Building your family

Donor Conception Is Her World: Kate Davies on Family & Identity

Author Kate Davies, known for her novel Nuclear Family, joins us to share her personal and literary journey through donor conception. As a donor-conceived person who pursued donor conception with her wife, Kate reflects on the evolving meaning of family, identity, and connection. Her experiences offer a powerful perspective on the complexities and beauty of modern family-building.
Whether you're curious about donor conception, LGBTQ+ family building, or how personal stories inspire fiction, this conversation is a must-listen.
📚 Learn more about Kate's book on her websiteFollow Kate on Instagram🎧 Subscribe for more stories on family and parenthood!

Choosing Donor Conception: Expert Insights & Personal Journey with Dr. Melnick

Thinking about choosing donor conception to build your family? Today’s episode is a must-watch! Dr. Melnick, Director of Third Party Reproduction at Cornell Fertility Center, shares expert insights on selecting a donor, making crucial fertility decisions, and balancing medical recommendations with personal values.
But this isn’t just a clinical perspective—Dr. Melnick used donor conception herself to become a single mother by choice. Her unique experience as both a fertility doctor and a parent through donor conception makes this conversation incredibly valuable.
In this episode, we cover:Choosing the right sperm or egg donorShould you use a known donor? Pros & consKey medical & ethical considerations in donor conceptionWhy patient autonomy matters in fertility decisionsDr. Melnick’s personal journey to parenthood
Whether you're considering donor conception, in fertility treatment, or just exploring options, this episode will give you essential insights from a leading expert who truly understands the process—both professionally and personally.
Subscribe for more expert fertility insights!Have questions? Drop them in the comments!
Useful links from this episode
Dr. Alexis Melnick
Website

Two Dads, One Dream: Jeff Levin’s Surrogacy & Egg Donation Journey

How do two dads navigate the journey to parenthood through surrogacy and egg donation? In this episode, I sit down with Jeff Levin, a therapist and proud dad, to hear the real story behind his path to fatherhood. From choosing an egg donor and surrogate to overcoming unexpected challenges, Jeff shares the highs, the hurdles, and the heartfelt moments that led him and his husband to the family of their dreams.
If you’re a same-sex couple considering parenthood—or simply curious about the process—this episode is packed with honest insights, expert advice, and inspiration for anyone on their own family-building journey.
Useful links from this episode:
Jeff Levin:Website

Fertility & Stress: How Eastern Medicine Can Help with Dr. Susan Fox

Struggling with stress and fertility challenges? 🌱 Acupuncturist Dr. Susan Fox brings decades of experience blending Eastern and Western medicine to help you feel better. In this episode, she shares insights on managing stress, improving reproductive health, and finding balance on your fertility journey.
🔹 How Eastern medicine views fertility & well-being🔹 Practical stress management techniques🔹 The role of acupuncture in reproductive health
Don't miss these expert tips to support your journey to parenthood!
Subscribe for more fertility insights!
Useful links from this episode:
Resolve websiteASRM
Dr Susan Fox
WebsiteHealth YouniversityFertility QuizEvent

How Fertility Clinics Screen Egg Donors | Ethics & Process

Ever wondered what really happens when fertility clinics screen egg donors? Dr. Rudick, Director of Third Party Reproduction at Columbia University Fertility Center, shares the essential steps she takes to protect the emotional and physical well-being of both donors and recipients. With complex decisions and sometimes conflicting interests, she reveals how she balances ethics, science, and care. If you or someone you know is considering egg donation, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!
Useful links from this episode:
Dr. Briana Rudick
Website

Sperm Health & Testing: What You Need to Know | Dr. Justine Witzke

Want to boost fertility? Sperm health plays a critical role, yet it’s often overlooked. In this episode of Building Your Family, we sit down with Dr. Justine Witzke, a Cornell-trained fertility expert and founder of Aligneage Fertility, to discuss sperm testing, preservation, and proactive fertility planning.
 Why should you test sperm? How can you improve sperm health? Who should consider sperm freezing and why?
With more people preserving sperm for future family-building, understanding fertility preservation is more important than ever. Whether you’re trying to conceive now or planning ahead, this episode gives you expert insights on sperm quality, reproductive health, and fertility options.
Listen now and take control of your fertility journey!
Subscribe for expert fertility advice & family-building tips!
Useful links from this episode:
Justine Witzke
WebsiteInstagram

Fertility and Cancer: What You Need to Know

Before starting cancer treatment, fertility preservation can give patients the chance to have a family in the future. While many know this is possible, few understand what happens inside fertility clinics, how to navigate the process, or what questions to ask.
In this episode, I talk with a leading mental health professional—also a cancer survivor—who shares what really goes on behind the scenes, the emotional challenges, and how to get the support you need. Whether you're facing a diagnosis or supporting someone who is, this conversation can help.
Useful links from this episode.
Jennifer Gamper
Website
SART

Keeping Love Alive: Sex & Intimacy in Family Building w/ Dr. Elizabeth Grill

Struggling to keep the spark alive while navigating family building? In this Valentine’s Day special, we sit down with Dr. Elizabeth Grill to talk about sex, intimacy, and recalibrating your expectations when life gets overwhelming. Whether you're trying to conceive, in fertility treatment, or just looking for ways to reconnect, this episode will give you real strategies to help you sustain love, desire, and emotional connection—even in the toughest moments.
What You’ll Learn:How to shift your mindset from “performance” to true intimacyPractical ways to stay connected when life feels overwhelmingHow to navigate emotional and physical barriers to intimacyLong-term strategies to keep passion alive in your relationship
Don’t miss these expert insights—subscribe and share with someone who needs this today!
 
Useful links from this episode
Dr. Elizabeth GrillInstagram

Fertility & Health: What Really Works with Dr. Camille Hammond

Are you overwhelmed by social media advice on fertility and health? Dr. Camille Hammond joins Building Your Family to break down the basics of nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle choices when trying to conceive. She exposes false claims, shares science-backed insights, and helps you focus on real, effective ways to support your fertility. If you’re tired of the noise and looking for expert guidance, this episode is for you!
Useful links from this episode
Dr. Camille Hammond
Cade FoundationASRMArticle

Fertility & Solo Parenting: Trisha Cornwell on Thriving as a Single Mom

In this heartfelt episode, Trisha Cornwell, also known as the Solo Mama, opens up about her journey into solo parenthood with one child. She shares her experiences navigating fertility treatments, the emotional and practical realities of raising a child on her own, and how she balances it all with grace. Whether you're considering solo parenthood or are already on the journey, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement for those walking a similar path. Tune in for a genuine and inspiring conversation about what it really takes to raise a child solo, from fertility to daily life.
Useful links from this episode
Trisha CornwellInstagram