My Surrogacy Journey: Recent Episodes
STORYHUNTER
My Surrogacy Journey is the UK's number one surrogacy podcast, that is made to support, educate and entertain, whatever stage of the surrogacy journey you are at. The hosts, Wes, Michael and Anna have all had their own surrogacy journeys and use their experiences to share stories and advice. Each week the hosts will be joined by specialists to discuss practical and useful tips.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and education to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Join us for a conversation with Gee Roberts, an adult born through UK surrogacy who is now a Doctor and has recently become a mother herself. A gorgeous chat with one of the UK's ambassadors for those born via UK surrogacy.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Guest Bios;
Gee Roberts
Gee was born in 1998 through traditional surrogacy in the UK with the help of the agency COTS. She has always had close contact with my surrogate, half-siblings and wider surrogacy family: this is something she feels very fortunate about. Gee has been heavily involved in the Surrogacy Law Reform in the UK, speaking at national and international conferences, taking her as far as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of a Child. She now work as a doctor in Devon and had a little girl of her own in November 2023. This podcast explores my experience of surrogacy and my visions for the future.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and was recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Join us for a conversation with Gee Roberts, an adult born through UK surrogacy who is now a Doctor and has recently become a mother herself. A gorgeous chat with one of the UK's ambassadors for those born via UK surrogacy.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Guest Bios;
Gee Roberts
Gee was born in 1998 through traditional surrogacy in the UK with the help of the agency COTS. She has always had close contact with my surrogate, half-siblings and wider surrogacy family: this is something she feels very fortunate about. Gee has been heavily involved in the Surrogacy Law Reform in the UK, speaking at national and international conferences, taking her as far as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of a Child. She now work as a doctor in Devon and had a little girl of her own in November 2023. This podcast explores my experience of surrogacy and my visions for the future.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and was recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Trigger Warning; Pregnancy, Baby Loss and Infertility
Today's episode is more than a treat for your ears, this episode gave us all the feels and more. We're honoured to also have Senator Mary Seery Kearney join us live in the studio. Yes, and she’s also the mother of a child born through surrogacy and has an intimate knowledge of this form of assisted human reproduction as a means to build your family. The episode also features three other amazing women, Sinead Gallagher, Ciara Merrigan and Cathy Wheatley.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Guest Bios;
Senator Mary Seery Kearney who is not only the Fine Gael Senator and party spokesperson on Children Disability, Equality, Integration and Youth, but also a leading advocate for the provision of a legal framework to ensure that both intended parents have full, life long, legal relationships with their children.
Cathy Wheatley
Spokesperson for Irish Families Through Surrogacy
IFTS are an advocacy group campaigning for legislation which will give full recognition to our children and those born in the future. Their hope would be that by the end of the year (their) children and future children would have the regulation, protections and ethical safeguards in place
Ciara Merrigan
Ciara had a hysterectomy in 2014 as a result of a cancer diagnosis. This led Ciara and her husband Michael down the surrogacy pathway to create their family . They started this journey In 2015. After a few bumps in the road in August 2018 Clara and Matthew were born in the Ukraine. Finally our dream of having a family were fulfilled thanks to the most wonderful lady who carried them. In October 2020 Ciara cofounded and chairs Irish Families Through Surrogacy to campaign for surrogacy legislation
Sinead Gallagher
Sinead and Mark went through 14 IVF cycles with a number of early miscarriages. They reached a point were they had no other viable option to have a family. Snead had suffered with grade 2/3 endometriosis for years, and had elements of polycystic syndrome as well as issue with her immune system. Sinead became a committee member of Irish Families Through surrogacy when she returned from Kyiv with Theo.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in Dublin.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Trigger Warning; Pregnancy, Baby Loss and Infertility
Just in time for St Patricks Day! Today's episode is more than a treat for your ears, this episode gave us all the feels and more. We're honoured to also have Senator Mary Seery Kearney join us live in the studio. Yes, and she’s also the mother of a child born through surrogacy and has an intimate knowledge of this form of assisted human reproduction as a means to build your family. The episode also features three other amazing women, Sinead Gallagher, Ciara Merrigan and Cathy Wheatley.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Guest Bios;
Senator Mary Seery Kearney who is not only the Fine Gael Senator and party spokesperson on Children Disability, Equality, Integration and Youth, but also a leading advocate for the provision of a legal framework to ensure that both intended parents have full, life long, legal relationships with their children.
Cathy Wheatley
Spokesperson for Irish Families Through Surrogacy
IFTS are an advocacy group campaigning for legislation which will give full recognition to our children and those born in the future. Their hope would be that by the end of the year (their) children and future children would have the regulation, protections and ethical safeguards in place
Ciara Merrigan
Ciara had a hysterectomy in 2014 as a result of a cancer diagnosis. This led Ciara and her husband Michael down the surrogacy pathway to create their family . They started this journey In 2015. After a few bumps in the road in August 2018 Clara and Matthew were born in the Ukraine. Finally our dream of having a family were fulfilled thanks to the most wonderful lady who carried them. In October 2020 Ciara cofounded and chairs Irish Families Through Surrogacy to campaign for surrogacy legislation
Sinead Gallagher
Sinead and Mark went through 14 IVF cycles with a number of early miscarriages. They reached a point were they had no other viable option to have a family. Snead had suffered with grade 2/3 endometriosis for years, and had elements of polycystic syndrome as well as issue with her immune system. Sinead became a committee member of Irish Families Through surrogacy when she returned from Kyiv with Theo.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in Dublin.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
We're back! This is a joyous episode and such an educational experience for us too. We're talking all about 'What is MRKH?' and does this condition qualify you for surrogacy? Michael and Wes are talking to Joanne, a MRKH patient and recently a new mother via surrogacy. Joining us is consultant Mr Ali Al Chami, as he explains more about the condition and what you can do if you discover you have the condition.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Guest Bios;
Mr Ali Al Chami
Mr Ali Al Chami is a fertility consultant. Mr Al Chami completed his postgraduate training in obstetrics and gynaecology with special interest in infertility and became a member of the RCOG. He subsequently had 3 years clinical and research fellowship training in assisted conception and reproductive medicine at University College London Hospital.
Mr Al Chami is highly skilled in advanced 3D gynaecological ultrasound scanning, HyCoSy, and hysteroscopy. His special interests include fertility preservation, reproductive medicine surgery, and adjuvant treatments in IVF. He has published on luteal support in assisted conception, PCOS, and unexplained infertility. Mr Al Chami has a special interest in recurrent miscarriage.
Joanne Davis
A mother via UK surrogacy to Olivia, married to Matt. The pair became parents in 2022, and welcome MSJ's first baby in the Spring on 2022, just over a year of us launching My Surrogacy Journey. Joanne tells her story about MRKH and how she discovered the condition and why she needed to explore surrogacy.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
We're back! Next episode we're talking all about 'What is MRKH?' and does this condition qualify you for surrogacy? Michael and Wes are talking to Joanne, a MRKH patient and recently a new mother via surrogacy. Joining us is consultant Mr Ali Al Chami, as he explains more about the condition and what you can do if you discover you have the condition.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Guest Bios;
Mr Ali Al Chami
Mr Ali Al Chami is a fertility consultant. Mr Al Chami completed his postgraduate training in obstetrics and gynaecology with special interest in infertility and became a member of the RCOG. He subsequently had 3 years clinical and research fellowship training in assisted conception and reproductive medicine at University College London Hospital.
Mr Al Chami is highly skilled in advanced 3D gynaecological ultrasound scanning, HyCoSy, and hysteroscopy. His special interests include fertility preservation, reproductive medicine surgery, and adjuvant treatments in IVF. He has published on luteal support in assisted conception, PCOS, and unexplained infertility. Mr Al Chami has a special interest in recurrent miscarriage.
Joanne Davis
A mother via UK surrogacy to Olivia, married to Matt. The pair became parents in 2022, and welcome MSJ's first baby in the Spring on 2022, just over a year of us launching My Surrogacy Journey. Joanne tells her story about MRKH and how she discovered the condition and why she needed to explore surrogacy.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Thanks for downloading us again, Wes is talking to Leanne and Debbie from MSJ and today we're talking about the wonder that is Known Egg Donation. Another fascinating and insightful episode exploring the reasons behind egg donation and the treatment protocols. A wonderful episode if you are considering egg donation, or whether you're wanting to become a known egg donor yourself - this episode is for you.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Guest Bios;
Debbie Evans qualified as an Registered General Nurse in 1985. She specialised for 25+ years on fertility management and previously worked with Herts & Essex Fertility Centre as Director of Nursing & Clinical Services, where she took ownership of the day to day clinical management of the Centre with direct responsibility for 40+ members of staff.
Her senior role did not change her approach or work ethos; she is as passionate about patient care as when she first joined the nursing profession. Debbie was a founding member of SING (Senior Infertility Nurse Group) and held the positions of both secretary and Chair. SING was set up to support nurses in the fertility industry by providing peer support, guidance, and encouragement to its members, but it quickly became recognised as a major stakeholder within the industry, providing guidance on policy and practice. Debbie has been working with MSJ since January 2023 joined us as Clinical & Compliance Director.
Leanne Drewell
Leanne is MSJ's Surrogate and Know Egg Donor Lead and has been employed since 2021. Leanne has also been an egg donor herself multiple times resulting in children being born from her donation. Her invaluable experience means our known egg donors are guided throughout their journey, knowing we have experience of the full process
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Thanks for downloading us again, next week Wes is talking to Leanne and Debbie from MSJ and we're talking about the wonder that is Known Egg Donation. Another fascinating and insightful episode exploring the reasons behind egg donation and the treatment protocols. A wonderful episode if you are considering fertility treatment with egg donation, or perhaps you're wanting to become a known egg donor yourself - this episode is for you. Listen to this brief episode with the full version available next week.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Don't forget to listen to the full episode next week!
Guest Bios;
Debbie Evans qualified as an Registered General Nurse in 1985. She specialised for 25+ years on fertility management and previously worked with Herts & Essex Fertility Centre as Director of Nursing & Clinical Services, where she took ownership of the day to day clinical management of the Centre with direct responsibility for 40+ members of staff.
Her senior role did not change her approach or work ethos; she is as passionate about patient care as when she first joined the nursing profession. Debbie was a founding member of SING (Senior Infertility Nurse Group) and held the positions of both secretary and Chair. SING was set up to support nurses in the fertility industry by providing peer support, guidance, and encouragement to its members, but it quickly became recognised as a major stakeholder within the industry, providing guidance on policy and practice. Debbie has been working with MSJ since January 2023 joined us as Clinical & Compliance Director.
Leanne Drewell
Leanne is MSJ's Surrogate and Know Egg Donor Lead and has been employed since 2021. Leanne has also been an egg donor herself multiple times resulting in children being born from her donation. Her invaluable experience means our known egg donors are guided throughout their journey, knowing we have experience of the full process
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Today Wes is in London studio with our three guests from the prestigious legal firm Mishcon De Reya If you listened to our previous episodes we spoke about surrogacy in the USA, well today's episode is a great addition to that collection. So what should you know, and why is immigration advice so key. Wes is talking to family lawyers, Antonia and Alice and immigration specialist Natalie.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Coming up is in London studio with our three guests from the prestigious legal firm Mishcon De Reya If you listened to our previous episodes we spoke about surrogacy in the USA, well today's episode is a great addition to that collection.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
It's Part 2!
Surrogacy in the USA Part 2; ft. Brian Klein from Klein Fertility Law, Shelly Marsh (ex Spring Fertility) and Jessica Williams from Family Source Consultants.
If you're e considering a journey in the USA, where should you begin and which professionals should you partner with?
What do we ask our guests in part two?
How do you choose your lawyer?
Typical costs, which surrogacy agency can you work with?
Managing your relationship with your surrogate when they are overseas - how do you do this?
How does a US surrogate compare to a altruistic surrogate?
How do you choose a US surrogacy agency?
Where do you begin with surrogacy insurance, what if you have having multiples?
