Part 1: Coordinating Miracles: Inside a Ukraine Surrogacy Journey.

What happens when care goes beyond protocol and a team’s heart determines the outcome of life-changing journeys? In this episode, Maria Feekes sits down with Ivanna, the powerhouse behind Ukraine’s surrogacy coordination team, to uncover the stories you never hear, the silent battles, difficult choices, and extraordinary dedication that make hope possible for families across continents. If you’ve ever wondered what it truly takes to keep intended parents, surrogates, and babies safe in the most unpredictable circumstances, you won’t want to miss this revealing, inspiring conversation.Ivanna, Ukrainian surrogacy coordinator and heart behind countless family journeys, joins the show to discuss the invisible care, vigilance, and advocacy required to ensure every step runs smoothly, even when protocols say "wait and see.”KEY TOPICSThe irreplaceable role of Ivanna and her team as "guardian angels" for surrogacy in Ukraine 00:22Why deep emotional involvement, not just protocol drives extra care for surrogates and parents 02:20Real stories of pushing beyond medical guidelines to ensure surrogate safety, including personal fights with doctors 08:42How proactive risk management catches issues before protocols are triggered, preventing crises for families 11:15The unseen emotional labor and critical decision-making behind every “routine” update during surrogacy journeys 21:02Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:Website: www.smartpathfertilityintl.comInstagram: instagram.com/mariafeekesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

What does a surrogacy coordinator really do, and what role does a surrogacy agency play throughout a U.S. surrogacy journey?In this episode, Maria Feekes sits down with Kristi Campbell, U.S. Head of Operations & Coordination at SMARTPath Fertility International, to explain the role of a surrogacy coordinator and what happens behind the scenes during the surrogacy process in the United States.For intended parents, surrogacy can involve a fertility clinic, gestational surrogate, attorneys, escrow, insurance, medical appointments, embryo transfer, pregnancy monitoring, and eventually delivery. A surrogacy coordinator helps connect those moving pieces while supporting both the intended parents and the surrogate throughout the journey.Maria and Kristi discuss:What a surrogacy coordinator does during a U.S. surrogacy journeyWhat happens behind the scenes at a surrogacy agencyHow coordinators support intended parents and gestational surrogatesThe coordinator’s role during surrogate matching, medical screening, embryo transfer, pregnancy, and birthWhat happens when there are delays, unexpected problems, or difficult newsHow coordinators communicate with fertility clinics, attorneys, escrow teams, insurance providers, surrogates, and intended parentsHow a coordinator helps navigate the emotional side of surrogacyWhy good surrogacy coordination is much more than scheduling appointments and managing paperworkWhat intended parents should look for when choosing a surrogacy agency or coordinatorKristi also shares the human side of the work: the difficult conversations, unexpected problems, emotional moments, and behind-the-scenes decisions that intended parents may never realize are happening.If you are researching surrogacy in the United States, how the U.S. surrogacy process works, what a surrogacy coordinator does, what a surrogacy agency does, or how intended parents and gestational surrogates are supported during a journey, this episode offers a real-world look at the people and coordination behind the process.

What is embryo transfer day actually like — physically, emotionally, and mentally?In Part 2 of Megan’s surrogacy journey on Your Fertility Story, Maria Feekes reconnects with Megan shortly after embryo transfer to talk honestly about what the experience was really like from a surrogate’s perspective. Following their first conversation before transfer day, this episode explores what happened during the procedure, how her body felt afterward, the emotional reality of the process, and what intended parents often don’t fully see behind the scenes.Megan shares:What embryo transfer day looks like step-by-stepWhether embryo transfer is painful or uncomfortablePhysical symptoms and recovery after transferThe emotional side of IVF transfer dayWhat surprised her most about the experienceHer message to intended parents waiting and hopingIf you’ve ever wondered:What does embryo transfer feel like?What happens after embryo transfer?What is embryo transfer recovery like?What should intended parents expect emotionally?…this episode gives a real and human perspective from someone living it.To connect with Maria:www.smartpathfertilityintl.com

