Your Fertility Story - Stories and guidance on surrogacy, parenthood, and starting a family

Maria Feekes
  • 5.0 (18)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Weekly

Your Fertility Story is a podcast for anyone navigating fertility challenges, exploring IVF, considering surrogacy, or searching for the best path to parenthood. The fertility journey isn’t always easy. Many intended parents find themselves overwhelmed by complex, emotional, and often expensive decisions - from fertility treatment and IVF to alternative family-building options like surrogacy. It can feel confusing, rushed, or as though there’s only one path forward. Hosted by Maria Feekes, Your Fertility Story provides unbiased information, expert insights, and real stories from across the fertility and surrogacy landscape. Each weekly episode features in-depth conversations with fertility specialists, surrogacy professionals, and people who have lived the experience of building a family in different ways. This podcast is designed to help you: ✳️ Understand your fertility and family-building options ✳️ Explore IVF, surrogacy, and alternative paths to parenthood ✳️ Feel informed, empowered, and confident in your decisions ✳️ Advocate for yourself throughout your fertility journey Whether you’re at the beginning of your fertility journey, researching surrogacy, or actively building your family, Your Fertility Story offers clarity, compassion, and guidance — helping you move forward with confidence and hope.

  1. 2d ago

    The Role of Omega-s in IVF, Pregnancy, and Men’s Health: Expert Guidance from Jessa Johnson

    Struggling to cut through the noise when it comes to vitamins, nutrition, and what really matters for fertility, pregnancy, and overall family wellness? In this episode, Maria Feekes sits down with wellness expert Jessa Johnson, who draws on her personal IVF journey and 15+ years of coaching to reveal surprising truths about inflammation, supplement quality, and the overlooked factors that impact everyone, from surrogates and intended parents to newborns and dads. Discover why your “healthy habits” might not be what they seem, which oils might actually harm your health, and the simple steps you can take to truly nourish future generations. Don’t miss these game-changing insights! Jessa Johnson is a wellness specialist and certified health coach with over 15 years of experience guiding families and individuals toward holistic well-being. After navigating her own fertility journey, including overcoming significant hormone imbalances following IVF and healing her body naturally, Jessa became passionate about empowering others to address root causes through nutrition, environment, and science-backed supplementation. She currently helps people worldwide understand inflammation and optimize their health through education, testing, and high-quality supplements. Jessa’s expertise spans fertility, pregnancy, pediatric wellness, and educating global surrogacy communities. KEY TOPICS How Jessa Johnson’s personal infertility journey sparked her passion for holistic health and hormone balance [00:02:10]The critical impact of omega-6 to omega-3 ratios and why most Americans live with chronic inflammation [00:05:08]Why most fish oils (and common supplements) may not actually deliver intended health benefits during pregnancy [00:09:01]What to look for (and avoid) in infant formula, plus the importance of whole foods over isolates for children’s development [00:17:20]The best and worst oils for cooking and pregnancy nutrition, and how small swaps can reduce inflammation [00:21:20] Todays guest, Jessa Johnson, can be found online at: Website: http://zinzino.com/2021383150/us/en-us/ LinkedIn: http://facebook.com/jessa.johnson.56 Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at: Website: www.smartpathfertilityintl.com Instagram: instagram.com/mariafeekes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

