Exploring donor conception as a route to parenthood for single people with your host, Mel Johnson
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S7: E4 Solo Parent of Twins in the public eye
In this episode I speak to children's entertainer and Red Wiggle, Caterina Meta about her journey to become a solo parent of twins.
*trigger warning we do discuss miscarriage in this episode
For over three decades, The Wiggles, the world’s most popular children’s entertainment group have educated, entertained, and enriched the lives of millions of pre-schoolers (and their parents) all over the globe. Today, generations of fans that grew up watching The Wiggles are sharing their love of them with their own children. Having sold over 30 million albums and DVDs and 8 million books globally, as well as accumulating over 2 billion music streams and 3 billion views on YouTube, The Wiggles continue to dominate the preschool entertainment scene. Their live shows annually sell out to audiences on three separate continents, and their videos are seen in over 190 countries around the world.
The Wiggles recently launched a new educational series on YouTube called Wiggle and Learn. This pioneering series explores crucial early childhood themes including language development, basic maths, social skills, and health and world understanding, offering a comprehensive and engaging educational experience for young learners. A new episode lands every Friday and includes Caterina talking about her pregnancy to children.
I first came across Caterina when I saw her lovely pregnancy announcement and the clear communication that she had used a donor to conceive in a message for her pre school audience.
In this episode we discuss:
- Caterina's fertility journey
- Finding out you are having twins
- How sharing your journey when you're in the public eye, can inspire others who may not have known about this path to parenthood
- How society paints happily ever after as meeting a partner, getting married and having children together
- How children react and don't judge when we share different journeys to parenthood
- The importance and options around support network
- Balancing career and being a solo parent
and MUCH MUCH more!
We were joined by Caterina's gorgeous dog for some of the interview, who also wanted their voice heard!!
You can follow Caterina on Instagram here
For more information in solo parenthood head to www.thestorkandi.com
S7: E3 Solo Parenting with Holly
In this episode I speak to solo parent Holly.
We cover:
- Choosing a sperm donor
- Finding donor siblings
- Deciding whether to try for a sibling
- The experience of being a solo parent and sharing some of the trickiest parts
- Experiencing post natal anxiety
- Our desire for constant cleaning to feel more in control
- The mental load of a solo parent
- Feeling lonely in the early days of solo parenting
- Asking for help and the sort of help that can be useful
- The benefits of finding your people
and much more....
You can follow Holly here
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at The Stork and I Website
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for here
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support
Thriving Solo:
You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums to get access to our members only Podcast as well as loads of materials and resources and a monthly remote Community Connection Call to meet other Solo Parents.
S7: E2 Solo Parenting with Sarah @singlemammybychoice
In todays episode I speak to solo parent Sarah
In the episode we cover:
- The difference between using the term single parent or solo parent
- Making the decision to become a solo parent
- Having IUI or IVF
- Having a really tough time postpartum and getting through it
- The benefits of parenting solo
- The unrealistic expectations we think we'd have of a partner!
- Advice for those considering solo parenthood
and much more.....
You can follow Sarah here
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at The Stork and I Website
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for here
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support
Thriving Solo:
You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums to get access to our members only Podcast as well as loads of materials and resources and a monthly remote Community Connection Call to meet other Solo Parents.
S7: E1 Cultural considerations with Jayneel
In todays episode we meet with Jayneel Patel about her journey to solo parenthood.
In the episode we discussed:
- Coming from an Indian family and the impact that has on the decision to become a solo parent
- Going through an arranged marriage and the learnings from that
- Considering adoption
- Having the support of the important people in our lives
- Being embraced by the extended family
- Choosing a sperm donor and considerations around ethnicity
- Getting things done as a solo parent
- Juggling career and parenthood
And much more!
If you want to follow Jayneel you can find her at @jp1409
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at The Stork and I Website
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for here
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support
Thriving Solo:
You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums to get access to our members only Podcast as well as loads of materials and resources and a monthly remote Community Connection Call to meet other Solo Parents.
S6: E10 Inconceivable - the Solo Parent Memoir
In the last episode of Series 6 of the Stork and I Podcast I chat to solo parent Alexandra.
Alexandra is a solo parent and an award winning Melbourne writer who has written for theatre, screen and print. Her memoir Inconceivable was recently published by Hachette.
In the episode we discuss:
- Her memoir Inconceivable
- Splitting up with a partner because they don't want children and you do
- 'Settling' for someone as an alternative to pursuing solo parenthood
- The challenges of dating when wanting children
- Considering using a known donor
- The importance of our solo parent network
- Moving location to be closer to parents
and MUCH more!
You can follow Alexandra at: https://www.instagram.com/alexandracollierwrites/
You can purchase Inconceivable here
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at The Stork and I Website
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for here
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support
Thriving Solo:
You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums to get access to our members only Podcast as well as loads of materials and resources and a monthly remote Community Connection Call to meet other Solo Parents.
S6: E9 Solo parenting abroad with Jess
Todays episode is with Solo parent Jess, who lives with her baby daughter in Thailand.
In the episode we cover:
- The considerations of solo parenthood when you live abroad
- Using a known donor
- Support network when you live away from family and how friends can really step up
- Childcare options when abroad
- Deciding whether to try for a 2nd baby
- Navigating being a solo parent and having a new relationship
and much more
You can follow Jess at @theglobe_thebaby_andme/
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at The Stork and I Website
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for here
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support
Thriving Solo:
You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums to get access to our members only Podcast as well as loads of materials and resources and a monthly remote Community Connection Call to meet other Solo Parents.
S6: E8 Solo parenting with Talia
Todays episode is with solo parent Talia.