In this episode of Your Fertility Story, Maria Feekes sits down with Korbet Annis from VitalCells to explore one of the most important—and often overlooked—decisions intended parents can make before their baby is born: whether to preserve newborn stem cells and what that actually means. The conversation begins with Maria sharing why this topic became so relevant after multiple intended fathers in her surrogacy program asked what options existed to protect their future child's health, particularly when using anonymous egg donors.Many families have heard of cord blood banking, but few understand its limitations, the difference between cord blood and umbilical cord tissue, or how advances in regenerative medicine are changing the conversation. Korbet explains these concepts in an approachable way, helping intended parents understand not only the science behind newborn stem cell preservation, but also the practical considerations before delivery.Together, Maria and Korbet discuss:The difference between traditional cord blood banking and umbilical cord tissue stem cell banking.Why many families misunderstand what cord blood can—and cannot—be used for.How regenerative medicine differs from stem cell transplants used for blood cancers.Why newborn stem cells may become a valuable lifelong health resource.How stem cells are collected, processed, expanded, and stored after birth.Whether stem cells may be used for future injuries, inflammatory conditions, and other regenerative therapies.Questions every intended parent should ask before choosing a stem cell banking company.Logistics for babies born through surrogacy in both the United States and Mexico, including transportation and timing after delivery.Whether you're pursuing surrogacy, IVF, egg donation, or simply preparing for the birth of your child, this episode will help you better understand today's options so you can make an informed decision before delivery.About the GuestKorbet Annis is a newborn stem cell banking educator with VitalCells, where she helps expectant families understand the evolving science of newborn stem cell preservation and regenerative medicine. With more than a decade of experience in stem cell banking, Korbet is passionate about educating parents on the differences between traditional cord blood banking and newer approaches that preserve live mesenchymal stem cells for potential future therapeutic use.Connect with Korbet & VitalCellsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/korbet-annis-9701154a/Website: https://vitalcells.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vitalcells_/Disclaimer: This episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. The discussion reflects the guest's expertise and perspective. Families should consult with qualified medical professionals when making decisions regarding stem cell banking, regenerative medicine, and future medical care.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Your Fertility Story, leave a review, and share it with someone navigating infertility, IVF, surrogacy, or donor conception. Your support helps us continue bringing expert conversations to intended parents around the world.

What’s it really like to meet your baby for the first time after an international surrogacy journey while adjusting to parenthood in a foreign country? In this episode, Whitney and Hugh share the raw, beautiful, and unexpectedly humorous realities of welcoming their child in Ukraine and what new parents everywhere can learn from their experience.Whitney Shefte is an new parent, documentary filmmaker and journalist. She is currently working on a documentary film about her surrogacy journey and the state of the surrogacy industry around the world. See some of her work on her website.Below are the key takeaways from this episode:Warm Welcome and Support: Whitney and Hugh felt fully accepted as parents by the Ukrainian hospital staff during their surrogacy experience and appreciated the guidance they received.Adjusting to Local Realities: While in Ukraine, they found the environment comfortable and safe, with access to all needed amenities, and noticed daily life felt calm and familiar despite the country’s unique circumstances.Parenting Challenges Abroad: They navigated sleep deprivation and newborn care in another country, found affordable help like a night nurse, and encouraged others to accept support when needed.Efficient Documentation Process: Obtaining the birth certificate and passport was fast and smooth, especially with advance preparation and help from local coordinators.Practical Tips for Future Parents: Don’t overpack (supplies are easily found locally), prepare documents in advance, use translation apps, and accept that it’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions as new parents through surrogacy.Todays guest, Whitney Shefte, can be found online at:Blog: https://whitneyshefte.tumblr.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wshefte/Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:Website: smartpathfertilityintl.comWebsite: mariafeekes.comFacebook: facebook.com/mariafeekesInstagram: instagram.com/mariafeekesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

