S3E16 - What Are the Stages of The SMC Journey w/ Regine

08/14/24 • 33 min

Join Aisha as she chats with Regine, founder of Solo Mom by Choice (SMBC) Resources, for an insightful conversation about the stages of the Single Mother by Choice (SMC) journey. From contemplation and deciding the right path, to preparing, waiting, and ultimately welcoming a child, Aisha and Regine break down the intricate steps involved. They share personal experiences, the importance of community, and the emotional and financial aspects of this unique path to motherhood. Tune in to learn more and get practical advice if you’re considering or navigating the SMC path. Reach out with your questions or join the conversation on @smbcresources on Instagram! 00:00 Welcome to Start to Finish Motherhood 00:31 Introducing Regine and Her Journey 00:55 Stages of the SMC Journey 01:25 Regine's Story and SMBC Resources 03:41 Contemplation and Research Stage 05:31 Choosing the Path: Adoption or ART 09:51 Emotional and Physical Preparation 15:22 Waiting and Coping with Uncertainty 16:18 Pregnancy and Placement 24:45 Financial Considerations and Challenges 26:43 Welcoming the Child and Parenting Realities 28:28 Building Community and Support 29:57 Conclusion and Resources

Previous Episode

S3E15 - What's it Like to Welcome a Second Child w/ Shivonne

Join Aisha as she reunites with Shivonne, who shares her journey for a second child and the challenges of juggling motherhood. Discover the emotional rollercoaster of IVF, the reality of mom guilt, and the joy of completing her family. Shivonne opens up about the support she received, the adjustments she had to make, and the importance of giving oneself grace during this journey. Listen in for practical advice, touching moments, and a testament to resilience. If you’re a single mother by choice or supporting one, this episode is a must-listen! Follow us on Instagram or email Aisha at starttofinishmotherhood.com for more insights. Click here to listen to the previous episode with Shivonne, S1E12 00:00 Introduction to Start to Finish Motherhood 00:26 Catching Up with Shivonne 01:39 Shivonne's Journey to a Second Child 04:31 Navigating the Fourth Trimester 08:42 Adjusting to Life with Two Children 09:31 Financial and Emotional Challenges 14:03 Preparing for a New Addition 20:10 Support Systems and Advice 23:08 Balancing Life and Motherhood 24:42 Essential Baby Items and Childcare Plans 28:03 Maternity Leave and Final Thoughts 30:54 Advice for New and Expecting Moms 33:56 Conclusion and Farewell

Next Episode

S3E17 - What's It like Parenting (as an SMC) Through and After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis w/ Erika

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Erica, a courageous member of the Melanated Single Mothers by Choice community, to discuss her powerful journey through single motherhood, adoption, and a breast cancer diagnosis. Erika opens up about her decision to become a single mom through adoption, the emotional impact of her cancer diagnosis, and the strength it took to fight for her life while raising two young children. She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, the support of her loving village, and maintaining an optimistic outlook during tough times. Erika's story is one of resilience and hope—don't miss it!

00:00 Introduction and Trigger Warning

00:33 Erica's Journey to Single Motherhood

02:53 Breast Cancer Diagnosis

03:20 Ground Rules for the Conversation

05:45 Navigating the Diagnosis

10:10 Understanding Triple Negative Breast Cancer

11:57 Receiving the Diagnosis and Mobilizing Support

19:42 Undergoing Treatment and Managing Life

25:44 Support System During Treatment

26:26 Parenting Through Treatment

29:18 Coping with Hair Loss

33:45 Life After Treatment