What does the return process to the UK look like?
Well, we're going to tell you!
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Part two is coming up next!
Surrogacy in the USA Part 2; ft. Brian Klein from Klein Fertility Law, Shelly Marsh (ex Spring Fertility) and Jessica Williams from Family Source Consultants.
What do we ask our guests in part two?
How do you choose your lawyer?
Typical costs, which surrogacy agency can you work with?
Managing your relationship with your surrogate when they are overseas - how do you do this?
How does a US surrogate compare to a altruistic surrogate?
How do you choose a US surrogacy agency?
Where do you begin with surrogacy insurance, what if you have having multiples?
What does the return process to the UK look like?
Well, we're going to tell you!
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
It's a packed podcast today, so its another two parter! Surrogacy in the USA Part 1; ft. Brian Klein from Klein Fertility Law, Shelly Marsh (ex Spring Fertility) and Jessica Williams from Family Source Consultants.
Why is the USA the gold standard of surrogacy?
East coast clinics have an advantage for UK IPs, is West best though?
FDA process for important embryos
Is California the best destination?
Creating embryos in the USA; what do you need to think about and can you import them back in the UK if you use a US commercial donor?
Where is your time best spent in those early days of a US journey? What's the timeline?
Abortion rights in the US; what do you need to know?
Roe vs. Wade
What is a surrogacy friendly state?
Can attorneys work all across the US, or only in their licensed state?
The budget!
If you're considering a journey in the USA, where should you begin and which professionals should you partner with? What is the FDA process if you're importing embryos? East Coast vs. West Coast - what is the difference? Typical costs, which surrogacy agency can you work with? Which attorneys? Well, we're going to tell you! Buckle up
Next week questions in part two are;
How do you choose your lawyer?
Typical costs, which surrogacy agency can you work with?
Managing your relationship with your surrogate when they are overseas - how do you do this?
How does a US surrogate compare to a altruistic surrogate?
How do you choose a US surrogacy agency?
Where do you begin with surrogacy insurance, what if you have having multiples?
What does the return process to the UK look like?
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Coming up next! A two parter! Surrogacy in the USA Part 1; ft. Brian Klein from Klein Fertility Law, Shelly Marsh (ex Spring Fertility) and Jessica Williams from Family Source Consultants.
If you're considering a journey in the USA, where should you begin and which professionals should you partner with? What is the FDA process if you're importing embryos? East Coast vs. West Coast - what is the difference? Typical costs, which surrogacy agency can you work with? Which attorneys? Well, we're going to tell you! Buckle up!
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Let's talk about emotional support; quite often the topic most parents and patients shrug off. But why is it so crucial and how can it safeguard your journey?
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Let's talk about emotional support; quite often the topic most parents and patients shrug off. But why is it so crucial and how can it safeguard your journey?
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Bios;
Angela Periculous-Smith
BIO here
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
This weeks episode is designed to take you through the surrogacy programme for Manchester Fertility, hosted by Wes and Michael with special guests Olivia and Paula. Learn all about how Manchester Fertility are supporting more patients than ever and how they are striving to be the Centre of Excellence for the Midlands and the North for surrogacy.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Bios;
Olivia Tindall, Surrogacy Co-ordinator, Manchester Fertility.
Olivia is the Surrogacy Coordinator at Manchester Fertility and the lead contact for our intended parents and patients as they progress through surrogacy treatment. Her primary role is to offer advice and support, facilitating communication between all parties involved. With a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances involved in surrogacy. Olivia is committed to helping fulfil the dreams of those building families through surrogacy.
Paula Lynch, Senior Fertility Nurse, Manchester Fertility
With a long career history in fertility care at units and clinics in Ireland, Essex and London, Paula works with all patients at Manchester Fertility, helping them through various stages of treatment. She has vast experience in overseeing fertility nursing teams, egg donation and surrogacy and likes to keep abreast of the latest developments in the field through HFEA and nursing forums. Paula has the privilege getting to know the many different people who come to Manchester Fertility for help. She recognises everyone's circumstances are different and as a fertility nurse she’s here to give support wherever it's needed, working together towards the goal of creating a family.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
This weeks episode is designed to take you through the surrogacy programme for Manchester Fertility, hosted by Wes and Michael with special guests Olivia and Paula.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Bios;
Olivia Tindall, Surrogacy Co-ordinator, Manchester Fertility.
Olivia is the Surrogacy Coordinator at Manchester Fertility and the lead contact for our intended parents and patients as they progress through surrogacy treatment. Her primary role is to offer advice and support, facilitating communication between all parties involved. With a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances involved in surrogacy. Olivia is committed to helping fulfil the dreams of those building families through surrogacy.
Paula Lynch, Senior Fertility Nurse, Manchester Fertility
With a long career history in fertility care at units and clinics in Ireland, Essex and London, Paula works with all patients at Manchester Fertility, helping them through various stages of treatment. She has vast experience in overseeing fertility nursing teams, egg donation and surrogacy and likes to keep abreast of the latest developments in the field through HFEA and nursing forums. Paula has the privilege getting to know the many different people who come to Manchester Fertility for help. She recognises everyone's circumstances are different and as a fertility nurse she’s here to give support wherever it's needed, working together towards the goal of creating a family.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back and Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
It's time to get back to where we left off! How wonderful was last weeks episode?
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Wes and Michael are back talking again talking to two surrogates (Gina and Megan) and their husbands (Ed and Ian) , asking them about their journey, why they carried a baby for other people and what was the impact on their own relationship.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Bios;
Gina
Gina is the MSJ Surrogate Member Coordinator who will focus on making sure our Surrogate Members are fully supported and take full advantage of all the member benefits.
At the age of 38 and after having three children of her own with husband Ian, Gina very much yearned for something more. She never imagined she would step onto the pregnancy rollercoaster again let alone for someone else. Gina met a wonderful lady who would become the intended mother of this journey. She instantly warmed to her. Gina fondly refers to the intended mother and her partner as ‘F&M’ as they became not only her friends but part of their extended family and together they were able to welcome two beautiful little girls into the world, ‘E’ in 2016 and ‘G’ in 2019. Gina then explored surrogacy again in 2022/23 and carried for a heterosexual couple that were MSJ members, wanting to complete their family. Gina gave birth to a baby girl late in 2023 and completed this gorgeous family.
Megan
Megan is childless by choice, but has an egg donor and gave birth to a baby boy late in spring 2023. Megan thinks perhaps subconsciously her desire to help may have been triggered by learning about her parents and their own struggles with fertility. Her admirable altruism and desire to help those who cannot conceive naturally or who cannot carry a pregnancy themselves, she has decided to dedicate her childbearing years to helping others fulfil their dream of becoming parents.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back and Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
It's time to get back to where we left off! How wonderful was last weeks episode?
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Wes and Michael are back talking again talking to two surrogates (Gina and Megan) and their husbands (Ed and Ian) , asking them about their journey, why they carried a baby for other people and what was the impact on their own relationship.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Bios;
Gina
Gina is the MSJ Surrogate Member Coordinator who will focus on making sure our Surrogate Members are fully supported and take full advantage of all the member benefits.
At the age of 38 and after having three children of her own with husband Ian, Gina very much yearned for something more. She never imagined she would step onto the pregnancy rollercoaster again let alone for someone else. Gina met a wonderful lady who would become the intended mother of this journey. She instantly warmed to her. Gina fondly refers to the intended mother and her partner as ‘F&M’ as they became not only her friends but part of their extended family and together they were able to welcome two beautiful little girls into the world, ‘E’ in 2016 and ‘G’ in 2019. Gina then explored surrogacy again in 2022/23 and carried for a heterosexual couple that were MSJ members, wanting to complete their family. Gina gave birth to a baby girl late in 2023 and completed this gorgeous family.
Megan
Megan is childless by choice, but has an egg donor and gave birth to a baby boy late in spring 2023. Megan thinks perhaps subconsciously her desire to help may have been triggered by learning about her parents and their own struggles with fertility. Her admirable altruism and desire to help those who cannot conceive naturally or who cannot carry a pregnancy themselves, she has decided to dedicate her childbearing years to helping others fulfil their dream of becoming parents.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back and Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
It's a two parter!
You're in for such a lovely episode! You know the drill by now. The fabulous Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Wes and Michael are talking to two surrogates (Gina and Megan) and their husbands, asking them about their journey, why they carried a baby for other people and what was the impact on their own relationship. Megan was even 8 months pregnant on her own wedding day to husband Ed! Check this out!
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Bios;
Gina
Gina is the MSJ Surrogate Member Coordinator who will focus on making sure our Surrogate Members are fully supported and take full advantage of all the member benefits.
At the age of 38 and after having three children of her own with husband Ian, Gina very much yearned for something more. She never imagined she would step onto the pregnancy rollercoaster again let alone for someone else. Gina met a wonderful lady who would become the intended mother of this journey. She instantly warmed to her. Gina fondly refers to the intended mother and her partner as ‘F&M’ as they became not only her friends but part of their extended family and together they were able to welcome two beautiful little girls into the world, ‘E’ in 2016 and ‘G’ in 2019. Gina then explored surrogacy again in 2022/23 and carried for a heterosexual couple that were MSJ members, wanting to complete their family. Gina gave birth to a baby girl late in 2023 and completed this gorgeous family.
Megan
Megan is childless by choice, but has an egg donor and gave birth to a baby boy late in spring 2023. Megan thinks perhaps subconsciously her desire to help may have been triggered by learning about her parents and their own struggles with fertility. Her admirable altruism and desire to help those who cannot conceive naturally or who cannot carry a pregnancy themselves, she has decided to dedicate her childbearing years to helping others fulfil their dream of becoming parents.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back and Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
What's coming up? It's a two parter!
Wes and Michael are talking to two surrogates and their husbands, asking them about their journey, why they carried a baby for other people and what was the impact on their own relationship. Megan was even 8 months pregnant on her own wedding day to husband Ed! Check this out!
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Bios;
Gina
Gina is the MSJ Surrogate Member Coordinator who will focus on making sure our Surrogate Members are fully supported and take full advantage of all the member benefits.
At the age of 38 and after having three children of her own with husband Ian, Gina very much yearned for something more. She never imagined she would step onto the pregnancy rollercoaster again let alone for someone else. Gina met a wonderful lady who would become the intended mother of this journey. She instantly warmed to her. Gina fondly refers to the intended mother and her partner as ‘F&M’ as they became not only her friends but part of their extended family and together they were able to welcome two beautiful little girls into the world, ‘E’ in 2016 and ‘G’ in 2019. Gina then explored surrogacy again in 2022/23 and carried for a heterosexual couple that were MSJ members, wanting to complete their family. Gina gave birth to a baby girl late in 2023 and completed this gorgeous family.
Megan
Megan is childless by choice, but has an egg donor and gave birth to a baby boy late in spring 2023. Megan thinks perhaps subconsciously her desire to help may have been triggered by learning about her parents and their own struggles with fertility. Her admirable altruism and desire to help those who cannot conceive naturally or who cannot carry a pregnancy themselves, she has decided to dedicate her childbearing years to helping others fulfil their dream of becoming parents.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back and Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
You asked and we delivered. One of the most frequently asked questions by intended parents is 'What can we expect from the clinic, and what does treatment look like?' So we decided to create an episode especially for you exactly on this subject.
This week your MSJ host is Wes and he is joined by Debbie Evans, our Clinical and Compliance Director. We also have the wonderful Olivia Tindall here with us who is forever helping us out with Insta Lives on MSJ's IG account and explaining processes and procedures within the clinics. Olivia is from Manchester Fertility and joined in 2020 as their surrogacy coordinator. Olivia previously worked in reproductive medicine at Saint Mary's Hospital, in Manchester.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Bios;
Olivia Tindall
Olivia loves being the clinic's dedicated Surrogacy Co-ordinator, helping Intended Parents and surrogates understand what is involved in their treatment and guiding them through the surrogacy process. Olivia is always prepared with expert advice about treatment, timescales, donor gametes and costs.
