURCE LINKS:    FREE RESOURCE for Stork'd listeners - Becoming a Team When Family Planning Gets Hard: Conversation Starters for Partners Doing Fertility Treatments.   Stork'd - Facebook   Stork'd - Instagram     Stork'd- YouTube     Keegan Prue - Instagram    Keegan Prue - Website    The IVF Dad Book    BIO   Keegan E. Prue is an author and educator from Upstate New York. He and his wife struggled with infertility, going through two rounds of IVF, two miscarriages, and three embryo transfers before the birth of their first daughter. That experience inspired him to write "The IVF Dad: What I Learned on My Infertility Journey, and How it Can Help You," to help other men and couples going through fertility issues feel more informed, empowered, and equipped to support themselves and each other. In his spare time, Keegan enjoys cooking (grilled greek chicken and veggies are a current favorite), traveling (on the bucket list: the Scottish highlands, Tuscany, and New Zealand), and spending time with his family. 

On this episode of Stork'd, Julia talks with Eve Wiley, a proponent and champion of legislation to prevent fertility fraud in the unregulated reproductive medicine industry. Eve's mother was the victim of artificial insemination by her fertility doctor using his sperm without her consent. Eve's story takes her on a roller coaster journey of learning that neither her mother's husband, her dad, nor the sperm donor of record was her father. You will hear the shocking truths about what is allowed in this industry and why legislation is necessary.  You don't want to miss this dramatic story.     IN THIS EPISODE:    [02:14] Eve tells her genetic identity background, and when she finally had access to her medical history   [07:51] Eve was 16 years old when she discovered she was a donor-conceived offspring and how that affected her family dynamic  [15:52] The bio dad comes into the picture  [21:40] The bombshell is dropped.  Eve's mom's fertility doctor is her donor dad without her mother's consent  [33:04] Eve describes the psychological impact she felt and the community members who supported what the doctor did  [39:31] Eve explains the grief she experiences and reflects on the history of why she is the face of fertility fraud legislation  [45:45] Reproductive medicine is not regulated and is not held accountable for their actions  [49:20] Eve lists many much-needed legislative changes she wants to see in this industry  [53:31] Legislative changes lead to price increases for sperm  [56:00] Eve discusses the definition of family    KEY TAKEAWAYS:    It is unfair to the donor-conceived person that they must manage everyone else's feelings connected in this relationship.  The doctor in question essentially medically raped Eve's mother.   More states need to create legislation governing the reproductive medical industry.     RESOURCE LINKS:   Stork'd - Facebook   Stork'd - Instagram     Stork'd- YouTube     Eve Wiley - Instagram    Eve Wiley - Website    Eve Wiley - Twitter    ABOUT: Eve Wiley  My name is Eve Wiley, and I'm the product of fertility fraud.     My parents struggled with infertility and carefully selected an anonymous sperm donor (donor 106 from California Cryobank) to conceive me. When I was 18, I found Donor 106 and developed a wonderful father-daughter relationship.  In 2018, through commercial DNA testing, I learned that my mother's fertility doctors used his own sperm instead of the donor my parents selected and consented to. He is my biological father.    I was even more shocked to learn that in 2019, this fact pattern was a crime in only ONE STATE: California. I set out to change the laws in Texas and other states creating civil and criminal causes of action for victims. As of 2022, 8 states have passed some sort of fertility fraud bill.  

Monique Farook, the host of the award-winning Infertility and Me podcast, joins Julia to discuss her journey through infertility. Monique faced a multi-year battle with infertility in which she grappled with feelings of shame and anger, experienced racial discrimination by her doctors, navigated a tubal blockage, hypothyroidism, surgery, and natural cycle IVF.   We discuss her decision to return to the medical system following a loss of trust in the medical community following experiencing racial bias in her fertility treatment.  We laugh about the challenges of raising toddler boys and celebrate that her podcast reaches the unseen and underserved communities facing infertility.  In addition, she candidly reveals her story about her marriage, her medical diagnosis, and the premature birth of their son. Don't miss this honest and sometimes emotional episode of Stork'd.     IN THIS EPISODE:   [00:00] Julia shares Monique's accomplishments  [05:09] Monique discusses why she started her podcast and the difficulty of finding podcasts created by women of color  [12:02] The journey of navigating infertility and the discrimination Monique felt, and how this situation affected her marriage  [23:25] Monique finally accepted that God wasn't punishing her; it was a medical problem  [28:32] Making the analytical decision of why you want to be a mother  [30:17] Raising children to become decent human beings that will have an impact on the world  [34:41] The process Monique and her husband went through to become pregnant  [39:12] A son is born and is in the NICU for 129 days  [45:12] Monique speaks about listeners of her podcast. Women need to discuss their grief  [46:31] Monique shares her definition of family    KEY TAKEAWAYS:    Anger, denial, and even jealousy of another woman who can become pregnant are all natural emotions when going through infertility.   Blaming the inability to become pregnant is not a punishment from God. It takes time to see the issue as a medical problem, not a punishment.  It is critical to decide why you want a baby.  Just wanting a cuddly baby isn't reason enough.  Being a mom becomes a job for a lifetime.     RESOURCE LINKS:    Stork'd - Facebook     Stork'd - Instagram     Stork'd- YouTube     Monique Farook - Website    Monique Farook - Instagram    Infertility and Me Podcast    BIO: Monique Farouk is a wife, mom, women's health, and infertility advocate. She has been an entrepreneur for more than ten years and likes to give full credit to her husband, Omar Sr., for helping her stretch her entrepreneurial wings.     When she isn't obsessing over the home and work life, you can find her on Instagram creating content for her award-winning podcast, "Infertility And Me." She started the podcast after her path to motherhood was disrupted by female-factor infertility. Through the podcast, Monique has reached thousands of men and women from all over the world—passing the mic to other survivors to share their stories authentically. Monique's podcast was featured in Apple iTune's "New & Noteworthy" editor's picks in March, April, and May of 2022. 

