Should you freeze your eggs? What really influences egg quality? And how do you walk into a fertility appointment prepared instead of overwhelmed?

In this episode, Alisha is joined by fertility specialist, gynaecologist and holistic health coach Dr Natasha Andreadis — aka Dr Tash, The Fanny Mechanic. Together they explore egg freezing, lifestyle factors that support fertility, and how your mindset, expectations, and support system can make all the difference on this journey.

Whether you're considering solo motherhood or already in the thick of fertility treatment, this episode is filled with real talk and expert insight.

Key Takeaways:

Why Egg Freezing Isn’t a Guarantee – Dr Tash shares how many women pursue egg freezing without fully understanding what it can and can’t do. She explains the importance of informed choices, realistic expectations, and using the time to prepare your body and mind.

Egg Quantity vs. Egg Quality – We’re often told to worry about egg count, but Dr Tash explains why quality is actually more important. She talks about how egg quality changes with age and what you can do to support it naturally.

What to Ask in Fertility Appointments – Instead of going in overwhelmed, Dr Tash encourages women to come prepared. She outlines how to advocate for yourself, ask the right questions, and avoid default treatment plans that may not be right for you.

The Power of Lifestyle and Environment – From nutrition to mindset, Dr Tash explains how small changes in your lifestyle, sleep, and stress levels can make a meaningful impact on your fertility — especially if you’re planning ahead.

Support Makes All the Difference – Whether it’s a friend, therapist, or coach, Dr Tash and Alisha discuss how critical emotional support is during this journey. Knowing you’re not alone can shift the entire experience.

Resources:

If you loved Dr Tash as much as I did and want to hear more from her, follow her on instagram and check out her podcast "“The Fanny Mechanic” on all major platforms.If you are in Sydney and would like to see her as a patient, she can be found at Newtown Fertility Centre part of the City Fertility family.

I couldn't continue to make this podcast without the help of our fabulous sponsor, City Fertility. If you're looking into fertility treatment on your own, make sure you take advantage of the exclusive 20% discount for No Need for Prince Charming listeners. Learn more here.

Your support helps us reach more solo mums and solo mums to be, as well as spread stories of empowering women making their own dreams come true. Follow, subscribe, and leave a review on your favourite podcast and social platform! Plus, make sure you're following @noneedforprincecharming on Instagram.

In this heartfelt episode of No Need for Prince Charming, I sit down with Tash — a midwife, nurse, and proud solo mum by choice — as she shares her empowering journey to motherhood. From deciding to go solo, selecting the perfect donor, and navigating IUI, to managing hyperemesis, birth decisions, and thriving as a working solo mum, Tash’s story is honest, inspiring, and practical.

Whether you’re considering solo motherhood, pregnant, or already parenting, you’ll take away relatable insights and confidence-building lessons from Tash’s experience.

Making the leap: How Tash knew it was time to pursue solo motherhood and prioritise work-life balance.

Choosing a donor: Using the Addam app, trusting gut instincts, and understanding how to interpret donor profiles.

Falling pregnant: Why Tash chose IUI, and the emotional process behind donor selection.

Pregnancy & birth: Managing hyperemesis, navigating induction pressure, and making informed decisions about a last-minute caesarean.

Life after birth: Building her village, recovering postpartum, and balancing work, breastfeeding, and daycare as a solo mum.

I couldn't continue to make this podcast without the help of our fabulous sponsor, City Fertility. If you're looking into fertility treatment on your own, make sure you take advantage of the exclusive 20% discount for No Need for Prince Charming listeners. Learn more here.

Feeling overwhelmed about becoming a solo mum? The Considering Solo Motherhood course walks you through everything—from emotional readiness to finances and fertility—so you can make a confident decision. - Find out more

Pregnant or TTC as a solo mum? The Expecting Solo course is designed for your first trimester—helping you feel informed, confident, and supported from the start. Includes 2 live sessions + expert resources - View the next course dates

Pregnant or trying to conceive on your own using a donor? Join our warm, supportive monthly membership made just for solo mums-to-be. Includes connection calls, WhatsApp group, discounts, and free resources - Find out more

From IUI plans and donor list hiccups to IVF with genetic testing, a breech baby, and ten weeks of carefully organised support, Bunny’s story is one of persistence, planning, and proving that solo motherhood can be full of joy.

She always wanted to be a mum. After years of travel and teaching, Bunny decided she wasn’t going to wait for the “right” relationship. Starting with IUI, donor complications pushed her to pivot into IVF at Melbourne IVF, where she qualified for Medicare and created five embryos. Her very first transfer worked. Pregnancy was smooth, but a calcified placenta at 36 weeks and a breech baby meant a planned C-section at 38 weeks. Recovery was tougher than she expected, but the village she organised—ten straight weeks of family and friends rotating through—made the newborn stage manageable. Breastfeeding worked, Frank slept through most nights, and Bunny embraced hacks, humour, and support. Now thriving with her son, she’s excited about the future and clear in her advice: “Go for it—and have fun.”

Key Highlights:

Early Clarity, Open Conversations - Bunny always loved babies and knew she’d parent solo. She told family, friends, and colleagues early—openness brought enthusiasm and practical support.

From IUI to IVF with Genetic Testing - An IUI-eligible donor wasn’t approved, forcing a pivot. At Melbourne IVF, with counselling and Medicare access, she created five embryos. The first transfer succeeded.

Planned C-Section for Breech & Placenta Issues - At 36 weeks her placenta was “very calcified.” With Frank breech, she had a planned C-section at 38 weeks and a more painful recovery than expected.

The Village She Built - She stacked ten weeks of rotating support: her best friend (a new midwife), mum, aunt, cousins, dad—plus freezer meals and dog-walking. Each arrived as the last left.

Practical Wins & Looking Ahead - Breastfeeding worked, Frank sleeps well at night (usually one wake), though afternoons are fussy. She prepped finances with a bigger mortgage buffer, embraced hacks (baby seat in the shower), and is considering another child when the time feels right.

I couldn't continue to make this podcast without the help of our fabulous sponsor, City Fertility. If you're looking into fertility treatment on your own, make sure you take advantage of the exclusive 20% discount for No Need for Prince Charming listeners. Learn more here.

Feeling overwhelmed about becoming a solo mum? The Considering Solo Motherhood course walks you through everything—from emotional readiness to finances and fertility—so you can make a confident decision. - Find out more

Pregnant or TTC as a solo mum? The Expecting Solo course is designed for your first trimester—helping you feel informed, confident, and supported from the start. Includes 2 live sessions + expert resources - View the next course dates

Pregnant or trying to conceive on your own using a donor? Join our warm, supportive monthly membership made just for solo mums-to-be. Includes connection calls, WhatsApp group, discounts, and free resources - Find out more

From teen conviction to IVF with genetic testing, an emergency C-section, reflux, and a new identity as a working mum.

She always knew she’d go it alone—and when the time came, she didn’t wait. Alex’s journey from a teen conviction to IVF success, a rare birth emergency, and thriving again after a tough start is a testament to resilience and self-trust.

Alex decided as a teenager that she wanted to have a child on her own and didn’t want anyone else involved in parenting. She set herself a deadline of 30 and stuck to it—choosing IVF with genetic testing due to a family history of disease, and falling pregnant on her first try at 29. But her birth didn’t go to plan: after decreased movements led to an induction, a cord prolapse triggered a crash C-section under general anaesthetic. The newborn stage brought reflux, severe sleep deprivation, and postnatal anxiety and depression—made worse by a comment about child protective services that stopped her seeking help. With reflux medication, Tresillian support, and a return to work at nine months, she found her footing again. Now, with Lucy almost four, Alex is thriving, dating more than ever, and proud of the life she’s built.

Key Highlights:

Teen Conviction, Firm Cut-Off - From her teens, Alex knew she’d parent solo and set a hard age limit to start—she stuck to it without compromise.

IVF with Genetic Testing—First Time Success - Because of a genetic condition, she chose IVF and preimplantation genetic testing. Her first round produced the embryo that became Lucy.

A Rare Birth Emergency - Induced for decreased movements, Alex experienced a cord prolapse that required an emergency C-section under general anaesthetic.

Postnatal Struggles and a CPS Threat - Reflux, weight loss, and exhaustion led to PPA/PPD, but a comment about calling child protective services made her hide her struggles.

Turning Point and a Thriving Life - With reflux under control, Tresillian support, and a return to work, Alex regained her confidence and energy. She’s now dating, raising Lucy, and living life on her terms.

I couldn't continue to make this podcast without the help of our fabulous sponsor, City Fertility. If you're looking into fertility treatment on your own, make sure you take advantage of the exclusive 20% discount for No Need for Prince Charming listeners. Learn more here.

Feeling overwhelmed about becoming a solo mum? The Considering Solo Motherhood course walks you through everything—from emotional readiness to finances and fertility—so you can make a confident decision. - Find out more

Pregnant or TTC as a solo mum? The Expecting Solo course is designed for your first trimester—helping you feel informed, confident, and supported from the start. Includes 2 live sessions + expert resources - View the next course dates

Pregnant or trying to conceive on your own using a donor? Join our warm, supportive monthly membership made just for solo mums-to-be. Includes connection calls, WhatsApp group, discounts, and free resources - Find out more

She nearly gave it all up for love—twice. But in the end, she backed herself. Roni’s story is a raw, relatable reminder of how strong women really are.

After a divorce in her early 30s, Roni spent years travelling, dating, and living a vibrant single life. But deep down, she always wanted the chance to become a mum. Her journey into solo motherhood was anything but linear—from a known donor who pulled out just before fertilisation, to falling hard for someone else who wasn’t ready, to freezing her eggs at 40, switching clinics, and navigating IVF on her own. In this deeply honest episode, Roni opens up about the emotional toll, the post-birth reality no one warned her about, and the surprising joy she’s found raising Leon solo.

Key Highlights:

From Love to Loss, Then Back to Herself - Roni was ready to try solo motherhood—but twice, she put her plans on hold for relationships. Her story is a powerful reminder to trust your gut and never delay your dreams for someone else.

The Known Donor That Pulled the Pin - She thought she’d found the perfect known donor—until he pulled out at the last minute, claiming he didn’t want to donate to a “couple.” What followed was heartbreak, anger, and a clinic that offered no support.

A New Clinic, a New Plan, and Her Last Embryo - After a healing trip to New York, Roni found a new clinic (and a donor with blue eyes!). Her very last embryo was the one that became Leon.

Pregnancy Was Rough—and So Was the Newborn Phase - From nausea to complications, then a brutally hard postnatal period, Roni is refreshingly honest about not loving pregnancy or the early days. Bonding took time, and that’s okay.

Identity, Independence, and a Life She’s Proud Of - She’s not “just a mum.” Roni shares how reclaiming her time, making career moves, and nurturing friendships makes her a better parent—and a fulfilled woman.

This episode highlights the emotional risks of using a known donor. If you’re considering this path, make sure you’ve got the right support in place. The Considering Solo Motherhood course includes questions to ask, red flags to watch for, and how to protect yourself legally and emotionally – Find out more

The Preparing for Solo Motherhood course includes the honest conversations no one is having about post-birth reality, support planning, and surviving the early weeks – View course options

Join The Bump Membership to connect with other solo mums-to-be, get expert support, and never feel alone on the journey – Find out more

I couldn't continue to make this podcast without the help of our fabulous sponsor, City Fertility. If you're looking into fertility treatment on your own, make sure you take advantage of the exclusive 20% discount for No Need for Prince Charming listeners. Learn more here.

How being diagnosed with ADHD at 43 explained… almost everything, and how it’s reshaping Alisha as a mother.

This episode discusses ADHD, emotional regulation, binge behaviours, and postnatal mental health. It is based on personal experience and is not a substitute for medical advice. If anything resonates or you suspect you may have ADHD, please speak to your GP or a qualified mental health professional.

In this powerful solo bonus episode, Alisha opens up about her ADHD diagnosis at 43 and what it revealed about her past, her parenting, and her patterns. From school struggles and emotional intensity to people-pleasing and binge behaviours, she explores the signs she missed, and how they finally made sense. If you're a solo mum feeling overwhelmed, distracted, or like you're failing at things others seem to manage with ease, or if you’re starting to think you may be neurodiverse, this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways:

Why So Many Women Are Diagnosed Late – ADHD often looks different in girls. Alisha reflects on how masking, people-pleasing, and emotional sensitivity kept her diagnosis hidden until adulthood.

The ADHD Brain in a Neurotypical World – Using the “caveman vs farmer” analogy, Alisha explains how ADHD is a wiring difference, not a disorder, and how traditional systems (school, work, motherhood) aren’t built for brains like hers.

Motherhood Was the Breaking Point – For a lot of women, the wheels start coming off when they become mums. Executive function crashes, mental loads explode, and self-judgment reaches a peak - ADHD can give you a framework to understand it all.

Binge Cycles and Dopamine-Seeking – From alcohol to sugar to work and phone scrolling, she shares how ADHD drives impulsive, all-or-nothing behaviours, and how understanding this has changed her relationship with herself and has informed her decision to live a life of sobriety.

ADHD as a Superpower (Once You Understand It) – With the right tools, awareness, and compassion, ADHD has become a source of creativity, resilience, and power. Alisha shares how her diagnosis helped her finally stop fighting herself.

Resources:

If this episode resonated and you’d like to explore ADHD further, here are some helpful tools and organisations:

ADHD for Smart Ass Women podcast by Tracy Otsuka - this is the podcast I recommend to any woman just wondering if she could be neurodiverse - it was the first resource I found and I love how it focuses on the positives. The episode talking about how ADHD shows up in teenage girls was life changing for me.

ADHD Australia – National information, resources, and support

ADDitude Magazine - ADHD Symptom Test (for Women) – Free online screening tool and lots of great practical articles

Talk to your GP or psychologist for a referral or diagnosis pathway

I couldn't continue to make this podcast without the help of our fabulous sponsor, City Fertility. If you're looking into fertility treatment on your own, make sure you take advantage of the exclusive 20% discount for No Need for Prince Charming listeners. Learn more here.

Your support helps us reach more solo mums and solo mums to be, as well as spread stories of empowering women making their own dreams come true. Follow, subscribe, and leave a review on your favourite podcast and social platform! Plus, make sure you're following @noneedforprincecharming on Instagram.

Georgia knew she’d become a mum, partner or not. From a teenage plan to postnatal survival, she shares it all.

Georgia first considered becoming a solo mum at 15, and she meant it. After years of dating men who didn’t want children, she took action, navigating IVF during Melbourne’s lockdowns and eventually choosing a known donor. But her journey didn’t stop there. In this raw and powerful episode, Georgia shares the highs and heartbreaks of solo motherhood, from co-living with her best friend, to surviving postnatal depression and building an unshakeable village around her and Elliot.

Key Highlights:

Early Clarity, Unwavering Determination – Georgia decided as a teenager that she’d have a baby on her own if needed. That quiet promise shaped her timeline, and when the time came, she followed through without hesitation.

Known Donor, Child-Led Connection – After exploring anonymous and known donor options, Georgia found a gay donor she could trust. They created a child-led agreement, and now Elliot has biological cousins he may one day choose to meet.

