What do you do when IVF fails, and the path to parenthood feels impossible to navigate?

That’s the place Christi once found herself—heartbroken, overwhelmed, and unsure of what came next. But her determination to become a mom never faded. Through surrogacy and egg donation, she found not only a way forward but also a bigger circle of love than she ever expected.

In this episode, Christi opens up about the emotions of infertility, what it was like to consider egg donation for the first time, and how she and her husband navigated the surrogacy process. She also shares the unexpected gifts of her journey—from the lifelong friendships she formed with the women who helped make her family possible to the joy of finally holding her babies.

✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:

How to move from overwhelm and uncertainty to confidence and hope

Why surrogacy and egg donation can feel intimidating at first—but lead to incredible joy

What intended parents should know about the emotional side of egg donation and surrogacy

The lasting impact of relationships formed along the journey

Christi’s story is a reminder that even when the path looks different than you imagined, it can lead to the family—and the connections—you’ve been dreaming of.

Links

Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/createahappyfamily/]

Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@createahappyfamily]

Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EggDonorAndSurrogateSolutions/]

YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7FXoqUgC2ao5jEr0lBnXRQ]

Vimeo [https://vimeo.com/user83704977]

Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371]

Spotify [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371%22%EF%B7%9FHYPERLINK%20%22https://open.spotify.com/show/2qHPZay3shiMvbGb0EwBuO]

Yelp [https://www.yelp.com/biz/egg-donor-and-surrogate-solutions-frisco-3]

Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/eggdonorandsurrogatesolutions/]

Google [https://g.page/r/CYj7Ap5NC5RKEB0/review]

How She Built Her Family Through Egg Donation & Surrogacy

What makes a surrogacy journey thrive?

In this episode, Whitney is joined by Rachel Goldberg, LMFT and perinatal mental health specialist, to explore the crucial role of communication between intended parents and gestational carriers. Rachel explains how setting clear expectations, understanding attachment styles, and practicing self-awareness can reduce anxiety, build reassurance, and foster trust.

Packed with practical insights, this conversation will help intended parents, surrogates, and anyone supporting families navigate the emotional complexities of surrogacy with confidence and connection.

Links

Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/createahappyfamily/]

Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@createahappyfamily]

Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EggDonorAndSurrogateSolutions/]

YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7FXoqUgC2ao5jEr0lBnXRQ]

Vimeo [https://vimeo.com/user83704977]

Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371]

Spotify [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371%22%EF%B7%9FHYPERLINK%20%22https://open.spotify.com/show/2qHPZay3shiMvbGb0EwBuO]

Yelp [https://www.yelp.com/biz/egg-donor-and-surrogate-solutions-frisco-3]

Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/eggdonorandsurrogatesolutions/]

Google [https://g.page/r/CYj7Ap5NC5RKEB0/review]

Relationship Mistakes in Surrogacy (And How to Avoid Them)

If you’ve ever felt lost in the world of IVF, surrogacy, or egg donation—this is the guide you’ve been waiting for.

Joining Whitney is Dr. Carrie Bedient, one of the three renowned fertility specialists behind the hit podcast Fertility Docs Uncensored and now co-author of their new book The IVF Blueprint—the very first comprehensive guide to IVF. Alongside Dr. Abby Eblen and Dr. Susan Hudson, she’s transformed years of clinical expertise and countless patient questions into an accessible, step-by-step roadmap for navigating fertility treatment.

You’ll hear why IVF isn’t linear—it’s a marathon of science and emotions—and why emotional support is just as critical as medical expertise. Dr. Bedient shares how the book feels like sitting at your kitchen table with three fertility doctor friends, ready to guide you through everything from IVF protocols and lifestyle choices to trending medications like GLP-1s.

Whether you’re considering egg donation, surrogacy, or IVF for yourself, this episode and book will give you the clarity, confidence, and community you need to take the next step.

The IVF Blueprint: What Every Intended Parent, Surrogate & Egg Donor Needs to Know with Dr. Carrie Bedient

What if you knew you wanted to be a parent—even if it meant doing it on your own?

In this episode, Whitney sits down with Chris Pombonyo to hear his journey of becoming a single dad through egg donation and surrogacy. Chris shares the decisions, challenges, and incredible joy that shaped his path to parenthood. He also reflects on the importance of community, the value of reliable resources, and why representation for single parents matters so much.

