Let's Talk Surrogacy

Surrogacy contracts can feel intimidating, technical and overwhelming... but they’re one of the most important parts of the entire surrogacy journey.In this episode of "Let’s Talk Surrogacy", we’re joined by Joanna Beck Wilkinson, an attorney and founding member of Foster + Bloom, to break down what a surrogacy contract actually does, why it’s more than “just paperwork" and how it protects both the surrogate and the intended parents.Joanna walks through the biggest areas of a surrogacy contract where misunderstandings can happen, including pregnancy management, termination language and confidentiality in the age of social media.Whether you’re a first-time surrogate staring at a long contract, or an intended parent trying to understand what’s standard, what’s negotiable and what’s a red flag, this conversation will help you feel more prepared, more confident and more protected before anything is signed.Subscribe for more real conversations on surrogacy ►► bit.ly/4n6Fv3sDrop your thoughts or questions in the comments!Learn more or start your surrogacy journey:Website: https://www.americansurrogacy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/american_surrogacyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/american.surrogacyIf you are interested in becoming a surrogate, please visit:https://www.americansurrogacy.com/surrogate/surrogate_free_info?ref=asytsurIf you are ready to get started as an intended parent please visit: https://www.americansurrogacy.com/parents/parents_free_info?ref=asytip00:00 - Intro00:15 - What Brought Joanna to Family-Building Law01:08 - What is a Surrogacy Contract? [Process Explained]02:21 - Important, Underestimated Areas of a Surrogacy Contract08:07 - How Contracts Protect Surrogates09:36 - Contract Terms that Surprise Intended Parents10:11 - Why Intended Parents' Attorneys Write the First Contract Draft11:12 - Do Intended Parents Pay for the Surrogate's Attorney?12:41 - The Contract Review & Negotiation Process15:09 - What Does "Legal Clearance" Mean?15:51 - Legal Clarity on Parental Rights17:12 - Why the First Draft of a Contract Feels One-Sided18:16 - Advocating for Yourself in the Contract Phase19:30 - Factors of the Contract Phase's Timeline20:41 - Costs Intended Parents are Responsible For During the Legal Phase23:02 - Working with Surrogacy Attorneys vs. General Practice Attorneys24:17 - Are Surrogacy Contracts Legally Enforceable?26:18 - What are Surrogacy Contract Amendments?27:00 - State Statutes Basics for Surrogacy Contracts27:51 - Contract Enforceability by Jurisdiction30:22 - What are Contract Provisions?30:55 - American Surrogacy's Independent Program31:30 - Risks of Independent vs. Agency-Supported Surrogacy Contracts33:46 - Improved Outcomes with a Coordinated Legal & Agency Team34:42 - The Emotions of Surrogacy Contracts37:28 - The Importance of Independent Contract Reviews38:36 - Joanna's Advice Before Signing the Contract39:56 - Misconceptions of Surrogacy Contracts40:33 - Where to Go for Trustworthy, Legal Guidance on Surrogacy41:52 - Outro#LetsTalkSurrogacy #Foster+Bloom #surrogacycontracts #podcast #surrogacylaw #AmericanSurrogacy

Christina and her husband faced years of infertility, failed IVF transfers and unimaginable loss until one embryo and one perfect match changed everything.In this emotional episode of "Let’s Talk Surrogacy", Christina opens up about the pain, the hope and the moment she finally held her daughter in her arms. She walks us through her lowest points, why they chose American Surrogacy, what made their experience feel personal and how one match (on the very first day) brought them full circle.Whether you're an intended parent, surrogate or someone considering a different path to parenthood, Christina’s story will give you hope and perspective.Subscribe for more real conversations on surrogacy ►► bit.ly/4n6Fv3sDrop your thoughts or questions in the comments!Learn more or start your surrogacy journey:Website: https://www.americansurrogacy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/american_surrogacyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/american.surrogacyIf you are ready to get started as an intended parent please