What’s it really like when your wife decides to become a surrogate? In this unique and candid episode, Whitney sits down with five husbands whose wives are not only surrogates but also team members at Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions. These dads and partners pull back the curtain to share what the surrogacy journey looks like from their point of view.

They talk about everything from their first reactions to the idea of surrogacy, how they came to understand and support the process, and the incredible moments of meeting intended parents and witnessing the births of babies their families helped bring into the world.

You’ll hear honest reflections on how surrogacy impacted their marriages, family life, and kids, along with their advice for other partners who might be unsure about saying “yes” to this journey. If you're a spouse, partner, or just curious about how surrogacy affects the whole family, this episode is full of insight, laughter, and powerful perspective.

Takeaways

-Surrogacy is a profound journey that impacts the entire family.
-Initial reactions to the idea of surrogacy can vary widely among partners.
-Understanding the surrogacy process is crucial for both the surrogate and her partner.
-Meeting the intended parents can make the surrogacy journey feel real and meaningful.
-Family dynamics play a significant role in the surrogacy experience.
-The emotional journey of surrogacy is filled with highs and lows.
-Delivery day is a pivotal moment that solidifies the purpose of surrogacy.
-Support during the pregnancy is essential for the surrogate and her family.
-Reflections on the journey highlight the lasting bonds formed between families.
-Advice for potential surrogates and their partners emphasizes communication and education.

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In today’s episode, Whitney is joined by Dr. Audrey Puentes, a board-certified OB-GYN and intended parent who brings a rare and valuable perspective to the surrogacy conversation. As someone who has supported patients through pregnancy and delivery, and also walked the surrogacy journey herself, Audrey understands both sides in a way that few can.

This episode is packed with helpful, practical information specifically for intended parents. We will cover everything from prenatal testing and key pregnancy milestones to the transition from fertility clinic to OB care, how to navigate appointments with your surrogate, and what to expect on delivery day. Audrey also walks us through topics like C-sections, skin-to-skin, discharge planning, and postpartum expectations for surrogates.

Whether you're just starting the process or preparing for the birth of your baby, this conversation offers clear guidance, real-world insight, and reassurance from someone who truly gets it, both professionally and personally.

Takeaways

- Surrogacy can be a daunting process for intended parents.
- Medical professionals also experience emotional challenges during surrogacy.
- Choosing the right OB-GYN is crucial for a supportive experience.
- Intended parents should communicate openly with their surrogate and medical team.
- Understanding the timeline of appointments can alleviate anxiety.
- Routine screenings are essential for monitoring pregnancy health.
- Genetic testing provides valuable information about the fetus.
- Intended parents should feel empowered to ask questions during appointments.
- The transition from fertility clinic to OB care can feel overwhelming.
- Intended parents can choose appointments to attend based on their significance.
- Induction may be planned for convenience, especially for out-of-state parents
- The hospital setup and who can be present during delivery should be discussed beforehand.
- Every pregnancy and delivery experience is unique, requiring tailored communication.
- Discharge for surrogates can vary, but a 24-hour stay is ideal.
- Milk supply may take time to establish.
- It's important to prepare for the unique aspects of C-section deliveries.
- Every family's journey is unique, and there is no wrong way to build a family.

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Summary

In this heartfelt episode, Whitney and Alyx dive into the emotional, practical, and life-changing aspects of surrogacy. Alyx shares what inspired her to become a surrogate, the importance of researching and finding the right match, and the legal and medical preparations that go into the journey. She also reflects on the powerful relationships built with her intended parents, the support she received from her family, and the emotional highs and lows leading up to delivery. With an emphasis on communication, community involvement, and trust, this conversation highlights the joy of creating families and the lasting impact surrogates have on the lives of those they help.

Takeaways

-Alyx's journey into surrogacy began after having her first daughter.
-Community support is crucial in the surrogacy process.
-Matching with intended parents should feel right, not rushed.
-Alyx's husband was initially surprised but ultimately supportive.
-Researching surrogacy led Alyx to connect with experienced surrogates.
-The matching process can be stressful but rewarding.
-It's important to listen to your gut when choosing intended parents.
-Alyx's first meeting with her intended parents was filled with excitement.
-Legal and medical steps are essential in the surrogacy journey.
-Alyx received a care package from her intended mom, showcasing their support.
-Alyx documented her surrogacy journey beautifully.
-Explaining surrogacy to children can be simple and sweet.
-The support from family and friends is crucial during surrogacy.
-Transfer Day was filled with anticipation and nerves.
-Positive pregnancy tests brought excitement and anxiety.
-Community involvement made the journey more special.
-The heartbeat confirmation was a significant milestone.
-The joy of seeing intended parents with their baby is fulfilling.
-Surrogacy can change lives in profound ways.
-Open communication is crucial for a successful surrogacy experience.
-Surrogates should follow their hearts and listen to their bodies.
-The relationship between surrogates and intended parents can become like family.
-Postpartum care and support are important for surrogates.
-Celebrating milestones with intended parents enhances the experience.
-Surrogacy is a journey filled with joy and fulfillment.
-The experience of surrogacy can inspire future journeys.

