On this episode of Motherhood Intended, Jacqueline shares a deeply personal story about the birth of her daughter via surrogacy. Detailing the steps leading up to the birth, including signing with an agency, being matched with a surrogate, and the excitement of learning the pregnancy news, she provides insights for anyone curious or embarking on a similar journey. She discusses the emotional and logistical aspects of surrogacy, such as creating a birth plan with the surrogate and preparing for changes in post-birth care decisions, like breast milk or formula. The narrative is interwoven with reflections on motherhood, adjustments to family life, and the profound gratitude towards her surrogate. Additionally, she speaks on personal challenges and light-hearted anecdotes about her appearance, family life, and preparations for the arrival of her new baby. The episode closes with a look forward to taking a summer break, focusing on family, and hinting at exciting future content for the podcast.•  Sign up now for the Motherhood Intended Newsletter!• Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast•  If becoming a surrogate is on your heart, click this link to learn more (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello1200:00 Welcome to the Final Episode of Season Three!00:20 The Realities of Recording with a Newborn00:37 A Glimpse into Motherhood: No Makeup, Air-Dried Hair, and Workout Clothes01:58 Announcing a Summer Break and What to Expect02:59 Our Surrogacy Journey: The Birth of Our Daughter04:25 The Birth Plan: A New Experience for Us10:49 Reflections and Decisions Post-Delivery14:29 Delivery Day: An Unforgettable Experience20:54 The Arrival of Lorelei: A Joyful Beginning21:13 Reflecting on Baby Sizes and Family Traits22:40 First Moments with Our Newborn: Embracing Parenthood22:55 Navigating Newborn Feeding: Trials, Triumphs, and Bottle Choices24:50 Hospital Stay and Heading Home: Overcoming Challenges27:27 The Journey Back: Navigating Airports and Flights with a Newborn34:05 Warm Welcome Home and Reflecting on Surrogacy37:09 Closing Thoughts: Embracing Different Paths to ParenthoodiMOM PodcastIf you need a mom friend right now, you’ve come to the right place.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the Show.If you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

This episode features a conversation between Jacqueline, and guest Jess Hull, a former Facebook and Google executive who founded Mother Me, an app, online course, and support framework for successful women navigating postpartum. The core of the episode delves into the Mother Me Method, developed by Jess, based on the science of matrescence and incorporating global perspectives on postpartum support. Jacqueline and Jess emphasize the societal need to support mothers' well-being as substantially as the care provided to newborns, interspersing personal experiences with scientific research to underscore the pivotal role maternal health plays in both a mother and child's life. This episode also explores how the transition to parenthood affects relationships and how understanding and respecting each other's experiences can fortify marital bonds in challenging times.•  Sign up now for the Motherhood Intended Newsletter and receive FREE resources, podcast updates, fertility tips, and product recommendations every week straight to your inbox!• Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Learn more about Mother Me• Connect with Jess on Instagram00:00 Welcome and the Joy of Spring01:12 Embracing the Little Things in Life01:26 The Journey to Motherhood and Mental Health03:18 Introducing Jess Hall and the Mother Me Method05:28 Deep Dive into Postpartum Experiences and Support22:38 Exploring Matrescence: The Science of Becoming a Mother28:28 Navigating Relationship Challenges in Parenthood29:20 Personal Stories of Parenthood and Marriage30:54 Addressing Resentment and Finding Solutions34:36 Embracing Different Parenting Perspectives37:09 Top Tips for Preparing for Postpartum39:54 Fostering Appreciation and Connection in Relationships44:34 The Importance of Physical Touch and Care48:27 Introducing Mother Me: A Resource for New Moms52:29 Connecting with Mother Me for Support54:09 Closing Thoughts on Postpartum Education and SupportiMOM PodcastIf you need a mom friend right now, you’ve come to the right place.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the Show.If you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