In the episode we cover:
- Why things are not always easier with a partner
- Keeping a positive attitude
- Embracing non traditional living arrangements and making them work for us
- Pregnancy after loss
- Enabling our kids to engage with other donor conceived people and the importance of that for them
You can follow Talia on Instagram at @taliamck
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at The Stork and I Website
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for here
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support
Thriving Solo:
You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums to get access to our members only Podcast as well as loads of materials and resources and a monthly remote Community Connection Call to meet other Solo Parents.
S6: E7 All things Solo Parenting with @Claire_Needs_Coffee
Todays episode is with Claire Holland AKA @Claire_needs_coffee. Claire is a solo mum to her 4 year old Theo and chats with me all about her decision to become a solo parent, the journey to get there and the realities of parenting with no partner.
In the episode we discuss:
- Choosing IUI vs IVF
- Having a more challenging fertility journey than expected
- Getting time to yourself in the evening
- Balancing career and parenthood
- Finding your tribe
and much much more!
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at The Stork and I Website
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for here
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support
Thriving Solo:
You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums to get access to our members only Podcast as well as loads of materials and resources and a monthly remote Community Connection Call to meet other Solo Parents.
S6: E6 Deciding on the ethnicity of your sperm donor
In todays episode I chat to Alpa, solo mum to 5 year old Mia.
We discuss:
- Deciding to become a solo parent
- Managing pregnancy solo
- Moving to be closer to parents
- Choosing a sperm donor
- A challenging birth and post natal experience
- Changing careers
- The realities of parenting solo
and much much more.
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at The Stork and I Website
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for here
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support
Thriving Solo:
You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums to get access to our members only Podcast as well as loads of materials and resources and a monthly remote Community Connection Call to meet other Solo Parents.
S6: E5 Solo Parenting Twins When One Has a Complex Heart Condition
In todays episode I chat to solo parent to twins, Julia Shields. Julia has 4 year old twins. Her son was born with a complex heart condition that shapes a lot of how they live their lives.
In this episode we discuss:
- Julias decision to become a solo parent
- The living arrangements Julia has put in place
- How blended family living can work
- Parenting during covid
- The impact of her son having a complex heart condition from new born to today
- How Julia manages through challenging times
and much more......
Huge thanks to Julia for sharing her story and massive respect for the strength she has. She is a true inspiration.
You can follow Julia on Instagram
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at The Stork and I Website
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for here
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support
Thriving Solo:
You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums to get access to our members only Podcast as well as loads of materials and resources and a monthly remote Community Connection Call to meet other Solo Parents.
S6: E4 Making the decision to use double donation and to have 2 children solo
In todays episode I chat to solo parent Kirsten.
Kirsten is solo mum to 2 children by double donation.
In todays episode we discuss:
- Fertility tests an understanding your fertility
- Deciding to use donor eggs as well as donor sperm
- Making the decision to try for a sibling
- The experience of parenting two children solo
Thanks so much to Kirsten for taking the time to share her story with us.
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at The Stork and I Website
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for here
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support
Thriving Solo:
You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums to get access to our members only Podcast as well as loads of materials and resources and a monthly remote Community Connection Call to meet other Solo Parents.
S6: E3 When the hardest part of the journey isn’t the decision to start
In episode 3 of series 6 of the Stork and I Podcast, I chat to Claire Davies about her roller coaster journey to solo parenthood so far.
We discuss:
- Deciding between IUI and IVF
- Getting treatment on the NHS
- Experiencing chemical pregnancy
- Dealing with miscarriage and recurrent loss
- Not realising how tough the journey can be after you've spent a long time considering whether it's the right path
- The importance of having amazing people around you
...and much more
You can follow Claire on Instagram
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at The Stork and I Website
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for here
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support
Thriving Solo:
You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums to get access to our members only Podcast as well as loads of materials and resources and a monthly remote Community Connection Call to meet other Solo Parents.
S6: E2 Solo Parent and Doula, Amelie
As a doula @feeling she has supported many solo moms, before having her son. She recently created an online program naissanceholistique in France to help couples and solo moms prepare for birth. Being solo-mom-inclusive was absolutely a priority for her. In June 2021, after a two-year debate in parliament, France has finally legalized fertility treatments including IVF for lesbians and single women – making the procedures free for them, just as they are for qualified heterosexual couples. Before that, French women were travelling everywhere in Europe to access fertility treatments. She also created a small project called @nuancesdefamilles where she showcasts that there are many nuances to being a family but that LOVE is what makes a family. She created it to connect to like-minded families and offer different family models to children. In todays episode we discuss: - The option of living with family - The benefits of parenting solo - The importance of support network - Redefining family - Making the decision to pivot your career for a period of time - The realities of solo parenting and the importance of sleep. You can follow Amelie on Instagram
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at The Stork and I Website
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for here
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support
Thriving Solo:
You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums to get access to our members only Podcast as well as loads of materials and resources and a monthly remote Community Connection Call to meet other Solo Parents.
S6:E1 No Need For Prince Charming
In the first episode of Series 6 I chat to Alisha Burns AKA @Noneedforprincecharming
Alisha is the host of the No Need For Prince Charming Podcast where she interviews Australian Solo Mums about their journey to parenthood.
For a change, she was the one being interviewed and I found out all about her own story, when she started thinking about solo parenthood, her journey to get there as well as her experiences as a parent.
We also discussed the children's book she has written. My Perfect Family. She very generously sent me a copy and I can honestly say it's one of the best books on family diversity that I've seen.