Julia is building a family – her way. Along the way, she is asking anyone and everyone about how they came to make the decisions they did regarding family life. She's opening up an honest, funny, raw, and earnest conversation looking at what creating a family really means and how it might show up differently than expected. Join Julia as she explores the concept of today's modern family on her podcast, Stork'd. Julia talks to everyday friends, family, neighbors, and experts sharing their own journey to define and create a family. When she is not hosting Stork'd®, Julia runs a private investment firm which acquires, operates, and improves businesses at a crossroads.  She loves supporting businesses to grow and evolve. If you ask Julia her role, she will say she is a mom, creative leader, warm friend, animal lover, and champion of alternative families. Follow Julia's podcast, "Stork'd" on Instagram hereFollow me on Instagram hereFollow the feel better podcast on Instagram hereGet 20% off your first Sakara order with code "XOHWK"Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-feel-better-podcast/donations

Ruby Warrington, author, book doula founder of The Numinous, and movement maker joins Julia to discuss her newest book, Women Without Kids. Ruby uniquely has her finger on the pulse of social revolutions and her latest book explores the growing phenomenon of women living childfree by choice or circumstance.    Together Ruby and Julia discuss some of the many reasons more women are choosing to be childfree including feminist history, financial independence, environmentalism, and social norms. Ruby opens up candidly about her personal decision not to have kids and the many expectations others had for her and we explore conflicting  feelings of shame, self questioning, intuition, and certainty.    Why do some women feel shame when deciding not to have a child? What is motherhood?  Why is not wanting children still so taboo to talk about? What does a “normal” family look like? Ruby and Julia dive into these questions and more.     Women Without Kids”will hit the book stands on March 28, 2023. Take advantage of Ruby's free gift when you pre-order the book!   IN THIS EPISODE:   [00:00] Julia introduces Ruby Warrington and defines the mission of Stork'd              [04:00] Ruby describes her career and why she came up with the term “book doula” [09:06] Women Without Kids addresses fundamental stereotypes as to why women make their decisions about having a child [16:06] Ruby reflected on the time of her life when she questioned having children, which morphed into is there something wrong [25:07] Why is there shame involved in not having children, and are there rising numbers of women without kids [33:54] Is there a trend or movement afoot to reduce the number of children you have  [37:53] The political choices surrounding women's rights [43:49] What was the impetus for writing the book, and how is the word being spread [46:21] Ruby discusses her journey of emotions leading to accepting her decision regarding children  [53:52] Ruby defines her meaning of “found family” and discusses the  inscription to her family in her book, and she shares her definition of family   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   Writing a book can be compared to having a baby in that you spend time and energy on both, and the result can be called “your baby.” Acknowledging that your career takes such focus and leaves you no time for children is a decision women should be able to make without shame. Why are women the hardest on other women who choose not to have a family?   RESOURCE LINKS:   Ruby Warrington - Website   Ruby Warrington - Instagram   Ruby Warrington - Facebook   Women Without Kids Book   Stork'd - Facebook Stork'd - Instagram   Stork'd- YouTube    ABOUT RUBY WARRINGTON:   ​​Ruby Warrington is the creator of the term Sober Curious. Author of the 2018 book and million download podcast of the same title, her work has spearheaded a global movement to reevaluate our relationship to alcohol. Other works include Material Girl, Mystical World (2017), The Numinous Astro Deck  (2019), and The Sober Curious Reset (2020). With 20+ years' experience as a lifestyle journalist and editor, Ruby is known as an astute cultural commentator and true thought leader. She is also the founder of self-publishing incubator Numinous Books. Her new book, Women Without Kids, will be out spring 2023.

Chrysta Bilton, author of Normal Family: On Truth, Love, and How I Met My 35 Siblings, joins Julia to discuss her book.  Get ready for an exhilarating story. Chrysta shares what life was like for a child born of a lesbian mother and her father, who donated sperm for a living.  Her family was bold, sometimes dysfunctional, and anything but traditional.  Chrysta tells her story in a truthful, enlightening, engaging, and sometimes funny way.  You'll hear about alcoholism, shame, lies, schizophrenia, cryobanks, self-perception, nurture versus nature, and how Chrysta navigated through it all to become a successful wife, parent, sibling, adult, and an author worth reading.  Don't miss this captivating episode of Stork'd.    IN THIS EPISODE:   [02:52] Chrysta Bilton provides an overview of her book  [05:25] Chrysta's sperm donor was misled by her mother and became a serial sperm donor for many children  [07:03] All of the players in this book come from different perspectives on their truth [11:54] Chrysta discovers her father struggled with schizophrenia and discovers she has many siblings. She has developed compassion for her father [16:41] Chrysta struggled for ten years, dealing with her upbringing.  She worked hard to analyze her circumstances, the mistakes she was making, and how to walk away from destructive behaviors [19:51] How her siblings relate to their “father” and each other [23:28] Advice on what to tell a child conceived by a donor. Nurture versus nature and how her parents' backgrounds form who they became  [31.25] Chrysta shares her views on the pros and cons of cryobanks and the obligation they have to women [35:39] Chrysta tells how the book came about, how she parented her sister, and her self-evaluation  [45:30] What is the definition of a family   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   Avoid emotional pain for a child conceived by a donor. Instead, tell them the truth about their conception.   Be emotionally healed before starting a family, whether it be traditional, single parenting, or a sperm donation. Children deserve your best self. Change and heal and make better choices.  Forgive your parents and stop blaming them for everything wrong that happens in your life.   RESOURCE LINKS:   The Book:  Normal Family   Chrysta Bilton - LinkedIn    Chrysta Bilton - Instagram   Chrysta Bilton - Twitter   Stork'd - Facebook    Stork'd - Instagram   Stork'd- YouTube   About Chrysta Bilton:   Chrysta Bilton is an American author who lives in Los Angeles, CA, with her husband and two children. Normal Family is her first book.

Host, Julia Karol, launches the fifth season of Stork'd! She walks us through some exciting topics coming up in this fifth season. Episodes include experiencing shame for not wanting to have children, losing a child and being blamed and trolled on social media, navigating IVF as a couple, fertility fraud, consent during your birth experience, fertility astrology, parenting approaches and so much more.  Today, Julia shares her parenting journey and how becoming a parent has transformed her. She explores the Gray Flamingo analogy and asks the question: is it ok to lose yourself in your parenting? Julia also opens up about the experience of dating while becoming a solo parent by choice.   IN THIS EPISODE:   [00:00] Julia explains why she originally started the Skork'd podcast [02:00] Season five brings new authors and experiences to share [03:32] The theme of consent to a variety of life issues will be a focus for various podcasts in season five [08:00] Julia is focusing on a new concept called the family positivity movement which celebrates families of all types and images [10:00] Julia shares her parenting journey and discusses does it change you (i.e., reference the title of this episode the “Gray Flamingo”), and if it does change you, then what [17:46] Julia discusses her romantic relationship and how it evolved, and how pregnancy affected the relationship [22:00] Julia expresses vulnerability to this listening audience regarding the family she has built [25:34] Follow this podcast on social media.  Here is season five.    KEY TAKEAWAYS:   Every episode of season five of Stork'd will be exciting and enjoyable.  There will be so much to learn from these guests. Julia's story of her journey to be a solo parent is brave.  She is a great role model for anyone walking through infertility. Your life changes when you have a family.  It doesn't mean you are fundamentally better as a person, but you are fundamentally different.   RESOURCE LINKS:   Stork'd Facebook Stork'd YouTube Stork'd Instagram   About Julia Karol: When she is not hosting Stork'd®, Julia runs a private investment firm that acquires, operates, and improves businesses at a crossroads. She loves supporting businesses to grow and evolve.  Passionate about social change, Julia also supports several non-profit organizations.  Julia's passions outside work include hiking, skiing, yoga, and reading.  She lives in Boston with her dog and son. 

