On this episode of Motherhood Intended, Jacqueline shares a deeply personal story about the birth of her daughter via surrogacy. Detailing the steps leading up to the birth, including signing with an agency, being matched with a surrogate, and the excitement of learning the pregnancy news, she provides insights for anyone curious or embarking on a similar journey. She discusses the emotional and logistical aspects of surrogacy, such as creating a birth plan with the surrogate and preparing for changes in post-birth care decisions, like breast milk or formula. The narrative is interwoven with reflections on motherhood, adjustments to family life, and the profound gratitude towards her surrogate. Additionally, she speaks on personal challenges and light-hearted anecdotes about her appearance, family life, and preparations for the arrival of her new baby. The episode closes with a look forward to taking a summer break, focusing on family, and hinting at exciting future content for the podcast.

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• If becoming a surrogate is on your heart, click this link to learn more (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

00:00 Welcome to the Final Episode of Season Three!
00:20 The Realities of Recording with a Newborn
00:37 A Glimpse into Motherhood: No Makeup, Air-Dried Hair, and Workout Clothes
01:58 Announcing a Summer Break and What to Expect
02:59 Our Surrogacy Journey: The Birth of Our Daughter
04:25 The Birth Plan: A New Experience for Us
10:49 Reflections and Decisions Post-Delivery
14:29 Delivery Day: An Unforgettable Experience
20:54 The Arrival of Lorelei: A Joyful Beginning
21:13 Reflecting on Baby Sizes and Family Traits
22:40 First Moments with Our Newborn: Embracing Parenthood
22:55 Navigating Newborn Feeding: Trials, Triumphs, and Bottle Choices
24:50 Hospital Stay and Heading Home: Overcoming Challenges
27:27 The Journey Back: Navigating Airports and Flights with a Newborn
34:05 Warm Welcome Home and Reflecting on Surrogacy
37:09 Closing Thoughts: Embracing Different Paths to Parenthood
38:50 Looking Ahead: Season 4 and Community Engagement

Support the Show.

If you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

This episode features a conversation between Jacqueline, and guest Jess Hull, a former Facebook and Google executive who founded Mother Me, an app, online course, and support framework for successful women navigating postpartum. The core of the episode delves into the Mother Me Method, developed by Jess, based on the science of matrescence and incorporating global perspectives on postpartum support. Jacqueline and Jess emphasize the societal need to support mothers' well-being as substantially as the care provided to newborns, interspersing personal experiences with scientific research to underscore the pivotal role maternal health plays in both a mother and child's life. This episode also explores how the transition to parenthood affects relationships and how understanding and respecting each other's experiences can fortify marital bonds in challenging times.

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• Learn more about Mother Me
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00:00 Welcome and the Joy of Spring

01:12 Embracing the Little Things in Life

01:26 The Journey to Motherhood and Mental Health

03:18 Introducing Jess Hall and the Mother Me Method

05:28 Deep Dive into Postpartum Experiences and Support

22:38 Exploring Matrescence: The Science of Becoming a Mother

28:28 Navigating Relationship Challenges in Parenthood

29:20 Personal Stories of Parenthood and Marriage

30:54 Addressing Resentment and Finding Solutions

34:36 Embracing Different Parenting Perspectives

37:09 Top Tips for Preparing for Postpartum

39:54 Fostering Appreciation and Connection in Relationships

44:34 The Importance of Physical Touch and Care

48:27 Introducing Mother Me: A Resource for New Moms

52:29 Connecting with Mother Me for Support

54:09 Closing Thoughts on Postpartum Education and Support

Support the Show.

If you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

After an unexpected hiatus, Jacqueline is back with a new episode as she joyfully shares her family's recent expansion to five as they welcomed a perfect little girl into the world! She was born happy and healthy on April 17th via their gracious surrogate. Everyone is doing well! More on her birth story to come...

In this episode, Jacqueline chats with Jodi, a fellow preemie mom, on how to manage when birth stories deviate from expectations. Jodi's journey with her daughter's premature birth at 28 weeks, the subsequent NICU stay, and the emotional aftermath is intimately detailed. Through both of their stories, this episode delves into the struggles and triumphs of navigating premature parenthood, advocating for one's children, and the importance of finding and offering support to others in similar situations.

The discussion also touches on broader themes of motherhood, infertility, surrogacy, and reframing mindsets to cope with unexpected life events. The conversation is not only a source of comfort and camaraderie for those with shared experiences, but also offers practical advice and highlights the critical need for extending and seeking support through networks like Jodi's initiative, FLRRiSH. Jacqueline encourages listeners to engage in self-reflection, reach out for support, and contribute to the podcast community.

