The Surrogacy Space

The Surrogacy Space

by Marla Neufeld
ScienceSociety & Culture
The Surrogacy Space, Ep. 37: “Breaking Barriers in Surrogacy: How the Surrogacy Foundation is Expanding Access and Changing the Narrative”
In this powerful episode of The Surrogacy Space, host Marla Neufeld sits down with Alexandra French, Co-Founder, and Zach French, Executive Director of The Surrogacy Foundation, to explore how their deeply personal journey led to building one of the most impactful nonprofits in the surrogacy space. After navigating a breast cancer diagnosis that ultimately made surrogacy their only path to grow their family, Alexandra and Zach transformed their experience into a mission driven organization dedicated to making surrogacy more accessible for others. They share the pivotal moments that inspired the foundation, from fertility preservation during cancer treatment to the joy of welcoming their daughter, and how those experiences shaped their commitment to helping intended parents. The conversation dives into the three major barriers facing families today: financial limitations, lack of accessible education, and persistent stigma. Alexandra and Zach discuss their groundbreaking grant programs, awarding up to $100,000 and even full surrogacy journeys, as well as innovative initiatives like a forthcoming chatbot designed to connect families with trusted resources. They also highlight the importance of storytelling, advocacy, and community collaboration in reshaping public perception and ensuring ethical growth within the industry. This episode is an inspiring look at resilience, purpose, and the collective effort it takes to make surrogacy a more attainable and understood path to parenthood. ------------------------------------- Featuring Marla Neufeld, Greenspoon Marder Surrogacy Partner w/ Special Guests: Alexandra French, Co-Founder, and Zach French, Executive Director of The Surrogacy Foundation -------------------------------------- Featured Speaker: Marla Neufeld Title & Company: Surrogacy Partner, Greenspoon Marder Phone: (954) 761-2929 Email: marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com Website: https://www.gmlaw.com/attorneys/marla-neufeld/ Connect with and learn more about Marla Neufeld at: Instagram: @marlasurrogacylaw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/surrogacy-attorney-fl ---------------------------------------- Guest Speaker Information: Alexandra French Title & Company: Co-Founder, The Surrogacy Foundation Email: alexandra@thesurrogacyfoundation.org Website: www.thesurrogacyfoundation.org Zach French Title & Company: Executive Director, The Surrogacy Foundation Email: zach@thesurrogacyfoundation.org Website: www.thesurrogacyfoundation.org Connect with and learn more about The Surrogacy Foundation at: Let’s Connect: https://www.thesurrogacyfoundation.org/contact/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesurrogacyfoundation Instagram: @thesurrogacyfoundation LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-surrogacy-foundation/ Additional Information and Resources: Visit www.thesurrogacyfoundation.org to TAKE ACTION TODAY! --------------------------------------- Interested in being a guest on the podcast? Email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com
E37
Jun 5, 2026
24:54
The Surrogacy Space, Ep. 36: “From NICU Mom to Community Champion: The Story Behind ICU baby”
In this episode of The Surrogacy Space, host Marla Neufeld sits down with Elizabeth Simonton, co‑founder and executive director of ICU Baby, a South Florida nonprofit dedicated to supporting families navigating the NICU. Elizabeth shares the deeply personal experience with her third child that inspired her to build an organization focused on emotional, financial, and informational support for families during one of the most difficult moments of their lives. Together, Marla and Elizabeth discuss the realities NICU parents face, the critical gaps ICU Baby fills, the power of community volunteers, and the organization’s incredible growth from its grassroots beginnings to serving more than 500 NICU beds across Florida. Tune in to learn how ICU Baby is transforming care for families and enriching the support available to those facing a NICU journey. ------------------------------------- Featuring Marla Neufeld, Greenspoon Marder Surrogacy Partner w/ Special Guest: Elizabeth Simonton, Co-Founder & Executive Director, ICU Baby --------------------------------------- Featured Speaker: Marla Neufeld Title & Company: Surrogacy Partner, Greenspoon Marder Phone: (954) 761-2929 Email: marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com Website: https://www.gmlaw.com/attorneys/marla-neufeld/ Connect with and learn more about Marla Neufeld at: · Instagram: @marlasurrogacylaw · LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/surrogacy-attorney-fl ---------------------------------------- Guest Speaker Information: Elizabeth Simonton Title & Company: Co-Founder & Executive Director, ICU Baby Email: elizabeth@icubaby.org Website: www.icubaby.org Connect with and learn more about Elizabeth Simonton at: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-simonton-01a18512 About/Team Page (Elizabeth’s Bio): https://www.icubaby.org/about-us/our-team/elizabeth-simonton/ ICU Baby (Official) Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/icubaby_org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/icubaby.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ICUbaby_org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/icubaby/ Additional Information: · Learn more about Elizabeth's personal NICU story: Elizabeth Simonton | ICU Baby