In this week's season 4 finale episode of Stork'd, we are joined by Tracy Weiss. Tracy is a cancer survivor who lost her chance of having biological children and in so doing, she gives up on the vision she has of a future daughter to be named Moxie. Tracy's  journey is full of surprises and tough decisions that she had to make at the young age of 30. One of the biggest surprises is that her insurance company considered her egg and embryo freezing treatment prior to surgery and chemo to be “elective” which led her to her mission now to help other women facing cancer to access fertility preservation treatments. Tracy discusses what it was like jumping back into the “real world” post-cancer, and how her mindset changed as she went through the healing process mentally and physically. She also discusses dating in your early 40's post cancer.  Tune in this outstanding season finale episode to hear Tracy discuss how her journey has led her to the company Chick Mission, and their dedication to helping other women with a cancer diagnosis preserve their fertility.    IN THIS EPISODE:    [2:34] Introduction to Tracy Weiss. [4:00] Information about The Chick Mission. [5:41] What was Tracy's life before she was diagnosed with cancer? [9:22] Tracy talks about the journey of discovering she had cancer. [16:24] How did Tracy tell her friends and family and handle the information about her diagnosis? [22:15] How many different doctors did Tracy see throughout this journey without hearing that she should preserve her fertility?  [25:43] Did Tracy always appreciate her amazing set of friends and community?  [29:26] What is fertility preservation?  [32:12] Tracy tells us more about freezing embryos. [34:32] How did it feel for Tracy to re-enter life post-cancer? [39:15] What happened to Tracy's embryo's when she got divorced? What was her grieving process?  [42:10] What is the dating experience after cancer?    KEY TAKEAWAYS:    Your reality isn't a fact for everyone. Something you may have, someone else may be longing for.  Each person in your life can offer you different experiences in your life. Someone around you has likely experienced something that you are going through or knows someone who has gone through it. Insurance providers don't consider Cancer an eligible diagnosis for fertility preservation, the Chick Mission is working to change that.  The flexibility you don't have with embryos you have with eggs. An embryo has to be owned by two people, which has legal implications.       RESOURCE LINKS   North Forkd Instagram   The Chick Mission Website   Chick Mission Instagram   Stork'd Facebook Page   Stork'd on Instagram   Stork'd YouTube Channel   About Tracy Weiss   Tracy Weiss is a cancer survivor who was diagnosed with cervical cancer at age 30. She definitely knew what the cervix did, no matter what anyone tells you. Tracy was pretty annoyed when her insurance company denied her claim to preserve her fertility under it being ‘elective' -- as if having a tumor was something anyone would choose. She remained pretty pissed until The Chick Mission was founded to help women standing in her shoes -- now she gets her revenge every time another woman receives assistance from the organization. Tracy serves as our Executive Director and Chief Creative Officer with her magical blend of Email Inbox Management and OddBall Ideas.

In this week's episode, we are joined by journalist and podcast host, Louise McLoughlin.. Louise tells us the story of finding out she was donor-conceived, how she found her biological father and sister, and the feelings she experienced throughout the process. We also talk about what it was like for her family to accept that she wanted to search for her biological father. Louise discusses her work on her podcast, You Look Like Me, where she interviews  donor-conceived people and has become a leader giving voice to the donor-conceived community. We explore the trends and themes of donor conception, including the potential to have a large number of biological siblings, discovering your bio family, medical risks to having limited access to your medical history, and other experiences in the donor conceived community.  Louise advocates for listening to the donor-conceived people's stories,  being honest with donor-conceived children and helping walk them through uncovering the qualities that came from their bio-parent. Tune in today to hear the impacts and story of a donor-conceived person.    IN THIS EPISODE:    [3:00] Louise introduces herself and tells her story.  [5:41] Louise shares with us the moment she learned she was donor conceived.  [12:10] What was it like for Louise to find out her father wasn't her biological father?  [15:53] If Louise could write the laws, what would she want to put into place? [19:25] What is the story about Louise finding a sister and her biological father?  [29:45] How has the relationship changed with Louise's dad since finding her bio-dad? [36:20] What does “enough” mean to Louise regarding finding her bio-sister?  [37:06] What themes does Louise hear through her work?  [39:20] How does it feel to be going on the journey of uncovering who you are as a donor-conceived child?  [43:50] Relationships & Honesty are two things Louise is an advocate for.    KEY TAKEAWAYS:    Knowing the information about genetic medical issues is so important that people can be aware of any genetic illnesses early—knowledge of power from so many perspectives.  Wanting to know where these things come from - a sense of humor, nose, personality traits, etc. It doesn't have to be wanting to replace a non-bio parent, but it can just be wanting to learn more about who you are.  Donor conceived children and the story are really just a part of what a modern family looks like now. There shouldn't be shame carried with going on this journey of donor conceived children.     RESOURCE LINKS   You Look Like Me Instagram   You Look Like Me Podcast   Stork'd Facebook Page   Stork'd on Instagram   Stork'd YouTube Channel   About Louise McLoughlin:   Louise McLoughlin is host of ‘You Look Like Me', a podcast which explores the secrets and discoveries of donor conceived people, to explore issues around identity, honesty, and why knowing the truth about yourself matters. The podcast reached number 1 in the Irish documentary charts, 10 in the UK, and 69 in the U.S, and was a Guardian podcast of the week in 2021

