Create A Happy Family

What if you knew you wanted to be a parent—even if it meant doing it on your own?

In this episode, Whitney sits down with Chris Pombonyo to hear his journey of becoming a single dad through egg donation and surrogacy. Chris shares the decisions, challenges, and incredible joy that shaped his path to parenthood. He also reflects on the importance of community, the value of reliable resources, and why representation for single parents matters so much.

Whether you’re considering surrogacy, curious about egg donation, or exploring single parenthood, this conversation will leave you encouraged and informed about what’s possible in family creation today.

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Okay, so you’ve harvested eggs—now what? 🤯
That question is exactly why Dr. Carrie Bedient is joining us today. As Southern Nevada’s first female board-certified reproductive endocrinologist, a fertility expert at The Fertility Center of Las Vegas, and co-host of the Fertility Docs Uncensored podcast, Dr. Bedient has a gift for simplifying what often feels overwhelming.

In this episode, we break down what happens after egg retrieval:
✅ How embryos are created
✅ Genetic testing—when it helps and what to consider
✅ Deciding whether to use donor eggs and/or move toward surrogacy
✅ Emotional fatigue and decision overwhelm
✅ What to expect from your embryology team
✅ The science and the emotion behind your next steps

If you’re deep in IVF, considering donor eggs, or staring down a dozen fertility decisions with no idea where to start—this is your roadmap. You'll walk away feeling more confident, informed, and empowered in your fertility journey.

🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share to support others on the path to parenthood.

#IVFJourney #EggRetrieval #EmbryoGrading #GeneticTesting #FertilityPodcast #DonorEggs #SurrogacySupport #FertilityDecisionFatigue #FertilityEducation

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Heather shares the raw truth of her surrogacy journey—from saying “yes” to IVF, managing gestational diabetes, and giving birth during a hurricane. Discover the emotional highs, unexpected challenges, and the powerful connection between surrogate and intended parents.

Takeaways:

Why Heather chose surrogacy

IVF challenges and medical realities

The importance of advocacy and communication

Trust between surrogate and intended parents

Labor and delivery during unexpected crises

Postpartum recovery and emotional complexity

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Are you navigating the emotional rollercoaster of infertility or surrogacy—or supporting someone who is? This episode will make you feel seen.

Whitney is joined by fertility counselor and licensed clinical social worker Kelli Johnson, who has helped countless intended parents work through the mental and emotional load of building a family. They dive deep into the often unspoken truths about this journey—like how grief and hope can live side by side—and why acknowledging both is so important.

You’ll walk away with:

Insight into the emotional highs and lows of surrogacy

Tips for building stronger communication with your surrogate

The power of therapy and peer support through every stage

Whether you're early in the process or already matched, this conversation will leave you feeling more grounded, supported, and empowered to take the next step.

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Willow and Wildflower Counseling

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What’s it really like when your wife decides to become a surrogate? In this unique and candid episode, Whitney sits down with five husbands whose wives are not only surrogates but also team members at Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions. These dads and partners pull back the curtain to share what the surrogacy journey looks like from their point of view.

They talk about everything from their first reactions to the idea of surrogacy, how they came to understand and support the process, and the incredible moments of meeting intended parents and witnessing the births of babies their families helped bring into the world.

You’ll hear honest reflections on how surrogacy impacted their marriages, family life, and kids, along with their advice for other partners who might be unsure about saying “yes” to this journey. If you're a spouse, partner, or just curious about how surrogacy affects the whole family, this episode is full of insight, laughter, and powerful perspective.

Takeaways

-Surrogacy is a profound journey that impacts the entire family.
-Initial reactions to the idea of surrogacy can vary widely among partners.
-Understanding the surrogacy process is crucial for both the surrogate and her partner.
-Meeting the intended parents can make the surrogacy journey feel real and meaningful.
-Family dynamics play a significant role in the surrogacy experience.
-The emotional journey of surrogacy is filled with highs and lows.
-Delivery day is a pivotal moment that solidifies the purpose of surrogacy.
-Support during the pregnancy is essential for the surrogate and her family.
-Reflections on the journey highlight the lasting bonds formed between families.
-Advice for potential surrogates and their partners emphasizes communication and education.

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In today’s episode, Whitney is joined by Dr. Audrey Puentes, a board-certified OB-GYN and intended parent who brings a rare and valuable perspective to the surrogacy conversation. As someone who has supported patients through pregnancy and delivery, and also walked the surrogacy journey herself, Audrey understands both sides in a way that few can.

This episode is packed with helpful, practical information specifically for intended parents. We will cover everything from prenatal testing and key pregnancy milestones to the transition from fertility clinic to OB care, how to navigate appointments with your surrogate, and what to expect on delivery day. Audrey also walks us through topics like C-sections, skin-to-skin, discharge planning, and postpartum expectations for surrogates.

Whether you're just starting the process or preparing for the birth of your baby, this conversation offers clear guidance, real-world insight, and reassurance from someone who truly gets it, both professionally and personally.

Takeaways

- Surrogacy can be a daunting process for intended parents.
- Medical professionals also experience emotional challenges during surrogacy.
- Choosing the right OB-GYN is crucial for a supportive experience.
- Intended parents should communicate openly with their surrogate and medical team.
- Understanding the timeline of appointments can alleviate anxiety.
- Routine screenings are essential for monitoring pregnancy health.
- Genetic testing provides valuable information about the fetus.
- Intended parents should feel empowered to ask questions during appointments.
- The transition from fertility clinic to OB care can feel overwhelming.
- Intended parents can choose appointments to attend based on their significance.
- Induction may be planned for convenience, especially for out-of-state parents
- The hospital setup and who can be present during delivery should be discussed beforehand.
- Every pregnancy and delivery experience is unique, requiring tailored communication.
- Discharge for surrogates can vary, but a 24-hour stay is ideal.
- Milk supply may take time to establish.
- It's important to prepare for the unique aspects of C-section deliveries.
- Every family's journey is unique, and there is no wrong way to build a family.

