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

In this episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick and Barb Collura dive into the complexities of understanding and navigating insurance benefits for fertility care. With invaluable guidance from Barb’s expertise, they provide essential tips on how to approach insurance coverage, maximize benefits, and advocate for yourself when things don’t go as planned. Whether you're just starting to look into fertility benefits or facing coverage challenges, this episode is a must-listen.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Understanding Your Insurance Coverage: Barb breaks down how to navigate the often-confusing world of fertility benefits, focusing on what’s covered, what’s excluded, and how to use your insurance plan to its fullest potential.
• Getting Support From Your Clinic and HR: Learn the importance of working closely with your fertility clinic’s financial team and HR department to get clarity on what’s covered and where to seek help when insurance denies coverage.
• Appealing Denials: A crucial tip from Barb—don’t take no for an answer! Discover how to appeal insurance denials and improve your chances of getting claims covered.
• Managing Medication Costs: Find out how to reduce the out-of-pocket costs of fertility medications and why it’s important not to run them through your dollar cap benefit.
• Navigating Dollar Cap Benefits: Understand the potential challenges of having a dollar cap on your IVF benefits and how to maximize your coverage.

Why You Should Listen:
This episode is essential for anyone who’s trying to make sense of the financial side of fertility treatment. With practical advice on managing insurance coverage and navigating the complex world of fertility benefits, you’ll come away with concrete steps to take control of your journey—no matter where you are in the process.

Call to Action:
Have you navigated the world of fertility insurance? Share your experiences with us! Connect with Rebecca, Barb, and the team by following Infertility Discourse on Spotify. For more resources, including our Coverage at Work program, visit resolve.org and explore tools designed to help you advocate for better benefits.

Listener Links/Resources

• RESOLVE: Financial Resources for Family Building
• RESOLVE: Accessing Fertility Medication Benefits
• RESOLVE: Coverage at Work

In this enlightening episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick, Barb Collura, and Betsy Campbell explore the powerful impact of collaboration through RESOLVE's work with various coalitions. Join us as we delve into how these partnerships amplify our advocacy efforts, driving meaningful change and advancing our mission for those affected by infertility.

Key Topics Discussed

• Coalitions in Action: Learn how RESOLVE builds diverse coalitions at both state and federal levels to address barriers in fertility care and advocate for those who need it most.
• The Value of Diverse Voices: Hear about the importance of including various perspectives from patients, professionals, and community organizations to strengthen our advocacy efforts.
• Navigating Challenges: The hosts discuss the complexities of coalition work, including how to influence direction and the significance of presenting accurate, data-driven information.
• A Call to Advocacy: Discover how you can get involved in state advocacy and access tools and resources to support your efforts.

Why You Should Listen: This episode is a vital reminder of the strength found in collaboration. Whether you’re deeply entrenched in the advocacy space or just beginning to explore it, you’ll gain valuable insights into how RESOLVE's coalition work is essential to improving access to fertility care and supporting families on their journeys.

Call to Action: We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts on this episode and your own experiences with coalitions. Stay connected by following us on Spotify, and visit our website for more information and access to previous episodes and advocacy resources.

Listener Links/Resources

RESOLVE Coalitions and Working Groups: Coalitions & Working Groups

Publishing Guide for Infertility Discourse: Farewell to Betsy Campbell

In this heartfelt episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick and Barb Collura bid a fond farewell to Betsy Campbell, RESOLVE’s Chief Engagement Officer. Join us as we reflect on a year of significant advancements in IVF access and advocacy while celebrating Betsy’s exceptional journey and profound impact on our community.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Betsy’s Highlights at RESOLVE: Hear Betsy share her most cherished moments during her time at RESOLVE, including the initiatives that have shaped the landscape of fertility care.
• Looking Ahead to 2025: Discover what the future holds for state-level access to care initiatives and how our community can stay engaged and active in advocacy.
• The Power of Community: Betsy reflects on the invaluable contributions of volunteers and partners, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in driving change.

Why You Should Listen: This episode is a celebration of the incredible strides made in IVF advocacy over the past year and a tribute to the leadership that Betsy has provided. Whether you’re a long-time supporter of RESOLVE or new to the community, you’ll gain insights into the heart of our mission and the collective effort to help individuals and families build their dreams.

Call to Action: We want to hear from you! Stay connected by following us on Spotify and sharing your thoughts and memories of Betsy. Visit our website for more information and access to previous episodes and resources.

In this episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick, Barb Collura, and Betsy Campbell delve into the critical importance of voter education as it relates to IVF. With IVF on the ballot this November, it’s essential to understand what it truly means when politicians say, “I Support IVF.” This discussion will equip you with the knowledge and motivation to advocate for your rights.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Understanding Voter Education: Discover what voter education means for the infertility community and how it can impact access to IVF and reproductive health.
• State vs. Federal Influence: Learn about the role of state and federal lawmakers in shaping IVF policies and the significant implications for individuals and families.
• Dispelling Common Myths: Your hosts tackle prevalent misconceptions surrounding IVF, including the reasons behind its costs and success rates.
• Effective Communication: Gain insights into how to engage your family and friends in conversations about IVF and its importance in the broader context of reproductive health.

Why You Should Listen: This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about infertility advocacy. It offers valuable insights into how you can be an informed voter and advocate, while also highlighting the power of personal stories in driving change.

Call to Action: We want to hear from you! Connect with us on Spotify and share your thoughts and questions about this episode. For more information on how to advocate for IVF and stay updated on key issues, visit our website at resolve.org. Let’s get up and stand up for our rights together!