In this week's episode, we are joined by Lauren Isley, a genetic counselor at California Cryobank. Have you ever wondered how a sperm bank selects and evaluates its donors? Lauren walks us through what genetics counseling is and how it supports clients in their fertility needs. She shares with us the process of selecting sperm donors, supporting clients in selecting the right donor or in making major decisions based on genetics.She lifts the veil of what goes on behind the scenes and helps reveal the mystery that goes on to create a successful program. Lauren also gives excellent advice for those getting started choosing a donor. Tune in today to get a great understanding of how cryobanks work!   IN THIS EPISODE:    [3:35] Welcome, Lauren Isley! Learning about Lauren's work.  [7:39] Under what circumstances might someone need genetic counseling? [10:15] What occurs behind the scenes to ensure sperm meets guidelines? [13:50] What conditions make someone eligible to be an egg or sperm donor?  [16:14] How does California Cryobank look at the risk a potential donor might have vs. the number of donors needed? [22:55] What percentage of egg or sperm donors are eligible, and what might make donors unqualified?  [25:38] How does California Cryobank keep up with new genetic information? If there is a new genetic mutation, do they go back and remove those donors? [28:28] What happens when new medical information is received after a child is born or the donor uncovers information? [36:37] How has technology like 23&Me shifted the number of donors?  [43:48] What filters and mechanisms does California Cryobank use regarding the number of families who can use a particular donor?   KEY TAKEAWAYS:    When starting your search, start with 2 or 3 items that are your primary criteria. Do you want ethnicity? Height, Education? Whatever it is, start small and narrow down.  The cryobank goes through a lot behind the scenes to screen donors. They have a lot of guidelines for donors, including genetics. Some genetic testing will be discussed to see if a recipient will want to move forward with the donor, while others will need testing from the recipient to see if they also care about the genetic mutation.  Donors are providing people with the gift of life! The process is long for them, so they deserve much love and appreciation for making the gift a reality.    RESOURCE LINKS   California Cryobank   California Cryobank Instagram   Stork'd Facebook Page   Stork'd on Instagram   Stork'd YouTube Channel   About Lauren:   Lauren is a genetic counselor by training and after graduating with a Master's of Science in Genetic Counseling degree from Wayne State University in Detroit, MI, she began her career in the field of assisted reproductive technology, where she has practiced for the past decade. Her various roles include preimplantation genetic testing, gamete donor screening, and reproductive genetic testing. Across these multiple roles, Lauren has focused on educating both patients and healthcare providers about reproductive genetics. Lauren has published several papers and abstracts related to genetic testing and gamete donors and spoken at multiple national conferences on these topics. Lauren previously served as Chair for the Genetic Counseling Professional Group of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and Co-Chair of the Assisted Reproductive Technology and Infertility Special Interest Group of the National Society of Genetic Counselors. She is currently a Medical Science Liaison at Generate Life Sciences, the parent company for California Cryobank, Donor Egg Bank USA, and Cord Blood Registry

In this week's episode, we are joined by journalist Meg St-Esprit. Meg is a parent of 4 children: 2 different sets of siblings, all through adoption. She shares her journey through adoption and the dynamic and interwoven way in which her family has integrated loved ones through open adoption. We talk about the nuances of weaving a family together through open adoption including holding space for your children's emotions and having your own emotional self awareness. We also discuss adopting children with special needs and the best way to support them. Lastly, we discuss what family means to her. Meg is an incredible storyteller with a gift for articulating the complexities inherent in adoption and an ability to hold the full spectrum of emotions for herself and on behalf of her children. Tune in today to hear Meg's beautiful story about open adoption.    IN THIS EPISODE:    [3:05] Meg shares a little overview of who she is.  [4:00] We learn the tapestry about how Meg's family was created. [8:02] Understanding the difference between glorification and celebration regarding adoption.  [9:35] The show A Baby Story from TLC and what the show portrayed.  [11:30] Meg shares her journey throughout their adoptions and the options of choice.  [14:13] Meg tells us what open adoption means in her family: "I didn't realize that we would all just become family.” [16:45] What does it look like to partner in an open adoption?  [20:54] What terminology would a close friend use when asking about Meg's family? [23:33] How did Meg end up adopting two sets of siblings?  [30:32] What does it mean to be equipped to take on adopted children or children with special needs? [32:44] How should someone prepare themselves for adding a child to the family who has special needs? [35:50] How does Meg advocate for her children?  [38:47] What are the key messages that Meg wants people to walk away with after hearing her story?   KEY TAKEAWAYS:    Adoption isn't about a family wanting a child; it's about finding a family for a child. Most of the time, the birth mother simply wants what is best for her baby, which may look like another family parenting the child, and that's ok! The child's needs need to be considered first.  The kids can choose how and who they define as family. Allow the children to decide who they want as their family and what they call them. In Meg's case, she has four children, each with a biological sibling, but they still consider each other brothers and sisters (no discussion around bio or not). For some families, it might be more comfortable to split who is biological and who isn't. Let the children decide.  It takes deep self-awareness to go into adoption. Be honest with yourself on what needs you can meet for a child, what kind of adoption you are open to, and what feels the best for your family. Adopting parents shouldn't think they have to take the first child available for adoption; it's if you can genuinely love and care for that child.  Don't make a child feel like they are a second option. Many adopt after being unable to conceive, and children feel like they are the second choice. Build our children to know they are loved and everything you want.    RESOURCE LINKS   Meg St-Esprit's Website   Meg St-Esprit's Instagram   A Blog Meg wrote about Open Adoption and What to Expect   Stork'd Facebook Page   Stork'd on Instagram   Stork'd YouTube Channel     BIO:   Meg St-Esprit, M. Ed. is a freelance writer based in Pittsburgh, PA. She's a mom to four kids via adoption, as well as a twin mom. She loves to write about parenting, education, trends, and the general hilarity of raising little people. Find more of Meg's work at www.megstesprit.com.

In this week's episode, we are joined by Michele Katz. Michele is the founder of the Plus One Adoption Foundation and a mother of 4, two adopted, and two biological children. Michele shares her story about the adoption process and how she is blending cultures in their family. She also discusses many aspects of adoption, such as the differences between agencies and orphanages, what to consider when adopting, and how processes differ across companies and countries. Tune in today to hear Michele's story and her mission with her foundation.   IN THIS EPISODE:    [2:07] What does Michele's family life currently look like? [2:37] How did Michele's family come to be? [6:25] Fertility and adoption process at the same time. Which process seemed easier? [9:10] Michele tells us about her journey of adoption.  [13:00] How did Michele incorporate the culture of origin of her adopted children into their lives? [19:56] What are the differences between agencies and orphanages?  [21:28] What was the matching process between the two children Michele adopted, and what was it like meeting the children for the first time? [23:15] Michele tells us about the Plus One Adoption foundation and how it came to be. [25:42] Are there different parenting ways with the kids Michele carried vs. her adopted children? [30:00] What does adoption trauma look like? [32:47] How does one go into the decision to adopt an infant vs. an older child? [35:54] What does the conversation look like for a blended family of adoption vs. biological?  [39:10] What does family mean to Michele?    KEY TAKEAWAYS:    Sometimes it's just important to have another person to share your journey with, another person to listen to, someone to share the options and allow your family to decide which is right for you. There will be unknowns, but as a parent, you parent the best you can. Whether adopted or biological, there will be unknowns in what you will get with your children.   Weighing out the pros and cons is essential. Do you want to adopt an older child? Do you want to adopt a younger child? What country do you want to adopt from? What age do you want to be when your child graduates? Do you want an open or closed adoption?    RESOURCE LINKS   Plus One Foundation Website   Plus One Foundation Instagram   Michele's LinkedIn   Email: mkatz@plusoneadoption.org    Stork'd Facebook Page   Stork'd on Instagram   Stork'd YouTube Channel   BIO: Michele Katz is not only the Founder of Plus One Adoption Foundation, Inc. but also the Founder of the intellectual property law firm Advitam IP, LLC. Passionate about giving back, she (in collaboration with her firm and her family) started a scholarship fund in the name of her beloved father, an icon in the IP field, and annually funds a master's scholarship in the innovative sciences at The Hebrew University (Israel). As a servant leader, Michele served as the President of the National Association of Women Business Owners, Chicago Chapter, propelling women business owners into social, economic, and political spheres of influence.

