When you're searching for a surrogate, it’s easy to focus on personality, values, or past experience—but there’s one key factor many intended parents overlook: BMI.

In this episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne shares what BMI really means for surrogacy, why fertility clinics and agencies have strict BMI cutoffs, and how to approach the topic with compassion and clarity. This is the conversation Alyssa wishes she could have with every intended parent before they fall in love with a surrogate match that doesn’t meet medical screening.

🎧 If you’re unsure what “too high” or “too low” really means—or what the risks are to your surrogate, baby, and budget—this episode is your roadmap.

What You’ll Learn:

• 01:44 — The BMI red flag in a forum post that sparked this conversation

• 02:23 — Why a surrogate’s OB clearance doesn’t mean clinic approval

• 03:44 — The medical risks of high BMI for surrogate and baby

• 06:52 — How high BMI affects embryo transfer success and miscarriage risk

• 08:27 — Real-world costs of BMI-related complications

• 09:32 — What are the actual BMI cutoffs (and who sets them)?

• 11:14 — The “double standard” debate: IVF for self vs. IVF for surrogacy

• 13:20 — Why BMI is more than a number—and when to make exceptions

• 17:09 — OB clearance vs. final clinic approval

• 18:05 — Why independent surrogacy doesn’t mean cutting corners

• 21:40 — How to talk about BMI respectfully with your surrogate

• 23:26 — Ethical concerns when agencies push surrogates outside guidelines

• 25:26 — 5 steps to protect your journey and future baby
  

Resources Mentioned:

• Free Surrogacy Starter Kit

• ASRM guidelines: Recommendations for practices using gestational carriers: A committee opinion

• Surrogate vetting essentials

• BloomBridge Surrogacy App: https://gojunie.com/solutions/bloombridge

• Case management
  

“It's not about judgment—it’s about lowering risks and giving your baby the healthiest start possible.”

When it comes to IVF for surrogacy, not all fertility clinics are created equal. And the wrong choice can lead to delays, surprise restrictions, and missed chances at parenthood.

In this episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne shares four often-overlooked—but crucial—factors to consider when selecting a fertility clinic. From restrictive agency requirements to embryo thawing policies, this honest conversation is a must-listen before you commit to any clinic.

🎧 Whether you’ve already created embryos or are still exploring, this guide will help you avoid common mistakes and choose a clinic that truly supports your journey.

What You’ll Learn:

• 02:28 — The surprising shift in support when you switch from IVF to surrogacy

• 04:06 — Why exclusivity deals with lawyers or therapists can be a red flag

• 08:17 — How independent surrogacy is treated differently by some clinics

• 10:54 — The surrogate vetting mistake that changed everything for Alyssa

• 13:18 — How to work around clinic pushback when going independent

• 14:30 — Real stories of communication delays that stalled surrogacy journeys

• 16:18 — What to ask about portal access, turnaround times, and surrogate updates

• 18:09 — The embryo transfer dealbreaker no one tells you about

• 20:21 — Why freeze/thaw protocols matter when changing clinics

• 22:11 — A 4-part checklist for choosing the right clinic
  

Resources Mentioned:

• SMS #39: 4 Crucial Tips for Choosing a Great Surrogacy Clinic

• ASRM guidelines: Recommendations for practices using gestational carriers: A committee opinion

• Surrogate vetting essentials

• SMS #11 Should you risk shipping embryos for surrogacy to a new clinic?

• BloomBridge Surrogacy App
  

“You’ve already waited long enough—don’t let the wrong clinic make you wait even longer.”

Should you work with two surrogates at once? What does it take—mentally, emotionally, and logistically—to grow your family through a dual surrogacy path?

In this vulnerable and empowering episode, Dr. Alyssa Small Layne speaks with Carly Joseph, a mom of two babies born via two separate surrogates just months apart. Carly shares what led her to pursue surrogacy after eight IVF cycles and six pregnancy losses, what it was like to walk two paths simultaneously, and how she now supports others as a surrogacy concierge.

🎧 Whether you're an intended parent exploring your options or just want to hear what resilience really looks like—this one will move you.