E36
Mar 31, 2026
21:31
The Surrogacy Space: Estate Planning & Family Building: A Deep Dive with Attorney Nick Klingenberg
In this episode of The Surrogacy Space, host Marla Neufeld sits down with Nick Klingenberg, a seasoned Wills, Trusts & Estates attorney at Greenspoon Marder with nearly a decade of experience advising high‑net‑worth families across New York and California. With deep professional expertise and a meaningful personal journey into family building, Nick brings a uniquely well‑rounded perspective to this conversation. Together, Marla and Nick explore the critical role of estate planning for intended parents, why it matters long before a child arrives, and how surrogacy adds unique legal considerations that many families overlook. Nick also shares his background and what drew him to estate planning, including how practicing on both coasts shapes his client advice; his personal path toward parenthood, specifically his experience considering surrogacy and ultimately adopting his daughter; essential estate planning must‑haves for intended parents; and important state‑specific issues in New York and California. Whether you're an intended parent, a professional in the surrogacy field, or someone exploring future family‑building options, this is an episode filled with expert insights, heartfelt storytelling, and practical steps to protect the family you’re creating. ------------------------------------- Featuring Marla Neufeld, Greenspoon Marder Surrogacy Partner w/ Special Guest: Nick Klingenberg, Senior Counsel, Greenspoon Marder --------------------------------------- Featured Speaker: Marla Neufeld Title & Company: Surrogacy Partner, Greenspoon Marder Phone: (954) 761-2929 Email: marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com Website: Marla Neufeld - Greenspoon Marder LLP Social Media Platform(s): Instagram: @marlasurrogacylaw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/surrogacy-attorney-fl ---------------------------------------- Guest Speaker Information: Nick Klingenberg Title & Company: Senior Counsel, Greenspoon Marder Phone: (212) 524-5056 Email: nick.klingenberg@gmlaw.com Website: https://www.gmlaw.com/attorneys/nick-klingenberg/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-klingenberg-1969131aa
E35
Mar 7, 2026
32:56
The Surrogacy Space: Men’s Health & Infertility with Dr. Bitran, Urologist at Mt. Sinai Medical Center
The Surrogacy Space - Men’s Health & Infertility with Dr. Bitran, Urologist at Mt. Sinai Medical Center In episode 33 of The Surrogacy Space, Marla Neufeld speaks with Dr. Joshua Bitran, a urologist in men’s health and infertility, about a topic that’s often overlooked: male fertility in surrogacy and infertility treatment. Why does male fertility matter? Dr. Bitran breaks it down, covering the diagnostic process, lifestyle factors that can make or break sperm quality, and when surgical options come into play. He also shares why early screenings are a game-changer and reveals cutting-edge technologies bringing hope to patients with severe sperm challenges. ------------------------------------- Featuring Marla Neufeld, Greenspoon Marder Surrogacy Partner w/ Special Guest: Dr. Joshua Bitran, Urologist, Mount Sinai Medical Center --------------------------------------- Learn more about Marla Neufeld at https://www.gmlaw.com/attorneys/marla-neufeld/ To contact Marla, email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com. Social Media Platform(s): Instagram: @marlasurrogacylaw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/surrogacy-attorney-fl ---------------------------------------- Guest Speaker Information: Podcast Guest: Dr. Joshua Bitran Title & Company: Urologist, Mount Sinai Medical Center Contact Number: (786) 584-5600 Website: https://www.msmc.com/doctor/joshua-bitran/ To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bitran call 786.584.5600 or visit https://www.msmc.com/doctor/joshua-bitran/ to make an appointment online. Social Media Platform(s): Instagram: @joshuanissim --------------------------------------- Interested in being a guest on the podcast? Email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com ---------------------------------------- Available on Platforms: Amazon Music Apple Podcast Spotify Other major platforms
E33
Nov 26, 2025
22:37
The Surrogacy Space - Interview with Tenesha Avent, Director of Maternal Child Health & Collective Impact at March of Dimes
