Start to Finish Motherhood with Aisha
Episodes
S5E13: Adoption (Part 2) International, Transracial, and Open Adoption Realities
08 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
If this podcast has helped you in any way, consider buying me a coffee. No pressure. Just know it keeps the mic on. This Mash-Up episode revisits a f...
S5E12: Birth, Breastfeeding, and Managing Expectations in Early Parenthood
01 Apr 2026
Contributed by Lukas
If this podcast has helped you in any way, consider buying me a coffee. No pressure. Just know it keeps the mic on. This Mash-Up episode revisits a ...
S5E11: Adoption for Black Single Mothers by Choice (Part 1)
25 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
If this podcast has helped you in any way, consider buying me a coffee. No pressure. Just know it keeps the mic on. This Mash-Up episode revisits a ...
S5E10: Getting Started with a Known Donor, Boundaries, Contracts, and Clarity
18 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
If this episode gave you something, here is a link to buy me a coffee. No pressure. Just know it keeps the mic on. This Mash-Up episode revisits a fou...
S5E9: Traveling with Kids as a Single Mother by Choice
11 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This Mash-Up episode revisits a foundational conversation from Black Single Mothers by Choice, updated with reflection and insight from parenting scho...
S5E8: Trying for a Second Child as a Single Mother by Choice
04 Mar 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This Mash-Up episode revisits a foundational conversation from Black Single Mothers by Choice, updated with reflection and insight from parenting scho...
S5E7: The Importance of Estate Planning for Single Mothers by Choice
25 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This Mash-Up episode revisits a foundational conversation from Black Single Mothers by Choice, updated with reflection and insight from parenting scho...
S5E6: Parenting in a Pandemic, Navigating Uncertainty with Care
18 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This Mash-Up episode revisits a foundational conversation from Black Single Mothers by Choice, updated with reflection and insight from parenting scho...
S5E5: Black Bodies, Black Babies, and Medical Advocacy
11 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This Mash-Up episode revisits a foundational conversation from Black Single Mothers by Choice, updated with reflection and insight from parenting scho...
S5E4: Dating as a Black Single Mother by Choice
04 Feb 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This Mash-Up episode revisits a foundational conversation from Black Single Mothers by Choice, updated with reflection and insight from parenting scho...
S5E3: Sperm Donor Choice: Making an Informed, Intentional Decision
28 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This Mash-Up episode revisits a foundational conversation from Black Single Mothers by Choice, updated with reflection and insight from parenting scho...
S5E2: Getting Down to Basics: IUI vs. IVF
21 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
This Mash-Up episode revisits a foundational conversation from Black Single Mothers by Choice, updated with reflection and insight from parenting scho...
S5E1: What Is a Single Mother by Choice?
14 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What does it actually mean to be a Single Mother by Choice—and why does clarity matter so much at the beginning of the journey? In this foundationa...
S5 Trailer: BSMC and STFM The Mashup!
14 Jan 2026
Contributed by Lukas
What happens when you pause long enough to reflect—and then decide to bring everything you’ve built back under one roof? In this Season Five trail...
S5E0 - Happy Holidays: Gratitude, Growth, and What’s Coming in 2026
24 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this heartfelt holiday update, Aisha returns to share gratitude, reflection, and a beautiful glimpse into what’s next for the Start to Finish Mot...
S4E18: *Season Finale* Tips for Pivoting
13 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this reflective closing episode of season four, Aisha shares her journey through personal challenges, including navigating a toxic work environment...
S4E17 - Tips for... Well Debriefing Sri Lanka w/ Regine
06 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha recounts her transformative 24-day vacation with her two children. Sharing the logistics, cost analysis, and emotional highligh...
S4E16 - Tips for Planning Birthday Celebrations
30 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha shares insights and personal experiences on planning birthday parties, especially for kids. Highlighting the importance of simp...
S4E15 - *Rebroadcast* What's it Like Parenting While an Expat
23 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join Aisha in this super-sized and enlightening episode which delves into the vibrant lives of expat single mothers. Through an engaging panel discuss...
S4E14 - Tips for Seizing the Day, a Stop Over in London w/ Nadine
16 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, the host reflects on how becoming a parent has changed her life and discusses the challenges and joys of incorporating travel with ki...