In this week's episode, we are joined by Yvette Anderson, co-founder of Anderson's Meet The Need, a nonprofit she and her husband felt called to create after the loss of their newborn son. In today's episode, we will learn more about the son that inspired her work. We hear the heartbreaking story of Yvette's difficulties getting pregnant, her journey with preeclampsia, and the loss of her son RJ. Her story is raw and emotional; we learn of her strength and struggles during this difficult time. Tune in today to hear how Yvette turned her tragedy into triumph with her organization.    IN THIS EPISODE:    [3:59] What are the “Project of Promise” missions? [8:20] Yvette talks about what it was like growing up in a family in need. [14:24] Yvette discusses her emergency hospitalization due to life threatening preeclampsia. [25:10] The story of her child's delivery. [30:29] Yvette shares her feelings as she watched her son pass away [32:56] Her preeclampsia had turned into a pulmonary embolism.  [38:20] Yvette tells us about going home after her loss and medical difficulties. [41:46] What was Yvette's relationship with God and herself during grieving?  [49:56] Advice Yvette shares to help someone who might be going through a similar situation.   KEY TAKEAWAYS:    You don't have to stay in a dark place. The enemy would love for us to stay in that place, but you don't have to. You will smile again; you will laugh again.  Utilize the support around you. You don't have to endure the pain alone; lean on those around you. Having someone there with you lets you know that you are not alone.  Yvette turned her tragedy of losing her son into triumph when she created MTN Organization, a non-discriminatory, non-profit that serves various communities throughout NJ with free food pantry that promotes a healthier way of eating and living.   RESOURCE LINKS   Meet The Need Website   Meet The Need Instagram   "About Preeclampsia"    BIO:   Yvette Anderson has been active in various communities throughout NJ for almost 20 years before co-founding MTN in 2010. Helping others has always been a huge passion of hers. As a child she was a family in need and her grandparents instilled in her to always help anyone she could. Their influence never left her and Yvette dedicated her life to mentoring, coaching, being instrumental in computer donations to low budget schools and churches, starting a free cheer clinic for inner city girls who couldn't afford gymnastic or cheer camps, directing a girls book club and now founding a non profit that brings 9 projects of promise and free food pantry each week.    Stork'd Facebook Page   Stork'd on Instagram   Stork'd YouTube Channel

I'm delighted to be speaking with fellow podcast host, Julia Karol, who is the creator of Stork'd, the podcast where she highlights the unique ways in which people come together and find family. The growth of the podcast has paralleled her own personal journey of discovering what family truly means, no matter what shape it takes. You'll find inspiration as you hear Julia's beautiful story about heartbreak, healing, love, and her decision to become a single mom in her 40s. Later in the episode, we hear “Ro's Journey of Love,” a short story inspired by Julia's journey, and written by Priya Sharma Shaikh.     IN THIS EPISODE:   [2:20] What is the meaning of traditional family and love [3:27] The premise behind Julia's podcast, Stork'd [03:43] A traditional upbringing and choosing an untraditional path towards family [07:33] Healing after a break up in her 30s and the decision to freeze her eggs [14:06] A life changing trip to Peru and the next phase of family building [17:50 Julia's path down the fertility journey [22:05] Short story: “Ro's Journey of Love” by Priya Sharma Shaikh KEY TAKEAWAYS:   Having a family and experiencing the love and joy it brings, no matter in which way or shape it comes, is more important than trying to conform to what a traditional family looks like. Additional family building options like adoption, IUI, or egg freezing are becoming more culturally accepted and available through advances in science. However, even with these options, it is still a backup plan and you have to remember that no plan is perfect. Stork'd podcast started from Julia's interest in how people create amazing families in unique ways. It has grown as a space to help normalize the different paths that people can take to find love and family.     Fiction Credits:    “Ro's Journey of Love,” a short story written and read by Priya Sharma Shaikh Voice Over by: Priya Sharma Shaikh Contact Information: priyasharmashaikh@gmail.com Twitter: @piyushaikh Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/priyasharmashaikh/recent-activity/posts/   BIO:  Julia Karol is a mom, creative leader, warm friend, animal lover, and champion of alternative families. When she is not hosting Stork'd, Julia runs a private investment firm which acquires, operates, and improves businesses at a crossroads. She loves supporting businesses to grow and evolve. Passionate about social change, Julia also supports a number of non-profit organizations. Outside of work, Julia's passions include hiking, skiing, yoga, and reading. She lives in Boston, MA, with her dog and infant son. Stork'd Podcast Website Stork'd Podcast on Facebook Stork'd Podcast on Instagram Stork'd Podcast on Pinterest The podcasts available on this website have been produced for informational, educational and entertainment purposes only. The stories and experiences contained within the interview reflect the experiences and opinions of the guest. The short fiction story reflects the creativity of the writer. The contents of this podcast do not reflect the opinions of the podcast or its host and do not create any type of professional relationship between the audience and presenters. True Fiction Project Podcast expressly disclaims any and all liability relating to any actions, beliefs or opinions of the guests taken or not taken based on any or all contents of this site.Our Sponsors:* Check out HelloFresh and use my code 50truefictionproject for a great deal: https://www.hellofresh.com/Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In today's episode, I'm speaking with Lauren Wynn about her 8 miscarriages, emergency surgery and ultimately building her family through IVF. What's more, Lauren's husband EJ sold much of his prized and valuable sneaker collection to cover the cost of their fertility treatments.  After experiencing her 8 miscarriages, Lauren has become a women's and fertility health advocate and their story shows just how complicated, expensive and painful the family building journey can be for some. Lauren has a significant amount of medical information and relationship advice to share - we joke that she's gotten a medical degree through her fertility journey. I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation and know you will, too!   IN THIS EPISODE:   [02:08] Introduction to Lauren and how she has navigated experiencing multiple miscarriages in a short amount of time. [07:44] How to get a doctor to pay attention when you're having physical and emotional pain and advocate for your medical needs. [15:15] How to navigate emotions through multiple losses as an individual and as a couple. [22:05] The decision to pursue IVF and become her own medical advocate. [28:08] An unconventional way to pay for IVF. [35:13] How Lauren's definition of family has changed and the community she has found during her fertility journey.   KEY TAKEAWAYS:   If your doctor is not listening to your physical or emotional needs, don't waste your time with them. Find another doctor who will put your health needs first. After women have a miscarriage, they need to be aware of their HCG levels. If HCG levels go up, or remain high, that can be a sign of disease or carcinoma.  When experiencing loss in a relationship, be honest and open with your partner. Those emotions will not go away. So work through it together and really lean on each other through the hard times.   BIO:   Lauren and and her husband went through eight miscarriages and two failed IUIs with little to no explanation for why she was experiencing recurring pregnacy loss. After their second miscarrieage, she was diagnosed with a septum but wasn't able to find a doctor to remove it until her fourth miscarriage. After their seventh miscarriage, she learned of Reproductive Immunology which led to a diagnosis of high NK cells and Cytokins. After this new diagnosis, they experienced their seventh miscarriage before deciding to try IVF as a last resort. They are now blessed with carrying our rainbow baby boy. Lauren Wynn on Instagram   Julia Karol is a creative leader, warm friend, animal lover, notable clutz. When she is not hosting Stork'd, Julia runs a private investment firm which acquires, operates, and improves businesses at a crossroads. She loves supporting businesses to grow and evolve. Passionate about social change, Julia also supports a number of non-profit organizations.   Stork'd Facebook Page Stork'd on Instagram Stork'd YouTube Channel

