Tips from the TTC communityIn this penultimate episode of 2025, I wanted to share something a little different. This time of year can be incredibly difficult if you’re trying to conceive, dealing with loss, or navigating life after fertility treatment. So I gathered a brilliant group of patient advocates and professionals to offer their heartfelt, practical advice for getting through the holidays.From awkward questions at the dinner table to setting boundaries and finding your tribe, this episode is full of small but powerful ideas to help you protect your wellbeing and find support, whatever your journey looks like.What we discuss in this episode:Why you don’t need to shrink yourself to make others comfortableHow to prepare phrases and "outs" for difficult conversationsThe power of setting boundaries and being selfish in the kindest wayFinding your community and not navigating it aloneWhat to say to that nosy aunt (or how to head it off entirely)Navigating solo parenthood, donor conception and surrogacy during the holidaysCoping with involuntary childlessness and sitting in grief without guiltWhy men need support too, and how to show up for each otherEmbracing joy in small ways, even during a painful seasonYou’ll hear from:Julianne Bouteloup, perinatal psychologist and founder of Parenthood in MindMel Johnson, solo motherhood coach from The Stork and IAisha Balisaria, patient advocate and founder of Mind Body Revival CoachMichael Johnson‑Ellis, co‑founder of My Surrogacy JourneyKreena Dhiman podcaster, speaker and donor conception advocate - The Art of Being BraveKev Button, founder of The Man CaveHayley King, from Path to Parent HubVanessa Haye, writer, speaker and infertility advocateLet’s keep the conversation going:Follow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyEmail your thoughts or guest ideas: [email protected] our advocacy work: @fertility.actionExplore and connect with this episode’s guests via the links in the show notesSubscribe to the podcast to stay updated as we plan for 2026Please know that whatever you’re feeling right now, you’re not alone. Your emotions are valid, and you deserve support. Take what you need from this episode, and share it with someone who might need it too.Until next time.