After an unexpected hiatus, Jacqueline is back with a new episode as she joyfully shares her family's recent expansion to five as they welcomed a perfect little girl into the world! She was born happy and healthy on April 17th via their gracious surrogate. Everyone is doing well! More on her birth story to come...In this episode, Jacqueline chats with Jodi, a fellow preemie mom, on how to manage when birth stories deviate from expectations. Jodi's journey with her daughter's premature birth at 28 weeks, the subsequent NICU stay, and the emotional aftermath is intimately detailed. Through both of their stories, this episode delves into the struggles and triumphs of navigating premature parenthood, advocating for one's children, and the importance of finding and offering support to others in similar situations. The discussion also touches on broader themes of motherhood, infertility, surrogacy, and reframing mindsets to cope with unexpected life events. The conversation is not only a source of comfort and camaraderie for those with shared experiences, but also offers practical advice and highlights the critical need for extending and seeking support through networks like Jodi's initiative, FLRRiSH. Jacqueline encourages listeners to engage in self-reflection, reach out for support, and contribute to the podcast community.•  Sign up now for the Motherhood Intended Newsletter and receive FREE resources, podcast updates, fertility tips, and product recommendations every week straight to your inbox!• Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Learn more about FLRRiSH• Connect with Jodi on Instagram00:00 Welcome Back & Personal Updates00:27 The Magical Journey of Surrogacy01:48 Podcast Season Updates & Listener Support03:12 Navigating the NICU Journey: A Conversation with Jodi06:42 Empowerment Through Advocacy: Flrrish's Mission11:11 The Transition Home from NICU: Challenges and Support17:17 Reframing Parenthood After Premature Birth19:38 Advocating for Your Child's Needs Beyond the NICU25:11 The Power of Resilience in Premature Births26:23 Celebrating Preemie Strength as a Superpower28:23 Navigating Parenthood and the Importance of Mindset29:21 Embracing Alternative Paths to Parenthood30:10 The Impact of Positive Energy and Support34:25 Creating Flrrish: A Journey from Personal Struggle to Helping Others38:45 The Emotional Complexity of Parenthood and Fertility Challenges44:04 Advice for Moving Forward After Birth Trauma or Infertility48:00 Connecting with Resources and Community SupportSupport the Show.If you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

This episode features an inspiring conversation with Gretchen Witt, who shares her profoundly personal journey through pediatric cancer with her son, Liam, and how it led to the founding of Cookies for Kids' Cancer. Faced with the dire need for funding in pediatric cancer research, Gretchen turned her pain into purpose, initiating a massive cookie bake sale that evolved into a year-round national organization, raising millions for research and treatment options. The episode delves into the challenges and triumphs of navigating pediatric cancer, the nuances of different types, and the importance of advocacy and grassroots involvement. Gretchen's story illustrates the power of community, determination, and love in the fight against pediatric cancer.•  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Support Cookies for Kids' Cancer• Connect with Gretchen Witt on Instagram and LinkedInStruggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay focused on your journey to baby.This episode is brought to you by History on the Rocks, the podcast that brings you the fascinating tales of lesser known history while you get ready for the weekend with your favorite drink in hand. Join Cody and Audrey as they uncork the stories that time forgot. From famous people like George Washington and his distillery, to pirate queens causing mayhem on the high seas, each episode is a journey through the ages with endless possibilities. Give History on the Rocks a follow on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with news about the latest episodes.00:00 Welcome and Personal Update: Awaiting a New Arrival01:55 Introducing Gretchen Witt: A Mother's Fight Against Pediatric Cancer04:24 Gretchen's Story: The Diagnosis That Changed Everything15:28 Navigating the Healthcare System: Seeking the Best Care for Liam26:04 Advocacy and Communication: Protecting Childhood Amidst Cancer32:30 The Rollercoaster of Cancer Treatment: Hope, Gratitude, and Giving Back33:49 Understanding Pediatric Cancer and a Mother's Journey34:29 The Birth of a Cookie Fundraiser37:11 The Logistics of Baking 96,000 Cookies39:00 The Impact of Cookies for Kids' Cancer45:10 Expanding the Mission and Making a Difference54:57 How to Get Involved and Support Pediatric Cancer Research01:00:27 Reflections and Encouragement to Take ActionSupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this bonus episode, Jacqueline