You can get 15% off using code STORK15
You can follow Alisha on Instagram at @noneedforprincecharming
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at The Stork and I Website
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for here
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support
Thriving Solo:
You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums to get access to our members only Podcast as well as loads of materials and resources and a monthly remote Community Connection Call to meet other Solo Parents.
S5; E10 Chatting to donor conceived Skyler who was raised by a solo mum
In todays episode, the last in series 10, I speak to 21 year old Skyler.
Skyler and her twin brother were conceived using egg and sperm donation and raised by their mum in a solo parent family.
Skyler shares her experiences and thoughts about being donor conceived
In todays episode we cover:
- The things we do when we want to fit in as a child
- Growing up being the only solo parent family in the area
- When something happens to your only parent that prevents them for caring for you as they would have liked
- Finding your own male role models
- Whether solo parenthood through donor conception is a selfish decision
- Ways you can struggle growing up without a father
- The importance of honest communication
- What language to use with our children
....and much more!
Connect with Skyler
You can connect with Skyler on Instagram at @skylergranat
She would love to hear from other donor conceived people to share experiences.
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at www.thestorkandi.com
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for at www.thestorkandi.com (scroll down to the section where it says subscribe)
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i
Thriving Solo: You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums here: https://members.thestorkandi.com Future Events: You can see our planned future events here: https://members.thestorkandi.com/webinar-library/
S5: E9 Being connected to donor siblings families as a baby
In todays episode I speak to Emma. Emma is solo mum to a 9 month old daughter using sperm donation and she talks to me about her wonderful experience of being connected by her Sperm Bank to the other recipient parents who have all used the same donor.
In todays episode we cover:
- Being a solo mum with a very limited support system
- Being connected to donor sibling families when the donor siblings are still all babies
- The language we use and whether we should use the term 'diblings'
- What makes a family and the importance of genetics
- Ways of finding donor siblings through Facebook Groups
and much more....
I mentioned being really interested in whether more sperm banks will follow what Seattle Sperm bank is doing, but actually the legislation in the UK will not allow it, so if we think this is something that should change, we would need to change the legislation in order for this to be able to happen for people who have used sperm from the UK.
The whatsapp group I referred to in the podcast for people who have used Manchester Fertility / Semovo has been replaced by a Facebook group that you can access here.
I have a live event planned with Seattle Sperm Bank to learn more about the programme Emma describes. You can get more information about that and how to join here.
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at www.thestorkandi.com
Newsletter
I have created a monthly Solo Parent Stork and I Newsletter that you can sign up for at www.thestorkandi.com (scroll down to the section where it says subscribe)
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i
Thriving Solo: You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums here: https://members.thestorkandi.com Future Events: You can see our planned future events here: https://members.thestorkandi.com/webinar-library/
S5: E8 Hearing from donor conceived Natasha who was raised by a solo mum
In todays episode I speak to Natasha Fox. Natasha is 29 and was raised by her mum in London and then later Scotland. Natasha's mum was the first single woman in Scotland to use donor conception to conceive. Natasha has always known she was donor conceived and openly shares her experiences in this episode.
In todays episode we cover:
- Using a homemade book to talk to our children about their conception
- The importance of being honest and open about our childrens conception
- The influence we have over how our children feel about their conception
- Emphasising who we have in our life without labels
- Natasha's thoughts about growing up without a father in her life
- Why curiosity about a donor is not a reflection on the quality of parenting
- The best time to find donor siblings
and much more....
Resources
I have created a guide of how to create your own My Family book that is referred to in this episode available here
You can listen to the webinar I recorded with Natasha here
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at www.thestorkandi.com
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i
Thriving Solo: You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums here: https://members.thestorkandi.com Future Events: You can see our planned future events here: https://members.thestorkandi.com/webinar-library/
S5: E7 Being donor conceived and using donor conception to conceive
In todays episode I chat to Freya.
Freya is donor conceived and was raised by 2 mums. Then, her and her wife used donor sperm to conceive a daughter, so she has perspectives of both being donor conceived and also being a recipient parent.
**Warning: we discuss some characteristics of the sperm donor Freya used in the episode**
In this episode we cover:
- Feelings about being donor conceived
- A good age to meet donor siblings
- Finding your donor through DNA testing
- How it feels to connect with your donor
- What language feels comfortable
- Considering using a known donor
- The importance of constantly learning
and much much more!
Connect with Freya:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unicorndcp
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at www.thestorkandi.com
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i
Thriving Solo: You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums here: https://members.thestorkandi.com Future Events: You can see our planned future events here: https://members.thestorkandi.com/webinar-library/
S5: E6 Julianne Boutaleb, Perinatal Psychologist
In todays episode I speak to Julianne Boutaleb.
Julianne is the Clinical Director and Founder of the Parenthood In Mind practice. She is a passionate and highly experienced perinatal psychologist who has worked for over 20 years in the NHS and private practice with parents and parents-to-be and their babies (and bumps) who have needed support with a wide variety of issues.
In todays episode we cover:
- Our reproductive stories and coming to terms with the fact that they might be different to how we originally thought they would be
- Dealing with feelings of loneliness and shame
- Managing the 'ouch moments' beyond the fairytale
- Projections on our beliefs of motherhood
- The feelings of finding parenting hard after a difficult fertility journey
- The importance of finding our village
- The importance of filling our own cup
- Tips of how to manage tricky questions that catch us off guard
and much more.....
Connect with Julianne:
Website: https://www.parenthoodinmind.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parenthoodinmind/
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at www.thestorkandi.com
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i
Thriving Solo: You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums here: https://members.thestorkandi.com Future Events: You can see our planned future events here: https://members.thestorkandi.com/webinar-library/
S5: E5 Finding out you’re donor conceived in your teens
In todays episode I speak to Emily.
