Bonus Episode 15 - Interview with a sperm donor
A Donor’s Perspective: Embracing Family, Resilience, and the Changing Landscape of Donor Conception
In this unique episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Alisha sits down with Nick, a sperm donor who shares his journey of deciding to donate, navigating the emotional aspects of donor conception, and meeting some of his donor-conceived offspring. Nick reflects on how times have changed since he donated, the importance of open communication, and his hopes for building meaningful connections with his donor-conceived children. This conversation offers invaluable insights into the donor perspective and highlights the impact of creating family through donor conception.
S3:E14 - Rikki & Jasper
Navigating IVF, Choosing Donor Conception, and the Joy of Building a Family on Her Own Terms
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Rikki shares her journey to solo motherhood, from envisioning a family to navigating fertility treatments and donor conception. Despite facing setbacks with IVF, she persevered to bring her son, Jasper, into her life. Rikki’s story highlights resilience, self-belief, and the fulfillment that comes from building a family on her own terms. Her experiences offer inspiration and insights for anyone considering solo motherhood.
S3:E13 - Karina & Theo
From Endometriosis Diagnosis to Becoming a Mum: Karina’s Inspiring Solo Journey to Meet Baby Theo
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Karina opens up about her journey to solo motherhood after an endometriosis diagnosis and the challenges she faced with IVF. From navigating a long waitlist for a donor to undergoing fertility treatments, Karina shares her determination to create a family on her own terms. Her story celebrates resilience, love, and the fulfillment of her dream of becoming a mum to her son, Theo.
Bonus Episode 14 - Interview with Amy, a donor-conceived adult
A Donor-Conceived Adult’s Perspective on Identity, Family, and the Evolution of Donor Conception
In this powerful episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Alisha sits down with Amy, a 21-year-old donor-conceived adult raised by a solo mum by choice. Amy shares her unique perspective on growing up without a traditional father, the experience of connecting with donor siblings, and the evolving landscape of donor conception. From discussing the emotional aspects of identity to offering advice for solo mums and future donor-conceived children, Amy’s insights are both enlightening and inspiring. Her story offers a rare, firsthand view of life as a donor-conceived individual and the strengths that come from a family built with love and intention.
S3:E12 - Katelyn & Matilda
Embracing Donor Conception, Navigating Single Parenting, and Building a Strong Family for Matilda
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Katelyn shares her inspiring journey from a career in insurance broking to solo motherhood with her daughter, Matilda. Facing the realities of financial planning, fertility treatments, and becoming a solo mum, Katelyn dives into her decision to build her family independently. With resilience and support from family and friends, Katelyn’s story offers insights for anyone considering solo motherhood, balancing career and parenting, and navigating the joys and challenges along the way.
S3:E11 - Ashley & Beauden
From Remote Living to Raising Beauden as a Solo Mum: Ashley’s Inspiring Path to Motherhood
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Ashley shares her unique journey to solo motherhood from a remote town in Australia’s outback. Facing nine-hour drives to medical appointments and the challenges of navigating IUI alone, Ashley persevered to bring her son, Beauden, into her life. Her inspiring story celebrates resilience, family support, and the courage it takes to pursue solo motherhood under extraordinary circumstances.
S3:E10 - Kim & Charlie
"From Overcoming Adversity to Raising Charlie as a Solo Mum by Choice"
Show Notes:
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Kim shares her courageous journey to solo motherhood. Through challenges with IVF, the process of selecting a donor, and raising her son Charlie on her own, Kim’s story celebrates resilience, hope, and the fulfilment of creating a family on her own terms. From balancing work and motherhood to navigating the complexities of solo parenting, Kim’s experiences inspire and empower women to follow their dreams of motherhood, regardless of their circumstances.
S3:E9 - Lucienne & Arlo
From Heartbreak to Hope: Lucienne’s Inspiring Path to Solo Motherhood and Donor Conception
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Lucienne shares her journey from navigating the challenges of singlehood to embracing solo motherhood with her son, Arlo. After experiencing multiple fertility treatments, including IVF and a frozen embryo transfer, Lucienne reflects on the highs and lows of creating a family on her own terms. Her story offers inspiration, courage, and insights for those considering solo motherhood, and she emphasises the importance of self-belief, resilience, and choosing one’s own path.
Bonus Episode 13 - Interview with ADDAM and EEVE donor bank
Navigating Donor Conception with Brooke from City Fertility: Availability, Selection, and What to Expect
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Alisha interviews Brooke, the National Donor and Surrogacy Manager at City Fertility. Brooke provides an in-depth look at the donor process, from sperm and egg selection to embryo donation, including the unique challenges and considerations involved. They discuss the differences in state legislation, how family limits are managed, and the importance of understanding medical and genetic history in selecting a donor. This episode is essential for anyone considering donor conception and looking to understand the process thoroughly.
S3:E8 - Kathryn, Amy & Jackie
Navigating Early Solo Motherhood, Choosing Donor Conception, and Building a Family Legacy
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Kathryn shares her journey to solo motherhood decades ago, as one of the early women in Australia to choose donor conception. Joined by her daughters, Amy and Jackie, Kathryn reflects on the challenges and triumphs of raising children alone, the experience of choosing a donor, and the complexities of family identity. Together, they provide a unique perspective on the legacy of love, resilience, and choice that has shaped their family.
