The Single Greatest Choice

Family Reimagined with American Broadcaster Richelle Carey

Episode Summary

Are you waiting for a partner to give you the ‘green light’ to become a mom? As a successful professional living overseas, today’s guest Richelle Carey faced a pivotal moment in her mid-40s when she realized she had been waiting for a partner to give her the green light to fulfill her dream of becoming a mother. Realizing she no longer wanted to give this power to another person who may or may not exist, Richelle decided to take matters into her own hands. She stopped waiting and started taking action to make her dream a reality. What happened next was a several years long journey of reimagining family. “You realize: I can do big things and I can do big things by myself and do them well.” - Richelle Carey

Episode Notes

Richelle’s story starts with the emotional process of choosing the SMBC path and takes us through egg freezing, IVF, and ultimately the practicalities of adopting a child as a single mother based overseas. Her journey highlights the importance of prioritizing our own dreams and health while remaining open to the many ways a family can be formed.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Richelle’s realization that waiting for the “perfect” partner to start her family was holding her back;
• The decision to freeze her eggs at 42 and later pursue IVF at 46;
• Why she wasn’t attached to the idea of biological parenthood and how she transitioned to adoption;
• The process of adopting as a single woman, including the role of an adoption consultant;
• How matching baby and adoptive parent works;
• Common concerns women face when considering adoption, such as bonding with their child;
• Talking to our kids about their origin story;
• How prioritizing personal health helps us show up as better parents;
• The consideration of having a second child as a single mother by choice;
• The empowering realization that solo moms can do “big things” and do them well;
• And more!

Want to check out some of Richelle's incredible work and content as a broadcaster and SMBC advocate?  You can find her on her WEBSITE, INSTAGRAM, and TikTok.