J’s Story of Becoming a Donor, His Intentions, and Hopes for Future Connections

In this special episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' host Alisha interviews “J”, an ID-release sperm donor, about his journey to help solo mums and couples create families. J shares his motivations for becoming a donor, the psychological and medical screenings he underwent, and his perspective on possibly connecting with any donor-conceived children in the future. This candid conversation sheds light on the dedication and openness required to be a donor, J’s hopes for any future connections, and his advice to others considering donation. J’s story highlights the role donors play in creating families and his excitement for the potential future bonds he may share with donor-conceived children.

Navigating Motherhood with Love, Loss, and a Known Donor

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Jess from Western Australia shares her journey to motherhood using a known donor, Phil, to bring her daughter Gwen and son Freddie into the world. Jess discusses the challenges of choosing a known donor, navigating legal agreements, and handling pregnancy loss. Her resilient story offers insight into her decision to have a second child despite doubts from her support system, her experience with home insemination, and the sense of family she’s built through love and community. This episode highlights Jess’s strength, the joys and challenges of solo motherhood, and the power of a supportive network.

Finding Strength in the Unexpected: Sarah’s Story of Solo Motherhood and Embracing Life with Baby Noah

In this heartfelt episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Alisha talks with Sarah, a solo mum who shares her journey to welcoming her son, Noah. Sarah opens up about her path through multiple rounds of IUI and IVF, the impact of COVID-19 on her treatment, and her ultimate decision to embrace motherhood on her own terms. From navigating challenges to building a supportive network, Sarah’s story is filled with resilience, hope, and the joy of creating a family.

From Dating to Donor Conception: TJ’s Story of Embracing Solo Motherhood at 48

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Alisha talks with TJ, a solo mum who shares her inspiring journey to welcoming her daughter, Baby Star. At 46, TJ had a life-changing moment that led her to pursue motherhood on her own terms, navigating donor conception and IVF in the midst of a pandemic. She opens up about her initial hesitation, the unique challenges of using a donor egg, and the overwhelming joy of creating her family. TJ’s story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of embracing motherhood in unconventional ways.

Choosing Solo Motherhood at 38: Carly’s Inspiring Story of Resilience, Support, and Finding Joy with Baby Lennon

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Alisha sits down with Carly, a solo mum who shares her journey to motherhood. Carly opens up about navigating both IUI and IVF, the challenges of infertility, and the importance of having a supportive family by her side. She also reflects on her first months as a mum to Lennon and the joy of creating a family on her own terms. This episode is packed with insights on resilience, family support, and what it means to be a solo mum by choice.

From Making the Decision to Parenthood: Billie’s Story of Solo Motherhood and Embracing Life with Baby Luna

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Billie shares her journey to becoming a solo mum by choice. After setting milestones for herself and navigating both IUI and IVF, Billie welcomed her daughter, Luna, into the world. She discusses the decision-making process, her supportive family, and the joys and challenges of parenting on her own. This episode offers insights into the realities of solo motherhood, the importance of family support, and Billie's reflections on building a family filled with love and intention

From courage to community, Alisha and past guests share powerful reflections and advice for anyone considering solo motherhood.

In this heartfelt bonus episode, Alisha wraps up Season 1 of No Need for Prince Charming with gratitude, reflections, and powerful advice from previous guests. Sharing updates, including the loss of a beloved guest, Alisha also highlights what solo motherhood has taught her—how courage, planning, and support make dreams of motherhood possible.

You’ll hear inspiring insights and practical tips from several podcast guests, covering topics such as:

• How to make the decision to go solo.

• Navigating fertility treatment with emotional resilience.

• Creating joyful memories to share with your child.

• Financial preparation and building a strong support network.

Alisha closes the season with gratitude for listeners and excitement for what’s to come in Season 2, returning in March next year. Whether you’re on the fence, starting your journey, or deep into motherhood, this episode will leave you inspired and supported.

From IVF success during COVID to life-saving decisions for her son, Jed, Meagan shares her powerful story of love, strength, and resilience.

In this deeply moving episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Meagan shares her heartfelt journey to solo motherhood with her son, Jed. The idea was first sparked by her late mother’s lighthearted comment, but it wasn’t until age 36 that Meagan decided to make her dream of motherhood a reality.

Navigating IVF during the COVID-19 lockdown, Meagan faced unexpected challenges but was lucky enough to achieve success on her first fresh transfer. What followed was a smooth pregnancy, but her journey took an emotional turn when Jed was diagnosed with craniosynostosis, a rare condition requiring major skull surgery at just 12 months old.

Through her story, Meagan shares the power of trusting maternal instincts, advocating for her son, and embracing life as a solo mum—building strength, resilience, and a deep bond with her little boy.

Key Takeaways:

• Deciding to pursue solo motherhood after years of dating disappointments.