In episode 32 of The Surrogacy Space, Marla Neufeld explores the mission and evolving impact of March of Dimes in improving maternal and infant health across the U.S. Special guest Tenesha Avent, Director of Maternal Child Health & Collective Impact, shares insights into the challenges families face today, and how programs like NICU Family Support and Supportive Pregnancy Care are making a difference. The episode dives into MOD’s commitment to health equity, advocacy efforts, and support for families in underserved communities. The conversation also touches on infertility, pregnancy loss, and alternative paths to parenthood. Tune in to learn how you can support and engage with MOD’s vital work ------------------------------------- Featuring Marla Neufeld, Greenspoon Marder Surrogacy Partner w/ Special Guest: Tenesha Avent, Director of Maternal Child Health & Collective Impact at March of Dimes --------------------------------------- Learn more about Marla Neufeld at https://www.gmlaw.com/attorneys/marla-neufeld/ To contact Marla, email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com. Social Media Platform(s): Instagram: @marlasurrogacylaw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/surrogacy-attorney-fl ---------------------------------------- Guest Speaker Information: Podcast Guest: Tenesha Avent Title: Director of Maternal Child Health & Collective Impact Email Address: TAvent@marchofdimes.org Website: www.marchofdimes.org Social Media Platform(s): Facebook: facebook.com/marchofdimes Instagram: @marchofdimes Find Support: Compass by March of Dimes: Explore the app that supports parents and caregivers on their journey from pregnancy through postpartum by providing answers, resources, and compassion at every step. (Download on the Apple App Store of Get it on Google Play) www.marchofdimes.org/find-supportPlanning for a baby; Pregnancy; Birth; Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU); Postpartum; Parenthood; Miscarriage, loss, and Grief Advocate: March of Dimes advocates contribute to improving health equity, access, and prevention locally and nationally. Help fight for healthy moms and strong babies by signing up for MODs advocacy network and taking action. The Advocacy Network is an essential tool to give you the resources and information you need to use your voice. Through it you'll receive action alerts and up-to-date information on laws and policies that will help our communities. www.marchofdimes.org/get-involved/advocate --------------------------------------- Interested in being a guest on the podcast? Email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com
E32
Oct 30, 2025
14:14
The Surrogacy Space - Erin Morrison and Three Minutes for Mom: Redefining Motherhood Through Reflection and Connection
In Episode 31 of The Surrogacy Space, Marla Neufeld sits down with Erin Morrison, author of Three Minutes for Mom and creator of The Conscious Mom, for a heartfelt conversation about redefining motherhood through reflection and connection. Erin shares the inspiration behind her book and explores how conscious parenting offers a more intentional, emotionally attuned approach than traditional models. The episode delves into how her work supports women navigating infertility, loss, surrogacy, and other nontraditional paths to parenthood—offering healing and empowerment even for those who feel disconnected from the idea of motherhood. Through daily three-minute reflections, Erin helps women cultivate emotional resilience and build meaningful connections with themselves and their children, even before birth. ------------------------------------- Featuring Marla Neufeld, Greenspoon Marder Surrogacy Partner w/ Special Guest: Erin Morrison, Author of Three Minutes for Mom: 365 Days of Empowerment, Encouragement, and Growth for a More Connected Motherhood and creator of The Conscious Mom --------------------------------------- Learn more about Marla Neufeld at https://www.gmlaw.com/attorneys/marla-neufeld/ To contact Marla, email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com. Social Media Platform(s): Instagram: @marlasurrogacylaw LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/surrogacy-attorney-fl ---------------------------------------- Guest Speaker Information: Podcast Guest: Erin Morrison Title: Author of Three Minutes for Mom: 365 Days of Empowerment, Encouragement, and Growth for a More Connected Motherhood and creator of The Conscious Mom Email Address: erin@theconsciousmom.com Social Media Platform(s): Instagram: @itstheconsciousmom Purchase: Three Minutes for Mom: 365 Days of Empowerment, Encouragement, and Growth for a More Connected Motherhood at Amazon – Click Here. --------------------------------------- Interested in being a guest on the podcast? Email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com
E31
Oct 13, 2025
21:15
The Surrogacy Space, Ep. 30 - Interview with Dr. Eva Benmeleh, Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Featuring Marla Neufeld, Greenspoon Marder Surrogacy Partner w/ Special Guest: Dr. Eva Benmeleh, Licensed Clinical Psychologist In this episode, Marla Neufeld interviews Dr. Eva Benmeleh, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in maternal mental health and perfectionism. Dr. Benmeleh shares her background and professional focus on helping clients navigate infertility and pregnancy challenges while addressing perfectionism and its impact on personal relationships. The discussion covers Dr. Benmeleh's therapeutic approach, including her "Perfectionist Reset" service. --------------------------------------- Learn more about Marla Neufeld at www.gmlaw.com/attorneys/marla-neufeld/. To contact Marla, email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com. Social Media Platform(s): Instagram: @marlasurrogacylaw LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/surrogacy-attorney-fl ---------------------------------------- Guest Speaker Information: Podcast Guest: Dr. Eva Benmeleh, Licensed Clinical