This week on Fertility Village Live, we’re diving into a topic that’s still too often left in the shadows: male infertility.Join us as Marissa and Erin welcome the Ashley and Kevin Porter, who are opening up about their journey through diagnosis, double donor conception, and the strength it takes to rewrite the story you thought you’d have.This one’s about courage, love, and breaking the silence — and we’re so honoured to hold space for it. it's a conversation that doesn’t get nearly enough airtime and Ashley and Kevin are a couple whose heartfelt and courageous journey includes navigating a male infertility diagnosis, the emotional weight of that experience, and their decision to grow their family through double donor conception.With honesty and vulnerability, Ashley and Kevin walk us through their path—from the first signs that something might be wrong, to the difficult realities of testing and diagnosis, to the brave decisions they made together in order to pursue parenthood. They share what it’s like to face stigma, navigate grief, and ultimately reframe what family and fatherhood can mean.-- In a story filled with love, resilience, and growth, they open up about:-- Receiving a male infertility diagnosis and its impact on identity and mental health-- The emotional decision-making behind using both an egg and sperm donor-- How they’ve supported each other through uncertainty, grief, and hope-- Reimagining parenthood and finding joy in a path they never expected-- What it means to share this story publicly—and why it mattersPlus, we lighten the mood mid-episode with a playful “Couple’s Edition” Q&A, where Ashley and Kevin share sweet, funny, and relatable moments from their fertility journey. Expect laughter, real talk, and maybe even a few tears.Whether you’re in the middle of your own journey, supporting a partner, or just want to better understand what male infertility can look like in real life—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Key Themes:Male factor infertilityEmotional impact on men and couplesMental health in fertility careDouble donor conception -egg + spermRedefining fatherhood and familyCommunication and support in relationshipsWhy this episode matters:Male infertility is often left in the shadows—rarely talked about, rarely acknowledged, and too often misunderstood. By sharing their story, Ashley and Kevin are helping to break that silence and normalize the conversation. Their vulnerability offers comfort, clarity, and connection to others who may feel alone or unseen.

This week on Fertility Village Live, we’re shifting the spotlight and handing the mic to the men—the partners and intended fathers who have walked beside their loved ones through the emotional, physical, and mental rollercoaster of infertility. In a conversation with Caley and Sarah that’s raw, real, and long overdue, our panel of guests shares their unique perspectives, personal experiences, and hard-earned wisdom on what it’s like to navigate infertility as a man.So often, male voices are left out of the fertility narrative. But behind every treatment, every loss, and every hope is a partner who’s also feeling the pressure, holding space, and carrying their own emotional weight—often in silence. This episode dives into the unspoken: how infertility has shaped their identities, strained or strengthened relationships, affected their mental health, and reshaped their understanding of masculinity, vulnerability, and support.We’ll talk about:--> What it feels like to support a partner through fertility treatment--> How infertility impacts male identity and emotional well-being--> Why many men struggle to open up—and what helps--> Navigating grief, hope, and uncertainty as a couple--> What these men want others to know (and stop assuming)--> How we can create more space for male partners in fertility care and conversationWhether you’re a partner, a patient, or a friend—this is a powerful and necessary dialogue that will resonate deeply and leave you thinking. Bring your partner, bring your questions, and join us as we work together to normalize these stories and create space for every voice in the fertility journey.Let’s keep expanding the village—because no one should walk this road alone.

We’re honoured to be joined by the incredible Shaun Greenaway (@knackered_knackers) — Male Fertility Coach, advocate, and co-founder of NeXYs Fertility — for a powerful and heartfelt conversation you won’t want to miss.Marissa and Joy host this epic episode of Fertility Village Live with Sean as he shares his personal journey through infertility, the emotional challenges men face, and the importance of breaking the stigma around male fertility struggles. Discover how Sean's experiences have shaped his mission to support others and the transformative work he's doing today.Shaun shares openly about his own journey with Azoospermia, becoming a dad to donor-conceived twins, and the often-unspoken emotional weight men carry in the fertility world. With his signature honesty and deep insight, Shaun breaks down stigma and shows us what real support for men can look like. Sean's turning point and decision to share his story publicly, the role of community and support in navigating infertility, insights into donor conception and the journey to parenthood are all key moments in this beautiful conversation.Whether you’re on this path yourself or supporting someone who is, this one is for you. Let’s keep the conversation going and make space for everyone navigating fertility.#MaleInfertility #FertilitySupport #OasisFertilityNetwork #ShaunGreenaway #KnackeredKnackers #FertilityAwareness #DonorConceived #BreakingTheSilence #MenMatterToo