• Achieving IVF success on her first fresh embryo transfer at age 37.

• Managing pregnancy and birth during COVID lockdowns, including an unexpected cesarean.

• Navigating Jed’s diagnosis of craniosynostosis and the emotional toll of his skull surgery.

• Embracing the joys and challenges of solo parenting, from toddler cuddles to building a new life near family.

From freezing eggs at 39 to overcoming loss, Elise shares her story of resilience and finding joy in motherhood with her daughter, Eve."

📝 Show Notes

In this heartfelt episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Elise shares her extraordinary journey to becoming a solo mum by choice to her daughter, Eve. From always knowing she wanted to be a mother, Elise takes us through the highs and lows of her path—freezing eggs at 39, facing unexpected loss, and ultimately finding joy through donor egg IVF with the generous help of her cousin.

Elise opens up about the emotional hurdles of miscarriages, navigating a challenging pregnancy, and how her resilience—and a little bit of pixie dust—brought her to the most beautiful gift of all: her daughter. Her story highlights the importance of staying open-minded, finding supportive specialists, and leaning on family when it matters most.

Key Takeaways:

• Freezing eggs at 39 and balancing hope with the reality of age and fertility.

• Navigating miscarriages and the emotional toll of unsuccessful IVF transfers.

• Choosing donor eggs from her cousin and managing the counseling process.

• Overcoming a complicated pregnancy and birth, including preeclampsia and placenta complications.

• How motherhood has exceeded her dreams with the joy of raising her daughter, Eve.

From foster parent training to IVF success during COVID, Jac shares her story of courage, resilience, and motherhood.

In this inspiring episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Jac shares her journey to solo motherhood and her deep love for her son, Fletcher. Initially considering fostering, Jac’s path shifted when she realised how much she longed for her own child. Her story highlights the unique challenges of navigating fertility treatment during COVID, including failed IUI cycles, overstimulation during IVF, and a long 42-week pregnancy that ended in a whirlwind induction and delivery.

Jac also candidly discusses the emotional weight of choosing a sperm donor, the importance of maternal instincts, and how motherhood has exceeded her expectations in the most beautiful ways. Through it all, she shares valuable insights about trusting the process, creating routines, and cherishing every precious moment.

Key Takeaways:

• How foster care training sparked her decision to pursue solo motherhood.

• Navigating IUI, overstimulation, and a successful frozen embryo transfer.

• Managing a challenging 42-week pregnancy with daily sickness and an unexpected induction.

• Choosing a donor based on kindness and openness to future contact.

• Balancing work, boundaries, and life as a solo mum with her son, Fletcher.

From IVF setbacks to a life-saving early birth, Haylee shares her emotional journey to motherhood with her daughter, Neve.

In this powerful and emotional episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Haylee shares her extraordinary journey to becoming a solo mum by choice to her daughter, Neve. Haylee opens up about the challenges she faced: navigating IVF, coping with miscarriage, and pushing through setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The story takes a dramatic turn as Haylee details her pregnancy complications, including major placenta previa, high blood pressure, and reduced movements. At just 33 weeks, Haylee’s instincts and courage saved Neve’s life, leading to an emergency C-section and an extended NICU stay.

Haylee’s story is a testament to the power of maternal instinct, resilience, and love. Her openness about postpartum anxiety, navigating life as a solo mum, and finding joy amidst the chaos will inspire anyone considering the solo motherhood path.

Key Takeaways:

• Facing multiple IVF challenges, including miscarriage and chemical pregnancies.

• Navigating pregnancy complications: major placenta previa, high blood pressure, and reduced fetal movements.

• How Haylee’s instincts saved Neve’s life and led to an emergency early birth at 33 weeks.

• The emotional journey of NICU and the challenges of bringing home a premature baby.

• Overcoming postnatal anxiety and the importance of leaning on family for support

From deciding to go solo to navigating IVF across state borders, Sal shares her journey to motherhood with her two children, Edie and Hendrix.

In this heartfelt episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Sal shares her inspiring and candid journey to becoming a solo mum by choice to her two children, Edie and Hendrix. Growing up believing motherhood required a man, Sal never saw children in her future until her perspective shifted.

Sal dives into her unique experience of navigating fertility treatment across state borders, balancing financial pressures, and dealing with her PCOS diagnosis. She also opens up about managing pregnancy complications, a postpartum hemorrhage, and embracing the chaos of solo motherhood—all while leaning into her community for support. Sal’s practical approach to life, humour, and unwavering determination shine through as she reflects on the family she’s created and the future she envisions for her kids.

Key Takeaways:

• Shifting perspectives on motherhood and realising it was possible without Prince Charming.

• Navigating IVF in Adelaide while living in Melbourne to access affordable treatment.

• Dealing with PCOS, a low ovarian response, and a challenging egg retrieval process.

