The Single Greatest Choice: For Single Women Exploring Solo Motherhood by Choice (SMBC), Fertility, and Having a Baby on Their Own Through Donor Conception or Adoption

S9E3. Fertility Choices, Timelines, and Feeling Empowered About the Process with Dr. Natalie Crawford

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:00:00 -0400

There is so much noise out there about fertility, timelines, and the “right” way and time to become a mother. I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate these decisions, especially as a single woman wondering what’s possible, what’s realistic, and what you really want. That’s why I was so excited to welcome back Dr. Natalie Crawford for this episode. Not only is she a leader in the fertility space and the co-founder of Fora Fertility here in Austin, but she’s also my own fertility doctor.

In this conversation, Dr. Crawford shares about her new book, The Fertility Formula. She dives into what to know about the fertility process, what questions to ask, and how to make empowered decisions at every stage. Whether you’re just starting to think about your options, actively trying to conceive, or navigating the early years of solo motherhood, you’ll find so much useful information here. We touch on the emotional layers of solo motherhood by choice, challenge the “rush” narrative, and unpack how knowledge (not urgency!) creates real freedom and confidence.

I left this conversation feeling more grounded and reminded that there is no “right” path - only the choice that’s right for you. I hope you walk away with a stronger sense of what’s within your control, how to advocate for your own well-being, and ways to gently hold space for the dreams you’re building, even if they look different than you once imagined.

In this episode, we talk about:

Why foundational fertility knowledge matters, and what Dr. Crawford wishes every woman knew sooner
The importance of advocating for yourself and naming your real goals in the fertility journey
How inflammation, lifestyle choices, and environment actually impact your fertility and hormone health
The pressures single women face around making the right choice
How to navigate uncertainty, conflicting emotions, and evolving dreams, whether or not motherhood is your current goal
What to do if you feel unsupported or uncertain in your clinic/doctor relationship
The value of taking the next informed step, not letting anxiety or urgency take the lead

Connect with Dr. Natalie Crawford:

👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is the single mother by choice support you’ve been craving for every stage of your journey. You can find 1:1 Coaching for every stage of solo motherhood by choice, Community Groups for thinkers, triers, and pregnant SMBCs, The SGC Village Membership Community, Retreats for early stage SMBCs and Family Trips for moms & kids.

💌Become part of the SGC community and stay up to date by joining our newsletter. You can sign up >>here<< at the bottom of the page.

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com.

S9E2 Choosing Love Over Fear: Regine Smith’s Experience with Toddler Adoption as a Solo Mom

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

Sometimes the path to motherhood asks us to step into the unknown with courage, intention, and trust, especially when the journey doesn’t look anything like we first imagined. In this episode, I’m joined by Regine Smith, solo mom by adoption, and founder of SMBC Resources. Regine shares her powerful story of building her family through adoption as a single woman, navigating years of research and uncertainty, and ultimately embracing a version of motherhood that feels deeply right for her.

We talk honestly about fear, doubt, and the pressure to “get it right” when becoming a solo parent, and how those feelings can nearly eclipse the beauty and healing that motherhood brings. Regine opens up about the realities of the adoption process, the challenges and joys of parenting a young child, and her commitment to making it easier for other women to find trustworthy support on their own journeys. Whether you’re considering adoption, donor conception, or simply exploring your options, I hope this conversation leaves you feeling seen, informed, and a little more at ease about what’s possible.

In this episode, we talk about:

Regine’s journey to solo motherhood and building her family through toddler adoption
What it’s really like to navigate years of decisions, research, and uncertainty before becoming a mom
The emotional impact of fear and doubt, and why holding space for your child’s feelings is so essential
How adoption actually works for single women (versus the stories we tell ourselves about what’s impossible)
Finding community and autonomy as a solo mom, plus the realities of parenting through anxiety, growth, and change
The story behind SMBC Resources, and how Regine is helping other single moms access vetted, supportive professionals
Why the privilege of creating a safe, loving home can sometimes matter more than any plan we once had

Connect with Regine:

SMBC Resources website: smbcresources.com
Email: ray@smbcresources.com
Instagram: @smbcresources

💌Become part of the SGC community and stay up to date by joining our newsletter. You can sign up >>here<< at the bottom of the page.

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com.

S9E1 Thriving in Solo Motherhood, Surrogacy, & Entrepreneurship with Lisa Proeber

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 04:00:00 -0400

There’s a unique kind of bravery in deciding to build your own family, especially when the path looks nothing like what you once imagined. In this season 9 opener, I’m joined by Lisa Proeber, fellow solo mom by choice, serial entrepreneur, and children’s book author. Lisa and I started this episode as strangers but quickly found ourselves deep in conversation about everything from demotions to starting businesses, surrogacy, solo travel, and the honest realities of single motherhood.

Lisa shares her winding journey: early marriage in a conservative family, divorce, years of dating with the singular goal of becoming a mom, and ultimately making the leap into solo motherhood...during a global pandemic. We discuss the heartbreaks, the unexpected joy, and how the challenges of COVID, job loss, advocating for her son’s health, and taking big risks in business all wove together. Lisa opens up about what it’s really like to juggle it all as a single mom, why she loves the flexibility of entrepreneurship, and how she’s helping to tell new stories for families like ours through her board book, Mama Cow.

In this episode, we talk about:

The courage and chaos of picking a sperm donor (and throwing a hilarious sperm party!)
Navigating solo motherhood through the shock of a pandemic
What it looks like to get fired for being pregnant - and fight back
How Lisa leveraged adversity to launch multiple businesses, and the freedom she’s found in working for herself
The gap in children’s books about nontraditional families, and why telling our stories matters
Helpful tips for finding support, outsourcing, and building a thriving solo mom life
Dating, surrogacy, and talking to kids about different families

This is a warm, funny, and deeply honest conversation for anyone thinking about single motherhood by choice, or just looking for ways to write their own story!

Connect with Lisa:

💌Become part of the SGC community and stay up to date by joining our newsletter. You can sign up >>here<< at the bottom of the page.

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com.

S8 E20 The Baby #2 Question -The Space Before Clarity

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0400

This episode is a little different than usual.

In this Season 8 finale of The Single Greatest Choice Podcast, I’m stepping out of my usual interview role to share a personal reflection on the question I’m asked more than any other:

Will I have a second child as a single mother by choice?

Rather than offering a clear answer, this episode is about the process of living inside that question — the clarity that came and went, the tension between who I’ve been and who I’m becoming, and what it looks like to honor uncertainty without rushing toward resolution.

In this episode, I share:

Why deciding about a second child isn’t the same as deciding to try
What it means to choose “not deciding” as a valid place to stand
How finances, age, capacity, identity, and work all factor into this question
The joy and freedom of life with an older child — and what’s at stake in starting over
One of my core coaching frameworks for navigating high-stakes decisions with no clear right answer
The grief of imagined futures and the “ghost ships that didn’t carry us”
Why sometimes holding on is part of integration, not avoidance
What I’m learning about letting go, identity, and trust as this year comes to a close

This episode isn’t about arriving at certainty. It’s about honoring the space before clarity.

Mentioned in this episode:

Cheryl Strayed, Dear Sugar: “The Ghost Ships That Didn’t Carry Us”

Looking for other single mothers by choice who share your city, career, identity, or stage of motherhood? Join the SGC Directory

💌Become part of the SGC community and stay up to date by joining our newsletter. You can sign up >>here<< at the bottom of the page.

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E19 Biological Clock Anxiety & Fertility in Your 30s and 40s With Therapist Beth Gulotta

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0400

It’s easy to feel “behind” when it seems like everyone around you is moving forward with partnerships, pregnancies, and families — and meanwhile you’re fielding questions from parents, watching friends’ announcements roll in, and quietly feeling the pressure of time. The biological clock conversation can feel loud, heavy, and incredibly anxiety-provoking, especially in your late 30s and 40s.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Beth Gulotta — licensed therapist, founder of NYC Therapeutic Wellness, and host of the podcast Quiet the Clock. Beth has spent years supporting women who feel out of sync with cultural timelines, while also navigating her own very real and layered journey with partnership, egg freezing, infertility, pregnancy loss, and becoming a mother at 40.

Together, we talk honestly about what it’s like to want a child while living inside uncertainty. We explore the emotional and practical tension between taking action — getting information, exploring options, making decisions — and learning how to loosen your grip on the parts you simply can’t control. We also name the grief, comparison, and complicated feelings that can surface when life doesn’t unfold the way you once imagined it would.

In this episode, we talk about:

The emotional impact of feeling “behind” in your 30s or 40s
Navigating misaligned timelines within a partnership
Beth’s experience with egg freezing, natural conception at 39, and secondary infertility
How to take proactive steps without letting anxiety run the show
Why we so often put our lives on hold while we’re “waiting,” and how to stop missing the life you’re actually living
Making decisions based on how you want to feel, not what you think you should want
Supporting yourself during the holidays, when longing and triggers can feel amplified

This is a thoughtful, compassionate conversation for anyone who is carrying questions about fertility, timing, and what it means to trust yourself when the path forward isn’t clear.

Connect with Beth:

Have a listen to Beth’s podcast Quiet the Clock.
Follow Beth on Instagram.
Learn more about NYC Therapeutic Wellness on their website.

💌Become part of the SGC community and stay up to date by joining our newsletter. You can sign up >>here<< at the bottom of the page.

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8 BONUS: A Conversation from Quiet the Clock with Beth Gulotta

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Today’s episode is something a little different. I’m sharing a bonus conversation that was recorded for another podcast, Quiet the Clock, created by psychotherapist Beth Gulotta. Because Beth’s work and mine overlap in such meaningful ways, we decided to release this interview on both of our feeds today.

If you’re new to Quiet the Clock, it’s a deeply thoughtful space for women who are feeling the pressure of fertility timelines, missed milestones, and the quiet (or not-so-quiet) grief that can come with life unfolding differently than expected. In other words, it’s a space that will likely feel very familiar if you’re listening to this show.

Beth helps women question and rewrite the stories that no longer serve them, creating room for a life that actually fits — one grounded in self-trust, empowerment, and choosing your own timing. Her personal journey, combined with her clinical background, makes her a steady and compassionate voice in a space that truly needs more of both.

You’ll also be hearing from Beth again next week when she joins me as a guest on The Single Greatest Choice, so this is a beautiful introduction to her work and perspective.

After you listen, be sure to follow Quiet the Clock wherever you get your podcasts and explore more of Beth’s episodes. If you’re here, I have a feeling her work will resonate deeply.

Podcast - Quiet The Clock Podcast

S8E18 Blocked Tubes, Donor Scarcity & Choosing Herself: Lakia Holmes's IVF Journey as a Single Black Woman

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0400

The search for a sperm donor can be overwhelming for anyone, but for Black women, the lack of available Black donors adds a whole new layer of complexity. When Lakia Holmes—senior producer of Bleacher Report’s branded sports content, award-winning journalist, and now a single mom by choice—began exploring her fertility options at 37, she had no idea just how winding the path would be.

What started as an egg-freezing consultation quickly revealed blocked fallopian tubes and a 2% chance of conceiving naturally. Suddenly, the dream she’d been putting off to grow her career became something she could no longer wait on. Choosing IVF meant choosing herself—and stepping into the unknown as a solo Black woman navigating infertility, donor scarcity, and the fear of how this choice might impact her career.

In our conversation, Lakia shares the emotional and logistical realities of that season: long donor waitlists, genetic mismatches, profiles with only a name or two left… and then the moment a miracle phone call changed everything.

“It wasn’t my plan A, but my plan B worked out pretty damn well.” — Lakia

Lakia opens up about the fast-moving year that followed—egg retrievals, her very first embryo transfer, and the shock and gratitude of being pregnant with her daughter, Isla, who arrived in May 2024. She also speaks honestly about postpartum depression, rebuilding her support system, heading back to work in the sports media world, and dipping her toe back into dating as an SMBC.

Most recently featured in Forbes, Lakia is now using her platform to bring fertility awareness to the Black community and to tell the story she once needed to hear.

Her honesty, humor, and courage offer such a powerful reminder: when you decide your dream of becoming a mother can’t wait any longer, so much becomes possible.