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Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions

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Summary

In this heartfelt episode, Whitney and Alyx dive into the emotional, practical, and life-changing aspects of surrogacy. Alyx shares what inspired her to become a surrogate, the importance of researching and finding the right match, and the legal and medical preparations that go into the journey. She also reflects on the powerful relationships built with her intended parents, the support she received from her family, and the emotional highs and lows leading up to delivery. With an emphasis on communication, community involvement, and trust, this conversation highlights the joy of creating families and the lasting impact surrogates have on the lives of those they help.

Takeaways

-Alyx's journey into surrogacy began after having her first daughter.
-Community support is crucial in the surrogacy process.
-Matching with intended parents should feel right, not rushed.
-Alyx's husband was initially surprised but ultimately supportive.
-Researching surrogacy led Alyx to connect with experienced surrogates.
-The matching process can be stressful but rewarding.
-It's important to listen to your gut when choosing intended parents.
-Alyx's first meeting with her intended parents was filled with excitement.
-Legal and medical steps are essential in the surrogacy journey.
-Alyx received a care package from her intended mom, showcasing their support.
-Alyx documented her surrogacy journey beautifully.
-Explaining surrogacy to children can be simple and sweet.
-The support from family and friends is crucial during surrogacy.
-Transfer Day was filled with anticipation and nerves.
-Positive pregnancy tests brought excitement and anxiety.
-Community involvement made the journey more special.
-The heartbeat confirmation was a significant milestone.
-The joy of seeing intended parents with their baby is fulfilling.
-Surrogacy can change lives in profound ways.
-Open communication is crucial for a successful surrogacy experience.
-Surrogates should follow their hearts and listen to their bodies.
-The relationship between surrogates and intended parents can become like family.
-Postpartum care and support are important for surrogates.
-Celebrating milestones with intended parents enhances the experience.
-Surrogacy is a journey filled with joy and fulfillment.
-The experience of surrogacy can inspire future journeys.

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Summary:
In this heartfelt episode, Whitney Hall sits down with Abby and Kara to explore their emotional journeys through surrogacy. They reflect on the challenges they’ve faced, the deep and unexpected connections formed, and the transformative nature of the experience. With honesty and warmth, they share how trust, community support, and shared vulnerability shaped their paths and helped them grow. This episode is a celebration of the powerful bonds built through surrogacy and a reminder of the magic that unfolds when people come together with love and purpose.

Takeaways:
- Surrogacy can be a miraculous experience.
- Building trust is essential in surrogacy.
- Community support plays a vital role.
- It's important to have open communication.
- Memorable moments can arise unexpectedly.
- Finding joy in the chaos is crucial.
- Prayer and community can provide strength.

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Summary:
What does it look like to care for your whole self during the fertility journey—not just your body, but your heart and mind too?

In this episode, Whitney sits down with Nicole Lange, a licensed acupuncturist and holistic fertility educator, to explore how slowing down, tuning in, and embracing both Eastern and Western wisdom can make a powerful impact. Nicole shares her personal path to acupuncture, the connection between stress and fertility, and simple, supportive practices you can start using today.

Whether you're an intended parent, egg donor, surrogate, or supporting someone you love, this conversation is full of encouragement, insight, and grounded guidance to help you feel more connected to your body and your journey.

Takeaways:
- Acupuncture is evidence-based and can support fertility treatments.
- Nicole Lange's journey to acupuncture was influenced by personal trauma and a desire for holistic care.
- Depth over volume in patient care emphasizes quality interactions with patients.
- Acupuncture can help regulate immune function and improve blood flow to the uterus.
- Integrating acupuncture with Western medicine can enhance fertility treatments but only if you feel comfortable.
- Mental health is crucial in the fertility journey and should be prioritized.
- DIY practices like acupressure can support fertility at home.
- True holistic care considers the whole person, not just their reproductive system.

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Summary:
In this heartfelt conversation, Whitney sits down with Ali to discuss her powerful journey through grief and surrogacy. Ali opens up about the challenges of losing her husband, Thomas, and the emotional complexities of pursuing motherhood after loss. She shares her experience with the surrogacy process—from the delicate steps of egg retrieval to the moment she found the perfect match in Ashley. Together, they explore the importance of support systems, the joy of parenting, and the ongoing presence of love and loss. Ali’s story is one of resilience, faith, and honoring the past while embracing the future.

Takeaways:
- Grief can profoundly impact one's dreams and aspirations.
- Surrogacy can be a viable path for single parents.
- Family support is crucial during difficult times.
- Research and preparation are key in the surrogacy process.
- Honesty from medical professionals can guide important decisions.
- Living life to the fullest is a way to honor lost loved ones.
- Emotional resilience is built through support and faith.
- The process of egg retrieval can be both challenging and rewarding.
- Sharing one's story can help in the surrogacy journey.
- Ali felt an immediate connection with Ashley after reading her profile.
- Support systems are vital throughout the surrogacy journey.
- Every step of the surrogacy process felt meant to be for Ali and Ashley.
- The relationship between Ali and Ashley grew naturally over time.
- Communication was key in their relationship, especially during pregnancy.
- Delivery day was a magical experience for Ali and Ashley.
- Ali's grief for Thomas is intertwined with her joy for Tommy.
- Parenting brings a different kind of joy that is unique and profound.
- Ali emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's plan.
- The bond between Ali and Ashley extends beyond the pregnancy, creating a lasting friendship.

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