Psychologist Email Address: eva@drevabenmeleh.com Dr. Eva Benmeleh focuses on the multifaceted impact of perfectionism on individuals and their relationships. She is a clinical psychologist in private practice, an educator on maternal mental health and perfectionism, and the author of the book Sun and Moon Love Cloud: A Book about Divorce. Social Media Platform(s): Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrEvaBTherapy/ Instagram: @dr.evabenmeleh LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/eva-benmeleh-132465a Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/evabenmeleh To learn more about Dr. Eva Benmeleh visit www.drevabenmeleh.com. --------------------------------------- About the Surrogacy Space: The Surrogacy Space is a heartfelt podcast dedicated to exploring all aspects of third-party assisted reproductive technology (ART) and infertility. Hosted by attorney Marla Neufeld, Esq., who suffered from years of infertility and worked with a surrogate to build her own family, this podcast brings a deeply personal understanding of the complexities of surrogacy and third-party ART. Each episode is crafted with care, delving into topics such as the legal complexities of surrogacy, egg, sperm, and embryo donation, best practices in third-party ART, and other challenges with family building for those suffering from infertility, single parents, or those who are part of the LGBTQ community. The Surrogacy Space provides a supportive space for those facing challenges in building a family. Featuring a diverse range of professionals from surrogacy agencies, reproductive doctors, mental health experts, and other key players in the ART industry, The Surrogacy Space offers a comprehensive and compassionate look at the field. The podcast also highlights the work of professionals who support individuals dealing with infertility and other family-building obstacles. Join us as we navigate this fertility journey together, offering hope, support, and valuable information every step of the way. Listen now to The Surrogacy Space that offers a safe space of sharing stories, insights, and support to help you on your path to building a family. ---------------------------------------- Interested in being a guest on the podcast? Email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com.
E30
Sep 4, 2025
14:28
The Surrogacy Space, Ep. 29 - Interview with Kat Curtin, Executive Director, Single Mothers by Choice
The Surrogacy Space, Ep. 29 - Interview with Kat Curtin, Executive Director, Single Mothers by Choice -------------------------------------- Featuring Marla Neufeld, Greenspoon Marder Surrogacy Partner w/ Special Guest: Kat Curtin, Executive Director, Single Mothers by Choice --------------------------------------- Learn more about Marla Neufeld at https://www.gmlaw.com/attorneys/marla-neufeld/ To contact Marla, email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com. Social Media Handle(s): Instagram: @marlasurrogacylaw ---------------------------------------- Guest Speaker Contact: Podcast Guest: Kat Curtain Title: Executive Director Company: Single Mothers by Choice Email Address: kat@singlemothersbychoice.org; office@singlemothersbychoice.org Kat Curtain is a certified women’s health coach and the Founder of Journey Concierge. Social Media Handle(s): Instagram: @singlemothersbychoice Facebook: @singlemothersbychoice To learn more about Single Mothers by Choice visit www.singlemothersbychoice.org To learn more about Journey Concierge visit www.journeyconcierge.com. --------------------------------------- About the Surrogacy Space: The Surrogacy Space is a heartfelt podcast dedicated to exploring all aspects of third-party assisted reproductive technology (ART) and infertility. Hosted by attorney Marla Neufeld, Esq., who suffered from years of infertility and worked with a surrogate to build her own family, this podcast brings a deeply personal understanding of the complexities of surrogacy and third-party ART. Each episode is crafted with care, delving into topics such as the legal complexities of surrogacy, egg, sperm, and embryo donation, best practices in third-party ART, and other challenges with family building for those suffering from infertility, single parents, or those who are part of the LGBTQ community. The Surrogacy Space provides a supportive space for those facing challenges in building a family. Featuring a diverse range of professionals from surrogacy agencies, reproductive doctors, mental health experts, and other key players in the ART industry, The Surrogacy Space offers a comprehensive and compassionate look at the field. The podcast also highlights the work of professionals who support individuals dealing with infertility and other family-building obstacles. Join us as we navigate this fertility journey together, offering hope, support, and valuable information every step of the way. Listen now to The Surrogacy Space that offers a safe space of sharing stories, insights, and support to help you on your path to building a family. ---------------------------------------- Interested in being a guest on the podcast? Email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com
E29
Aug 20, 2025
21:04
The Surrogacy Space, Ep. 28 - “A Family Affair: Siblings on Their Surrogacy Journeys”
