Being infertile sucks. Co-hosts Sarah and Kaela are your friends who get it. This is a podcast by real women sharing truths about the hardships and hilarity of infertility, IVF, and trying to conceive.
Infertility Is Still Scary
TRIGGER WARNING: Just in time for Halloween, Sarah & Kaela are serving up another episode of creepy, spooky, horrifying stories related to fertility! Included in this episode is an unbelievable story about syphilis and the US government experimenting on African-American men. They also talk about the devastating, sadistic, and demented ways the Nazis caused infertility for their own citizens and how they treated victims of the Holocaust.
They share the story about the 74-year-old woman from India who gave birth to IVF twins. They discuss if it’s an ethical choice and also share a crazy plot twist on the father of the twins! Read about it here.
To balance out the horror, they end the episode with some hilarious facts about animals and their fertility and mating rituals. A lot of animals have it worse than humans, and they definitely have the drive to procreate just as much as people!
CALL THE CONSIGLIERE: The guest spot this week goes to Dr. Sasha Mikhael, MD. Dr. Mikhael is a Reproductive Immunologist practicing in Michigan and talks about weight and infertility treatments. What’s the real reason some doctors will not treat patients over a certain weight or BMI? And finally, in keeping with the episode, she shares a really creepy story about an artificial insemination...yikes, it’s a doozy!
Find Dr. Mikhael on Instagram: @sashamikhaelmd
Website: infertilemafia.com
Email: infertilemafia@gmail.com
Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Instagram: @infertilemafiapodcast
10/30/2019 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 56 seconds
Bosses Book Club
Kaela & Sarah are talking about infertility related books! This includes fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, children’s books, stories that will make you laugh and some that will make you cry - something for everyone!
Joining the show is Tess Kossow, author of I’m Very Ferris a children’s book about In Vitro Fertilization. Tess shares her inspiration behind writing a children’s book about such a complicated (and sometimes confusing) topic and shares what an impact infertility has had on her own family.
Find Tess here:
www.tesskossow.com
Instagram: @tesskossow
CALL THE CONSIGLIERE: The guest spot this week goes to Meg Keyes, author of The Waiting Line: What To Do (And Not Do) When Someone You Love is Struggling With Infertility. She recaps some of the most common missteps people take when trying to care for those with infertility, and helps redirect them toward a more productive approach!
Find Meg here:
www.thewaitinglinebook.com
Instagram: @thewaitinglinebook
Other books featured on the show can be found at the following links:
It Starts With the Egg: How the Science of Egg Quality Can Help You Get Pregnant Naturally, Prevent Miscarriage, and Improve Your Odds in IVF by Rebecca Fett
Fueling Male Fertility: Nutrition and Lifestyle Guide for Men Trying to Conceive by Lauren Manaker MS, RD
Not Broken: An Approachable Guide to Miscarriage and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss by Lora Shahine, MD FACOG
Hilariously Infertile: One Woman's Inappropriate Quest to Help Women Laugh Through Infertility by Karen Jeffries
Your Fertility. Your Family: The Many Roads to Conception by William Schoolcraft, MD
The Art of Waiting: On Fertility, Medicine, and Motherhood by Belle Boggs
Little Dream by Celeste Rankine
Website: infertilemafia.com
Email: infertilemafia@gmail.com
Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Instagram: @infertilemafiapodcast
10/23/2019 • 1 hour, 9 minutes, 18 seconds
You Are Not Broken (Re-Air)
October is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month. 1 in 4 women experience a miscarriage and millions of women have lost infants during pregnancy or after birth. Unfortunately, many of them suffer in silence. In this episode, Kaela is joined by Christine McDonough, of Infertility Illustrated, and together they are breaking the silence by sharing stories from listeners about how they have honored their losses and what has given them closure and comfort.
October 15th is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day and the International Wave of Light. Light a candle at 7pm in your respective time zone in honor of all the little lives lost too soon.
Special thanks to Dr. Lora Shahine of Pacific Northwest Fertility for joining the podcast to tell us about her incredible #NOTBROKEN campaign.
Instagram: @drlorashahine
Website: lorashahine.com
Featured song: “Rizpah” by Families
Website: infertilemafia.com
Email: infertilemafia@gmail.com
Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Instagram: @infertilemafiapodcast
10/15/2019 • 55 minutes, 49 seconds
Probably Can't Ovulate...S#!T
PCOS is the topic for this episode! After a podcast break during PCOS Awareness Month, Sarah & Kaela are offering some new information about PCOS - signs, symptoms, treatments and even discuss an article about what your poop says about you (and PCOS)!
They cover the New York Times article "When You're Told You're Too Fat To Get Pregnant" and share their own opinions around weight and fertility treatments. And finally, they get real talking about taking control of habits and coping skills to ensure healthy lifestyle choices.
CALL THE CONSIGLIERE: The guest spot this week goes to Melissa Groves of Avocado Grove Nutrition & Wellness. Melissa shares practical tips around nutrition for women with PCOS, foods to avoid (hint: avoidance isn’t part of her philosophy) and foods that may help a PCOS diagnosis. Follow her on Instagram: @the.hormone.dietitian
Website: infertilemafia.com
Email: infertilemafia@gmail.com
Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Instagram: @infertilemafiapodcast
10/9/2019 • 44 minutes, 52 seconds
Since We've Been Gone
Kaela & Sarah are baaaaack! In this episode they talk about the biggest news in fertility from this past summer - the couple that had the WRONG embryos transferred, gave birth to twins, only to discover that they belonged to two different families! They also share some podcasts they binged over the summer and respond to a crazy Mom rant that went viral about Disney World and “childless women.”
They introduce a new segment to the show - CALL THE CONSIGLIERE: The guest spot this week goes to the Mafia’s own Nurse Mandy who gives us an exciting update on her life! Follow her on Instagram: @courageouslyinfertile_rn
Finally, they share some new changes with the podcast, including exclusive merch designed specifically for Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month!
TRIGGER WARNING: Starting at minute 1:01 Sarah and Kaela talk candidly about mental health and infertility, being a new Mom, and their own experiences with postpartum depression.
Website: infertilemafia.com
Email: infertilemafia@gmail.com
Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Instagram: @infertilemafiapodcast
10/2/2019 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 17 seconds
We Were On A Break!
Sarah & Kaela are talking about taking a break from trying to conceive. They share their own experiences when it comes to taking a break, and how they spent their time - good, bad, and ugly. And, they share comments from listeners about when and why they took a break and how it helped (or not)!
They also discuss whether they’re team Ross or team Rachel on the “We were on a break!” FRIENDS topic! And, they ponder things like mushrooms for men and their favorite wedding moments. Finally, stay tuned to the end of the episode - they have some big news, and need your help!
Website: infertilemafia.com
Email: infertilemafia@gmail.com
Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Instagram: @infertilemafiapodcast
7/23/2019 • 59 minutes, 41 seconds
Advocacy In The Mafia
Kaela & Sarah are talking about ways to have a positive impact in the infertility community, including ways to get involved whether through support groups, social media, or active advocacy for continued and expanded rights for people seeking fertility treatments.
They also revisit the topic of IVF tourism and share some of the highlights from their recent live show and RESOLVE: Chicagoland Walk of Hope. And finally, they expound on some of their favorite Would You Rather Questions!
Get involved! resolve.org
Website: infertilemafia.com
Email: infertilemafia@gmail.com
Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Instagram: @infertilemafiapodcast
7/9/2019 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 40 seconds
LIVE at the Abbott Mansion - Chicago, IL!
Sarah & Kaela have FINALLY met - and they're talking about it, live in Chicago, with lots of infertile friends and healthcare professionals. Enjoy this episode full of inspiration from these amazing special guests!