• The emotional and physical challenges of postpartum recovery and early motherhood.

• Creating connections with donor siblings and building her family’s village.

How a dream, determination, and a little pixie dust led Alycia to motherhood through IUI with her daughter, Emmeline.

In this uplifting episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Alycia shares how a dream completely transformed her perspective on motherhood and led her to pursue solo motherhood by choice. Having spent most of her 20s and early 30s convinced she didn’t want children, Alycia’s life took a surprising turn after an unforgettable dream planted the seed for her future family.

Alycia dives into the practicalities of choosing a donor, navigating the IUI process, and managing the unexpected emotions of early pregnancy—all while balancing life in country WA. She shares how her background as an egg donor helped her confidently approach the process and why trusting herself was key to her journey. Her story is filled with humour, wisdom, and heartfelt reflections on life with her daughter, Emmeline, who has “found her voice” in the most adorable way.

Key Takeaways:

• Transitioning from not wanting children to deciding to pursue solo motherhood at 35.

• Navigating the donor sperm process and the realities of rural fertility treatment in Western Australia.

• Getting pregnant on the first IUI attempt and dealing with pregnancy complications, including migraines and pelvic pain.

• Balancing the unexpected joy and challenges of early solo parenting.

• The importance of having strong support systems and solid foundations in place before starting the journey.

How Bess followed her heart, met her deadlines, and created a beautiful family with her two daughters, Sadie and Nina.

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Bess shares her inspiring journey to solo motherhood with her daughters, Sadie and Nina. With a clear vision and a self-imposed timeline, Bess knew she wanted to pursue motherhood by age 30 if Prince Charming hadn’t come along.

Her story explores the success of her first IUI, the challenges of miscarriage, and the emotional ups and downs of trying for her second child through IVF. Bess speaks candidly about her experience navigating Tasmania’s donor system, connecting with other solo mums by choice, and eventually finding donor siblings for her daughters.

From navigating pregnancies with morning sickness to creating strong connections within her support network, Bess’ story highlights the importance of community, determination, and resilience. Her joy and gratitude for the life she’s created with her daughters shine through every step of her journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Setting a clear timeline to pursue solo motherhood and sticking to it.

• Navigating Tasmania’s local donor system and securing the same donor for siblings.

• Overcoming miscarriage and finding hope in a second IUI success.

• Transitioning to IVF and balancing the challenges of pregnancy, work, and finances.

• Building connections with donor siblings and a thriving solo mum community in Tasmania.

How Celeste turned a Hollywood idea into her reality, navigating IVF, sibling dreams, and solo parenting challenges.

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Celeste shares her heartfelt and sometimes humorous journey to becoming a solo mum by choice to her two boys, Henry and Charlie. Inspired by a movie (yes, The Back-Up Plan), Celeste decided to pursue motherhood in her early 30s after realising time was passing by without Prince Charming.

From navigating long sperm donor waitlists and fertility processes to managing unexpected health challenges, Celeste’s story highlights the realities of IVF, the desire for siblings, and the highs and lows of solo parenting. With candid reflections on her two very different sons and her advice on choosing clinics and specialists, Celeste provides valuable insights for anyone considering the solo motherhood path. Her story is one of determination, resilience, and finding humour in the chaos of creating her perfect family.

Key Takeaways:

• Deciding to pursue solo motherhood after a lightbulb moment watching The Back-Up Plan.

• Navigating long donor waitlists and unexpected delays.

• Managing IVF challenges, including multiple transfers, polyps, and NK cell issues.

• The highs and lows of pregnancy, birth, and parenting with a wide age gap between siblings.

• Valuable advice on selecting clinics, advocating for yourself, and preparing for unexpected costs.

How Nikeesha raced against time, embraced IVF, and navigated health challenges to welcome her daughter, Willa.

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Nikeesha shares her remarkable journey to becoming a solo mum by choice to her daughter, Willa. At just 27, a diagnosis related to her rare form of arthritis meant her window to carry a child was rapidly closing. Determined not to miss out on motherhood, Nikeesha embarked on a whirlwind IVF journey that took just three months from decision to pregnancy.

She candidly discusses the challenges of navigating fertility treatments, the emotional strain of a rushed process, and the physical toll of pregnancy with her condition. Nikeesha also touches on the realities of a traumatic birth during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the lack of postpartum support, and how her unwavering resilience—and the support of her dad—helped her thrive as a solo mum. Her story is one of strength, adaptability, and boundless love for her daughter, Willa.

Key Takeaways:

• Making a swift decision to pursue solo motherhood due to a health diagnosis.

• Navigating IVF at 27 and dealing with age-related assumptions from medical professionals.

• Choosing a donor and experiencing a high-risk pregnancy.

• Coping with a traumatic birth and postpartum challenges during the pandemic.

