IVF DADDIES

JULIO GAGGIA & RICHARD WESTOBY
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IVF DADDIES Podcast

Sometimes it takes a village to make a daddy. IVF Daddies started with one man's pursuit of fatherhood through IVF, egg donation, and surrogacy. Richard Westoby's journey brought him into an incredible community of fertility experts, aspiring parents, and beautifully unique families. A decade after the birth of his children, Richard introduced his partner Julio Gaggia to the wonderful world of family-building—and he has a lot of questions. IVF Daddies is where we explore those big questions. What makes a family? Can you do IVF without losing your sanity or your savings? How do we shatter the s Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ivfdaddies/support

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    41) LOVING BEING A SURROGATE

    In this episode of the IVF Daddies podcast, the host engages in a heartfelt conversation with Carey, a surrogate, exploring her journey into surrogacy, the emotional and physical challenges she faced, and the importance of mental health support throughout the process. They discuss the dynamics of being a surrogate, the relationships formed with intended parents, and the unique experiences of postpartum as a surrogate. The conversation highlights the altruistic motivations behind surrogacy and the profound impact it has on families. Carey Flamer-Powell, Founder and Director Carey Flamer-Powell, Founder and Director of Surrogacy Mentor, is an experienced gestational surrogate, surrogacy agency founder and surrogacy non-profit co-founder, with over a decade of experience in the surrogacy industry.​ She also currently serves as the co-Vice President of SEEDS, The Society for Ethics in Egg Donation and Surrogacy. As the Founder and former owner of All Families Surrogacy, an award-winning gestational surrogacy agency, Carey spent 6 years helping hundreds of surrogates and parents navigate their journeys. Carey also co-founded and served as Co-President of the Oregon Surrogacy Professionals Association (OSPA), served as the LGBTQ Surrogacy Advisor for Parents Via Egg Donation (PVED), and has served on several committees for SEEDS over the years. Carey brings her vast surrogacy expertise to Surrogacy Mentor®, in addition to over 25 years in business operations management and PR, to help surrogates find the right agency for them. In this episode of the IVF Daddies podcast, the host engages in a heartfelt conversation with Carrie, a surrogate mother, exploring her journey into surrogacy, the emotional complexities involved, and the importance of mental health support throughout the process. Carrie shares her motivations for becoming a surrogate, the challenges of failed transfers, and the unique bond she formed with the intended parents. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of surrogacy, emphasizing the need for strong support networks and the normalization of diverse family structures. Takeaways Carey's's journey into surrogacy began with her own experience of becoming a parent. She felt a strong desire to give back after her own successful pregnancy. Gestational surrogacy involves carrying a baby that is not genetically related to the surrogate. Failed transfers can lead to feelings of guilt for surrogates. A strong support network is crucial for surrogates during the process. Mental health support is now integrated into the surrogacy process. Surrogates often face unique social situations when explaining their role. The bond between a surrogate and intended parents can be profound. Surrogates do not typically feel a parental connection to the baby they carry. The emotional recovery after birth can differ significantly for surrogates. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Surrogacy Journey 02:48 The Decision to Become a Surrogate 06:02 Understanding Gestational Surrogacy 08:55 Emotional Challenges of Failed Transfers 11:47 Mental Health Support in Surrogacy 14:57 Living Life While Pregnant for Others 18:07 The Connection with Intended Parents 21:00 Postpartum Experience as a Surrogate 23:50 Maintaining Relationships After Birth Keywords surrogacy, gestational surrogacy, emotional challenges, mental health, support network, intended parents, pregnancy, IVF, family dynamics, parenting --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ivfdaddies/support

    29 min

  2. 8 SEPT

    40) EMBRYO DONATION: A PATH TO EMPOWERMENT

    The conversation revolves around the decision of what to do with frozen embryos. The speakers discuss the ethical and emotional considerations involved in embryo donation and adoption. They explore the concept of embryos as assets versus embryos as life, and the implications of these perspectives. The conversation also touches on the benefits of embryo donation for women and LGBTQIA individuals, as well as the societal and personal factors that influence decision-making. Takeaways Embryo donation and adoption are options for individuals with frozen embryos who do not want to use them. The decision of what to do with frozen embryos involves ethical and emotional considerations. There is a distinction between viewing embryos as assets versus viewing them as life. Embryo donation can be a more affordable option for individuals who need assistance in conceiving. Embryo donation and adoption can empower women and LGBTQIA individuals. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Context 01:26 The Decision of What to Do with Frozen Embryos 07:25 Ethical Considerations: Embryos as Assets or Life? 14:07 Embryo Donation: Empowering Women and LGBTQIA Individuals 20:50 Embryo Donation: A More Affordable Option 24:35 The Conceptualization of Embryos Sound Bites "What am I going to do with them? They're currently sitting frozen." "Giving them to somebody else to then have as a child and then to raise as a child as their own." "Genetically, but again all a family needs is love." Keywords embryo donation, embryo adoption, frozen embryos, ethical considerations, emotional considerations, assets versus life --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ivfdaddies/support