Christine McDonough, the artist behind Infertility Illustrated, is such a talent! We instantly bonded after meeting her over a year ago. She shares some of the inspirations for a few of her favorite illustrations (and wins the award for the best giveaway item!). Kaela & Sarah are so glad to call her a friend and so proud of the amazing support she gives the infertility community. She also gives them a really exciting life update!!! You can find her here:
Instagram: @infertilityillustrated
Website: infertilityillustrated.com
Dr. Lauren Schneider, DC is a wonderful resource and advocate for the infertility community with years of experience working alongside fertility specialists. She also personally understands the struggle of infertility and gives an update on her gestational carrier (sorta)! She also wins the award for worst “Would You Rather?” question, but her husband’s outburst from the audience wins the award for best response! You can find her here:
Instagram: @drlaurenschneider
Website: conceptionconsultant.com
Dr. Lora Shahine MD,FACOG is a board certified reproductive endocrinologist practicing at Pacific Northwest Fertility in Seattle, Washington where she specializes in recurrent pregnancy loss. She has been incredibly supportive of The Infertile Mafia and is actively sharing such a positive and inspiring message to the infertility community. And, she does it with such kindness and humility (and humor)! In this interview with her she talks about the negative effects of toxins on our fertility and practical ways to mitigate the damage! You can find her here:
Instagram:@drlorashahine
Website: lorashahine.com
Dr. Roohi Jeelani MD, FACOG is a board certified reproductive endocrinologist practicing at Vios Fertility Institute in Chicago, IL. She had everyone in tears sharing her personal story about her experience with IVF and how she's doing her part to erase the shame and stigma around infertility. And, she’s an incredibly kind and wonderfully intelligent physician educating the infertility community - and doing it with style! You can find her here:
Instagram: @roohijeelanimd
Dr. Natalie Crawford MD, FACOG is a board certified reproductive endocrinologist practicing at Aspire IVF in Austin, TX. She is also the host of the popular podcast As A Woman and an incredible FORCE for good - for all women! What an inspirational and empowering voice. Kaela & Sarah are so thankful she speaks so passionately on behalf of women and so honored that she joined them for this live show. Hear her talk about the importance of the presence of medical professionals on social media. You can find her here:
Instagram: @nataliecrawfordmd
Website: nataliecrawfordmd.com
Website: infertilemafia.com
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
6/18/2019 • 1 hour, 32 minutes, 58 seconds
Everyone Needs Puppy Therapy
TRIGGER WARNING: Sarah & Kaela are discussing new abortion laws and the government making decisions that could affect your access to fertility treatments (you can skip this portion from 12:00 to 27:30). They answer some of your questions about secondary infertility, PGS tested embryos, and their favorite types of wine! They also give you some updates on Facebook happenings, and finally, they discuss the importance of puppy therapy.
Don't forget to get your tickets to the Infertile Mafia Podcast LIVE SHOW happening June 8th! Event details and tickets can be found at www.infertilemafia.com
Join the Infertile Mafia Podcast team for the RESOLVE: Chicagoland Walk of Hope and donate to help us reach our fundraising goal!
Chicagoland Walk of Hope
Resolve.org
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
5/21/2019 • 59 minutes, 41 seconds
The Mafia Joins Infertile AF Summit
Kaela & Sarah are unpacking their recent time at the Infertile AF Summit! Hear live clips from the cocktail hour where Kaela talks to women, and men, from all walks of infertility including adoption, secondary infertility, miscarriage, child-free not by choice, and others about their empowering experience at the summit. They also share some exciting news about what’s next for the Infertile AF Community!
Sarah & Kaela also share some big news about their upcoming LIVE SHOW in Chicago, IL. Join the Infertile Mafia Podcast at The Abbott Mansion, a historic Chicago landmark, for an interactive LIVE show on Saturday, June 8th!
Hors d’oeuvres and drinks are included in your ticket purchase, along with fun giveaway items and exclusive merch from the Infertile Mafia Podcast and local partners such as Integrative Fertility (IG: @integrative_fertility) and Infertility Illustrated (IG: @infertilityillustrated).
Tickets and event details can be found at infertilemafia.com! Each ticket purchase also includes a $5 donation to the RESOLVE Chicagoland Walk of Hope. Space is limited, and sales close in two weeks on Tuesday, May 28th. Hurry - get your tickets now!
Infertile AF:
Website: infertileaf.org
Instagram: @infertileafcommunity
Website: www.infertilemafia.com
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters: infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram: @infertilemafiapodcast
5/14/2019 • 54 minutes, 54 seconds
A Mafia Mother's Day
Mother's Day is Sunday and Sarah & Kaela know this day can really blow when you're infertile. In this episode, they share listener comments about some fun and unique ways they're planning to spend the day that might make you feel, think, laugh, or take up gardening.
They also discuss the trending 90's fashions, a cactus mishap, and they get raw and real about how they deal with difficult emotions.
Finally, JOIN US in Chicago on June 8th, for the RESOLVE: Chicagoland Walk of Hope (9am) and a fun evening of dinner, drinks, and swag with the Mafia! Check our social media in the coming weeks for more details.
Here's some stuff they talked about in this episode:
RESOLVE: Chicagoland Walk of Hope
Beyond Mother's Day
The Waiting Line: What To Do (And Not Do) When Someone You Love is Struggling with Infertility
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
5/7/2019 • 49 minutes, 26 seconds
Bonus: NIAW - Wa*king & Infertility
It's the last day of National Infertility Awareness Week, and the theme this year is "Infertility Uncovered."
As the week comes to a close, Sarah & Kaela talk about that awkward thing that no one talks about...except Kaela. Just in time for her birthday, this episode is all about the jerk off room. Over the course of the podcast, many listeners have shared their often hilarious mishaps from the other side of that infamous door - and now they're all in one place for your listening...pleasure.
They also give an update on on Steph Kelly (Episode 59: Mafia Meet Steph - Endometriosis Awareness Month) about her recent radical surgery to correct her severe Endometriosis and her third FET with donor eggs and a gestational carrier. She's been busy! Find Steph on Instagram: @kerseyknowsbest
Clips were taken from the following episodes:
Episode 5: Adventures in the Jerk Off Room
Episode 14: It's Time To Evict My Eggs
Episode 24: Your Wait Time Is Now...
Episode 31: Let's Hear It For The Boy
Episode 55: The Keto Diet (Part 1)
Never hesitate to share a jerk off room story with the mafia.
This week, use the hashtag #infertilityuncovered to spread awareness! And also, visit resolve.org if you would like additional information and support.
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s):
The Infertile Mafia
The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
4/27/2019 • 31 minutes, 36 seconds
Bonus: NIAW - Money & Infertility
It's the sixth day of National Infertility Awareness Week, and the theme this year is "Infertility Uncovered."
Today, Sarah & Kaela share an exciting update from Kassie Moon, the popular YouTuber and Instagrammer behind the popular Instagram account @kassiemoon They revisit the episode where she talks about crowd sourcing and how she raised money for IVF after years of trying and failed fertility treatments.
Kaela & Sarah also share resources about finding companies that offer infertility insurance coverage, offer some creative ways to raise money and find “free” meds. And finally, they close with a cringe-worthy game of "Would You Rather?" that might make you squirm!
Clips in this episode are from Episode 27: Mafia Meet Kassie Moon - Crowd Funding for IVF
This week, use the hashtag #infertilityuncovered to spread awareness! And also, visit resolve.org if you would like additional information and support.
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s):
The Infertile Mafia
The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
4/26/2019 • 31 minutes, 48 seconds
Bonus: NIAW - Family & Infertility
It's the fifth day of National Infertility Awareness Week, and the theme this year is "Infertility Uncovered."
Today, Sarah & Kaela are revisiting the topic of infertility and family. This episode is all about the perspective of someone who isn't infertile, but still wants to be caring and supportive to those who are.
They share clips from Episode 47: "You Might Be Infertile If..." when Kaela sits down and talks to her (fertile) sister. Lara openly and candidly talks about ways she fields inappropriate fertility comments, discusses her dislike for pregnancy complaints and gender disappointment, and offers a heartfelt apology on behalf of all the well meaning people who keep asking you, "When are you going to have kids?"
Kaela also plays a game with her sister that reveals whether or not she knows some of the insider lingo among the infertility community - and some of her answers might surprise you!
This week, use the hashtag #infertilityuncovered to spread awareness! And also, visit resolve.org if you would like additional information and support.
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s):
The Infertile Mafia
The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
4/25/2019 • 34 minutes, 58 seconds
Bonus: NIAW - Art & Infertility
It's the fourth day of National Infertility Awareness Week, and the theme this year is "Infertility Uncovered."
Today, Sarah & Kaela share a big update from Christine McDonough, the popular illustrator behind the hugely popular Instagram account @infertilityillustrated They also revisit the episode where she shares the motivation for her Instagram account and talks about how art helped her cope with infertility.
Christine explains her process as an artist and tells Sarah and Kaela the inspiration behind some of their favorite illustrations. She also shares her own experience with infertility and has some great answers for our out of the box segment!
