No need for Prince Charming

Meike started IVF at 36 and became a solo mum to baby Lyla—now, 9 years later, she’s sharing what it’s really like.

In this powerful episode, Meike reflects on her journey from a low AMH diagnosis to IVF and solo motherhood, but most importantly, what she’s learned raising her now 9-year-old daughter Lyla, who was conceived using an open-ID donor.

Meike speaks openly about telling Lyla her conception story from the start, how those conversations...

Jill’s Story: Nine IVF Rounds, Known Donor Support, and the Journey to Baby Florence

In this emotional and inspiring episode, we meet Jill—a long-time listener who became a solo mum by choice after an extraordinary journey. From believing solo motherhood wasn’t for her, to nine gruelling IVF rounds, a family egg donor, and the gift of a known sperm donor, Jill’s story is filled with resilience, gratitude, and unwavering determination.

She opens up about fertility challenges, dealing with failed transfers, finding peace with using donor eggs, and navigating pregnancy and newborn life after years of...

Nat’s Updated Journey: Grief, Third Baby Joy, and Surviving a Life-Threatening Birth Experience

In this powerful update episode, we reconnect with Nat—one of our most memorable guests from Season One. Since we last heard from her, Nat has navigated unimaginable grief, pursued her dream of becoming a midwife, and made the brave decision to try for a third child. But her journey didn’t unfold the way anyone expected.

From failed embryo transfers to a surprise pregnancy, a near-death birth experience, and an emergency hysterectomy, Nat’s story is filled with resilience, raw honesty, and unfilter...

13 Rounds of IVF and a Baby at 46: Lorena’s Story of Solo Motherhood, Setbacks, and Strength

Lorena always knew she wanted to be a mum—but life had other plans. After navigating difficult relationships, putting her heart back together, and years of unsuccessful IVF, she finally became a solo mum at 46. In this deeply personal and powerful episode, Lorena shares the highs and lows of 13 rounds of IVF, how she handled society’s judgment about being an “older mum,” and how motherhood transformed everything.

She also shares what it’s like to raise a donor-conce...

From Workaholic to Solo Mum: Leah’s Unexpected Path to Motherhood and Living with Chronic Illness

Leah was a career-focused woman who didn’t even know if she wanted kids—until the experience of caring for her niece flipped her world upside down. What started as a spontaneous thought became a fast-tracked journey to solo motherhood, filled with both joy and adversity. From navigating a shock diagnosis of Meniere’s disease during pregnancy to overcoming guilt and building a support system, Leah opens up about what it’s really like raising her daughter, Lily, as a solo mum with a chronic...

Solo Mum Life Now: Jaime and Sally on Daycare, Diagnosis, and Donor Siblings

In this special update episode, we catch up with two beloved past guests—Jaime and Sally—to hear how life has evolved since they last joined the podcast. Jaime opens up about parenting without a village, managing full-time work with daycare, and why she’s happy to be one-and-done. Sally shares her journey from egg donation to welcoming her third child, and the unexpected bowel cancer diagnosis that changed everything. From ADHD diagnoses to donor sibling surprises, this episode is a raw and powerful reminder of how so...

From Divorce to Solo Mum: Kristy’s Unexpected Journey to Baby Navy

Kristy never imagined she’d become a solo mum. After spending years in a difficult marriage, she found herself rebuilding her life at 31. But after dating disappointments and a move to Melbourne, she realised she didn’t want to wait any longer. In this episode, Kristy shares how a single conversation changed everything, leading her to IVF, pregnancy at 42, and moving across states while preparing for motherhood.

She opens up about the challenges of fertility treatment, navigating pregnancy alone, and why moving back home was the be...

From IVF Setbacks to Donor Eggs: Mel’s Journey to Solo Motherhood with Lou

Mel’s path to solo motherhood wasn’t straightforward. After struggling with IVF, enduring multiple failed transfers, and facing the emotional toll of infertility, she had to make a life-changing decision—continuing with her own eggs or moving to donor eggs. In this episode, Mel shares how she navigated the mental, emotional, and financial challenges of fertility treatment, why she ultimately chose to import donor eggs into Australia, and what it was like to finally welcome her son, Lou.

