No need for Prince Charming

S4:E37 - Sammy, Athena & Betty

How Sammy Created a Second Baby Solo After Separation: A Donor Conception Story
When Sammy’s marriage ended while her daughter was still a toddler, she grieved the future she thought she’d have. But she also knew, deep down, that she still wanted to grow her family — even if that meant doing it alone. In this heartfelt episode, Sammy shares how she moved from heartbreak to empowered action, navigating donor selection, finances, co-parenting, and ultimately conceiving her second daughter, Betty, on her very first IUI.
Her joy is infectious. Her vulnerability, grounding. And her story is a powerful reminder that happy endings can look different — and still be everything you dreamed of.
Key Takeaways
Grief and hope can coexist — Sammy reflects on separating from her husband and the deep desire to create the sibling relationship she always imagined.
Choosing donor conception after separation — how she navigated finances, support, and the emotional decision to grow her family solo.
A successful first-try IUI — why she trusted her intuition (and her sisters!) despite advice to head straight to IVF.
Healthy co-parenting dynamics — how she built a positive relationship with her ex and his family for Athena’s sake.
Honest reflections on newborn life as a solo mum — managing guilt, juggling school routines, and finding her rhythm with two children and no partner.
City Fertility offer
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.
Preparing for treatment or TTC solo?
Download 10 Diet & Lifestyle Tips to Boost Your Fertility — created with a fertility dietitian — and get practical, easy ways to support your body for conception. Download your free guide here.

S4:E36 - Previous guest updates - Haylee & Maegan

Two Solo Mums, Two Very Different Updates: Pregnancy, Donor Siblings & a New Baby
From “I did it on my own” to “I’m doing it again” — this episode brings back two of our previous guests to share where their journeys have unfolded since you last heard from them.
In this episode, Alisha checks back in with Hayley (Season 1) and Maegan (Season 2) — two women who have already taken the leap into solo motherhood… and now return with major updates.
Hayley shares how becoming a solo mum radically shifted her self-belief — and how that shift led her to welcome a second baby on her own. She also opens up about connecting with her children’s donor siblings and what that unfolding has been like for her family.
Maegan returns with her own big news — she’s now pregnant. She talks about what it felt like to start this again, how different this round has been emotionally, and how she’s approaching this pregnancy from a place of deeper confidence and grounded trust in herself.
Their stories are a reminder that this path doesn’t end with “you had the baby.”For so many solo mums — that’s where the next chapter begins.
Key Takeaways
Growth Creates More Choice: When you see what you’re capable of for the first time, you stop questioning if you can. You start deciding if you want to.
More Than One Version of Solo Motherhood: For some women, one baby is their vision. For others, it opens the door to building the bigger family they always imagined.
Donor Sibling Connections Can Evolve: When (and if) you choose to connect, it can expand your child’s world and introduce relationships you never expected.
Pregnancy Round Two Feels Different: When you’re already a solo mum, pregnancy isn’t just a possibility anymore. It’s an expansion.
City Fertility Offer
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.
Expecting Solo?
Trying to conceive or pregnant and want your village? The Bump Membership is your private WhatsApp community + fortnightly Zoom Connection Calls with solo mums-to-be across Australia & New Zealand. Join the Bump here.

S4:E35 - Rochelle, Teddy & Nick

From heartbreak to IVF to identical twin boys — Rochelle shares how she found her power and joy doing this solo.
In this inspiring episode, Alisha chats with Rochelle — a solo mum who went from quietly grieving the “traditional family” she once imagined… to owning her choice and becoming a proud solo mother of identical twins.
At 37, Rochelle booked her first fertility specialist appointment and everything changed. She went from “I wish I had someone to do this with” to “I’m actually choosing this.” She found her donor through Seattle Sperm Bank, conceived on her first embryo transfer… and at the dating scan discovered she wasn’t having one baby, but two. From the shock of hearing “I can see two heartbeats” to navigating an MCDA twin pregnancy, early hospital monitoring, a planned C-section at 36+1, and the wildness of feeding two newborns solo, Rochelle has built a family that feels not just possible, but magical.
Rochelle’s story is a reminder that choosing solo motherhood isn’t last-choice energy, it can be the most joyful, fun, self-expanding decision you ever make.
Key Takeaways
From Grief to Empowered Choice: Rochelle originally saw solo motherhood as the “last option on the shelf”, until her specialist made her feel celebrated, not pitied.
Donor Selection Became Emotional: She cried when she found the right donor. it felt romantic, meaningful, and instantly “him.”
The Biggest Plot Twist: Rochelle thought she was pregnant with one baby, until the sonographer calmly said she could see two heartbeats.
MCDA Twin Pregnancy: Fortnightly scans, irritable uterus, steroid injections, and a planned C-section at 36+1 before seven days in special care.
Doing the Newborn Stage Solo: It’s chaotic, yes, but she’s surprised herself with how resilient, capable, and joyful she’s become.
Rochelle’s message for anyone wondering if they can really do this? Not only can you, you might just discover the strongest, happiest version of yourself on the other side.
City Fertility Offer
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.
Free Download: 10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Becoming a Solo Mum
If you’re at the very beginning of your journey and wanting clarity, confidence and a calm starting point, this free guide is a must-read. It will save you hours of Googling and help you understand what actually matters when you’re deciding whether to go it alone. Download your copy here.

