Surrogacy Made Simple

Alyssa Small Layne, MD
Surrogacy Made Simple

Surrogacy doesn't have to be overwhelming. On Surrogacy Made Simple, we walk you through this life-changing journey without the complexity and confusion, so you can focus on what's most important - welcoming your new baby! We chat about surrogacy agencies, independent surrogacy, donor eggs, IVF, inducing lactation and all the things important to you. You'll love real stories from intended parents, surrogates and advice from experts in the field. Your surrogacy expert, Dr Alyssa Small Layne (OBGYN, mom through surrogacy), will be your guide.

  1. DEC 19

    #44 Top Surrogacy Tips for Intended Parents in 2025: Lessons from a Year of Insights

    Navigating surrogacy can feel like chasing breadcrumbs across the internet—time-consuming, frustrating, and overwhelming. You’ve waited long enough to grow your family. That’s why Surrogacy Made Simple exists. Hosted by Dr. Alyssa Small Layne, a board-certified OB-GYN and mom through surrogacy, this podcast has become the go-to resource for unbiased, practical advice. And after 42 episodes, we’re celebrating an incredible first year with a special look back at 2024. This episode is packed with lessons, expert insights, and hidden gems that will save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re just starting out or already deep in your surrogacy journey, these highlights will empower you to take the next step with confidence. [06:04] Financial hurdles: Why meaningful surrogacy financial support is hard to find—and what to do. [13:06] Screening matters: The rigorous physical and mental evaluations required for surrogates. [17:40] Shocking setbacks: How an escrow scandal exposed vulnerabilities in surrogacy protections. [21:21] Call for change: Real stories underline the need for better industry regulations. [26:48] Storytelling that works: Share your story intentionally to attract the right surrogate. [30:55] Overcoming fear with gratitude: How gratitude can ease the anxiety of parenthood. [32:51] The finish line: Parenting choices, like embryo donation, and tips for traveling home with your baby. 🎧 Stop hunting for answers. Listen to the full episode now to take control of your surrogacy journey! Subscribe today to stay updated on new episodes and exciting resources, including the upcoming launch of BloomBridge Plus in 2025! Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts “I love Alyssa and Surrogacy Made Simple.” – If that sounds like you, please do me a favor by rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to have a great experience with surrogacy. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! Links mentioned in the episode  Surrogacy Starter Kit BloomBridge Surrogacy App  #3 The Surprising Hidden Fees of All-Inclusive Surrogacy #4 The High Cost of Hope: Tackling the financial burden of surrogacy  #5 Your First Meeting with a Surrogate: 6 Key Topics You Must Cover to Prevent a Broken Match (tied for most listened) #25 Understanding Surrogacy Timelines: What to Expect and How to Prepare (tied for most listened) #7/#8 13 Surprising truths about surrogacy that may be holding you back #19/#20 From Picture Perfect To The ICU – One Surrogate’s Story SEAM Escrow Scandal #18 Surrogacy Nightmare: Find Out if Your Money is at Risk! #21/#22 When good surrogacy money advice goes wrong – Arielle Mitton Safe Surrogacy: 6 Insider Tips to Avoid Scams and Pitfalls  Premium Video Training #16/#17 Viral Social Media Insider Tips For the Best Surrogacy Matches- with Baden Colt #28 How to Bond with Baby During and After Surrogacy #34 The best way to bring baby home after surrogacy #37/#38 Is embryo donation right for you? an IVF mom’s unique choice – Ashley Herring #12/#13 Surprising Secrets Of Inducing Lactation For Surrogacy

