In this International Women’s Day episode, within the theme of "Empowered Women: Empowered Future Parents", healthcare leader Vasanta Pundarika sits down with Ece Kaner to unpack what it really means to begin the path to motherhood later in life. They explore how shifting priorities around education, career, and financial security are redefining the traditional timeline of motherhood and reshaping the demand for reproductive care.
The conversation dives into the medical, legal, financial, and logistical realities of trying to conceive in one’s later reproductive years—from navigating complex fertility treatment options to understanding clinic protocols, success rates, and eligibility criteria. Together, Vasanta and Ece question whether current care pathways and clinical standards truly match the needs of today’s patients, making the case for stronger fertility literacy, more transparent and coordinated care pathways, better integration across providers and services, and smarter policy that supports modern families.
About the guest:
Vasanta Pundarika is a healthcare executive and board member specializing in women’s and behavioral health. As CEO and Founder of Lotuspring, a healthcare-focused advisory firm, she partners with mission-driven organizations to scale solutions that align care, capital, and growth.
About the host:
Ece Kaner is a healthtech founder and systems thinker working at the intersection of reproductive healthcare, artificial intelligence, and public policy. She is the Founder of Pathways to Parenthood, an AI-driven platform designed to help individuals and couples navigate complex family-building journeys including fertility treatment, surrogacy, and adoption. Her work focuses on improving care coordination, transparency, and health equity in reproductive care.Pathways to Parenthood Inc.
This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice; please consult a qualified professional for personal decisions.