S4E13 - *Rebroadcast* What to Consider When Seeking Fertility or Prenatal Care in US and Abroad w/ Dr. Natasha
09 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we have an enlightening conversation with Dr. Natasha, also known as the Medical Tourism RN. We dive deep into important topics surro...
S4E12 - Tips and SMBC Resources w/Regine
02 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, host Aisha interviews Regine, the founder of SMBC Resources. Regine shares her journey as a solo mother by choice, including the pers...
S4E11 - Tips for Enjoying Travel with Your Children
25 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha shares practical advice for single mothers traveling with children through a detailed recount of her family's 24-day trip to Sr...
S4E10 - *Rebroadcast* How to Build a Village from the Single Mothers by Choice Community
18 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore part two of building your Single Mother by Choice village. While part one focused on involving family members, here, we de...
*Rebroadcast, In Honor of the Men in Our Lives* Challenging the Assumption that Single Mothers by Choice Hate Men w/ Clinton
15 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore the unexpected surprise one parent experiences when her 7 year old daughter starts talking about Teslas. We discuss how Te...
S4E9 - Tips for Dating as a Mature Single Mother by Choice (SMC) w/ Kimberly
11 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Aisha engages in aa funny, insightful and heartfelt conversation with her guest, Kimberly, about the challenges and strategies of dating as a Single M...
S4E8 - *Rebroadcast* On Planning for a Summer Abroad w/ Jas
04 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha and her guest, Jas (aka @blackexpatmom on IG), mom to a school age child who does summers abroad, discuss how to plan a summer ...
S4E7 - Tips for Planning travel with Kids
28 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha provides comprehensive tips for planning travel with children, like: including involving children in the planning process, mai...
S4E6 - *Rebroadcast* What's it Like Adulting while Healing the Mother Wound w/ Vero
21 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join Aisha and her guest, Vero, in an enlightening and deeply personal conversation about breaking generational trauma, mother wounds, and the journey...
S4E5 - Tips for Healing from the Traumas that Impact Parenting with Aja Rutledge
14 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
A conversation with Aja Rutledge In this episode, host Aisha sits down with certified trauma recovery coach Aja Rutledge for a deeply insightful conve...
*Rebroadcast, In Honor of Mother's Day* On Amother's Legacy w/ Dawn Wright
11 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this podcast episode, Aisha and Dawn discuss Dawn's life and career. Dawn is a chief scientist, keynote speaker, and author who became the first Bl...
S4E4 - Tips for Planning Travel that includes Friends w/ Priyamal
07 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join Aisha as she partners with her longtime friend Priyamal, while they delve into the meticulous planning process, give tips on navigating internati...
S4E3 - *Rebroadcast* How Lack of Margin Impacts My Parenting
30 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha delves into the crucial concept of creating "margin" in our lives. She discusses how margin refers to making space for unexpect...
S4E2 - Tips for Navigating Uncertain Times
23 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this somber episode, Aisha delves into the challenges of navigating uncertain times, drawing historical parallels to emphasize current societal shi...
S4E1 - Tips for Returning You to Yourself
16 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this, the season 4 premier episode, Aisha Jenkins shares her journey and experiences since September. She discusses the challenges and rewards of p...
*New* Season 4 Trailer
26 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join Aisha as she announces the exciting premiere of Season Four of 'Start to Finish Motherhood' premiering on April 16th. In this highly anticipated ...
Bonus - Outtakes from On Using a Known Donor w/ Elaine
02 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Aisha and Elaine in this hilarious moment in the episode, where Elaine shares the contents of her insemination bag which contains everything from...
Bonus - Outtakes Black Hair w/ Clinton
02 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Aisha and Clinton discuss Black hair care. Related episodes:
Bonus - Getting to Know Your Host w/ Aisha
02 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Aisha opens up about her past, including the loss of her parents at a young age, experiences of domestic violence, and the impact of supportive teache...
Bonus - Legal Side of Donor Conception w/ Regine and Morgan
25 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this bonus episode join Aisha as she listens in on a legal conversation facilitated by Regine from SMBC Resources and attorney Morgan Schuman of...