Whether you’re considering surrogacy, curious about egg donation, or exploring single parenthood, this conversation will leave you encouraged and informed about what’s possible in family creation today.

Links

Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/createahappyfamily/]

Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@createahappyfamily]

Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EggDonorAndSurrogateSolutions/]

YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7FXoqUgC2ao5jEr0lBnXRQ]

Vimeo [https://vimeo.com/user83704977]

Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371]

Spotify [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371%22%EF%B7%9FHYPERLINK%20%22https://open.spotify.com/show/2qHPZay3shiMvbGb0EwBuO]

Yelp [https://www.yelp.com/biz/egg-donor-and-surrogate-solutions-frisco-3]

Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/eggdonorandsurrogatesolutions/]

Google [https://g.page/r/CYj7Ap5NC5RKEB0/review]

From Dream to Dad: Choosing Fatherhood Through Egg Donation & Surrogacy

Okay, so you’ve harvested eggs—now what? 🤯
That question is exactly why Dr. Carrie Bedient is joining us today. As Southern Nevada’s first female board-certified reproductive endocrinologist, a fertility expert at The Fertility Center of Las Vegas, and co-host of the Fertility Docs Uncensored podcast, Dr. Bedient has a gift for simplifying what often feels overwhelming.

In this episode, we break down what happens after egg retrieval:
✅ How embryos are created
✅ Genetic testing—when it helps and what to consider
✅ Deciding whether to use donor eggs and/or move toward surrogacy
✅ Emotional fatigue and decision overwhelm
✅ What to expect from your embryology team
✅ The science and the emotion behind your next steps

If you’re deep in IVF, considering donor eggs, or staring down a dozen fertility decisions with no idea where to start—this is your roadmap. You'll walk away feeling more confident, informed, and empowered in your fertility journey.

🎧 Subscribe, rate, and share to support others on the path to parenthood.

#IVFJourney #EggRetrieval #EmbryoGrading #GeneticTesting #FertilityPodcast #DonorEggs #SurrogacySupport #FertilityDecisionFatigue #FertilityEducation

Links

Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/createahappyfamily/]

Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@createahappyfamily]

Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EggDonorAndSurrogateSolutions/]

YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7FXoqUgC2ao5jEr0lBnXRQ]

Vimeo [https://vimeo.com/user83704977]

Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371]

Spotify [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371%22%EF%B7%9FHYPERLINK%20%22https://open.spotify.com/show/2qHPZay3shiMvbGb0EwBuO]

Yelp [https://www.yelp.com/biz/egg-donor-and-surrogate-solutions-frisco-3]

Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/eggdonorandsurrogatesolutions/]

Google [https://g.page/r/CYj7Ap5NC5RKEB0/review]

Egg Retrieval to Embryo: Your Next Steps Explained (with Dr. Carrie Bedient)

Heather shares the raw truth of her surrogacy journey—from saying “yes” to IVF, managing gestational diabetes, and giving birth during a hurricane. Discover the emotional highs, unexpected challenges, and the powerful connection between surrogate and intended parents.

Takeaways:

Why Heather chose surrogacy

IVF challenges and medical realities

The importance of advocacy and communication

Trust between surrogate and intended parents

Labor and delivery during unexpected crises

Postpartum recovery and emotional complexity

Links

Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/createahappyfamily/]

Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@createahappyfamily]

Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EggDonorAndSurrogateSolutions/]

YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7FXoqUgC2ao5jEr0lBnXRQ]

Vimeo [https://vimeo.com/user83704977]

Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371]

Spotify [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371%22%EF%B7%9FHYPERLINK%20%22https://open.spotify.com/show/2qHPZay3shiMvbGb0EwBuO]

Yelp [https://www.yelp.com/biz/egg-donor-and-surrogate-solutions-frisco-3]

Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/eggdonorandsurrogatesolutions/]

Google [https://g.page/r/CYj7Ap5NC5RKEB0/review]

The One Decision That Changed Everything

Are you navigating the emotional rollercoaster of infertility or surrogacy—or supporting someone who is? This episode will make you feel seen.

Whitney is joined by fertility counselor and licensed clinical social worker Kelli Johnson, who has helped countless intended parents work through the mental and emotional load of building a family. They dive deep into the often unspoken truths about this journey—like how grief and hope can live side by side—and why acknowledging both is so important.