  2. Oct 12

    Surrogacy in Mexico: Pre-Birth Orders in Sinaloa with Attorney Javier Martinez

    What is a pre-birth order, and how does it relate to legal parentage and birth registration in Mexico? How does the process in Sinaloa compare with voluntary jurisdiction, and what should international intended parents ask before choosing a legal pathway? In this episode of Your Fertility Story, host Maria Feekes speaks with Mexican surrogacy attorney Javier Martinez about pre-birth orders in Sinaloa and the legal questions families face when pursuing surrogacy in Mexico. Javier explains his approach to establishing legal parentage before a baby is born, discusses how court orders relate to obtaining a birth certificate after delivery, and shares lessons from his work with international intended parents. Together, Maria and Javier explore why the legal process, surrogate eligibility requirements, and preparation for birth registration deserve careful attention from the beginning. For single parents, LGBTQ+ families, and couples considering international surrogacy, this conversation offers practical questions to bring to an attorney and a closer look at the legal pathway Javier uses in Sinaloa. In This Episode 04:13 • From tax law to surrogacy law: the 2019 case that changed Javier’s career 10:41 • How Javier approaches pre-birth orders and legal parentage in Sinaloa 16:52 • Pre-birth orders and voluntary jurisdiction: understanding the differences 22:06 • Questions to ask before choosing a surrogacy legal pathway in Mexico 31:51 • Surrogate eligibility requirements in Sinaloa and preparation for birth registration About Javier Martinez Javier Martinez is an attorney practicing in Sinaloa, Mexico, with more than ten years of legal experience and a background in human rights and constitutional law. His work includes supporting international intended parents, single parents, and LGBTQ+ families through surrogacy-related legal proceedings, including pre-birth orders. About Your Host Maria Feekes is the Executive Director of SMARTPath Fertility International and host of Your Fertility Story. She works with intended parents navigating international IVF and surrogacy, bringing families and professionals together for candid conversations about the path to parenthood. Connect with Maria and SMARTPath Website: www.smartpathfertilityintl.com Instagram: @mariafeekes LinkedIn: Maria Feekes This episode discusses Javier’s experience and approach in Sinaloa. It provides general information, not individual legal advice; requirements and outcomes depend on the circumstances of each case.

  3. Oct 5

    17 Weeks Pregnant as a Surrogate: Entering the Second Trimester | Megan’s Journey, Part 3

    What is it like to reach 17 weeks pregnant when you’re carrying a baby for another family? First-time surrogate Megan shares the relief, uncertainty, and everyday moments that have shaped her pregnancy so far. In Part 3 of Megan’s journey on Your Fertility Story, she joins Maria Feekes and Kristi Campbell from SMARTPath Fertility International for an honest conversation about early pregnancy symptoms, medication changes, medical monitoring, and settling into the second trimester. A mother of two and an adoptee, Megan opens up about the experiences that inspired her to become a surrogate. She shares how she talks with her children, family, and friends about surrogacy, why choosing a trusted OB-GYN matters, and how she approaches emotional boundaries while caring for the baby she’s carrying. Whether you’re considering becoming a surrogate, exploring surrogacy as an intended parent, or following Megan’s story, this episode offers a personal look at pregnancy from a surrogate’s perspective. EPISODE TOPICS 00:32 — Early pregnancy milestones and reaching 17 weeks 01:42 — Physical symptoms, medication changes, and medical monitoring 06:20 — Talking about surrogacy with family, friends, and her daycare community 18:48 — Choosing a trusted OB-GYN and building a supportive care team 22:15 — Emotional boundaries, bonding, and preparing her children ABOUT MEGAN Megan is a first-time surrogate and mother of two. Her experience as an adoptee helped inspire her desire to support another family through surrogacy. Throughout this series, she shares the emotional and practical realities of her journey as it unfolds. ABOUT KRISTI CAMPBELL Kristi Campbell works with SMARTPath Fertility International’s U.S. operations, supporting intended parents and surrogates throughout their journeys. She brings a coordinator’s perspective to the conversation, exploring the communication, care, and personal support involved in surrogacy. CONNECT WITH MARIA FEEKES & SMARTPATH Website: https://www.smartpathfertilityintl.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariafeekes/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/ Follow Your Fertility Story to hear more of Megan’s journey and conversations with intended parents, surrogates, and the professionals helping families grow.

  4. Oct 1

    Surrogacy in Mexico: What Really Happens Behind the Scenes?