At the very start of her surrogacy journey, Adesola opens up about a rollercoaster of discoveries, unexpected diagnoses, tough decisions, and the powerful self-worth lessons she learned along the way. With honesty and warmth, Adesola and Maria Feekes dive into the unique challenges of finding hope after heartbreak, navigating international options, and breaking taboos around fertility struggles. If you’ve ever felt alone or overwhelmed on a path to parenthood, this candid conversation offers a rare blend of practical advice, emotional insight, and true inspiration. Don’t miss the first chapter of a story that promises to redefine what it means to build a family.Adesola joins the show to share why letting go of expectations and embracing every path to parenthood can open doors to hope, healing, and a sense of self-worth that transcends biology.KEY TOPICSAdesola’s early fertility struggles and the emotional impact of being diagnosed with premature ovarian failure [02:06]The process and mindset shift from hoping to carry a pregnancy to choosing surrogacy and accepting the role of egg donation [03:13]The importance of letting go of societal judgment, embracing self-worth, and finding support during fertility challenges [05:39]Navigating international fertility logistics including selecting a donor in the US, surrogacy in Mexico, and biotransport of embryos [15:33]Advice on managing timelines, being patient with the process, and trusting doctors to optimize success in fertility journeys [24:19]Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:Website: www.smartpathfertilityintl.comInstagram: instagram.com/mariafeekesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

What does it really take to become a surrogate - and what happens before embryo transfer?In this episode, Maria Feekes sits down with Megan, a first-time gestational surrogate in the USA, to share a real behind-the-scenes look at the surrogacy process from the surrogate’s perspective, right before embryo transfer day.If you’re wondering:how to become a surrogatewhat happens before embryo transfer in surrogacysurrogate screening, medical tests, and matching processwhat motivates someone to be a surrogatewhat the emotional experience of surrogacy is really like— this episode offers honest, first-hand insight.Megan shares:Her personal journey to becoming a surrogate, inspired by her own adoption storyWhat the screening and matching process actually involves, including medical testing and background checksThe unexpected challenges and delays that can happen before transferThe role of support systems, from coordinators to family and friendsThe emotional reality of preparing for embryo transfer, including boundaries, expectations, and trustThis is a real, unfiltered look at surrogacy from the surrogate’s side, helping intended parents better understand the dedication, care, and commitment behind the journey.If you are considering surrogacy in the USA, this episode will give you a deeper appreciation of the process - and the people who make it possible.About the GuestMegan is a first-time gestational surrogate and mother of two. Inspired by her own experience as an adoptee, she chose to become a surrogate to help other families grow, bringing empathy, dedication, and a strong sense of purpose to the journey.KEY TOPICSSurrogacy journey to embryo transfer: patience, delays, and preparation [00:02:24]Why become a surrogate? Personal motivation and adoption story [00:04:12]Surrogate screening process: medical tests, background checks, and matching [00:08:06]Surrogacy support system: coordinators, family, and community [00:23:56]Emotional realities of surrogacy: boundaries, trust, and creating life for others [00:29:56]Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:Website: smartpathfertilityintl.comWebsite: mariafeekes.comFacebook: facebook.com/mariafeekesInstagram: instagram.com/mariafeekesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

What rights do surrogates have in the United States - and what should intended parents understand before starting?In this episode, Maria Feekes sits down with attorney Kristen Armstrong to break down surrogate rights and legal protections in US surrogacy, including contracts, autonomy, and the real decisions that shape the journey.If you’re researching:surrogacy laws in the USA and surrogate rightswhat is allowed in surrogacy contracts (US)surrogate autonomy and medical decision-makinggestational carrier rights by staterisks and responsibilities for intended parents— this episode gives you clear, experience-based insight.Kristen explains:How state laws impact surrogate rights and protections, and why choosing a surrogate-friendly state mattersWhat body autonomy means in surrogacy, including decisions around medical care, abortion, and doctor choiceCommon points of conflict in surrogacy contracts - and how to align expectations earlyWhen and how surrogates or intended parents can change their minds before pregnancyHow compensation, benefits, and overlooked financial protections are structuredThis is a practical legal discussion of US surrogacy from the surrogate’s perspective, helping intended parents better understand the framework that protects both sides.If you are considering surrogacy in the United States, this episode will help you approach the process with more clarity, respect, and confidence.About the GuestKristen Armstrong is an attorney with over 18 years of experience in healthcare law, medical tourism, and surrogacy. She represents surrogates in contracts with intended parents and in establishing parental rights, ensuring protection, clarity, and advocacy throughout the process.Learn more: https://globalhealthcarelaw.comKEY TOPICS Surrogate rights in the USA: how state laws shape protections and legal structure [00:03:09]Body autonomy in surrogacy: medical decisions, abortion, and contractual limits [00:05:49]Surrogacy contract risks: common conflicts and why shared values matter [00:08:48]Can you change your mind in surrogacy? Legal considerations before pregnancy [00:11:50]Surrogate compensation and benefits: what is included and often overlooked [00:16:41]Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:Website: smartpathfertilityintl.comWebsite: mariafeekes.comFacebook: facebook.com/mariafeekesInstagram: instagram.com/mariafeekesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