Debbie Evans
She specialised for 20+ years in fertility management and has recently joined My Surrogacy Journey as our Clinical and Compliance Director.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back and Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
You asked and we delivered. One of the most frequently asked questions by intended parents is 'What can we expect from the clinic, and what does treatment look like?' So we decided to create an episode especially for you exactly on this subject.
This week your MSJ host is Wes and he is joined by Debbie Evans, our Clinical and Compliance Director. We also have the wonderful Olivia Tindall here with us who is forever helping us out with Insta Lives on MSJ's IG account and explaining processes and procedures within the clinics. Olivia is from Manchester Fertility and joined in 2020 as their surrogacy coordinator. Olivia previously worked in reproductive medicine at Saint Mary's Hospital, in Manchester.
Our season 3 sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Bios;
Olivia Tindall
Olivia loves being the clinic's dedicated Surrogacy Co-ordinator, helping Intended Parents and surrogates understand what is involved in their treatment and guiding them through the surrogacy process. Olivia is always prepared with expert advice about treatment, timescales, donor gametes and costs.
Debbie Evans
She specialised for 20+ years in fertility management and has recently joined My Surrogacy Journey as our Clinical and Compliance Director.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back and Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
We're back this week talking all about Genetics and the importance of Genetic Counselling and why you may need it. It's a fascinating episode, hosted this week by Wes and two special guests Lizzie and Alyssa from Igenomix UK, who also support all our members as we supply genetic screening to CGT plus, which screens 450 genes for 550 conditions.
What are genetic diseases?
Genetic diseases are caused by mutations – changes to our genes. Mutations associated with recessive genetic disease can be present in DNA without affecting the individual – they are a carrier of the condition. 82% of individuals are carriers of at least one condition.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Bios;
Lizzie
Lizzie is an experienced genetic counsellor with Igenomix UK, specialising in reproductive genetics services. Lizzie worked previously in the NHS, covering a broad range of cases including prenatal, cancer and general genetics. Prior to her career as a genetic counsellor, Lizzie undertook a degree in Biochemistry and Genetics at The University of Nottingham and then worked in Medical publishing as an Editor and Medical Writer, before undertaking an MSc in Genetic Counselling at Cardiff University. She lives in Cranleigh, Surrey, with her husband and two young children.
Alyssa
Alyssa is originally from Canada and studied Biology at McGill University in Montreal before obtaining her MSc in Human Genetics and Genetic Counselling from Stanford University in California, USA. She previously worked for the NHS in Oxford as a Principal Genetic Counsellor specialising in inherited heart conditions. She joined Igenomix UK in 2021 where she focuses on reproductive genetic services. In her spare time, Alyssa enjoys exploring the Cotswolds where she lives with her partner and two whippets.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome back and Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
We're back this week talking all about Genetics and the importance of Genetic Counselling and why you may need it. It's a fascinating episode, hosted this week by Wes and two special guests Lizzie and Alyssa from Igenomix UK, who also support all our members as we supply genetic screening to CGT plus, which screens 450 genes for 550 conditions.
What are genetic diseases?
Genetic diseases are caused by mutations – changes to our genes. Mutations associated with recessive genetic disease can be present in DNA without affecting the individual – they are a carrier of the condition. 82% of individuals are carriers of at least one condition.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Our season sponsor
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Bios;
Lizzie
Lizzie is an experienced genetic counsellor with Igenomix UK, specialising in reproductive genetics services. Lizzie worked previously in the NHS, covering a broad range of cases including prenatal, cancer and general genetics. Prior to her career as a genetic counsellor, Lizzie undertook a degree in Biochemistry and Genetics at The University of Nottingham and then worked in Medical publishing as an Editor and Medical Writer, before undertaking an MSc in Genetic Counselling at Cardiff University. She lives in Cranleigh, Surrey, with her husband and two young children.
Alyssa
Alyssa is originally from Canada and studied Biology at McGill University in Montreal before obtaining her MSc in Human Genetics and Genetic Counselling from Stanford University in California, USA. She previously worked for the NHS in Oxford as a Principal Genetic Counsellor specialising in inherited heart conditions. She joined Igenomix UK in 2021 where she focuses on reproductive genetic services. In her spare time, Alyssa enjoys exploring the Cotswolds where she lives with her partner and two whippets.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to Season 3 Episode 1! And we're starting strong! The C word; Christmas!
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
We're back with our friend, regular face to our members, the fabulous Tracey Sainsbury, renowned BICA accredited counsellor. For many Christmas is another painful point in the calendar, especially if not everyone is aware of your particular fertility struggle or surrogacy journey. We've all got them, that annoying Aunty who all of a sudden is a Consultant Gynaecologist and is offering fertility advice. 'If you stop trying it will just happen, just relax!' Yep - that one. So how can you swerve some of these annoying and unwelcoming pieces of advice? How can you take care of you, and own the situation? What should you say, what shouldn't you say? What could you put in the family WhatsApp group to send a clear message about what YOU don't want to discuss? Check it out. Tell us what you think.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Bios;
Tracey Sainsbury
Specialist fertility counsellor supporting people trying to conceive, naturally or with assistance, experiencing primary or secondary infertility and people who have experienced pregnancy loss. Tracey also provides implications counselling around donor conception and/or surrogacy and for people exploring their fertility options including egg freezing or embracing being involuntarily childless or a childless step parent, or where eggs, sperm or embryos remain after a treatment journey ends. Fertility counselling can also be useful for those supporting a friend or family members experiencing fertility issues.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're back for Season 3! Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
What a season we have for you, 15 wonderful episodes starting with our ever popular Coping at Christmas special.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
So for now, check out what's coming up in this cram packed season!
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're back for Season 3! Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
What a season we have for you, 15 wonderful episodes starting with our ever popular Coping at Christmas special.
Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
We have a fabulous sponsor for our Season 3 podcast. Manchester Fertility were founded in 1985 and has an exceptional team of fertility doctors, nurses, embryologists and patient support staff. Manchester Fertility remains one of the leading fertility clinics in the country to this day, delivering more than 8,000 babies.
For intended parents seeking surrogacy support, Manchester Fertility is My Surrogacy Journey’s Northern & Midlands Centre for Excellence, offering surrogacy advice and fertility treatment options for gay, bi, queer and trans men and heterosexual singles and couples, helping them to navigate their way through their surrogacy journey. Make sure you check them out.
So for now, check out what's coming up in this cram packed season!
Thanks for listening! Have you subscribed yet?
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are your regular hosts, but today - it's only Wes. Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
So welcome back! We have a wonderful episode today and it's especially interesting for those who have to navigate a failed IVF transfer when exploring surrogacy. How do you deal with this, when this was something you just weren't expecting.
Our wonderful guest, Debbie Evans from from at Herts and Essex Fertility Centre and Angela Pericleous-Smith who is a Senior Infertility Counsellor, will help you understand all about PGT-A (formally PGS) and PGT-M, previously known as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD)
Guest bios:
Angela Pericleous-Smith
Angela is Chair of the British Infertility Counselling Association (BICA), counsellor representative for British Fertility Society (BFS) and has specialised in fertility counselling within the NHS and private practice since 2004.
Angela has written and spoken about the emotional impact of infertility and has co-authored BICA Guidelines for Good Practice in Fertility Counselling 4th Ed. 2019 and Counselling in Surrogacy in UK Licensed Centres (2021). Her recent research and writing have focused on Covid-19’s impact on UK counselling provision and patients’ experiences, The emotional, physical and psychological impact of infertility in the workplace and Counselling challenges associated with donor conception and surrogacy.
Angela is driven to improve professional standards in fertility counselling; the psychological support, provision and accessibility of information and fair treatment for patients.
Debbie Evans
Debbie qualified as an RGN in 1985. She specialised for 20+ years on fertility management and has been with Herts & Essex Fertility Centres since 2007. As Director of Clincial Services, Debbie takes ownership of the day to day clincial management of the Centre with direct responsibility for 40+ members of staff. Her senior role has not changed her approach or work ethos; she is passionate about patient care as when she first joined the nursing profession.
Debbie was the previous Chair of SING (Senior Infertility Nurse Group) for four years, and organisation that strives to support nurses in the fertility industry by providing peer support, guidance and encouragement to its members.
Debbie has now retired from Herts & Essex Fertility Centre and joined us here at My Surrogacy Journey at the beginning of January as Clinical & Compliance Director.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are your regular hosts, but today - it's only Wes. Michael and Wes are parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
So welcome back! We have a wonderful episode today and it's especially interesting for those who have to navigate a failed IVF transfer when exploring surrogacy. How do you deal with this, when this was something you just weren't expecting.
Our wonderful guest, Debbie Evans from from at Herts and Essex Fertility Centre and Angela Pericleous-Smith who is a Senior Infertility Counsellor, will help you understand all about PGT-A (formally PGS) and PGT-M, previously known as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD)
Guest bios:
Angela Pericleous-Smith
Angela is Chair of the British Infertility Counselling Association (BICA), counsellor representative for British Fertility Society (BFS) and has specialised in fertility counselling within the NHS and private practice since 2004.
Angela has written and spoken about the emotional impact of infertility and has co-authored BICA Guidelines for Good Practice in Fertility Counselling 4th Ed. 2019 and Counselling in Surrogacy in UK Licensed Centres (2021). Her recent research and writing have focused on Covid-19’s impact on UK counselling provision and patients’ experiences, The emotional, physical and psychological impact of infertility in the workplace and Counselling challenges associated with donor conception and surrogacy.
Angela is driven to improve professional standards in fertility counselling; the psychological support, provision and accessibility of information and fair treatment for patients.
Debbie Evans
Debbie qualified as an RGN in 1985. She specialised for 20+ years on fertility management and has been with Herts & Essex Fertility Centres since 2007. As Director of Clincial Services, Debbie takes ownership of the day to day clincial management of the Centre with direct responsibility for 40+ members of staff. Her senior role has not changed her approach or work ethos; she is passionate about patient care as when she first joined the nursing profession.
Debbie was the previous Chair of SING (Senior Infertility Nurse Group) for four years, and organisation that strives to support nurses in the fertility industry by providing peer support, guidance and encouragement to its members.
Debbie has now retired from Herts & Essex Fertility Centre and joined us here at My Surrogacy Journey at the beginning of January as Clinical & Compliance Director.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
This Podcast was recorded prior to the new HFEA treatment ad ons revised ratings released early October. A list of treatment add ons with limited clinical evidence are listed here;
https://www.hfea.gov.uk/treatments/treatment-add-ons/
Michael and Wes are your hosts, and as parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Welcome back! We have a fascinating, clinical episode today and it's especially interesting for those exploring treatment and navigating treatment add ons, such as PGT-A (formally PGS) and PGT-M, previously known as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD).
Our wonderful guest, Dr Lucy Richardson from at Herts and Essex Fertility Centre will help you understand all about PGT-A (formally PGS) and PGT-M, previously known as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD)
Guest bios:
Dr Lucy Richardson
Lucy is the Laboratory Director at Herts and Essex Fertility Centre with a career in research and clinical Embryology which spans over twenty years. Lucy gained a First Class degree in Anatomy and Developmental Biology from University College London and was awarded her PhD from The University of Cambridge, where her research and discoveries into the origins of embryonic axis formation resulted in several scientific papers and award winning presentations at national and international conferences. Lucy started her Clinical Embryology career at a busy London unit before moving to a privately run group in Kent. She joined the Herts and Essex in 2013 and became their Laboratory Director in 2018. Lucy is passionate about helping to create families – she is also known affectionately as The Sperm Queen, a title she is extremely proud of!
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
This Podcast was recorded prior to the new HFEA treatment ad ons revised ratings released early October. A list of treatment add ons with limited clinical evidence are listed here;
https://www.hfea.gov.uk/treatments/treatment-add-ons/
Michael and Wes are your hosts, and as parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Welcome back! We have a fascinating, clinical episode today and it's especially interesting for those exploring treatment and navigating treatment add ons, such as PGT-A (formally PGS) and PGT-M, previously known as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD).