What You’ll Learn:

• 03:12 — Why Carly turned to surrogacy after years of IVF and loss

• 06:28 — What fertility clinics don’t tell you about the process

• 09:28 — What happened after her first surrogate’s pregnancy ended in loss

• 14:43 — Matching with a second surrogate while grieving and hoping

• 16:51 — The emotional weight of transferring embryos to two surrogates

• 18:55 — One surrogate pregnant, another on deck—when the timeline overlaps

• 23:30 — NICU stays, caregiving logistics, and becoming a parent to two babies

• 27:50 — The practical and emotional challenges of dual surrogacy

• 35:51 — What Carly wishes she had known before starting
  

Resources Mentioned:

• Surrogacy Step-By-Step Guide

• ASRM Guidelines on 2 surrogates

• Surrogacy Made Simple #9

• Carly Joseph

What if your insurance actually helped you build your family?

In this conversation, surrogacy attorney and longtime advocate Ryan Ferrante joins Dr. Alyssa Small Layne to break down how Illinois is setting a national standard for inclusive, patient-centered fertility coverage.

They discuss how advocacy, state legislation, and redefined infertility standards are expanding access for LGBTQ+ families, single parents, and anyone needing third-party reproduction—including surrogacy. Whether you're facing frustrating denials, unclear mandates, or sky-high costs, this episode will leave you feeling empowered to ask better questions, get involved, and know your rights.

🎧 Press play to learn why what’s happening in Illinois could be a blueprint for the rest of the country.

What You’ll Learn:

• 02:33 — How Ryan’s surrogacy journey led him to legal advocacy

• 07:47 — Why Illinois is considered the gold standard in fertility access

• 10:46 — The major shift in how infertility is now defined—and why it matters

• 16:34 — What “surrogacy-friendly insurance” really means

• 22:48 — Could embryo transfer and screening be covered in Illinois? It’s possible.

• 24:52 — The non-binding referendum that 72% of Illinois voters supported

• 30:45 — What’s now covered under Illinois fertility mandates (hint: PGT, IVF, and more)

• 34:23 — IVF and abortion rights: why they’re more connected than people think

• 38:30 — How to advocate for change in just two questions: why am I here, and how can you help?
  

Resources Mentioned:

• 🧭 Resolve: The National Infertility Association

• 📝 Federal Advocacy Day

• 📘 American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM)

• 🧡 BloomBridge App — includes the Surrogacy Step-by-Step Guide & Cost Calculator
  

“Advocacy isn’t just for lawmakers—it starts with a story. And that story might be yours.”

PGT-A testing has been promoted as a breakthrough—promising fewer miscarriages, faster time to pregnancy, and better IVF outcomes. But what if those claims aren’t fully backed by science?

In this follow-up conversation, fertility attorney and IVF mom Allison Freeman returns to discuss the pending class-action lawsuits filed against embryo testing labs. She and Alyssa break down what patients are being told, why those promises may be misleading, and the real risks for anyone making decisions based on PGT-A results.

🎧 If you're facing embryo decisions, surrogacy timelines, or wondering whether testing is really worth the cost—this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn:

• 01:52 — Why the lawsuits target labs (not clinics) and what’s being claimed

• 02:10 — The bold promises made by PGT-A labs—and why they raise red flags

• 05:36 — Could lawsuits increase IVF costs or hurt innovation?

• 08:17 — The real financial burden of testing (and its ripple effects)

• 10:00 — How PGT-A took off in the U.S. despite early skepticism

• 12:10 — When PGT-A might be helpful—and when it’s overused

• 14:56 — Why Allison chose to keep her mosaic embryos in storage

• 16:43 — IVF “add-ons”: what they are and how to question them

• 21:12 — What to ask your clinic before agreeing to any test or protocol
  

Resources Mentioned:

• Surrogacy Step-By-Step Guide https://gojunie.com/surrogacy-starter-kit

• Time Article: IVF Patients Say a Test Caused Them to Discard Embryos. Now They’re Suing

• SMS - Hidden Risks of PGT-A Testing in IVF and Surrogacy - Allison Freeman (Part 1)

• BloomBridge Surrogacy App: https://gojunie.com/solutions/bloombridge
  

PGT-A testing is marketed as a smart, science-backed way to improve your chances of a healthy baby. But what if it’s not giving you the full story?

In this eye-opening conversation, fertility attorney and IVF mom Allison Freeman joins Alyssa to unpack the science, marketing, and legal implications behind preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A).

From personal IVF loss to class-action lawsuits, Allison shares why more patients are questioning the test—and why some may be discarding embryos based on misleading or unvalidated results.