shares a personal conversation with her son Hunter, reflecting on his growth and experiences as he turns six. The episode explores themes of family, memory-making, and celebrates milestones, including Hunter's progress in school and his latest birthday party. Additionally, Jacqueline highlights the importance of community through the 'Motherhood Intended' Facebook group and extends an invitation to listeners to contribute to the conversation on motherhood struggles and joys. Furthermore, the episode shares insights into preparing for a new family member and reflects on Hunter's early challenges, including his premature birth and NICU stay. It concludes by emphasizing hope, resilience, and the significant impact of family connections.•  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Apply to be a guest on the showStruggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay focused on your journey to baby.00:00 Welcome to the Bonus Episode: A Special Guest Appearance00:39 Join the Motherhood Intended Community: A Space for All Moms03:29 A Heartwarming Chat with Hunter: Celebrating His 6th Birthday06:35 Hunter's Kindergarten Adventures and Favorite Things08:42 Rapid-Fire Questions: Getting to Know Hunter Better12:01 Podcasting Adventures: Imagining Time Travel12:53 Dreaming of Dinosaur Dialogues14:07 Envisioning a Personal Podcast16:33 Family Dynamics and Big Brother Duties18:36 Preparing for a New Sibling: Nursery and Responsibilities22:59 Reflecting on Hunter's Journey and the Miracle of LifeSoaring Child: Thriving with ADHDHere is a place where you will learn how to address your child's ADHD symptoms...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this heartfelt episode, Jacqueline shares her personal journey of navigating a pregnancy after experiencing multiple losses, including miscarriages and the loss of her daughter Maren at 20 weeks. Recorded from a makeshift desk in her family room, she discusses the emotional and physical changes her family has undergone in preparing their home for their new daughter, who is arriving via surrogacy. Jacqueline candidly talks about the complexities of dealing with PTSD and mental health issues after loss, her experiences with the healthcare system, and the importance of support for women going through similar challenges. She aims to offer reassurance and solidarity to listeners who may be facing their own struggles with pregnancy after loss, highlighting the significance of recognizing and addressing mental health and grief.00:00 Welcome to My Makeshift Studio: A Glimpse into My Life00:18 The Journey of Room Transformations and Personal Loss01:29 Embracing Change: Office Spaces and Preparing for Our Daughter02:02 Channeling Nervous Energy: Home Projects and Nursery Dreams04:26 Facing PTSD and the Complexities of Pregnancy After Loss08:36 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Surrogacy and Anticipation16:22 The Importance of Mental Health Awareness in Pregnancy and Loss21:58 Improving Care for Women Experiencing Miscarriage or Loss28:26 Final Thoughts and Resources for Support•  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Apply to be a guest on the showStruggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay focused on your journey to baby.This episode is brought to you by History on the Rocks, the podcast that brings you the fascinating tales of lesser known history while you get ready for the weekend with your favorite drink in hand. Join Cody and Audrey as they uncork the stories that time forgot. From famous people like George Washington and his distillery, to pirate queens causing mayhem on the high seas, each episode is a journey through the ages with endless possibilities. Give History on the Rocks a follow on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with news about the latest episodes.Support the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode, Jacqueline shares her personal journey of anticipating the arrival of her daughter through surrogacy, emphasizing the stress and preparations involved when not physically pregnant. Jacqueline mentions listening to Amy Porterfield's podcast for inspiration and perspective on embracing uncomfortable moments for growth, touching upon her infertility struggles and the benefits of pursuing uncomfortable paths for family growth. The episode features an interview with Erin, who recounts her transition into motherhood, including challenges like birth trauma, postpartum support, and the importance of trusting one's instincts as a parent. Erin's story of moving from New Jersey to Chicagoland and seeking community in motherhood through local groups like FIT4MOM is shared. The conversation also explores the resources available for new mothers, emphasizing the need to advocate for personal needs and the importance of a supportive community in navigating the complexities of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum life.