In this week's episode, I am joined by Sydney Sharon, who discusses the topic of donor-conception. Sydney is one of the rare people who has experienced donor conception from all angles: she has used donor sperm, is raising donor conceived children, has a father who was a donor and is building relationships with her newly expanded “BioFam” of siblings.  In this episode, Sydney discusses her upbringing, meeting her lovely wife Britt, their Jewish beliefs, and how they have worked through their decisions regarding selecting a donor for their children. She also talks about how she learned she has six siblings through donor conception from her father, referring to her siblings as BioSibs, who was a sperm donor before having his children. We dive into identity after becoming a mother and how to help donor-conceived children determine their identity as they grow up. This episode is packed full of advice and storytelling of The Sharon Mom's journey to creating a family of their own.    IN THIS EPISODE:    [2:23] Introduction to Sydney. [5:58] Journey of becoming a mom and her relationship with her wife Britt. [11:05] We discuss Sydney's roles in life: motherhood, being a wife, Judaism, and more.   [17:21] How did Sydney and Britt choose a donor? [28:35] How many vials should the donor have for future children's decisions? [34:04] How does Sydney think about helping kids form their identity and donor conception history? [39:33] Your life sounds too good to be true; is it really this filled with joy and happy circumstances? [42:16] Issues that are coming up and data that is becoming more aware surrounding male factor infertility.  [44:30] Anonymity and privacy around sperm donors with technology like 23 and Me and ancestry.com. [47:20] How has being in a donor-conceived family shaped Sydney's definition of family?    KEY TAKEAWAYS:    Every person will look at their donor's information differently and prioritize how they choose a donor differently. There is no one size fits all way to selecting the right donor. Sydney and Britt chose based on blood type, hair color, and height.  Family is what you make of it. Being related through blood isn't what makes you a family; instead, choosing who your family is and creating supportive people is what makes a family. Knowing your identity and who you helped you feel confident in your decisions. Sydney and Britt are Jewish and gay, but there were never any other options because it's just who they are.    RESOURCE LINKS   TheSharonMoms Instagram   TheSharonMoms Blog   BIO:   Nearly 10 years ago the two of us began dating. In that time, we have traveled to dozens of places around the world, both near and far, adopted our little pup, Chloe, married, and most recently, welcomed our baby girl into this great big world.   We have chosen to document our journey with all its trials and tribulations, in all its glory, for several reasons. The first of which is to hopefully create a sort of capsule that we can one day share with our children. Another reason is to provide us both with an outlet to write, which for us, gives us some peace of mind and comfort. And thirdly, for community.   Stork'd Facebook Page   Stork'd on Instagram   Stork'd YouTube Channel

Welcome to Season 4 of Stork'd! This introduction episode kicks off with the concept of “Choose Your Hard”,  assuming that you have access to those choices. Throughout this episode, you will hear snippets of Julia and several of her guests from this upcoming season discussing their family building stories. This episode focuses on a compilation of choices, tradeoffs and experiences guests encounter in building their families including: choosing divorce, to freeze eggs, to do one more round of IVF after many miscarriages, or to not have kids. The episode also features stories from families facing circumstances outside of their control such as illness, discovering you are donor conceived and loss.  In this episode, Julia touches on her feelings about Roe v. Wade and the impacts on future families with the choices they may no longer have.  Finally, we are excited for our first sponsor, California Cryobank. Tune in this season to weekly episodes celebrating all families and we hope you enjoy season 4!    IN THIS EPISODE:    [1:36] How do you choose your tradeoffs? [2:25] “Choose Your Hard” poem. How Julia interprets this poem from the perspective of our family lives. [4:38] What is Julia's “hard?” The difficulties she has faced when she chose to be a single parent. [6:36] How “Choosing Hard” applies to guests you will hear on future season 4 episodes. [7:00] A clip of future season 4 guest, Jen, expressing her emotions around choosing divorce. [8:10] Future season 4 guest, Cam, and her choice to freeze her eggs. [9:36] Meg's choice to build a family solely through adoption. [11:45] Chelsea watched as her parent deteriorated due to a terminal illness. How was she able to cope with those things that were thrust upon her and out of her control?  [12:45] Discovering your father was a sperm donor and you have donor conceived siblings. How Sydney connected with her BioSibs [13:50] Discovering you are donor conceived at age 13. How Louise experienced this stunning revelation. [15:30] Faced with the unthinkable: Yvette's heartbreaking story of her son's death days after he was born. [17:30] Dealing with 8 miscarriages: Lauren's choice to find another doctor who ulitmalely saved her life. [19:14] Overturn of Roe v. Wade - the potential implications for women to access life saving medical treatments. [22:38] What to expect for Season 4!   KEY TAKEAWAYS:    No matter what decision you make, it is going to be hard. There will be things that come up that create complications, but regardless of the decision, there will be challenges that arise.  Sometimes we don't get to choose our circumstances. Instead, choosing your hard can be navigating things that happen TO us.  In every episode, we end up hearing a pivot point, where someone's life goes through a change in which they had to make a decision; they had to choose which direction their life was going to go. Season 4's new sponsor, California Cryobank, holds a special place in Julia's family. She chose her sperm donor from California Cryobank.    RESOURCE LINKS   Stork'd Facebook Page   Stork'd on Instagram   Stork'd YouTube Channel   Stork'd Website   California Cryobank