Postnatal Depression & the Mother Baby Unit – Georgia shares a brutally honest account of surviving D-MER and severe PND. She credits the mother-baby unit, her village, and ongoing mental health support with saving her life.

Co-Parenting Without the Romance – Living with her best friend (and her daughter) created the family life Georgia wanted, without the pressure of a romantic relationship. Two single mums, two kids, one shared vision.

Village Building is Non-Negotiable – Georgia’s biggest advice? Build your village early, nurture it, and be willing to ask for and accept help. Her story shows it’s possible, even without family nearby.

If you, or someone you know, may be experiencing post natal depression, or other post birth related mental health challenges, these are the resources Georgia mentions in her episode that helped her:

The Edinburgh Perinatal Depression Scale (EDPS) test

COPE.org.au

PANDA.org.au

I couldn't continue to make this podcast without the help of our fabulous sponsor, City Fertility. If you're looking into fertility treatment on your own, make sure you take advantage of the exclusive 20% discount for No Need for Prince Charming listeners. Learn more here.

Feeling overwhelmed about becoming a solo mum? The Considering Solo Motherhood course walks you through everything—from emotional readiness to finances and fertility—so you can make a confident decision. - Find out more

Pregnant or TTC as a solo mum? The Expecting Solo course is designed for your first trimester—helping you feel informed, confident, and supported from the start. Includes 2 live sessions + expert resources - View the next course dates

Pregnant or trying to conceive on your own using a donor? Join our warm, supportive monthly membership made just for solo mums-to-be. Includes connection calls, WhatsApp group, discounts, and free resources - Find out more

How COVID, spreadsheets, and a love of independence led Cat to solo motherhood—and a life she never saw coming.

When Cat hit her mid-30s during COVID lockdowns, she realised she didn’t want to wait around for the “perfect” partner. Instead, she created her own timeline—with spreadsheets, GP referrals, and her signature impulsiveness. In this episode, Cat shares how she went from free-spirited adventurer to solo mum to Niko, and how her fierce independence led to one of the best surprises of her life.

Key Highlights:

Choosing Logic Over Fear – When COVID hit and a good relationship ended, Cat realised she didn’t want to settle. A spreadsheet helped her weigh the emotional and financial realities, and once it made sense, she moved fast and never looked back.

Donor Red Flags and Gut Choices – Cat didn’t want the most impressive resume; she wanted someone she’d be proud to introduce to her son one day. Her final decision was based on values, not vanity, and it paid off.

First Transfer, First Miracle – Despite a lower-than-expected egg count, Cat’s first embryo transfer worked. Her story is a refreshing reminder that not every IVF journey is long and hard; it can be simple and successful.

The Emotional Load of Solo Parenting – From career trade-offs to solo decision-making, Cat opens up about the mental and financial weight she carries, and the guilt that comes with knowing her choice affects her son’s world too.

Finding Her People in Solo Mum Society – As a self-proclaimed lone wolf, Cat didn’t expect to need community, but joining Solo Mum Society and attending the Bali trip gave both her and Niko a sense of belonging they didn’t know they were missing.

I couldn't continue to make this podcast without the help of our fabulous sponsor, City Fertility. If you're looking into fertility treatment on your own, make sure you take advantage of the exclusive 20% discount for No Need for Prince Charming listeners. Learn more here.

Feeling overwhelmed about becoming a solo mum? The Considering Solo Motherhood course walks you through everything—from emotional readiness to finances and fertility—so you can make a confident decision. - Find out more

Pregnant or TTC as a solo mum? The Expecting Solo course is designed for your first trimester—helping you feel informed, confident, and supported from the start. Includes 2 live sessions + expert resources - View the next course dates

Pregnant or trying to conceive on your own using a donor? Join our warm, supportive monthly membership made just for solo mums-to-be. Includes connection calls, WhatsApp group, discounts, and free resources - Find out more

After a breakup at 40, Bronwen chose solo motherhood—navigating IVF, donor decisions, and family dynamics to welcome baby Olive.