If you’re in the...

Egg Freezing, IVF, and Solo Motherhood: Miranda’s Journey to Baby Josh

Miranda always dreamed of being a mother, but life didn’t follow the traditional timeline she expected. After freezing her eggs at 34 and focusing on her career, it wasn’t until COVID lockdowns that she had the space to reflect on what she truly wanted. In this episode, Miranda shares her journey from egg freezing to IVF, dealing with miscarriage, and welcoming her son, Josh, into the world as a solo mum by choice.

She opens up about navigating donor selection, the emotional rollercoaster of fertil...

From Corporate Success to Solo Mum of Three: Charlotte’s Unexpected Journey

Charlotte was thriving in her corporate career, travelling the world and living life on her terms. But at 35, she realised she wanted something more—motherhood. In this episode, Charlotte shares her inspiring journey from a career-driven professional to a solo mum of three, navigating IVF, miscarriages, and an unexpected twin pregnancy.

She opens up about balancing fertility treatments, the challenges of parenting three children alone, and the mindset shifts that helped her embrace solo motherhood. Whether you're considering solo motherhood or already on the...

From the Film Industry to Motherhood: Betty’s Inspiring Story of Resilience and Vision
In this heartfelt episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Betty shares her journey from the hustle of the film industry to the joy of solo motherhood. After years of prioritising her career and navigating relationships that didn’t align with her dreams, Betty chose to embrace motherhood on her own terms. She opens up about her decision-making process, her unique approach to manifestation and mindset, and the practical and emotional preparations she made for solo motherhood. Betty also reflects on the joys and...

Stories and Advice from Egg Donors and Experts on the Life-Changing Journey of Egg Donation
In this heartfelt and informative episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Alisha explores the powerful journey of egg donation. Featuring inspiring personal stories from egg donors and insights from Brooke of the Eve Donor Bank at City Fertility, this episode delves into what it takes to become an egg donor and the profound impact of this selfless act. Learn about the emotional and physical aspects of egg donation, the process for donating, and the challenges and rewards experienced by donors. Whether...

From Single Woman to Solo Mum of Two: Shantal’s Story of Family, Resilience, and Independence

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Shantal shares her journey to solo motherhood with her daughters, Esme and Laney. She discusses her experiences with IUI, IVF, and choosing a donor, as well as the unique challenges of raising neurodivergent children as a single mum. Shantal’s story highlights the joy and resilience required in solo parenting, as well as the importance of community and acceptance in navigating life’s unexpected paths. Her reflections offer inspiration and insights for anyo...

How Melissa Became a Solo Mum by Choice and Fostered Connections with Her Daughter’s Donor Siblings Around the World

In this heartfelt episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' we meet Melissa and her nine-year-old daughter, Gracie. Melissa opens up about her path to solo motherhood, from navigating donor conception after a difficult marriage to the joys and challenges of raising her daughter alone. She shares her thoughts on balancing work and motherhood, finding a supportive community, and encouraging Gracie to embrace her unique family structure. Melissa’s story is filled with resilience, love, and the...

How Claire Embraced Solo Motherhood, Overcame IVF Hurdles, and Balanced Life as a CEO and Mum

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Claire shares her inspiring story of becoming a solo mum to her son, Ralph. From her role as CEO of a global technology company to the moment she decided to pursue motherhood alone, Claire’s journey is filled with resilience, adaptation, and humour. She delves into the challenges of the IVF process, the joy of raising Ralph, and the experience of balancing a startup business she co-founded with her best friend with the de...

From Doula to Mum: How Candace Balanced Work, IVF, and Found Community as a Solo Mother

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Candace shares her remarkable journey to solo motherhood. A fertility expert and doula, she decided to have a child on her own after years of helping others create families. Candace opens up about the unique challenges of selecting a known donor, balancing her multiple businesses, and the deep emotions of bringing her daughter Maisie into the world. Her story offers valuable insights into navigating solo motherhood with resilience and love.