S3:E7 - Kristin & Frankie
Navigating IVF, Coping with Family Illness, and Building a Loving Solo Mum Family
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Kristin shares her heartfelt journey to solo motherhood with her daughter, Frankie. From the decision to use a sperm donor to facing health challenges during pregnancy and navigating the complexities of family illness, Kristin’s story is one of resilience, love, and determination. Her experiences offer hope and strength for women considering solo motherhood, revealing the power of family, community, and inner strength.
S3:E6 - Kate & Baby A
Navigating IVF, Family Support, and Embracing a Unique Path to Parenthood as a Solo Mum by Choice
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Kate shares her remarkable path from a work-focused academic to becoming a solo mum by choice with her son, Baby A. Kate’s journey involves career shifts, overcoming IVF challenges, and building a support system with her family. Her story highlights the resilience required for solo motherhood, the importance of community, and the joy she’s found in creating her family. With reflections on fertility treatments, choosing the right time, and advice for prospective solo mums, Kate’s experience is a guide for anyone considering this path.
S3:E5 - Trudy, Frankie May & Willow Rose
From IVF to Unexpected Twins: Trudy’s Story of Resilience, Faith, and Solo Motherhood
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Trudy shares her journey to solo motherhood, from being a dedicated aunt to taking the leap into motherhood herself. After deciding to pursue motherhood through IVF, Trudy was surprised to find she was expecting twins. She reflects on the challenges of a high-risk pregnancy, navigating family dynamics, and embracing the strength required for solo parenting. Trudy’s story is an inspiring example of resilience, faith, and the joy of choosing one’s own path to family.
Bonus Episode 12 - Interview with a doula
Doula Support for Solo Mums: Navigating Pregnancy, Birth, and the Postpartum Period with Confidence and Care
In this special bonus episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Alisha talks with Sam, an experienced doula, about the invaluable support doulas provide during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Sam shares insights on how doulas empower solo mums, offer emotional and practical support, and foster a positive birth experience. She explains the importance of postpartum care, the challenges of managing expectations, and the value of having a non-judgmental advocate in the birthing room. Whether you’re considering hiring a doula or just curious about the role, Sam’s insights provide a comprehensive look at how doulas can enhance the journey to solo motherhood.
S3:E4 - Katie & Florence
From Reluctance to Motherhood: Katie’s Story of Resilience, IVF Success, and Raising a Daughter on Her Own Terms
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Katie opens up about her journey from initial reluctance to embracing solo motherhood. Inspired by a powerful moment with a friend’s child, Katie chose to pursue IVF and bring her daughter, Florence, into the world. Through challenges like needle phobia and navigating pregnancy on her own, Katie’s story highlights resilience, independence, and the joys of building a family. Her experience offers inspiration and practical advice for anyone considering solo motherhood.
S3:E3 - Ash & Jed
From Career-Focused to Family-Driven: Ash’s Story of Choosing Donor Conception and Navigating Life as a Solo Mum
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Ash shares her inspiring journey from a successful career-focused life to embracing solo motherhood. After considering motherhood on her own terms, she navigated the world of fertility treatments and chose a donor to welcome her son, Jed, into the world. Ash reflects on her experience with IUI, the challenges of pregnancy, the birth process, and how her priorities shifted as she became a mum. Her story is a testament to resilience, family support, and the power of creating a life filled with love and intention.
S3:E2 - Helen & Billie
From Career and Community to Single Parenting: Helen’s Story of Resilience, IVF Success, and Finding Fulfilment with Baby Billie
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Helen opens up about her journey to solo motherhood with her daughter, Billie. After deciding to pursue motherhood on her own, Helen shares her experiences navigating IVF, managing expectations, and balancing work and community while preparing for life as a single parent. Her story highlights the resilience needed to follow her dreams of motherhood, the power of self-advocacy, and the support system she built to make this new chapter successful.
S3:E1 - Lauren & Daisy
From Dating Disappointment to Embracing Single Motherhood: Lauren’s Story of Resilience, Community, and Building a Family on Her Own Terms
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Lauren shares her inspiring journey to solo motherhood, driven by a desire for family and the limitations of her biological clock. Frustrated with the dating scene, Lauren explored options for motherhood on her own and ultimately chose donor conception using a known donor she recruited from a Facebook group. She reflects on navigating boundaries with a known donor, managing expectations from family, and the joy of raising her daughter, Daisy. Her story is filled with strength, intention, and the importance of creating a support network.
Bonus Episode 11 - 2023 wrap up
Updates from Season 2 Solo Mums on Life, Challenges, and Celebrations as They Embrace Motherhood
In this special wrap-up episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' host Alisha reflects on Season 2, where she shared the stories of 40 remarkable solo mums. Alisha expresses gratitude for the generous stories of resilience, joy, and growth, highlighting the unique and diverse journeys of each guest. This episode also features heartfelt updates from some of the season’s solo mums. They share insights into life changes, career shifts, holiday plans, and personal challenges, offering listeners a deeper look into solo motherhood’s ongoing journey. Whether it's discussing career changes, travel, or embracing milestones with their children, this wrap-up is a testament to the strength of solo mums who are building their own happily ever after.
S2:E40 – Lisa & Grace
How Lisa’s Determination Led Her to Solo Motherhood and the Joy of Raising Daughter Grace
In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Lisa shares her story of choosing solo motherhood after years of independence and a fulfilling career. After deciding not to wait for the 'right partner,' Lisa embraced fertility treatments and used a donor from California Cryobank. Her journey included a complex IVF process, genetic testing, and a high-risk pregnancy that culminated in her daughter, Grace, arriving prematurely. Lisa discusses the emotional and physical challenges she faced, including managing health complications, navigating NICU, and the joy and resilience she finds in raising Grace.
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