visit: https://www.americansurrogacy.com/parents/parents_free_info?ref=asytipIf you are interested in becoming a surrogate, please visit:https://www.americansurrogacy.com/surrogate/surrogate_free_info?ref=asytsur00:00 - Intro00:24 - The Moment Christina Knew Surrogacy was the Path01:48 - The Emotional Journey of Infertility05:32 - How to Navigate Others' Input about Family Building07:52 - Christina's Advice to Overcoming Infertility Grief11:03 - One Embryo, No Problem for American Surrogacy13:26 - The Shift from IVF to a Surrogacy Journey 19:39 - What's the Role of a Surrogacy Specialist?21:47 - The Different Journeys of Infertility & Surrogacy23:22 - What Stands Out about the Embryo Creation Process?24:50 - Did Christina Pursue Genetic Testing?25:33 - How Embryo Results Influence a Surrogacy Timeline27:37 - "The unknown is hard, it's scary, it's difficult."28:35 - The Reassurance of American Surrogacy's Pre-Screening29:47 - Why Christina Chose American Surrogacy31:33 - The Moment Christina Found the Right Surrogate36:17 - Overcoming Tough Talks During the Initial Surrogate Meeting39:38 - The Joys of Matching with a Surrogate41:18 - Christina's Advice to Intended Parents about Wait Times44:20 - The Relationship Christina Shared with Her Surrogate46:21 - An Early Scare the Shook Christina's Surrogacy Journey49:46 - The Importance of Surrogacy Specialist Involvement51:30 - The Emotions of Delivery Day53:22 - "We cannot say how grateful we are for our surrogate."56:47 - Christina's Reflections on her Surrogacy Journey57:58 - Is Surrogacy the Next Step?59:02 - Outro#LetsTalkSurrogacy #AmericanSurrogacy #surrogatejourney #ivf #embryotransfer #podcast

Codi, an experienced surrogate, shares her raw, real surrogacy story from her teenage calling to navigating contracts, pregnancy and emotional recovery with American Surrogacy.In this episode of "Let’s Talk Surrogacy", host Lindsay sits down with Codi, a surrogate who opens up about her unique experience carrying for another family. Codi walks us through the highs and lows of her journey including medical hurdles, emotional dynamics, postpartum healing and the beautiful bond she formed with the family she helped.Whether you're curious about becoming a surrogate, an intended parent or simply drawn to powerful human stories, this episode delivers truth, vulnerability and inspiration.Subscribe for more real conversations on surrogacy ►► bit.ly/4n6Fv3sDrop your thoughts or questions in the comments!Learn more or start your surrogacy journey:Website: https://www.americansurrogacy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/american_surrogacyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/american.surrogacyIf you are interested in becoming a surrogate, please visit:https://www.americansurrogacy.com/surrogate/surrogate_free_info?ref=asytsurIf you are ready to get started as an intended parent please visit: https://www.americansurrogacy.com/parents/parents_free_info?ref=asytip00:00 - Intro00:14 - What Led Codi to Consider Becoming a Surrogate?02:35 - Her Husband’s Support & Contract Language03:54 - Why Codi Chose American Surrogacy07:55 - The Emotions of the Screening Process11:49 - The Length of Codi's Journey13:28 - Choosing & Connecting with Intended Parents15:31 - Questions for Intended Parents17:54 - Why They Were the Right Match18:36 - Getting to Know the Intended Parents22:26 - Postpartum Emotions23:30 - Explaining Surrogacy to Your Family & Strangers27:21 - The Embryo Transfer Process29:55 - "[Belly shots] were overall the hardest for me."33:58 - The Emotions of Transfer Day35:43 - How Codi Envisioned Her Birth Plan [Using a Doula]41:40 - How the Intended Parents Supported Codi through the Process44:54 - The Proud Feeling Codi Shares about Surrogacy46:08 - How Codi's Children Reacted to Surrogacy46:54 - What Surprised Codi the Most about her Experience50:44 - How Surrogacy Shaped Codi52:10 - Codi's Advice to Those Considering Surrogacy54:14 - Outro#LetsTalkSurrogacy #AmericanSurrogacy #surrogatejourney #embryotransfer #podcast