Inspired by a growth opportunity in her own life, Julia started a podcast to celebrate and explore all of the different ways people build families in the 21st century. “I like to equate it to the body positivity movement, where previously the media told us that one kind of body was beautiful. And it looked a certain way and it acted a certain way. Now we're doing a family positivity movement.” Learn more about the stories that Julia has uncovered at https://www.storkdpodcast.com/ and listen to an episode anywhere you find podcasts. Have a cool idea you think should be on the show? Leave us a voicemail at (848) 863-991. More @ howcoolisthis.show

Ashley sits down with friend and fellow podcaster Julia Karol. Julia is building a family. Along the way, she is asking anyone and everyone about how they came to make the decisions they did regarding family life. On her podcast Stork'd, she's opening up an honest, funny, raw, and earnest conversation looking at what creating a family really means and how it might show up differently than expected. Julia herself has created a family in a non-traditional way as a solo parent. While fiercely rooted in her spiritual practice, intuitive guidance and dedication to her own joy, she manifested her son through IUI. In this episode we discuss...Julia's path to parenthood, her decision to freeze her eggs and ultimately become a solo parentThe fear, envy and pain of fertility strugglesHer spiritual journey as an individual leading into motherhoodHer experience with an at home insemination kit while fertility clinics were closed during covidThe self-care practices she's leaning into as a new momHer beautiful podcast Stork'd and the many different types of familiesAlso included are Ashley's favorite self-care tools and products linked HERE. Learn more:Follow Stork'd on Instagram: @storkd_podcastLearn more about Julia and Stork'd: www.storkdpodcast.comFollow along on Instagram: @yogamagicpodcast and @ashley.sondergaardLearn more about Ashley and Yoga Magic at www.ashleysondergaard.com Get Your Free 'Self-Care for Aries Season Checklist': https://tremendous-leader-9896.ck.page/10b6ef271c Work with Ashley:Book a 1:1 Cosmic Self-Care Session with Ashley  | Learn how to use your astrological birth chart to personalize your self-care routines, rituals and practices. Book a Birth Chart Reading with Ashley | Learn about the key components of your natal chart and how you can work with the energy in your life today during this 30 minute reading. Upcoming Yoga Magic EventsUnderstanding the Elements | 4/13 7:00 PM CT | Zoom | Our birth charts are made up of all 4 elements, but we tend to be more dominant in 1 or 2. Join this 45-minute community workshop to learn how the elements work together, what you can do to find balance amongst the 4, specific self-care practices for your dominant element, and which elements you work best with in life.

Welcome to season 3! Today, we discuss the upcoming Season 3 and I share an important life update. In many ways, the start of Stork'd and my own family building journey have run parallel to each other. I share my journey behind choosing to become a single mom through sperm donation and how Stork'd began from my own exploration of different family building experiences. I share about single parenting, community, self-care, and how this is just the beginning of my story. I'm so excited for you to listen to Season 3 and I'm thrilled to share the special and unique stories we have lined up with our amazing guests.     In This Episode:    [00:40] Starting Stork'd and building a family [03:49] The otherside: Being a new mom [05:24] The challenge of self care [07:00] How this podcast can validate your family building choices [08:20] Finding your purpose and applying it to your family building journey [11:50] Relationship to community evolving  [15:00] The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, a book by Charlie Mackesy [17:19] A turning point and crossroads in life right now [19:41] Season 3 sneak peek   Takeaways:    Julia reflects back on the timeline of starting Stork'd and her parallel journey of becoming a mom. Stork'd began from Julia's investigatory personality and her desire to build a family. As she began asking friends and family about their family building stories, she started to record their conversations. After becoming a new mom, Julia is learning that practicing self care is a challenge, and something that will be discussed in Season 3. At the core of family building decisions, is identifying your values and who you are at a core level. Julia's family building journey started with a lot of introspection through therapy, life coaches, a purpose coach, various healing sessions, acupuncture, Reiki and a lot of difficult conversations with family and friends. Her fertility journey was just as complicated and included multiple doctors, two surgeries, selecting a sperm donor, trying at home insemination and ultimately having an IUI in a medical facility. Julia shares a sneak peek of what's to come in Season 3 episodes.   Disclaimer:   The podcasts available on this website have been produced for informational, educational and entertainment purposes only. The stories and experiences contained within reflect the experiences and opinions of the guest and may contain content found to be triggering by listeners. Listeners should take care to avoid program content which may not be suited to them. The contents of any podcast do not constitute medical or professional advice, do not reflect the opinions of the podcast or its host and do not create any type of  professional relationship between the audience and presenters.  No person listening to and/or viewing any podcast from this website should act or refrain from acting on the basis of the content of a podcast without first seeking appropriate professional advice and/or counseling, nor shall the information be used as a substitute for professional advice and/or counseling. Stork'd Podcast expressly disclaims any and all liability relating to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all contents of this site.