Finally, Christine will be joining Kaela as a guest co-host for a live podcast on Saturday, April 27th, in Chicago at the Infertile AF Summit. If you're attending, please stop by and say hello! Details can be found here:
infertileaf.org
Clips in this episode are from Episode 36: Mafia Meet Christine - Infertility Illustrated and find Christine on Instagram and her website infertilityillustrated.com
This week, use the hashtag #infertilityuncovered to spread awareness! And also, visit resolve.org if you would like additional information and support.
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s):
The Infertile Mafia
The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
4/24/2019 • 36 minutes, 48 seconds
Mafia Meet Andrea - Founder, Editor in Chief of Pregnantish
On this third day of National Infertility Awareness Week, Kaela talks all about relationships with Founder and Editor in Chief of Pregnantish, Andrea Syrtash. Pregnantish is an online lifestyle magazine helping people of all walks of life - singles, couples, LGBTQ, people of color, navigate fertility treatments and infertility.
Andrea is also a relationship expert and has authored books such as “It’s Okay to Sleep With Him on the First Date - And Every Other Rule of Dating Debunked”, “He’s Just Not Your Type - And That’s a Good Thing” and “Cheat on Your Husband - With Your Husband.”
She’s appeared in the media countless times including ABC's The View, Good Morning America, NBC's Today Show, CBS This Morning, Your World with Neil Cavuto on Fox News, The Wendy Williams Show, The Meredith Vieira Show, CNN, HLN, Discovery ID, VH1, NPR's Marketplace, On-Air with Ryan Seacrest (to name a few).
Andrea shares her unique path to parenthood via surrogacy (after LOTS of failed treatments), and an amazing story about her gestational carrier and their Jewish heritage. She also talks about her inspiration and on-going motivation for the incredible content on pregnantish.com. And finally, she uses her expertise to answer your questions about relationship struggles and infertility!
Find Andrea and Pregnantish here:
Pregnantish.com
AndreaSyrtash.com
Instagram: @pregnantish
Instagram: @andreainny
Twitter: @pregnantishmag
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
4/23/2019 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 18 seconds
Bonus: NIAW - Humor & Infertility
It's the second day of National Infertility Awareness Week, and the theme this year is "Infertility Uncovered."
Today Sarah & Kaela are revisiting a topic near and dear to their hearts - humor. They believe it's absolutely essential to survive infertility! In this episode, you hear from Karen. She's the author, Spanish teacher, Instagram influencer, wife, and mother behind the wildly popular @hilariously_infertile on Instagram.
Karen shares clips from her book, and talks about her motivation for writing and self publishing on the topic of humor and infertility. It's good stuff!
Finally, we share details about her upcoming parlay into stand-up comedy! She's got a show in a few weeks and you should be there! Details can be found here:
www.hilariouslyinfertile.com
Clips in this episode are from Episode 32: Mafia Meet Karen - Hilariously Infertile"
This week, use the hashtag #infertilityuncovered to spread awareness! And also, visit resolve.org if you would like additional information and support.
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s):
The Infertile Mafia
The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
4/22/2019 • 31 minutes, 49 seconds
Bonus: NIAW - Men & Infertility
It's the first day of National Infertility Awareness Week, and the theme this year is "Infertility Uncovered."
To kick off the first day, Sarah & Kaela are talking about men and infertility. In this episode, you hear Kaela talk to her husband Bill, you learn about the scandalous way sperm was discovered, and you get to hear Sarah and Kaela role play!
Clips in this episode are from Episode 31: Let's Hear It For The Boy."
This week, use the hashtag #infertilityuncovered to spread awareness! And also, visit resolve.org if you would like additional information and support.
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s):
The Infertile Mafia
The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
4/21/2019 • 32 minutes, 3 seconds
Mafia Meet Gabby & Emma - Big Fat Negative Podcast
Kaela & Sarah are teaming up with British co-hosts Gabby & Emma of the Big Fat Negative Podcast for a podcast swap! They’ve asked burning questions like, “What’s the worst part of infertility?” and also questions like, “When it comes to the Royal Family, are you ‘Team William’ or ‘Team Harry?’”
Gabby & Emma talk candidly about their infertility “journey’s” (spoken in the best valley girl accent you can muster) and give some insight into how the healthcare system treats infertility in England. They also talk about their husband’s - affectionately referred to as “Mr. Gabby” and “Mr. Emma” - and share some things you may not know about the UK!
Finally, Sarah & Kaela respond to some of their questions and try their hand at a British accent. They share some of their favorite British things and Kaela finds out she and Emma have the same sentiment about the Beatles!
Tune into the Big Fat Negative Podcast to hear Kaela & Sarah answer questions from Emma & Gabby!
Big Fat Negative Podcast:
Instagram: @bigfatnegative
Website: www.bigfatnegative.com
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
4/16/2019 • 1 hour, 34 seconds
Mafia Meet Brittney - BellBelleBella
Sarah & Kaela talk to the popular beauty vlogger/blogger Brittney of BellBelleBella about her rare experience with a molar pregnancy. She also shares her perspective on infertility as a woman of color including discussing some common myths and stereotypes surrounding women of color and their fertility.
She talks about her family’s response to her “coming out” as an infertile person, shares an interesting frozen embryo transfer protocol that included vaginal viagra (what?!), and gives some encouragement to all women about their infertility experience - no matter the outcome!
Finally, she talks about the “big chop,” some of her favorite beauty products, and why she loves old and historic things!
Find Brittney here:
Instagram: @BellBelleBella
YouTube: BellBelleBella
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
4/9/2019 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 7 seconds
Surrogacy - Debunking the Myths with Dr. Lauren Schneider, DC
Kaela is joined by chiropractic doctor, certified acupuncturist, and fertility expert Dr. Lauren Schneider. Dr. Lauren to talk all about surrogacy. Dr. Lauren debunks myths about surrogacy, explains what it means to be a surrogate vs. a gestational carrier, and gives a list of “must have’s” if you’re considering surrogacy.
She also speaks candidly about her own personal experience with surrogacy, the steps she took to reach the decision to use a gestational carrier, and her thoughts on pregnancy and childbirth after the decision to partner with a surrogate.
Finally, Kaela and Lauren discuss the most famous TV mafia, The Sopranos, and speculate on how the Infertile Mafia can improve their game.
Find Dr. Lauren Schneider in these places:
Instagram: @integrative_fertility
Website: conceptionconsultant.com
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
4/2/2019 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 45 seconds
Mafia Meet Dr. Lora Shahine, MD, FACOG - Part 2
Kaela & Sarah are joined again by board certified reproductive endocrinologist and recurrent miscarriage specialist, Dr. Lora Shahine! In part two of this interview, Dr. Shahine is answering more listener questions about miscarriage with PGS tested embryos, efficacy of reproductive immunology, advice for an unexplained infertility diagnosis, and the one vs. two debate on embryo transfers. She also gives some advice for men going through infertility and how they can be supportive partners (and even gives a few jerk off room tips).
We learn that Dr. Shahine struggled with infertility herself and she sheds some light on why so many doctors in reproductive medicine also do fertility treatments. She talks about the thrill seeking hobby she picked up in her forties. And finally, she tells us the real truth about whether on not doctors care if fertility patients shave their...ummm...legs! ;-)
Find Dr. Lora Shahine here:
Twitter: @drlorashahine
Instagram: @drlorashahine
Website: lorashahine.com
Website: www.pnwfertility.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/drlorashahine
Find her books here:
Planting the Seeds of Pregnancy: An Integrative Approach to Fertility Care
Not Broken: An Approachable Guide to Miscarriage and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Not Broken Illustrated: A Gift for Those Who Have Suffered Pregnancy Loss
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
Join the closed Facebook group(s): The Infertile Mafia Podcast & The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
Follow on Instagram @infertilemafiapodcast
3/26/2019 • 49 minutes, 11 seconds
Mafia Meet Dr. Lora Shahine, MD, FACOG - Part 1
Sarah & Kaela are joined by board certified reproductive endocrinologist and recurrent pregnancy loss specialist, Dr. Lora Shahine! She currently practices at Pacific Northwest Fertility & IVF Specialists in Seattle, Washington. She’s also authored books on the topic of fertility and pregnancy loss (linked below) and is an all around awesome person!
In part one of this two part episode, Dr. Shahine covers many topics including; the importance of a good IVF lab and embryologists, egg freezing for fertility preservation, recurrent pregnancy loss and miscarriage, the truth about Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), and all the pros and cons of social media for both patients and doctors. She also speaks candidly about the highs and lows of being a reproductive endocrinologist and her dedication to being a supportive caregiver. Kaela sheds a few tears in this episode, and I’m guessing you might too!
