(In)Fertility Discourse: A RESOLVE Podcast

In this episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick and Alise Powell sit down with Sylvia Dao, RESOLVE’s Access to Care Manager and leader of the Coverage at Work program.

Sylvia offers a look at what it’s like to advocate for fertility benefits inside the workplace—and how RESOLVE equips employees to do it with clarity and confidence.

From decoding insurance jargon to drafting letters to HR, Sylvia shares real stories of the quiet persistence and everyday bravery that it takes to turn a “no” into a family-building “yes.” She also explains how RESOLVE’s free resources, including a comprehensive Coverage at Work Toolkit, are helping more people navigate a complex—and often confusing—system.

Whether you’re just starting your family-building journey or have been advocating for better coverage for years, this episode is packed with insight, strategy, and encouragement.

Key Topics Discussed:

• What the Coverage at Work Program Actually Does:
  Sylvia breaks down how RESOLVE’s program supports both employees and employers—from initial outreach to full benefits implementation.
• Why Asking for Benefits Feels So Hard:
  Talking to HR about something as personal as infertility can be daunting. Sylvia touches on why that fear is valid—and how to overcome it.
• Self-Insured vs. Fully Insured Plans:
  Understanding your employer’s insurance structure is key. This episode walks through what to ask, what to look for in your policy, and how to start the conversation.
• The Power of the Toolkit:
  Model benefits language, ROI data, success stories—it’s all inside RESOLVE’s free toolkit, designed to help you advocate with confidence.
• Real-Life Successes:
  Sylvia shares the story of one employee’s eight-month journey to securing comprehensive family-building benefits—and how it led to a long-awaited baby boy.

🎧 Why You Should Listen:

If you’ve ever wondered how to actually ask your employer for fertility coverage—or if you’ve tried before and been shut down—this episode is for you.

It’s grounded, hopeful, and full of actionable guidance. Sylvia brings a calm, clear voice to a process that can feel overwhelming, showing listeners that change is not only possible—it’s happening.

And with more than 3 million employees gaining access to benefits through this program, RESOLVE’s Coverage at Work isn’t just a resource. It’s a movement.

Call to Action:

• Ready to ask for better family-building benefits at work?
  Visit resolve.org/coverageatwork to download the free toolkit and connect with RESOLVE’s Access to Care team.
• Employers: Want to support your team?
  The employer version of the toolkit has everything you need to get started.
• Share this episode with a friend, coworker, or anyone navigating infertility in the workplace. You never know who might need it.

Together, we’re opening doors to care—one workplace at a time.

In this special episode of Infertility Discourse, host Rebecca Flick sits down with RESOLVE President & CEO Barb Collura for one final conversation.

After more than two decades at the helm of RESOLVE’s advocacy efforts, Barb is stepping away from her role on June 30, 2025. But before she goes, she joins Rebecca to reflect on the evolution of family-building policy, the power of persistence, and what it takes to build a true movement—not just a moment.

From the early days of brown-bag lunches on Capitol Hill to today's multi-state legislative strategy, this episode is both a retrospective and a roadmap for what's next.

Key Topics Discussed:

• From Volunteer to Visionary:
  Barb shares her journey from grassroots volunteer to national leader, painting a picture of RESOLVE’s early advocacy efforts—and how far we’ve come.
• How the Advocacy Landscape Has Shifted:
  What used to be decentralized and DIY is now a coordinated, tech-enabled movement. Barb and Rebecca discuss the rise of returning advocates, the power of storytelling, and the hard-earned lessons of state-by-state battles.
•  What Makes a Great Advocate:
  Hint: It’s not about policy wonkery. It’s about vulnerability, clarity, and commitment. Barb outlines what she calls her “advocate in a box”—and why showing up year after year matters more than ever.
• Facing the Current Threats:
  From disinformation to outright hostility toward IVF, the stakes have never been higher. Barb encourages listeners to stay engaged—because advocacy isn’t optional. It’s essential.
• A Wish for the Future:
  Barb’s closing message to the community is clear: progress happens when we stop starting from zero. We need your voice, your story, and your support—today, tomorrow, and beyond.

Why You Should Listen:

If you’ve ever taken part in RESOLVE’s Advocacy Day, called a lawmaker, or even just wondered “Why is family-building so hard to access?”—this episode is for you. Barb’s reflections offer rare insight into how policy change really happens, and why sustained, collective effort is the only way forward.