Emily was conceived using a sperm donor and raised by a solo parent. Because it was pretty common to be a solo parent family where Emily grew up, she didn't ask many questions about her father until her mum showed her a documentary about donor conception when she was in her teens, and she realised that she was conceived with a donor.
We explore the impact of not having those in depth conversations at an earlier age.
In todays episode we cover:
- Finding out you're donor conceived through watching a documentary
- The impact of not having conversations about donor conception from an early age
- The experience of meeting your donor
- How it feels to connect with donor siblings
- Advice for others
and much more.....
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at www.thestorkandi.com
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i
Thriving Solo: You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums here: https://members.thestorkandi.com Future Events: You can see our planned future events here: https://members.thestorkandi.com/webinar-library/
S5: E4 Hearing from the US Donor Conceived Council
In todays episode I speak to Melissa from the United States Donor Conceived Council.
Melissa was conceived using anonymous egg donation and her parents told her and her brother when she was 21.
Melissa is part of the US Donor Conceived Council, which is a nonprofit organization run by and for Donor Conceived People. They connect with other DCP, recipient parents, donors, industry professionals, and the general public to increase awareness of issues that impact DCP and promote change that advances their health, welfare, and human rights."
In this episode we cover:
- The important topics that the United States Door Conceived Council are fighting for
- The feeling of burden that can be felt by DCP trying to find family members
- Some of the challenges with worldwide donor limits
- The differences in experiences of a RP and a DCP
- How societys view of what makes a family, might impact our thoughts about the term 'parent'
- The importance of not making the subject of donor conception taboo for our kids
- Why we should try not to take criticisms of the industry personally
....and much much more.
Connect with Donor Conceived Council
To connect with the US Donor Conceived Council you can follow them on Instagram
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donorconceivedcouncil/
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at www.thestorkandi.com
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i
Thriving Solo: You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums here: https://members.thestorkandi.com Future Events: You can see our planned future events here: https://members.thestorkandi.com/webinar-library/
S5: E3 Chatting to donor conceived Nikita who was raised by a solo mum
In todays episode I chat to 24 year old Nikita. Nikita was donor conceived through sperm donation and raised by a solo mum in Birmingham.
Being donor conceived inspired her to work in fertility which has allowed her to better understand the process from the parent perspective. She believe's it is important to hear the views of both parents and donor conceived people for future generations to have a more positive experience. She started looking for her donor and siblings aged 16 and feels very lucky to have a supportive family.
In todays episode we cover:
- Talking to your childs friends parents about donor conception
- The benefits to our children of knowing other donor conceived children
- How it feels to find out your donors non identifying information at 16
- Finding half siblings and 3rd cousins!
- The benefits of RPs doing the work when it comes to finding donor siblings to give the options for DCP and not leaving all the investigations to our children
- Changing feelings about a donor over time
- How a sense of identity can be linked to understand who your donor is
- Creative ways of trying to find your donor
- The part genetics plays in our lives
and much much more!
Connect with Nikita
To connect with Nikita you can follow her on Instagram, where she will be more than happy to answer any questions:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsnikitaxx
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at www.thestorkandi.com
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i
Thriving Solo: You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums here: https://tinyurl.com/yckpfd9k
S5: E2 Jana Rupnow, Family Building Therapist
In todays episode I chat to licensed professional counselor and international consultant specializing in fertility and family building, Jana Rupnow.
Jana M. Rupnow, MA, LPC, is best-selling author of the book, Three Makes Baby-How to Parent Your Donor-Conceived Child. She introduced the field to the “five common fears” that parents face as they contemplate having a non-biological child. Thousands of readers around the world have trusted the wisdom and guidance because she knows firsthand what it’s like to be in a non-biological family, as an adoptee and adoptive mom.
Jana also faced infertility and has helped thousands of people face the challenges of infertility as well as those preparing to grow their family in non-traditional ways. Working as an independent, she has fostered relationships with endocrinologists across the United States. Jana’s work, including the Three Makes Baby podcast, encourages communication between donor conceived parents and donor conceived adults, to raise awareness of the inherent challenges donor conceived families may face across the lifespan.
In todays episode we cover:
- The importance of giving DCP a voice
- The importance of working through any unresolved grief
- How our children are influenced by how we discuss donor conception
- The importance of language and what to call a donor
- Why its important to own our mistakes
- Advice about when to start talking to our children about their conception
Connect with Jana
For consultation, counseling, training for professionals, or a speaking engagement you can contact Jana on any of her channels below
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janarupnowplc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jana.rupnow
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JanaRupnowLPC
Website: www.janarupnow.com
Email: Jana@janarupnow.com
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at www.thestorkandi.com
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i.
Thriving Solo: You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums here: https://tinyurl.com/yckpfd9k
S5: E1 Conversations with Kiara who is donor conceived with a solo mother
In episode one of series 5 of The Stork and I Podcast I chat to Kiara.
Kiara is a 24 year-old donor conceived person who was raised by her solo mom, Nicki. She lives in Chicago and is writing a book about being donor conceived and her story of navigating life and finding her donor related family. She is trying to redefine society's notion of a "traditional family". You can check her out on instagram @kiararaeschuh and get a free preview of her book at kiararaeschuh.com.
In todays episode we cover:
- The impact the way you are told you are door conceived can have on you
- The importance of language around donor conception
- Finding donor siblings
- How it feels to connect with your donor
- Whether genetics makes a family
- Advice for solo parents
and much more.......