    24 min

  3. 22 AUG

    39) EMBRYO DONATION, MANAGING REMAINING EMBRYOS

    Maya, a psychotherapist and filmmaker, shares her experience with embryo donation and discusses her work with Empower with Moxie, an embryo donation organization. She explains the difference between embryo adoption and embryo donation, emphasizing the importance of education and support for individuals considering embryo donation. Maya highlights the need for a more personal and connected approach to embryo donation, where donors and recipients have the opportunity to know each other and maintain a consensual connection. She also addresses the ethical and legal implications of embryo donation and the challenges of navigating the complex landscape of fertility treatment. Moxie matching is a platform that connects embryo donors and recipients, allowing them to create profiles and find their ideal match. The platform is inclusive and provides options for single women and LGBTQ families. Moxie also offers education and support for individuals navigating embryo donation, including genetic and medical counseling. After a match is made, Moxie facilitates meetings between donors and recipients to ensure compatibility. The ownership of remaining embryos after a successful donation can either revert back to the original donors or be jointly decided by the recipients. Moxie emphasizes the importance of expanding the definition of family and providing children with access to their genetic siblings. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Safe Word 03:08 Embryo Donation as the Next Best Option 07:13 The Types of Families Donating Embryos and Their Motivations 10:13 The Paralysis of Decision-Making and the Emotional Connection to Embryos 13:13 The Difference Between Embryo Adoption and Embryo Donation 16:33 Creating a Personal and Connected Approach to Embryo Donation 21:30 The Need for Education and Support in Embryo Donation 25:33 The Landscape of Embryo Donation and the Importance of Clear Terminology 27:24 Moxie Matching: Connecting Embryo Donors and Recipients 29:15 Inclusivity in Embryo Donation: Options for Single Women and LGBTQ Families 32:56 Education and Support: Genetic and Medical Counseling for Embryo Donation 40:22 Expanding the Definition of Family: Access to Genetic Siblings Takeaways Embryo adoption refers to the practice of treating embryo donation as a traditional adoption, which can create legal and ethical complications. Education and support are crucial for individuals considering embryo donation, as it is not the right choice for everyone and requires careful consideration of the emotional and psychological implications. Empower with Moxie is an embryo donation organization that aims to provide a more personal and connected approach to embryo donation, ensuring that donors and recipients have the opportunity to know each other and maintain a consensual connection. The platform is inclusive and provides options for single women and LGBTQ families. Moxie offers education and support for individuals navigating embryo donation, including genetic and medical counseling. After a successful donation, the ownership of remaining embryos can either revert back to the original donors or be jointly decided by the recipients. Maya is the CEO and co-founder of ⁠EM•POWER with Moxi⁠, a company focused on education, support and matching/logistics for directed embryo donation. She is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and⁠ psychotherapist⁠ in the field of reproductive medicine and a fertility advocate. Several years ago, Maya and her TV producer husband Noah made a feature length film documenting their tumultuous journey to parenthood, which ended with the birth of their daughter who was conceived via embryo donation. The film, called ⁠One More Shot⁠, debuted on Netflix in January 2018 and is now available on Amazon Prime.  EM•POWER with Moxi:  ⁠www.empowerwithmoxi.com/⁠ IG: empowerwithmoxi  FB:@empowerwithmoxi  One More Shot: ⁠http://www.onemoreshotfilm.co