In this episode, we explore:

How an egg-freezing consult revealed blocked fallopian tubes
Recognizing that waiting for the “right time” or the “right partner” might mean waiting forever
Why Black sperm donors are so scarce—and how that impacts Black women pursuing donor conception
Finding a donor when the options feel impossibly limited
Getting pregnant on her very first embryo transfer
Lakia’s experiences during pregnancy and birth
Postpartum depression and learning to ask for help
Returning to work, navigating childcare, and preparing to travel again
Reentering the dating world as a solo mom by choice

Find out more about Lakia’s coaching at Lakia Holmes | Fertility Coach, Speaker & Advocate

💌Become part of the SGC community and stay up to date by joining our newsletter. You can sign up >>here<< at the bottom of the page.

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E17 13 Years Into Solo Motherhood by Choice With a Known Sperm Donor With Elle

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Do you ever wonder what solo motherhood by choice looks like further down the line? I certainly do, and today's episode with a SMBC of a teen was a fascinating window into that world.

Today’s guest, Elle, became a single mother by choice at 36, using a known sperm donor: someone she briefly dated years before. Today, her son is 13, and her story gives us a rare, honest look at what life can look like after the decision is made and we leave the diaper years behind us.

I love how open Elle is in sharing the beautiful, the complicated, the surprising, and everything in between. From managing pregnancy and postpartum alone and watching her son’s relationship with his donor evolve, to navigating school choices, identity questions, and early teenage years.

If you’ve ever wondered whether a known sperm donor could work for you, or you’re simply craving a long-term perspective from someone further down the solo motherhood path, Elle’s story offers us a peek into what it can look like.

In this episode on solo parenting a teenager and choosing a known sperm donor, we discuss:

How Elle decided to pursue solo motherhood at 36;
Why she chose a known donor over a sperm bank and how she went about it;
What the donor relationship looked like during pregnancy and postpartum;
Her son’s evolving understanding of who his “donor” or “dad” is;
Legal considerations (and misconceptions) around known sperm donors;
Navigating boundaries, expectations, and emotional complexity over 13 years;
Identity, gender expression, and raising a compassionate son;
The challenges and rewards of solo parenting an older child;
Trusting yourself through big parenting and school decisions;
And much more.

💌Become part of the SGC community and stay up to date by joining our newsletter. You can sign up >>here<< at the bottom of the page.

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E16 Building a Life That Supports Solo Motherhood, with Novelist Tory Henwood Hoen

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0400

What would you have to change to make solo motherhood possible? For novelist Tory Henwood Hoen, the answer meant reimagining the structure of her life. She left New York City for Vermont, moved in with her mom during pregnancy, and built a rhythm that allowed her to pursue both her dream of motherhood and her passion for writing. Through it all, she discovered that becoming a single mother by choice isn’t just about making one big decision, but rather about creating space for what truly matters.

In today’s conversation, Tory shares how she built a life that supports solo motherhood: from freezing her eggs at 36, doing IVF at 39, and getting pregnant with her first transfer, to writing her second novel while parenting. Her story is a beautiful reminder that sometimes the path that looks like starting over is actually the one that leads you home to yourself.

In this episode on building a life that supports solo motherhood, we discuss:

The emotional and practical steps that led Tory to pursue motherhood on her own;
Moving from New York City to Vermont to prioritize family, finances, and creative space;
Writing her second novel while parenting a newborn, and how motherhood sharpened her creative focus;
The importance of community and connection in the SMBC journey;
Redefining success and identity in midlife;
Creating space for what matters most;
And more.

More about Tory

Tory Henwood Hoen is a novelist based in Vermont, where she is a solo mother by choice to her toddler daughter. Her debut novel, THE ARC, was published in 2022, and her second novel, BEFORE I FORGET, comes out December 2, 2025. Before pursuing her dream of writing books, Tory worked as a magazine editor, a brand director, a copywriter, and a content consultant in New York City and Paris.

You can learn more about Tory and her work on her website or connect with her on Instagram (@toryhenwoodhoen).

💌Become part of the SGC community and stay up to date by joining our newsletter. You can sign up >>here<< at the bottom of the page.

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E15 From Fertility Challenges and Fibroids to Solo Mom of Two with Dr. Shanelle Bolton

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

While some motherhood paths unfold easily, others bring unexpected twists and turns. Dr. Shanelle Bolton’s path to solo motherhood included multiple surgeries to remove fibroids, a chemical pregnancy, and even a near-fatal postpartum hemorrhage. But all of this was part of her journey, and today she’s a proud solo mom by choice to two thriving children. In the midst of it all, she also founded POSH Parenthood, where she helps families move from chaos to calm through purposeful rhythms and executive functioning support for kids.

Shanelle shares how she turned her challenges into a mission: empowering parents to create calmer, more connected homes without chasing perfection. Her story is a reminder that the path isn’t always smooth and straightforward, but that doesn’t mean it won’t get us to where we want to go.

In this episode on Shanelle’s journey to becoming a solo mom of two, you’ll hear:

Deciding to become a solo mom by choice and building a support system to make it happen;
Navigating an IVF journey with fibroids and multiple surgeries;
Coping with a chemical pregnancy and postpartum hemorrhage;
How Shanelle re-imagined her career after losing her job and founded POSH Parenthood;
Why flexible parenting rhythms work better than rigid routines;
Understanding executive functioning for kids and how it helps parents, too;
The importance of Black maternal health and self-advocacy in motherhood;
And more!

More about Dr. Shanelle Bolton

Dr. Shanelle Bolton, EdD, MST, MLS is the founder and CEO of POSH Parenthood Coaching & Consulting, where she helps parents and educators move from chaos to calm by building purposeful family rhythms and strengthening children’s executive functioning skills. With over two decades of experience in education and early childhood leadership, she blends professional expertise with personal resilience as a single mother by choice who navigated IVF, pregnancy loss, and a near-fatal postpartum complication. Through high-touch coaching, courses, and her signature Raising in Rhythm program, Dr. Bolton empowers families to find flow, connection, and confidence in parenting.

Ways to connect with Shanelle:

🌐 Website: poshparenthood.com

📸 Instagram: @poshparenthood

🎥 TikTok: @poshparenthood

📘 Featured Resource: Raising Brighter Minds eBook

✨ Signature Program: Raising in Rhythm

🏘️Join our community, The SGC Village

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E14 Postpartum as a Single Mother by Choice with SMBC Mel Anderson

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

After a pregnancy marked by hyperemesis and countless challenges, Mel Anderson returns to share the next chapter of her story. This time, it’s a much brighter one.

The birth of Mel’s daughter didn’t go exactly as planned, but from the very first moment she heard her daughter’s cry, everything shifted. Instead of bracing herself for postpartum depression, Mel was surprised to feel a rush of love and relief.

The weeks that followed became a season of healing and sweetness, allowing herself to recover slowly. She discovered how much she loves the simple rhythms of newborn life, and how motherhood has brought her more presence and joy than she ever imagined.

Now, eight months in, Mel is not only thriving as a mom, but she’s reconnecting with her passion for yoga: dreaming of ways to guide other single mothers by choice through movement, breath, and grounding practices designed especially for this community.

In this episode on Mel’s postpartum experience as a single mother by choice, you’ll hear about:

Recovering physically and emotionally after a difficult pregnancy and birth
The unexpected sweetness of newborn life and early motherhood
Daily rituals of connection and presence with her daughter
How Mel is dreaming of a platform to support SMBCs through yoga and meditation
And much more!

👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is the single mother by choice resource you’ve been craving for every stage of your SMBC journey. You can find 1:1 Coaching for every stage of solo motherhood by choice, Community Groups for thinkers, triers, and pregnant SMBCs, The SGC The SGC Village Membership Community, Retreats for early stage SMBCs and Family Trips for moms & kids.

🏘️Join our community, The SGC Village

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E13 Pregnancy Without a Partner: Facing Hyperemesis and Finding Strength With SMBC Mel Anderson

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Pregnancy doesn’t always go the way you imagined it would. For my dear friend and fellow SMBC, Mel Anderson, what began with excitement quickly turned into one of the hardest seasons of her life. Instead of hiking and practicing yoga through her pregnancy as she had envisioned, Mel faced hyperemesis: severe nausea and vomiting that left her unable to care for herself, barely able to eat or drink, and often confined to the bathroom floor.

⚠️Before we dive in, a gentle heads up: this episode includes a detailed discussion of hyperemesis and the mental health struggles that can come with a difficult pregnancy. If you’re feeling particularly anxious about pregnancy, this might not be the right episode for you. And if you’re currently in the middle of a hard pregnancy yourself, please know there is relief and joy on the other side (which you’ll hear about in the next episode, in which we’ll continue with Mel’s story).

In this deeply vulnerable conversation, Mel shares what it was really like to go through pregnancy without a partner while navigating a condition that tested her body, her mental health, and her spirit. From the heartbreak of canceled embryo transfers to the unexpected challenges of her pregnancy, her story is raw, honest, and important.

If you’re considering solo motherhood, pregnant yourself, or simply want to know you’re not alone in facing a difficult path, this conversation will remind you that strength can grow even in the hardest places.

In this episode on Mel’s story about her pregnancy without a partner, we discuss:

Mel’s path to becoming a single mother by choice after ambivalence about having children in her younger years;
How Mel’s relationship history played into the decision;
Being diagnosed with hyperemesis and how it shaped her pregnancy;
Mental health struggles and learning to advocate for herself in the medical system;
The critical role of support during a high-risk pregnancy as a solo mom;
Why sharing the hard stories matters just as much as sharing the joyful ones;
And more.

🏘️Join our community, The SGC Village

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E12 Managing Expectations & Embracing Flexibility as a SMBC (A SGC Village Podcast Sneak Peek)

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Motherhood—especially solo motherhood—rarely unfolds exactly the way we imagined. Fertility treatments don’t always go as planned, babies don’t follow sleep schedules, and even our best-laid visions of how life “should” look often get disrupted.

In this episode, I’m sharing one of our private Village Podcast episodes on the theme of Managing Expectations and Embracing Flexibility. Inside The Village, each month we take on a broad coaching topic that applies across every stage of the solo motherhood journey, from considering this path to parenting young children. Along with a monthly coaching episode like this one, members also receive a companion workbook and access to an entire library of past themes.

In today’s conversation, you’ll hear about:

Releasing unrealistic expectations of perfection, both in parenting and in life
Building resilience when things don’t go according to plan (another failed transfer, a toddler meltdown, or changes in your own path to motherhood)
Practical ways to adjust plans with more ease and less pressure
Learning to “ride the wave” of unpredictability, even when it feels uncomfortable

Whether you’re just beginning to imagine solo motherhood or you’re deep in the day-to-day of raising your child, this episode will help you soften rigid expectations, prioritize what matters most, and find more peace in the process.

And if you love this episode and want more like it, I’d love to welcome you inside The Village—a community designed to support women at every stage of the journey with resources, coaching, and connection.

🏘️Join our community, The SGC Village

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E11 Pursuing Solo Motherhood, Part 2: Tara Resnick on Resilience and IVF as a Single Woman

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Even with careful planning, none of us can predict how our path to motherhood will unfold.

When we last spoke with Tara Resnick, she was preparing for another egg retrieval and left us with quite the cliffhanger. Today, she’s back to share the next chapter of her journey toward solo motherhood.

In this conversation, Tara speaks with honesty and vulnerability about the setbacks she’s faced—multiple egg retrievals, the financial strain of treatment, and the deep emotional toll of pursuing IVF as a single woman at 42. She also opens up about the regrets she carries: wishing she had pursued IVF or at least frozen eggs earlier, and staying in relationships longer than she now wishes she had.

What makes Tara’s story so powerful is not a picture-perfect narrative, but her willingness to share the messy middle—the heartbreak, the resilience it takes to keep going, and the importance of self-compassion when the outcome is still unknown.

Tara’s reminder for all of us: resilience isn’t about toxic positivity. It’s about choosing yourself, holding onto hope, and finding peace even in the hardest seasons.

“Choose yourself, always.” – Tara Resnick

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to walk through IVF on your own—the ups, the setbacks, the financial and emotional weight—I hope this conversation will make you feel less alone.

