The season finale of 'Forces in Fertility' is finally here! This week, your proud hosts and Allkind co-founders, Raika and Tiffany, along with their four-legged mascot, Lucky, invite you to join them for a reflective journey through the inaugural season. More than just a retrospective, this episode offers a glimpse into the future. Raika and Tiffany share insights into the creation of Allkind, their remarkable platform dedicated to honoring the diversity of fertility experiences and fostering a non-judgmental space where every story can thrive.

In this episode, we celebrate the power of connection and community, the significance of partnerships, and the serendipity that has enriched Raika and Tiffany's paths. Together, they unpack the transformative power of storytelling and the importance of supporting one another throughout the fertility journey. As we bid farewell to Season One, Raika and Tiffany also provide a sneak peek into what lies ahead for the podcast. Get ready for even more connections, deeper insights, and an even more inclusive and educational Season Two. And, of course, be prepared for further furry guest appearances from the show's adored mascot, Lucky!

Episode highlights include:

• Introducing Lucky: The unspoken hero of Allkind
• Wrapping up Forces in Fertility Season One
• Amplifying Voices: Advocacy and support for the donor-conceived community
• The vital role of connection, community, and safe havens in fertility
• A hype queen life hack: The power of surrounding yourself with motivators, goal-setters, and accountability partners
• Life-changing connections: The power of your tribe in times of crossroads
• Unveiling the next chapter: Buckle up for Forces in Fertility season two

"The world of fertility has continued to progress over time, and we're seeing so much more of a receptive mentality universally, but there still is so much work to be done. I think it's such a privilege to create Forces in Fertility, to have different perspectives to create conversations, and to listen, learn, and connect over different aspects of the fertility space and be a part of something that is creating the next generation of life." - Tiffany Lewis.

Connect with Raika Djalali and Tiffany Lewis:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/raika-djalali/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-lewis-569518106/

https://joinallkind.com/

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Are you ready to celebrate, create, & empower lives? Learn more on how you can begin your donor or surrogate journey today:  https://joinallkind.com/learn-more

This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com

Prepare for a chilling journey into the world of corruption and deception this week as Raika and Tiffany unravel the disturbing tale of a fertility specialist, exposed by the Netflix documentary Our Father, who committed a shocking violation - substituting his own sperm for that of unsuspecting fathers. This reprehensible act carried out over decades, resulted in an estimated 94 children and left countless lives shattered by such betrayal. With an outrageously lenient penalty - a mere $500 fine and license revocation after retirement – Raika and Tiffany take a hard look at the glaring inadequacy of the justice served and highlight the inspiring power of unity and determination in revealing this horrific scandal.

Episode highlights include:    

• A harrowing true story: Our Father available on Netflix
• The power of numbers in exposing injustices in fertility clinics
• The importance of normalizing the conversation around infertility and advocating for change
• What the future of fertility looks like 

 Connect with Raika Djalali and Tiffany Lewis:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/raika-djalali/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-lewis-569518106/

https://joinallkind.com/

RESOURCES:

https://www.23andme.com/

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Are you ready to celebrate, create, & empower lives? Learn more on how you can begin your donor or surrogate journey today:  https://joinallkind.com/learn-more

This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com

Welcome to another episode of Forces Infertility! In today's enlightening discussion, we dive into the multifaceted world of fertility and reproductive health. Our esteemed guest, Dr. Karenne Fru, MD, PhD, double board-certified OBGYN and reproductive endocrinologist, brings her unique insights and experiences to the forefront as we explore various aspects of this important field.

"Run your own race. Life is not a competition. You owe nobody anything. Put out the kind of emotion that you wish to receive. And if you don't receive it, that is not really your problem, that's somebody else's problem." – Dr. Karenne Fru

Episode Highlights:

A Closer Look at Egg Donation and IVF: Dr. Fru takes us through the intricate process of egg donation and in-vitro fertilization (IVF), shedding light on the steps involved and dispelling common misconceptions. From trigger shots to egg retrieval, every detail is discussed with clarity and expertise.

Discussing the Nuances Between BMI and Fertility: Delving into the topic of body mass index (BMI) and its impact on fertility, Dr. Fru provides valuable insights into why BMI is a crucial consideration in fertility treatments. She emphasizes the importance of understanding how BMI affects egg quality and the technical aspects of procedures like egg retrieval.

Uncovering Legal and Societal Challenges in Reproductive Health: Dr. Fru navigates the complex landscape of legal and societal challenges surrounding reproductive health. From donor anonymity to surrogacy laws, she offers a comprehensive perspective on the obstacles faced by individuals and families seeking fertility treatments.

