If you've been through fertility treatments like IVF or IUI and ended your journey without the baby you dreamed of, you might be waiting for the day you finally feel "healed." But what if healing isn't something you ever fully complete? What if infertility isn't a finish line—but a beginning?

In this episode of The "So Now What?" Podcast, you'll discover that you don't have to be completely healed to start feeling proud of who you are becoming. You'll explore how to notice your growth, even on the hard days, and how small steps forward are worth celebrating—even if no one else sees them.

I'll also be sharing details about a few special public events coming up, including a reading from Chapter 11 of my book, So Now What?, titled "Who Are You Now? Who Do You Want to Become?" This question is at the heart of reclaiming your life after infertility, and I hope it inspires you the way it inspired me.

✨ Upcoming Events (All Open to the Public):

🗓 April 28 at 11:30 AM Speaking at Indiana University Northwest Topic: Infertility, Identity, and the Fight to Be Seen – So Now What?

📚 May 1 at 6:30 PM Book Reading and Signing at City Lit in Logan Square Featuring Chapter 11: "Who Are You Now? Who Do You Want to Become?"

🥂 May 10 at 11:30 AM The 4th Annual Other's Day Brunch in Chicago A celebration for women without children to feel seen, supported, and celebrated 🎟 Get your ticket

🎧 Listen now if you've ever thought:

• "I still feel sad, so I must not be healed yet"

• "I didn't become a mom, so what do I celebrate about myself?"

• "I don't even know who I am without motherhood"

This episode is your reminder that you are growing, even if your grief still exists. Your story didn't end when your treatments did. It just started taking a new shape—one that you get to define.

📞 Ready to take the next step?

Book a free 45-minute Thrive Call with me We'll create a plan together for how to start building a life that feels meaningful without the children you dreamed of. 👉 Book your Thrive Call

💬 Free Download

The Top 27 Things People Say When You're Childless (...and how to respond) An authentic and empowering guide to help you feel steady and confident in conversations that often feel uncomfortable. 📥 Download it here

📲 Stay connected:

Instagram: @lana.manikowski YouTube: @lana.manikowski TikTok: @lana.manikowski Website: www.lanamanikowski.com