Our wonderful guest, Dr Lucy Richardson from at Herts and Essex Fertility Centre will help you understand all about PGT-A (formally PGS) and PGT-M, previously known as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD)
Guest bios:
Dr Lucy Richardson
Lucy is the Laboratory Director at Herts and Essex Fertility Centre with a career in research and clinical Embryology which spans over twenty years. Lucy gained a First Class degree in Anatomy and Developmental Biology from University College London and was awarded her PhD from The University of Cambridge, where her research and discoveries into the origins of embryonic axis formation resulted in several scientific papers and award winning presentations at national and international conferences. Lucy started her Clinical Embryology career at a busy London unit before moving to a privately run group in Kent. She joined the Herts and Essex in 2013 and became their Laboratory Director in 2018. Lucy is passionate about helping to create families – she is also known affectionately as The Sperm Queen, a title she is extremely proud of!
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Trigger warning; Pregnancy Loss is discussed in this podcast
Michael and Wes are your hosts, and as parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Welcome back! We have a special surrogate episode today and you're going to love this one! We're discussing the journey of the fertility clinic soley from the surrogates perspective. We discuss the processes, the appointments and what to expect when you're navigating those first steps with your IPs.
Our wonderful guests, Debbie, Hayley and Kay tell you about the highs and lows of fertility treatment and surrogacy, and how you can learn from their thoughtful advice.
Guest bios:
Debbie Evans RGN
Director of Clinical Services/ Registered Manager to CQC/ Centre Manager
Debbie qualified as an RGN in 1985. She specialised for 20+ years in fertility management and has been with the Herts & Essex Fertility Centre since 2007. As Director of Clinical Services, Debbie takes ownership of the day-to-day clinical management of the Centre, with direct responsibility for 40+ members of staff. Her senior role has not changed her approach or work ethos: she is as passionate about patient care as when she first joined the nursing profession.
Kay King
Kay King joined the MSJ family from September 2023 as the MSJ Foundation Director, working 4 days a week within the core team.
Kay comes to MSJ from a background in reproductive health and rights charity leadership and has for the last 6 years been leading White Ribbon Alliance UK to advance the rights of women and girls and gender diverse people across the globe. She is a skilled fundraiser, campaigner and project manager for charity and community sector work.
Kay is a queer woman with two of her own children, she is based in Devon and is currently on a surrogacy journey of her own having matched with an incredible pair of intended parents through MSJ.
Kay has a strong vision for the MSJ Foundation, which will seek to support and compliment the activity of our other initiatives by ensuring that the rights of people wishing to make families are supported through education, advancements in rights, supportive communities and robust research into fertility and reproductive justice.
Hayley Aldis
Hayley is a single mum of 2 girls, and gestational surrogate. She has been a surrogate for 2 set of IP’s. Combined, her surrogacy experiences have taught her strength, empathy and compassion, but above all a hope and resilience that she now sees in every intended parent she talks with. Outside of surrogacy, Hayley works for a Primary Teacher Training Provider; she’s passionate about education and the research and evidence base that surrounds it. She spends her spare time walking along the seafront trying to beat her step count, eating out (if the step count allows) and enjoying a good box set with a glass of wine in hand.
Available wherever you get your podcasts. My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are your hosts, and as parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
It's part 2; excited much?
Did you listen to last weeks episode, of course you did! Well this week we dive into expenses (plus other topics, obvs) and talk about the implications of the new recommendations. Wes chats to two experts, Andrew Powell, Barrister at 4PB and Andrew Spearman Partner and Head of Family Team at Laytons ETL Global. We explore all the avenues of the bill and ask the question, can we even see this current Conservative government even taking forward the law commissions recommendations?
Our wonderful guests tell us all more about whether they agree with the proposals and what was the most disappointing discovery with the final proposal - listen to find out more.
Guest bios:
Andrew Spearman, Partner and Head of Family Law
Andrew is an experienced family law practitioner with a specialism in Surrogacy & Fertility law and financial disputes on marital breakdown involving company and trust structures. He became a Partner at Laytons in 2019 and is Head of the Family Team, ensuring the highest quality of service and client care for each client. In 2019, he was identified as a Leading Individual by the Legal 500 team for his work in the field of surrogacy law and parenthood. As a consequence of his extensive work, seminars and involvement with surrogacy charities, he is recognised both as a leader in his field and as having an ability to give practical, proportionate solutions to complex problems.
Andrew Powell, Barrister.
Andrew is a family law barrister called to the Bar of England and Wales in 2008 based at 4PB, a leading specialist family law barristers’ chambers based in central London.
He is widely recognised for his expertise in cases concerning children. He is listed in the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners as a leading barrister and was recently described in Chambers and Partners as having “..an absolutely encyclopaedic knowledge of surrogacy law”.
His practice focuses on parental disputes about arrangements for children after separation, international children law including child abduction, and applications to relocate children to another country. He regularly represents parties in surrogacy, adoption and declaration of parentage cases. He has appeared in some of the leading cases concerning surrogacy and adoption in the High Court.
Andrew was awarded the ‘Family Law Junior Barrister of the Year Award’ in 2021 and has published a book about the legal aspects of surrogacy.
My Surrogacy Journey is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Trigger warning; Pregnancy Loss is discussed in this podcast
Michael and Wes are your hosts, and as parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Coming up!! Check back in next week for the full episode.
Our wonderful guests, Debbie, Hayley and Kay tell you about the highs and lows of fertility treatment and surrogacy, and how you can learn from their thoughtful advice.
Guest bios:
Debbie Evans RGN
Director of Clinical Services/ Registered Manager to CQC/ Centre Manager
Debbie qualified as an RGN in 1985. She specialised for 20+ years in fertility management and has been with the Herts & Essex Fertility Centre since 2007. As Director of Clinical Services, Debbie takes ownership of the day-to-day clinical management of the Centre, with direct responsibility for 40+ members of staff. Her senior role has not changed her approach or work ethos: she is as passionate about patient care as when she first joined the nursing profession.
Kay King
Kay King joined the MSJ family from September 2023 as the MSJ Foundation Director, working 4 days a week within the core team.
Kay comes to MSJ from a background in reproductive health and rights charity leadership and has for the last 6 years been leading White Ribbon Alliance UK to advance the rights of women and girls and gender diverse people across the globe. She is a skilled fundraiser, campaigner and project manager for charity and community sector work.
Kay is a queer woman with two of her own children, she is based in Devon and is currently on a surrogacy journey of her own having matched with an incredible pair of intended parents through MSJ.
Kay has a strong vision for the MSJ Foundation, which will seek to support and compliment the activity of our other initiatives by ensuring that the rights of people wishing to make families are supported through education, advancements in rights, supportive communities and robust research into fertility and reproductive justice.
Hayley Aldis
Hayley is a single mum of 2 girls, and gestational surrogate. She has been a surrogate for 2 set of IP’s. Combined, her surrogacy experiences have taught her strength, empathy and compassion, but above all a hope and resilience that she now sees in every intended parent she talks with. Outside of surrogacy, Hayley works for a Primary Teacher Training Provider; she’s passionate about education and the research and evidence base that surrounds it. She spends her spare time walking along the seafront trying to beat her step count, eating out (if the step count allows) and enjoying a good box set with a glass of wine in hand.
My Surrogacy Journey is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are your hosts, and as parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Today’s episode takes a light hearted and interesting viewpoint of what can be a monotonous and rather dull topic, especially given the exposure of it this year. I feel like we're all talked out! However, this episode looks into some of the more undiscussed areas of the The Commissions recommendations for future surrogacy laws in the UK. Wes chats to two experts, Andrew Powell, Barrister at 4PB and Andrew Spearman Partner and Head of Family Team at Laytons ETL Global. We explore all the avenues of the bill and ask the question, can we even see this current Conservative government even taking forward the law commissions recommendations?
Our wonderful guests tell us all more about whether they agree with the proposals and what was the most disappointing discovery with the final proposal - listen to find out more.
Guest bios:
Andrew Spearman, Partner and Head of Family Law
Andrew is an experienced family law practitioner with a specialism in Surrogacy & Fertility law and financial disputes on marital breakdown involving company and trust structures. He became a Partner at Laytons in 2019 and is Head of the Family Team, ensuring the highest quality of service and client care for each client. In 2019, he was identified as a Leading Individual by the Legal 500 team for his work in the field of surrogacy law and parenthood. As a consequence of his extensive work, seminars and involvement with surrogacy charities, he is recognised both as a leader in his field and as having an ability to give practical, proportionate solutions to complex problems.
Andrew Powell, Barrister.
Andrew is a family law barrister called to the Bar of England and Wales in 2008 based at 4PB, a leading specialist family law barristers’ chambers based in central London.
He is widely recognised for his expertise in cases concerning children. He is listed in the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners as a leading barrister and was recently described in Chambers and Partners as having “..an absolutely encyclopaedic knowledge of surrogacy law”.
His practice focuses on parental disputes about arrangements for children after separation, international children law including child abduction, and applications to relocate children to another country. He regularly represents parties in surrogacy, adoption and declaration of parentage cases. He has appeared in some of the leading cases concerning surrogacy and adoption in the High Court.
Andrew was awarded the ‘Family Law Junior Barrister of the Year Award’ in 2021 and has published a book about the legal aspects of surrogacy.
My Surrogacy Journey is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are your hosts, and as parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
It's part 2; check out what's coming up!
Did you listen to last weeks episode about the The Law Commissions recommendations for future surrogacy laws in the UK. Well this week we dive into expenses and talk about the implications of the new recommendations. Wes chats to two experts, Andrew Powell, Barrister at 4PB and Andrew Spearman Partner and Head of Family Team at Laytons ETL Global. We explore all the avenues of the bill and ask the question, can we even see this current Conservative government even taking forward the law commissions recommendations?
Our wonderful guests tell us all more about whether they agree with the proposals and what was the most disappointing discovery with the final proposal - listen to find out more.
Guest bios:
Andrew Spearman, Partner and Head of Family Law
Andrew is an experienced family law practitioner with a specialism in Surrogacy & Fertility law and financial disputes on marital breakdown involving company and trust structures. He became a Partner at Laytons in 2019 and is Head of the Family Team, ensuring the highest quality of service and client care for each client. In 2019, he was identified as a Leading Individual by the Legal 500 team for his work in the field of surrogacy law and parenthood. As a consequence of his extensive work, seminars and involvement with surrogacy charities, he is recognised both as a leader in his field and as having an ability to give practical, proportionate solutions to complex problems.
Andrew Powell, Barrister.
Andrew is a family law barrister called to the Bar of England and Wales in 2008 based at 4PB, a leading specialist family law barristers’ chambers based in central London.
He is widely recognised for his expertise in cases concerning children. He is listed in the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners as a leading barrister and was recently described in Chambers and Partners as having “..an absolutely encyclopaedic knowledge of surrogacy law”.
His practice focuses on parental disputes about arrangements for children after separation, international children law including child abduction, and applications to relocate children to another country. He regularly represents parties in surrogacy, adoption and declaration of parentage cases. He has appeared in some of the leading cases concerning surrogacy and adoption in the High Court.
Andrew was awarded the ‘Family Law Junior Barrister of the Year Award’ in 2021 and has published a book about the legal aspects of surrogacy.
My Surrogacy Journey is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are your hosts, and as parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Today’s teaser episode is all about The Commissions recommendations for future surrogacy laws in the UK. Wes chats to two experts, Andrew Powell, Barrister at 4PB and Andrew Spearman Partner and Head of Family Team at Laytons ETL Global. We explore all the avenues of the bill and ask the question, can we even see this current Conservative government even taking forward the law commissions recommendations?
Our wonderful guests tell us all more about whether they agree with the proposals and what was the most disappointing discovery with the final proposal - listen to find out more.