Connect with Kiara
Instagram: https:https://www.instagram.com/kiararaeschuh/
Website: kiararaeschuh.co/
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me and the coaching I offer at www.thestorkandi.com
Instagram:
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i.
Thriving Solo: You can sign up to Thriving Solo, The Stork and I Membership Community for solo mums here: https://tinyurl.com/yckpfd9k
Series 5 Trailer
The wait is finally over! The Stork and I Podcast for solo parents and those considering solo parenthood is back!
Series 5 of the podcast is launching on 2nd February 2022 and is focusing on all things donor conception.
Subscribe now so you don't miss out!
S4: E10 The one for friends and family
Todays episode is a bit different from usual.
I'm not talking to a guest. Instead I have dedicated this episode to provide guidance for friends and family members of solo mums.
I've tried to incorporate my own experience as well as everything that has been shared with me by my fellow solo mum community.
I've covered all the things we wish our friends and family knew about how to best support us and what not to say.
I cover:
- Re-establishing a different relationship with your friend
- How hard asking for help is
- Practical things you can do to help a solo parent
- Things to avoid saying and more useful things to stay instead
- The importance of open communication
I'd love to hear from you on your views of what good support looks like and if you are a friend or family member whether this has been useful for you.
S4: E9 Fertility Yoga with Helen Davenport-Peace
Todays guest is Helen Davenport-Peace from @at_the_fold
Helen is a yoga teacher that has been immersed in the path of yoga, embodiment and teaching for 25 years. She is the owner of a small yoga studio in Greater Manchester, The Fold - a hub for anyone trying to conceive. Her aim is to provide a sanctuary of rest and community amidst the landscapes of creating a family. Helen supports people in the midst of a trying to conceive story through Fertility Yoga sessions and co-created 1:1 conception doula bespoke support packages for assisted conception and early pregnancy. Support is carefully curated together and can include yoga, guided relaxation, massage, breathwork and a range of other modalities.
In todays episode we cover:
- The power of finding your community
- The variety of ways that yoga can help support us through a fertility journey
- Practical advice of how to incorporate a yoga practise into a busy schedule
Connect with Helen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/at_the_fold/
Website: https://thefold.uk/
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i.
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me at www.thestorkandi.com
S4: E8 Emotional Freedom Technique with Sarah Holland
Todays guest is Sarah Holland, the Fertile Mindset® Coach and has a unique, effective and empowering approach to fertility support. Working in the world of fertility since 2001, and having
experienced fertility challenges herself, she pioneered the use of EFT Tapping specifically for
fertility support.
With the Fertile Mindset® approach to coaching, support and emotional healing she has helped thousands of people negotiate the emotional rollercoaster of fertility issues. Sarah believes it is possible for anyone’s fertility journey to become a much more positive and fulfilling experience, and that by recognising and supporting the emotional aspects of fertility, the path to parenthood can become more successful in every way including creating a family.
Sarah’s coaching clients and Fertile Mindset® Sanctuary members frequently tell her that
the results they achieve with her support and EFT “feel like magic!”.
Sarah has appeared on BBC News and Channel 5 talking about fertility topics, and has
spoken on stage at the Fertility Show and My Future Family Show in London, the American
Fertility Expo in California and Fertilitetsmessen in Copenhagen, as well as at numerous
online fertility events and podcasts. She is also a proud member of the AlphaZita holistic
fertility team, offering integrated fertility support on retreat at the luxury Sani resort in
Greece.
Sarah is based in the U.K. and her support is available worldwide via zoom consultations and
within her membership, the Fertile Mindset® Sanctuary which has both free and paid levels
of support.
Having experienced her own fertility challenges Sarah is now a mum to two boys through
both birth and adoption.
In todays episode we cover:
- EFT; what it is and how it can support you on your fertility journey
- How EFT tapping works and why it works
- How you can use EFT tapping to make and stick to a decision
- Why EFT is a skill for life
and much more!
Connect with Sarah Holland
Begin your own Fertile Mindset® journey today by joining Sarah’s free membership in the
Fertile Mindset ® Sanctuary here: www.fertilemindset.com/sanctuary
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fertile_mindset/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/FertileMindset
Podcast: Fertile Mindset
Website: www.fertilemindset.com
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i.
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me at www.thestorkandi.com
S4: E7 A Single Revolution with Shani Silver
In todays episode, I chat to Shani Silver.
Shani is a writer and the host of A Single Serving Podcast. Her work focuses on changing the negative narratives around being single in an effort to improve the way single life is experienced. Shani's work helps singles reframe the limiting, shame-filled societal messages around singlehood and reframe them to hold more truth and authenticity. On October 26th, 2021 Shani is releasing her first book, A Single Revolution: Don't look for a match. Light one.
In todays chat we cover:
- The narrative around single women as compared to that of single men
- How reframing can help us to enjoy singlehood a lot more
- The importance of language when discussing singlehood
- Why we don't have to find a partner for our life to start - Coming to the realisation we don't have to have a baby, if we don't want to have a baby - How spending time with babies can help you decide if you want to be a parent - Challenging the assumption that we are all supposed to get married and have children - The importance of making conscious decisions, whatever they may beand much, much more.....
You can purchase A Single Revolution , Shani's new book from Amazon from 26th October 2021
Connect with Shani Silver:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/shanisilver
Medium: https://shanisilver.medium.com/
Podcast: A Single Serving
Book: A Single Revolution: Don't look for a match. Light one.
Website: https://www.shanisilver.com/
Thank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i.
