Best Donor Conceived Person Podcasts (2025)

1
Brittany's DNA Surprise 46:41

1d ago46:41

46:41

Hindsight is 20/20. After experiencing a DNA surprise, it’s easy to look back at moments throughout our childhoods and realize that the truth was there all along. Growing up in Indiana, Brittany always felt like an outsider. Her parents were divorced, and when she asked her dad if she could go live with him, he revealed that he wasn’t her biologica…

1
The Hidden Formula Behind Your Family-Building Choices One simple mindset shift that can change how you approach donor conception and life 16:59

3d ago16:59

16:59

The Hidden Formula Behind Your Family-Building Choices One simple mindset shift that can change how you approach donor conception and life. Why do we make the choices we do—especially when it comes to something as personal and complex as building a family through donor conception or surrogacy? In this solo episode of Building Your Family, I share a…

1
Elizabeth's DNA Surprise (Part 3) 36:26

8d ago36:26

36:26

This is part 3 of a 3-part series. If you haven’t listened to parts 1 and 2, be sure to go back and listen before starting this episode. In Part 3 of Elizabeth’s story, we find out what happened after she visited her family and met her biological father for the first time ever. She shares what those first moments felt like and where things stand af…

1
Elizabeth's DNA Surprise (Part 2) 39:17

8d ago39:17

39:17

So what happened after Elizabeth sent off those letters to her siblings? In Part 2 of Elizabeth’s DNA surprise story, she reveals how she was able to make contact with several of her newfound siblings - and her biological father. I loved this conversation because we get a glimpse into the other side of the DNA surprise equation - the found family’s…

1
Elizabeth's DNA Surprise (Part 1) 58:57

8d ago58:57

58:57

Welcome to a new season of DNA Surprises. We’re kicking this season off with a triple-episode premiere as we follow Elizabeth on her DNA surprise journey. Elizabeth grew up knowing that the man she called “Dad” wasn’t her biological father, but she also grew up believing that the man she believed was, didn’t want to be part of her life. Her childho…

1
The REAL Keys to Fertility Success | Dr. Eric Widra on IVF, Success Rates & Lab Quality 46:38

10d ago46:38

46:38

What truly drives fertility success? Dr. Eric Widra, Chief Medical Officer at US Fertility, shares what patients need to know about IVF, success rates, and the role of lab quality in getting pregnant. In this episode of Building Your Family, Dr. Widra offers clear, evidence-based insight into: How success rates are calculated (and what to watch out…

1
What Happens When You Meet Your Donor and Siblings as an Adult? | Freya Lyon's Donor Conception Story 44:33

17d ago44:33

44:33

What is it really like to meet your donor—or your donor siblings—as an adult, after your values and worldview are already in place? In this powerful and deeply honest episode, Freya Lyon shares her journey as a donor-conceived person who felt confident in her identity, only to experience a major shift when she met genetic relatives later in life. F…

1
Surrogacy, Love & LGBTQ+ Parenthood: How Two Dads Built Their Family 45:11

24d ago45:11

45:11

Two gay dads share their surrogacy journey and lessons on LGBTQ+ parenting, visibility, and love. Discover how they built their family—and a community—along the way. In this heartfelt episode of Building Your Family, Mike and George open up about the joys and challenges of becoming parents through surrogacy. From navigating the process to raising t…

1
Dr. Danielle Lane on Equity, Inclusion & Improving Fertility Outcomes 40:44

1M ago40:44

40:44

This week’s episode may feel like listening in on a heartwarming chat between two fertility professionals — because it is. But it’s also full of meaningful insight on how to navigate some of the most complex and personal parts of family building. My guest, Dr. Danielle Lane, is not only a brilliant fertility specialist — she’s also someone setting …

1
Donor-Conceived Half Sisters Reunited by DNA 51:52

1M ago51:52

51:52

What happens when two donor-conceived women, raised in different families, discover they're genetic half-sisters? In this powerful episode, we sit down with two women whose paths crossed thanks to DNA — not childhood. Raised by single parents in separate homes, they reflect on the moment they connected, what it was like growing up with questions, a…