In this episode of Let’s Talk Surrogacy, host Lindsay talks with Alison, a surrogate who knew she wanted to carry a child for someone else since she was 8 years old. From a challenging mock cycle and months of injections to a high-risk pregnancy and a postpartum emergency, Alison takes us through the beautiful, emotional, and sometimes scary reality of being a surrogate, and why, despite everything, she still hopes to do it again.Subscribe for more real conversations on surrogacy ►► bit.ly/4n6Fv3sDrop your thoughts or questions in the comments!Learn more or start your surrogacy journey:Website: https://www.americansurrogacy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/american_surrogacyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/american.surrogacyIf you are interested in becoming a surrogate, please visit:https://www.americansurrogacy.com/surrogate/surrogate_free_info?ref=asytsurIf you are ready to get started as an intended parent please visit: https://www.americansurrogacy.com/parents/parents_free_info?ref=asytip00:00 - Intro00:47 - When Alison Knew She Wanted to Become a Surrogate02:42 - The Importance of a Surrogacy Support Group03:33 - Why Alison Chose Agency Surrogacy vs. Independent Surrogacy06:38 - The Emotions of a Surrogacy Pregnancy07:36 - What is a "Mock Cycle"?09:43 - Surprises through the Surrogacy Process11:33 - Alison's Surrogacy Matching Journey17:51 - The Relationship Between Surrogate & Intended Parent20:14 - Explaining Surrogacy to Your Children & Strangers23:08 - Unexpected Challenges of Surrogacy 29:05 - American Surrogacy Exceeding Expectations30:34 - How American Surrogacy Dealt with SEAM32:39 -  Different Emotions Between Pregnancies36:14 - What’s Next for Alison37:43 - Alison Gives Advice to Wannabe Surrogates40:39 - "Blood is thicker than water."41:59 - Outro#LetsTalkSurrogacy #AmericanSurrogacy #surrogatejourney #surrogacymatch #embryotransfer #ivf #surrogacysupport #podcast

Wade Morris, Director of Community Resources at American Surrogacy, reveals how to choose the right surrogacy agency, avoid scams and save time in this must-hear deep dive episode of "Let's Talk Surrogacy".Are you considering surrogacy and don’t know where to start? In this episode of "Let’s Talk Surrogacy", host Lindsay sits down with Wade to break down the entire process from IVF to finding a surrogate, avoiding scams, managing costs and choosing the best agency for your journey.Whether you're an intended parent or considering becoming a surrogate, this episode is packed with expert guidance to help you make informed decisions.Subscribe for more real conversations on surrogacy ►► bit.ly/4n6Fv3sDrop your thoughts or questions in the comments!Learn more or start your surrogacy journey:Website: https://www.americansurrogacy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/american_surrogacyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/american.surrogacyIf you are interested in becoming a surrogate, please visit:https://www.americansurrogacy.com/surrogate/surrogate_free_info?ref=asytsurIf you are ready to get started as an intended parent please visit: https://www.americansurrogacy.com/parents/parents_free_info?ref=asytip00:00 - Intro0:17 - Wade's Role at American Surrogacy00:59 - Surrogacy Basics: The Genetic Connections02:32 - Traditional vs. Gestational Surrogacy Explained03:45 - First Step for Intended Parents: Choosing a Fertility Clinic07:02 - Good vs. Bad Surrogacy Agency: Surrogacy Screening13:15 - The Different Types of Agency Programs15:11 - American Surrogacy's Programs & Financial Protections18:31 - The Hidden Pitfalls in a Surrogacy Journey20:10 - Why American Surrogacy Matches Parents Faster21:54 - What Surrogates Look for in Intended Parents23:47 - BTS: American Surrogacy's Surrogate Screening Process26:05 - Limited-Risk vs. Foundation Programs28:42 - Do Surrogates Need Health Insurance?29:57 - Benefits of Independent Surrogacy30:55 - American Surrogacy's Independent Program 33:16 - Do You Need Embryos Before Working with an Agency?34:38 - Tips for Getting to Know Your Surrogate35:39 - The Importance of Communicating with Your Surrogate39:20 - What Surrogacy Relationships Look Like After Birth42:24 - Surrogate's Communication with Their Agency43:36 - IVF, Surrogacy & Adoption Cost Breakdown49:03 - Surrogacy Financial Planning Tips & Loan Options50:47 - Why “No Upfront Fees” Can Be a Red Flag52:25 - American Surrogacy's Strong Relationship with Clients54:10 - How American Surrogacy Responded to the SEAM Fraud Case57:48 - Family Mentality at American Surrogacy58:36 - Surrogacy Journey Length & Working with Out-of-State Agencies59:28 - Final Thoughts from Wade Morris#LetsTalkSurrogacy #AmericanSurrogacy #surrogacyjourney #infertilitysupport #podcast #surrogacyagency #surrogacycosts