Guest bios:
Andrew Spearman, Partner and Head of Family Law
Andrew is an experienced family law practitioner with a specialism in Surrogacy & Fertility law and financial disputes on marital breakdown involving company and trust structures. He became a Partner at Laytons in 2019 and is Head of the Family Team, ensuring the highest quality of service and client care for each client. In 2019, he was identified as a Leading Individual by the Legal 500 team for his work in the field of surrogacy law and parenthood. As a consequence of his extensive work, seminars and involvement with surrogacy charities, he is recognised both as a leader in his field and as having an ability to give practical, proportionate solutions to complex problems.
Andrew Powell, Barrister.
Andrew is a family law barrister called to the Bar of England and Wales in 2008 based at 4PB, a leading specialist family law barristers’ chambers based in central London.
He is widely recognised for his expertise in cases concerning children. He is listed in the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners as a leading barrister and was recently described in Chambers and Partners as having “..an absolutely encyclopaedic knowledge of surrogacy law”.
His practice focuses on parental disputes about arrangements for children after separation, international children law including child abduction, and applications to relocate children to another country. He regularly represents parties in surrogacy, adoption and declaration of parentage cases. He has appeared in some of the leading cases concerning surrogacy and adoption in the High Court.
Andrew was awarded the ‘Family Law Junior Barrister of the Year Award’ in 2021 and has published a book about the legal aspects of surrogacy.
My Surrogacy Journey is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Trigger warning; Pregnant loss
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are usually your hosts, but today you have just Wes. As parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
For all the Intended parents, parents and those that are considering or perhaps those interested in surrogacy. Make sure you treat your ears and hearts to this wonderful eye opening, fuzzy feeling and all round beautiful episode which provides an honest account of what it’s like working with My Surrogacy Journey but also the truths being surrogacy too.
Today’s episode is hosted by Wes, and happens to be a favourite of ours of Season 2 so far. This is a special extended episode to honour National Fertility Awareness Week. Wes casually chats to our wonderful Intended Parents, our members, and we have two couples with very different journeys tell their story with honesty - the highs and the lows of surrogacy in the UK.
Will and Jen (currently matched) and Joe and Dan (awaiting a match) both talk honestly about the impact that surrogacy has, regardless of sexual orientation or how you ended or started your surrogacy journey.
Perhaps you’ve listened to today’s episode and you’d love to help someone achieve their dreams of parenthood and you’d like to learn more about being a surrogate. Reach out to us today and learn all about our extensive membership benefits and peer to peer support.
My Surrogacy Journey is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Trigger warning; Pregnant loss
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are usually your hosts, but today you have just Wes. As parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
For all the Intended parents, parents and those that are considering or perhaps those interested in surrogacy. Make sure you treat your ears and hearts to this wonderful eye opening, fuzzy feeling and all round beautiful episode which provides an honest account of what it’s like working with My Surrogacy Journey but also the truths being surrogacy too.
Today’s episode is hosted by Wes, and happens to be a favourite of ours of Season 2 so far. This is a special extended episode to honour National Fertility Awareness Week. Wes casually chats to our wonderful Intended Parents, our members, and we have two couples with very different journeys tell their story with honesty - the highs and the lows of surrogacy in the UK.
Will and Jen (currently matched) and Joe and Dan (awaiting a match) both talk honestly about the impact that surrogacy has, regardless of sexual orientation or how you ended or started your surrogacy journey.
Perhaps you’ve listened to today’s episode and you’d love to help someone achieve their dreams of parenthood and you’d like to learn more about being a surrogate. Reach out to us today and learn all about our extensive membership benefits and peer to peer support.
My Surrogacy Journey is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are your hosts, and as parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Michael and Wes are your host today and they chat to Debbie Evans, Director of Clinical Services and Mr David Ogutu, Consultant Gynaecologist both from Herts & Essex Fertility Centre
Today’s teaser episode is all about Fresh vs. Frozen Eggs. What do you need to know before you make any decision on the route you take. This episode is especially useful if you intend to split the cohort of eggs and fertilise them with two sperm sources and how many Blastocysts can you expect to have from 10 eggs? All this and more in this weeks episode.
Guest bios:
David Ogutu MRCOG
Medical Director/ Consultant Gynaecologist/ Person Responsible to the HFEA/ Nominated Individual to CQC
David joined us as Consultant Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist in 2011. He graduated from medical school in 1999 and received specialist training in Obstetrics & Gynaecology at the Royal Free Hospital and North Middlesex University Hospital, followed by advanced training in Assisted Conception, Reproductive Endocrinology and Laparoscopic Surgery at King’s College Hospital, London.
David is a member of the British Fertility Society, the European Society for Human Reproduction & Embryology, the British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy, and the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynaecology. David regularly teaches and addresses fertility conferences and he is the Person Responsible (PR) for the HFEA, our governing body.
Debbie Evans RGN
Director of Clinical Services/ Registered Manager to CQC/ Centre Manager
Debbie qualified as an RGN in 1985. She specialised for 20+ years in fertility management and has been with the Herts & Essex Fertility Centre since 2007. As Director of Clinical Services, Debbie takes ownership of the day-to-day clinical management of the Centre, with direct responsibility for 40+ members of staff. Her senior role has not changed her approach or work ethos: she is as passionate about patient care as when she first joined the nursing profession.
Debbie was the previous Chair of SING (Senior Infertility Nurse Group) for four years, an organisation that strives to support nurses in the fertility industry by providing peer support, guidance, and encouragement to its members. SING promotes education and training for all fertility nurses and is proactively involved in shaping the future of fertility treatment through stakeholders' input with relevant authorities and organisations.
More recently, Debbie joined My Surrogacy Journey on a part time basis as their clinical lead.
My Surrogacy Journey is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are your hosts, and as parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Michael and Wes are your host today and they chat to Debbie Evans, Director of Clinical Services and Mr David Ogutu, Consultant Gynaecologist both from Herts & Essex Fertility Centre
Today’s teaser episode is all about Fresh vs. Frozen Eggs. What do you need to know before you make any decision on the route you take. This episode is especially useful if you intend to split the cohort of eggs and fertilise them with two sperm sources and how many Blastocysts can you expect to have from 10 eggs? All this and more in this weeks episode.
Guest bios:
David Ogutu MRCOG
Medical Director/ Consultant Gynaecologist/ Person Responsible to the HFEA/ Nominated Individual to CQC
David joined us as Consultant Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist in 2011. He graduated from medical school in 1999 and received specialist training in Obstetrics & Gynaecology at the Royal Free Hospital and North Middlesex University Hospital, followed by advanced training in Assisted Conception, Reproductive Endocrinology and Laparoscopic Surgery at King’s College Hospital, London.
David is a member of the British Fertility Society, the European Society for Human Reproduction & Embryology, the British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy, and the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynaecology. David regularly teaches and addresses fertility conferences and he is the Person Responsible (PR) for the HFEA, our governing body.
Debbie Evans RGN
Director of Clinical Services/ Registered Manager to CQC/ Centre Manager
Debbie qualified as an RGN in 1985. She specialised for 20+ years in fertility management and has been with the Herts & Essex Fertility Centre since 2007. As Director of Clinical Services, Debbie takes ownership of the day-to-day clinical management of the Centre, with direct responsibility for 40+ members of staff. Her senior role has not changed her approach or work ethos: she is as passionate about patient care as when she first joined the nursing profession.
Debbie was the previous Chair of SING (Senior Infertility Nurse Group) for four years, an organisation that strives to support nurses in the fertility industry by providing peer support, guidance, and encouragement to its members. SING promotes education and training for all fertility nurses and is proactively involved in shaping the future of fertility treatment through stakeholders' input with relevant authorities and organisations.
More recently, Debbie joined My Surrogacy Journey on a part time basis as their clinical lead.
My Surrogacy Journey is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Welcome back! Today’s brand new episode is all about The HFEA reforms and what opening the register means both donors and recipients. Michael is flying solo today, he chats to Dr Carole Gilling Smith from The Agora in Brighton as well as Rachel Cutting MBE from The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), who as an independent organisation regulate UK fertility treatment.
Our wonderful guests tell us all more about how regulation is changing and the impact on all those using and that used donor gametes. We really enjoyed this episode as it provides a fascinating insight to how fortunate we are in the UK to have a fertility regulator.
Links mentioned in today’s episode;
DONATION
https://www.hfea.gov.uk/donation/donors/
OPENING THE REGISTER
https://www.hfea.gov.uk/donation/donor-conceived-people-and-their-parents/finding-out-about-your-donor-and-genetic-siblings/
Guest bios:
Dr Carole Gilling-Smith, MA (Cantab), FRCOG, PhD
Carole is the CEO,Medical Director and Founder of the Agora Clinic in Hove. She is a Consultant Gynaecologist and Fertility Specialist. She believes that all individuals, whatever their sexual orientation, gender identity and ethnic background should have equal access to fertility care and be professionally supported and guided throughout their parenting journey. This is the ethos of the Agora, a clinic renowned for embracing diversity and leading the UK provision of inclusive fertility care through supporting those from the LGBTQ+ community find safe and fulfilling routes to parenthood. Carole is on the Advisory Board for My Surrogacy Journey.
Rachel Cutting MBE
Rachel Cutting graduated from the University of Nottingham in 1995 and completed the Association of Clinical Embryologists post graduate diploma in her first trainee embryologist position. In 2001, she gained the
position of Principal Embryologist at Jessop Fertility in Sheffield and was Person Responsible for 10 years and quality manager for 16 years. Rachel was chair of the Association of Clinical Embryologists from 2011-2014 and has been involved with several professional bodies and organisations. She was instrumental in writing the curriculum for the Reproductive Science Scientific Training programme. She has written several papers and chapters and has presented regularly at national and international conferences. Working closely with the HFEA for several years Rachel was involved in writing the national guidelines for single embryo transfer and was committed to the One at a Time strategy to reduce the multiple pregnancy rate following IVF. Rachel was a member of the HEFA Authority and sat on the Statutory Approvals Committee until she joined the HFEA as the Director of Compliance and Information in 2019.
My Surrogacy Journey is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are your hosts, and as parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Today’s teaser episode is all about The HFEA reforms and what opening the register means both donors and recipients.
Welcome back! Michael is your host today and he chats to Dr Carole Gilling Smith from The Agora in Brighton as well as Rachel Cutting MBE from The Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA), who as an independent organisation regulate UK fertility treatment.
Our wonderful guests tell us all more about how regulation is changing and the impact on all those using and that used donor gametes. We really enjoyed this episode as it provides a fascinating insight to how fortunate we are in the UK to have a fertility regulator.
My Surrogacy Journey is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are your hosts, and as parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is almost 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Welcome back, and have we got a little treat for you! This episode is a little insight into the other side of people exploring surrogacy, the side that is often undisclosed - but we're going there! Yup; we're talking celebrities, we're discussing private jets, we're talking about lines of succession when embarking on surrogacy. Wes was noticeably excited talking to Sarah, as he's a huge fan of billions (you'll understand the connection once you listen in).
This episode was scheduled for a bit of fun initially, but it actually took a fascinating turn, it became a really interesting episode with some nuggets of educational highs!
We talk to Sarah Williams, who is one of our most favourite people in the surrogacy and family law space. Sarah is a Partner in the Payne Hicks Beach Family department and Head of the Modern Family Law Department. Payne Hicks Beach are one of the UK's leading city law firms. Founded in 1770 their offices have remained at 10 New Square, Lincoln’s Inn, one of London’s finest squares and the seat of English law.
Check out this fascinating episode and just wait till you hear Wes' exciting when he learns that Sarah often has to navigate her way around private jets, family management teams and all that comes with it!
Guest bio:
Sarah has expertise in fertility, surrogacy and adoption law, encompassing matters such as domestic and international surrogacy arrangements, donor conception and issues concerning parentage. In addition, Sarah has extensive experience in complex children law matters. She is described as being “brilliant on the law” able to process “extremely complex material in a clear concise and timely way” and by The Legal 500 as a “stand out individual”.