1
When Medicine Meets Empathy: Patient Autonomy in Fertility Care 39:50

1M ago39:50

39:50

This week on the podcast, we sit down with the brilliant Dr. Janelle Luk—fertility expert, Ivy League-trained physician, and co-founder of Generation Next Fertility. Though classically trained, Dr. Luk takes a deeply personalized approach to fertility care. She shares how she helps patients make deeply personal decisions—like using donor conception…

1
Dave and Denise's DNA Surprise 57:27

2M ago57:27

57:27

Welcome to the season 10 finale of DNA Surprises. Buy one, get two. No, this isn’t an ad for the latest testing kit sale. In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Dave and Denise, a married couple who discovered that they were both NPEs after their grandson took a DNA test. Before you listen to this episode, I want to take a moment to remind listeners…

1
Donor Conception Is Her World: Kate Davies on Family & Identity 42:44

2M ago42:44

42:44

Author Kate Davies, known for her novel Nuclear Family, joins us to share her personal and literary journey through donor conception. As a donor-conceived person who pursued donor conception with her wife, Kate reflects on the evolving meaning of family, identity, and connection. Her experiences offer a powerful perspective on the complexities and …

1
Melissa's DNA Surprise 54:10

2M ago54:10

54:10

When someone uncovers a DNA surprise, their family tree changes. That sounds simple, but the reality is that our roots, so many of the things that make us, us, come from generations before us. In this week’s episode Melissa shares her profound journey after discovering that the man who raised her is not her biological father. From uncovering clues …

1
Choosing Donor Conception: Expert Insights & Personal Journey with Dr. Melnick 37:49

2M ago37:49

37:49

Thinking about choosing donor conception to build your family? Today’s episode is a must-watch! Dr. Melnick, Director of Third Party Reproduction at Cornell Fertility Center, shares expert insights on selecting a donor, making crucial fertility decisions, and balancing medical recommendations with personal values. But this isn’t just a clinical per…

1
Lauren's DNA Surprise 48:16

2M ago48:16

48:16

If we don’t laugh, we’ll cry. DNA surprises can be gut-wrenching and difficult experiences, but some of us can find humor in almost any situation. In this week’s laughter-filled episode, Lauren LoGuidice tells the story of how she learned she was donor conceived. Lauren discusses how she never fit in with her raised family but was regularly dismiss…

1
Two Dads, One Dream: Jeff Levin’s Surrogacy & Egg Donation Journey 45:21

2M ago45:21

45:21

How do two dads navigate the journey to parenthood through surrogacy and egg donation? In this episode, I sit down with Jeff Levin, a therapist and proud dad, to hear the real story behind his path to fatherhood. From choosing an egg donor and surrogate to overcoming unexpected challenges, Jeff shares the highs, the hurdles, and the heartfelt momen…

1
Christine's DNA Surprise 53:33

2M ago53:33

53:33

When someone opens up their DNA test results, the outcome isn’t always an explosive surprise. Sometimes, it takes a while of pulling at a thread before a truth is unraveled. In this week’s episode, Christine shares how her curiosity about one of her ethnicity results led to her shocking discovery that her dad isn’t her biological father. But in ano…

1
Fertility & Stress: How Eastern Medicine Can Help with Dr. Susan Fox 44:17

2M ago44:17

44:17

Struggling with stress and fertility challenges? 🌱 Acupuncturist Dr. Susan Fox brings decades of experience blending Eastern and Western medicine to help you feel better. In this episode, she shares insights on managing stress, improving reproductive health, and finding balance on your fertility journey. 🔹 How Eastern medicine views fertility & wel…

1
Exciting news... 13:18

3M ago13:18

13:18

In this mini-episode, listen as Becky and Hayley announce that season three of the podcast is underway and learn more about the upcoming Donor Conception Virtual Summit happening in April - an event not to be missed! Link to get tickets - www.pathstoparenthub.com/virtual-summitBy Becky Kearns