🎧 If you’re considering embryo testing—or already making transfer decisions—this episode is a must-listen.

What You’ll Learn:

• 02:16 — Allison’s IVF journey and two very different paths to motherhood

• 09:08 — How a personal red flag during IUI launched her legal advocacy

• 16:24 — What PGT-A testing is, and how it’s commonly presented to patients

• 19:04 — The rise in “zero embryos” after testing—and what that might mean

• 21:55 — Why PGT-A biopsies aren’t as definitive as many think

• 26:27 — The risks of relying on embryo testing to avoid miscarriage

• 29:46 — How PGT-A impacts surrogacy matching and timeline delays

• 34:54 — What ASRM’s new guidance really says—and what patients often miss
  

Resources Mentioned:

• Surrogacy Step-By-Step Guide https://gojunie.com/surrogacy-starter-kit
• Time Article: IVF Patients Say a Test Caused Them to Discard Embryos. Now They’re Suing

• Allison Freeman (IG) - @ivf_advocatem, theivfadvocate.com
  

Key Takeaways:

• PGT-A is widely used—but hasn’t been validated the way most patients expect

• The test analyzes placental (not fetal) tissue, which can cause discrepancies

• Surrogates and agencies often require PGT-A without understanding its limitations

• Patients should ask: what am I being promised, and is there data to back it up?
  

  
  

🎧 Considering embryo testing? With ASRM’s most recent guidance, and the BloomBridge surrogacy app you'll be prepared for tough decisions.

Wondering why surrogacy agency fees are so expensive—and what they actually include?

 You’re not alone. When you're already spending six figures to grow your family, a $40,000+ agency fee can feel impossible to justify—especially when you’re not sure what’s really included.

 In this conversation, we unpack the real value of agency support, what services the fee does (and doesn’t) cover, and how to evaluate if it’s worth it—or if independent surrogacy might be the smarter path.

🎧 Press play to gain clarity, compare options, and protect your budget before you commit.

What You’ll Learn:

• 03:47 — What an agency really does for intended parents (beyond matching)

• 10:18 — Why surrogate screening is so crucial—and time-consuming

• 14:22 — Different fee structures: upfront, phased, and deferred

• 17:40 — The part most intended parents miss: refund policies

• 20:32 — What’s not included in your agency fee (and what to budget for separately)

• 24:56 — Why a higher fee doesn’t always mean better service
  

Resources Mentioned:

• Insider Tips for Picking a Surrogacy Agency - Surrogacy Playbook (inside BloomBridge)

• Surrogacy SmartSheet - Stay organized with your agency interviews

• BloomBridge Surrogacy App

• SMS #9 - Steal my process to picking a great agency - insider tips you don't want to miss

• SMS #33 - Premium Surrogates for Extra Bucks? The Truth About Two-Tier Surrogacy Systems

• Surrogacy Cost Calculator - Free on Web and BloomBridge

Key Takeaways:

• Most agency fees range from $20,000 to $50,000+

• Matching, screening, and coordination are covered—surrogate comp, legal, and medical are not

• Fee structures and refund policies vary—read the fine print

• Going independent is an option, but it’s a full-time job without support
  

🎧 Getting serious about your surrogacy journey? Use the BloomBridge App to compare agency costs and uncover what you’re really paying for—before you sign anything.

“Agency support can be priceless—but only if you know what you’re getting for your money.”

Wondering how much surrogacy actually costs these days? Prepare yourself for sticker shock.

 In this conversation, we break down why prices are rising faster than inflation—and what’s changed since 2020. From agency fees and surrogate pay to IVF and insurance costs, we walk through where your money really goes and how you can plan ahead without feeling blindsided.

 Whether you're just starting or already building your budget, you’ll walk away with real numbers, smart insights, and a few hope-restoring strategies.

 🎧 Press play to cut through the confusion and get clear on what surrogacy really costs in 2025.