In this episode, we discuss:

Tara’s second and third egg retrievals, including the unexpected decision to pursue a Duo Stim cycle
The financial and emotional impact of IVF as a single woman
The vulnerability of navigating fertility treatments without a partner
Receiving difficult PGT results and the decision to transfer an untested embryo
How to balance hope and grief without falling into toxic positivity
Why Tara believes trying was still the right choice for her, no matter the outcome
And more

Connect with Tara:

🏘️Join our community, The SGC Village

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E10 Julie Ferguson on IVF, Solo Motherhood, and Finding Love After Baby

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Julie thought she was freezing her eggs for a future partner.

Instead, she ended up fertilizing all of them on her path to become a mom on her own—then finding love and partnership afterward.

That’s the short version of Julie Ferguson’s story, but there’s so much more to it.

Julie is a PR firm owner and solo mom by choice who’s been through more than her share of plot twists on the road to motherhood: divorce, miscarriage, five egg retrievals, two IVF cycles, and one hard-won embryo that became her son. She opens up about what it really took—emotionally, physically, and financially—to make her dream of motherhood happen.

And her story doesn’t end there.

Now a proud mom to a two-year-old, Julie shares what it’s been like to date as a solo mom, including an unplanned pregnancy at 45 and the evolving relationship that followed. We talk about rediscovering yourself in motherhood, building connections with other donor sibling families, and Julie’s advocacy work with the Stork Foundation, which helps families access IVF through grants.

Whether you’re still navigating fertility as a single woman or already parenting solo, Julie’s mix of honesty, humor, and hope is one you don’t want to miss.

In this episode, we cover:

Navigating miscarriage, divorce, and solo motherhood during the pandemic
Doing multiple egg retrievals and two rounds of IVF in her early 40s
The emotional toll of losing an embryo and trying again
Making the leap from egg freezing to IVF with donor sperm
Advocating for IVF access through the Stork Foundation
Dating as a solo mom and navigating an unexpected pregnancy at 45
Building a donor sibling community and raising a happy toddler solo
Why prioritizing self-care matters in solo motherhood
And more

Resources mentioned:

Connect with Julie:

🏘️Join our community, The SGC Village

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E9 Pursuing Solo Motherhood: Tara Resnick on Love, Loss, and Choosing Herself

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Life doesn’t always unfold the way you imagined. For Tara, that meant rethinking everything she thought she knew about love, family, and the “perfect” timing. After years in relationships that weren’t moving toward the future she desired, she found herself at a crossroads: stay stuck waiting for someone else to come around, or start creating the life she dreamed of on her own.

In this episode, Tara opens up about the heartbreak of leaving long-term relationships, the fear and uncertainty of starting over at 38, and the courage it took to finally consider solo motherhood. She shares her experiences with fertility testing, choosing a sperm donor, a difficult miscarriage, and the incredible support she’s found in this SMBC community as she takes those first steps toward becoming a single mom by choice.

Whether you’re exploring solo motherhood yourself or simply need a reminder that starting over is possible, Tara’s story is filled with courage, clarity, and deep self-trust.

In this episode on pursuing solo motherhood, we discuss:

Feeling stuck in relationships and deciding when it’s time to choose yourself;
The fear of starting over in your late 30s and facing fertility decisions alone;
How finances, support systems, and fear hold women back from solo motherhood;
Fertility testing, donor conception, and facing miscarriage as a single woman;
The emotional growth that comes from doing it scared;
The power of connection and finding your people in the SMBC community;
And more from Tara’s deeply honest and inspiring journey.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

💌Become part of the SGC community and stay up to date by joining our newsletter. You can sign up >>here<< at the bottom of the page.

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E8 Solo Parenting Older Children and Thriving in Business With SMBC Beile Grünbaum

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

What does life look like a decade into solo motherhood? If you've ever wondered what’s on the other side of the baby and toddler years, this conversation with Beile Grünbaum will give you an exciting glimpse.

Beile is a solo mom by choice of two sons, now 10 and 12, and her story is anything but ordinary. A former financial journalist in Denmark, Beile made the leap into solo motherhood in her late 30s and early 40s. But the transformation didn’t stop there. After being laid off while on maternity leave with her second child, she took her expertise in finance and turned it into a thriving financial coaching business, Money & Freedom.

Today, she lives with her boys in Portugal, runs an online business, and shares her journey as a podcaster and entrepreneur. She opens up about her fertility story, life after the baby years, building community abroad, dating as a solo mom, and what it really means to design a life that fits you, and your kids.

If you’ve been craving stories about solo parenting older children, or wondering what’s possible for your career and lifestyle as an SMBC, you won’t want to miss this one!

In this episode on solo parenting older children, we discuss:

Navigating donor conception and fertility treatments in Denmark;
Parenting through the toddler years and deciding to have a second child;
Raising two boys with honesty, confidence, and joy;
Being laid off on maternity leave and pivoting into entrepreneurship;
Becoming financially free and moving her family to Portugal;
Dating as a solo mom (and how ChatGPT supports her search);
The mindset shift from waiting to be saved to building her dream life;
And much more!

Connect with Beile Grünbaum:

Website | YouTube | Instagram | Podcast

💌Become part of the SGC community and stay up to date by joining our newsletter. You can sign up >>here<< at the bottom of the page.

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E7 Finding a Known Donor and Choosing Solo Motherhood with Viveka Mandhyan

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:00:00 -0400

What if the desire to become a parent is strong, but the partner hasn't shown up?

In this episode, I’m talking with Viveka, a school psychologist who has spent her career supporting kids and families—and who’s now navigating her own path to solo motherhood.

Viveka started out as a preschool special education teacher, is certified as a yoga instructor and nature therapy guide, and brings a deeply grounded, global perspective to everything she does. She’s biracial, trilingual, a former Indian classical dancer, and one of those people who’s just naturally good with children.

When Viveka found herself single in her late thirties and experiencing dating burnout, she decided it was time to freeze her eggs. But once she took a step into this world, she realized that she could be that woman who decides to pursue solo motherhood.

Now over a year into her process of becoming a single mother by choice, Viveka shares what it’s looked like to shift her priorities, explore known donor conception through Seed Scout, and start the process of trying to conceive—without waiting for a partner.

This conversation is about so much more than logistics. It’s about identity, intuition, culture, and what happens when you finally give yourself permission to want what you want.

In this episode about choosing solo parenthood, we talk about:

The early stages of becoming a solo mom by choice;
Experiencing dating burnout;
Choosing solo motherhood when you find yourself single in your 30s or 40s;
Cultural considerations and family conversations;
Using Seed Scout to find a known sperm donor;
Navigating fertility clinics, timing, and IUI with a known donor;
Balancing career, future dreams, and the realities of single parenting;
And more.

Connect with Viveka on instagram: Solo Mama To Be (@soloparentonpurpose)

💌Become part of the SGC community and stay up to date by joining our newsletter. You can sign up >>here<< at the bottom of the page.

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E6 Building a Strong Support System in Solo Motherhood With Therapist and SMBC Sige Weisman

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “It takes a village”, but what does that actually look like when you’re choosing to become a mom on your own?

Today’s guest is the perfect example of why becoming a single mother by choice doesn’t mean you have to raise your child alone. You’ll hear exactly what it can look like to build a deeply supportive village, both before and after becoming a solo mom.

In this episode, I’m joined by Sige, a psychotherapist and solo mother by choice who brings a wealth of wisdom from both her personal and professional life. Sige shares how a low AMH diagnosis and a breakup led her to pursue solo motherhood through IUI, and how she beat the odds by conceiving on her first try.

But it’s her unique approach to communal living and her commitment to building intentional support systems that truly make her story stand out. Together, we talk about what it takes to raise a child without a partner, not by doing it all alone, but by choosing interdependence, community, and creativity.

In this episode on building a strong support system before and during solo motherhood, we discuss:

How a low ovarian reserve shifted Sige’s timeline and led her to IUI;
The emotional pivot from partnership to solo parenting;
What it’s like to conceive on your first IUI attempt, despite low fertility markers;
The practical and emotional benefits of communal living;
Navigating dating and boundaries as a solo mom;
How to create a village of support when raising a child alone;
Introducing donor conception and donor siblings to your child;
Reclaiming creativity and rediscovering yourself after early motherhood;
And so much more.

Connect with Sige Weisman

You can learn more about Sige’s therapy work on her website.

Connect with her artwork on Instagram, @sigeweisman.art or at www.sigeweisman.com.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Book: How to Conceive Naturally: And Have a Healthy Pregnancy after 30

🏘️Join our community, The SGC Village

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E5 One Embryo Is All It Took: Kellyn Nagel's IVF Story as a Single Mother by Choice

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0400

What happens when you only get one viable embryo and it’s your only shot at becoming a mom? For Kellyn, her single embryo became the greatest gift of her life.

Today’s guest is Kellyn Nagel, a fellow single mother by choice and dedicated attorney who represents children in foster care. Kellyn shares her emotional and financial journey through fertility as a single woman: from egg freezing after a low AMH diagnosis to IVF with frozen eggs, and ultimately to the birth of her daughter, Kellyn’s story is one of trust, resilience, and quiet courage.

We talk about the heartbreak and hope of navigating IVF as a single woman, how Kellyn leaned into her gut instincts at every step, and the profound ways motherhood has shifted both her career and her understanding of the family court system. We also touch on the power of donor sibling connections, postpartum realities, and what it means to keep the door open for a second child as a single mom by choice, even when the path is anything but straightforward.

In this episode on IVF as a single woman, we discuss:

How Kellyn’s journey began with egg freezing and a low AMH diagnosis;
Her decision to move from two failed IUIs to IVF using her frozen eggs;
The emotional weight of having just one viable embryo, and the joy when it worked;
What it’s like to give birth and navigate postpartum as a solo mom;
The challenges of working in child welfare while becoming a parent herself;
How she connected with donor siblings and built early relationships for her daughter;
Her reflections on sleep deprivation, daycare, and going back to work as a new SMBC;
And more.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Book: This Might Be Too Personal: And Other Intimate Stories - Alyssa Shelasky
Listen to Season 6, Episode 8: “Accidental” SMBC Through Foster to Open Adoption With Elizabeth Friedland

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E4 Solo Parenting Two Kids After 40, With SMBC Randi Maves

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Solo parenting one child is a big job. Add a second baby to the mix, and do it all without a co-parent, and everything shifts.

In this episode, I’m joined by Randi Maves, a solo mom by choice to two boys, four years apart. Randi wouldn’t trade this life for anything, but she’s honest about how intense it can be juggling two different stages of parenting on her own.

From navigating daycare drop-offs and picky eaters to handling preschooler meltdowns while sleep-training a newborn, Randi gets honest about what the daily juggle really looks like. She talks about the tools and support systems that are saving her sanity right now, including her decision to hire an au pair, and the emotional process of adjusting to life as a solo mom of two.

We’re also diving into Randi’s fertility journey with IVF at 40+, including the heartbreak of getting no viable embryos, the decision to transfer her one mosaic embryo, and the deep trust it took to move forward.

If you’re thinking about having a second child as an SMBC, already in the thick of solo motherhood, or just wondering what this path can look like, Randi’s story is a beautiful mix of honesty, resilience, and real-life logistics.

In this episode on solo parenting two kids after 40, we talk about:

How her mom’s diagnosis sparked her decision to become a mom
What it was like to move across the country with a baby in tow
What shifted her perspective on having a second child solo
The highs and lows of IVF as a single woman in her 40s
What it’s really like to solo parent two kids in different phases of life
Her approach to building a support team, including daycare and live-in help
The emotional weight of parenting without a partner, and why acknowledgment matters
Her mindset around letting “future Randi” handle “future problems”

Resources mentioned in this episode:

🏝️ Interested in the Aug 27-31 Family Trip to Riviera Maya, Mexico? Join one of these info sessions to get all the details!

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E3 Dating as a Single Mother by Choice With Erin Russell

Wed, 14 May 2025 00:00:00 -0400

The desire to share life with a partner doesn’t just disappear when we choose to start our families on our own. And it doesn’t have to. Today’s new episode is a beautiful reminder that both things can be true: you can want motherhood and partnership, and you don’t have to give up one to have the other.