About the IVF Issue: RESOLVE - Championing IVF

How to Talk to Friends and Family: RESOLVE - How to Talk About the IVF Issue

Join RESOLVE's Advocacy Network: RESOLVE - Advocacy Network - Sign Up

In this update episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick and Betsy Campbell dive into the groundbreaking new IVF insurance mandate passed in California. This is a significant milestone for advocates and families alike, and Rebecca and Betsy share all the details you need to know.

Key Topics Discussed:

• California’s New IVF Mandate: Explore the specifics of SB 729, its comprehensive coverage for IVF, and what this means for individuals and families in California.
• The Journey to Legislation: Learn about the five-year advocacy process that led to this landmark legislation, including the collaborative efforts of RESOLVE and its partners.
• Impact on the Community: Learn how this new law aims to improve access to fertility treatments for diverse communities, including the LGBTQ+ population.
• Next Steps: Hear about the implications of the governor’s signing message and the upcoming essential health benefits benchmark process that could shape the law’s implementation.

Why You Should Listen: This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of infertility advocacy. It offers critical insights into how dedicated efforts can lead to meaningful change and highlights the importance of community support in advancing reproductive rights.

Call to Action: We want to hear from you! Connect with us on Spotify and share your thoughts and questions. For more information on the California IVF mandate and ways you can get involved, visit our website at resolve.org.

Listener Links / Resources:
Resolve Website

In this quick update episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick and Barb Collura share the latest happenings on Capitol Hill that affect IVF access and advocacy. With a busy week in Congress, they provide insights into new legislative developments and the ongoing efforts of RESOLVE.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Capitol Hill Updates: Get the lowdown on the recent press conference and vote surrounding the Right to IVF Act, including key takeaways from the day.
• Legislative Landscape: Learn about new bills introduced in Congress, the significance of bipartisan support, and the specific challenges facing the Right to IVF Act.
• Community Advocacy: Understand how listeners can engage with their senators and the importance of advocacy in shaping policy around fertility treatments.
• Barb’s Day in D.C.: Enjoy a light moment as Barb recounts her experiences navigating the busy halls of Congress.

Why You Should Listen:
This episode serves as a vital resource for anyone wanting to stay informed about the current legislative climate surrounding IVF. Whether you’re interested in advocacy efforts or seeking to understand the challenges we face, this episode provides a concise overview of crucial issues affecting our community.

Call to Action:
We’d love to hear from you! Stay connected by following us on Spotify and sharing your questions and feedback. Visit our website for more information and updates on how you can take action.

Listener Links / Resources:

• Resolve Website

SHOW NOTES

In this episode of Infertility Discourse, hosts Rebecca Flick and Barb Collura delve into the latest developments impacting IVF access and advocacy. Discover why California is at the center of the action and how it's affecting our show, learn about RESOLVE’s reactions to IVF being a hot topic in the Presidential race, and get an inside look at the complex landscape of Congressional bills related to fertility treatments.

Key Topics Discussed:

• California Update: Get the scoop on what's happening in California and why it’s significant for IVF, RESOLVE, and our podcast.
• Presidential Race and IVF: Explore how the current Presidential race is shaping the conversation around IVF access and advocacy.
• Congressional Legislation Deep Dive: Join Barb and Rebecca as they break down the key bills in Congress, detailing which ones RESOLVE supports or opposes and the reasons behind their positions.
• Barb’s Minnesota Vacation: Enjoy a lighthearted moment as Barb shares a fun story from her recent vacation in Minnesota.

Why You Should Listen:
This episode is a go-to source for understanding the latest in IVF advocacy, including the legislative efforts and challenges we face. Whether you're keen to know more about the political landscape or just interested in some behind-the-scenes insights, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the issues affecting our community.

Call to Action:
We love hearing from you! Stay connected by following us on Spotify and reaching out with your questions and feedback. Visit our website for more details and to access our playlists.

Listener Links / Resources:

• 50th Anniversary:RESOLVE 50th Anniversary
• Donate to the Barb and Chris Collura Tribute Wall:Fight for Families: Donate
• Start a fundraiser for RESOLVE:Fight for Families: Start a Fundraiser
• Learn more about legislation mentioned:Take Action & Learn

Show Notes

In this episode of "Everyday People," hosts Rebecca Flick, Barb Collura and Betsy Campbell answer questions from the community touching on varying topics from the impact of politics on IVF treatment to public representation of infertility treatment to the impact of advocacy on a small and grand scale. Join us as we dive into questions from our listeners, explore our official Spotify playlists, and much more. Whether you're in need of a fresh dose of insights or curious about our playlists, this episode has something for everyone!

Key Topics Discussed:

• Community Q&A: We tackle some of the most intriguing questions from our listeners, shedding light on the topics that matter most to you.
• Host Fun Fact: Discover an interesting tidbit about one of our hosts that you probably didn’t know. It’s a fun and personal touch that adds a unique flavor to our show!
• Spotify Playlists: We discuss our official Spotify playlists, curating music and resources that complement our episodes and enrich your listening experience.
• Additional Highlights: Tune in for more surprises and updates that make this episode a must-listen.

Why You Should Listen:
This episode is packed with engaging content and updates that bring you closer to our hosts and the heart of our show. From answering your questions to sharing personal insights, we aim to keep our community connected and informed.

Call to Action:

We love hearing from you! Stay connected by following us on Spotify and reaching out with your questions and feedback. Visit our website for more details and to access our playlists.

Listener Links / Resources:

• Resolve Website
• Fight for Families Campaign