•  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Apply to be a guest on the showStruggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay focused on your journey to baby.This episode is brought to you by History on the Rocks, the podcast that brings you the fascinating tales of lesser known history while you get ready for the weekend with your favorite drink in hand. Join Cody and Audrey as they uncork the stories that time forgot. From famous people like George Washington and his distillery, to pirate queens causing mayhem on the high seas, each episode is a journey through the ages with endless possibilities. Give History on the Rocks a follow on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with news about the latest episodes.00:00 Welcome to Motherhood Intended: Preparing for Baby's Arrival01:37 Finding Inspiration and Embracing Discomfort04:44 The Journey to Motherhood: Erin's Story07:34 Navigating Pregnancy: Expectations vs. Reality21:18 The Birth Experience: From Plans to Reality28:30 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Childbirth29:56 Switching Providers Mid-Pregnancy30:53 The NICU Experience: Navigating Postpartum Emotions35:47 The First Months: Parenthood Under Pressure39:05 Embracing Help and Breaking Stigmas in Motherhood50:35 Navigating Postpartum Anxiety and Finding Support52:05 Final Thoughts: Embracing the Unpredictability of ParenthoodSupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode, Jacqueline offers a rich tapestry of content, beginning with an intimate look into the world of surrogacy through the eyes of Ashley Mareko, a seasoned surrogate and expert. Ashley shares her multifaceted journey, covering everything from the emotional aspects and ethical considerations of surrogacy to the science and success rates behind it, drawing from her roles both as a surrogate and as the director at Surrogate First. Highlighting the need for careful agency selection and the impact of technological advancements in IVF, her insight provides an invaluable resource for potential surrogates.•  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Apply to be a guest on the show• Connect with Ashley Mareko and Surrogate FirstStruggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay calm and focused on your journey to baby. This episode is brought to you by History on the Rocks, the podcast that brings you the fascinating tales of lesser known history while you get ready for the weekend with your favorite drink in hand. Join Cody and Audrey as they uncork the stories that time forgot. From famous people like George Washington and his distillery, to pirate queens causing mayhem on the high seas, each episode is a journey through the ages with endless possibilities. Give History on the Rocks a follow on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with news about the latest episodes.00:00 Welcome and Personal Updates: Preparing for a Newborn01:33 The Heart of Motherhood Intended: Podcast Goals and Surrogacy Awareness03:03 Introducing Ashley Mareko: A Surrogate's Journey05:17 Ashley's Personal Surrogacy Experience: From First Steps to Family Growth21:30 The Surrogacy Process: Insights and Expectations23:18 The Role of Surrogacy Agencies: Support and Guidance29:41 Understanding Surrogacy Requirements32:02 The Emotional and Physical Journey of Surrogacy33:28 The Rigorous Screening Process for Surrogates35:44 The Science Behind High Success Rates in Surrogacy46:23 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Surrogacy57:01 Advice for Potential Surrogates: Research and SupportSupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode, Jacqueline shares her personal journey through surrogacy, from explaining the concept to her children to celebrating milestones and advocating for surrogacy awareness. She details visiting their surrogate in Texas, the excitement of her pregnancy, and her family's anticipation of welcoming a new baby. Moreover, she interviews Alexandra French, a breast cancer survivor, mother through surrogacy, and the founder of the Gift of Surrogacy Foundation, discussing the emotional, financial, and logistical aspects of surrogacy. They explore the importance of advocating for oneself in medical treatments, the challenges and rewards of surrogacy, and how Alexandra's own experience led her to start a foundation that supports others on their surrogacy journey. The conversation underscores the significance of surrogacy awareness, the transformative impact of gestational carriers, and the myriad paths to parenthood.