“I really had to think about this and decide what I could offer that would be unique and really help have me stand out in the crowd. And I think one of the things is, is not that many people come forward with their story.”
In this episode of Startups and Stilettos, hosts Ingrid Zapata-Read and Carlyn Bushman sit down with Jessie Jaskulsky, founder of Surrogacy Simplified, a concierge and consulting firm guiding intended parents through the surrogacy journey. Jessie opens up about her deeply personal path to motherhood, including pregnancy loss, infertility, and the challenges of surrogacy, and how she transformed that lived experience into a mission-driven business.
She shares why vulnerability and community are vital in an often-isolating process, the obstacles parents face from emotional costs to financial barriers, and how she’s creating safe, judgment-free spaces for support. Whether you’re navigating your own fertility journey or building a business rooted in personal experience, Jessie’s story is a powerful reminder that sharing your truth can change lives.
What we talked about:
Separating Personal Life and Business [5:15]
Creating a Safe Place [9:15]
Finding the Right People in Your Community [13:53]
Building Trust with Jessie [17:27]
Leaving Quiet Time for Yourself [23:04]
Connect with Jessie:
Jessie Jaskulsky on LinkedIn
Surrogacy Simplified
Jessie on Instagram
Connect with Carlyn:
@carlynbushmanconsulting on Instagram
Carlyn Bushman on LinkedIn
Carlyn Bushman Consulting
Connect with Ingrid:
@itsingridsworld on Instagram
Ingrid Zapata-Read on Linkedin
Grow With Community
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