Navigating Career Change, Building a VA Business, and Empowering Solo Mums to Earn More with Flexibility"

In this bonus episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Sasha, a former hotel sales director, shares how she transformed her career during COVID by becoming a virtual assistant. After years in hospitality, she pivoted to building a successful VA business, which allowed her to create the flexibility she needed as a solo mum. Sasha’s story is filled with insights into finding clients, developing high-level VA skills, and earning more while working fewer hours. This episode is perfect for anyo...

Overcoming Medical Hurdles, Embracing Solo Motherhood, and the Unconditional Love of Raising Her Daughter

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' we meet Stacie, a dedicated early childhood educator and single mum by choice to her daughter, Vivienne. Stacie opens up about her journey to solo motherhood, from overcoming an unexpected medical diagnosis in her 20s to realising she could pursue motherhood alone. She shares her path through fertility treatments, her bond with Vivienne, and the joy and challenges of being a solo parent. Stacie’s story is filled with resilience, empowerment, and the uniq...

From Fertility Setbacks to a Fresh Start in Australia: Kimberley’s Path to Motherhood and Finding Community as a Solo Mum

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Kimberley shares her inspiring story of becoming a solo mother by choice. After a transformative journey through fertility treatments in the UK, she decided to return to Australia, where she now raises her son, Otis, alongside her supportive family. Kimberley reflects on her path, the challenges of IUI, and her sense of empowerment as she embraces solo motherhood. Her story offers insight into resilience, finding community, an...

Navigating Menopause, Embracing Intuition, and Understanding Mind-Body Wellness with Sofia

In this special bonus episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Sofia, a compassionate medical intuitive, joins us to discuss holistic approaches for women’s wellness, especially around menopause. She dives into energy healing, the power of intuition, and ways to navigate hormonal changes by addressing root causes. Sofia’s wisdom is a reminder that women can take control of their health journeys with self-awareness and intention. This episode is filled with actionable tips on maintaining wellness, understanding mind-body connections, and learning to trust your own intuit...

How Kathryn Embraced Solo Motherhood, Navigated IVF and Found Joy in Raising Her Son While Exploring the World

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Kathryn returns to share her inspiring journey of becoming a solo mum by choice. From tackling IVF to travelling across Europe with her young son, James, she opens up about the joys and challenges of motherhood on her terms. Kathryn’s story is filled with resilience, adventure, and the freedom of raising her son independently.

Key Takeaways:

Kathryn’s decision to pursue motherhood solo and the IV...

From IVF Setbacks to Planning Adventures: Kathryn’s Inspiring Journey to Solo Motherhood

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Kathryn shares the first part of her journey to solo motherhood, reflecting on the challenges of IVF, navigating the grief of lost expectations, and ultimately choosing to embrace motherhood on her terms. Kathryn discusses her high-risk pregnancy, her choice to travel with her baby, and the empowering freedom of solo parenting. This episode offers inspiration for anyone considering or currently navigating solo motherhood.

Key Takeaways:

Kathryn’s journey to solo mother...

From Life as a City Accountant to Solo Motherhood: How Rebecca’s Dream of Having a Family Came True

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Rebecca shares her inspiring path to solo motherhood. From her career as an accountant and her love of travel to navigating multiple rounds of IVF, Rebecca opens up about the challenges and triumphs of pursuing motherhood independently. With the support of her family, she now raises her daughter, Emma, cherishing each moment as they create memories together. Rebecca’s story highlights resilience, family support, and the empowering decision to emb...

Navigating Life as a Donor-Conceived Child, Meeting Siblings, and Finding Identity in a Solo Mum Household

In this bonus episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' we meet Kiara, a donor-conceived child raised by a solo mum by choice. Kiara opens up about her childhood, her close bond with her mother, and the unique experiences of meeting donor siblings and even connecting with her donor. Her journey is filled with love, resilience, and the power of family built on choice and intention. This conversation highlights the value of being open, building connections, and embracing all aspects of...