In this eye-opening episode of Fertility Village Live, co-hosts Tanya and Erin welcome Dr. Mathieu Boilard, PhD—CEO and founder of Nasci Biomed—for an in-depth conversation on male fertility and the groundbreaking science happening behind the scenes. Nasci Biomed is a private research and diagnostic lab based in Quebec, Canada, specializing in the advanced cellular biology of spermatozoa. Their work uses cutting-edge flow cytometry and biochemistry to offer some of the most comprehensive male fertility analyses available today.

Dr. Boilard walks us through what a fertility spermogram actually measures—from volume and pH to detailed mobility patterns, morphology, and even DNA fragmentation. He explains why these deeper insights matter when it comes to diagnosis, early detection of male factor infertility, and choosing the right course of treatment. We explore common diagnoses like oligospermia, azoospermia, and teratospermia, and discuss what current options exist for men with very low or no sperm—such as micro-TESE procedures and hormone treatments. We also talk about how testosterone and other hormones play a critical role in sperm production, and what signs men can look for if they’re wondering whether they may have a fertility issue.

We dig into sperm DNA fragmentation—what it is, how it’s tested, and how it can impact outcomes for IUI and IVF. Dr. Boilard shares how Nasci is bridging the gap between fertility research and clinical application, constantly searching for technologies that could lead to meaningful breakthroughs for patients.

Whether you're currently TTC, undergoing treatment, or just learning more about your reproductive health, this episode provides essential knowledge for anyone looking to better understand the often-overlooked male side of the fertility journey.

To learn more about Nasci Biomed or to book an appointment for a fertility spermogram or DNA fragmentation test, visit: www.nascibiomed.ca

In this episode of Fertility Village Live, Marissa and Joy are joined by Sam Marple, Chief Operating Officer of Reproductive Solutions and a proud parent through donor conception. Sam shares both professional expertise and deeply personal experience as we explore the evolving landscape of LGBTQIA+ family building.

Together, they discuss what it takes to create inclusive, affirming donor programs that recognize and support the needs of queer families. From navigating the egg donation process as an LGBTQIA+ individual or couple, to the ongoing journey of parenting a donor-conceived child, Sam offers invaluable perspective shaped by both lived experience and leadership in the fertility space.

This episode covers:

• How donor programs can become more inclusive and affirming for LGBTQIA+ intended parents
• Considerations and guidance for LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples pursuing egg donation
• Real-life reflections on parenting a donor-conceived child in today’s world
• Why supportive, informed, and community-centered care is essential for queer family building

Whether you're exploring your own path to parenthood, supporting a loved one, or working in fertility care—this is a must-listen conversation full of empathy, insight, and advocacy.

https://rsifertility.com/

Connect with Sam on LinkedIN

In this powerful and informative episode of Fertility Village Live, Hosts Sarah and Caley take a compassionate and comprehensive look at embryo adoption and donation—a path to parenthood that is still unfamiliar to many but filled with hope, possibility, and connection.

They are joined by Beginnings Family Services, a Canadian agency supporting adoption and embryo donation and explore what this process truly looks like from both sides. These professionals help demystify the logistics, emotional landscape, and legal aspects of embryo adoption, offering clarity and support to anyone considering this journey.

We also hear firsthand from two individuals with lived experience in embryo adoption. Their stories bring heart and honesty to the conversation, shedding light on the realities, the joys, and the nuances of receiving or donating embryos.

This episode is for:

• Anyone exploring alternative paths to parenthood

• Those curious about how embryo donation works in Canada

• Supporters and professionals working in fertility and family-building spaces

• Families navigating infertility and looking for informed, compassionate guidance

Whether you're in the early stages of learning or ready to take the next step, this discussion offers insight, support, and solidarity.