What happens when a surrogate and international intended parents connect so deeply, they choose to do it all again?In this touching episode of "Let’s Talk Surrogacy", host Lindsay welcomes Brittany, a surrogate from Missouri, along with Anja and Christian, a couple from Switzerland, to share their remarkable story. From an instant connection to two beautiful international surrogacy journeys that crossed oceans, cultures and expectations, this conversation explores trust, shared values, the emotional ups and downs and how they truly became family.Whether you’re a hopeful intended parent, a potential surrogate or just someone who loves stories about human connection, this international surrogacy story is for you.Subscribe for more real conversations on surrogacy ►► bit.ly/4n6Fv3sDrop your thoughts or questions in the comments!Learn more or start your surrogacy journey:Website: https://www.americansurrogacy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/american_surrogacyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/american.surrogacyIf you are interested in becoming a surrogate, please visit:https://www.americansurrogacy.com/surrogate/surrogate_free_info?ref=asytsurIf you are ready to get started as an intended parent please visit: https://www.americansurrogacy.com/parents/parents_free_info?ref=asytip00:00 - Intro00:41 - Brittany, Anja & Christian Share What Led Them to Surrogacy02:01 - The Intended Parents' Hopes for a Right Surrogate Match04:12 - Surprises During the Surrogate Matching Process07:24 - The First Meeting & Instant Connection11:50 - Anja & Christian's Decision to Choose an American Surrogate14:22 - Cultural Differences in International Surrogacy18:32 - Countries Anja & Christian Considered for Surrogacy19:58 - What to Consider When Pursuing International Surrogacy23:35 - IP Advice for Other IPs Working with an American Surrogate24:27 - Building Trust & Good Communication in International Surrogacy29:26 - Years of Bad Infertility News Led These IPs to Surrogacy31:16 - The Emotions & Stories of Delivery Day37:31 - Inspiration for Another Journey Together (Sibling Surrogacy)40:47 - Differences Between the First & Second Journey43:57 - Brittany's Advice for a Potential Second-Time Surrogate45:05 - How Surrogacy Shaped Brittany, Anja & Christian48:20 - Brittany's Advice for Someone Considering International Surrogacy50:07 - Advice Brittany, Anja & Christian Wish They Heard52:08 - How Brittany, Anja & Christian Describe Their Surrogacy Journey52:28 - Outro#LetsTalkSurrogacy #AmericanSurrogacy #internationalsurrogacy #surrogatejourney #surrogacymatch #podcast

What happens when a surrogate faces failed pregnancy after failed pregnancy, and still chooses hope?In this raw and inspiring episode of "Let’s Talk Surrogacy", Madie, a two-time surrogate opens up about her decade-long journey of resilience and the powerful bond between surrogates and intended parents. Madie walks us through her three journeys, the emotional highs and crushing lows, and how she went from feeling “damaged goods” to successfully helping two families grow. Whether you’re a hopeful surrogate, an intended parent or just curious about what it really takes to be a surrogate, this is a surrogacy story you won’t forget.Subscribe for more real conversations on surrogacy ►► bit.ly/4n6Fv3sDrop your thoughts or questions in the comments!Learn more or start your surrogacy journey:Website: https://www.americansurrogacy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/american_surrogacyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/american.surrogacyIf you are interested in becoming a surrogate, please visit:https://www.americansurrogacy.com/surrogate/surrogate_free_info?ref=asytsurIf you are ready to get started as an intended