Encore: What No One Tells You About Fertility, Genetics & Creating Your Family
Encore: What No One Tells You About Fertility, Genetics & Creating Your Family  
Podcast: Heal 2 Feel with Liat Gerszt & Mercedes Javid
Published On: Thu Apr 02 2026
Description: In this powerful encore episode, we sit down with Lila Dayani, a genetic counselor and founder of Genevieve Health, and Stephanie Levich, founder of Family Match Consulting, to break down the often misunderstood world of fertility, genetics, IVF, and surrogacy.From the emotional reality of infertility to the science behind genetic testing, this conversation sheds light on the paths so many families take—but few openly discuss.Stephanie shares how she helps intended parents navigate surrogacy with confidence, turning fear into clarity during one of life’s most vulnerable journeys. As she says, “it’s really frickin scary… you’re envisioning a stranger carrying your baby” — but with the right guidance, that fear transforms into trust. Lila dives into the importance of proactive genetic testing—before pregnancy—and how having the right information can be life-changing (and even life-saving).MJ opens up about her own deeply personal fertility journey, reminding us that there is no shame in how you build your family—only strength, resilience, and love.This episode is for anyone who:Is thinking about starting a familyHas struggled with infertilityIs curious about IVF, surrogacy, or genetic testingOr simply wants to feel less alone in the process✨ However your family comes to be… your journey is valid.TIMESTAMPS00:00 – Why surrogacy can feel overwhelming (and how to navigate it)02:00 – Meet Lila & Stephanie + their backgrounds05:00 – What is genetic counseling (and why it matters)10:00 – IVF misconceptions & fertility realities14:00 – MJ’s personal fertility journey + breaking stigma18:00 – Stephanie’s story & why she built Family Match21:00 – Surrogacy timelines, process & expectations24:00 – Emotional + physical realities of pregnancy complications30:00 – IVF as a “battle” — mental, physical & spiritual35:00 – Cost of surrogacy & accessibility challenges40:00 – What makes a qualified surrogate45:00 – Why genetic testing can save lives50:00 – Listening to your intuition in pregnancy & health55:00 – Building Genevieve Health + proactive care58:00 – Final thoughts: releasing shame around family buildingCONTACT INFOLila DayaniFounder, Genevieve Health🌐 https://genevievehealth.comStephanie LevichFounder, Family Match Consulting🌐 https://familymatchconsulting.comThank you for tuning in to this week’s episode of Heal 2 Feel.If this conversation resonated with you, share it with someone who might need it. You never know who’s quietly going through their own journey.Follow the show: @h2fpodRate & review: Apple Podcasts + Spotify (it helps more than you know!)Share with a friend who needs a little courage right now.We’ll see you next week 💛