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me at www.thestorkandi.com
S4:E6 Getting fertility treatment abroad
In todays episode I chat to Emma Haslam from @yourIVFabroad
Emma is an expert in fertility treatment abroad and after her own journey with treatment abroad she set up Your IVF abroad, to help others by making fertility treatment more affordable, accessible and supported and to give people who she was missing. Emma helps people to find a clinic that matches their needs and wants and supports them through treatment, she also offers donor conception information sessions so you can make informed decisions. Aiming to change the narrative Emma has become an advocate, speaker, campaigner and writer for the infertility community and on donor conception. In todays chat we cover: - How to manage being told you need to lose weight before starting your fertility journey - Some of the key reasons people choose to get treatment abroad - Where to start if you're considering treatment abroad - How long you need to spend abroad if you're having your treatment in a clinic in a different country - The impact of Covid on getting treatment abroad - Where you can get more information and connect with others getting treatment abroad ...and much more! Emma has a free Facebook community where she and peers offer support to those curious about, planning or having IVF abroad. It's a closed community that will not show up in your news feed or profile and you can choose to post anonymously. To check out the support group, have a listen to her podcasts, check out Emma's services and free resources - including a checklist to see if fertility treatment abroad is right for you please use the link below. www.linktr.ee/YourivfabroadThank you for listening to The Stork and I Podcast! I would love for you to share this episode and let me know what you think! Please take a moment to rate and review, it really helps others find the podcast which can be a great source of support!
Join our Instagram community for more support: www.instagram.com/the_stork_and_i.
About Mel Johnson
Hi! I'm Mel, The Solo Parenthood Coach and following my own journey to solo parenthood, I created The Stork and I to support others going through the same journey.
I'm also on a mission to change the narrative around solo parenthood
Learn more about me at www.thestorkandi.com
S4: E5 Single Parent Rights
In todays episode I speak to Ruth, a single mum who works in the charity sector. She has two young boys who she has raised solo since her eldest was six months old. Her first was conceived through marriage, and the second via donor conception.
Ruth has been writing about single parenting for over six years on her blog Ellamental Mama, trying to raise understanding of the realities faced by single parents - the good, bad and the ugly.
Her writing has been featured in The Guardian, The I Paper and The Metro, amongst others.
In 2020, Ruth set up the Single Parent Rights campaign to push for changes to UK law to address the ongoing discrimination of single parents after helping to lobby for the introduction of single parent support bubbles in the first UK lockdown.
In todays episode we discuss:
- The decision to have a second child using donor conception - Talking to your children about their conception - First hand experience of becoming a parent in a relationship and then becoming a parent outside of a relationship - Why its not always better to have a partner - Getting single parents included in the Equality Act - Examples of discrimination against single parents - How to get involved with Single Parent Rightsand much more!
You can see more of Ruth on Instagram on @ellamental_mama and @singleparentrightsS4: E4 Using an Au Pair as part of your support network
In todays episode I chat to Sophy.
Sophy is 36 and lives in South Oxfordshire with her 3 year old twins. She started the journey to solo motherhood at 31 after receiving the results of a fertility test she took.
Sophy got 2 eggs from her treatment, transferred them both and now has twin girls.
In this episode we cover:
- The decision to transfer 2 embryos
- Solo parenting twins
- Using an au pair to form part of your support network
- Freelancing as a solo parent
- Dating as a solo parent
and much, much more!
Update:
If you live in the UK, finding an au pair is much more challenging now that EU citizens cant get to the UK without a work VISA. Au pairing does not count as work but its also not a holiday, so its sadly got a lot more complicated.S4: E3 Thoughts on being donor conceived
S4: E2 Managing your finances as a solo parent
S4: E1 Talking to our children about their conception with Sarah Sproule
Welcome to episode 1 of the 4th series of The Stork and I Podcast
In this episode I chat to Occupational Therapist and Sex Educator, Sarah Sproule.
When Sarah was 11 she was afraid she was only growing one breast and didn’t know who to turn to for help. Now as mother of three teens, with two decades experience as a therapist and a masters in sexuality studies, Sarah uses her skills as an occupational therapist and sex educator to ensure every parent and caring adult knows how to build deeper connection with their growing kid(s). Because no child should ever feel alone and unable to reach out for help with their body, their boundaries or their knowledge about sexuality. … and yes Sarah eventually grew two breasts roughly the same size. As solo parents, it is our responsibility to talk to our children about their conception and to ensure to the best of our ability that they understand and feel comfortable and confident discussing it. I talk to Sarah about getting some hints and tips on how to best have these conversations. In this episode we cover: - Why we have anxiety about talking about these topics with our children - Why our reactions to our kids questions are so important - Why starting talking to our children from birth can be a benefit - Why it is important to use the correct anatomical words - Seed vs sperm which language to use - How to have conversations about conception with our children and much much more. You can find out more information from Sarah's instagram account: www.instagram.com/iamsarahsproule/ Her YouTube Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/c/sarahsproule She also holds a free mini series www.sarahsproule.com/explain
Series 4 Trailer
The wait is finally over. The Stork and I Podcast for those considering solo parenthood is back!
Series 4 of the podcast is launching on 1st September 2021.
Subscribe now so you don't miss out!
S3: 10 Using a known donor to become a solo mum
In todays episode I chat to Joscelyn Webb, solo mum to a nearly 4 year old son. Joscelyn lives in Hong Kong and travelled to the UK for treatment using a known donor.
In this episode we cover:
- Making the decision to start trying to conceive following fertility test results
- Deciding on using a known donor
- Contacting potential known donors to ask if they would be interested in being a donor
- Grieving for the path to parenthood we presumed we would follow
- The benefits of parenting solo
- Flying back to the UK for treatment
- Male role models
- The discussions and agreements made with a known donor before trying to conceive
- Being aware that things might change and being open to that
- Talking to our children about their conception
and much more...