S4:E34 - Jessica & August

Trailblazer: Jessica’s Journey to Solo Motherhood, Strength, and Pride
In this inspiring episode, Alisha chats with Jessica, a proud solo mum who shares her powerful story of courage, resilience, and self-belief. At just 30, Jessica decided she wasn’t waiting any longer for “the right person” to build her family — and began her IVF journey that would lead to her beautiful son, August.
From choosing her donor and facing a high-risk pregnancy, to surviving severe morning sickness, preeclampsia, and sleepless newborn nights, Jessica opens up about every part of her journey with raw honesty and humour. With the unwavering support of her sister, family, and newfound solo mum village in Newcastle, she’s created a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and deep pride in what she’s achieved.
Jessica’s story is a reminder that solo motherhood isn’t a backup plan — it’s a bold, empowering choice. Her message? You’re not failing by doing it alone — you’re leading the way.
Key Takeaways
From Fear to Fierce Pride: Once worried people would see her as a failure, Jessica now sees herself as a trailblazer — proving there’s nothing she can’t do.
IVF at 30: She chose to stop waiting for a partner, met with her fertility specialist, and conceived on her first embryo transfer using a local donor.
Navigating a Challenging Pregnancy: Despite complications and weeks of sickness, Jessica found strength she didn’t know she had.
A Village Before Birth: She shared her journey openly, building support early and avoiding isolation — including a “family meeting” before birth to map out how her village could help.
Easier Than Expected: Jessica says doing it solo can sometimes be easier than with a partner: “I only have to think about me and August — no resentment, no disappointments.”
City Fertility Offer
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.
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

S4:E33 - Verity & Leo

Trust Your Gut: Verity’s Journey to Solo Motherhood, Autism, and Adventure
In this heartfelt episode, Alisha chats with Verity, a solo mum who shares her powerful story of resilience, self-trust, and love. Once told she’d never carry a baby, Verity began her solo motherhood journey at 37 after setting herself a deadline - and ended up with her beautiful son, Leo.
Together they’ve faced huge highs and lows: a diagnosis of autism and anxiety, homeschooling, perimenopause, and caring for Verity’s mum with dementia, all while building a joyful, adventurous life filled with travel, laughter, and chicken nuggets.
Verity opens up about finding her donor through Monash IVF, establishing contact with him and Leo’s donor siblings, and why solo motherhood has filled a lifelong void she once thought only a partner could. Her message is clear - trust your gut, take the leap, and you’ll never regret it.
Key Takeaways
From Doubt to Determination: Told she couldn’t have children, Verity pursued IVF solo at 37 and conceived Leo on her first round.
Donor Connection: She built a positive, ongoing relationship with her donor and Leo’s donor siblings, enriching their sense of identity and community.
Autism & Perimenopause: Navigating dual diagnoses, her son’s autism and her own perimenopause, taught Verity to prioritise self-care and self-advocacy.
Solo but Not Alone: Verity found freedom in doing it her way - no compromises, no negotiations, just following her instincts.
Adventure Awaits: Homeschooling has opened the world for them, from England to Japan, proving solo motherhood doesn’t mean giving up travel or dreams.
Fulfilment, Not Loneliness: Verity says she’s never felt more complete than since becoming a solo mum, “that hole inside me is finally full.”
City Fertility Offer
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 Membership
Pregnant 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

S4:E32 - From Discrimination to Celebration: ISMBCD and the Push for Change

Journalist Hannah joins Alisha to expose how outdated laws still discriminate against solo mums—and how International Solo Mothers and Parents by Choice Day (ISMBCD) is turning awareness into action.
In this powerful episode, Alisha speaks with journalist Hannah Bambra, whose groundbreaking article has sparked national discussion about how Australia’s Family Law Act continues to discriminate against solo parents. Together, they unpack how the law’s outdated wording leaves single mothers by choice legally vulnerable—and why reform is urgently needed.
They also celebrate the launch of International Solo Mothers and Parents by Choice Day (ISMBCD) on 17 November, a global initiative led by Australian solo mums to recognise and celebrate diverse family structures.
Key Takeaways:
The Legal Gap: Australia’s Family Law Act assumes every child has two parents, leaving solo mums legally exposed even with donor agreements.
Donor Risk Awareness: Known and recruited donors present the highest risk of future claims, but no one is exempt—clear laws protect everyone involved.
Misinformation Runs Deep: Even fertility professionals may not realise how the current law disadvantages single parents.
Lobby for Change: Use this letter template to contact your local MP and the Attorney-General.
Choice = Power: The “choice” in Solo Mother by Choice symbolises autonomy, courage, and conscious motherhood.
Celebrate ISMBCD: Join community celebrations worldwide on 17 November—because all families deserve recognition and protection.
City Fertility Offer
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.
Loved this episode? Follow for more and leave a review!
Your support helps us reach more solo mums and solo mums to be, as well as spread stories of empowering women making their own dreams come true. Follow, subscribe, and leave a review on your favourite podcast and social platform! Plus, make sure you're following @noneedforprincecharming on Instagram.