At 35, Erin Russell was faced with the hard realization that her family line would end with her if she didn’t pursue parenthood soon, so she started seriously considering solo motherhood. But right as she was preparing to begin fertility treatments, life threw her a curveball — she met someone.

Erin was clear about what she wanted and gave the relationship space to grow. But when it became obvious they weren’t aligned on having kids, she made the powerful decision to walk away. She ordered donor sperm the very next day.

Becoming a mom didn’t erase Erin's hope of sharing life with a partner. Just two months after her son was born, she started dating again — not out of pressure or urgency, but as a way to reconnect with herself, enjoy adult time, and stay open to love.

Now that her son is two and she’s happily in a relationship that feels like the right fit, Erin reflects on what it’s been like to still want partnership as a solo mom by choice, and how she's navigating love, parenting, and a changing sense of identity all at once.

In this episode, we talk about:

How Erin knew it was time to pursue solo motherhood
The challenges of navigating IUI, IVF, and insurance hurdles
Why "just surviving" the newborn stage isn’t enough, and how building a support system made all the difference
The guilt and reality of sending your baby to daycare as a solo mom
Dating as a solo mom: why Erin started early, how she set her own pace, and what she looked for in a partner
How she’s weaving her new relationship into her solo mom life
And why the grief of doing it alone doesn’t just disappear once your baby arrives

Whether you're considering solo motherhood, already parenting, or wondering if dating might fit into your life someday, Erin’s story is full of honesty, hope, and real-world encouragement for wherever you are on the path.

Want to connect with Erin Russell?

🏝️ Interested in the Aug 27-31 Family Trip to Riviera Maya, Mexico? Join one of these info sessions to get all the details!

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E2 Expanding Your Family as a SMBC: Lauren Harris’s Journey to Three Kids

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

Expanding your family as a single mother by choice isn’t always easy — but many solo moms desire more than one child, and today’s conversation is a beautiful example of how it can unfold.

Lauren — a returning guest and seasoned SMBC — shares her journey from welcoming her first daughter to expanding her family with twins, all in just a few years. Along the way, she navigated fertility treatments, postpartum health challenges, and the daily demands of solo parenting... while never losing sight of her dream to grow her family despite her fertility challenges.

As you might know, I’ve been thinking a lot lately about whether to have a second child as a solo mom — so it was such a gift to sit down with Lauren and talk through all the emotional, logistical, and real-life factors that come into play when making a decision like this.

Whether you're actively considering another child or just curious about what life looks like with multiple little ones as a solo mom, Lauren’s story is a powerful reminder that you can create the family you dream of.

Inside the episode, we talk about:

How Lauren managed a twin pregnancy while caring for a young baby
The emotional and practical shifts that come with expanding your family solo
Building a village: how childcare, therapy, and trusted support made it possible
Handling outside reactions to being a solo mom of multiple children
Talking to young kids about being donor-conceived and having donor siblings
Finding moments of joy and recharging amid the chaos
What factors to consider when thinking about adding to your family as a solo mom
And more!

Listen to Lauren & Jess on Season 1, Episode 16 of The SGC Podcast

Connect with Lauren on Instagram

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S8E1 Inside the SGC Retreat: Curveballs, Self-Compassion and the Magic of Letting Go

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0400

I recently wrapped up one of the most unpredictable SMBC retreats I’ve ever hosted, and I’m still unpacking all the lessons it had to teach me. This solo episode is a behind-the-scenes look at what happens when things go completely off-script, and how self-compassion, surrender, and unexpected moments of connection carried me through.

This isn’t your typical retreat recap. It’s a story about what happens when you let go of the plan and lean into trust, even when things go sideways. As someone who talks a lot about self-compassion and mindset, this experience gave me a real-time opportunity to practice what I preach.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to attend a retreat with SGC—or you’ve found yourself navigating curveballs on your SMBC journey—this one’s for you.

I’m sharing:

The story of a retreat that went wildly off course (and what happened next)
How curveballs became invitations for growth, trust, and connection
The power of self-compassion when things don’t go as planned
The surprising kindness of strangers
What this experience taught me as a solo mom, solopreneur, and human being
And the quiet magic that happens when we stop trying to control it all.

👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is the solo mom support network you’ve been looking for through every stage of your SMBC journey. You can find 1:1 coaching for single moms by choice at all stages, Community Groups for Thinkers/Tryers and Pregnant SMBCs, The SGC Village Membership Community, retreats for women considering or pursuing solo motherhood and SMBC family trips.

Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

Welcome to The Single Greatest Choice

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 05:46:00 -0400

You always imagined becoming a mom someday, but what if someday doesn’t look the way you expected? Maybe you're considering solo motherhood, wondering if having a baby on your own is really possible. Maybe you know you want to be a mom, but the clock is ticking, you’re single and aren’t sure what to do next. Perhaps you’re already on the path: researching sperm donors, weighing IVF or adoption, or navigating pregnancy without a partner. Wherever you are in your journey, The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you.

Hosted by Katie Bryan, a single mother by choice turned SMBC coach and community facilitator, this podcast is a space for women exploring what it means to choose parenthood on their own terms. You’ll hear real stories from solo moms who’ve been where you are: women who have faced the fears, made the choices, and built beautiful, fulfilling lives as single mothers by choice.

You can expect conversations around:

> Fertility for single women in their 30s and 40s;

> Considering solo motherhood & becoming a single mother by choice (SMBC)

> IVF, adoption, sperm donors, and egg freezing for single women

> Having a baby on your own

> Choosing to parent alone

> Dating and relationships as SMBCs

> Building community as a solo mom by choice

> And much more.

If you're single in your 30s or 40s and wondering, Can I do this?, you’re not alone. The path to becoming a single mother by choice isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. This is your place to find confidence, connection, and community as you explore whether solo motherhood might be your single greatest choice.

Subscribe to the show so you don’t miss an episode, and visit www.singlegreatestchoice.com to learn more about our membership, coaching, community groups, and retreats.

S7E9 My Story: How & Why I Chose to Have a Baby on My Own

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0400

For most of my life, I believed that finding the right partner was the key to starting a family. I spent nearly 20 years searching for the perfect relationship, thinking that marriage had to come first before motherhood. But at 39, I was single and I still deeply wanted to become a mom. That’s when I decided I was done waiting. I would have a baby on my own.

In this special cross-over episode, I’m the one being interviewed! Originally recorded for the Refamulating Podcast with Julia Winston, this conversation dives into my journey of reimagining family, letting go of societal expectations, and embracing solo motherhood by choice. I open up about the pivotal moments that led me to this path, my experiences with egg freezing, fertility treatments, and choosing a sperm donor, and how becoming a mother has transformed my life in ways I never expected.

In this episode on why I chose to have a baby on my own, I share:

How I went from searching for a partner to deciding to have a baby on my own;
The fears, doubts, and societal pressures I had to overcome to embrace solo motherhood;
Why I initially felt ashamed of my choice and how I learned to own it with pride;
My journey through egg freezing, fertility treatments, and choosing a sperm donor;
The impact of my religious upbringing, marriage, and divorce on my perspective of family;
How I built a strong support system and community as a single mom;
Why I now believe solo moms aren’t settling but actually raising the bar;
The unexpected freedom and joy I’ve found in this choice.

If you’re considering solo motherhood, struggling with the idea of letting go of a traditional family model, or simply curious about what it’s like to have a baby on your own, this episode is for you.

Refamulating on Instagram

https://www.refamulating.com/

👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S7E8 Egg Freezing, IVF & Dating as a Single Mother: Eboni K. Williams’ SMBC Story

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 06:00:00 -0400

When Eboni K. Williams froze her eggs, she had zero intention of using them, but she did it anyway, just in case. Years later, at 38, her perspective on motherhood shifted, and she was grateful she had taken steps to preserve her fertility. That decision gave her the freedom to pursue solo motherhood on her own timeline, using IVF to welcome the child she once wasn’t sure she wanted.

In this episode, Eboni, a legal expert, journalist, and media personality, shares her egg freezing journey and how it set her up to make empowered choices about her future. She opens up about the reality of IVF as a single woman, the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare (especially as a Black woman), and why she doesn’t romanticize solo motherhood, even though it’s everything she wanted. Plus, she shares how choosing solo motherhood has actually expanded her dating options instead of limiting them.

In this episode, we discuss:

Why Eboni froze her eggs without any intention of using them, and why she’s now so glad she did;
The realization at 38 that made her decide she wanted to be a mom;
How she chose a sperm donor and why that decision was so critical;
Why she went straight to IVF as a single woman due to age-related statistics;
The importance of having a doula and ensuring mothers’ needs are prioritized in childbirth;
The medical crisis around Black maternal health and the need for self-advocacy;
Why she doesn’t over-romanticize solo motherhood, even though it’s been the right path for her;
How choosing to parent alone has actually given her more dating options, not fewer.

Whether you're considering solo motherhood, navigating an egg freezing journey, or wondering what life as a single mother by choice really looks like, Eboni’s story is an eye-opening look at the power of taking control of your future.

Connect with Eboni K. Williams: Website | Instagram | Podcast | People Magazine

S7E7 Adopting a Child as a Single Black Woman Based Overseas With SMBC Richelle Carey

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Are you waiting for a partner to give you the ‘green light’ to become a mom? For Richelle Carey, the answer became clear in her mid-40s: She wasn’t going to wait anymore. After freezing her eggs at 42 and attempting IVF at 46, Richelle realized she wasn’t attached to biological motherhood. What she truly wanted was to become a mom. That’s when she shifted her focus to adopting a child as a single woman while living overseas.

In this episode, Richelle shares her deeply personal journey of choosing solo motherhood, navigating the adoption process as a single woman, and building her family on her own terms. She opens up about the challenges and rewards of international adoption, the emotional process of bonding with a child, and why prioritizing her own health and happiness made her a better parent.

In this episode on adopting a child as a single woman, we discuss:

Richelle’s journey from egg freezing and IVF to adoption as a single woman;
What led her to stop waiting for a partner and embrace solo motherhood;
The process of adopting a child as a single Black woman while living overseas;
How adoption matching works and the role of an adoption consultant;
Addressing common fears about bonding with an adopted child;
How solo moms can confidently talk to their children about their origin story;
The importance of prioritizing personal health as a single parent;
Richelle’s perspective on whether she’ll expand her family as an SMBC;
And the empowering realization that solo moms can do “big things”, and do them well.

If you’re considering solo motherhood or exploring what it takes to adopt as a single woman, Richelle’s story will give you the inspiration and practical insight you need to take the next step.

Want to check out some of Richelle's incredible work and content as a broadcaster and SMBC advocate? You can find her on her WEBSITE, INSTAGRAM, and TikTok.

S7E6 Kids or Childfree? Considering (Solo) Motherhood With Keltie Maguire

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 06:00:00 -0400

Deciding whether to have kids is one of the most personal, and often most complex, choices a woman can make. For many, considering solo motherhood brings up even more questions: Should I wait for a partner? Can I do this on my own? What if I’m not sure I want kids at all?

In this episode, I sit down with Keltie Maguire, coach and host of the Kids or Childfree Podcast, to explore what it really looks like to make an intentional decision about parenthood. Keltie grew up assuming she’d become a mom, because that’s just what women did. But as she moved through her 30s, she started questioning whether that path was truly right for her. Without role models for a consciously child-free life, the decision felt isolating and overwhelming. Now, after making the choice that’s best for her, she dedicates her work to helping other women navigate this deeply personal decision.

This isn’t a conversation about choosing not to become a mom; It’s about choosing the right path for you, whether that means having a baby on your own or embracing a child-free life with confidence.

In this episode on considering (solo) motherhood, we discuss:

The struggle of making the life-changing decision of whether to have children;
Why considering solo motherhood is often more complex than a simple yes or no;
The lack of visible role models for women who choose a childfree life;
How societal expectations pressure women into explaining their parenting choices;
How Keltie supports women in making the right decision for themselves;
Holding space for grief and creating a beautiful life, even when it doesn’t look like you imagined.