    39 min

  2. DEC 12

    #43 What to Pack in Your Hospital Bag as an Intended Parent

    Need to pack your hospital bag for your surrogacy journey without losing your mind? Let’s face it—packing for the hospital as an intended parent is not quite like other parents. There’s so much to think about when you’re expecting a baby in this way. Plus, hospital stays can be longer and more unpredictable than expected, leaving you drained if you’re unprepared. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to figure it out alone or spend hours stressing over what to pack. In this episode of Surrogacy Made Simple, we’re breaking down everything you need to pack your hospital bag with confidence. You’ll learn exactly what you need (and what you don’t), so you can focus on what really matters—welcoming your baby into the world. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 04:06: The ultimate checklist for packing like a pro as an intended parent. 07:54: Why hospitals prioritize patients—and what that means for your planning. 12:33: How setting realistic expectations makes all the difference. 16:09: The essentials: comfy clothes, snacks, entertainment, and more. 21:59: Don’t forget a car seat—and why pacifiers might be worth packing. 29:33: Important documents and the “comfort extras” that make a big impact. 34:08: How to get your free downloadable checklist and pack with ease. Imagine this: no last-minute scrambling, no overpacking or forgetting crucial items—just calm confidence as you head to the hospital, ready to meet your baby. Click play now to take the stress out of packing and step into parenthood prepared.And don’t forget to download the checklist on the Bloombridge Surrogacy app for even more peace of mind. 🎧 This episode is your essential guide to stress-free packing. Tune in today! Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts “I love Alyssa and Surrogacy Made Simple.” – If that sounds like you, please do me a favor by rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to have a great experience with surrogacy. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! Links mentioned in the episode  Surrogacy Starter Kit BloomBridge Surrogacy App Surrogacy Made Simple #34 The best way to bring baby home after surrogacy

    35 min

  3. DEC 5

    #42 Questions to ask a Surrogacy Agency: First-Time Intended Parent Advice

    Choosing a surrogacy agency is one of the most critical decisions you'll make on your journey to parenthood. With so many options out there, how do you narrow them down? How do you avoid the delays, unexpected costs, and stress that can come from picking the wrong agency? In this episode of Surrogacy Made Simple, we dive into the essential questions to ask a surrogacy agency to help you make the best choice for your unique journey. Whether you're a first-time intended parent or re-evaluating your options, this episode is packed with practical advice to ensure you're confident in your decision. What you'll learn in this episode: [00:03:33] How to investigate agency recommendations and their true motivations. [00:06:13] The must-ask questions to evaluate an agency’s screening process. [00:07:58] How agency size impacts personalized attention and resources. [00:09:10] Why some agencies fail to screen surrogates properly—and the costly consequences. [00:12:10] What support and communication you should expect as an intended parent. [00:15:07] Understanding agency fees: What’s included and hidden costs to watch for. [00:17:46] Critical questions about surrogate matching timelines and processes. Why this episode matters:Not all surrogacy agencies are created equal, and the wrong choice could lead to delays, skyrocketing costs, or an unsupported journey. By asking the right questions, you can avoid these pitfalls and feel confident in your decision. Resources mentioned in this episode: Bloombridge Surrogacy App – A free tool to organize your journey and simplify surrogacy decisions. Surrogate Vetting Essentials Guide – Your step-by-step guide to understanding screening and finding a match. Episode 5: Your First Meeting with a surrogate: 6 key topics you must cover to prevent a broken match 5 Little Known Secrets to a Quick Match - That agencies don’t tell you If you're ready to take control of your surrogacy experience, tune in now to learn the questions to ask a surrogacy agency and start your journey with clarity and confidence. 👉 Listen now!

    27 min

  4. NOV 27

    #41 Pros and Cons of Independent Surrogacy You Need to Know

    What if you could save $50,000 on surrogacy while still having a safe, successful journey?  Choosing independent surrogacy might just be the answer. But is it the right fit for you? In this episode, we’ll explore the pros and cons of independent surrogacy, helping you decide if it’s the path to making your dreams of parenthood a reality. You’ll hear: The major benefits of independent surrogacy, including cost savings and control. The challenges you might face, like finding a surrogate and managing all the details. My personal story of why I chose independent surrogacy and how it worked for my family. 00:55 Why Independent Surrogacy Feels Scary 02:02 The Truth Agencies Don’t Want You to Know 03:56 What Is Independent Surrogacy? 09:53 Why We Chose Independent Surrogacy 17:20 The Biggest Pro: Saving Money 24:06 The Hard Truths: Independent Surrogacy Challenges 28:35 Junie’s Digital Surrogacy Toolkit - Resources designed to make independent surrogacy easier, safer, and faster. Think agencies are the only way to surrogacy? Turns out, it's not always the right choice! Discover why. Take the first step toward your surrogacy journey. Hit play and discover how you can make your dream of parenthood a reality, on your own terms. Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts “I love Alyssa and Surrogacy Made Simple.” – If that sounds like you, please do me a favor by rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to have a great experience with surrogacy. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! Links mentioned in the episode  Junie’s Digital Surrogacy Toolkit: BloomBridge Surrogacy App  The Surrogacy Blueprint Course Surrogacy Vetting Essentials Guide 5 Little Known Secrets to a Quick Match - That agencies don’t tell you Safe Surrogacy 6 Insider Tips to Avoid Scams and Pitfalls (video training) One on One Surrogacy Intro Session (Free) Other links: SMS #14 Independent Surrogacy Steps: How to Save $50,000 and Take Control of Your Dream Surrogate Identity Quiz - Your unique surrogate personality  Surrogacy Starter Kit