In this heartfelt episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Bronwen shares her beautifully honest journey to becoming a solo mum to baby Olive. From turning 40 and experiencing heartbreak to facing family doubts and trusting her own instincts, Bronwen’s story is full of warmth, wisdom, and the power of backing yourself.

Key Highlights:

Turning 40 and Starting Again – After a breakup, Bronwen reassessed her path and chose solo motherhood—on her own terms.

Getting Support and Making the Leap – With the encouragement of her therapist, she finally said out loud: “I think I want to do this on my own.”

Facing Family Concerns and Finding Support – While not everyone in her family was initially on board, Bronwen’s mum became her biggest supporter—and a vital part of her solo mum village.

Being Open to Egg or Embryo Donation – Bronwen urges others, especially older women, to stay open to donor options—because amazing things can happen.

The Power of a Second Opinion – A key turning point came from seeing a different doctor. Without that second opinion, Olive might not be here.

I couldn't continue to make this podcast without the help of our fabulous sponsor, City Fertility. If you're looking into fertility treatment on your own, make sure you take advantage of the exclusive 20% discount for No Need for Prince Charming listeners. Learn more here.

Feeling overwhelmed about becoming a solo mum? The Considering Solo Motherhood course walks you through everything—from emotional readiness to finances and fertility—so you can make a confident decision. - Find out more

Pregnant or TTC as a solo mum? The Expecting Solo course is designed for your first trimester—helping you feel informed, confident, and supported from the start. Includes 2 live sessions + expert resources - View the next course dates

Pregnant or trying to conceive on your own using a donor? Join our warm, supportive monthly membership made just for solo mums-to-be. Includes connection calls, WhatsApp group, discounts, and free resources - Find out more

Real stories, honest reflections, and joyful chaos from the 2025 Solo Mum Society Bali trip.

In this special episode of No Need for Prince Charming, we reflect on the 2025 Solo Mum Society group trip to Bali — with stories straight from the incredible mums who came along. With 39 solo mums and 44 children, this year's trip was bigger, bolder, and filled with unforgettable moments. Hear directly from mums who overcame fears, built friendships, met donor siblings, and found community in the most beautiful way.

Key Takeaways:

Overcoming Fears and Creating Joy – From conquering water slide phobias to sharing adult-only dinners, mums challenged themselves and made space for fun.

Instant Village Vibes – How solo mums supported one another—from babysitting poolside to helping on flights and excursions—without needing to explain.

The Magic of the Nanny – Many mums shared how hiring a nanny allowed space for rest, massages, date-free dinners, and more meaningful connections.

Kids Who Just ‘Get It’ – Heart-melting moments as donor-conceived children naturally bonded with others just like them—no explanation needed.

A Luxury Holiday You Don’t Have to Plan – With transfers, meals, events, and even drinking water handled, all the mental load was taken off their shoulders.

Want to come in 2026? Join the waitlist now

I couldn't continue to make this podcast without the help of our fabulous sponsor, City Fertility. If you're looking into fertility treatment on your own, make sure you take advantage of the exclusive 20% discount for No Need for Prince Charming listeners. Learn more here.

Who would care for your child if you weren’t here? Learn how to legally and practically protect their future in this empowering webinar with expert lawyer Courtney from CDT Legal. Includes full replay + support materials. Learn more here.

Should you expand your solo mum family—or are you complete with one? Hear real stories and advice from solo mums who’ve faced the same decision. Includes full replay + bonus resources. Find out more here.

Your support helps us reach more solo mums and solo mums to be, as well as spread stories of empowering women making their own dreams come true. Follow, subscribe, and leave a review on your favourite podcast and social platform! Plus, make sure you're following @noneedforprincecharming on Instagram.