Find Dr. Lora Shahine here:
Twitter: @drlorashahine
Instagram: @drlorashahine
Website: lorashahine.com
Website: www.pnwfertility.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/drlorashahine
Find her books here:
Planting the Seeds of Pregnancy: An Integrative Approach to Fertility Care
Not Broken: An Approachable Guide to Miscarriage and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Not Broken Illustrated: A Gift for Those Who Have Suffered Pregnancy Loss
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3/19/2019 • 45 minutes, 28 seconds
Mafia Meet Steph - Endometriosis Awareness Month
It’s officially March which means it’s Endometriosis Awareness Month! Kaela and Sarah are talking to Steph Kelly about her experience with Endometriosis and Adenomyosis. She's experienced years of pain and misdiagnosis, and was eventually diagnosed with stage four Endometriosis and “frozen pelvis” (or terminal Endometriosis).
She shares how Endometriosis is often misunderstood and how important it is for women to educate themselves and be their best advocate when seeking medical treatment. She also opens up about how she copes on the hard days and how important a support system has been for her.
Finally, she tells us about her upcoming surgery to correct her Endometriosis and her hopeful path to parenthood via donor eggs and surrogacy. Enjoy this hilarious, witty, and inspiring woman!
Find Steph in these places -
Instagram: @kerseyknowsbest
YouTube: I’m Ready Already
Join Nancy's Nook!
Take the Pregnantish Survey here to win a $50 Amazon Gift Card and a bonus treat from Sarah & Kaela!
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3/5/2019 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 45 seconds
Ch-Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes!
Sarah & Kaela are talking about changing doctors/clinics and the many factors that go into such a big decision! They share listener comments and experiences about why/when they decided they needed to make a switch. Are you feeling like a change will do you good? Infertility is hard enough, feeling like you have a competent and supportive doctor is an important part of the equation!
On the topic of change, they’re also asking you to participate in a survey from their friends at Pregnantish.com and one lucky listener will win a $50 Amazon gift card from Pregnantish and a little bonus gift from Sarah & Kaela!
“At Pregnantish, our mission is 'Real Talk About Fertility' and we are committed to breaking the taboo of infertility. Our goal is to empower patients and healthcare providers to have a better experience and relationship during the fertility treatment process. Because too many readers have expressed their concerns, we've created this short survey to invite 'real talk' from you on your experiences. Your answers will help us share important feedback with healthcare providers (fertility doctors, OB/GYNs, and clinics), which could ultimately improve the patient experience. Please note that your personal information (name, age, email) will not be revealed or shared publicly. This survey should take approximately 5 minutes.”
Take the Pregnantish survey here!
And last but not least, with Spring Break right around the corner, they talk about - swimsuit shopping. Dun, dun, duuuuuuuun!
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2/26/2019 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 54 seconds
Oh Holy Sh*t Syndrome
Kaela & Sarah cover OHSS (Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome) and talk about what it is, symptoms to look for, and ways to mitigate it! Kaela shares her own experience, and even shares a throwback clip from her YT channel. They’re also joined by Christine (@infertilityillustrated) to discuss her personal experience with OHSS - twice!
And finally, they share one man’s theory on how climate change is causing infertility, they debate whether or not Baby Center is a safe place to do “research,” and they talk about the pros and cons of dry shampoo!
Find Christine (Infertility Illustrated) in these places:
Instagram: @infertilityillustrated
Website: www.infertilityillustrated.com
Here’s a link to Kaela’s YT video about OHSS:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKxu0RSE3rI&t=7s
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2/19/2019 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 31 seconds
The Keto Diet (Part 2) - My Nutritionist Says Don't Do It!
Sarah & Kaela continue exploring the Keto diet in part two of this two part episode. This time, they talk about the downside of Keto including health risks, long-term side effects, and even some not so pleasant short-term ones (like Keto breath and Keto flu...ew). They also share insight from Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Melissa Groves who answers listener questions and shares her professional opinion on this popular fertility diet - hint: she’s not a big fan! Finally, Kaela shares an embarrassing confession and Sarah talks about her unfortunate dilemma when she’s not the only “Sarah” in the waiting room at the fertility clinic.
Find Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Melissa in these places:
Instagram: @the.hormone.dietitian
Website: www.avocadogrovenutrition.com
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2/12/2019 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 8 seconds
The Keto Diet (Part 1) - My Doctor Says Do It!
Kaela & Sarah explore the trendy Keto diet in part one of this two part episode. In this episode, they share some positive aspects of the Keto diet and discuss why it’s so popular among women trying to conceive, especially those with PCOS. They also share the opinion of a reproductive endocrinologist who prescribes the Keto diet to all of his patients. But, despite some of its appeal, Kaela isn’t totally convinced and she shares her ongoing concern.
Sarah shares a few big secrets with Kaela (one of them might be that she’s starting the Keto diet), and they discuss how basically all food is bad for you! Finally, they cover topics like beauty queens, Tom Brady, the super bowl, some epic jerk off room stories, and give a shout out to all the female doctors for National Women’s Physician Day!
Full Interview with Dr. Robert Kiltz of CNY Fertility
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdZ3Gst14mI&t=602s
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2/5/2019 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 38 seconds
You Really Got A Hold On Me
Sarah & Kaela are talking about the paralyzing feelings surrounding infertility treatments! They share their own experiences and that of listeners about their fears when it comes to big treatment decisions as well as things that motivated them and gave them encouragement to move forward and take another step. They also share some recent news about three parent (DNA) IVF babies and a woman who gave birth to triplets - as in an IVF baby and spontaneously conceived twins!
Your Fertility. Your Family. :The Many Roads to Conception - by Dr. William Schoolcraft M.D. HCLD Available on Amazon now!
IVF Three Parent Baby
https://www.newsweek.com/assisted-reproduction-ivf-maternal-spindle-transfer-three-parent-babies-1302044
Woman Gives Birth to Twins And IVF Baby at the Same Time
https://www.insideedition.com/woman-gives-birth-twins-and-ivf-baby-same-time-miracles-do-happen-50126
Don’t forget! Kaela & Sarah are matching iTunes reviews with a donation to RESOLVE! For every review on iTunes, for the next month, they’ll donate $5 on your behalf!
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1/29/2019 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 37 seconds
Golden Retrieval
Kaela & Sarah are discussing the egg retrieval surgery! They let you know what their experience was like and share advice and stories from other listeners (ahem, up your fiber intake). They also talk about new stats on adenomyosis and an article linking a missing protein with infertility in women with endometriosis. And finally, they share a story about a man who injected himself with his own semen...to cure his back pain. Yep, you read that right.
Articles referenced in this episode:
Irish Man Injected Himself With His Own Semen...
https://www.rt.com/news/448995-irish-man-injected-semen/
Protein May Help Explain Why Some Women With Endometriosis Are Infertile
https://www.sciencenews.org/article/protein-may-help-explain-why-some-women-endometriosis-are-infertile
Don’t forget! Kaela & Sarah are matching iTunes reviews with a donation to RESOLVE! For every review on iTunes, for the next month, they’ll donate $5 on your behalf!
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
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1/22/2019 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 2 seconds
Celebrities And Infertility - Part 2
Sarah & Kaela are joining listeners in the Infertile Mafia Podcast facebook group as they dish about more celebrities who have shared their infertility stories and unique paths to parenthood! They cover a number of topics that celebrities have dealt with from unexplained infertility to cancer to the inability to adopt (lookin’ at you Australia). They also cover topics like their favorite 90’s pop songs (lookin’ at you Celine and Mariah), movies, spray tan salons, karaoke, and share the results of a celebrity quiz! And listen to the end for a bonus clip about high school choir trip shenanigans, stalkers, and reality TV.
Don’t forget! Kaela & Sarah are matching iTunes reviews with a donation to RESOLVE! For every review on iTunes, for the next month, they’ll donate $5 on your behalf!
resolve.org
Email questions, comments, and other mafia matters to infertilemafia@gmail.com
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1/15/2019 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 9 seconds
Celebrities And Infertility - Part 1
What do an actress, a comedian, a supermodel, and a pop star have in common? You guessed it...infertility. In part one of this two part episode, Kaela and Sarah talk about four celebrities who have recently been open about their struggles with infertility and their unique paths to parenthood. We salute these brave men and women for being courageous, sharing their stories, and giving the infertility community support and encouragement!