My Surrogacy Journey is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Michael and Wes are your hosts, and as parents themselves through surrogacy to two children (Talulah is almost 7 and Duke is 4) they continue to advocate, campaign and strive to improve the landscape of surrogacy in the UK and globally. Addressing safety, exploitation and educating those about the real truths about safer surrogacy.
Welcome back, and have we got a little treat for you! This episode is a little insight into the other side of people exploring surrogacy, the side that is often undisclosed - but we're going there! Yup; we're talking celebrities, we're discussing private jets, we're talking about lines of succession when embarking on surrogacy. Wes was noticeably excited talking to Sarah, as he's a huge fan of billions (you'll understand the connection once you listen in).
This episode was scheduled for a bit of fun initially, but it actually took a fascinating turn, it became a really interesting episode with some nuggets of educational highs!
We talk to Sarah Williams, who is one of our most favourite people in the surrogacy and family law space. Sarah is a Partner in the Payne Hicks Beach Family department and Head of the Modern Family Law Department. Payne Hicks Beach are one of the UK's leading city law firms. Founded in 1770 their offices have remained at 10 New Square, Lincoln’s Inn, one of London’s finest squares and the seat of English law.
Check out this fascinating episode and just wait till you hear Wes' exciting when he learns that Sarah often has to navigate her way around private jets, family management teams and all that comes with it!
Guest bio:
Sarah has expertise in fertility, surrogacy and adoption law, encompassing matters such as domestic and international surrogacy arrangements, donor conception and issues concerning parentage. In addition, Sarah has extensive experience in complex children law matters. She is described as being “brilliant on the law” able to process “extremely complex material in a clear concise and timely way” and by The Legal 500 as a “stand out individual”.
My Surrogacy Journey is a Talulah and The Duke Production and is recorded in London at Outset Studios
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Trigger warning; Miscarriage, MRKH and loss is discussed in this episode
Hello again! Welcome back, and thank you for downloading us again, here is Episode 8.
We wanted to use the time today to talk to you about 'Who needs surrogacy?'. Let's look at the times of people that need to look deeper into surrogacy, most of which had never even considered this type of fertility treatment to build a family. This episode features Mr Ali Al Chami from CRGH in London and a wonderful conversation with Joanne, an My Surrogacy Journey member and a mother to Olivia, through surrogacy due to the condition MRKH.
Fact for you; Mr Ali Al Chami was actually our consultant when we had Duke.
Check out this wonderful episode and let us know what you think in the reviews please.
Guest bio:
Mr Ali Al Chami MBBS MRCOG, Fertility Consultant, CRGH
Mr Ali Al Chami is a fertility consultant at CRGH and has extensive experience helping patients achieve their dream of a family. In particular, Mr Al Chami leads Surrogacy and Egg Donation treatments at CRGH and has expert knowledge of how to help LGBTQIA people create families of their own. Mr Al Chami also sits on the advisory board of My Surrogacy Journey and champions parity for LGBTQIA people in the fertility field.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Trigger warning; Miscarriage, MRKH and Loss is discussed in this episode
Hello again! Welcome back, and thank you for downloading us again, here is Episode 8.
We wanted to use the time today to talk to you about 'Who needs surrogacy?'. Let's look at the times of people that need to look deeper into surrogacy, most of which had never even considered this type of fertility treatment to build a family. This episode features Mr Ali Al Chami from CRGH in London and a wonderful conversation with Joanne, an MSJ member and a mother through surrogacy due to the condition MRKH.
Fact for you; Mr Ali Al Chami was actually our consultant when we had Duke.
Check out this wonderful episode and let us know what you think in the reviews please.
Guest bio:
Mr Ali Al Chami MBBS MRCOG, Fertility Consultant, CRGH
Mr Ali Al Chami is a fertility consultant at CRGH and has extensive experience helping patients achieve their dream of a family. In particular, Mr Al Chami leads Surrogacy and Egg Donation treatments at CRGH and has expert knowledge of how to help LGBTQIA people create families of their own. Mr Al Chami also sits on the advisory board of My Surrogacy Journey and champions parity for LGBTQIA people in the fertility field.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Trigger warning; Miscarriage and Loss is discussed in this episode
Welcome back, and thank you for downloading us again, here is Episode 7. It's a good un'.
This episode features within our Irish surrogacy special, supported by SIMS IVF. Take the first step towards your future today! Visit their website at www.sims.ie to learn more about our services and success stories.
We wanted to introduce some of their team to you, and this episodes you gets to meet the voices behind the treatment.
Check out this wonderful episode and let us know what you think in the reviews please.
Guest bio:
Mikey O’Brien – Group Clinical Director
Mikey's background in healthcare started in Tallaght University Hospital where he trained to be a general nurse in 2003 and received a Bachelor of Science with Nursing Degree. Mikey received dual qualification when he trained to be a midwife in the Rotunda Hospital in 2009 and received a higher diploma in Midwifery. He furthered his professional education in RCSI in 2016 when he studied to be a registered nurse prescriber.
He is passionate about creating an innovative healthcare team, and completed a Masters in Leadership and Practice in Trinity College in 2018.
Mikey joined the Sims IVF Group as Rotunda IVF Nursing Department Manager in February 2018, bringing with him vast and varied healthcare management experience. In December 2020, Mikey was promoted to Group Director of Nursing and Clinical Services, covering all Sims IVF sites and leading the nursing teams. In 2022, Mikey was appointed to the role of Group Clinic Director for Sims IVF Ireland.
Dr Alejandro (Alex) Aldape – Group Medical Director
Dr Alejandro Aldape Arellano (Dr Alex to his patients) is currently the Clinical Director of SIMS IVF at Clonskeagh.
Dr. Alex has been working in assisted reproduction field for over ten years in several clinics, including clinics across Ireland and Sims IVF Cork He has a particular interest in low AMH patients, poor IVF responder patients as well as PCOS patients.
He believes in a patient-centred care model where the doctor and patient work together to find the best strategy to achieve pregnancy. He also believes in teamwork and honesty. His patients describe him as a “very down-to-earth doctor”.
Alex studied at the Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon in Monterrey, Mexico where he got a medical and gynaecology degree. He then furthered his studies in Barcelona at Vall d’Hebron Hospital by completing a fellowship in Assisted Reproduction and the IVI master’s degree in Human Reproduction.
Karen Ferguson – Group Director of Nursing and Clinical Services
Karen Ferguson graduated from Queens University in 2015 where she studied general nursing. She then moved to Newcastle-Upon-Tyne and worked as a general nurse. Karen started to become interested in women’s health and decided to train in a fertility clinic in Newcastle in 2016. She was then made a senior nurse in 2019. Karen joined the Sims team in Dublin as a Nurse Manager in 2020. Karen also received a fertility ultrasound graduate certificate from University College Dublin.
Karen was promoted to Group Director of Nursing and Clinical Services in February 2023.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Trigger warning; Miscarriage and Loss is discussed in this episode
Welcome back, and thank you for downloading us again, here is your teaser for Episode 7. How are ya?
This episode features within our Irish surrogacy special, supported by SIMS IVF. Take the first step towards your future today! Visit their website at www.sims.ie to learn more about our services and success stories.
We wanted to introduce some of their team to you, and this episodes you gets to meet the voices behind the treatment.
Check out this wonderful episode and let us know what you think in the reviews please.
Guest bio:
Mikey O’Brien – Group Clinical Director
Mikey's background in healthcare started in Tallaght University Hospital where he trained to be a general nurse in 2003 and received a Bachelor of Science with Nursing Degree. Mikey received dual qualification when he trained to be a midwife in the Rotunda Hospital in 2009 and received a higher diploma in Midwifery. He furthered his professional education in RCSI in 2016 when he studied to be a registered nurse prescriber.
He is passionate about creating an innovative healthcare team, and completed a Masters in Leadership and Practice in Trinity College in 2018.
Mikey joined the Sims IVF Group as Rotunda IVF Nursing Department Manager in February 2018, bringing with him vast and varied healthcare management experience. In December 2020, Mikey was promoted to Group Director of Nursing and Clinical Services, covering all Sims IVF sites and leading the nursing teams. In 2022, Mikey was appointed to the role of Group Clinic Director for Sims IVF Ireland.
Dr Alejandro (Alex) Aldape – Group Medical Director
Dr Alejandro Aldape Arellano (Dr Alex to his patients) is currently the Clinical Director of SIMS IVF at Clonskeagh.
Dr. Alex has been working in assisted reproduction field for over ten years in several clinics, including clinics across Ireland and Sims IVF Cork He has a particular interest in low AMH patients, poor IVF responder patients as well as PCOS patients.
He believes in a patient-centred care model where the doctor and patient work together to find the best strategy to achieve pregnancy. He also believes in teamwork and honesty. His patients describe him as a “very down-to-earth doctor”.
Alex studied at the Universidad Autonoma de Nuevo Leon in Monterrey, Mexico where he got a medical and gynaecology degree. He then furthered his studies in Barcelona at Vall d’Hebron Hospital by completing a fellowship in Assisted Reproduction and the IVI master’s degree in Human Reproduction.
Karen Ferguson – Group Director of Nursing and Clinical Services
Karen Ferguson graduated from Queens University in 2015 where she studied general nursing. She then moved to Newcastle-Upon-Tyne and worked as a general nurse. Karen started to become interested in women’s health and decided to train in a fertility clinic in Newcastle in 2016. She was then made a senior nurse in 2019. Karen joined the Sims team in Dublin as a Nurse Manager in 2020. Karen also received a fertility ultrasound graduate certificate from University College Dublin.
Karen was promoted to Group Director of Nursing and Clinical Services in February 2023.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Trigger warning; Miscarriage and Loss is discussed in this two part episode
Welcome to Episode 5; Part 2 (which is called Episode 6 confusingly), Exploring International Surrogacy: A Guide for Irish Nationals ft. Anette Hickey.
Welcome back, this two parter was originally a 20 min episode, but whilst in the studio in Dublin, Michael and Wes kept the audio running, and the conversations were not only authentic, but simply gorgeous.
Surrogacy for Irish nationals can be complex, especially with some of the legal challenges around parenthood. In January 2024 we will see Georgia no longer be a via option for foreigners, and with Ukraine equally not advisable the options can feel limited, or at worst unachievable. However, on this two part episode we speak to respected surrogacy lawyer Annette Hickey about the steps you should take when exploring international surrogacy. We have special guests from Irish Families Through Surrogacy and also Ormand Quay Paternity Services. with two of the major destinations for surrogacy
Check out this wonderful second part, enjoy and let us know what you think in the reviews.
This Episode is supported by SIMS IVF. Sims IVF is committed to your family journey. Take the first step towards your future today! Visit our website at www.sims.ie to learn more about our services and success stories.
Guest bio:
Annette Hickey - is a partner in Poe Kiely Hogan Lanigan Solicitors, where she works exclusively as a surrogacy / fertility law solicitor. She has represented Irish parents who have pursued surrogacy in Ireland, USA, Canada, Columbia, Georgia, Ukraine, Argentina, North Cyprus and Mexico as a route to parenthood through surrogacy. egulated statutory framework for domestic and international surrogacy and a retrospective pathway to parenthood in Irish legislation.
Sinead Gallagher
Sinead and Mark went through 14 IVF cycles with a number of early miscarriages. They looked at the Ukraine as it had the ethical and legal framework in place. They had their first little boy in April 2021 to create their family.
Sinead became a committee member of Irish Families Through Surrogacy when she returned from Kyiv with Theo. IFTS are an advocacy group campaigning for legislation which will give full recognition to our children and those born in the future. Their hope would be that by the end of the year our children and future children would have the regulation, protections and ethical safeguards in place.
Audrey O’Sullivan
Audrey has worked as the Operations Director for Ormand Quay Paternity Services since 2014. Audrey specialises in DNA testing relating to surrogacy, as well as other immigration matters. Audrey is central to a strong network of medical professionals, solicitors and social workers both internationally and domestically.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Trigger warning; Miscarriage and Loss is discussed in this two part episode
Welcome to Episode 5; Part 2 Exploring International Surrogacy: A Guide for Irish Nationals ft. Anette Hickey.