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• Learn more about FLRRiSH
• Connect with Jodi on Instagram

00:00 Welcome Back & Personal Updates

00:27 The Magical Journey of Surrogacy

01:48 Podcast Season Updates & Listener Support

03:12 Navigating the NICU Journey: A Conversation with Jodi

06:42 Empowerment Through Advocacy: Flrrish's Mission

11:11 The Transition Home from NICU: Challenges and Support

17:17 Reframing Parenthood After Premature Birth

19:38 Advocating for Your Child's Needs Beyond the NICU

25:11 The Power of Resilience in Premature Births

26:23 Celebrating Preemie Strength as a Superpower

28:23 Navigating Parenthood and the Importance of Mindset

29:21 Embracing Alternative Paths to Parenthood

30:10 The Impact of Positive Energy and Support

34:25 Creating Flrrish: A Journey from Personal Struggle to Helping Others

38:45 The Emotional Complexity of Parenthood and Fertility Challenges

44:04 Advice for Moving Forward After Birth Trauma or Infertility

48:00 Connecting with Resources and Community Support

Support the Show.

If you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

This episode features an inspiring conversation with Gretchen Witt, who shares her profoundly personal journey through pediatric cancer with her son, Liam, and how it led to the founding of Cookies for Kids' Cancer. Faced with the dire need for funding in pediatric cancer research, Gretchen turned her pain into purpose, initiating a massive cookie bake sale that evolved into a year-round national organization, raising millions for research and treatment options. The episode delves into the challenges and triumphs of navigating pediatric cancer, the nuances of different types, and the importance of advocacy and grassroots involvement. Gretchen's story illustrates the power of community, determination, and love in the fight against pediatric cancer.

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• Connect with Gretchen on Instagram and LinkedIn

Struggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay focused on your journey to baby.

This episode is brought to you by History on the Rocks, the podcast that brings you the fascinating tales of lesser known history while you get ready for the weekend with your favorite drink in hand. Join Cody and Audrey as they uncork the stories that time forgot. From famous people like George Washington and his distillery, to pirate queens causing mayhem on the high seas, each episode is a journey through the ages with endless possibilities. Give History on the Rocks a follow on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with news about the latest episodes.

00:00 Welcome and Personal Update: Awaiting a New Arrival

01:55 Introducing Gretchen Witt: A Mother's Fight Against Pediatric Cancer

04:24 Gretchen's Story: The Diagnosis That Changed Everything

15:28 Navigating the Healthcare System: Seeking the Best Care for Liam

26:04 Advocacy and Communication: Protecting Childhood Amidst Cancer

32:30 The Rollercoaster of Cancer Treatment: Hope, Gratitude, and Giving Back

33:49 Understanding Pediatric Cancer and a Mother's Journey

34:29 The Birth of a Cookie Fundraiser

37:11 The Logistics of Baking 96,000 Cookies

39:00 The Impact of Cookies for Kids' Cancer

45:10 Expanding the Mission and Making a Difference

54:57 How to Get Involved and Support Pediatric Cancer Research

01:00:27 Reflections and Encouragement to Take Acti

Support the Show.

If you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this bonus episode, Jacqueline shares a personal conversation with her son Hunter, reflecting on his growth and experiences as he turns six. The episode explores themes of family, memory-making, and celebrates milestones, including Hunter's progress in school and his latest birthday party. Additionally, Jacqueline highlights the importance of community through the 'Motherhood Intended' Facebook group and extends an invitation to listeners to contribute to the conversation on motherhood struggles and joys. Furthermore, the episode shares insights into preparing for a new family member and reflects on Hunter's early challenges, including his premature birth and NICU stay. It concludes by emphasizing hope, resilience, and the significant impact of family connections.

• Join the Motherhood Intended Community
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Struggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay focused on your journey to baby.

00:00 Welcome to the Bonus Episode: A Special Guest Appearance

00:39 Join the Motherhood Intended Community: A Space for All Moms

03:29 A Heartwarming Chat with Hunter: Celebrating His 6th Birthday

06:35 Hunter's Kindergarten Adventures and Favorite Things

08:42 Rapid-Fire Questions: Getting to Know Hunter Better

12:01 Podcasting Adventures: Imagining Time Travel

12:53 Dreaming of Dinosaur Dialogues

14:07 Envisioning a Personal Podcast

16:33 Family Dynamics and Big Brother Duties

18:36 Preparing for a New Sibling: Nursery and Responsibilities

22:59 Reflecting on Hunter's Journey and the Miracle of Life

Support the Show.

If you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this heartfelt episode, Jacqueline shares her personal journey of navigating a pregnancy after experiencing multiple losses, including miscarriages and the loss of her daughter Maren at 20 weeks. Recorded from a makeshift desk in her family room, she discusses the emotional and physical changes her family has undergone in preparing their home for their new daughter, who is arriving via surrogacy. Jacqueline candidly talks about the complexities of dealing with PTSD and mental health issues after loss, her experiences with the healthcare system, and the importance of support for women going through similar challenges. She aims to offer reassurance and solidarity to listeners who may be facing their own struggles with pregnancy after loss, highlighting the significance of recognizing and addressing mental health and grief.