If you’re single in your 30s or 40s and feeling uncertain about whether solo motherhood is right for you, this conversation will give you clarity, perspective, and reassurance that you’re not alone.

S7E5 Becoming a Single Mother by Choice After Divorce with SMBC Jamela Black

Wed, 30 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

When Jamela’s marriage ended at 37, she wasn’t interested in dating. Instead she decided to become a Single Mother by Choice (SMBC). With a deep desire for motherhood and a clear vision of the kind of family she wanted to create, she embraced solo motherhood by choice with the full support of her mom, who even helped her choose the right sperm donor. Now, as a mother to 4-month-old twin girls, Jamela shares her journey of resilience, self-advocacy, and creating the life she truly wanted as a Black single woman.

Her story is a testament to the power of making bold choices, letting go of societal expectations, and prioritizing your own happiness. In this conversation, Jamela opens up about the emotional process of mourning both her marriage and the traditional family dream, the challenges and rewards of being a single Black mother, and why she sees solo motherhood as the greatest comeback.

In this episode on becoming a single mother by choice after divorce, we discuss:

The pressures women often feel to fit men into their lives to fulfill societal expectations;
Jamela’s decision to choose solo motherhood after divorce at 37;
How her mom played an active role in her decision to become a single mother by choice;
The emotional journey of grieving a marriage while embracing a new vision for family;
The challenges and rewards of being a single mom by choice as a Black woman;
Why self-advocacy in the fertility process is so important;
The biggest benefit of solo parenting, according to Jamela;
And more!

If you’re considering becoming a Single Mother by Choice, navigating life after divorce, or wondering if solo motherhood is the right path for you, Jamela’s story will inspire you to embrace your own choices with confidence.

Connect with Jamela on Instagram

S7E4 The Emotional & Physical Reality of IVF for Single Women with Whitney Foley

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Pursuing IVF as a single woman is a deeply personal decision; one that comes with emotional, physical, and financial challenges. For Whitney Foley, the desire to become a mom was stronger than her fear of doing it alone. At 34, after years of dating and waiting for the “right” partner, she realized she didn’t want to leave motherhood up to chance. Instead, she took control of her fertility and embarked on the journey to solo motherhood through IVF.

Whitney opens up about the highs and lows of multiple retrievals, failed transfers, and the unwavering determination that led to the birth of her son. She shares how social media became a powerful tool for connecting with other women navigating fertility for single women, and how she continues to follow her professional passions while embracing motherhood.

In this episode on pursuing IVF as a single woman, Whitney shares:

What led to her decision to pursue IVF as a single woman and her ‘aha’ moment;
The reactions from her family and how they supported her choice to become a single mother by choice;
The reality of undergoing four egg retrievals and three transfers before a successful pregnancy;
How Instagram helped her connect with a supportive SMBC community;
Handling societal reactions to pregnancy without a partner;
Her transition into motherhood, postpartum experiences, and the joy of raising her son;
How she launched iWellness Center as its founder and CEO while parenting solo.

If you’re considering having a baby on your own or exploring IVF as a single woman, this episode will give you inspiration, reassurance, and a look at the realities of this path.

You can connect with Whitney on Instagram @wjfoley and check out her business at www.iwellnesscenter.org.

S7E3 From Single Mom by Chance to Choice: Virginia Drader’s Journey to Pregnancy Without a Partner

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Life doesn’t always go according to plan but that doesn’t mean you have to give up on the dream of growing your family. Today’s guest, Virginia Drader, knows this journey well. After unexpectedly becoming a single mom after a divorce in her late 20s, she spent the next decade focused on her career and raising her son. But after a surprise pregnancy and miscarriage in 2022, Ginny realized her desire for another child was stronger than ever. This time, she wasn’t waiting for the right partner but made the decision to pursue pregnancy without a partner.

Virginia, an interior designer who incorporates Feng Shui into her work, shares the highs, lows, and unexpected turns of her path to solo motherhood by choice. From navigating fertility treatments across borders to creating a home that supports both herself and her children, she offers insight into what it truly means to step into motherhood on your own terms.

In this episode on pregnancy without a partner, Ginny shares:

How a surprise pregnancy and miscarriage led her to pursue pregnancy without a partner;
The reactions she received from family and friends when she decided to have a child on her own;
Why she traveled from Canada to the USA for her fertility process and how she selected a sperm donor;
Her experience with IUI, pregnancy challenges, and balancing motherhood with running a business;
The importance of creating a nurturing space as a solo parent and how she applies Feng Shui principles to her home;
Connecting with other donor-conceived families and what this could mean for her child in the future.

If you’re considering solo motherhood or wondering what it looks like to build a family on your own terms, Virginia’s story will inspire you to trust your own path.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Ellis Kelly Interior Alchemy (Ginny's business, alongside her sister Natalie)

S7E2 Sperm Donation for Single Women: How SMBC Valerie Bauman Found the Right Fit

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

At some point, every single woman who dreams of motherhood faces a critical question: Do I keep waiting for the right partner, or do I take control of my future? For Valerie Bauman, that moment came at 38, during the pandemic, when dating felt nearly impossible. She realized she couldn’t put her dreams on hold any longer and made the empowering decision to pursue solo motherhood on her own terms.

Valerie, an investigative reporter for Newsweek and author of Inconceivable: Super Sperm Donors, Off-the-Grid Insemination, and Unconventional Family Planning, shares her deeply personal journey of finding a sperm donor as a single woman: from considering traditional sperm banks to ultimately finding a known donor on Facebook. She opens up about the emotional highs and lows of this process, including a miscarriage, before finally welcoming her now 3.5-month-old baby boy.

In this episode, we dive into:

Valerie’s decision to become a mom during the pandemic and what sparked her SMBC journey;
Navigating the sperm donor process and choosing between a sperm bank and a known donor;
The shift from traditional sperm banks to alternative donor options;
The emotional toll of miscarriage and how she kept moving forward;
The anxiety of pregnancy without a partner and the fears that come with it;
The ethics of the sperm donation industry and why regulation matters;
What it means to create the life you want, regardless of societal norms.

If you’re considering solo motherhood or exploring your options for having a baby on your own, this episode will give you insight, inspiration, and reassurance that you’re not alone.

S7E1 Why Educated Women Are Turning to Egg Freezing With Marcia Inhorn, Author of ‘Motherhood on Ice’

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0400

As more women pursue higher education and successful careers, the dating landscape is shifting. For the first time in history, women are earning more degrees than men. Could that very achievement be making it harder to find a life partner? With fewer equally educated men in the dating pool, many single women are left wondering: Should I freeze my eggs while I wait for the right relationship? Or should I rethink what motherhood looks like altogether?

In this episode, I sit down with Marcia Inhorn, medical anthropologist and author of Motherhood on Ice, to explore why so many accomplished women are turning to egg freezing as they navigate singleness, career ambitions, and modern dating.

Marcia’s decade-long research uncovers a growing trend: women choosing to take control of their reproductive futures rather than waiting for the "right" partner to come along. We dive into the fertility challenges single women face today, the societal pressures shaping these choices, and how egg freezing is offering hope, freedom, and peace of mind.

If you're single in your 30s or 40s and wondering about your fertility options, this episode will give you new insights into the evolving landscape of motherhood.

In this episode on why educated women are turning to egg-freezing, we discuss:

The "mating gap": why highly educated women are struggling to find equally educated male partners;
How outdated gender norms and shifting education trends are reshaping dating dynamics;
The psychological benefits of egg freezing for single women who want to preserve their fertility options;
Why many women feel empowered, rather than pressured, by reproductive technology;
How egg freezing is changing the conversation around fertility for single women and family planning.

For full show notes, visit www.singlegreatestchoice.com/podcast-feed/s7-ep1-marcia-inhorn-motherhood-on-ice

S6, Ep 10: SMBC with a known donor, Ashley Coates

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400

My final guest of this season is Ashley Coates, a longtime Instagram friend and solo mom by choice living in Portland, Oregon. When Ashley decided to pursue solo motherhood, she decided to ask a close friend to be her known donor. What happened next feels almost too good to be true. Tune in as Ashley shares her experience of navigating conception, pregnancy and birth with a known donor and the unexpected joy of extending her family from coast to coast. 👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of

your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC

Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach

out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S6, Ep 9: Solo Mum Society founder, author and podcast host, Alisha Burns

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0400

We discuss more about…..

The transition from corporate life to focusing on solo motherhood.
The joys and challenges of parenting during a global pandemic.
Her mother’s health crisis and its impact on her responsibilities.
The process of writing her book featuring stories of 20 Australian SMBCs.
Strategies for achieving a better work/life balance.
Prioritizing experiences over material luxuries.
Tips and wisdom for other women considering the solo motherhood path.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering or already on the path to becoming a solo mom by choice. And if you missed her previous episodes on the SGC Podcast, make sure you tune into those by using the links below!

Connect with Alisha!
Follow her on social media! Website | Podcast | @solomumsociety | @noneedforprincecharming
Learn more and check out her latest book HERE

Mentioned Resources

S1, Ep 14: No Need for Prince Charming with Alisha Burns

S4, Ep 3: Books For Your Child's Bookshelf

Your Dream Life Starts Here by Kristina Karlsson

S6, Ep 8: “Accidental” SMBC through foster to open adoption with Elizabeth Friedland

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

We discuss more about…..

Elizabeth’s journey to fostering and adoption.
Balancing professional life with motherhood.
The emotional and logistical challenges of fostering.
dating and introducing our children to a future partner.
Building and relying on a support system.
Insights and advice for those considering fostering or adoption.

Connect with Elizabeth!
Website | Instagram | Instant Mom Podcast

Check out the Central General Store!
Website | Instagram

Learn more about the SGC Childbirth 101 Class for solo moms!

S6, Ep 7: SMBC to two through adoption with Emily Driscoll

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0400

We discuss more about…..

Emily's initial adoption research and the steps involved in the process.
The emotional journey and uncertainties of getting matched.
The costs and logistical aspects of adopting in the U.S.
Adjusting to motherhood and balancing work with childcare.
The importance of support and strong friendships in solo motherhood.

S6, Ep 6: Celine Charlotte, a quick journey from considering to parenting

Wed, 29 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

We discuss more about…..

Celine's transition into embracing single motherhood.
The challenges and emotional journey of egg retrieval and embryo transfer.
Moving from the Netherlands to Sedona, and eventually to New York City.
The vital role of community and support for SMBCs.
Balancing business and motherhood, and the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive influences.
Celine’s birth and postpartum experience.

Connect with Celine!
Follow her on social media! Instagram | Website | Media

More info about coaching and community groups at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching

S6, Ep 5: Luisa Ruge, SMBC in Colombia

Wed, 15 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

We discuss more about…..

What the fertility process looks like in Colombia
The raw emotions while undergoing IV
Deciding whether or not to have a second child
Support and expectations during pregnancy and postpartum

More info about 1:1 coaching, group coaching and community groups with The Single Greatest Choice at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/

S6, Ep 4: Danielle Winston, The Seed Scout

Wed, 01 May 2024 05:00:00 -0400

When Danielle and Paige were ready to grow their family, they knew the route of a traditional sperm bank wasn't right for them. They went to great lengths to find a known donor by tapping into their own network and doing a TON of legwork. After walking that path themselves, they decided to create The Seed Scout to help other families who were looking for options beyond the big, impersonal and deeply flawed major cryobanks.

We discuss more about…..

The journey of exploring alternative paths to parenthood beyond traditional sperm banks.
The significance of building trusting relationships with potential donors.
Establishing The Seed Scout as a business.
The need for ethical and transparent practices in the donor conception industry.
Acknowledging donors as individuals and fostering a supportive environment.