1
Tamara's DNA Surprise 34:55

3M ago34:55

34:55

Imagine uncovering your DNA surprise, experiencing the shock and devastation that comes with it, and then learning that the surprise wasn’t a total surprise after all? Earlier this season, we heard a story like this, and in this week’s episode, you’ll hear another. When Tamara confronted her mom about her DNA surprise, she was shocked to learn that…

1
How Fertility Clinics Screen Egg Donors | Ethics & Process 39:14

3M ago39:14

39:14

Ever wondered what really happens when fertility clinics screen egg donors? Dr. Rudick, Director of Third Party Reproduction at Columbia University Fertility Center, shares the essential steps she takes to protect the emotional and physical well-being of both donors and recipients. With complex decisions and sometimes conflicting interests, she rev…

1
Christina's DNA Surprise 38:54

3M ago38:54

38:54

After a DNA surprise is uncovered, many moments from the past come into focus. Especially moments that, in hindsight, were missed opportunities for parents to tell the truth. In this week’s episode, Christina shares how she uncovered her DNA surprise and how she’s feeling about seven months into her discovery. She discusses how she’s struggling wit…

1
Sperm Health & Testing: What You Need to Know | Dr. Justine Witzke 39:58

3M ago39:58

39:58

Want to boost fertility? Sperm health plays a critical role, yet it’s often overlooked. In this episode of Building Your Family, we sit down with Dr. Justine Witzke, a Cornell-trained fertility expert and founder of Aligneage Fertility, to discuss sperm testing, preservation, and proactive fertility planning. Why should you test sperm? How can you …

1
Chaya’s DNA Surprise 48:03

3M ago48:03

48:03

As we’ve heard earlier this season, many people within the DNA surprise community saw their test results as mere confirmation of something they’d long suspected. But as heard in this week’s episode, not everyone was able to put their finger on just why they felt different. Chaya never felt like she fit in with her family. She found solace in music …

1
Fertility and Cancer: What You Need to Know 40:01

3M ago40:01

40:01

Before starting cancer treatment, fertility preservation can give patients the chance to have a family in the future. While many know this is possible, few understand what happens inside fertility clinics, how to navigate the process, or what questions to ask. In this episode, I talk with a leading mental health professional—also a cancer survivor—…

1
Kim O's DNA Surprise 37:04

3M ago37:04

37:04

After three years of making this podcast and speaking to people who’ve experienced life-altering DNA surprises, I’ve noticed several trends. One trend is that oftentimes, the biological father is someone a guest knew from childhood. Another trend is a tumultuous relationship with the mother. In this week’s episode, Kim shares her emotional journey …

1
Keeping Love Alive: Sex & Intimacy in Family Building w/ Dr. Elizabeth Grill 37:33

3M ago37:33

37:33

Struggling to keep the spark alive while navigating family building? In this Valentine’s Day special, we sit down with Dr. Elizabeth Grill to talk about sex, intimacy, and recalibrating your expectations when life gets overwhelming. Whether you're trying to conceive, in fertility treatment, or just looking for ways to reconnect, this episode will g…

1
Traci's DNA Surprise 1:01:07

4M ago1:01:07

1:01:07

If you’ve had a DNA surprise, how many times have you been told you should write a book? This week’s episode is a story that is truly stranger than fiction. Traci shares how, at 19, her mother revealed the truth about her paternity. This truth sent Traci reeling, but her mother insisted that she always knew the truth. Her mom went on to explain the…

1
Fertility & Health: What Really Works with Dr. Camille Hammond 36:28

4M ago36:28

36:28

Are you overwhelmed by social media advice on fertility and health? Dr. Camille Hammond joins Building Your Family to break down the basics of nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle choices when trying to conceive. She exposes false claims, shares science-backed insights, and helps you focus on real, effective ways to support your fertility. If you’re …