Navigating IVF, Embracing Solo Motherhood, and Finding a Village to Support Baby Leni

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Keely shares her journey to solo motherhood, from a successful career as a TV producer to becoming a single mum by choice to her daughter, Leni. She opens up about navigating fertility challenges, choosing to pursue motherhood alone, and the support she received from her family, especially as she balanced work and parenting. Keely’s story is filled with resilience, community, and love, highlighting the power of choosing your path and building a village arou...

Embracing Independence, Navigating IVF, and Choosing a Sperm Donor to Build a Family

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Mikayla shares her inspiring journey to solo motherhood. She discusses her decision to become a mother in her late 20s, navigating fertility treatments, and her thoughtful process of choosing an overseas sperm donor. With her family’s unwavering support, Mikayla’s path to raising her daughter, Charlie, highlights resilience, empowerment, and the joy of creating a family on her own terms.

Key Takeaways:

Mikayla’s decision to pursue motherhood solo at a you...

Insights, Adventures, and Bonding from the Solo Mum Society’s Unforgettable Bali Holiday

In this heartwarming bonus episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' we reflect on the Solo Mum Society’s first international trip to Bali, bringing together 24 solo mums and 29 children for an unforgettable holiday. Listen as mums share their experiences, from relaxing poolside and exploring Bali to bonding with others who share similar family journeys. Each story highlights the joy, challenges, and community spirit that made this trip a truly magical experience. Whether you’re considering joining next year or curious about solo mum trav...

Overcoming IVF Challenges, Building a Village, and Embracing Solo Motherhood as a Teacher and Mum

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Siobhan shares her inspiring journey from being a dedicated teacher with a full life to becoming a solo mum by choice to her sons, Maddox and Arrow. She opens up about navigating IVF, choosing a sperm donor, and her commitment to creating a supportive village for her children. Siobhan’s story is a testament to resilience, independence, and the incredible love of a mother who pursued her dreams on her own terms.

How Theresa Navigated IVF, Embraced Her Faith, and Found Joy in Motherhood with Trixie

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Theresa shares her remarkable journey to motherhood through donor embryos after years of navigating fertility treatments, embracing her Christian faith, and overcoming challenges. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and love as she welcomed her daughter, Trixie, at age 51. From her decision to pursue motherhood alone to balancing faith with science, Theresa’s journey inspires women considering motherhood on their terms.

Key Takeaways:

Theresa’s journey from planning for tr...

Navigating Uterine Cancer, Choosing Donor Conception, and Raising Children with Resilience and Support

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Claire shares her profound journey to motherhood after a uterine cancer diagnosis threatened her dreams of having children. Determined to pursue motherhood, Claire chose donor conception and faced numerous challenges along the way, including the premature birth of her son. Her inspiring story covers everything from treatment decisions and choosing a donor to building a resilient family with love and support. Claire’s strength and determination to embrace motherhood, even under difficult circumstances, is a po...

Navigating IUI, IVF, and the Joys and Challenges of Raising Poppy and Finn on Her Own

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Steph shares her journey to solo motherhood, from her determination to pursue a family on her own terms to navigating fertility treatments and the unique joys and challenges of raising her two children, Poppy and Finn. Steph’s story reveals the resilience, love, and support that make solo motherhood both rewarding and empowering. Her experiences with IUI and IVF, finding an American donor, and the highs and lows of parenting alone offe...

A Donor’s Perspective: Embracing Family, Resilience, and the Changing Landscape of Donor Conception

In this unique episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Alisha sits down with Nick, a sperm donor who shares his journey of deciding to donate, navigating the emotional aspects of donor conception, and meeting some of his donor-conceived offspring. Nick reflects on how times have changed since he donated, the importance of open communication, and his hopes for building meaningful connections with his donor-conceived children. This conversation offers invaluable insights into the donor perspective and highlights the impact of creating family thro...