They're also matching iTunes reviews with a donation to RESOLVE! For every review on iTunes for the next month, they’ll donate $5 during the month of January 2019!
resolve.org
Full interview with Oprah Winfrey and Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade on the OWN YouTube channel:
https://youtu.be/yzZLLtixCeg
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1/8/2019 • 57 minutes, 48 seconds
Happy New Year Mafia!
Sarah & Kaela say goodbye to 2018 and bring in the new year by sharing listener emails about infertility and the holiday season. They also discuss everything from Legally Blonde to Golden Girls and horrifying “infertility themed” Christmas gifts! And finally, Sarah reveals an inconvenient truth about pineapples. Hint: the infertility community and swingers have more in common than you think. Happy New Year, Mafia - we’re toasting to YOU!
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1/1/2019 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 9 seconds
All I Want For Christmas Is To Get Knocked Up
Sarah & Kaela reunite in this episode to talk about infertility and surviving the holiday season! They share listener comments of solidarity and ways to cope with nosy relatives, awkward gift exchanges, and the overall crippling sadness and depression that is being infertile during the holidays (hint: wine is often involved)! They also talk about Michelle Obama opening up about miscarriage and IVF, share an IUI success story, and swap Black Friday stories! We know this is a hard time of year...we’re thankful for good food, good wine, and good friends. Happy Holidays Mafia!
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11/27/2018 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 54 seconds
Mafia Meet Dr. Lauren - Conception Consultant
In this episode, Kaela is talking to chiropractic doctor, certified acupuncturist, and fertility expert Dr. Lauren Schneider. Dr. Lauren debunks myths about fertility diet fads, prenatal vitamins, toxins, and acupuncture! Kaela also talks with her about topics like MTHFR, immunology, men’s health, alcohol, and the importance of individualized medical support for pre and post conception care. They also discuss their favorite Thanksgiving food. Don’t worry, Dr. Lauren says you can have the day off...but Friday it’s back in the game!
Contact Dr. Lauren Schneider, DC here:
Instagram: @integrative_fertility
Website: conceptionconsultant.com
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11/20/2018 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 15 seconds
You Might Be Infertile If...
Gender disappointment, whiny pregnant women, infertility and family dynamics, being an egg donor, surrogacy, MTHFR, progesterone shots - these are some of topics you’ll hear in this episode as Kaela is joined by her guest co-host, and younger sister, Lara. As a “fertile” person, she offers her perspective on ways she has learned to be an advocate for the infertility community and Kaela shares how thankful she is for her supportive sister. She also issues an apology, on behalf of the fertile population, for all the stupid things they say to infertile people! And finally, during this week’s out of the box segment, these sisters debate topics like Disney movies, double dipping, women who wear rompers, and people who Instagram their food.
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11/13/2018 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 13 seconds
Pull The Trigger
Kaela is joined this week by the talented, Christine, of the popular Instagram account "Infertility Illustrated." These two have teamed up to talk about trigger shots! They'll give you the low down on different types of triggers, their pros and cons, and what to expect when it's go time! They also talk about stimulation drugs, and all their lovely side effects (ie; rage, weight gain, and uncontrollable sobbing). And finally, they give some insight on breaking IVF news of two Mom's who carried the same baby (yeah, you read that right) and a false positive pregnancy test recall!
Here's the articles discussed in the episode:
Faulty Pregnancy Tests Give False Positives
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-6244933/Mother-33-wrongly-told-pregnant-faulty-test-claims-ruined-holiday.html
Same Sex Couple Carries The Same Baby
https://abcnews.go.com/US/sex-couple-carries-baby-calls-experience-priceless/story?id=58768828
Here's where you can find Christine:
Instagram: @infertilityillustrated
infertilityillustrated.com
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11/6/2018 • 59 minutes, 5 seconds
Bonus: World Fertility Day!
Today is World Fertility Day! Thanks to the ladies at IVF Babble, an online fertility magazine, for dedicating this entire day to providing the infertility community with support, guidance and lots of positive and empowering resources.
Check them out on Facebook, Instagram (@ivfbabble), and their website ivfbabble.com for more information and to join in their live Q&A's with fertility experts all day long!
And finally, meet our friend Natalie the host of The Fertility Podcast. In honor of World Fertility Day, she reached out to us to do a mini podcast swap! Natalie is a fantastic advocate for the infertility community, and her podcast is a great resource for anyone needing additional support. She interviews skilled and knowledgeable professionals in the field of fertility and also offers her own heartfelt commentary because she's been there, she gets it!
You can find The Fertility Podcast anywhere you listen to you favorite podcasts. And you can also find Natalie in these places:
Instagram: @fertilitypoddy
Website: www.thefertilitypodcast.com
Use the hashtag #worldfertilityday to spread awareness, share your stories, offer support and provide encouragement throughout the infertility community today!
11/2/2018 • 4 minutes, 54 seconds
Infertility Is Scary
Just in time for Halloween, Kaela & Sarah are holding nothing back in this horrifying episode! They give you an in depth look at some of the scariest and creepiest “treatments” and rituals for infertility from Ancient Rome to modern day including - a bronzed “package” in Paris, fertility caves in South Africa, and a penis parade in Japan. And then, there’s the not so fortunate rituals like exorcisms, executions, or getting whacked in the face with a sacrificial goat. And finally, they share an epic drunk fertility segment! This time you’ll learn about a scandalous menage-a-trois in France, and also how the father of modern day gynecology was both a pioneer but also a racist jerk. This episode will really put things into perspective. Infertility sucks balls, but at least no one’s getting burned at the stake.
Warning: This episode contains adult themes including blood, guts, violence against women, and other unsavory topics. Listener discretion is advised!
Article about James Marion Sims
https://www.history.com/news/the-father-of-modern-gynecology-performed-shocking-experiments-on-slaves
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10/30/2018 • 58 minutes, 12 seconds
Does Length Matter?
Sarah & Kaela are answering your questions in this episode! They cover all sorts of topics including if penis length affects fertility, coping with baby showers, juggling work and doctor appointments, anxiety during pregnancy after infertility, sperm morphology, alcohol and fertility treatments, and they even touch on topics like porn stars and satin sheets! Spoiler alert, length doesn’t matter at all - at least not for fertility.
Bree Molyneaux - Hypnosis for Fertility
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/hypnosis-for-fertility/603391428
Bree Molyneaux - Hypnosis for IVF
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/hypnosis-for-ivf/603374475
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10/23/2018 • 1 hour, 45 seconds
Bonus: This Is For Them
October is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month. 1 in 4 women experience a miscarriage, and many of them suffer in silence. In this bonus episode, Kaela is joined by Christine, of Infertility Illustrated, and together they are breaking the silence to share stories from listeners about how they have honored their losses and what has given them closure and comfort.
Featured song: “Rizpah” by Families
https://open.spotify.com/track/3KTzZwOhSIeKi16L2vd80I?si=xH1yO5cMSr6zJtGkFrH5Lw
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10/15/2018 • 54 minutes, 45 seconds
The ART Of Infertility
In this special episode, Sarah & Kaela are highlighting artists being featured at “Challenging Conception: The ART of Infertility in Chicago.” "The ART of Infertility is a traveling art exhibit and oral history project that documents the experience of infertility. Through storytelling and artwork, The ART of Infertility translates the experiences of infertility patients to medical practitioners, physicians, legislators and the general public. It is hoped that the project displays the human experiences of infertility rather than reinforce the medical discourse of the disease." Here are the artists being featured in this episode!
Elizabeth Walker & Maria Novotny, Ph.D. - http://www.artofinfertility.org/
Elizabeth & Maria are the co-founders and co-directors of the ART of Infertility. They discuss how they began their work together after meeting in May of 2014 in Washington, D.C., where they were both lobbying for infertility legislation on Capitol Hill. They also give insight into their mission of bringing awareness to the many facets of infertility and family building.
Raina Cowan - http://rainacowanarttherapist.com/
Raina is a licensed clinical professional counselor and registered art therapist with a Master’s degree in art therapy from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She talks about her art therapy practice and what it means to use art as a way to cope with infertility and loss. She also shares her personal experience with recurrent pregnancy loss and adoption.
Christine McDonough - https://infertilityillustrated.com/
Christine is a talented illustrator who talks about using art to cope with the humor, absurdity, and pain of infertility and pregnancy loss. Her popular Instagram account, @infertilityillustrated, is “designed to illustrate an average day in the life of someone dealing with infertility.” She talks about her creative process and what inspires her creative illustrations. For more info on Christine, listen to “Episode 36: Mafia Meet Christine - Infertility Illustrated.”