S3: 9 Being a freelance solo mum
S3: 8 Travelling as a solo mum
In todays episode I chat to Natalie.
Natalie is an avid traveller and a solo mum to 2.5 year old Tiger. She chats to me about using her maternity leave to spend time travelling with her daughter.
In this episode we discuss:
- Meeting someone in our lives who inspires us to travel - Becoming a solo mother when you have a boyfriend - Egg freezing and being an egg donor - Getting treatment abroad - Experiencing numerous treatment cycles - Navigating solo motherhood with a partner - Preparation and logistics for travel during maternity and the things to consider and plan for - Maximising annual leave for travel when you're back at work - The differences travelling with a baby and a toddler and much much more!
To find out more about Natalie and Tigers travel adventures you can read her blog at www.tigerontour.com
S3: 7 Solo Mothers By Choice Support Groups
S3: 6 The journey to solo fatherhood
S3: 5: Writing a book about solo motherhood
S3: 4: Managing a career whilst solo parenting 2 children
S3: 3 Solo parenting with twins
In todays episode, I chat to Harriet, a solo mum to twin boys. Harriet conceived whilst living in New York, but when she found out she was having twins decided to move back to the UK, to get the support of her family.
In this episode we cover:
- The impact of living abroad on meeting a partner
- The considerations when deciding to transfer 2 embryos
- The benefits of living with parents
- The realities of being a solo mum to twins
- The experience of being pregnant with twins
- Juggling work with motherhood and managing the different pulls on our time
- Asking for and accepting help
- Dating as a solo mum with kids
and much more
Harriet is a member of The Stork and I Mum Tribe Facebook Group and can be contacted there if you'd like to connect with her.
S3:2 Solo Parenting with a Chronic Illness
S3:1 Egg Freezing with Amy Hart
The first episode of series 3 is all about Egg Freezing as a way of Fertility Preservation. In this episode I chat to Amy Hart, best known for Love Island and Celebs Go Dating and as she says in our interview, who is famously single.
Amy has shared openly her desire to start a family in the future and her decision to freeze her eggs to give her time to meet someone, or to embark on solo motherhood if that doesn't happen for her.
In this episode we discussed:
- Why it's frustrating when people tell you, you have plenty of time
- Why Amy decided to freeze her eggs
- Why Amy wants to use her platform to raise awareness on this topic
- Amy's experience of the egg freezing process
- The 10 year egg storage limit and the implications if you want to freeze your eggs in your 20s
- Considerations on whether to freeze embryos
- Amy's thoughts about becoming a solo mum in the future and the support from her family
- I also ask Amy what she thought about the comment made on her appearance on Loose Women that no-one in their right mind would embark on solo motherhood.
...and much more
For anyone considering freezing their eggs, this is a great listen to help get a greater insight into the process.
Series 3 Trailer
The trailer for series 3 of the Stork and I Podcast.
This series is a collection of stories covering a variety of different paths to parenthood and solo motherhood stories.
S2: Dating mindset with dating coach Hayley Quinn
In the last episode of Series 2 I chat to Dating Coach Hayley Quinn.
Hayley is an internationally recognised dating coach and founder of the UK’s largest dating coaching company. She has over 2 Million views on her TED talk and over 100,000 YouTube subscribers. She is the spokesperson for Match, the biggest online dating platform in the world. She has been featured on BBC1, Sky and Channel 4 and is a regular columnist for Cosmopolitan. Her goal is to bridge the gap with modern dating and help inspire people to learn to love dating. In this episode we discuss: - Why it is wise to have a dating strategy - Why time pressure can negatively impact our decision making - How we can try to find the process of dating fun and enjoyable - How we can take control of our dating lives - The benefits of approaching dating with a completely different mindset - Tips of how to let go of the outcome of dating - Why going more slowly can sometimes help you reach your ultimate goal faster - How long it might take to really get to know if someone will make a suitable partner for you - The experience of dating as a solo mum You can find more from Hayley at: Instagram @hayleyquinnx Facebook @Hayley Quinn YouTube @Hayley QuinnS2: What the Research Says with Professor Susan Golombok
S2: Doula support with Lorraine from Mama2Mama
S2: Managing your Mindset with Alice Rose
S2: Donor Eggs with Becky from Defining Mum
S2: Donor Sperm with Annemette Arndal-Lauritzen from European Sperm Bank
In this episode, I talk to Annemette Arndal-Lauritzen, the CEO of the European Sperm Bank. Annemette has been in the company since 2013. She has a background in the healthcare sector and her main interests revolve around how women and sperm donors experience their contact with the sperm bank, and how to continuously improve this relationship.
We had a really interesting discussion about the process for both the donor and the recipient, as well as the values of the Sperm Bank and their ideas about how they see their responsibility in this process, which was really reassuring to hear.
In this episode we cover:
- The recruitment of donors
- The process the donors go through
- The selection and profile of donors
- The process of ordering sperm
- Advice on how to choose a donor
- Insights into finding donor siblings
- Discussion around finding the balance between the rights and needs of the donor, the recipient and the donor conceived child
- The values of the European Sperm Bank
For more information on the European Sperm bank you can follow them on Instagram/Facebook or see their website.