Featuring Marla Neufeld, Greenspoon Marder Surrogacy Partner w/ Special Guests: Siblings - Steven Lazarus and Allison Lazarus --------------------------------------- Learn more about Marla Neufeld at https://www.gmlaw.com/attorneys/marla-neufeld/ To contact Marla, email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com Social Media Handle(s): Instagram: @marlasurrogacylaw ---------------------------------------- Guest Speaker Contact: Guest Speakers: Seven Lazarus & Allison Lazarus Company: Promotional Breezes, Inc. Emails: steven@promotionalbreezes.com, allison@promotionalbreezes.com Website: www.promotionalbreezes.com [promotionalbreezes.com] Social Media Handle(s): Instagram: @allilaz11 @stevenlazarus99 Facebook: Allison Lazarus and Steven Lazarus --------------------------------------- About the Surrogacy Space: The Surrogacy Space is a heartfelt podcast dedicated to exploring all aspects of third-party assisted reproductive technology (ART) and infertility. Hosted by attorney Marla Neufeld, Esq., who suffered from years of infertility and worked with a surrogate to build her own family, this podcast brings a deeply personal understanding of the complexities of surrogacy and third-party ART. Each episode is crafted with care, delving into topics such as the legal complexities of surrogacy, egg, sperm, and embryo donation, best practices in third-party ART, and other challenges with family building for those suffering from infertility, single parents, or those who are part of the LGBTQ community. The Surrogacy Space provides a supportive space for those facing challenges in building a family. Featuring a diverse range of professionals from surrogacy agencies, reproductive doctors, mental health experts, and other key players in the ART industry, The Surrogacy Space offers a comprehensive and compassionate look at the field. The podcast also highlights the work of professionals who support individuals dealing with infertility and other family-building obstacles. Join us as we navigate this fertility journey together, offering hope, support, and valuable information every step of the way. Listen now to The Surrogacy Space that offers a safe space of sharing stories, insights, and support to help you on your path to building a family. ---------------------------------------- Interested in being a guest on the podcast? Email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com ---------------------------------------- Available on Platforms: Amazon Music Spotify YouTube gmlaw.com
E28
Aug 7, 2025
34:49
The Surrogacy Space, Ep. 27 - Interview with Vivi Bitran, Head of Clinical Operations and Community Engagement, ATWOME
The Surrogacy Space, Ep. 27 - Interview with Vivi Bitran, Head of Clinical Operations and Community Engagement, ATWOME --------------------------------------- Featuring Marla Neufeld, Greenspoon Marder Surrogacy Partner w/ Special Guest: Vivi Bitran, Head of Clinical Operations and Community Engagement, ATWOME --------------------------------------- Learn more about Marla Neufeld at https://www.gmlaw.com/attorneys/marla-neufeld/ To contact Marla, email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com. Social Media Handle(s): Instagram: @marlasurrogacylaw ---------------------------------------- Guest Speaker Contact: Podcast Guest: Vivi Bitran Title: Head of Clinical Operations and Community Engagement Company: ATWOME Email Address: vivi.bitran@atwome.com Company Contact: Phone Number: (305) 900 - 3640 Email Address: together@atwome.com Social Media Handle(s): Instagram: @atwomefertility To learn more about ATWOME visit https://atwome.com/. Join ATWOME's WhatsApp Support Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LiZtGA0BAJBB1veuAneDe3 [chat.whatsapp.com] --------------------------------------- About the Surrogacy Space: The Surrogacy Space is a heartfelt podcast dedicated to exploring all aspects of third-party assisted reproductive technology (ART) and infertility. Hosted by attorney Marla Neufeld, Esq., who suffered from years of infertility and worked with a surrogate to build her own family, this podcast brings a deeply personal understanding of the complexities of surrogacy and third-party ART. Each episode is crafted with care, delving into topics such as the legal complexities of surrogacy, egg, sperm, and embryo donation, best practices in third-party ART, and other challenges with family building for those suffering from infertility, single parents, or those who are part of the LGBTQ community. The Surrogacy Space provides a supportive space for those facing challenges in building a family. Featuring a diverse range of professionals from surrogacy agencies, reproductive doctors, mental health experts, and other key players in the ART industry, The Surrogacy Space offers a comprehensive and compassionate look at the field. The podcast also highlights the work of professionals who support individuals dealing with infertility and other family-building obstacles. Join us as we navigate this fertility journey together, offering hope, support, and valuable information every step of the way. Listen now to The Surrogacy Space that offers a safe space of sharing stories, insights, and support to help you on your path to building a family. ---------------------------------------- Interested in being a guest on the podcast? Email marla.neufeld@gmlaw.com
E27
Jul 28, 2025
21:20
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