S3E20 - What's it Like Planning an Epic Trip as a Single Mother by Choice
11 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In the final episode of season three, Aisha reflects on a transformative year and shares her excitement for an upcoming epic trip (to Sri Lanka) with ...
S3E19 - What to Consider When Seeking Fertility or Prenatal Care in US and Abroad w/ Dr. Natasha
04 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we have an enlightening conversation with Dr. Natasha, also known as the Medical Tourism RN. We dive deep into important topics surro...
S3E18 - What's Involved in Breast Reconstruction Surgery w/ Erika
28 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Erika was gracious enough to return this week and share the often untold story of her breast reconstruction after a double mastectomy. She shares her ...
S3E17 - What's It like Parenting (as an SMC) Through and After a Breast Cancer Diagnosis w/ Erika
21 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Erica, a courageous member of the Melanated Single Mothers by Choice community, to discuss her powerful...
S3E16 - What Are the Stages of The SMC Journey w/ Regine
14 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Aisha as she chats with Regine, founder of Solo Mom by Choice (SMBC) Resources, for an insightful conversation about the stages of the Single Mo...
S3E15 - What's it Like to Welcome a Second Child w/ Shivonne
07 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Aisha as she reunites with Shivonne, who shares her journey for a second child and the challenges of juggling motherhood. Discover the emotional...
S3E14 - What it's Like Being an SMC and How it Changed Everything w/ Aisha
31 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this heartfelt episode, I share the transformative journey of becoming a Single Mother by Choice (SMC) and how it has profoundly reshaped my life. ...
S3E13 - What's it Like Going Through the Thinking Phase as a Twenty Something w/ Charon
24 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Aishaas she chats with Charon, a 28-year-old finance professional from Chicago, about what it's like to consider becoming a Single Mother by Choi...
S3E12 - What's it Like to Lead an Adoption Community (Noire Adoptions) w/ Jourdan
17 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Aisha and guest Joudan from Noir Adoptions on this insightful episode of Start to Finish Motherhood. Discover the various pathways to parenthood,...
S3E11 - What's it Like Adulting while Healing from Trauma (Mother Wound) w/ Vero
10 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Aisha and her guest, Vero, in an enlightening and deeply personal conversation about breaking generational trauma, mother wounds, and the journey...
S3E10 - What's Involved in Preparing for the Unexpected Financially w/ Nicole, CFP
03 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this insightful episode, we welcome back Nicole, a certified financial planner, to tackle one of the biggest fears for single mothers by choice - f...
S3E9 - What's it Like Navigating Infertility as a Black OBGYN w/ Dr. Maya
26 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Aisha sits down with Dr. Maya, a dynamic fertility strategist, coach, and pediatrician, as she shares her compelling journey through the fertility eco...
S3E8 - What's it Like When Your Baby Finds YOU! w/ Keisha
19 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode Aisha sits down with Keisha to discuss her inspiring and tumultuous journey to motherhood. From navigating fertility challenges to fin...
S3E7 - *Rebroadcast* On Challenging the Assumption that Single Mothers by Choice Hate Men w/ Clinton
12 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
This is a rebroadcast of the Bonus Episode from season 1... In anticipation of Father's Day, Aisha Jenkins challenges the assumption that Single Mothe...
S3E6 - What the... Parents, Just Get in the Picture! w/ Karmen Elaine
05 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode Aisha is joined by Karmen, a single mother and professional photographer, for an enlightening conversation on the importance of gettin...
S3E5 - What's it Like to Parent w/ Honesty and Transparency
29 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha shares her personal reflections and experiences on the challenges and joys of parenting, emphasizing the importance of self-acc...
S3E4 - What's it Like to Find Out You're Having Twins w/ Jamela
22 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Aisha as she converses with Jamela, who shares her inspiring story of embracing her twin pregnancy. In this episode, we dive deep into the ch...
S3E3 - What's it Like Parenting as an Expat
15 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join Aisha in this super sized and enlightening episode which delves into the vibrant lives of expat single mothers. Through an engaging panel discuss...
S3E2 - *Rebroadcast* On A Mother's Legacy w/ Dawn Wright
10 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
*This is a rebroadcast of the Season 2 Mother's day Episode* In this podcast episode, Aisha and Dawn discuss Dawn's life and career. Dawn is a chief s...