Why is my surrogacy taking so long - and is this normal?In this solo episode, Maria Feekes answers one of the most common and stressful questions intended parents ask: why the surrogacy process can feel slow and unpredictable, even when everything seems to be done “right.”If you’re experiencing:delays in your surrogacy journeyuncertainty around timelines and next stepsfrustration waiting for matching, medical clearance, or embryo transferquestions like “how long does surrogacy really take?”— this episode will give you clarity, reassurance, and practical perspective.Maria walks through:What a typical surrogacy timeline looks like - and where delays most often happenWhy biological, medical, and logistical factors can slow the process, even with strong planningHow IVF and embryo transfer timing impacts the overall journeyWhy delays are often about optimizing outcomes, not because something is wrongPractical ways to cope with waiting, stress, and lack of control during fertility treatmentThis is an honest, experience-based look at surrogacy delays and timelines, designed to help you feel more grounded and informed while navigating the waiting period.If your surrogacy journey feels slow or uncertain, this episode will remind you that you are not alone - and that progress is still happening, even when it’s not visible.KEY TOPICS Why surrogacy takes so long: emotional impact of waiting and uncertainty [00:24]Surrogacy timeline vs reality: expectations vs unpredictable delays [01:10]Common causes of delays in surrogacy and IVF: medical, biological, and logistics [04:19]Why delays can improve outcomes in fertility and surrogacy [06:11]Coping with waiting in surrogacy: shifting from frustration to trust and patience [13:26]Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:Website: smartpathfertilityintl.comWebsite: mariafeekes.comFacebook: facebook.com/mariafeekesInstagram: instagram.com/mariafeekesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

Curious what really happens behind the scenes of an international surrogacy journey? In this episode, Maria Feekes sits down with Damion, a determined dad navigating the complexities of embryo creation in Mexico City. Packed with surprising lessons on the science, finances, and emotional ups and downs of building a family abroad, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what hopeful parents wish they knew before they started. Whether you’re considering surrogacy or just intrigued by powerful stories of resilience, you won’t want to miss these hard-earned insights and candid moments.Damion is a corporate chef, real estate investor, and intended father navigating the intricate process of embryo creation and surrogacy. Currently based in Polanco, Mexico City, Damion brings both determination and resourcefulness to his family-building journey. Researching genetic testing, managing costs, and collaborating with medical teams across borders. His story highlights the realities and lessons learned while pursuing surrogacy internationally and the importance of persistence, preparation, and finding the right support system along the way.KEY TOPICSThe financial planning challenges of fertility journeys in Mexico vs. the US [00:03:12]Deep-diving into DNA fragmentation, oxidative stress, and advanced sperm testing for embryo creation [00:05:19]Navigating global insurance coverage for fertility treatments and leveraging US benefits abroad [00:07:10]Comparing medical protocols and lab technologies between Mexican and US fertility clinics, including the use of Zymot [00:12:18]The emotional reality of setbacks, support from partners, and the power of staying proactive through uncertainty [00:20:01]Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at:Website: smartpathfertilityintl.comWebsite: mariafeekes.comFacebook: facebook.com/mariafeekesInstagram: instagram.com/mariafeekesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/