Call to Action:

• Visit resolve.org to support advocacy, become a donor, or get involved.
• Share this episode with someone who’s just beginning their journey—or someone who’s ready to give back.
• Use RESOLVE’s Advocacy Toolkit to take action in your state

Listener Links / Resources

RESOLVE |  Donate

In this episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick & Barb Collura and Director of Government Affairs Alise Powell for a conversation that cuts through the noise and gets real about two emerging threats to fertility care: ethical IVF and restorative reproductive medicine (RRM).

With sharp insight and a nod to a classic ‘90s anthem, the trio unpacks the language, motivations, and policy implications behind these terms—and why patients, providers, and advocates need to be paying close attention.

As Barb explains, these aren’t just fringe ideas—they’re being introduced in statehouses, cited in federal legislation, and quietly shaping conversations about how IVF is practiced, funded, and accessed across the country.

Key Topics Discussed:

• What “Ethical IVF” Really Means—And Why It’s Misleading:
  The term sounds harmless—even appealing. But in practice, “ethical IVF” is often shorthand for policies that impose moral or religious restrictions on IVF treatment, including limits on embryo creation, freezing, or disposal. The goal? To chip away at standard IVF care without banning it outright.
• RRM: The Rebrand of Anti-IVF Advocacy:
  Restorative reproductive medicine may sound holistic, but it’s often a coded way to divert patients from IVF entirely—regardless of their diagnosis. While healthy lifestyle practices and whole-person care are already part of fertility treatment, RRM aims to replace science-backed care with a one-size-fits-all alternative that delays or denies access to IVF.
• From the Clinic to the Capitol:
  The discussion outlines how these ideas are moving from white papers to policy—most notably in Arkansas, where RRM is already enshrined in law. With similar bills introduced in Congress, the hosts warn that more states could follow unless the fertility community speaks up.
• What Patients Need to Know (and Do):
  This episode empowers listeners with the facts and language they need to push back against vague or misleading claims. RESOLVE stands firmly behind patient autonomy, science-based care, and the right for every individual to make their own medical decisions in partnership with their doctor.

Why You Should Listen:
This isn’t just a policy discussion—it’s a wake-up call. If you care about IVF access, patient rights, or protecting the future of reproductive care, you need to understand the playbook being used to undermine it. You’ll come away informed, motivated, and ready to help RESOLVE stop these efforts before they spread further.

Call to Action:
Help RESOLVE protect IVF care from disguised restrictions.

• Share this episode with friends, family, and your elected officials.
• Visit resolve.org to learn more, make a donation, or get involved in advocacy.
• Use RESOLVE’s Advocacy Toolkit to track legislation and raise your voice where it counts.
•  No promise, no purpose, no action? That’s a scrub—and there’s no place for it in fertility care.

Listener Links / Resources

RESOLVE |  Protecting IVF

In this episode of Infertility Discourse, RESOLVE President & CEO Barb Collura is joined by advocacy powerhouses Alise Powell, RESOLVE’s new Director of Government Affairs, and Jessie Losch, Director of Government Affairs at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM).

Together, they break down what’s happening in state legislatures across the country—both the exciting wins and the emerging threats to fertility care access. With the 2025 legislative session still in full swing in many states, this episode is your inside look at where things stand, how fast things are moving, and what advocates need to know to stay engaged and make an impact.

Whether you're a seasoned advocate or just starting to follow fertility policy, this conversation offers insight, clarity, and a call to action.

Key Topics Discussed:

• State-Level Wins in 2025 (So Far):
   From unexpected victories in Georgia to promising progress in Oregon and Nevada, the guests highlight where IVF protection bills and insurance mandates are gaining ground—and how local advocates have led the charge.
• The Rise of “TRAP” Bills and Overregulation:
   Learn about the disturbing trend of copy-and-paste legislation designed to overregulate IVF clinics and providers. Modeled after laws targeting abortion access, these bills are gaining traction and demand vigilance from the fertility community.
• Lessons from Setbacks:
   Not every bill crosses the finish line—but that doesn’t mean advocacy efforts were in vain. The team reflects on recent challenges in Washington State and Minnesota, sharing key takeaways about political realities, budget constraints, and the long game of legislative change.
• The Power of Grassroots Mobilization:
   From hosting statehouse advocacy days to sharing personal stories with lawmakers, the episode underscores how patient advocates are building momentum at the local level and setting the stage for future wins.
• Looking Ahead to Federal Advocacy Day:
   The conversation wraps with a plug for RESOLVE and ASRM’s virtual Federal Advocacy Day on May 20—an accessible way for anyone to get involved and make their voice heard in Washington, D.C.