Connect with The Seed Scout!
Follow them on social media! Website | Instagram | TikTok

S6, Ep 3: thoughts on a second child as a SMBC

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

If you’ve been going back and forth about whether or not to have a second child as a SMBC, you’re not alone! I frequently get asked about this topic, and it’s one that’s on my mind a lot these days. From making decisions about egg and embryo freezing to deciding on spacing between children to weighing the pros and cons of being “one and done”...there’s a lot to think about! In this episode, I’m opening the conversation and asking SMBCs with one or more kids to share their thoughts about growing their families. What drives their desire to add more, or conversely, what factors help them decide their family is complete as it is? These audio clips provide a range of perspectives and bring up lots of important considerations. As always, the goal of this podcast is to help women like you and me feel less alone, and I hope these reflections help to do that in some small way no matter where you are in your motherhood journey! 👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S6, Ep 2: Meredith Kate, host of The Backup Plan Podcast

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 05:00:00 -0400

For years, Meredith and her gay best friend had a running joke that if they were both still single without kids by a certain point, they’d have a child together. Recently, Meredith decided it was time to take that joke seriously. In our conversation, she’ll explain more about her decision, the arrangements she’s making with her known donor, and how she’s prepping for her future life as a single mom.

We discuss more about…..

ICI/IUI vs IVF
Prioritizing community as a single mom
Finding a doctor that’s right for you
Practical considerations when working with a known donor
Living with her supportive mom

Check out The Backup Plan Podcast!
Website | Instagram | TikTok | Youtube
Mentioned Resources
Cosmo article with Lala Kent

S6, Ep 1: Carla Allen, SMBC through gestational surrogacy

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 05:00:00 -0400

Carla shares her experience from exploring surrogacy options to the complex matching process and the major impact of spiritual faith on her decision-making. She also reflects on the important trust and connection required in the surrogate relationship, and the joys and challenges of pregnancy through the lens of surrogacy. Join us as Carla's story inspires and illuminates the possibilities of motherhood that go beyond conventional norms, embracing the transformative power of love as a single mom by choice.

We discuss more about…..

Carla’s infertility journey and Adenomyosis diagnosis.
Navigating the gestational surrogacy process.
The physical, mental, and spiritual toll of being fully present for the surrogate mother.
The intersection of faith and fertility.

Mentioned Resources

https://www.familymatchconsulting.com/

S5, Ep 10: Keina Newell, Financial Coach

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 19:05:00 -0400

Connect with Keina!
Website | Instagram | Facebook | Podcast

Mentioned Resources

Money Files - 96 | From Finances to Motherhood: Let’s Talk Money Coaching

Check out the SGC Directory!
Email Katie for the password: katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

Join us in El Cuyo, Mexico March 10-15, 2024!

www.singlegreatestchoice.com/el-cuyo-2024

S5, Ep 9: Laura High, donor conceived advocate

Wed, 29 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we discuss more about…..

Advocating for regulations and safety within the sperm donation industry.
The dangers of excessively large sibling groups.
Practical advice for prospective parents seeking donors.
How to support donor-conceived children.
Legislative initiatives such as the HR451 fertility fraud legislation.

Connect with Laura!
Follow her on social media! Instagram | Website | TikTok | Podcast
Watch Laura’s TikTok video rating sperm banks

Check out the SGC Directory!
Email Katie for the password: katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

More info about coaching and community groups at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching

Join us in El Cuyo, Mexico March 10-15, 2024!

www.singlegreatestchoice.com/el-cuyo-2024

S5, Ep 8: a sperm donor's perspective with Dylan Stone-Miller

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we discuss more about…..

Lack of regulation in the sperm donation industry.
Dylan's personal journey, navigating the emotional complexities of moving from being an unknown to known donor.
Ethical considerations and best practices for parents and donors.
The shifts in attitudes among donor-conceived children as social norms and parenting practices are changing.
The complexities of navigating roles and relationships with each of Dylan’s recipient families individually.
Dylan's advocacy work and writing project focused on bringing more awareness to what needs to change with donor conception.

Connect with Dylan!
Follow him on social media! Website | Instagram | TikTok

Check out these organizations in the donor conception space!
U.S. Donor Conceived Council: www.usdcc.org
Donor Conceived Community: donorconceivedcommunity.org

Mentioned Resources
We Are Donor Conceived 2020 Survey Report

More info about coaching and retreats www.singlegreatestchoice.com/

S5, Ep 7: fertility law with reproductive attorney Rose Pondel

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 03:36:54 -0400

We discuss more about…..

Rose's transition from corporate law to fertility law.
Sperm banks vs known donors: legal insights.
Finding a reproductive attorney and questions to ask.
Legal complexities of egg and embryo donations.
Challenges in the world of fertility law.

Connect with Rose!
Follow her on social media! Instagram | Website

More info about coaching and community groups at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching

S5, Ep 6: travel tips with travel network innovator and SMBC Julie Munsch

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0400

In our conversation, Julie takes us through the hurdles of healing from past traumas, addressing fertility challenges, and how she first became a mom. She is extremely passionate about parents teaching their children how to become a part of their lives and encourages moms to take that vacation, kids in tow! She provides incredible tips on traveling with kids as a single parent that you will not want to miss. Trust me, she’s the expert, so get ready to take some notes!

We discuss more about…..

Fitting our children into our lives, not the other way around.
Adoption and healing from past trauma.
Fertility challenges and the decision to be a single mom.
The legal aspects of her parenting arrangement.
Julie’s best travel tips as a single parent.

Connect with Julie!

Follow her on social media! Instagram | Website |Podcast – Launching Nov 2023 – Sign up to receive updates

Mentioned Resources - Check out these resorts with baby clubs & childcare options! All can be booked with Julie’s agency – www.influencedtravelagency.com

More info about coaching and community groups at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching

Join us in Sedona December 29 - January 2! www.singlegreatestchoice.com/retreats-sedona-2024

S5, Ep 5: first comes baby carriage with now-coupled SMBC with Becky Thompson

Wed, 04 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we discuss more about…..

Becky’s decision to be a single mom by choice.
Fertility issues and the importance of finding a doctor you can trust.
Seeking support through online communities.
Dating as a single mom by choice.
How Becky unexpectedly found love.
Growing a blended family.

More info about coaching and community groups at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching

Join us in Sedona December 29 - January 2! www.singlegreatestchoice.com/retreats-sedona-2024

S5, Ep 4: unconventional families with writer and SMBC thinker Sara Graybeal

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Throughout our discussion, Sara opens up about the series of events that led to the birth of her son, Micah, as well as her deliberate (sort of) decision to embrace single motherhood. We explore the advantages and challenges of co-parenting, examine the various choices available for expanding one's family with a second child, and gain insights into her journey within the coaching realm.

We discuss more about…..

Defying norms and “choosing” an unconventional family structure.
Co-parenting arrangements.
Pursuing new relationships as a single mom.
Knowing how/when to have a second child.
The significant role of connection between loved ones.

Connect with Sara!
Follow her on social media! Instagram | Website | Podcast

Mentioned Resources

Lunchbreak Journaling For Moms: https://www.saragraybeal.com/lunch-break-journaling-for-moms

Supercharge Your Creativity: https://www.saragraybeal.com/superchargeyourcreativity

More info about coaching and community groups at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching

Join us in Sedona December 29 - January 2!

www.singlegreatestchoice.com/retreats-sedona-2024

S5, Ep 3: solo mum survival with Australian SMBC Rachel Toyer

Wed, 06 Sep 2023 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we discuss more about…..

What led Rachel to desire to become a single mom by choice.
The unexpected turns in the search for a donor.
How she’s changed since becoming a mom.
Navigating pregnancy and postpartum while doing it solo.
Launching her Instagram account and handling the critics.

Connect with Rachel!
Follow her on social media! Instagram | Facebook

Mentioned Resources
Instagram Reel on the psychological damage of not having a dad.

We Are Family by Susan Golombok: https://www.amazon.com/We-Are-Family-Transformation-Children/dp/1541758641

More info about coaching and community groups at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching

Join us in Sedona December 29 - January 2!

www.singlegreatestchoice.com/retreats-sedona-2024

S5, Ep 2: postpartum doula, lactation & sleep consultant and SMBC

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Elizabeth wears multiple hats as a postpartum doula, lactation counselor (soon-to-be consultant), infant massage instructor, and infant sleep consultant. After years of dedicated work, she took a courageous step towards single parenthood and welcomed her son in the midst of the pandemic. Join us as we delve into her fascinating journey, exploring her roles as a supportive professional and a mother who embraces the beauty of non-traditional family structures.

We discuss more about…..

Elizabeth's journey to becoming a single parent.
Her unique experience of selecting a donor.
How she’s preparing for baby #2.
Navigating career paths and growing her skills.
Balancing professional and personal life as an entrepreneur.

Handling life’s transitions while maintaining her empowering roles.

Connect with Elizabeth!
www.empoweringmama.com
Follow her on social media! Instagram | Facebook | Tiktok
Enroll now for The Thriving Postpartum Course!

Mentioned Resources
Big Brother Learns All About Babies by Itty Bitty Newborn

More info about coaching and community groups at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching

Join us in Sedona December 29 - January 2!

www.singlegreatestchoice.com/retreats-sedona-2024

S5, Ep 1: chosen family with Kiara Rae Schuh, donor conceived daughter of a SMBC

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Through her work as an author and speaker, Kiara has been on a transformative path connecting with donor-conceived children and prospective parents, opening the door to a world often overlooked in mainstream narratives. In our conversation, she describes more about her journey of self-discovery, meeting her donor siblings, and the beauty of creating her own family on her terms.

We discuss more about…..

Writing Chosen Family and connecting with donor-conceived children.
The power of honesty and representation in shaping Kiara's positive story.
Redefining family and embracing the concept of chosen family.
Building strong bonds with donor siblings and fostering connections.
Embracing solo parenthood and reframing perspectives on motherhood.

Connect with Kiara!
www.kiararaeschuh.com
Follow her on IG: @kiararaeschuh
Chosen Family is available now on Amazon!

More info about SGC coaching and community groups at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching

S4, Ep 10: Meet Chekwube, SMBC to be

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Katie interviews another yet another smart, creative, soulful and wise SMBC in the making (seriously...I am so blown away by the women who are making this choice. It never gets old!). Chekwube is a 31 year old Black queer femme novelist, poet, artist, and professor living and working in Los Angeles. Her warmth and intentionality shine through, as well as her desire for motherhood. I hope you enjoy meeting her as much as I did! You can connect with Chekwube and learn more about her work through her website: https://codanladi.com/ More info about coaching and community groups at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S4, Ep 9: Meet Halima, SMBC to be

Wed, 24 May 2023 11:00:00 -0400

I dare you to listen to this episode and NOT be inspired! Halima is a woman who is living life to it's fullest. A few years back, she began the process of shedding every part of life that didn't feel like the truest version of herself - and I am not talking about cleaning out her closet. We are talking about the big things...her job, her marriage, her home - Halima let it all go in order to pursue her deepest desire for motherhood. I am so excited for you to meet my friend and share in her absolute joy at the idea of becoming a solo parent. Halima is one of those people who makes me so very thankful to be on this solo parenting path, and I can't wait to share her story with you. If you want to connect with her, she's @halimaanderson on IG. Enjoy!👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S4, Ep 8: Meet Meghann, SMBC to two

Wed, 10 May 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Meghann shares her incredible story of overcoming loss and serious health complications while on her path to solo motherhood. Listen to hear how she beat the odds and stopped at nothing to create her beautiful family as a solo mom to two beautiful donor-embryo conceived kids. Meghann is a trauma surgeon, a pregnancy loss survivor and an amputee. She's had many opportunities to allow circumstances to drag her down, but she's risen above them all to create a beautiful life for herself and her two children. You can connect with Meg on the Quora platfrom @Meghann Kaiser. For more information about The Single Greatest Choice Yoga & Coaching Retreat, visit www.singlegreatestchoice.com/retreats. To enroll in upcoming group coaching, visit www.singlegreatestchoice.com/group-coaching👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S4, Ep 7: meet Anna, almost a single mother by choice

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Katie talks to friend and former coaching client Anna. Anna worked with Katie back in early 2021 as she pursued her own solo mom journey in the midst of the covid-19 pandemic. After a significant breakup and a move back to her hometown, Anna decided to continue dating while she waited for the covid-19 vaccine to become widely available before she began trying to conceive with a donor. This episode tells Anna's story - one that didn't turn out the way she planned! For more information about coaching, community groups, and the Single Greatest Choice Yoga + Coaching Retreat, visit www.singlegreatestchoice.com👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S4, Ep 6: two years as an SMBC with Katie B.