    41 min

  4. 7 AUG

    38) TWINS THROUGH IVF AND SURROGACY AND IMPACT OF USA ELECTIONS

    In this episode, the Julio and Richard discuss the topic of twins, as they themselves are parents of twins. They explore the concept of twins in the context of IVF and surrogacy, discussing the reasons why some people choose to have twins and the risks associated with twin pregnancies. They also delve into the different types of twins, such as identical and fraternal twins, and the various ways in which twins can be conceived. The hosts also touch on the importance of reproductive rights and the impact of the upcoming US elections on these rights. Keywords twins, IVF, surrogacy, risks, types of twins, reproductive rights, US elections Takeaways The hosts share their personal experience of having twins through IVF and surrogacy. Twin pregnancies are riskier than single pregnancies, and there are potential risks for both the surrogate and the babies. The definition of twins can vary, but the hosts believe that twins are embryos that are carried by the same person at the same time. The decision to have twins is influenced by factors such as cost, success rates, and the desire for siblings to grow up together. Reproductive rights and the ability to make choices about one's own body are important issues, especially in the context of IVF and surrogacy. Sound Bites "Today we're going to be talking about twins." "If you get two embryos and then you put in the same surrogate, they're twins." "Anybody telling a woman what they can do to their body is wrong." Chapters 00:00 Introduction: Exploring the World of Twins 06:18 Understanding the Risks and Considerations of Twin Pregnancies 08:13 Different Types of Twins: Identical vs. Fraternal 11:26 Defining Twins: Carried by the Same Person at the Same Time 14:20 Factors Influencing the Decision to Have Twins 26:16 The Importance of Reproductive Rights in IVF and Surrogacy Titles Factors Influencing the Decision to Have Twins Exploring the World of Twins in IVF and Surrogacy --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ivfdaddies/support

    37 min

  5. 30 JUL

    37) UNDERSTANDING BABY FORMULA AS GAY PARENTS

    In this episode, Julio and Richard discuss the topic of formula feeding for babies. They share their personal experiences and address common questions and misconceptions surrounding formula feeding. They also touch on the stigma associated with formula feeding and the availability of different types of formula. The conversation concludes with a discussion on diapers and the importance of having support and guidance during the early stages of parenthood. Keywords formula feeding, breast milk, breastfeeding, stigma, surrogate, nutrition, baby care, diapers Takeaways Formula feeding is a common and valid choice for parents who are unable or choose not to breastfeed. There is a stigma surrounding formula feeding, but it is important to respect the choices and preferences of individual parents. Formula comes in different stages for different ages, and there are various options available, including vegan formulas. Breast milk can be donated or purchased from breast milk banks, but it is ultimately up to the surrogate or birth parent to decide if they want to pump breast milk. Having support and guidance, such as a maternity nurse, can be invaluable for new parents navigating the world of formula feeding and baby care. Demystifying Formula Feeding: A Valid Choice for Parents Breast Milk Options: Donating, Pumping, and Breast Milk Banks Sound Bites "Did you give your twins breast milk or formula? I was like, no, it was obvious." "Is milk food? For a baby, there's not a lot to chew until a certain age." "Breast is best. Trying to promote breastfeeding and all those different things." Chapters 00:00 Introduction: The Question of Formula Feeding 07:05 Is Milk Food? Understanding the Role of Formula 10:59 The Stigma and Promotion of Breastfeeding 18:28 The Taste of Breast Milk and Formula Ingredients 25:09 Exploring the Composition of Formula 26:28 Potty Training and the Importance of Support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ivfdaddies/support

    27 min

  6. 18 JUL

    36) SAFETY AND SCALE IN THE EMBRYOLOGY LAB

    Cynthia, an embryologist and now working with a technology company, TMRW Life Science discusses the need for tools and technology to improve safety and scale in the embryology lab. She emphasizes the importance of ensuring the chain of custody and specimen record for patients. Cynthia also highlights the role of technology in selecting the best sperm and eggs for successful IVF cycles. She explains the challenges faced by clinics in managing the influx of patients seeking egg freezing and the need for operational efficiency. Cynthia discusses the potential of AI algorithms and ultrasound technology to improve efficiency and reduce costs in fertility clinics. Keywords embryology lab, safety, scale, chain of custody, specimen record, technology, sperm selection, egg selection, operational efficiency, AI algorithms, ultrasound technology, cost reduction Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Cynthia's Background 01:27 Improving Safety and Scale in the Embryology Lab 06:13 The Role of Technology in Sperm and Egg Selection 10:03 Challenges and Opportunities in Egg Freezing 17:44 The Potential of AI Algorithms and Ultrasound Technology in Fertility Clinics Takeaways Tools and technology are needed to improve safety and scale in the embryology lab, ensuring the chain of custody and specimen record for patients. Technology plays a crucial role in selecting the best sperm and eggs for successful IVF cycles. Clinics face challenges in managing the influx of patients seeking egg freezing and the need for operational efficiency. AI algorithms and ultrasound technology have the potential to improve efficiency and reduce costs in fertility clinics. Sound Bites "We need to build some technology and introduce tools to better secure the audit trail, better secure the chain of custody." "By culturing embryos longer, we have dramatically improved the chances of success per attempt." "The quality of the sperm is just as important as the quality of the egg." --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ivfdaddies/support