    33 min

  5. NOV 21

    #40 Surrogacy Costs Soaring: Are Luxury Gifts Really Necessary?

    Should you send your surrogate and her family to Disney? Or buy them a new car as a thank you? It’s hard to know what’s normal in the world of surrogacy.  You don’t want to come off as cheap or unappreciative. This incredible woman is carrying your child afterall. You’ve probably heard stories of lavish gifts and extravagant vacations from thankful parents, and it makes you feel that you must keep up to show you care.  Do you have to dig even deeper into your pockets to show you’re grateful? There’s a lot of pressure and it can make you uncomfortable. So today we’re talking about gifting and surrogacy, and why it’s so problematic.  Find out how to manage expectations and discover thoughtful and meaningful alternatives to grand gestures. We dive into: The emotional and financial pressures of gifting in surrogacy Cultural and industry influences raising expectations Creative and heartfelt ways to show appreciation without spending a fortune Episode Breakdown:  00:00 The truth about extravagant surrogacy gifts: Are they setting unrealistic expectations? 04:03 Surrogacy can make you feel emotionally indebted 08:01 Who’s the blame for this peer pressure to overspend on surrogate gifts? 11:56 How surrogacy agencies have normalized luxurious gift expectations  16:33 Surrogacy should be more about compassion than financial gain. 19:02 Understanding your surrogate’s “surrogate identity” enhances the surrogacy journey. 23:00 8 ways to show your appreciation to your surrogate without breaking the bank. Simple Fact: It may feel like gifting your surrogate a car is the best way to show your gratitude. But what if the best gift doesn’t cost anything at all? If you're feeling the strain of surrogacy gifting expectations, this podcast episode is a must-listen. It’s packed with insights and alternatives that will help you show your appreciation in heartfelt ways without unnecessary financial stress. Listen now to relieve the pressure and make your surrogacy journey more joyful and fulfilling! Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts “I love Alyssa and Surrogacy Made Simple.” – If that sounds like you, please do me a favor by rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to have a great experience with surrogacy. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! Links mentioned in the episode  Surrogacy Starter Kit BloomBridge Surrogacy App

    25 min

  6. NOV 14

    #39: 4 Crucial Tips for Choosing a Great Surrogacy Clinic

    Confused about how to pick the perfect fertility clinic for your surrogacy journey? Let’s fix that!  What you need in a clinic for regular IVF isn’t the same as a clinic for surrogacy.  Choosing the right fertility clinic can make or break your surrogacy experience—and your budget! There are some things you should look for before you commit. In today’s episode, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of picking a clinic that’s perfect for you. Inside this episode: Why clinics might charge you twice for the same services and how to avoid it  What to look for in a clinic’s surrogacy package to ensure you know exactly what you’re paying for Why the right embryology lab is crucial for your success  Surrogacy coordination fees: What are you really paying for? Tips for working with clinics experienced in third-party reproduction Ready to pick the right fertility clinic for your surrogacy? Hit play and let’s get into it!  Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts “I love Alyssa and Surrogacy Made Simple.” – If that sounds like you, please do me a favor by rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to have a great experience with surrogacy. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! Links mentioned in the episode  Surrogacy Starter Kit BloomBridge Surrogacy App  Surrogacy Intro Session - Free intro strategy call with Alyssa Should you risk shipping embryos for surrogacy to a new clinic? Episode #11

    26 min

  7. NOV 7

    #38 Is embryo donation right for you? an IVF mom's unique choice - Ashley Herring Part 2

    Finding the Right Match for Your Embryo Donation Journey Going through embryo donation is an incredibly personal and sometimes overwhelming experience. With so many choices—whether to use an agency or pursue a private match, finding a family who shares your values, and deciding how much communication you want with the family and future child—it’s easy to feel lost.  You can begin this process full of hope but find yourself discouraged when the initial matches or agency experiences aren’t what you were looking for.  But there’s hope. What if you could hear from someone who's been through it all and can show you the ropes?  This is part 2 of our conversation with Ashley Herring, a mom who chose to donate her 12 embryos after IVF.   Think you can't find the perfect match for embryo donation? You're wrong. Hear how Ashley did it after over 300 hopeful families reached out!  Join us for practical strategies and essential tips. Key Moments in This Episode 00:00 – How intuition and connection lead to meaningful matches 11:08 – Surprising parallels between embryo donation and surrogacy 14:15 – The most important details for your embryo donation profile 17:25 – Why Ashley chose an open relationship with her embryo recipients 29:27 – Honoring your values when selecting recipients Having a successful embryo donation match is about more than finding any family; it’s about finding the right family. Through her story, Ashley reveals how aligning values, setting clear expectations, and trusting your instincts can lead to a fulfilling and rewarding experience for both donor and recipient families. If you're ready to learn how to approach embryo donation with clarity and purpose, tune in to this episode of the “Surrogacy Made Simple Podcast.” Listen now and take your next steps toward a meaningful embryo donation match! Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts “I love Alyssa and Surrogacy Made Simple.” – If that sounds like you, please do me a favor by rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to have a great experience with surrogacy. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! Links mentioned in the episode  Surrogacy Starter Kit BloomBridge Surrogacy App (iOS)  Ashley Herring - Instagram

    32 min

  8. OCT 31

    #37 Is embryo donation right for you? an IVF mom's unique choice - Ashley Herring

    What do you do with extra embryos? Your family’s finally complete, and it took a tremendous journey to get here, didnt it? Yet, there's one more decision looming over you. A deeply personal one that could impact your family’s life for years to come. What will you do with the extra embryos? Ashley Herring was once in your shoes, facing this exact decision. Now… What would you do with 12 remaining embryos?  That’s what our guest, Ashley Herring’s, was faced with.   Listen as she shares: Her journey with PCOS, IVF and the challenges faced along the way The 3 main options available for extra embryos and how she made her decision Advice on finding the right fit when working with agencies and online communities 06:34 Infertility struggles, shame, financial hardship 16:47 What it feels like to finally complete your family  19:47 Embryo donation - the road less traveled  23:55 The difference between embryo donation and embryo adoption 26:59 Clinics and agencies that weren't aligned with her values 32:03 Being overwhelmed with hundreds of hopeful parents for her embryos If you believe embryo donation is the right path but feel uncertain about the process, then tune in to uncover Ashley’s incredible story. This podcast episode is a must-listen. Hear Ashley Herring’s story and gain insights that can guide you through this complex process. Don't miss out on this invaluable advice—tune in now! Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts “I love Alyssa and Surrogacy Made Simple.” – If that sounds like you, please do me a favor by rating and reviewing the show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to have a great experience with surrogacy. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then let me know what you loved most about the episode! Links mentioned in the episode  Surrogacy Starter Kit BloomBridge Surrogacy App (iOS)  Ashley Herring - Instagram

    35 min
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About

Surrogacy doesn't have to be overwhelming. On Surrogacy Made Simple, we walk you through this life-changing journey without the complexity and confusion, so you can focus on what's most important - welcoming your new baby! We chat about surrogacy agencies, independent surrogacy, donor eggs, IVF, inducing lactation and all the things important to you. You'll love real stories from intended parents, surrogates and advice from experts in the field. Your surrogacy expert, Dr Alyssa Small Layne (OBGYN, mom through surrogacy), will be your guide.

Information

  • Creator
    Alyssa Small Layne, MD
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    45
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Alyssa Small Layne, MD
  • Show Website
    Surrogacy Made Simple

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