Navigating IVF, Choosing Donor Conception, and the Joy of Building a Family on Her Own Terms"

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Rikki shares her journey to solo motherhood, from envisioning a family to navigating fertility treatments and donor conception. Despite facing setbacks with IVF, she persevered to bring her son, Jasper, into her life. Rikki’s story highlights resilience, self-belief, and the fulfillment that comes from building a family on her own terms. Her experiences offer inspiration and insights for anyone considering solo motherhood.

Key Takeaways:

Rikki’s path f...

From Endometriosis Diagnosis to Becoming a Mum: Karina’s Inspiring Solo Journey to Meet Baby Theo

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Karina opens up about her journey to solo motherhood after an endometriosis diagnosis and the challenges she faced with IVF. From navigating a long waitlist for a donor to undergoing fertility treatments, Karina shares her determination to create a family on her own terms. Her story celebrates resilience, love, and the fulfillment of her dream of becoming a mum to her son, Theo.

Key Takeaways:

Karina’s decisi...

A Donor-Conceived Adult’s Perspective on Identity, Family, and the Evolution of Donor Conception

In this powerful episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Alisha sits down with Amy, a 21-year-old donor-conceived adult raised by a solo mum by choice. Amy shares her unique perspective on growing up without a traditional father, the experience of connecting with donor siblings, and the evolving landscape of donor conception. From discussing the emotional aspects of identity to offering advice for solo mums and future donor-conceived children, Amy’s insights are both enlightening and inspiring. Her story offers a rare, firsth...

Embracing Donor Conception, Navigating Single Parenting, and Building a Strong Family for Matilda

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Katelyn shares her inspiring journey from a career in insurance broking to solo motherhood with her daughter, Matilda. Facing the realities of financial planning, fertility treatments, and becoming a solo mum, Katelyn dives into her decision to build her family independently. With resilience and support from family and friends, Katelyn’s story offers insights for anyone considering solo motherhood, balancing career and parenting, and navigating the joys and challenges along the way.

Key...

From Remote Living to Raising Beauden as a Solo Mum: Ashley’s Inspiring Path to Motherhood

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Ashley shares her unique journey to solo motherhood from a remote town in Australia’s outback. Facing nine-hour drives to medical appointments and the challenges of navigating IUI alone, Ashley persevered to bring her son, Beauden, into her life. Her inspiring story celebrates resilience, family support, and the courage it takes to pursue solo motherhood under extraordinary circumstances.

Key Takeaways:

Ashley’s experience with donor conception in a remote...

From Overcoming Adversity to Raising Charlie as a Solo Mum by Choice

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Kim shares her courageous journey to solo motherhood. Through challenges with IVF, the process of selecting a donor, and raising her son Charlie on her own, Kim’s story celebrates resilience, hope, and the fulfilment of creating a family on her own terms. From balancing work and motherhood to navigating the complexities of solo parenting, Kim’s experiences inspire and empower women to follow their dreams of motherhood, regardless of their circumstances.

Key Takeaw...

From Heartbreak to Hope: Lucienne’s Inspiring Path to Solo Motherhood and Donor Conception

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Lucienne shares her journey from navigating the challenges of singlehood to embracing solo motherhood with her son, Arlo. After experiencing multiple fertility treatments, including IVF and a frozen embryo transfer, Lucienne reflects on the highs and lows of creating a family on her own terms. Her story offers inspiration, courage, and insights for those considering solo motherhood, and she emphasises the importance of self-belief, resilience, and choosing one’s own path.

Key Ta...

Navigating Donor Conception with Brooke from City Fertility: Availability, Selection, and What to Expect

In this episode of 'No Need for Prince Charming,' Alisha interviews Brooke, the National Donor and Surrogacy Manager at City Fertility. Brooke provides an in-depth look at the donor process, from sperm and egg selection to embryo donation, including the unique challenges and considerations involved. They discuss the differences in state legislation, how family limits are managed, and the importance of understanding medical and genetic history in selecting a donor. This episode is essential for anyone considering donor conception and looking to...