Hold tight, this two parter is an emotional rollercoaster, but we're confident it holds some exceptional nuggets of information for you, if you're considering surrogacy and you're based in Ireland. Surrogacy for Irish nationals can be complex, especially with some of the legal challenges around parenthood. In January 2024 we will see Georgia no longer be a via option for foreigners, and with Ukraine equally not advisable the options can feel limited, or at worst unachievable. However, on this two part episode we speak to respected surrogacy lawyer Annette Hickey about the steps you should take when exploring international surrogacy. We have special guests from Irish Families Through Surrogacy and also Ormand Quay Paternity Services. with two of the major destinations for surrogacy
Check out this wonderful episode, grab your tissues and don't forget it's a two parter!
This Episode is supported by SIMS IVF. Sims IVF is committed to your family journey. Take the first step towards your future today! Visit our website at www.sims.ie to learn more about our services and success stories.
Guest bio:
Annette Hickey - is a partner in Poe Kiely Hogan Lanigan Solicitors, where she works exclusively as a surrogacy / fertility law solicitor. She has represented Irish parents who have pursued surrogacy in Ireland, USA, Canada, Columbia, Georgia, Ukraine, Argentina, North Cyprus and Mexico as a route to parenthood through surrogacy. egulated statutory framework for domestic and international surrogacy and a retrospective pathway to parenthood in Irish legislation.
Sinead Gallagher
Sinead and Mark went through 14 ivf cycles with a number of early miscarriages. They looked at the Ukraine as it had the ethical and legal framework in place. They had their first little boy in April 2021 to create their family.
Sinead became a committee member of Irish Families Through Surrogacy when she returned from Kyiv with Theo. IFTS are an advocacy group campaigning for legislation which will give full recognition to our children and those born in the future. Their hope would be that by the end of the year our children and future children would have the regulation, protections and ethical safeguards in place.
Audrey O’Sullivan
Audrey has worked as the Operations Director for Ormand Quay Paternity Services since 2014. Audrey specialises in DNA testing relating to surrogacy, as well as other immigration matters. Audrey is central to a strong network of medical professionals, solicitors and social workers both internationally and domestically.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Trigger warning; Miscarriage and Loss is discussed in this two part episode
Welcome to Episode 5; Part 1, Exploring International Surrogacy: A Guide for Irish Nationals ft. Anette Hickey.
Hold tight, this two parter is an emotional rollercoaster, but we're confident it holds some exceptional nuggets of information for you, if you're considering surrogacy and you're based in Ireland. Surrogacy for Irish nationals can be complex, especially with some of the legal challenges around parenthood. In January 2024 we will see Georgia no longer be a via option for foreigners, and with Ukraine equally not advisable the options can feel limited, or at worst unachievable. However, on this two part episode we speak to respected surrogacy lawyer Annette Hickey about the steps you should take when exploring international surrogacy. We have special guests from Irish Families Through Surrogacy and also Ormand Quay Paternity Services. with two of the major destinations for surrogacy
Check out this wonderful episode, grab your tissues and don't forget it's a two parter!
This Episode is supported by SIMS IVF. Sims IVF is committed to your family journey. Take the first step towards your future today! Visit our website at www.sims.ie to learn more about our services and success stories.
Guest bio:
Annette Hickey - is a partner in Poe Kiely Hogan Lanigan Solicitors, where she works exclusively as a surrogacy / fertility law solicitor. She has represented Irish parents who have pursued surrogacy in Ireland, USA, Canada, Columbia, Georgia, Ukraine, Argentina, North Cyprus and Mexico as a route to parenthood through surrogacy. egulated statutory framework for domestic and international surrogacy and a retrospective pathway to parenthood in Irish legislation.
Sinead Gallagher
Sinead and Mark went through 14 ivf cycles with a number of early miscarriages. They looked at the Ukraine as it had the ethical and legal framework in place. They had their first little boy in April 2021 to create their family.
Sinead became a committee member of Irish Families Through Surrogacy when she returned from Kyiv with Theo. IFTS are an advocacy group campaigning for legislation which will give full recognition to our children and those born in the future. Their hope would be that by the end of the year our children and future children would have the regulation, protections and ethical safeguards in place.
Audrey O’Sullivan
Audrey has worked as the Operations Director for Ormand Quay Paternity Services since 2014. Audrey specialises in DNA testing relating to surrogacy, as well as other immigration matters. Audrey is central to a strong network of medical professionals, solicitors and social workers both internationally and domestically.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Trigger warning; Miscarriage and Loss is discussed in this two part episode
Welcome to Episode 5; Part 1, Exploring International Surrogacy: A Guide for Irish Nationals ft. Anette Hickey.
Hold tight, this two parter is an emotional rollercoaster, but we're confident it holds some exceptional nuggets of information for you, if you're considering surrogacy and you're based in Ireland. Surrogacy for Irish nationals can be complex, especially with some of the legal challenges around parenthood. In January 2024 we will see Georgia no longer be a via option for foreigners, and with Ukraine equally not advisable the options can feel limited, or at worst unachievable. However, on this two part episode we speak to respected surrogacy lawyer Annette Hickey about the steps you should take when exploring international surrogacy. We have special guests from Irish Families Through Surrogacy and also Ormand Quay Paternity Services. with two of the major destinations for surrogacy
Check out this wonderful episode, grab your tissues and don't forget it's a two parter!
This Episode is supported by SIMS IVF. Sims IVF is committed to your family journey. Take the first step towards your future today! Visit our website at www.sims.ie to learn more about our services and success stories.
Guest bio:
Annette Hickey - is a partner in Poe Kiely Hogan Lanigan Solicitors, where she works exclusively as a surrogacy / fertility law solicitor. She has represented Irish parents who have pursued surrogacy in Ireland, USA, Canada, Columbia, Georgia, Ukraine, Argentina, North Cyprus and Mexico as a route to parenthood through surrogacy. egulated statutory framework for domestic and international surrogacy and a retrospective pathway to parenthood in Irish legislation.
Sinead Gallagher
Sinead and Mark went through 14 ivf cycles with a number of early miscarriages. They looked at the Ukraine as it had the ethical and legal framework in place. They had their first little boy in April 2021 to create their family.
Sinead became a committee member of Irish Families Through Surrogacy when she returned from Kyiv with Theo. IFTS are an advocacy group campaigning for legislation which will give full recognition to our children and those born in the future. Their hope would be that by the end of the year our children and future children would have the regulation, protections and ethical safeguards in place.
Audrey O’Sullivan
Audrey has worked as the Operations Director for Ormand Quay Paternity Services since 2014. Audrey specialises in DNA testing relating to surrogacy, as well as other immigration matters. Audrey is central to a strong network of medical professionals, solicitors and social workers both internationally and domestically.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Welcome to the teaser of Episode 4; CAFCASS; who are they and what role do they play in surrogacy cases in the UK? Mike and Wes chat to the wonderful Susie Blamire, Head of Practice. A fascinating and essential discussion for anyone starting out on a surrogacy journey; this is for you if you'd love to learn more about the parental order process and the potential new pathway suggested by the Law Commission.
Check out this educational episode!
Guest bio:
Susie Blamire, Head of Practice (NIS) at Cafcass (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service)
She was appointed to the role of Improvement Manager within Cafcass’ National Improvement Service in 2016 and is now Head of Practice. She leads a team supporting quality improvement in front-line work to help Cafcass provide the best service possible to children and young people. Susie leads on ‘Parental Orders and Surrogacy’ and ‘Diversity’ within NIS and sits on Cafcass’ Operational Equality, Diversity and Inclusion group.
She is also Cafcass’ Peer Practice Specialist on Modern Families, which encompasses surrogacy, same-sex parents and gamete donation. She keeps abreast of front-line developments in this ever-evolving area of practice through regular consultations with practitioners and delivering presentations nationally.
Outside of work, Susie is the mother of two donor-conceived children. As a result of both personal and professional experience, she has a keen interest in the practical, psychological and legal implications for children born of surrogacy and/or gamete donation, and the adults involved in their story.
Susie holds a Master of Arts in Social Work with Distinction, gained from the University of Nottingham in 2001, along with the Post Qualifying Child Care Award and the Post Qualifying Award in Social Work, gained from the University of Sheffield in 2004. She speaks fluent French.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Welcome to the teaser of Episode 4; CAFCASS; who are they and what role do they play in surrogacy cases in the UK? Mike and Wes chat to the wonderful Susie Blamire, Head of Practice. A fascinating and essential discussion for anyone starting out on a surrogacy journey; this is for you if you'd love to learn more about the parental order process and the potential new pathway suggested by the Law Commission.
Check out this educational teaser episode!
Guest bio:
Susie Blamire, Head of Practice (NIS) at Cafcass (Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service)
She was appointed to the role of Improvement Manager within Cafcass’ National Improvement Service in 2016 and is now Head of Practice. She leads a team supporting quality improvement in front-line work to help Cafcass provide the best service possible to children and young people. Susie leads on ‘Parental Orders and Surrogacy’ and ‘Diversity’ within NIS and sits on Cafcass’ Operational Equality, Diversity and Inclusion group.
She is also Cafcass’ Peer Practice Specialist on Modern Families, which encompasses surrogacy, same-sex parents and gamete donation. She keeps abreast of front-line developments in this ever-evolving area of practice through regular consultations with practitioners and delivering presentations nationally.
Outside of work, Susie is the mother of two donor-conceived children. As a result of both personal and professional experience, she has a keen interest in the practical, psychological and legal implications for children born of surrogacy and/or gamete donation, and the adults involved in their story.
Susie holds a Master of Arts in Social Work with Distinction, gained from the University of Nottingham in 2001, along with the Post Qualifying Child Care Award and the Post Qualifying Award in Social Work, gained from the University of Sheffield in 2004. She speaks fluent French.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Welcome to the teaser of Episode 3; Surrogacy in Mexico City - why it's not Cancun!
Mike and Wes are back with a brand new award winning episode. Talking all about their latest surrogacy pathway in Mexico City and joined by Andrew Spearman, Partner at Laytons ETL Global. Why did they choose Mexico City? How safe is it? How does it different from other regions in Mexico and how does it compare globally?
Check out this fascinating teaser episode!
Guest bios;
Andrew Spearman, Head of Family Law, Laytons ETL
Andrew is an experienced family law practitioner with a specialism in Surrogacy & Fertility law and financial disputes on marital breakdown involving company and trust structures. He became a Partner at Laytons in 2019 and is Head of the Family Team, ensuring the highest quality of service and client care for each client.
https://www.laytons.com/people/andrew-spearman
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey and their Mexico City pathway, then please click here.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Welcome to the teaser of Episode 3; Surrogacy in Mexico City - why it's not Cancun!
Mike and Wes are back with a brand new award winning episode. Talking all about their latest surrogacy pathway in Mexico City and joined by Andrew Spearman, Partner at Laytons ETL Global. Why did they choose Mexico City? How safe is it? How does it different from other regions in Mexico and how does it compare globally?
Check out this fascinating teaser episode!
Guest bios;
Andrew Spearman, Head of Family Law, Laytons ETL
Andrew is an experienced family law practitioner with a specialism in Surrogacy & Fertility law and financial disputes on marital breakdown involving company and trust structures. He became a Partner at Laytons in 2019 and is Head of the Family Team, ensuring the highest quality of service and client care for each client.
https://www.laytons.com/people/andrew-spearman
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey and their Mexico City pathway, then please click here.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Welcome to Episode 2; Surrogacy and workplace rights ft. Fertility Matters at Work
Mike and Wes are back with a brand new episode. Chatting to two of the co-founders of Fertility Matters at Work, Clare Ingle and Becky Kearns. Sadly Natalie Silverman couldn't join us due to prior commitments. In this episode we tackle the conversations to have with your employer. What does good practice look like and how can you work with your HR team to make this experience stress free and completely 'usualised'!
Check out this fascinating episode!