•  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Apply to be a guest on the show• Connect with Alexandra French!• Donate to the Gift of Surrogacy FoundationStruggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay calm and focused on your journey to baby.This episode was made possible by 2ndStarts.--> It's time to make a change...00:02 Family Trip to Meet the Surrogate03:58 3D Ultrasound Experience09:32 Surrogacy Awareness Month and Guest Introduction10:17 Interview with Alexandra French10:38 Alexandra's Surrogacy Journey24:25 Building Trust in the Surrogacy Process26:38 Financial Challenges in Surrogacy26:59 Emotional Hurdles in Surrogacy29:02 The Importance of Support in Surrogacy29:16 The Role of Agencies in Surrogacy30:06 The Financial Impact of Surrogacy30:54 The Emotional Impact of Surrogacy38:56 The Gift of Surrogacy Foundation46:47 Advice for Surrogacy Journey49:51 Conclusion: The Gift of FamilySupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode, Jacqueline discusses significant life transitions and reflections on her purpose, mainly triggered by her journey into motherhood. She introduces her guest for the episode, Katelyn Denning, a coach who supports busy working moms find balance between their personal and professional lives. Katelyn shares her experiences navigating multifarious roles and responsibilities, explaining how our purpose can be constantly evolving and shifting. They both emphasize the importance of self-reflection, experimentation, following curiosity, and trusting oneself when making life decisions to feel more in control and fulfilled.00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates00:56 Introducing the Guest: Katelyn Denning01:49 The Struggles of Being a Working Mom02:18 Katelyn Journey into Coaching03:39 The Constant Reevaluation of Purpose in Motherhood07:16 The Impact of Motherhood on Personal Identity09:45 Finding Purpose Outside of Motherhood14:59 The Role of Podcasting in Personal Growth20:07 Exploring What's Next: Embracing Uncertainty20:51 The Power of Experimentation: A Personal Journey21:29 The Role of Self-Reflection in Personal Growth22:40 The Art of Listening to Yourself: A New Perspective23:16 Small Actions, Big Impact: A Personal Story26:21 Overcoming Overwhelm: Practical Advice27:55 The Power of the Pause: A New Approach31:42 The Evolution of Purpose: A Fresh Perspective37:25 The Role of Coaching in Personal Development39:42 Final Thoughts and Reflections•  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Apply to be a guest on the show• Connect with Katelyn Denning of Mother Nurture!Struggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay calm and focused on your journey to baby.Support the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode, Jacqueline speaks on the gratitude perspective in motherhood and her intentions to create a gratitude journal geared towards women dealing with infertility. She further welcomes Catherine O'Brien, a licensed marriage and family therapist with a focus on the transition to parenthood. Catherine shares insights on sharing the mental load of parenting, relationship dynamics after having a child, and the importance of offloading the feelings of overwhelm for the sake of personal and marital health. She highlights a spreadsheet available on her website as a tool for managing the mental load. They both emphasize the importance of parents doing what works best for them and their family, and not pressuring themselves to adhere to societal expectations.•  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Apply to be a guest on the show• Connect with Catherine O'Brien and grab her free organizer!Struggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay calm and focused on your journey to baby.This episode was made possible by the Opensoul app.--> “What’s something good that happened with you today?” 00:00 Introduction and Open Soul App Overview00:56 Welcome to the Motherhood Intended Podcast01:33 The Power of Gratitude in Motherhood04:53 Creating a Gratitude Journal for Infertility Journey06:37 Introducing Guest: Catherine O'Brien07:55 Catherine's Personal Journey to Motherhood19:03 The Mental Load of Motherhood24:17 Balancing Family Responsibilities24:38 The Challenges of Raising Young Children24:59 The Importance of Teamwork in Parenting25:27 The Mental Load of Parenthood25:39 Planning and Scheduling as a Parent26:17 The Evolution of Parenting as Children Grow27:31 The Bittersweet Nature of Parenthood28:18 The Importance of Individuality in Parenting28:59 The Role of Support in Parenting29:22 The Impact of Health Issues on Parenting30:42 The Importance of Letting Go in Parenting37:10 The Different Roles in a Family39:04 The Journey of Writing a Parenting