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Katie mentions @giftearlybird, an investing app where you can save for your child's future. If you create an account and use the code gifteb.co/3FZc2ob, you'll automatically get $15 deposited in your child's account. The app is super cool and customer service is excellent. I highly recommend this method of creating a little nest egg for your little one's future!

S4, Ep 5: meet Christina, SMBC

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 11:00:00 -0400

Christina Bernhard is a SMBC in Austin, Texas who Katie feels lucky to call a friend. Katie and Christina connected first on Instagram, then in real life. They share a passion for thought work and self-coaching, and both have used these tools to create a life they truly love as single mothers by choice. You'll love getting to know Christina, and I hope you'll go follow her and meet her gorgeous baby girl Aria over on Instagram @mschristinab. As always, you can find more info about the Single Greatest Choice Coaching & Community Groups over at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S4, Ep 4: meet Anne, single mother by choice

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Katie chats with her friend and coaching client, Anne. Anne found the Single Greatest Choice community just as she was beginning her journey to conceive her baby girl. In this episode, Anne divulges what it's like to move forward with solo motherhood while still holding a deep desire for both partnership and travel. Anne is someone who will inspire you to go after it all! You can find her on instagram @alyneis424. Find out more about SGC coaching and community group opportunities at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching 👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S4, Ep 3: books for your child's bookshelf

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 12:00:00 -0400

www.myperfectfamilybook.com

@myperfectfamilybook

@noneedforprincecharming

www.thejourneytoyouchildrensbook.com

@thejourneytoyouchildrensbook

"You're My Little..." boardbook series by Nicola Edwards and illustrated by Natalie Marshall

www.pinholepress.com for creating your own spiral-bound board books to tell your child's story

The Single Greatest Choice Coaching

www.singlegreatestchoice.com/retreats

www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching

Get Unstuck Week, March 13-17 - one hour coaching session on the topic of your choice, $55/hour - filling up fast

SGC Community Group - Thursdays, March 23 - April 27 - enrolling now!

S4, Ep 2: meet Liz, single mother by choice

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Katie talks with friend and former coaching client, Liz. While exploring the idea of solo motherhood by choice, Liz came across The Single Greatest Choice podcast and became one of Katie's early one-on-one coaching clients. You'll hear us discuss our shared apprehensions about conceiving via donor sperm and raising donor-conceived children. Spoiler alert: Liz worked through her concerns and is now a solo mama to the most adorable baby girl, Mira! Her process is a familiar one: research, research, research, then jump off the cliff! I am sure so many of you will relate to Liz's journey. You can find out more about SGC coaching opportunities at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S4, Ep 1: meet Lindsay, single mother by choice

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 12:00:00 -0400

Welcome to a new season of the podcast! In this episode, Katie chats with her friend and coaching client, Lindsay. Lindsay first found Katie through the Single Greatest Choice podcast, then chose to participate in both Group Coaching and the first ever Single Greatest Choice Community Group. Lindsay shares her journey to solo motherhood and some of the resources that have helped her along the way. You can find out more about SGC coaching opportunities at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S3 Bonus: 2022 end of year update with Katie B.

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 13:00:00 -0400

Catch up with Katie after a long break from the podcast. Hear answers to your questions about solo motherhood, the latest on coaching and retreats, and find out Katie's favorite parts of life with a 20 month old toddler!👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S3, Ep 5: using coaching strategies to choose the "perfect" donor

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Katie shares her favorite coaching tools by applying them to the sometimes emotional experience of choosing a donor as a solo parent. To learn more about these top 3 tools, visit:

You'll also learn about some upcoming ways to work with Katie, including very limited availability for one-on-one coaching, an upcoming discussion group in Oct-Nov, group coaching in Dec 2022, and the first ever Single Greatest Choice yoga and coaching retreat in Summer 2023! Find out more at www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching

S3, Ep 4: choosing a known donor with Stephanie & Porter

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 11:00:00 -0400

Katie talks donor selection with Stephanie, solo mom to Porter George. Stephanie made the shift from considering an open ID donor through a cryobank to selecting a known donor after doing research on the perspectives of donor conceived individuals. You can follow Stephanie and Porter @mamasteph_np on Instagram!👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S3, Ep 3: five SMBCs share how they chose their donor

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, five women share their stories and perspective about choosing a donor on the path to becoming a Single Mother by Choice.👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S3, Ep 2: a surprise donor sibling connection with Holly & Tatiana

Wed, 18 May 2022 11:00:00 -0400

Holly and Katie describe an unbelievable discovery on the path to solo motherhood. You don't want to miss this story! 👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S3, Ep 1: a donor connection with Merav & Noa

Wed, 27 Apr 2022 11:00:00 -0400

Katie has a conversation with another SMC who shares her donor. That's right, our kids are biological half siblings! Connecting with donor sibling families has been a highlight on the SMC path. This conversation will give you an idea of why!👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S2 Bonus: one year as a SMBC with Katie B.

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 11:00:00 -0400

S2 Bonus: I'm (kinda) back! - an update from the trenches with Katie B.

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 12:00:00 -0400

S2 Bonus: Sarah Parente, Sacred Work Doula

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 11:00:00 -0400

https://www.sacredworkdoula.com/ IG: @sacredworkdoula👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S2 Bonus: Katie's birth story and postpartum experience

Fri, 11 Jun 2021 11:00:00 -0400

S2, Ep 8: taking a break from the pod and a bonus mini-episode

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 12:00:00 -0400

In this episode, I mention a few courses I am working through in my final weeks of pregnancy. Here are links in case you are interested:

The Real Deal Childbirth Education (local to Austin, but currently online via Zoom)

The Positive Birth Company Hypnobirthing Digital Pack

Better Birth Stories Online Hypnobirthing Course

Austin Born Infant CPR + Choking + Safety Course (online, on demand)

Taking Cara Babies - First Five Months Bundle

S2, Ep 7: a "thinker's" perspective on considering solo motherhood

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Talitha is a successful, single woman in her 30s who has always known she wanted to be a mom. She took proactive steps in her early thirties to preserve her fertility, but now that she’s into her mid-thirties, she’s questioning what’s next. Should she freeze more eggs? Maybe embryos? Keep searching for that partner and a more traditional route to motherhood, or start considering doing it on her own? Talitha is open and honest about the struggles of being in the midst of this difficult choice of what to do about our finite fertility when life doesn’t work out the way we planned. I know listeners will relate to her story, as it’s one many of us have lived as well. You can connect with Talitha on Instagram @talithabaker.👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S2, Ep 6: solo foster to adoptive mama, Lindsay

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Lindsay shares her story of choosing to pursue solo motherhood through the foster-to-adopt system in the Los Angeles area. Listen as she shares the ins and outs of the process, as well as her own thoughts and feelings about marriage, dating, solo parenting and more. Lindsay shares great tips and advice for anyone considering solo parenthood, whether through pregnancy, fostering or adoption. I know you are going to fall in love with her big heart and generous spirit. Thank you Lindsay for sharing your story! You can connect with Lindsay at: llamallamafostermomma@gmail.com Instagram @mysocalledfosterlife👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S2, Ep 5: Whitney Bischoff Angel, fertility nurse and patient advocate at OVA Egg Freezing

Wed, 03 Feb 2021 12:00:00 -0400

This week’s guest is Whitney Bischoff Angel, and egg freezing nurse specialist at Ova Egg Freezing in Chicago. Fertility preservation is her career path, but it is also quite personal. Whitney chose to freeze her own eggs back in 2013, and she used her experience on the reality TV series The Bachelor as a platform to bring awareness to issues of women’s reproductive health and fertility. In this episode, Whitney will share about her own experience with egg freezing and motherhood, and she will also provide valuable information for listeners who are just beginning to explore fertility preservation through egg freezing. I am so happy to have Whitney on the show today, especially for listeners who are concerned about their fertility, but not quite ready to make the leap into parenthood. Ova Egg Freezing can be found at: (312)800-0228 www.ovaeggfreezing.com whitney@ovaeggfreezing.com IG: @ovaeggfreezing Stay tuned in the last 10 minutes of the show to hear a bonus mini-episode from an anonymous podcast listener!👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S2, Ep 4: cancer previvor and double donor SMBC with Maggie

Wed, 27 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0400

This week I had the opportunity to talk with Maggie, who learned she has a gene mutation that put her at significantly higher risk for both breast and ovarian cancer. So on top of dealing with the ticking of the biological clock that we all hear to a certain extent, Maggie had even more pressing biological matters to address on her path to motherhood. To me, Maggie’s story stands out because these are exactly the kinds of circumstances that can make us feel hopeless and helpless, like a victim in our own story...unless we chose to write a different, more empowering narrative...which is exactly what Maggie has done. Listen as she shares the ups and downs of her journey in a very candid way. I hope that you’ll learn from her and be inspired by how she has persevered and chosen to see the good in very challenging circumstances. You can connect with Maggie on Instagram @mwilson102 👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S2, Ep 3: solo mom by chance and then by choice, a decade apart with Heather

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Heather is a single mom by chance to a preteen boy and a single mom by choice to a baby girl. In this episode, she shares the differences in those two experiences, as well as the joys and struggles of parenting solo. Heather is positive and real about her unconventional path to motherhood. You can find her on Instagram @momversuswild, and watch out for her forthcoming blog www.momversuswild.com, which will be full of tips and tricks for single motherhood!👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S2 Bonus Takeover: 50 First Dates on The Life Unscripted Podcast with Kristy Katzmann

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Today I am doing something I've never done before and sharing an episode of another podcast with you. Kristy Katzmann, host of The Life Unscripted Podcast, generously invited me to be a guest on her new show. Together, we recap my journey to solo motherhood including going on over 50 first dates in order to meet my partner before deciding to embark on becoming a single mother by choice. Whether you've heard my story before or not, I hope you enjoy this recap and the perspective hindsight has given me. Please make sure to go over and subscribe to The Life Unscripted Podcast so that you don't miss a single episode! https://the-life-unscripted-podcast.simplecast.com/👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S2, Ep 2: preconception health coach and holistic nutritionist with Naturally Nora

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Nora DeBora is a Preconception Health Coach, Holistic Nutritionist and Yoga Instructor who helps women prepare their bodies for pregnancy and have a healthy baby after age 30. Nora’s connection to the topics we discuss on the show is both personal and professional. While her signature coaching program, Holistic Pregnancy Prep, teaches women to naturally achieve their best health before pregnancy so that mind and body are in the most optimal state to get pregnant, Nora is also a 37 year old single woman who’s passionate about preserving and optimizing her own fertility, as well as exploring the idea of solo motherhood herself in the next few years. You can learn more about Nora at: www.naturallynora.ca IG @naturally_nora👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S2, Ep 1: Clinical Psychologist, Financial Therapist and SMBC with Dr. Traci

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Dr. Traci is a black, immigrant, queer single mother by choice, who came to the decision to parent alone after surviving an infertility diagnosis and pregnancy loss. She was born and raised in Trinidad & Tobago, where most of her family still lives. After moving to the United States for college and later, grad school, she’s made a life here as a psychologist who specializes in child, adolescent, and family psychology. Dr. Traci is passionate about mental health and access to care, particularly for minority and marginalized people. Dr. Traci hosts the podcast Healthy, Wealthy Roots - a show born from her life experiences that delves into finances, mental health and parenting. She is passionate about sharing what she’s learning with those who may not have had access to this information before. She believes our futures grow from healthy, wealthy roots. You can find Dr. Traci in the following places: Website: https://www.healthywealthyroots.org Instagram: healthywealthyroots YouTube: Healthy Wealthy Roots Clubhouse: hwr👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S1 Bonus: Molly Hawkey, host of Spermcast Podcast

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 11:00:05 -0400

Molly Hawkey is an actor, writer, comedian and host of the podcast SpermCast. In this episode, Katie and Molly talk about the decision to become single mothers by choice, our processes to become pregnant, and what it's been like to go through this experience publicly as podcast hosts. Molly is hilarious and open and has taught the SMC community so much about fertility and conception, miscarriage and pregnancy. I am so grateful that Molly was willing to share her time and her wisdom with us on the show! 👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S1 Bonus: Kristy Katzmann, star of Labor of Love

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 11:00:39 -0400

Kristy Katzmann is most recently the star of Fox's new reality show, Labor of Love, which highlights the journey of a woman who "has it all," except one thing... a family of her own. At 40 and single, Kristy began actively researching and planning to pursue motherhood on her own when the opportunity to be cast on a show (that was quite literally her life) crossed her path. She said "yes" in a last effort to meet "the one" or to be sure of her path to motherhood as a Single Mother by Choice. It was her greatest hope that by going public with such a vulnerable part of her life, she could help other women and bring more awareness and acceptance to this very relevant topic. In her heart, Kristy believed she would ultimately pursue motherhood on her own (and meet the right partner later), and that's exactly what happened (TBD on the partner)! Kristy, like many of us, has had to grieve the loss of not getting the story she wanted, but today she is so grateful and excited to be a part of this amazing community. Now that she’s here, she says she truly wouldn't want it any other way. Kristy has never wanted a "normal" life, so this just seems like a very fitting part of the journey! 👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S1 Bonus: Katie's Pregnancy Update & the Podcast Community

Wed, 26 Aug 2020 11:00:04 -0400

Follow Katie on Instagram for the pictures from this episode.