Guest bios;
Claire and Becky are both HR professionals with over 35 years combined experience and who make up two-thirds of 'Fertility Matters at Work', a community interest company that exists to bring to life the real challenges people have in the workplace when undergoing any type of fertility journey, why this has an impact on business and ways in which to combat them via a suite of training and educational interventions.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit UK surrogacy organisation.
Welcome to Episode 2; Surrogacy and workplace rights ft. Fertility Matters at Work
Mike and Wes are back with a brand new episode. Chatting to two of the co-founders of Fertility Matters at Work, Clare Ingle and Becky Kearns. Sadly Natalie Silverman couldn't join us due to prior commitments. In this episode we tackle the conversations to have with your employer. What does good practice look like and how can you work with your HR team to make this experience stress free and completely 'usualised'!
Check out this fascinating episode!
Guest bios;
Claire and Becky are both HR professionals with over 35 years combined experience and who make up two-thirds of 'Fertility Matters at Work', a community interest company that exists to bring to life the real challenges people have in the workplace when undergoing any type of fertility journey, why this has an impact on business and ways in which to combat them via a suite of training and educational interventions.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey - The Podcast is the UK's leading multi award winning podcast from a non profit surrogacy organisation.
Welcome to Episode 1; Surrogate Stories
Mike and Wes chat to two first time surrogates, Megan and Kay - both with very different stories to tell, but both aligned on one fact. Especially an episode for the extreme feminists; their body is not being exploited, listen in to learn more.
Megan is childless by choice, married to Ed and carried a pregnancy for a same sex couple who became parents in January 2023, Megan was 7 months pregnant on her own wedding day. Kay has two children and is currently going through IVF treatment helping her heterosexual intended parents.
Check out this fascinating episode!
Guest bios;
Kay King is delighted to be joining the MSJ family from September 2023 as the new MSJ Foundation Director, working 4 days a week within the core team. Kay comes to MSJ from a background in reproductive health and rights charity leadership and has for the last 6 years been leading White Ribbon Alliance UK to advance the rights of women and girls and gender diverse people across the globe. She is a skilled fundraiser, campaigner and project manager for charity and community sector work. Kay is a queer woman with two of her own children, she is based in Devon and is currently on a surrogacy journey of her own having matched with an incredible pair of intended parents through MSJ.
Kay has a strong vision for the MSJ Foundation, which will seek to support and compliment the activity of our other initiatives by ensuring that the rights of people wishing to make families are supported through education, advancements in rights, supportive communities and robust research into fertility and reproductive justice.
Megan Watson-Wing is a surrogate with MSJ. Married to Ed. Childless by choice. Multiple time egg donor. Owns her own body and the decisions she makes.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a 'Talulah and The Duke' Production
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
We're excited to tell you about Season 2 of My Surrogacy Journey, the podcast! Proudly sponsored by Herts & Essex Fertility Centre.
It's been a while since the end of Season 1 but Michael and Wes are back soon with some amazing guests and this trailer gives you an exclusive sneak peak of what's to come! From surrogate stories, international surrogacy tips and tricks, a Mexico City special and even an episode on MRKH plus much more we're convinced you'll love this season more than our first.
Buckle up, launching 31st July.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wes and Michael are back soon for Season 2! Sponsored by Herts & Essex Fertility Centre, a leading UK fertility clinic with the best success rates in the East of England that has helped create over 7000 babies.
Season two is crammed full of wonderful content, created just for you. So, get subscribing!
See you all soon!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Christmas can be a really special time, but it can also be a difficult one. Michael and Wes hear from Kelly Da Silva, Fertility Mentor at My Surrogacy Journey. Kelly is a former fertility patient with a background in emotional support. She works to develop and improve the patient experience for those on their fertility journey, with a specific focus on emotional support. She talks about the importance of preparing for Christmas, when you might be struggling with infertility and childlessness. And gives advice on ways to prepare.
Anna Buxton, podcast host, IP Coordinator and Advisory Board Member, and Sophie Smith, the Egg Donor Coordinator, both share their experiences as IPs at Christmas. Michael and Wes talk about how they explain surrogacy to family members, when the children are around and how to normalise different families.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational support for intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Andrew Spearman and Gina Kinson are back in the studio with Wes to discuss surrogate expenses. In this episode, you will hear from three different perspectives, Gina, who is an Experienced GS Surrogate and My Surrogacy Journey Surrogate Coordinator, Wes, who was an Intended Parent and has had two children via Surrogacy, and Andrew, an experienced family law practitioner, who talks about where surrogate expenses fall with regards to the law.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational support for intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Anna and Wes are joined in the studio by Andrew Spearman and Gina Kinson to talk about those things that could potentially go wrong on a surrogacy journey and how to be as prepared as possible. Andrew Spearman is an experienced family law practitioner with a specialism in Surrogacy & Fertility law, and Gina Kinson is an Experienced GS Surrogate and My Surrogacy Journey Surrogate Coordinator.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational support for intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wes is joined in the studio by Fran Steyn and Sophie Smith. Fran is the UK's leading fertility nurse specialist with over 15 years experience, and also an egg donor, and Sophie and her husband had their baby via surrogacy after Sophie suffered seven miscarriages . Sophie's best friend offered to be their surrogate and had their son, Theo, two years ago. Sophie is also the Egg Donor Coordinator at My Surrogacy Journey.
They discuss what it means to be a donor from the IP's point of view and what being an egg donor involves.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week's episode Anna talk to Virginia Hart in the US. Virginia is the founder and CEO of ART Risk Financial and Insurance Solutions. ART Risk specialises in providing insurance and financial solutions for intended parents. Anna asks Virginia to break down insurance for intended parents who choose to do surrogacy in the US. Virginia covers what insurance intended parents need, their surrogate needs and then finally their new born. Virginia breaks down what option are available and the costs involved.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational content to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wes is joined in the studio by Francesca Steyn, the UK's leading fertility nurse specialist with over 15 years experience. Fran and Wes discuss how to choose a clinic, from location to inclusivity, what you need to consider and how to make the right choice. Fran gives some useful tips on what to expect as an intended parent once you have chosen a clinic. Wes shares his experience on choosing a clinic and what he learnt.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational content to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Why do intended parents need to consider STDs and HIV when starting on their surrogacy journey? Wes is joined by Dr. Carole Gilling-Smith in the studio, to discuss just that. Carole is the CEO, Medical Director, and founder of the Agora Clinic in Hove, offering both NHS and privately funded treatments. She is a Consultant Gynaecologist with particular expertise in Fertility and Reproductive Medicine. With nearly 40 years of experience, she has a diverse research portfolio and continues to publish and lecture nationally.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational content to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Michael is joined by regular guest on the series, Andrew Spearman. In this week's episode Michael and Andrew are talking about all things UK law when it comes to surrogacy. Andrew is Head of Family Law at Laytons LLP. Andrew is a specialist Fertility and Surrogacy lawyer and a recognised leader in the field of legal parenthood for the UK and LGBTQ+ Families.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational content to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Rich Vaughn and Rachel West talk to Anna about the Law in the US and Canada around surrogacy. Fertility law attorney Rich Vaughn has over 20 years of experience and founded the International Fertility Law Group (IFLG), one of the most successful and best-known law firms in the world focusing on assisted reproductive technology law, based in the US.
Rachel West regularly works with couples and individuals who wish to become parents, as well as surrogates (gestational carriers), with all aspects of surrogacy and fertility law. Rachel works with local and international Intended Parents, surrogates (gestational carriers), and also with egg and sperm donors, she is based in Canada.
They discuss the similarities and differences between a US and Canadian surrogacy journey.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational content to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Wes and Michael are in the studio this week discussing the benefits of going down the independent route vs. choosing an agency. They share their experience of an independent route when they had their children, and talk about what they learnt and what they would do differently. This episode is helpful to any intended parents at the start of their journey and working out where to begin.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational content to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week's episode Michael is in the studio with Freddy McConnell, Andrew Spearman and Carole Gilling Smith to talk about surrogacy for the trans community. Freddy McConnell is a trans-activists, parent, journalist and a filmmaker. His film Seahorse (2019) was a documentary that recounted the early stages of his transition, to the decision to carry his child. Andrew is an experienced family law practitioner with a specialism in Surrogacy & Fertility law, and Carole is the CEO, Founder & Medical Director of the Agora Clinic in Brighton.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational content to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wes and Michael are in the studio and are joined remotely but Lynson Miles and Kirsty Crompton. Lyndon is a Consultant Embryologist, Clinic Director at Centre for Reproduction & Gynaecology Wales. He has extensive experience from working in six IVF clinics, including six years as Senior Embryologist and Harvard Instructor at Brigham & Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
Kirsty Crompton MBA is Director of Business Development, Reproductive Medicine EMEA at Cryoport. Cryoport provide temperature-controlled logistics for IVF and surrogacy.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational content to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wes and Anna are joined by Kicki Hansard and Emiliana Hall. Emiliana founded The Mindful Birthing Group because of her love and passion for supporting parents and families, The Mindful Birthing Group offers birth preparation hypnobirthing courses for all births. Emiliana has been a surrogate and is a qualified doula.
Kicki is the Chief Executive Officer at The Doula Association, an organisation of independent doulas. The Doula Association seeks to embed, raise the profile and visibility of doulas and to have an established role in making a meaningful impact on the landscape of birth and early parenthood across the UK.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational content to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week's episode Wes and Anna and joined by Sheena Byrom OBE. Sheena is a practicing midwife, with over 40 years worth of experience, and works hard to support other midwives to ensure a positive birthing experience for everyone. She was one of the UK’s first consultant midwives and provides consultancy services for the NHS trust and worldwide. Sheena and her daughter, and joint owners of the renowned midwifery journey The Practising Midwife. She talks to Anna and Wes about birthing plans and postnatal education.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational content to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Michael and Wes are joined in this week's episode by Bill Evans from Igenomix, to talk all things genetic screening. Bill explains what is involved in genetic screening, carrier screening, and what is offered via the NHS and other clinics.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational content to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week’s episode Michael is joined by Gina Kinson Experienced GS Surrogate and My Surrogacy Journey Surrogate Coordinator. Gina talks about why she chose to become a surrogate, how she spoke to her family about it when she decided that’s what she wanted to do, and how she felt giving her IP’s this amazing gift.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational content to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this week's episode Anna is joined by two other intended parents, Sophie Beresiner and Sophie Smith. The three have an open and honest conversation about why they chose to do surrogacy and what are their biggest learnings from their experiences. Sophie Beresiner, writer of the award-winning Sunday Times column, The Mother Project, was left with no function in her ovaries after chemotherapy. Her and her husband, then embarked on surrogacy, firstly in the States, before having their much longed-for baby via a UK surrogate.
Sophie Smith and her husband had their baby via surrogacy after Sophie suffered seven heartbreaking miscarriages . She went through five miscarriages and two ectopic pregnancies that required both of her fallopian tubes to be removed - leaving Sophie unable to have children of her own. Sophie's best friend offered to be their surrogate and had their son, Theo, two years ago.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational content to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to My Surrogacy Journey the podcast. The series is designed and made to help anyone starting on their surrogacy journey, whatever stage you are at. Each week, the hosts Anna Buxton, Michael and Wes Johnson-Ellis are joined by specialists in their field to discuss surrogacy and share practical, educational and helpful tips and advice.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and educational to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.
My Surrogacy Journey is the UK's number 1 surrogacy podcast, that is made to support, educate and entertain listeners, whatever stage of the journey they are at. The hosts, Wes, Michael and Anna have all had their own surrogacy journeys and use their experiences to share stories and advice. Each week the hosts will be joined by specialists to discuss practical and useful tips, whatever stage of the journey you are at.
My Surrogacy Journey brings together experts and education to support intended parents, surrogates, donors and their families in the UK.
If you want to know more about My Surrogacy Journey, then visit: https://www.mysurrogacyjourney.com/
My Surrogacy Journey the podcast is a StoryHunter Production
Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.