Book41:18 The Importance of Community in Parenting45:51 Conclusion: The Ever-Changing Nature of ParenthoodSupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this podcast episode, the Jacqueline invites her sisters-in-law, Rachael and Summer, to share their individual experiences of pregnancy and childbirth. Rachael discusses her pregnancy journey and her son's eventual c-section birth on his due date. Summer details her attempts to have a natural birth which eventually resulted in a scheduled induction. Throughout their conversation, they also open up about the unexpected aspects of their journeys. Overall, their stories highlight the varied nature of pregnancy, the shared joy of motherhood, and the resilience of women.00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Guests00:19 Rachel's Pregnancy and Birth Story05:47 Rachel's C-Section Experience and Recovery11:12 Summer's Pregnancy Journey Begins13:28 The Struggles of Pregnancy14:10 The Wait for Labor19:02 The Long Pushing Stage21:07 The Magic of Forgetting22:07 The Joy of New Additions to the Family•  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Apply to be a guest on the show• Join the Montherhood Intended e-mail list! Once a week you'll receive a newsletter with things like fertility tips, recipes, mom hacks, product discounts, and more.Struggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay calm and focused on your journey to baby.Support the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this transparent and relatable *bonus* podcast episode, Jacqueline shares her conversation with her brother Jake who opens up about his journey of becoming a father while simultaneously battling a gambling addiction. He discusses his struggles and transformation, sharing his process of acknowledging he had an addiction, tackling it head-on, and continuing to uphold his commitment to staying clean. The episode highlights the importance of parental perspectives, honesty, resilience, personal growth, and maintaining a supportive network when facing addiction. Jake also emphasizes the potential dangers of prevalent societal influences, specifically for young people in the sphere of gambling, urging parents to equip their children with awareness and wisdom.00:00 Introduction and Welcoming the Guest00:44 The Journey to Fatherhood: The Beginning02:19 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Pregnancy05:28 The Reality of Parenthood: First Year Reflections07:34 The Struggle with Gambling Addiction: A Candid Discussion10:26 The Impact of Addiction on Personal Life and Relationships13:21 The Turning Point: Acknowledging the Addiction21:40 The Road to Recovery: Attending the First Meeting26:50 The Impact of Parenthood on Recovery27:59 The Role of Support in Overcoming Addiction30:39 The Unexpected Challenges of Parenthood and Recovery32:29 The Importance of Transparency in Recovery34:19 Navigating Unforeseen Challenges in Recovery39:23 The Role of Education in Preventing Addiction45:54 The Ongoing Journey of Recovery and Parenthood•  A one-stop hub connecting people with a gambling problem to local resources•  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Apply to be a guest on the showStruggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay calm and focused on your journey to baby. You'll also be signed up to receive the Motherhood Intended newsletter [coming soon!].Support the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In a lively conversation with Jacqueline, Danielle LaShawn, a mom of four, author, content creator, and full-time employee shares her experiences of motherhood and self-transformation. Danielle emphasises the importance of maintaining personal identity and fulfilling individualistic goals alongside motherhood - a principal topic in her book 'Make a Deposit'. She explains the concept of identifying 'deposits' or small consistent actions that make significant impacts over time and keeps the individual enriched and motivated. Given the demands of motherhood, she advises on curating daily activities to ensure one's happiness and achievement, which indirectly benefits the family too. Transforming her journey and understanding to her widely acknowledged book presented an opportunity to connect with mothers who lost their identities to become mothers and help them reclaim their individualism.