Shaping Efforts to Support Marginalized Groups: Drawing from her own experiences and initiatives, Dr. Fru discusses how her journey has shaped efforts to support marginalized groups in accessing fertility care. Through her work at Muna Fertility, she strives to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where all patients feel valued and empowered.

Exploring the Emotional and Practical Aspects of Fertility Journeys: Dr. Fru shares poignant insights into the emotional and practical aspects of fertility journeys. From the grief of infertility to the joy of parenthood, she highlights the resilience and bravery of individuals navigating the challenges of conception.

"Life is a terminal by Design. Our bodies will eventually fail, and what I do for a living is I function in this reproductive window, and that is all it is. There's a period, it starts, and it stops, and it's finite." – Dr. Karenne Fru

In this episode, Dr. Fru's wisdom and compassion shine through as we explore the complexities of fertility and reproductive health. Join us on this enlightening journey as we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs within this vital field.

Connect with Dr. Karenne Fru:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenne-fru/

Connect with Raika Djalali:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/raika-djalali/

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Are you ready to celebrate, create, & empower lives? Learn more on how you can begin your donor or surrogate journey today:  https://www.allkind.inc/community

This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com

When a family friend confided her struggles with infertility, it sparked something in Blyte Spears that she couldn't ignore—setting her on a path toward a profound exploration of third-party fertility. In this episode, Blyte joins Raika for an intimate look into the world of surrogacy and egg donation, where she shares the pivotal moment of transitioning from considering egg donation to embracing the possibility of surrogacy.

Throughout the discussion, Blyte uncovers her astonishment at the illegality of surrogacy in certain states and expresses her heartfelt concerns about the impact her journey would have on her children. We also discover Blyte's ambition to empower underrepresented families and celebrate her beautiful journey coming full circle as Blyte unveils her transition to becoming a care coordinator at Allkind, a glimmering testament to her commitment to fostering support, providing education, and dispelling misconceptions for those seeking to embark on their own fertility journeys. Episode highlights include:

• Seeds of compassion: Exploring third-party fertility journeys
• Egg donation and surrogacy – Is there a difference between both processes?
• Breaking taboos and the astonishing reality of surrogacy's legality
• Empowering decisions: Blyte's commitment to helping underrepresented families
• Navigating concerns: Preparing children for the surrogacy journey
• The importance of building bonds of support and encouragement
• Family expansion: Embarking on a path of fostering-to-adopt
• Being open to maintaining future connections with surrogacy families

"I'm so excited about being able to educate people on surrogacy. I think the reason why there are so many stigmas and why it's so taboo is because people are uneducated. And I was, too. I literally thought that the babies were biologically related to you when you were a surrogate. I had no idea you were just a home to these little babies, and then they go home to their family." – Blyte Spears.

Connect with Blyte Spears:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/blyte-spears-404611287/

 Connect with Raika Djalali:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/raika-djalali/

https://joinallkind.com/

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Are you ready to celebrate, create, & empower lives? Learn more on how you can begin your donor or surrogate journey today:  https://joinallkind.com/learn-more

This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com

Whether you're just starting to explore your options or are well on your way to building your family, we understand that the road ahead can feel overwhelming. But fear not! Joining Raika this week is reproductive endocrinologist and fertility specialist Dr. Said Daneshmand, who is here to set the record straight - dispelling fertility myths and illuminating truths, ensuring you can step forward confidently into this life-changing journey.

Throughout the discussion, Dr. Daneshmand unpacks the deeply rewarding process of aiding individuals and couples on their path to parenthood, uncovers the latest breakthroughs in reproductive technology, and discusses how research is paving the way for safer and more successful outcomes. From the evolution of egg and sperm retrieval techniques to the intricate process of selecting egg donors to Dr. Daneshmand's love for geeking out in genetics – we cover it all! This episode is a treasure trove of hope and reassurance and will debunk myths, unravel any questions, and calm any worries you may have. So, if you're ready to put your mind at ease and take the next step towards building your family, hit play now and let Dr. Daneshmand be your guide! Episode highlights include:

• Championing change and overcoming obstacles in third-party reproduction
• The crucial role of collaboration in the future of reproductive healthcare
• The Power of One: The advantages of single embryo transfers in fertility treatments
• Expert advice on navigating the surrogacy and donation journey with confidence
• The importance of being proactive with your care
• Career fulfillment: The Joys of Making a Difference in Reproductive Medicine
• Debunking myths in finding the perfect donor match
• How often should someone become a donor or a surrogate?
• How Next-Generation Sequencing is revolutionizing reproductive medicine

"Surrogates are putting their health and life on the line to help create families. We have a duty as physicians and as health care providers to minimize risks for them." – Dr Said Daneshmand.

