Join us for a very special episode of *Me, You, and Who?!* as we celebrate the incredible journey of 2024. This year has been truly unforgettable, filled with meaningful conversations, heartfelt stories, and the joy of helping to educate, support, and create happy families.

We’re revisiting some of our favorite moments from the past year, showcasing the inspiring guests, powerful insights, and impactful discussions that have made this season so special.

Whether you’re a hopeful parent, a surrogate, an egg donor, or simply curious about this extraordinary process, this episode is for you. And as we wrap up an amazing year, we’re already looking ahead to 2025 with even more exciting guests and conversations on the horizon.

Thank you for being part of our community and for making 2024 such a remarkable season. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy the best moments of *Me, You, and Who?!*

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In this episode of The Surrogacy Space, hosted by Marla Neufeld, Executive Director, Katy Encalade, shares the inspiring mission behind Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions. Katy discusses how we help create happy families through our comprehensive egg donation and surrogacy programs, while providing meaningful support to intended parents, donors, and surrogates alike. Tune in to learn more about who we are, what we do, and the incredible impact of our work in family-building. A special thank you to Marla for having Katy as a guest and for her commitment to exploring important conversations in the surrogacy community. 

Be sure to check out this episode and others on The Surrogacy Space! https://open.spotify.com/episode/6hvVXclRRTC6atF1qL3mXw

Learn more about Marla Neufeld at www.gmlaw.com

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Summary  In this heartfelt episode of the Me, You, & Who podcast, we sit down to explore the complex experiences of donor-conceived individuals. Together, we delve into the emotional and psychological impact of growing up in a donor-conceived family, shining a light on the importance of identity and connection. We share personal stories about navigating sibling relationships, meeting the donor, and the evolving understanding of our origins. This candid conversation underscores the significance of transparency and early discussions within donor-conceived families, offering insight and advice for those on similar journeys. Whether you're a parent, a donor-conceived individual, or simply curious, this episode offers a compassionate look at the challenges and joys of understanding family and identity. 

Takeaways  

• -Donor conception is a unique journey that shapes identity. 
• -Open communication about donor conception is crucial from an early age. 
• -Meeting the donor can be a significant and emotional experience. 
• -Sibling relationships can form in unexpected ways through donor conception.
•  -It's important to provide children with resources and books about their origins. 
• -Parents should be prepared for ongoing questions about donor conception.
•  -Every family has its own unique story regarding donor conception. 
• -Emotional support is vital for donor-conceived individuals and their families. 
• -Creating a sense of family with donor siblings can be magical.  

Links and Resources

Resources  US Donor Conceived Counsel 

Itsy Bitsy Gift of life

Kanagoo Pouch 

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In this episode, Ebony and Donald Carter take us on their remarkable journey of growing their family through egg donation. Initially, Ebony believed her family was complete after a tubal ligation following her second child. However, after meeting Donald and deciding to expand their family together, they found themselves facing the challenge of infertility. They candidly share the emotional rollercoaster of selecting an egg donor, the support they received from loved ones, and the unwavering faith that guided them through the process. Their story culminates in the heartwarming arrival of their son, Graham. Tune in to hear their powerful narrative of love, resilience, and the belief that even the most challenging dreams can come true.  

Takeaways  

-Egg donation can be a viable option for couples struggling with infertility 

-Having a strong support system can help navigate the emotional challenges of the process 

-The process of selecting an egg donor can be exciting and empowering 

-Open and honest communication with family and friends about the decision to use egg donation is important 

-Having a supportive team is crucial during the egg donation process 

-Keeping the end goal in mind and trusting the process can help navigate the emotional challenges 

-Finding stress relief and being transparent with each other is important for intended parents 

-Never stop chasing your dream of having a family  

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On today's episode, we get to hear from the incredible members of the Egg Donor Coordinators from Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions! In this episode you will hear from these dedicated women about what led them to their roles and learn about the invaluable support they provide to both intended parents and egg donors.

So much is required to navigate this complex process, and these coordinators share how they offer essential guidance every step of the way. For egg donors, this episode reveals the commitment and patience needed, and the profound impact they have on the lives of future parents.

Filled with insights and inspiration, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the world of egg donation. Tune in and be inspired by the incredible stories and expertise of this amazing team! 