For more information or to explore embryo adoption services, visit:
👉 www.beginnings.ca
Beginnings Family Services offers counseling and ongoing support for expectant parents and those hoping to grow their families through adoption, including embryo donation.

Thanks for listening!

In this powerful and personal episode, we hear from Fiona, a mother who opens up about her journey through secondary infertility — a struggle that is often invisible, but no less heartbreaking. After having her first child without complication, she faced a long and painful road trying to conceive again, marked by multiple miscarriages, unanswered questions, and an ever-widening age gap between her children that brought its own emotional weight.

Fiona speaks candidly about the grief and guilt that can accompany secondary infertility, and the isolation of feeling like you “should be grateful” but still aching for the family you imagined. With honesty and courage, she shares what it was like to keep going through each loss, what finally helped her feel seen, and how she continued to hold space for hope even in her darkest moments.

This episode reminds us that every fertility journey is unique — and that no pain is diminished just because joy came first.

Key Takeaway: “Gratitude and grief can coexist — and it’s okay to want more, even when you already have love.”

Connect with Fiona https://www.instagram.com/fitfertilitea/

** TRIGGER WARNING ** PREGNANCY LOSS ** We want to inform our listeners that this particular episode mentions the sensitive topic of miscarriage. We understand the potential impact it may have on some individuals, and we sincerely apologize if it triggers any discomfort or distress.**

--> We are not medical professionals or mental health practitioners, so please be sure to listen to your doctor and health care professional's advice, above all else. Our hope with each story we share on this Podcast, is that you find something and can relate in some way that brings you a sense of community and hope.

Please subscribe to our podcast so you don't miss an episode and become a part of our compassionate and supportive community. We welcome you.

Learn more about Oasis Fertility Support Network Learn more about Oasis Fertility Support Network:

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This episode was recorded at Crescent Health Collective in the Zen Den - find out more here ⁠https://crescenthealth.ca/ ⁠ ⁠@crescenthealthcollective⁠

#infertility #ivf #fertilitytreatment #fertilitystory #fertilitystories #Fertility #infertilitystories #ivfwarrior #fertilitycommunity #youarenotalone

This week on Fertility Village Live, Hosts Erin and Ashley, both who used sperm or egg donors to start their family, we’re joined by two inspiring advocates—Victoria and Alex—for a powerful, honest conversation about building a family through donor conception.

Together, we explore:

* What it means to parent beyond biology

* The emotional and practical layers of choosing a donor

* How identity and intention shape this path

* What we wish more people talked about openly.

Whether you’re just beginning to consider donor conception, parenting after it, or simply want to understand more about the different ways families are formed—this is an episode full of heart, insight, and community.

🧬 About Our Guests:

Victoria shares her journey using two egg donors to grow her family. She is the founder of Infertility Unfiltered, a powerful online space for support, and the author of a children’s book that helps parents talk to their kids about donor conception.

Alex brings a much-needed male perspective to this space, openly sharing his experience starting a family through sperm donation. His advocacy offers comfort and clarity to others walking a similar path.

💡 Key Topics Covered

~ Victoria’s story: navigating two donor egg cycles and creating intentional family connections

~ Alex’s perspective: exploring sperm donation and the often-unspoken emotional journey

~ How to choose a donor: what matters, what surprised them, and what they’d do differently

~ Talking to kids: approaches to telling donor-conceived children about their origins

~ Reflections and advice for those just beginning to explore this path

🔗 Connect with Our Guests:

Victoria: @expectinganything

Alex: @pursuingfatherhood

https://www.instagram.com/pursuingfatherhood/

Get a Copy of Victoria's book

📲 Follow us on Instagram @oasisfsn for updates, resources, and upcoming episodes

🗓️ Next Week

Join us for an eye-opening episode on Embryo Adoption—featuring personal stories and expert insight into this unique and growing family-building path.

💛 Thank you for being part of this conversation and this community. Wherever you are on your journey—you are not alone.