S4:E31 - Genetic Counselling 101

Genetic Counselling for Solo Mums: Screening, Donors & Informed Choices
When you’re considering or embarking on solo motherhood, the science and medical jargon can feel overwhelming. In this bonus episode, Alisha speaks with Mona from DNA Down Under, a genetic counsellor who helps women simplify the science, understand their options, and make informed choices.
You’ll learn:
What genetic counsellors actually do and how they support solo mums by choice
The difference between standard and expanded carrier screening
What happens if you and your donor are carriers for the same condition
How donor screening works and what information you can expect from clinics
Why age, ethnicity, and family history matter for fertility and genetic risk
Options like pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT), NIPT, CVS, and amniocentesis
How to prepare for an appointment with a genetic counsellor
Why informed decision-making is empowering, not scary
Whether you’re just starting to explore donor conception, already deep in fertility treatment, or supporting someone on this path, this episode will help you gain clarity, confidence, and peace of mind.
Find out more about Mona and DNA Downunder here.
City Fertility Offer
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.
Loved this episode? Follow for more and leave a review!
Your support helps us reach more solo mums and solo mums to be, as well as spread stories of empowering women making their own dreams come true. Follow, subscribe, and leave a review on your favourite podcast and social platform! Plus, make sure you're following @noneedforprincecharming on Instagram.

S4:E30 - The hidden grief we don't talk about

Grief on the Solo Motherhood Journey: From Letting Go to Healing and Hope
Grief isn’t always about death — it can be the invisible companion on the journey to solo motherhood. From letting go of the dream of a partner, to infertility, failed cycles, miscarriages, or even navigating life as childless not by choice, grief can show up in surprising and complex ways.
In this empowering bonus episode, I sit down with Judy — a certified grief coach and practitioner — to unpack the many layers of grief that women face on the path to (or through) solo motherhood. Together, we explore:
Why grief starts earlier than most of us realise — often with the first fertility appointment
The hidden grief of letting go of the “traditional” family fairytale
How infertility, miscarriage, or failed cycles deepen the grief experience
The social isolation and relationship challenges grief can create
Practical ways to process grief, find self-compassion, and move forward
What it takes to reimagine a fulfilling life — with or without children
Whether you’re just beginning your journey, in the thick of treatment, or navigating life on the other side, this episode is here to remind you: grief doesn’t define you, and you are not alone.
Resources:
Download the practical strategies for when you are feeling overwhelmed
Find out more about Judi and her support services here.
 
The Buddist Prayer of Forgiveness:
If I have harmed anyone in any way, either knowingly or unknowingly, through my own confusions, I ask their forgiveness.If anyone has harmed me in any way, either knowingly or unknowingly, through their own confusion, I forgive them.And if there is a situation I am not yet ready to forgive, I forgive myself for that.For all the ways that I harm myself, negate, doubt, belittle myself, judge or be unkind to myself through my own confusions, I forgive myself.
City Fertility Offer
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.
Loved this episode? Follow for more and leave a review!
Your support helps us reach more solo mums and solo mums to be, as well as spread stories of empowering women making their own dreams come true. Follow, subscribe, and leave a review on your favourite podcast and social platform! Plus, make sure you're following @noneedforprincecharming on Instagram.

S4:E29 - Lisa & Bonnie

Lisa’s Journey to Solo Motherhood: From GP to Life With Baby Bonnie
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 Takeaways
Making 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.
City Fertility Offer
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 Membership
Pregnant 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

S4:E28 - Bel & Aura

From Endometriosis to Empowered Solo Motherhood: Bel’s Journey to Aura
In this heartfelt episode of No Need for Prince Charming, Bel shares her powerful journey to solo motherhood. From navigating a severe endometriosis diagnosis, heartbreak at 30, and unexpected IVF complications, to finding her perfect donor and welcoming her daughter Aura, Bel’s story is one of courage, resilience, and unconditional love. She opens up about the challenges of pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and the joy of building her own village as a solo mum by choice.
Her wisdom for women considering this path? Trust your heart—and do it.
Key Takeaways
Making the leap: How Bel’s endometriosis diagnosis and heartbreak at 30 led her to explore solo motherhood.
Choosing a donor: The challenges of limited options, her “goosebumps moment” finding the right profile, and why she tells others “don’t sleep on it.”
IVF journey: Navigating complications from egg collection, a long 18-month wait, and the miracle of her very first transfer resulting in Aura.
Pregnancy & birth: Coping with hyperemesis gravidarum, postpartum preeclampsia, and leaning on her mum’s support during recovery.
Life as a solo mum: Building her own village, embracing spiritual signs of the matriarchy, finding joy in everyday moments, and why she encourages others to “just do it.”
City Fertility Offer
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 Membership
Pregnant 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