1
Danielle's DNA Surprise 39:32

4M ago39:32

39:32

"I knew it!" Or, "I had no idea." When it comes to DNA surprises, some people are completely blindsided. Others felt like they knew it all along. Danielle never felt like she fit in with her family. Her mother died when she was just three years old, and for the rest of her childhood, she was raised by her dad, who travelled often for work, and her …

1
Fertility & Solo Parenting: Trisha Cornwell on Thriving as a Single Mom 55:06

4M ago55:06

55:06

In this heartfelt episode, Trisha Cornwell, also known as the Solo Mama, opens up about her journey into solo parenthood with one child. She shares her experiences navigating fertility treatments, the emotional and practical realities of raising a child on her own, and how she balances it all with grace. Whether you're considering solo parenthood o…

1
Sarah K's DNA Surprise 1:06:31

4M ago1:06:31

1:06:31

Black sheep. Golden child. In the DNA surprise community, these are labels we hear a lot. In this week’s episode, Sarah shares her emotional journey before, during, and after, her DNA discovery. Growing up, she never felt like she fit in, but her concerns were often dismissed. Many years later, her suspicions were confirmed–her dad, Joe was not her…

1
Understanding Fertility Ethics: Why ASRM’s Guidelines Matter with Dr. Elizabeth Ginsburg 44:52

4M ago44:52

44:52

In this episode, Dr. Elizabeth Ginsburg, Medical Director of the ART Program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, professor at Harvard Medical School, and President of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), takes us behind the scenes of the ethical decision-making that shapes assisted reproductive technology (ART). Learn why it’s crucia…

1
Krissy's DNA Surprise 46:50

4M ago46:50

46:50

Welcome to season 10 of DNA Surprises. This season is jampacked with incredible stories that explore the emotional journeys of DNA discoveries. If you’ve had a DNA surprise, you’ll hear stories that you may relate to and gain inspiration from. If you haven’t had a DNA surprise, this season will continue to give you insight into the complexities of …

1
Alease the Embryologist: Egg Freezing, Fertility Treatment & Advocacy 31:19

4M ago31:19

31:19

In this episode of Building Your Family, Alease Daniel Barnes, aka Alease the Embryologist, shares her expertise as an embryologist and educator. Alease talks about her personal journey to freeze her eggs as a married woman and answers common questions she hears about the lab. Whether you’re going through fertility treatment or navigating your own …

1
The First IVF Baby in the US: Elizabeth Carr's Story of Hope, Fertility, and Diminishing Shame 37:58

5M ago37:58

37:58

In this episode, we speak with Elizabeth Carr, the first IVF baby in the United States, whose story is not only fascinating but also filled with valuable lessons about hope, managing expectations, and diminishing the shame often associated with fertility struggles. As a trailblazer in the world of assisted reproduction, Elizabeth shares her persona…

1
The best tips from our guests in 2024 16:44

5M ago16:44

16:44

Sign up for our new membership community 👉 https://familybuilding.net/building-your-family-community/ 👈 It will educate and support you so you can achieve your family-building goals and more. It is the only community platform created by a family-building expert and designed to put you in the driver’s seat of your future family. In this episode, you…

1
An Actress's Inspiring Fertility Journey: Freezing Eggs, Embracing Hope 38:27

5M ago38:27

38:27

In this inspiring episode, we hear the story of a courageous actress, Kellee, Stewart, who took control of her fertility journey by freezing her eggs. Unmarried and full of hope for the future, she shares her empowering perspective on planning for possibilities, breaking societal norms, and embracing her own timeline. Her journey is a testament to …

1
Fertility, IVF, & IUI Insights | Male Infertility Explained by Dr. Justin Houman 27:29

5M ago27:29

27:29

Discover expert guidance on fertility and family building with Dr. Justin Houman, a leading urologist and fertility specialist. In this episode, Dr. Houman explores key topics like male infertility, optimizing sperm health, and navigating paths like IVF and IUI. He also shares practical tips for heterosexual couples, lesbian couples, and single mom…