Takeaways 

- Egg donor coordinators play a crucial role in providing support and guidance to intended parents and egg donors throughout the fertility process. 

- Clear communication and finding a mutual agreement are essential in addressing legal considerations and the dynamics of known and unidentified donors.

- Egg donor coordinators aim to ensure that everyone involved feels supported and heard. 

- Egg donor coordinators can provide resources and support for those interested in exploring the donor sibling registry 

- Support and understanding are crucial for intended parents and egg donors. 

- The time commitment and flexibility required should not be underestimated. 

- Each journey is unique, and you should not compare experiences. 

- Having support at home is important for both egg donors and intended parents. 

- The agency and team members play a crucial role in providing support and guidance throughout the process. 

- Helping families build their families is fulfilling and rewarding. 

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On today's episode, we have the incredible Kristin McQuaid sharing her profound journey through infertility, surrogacy, loss and the inspiring way she turned the most heartbreaking moment of her life in to something amazing beautifully and good. Kristin opens up about the devastating loss of her daughter, London, and the beautiful ways London’s life has left a lasting impact. 

In this conversation, Kristin takes us through the creation of her unique nonprofit, 'London is the Reason,' which supports parents and surrogates navigating the loss of a child. She discusses the emotional journey of coping with loss, grief, and finding a path to healing after the unimaginable. 

We'll delve into the complexities of moving forward after loss, the readiness to grow a family again, and the unique challenges faced by intended parents and surrogates. Kristin’s story doesn't end in sadness—she shares the joy and love that came with the births of her children, Bexley and Ford.  

This episode is a testament to Kristin's resilience, hope, and the unwavering power of love. Tune in to hear her inspiring story and discover how Kristin's journey can offer solace and strength to anyone facing similar challenges. I know this episode will tug at your heartstrings and inspire you to find hope in the face of adversity.  

Takeaways  

-Kristin's journey through infertility led her to explore surrogacy as a way to start a family.  

-The loss of her daughter, London, inspired Kristin to create the nonprofit 'London is the Reason' to support others facing similar challenges.  

-Celebrating the lives of lost children and finding purpose in their memory is a powerful way to navigate grief and honor their impact.  

-The readiness to grow a family after loss is a personal and complex decision, especially for intended parents and surrogates.  

-The unique challenges faced by intended parents and surrogates in the context of loss and family growth require specialized support and understanding.  

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https://www.londonisthereason.org/  

Book: https://www.londonisthereason.org/an-angel-gave-us-our-angel-book

Summary

On today’s episode, we get to hear from Katy, our Executive Director at Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions, and her intended mom, Kendall, as they reflect on their incredible surrogacy journey. Almost ten years ago, they met for the first time, beginning a path that would not only bring baby Pace into the world but also forge a lifelong friendship.

Katy and Kendall take us through every part of their experience, from the excitement of their match meeting to the challenges they faced during the embryo transfer. They share the joy, laughter, and even moments of uncertainty that defined their journey, while highlighting the importance of communication, trust, and focusing on their shared goal.

As they look back on the birth of baby Pace, they offer heartfelt advice for anyone considering surrogacy. Kendall encourages intended parents to trust their emotions, while Katy reminds us that every surrogacy story is different, and it's important to stay focused on the ultimate goal.

This episode is filled with heart and wisdom, whether you’re considering surrogacy yourself or simply love a great story. I can’t wait for you to listen in and be inspired by Katy and Kendall’s incredible bond and shared experience!

Takeaways

-Surrogacy can be a long and emotional journey, but it can also lead to incredible connections and relationships.

-The match meeting between intended parents and a gestational carrier is an important step in the surrogacy process.

-Trust and communication are key in the surrogacy relationship.

-Complications and fears can arise, but having a shared goal helps navigate through them

-Maintaining a positive and supportive relationship between the surrogate and intended parents is key The support of family and loved ones is crucial during the surrogacy journey.

-The emotional experience of the birth and the unique bond between the intended parents and the surrogate can be profound.

-It's important for intended parents to trust their emotions and not worry about feeling the 'right' way.

-Each surrogacy journey is unique, and it's important to focus on the end goal and recognize that everyone's experience is different.

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On today's episode, I get to sit down with Jenn DiMillo, a remarkable three-time gestational carrier who began her surrogacy journey at the age of 40. Jenn opens up about her life-changing decision in 2015 and how her first match with intended parents sparked a deep desire to bring joy to more families.  

