In this powerful two-part episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Lisa takes us through her journey from preparing to become a solo mum to life with her daughter Bonnie at nine months old. As a GP, Lisa approached the process with research and logic, but nothing could fully prepare her for the emotional highs and lows of donor selection, IVF, and solo pregnancy.
Lisa speaks candidly about navigating conservative family expectations, the reality of solo parenting, and the surprising joy found in the smallest milestones. From facing feeding challenges to finding new routines as a working solo mum, Lisa’s story is both practical and deeply inspiring.
Her message for other women considering this path? If your heart desires it—go for it.
Key TakeawaysMaking the leap: Why Lisa decided to pursue solo motherhood at 33 and the influence of her conservative Christian family’s mixed reactions.
Choosing a donor: Navigating limited options, rapid-fire donor selection at her clinic, and focusing on connection over medical history.
IVF & pregnancy: A strong response to treatment, six embryos, and falling pregnant on her first transfer. Managing fatigue, food aversions, and family dynamics during pregnancy.
Life after birth: Coping with feeding challenges, cow’s milk protein intolerance, and eventually transitioning to formula for mental health. Building new routines, starting daycare at four months, and returning to work at five months.
Reflections & growth: The joy of small milestones, building her village, and how motherhood has made her more patient, empathetic, and purposeful.
I couldn't continue to make this podcast without the help of our fabulous sponsor, City Fertility. If you're looking into fertility treatment on your own, make sure you take advantage of the exclusive 20% discount for No Need for Prince Charming listeners. Learn more here.
Considering Solo Motherhood?Feeling overwhelmed about becoming a solo mum? The Considering Solo Motherhood course walks you through everything—from emotional readiness to finances and fertility—so you can make a confident decision. - Find out more
Expecting Solo?Pregnant or TTC as a solo mum? The Expecting Solo course is designed for your first trimester—helping you feel informed, confident, and supported from the start. Includes 2 live sessions + expert resources - View the next course dates
The Bump MembershipPregnant or trying to conceive on your own using a donor? Join our warm, supportive monthly membership made just for solo mums-to-be. Includes connection calls, WhatsApp group, discounts, and free resources - Find out more
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I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
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