parent please visit: https://www.americansurrogacy.com/parents/parents_free_info?ref=asytip00:00 - Intro00:17 - What Inspired Madie to Become a Surrogate?01:46 - Her Husband’s Reaction to Surrogacy03:21 - When Madie Started Her First Surrogacy Journey04:19 - First-Time Surrogate Emotions & Hesitations07:14 - Madie's First Experience with the Intended Parents08:24 - What Makes a Great Surrogacy Match?10:45 - Working as a Waitress During Pregnancy12:53 - Explaining Surrogacy to Her Kids14:29 - The First Match: Embryo Transfers & The Emotional Toll of Miscarriage19:20 - Success at Last: A Baby Girl Is Born21:19 - How the IPs Supported Madie throughout the Journey24:25 - Madie's Relationship with Her IPs Today26:07 - The Second Journey: Three Transfers, No Baby  29:02 - When Emotional Burnout Happens  30:06 - Trying an Independent Journey  32:59 - Another Failed Transfer & Heavy Reflection  35:26 - Rebuilding Confidence After Failure  36:09 - Her Final Journey: 2 Dads, 1 Rainbow Baby  38:34 - “I'm Hopeful. I Have One More Journey”: What’s Next for Madie39:32 - Facing Criticism & “Surrogacy Opinions”41:02 - Agency vs. Independent Surrogacy: Madie's Preference  43:44 - The Emotions in the Delivery Room46:27 - The Importance of Stress Tests49:55 - Breastfeeding a Surrogate Baby50:26 - Madie's Advice & Encouragement for Other Surrogates53:55 - Madie Describes Her Surrogacy Journey in One Word54:53 - Outro#LetsTalkSurrogacy #AmericanSurrogacy #surrogatejourney #surrogacymatch #embryotransfer #podcast

A surrogate, a twin birth and a surprise pregnancy?? See how this American Surrogacy journey is truly one for the books.What happens when a surrogate and intended parent form a bond so deep, it turns into family? In this heartfelt episode of "Let’s Talk Surrogacy", host Lindsay sits down with Lindsey and Megan to share their incredible journey: how Megan carried twin boys for Lindsey, while Lindsey unexpectedly became pregnant herself.They discuss their first meeting reactions, sharing pregnancy milestones together, supporting each other through birth and staying connected years later as their children grow. You’ll also hear how American Surrogacy helped guide their journey by handling logistics and legal support, so the relationship could blossom freely.Whether you're considering surrogacy or simply love powerful human stories, this episode will move and inspire you.Subscribe for more real conversations on surrogacy ►► bit.ly/4n6Fv3sDrop your thoughts or questions in the comments!Learn more or start your surrogacy journey:Website: https://www.americansurrogacy.com?ref=asytsurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/american_surrogacyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/american.surrogacyIf you are interested in becoming a surrogate, please visit:https://www.americansurrogacy.com/surrogate/surrogate_free_info?ref=asytsurIf you are ready to get started as an intended parent please visit: https://www.americansurrogacy.com/parents/parents_free_info?ref=asytip00:00 – Intro: Meet Lindsey and Megan00:32 – Lindsey’s Starting Point with Surrogacy01:49 – IVF, Embryos & an Emotional Pause02:58 – Megan’s Inspiration to be a Surrogate03:29 – How Megan & Lindsey Found Each Other04:13 – Megan & Lindsey's First Meeting Magic06:03 – Communication, Trust & Boundaries in Surrogacy10:45 – Lindsey’s Surprise Natural Pregnancy14:39 – How Shared Pregnancy Strengthened Their Bond16:20 – Delivery Day Experience19:09 – Post-Birth Relationship24:55 – Financial Support Beyond Money27:56 – Medical & Emotional Uncertainties30:35 – How the Surrogacy Experience Shaped Megan & Lindsey33:22 – Biggest Emotional Surprises in Surrogacy35:59 – Advice for Surrogates & Intended Parents37:26 – Most Unforgettable Moments in the Surogacy Journey38:45 – One Word to Sum Up the Journey39:37 – Final Thoughts & Gratitude#LetsTalkSurrogacy #AmericanSurrogacy #surrogatejourney #ivf #podcast