1
I sold my eggs to pay my rent’ - how one comedy sketch affected so many 41:02

5M ago41:02

41:02

In this episode of the podcast, Becky and Hayley address the upset that was caused by a series of comedy sketches from a UK comedian, which centred around her experience as an egg donor. The sketches sparked widespread upset among our audience, amplifying deeper fears and concerns that are often felt by our community members. In an attempt to addre…

1
Overcoming Fertility Challenges with Jay Palumbo | Tips & Advocacy 36:47

5M ago36:47

36:47

Welcome to “Overcoming Fertility Challenges with Jay Palumbo | Tips & Advocacy” This week, we’re joined by Jay Palumbo — an award-winning blogger, sought-after writer, and dedicated fertility advocate. Jay has personally faced fertility challenges and has supported thousands on their journeys to building families. In this heartfelt conversation, Ja…

1
Parent Like a Pediatrician: Insights from Dr. Rebeckah Diamond on Parenting After Fertility Treatment 39:10

6M ago39:10

39:10

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rebeckah Diamond, a pediatrician and author of "Parent Like a Pediatrician." Join us as we explore how to take the shame out of parenting and embrace evidence-based strategies for raising children. While Dr. Diamond's insights are invaluable for all parents, we’ll also discuss the unique challenges faced by tho…

1
Solo and Supported: Navigating Donor Conception Through Community and Collaboration 34:29

6M ago34:29

34:29

In this episode, Becky and Hayley invite Mel Johnson to share her story of how a solo route to parenthood was the right choice for her. Mel candidly shares her experience of solo motherhood, using a sperm donor to conceive, and why she decided to set up the ‘Stork and I’ online community in order to support others on this path. Following on from an…

1
Bobbi's DNA Surprise 50:00

6M ago50:00

50:00

Intergenerational trauma. It’s something we talk about a lot here. The most common cycles we discuss are the patterns of keeping secrets and the patterns of shame. In this week’s episode, you will hear a story about a cycle of NPEs. When Bobbi became pregnant with her third child, she knew that was not in a position to care for another baby. She re…

1
The Ultimate Guide to IVF, Genetic Testing, and Crafting a Fertility Plan 38:42

6M ago38:42

38:42

Welcome to "The Ultimate Guide to IVF, Genetic Testing, and Crafting a Fertility Plan" episode. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of fertility, focusing on the IVF process, the role of genetic testing, and how to create a personalized fertility plan. Whether starting your fertility journey or looking for more insights, this podcast will …

1
Guy's DNA Surprise | Update 38:39

6M ago38:39

38:39

Who would I have become if I had known the truth? How were the interactions I had throughout my life colored by an unknown truth? These are questions so many of us ask ourselves, over and over and over again. The reality is, we will never know, no more than we would know who we would have become if we’d been born in another country. Part of the DNA…

1
Shame-Free Parenting: Breaking Free from Guilt and Self-Doubt 39:45

6M ago39:45

39:45

If you’ve used reproductive medicine to build your family, you may feel an added weight of guilt or self-doubt as a parent. Are you tired of constantly feeling like you're not doing enough? It’s time to let go of the guilt and focus on raising happy, confident children and caring for yourself, too. In this video, we’ll explore the common pitfalls o…

1
Crystal's DNA Surprise | Update 50:50

6M ago50:50

50:50

If you’ve had a DNA surprise, you might listen to this podcast from the perspective of someone who just uncovered their results. Or did it happen years ago, when consumer DNA testing became popular? What has changed for you since the day you opened your test results? In this week’s episode, I’m joined by a guest from Season 1, Crystal. Crystal had …

1
A social media influencer tells his happy story of having 40 donor siblings 45:43

6M ago45:43

45:43

Discover the amazing story of a social media influencer who is one of 40 siblings born from the same donor! This incredible true story takes you on a journey of self-discovery, family, and identity. From finding out the truth about his conception to connecting with his donor siblings, this video shares an unforgettable experience that may help you …

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Donor Conceived Person Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Quick Reference Guide