Why You Should Listen:
This episode offers a candid and empowering look at the dynamic state of fertility legislation in the U.S. You'll walk away with a better understanding of how policy decisions are unfolding at the state level, why it’s crucial to stay engaged, and how your voice can help protect and expand access to fertility care.

Whether you’re directly impacted by fertility policy, working in the field, or advocating for change, this episode equips you with the insights and encouragement to keep going—even when the path isn’t easy.

Call to Action:
We’re only partway through the 2025 state legislative season—and every advocate counts. Stay informed and involved by visiting resolve.org to track legislation in your state, access RESOLVE’s State Advocacy Toolkit, and register for Federal Advocacy Day on May 20. It’s free, virtual, and open to all. Share this episode with your network to help raise awareness and keep the conversation going.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Infertility Discourse for more conversations that empower and inform—and visit RESOLVE’s website for the latest updates and ways to get involved.

Listener Links / Resources

Jessie Losch | LinkedIn

RESOLVE | Legislation

RESOLVE | Advocacy Day

ASRM | Advocacy Toolkit

In this insightful episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick and Barb Collura sit down with Carolynn Dube, Executive Director of Fertility Matters Canada (FMC). Carolynn walks us through the advocacy efforts her organization leads in Canada, pushing for better fertility care access and coverage. From grassroots movements to collaborating with policymakers, Carolynn shares the exciting progress FMC has made—and the challenges still to overcome.

This episode is a deep dive into the intersection of fertility care and public policy in Canada, showcasing the power of collaboration and the importance of continuing the fight for equitable access to fertility services.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The State of Fertility Care in Canada: Carolynn explains how Canada's universal healthcare system leaves fertility treatments out of coverage and how FMC is working tirelessly to change that.
• The Power of Grassroots Advocacy: Learn how local advocacy groups across Canada are pushing for fertility care access in their provinces, from fundraising efforts to meeting with lawmakers.
• The Role of Collaboration Between Advocacy Organizations: Carolynn highlights the long-standing relationship between FMC and RESOLVE, how both organizations learn from each other, and how they work together to amplify their impact.
• The Ongoing Fight for Equity: Even with the progress made, there’s still work to do. Carolynn breaks down the various funding models across provinces, explaining the disparities and the ongoing fight to ensure everyone has equitable access to fertility care.
• Fertility Care in Provincial Elections: The surprising success of getting fertility coverage included in provincial campaign platforms, and what that means for the future of fertility care access in Canada.
• What’s Next for Fertility Matters Canada: Carolynn shares insights into FMC's next big steps in advocacy, including an upcoming federal grassroots campaign that will give Canadians a voice in the upcoming federal election.

Why You Should Listen:

If you’ve ever wondered how advocacy for fertility care plays out in different countries, this episode offers valuable insight into Canada’s progress and challenges. Carolynn’s passion and expertise in fertility advocacy shine through as she discusses how grassroots efforts are creating real change, and how organizations like FMC are working to ensure fertility care is seen as a vital part of healthcare in Canada.

Whether you're an advocate, policymaker, or someone navigating fertility challenges, this conversation is sure to inspire and inform.

Call to Action:
Fertility access in Canada is advancing, but there’s more work to be done. If you're in Canada—or know someone who is—get involved with Fertility Matters Canada and help continue the push for universal fertility coverage. Visit FertilityMattersCanada.ca to learn more, support the cause, and find out how you can make a difference. Share this episode with your network to help raise awareness and keep the conversation going.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Infertility Discourse for more episodes and visit resolve.org to explore how you can support fertility access in your community.

Listener Links / Resources

https://www.fertilitymatters.ca/

https://www.fertilitymatters.ca/involve/programs/podcast/

In this empowering episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick and Barb Collura sit down with two powerhouse advocates from Minnesota—Julie Berman and Miraya Gran. They dive deep into the ins and outs of advocating for fertility access, sharing the unique challenges they’ve faced in speaking with lawmakers, especially with those who may not initially support the cause. Julie and Miraya also provide an exciting update on the status of fertility preservation legislation in Minnesota, shedding light on the progress they've made and the hard work still ahead.