    Dive behind the scenes of international surrogacy with Anastasia, the dynamic coordinator who keeps every detail running smoothly in Mexico’s fertility programs. In this episode, Maria Feekes pulls back the curtain to reveal the hidden challenges, red flags, and heartwarming connections that define the journey to parenthood abroad. From whirlwind emergency calls to the deep-rooted bonds formed with surrogates, discover why trust, transparency, and genuine care can make all the difference. Curious about what really happens beyond the clinic doors? This is the episode you can’t miss. Anastasia is the head of international logistics and surrogacy coordination for SmartPath Fertility International, specializing in surrogacy programs across Ukraine, Mexico, and the USA. Since 2015, she has guided families through every stage of their fertility journeys, ensuring seamless communication, surrogate matching, and the highest standards of care. KEY TOPICS The unique speed and inclusivity of surrogacy in Mexico [00:01:40]Behind-the-scenes coordination: how surrogate mothers are supported every step of the way [00:07:04]The rigorous screening and cultural warmth of Mexican surrogate mothers [00:26:22]The importance of clinic and legal partnerships for trust, transparency, and baby registration [00:17:46]Ongoing relationships: families, surrogates, and even nannies after the journey ends [00:35:04] Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at: Website: www.smartpathfertilityintl.com Instagram: instagram.com/mariafeekes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

  5. Sep 21

    Part 2: Ukraine’s Surrogacy Process with Ivanna. What Does a Surrogacy Coordinator Really Do?

    In this heartfelt continuation of "Your Fertility Story," Maria Feekes sits down with Ivanna to reveal the incredible behind-the-scenes journey of surrogacy in Ukraine. From rapid baby registrations and emotional hospital moments to the sheer dedication involved in caring for surrogates, the episode uncovers the meticulous work, trust, and compassion that make these miracles possible, even amidst unique challenges. Curious how families and surrogates are supported every step of the way, and how a genuine act of kindness can bring someone to tears? Press play for a candid, inspiring look into a world few ever see. Ivanna is the Head of Operations and lead coordinator for surrogacy in Ukraine. With years of expertise, she helps families from around the world navigate the complex surrogacy process, providing hands-on support, logistical leadership, and deep compassion for both intended parents and surrogates. Ivanna is renowned for her meticulous attention to detail, transparent communication, and unwavering commitment. Qualities that make her an invaluable guide through surrogacy’s most delicate moments. KEY TOPICS The crucial role of trust and returning surrogates in Ukraine surrogacy journeys [02:02]Achieving rapid and efficient baby registration and documentation for international families [05:28]Meticulous behind-the-scenes logistics for seamless parent and surrogate experiences [06:19]Providing personalized care and support for surrogates, from apartment selection to surprise visits [12:18]Balancing authority and compassion: maintaining boundaries with surrogates while ensuring their well-being [19:05] Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at: Website: www.smartpathfertilityintl.com Instagram: instagram.com/mariafeekes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

  6. Sep 14

    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 TOPICS The 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 21:02 Your host, Maria Feekes, can be found online at: Website: www.smartpathfertilityintl.com Instagram: instagram.com/mariafeekes LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-feekes-738576127/

  7. Sep 7

    Inside a U.S. Surrogacy Journey. What Does a Surrogacy Coordinator Really Do?

    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 coordinator Kristi 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.

  8. Aug 24

    What Embryo Transfer Day Really Feels Like | Megan’s USA Surrogacy Journey Part 2

    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 hoping If 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

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Your Fertility Story is a podcast for anyone navigating fertility challenges, exploring IVF, considering surrogacy, or searching for the best path to parenthood. The fertility journey isn’t always easy. Many intended parents find themselves overwhelmed by complex, emotional, and often expensive decisions - from fertility treatment and IVF to alternative family-building options like surrogacy. It can feel confusing, rushed, or as though there’s only one path forward. Hosted by Maria Feekes, Your Fertility Story provides unbiased information, expert insights, and real stories from across the fertility and surrogacy landscape. Each weekly episode features in-depth conversations with fertility specialists, surrogacy professionals, and people who have lived the experience of building a family in different ways. This podcast is designed to help you: ✳️ Understand your fertility and family-building options ✳️ Explore IVF, surrogacy, and alternative paths to parenthood ✳️ Feel informed, empowered, and confident in your decisions ✳️ Advocate for yourself throughout your fertility journey Whether you’re at the beginning of your fertility journey, researching surrogacy, or actively building your family, Your Fertility Story offers clarity, compassion, and guidance — helping you move forward with confidence and hope.

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