• The importance of building a support network and prioritising self-care.

From Facebook messages to donor agreements, Mike shares candid insights into becoming a known sperm donor for a couple in his social circle.

In this insightful bonus episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Alisha sits down with Mike—a known sperm donor who generously shares his side of the donor process. From being approached by a couple in his social circle to navigating donor counselling, IVF, and ongoing involvement in their child’s life, Mike offers a rare and heartfelt perspective.

Mike explains the initial conversations, the importance of donor agreements, and why counseling sessions were so valuable in setting clear expectations. He also reflects on the powerful emotions of meeting the baby for the first time and shares advice for anyone considering a known donor arrangement.

Whether you’re exploring the option of a known donor or just curious about the male perspective, this episode highlights the importance of communication, trust, and mutual respect in creating modern families.

Key Takeaways:

• How Mike was approached to become a known donor via a Facebook message.

• The role of donor counselling, agreements, and clear communication in setting expectations.

• The IVF donation process, including screening, timelines, and legalities.

• Mike’s involvement as a “donor dad” and his strong protective instincts after meeting the child.

• Practical advice for solo mums considering a known donor, including the value of having tough conversations early.

How Maureen broke barriers, navigated fertility laws, and built a beautiful family on her own terms.

In this inspiring episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Maureen shares her trailblazing journey to solo motherhood. When Maureen first decided to become a solo mum, using donor sperm was illegal for single women in Victoria. Determined to follow her dream, she navigated the legal loopholes, underwent IVF, and welcomed her daughter, Lana, and later her son, Flynn.

Maureen candidly discusses the challenges of making the decision, overcoming societal expectations, and the emotional toll of miscarriages. Her journey highlights the importance of resilience, self-advocacy, and building a support network—even when it comes from unexpected places. Maureen’s story is filled with humour, wisdom, and a powerful reminder that solo motherhood is not about doing it alone, but about creating a family in your own way.

Key Takeaways:

• Deciding to pursue solo motherhood despite societal and legal barriers.

• Navigating IVF in a time when it was illegal for single women in Victoria.

• Choosing a donor and forming a unique connection with him years later.

• Coping with miscarriages and finding the strength to try again.

• Building an unexpected support network that helped her through tough times.

How Jane overcame IVF setbacks, found hope with a known donor, and welcomed her daughter, Isabel.

In this deeply personal episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Jane shares her inspiring journey to becoming a solo mum by choice to her daughter, Isabel. After years of knowing she wanted children but not finding the right relationship, Jane decided to pursue motherhood on her own terms. Her path included multiple rounds of IVF, the devastation of a miscarriage, and an unexpected yet perfect arrangement with a known donor—her friend’s brother.

Jane’s story highlights her unwavering determination to become a mum, the challenges of fertility treatments, and the beautiful bond she’s built with her daughter, her donor, and the extended donor family. Her candid discussion about navigating donor agreements, advocating for herself through setbacks, and creating a loving environment for Isabel is both heartfelt and empowering.

Key Takeaways:

• Making the decision to pursue solo motherhood in her late 30s.

• Navigating IVF, low AMH reserves, and the emotional toll of failed cycles.

• Experiencing a miscarriage and finding hope in the process.

• Choosing a known donor and managing expectations around involvement.

• Building a supportive village for Isabel with family, friends, and her donor's family.

How Nat overcame a lifetime of endometriosis, fertility challenges, and heartbreak to welcome her two beautiful boys.

⚠️ Trigger Warning - This episode discusses topics such as ectopic pregnancy, pregnancy complications, and medical trauma. Please take care while listening.

In this episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Nat takes us on a deeply personal journey through a lifetime of challenges with endometriosis, fertility struggles, and heartbreak. Diagnosed with a 3.5kg ovarian mass as a teenager, Nat spent years battling surgeries, adhesions, and blocked fallopian tubes. After failed relationships and a traumatic ectopic pregnancy during IVF, Nat shares how she found the strength to push forward, advocating for herself and her dream of motherhood.

Nat’s story explores the emotional rollercoaster of heterotopic pregnancy, complex fertility treatments, and the eventual joy of welcoming her two boys, Harry and Hudson, into the world. She highlights the importance of choosing the right specialists, financial preparation, and cherishing every moment of motherhood.

For anyone facing fertility challenges or considering solo motherhood, Nat’s journey offers inspiration, hope, and a reminder that miracles can happen—even against the odds.

Key Takeaways:

• Living with endometriosis and its impact on fertility from a young age.

• Facing blocked fallopian tubes, surgeries, and repeated IVF cycles.

• The emotional and physical toll of heterotopic pregnancy and ectopic loss.

• Successfully conceiving her two sons, Harry and Hudson, through IVF.

• Tips for advocating for yourself in fertility treatments and financial planning.