S3E1 - What's it Like Being a Mom Who Podcasts
08 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to the third season of Start to Finish Motherhood, a podcast where the vibrant Aisha partners with listeners navigating the unique journey of ...
*Bonus* - Alabama IVF Ruling with Alease the Embryologist
28 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha is joined by Alease, an esteemed embryologist from North Carolina, to discuss the significant Alabama Supreme Court ruling on f...
*New Podcast Alert* NorthStar GAZE
14 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Embark on a transformative journey with the “NorthStar Gaze" podcast, sharing intimate stories from Geo luminaries. In 1-on-1 chats, explore their j...
S2E17 - Reflections on Season 2
24 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In the final episode of 'Start to Finish Motherhood' Season 2, Aisha takes a reflective journey back through the season. From discussions about single...
S2E16 - How to Prepare for and Survive the IEP Process w/ Sudane & Sunday
17 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this supersized, but highly informative, episode guests Sudane and Sunday share their professional insight into the Individualized Education Plan p...
S2E15 - Your Frequently Asked Questions
10 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Welcome to another exciting episode of Start to Finish Motherhood Season Two! Today, we've got something special in store for you, as promised – it'...
Bonus - Happy Holidays from Start to Finish Motherhood
23 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Thank you all for making 2023 a huge success. Happy Holiday Season from the Start to Finish Motherhood family to yours. Wishing you peace and joy....
S2E14 - How Health Maintenance Plays a Part in Your Estate Plan w/ Dr. Renita White
20 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this insightful podcast episode, we explore the essentials of being an intentional single parent, with a focus on health maintenance and legal plan...
S2E13 - How Functional Medicine can Play a Role in the Fertility Journey w/ Bertha
13 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this engaging podcast episode, Bertha, a Single Mother by Choice and functional medicine practitioner, shared her inspiring journey to motherhood a...
S2E12 - How Dating Has Changed in the Age of Social Media w/ Jada
06 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this lively podcast episode, Aisha and her guest, Jada, dive into the intricacies of dating in the era of social media. They discuss various aspect...
S2E11 - How to Attain a Soft Life as A Single Mother by Choice
29 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha shares her journey through a significant life transition as her children grow older and more independent. She discusses her des...
S2E10 - How I Adopted my Child at Birth w/ Joy
22 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this heartwarming episode, we delve into Joy's Single Mother by Choice journey, which took her through the ups and downs of adoption. Aisha highlig...
S2E9 - How to Build a Village from Your Work Community
15 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha continues her series on building your Single Mother by Choice (SMC) village, focusing on creating connections and support withi...
S2E8 - How Finacial Planning Can Support Your SMC Journey w/ Nicole, CFP
08 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this lively and informative episode, Aisha introduces Nicole, a certified financial planner with 20 years of experience, and dives into a range of ...
S2E7 - How Lack of Margin Impacts My Parenting
01 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha delves into the crucial concept of creating "margin" in our lives. She discusses how margin refers to making space for unexpect...
S2E6 - How I Grieved the Loss of my Daughter w/ Madli
25 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this poignant episode, Aisha and Madli discuss the challenging journey of single motherhood by choice, with a trigger warning for the loss of a chi...
S2E5 - How to Build a Village from the Single Mothers by Choice Community
18 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we explore part two of building your Single Mother by Choice village. While part one focused on involving family members, ...
S2E4 - How I'm Living My Best Life Childfree w/ Dr.Kris Marsh and Rahmah
11 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode Aisha has a conversation with Dr. Kris Marsh and Rahmah Wims about choice, societal norms, and living as part of the "Love Jones Cohor...
S2E3 - How to Build a Village from Family Members
04 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this insightful episode, Aisha discusses the crucial topic of building a "Single Mother by Choice" village, addressing questions many in this commu...
S2E2 - How I'm Parenting Transracially, An Adoption Story w/ Lynn
27 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this podcast episode, Aisha interviews Lynn, a single mother by choice who adopted two white children from foster care and later had a biological c...