1 in 8 Americans struggle with infertility. Of those, 75% simply cannot afford the financial burden that comes with infertility treatments. The truth is when it costs this much for fertility treatment, building a family by carrying a child is not a given. In this episode of Stork'd, Julia is joined by Carmela Rea, founder and CEO of Egg Fund, a company helping more people afford a baby, no matter their path to parenthood. Egg Fund is America's largest network of lenders specializing in fertility loans. Carmela knows first hand what the challenges of infertility can bring. She shares her own story of infertility and how the struggles she faced in her journey to build a family left her wanting to help others and create meaning in her life. Stay tuned to the end when Carmela shares her own twist ending. https://www.storkdpodcast.com/season2 In This Episode: [2:20] An introduction to Carmela Rea [3:00] The start of Carmela's journey with infertility is discussed [7:00] Carmela seeks advice from friends regarding the process of fertility treatments [8:05] Carmela discusses the costs that can be associated with fertility treatments [13:35] The process of surrogacy becomes an option for Carmela and her husband [15:40] Carmela's husband gives her “permission to fail” [20:27] How the idea for Egg fund was born [28:25] How is Egg Fund different from anything else out there? [33:00] Carmela's commitment to health and the wonderful surprise of pregnancy [37:20] Looking back at her journey, Carmela shares what she wants listeners to learn about the fertility process [38:40] Carmella shares her thoughts about having a baby later in life [40:00] Carmela's definition of family Key Takeaways: Having a biological baby is not a given. There can be infertility challenges when they are not expected. Fertility treatments in America are extremely expensive, leading many people to not attempt the processes. Egg Fund is America's largest network of lenders specializing in fertility loans, helping many people afford their dream of having a baby. Egg Fund is patient focused, allowing borrowers freedom and flexibility in their journey in starting a family. Links:  https://www.myeggfund.com/ Disclaimer: The podcasts available on this website have been produced for informational, educational and entertainment purposes only.  The stories and experiences contained within reflect the experiences and opinions of the guest and may contain content found to be triggering by listeners. Listeners should take care to avoid program content which may not be suited to them. The contents of any podcast do not constitute medical or professional advice, do not reflect the opinions of the podcast or its host and do not create any type of professional relationship between the audience and presenters.  No person listening to and/or viewing any podcast from this website should act or refrain from acting on the basis of the content of a podcast without first seeking appropriate professional advice and/or counseling, nor shall the information be used as a substitute for professional advice and/or counseling.  Stork'd Podcast expressly disclaims any and all liability relating to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all contents of this site.

In this week's episode, we are joined by Kelly Fay. In this episode, Kelly shares her experience as an adoptee and her journey to explore her own self-identity. She will share her experience discovering her adoption as a child, her personal evolution, her relationship with her adoptive parents, and her experience reconnecting with her biological family. This episode, digs deep into the crevices and corners of her soul, exploring her relationship and feelings about adoption. Enjoy a Stork'd first, as our guest shares with us a poem she wrote about the emotions surrounding adoption. This poem is so powerful and raw and will leave you with chills! Show notes: https://www.storkdpodcast.com/season2 In This Episode:  [ 2:20 ] Hear Kelly's powerful poem about herself as an adoptee. [ 6:48 ] Emotions Kelly felt while writing her poem. [ 9:07 ] The news that rocked Kelly's world when she was eight years old.   [ 11:42 ] How the adult relationships in Kelly's life played out as she grew into her teenage years and then into adulthood. [ 15:21 ] Recognizing the powerful first moment of experiencing self love.  [ 16:35 ] Kelly's feelings around the word adoption and how those feelings have evolved over time. [ 20:38 ] After going through deep, transformational work, what is now opening up to Kelly in this part of her life? [ 22:11 ] Delving into Kelly's birth parents and family. [ 26:41 ] Was the adoption path that Kelly was put on the right path for her?  [ 29:19 ] Kelly's relationship with her adoptive parents. [ 33:20 ] The emotions Kelly feels today about her adoption.  [ 35:07 ] What Kelly would like other people to know about adoption from sharing her story. [ 38:59 ] How Kelly defines family. [ 41:52 ] Where to find Kelly on social media. Takeaways:  The turbulent emotions Kelly felt after finding out she was adopted from a friend when she was eight years old. Understanding the mix of valid emotions adoptees feel in their life and needing adoptive parents who can be empathetic and understanding towards those emotions. Kelly channels her potent thoughts and feelings into a dynamic poem about her life and her adoption. Going through deep, transformational work in Kelly's life to finally learn how to unapologetically love herself. Knowing that the path Kelly was put on as an adoptee was ultimately the right path for her life. Links: Poem https://www.dropbox.com/s/s4smlos9jjhca8k/Poem_a%20work%20by%20kelly%20fay_untitled_10152020.pdf?dl=0 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thekellyfay/  Disclaimer: The podcasts available on this website have been produced for informational, educational and entertainment purposes only. The stories and experiences contained within reflect the experiences and opinions of the guest and may contain content found to be triggering by listeners. Listeners should take care to avoid program content which may not be suited to them. The contents of any podcast do not constitute medical or professional advice, do not reflect the opinions of the podcast or its host, and do not create any type of professional relationship between the audience and presenters.  No person listening to and/or viewing any podcast from this website should act or refrain from acting on the basis of the content of a podcast without first seeking appropriate professional advice and/or counseling, nor shall the information be used as a substitute for professional advice and/or counseling. Stork'd Podcast expressly disclaims any and all liability relating to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all contents of this site.

This special edition episode is a compilation of 11 special guests from Season 1 answering the question, “What Does Family Mean To You?” This compilation is pulled from informative interviews with a range of everyday friends, family, neighbors, and experts sharing their own journey to define and create a family.  This episode features Molly,  Arden O'Connor, Christian & Jamie, Suman, Brooke James, David Vendetti, Keren Eldad, Ashon Avent, Raven, Mia, and Maureen Brown.  Keep up with Stork'd at https://www.storkdpodcast.com/ Follow on Instagram @storkd_podcast

Julia Karol is the president and COO of the Watermill Group. She has a number of different philanthropic engagements and was named the Most Influential Women in Mid-Market M&A by Mergers and Acquisitions Magazine for three consecutive years. Julia is also the host of Stork'd, a podcast that explores and celebrates the many paths to building a family.  As a person who went through it herself, Julia shares her advice on how you can get through your own fertility journey. Family building is one of the biggest decisions you can make in life, and with the many modern ways to explore what this may look like for you, there are many unique options and opportunities. In this episode, Julia shares her fertility journey, the lessons she learned along the way, and her experience building her own family as a solo parent. Visit our website at: beyondthebalancesheet.com.

Sometimes, you realize that your Plan B was your Plan A all along. When Julia chose to become a solo mom, there were a lot of decisions to be made. She meditated, traveled, journaled, and more.This path of independent maternity felt right to her so she set out to learn as much about alternative families as she could. She decided to do this by having conversations with real people which inspired her podcast Stork'd. She's on a mission to share through personal experience, both hers and others', what it looks like to create your own happiness.In this Episode, You'll Learn About:Why Julia opted to be a solo momWhat made her select insemination over adoptionHow her friends and family responded to her choice to be an independent parentHow she found the confidence to stand firm in her decision to be a solo motherWhich factors she took into consideration when choosing a sperm donorWhat the donor selection process was likeWhat it was like to navigate prenatal care as a solo parentWhat the positives and negatives were of living with her parents postpartum--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode224Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Create a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out ByHeart and use my code DRNICOLE for 10% off your first order! - https://byheart.com/podcast* Check out Mabbly : https://lactationnetwork.com/* Check out Warner Bros: https://www.warnerbros.com/movies/the-color-purpleAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy