Traveling Home with Your Newborn: Drive or Fly? Are you feeling overwhelmed deciding how to travel home with your newborn right after surrogacy? You’re not alone. Most of us have surrogates who aren’t local.  Choosing between flying and driving can feel daunting. There’s a lot of logistics and safety concerns. Plus, the big unknowns and the added pressure of making the “right” choice. It can leave you feeling stressed out. Worry not; I’ve got you covered!  In this episode, you'll discover how to make stress-free travel decisions for you and your baby, based on practical advice and real-life experiences of intended parents like you. In this episode, you'll hear:  00:00  Choosing the safest travel route for your newborn. 08:55  The quickest way to travel home with your baby 10:42  Drive away germ worries with road travel strategies. 13:17  Enjoy ultimate flexibility: Tailoring your drive for baby’s needs. 19:05  How baby slings and carriers make airports less hectic 22:53  Secrets to successful long car trips with your baby. 28:13  The most important safety gear for bringing your baby home 31:23  The travel options you’re totally overlooking The choice between flying and driving with a newborn after surrogacy boils down to balancing safety, comfort, and logistical ease. Ready to learn practical travel tips and make the best decision for your family? Let’s transform your travel jitters into a confident plan and bring your baby home safely after your surrogacy journey.  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 HealthyChildren.org - Car Seat Safety

Is paying more for a surrogate really worth it? Choosing the right surrogate isn't an easy job. Like all intended parents, you want the best chance of having a healthy baby.  So when you find an agency offering "premium" surrogates that meet extra requirements, it’s tempting. Even though it costs more, how can you put a price on something like this? You might feel pressured to stretch your budget for that so-called peace of mind. Is this a big fat lie or extra security? And then there’s the other side, the surrogates labeled “basic”, meeting different criteria. The question is, what do these labels really mean?  This episode breaks down the reality behind these marketing tactics and helps you make informed decisions to protect your journey and your finances. In this episode, you'll discover: 04:41 Finding a trustworthy surrogate can be overwhelming 06:58 Choosing unqualified surrogates risks pregnancy complications 12:02 Surrogacy risks: Lower fees, Facebook groups, dubious agencies 15:56 Who really has final say on a surrogate 19:29 The sneaky ways agencies are creating false exclusivity to charge higher fees 22:24 The real guidelines to qualify a surrogate 25:23 How to use your power as an intended parent 29:23 Find helpful tools for your surrogacy journey What’s influencing your decision to pick a surrogate? Because you deserve to know the truth. Listen 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  ASRM Surrogacy Recommendations (PDF) #15 Surrogacy Requirements Decoded: What You Need to Know Now!Surrogate Vetting Essentials

If you’re about to undergo GYN surgery, you need to know what could happen to your fertility.  I needed a surrogate because fibroids and a myomectomy stole my fertility. Too many times, women aren't fully informed about the risks tied to fibroid removal, endometriosis surgery, endometrial ablation, and other invasive procedures. But what if you learned the full scope of your options before making life-changing decisions? In this eye-opening episode of Surrogacy Made Simple Podcast, we dig into the need for comprehensive care and informed consent before GYN surgery.  I share with you both as a surgeon and a patient.  You’ll discover the often-hidden risks, the pros and cons of various treatment paths, and how to make confident, informed choices to protect your fertility. Episode Highlights:  06:04 How the growing OBGYN shortage will affect fertility  15:23 How to manage ovarian cysts without compromising your fertility. 19:34 The truth about endometriomas: How they impact your ovarian reserve. 25:54 Fibroids should be preventable 34:02 Think embolization (UFE) is your best option for fibroids? You might want to think again. 40:33 Ask about ovary preservation before hysterectomy. Your doctor might not have mentioned all these crucial alternatives—get the full picture on your fertility options. If you want a baby (your own pregnancy or surrogacy) and you’re considering a GYN surgery, make sure you're fully informed before moving forward. This episode is an absolute must-listen. 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  ACOG - Preparing for Surgery ACOG - Uterine Artery Embolization

What's the right type of surrogacy relationship? Are you feeling pressured to have a relationship in surrogacy that isn’t what you really want?  When expectations aren’t met, things can fall apart.  If your relationship and communication styles don’t match your vision, it can lead to anxiety and frustration, potentially causing a breakdown in your surrogacy journey. But you can prevent this! Learn what works for you and how to find a good match. Episode Highlights: 07:28 - Discover the three different surrogacy relationship styles 09:09 - If you believe in strong emotional bonds, you’re this type 13:39 - The most misunderstood type of relationship revealed 18:44 - Understand how peer pressure in surrogacy may affect you 21:33 - Unpopular opinion: You don’t need a close relationship 31:22 - Take a quick quiz to find your ideal relationship style Are you aware of how your preferred relationship style will impact your surrogacy journey? Don’t leave your dreams to chance. Prevent misunderstandings from derailing your plans. Listen now and create the right relationship for you! 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  Surrogate ID quiz Your First Meeting with a Surrogate: 6 Key Topics You Must Cover to Prevent a Broken Match Surrogate Vetting Essentials

Are you nervous about independent surrogacy? Uncertain about managing it all yourself? Afraid you'll miss a crucial step?  Or maybe you’re wondering if this is a barely legal, out of the box thing that puts you and your baby at serious risk.  You’re not alone in feeling this way because most people don’t know the truth about independent surrogacy.  Plus there’s a whole industry designed to keep it that way But, as usual, we’re here to share secrets and help you make the rights decisions for you! In this episode, you'll hear: 06:23 The basics: What is independent surrogacy and why do people choose it? 7:37 Why believing that independent surrogacy is “DIY” could lead to unnecessary stress 12:58 Independent surrogacy is not professional-free. The role of your expert team. 18:04 What skeptics won’t tell you: It’s perfectly legal 21:24 With the right resources and step-by-step guides, it’s easier than you think. 26:54 A surrogacy agency isn’t your only option for finding a surrogate 31:16 The truth about cost savings in independent surrogacy Unpopular opinion… If you can manage a project, then you can handle independent surrogacy with confidence.  Ready to demystify independent surrogacy and take control of your journey? You’ve got to listen to this episode—get all the insights and tools you need to succeed! 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  Step by Step Guide & Checklist Surrogate Vetting Essentials  The New York State surrogacy agency license

Thinking about breastmilk? You know breast milk has so many benefits, and you want baby to have it.  But it seems so hard to give breast milk after surrogacy. A big part of that is having to pump at work. It can be overwhelming, especially if your job isn't supportive. If you're a surrogate thinking about pumping or an intended mother inducing lactation, these concerns have likely been on your mind. You might even consider not pumping for too long—or not at all. Thankfully, it just got easier. Think breastfeeding at work means being stuck in a bathroom stall? Think again! The Pump Act changes everything. In this episode, you'll learn how the PUMP Act provides essential protections for lactating workers, including surrogates and intended parents. Get ready to feel empowered 00:00 Women face issues pumping at work, discrimination. 06:05 If you tried breastfeeding and stopped early, you’re not alone 07:47 Pumping breast milk is time-consuming. 11:48 Discrimination and harassment around breastfeeding impacts health. 16:13 What you should NEVER accept as a lactation space at work—and how the Pump Act protects you. 19:22 What the Pump Act means for surrogacy and adoption. 23:21 More women likely to breastfeed at work. 24:54 Employers recognize importance of supporting breastfeeding employees. 28:19 Pump Act: supporting all ways of nourishment. Are you aware of your rights under the PUMP Act, and how they can improve your breastfeeding journey while working? Don’t miss this episode—it’s packed with essential tips and legal insights that can help you navigate lactation in the workplace effectively. Listen now and unlock the support you need to help nourish a baby with human milk! 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  Surprising Secrets Of Inducing Lactation For Surrogacy- Part 1 | Part 2 Center for WorkLife Law - Rights Guide & Legal Helpline Pregnant @ Work - Learn more about your workplace rights

Need surrogacy baby bonding tips that actually work? Having a baby through surrogacy can feel like loss on top of loss. The loss that made you turn to surrogacy The loss of being able to carry a pregnancy. The loss of little kicks and late night cravings.  And when you think about bonding with your baby, you may be worried about missing those first 9 months.  Thankfully, you can still have a strong beautiful connection with your baby before they even arrive.  In this episode, you'll hear: 04:38 If you struggle to connect, you are not alone 06:08 Even after tragedy, the surrogacy process can be joyful! 09:29 One daily habit that can change your thinking 13:38 8 ways you can bond with your baby If you’re worried about missing out on bonding experiences, then this podcast episode is your ultimate guide. You’ve got to listen to this episode—there are so many practical tips and insights that will really help you feel connected to your baby throughout your surrogacy journey. 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 Surprising Secrets of Inducing Lactation for Surrogacy - with Alyssa Schnell Part 1 & Part 2

--> Worksheet download: The exact tool I give my coaching clients to help vet a surrogate from the first meeting. ⁠Surrogate Vetting Essentials Are you feeling overwhelmed trying to find the right surrogate?  Picking a surrogate is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make.  The wrong choice can mean a broken match, lost time, wasted money and hard feelings How you screen and vetting a surrogate could be the deciding factor in whether your surrogacy journey is smooth or fraught with challenges. In this episode, you'll hear: 03:13 Choosing the right surrogate is essential. 06:28 Surrogacy mishaps that could have been avoided by proper vetting. 16:29 How a WTF meeting with a fertility doctor changed everything 26:19 Creating a stellar workflow to filter best candidates. 33:28 Grab our done-for-you worksheet for finding a qualified surrogate. There are subtle yet powerful methods for choosing the ideal surrogate without overwhelming yourself. It takes a little pre-planning, and we’ll guide you through. First step is pressing play! 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  Surrogate Vetting Essentials Worksheet - Ask the right questions, find the right match #5: Your First Meeting with a Surrogate: 6 Key Topics You Must Cover to Prevent a Broken Match

Safe Surrogacy - 6 tips to avoid scams and pitfalls: Watch the video What happens when the fertility industry turns a blind eye? The desire to have a child can be overwhelming, sometimes driving us to overlook potential red flags. But sometimes the people and systems we trust to guide us are the ones that let things slip by.  What happens when this industry, meant to help us build families, seemingly prioritizes profit over safety? Have you thought about how vulnerable we are in our journey to parenthood? What if those we trust to help us are more interested in making money than ensuring our safety and happiness? In this episode, we discuss a chilling case of a Dutch sperm donor who fathered over a thousand children. This story is a stark reminder of what can happen when things go unchecked in the world of sperm donation, surrogacy and fertility in general. **In This Episode, You’ll Hear:** 2:12 The Jonathan Jacob Mayher case—a shocking example of industry negligence. 10:01 The genetic and public health implications of rampant sperm donation. 16:00 Struggles of surrogacy, avoiding pitfalls and solutions. 23:40 If you’re considering using a sperm donation in the US, these guidelines may shock you 32:15 How do you spot red flags in your surrogacy journey and protect yourself? While most donors and surrogates have good intentions, your children’s future deserves a critical eye!  Tune in to this episode and gain the knowledge you need to protect your dream of becoming a parent. 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  Safe Surrogacy - 6 insider tips to avoid scams and pitfalls

How long does surrogacy take? If you're feeling overwhelmed by how long it’s taking to have a baby, you're not alone.  Like you, so many others have had their parenthood timelines turned upside down. It’s natural to wonder… and worry that your surrogacy journey might take longer than you want. The truth is, surrogacy does take a long time. And, if you don’t play your cards right, delays and setbacks can stretch your timeline.  But what if understanding how long surrogacy takes is the key to bringing your baby home quicker?  In this episode of the Surrogacy Made Simple Podcast, we're diving deep into the surrogacy timeline, exploring the key milestones and potential pitfalls that could impact how long surrogacy takes for you. You'll discover: - 2:15: How long surrogacy really takes (hint: it's not always as fast as you think) - 7:30: The crucial steps in the surrogacy process that can make or break your timeline - 15:20: How to find a surrogate match in 3 months or less (yes, it's possible!) - 22:45: The hidden time-suckers that can derail your surrogacy journey (and how to avoid them) - 29:10: Insider tips to speed up your surrogacy timeline and bring your baby home sooner The simple fact is, you have more control over your timeline than you think. Take a listen and get ready to understand how long surrogacy could take, and what to do to keep it on track 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  5 Little Known Secrets to a Quick Match Surrogacy Step-by-Step Guide (starter kit)