You’ll walk away with:

Insight into the emotional highs and lows of surrogacy

Tips for building stronger communication with your surrogate

The power of therapy and peer support through every stage

Whether you're early in the process or already matched, this conversation will leave you feeling more grounded, supported, and empowered to take the next step.

Links

Willow and Wildflower Counseling [https://www.willowandwildflowercounseling.com/home]

Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/createahappyfamily/]

Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@createahappyfamily]

Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EggDonorAndSurrogateSolutions/]

YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7FXoqUgC2ao5jEr0lBnXRQ]

Vimeo [https://vimeo.com/user83704977]

Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371]

Spotify [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371%22%EF%B7%9FHYPERLINK%20%22https://open.spotify.com/show/2qHPZay3shiMvbGb0EwBuO]

Yelp [https://www.yelp.com/biz/egg-donor-and-surrogate-solutions-frisco-3]

Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/eggdonorandsurrogatesolutions/]

Google [https://g.page/r/CYj7Ap5NC5RKEB0/review]

Surrogacy Is Emotional: A Therapist Explains How to Navigate It All

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

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

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

Takeaways

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

Links

Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/createahappyfamily/]

Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@createahappyfamily]

Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EggDonorAndSurrogateSolutions/]

YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7FXoqUgC2ao5jEr0lBnXRQ]

Vimeo [https://vimeo.com/user83704977]

Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371]

Spotify [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371%22%EF%B7%9FHYPERLINK%20%22https://open.spotify.com/show/2qHPZay3shiMvbGb0EwBuO]

Yelp [https://www.yelp.com/biz/egg-donor-and-surrogate-solutions-frisco-3]

Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/eggdonorandsurrogatesolutions/]

Google [https://g.page/r/CYj7Ap5NC5RKEB0/review]

Married to a Surrogate: Real Talk with 5 Husbands

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

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

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

Takeaways

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

Links

Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions [https://createahappyfamily.com/]

Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/createahappyfamily/]

Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@createahappyfamily]

Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EggDonorAndSurrogateSolutions/]

YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7FXoqUgC2ao5jEr0lBnXRQ]

Vimeo [https://vimeo.com/user83704977]

Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371]

Spotify [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371%22%EF%B7%9FHYPERLINK%20%22https://open.spotify.com/show/2qHPZay3shiMvbGb0EwBuO]

Yelp [https://www.yelp.com/biz/egg-donor-and-surrogate-solutions-frisco-3]

Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/eggdonorandsurrogatesolutions/]

Google [https://g.page/r/CYj7Ap5NC5RKEB0/review]

S3 E30 Who?! From OB-GYN to Intended Parent: Dr. Audrey Puentes on Surrogacy and Support

Summary

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

Takeaways

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

Links

Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/createahappyfamily/]

Tiktok [https://www.tiktok.com/@createahappyfamily]

Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/EggDonorAndSurrogateSolutions/]

YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7FXoqUgC2ao5jEr0lBnXRQ]

Vimeo [https://vimeo.com/user83704977]

Apple Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371]

Spotify [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/me-you-who-creating-happy-families-via-egg-donation/id1655017371%22%EF%B7%9FHYPERLINK%20%22https://open.spotify.com/show/2qHPZay3shiMvbGb0EwBuO]

Yelp [https://www.yelp.com/biz/egg-donor-and-surrogate-solutions-frisco-3]

Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/eggdonorandsurrogatesolutions/]

Google [https://g.page/r/CYj7Ap5NC5RKEB0/review]

S3E29 Who?! More Than a Match: Surrogacy, Connection, & Community

Who knew it could take more than two people to have a baby?! In a world where infertility is no longer a taboo topic this podcast will take you through all the different aspects of surrogacy and egg donation through the lens of many who walk this journey in different ways. It is our goal to help guide and support you as you learn about what it takes to be a part of this journey as well as hear inspiring and beautiful stories of how this path has changed lives forever! We can't wait for you to hear about just one more way happy families are created every day.

Please click -->  Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions [https://createahappyfamily.com/] to find out more!

Me, You, & Who?! Creating happy families via egg donation and surrogacy

Whitney Hall hosts the podcast, and the purpose of the podcast is to provide education surrounding the egg donor and surrogacy process for intended parents, potential surrogates, and potential egg donors in the United States. The target age range of listeners is 21-42 and primarily female. The unique aspect of the podcast is the lived experience of the podcast host, who is passionate about helping create happy families. The podcast aims to educate listeners and potentially recruit egg donors and surrogates. 

Whitney Hall

Shows