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Summary:
In this heartfelt episode, Whitney Hall sits down with Abby and Kara to explore their emotional journeys through surrogacy. They reflect on the challenges they’ve faced, the deep and unexpected connections formed, and the transformative nature of the experience. With honesty and warmth, they share how trust, community support, and shared vulnerability shaped their paths and helped them grow. This episode is a celebration of the powerful bonds built through surrogacy and a reminder of the magic that unfolds when people come together with love and purpose.

Takeaways:
- Surrogacy can be a miraculous experience.
- Building trust is essential in surrogacy.
- Community support plays a vital role.
- It's important to have open communication.
- Memorable moments can arise unexpectedly.
- Finding joy in the chaos is crucial.
- Prayer and community can provide strength.

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Summary:
What does it look like to care for your whole self during the fertility journey—not just your body, but your heart and mind too?

In this episode, Whitney sits down with Nicole Lange, a licensed acupuncturist and holistic fertility educator, to explore how slowing down, tuning in, and embracing both Eastern and Western wisdom can make a powerful impact. Nicole shares her personal path to acupuncture, the connection between stress and fertility, and simple, supportive practices you can start using today.

Whether you're an intended parent, egg donor, surrogate, or supporting someone you love, this conversation is full of encouragement, insight, and grounded guidance to help you feel more connected to your body and your journey.

Takeaways:
- Acupuncture is evidence-based and can support fertility treatments.
- Nicole Lange's journey to acupuncture was influenced by personal trauma and a desire for holistic care.
- Depth over volume in patient care emphasizes quality interactions with patients.
- Acupuncture can help regulate immune function and improve blood flow to the uterus.
- Integrating acupuncture with Western medicine can enhance fertility treatments but only if you feel comfortable.
- Mental health is crucial in the fertility journey and should be prioritized.
- DIY practices like acupressure can support fertility at home.
- True holistic care considers the whole person, not just their reproductive system.

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Summary:
In this heartfelt conversation, Whitney sits down with Ali to discuss her powerful journey through grief and surrogacy. Ali opens up about the challenges of losing her husband, Thomas, and the emotional complexities of pursuing motherhood after loss. She shares her experience with the surrogacy process—from the delicate steps of egg retrieval to the moment she found the perfect match in Ashley. Together, they explore the importance of support systems, the joy of parenting, and the ongoing presence of love and loss. Ali’s story is one of resilience, faith, and honoring the past while embracing the future.

Takeaways:
- Grief can profoundly impact one's dreams and aspirations.
- Surrogacy can be a viable path for single parents.
- Family support is crucial during difficult times.
- Research and preparation are key in the surrogacy process.
- Honesty from medical professionals can guide important decisions.
- Living life to the fullest is a way to honor lost loved ones.
- Emotional resilience is built through support and faith.
- The process of egg retrieval can be both challenging and rewarding.
- Sharing one's story can help in the surrogacy journey.
- Ali felt an immediate connection with Ashley after reading her profile.
- Support systems are vital throughout the surrogacy journey.
- Every step of the surrogacy process felt meant to be for Ali and Ashley.
- The relationship between Ali and Ashley grew naturally over time.
- Communication was key in their relationship, especially during pregnancy.
- Delivery day was a magical experience for Ali and Ashley.
- Ali's grief for Thomas is intertwined with her joy for Tommy.
- Parenting brings a different kind of joy that is unique and profound.
- Ali emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's plan.
- The bond between Ali and Ashley extends beyond the pregnancy, creating a lasting friendship.

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Summary:

Whitney sits down with Victoria for an open and heartfelt conversation about infertility, endometriosis, and the emotional challenges of using donor eggs. Victoria shares how she found healing through community and why she founded Infertility Unfiltered to provide a space for honest conversations. She discusses the complexities of family dynamics, the importance of support systems, and how to navigate discussions about donor conception with children. Through her journey, Victoria highlights the power of connection, the importance of open communication, and the hope that comes from embracing every step of the process.

Takeaways:

- Victoria had stage three endometriosis, impacting her fertility.
- Long painful periods should not be normalized; seek help.
- The emotional journey of infertility includes grief and trauma.
- Using donor eggs can be a viable option for many couples.
- Community support is crucial during the infertility journey.
- The healing process can take time and requires self-education.
- Motherhood can be achieved through various paths, including egg donation.
- Family dynamics play a significant role in the infertility experience.
- It's important to allow space for grief when facing infertility.
- Celebrating small victories can help shift perspective during tough times.
- Navigating family dynamics can be complex and emotional.
- Support groups provide a vital space for healing and sharing experiences.
- Empowerment comes from understanding and sharing your story.
- Grief can coexist with hope and joy in parenting.
- Creating a supportive community can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
- Language matters when discussing donor conception with family and friends.
- Children are open to understanding diverse family structures.
- Finding joy in connection can fill your cup and inspire others.