The Director of Community Resources at American Surrogacy, Wade Morris breaks down embryo creation, donation costs & more in this expert, rapid-fire Q&A about embryos for "Let's Talk Surrogacy".Curious about how embryos factor into the surrogacy process? This Q&A provides clarity to some of the most common (and complex!) questions about embryos, IVF, egg donation and embryo transfers.If you're someone considering surrogacy, this episode is packed with expert guidance to help you make informed decisions.Subscribe for more real conversations on surrogacy ►► bit.ly/4n6Fv3sDrop your thoughts or questions in the comments!Learn more or start your surrogacy journey:Website: https://www.americansurrogacy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/american_surrogacyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/american.surrogacyIf you are ready to get started as an intended parent please visit: https://www.americansurrogacy.com/parents/parents_free_info?ref=asytipIf you are interested in becoming a surrogate, please visit:https://www.americansurrogacy.com/surrogate/surrogate_free_info?ref=asytsur00:00 - Introduction0:28 - How do you emotionally process the choice to stop carrying?1:30 - How many IVF cycles before choosing surrogacy?1:58 - What does transitioning from IVF to surrogacy look like?2:27 - What are the first steps to transitioning to surrogacy?2:51 - Do you need embryos ready before getting matched?3:22 - Unsuccessful with creating embryos, what are your options?3:53 - How many embryos do you need for surrogacy? 4:21 - What if you only have one embryo?05:08 - Should you create more embryos if you have two?06:00 - What happens if you run out of embryos?06:59 - Is genetic testing required for embryos?7:36 - Does fresh vs. frozen embryos matter?8:01 - Can you ship embryos to the surrogate?8:55 - What if your embryos are in another country?10:17 - Can you choose the gender of the embryo?10:36 - Can you do a double embryo transfer?11:29 - Are dual journeys allowed?13:03 - Does American Surrogacy do embryo donation?13:30 - What are the different types of egg donation?14:33 - How does egg & sperm donation change surrogacy costs?15:33 - How does American Surrogacy match surrogates?15:55 - What are the legal protections for egg donation?16:14 - Do state laws affect embryos in surrogacy?18:01 - Outro#LetsTalkSurrogacy #AmericanSurrogacy #surrogacyjourney #embryotransfer #podcast #ivfprocess #eggdonation #surrogacyagency #surrogacycosts #embryodonation

In this powerful first episode of the "Let's Talk Surrogacy" podcast, Meg, an experienced surrogate, opens up about her surrogacy journey, giving birth for two other families.Meg is a mom of four and two-time surrogate. She shares her incredible journey into surrogacy from what sparked her interest, to navigating IVF, dealing with miscarriage, setting boundaries with intended parents and how her own children processed it all.This raw and inspiring interview is for anyone considering becoming a surrogate or working with one.Subscribe for more real conversations on surrogacy ►► bit.ly/4n6Fv3sDrop your thoughts or questions in the comments!Learn more or start your surrogacy journey:Website: https://www.americansurrogacy.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/american_surrogacyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/american.surrogacyIf you are interested in becoming a surrogate, please visit:https://www.americansurrogacy.com/surrogate/surrogate_free_info?ref=asytsurIf you are ready to get started as an intended parent please visit: https://www.americansurrogacy.com/parents/parents_free_info?ref=asytip0:00 - Intro0:16 - Why Meg Became a Surrogate1:15 - Importance of Spouse Support2:47 - Mental & Physical Obstacles during Surrogacy4:54 - Scheduled Injections during Pregnancy7:31 - Compensation & Experience in Surrogacy9:22 - The Importance of Matching with the Right Family13:02 - Picking an Agency vs. Going Independent16:58 - Meg's Two Very Different Surrogacy Journeys19:34 - Handling Emotional Attachment as a Surrogate22:24 - The Unexpected Miscarriage in Journey Two25:32 - Staying in Touch with Intended Parents26:44 - Do Children Know They Were Carried by a Surrogate?28:42 - Was there Postpartum Depression or Support?32:06 - Is Having a Spouse during Surrogacy Preferred?33:13 - How Meg Included Her Family in the Process35:26 - Meg's Advice to Future Surrogates37:25 - Outro#LetsTalkSurrogacy #AmericanSurrogacy #surrogatejourney #ivf #podcast