    37 min

  7. 10 JUL

    35) SUPPORTING TRANSGENDER CHILDREN, A PARENT'S PERSPECTIVE

    In this episode, Richard and Julio are joined by Cindy, a top surrogacy lawyer in Canada, to discuss her personal story of having a transgender child. They explore the challenges faced by both the child and the parents, the importance of support and understanding, and the need for education and acceptance. Cindy shares her experiences with her child's school and friends, as well as the emotional toll it can take on both the child and the parents. The conversation emphasizes the need for empathy, grace, and open communication within families. Keywords transgender, surrogacy, parenting, support, acceptance, education, mental health Takeaways Support and understanding are crucial for transgender children and their parents. Parents should seek out resources and support networks to navigate the challenges of having a transgender child. Open communication and empathy within families can help create a safe and accepting environment. It is important to give oneself grace as a parent and understand that mistakes will be made along the way. Titles Supporting Transgender Children: A Parent's Perspective Navigating the Challenges of Parenting a Transgender Child Sound Bites "Lennox goes to an all girls school. How have they handled this situation as an institution? And also how have Lennox's friends handled this?" "Has Lennox ever come to you thinking about the prospect that all this is too much, that the change is too much, is debilitating emotionally, physically, and then mentioned anything to do with suicide or anything like that?" "Parents, children, anybody going through any struggles, you're not alone. You're not alone." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:25 The Changing Landscape of Acceptance 03:22 Supporting a Transgender Child 05:11 Finding Support and Resources 08:32 Understanding and Articulating Gender Identity 12:34 Navigating Pronouns and Name Changes 16:19 Dealing with Resistance and Lack of Support 18:41 Supportive School and Friends 21:23 Taking Time for Decision-Making 23:17 Mental Health and Suicide Prevention 25:58 Accessing Support Services 27:13 The Importance of Community and Education 31:03 Final Thoughts and Encouragement --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ivfdaddies/support

    33 min

  8. 2 JUL

    34) STEPDAD'S LOVE LETTER, IS NOT ALL ABOUT IVF AND SURROGACY

    In this episode, Richard and Julio discuss the topic of vulnerability and what it means to be a family. They touch on the anxiety and challenges they face as a blended family, including the reactions of others and the pressure to say and do the right things. They also explore the importance of celebrating love and kindness, and the rewards and sacrifices of parenting. The conversation delves into the complexities of being a stepparent and the impact on both the children and the parents involved. Overall, the episode highlights the personal struggles and growth that come with navigating relationships and family dynamics. Being a stepparent is a challenging role that requires patience, compromise, and balancing multiple responsibilities. The definition of family is fluid and can vary for each individual and situation. Parenting is hard and comes with its own set of anxieties and self-doubt, but the rewards are immeasurable. It is important to celebrate love and kindness and to support and uplift each other as parents and family members. vulnerability, family, blended family, anxiety, challenges, reactions, love, kindness, parenting, stepparent, rewards, sacrifices, relationships, family dynamics Chapters 00:00 Exploring Vulnerability and the Meaning of Family 09:48 The Challenges and Rewards of Being a Stepparent 23:55 Celebrating Love and Kindness in Family Dynamics Sound Bites "What makes a kid yours? When it came from their mouth when they said that they feel like they have three parents." "I need to become obsolete in my children's lives as a parent. And that's when my job has been done properly, when they don't need me, but they want me." "Parenting is really hard. It's not a walk in the park and the reward is exponential." --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ivfdaddies/support

    24 min
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About

Sometimes it takes a village to make a daddy. IVF Daddies started with one man's pursuit of fatherhood through IVF, egg donation, and surrogacy. Richard Westoby's journey brought him into an incredible community of fertility experts, aspiring parents, and beautifully unique families. A decade after the birth of his children, Richard introduced his partner Julio Gaggia to the wonderful world of family-building—and he has a lot of questions. IVF Daddies is where we explore those big questions. What makes a family? Can you do IVF without losing your sanity or your savings? How do we shatter the s Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ivfdaddies/support

Information

  • Creator
    JULIO GAGGIA & RICHARD WESTOBY
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2024
  • Episodes
    42
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © JULIO GAGGIA & RICHARD WESTOBY
  • Show Website
    IVF DADDIES

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