In this episode of Untidy, Matilda and Hannah sit down with listener Jo Mackie to talk about one of the biggest decisions a person can make — becoming a single mother by choice.

After years of dating, freezing her eggs, and quietly shelving her dream of motherhood, Jo found herself at 43 standing at a crossroads. Either grieve the life she thought she’d have, or create it on her own. With a little push from her closest friends, a fertility specialist who declared “we’re here to make babies, Jo,” and the universe conspiring in her favour, she embarked on a journey that would bring her son into the world.

Jo talks us through what it’s really like: the IVF rollercoaster, choosing a donor, and navigating pregnancy and parenthood without a partner. She also shares her rare and beautiful ongoing relationship with her donor, Kyle, and the donor-sibling connections she’s fostering for Ashton’s future.

This is a story of courage, friendship, and self-trust. It’s a reminder that family doesn’t always look the way you first imagined it, but it can still be absolutely perfect it its own unique way.

***VOTE FOR UNTIDY IN THE LISTENERS' CHOICE AWARD NOW TO HELP US TAKE IT OUT IN THE NZ PODCAST AWARDS! Link for nominations is in the show notes on your podcast app, @untidypodcast bio or go to https://www.nzpodcastawards.com/nominate.***

References mentioned in the show:

• More young, single Kiwi women are wanting to have children on their own – NZ Herald
• The rise of single mothers by choice – RNZ Nights
• Fertility Associates NZ
• Repromed - Fertility Clinic Auckland | IVF New Zealand | Repromed
• Single Mothers by Choice | Fertility NZ
• Donor Conceived UK for helpful books
• VOTE FOR UNTIDY IN THE LISTENERS' CHOICE AWARD!

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Don’t forget! Untidy is made for YOU — the people right at the heart of this steaming hot mess! Follow the show and DM us on Instagram @untidypodcast or email [email protected]. Your stories and ideas to help shape the show! Find us online at Untidy podcast. Find Matilda at @matootles and get your copy of The Feel Good Guide. Find Hannah at @hannahedavison and her My Big Moments children’s books at @mybigmoments. Enter code UNTIDY at checkout for 10% off your order.

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