Shannon Novotny - http://www.shannonnovotny.com/
Shannon identifies herself as a scientist first, but she’s also a very talented visual artist who knows science can’t always satisfy our human subjectivity. She shares that as “human beings, we can never truly experience objectivity. My work attempt to bridge the [science] gap by subjectively illustrating the self-renewal processes in the world around us in a way that can hopefully inspire us to be just as durable.” She also opens up about her experience with secondary infertility and loss and how art has helped her process her experience with loss and infertility.
Join us at “Challenging Conception: The ART of Infertility in Chicago” on October 13th for a live panel discussion from 6-9pm.
Open Studio Project Inc
903 Sherman Avenue
Evanston, IL 60202
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10/9/2018 • 50 minutes, 42 seconds
The Good Drugs
Sarah & Kaela are talking drugs - specifically IVF ovarian stimulation drugs. They share a few facts about some of the most common injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) drugs like Follistim, Gonal-F, Menopur, Bravelle, and more! Sarah shares some insight on why women with PCOS should be careful with stims containing LH and Kaela gives another drunk fertility history story. This time, it’s all about the origins of drugs like Menopur. Hint: the story involves the Pope, nuns, and lots and lots of urine! They also talk about NBC’s “This Is Us” and how infertility has become a main theme in one of the most popular shows on TV. And finally, they discuss whether or not the hair salon helps or hurts your self esteem.
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10/2/2018 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 10 seconds
Let's Talk About Sex
Kaela & Sarah are talking about sex...and infertility. Let’s face it, intimacy in your relationship can really take a hit when you're going through infertility. In this episode, Sarah and Kaela offer up some ideas of how others have dealt with infertility in their sex life. They share a few practical tips, some less than “conventional” methods, and even a few funny stories about how people keep the spice alive in their relationship while also battling infertility.
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9/25/2018 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 54 seconds
Superheroes Have PCOS
September is PCOS Awareness Month so Sarah & Kaela are talking about it! PCOS is the most common infertility diagnosis for women, however, many women don’t even realize they have it or know what to do to treat it. They talk about what PCOS is, treatment options, and even share some fun stories about the history of PCOS - did you know Hippocrates was lookin’ out for you and you're the queens of the stone age?! And finally, they share listener comments about what they wish they had known about PCOS and tell you why women with PCOS are total badasses.
*Sorry about Sarah's audio - she recorded with her webcam mic. Oops!
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3164771/
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9/18/2018 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 15 seconds
Keep It On The Down Low
Kaela & Sarah are talking about down regulation for IVF. They share listener comments and let you know what to expect from a down regulation protocol (birth control, Lupron, etc.) including symptoms and side effects. They also discuss some recommendations and reasons behind not doing down regulation at all.
They respond to some recent infertility news about the the viral photo of the baby surrounded by IVF syringes - including their frustrations on misconceptions of adoption. They give their opinions on a recent interview from a doctor who claimed female physicians “don’t work as hard...as male physicians” and give a big shout out to all the smart, talented, and caring physicians out there!
And finally, Kaela has a new idea for a Jamaican themed “Jerk Hut” and they read listener questions about endometriosis and hostile cervical mucus. Yep, we’re talking about mucus again.
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9/11/2018 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 59 seconds
Infertility In Hollywood - Part 2
In the second half of this two part episode, Sarah & Kaela are once again talking about infertility in Hollywood. This time, they’re talking about infertility in movies and share some opinions on how infertile women and couples are portrayed in film today. A few of the movies they talk about include: “Game Night,” “The Help,” and “Up!” They also share two recent documentaries, “One More Shot” and “Vegas Baby,” that capture the feelings and experiences of real people going through the struggle of infertility. Kaela also gives an update on “The Handmaid’s Tale.” She’s feeling uncomfortable!
Finally, Sarah share’s her doctors opinions on a few controversial fertility treatments that Kaela knows a lot about. First, treatment of MTHFR and Folic Acid vs L-methylfolate. And second, IVIg Immunotherapy for an overactive immune system (Natural Killer cells, Cytokines, Antinuclear Antibodies, Antiphospholipid Antibodies, the list goes on…). Find out if Kaela agrees with Sarah’s doctor!
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9/4/2018 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 55 seconds
Infertility In Hollywood - Part 1
In this two part episode series Kaela & Sarah are talking about infertility in Hollywood. In part 1 they talk all about TV shows over the past few decades that have depicted infertility in an accurate (or not so accurate) way. A few of the shows they cover include: Friends, Fuller House, Orange Is The New Black, This Is Us, Orphan Black, The Handmaid’s Tale, and the OG infertility champion Charlotte from Sex & The City!
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The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
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@infertilemafiapodcast
8/28/2018 • 56 minutes, 19 seconds
Mafia Meet Christine - Infertility Illustrated
Sarah & Kaela sit down with the wildly popular illustrator behind the Instagram account @infertilityillustrated. Her name is Christine and she’s infertile, too! She talks about how illustrating the crazy, and sad, and even hilarious moments of infertility have helped her cope. After a diagnosis of PCOS, a round of IVF, and recurrent miscarriages, she’s gearing up for a frozen embryo transfer. Kaela and Sarah talk to her about transporting embryos across state lines, doctors and their bedside manner, and give a big shout out to all the nurses in the world! And, of course, they venture off topic a few times to talk about things like laundry, ironing, dogs, reptiles, rodents, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, The Bachelor, and “under boob!”
Find Christine on Instagram: @infertilityillustrated
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The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
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@infertilemafiapodcast
8/21/2018 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 15 seconds
Acupunch Her!
Kaela and Sarah talk about something a lot of infertile people try - acupuncture! They talk about the history, philosophy, and science behind the practice and share listener experiences, including a psychic moment with an acupuncturist. They also share some rare facts about Louise Brown, the first "test tube baby" and talk about their favorite Rom Coms!
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The Infertile Mafia - Bosses & Babies
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8/17/2018 • 57 minutes, 35 seconds
Just Deal With It
Kaela & Sarah are talking about coping with infertility triggers. They share lots of different tips and tricks from listeners of things that help them through a tough time - like listening to music, taking a walk, baking a cake, talking a hot bath, shooting a gun, cuddling a fur baby, finding an infertile friend, and pouring a glass of wine. Lots and lots of wine!
They also give some opinions on the following article about PGS testing and whether or not it actually improves IVF success rates.
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/ivf-genetic-embryo-screening-pregnancy-cost-no-benefit-study-a8478716.html
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8/14/2018 • 1 hour, 11 minutes, 41 seconds
The IVF Tourist
Sarah & Kaela are talking about doing IVF abroad and seeking fertility treatments in a country other than the one you call "home." They weigh the pros and cons of IVF abroad (like if you go to Barbados, you come back with a tan) and also debunk some opinions on why IVF is so expensive in the United States. They also talk about their favorite vacation spots, wearing pajamas in the public, the mile high club, and kissing boys at the Eiffel Tower.
Shout out to all our Intermational listeners!
Article referenced in this episode:
https://www.newsweek.com/why-ivf-so-expensive-united-states-74385
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8/10/2018 • 1 hour, 3 minutes, 12 seconds
Mafia Meet Karen - Hilariously Infertile
Kaela & Sarah are talking to Karen, the woman behind Hilariously Infertile! “Part Teacher. Part Mom. Part Wife. Fully inappropriate. Forever infertile.” In addition to her wildly popular blog and Instagram account, Karen recently published a book about the some of her hilarious experiences with infertility and she doesn’t hold anything back! Listen as this 4th grade teacher shares shares some excerpts with us about her first time with the transvaginal ultrasound wand, getting “the call” from the fertility doctor, and the time she was sure she “shitted” out her embryo! Do yourself a favor and go get a copy of her book. And get one for your infertile friend while you’re at it!
Find Karen’s book on Amazon:
Hilariously Infertile on Amazon (Click Here!)
Find Karen in these places:
Website: www.hilariouslyinfertile.com
Instagram: hilariously_infertile
Facebook: Hilariously Infertile
Twitter: @Hi_Infertile
Merchandise: https://teespring.com/stores/hilariously-infertile
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8/7/2018 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 36 seconds
Let's Hear It For The Boy
Sarah & Kaela are giving a shout out to the men in the infertility community. They tell you a fun history lesson on the first ever semen analysis and share listener experiences about infertility from the male perspective. Kaela’s husband, Bill, joins her again and participates in a TTC acronym quiz. And, of course, there’s an epic jerk off room story. This is a good one, you’re gonna laugh.