New Group: www.facebook.com/groups/singlegreatestchoice

S1, Ep 21: season one finale with guest updates

Wed, 12 Aug 2020 11:00:12 -0400

www.singlegreatestchoice.com

IG @single_greatest_choice

S1, Ep 20: Dr. Natalie Crawford, MD, fertility physician at Fora Fertility

Wed, 05 Aug 2020 11:00:02 -0400

You can find Dr. Crawford at:

S1, Ep 19: the path to mama with Mecca

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 11:00:07 -0400

In this episode, you'll hear about:

how Mecca was blindsided by premature diminished ovarian reserve at age 36
choosing to create embryos with donor sperm for fertility preservation
the importance of talking with a reproductive psychologist as part of your fertility treatment
what to consider when choosing a donor
how race considerations can impact donor selection
going through round after round of egg retrieval to bank embryos for the future
Mecca's top three pieces of advice for other women on the path to solo motherhood

You can connect with Mecca on Instagram @thepathtomama

S 1, Ep 18: all about coaching with Katie B.

Wed, 22 Jul 2020 11:00:14 -0400

In this episode, Katie referenced:

To learn more about working with me as your coach, visit www.singlegreatestchoice.com/coaching. I'd love to work with you!

S1, Ep 17: becoming a solo parent after grief with Shelle Lynn

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 11:00:34 -0400

After the unexpected death of her husband, Shelle became a life and grief coach to support other women through loss. She also became a solo mom via donor conception. Join us as we talk about grief, donor selection, pregnancy, coaching, and much more. You can learn more about Shelle's coaching at www.shellelynncoaching.com and find her on Instagram @shellelynncoaching. 👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S1, Ep 16: making babies alone (with a friend) with Jess & Lauren

Wed, 08 Jul 2020 11:00:09 -0400

Jess & Lauren and two friends living in South Florida. After years of navigating the dating world and concluding that "all the men were shit", the two friends decided to go to a sperm bank and create babies on the own. Now the friends each have a daughter and they are building houses next door to each other...sounds like a dream come true! You can find out more about Jess and Lauren's story on Instagram @making_babies_alone.👩‍👧‍👦The Single Greatest Choice is here to support you in every stage of your SMBC journey through 1:1 coaching, community groups, the SGC Village membership community, and retreats and SMBC family trips. Reach out to Katie over at katie@singlegreatestchoice.com

S1, Ep 15: The New Mom Boss with Kallista Andersen

Wed, 01 Jul 2020 11:00:05 -0400

In this episode, you will learn about:

the importance of “building your village"
how to create your “4th trimester” postpartum nesting plan
preparing for the “5th trimester” as you reenter work and social life
Kallista’s connection to the Single Greatest Choice community as an egg donor
Katie and Kallista “rebrand” SMCs as “single mothers by intention”

You can learn more about Kallista and her work at www.newmomboss.com and @newmomboss on Instagram.

S1, Ep 14: no need for prince charming with Alisha Burns

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 11:00:12 -0400

In this episode, you will hear about:

Alisha’s marriage and fertility journey in her early thirties
the loss of Alisha’s first baby, Jeremy
rebuilding life after loss
considerations of donor conception
Alisha’s experience with two rounds of IVF
the hidden blessings of giving birth during a pandemic
Alisha’s birth story
post-partum tips for SMCs and other fantastic SMC advice

Follow Alisha on Instagram @noneedforprincecharming

S1, Ep 13: the hardest and greatest choice with Summer

Wed, 17 Jun 2020 11:00:04 -0400

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

overcoming the “shame” of becoming an SMC
how fertility preservation eventually led to conception of two daughters via IVF
connecting with the choice mom community
how Summer finally got clear on “pulling the trigger” to become an SMC
the joys of motherhood
the importance of building community and creating your team
why it was important to Summer to have two children as a choice mom
letting go of regrets
Summer’s YouTube video series for choice moms!

Find Summer @summerlovret on Instagram and on YouTube!

S1, Ep 12: Questioning motherhood with CEO at Steadfast Life, Whitney Roehl

Wed, 03 Jun 2020 11:00:04 -0400

Find out more about Steadfast Life Coaching:

www.steadfastlifecoaching.com

@SteadfastLifeCoaching

S1, Ep 11: SMBC and creator of the Embie app, Ravid Israel

Wed, 27 May 2020 11:00:12 -0400

In this episode, you will hear about:

how cervical cancer acted as a fertility wake-up call for Ravid
what it's like to try to conceive via IVF in a new relationship
how Ravid used data and mindset to find success after 5 rounds of IVF
Ravid's experience of going through a breakup in the midst of fertility treatment
pregnancy as an SMC
fertility treatment and donor conception in Israel vs. the U.S.
all about the Embie app!
advice for advocating for yourself

Check out the Embie app at https://embieapp.com/, and follow Ravid on Instagram for regular updates @embie2baby

S1, Ep 10: single motherhood by choice and mindset with Juliet

Wed, 20 May 2020 11:00:08 -0400

In this episode, you will hear:

knowing when it's time to "pull the trigger" and become an SMC
moving into confidence and empowerment
benefits of single motherhood by choice
benefits of PGS testing
preparing your body for IVF
mindset and single motherhood
pregnancy and preparing for motherhood during a pandemic
letting go of blaming our past, ourselves, and other people
advice for women considering single motherhood

Books referenced in this episode:

Brighton Baby by Roy Dittman

It Starts with the Egg by Rebecca Fett

S1, Ep 9: choosing platonic coparenting with Sarah

Wed, 13 May 2020 11:00:00 -0400

In this episode, you will hear:

considering single motherhood by choice
discovering platonic coparenting and modamily.com
how Sarah "dated" her coparent and decided to take the plunge
the process of getting pregnant with a platonic coparent
pregnancy and living arrangements for coparenting
the pros and cons of platonic coparenting
why you should potentially consider platonic coparenting
dating while coparenting

Find out more about platonic coparenting at https://www.modamily.com/

S1 Bonus: processing emotions

Sun, 10 May 2020 17:41:31 -0400

In this episode, Katie references and draws upon these teachers:

S1, Ep 8: when solo motherhood is Plan A with Emma

Wed, 06 May 2020 11:00:09 -0400

In this episode, you will hear:

why Emma feels comfortable with and actually prefers the idea of single motherhood over a more "traditional" family structure
family structure and the idea of "chosen family"
trusting divine timing and being in the right energy to conceive
are there ethical concerns with bringing a child into the world right now?
carrying on the family name
choosing a sperm donor in the U.K.
the importance of choosing the right clinic
the difference between the NHS and private healthcare in the states
advice for women who are questioning if, when and how they will become mothers
why it is so important to share our stories
how to know if you're ready

Connect with Emma on Instagram @project_chickpea

S1, Ep 7: The Wholesome Fertility Method with Michelle Oravitz

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 11:00:03 -0400

In this episode, you'll hear:

how Michelle'e experience with acupuncture in her twenties led to her eventual career pivot
combining acupuncture and hypnosis to treat both the body and the mind
how to start paying attention to signals your body is giving about your own fertility, including tracking basal body temperature and other signs of ovulation
how environmental toxins can affect hormones
how supplements can increase fertility
the importance of creating calm and balance in the body through mindfulness and breathwork
bringing spirituality into reproductive medicine
The Wholesome Fertility Method, a seven-week online program
preparing for and detoxing after and IVF/egg freezing cycle
how to choose an acupuncturist
and a bonus candid conversation, where Katie shares her thoughts about spirituality and conception via fertility treatments

www.thewholesomelotus.com

www.thewholesomefertilitymethod.com

@thewholesomelotusfertility on Instagram

https://www.facebook.com/thewholesomelotus/]

S1, Ep 6: finding hope in the midst of heartbreak with Krista

Wed, 22 Apr 2020 11:00:08 -0400

Connect with Krista and see photographs of some of what's mentioned in the episode @project.pickle on Instagram.

Learn more at www.singlegreatestchoice.com and @single_greatest_choice on Instagram.

S1, Ep 5: on mentoring and single motherhood by choice with Brenda

Wed, 15 Apr 2020 11:00:19 -0400

In this episode, you'll hear about:

how Brenda had to make a now-or-never choice about motherhood at age 37
the importance of having an SMC community
why you should consider egg freezing
why statistics don't always matter...and then we talk about a bunch of unverified statistics!
using donor embryos
adoption vs. pregnancy
parenting donor conceived children
advocating for awareness of non-traditional family structures
Brenda's upcoming memoir, Kindness Among Us

To connect with Brenda, you can follow her @notnuclearfamilies on Instagram.

Learn more at www.singlegreatestchoice.com and @single_greatest_choice on Instagram.

S1, Ep 4: ready for motherhood at 30 with Gloria

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 11:00:20 -0400

In this episode, you'll hear about:

how Gloria decided she was ready to become a mom
how connecting with other women through social media makes considering single motherhood easier
how loss impacts the desire for motherhood
how COVID-19 is affecting Gloria's TTC plans
the process of choosing a donor
thoughts about choosing a donor outside of your own race
worrying about the ways we might screw up our kids
dating while planning to become an SMC
sharing TTC plans with family and friends
Gloria's post-baby plans

S1, Ep 3: on choosing single motherhood with Chelsea

Wed, 01 Apr 2020 11:00:08 -0400

In this episode, you'll hear about:

deciding to become a single mother by choice
the importance of creating strong community
the process of choosing a donor
how the corona virus has interrupted plans to TTC
what Chelsea has learned that she wishes she'd known earlier
the frustration of spending large amounts of money to get pregnant , while couples often get pregnant "for free"
how other people have reacted to her decision to become a mom on her own
considering whether to have more than one donor-conceived child
why you may or may not want to search for Facebook groups that connect you to recipients who share your same donor
donor sibling considerations
sperm bank considerations - anonymous vs. open ID donors, family limits, etc.
considering the possibility of a known donor
perks of being a solo parent
dating while planning or trying to conceive
staying open to the idea of a relationship while staying firm in your solo plans

Learn more at www.singlegreatestchoice.com and @single_greatest_choice on Instagram.

S1, Ep 2: my fertility story

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 11:00:26 -0400

You'll hear Katie reference her fantastic reproductive endocrinologist, Dr. Natalie Crawford. Dr. Crawford has a podcast and YouTube channel that provide incredible information for any woman, whether you are trying to conceive or not. Check out her website HERE.

Learn more at www.singlegreatestchoice.com and @single_greatest_choice on Instagram.

S1, Ep 1: welcome to the single greatest choice

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 15:34:28 -0400

Referenced in this episode:

EverlyWell At Home Ovarian Reserve Test (this is the one Katie used)
EverlyWell Women's Fertility Test
The Modern Fertility Test (this company also provides a TON of great research!)

Learn more at www.singlegreatestchoice.com and @single_greatest_choice on Instagram.