This episode is a testament to the resilience and determination it takes to move the needle on issues of reproductive health and rights.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Talking to Lawmakers Who Aren’t on Your Side: Julie and Miraya share their experiences advocating to lawmakers who might not be immediately supportive of fertility access and how they’ve turned tough conversations into opportunities for education and change.
• Minnesota’s Progress on Fertility Preservation Legislation: An update on the exciting strides being made in Minnesota to pass legislation that covers fertility preservation for medically induced infertility, including key bipartisan support.
• The Power of Storytelling in Advocacy: How real-life stories can make a powerful impact on lawmakers and why it’s so important for advocates to keep pushing forward, even when things seem tough.
• Grassroots Advocacy Tips: The importance of showing up, connecting with others, and staying committed, no matter the political climate.
• The Road Ahead in Minnesota: Julie and Miraya give us the latest on what’s next in the legislative process, including committee hearings and the ongoing work to get more people involved.

Why You Should Listen: This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes work of advocacy, especially in the fight for fertility access. Whether you're an experienced advocate or just beginning to understand the importance of these issues, Julie and Miraya’s dedication and perseverance will inspire you. Their stories remind us all why it’s crucial to keep pushing for the policies and protections families need to build their families, no matter the obstacles.

Call to Action: Minnesota’s fertility preservation bill is gaining momentum, but advocates are still needed. If you're in Minnesota or know someone who is, get involved in the fight for access to IVF and fertility preservation. Visit MinnesotaBuildingFamilies.org to learn more, sign up for updates, and find out how you can help move the needle forward. Share this episode with your network to raise awareness about this critical cause and keep the conversation going.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Infertility Discourse for more episodes and visit resolve.org to discover more ways you can support families in need of fertility access.

In this powerful episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick and Barb Collura are joined by two incredible advocates—Jamie Heard and Corinn O'Brien—as they reflect on the ongoing fight for fertility access in Alabama. Looking back on the momentous events of February 2024, Jamie and Corinn share their journeys, their challenges, and the heart of their advocacy in response to the Alabama Supreme Court decision. It’s a story of perseverance, passion, and the power of personal stories in shaping change. (Spoiler alert: There’s still a lot of work to be done in Alabama, and these advocates aren’t backing down.)

Key Topics Discussed:

• The Impact of the Alabama Supreme Court Decision: A deep dive into the pivotal ruling and the ways it’s continuing to affect families in Alabama.
• Grassroots Advocacy in Action: Jamie and Corinn recount their experiences from a packed State House to Capitol Hill, highlighting the importance of real-life stories in influencing policy.
• Challenges in Alabama: Current events in Alabama surrounding IVF and the fight for full and permanent IVF protection—plus the fight against harmful regulations.
• Inspiration to Act: How Jamie’s first experience in advocacy transformed her, and how Corinn’s leadership in the movement continues to guide and inspire others.

Why You Should Listen: This episode is a reminder of the power of personal stories in advocating for change. From Jamie’s nervous first steps into the world of advocacy to Corinn’s leadership and vision for the future, whether you’re a seasoned advocate or just beginning to understand the importance of fertility access, their stories will inspire you to take action. The fight is far from over, and their voices will remind you why your own advocacy matters.

Call to Action:
We’re in this fight for the long haul, and we need your help. If you’re in Alabama or know someone who is, reach out to Fight for Alabama Families and get involved. Share this episode with your network to amplify these important voices and spread awareness about the critical fight for IVF access and family-building rights in Alabama. Don’t forget to subscribe to Infertility Discourse for more updates, and visit resolve.org to discover how you can help support this cause.

Listener Links / Resources

RESOLVE - Website

RESOLVE - Support Groups

Fight For Alabama Families - Website

In this episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick and Barb Collura dive into the recent White House Executive Order on IVF access and protection, which was released on February 18, 2025. With a mix of optimism and skepticism, Barb and Rebecca break down the details of this order and what it means for families seeking fertility treatment. Tune in as they discuss the potential impact of the executive order, the uncertainty surrounding its future, and RESOLVE’s commitment to advocating for patient rights.

Key Topics Discussed:

• The White House Executive Order on IVF: A breakdown of the executive order released on February 18, 2025, and what it aims to accomplish in expanding and protecting IVF access.
• What This Means for Families: Barb and Rebecca discuss the immediate unknowns—who will be impacted, how policies might evolve, and why there’s skepticism in the community.
• RESOLVE’s Role: Why RESOLVE is speaking out and how the organization plans to advocate for IVF access and patient rights over the next 90 days.
• Understanding the Process: An overview of the role of executive orders and what “policy recommendations” could mean for future changes to fertility care in the U.S.
• What’s Next for Advocacy: Barb and Rebecca emphasize the importance of staying connected and informed about the evolving landscape of IVF access and insurance coverage.