Here's the article about three biological parents:
https://www.vox.com/2018/7/24/17596354/mitochondrial-replacement-therapy-three-parent-baby-controversy
Here's the article about the jerk off room:
https://www.independent.ie/lifestyle/health/the-funny-side-of-sperm-analysis-30308681.html
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Kaela & Sarah are talking to someone who’s super smart, and knows stuff! They’re talking to registered dietitian Melissa Grove about fertility nutrition and lifestyles! They cover food and supplement choices as it relates to topics like MTHFR, hypothyroidism, the Keto diet, birth control, and PCOS. Lots and lots of info about PCOS! Melissa also shares some fun facts about New Hampshire, where she currently resides, and gives us insight on why she’d rather be a Gilmore Girl than a famous pop star!
Find Melissa in these places!
On Instagram: @avocado_grove_nutrition
https://www.avocadogrovenutrition.com/
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7/31/2018 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 2 seconds
IVF Got Questions
Know what you want to know! Sarah & Kaela are talking about all kinds of questions to ask before doing IVF. Including questions to ask your RE, questions to ask your partner, and even questions to ask yourself. They also give a big shout out to the very first IVF baby, Louise Brown, as she celebrates her 40th birthday this week! And finally, they share some of their irrational fears and phobias. Has anyone else found themselves in a bathroom covered in a mattress hiding from a tornado?
Article about Louise Brown, the first baby conceived via IVF in 1978:
https://in.style.yahoo.com/louise-brown-40-years-ivf-084448252.html?guccounter=1
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7/27/2018 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 7 seconds
IVF 13.0
Kaela & Sarah are discussing the many variations and alternatives of “traditional” IVF...and there are many. Such as, GIFT, ZIFT, Natural IVF, Mini/Micro IVF, In Vitro Maturation, and INVOcell! They talk about who might be a good candidate, and why, to try a less conventional form of IVF. They expand on their affinity for the nerds in the classroom and share what they wanted to be when they grew up - there’s still time to realize their dreams (but in the meantime, they give everyone tips on how to “fake it” with piano and guitar)!
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7/24/2018 • 59 minutes, 34 seconds
Mafia Meet Kassie Moon - Crowdfunding for IVF
Sarah & Kaela interview Kassie Moon and learn about how she crowdfunded her IVF cycle. They also discuss other ways to raise funds for IVF and share a cringe-worthy "would you rather" with Kassie!
Find Kassie on Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-oN3ivpFOpncNNS8XF2y3w
Find Kassie on Instagram:
@kassiemoon
Check out Fertility IQ for a lot of great information! - https://www.fertilityiq.com/
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7/20/2018 • 54 minutes, 55 seconds
What I Wish I'd Known
Sarah & Kaela share hindsight from listeners about what they wish they'd known or things they would do different when it comes to infertity and treatments. They cover everything from diagnostics, to uncertainty, to handling the emotional turmoil of infertility. They also share a scandolous story about artificial insemination shrouded in lies, secrecy, and chloroform!
Here's the article for that salacious insemination story!
https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2016/01/first-artificial-insemination/423198/
Kaela's videos with tips on progesterone in oil injections!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Kmp2Sv6cDk&t=71s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rycE23PFTxQ
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7/17/2018 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 26 seconds
IVF My Life
Kaela and Sarah are finally talking about it - IVF! They give a crash course overview about what to expect in an IVF cycle and give tips on when and how to decide if it's a good decision. They also share a crazy story about a 72-year-old woman who conceived with IVF (yeah, you read that right) and they talk about some big changes happening in the Infertile Mafia Facebook group!
Articles mentioned in this episode:
http://www.pregonline.com/blog/how-do-you-know-when-to-move-on-to-ivf/2016/03/28/
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/indian-woman-who-had-baby-at-72-says-she-has-no-regrets-but-being-a-mother-is-hard-a7621631.html
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7/13/2018 • 1 hour, 1 second
Your Wait Time Is Now...
Sarah & Kaela are talking about waiting. There is so...much...waiting with infertility! They share stories from listeners about roadblocks, unexpected surprises, and changes to the "plan" and give some advice and solidarity on expecting the unexpected with infertility treatments. They also talk about the original member of the infertile mafia - her name happens to be Sarah (not our Sarah, a different one, who was MUCH older). And finally, they've got an "Out of the Box" segment you do not want to miss!!!
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7/10/2018 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 19 seconds
Word To Your Mother
Kaela & Sarah are sharing advice, from listeners, for fertile friends and family! They share a list of five DO’S and five DON’Ts about how to support someone who is struggling with infertility. If you're listening because you want to be supportive, you're already doing something right! The infertility community thanks you in advance for loving us through such a hard time. Finally, Kaela shares a story about a very questionable childhood imaginary friend. And both ladies talk personally about their siblings.
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7/6/2018 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 22 seconds
The Turkey Baster Method
Sarah & Kaela are talking about IUI’s! They give you a step-by-step, and awkwardly intimate, look into what happens during an Intrauterine Insemination. They also share some interesting history on IUI and discuss pros and cons of the procedure. Finally, Kaela shares an embarrassing moment when infertility and summer collided when she decided to try out a spray tan!
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7/3/2018 • 59 minutes, 1 second
Mafia Meet Celeste
Kaela and Sarah interview YouTube sensation, Celeste, of "Tim and Celeste!" She's battled infertility for over four years with recurrent miscarriages, failed embryo transfers, and multiple misdiagnoses. After countless tests, and several different fertility specialists, she finally has a diagnosis and treatment plan that gives her hope for the future. Sarah and Kaela also get to know her better by asking questions about her life in Australia, her husband Tim, and her fur baby Cooper!
Find Celeste in these places -
Instagram: @tim.celeste.x
YouTube: Tim and Celeste
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6/29/2018 • 48 minutes
Don't Send A Dick Pic
Sarah & Kaela are digging into the balls again to give you tips and advice on ways to improve sperm parameters. They also share a few things that could be damaging your sperm quality! Kaela tells you how sperm act like they’re playing rugby and Sarah tells you about an embarrassing sperm story involving her father-in-law. Also, protip guys, don’t send dick pics and keep your balls cool.
Articles referenced in this episode:
What Are The Best Ways To Increase Sperm Count?
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320010.php
Study on Ashwagandha to improve sperm!
https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2013/571420/abs/
Ball cooling underwear. Keep your balls cool, guys!
https://www.snowballsunderwear.com/
One stop shop for male infertility!
https://www.dontcookyourballs.com/
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6/26/2018 • 58 minutes, 28 seconds
The Fertile Infertile
Kaela & Sarah are talking to all the fertile people seeking fertility treatments. Have you ever felt like you don’t quite “fit in” with the infertility community because you’re not technically “infertile?” This episode is for you! Many people find themselves in this position for many reasons - same sex couples, bodily injury, cancer survivor, recurrent miscarriage, genetic disease, any many others. Sarah & Kaela are here to tell you you’re definitely part of the club!
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6/22/2018 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 51 seconds
Eggs With A Side Of Pregnancy Please
Sarah & Kaela talk all about eggs this week! They discuss why eggs might be damaged and ways to make your egg quality better. Sarah talks about her favorite book:
"It Starts with the Egg: How the Science of Egg Quality Can Help You Get Pregnant Naturally, Prevent Miscarriage, and Improve Your Odds in IVF" by Rebecca Fett
Get your copy here: goo.gl/9RvXyV
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6/19/2018 • 51 minutes, 58 seconds
Trigger Warning
Sarah & Kaela rant about infertility triggers! What is that thing that pushes you over the edge and brings you to tears, or makes you want to pull someone’s hair out, or give a well placed throat punch?! Chances are someone else has been there, too, and they’re talking about it. Consider this your deep breath for the week! Trigger warning: Watch for F bombs ahead - cause nothing brings out a potty mouth like infertility.
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6/15/2018 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 13 seconds
Unexplain This To Me
Kaela & Sarah talk about unexplained infertility, especially how it can be one of the most frustrating infertility diagnoses. They share from other listeners about what it means to have unexplained infertility and offer up some advice and tips for coping and taking next steps. They also get deeply personal discussing tattoos and piercings. Word of advice: stay out of the mall.
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6/12/2018 • 53 minutes, 59 seconds
Infertility In The Workplace
Sarah & Kaela are talking about what it means to go through infertility AND have a career. They share lots of experiences and advice from other listeners on how they handled infertility in the workplace and how to have that awkward conversation (or not) with your boss. They also discuss pros and cons to telling your employer, issues of bias, and being treated differently while going through treatments. And don’t forget to get in on our IVF care package giveaway!