S2: Fertility Options with Dr Matt Prior
S2: Creating a support network with Zoe Desmond from Frolo
Zoe is passionate about changing the stereotypes and assumptions about what it means to be a single parent. In this episode we chat about: - What inspired Zoe to start Frolo - Where the name Frolo came from - How the app has helped Zoe personally meet other single parents that have now formed part of her closest friendship group - Dealing with loneliness, especially at the weekends, when it seems like everyone else is with their family - How we can redefine the classic relationship model - How we can be happier with having an amazing friendship group and support network around us than just having one partner we rely on for everything - How parenting solo can help you build stronger connections with those around you - How to navigate the Frolo App and much more! For more information, follow @frolo on Instagram
S2: Fertility Nutrition with Rosie Tadman
Rosie specialises in Fertility, Female Hormones, Pregnancy and Postpartum Support.
Rosie uses Modern Science and Traditional Wisdom to get women in hormonal flow and support conception. She supports underlying causes, rather than just suppressing symptoms.
Rosie works with women who;
-
are thinking about getting pregnant and want to ensure they are as healthy as possible
-
are actively trying to get pregnant, through both natural and assisted routes (IVF, ICSI, IUI)
-
have a hormonal condition (PCOS, Endometriosis, Fibroids, Period issues)
-
are pregnant and would like nutrition advice to support them to thrive through pregnancy
-
would like postpartum support (whether this is 6 weeks after their baby is born or 6-years )
- AMH and Rosies view on whether this is flawed as a measure
- How a Fertility Nutritional Therapist can support you on your fertility journey
- Egg quality and whether it can be improved
- An idea of which supplements to take
- How to track your cycle
- Top tips for preparing your body before fertility treatment
- Whether you should give up or cut down on alcohol (this was recorded before I decided to stop drinking!)
- The research on smoking and the impact to egg quality
- Rosies online fertility nutrition course
www.instagram.com/rosielifenutrition
S2: James Preece; The Dating Guru
James has written several best selling dating books and relationship guides, many of which have gone on to become Amazon bestsellers.
So why am I chatting to James on a podcast about becoming a solo mum I hear you ask? 2 main reasons: Firstly, about 95% of my coaching clients share with me that they are trying to decide between continuing to date or starting the journey of solo motherhood. For those who have decided to continue to date for now, I want to provide support with the best strategies to take action and to be successful at this. Secondly, a top fear of women who choose solo motherhood is that it will mean they remain single forever more. I explore this idea with James to try to put our minds at rest that this is simply not the case. For more information about James and the coaching and support he offers, you can check out his website at www.jamespreece.com and follow him on Instagram @jamespreececoachThe Stork and I Series 2 Trailer
Series 2 of The Stork and I Podcast is finally here.
This series is about the process to become a solo mum.
1st episode of the 2nd series launches on 5th January.
A grandparents view on solo motherhood with Granny Bev
This is the final episode of series 1 of the podcast. And I've saved a great episode for last!
Basically I managed to persuade Granny Bev to record with me. She was not in her comfort zone at all. But she agreed to do it anyway!
In this episode we discuss:
- Whether living abroad has hindered my efforts to meet someone
- The fear of never becoming a grandparent
- The fact that my mum was worried about whether I would be able to cope!
- Opinions of why I've not met a partner and whether she thinks I am too choosey!
- How dating has changed from the past and how our expectations of relationships have changed
- The experience of attending antenatal classes and being my birthing partner
- The support my mum gives me on a weekly basis and how challenging it can be
- Why Granny Bev isn't remotely interested in dating!
and much more!
I hope you enjoy and it gives you a slightly different perspective on things. And what a good sport she is for agreeing to be a guest!
You can follow Granny Bev on Instagram where she occasionally posts pics of her and Daisy.
Couple goals with Raelene Rorke
Reimagining black British solo motherhood with Emmie
Spermcast with Molly Hawkey
Fertility Education with Professor Joyce Harper
Changing the narrative around single women with Nicola Slawson
Deciding on solo motherhood with Claire
In episode 4 I meet Claire. Solo mum of gorgeous 1 year old Ruby.
Claire and I met at a solo mum meet up and became friends. We spent last Valentines Day together with our kids and some other solo mum friends (in the same pub Max George from The Wanted but that's another story!) We spent most Wednesday evenings together via Zoom during lock down on The Stork and I Solo Mum Calls. I love Claires banter so I knew she'd be a great guest on the podcast. She loves to tell it as it is!
In this episode we discuss:
- Deciding between IUI and IVF
- The pressure of dating when you want a baby
- Sharing the journey with family
- Planning for every eventuality
- Building a support network including overnight sleep support throughout the first 4 months
- An honest account of the elements Claire has found challenging being a solo mum
- Finding a night a month to go out for a bit of a blow out
- Creative dates to fit in with childcare
- Fertility tests and their role in helping to make a decision to start the journey to solo motherhood
- Our views on whether we would have found parenting with a partner any easier than parenting solo
You can follow Claire on Instagram @clairesofield
I hope you enjoy the episode. Mel xx
Natazsas solo motherhood journey
Going Solo with Genevieve Roberts
Mothering solo with Jocelyn @motheringsolo
Welcome to The Stork and I Podcast. This is a podcast aimed at single women considering solo motherhood.
In this first episode I meet the lovely Jocelyn AKA @motheringsolo
We chat donor conception with double donation, dating when you want a baby, fertility MOTs and making the decision to start the journey to solo motherhood.
You can follow Jocelyn's story on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/motheringsolo/
If you like this episode, please rate and review keep your eyes peeled for the next one, out every Wednesday.
The Stork and I Podcast, for single women considering solo motherhood
The trailer for The Stork and I Podcast for single women considering solo motherhood
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En liten tjänst av I'm With Friends. Finns även på engelska.