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Have you ever felt like you did everything right but still didn’t get the outcome you hoped for? Episode 3: When IVF Fails & Motherhood Eludes You is one of the hardest conversations I’ve recorded — and one I felt was essential to have. Infertility and IVF failure can bring a grief that’s deeply personal, often invisible, and incredibly isolating. In this episode, we talk honestly about the devastation of not becoming a mother, how this kind of loss can affect identity and mental health, and what it means to face a future that looks very different from the one you imagined. We also explore the societal pressures, the financial strain, and how support from loved ones can make all the difference on this challenging journey.

I’m joined by Dr. Jonathan Marshall, psychologist and former professor; Echo Wu, leadership and mental toughness coach; and Grace Arthur, social worker and human rights activist, each offering unique perspectives and hope. Our guests share not only their expertise but also their raw, real stories of loss, resilience, and healing, while providing practical advice on self-care and emotional well-being when the dream of motherhood slips away.

Takeaways:

· Societal and medical judgments can profoundly shape the IVF experience.

· Infertility brings emotional, physical, and financial strain that affects relationships.

· Supportive partners, friends, and workplaces make a critical difference.

· Self-compassion and setting personal boundaries are vital throughout IVF and its aftermath.

· Openness about infertility helps break taboos and fosters community.

Timestamps:

0:00:00 Introductions and episode overview

0:02:56 Grace’s personal IVF and fertility journey

0:07:02 Emotional and physical toll of IVF

0:14:12 Societal pressures and family influence

0:19:18 Breaking taboos and sharing experiences

0:24:07 The grief of IVF failure

0:33:56 The financial impact of infertility

0:42:41 Finding acceptance and moving forward

Conclusion:

Infertility and IVF failure can feel like the end of a dream, but they don’t define your worth or future. By embracing vulnerability, sharing our stories, and seeking support, it’s possible to find light after loss. Remember: healing takes time, and prioritizing self-care is vital on this journey. Whether you choose new passions, lean on loved ones, or simply allow yourself to grieve, hope is still possible. Thank you for listening—reach out, share your experience, and know you’re never alone.

Links:

Ella Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@EllaPodcasts-z9v

Ella Podcast Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/816892014485089

Ella Sherman’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ella-sherman/

Dr. Jonathan Marshall’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmarshallconsulting/

Echo Wu’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/echoleadership/

Grace

Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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