33: A Midlife Surrogate on Pregnancy, Perimenopause, and Letting Go with Heather Nelson

In this episode, I’m joined by Heather Nelson to discuss her very personal story that sheds light on a topic that feels like a black box to many of us—surrogacy. 

Heather is a mother, wife, business coach and podcaster who became a surrogate five years ago. Now at 43 and navigating perimenopause, she’s preparing to do it again.  

Her story offers a rare, honest look at the emotional and logistical realities of surrogacy—from hormone shots to heart-expanding moments to what it means to grow a baby with the full intention of letting go.

In this episode, we cover:

✔️Why Heather became a surrogate (and why she’s doing it again)

✔️The extensive medical, emotional, and psychological screening process

✔️What makes a good match between surrogate and intended parents

✔️What it’s like to carry a baby that isn’t yours

✔️How she talks to her husband, kids and even strangers about surrogacy

✔️Postpartum recovery without a baby 

✔️Compensation, contracts, and the questions everyone wants to ask

✔️Why the world needs more surrogates—and how to explore it

If you’re anything like me, Heather’s story will leave you both inspired and a little choked up.

Links and Resources:

➡️ Follow Heather on Instagram: @heathernelson.life

➡️ Listen to Heather’s podcast: Life Conversations with a Twist

➡️ Learn more about her coaching work at theconnectionhive.co

Like what you hear?

➕ Follow Belong Wellness for more super smart and slightly sassy midlife conversations that blend science, intuition, and zero BS.

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Other Episodes You Might Enjoy 🎧:

• Your Body Isn’t the Problem—A Midlife Health Reframe
• Perimenopause (Jessica’s Version)

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