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Summary

In this episode, Whitney sits down with Claire, a two-time gestational carrier who shares what it’s like to walk through not one, but two very different surrogacy journeys. In her first experience, Claire opens up about navigating the heartbreak of a miscarriage followed by the joy of a successful embryo transfer. In her second journey, the pregnancy progressed smoothly until the anatomy scan revealed the baby had a congenital heart defect. This unexpected diagnosis brought new layers of emotion, medical planning, and continued hope as the journey unfolded.

Claire has experienced both the beauty and the challenges that come with helping grow a family through surrogacy. She speaks candidly about the emotional resilience required to walk this path, the deep connection between surrogates and intended parents, and what it means to show up with love and intention, even when things don’t go as planned.

If you’re looking for real stories, and a deeper understanding of the surrogacy experience, this conversation delivers.

Takeaways

- Exposure to surrogacy can normalize the concept for others.
- Community support is crucial for those navigating infertility.
- Miscarriage can be a shared experience between surrogates and intended parents.
- Surrogacy is a selfless act that requires emotional resilience.
- Hope is a challenging but necessary part of the journey.
- The matching process can feel like dating, with many deserving families.
- Unexpected challenges can arise during pregnancy.
- The delivery experience can differ from expectations.
- Life after birth involves ongoing care and adjustments.
- Building relationships with intended parents is important.
- Surrogacy can lead to unexpected emotional connections.
- Sharing stories can provide hope to others in similar situations.
- It's important to keep perspective and focus on the joy of helping others.

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Summary
In this episode, Whitney sits down with Mike and George, the inspiring founders of Families Out Loud, a community-centered organization supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, solo parents, and allies on their path to parenthood.

Mike and George open up about their own journey to becoming dads—from the uncertainty of where to begin, to the unexpected challenges they faced on delivery day. Feeling isolated during such a pivotal time, they turned their experience into action—creating Families Out Loud as a space for others to find connection, guidance, and celebration along their own unique paths.

Together, they discuss the importance of inclusive resources, the power of community, and how humor, honesty, and even a little drag sparkle have helped shape their parenting story. You’ll also hear how Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions is honored to partner with Families Out Loud in this mission, helping support families of all kinds.

This episode is a heartfelt look at what’s possible when personal experience becomes powerful advocacy—and how love and support can make all the difference

Takeaways
-“We had no roadmap.”: Mike and George share what it was like to start their family journey without knowing other gay dads—or where to even begin. That uncertainty was the spark that led to building something bigger than themselves
-Creating what they wish they had: From answering DMs from curious intended parents to designing inclusive events, Families Out Loud was born from a desire to offer clarity, connection, and real support for those navigating similar paths
-Community that feels like family: Their events are warm, welcoming, and full of personality—think expert panels and drag queens. Whether you're seeking serious guidance or just someone who “gets it,” there’s space for every kind of family
-Visibility and access matter: Families Out Loud provides more than inspiration—they offer resources, connections, and even financial grants to help ease the path to parenthood
-No one-size-fits-all: Whether it's navigating NICU challenges, building a support team, or deciding when (or if) to grow your family, Mike and George remind us that every journey is unique—and that’s something worth celebrating

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Summary

In this insightful episode, Whitney and Ruth take a deep dive into the world of egg donation. Ruth shares her motivations for becoming a donor, the vital support she received from her family and medical professionals, and the emotions surrounding her contribution to family building—particularly within the LGBTQ community. She walks through the matching process, the considerations between known and unidentified donations, and what it was like to experience the egg retrieval procedure and recovery firsthand. The discussion also covers common misconceptions about egg donation, the importance of open conversations about DNA and family, and the power of community support. Ruth’s story is a powerful reflection on generosity, advocacy, and the deep connections that can form through the gift of egg donation.


Takeaways

-Ruth's journey to becoming an egg donor was influenced by her family's positive discussions about donation.
-Support from her partner was crucial during the egg donation process.
-Ruth felt a strong connection to the same-sex couple she donated to, enhancing her experience.
-The decision to be an unidentified donor was based on her belief that family is who you make it.
-Ruth experienced physical discomfort during the medication process but leaned on friends for support.
-The emotional aspect of receiving a thank you note from the intended parents was significant for Ruth.
-Ruth's experience with anesthesia during retrieval was both humorous and surreal.
-Ruth's excitement on the day of retrieval was akin to Christmas morning.
-The overall experience of egg donation was rewarding and fulfilling for Ruth.
-Ruth describes the emotional support she receives from her wife during recovery.
-Understanding the science behind egg retrieval and its implications.
-The importance of following medical advice post-procedure for a smooth recovery.
-Celebrating the success of having healthy embryos from the retrieval process.
-The misconceptions surrounding egg donation and embryo creation.
-Navigating difficult conversations about DNA and family dynamics.
-The significance of community support in the egg donation journey.
-Ruth's advice to future donors to lean on their resources and connections.
-The meaningful contribution of egg donation to families, especially in the LGBTQ community.

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