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:15 Getting to Know the Guest: Danielle's Background01:11 Unveiling Danielle's Book and Its Core Concept03:04 Understanding the Impact of Daily Choices03:20 The Power of Vision and Consistency05:21 The Importance of Self-Identity in Motherhood05:47 The Role of Structure and Balance in Achieving Goals10:11 Overcoming Mom Guilt and Embracing Individuality13:58 The Impact of Daily Choices on Relationships16:22 The Evolution of Motherhood and Personal Growth19:24 The Power of Positive Consumption and Self-Discovery27:05 Final Thoughts and Advice: Just Get Started28:04 Connecting with Danielle and Conclusion• Danielle's YouTube Channel, website, and book •  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Apply to be a guest on the showStruggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay calm and focused on your journey to baby. You'll also be signed up to receive the Motherhood Intended newsletter [coming soon!].Support the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode, Jacqueline connects with Cori Leary, a fellow boy mom, to discuss the topic of gender disappointment. Cori shares her experience with her pregnancies including the raw emotions she felt when finding out the sex of her babies. Take a listen as we help squash the shame that many women feel surrounding this topic and learn why these feelings can present themselves in the first place."Gender disappointment is a parenthood experience which involves holding a preference for having a daughter or a son and experiencing emotional distress when baby’s sex does not match. Often there is a sense grief for the ‘not having’ of a specifically gendered child.” - Dr. Lindsay McMillan, a clinical psychologist who specializes in gender disappointment. Struggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay calm and focused on your journey to baby.•  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram•  Leave a review for the podcast• Apply to be a guest on the podcastSupport the showIf you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12

In this episode, Jacqueline connects with a mom she's known since elementary school and they discuss both of their sons' birth defects. Melissa educates listeners on cleft lip/palate and what that journey looks like for her son. Jacqueline chimes in with her shared experiences as it relates to her son's bilateral clubbed foot diagnosis. Topics discussed...Birth defectsCleft lip and cleft palateClubbed feetMFM and anatomy scansSpeech therapyOral surgeryEducation and supportStruggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay calm and focused on your journey to baby.•  Leave a review for the podcast•  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram• Apply to be a guest on the podcast• Want in on the ground floor of Motherhood Intended? Reach out to Jacqueline for available opportunities! --> [email protected] you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12Support the showLoving the podcast? Then we would love your support with the production of the show! With the help of our audience, the podcast will be able to bring you the best content, most interesting guests, and helpful resources. Consider skipping your coffee run today and instead show some love here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/motherhoodintended

We're back with SEASON 3! Pop the champagne, it's the 1 year anniversary of Motherhood Intended!In this episode, Jacqueline shares the unique conception and birth stories of her six children - the two sons she's blessed with at home, her three angels in heaven, and a baby girl on the way due in April. *trigger warning* the topics of premature delivery, miscarriage, and stillbirth are discussed.In this episode...Infertility, a blocked fallopian tube, hypothyroidismClomid, IUIs, IVFClubbed feet birth defect, cervical insufficiency, polyhydramniosBedrest, premature delivery, the NICU, c-sectionsMiscarriages and stillbirthPregnancy after lossPlacental abruptionGenetic testing of embryosSurrogacyGrief, trauma, and anxietyStruggling to conceive? Download this *free* Month-by-Month Roadmap to Your Fertility Success to help you stay calm and focused on your journey to baby. •  Leave a review for the podcast•  Join the Motherhood Intended Community•  Follow @motherhood_intended on Instagram• Apply to be a guest on the podcast• Want in on the ground floor of Motherhood Intended? Reach out to Jacqueline for available opportunities! --> [email protected] you're interested in helping give the absolute greatest gift to deserving parents, learn more about becoming a surrogate (and earn up to $650 just for taking the first few simple steps!): share.conceiveabilities.com/hello12Support the showLoving the podcast? Then we would love your support with the production of the show! With the help of our audience, the podcast will be able to bring you the best content, most interesting guests, and helpful resources. Consider skipping your coffee run today and instead show some love here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/motherhoodintended