S2E1 - How I Spent Three Days Without Kids & Updates
27 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In the season two opener, Aisha reflects on her journey from a reluctant podcaster to a passionate storyteller. She discusses the joy of podcasting, s...
S2E0 - Season 2 Trailer
18 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Are you ready for the next phase of this incredible journey? Season two of the Start to Finish Motherhood podcast is about to kick off, and trust us...
Bonus - (Part 2) On Challenging the Assumption that Single Mothers by Choice Hate Men w/ Clinton
14 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Aisha and Clinton wrap up their conversation and discuss upcoming programing for NorthStar.org. Clinton Johnson along with Aisha and others are fou...
Bonus - (Part 1) On Challenging the Assumption that Single Mothers by Choice Hate Men w/ Clinton
14 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In anticipation of Father's Day, Aisha Jenkins challenges the assumption that Single Mothers by Choice harbor resentment towards men. Her lens is shap...
S1E20 - Reflecting on Season 1
07 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The first season of Start to Finish Motherhood has been a truly incredible journey, filled with blessings and a deep trust in the path set before me. ...
S1E19 - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) w/ Aisha
31 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha dives into some questions frequently asked of Single Mothers by Choice (SMCs) along with some questions sent in by you! She c...
S1E18 - On Using a Known Donor - w/ Elaine
24 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of unconventional family planning and the diverse paths people can take to create their own famili...
S1E17 - On Navigating Donor Sibling Relationships w/ Edrenna and Rosanna Hertz
17 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, the Aisha addresses the topic of donor siblings for single mothers by choice. They discuss the challenges of navigating relationships...
S1E16 - On A Mother's Legacy w/ Dawn Wright
10 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this podcast episode, Aisha and Dawn discuss Dawn's life and career. Dawn is a chief scientist, keynote speaker, and author who became the first Bl...
S1E15 - On Financial Planning for Single Mothers by Choice w/ Wilson
03 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha interviews Wilson Muscadin the owner and creator of The Money Speakeasy, a Financial Coach whose clientele is predominantly bla...
S1E14 - On Parenting the Child in Front of You (rebroadcast)
26 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
*this is episode was previously recorded under my old podcast series Mocha SMC I thought it was so important I am airing it again here* As Single ...
S1E13 - On Considering IVF Abroad
19 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, I discusses my journey with donor egg IVF and how I eventually ended up choosing to undergo IVF procedure in the states. I want to em...
S1E12 - On Sisterhood Among SMCs w/ Shivonne and Kim
12 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this podcast episode, Aisha chats with Kim and Shivonne, about sisterhood among Single Mothers by Choice. Kim explains that with black sisterhood, ...
S1E11 - On How Parenting as a Single Mother by Choice can be a Journey into your Past
05 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode Aisha dives into (what she describes as) the most challenging stage of the Single Mother by Choice journey: parenting. She discusses h...
S1E10 - On Planning for a Summer Abroad w/ Jas
29 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha and her guest, Jas (aka @blackexpatmom on IG), mom to a school age child who does summers abroad, discuss how to plan a summer ...
S1E9 - On Ending the SMC Journey and Moving on w/ Rahmah
22 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha sits down with guest Rahmah who shares her story of transitioning from pursuing a Single Mother by Choice lifestyle to being ch...
S1E8 - On Making Mommy Friends w/ Vikki
15 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha sits down with her friend Vikki to talk about their friendship journey. The two friends share how they first met when they were...
S1E7 - On Choosing A Sperm Donor
08 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Aisha talks about choosing a sperm donor, whether through a known donor or a commercial sperm bank. Aisha herself used a commercial s...
S1E6 - (Part 2) On Shooting for the Stars as an SMC Parenting with a Disability w/ Denna
01 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Aisha continues her conversation with Denna where she goes into more detail about her experience being a blind single mother, her work at NASA, and ho...
S1E5 - (Part 1) On Shooting for the Stars as an SMC parenting with a Disability w/ Denna
01 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Denna shares her journey of becoming a single mother through domestic private adoption. Denna had to do a lot of self-reflection and ...
S1E4 - On Defining the Term Single Mother by Choice
22 Feb 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In today's episode Aisha discusses the term "Single Mother by Choice" and its evolution over time. Aisha, who is a single mother by choice, shares her...