S4:E20 - Cat & Niko

From Lone Wolf to Solo Mum: Cat’s Unexpected Path to Motherhood

How COVID, spreadsheets, and a love of independence led Cat to solo motherhood—and a life she never saw coming.

When Cat hit her mid-30s during COVID lockdowns, she realised she didn’t want to wait around for the “perfect” partner. Instead, she created her own timeline—with spreadsheets, GP referrals, and her signature impulsiveness. In this episode, Cat shares how she went from free-spirited adventurer to solo mum to Niko, and how her fierce independence led to one of the best surprises of her life.

Key Highlights:

• Choosing Logic Over Fear – When COVID hit and a good relationship ended, Cat realised she didn’t want to settle. A spreadsheet helped her weigh the emotional and financial realities, and once it made sense, she moved fast and never looked back.

• Donor Red Flags and Gut Choices – Cat didn’t want the most impressive resume; she wanted someone she’d be proud to introduce to her son one day. Her final decision was based on values, not vanity, and it paid off.

• First Transfer, First Miracle – Despite a lower-than-expected egg count, Cat’s first embryo transfer worked. Her story is a refreshing reminder that not every IVF journey is long and hard; it can be simple and successful.

• The Emotional Load of Solo Parenting – From career trade-offs to solo decision-making, Cat opens up about the mental and financial weight she carries, and the guilt that comes with knowing her choice affects her son’s world too.

• Finding Her People in Solo Mum Society – As a self-proclaimed lone wolf, Cat didn’t expect to need community, but joining Solo Mum Society and attending the Bali trip gave both her and Niko a sense of belonging they didn’t know they were missing.

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