What You’ll Learn:

• 03:38 — What surrogacy really costs in 2025 (and how it compares to 2020)

• 09:18 — Why costs have exploded: supply, demand, and industry behavior

• 13:36 — The 4 biggest expenses: where 85% of your money is going

• 16:10 — Sneaky extras to budget for (beyond just compensation and IVF)

• 20:26 — What lien policies are—and how they can add $30K

• 24:25 — Why some people pay $80K and others $300K for the same goal

• 25:16 — What independent surrogacy really costs without an agency

• 27:37 — How many transfers = more cost (unless you use guarantee programs)
  

Resources Mentioned:

• 2025 Ultimate Surrogacy Cost Guide & Calculator (Free on BloomBridge)

• Surrogacy Step-By-Step Guide (Free Starter Kit) 

• SMS #4: The High Cost of Hope: Tackling the financial burden of surrogacy with Alexandra French

• BloomBridge Surrogacy App
  

Key Takeaways:

• A typical journey in 2025 ranges from $160K–$200K+

• Four expenses alone make up over 85% of your total cost

• Lien policies, agency markups, and rising surrogate comp are driving costs higher

• Independent surrogacy can lower the price—but comes with tradeoffs
  

🎧 Feeling overwhelmed by the cost?

Download our free 2025 Surrogacy Cost Guide and run your numbers using the BloomBridge calculator—so you can plan with clarity, not guesswork.

Navigating surrogacy can feel like chasing breadcrumbs across the internet—time-consuming, frustrating, and overwhelming. You’ve waited long enough to grow your family. That’s why Surrogacy Made Simple exists.

Hosted by Dr. Alyssa Small Layne, a board-certified OB-GYN and mom through surrogacy, this podcast has become the go-to resource for unbiased, practical advice. And after 42 episodes, we’re celebrating an incredible first year with a special look back at 2024.

This episode is packed with lessons, expert insights, and hidden gems that will save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re just starting out or already deep in your surrogacy journey, these highlights will empower you to take the next step with confidence.

🎧 Stop hunting for answers. Listen to the full episode now to take control of your surrogacy journey!

Subscribe today to stay updated on new episodes and exciting resources, including the upcoming launch of BloomBridge Plus in 2025!

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Alyssa and Surrogacy Made Simple.” <– If that sounds like you, please do me a favor by rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to have a great experience with surrogacy. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Links mentioned in the episode 

Surrogacy Starter Kit

BloomBridge Surrogacy App 

#3 The Surprising Hidden Fees of All-Inclusive Surrogacy

#4 The High Cost of Hope: Tackling the financial burden of surrogacy

 #5 Your First Meeting with a Surrogate: 6 Key Topics You Must Cover to Prevent a Broken Match (tied for most listened)

#25 Understanding Surrogacy Timelines: What to Expect and How to Prepare (tied for most listened)

#7/#8 13 Surprising truths about surrogacy that may be holding you back

#19/#20 From Picture Perfect To The ICU – One Surrogate’s Story

SEAM Escrow Scandal

#18 Surrogacy Nightmare: Find Out if Your Money is at Risk!

#21/#22 When good surrogacy money advice goes wrong – Arielle Mitton

Safe Surrogacy: 6 Insider Tips to Avoid Scams and Pitfalls  Premium Video Training

#16/#17 Viral Social Media Insider Tips For the Best Surrogacy Matches- with Baden Colt

#28 How to Bond with Baby During and After Surrogacy

#34 The best way to bring baby home after surrogacy

#37/#38 Is embryo donation right for you? an IVF mom’s unique choice – Ashley Herring

#12/#13 Surprising Secrets Of Inducing Lactation For Surrogacy

Need to pack your hospital bag for your surrogacy journey without losing your mind?

Let’s face it—packing for the hospital as an intended parent is not quite like other parents. There’s so much to think about when you’re expecting a baby in this way. Plus, hospital stays can be longer and more unpredictable than expected, leaving you drained if you’re unprepared.

But here’s the good news: you don’t have to figure it out alone or spend hours stressing over what to pack.

In this episode of Surrogacy Made Simple, we’re breaking down everything you need to pack your hospital bag with confidence. You’ll learn exactly what you need (and what you don’t), so you can focus on what really matters—welcoming your baby into the world.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Imagine this: no last-minute scrambling, no overpacking or forgetting crucial items—just calm confidence as you head to the hospital, ready to meet your baby.

Click play now to take the stress out of packing and step into parenthood prepared.And don’t forget to download the checklist on the Bloombridge Surrogacy app for even more peace of mind.

🎧 This episode is your essential guide to stress-free packing. Tune in today!

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Alyssa and Surrogacy Made Simple.” <– If that sounds like you, please do me a favor by rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to have a great experience with surrogacy. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Links mentioned in the episode 

Surrogacy Starter Kit

BloomBridge Surrogacy App

Surrogacy Made Simple #34 The best way to bring baby home after surrogacy