00:00 Welcome to My Makeshift Studio: A Glimpse into My Life

00:18 The Journey of Room Transformations and Personal Loss

01:29 Embracing Change: Office Spaces and Preparing for Our Daughter

02:02 Channeling Nervous Energy: Home Projects and Nursery Dreams

04:26 Facing PTSD and the Complexities of Pregnancy After Loss

08:36 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Surrogacy and Anticipation

16:22 The Importance of Mental Health Awareness in Pregnancy and Loss

21:58 Improving Care for Women Experiencing Miscarriage or Loss

28:26 Final Thoughts and Resources for Support

• Join the Motherhood Intended Community
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Struggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay focused on your journey to baby.

This episode is brought to you by History on the Rocks, the podcast that brings you the fascinating tales of lesser known history while you get ready for the weekend with your favorite drink in hand. Join Cody and Audrey as they uncork the stories that time forgot. From famous people like George Washington and his distillery, to pirate queens causing mayhem on the high seas, each episode is a journey through the ages with endless possibilities. Give History on the Rocks a follow on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with news about the latest episodes.

Support the Show.

If you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode, Jacqueline shares her personal journey of anticipating the arrival of her daughter through surrogacy, emphasizing the stress and preparations involved when not physically pregnant. Jacqueline mentions listening to Amy Porterfield's podcast for inspiration and perspective on embracing uncomfortable moments for growth, touching upon her infertility struggles and the benefits of pursuing uncomfortable paths for family growth.

The episode features an interview with Erin, who recounts her transition into motherhood, including challenges like birth trauma, postpartum support, and the importance of trusting one's instincts as a parent. Erin's story of moving from New Jersey to Chicagoland and seeking community in motherhood through local groups like FIT4MOM is shared. The conversation also explores the resources available for new mothers, emphasizing the need to advocate for personal needs and the importance of a supportive community in navigating the complexities of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum life.

• Join the Motherhood Intended Community
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• Leave a review for the podcast

This episode is brought to you by History on the Rocks, the podcast that brings you the fascinating tales of lesser known history while you get ready for the weekend with your favorite drink in hand. Join Cody and Audrey as they uncork the stories that time forgot. From famous people like George Washington and his distillery, to pirate queens causing mayhem on the high seas, each episode is a journey through the ages with endless possibilities. Give History on the Rocks a follow on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with news about the latest episodes.

00:00 Welcome to Motherhood Intended: Preparing for Baby's Arrival
01:37 Finding Inspiration and Embracing Discomfort
04:44 The Journey to Motherhood: Erin's Story
07:34 Navigating Pregnancy: Expectations vs. Reality
21:18 The Birth Experience: From Plans to Reality
28:30 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Childbirth
29:56 Switching Providers Mid-Pregnancy
30:53 The NICU Experience: Navigating Postpartum Emotions
35:47 The First Months: Parenthood Under Pressure
39:05 Embracing Help and Breaking Stigmas in Motherhood
50:35 Navigating Postpartum Anxiety and Finding Support
52:05 Final Thoughts: Embracing the Unpredictability of Parenthood

Support the Show.

If you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode, Jacqueline offers a rich tapestry of content, beginning with an intimate look into the world of surrogacy through the eyes of Ashley Mareko, a seasoned surrogate and expert. Ashley shares her multifaceted journey, covering everything from the emotional aspects and ethical considerations of surrogacy to the science and success rates behind it, drawing from her roles both as a surrogate and as the director at SurrogateFirst. Highlighting the need for careful agency selection and the impact of technological advancements in IVF, her insight provides an invaluable resource for potential surrogates.

• Join the Motherhood Intended Community
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• Leave a review for the podcast
• Apply to be a guest on the show
• Connect with Ashley Mareko and SurrogateFirst

Struggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay calm and focused on your journey to baby.

This episode is brought to you by History on the Rocks, the podcast that brings you the fascinating tales of lesser known history while you get ready for the weekend with your favorite drink in hand. Join Cody and Audrey as they uncork the stories that time forgot. From famous people like George Washington and his distillery, to pirate queens causing mayhem on the high seas, each episode is a journey through the ages with endless possibilities. Give History on the Rocks a follow on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with news about the latest episodes.

00:00 Welcome and Personal Updates: Preparing for a Newborn

01:33 The Heart of Motherhood Intended: Podcast Goals and Surrogacy Awareness

03:03 Introducing Ashley Mareko: A Surrogate's Journey

05:17 Ashley's Personal Surrogacy Experience: From First Steps to Family Growth

21:30 The Surrogacy Process: Insights and Expectations

23:18 The Role of Surrogacy Agencies: Support and Guidance

29:41 Understanding Surrogacy Requirements

32:02 The Emotional and Physical Journey of Surrogacy

33:28 The Rigorous Screening Process for Surrogates

35:44 The Science Behind High Success Rates in Surrogacy

46:23 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Surrogacy

57:01 Advice for Potential Surrogates: Research and Support

Support the Show.

If you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12