Resources:

American Society for Reproductive Medicine

https://www.asrm.org/

Connect with Dr. Said Daneshmand:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/said-daneshmand-8abb4840

Connect with Raika Djalali and Tiffany Lewis:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/raika-djalali/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-lewis-569518106/

https://www.allkind.inc/

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Are you ready to celebrate, create, & empower lives? Learn more on how you can begin your donor or surrogate journey today:  https://www.allkind.inc/community

This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com

Alexandra Ryan, the heart behind the headlines, the instrumental woman who carried Chrissy Teigen and John Legend's child, Wren, safely earthside, is here to bring us on a journey of love, generosity, dedication, and surrogacy. Alexandra shares her remarkable journey of carrying for Legends, revealing her stepping stones into surrogacy and the intimate bond that blossoms between surrogates and intended parents. Alexandra opens up about adjusting to the spotlight of celebrity surrogacy, the deep emotions involved, and the honor of having a child named after her.

"The small part I play in each of my surrogate babies' lives is that I carried them for a short time. I kept them safe. Then, I brought them into the world with their parents eagerly waiting for them. So I always carry that with me, but having Wren named after me was one of the most precious moments because nobody's named after me, not even my own daughter. So it's very special, and I feel so honored by it" – Alexandra Ryan.

As a voice for surrogates, Alexandra also busts the myths about surrogacy, addressing the misconceptions head-on, and takes us into the private moments that define such a profound life choice, where joy and challenge dance in a delicate balance. Alexandra shares her motivations for becoming a surrogate and her future aspirations to bring more joy into the lives of hopeful parents. As a champion for surrogates everywhere, Alexandra embodies the essence of giving the gift of family. Beyond the glitz of celebrity headlines, this episode delves into the genuine commitment and compassion of surrogacy while highlighting the necessary changes needed within medical fields. Episode highlights include:

• The honor of surrogacy: Being selected by a celebrity couple for their journey
• Navigating a surrogacy journey in the public eye and addressing the misconceptions
• A legacy of love: The enduring impact of precious moments and genuine connections
• Delivery rewards: The emotional journey of giving life to a family
• Modernizing Surrogacy: The need to advance medical practices and policies
• Advocating for yourself in surrogacy and prioritizing your well-being
• Navigating pregnancy complications, personal family concerns, and planning for future journeys
• Alexandra's favorite blossoming joys and highlights of pregnancy

"I feel the most beautiful when I'm pregnant. I feel the most beautiful knowing that I'm carrying life inside me." – Alexandra Ryan.

Connect with Alexandra Ryan:

https://www.instagram.com/alexandraarosiee/

Connect with Raika Djalali and Tiffany Lewis:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/raika-djalali/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-lewis-569518106/

https://www.allkind.inc/

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Are you ready to celebrate, create,

& empower lives? Learn more on how you can begin your

donor or surrogate journey today:  https://www.allkind.inc/community

This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com

Allkind co-founders Tiffany Lewis and Raika Djalali share their deeply personal and resilient journey behind their company, which is reshaping the fertility industry. Tiffany and Raika pull back the curtain on the struggles and triumphs of entrepreneurship, particularly in the emotionally charged world of fertility services. This conversation is not just about the nuts and bolts of building a business—it's an intimate look at the emotional landscape of innovating, the power of community, and the sheer tenacity required to turn a dream into reality. Tiffany and Raika's journey reminds us that for every hardship endured, there's an equal potential for joy and fulfillment on the other side.

Tune in now to hear how Tiffany and Raika are shaping an empire and forging a community that champions empowerment, innovation, and the future of family building.

Episode highlights include:

• The rise of Allkind and the passion and grit driving Tiffany and Raika
• Learning the language of venture capital and overcoming challenges and rejection  
• Creating the life of your dreams and the sacrifices of entrepreneurship     
• The Allkind Community - Celebrating the growth of a community that shares in the vision of improving fertility and family building   
• Empowerment through innovation - How Allkind is creating a movement that empowers individuals and redefines fertility experiences

"We always kept saying Allkind is bigger than just us two. We knew that from the beginning, and we had to make certain decisions in those early days, some sacrifices that ultimately changed the trajectory of our lives, like our friendships. We lost a ton of friendships. We made the decision to change our lives because we knew that this opportunity was bigger than just us." - Tiffany Lewis.

Connect with Raika Djalali and Tiffany Lewis:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/raika-djalali/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-lewis-569518106/

https://www.allkind.inc/

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Are you ready to celebrate, create,

& empower lives? Learn more on how you can begin your

donor or surrogate journey today:  https://app.allkind.inc/start

This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com