Why You Should Listen:
This episode provides critical insights into the latest developments surrounding IVF access, straight from the experts at RESOLVE. Whether you’re a patient, advocate, or simply someone seeking to understand the potential impact of recent government actions on fertility care, this episode breaks down what you need to know. While the future remains uncertain, the conversation offers hope and clarity on how we can all be part of pushing for meaningful change in fertility policy.

Call to Action:
Stay informed, stay engaged, and take action! To get the latest updates on the executive order and other important fertility advocacy initiatives, sign up for RESOLVE's Advocacy Network at resolve.org. Don’t forget to share this episode with your network to spread awareness about the ongoing efforts to protect IVF access. Also, be sure to register for RESOLVE’s Federal Advocacy Day on May 20, 2025, to get involved in this important conversation and help make your voice heard.

Listener Links / Resources

RESOLVE - Website

In this episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick and Barb Collura wrap up 2024 with a thoughtful reflection on the year in advocacy. As December comes to a close, they look back on the moments that inspired them, the challenges that have tested their resolve, and the reasons why they’re still hopeful for the future of fertility access. In a time when the fight for family-building options continues, Rebecca and Barb share their perspectives on the progress made and the road ahead in 2025.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Year in Review: Rebecca and Barb discuss the milestones of 2024 in advocacy—what worked, what didn’t, and what’s left to be done to ensure equitable access to IVF and family-building support.
• Frustrations and Triumphs: A candid look at the challenges of the year, including setbacks in policy changes, but also moments of triumph where community efforts sparked meaningful progress.
• A Hopeful Future: Why there is still hope and optimism about the future of fertility advocacy in 2025 and beyond.
• The Power of Persistence: An exploration of the grassroots efforts that continue to shape the landscape of fertility care and what it takes to keep pushing for change.

Why You Should Listen: This episode offers a balanced reflection on a year full of highs and lows in the world of advocacy. With a focus on both the frustrations and the wins, Rebecca and Barb remind listeners why their continued involvement is so important. Whether you’re already advocating or are just beginning to understand the impact of policy on fertility access, this conversation will leave you feeling motivated and inspired for what’s to come in 2025.

Call to Action: As we close out the year, take a moment to reflect on your own advocacy journey. Ready to get involved? Share this episode with your network to help spread the word about the importance of continued advocacy for fertility access. Be sure to subscribe to Infertility Discourse for more updates, and visit resolve.org to discover how you can get involved in supporting and protecting family-building rights.

Listener Links/Resources:

• RESOLVE
• RESOLVE - Donate

In this episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick and Barb Collura look ahead to what could be a pivotal year for fertility access in 2025. With 2024 coming to a close, they delve into the unknowns and possibilities that the new year could bring for individuals seeking IVF coverage and support. From state advocacy efforts to federal legislation, Rebecca and Barb share insights on the importance of staying vigilant and prepared to protect and expand access to family-building options.

Key Topics Discussed:

• What to Expect in 2025: Rebecca and Barb explore what the year ahead could hold for IVF access, particularly in terms of state and federal advocacy, legislation, and expanding coverage.
• State-Level Advocacy: Learn about upcoming efforts in key states such as Minnesota, Oregon, and Michigan, and how you can get involved in advocating for IVF coverage and family-building rights.
• Federal Advocacy Day: Barb and Rebecca highlight the importance of RESOLVE's federal advocacy day in May 2025, how to get involved, and why it's crucial to have a strong grassroots movement behind legislation.
• The "But" After the Support of Legislation: A discussion about the potential risks of well-meaning but harmful legislation that could regulate IVF practices in ways that might limit patient autonomy, such as restricting genetic testing or limiting the use of frozen embryos.
• The Power of Community Advocacy: Rebecca emphasizes how vital it is for listeners to join RESOLVE’s advocacy network and get involved in grassroots efforts to protect and expand IVF access, particularly in underrepresented states.

Why You Should Listen: This episode is essential for anyone concerned about the future of IVF access. With an insightful discussion on the challenges and opportunities in 2025, you'll learn how you can make a difference in advocating for policies that truly support patients’ rights to family-building. Whether you’re already engaged in advocacy or just getting started, this episode will leave you feeling informed, motivated, and ready to take action.

Call to Action: Are you ready to make a difference in 2025? Join RESOLVE's grassroots advocacy network and help amplify the voice of the IVF community. Share this episode with friends and family, and be sure to subscribe to Infertility Discourse for more updates on how you can get involved in protecting IVF access. Visit resolve.org to learn more about advocacy opportunities and resources.

Listener Links/Resources:

• RESOLVE