Jenn's story is one of beauty, love, and perseverance. While she faced challenges along the way, the overwhelming support and profound joy she experienced shine through in each of her three incredible journeys. Tune in to hear Jenn's heartfelt story filled with love and pure happiness. 

Takeaways  

- Surrogacy is a deeply personal and rewarding experience that allows individuals to help others create a family.

- The matching process between surrogates and intended parents is crucial for building a strong relationship and ensuring a positive journey. Surrogacy involves physical and emotional challenges, but the support of loved ones and open communication with intended parents can make the experience fulfilling.

- Each surrogacy journey is unique, and surrogates have the opportunity to form lasting connections with intended parents. Becoming a gestational carrier can be a rewarding experience for women who have had positive pregnancies and enjoy being pregnant.

- Having a strong relationship with the intended parents is crucial for a successful surrogacy journey.

- Mental and physical preparedness are important factors to consider before becoming a gestational carrier.

- A supportive agency can provide guidance and support throughout the surrogacy process.

- Surrogacy can have a positive impact on everyone involved, including the gestational carrier, intended parents, and the children.  

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On today's episode, we dive into the world of egg donation with the extraordinary Egg Donor Matching Team from Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions! These remarkable women share their personal journeys and the passion that drives their work in this life-changing field.

You'll hear firsthand how the team provides unwavering support and guidance throughout the process, taking a unique and personalized approach to each match. We delve into the emotional aspects of egg donation, the importance of choosing the right donor, and address common misconceptions. Plus, we highlight the critical role of education, proper guidance, and trust in making this journey a successful one.

Join us for an episode filled with joy, care, and invaluable insights from this amazing team. You won’t want to miss it! Enjoy!

Takeaways  

- Building trust and establishing a good relationship with intended parents is crucial in the egg donation and surrogacy process.

- The matching team provides support and guidance to intended parents, addressing their fears and concerns.

- Choosing the right donor can be a challenging decision, but personal connections and intuition play a significant role.

- Intended parents may have concerns about loving a child who is not genetically connected, but the journey and bond can be just as strong.

- Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions takes a unique and personal approach to the egg donation and surrogacy process. Choosing the right donor is a crucial aspect of the egg donation process, and it often involves an emotional connection.

- Having a support system in place and considering one's current life circumstances are important factors to consider before becoming an egg donor.

- There are common misconceptions about the impact of egg donation on future fertility, but it is important to educate oneself and seek guidance.

- The egg donation process requires a time commitment, and there may be waiting periods between different stages.

- Egg donation is a way to make a difference and create a family, and the connections formed through the process can be fulfilling and meaningful.

- Trust in the matching team and the process is essential for both intended parents and egg donors.

- The decision to become an egg donor or pursue egg donation is just the beginning of the journey to parenthood, and it is important to embrace the process and the possibilities it offers.

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On today's episode we sit down with Lisa Schuman, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in fertility and the founding director of The Center for Family Building. Lisa, co-author of *Building Your Family: The Complete Guide to Donor Conception*, shares her personal journey with infertility and how it led her to dedicate her career to this field. 

Our conversation covers the evolution of reproductive technology and the essential role psychological support plays throughout the process. Lisa offers a deep dive into the therapist's role in surrogacy and egg donation, and also provides valuable advice on discussing donor conception with children and family members, along with resources for ongoing support. 

Tune in for an enlightening discussion packed with practical advice that will resonate with those that are on a journey or have a loved one that is growing there family in this way.  

Takeaways  

- Reproductive technology has evolved significantly, offering more options and higher success rates.

- Psychological support is crucial throughout the reproductive journey for all parties involved. 

- It is recommended that Intended parents establish a strong relationship with their surrogate or egg donor, including regular communication and shared experiences.

- Finding a qualified therapist who is not affiliated with the agency is important for unbiased support.

- Open and honest communication is crucial in the family building process, and should be established from the beginning.

- It is important to consider the long-term implications of decisions made in the family building process, such as the impact on relationships and the child's understanding of their origins.

- Building a supportive community of individuals going through similar experiences can provide valuable support and resources.

- Having conversations about donor conception with children and family members should start early and be ongoing, tailored to the child's personality and needs. 

Links:

Building Your Family Podcast

 The Center for Family Building

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