Today, we’re joined by two amazing guests - Stuart Armfield and Francis Haugen - for a powerful and honest conversation all about their journey to parenthood through surrogacy.

Stuart and Francis open up about the emotional rollercoaster of starting a family as a same-sex couple, the challenges they faced along the way, and the absolute joy of becoming dads. From the very first step to meeting their baby for the first time, this episode is full of heart, hope, and helpful advice for anyone considering surrogacy or curious about what the journey really looks like.

In this episode, we’ll cover:

When and why surrogacy became the right path for them

The emotional and practical realities of finding a surrogate

How they navigated unexpected challenges and supported each other

Handling judgment, assumptions, and awkward questions

What it felt like to meet their baby for the very first time

How becoming parents changed their relationship

The biggest surprises of fatherhood - and what they wish they’d known

Whether you’re exploring alternative paths to parenthood or just want to hear a truly heartwarming story, Stuart and Francis bring vulnerability, humour and inspiration to one of our most moving episodes yet.

✨ Follow Stuart https://www.instagram.com/stueyarmfield and Francis https://www.instagram.com/francishaugen

🎥 You can also watch their family journey on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UC4851n8f6HEqxxpK8JCZ4bg  

Go to see their show

https://www.ucl.ac.uk/bloomsbury-theatre/events/2025/oct/stuart-and-francis-show-live