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6/8/2018 • 1 hour, 27 seconds
It’s Time To Evict My Eggs
Kaela & Sarah will give you the scoop on ovulatory drugs, both oral medications and injectables. They get down to the difference between Letrozole (Femara) and Clomiphene (Clomid), how they work, and why they’re prescribed. They also give you some insight on using injectable gonadotropins (Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F, etc.) and what to expect when taking all these extra hormones. Warning: There might be rage, tears, and definitely some bloating in your future. And finally, you don’t wanna miss another adventure (or maybe we should say nightmare) in the jerk off room told by a new Mafia member!
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6/5/2018 • 51 minutes, 6 seconds
Out Of The Infertility Closet
Sarah & Kaela talk about opening up to other people about your struggle with infertility. They give you their opinions on when to share, how much to share, and who to share with! Hint: Not that super gossipy girl at work. They also share from other Mafia members about their experiences coming out of the closet. Sharing certainly has its pros and cons and the Infertile Mafia will walk you through all of them! Kaela & Sarah also have a PSA for all women out there and share some celebrity sightings!
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6/1/2018 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 6 seconds
Oh No...I’m Still Weird
Kaela & Sarah are still gettin’ freaky. Turns out, there’s a lot of uncommon infertility diagnoses. In this episode, they hit up some more uncommon diagnoses in addition to the one’s discussed in episode 11 including blood clotting disorders (Factor V Leiden, Antiphospholipid Syndrome, MTHFR) and Autoimmune and Alloimmune diseases (Lupus, Hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Chron’s Disease, IBS, the list goes on and on here…). Kaela’s got one of each so she’s got a lot to say on the topic. Does that make her a super freak!? But, there’s good news - most of these are treatable and they talk about that, too! For example, the difference between Intralipids and IVIg infusions.
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5/25/2018 • 49 minutes, 54 seconds
Oh No...I’m The Weirdo
Sarah & Kaela discuss what it means to be an infertility freak! They discuss some less common causes of infertility, and they cover the topic of genetics and share stories of listeners with “weirdo” diagnoses! Including, genetic testing during fertility treatments for patients and embryos and the difference between PGS and PGD embryonic testing. They’ll cover some rare genetic diseases and also chromosome translocation. They also give some insight about genetic causes of poor egg quality (low AMH, diminished ovarian reserve, early menopause) and sperm DNA fragmentation (an even deeper dive into the balls). And did you know some eggs can “fix” some less than perfect sperm?! This way too closely mimics real life, right?! Lots of talk about eggs and balls in this one!
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5/25/2018 • 50 minutes, 41 seconds
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Kaela interviews Nurse Mandy on recurrent pregnancy loss. Mandy is a Registered Nurse with Bachelor’s degrees in both Nursing and Psychology. She has worked in a pregnancy crisis center and, unfortunately, has her own personal experience with both infant loss and four consecutive pregnancy losses before giving birth to her beautiful daughter. She shares her personal experience and she also talks with Kaela about possible causes, and treatments, for recurrent pregnancy loss. A few other topics they discuss are - incompetent cervix, septate uterus, genetic embryo testing, and how women with recurrent pregnancy loss “fit in” with the infertility community. Hang on tight, this one’s a bumpy ride!
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5/18/2018 • 52 minutes, 39 seconds
Endometriosis Still Sucks
Kaela & Sarah heard back from YOU and wanted to make some helpful additions and maybe a few corrections to their discussion on Endometriosis!
They also share names of some celebrities who have spoken out about Endometriosis. And if you’re an animal lover, Sarah has a very funny dog story for you, too!
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5/18/2018 • 51 minutes, 38 seconds
Bonus: Mother’s Day Is…
Mother’s Day can be ROUGH when you’re infertile. Sarah & Kaela share some thoughts, some opinions, and some general venting from Infertile Mafia members about this day! And they also share a few unique ways to get through it - basically do what you want! This day is hard, but you’re not alone.
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5/11/2018 • 40 minutes, 38 seconds
Endometriosis Sucks
Kaela and Sarah dive into endometriosis this week and talk about symtoms and how it's diagnosed. They also tell two stories from women currently seeking treament for their severe endo.
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5/11/2018 • 1 hour, 7 minutes, 46 seconds
My String of Pearls
Sarah & Kaela discuss PCOS! It’s the most common infertility diagnosis among women and Sarah knows all the ins and outs - cause she’s got it! They talk about what it is, how it’s diagnosed, and how to treat it. Did you know female superheroes probably all have PCOS? Listen to find out why!
Article referenced in this episode:
Benefits of exercise for women diagnosed with PCOS
https://www.pcosdietsupport.com/exercise/pcos-and-exercise/
Facts about PCOS
http://www.pcosnutrition.com/facts/
https://www.prevention.com/health/6-symptoms-of-polycystic-ovarian-syndrome
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5/4/2018 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 45 seconds
Bonus: NIAW - Watch us Flip the Script
Kaela and Sarah talk about Resolve, National Infertility Awareness Week, and what they (and others) are doing to #flipthescrip. They also share stories from listeners about their unique infertility journeys.
Visit www.resolve.org to learn more about their mission and get involved.
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4/27/2018 • 37 minutes, 39 seconds
Testing? Testing? 123???
Kaela and Sarah talk about all the female diagnostic tests the ladies have to endure before they can start fertility treatments- from blood tests all the way to surgery. They have had pretty much every test between the two of them and tell you what to expect and how to prepare.
Kaela also gives a great analogy on how the hormones during a menstrual cycle work!
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4/27/2018 • 1 hour, 8 minutes, 35 seconds
Adventures in the Jerk Off Room
Sarah and Kaela get balls deep into male infertility! Male factor infertility accounts for 40% of infertility diagnosis. Find out some of the causes, treatments, and diagnostic tests for men. Also, hear Kaela’s interview with her husband, Bill, and listen to him talk about that time he missed the cup for a semen sample. Kaela & Sarah will also share others stories of their adventures in the jerk off room including; overhearing people eating, a wife standing guard outside a public restroom, and an upside down cup incident!
At home diagnostic tests referenced in the episode:
https://trakfertility.com/
https://www.episona.com/product/
https://www.everlywell.com/
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4/20/2018 • 1 hour, 20 minutes, 6 seconds
RE there yet?
Kaela & Sarah discuss infertility around the holidays and April Fool’s Day pregnancy announcements. Plus, they give tips and advice on choosing a Reproductive Endocrinologist - how to find one, how to prepare for your first visit, and what to expect! They also discuss the stigma of infertility, why it exists, and ways we can eliminate it - you’re already doing one of them.
Kaela referenced this helpful article from the Stirrup Queens about questions for your RE:
https://www.stirrup-queens.com/2006/07/questions-when-choosing-reproductive/
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4/20/2018 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 10 seconds
Are you a POASer?
Sarah & Kaela discuss the dreaded two week wait - and some practical (and not so practical) ways to cope with it. They also share experiences from other Mafia members about how their lives changed when they told people they were trying to conceive. Here’s some hints: overbearing Mom’s, awkward family gatherings, and friends who sarcastically offer up their husband’s sperm...yeah you read that right.
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4/11/2018 • 48 minutes, 33 seconds
WTF is TTC???
Kaela & Sarah dive deep into what it means to be a TTCer! In this episode, they explore a number of things people do when trying to conceive. Some practical, some not so much! Included in the conversation are - ovulation trackers, cervical checks, timed sex, acupuncture, fertility diets, supplements, and ball cooling underwear (to name a few)!
We also gave a product shoutout that we inadvertently got W-R-O-N-G! Can you spot it?! Don’t worry, we correct ourselves in an upcoming episode. ;-)
https://www.fairhavenhealth.com/
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4/11/2018 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 35 seconds
Join the Mafia
Meet Sarah & Kaela and hear about their experience with infertility! Also, hear from other members of the Mafia about good AND bad advice they’ve received about trying to get pregnant. And if you’re new to the TTC (Trying To Conceive) community, learn some of the most common acronyms you keep seeing over and over again!
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4/11/2018 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 27 seconds
Infertile Mafia Teaser
The infertility community is bold, resilient, and fiercely loyal! Join the Infertile Mafia to talk about surviving and thriving infertility! In this intro episode, meet Sarah and Kaela, two infertile friends who found each other in the most conventional way - through YouTube talking about their lady parts.
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