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Written by JJ Barnes
I interviewed Dr Lora Shashine about her podcast, Baby Or Bust, what inspired her to start making it, and the work that goes into her series.
Tell me a bit about who you are.
I am a reproductive endocrinologist (fertility specialist) who was surprised by her own infertility. Infertility is a club no one wants to join but once you’re a member – you find the support you need. Infertility never really leaves you – even if you build the family of your dreams I wanted to give back in my own way to others in need.
How and why did you start podcasting?
I am open to opportunities to educate and connect with others in the fertility community. We Greg Mogo and the Baby or Bust team approached me with this opportunity – I jumped at it and never looked back. I am humbled and honored to be on this team.
What is your current podcast called, and how did you come up with the name?
Baby or Bust – the title reflects on mix of emotions in the midst of infertility: a little bit of anxiety and fear with hope and cautious optimism.
What platforms can we find Baby Or Bust on?
Anywhere you listen to podcasts! https://link.chtbl.com/babyorbust
What is Baby Or Bust about?
Each episode is an interview about family building. It’s a mix of interviews with experts on the latest research, bestselling authors, and ‘regular’ people with fertility stories they are willing to share to help others feel less alone. Whether you’re laughing through tears or reflecting on the incredible advancements in the field of fertility – you’ll walk away more informed and feeling connected to this incredible community
Do you host Baby Or Bust alone, or have guest hosts/partners?
I host and interview each episode and I’ve loved every minute of it. I’ve been helping people build their families for over 15 years and I learned so much through these incredible stories and people one interview at a time
Do you edit Baby Or Bust or have someone who does it for you?
I have an incredible team that edits my ums and goof ups but they’re sure to leave in a few bloopers to keep it interesting.
Do you script Baby Or Bust, or just chat as you go?
I think through what I’d like to learn about and talk about, but the conversation takes its own journey. It’s reflection through storytelling and that can’t be too scripted – it just happens authentically.
How has Baby Or Bust changed or developed since you began?
I am learning so much as I go. I am used to knowing how to do things – own my own medical practice, making decisions as a physician every day – it’s been a while since I’ve learned a new skill, but I’ve been humbled by the process of hosting. I have so much respect for interviewers and podcast hosts now.
What are you biggest challenges with Baby Or Bust?
Bringing interviews back to the story, the connection for the listeners. It’s easy to get lost in a conversation with a fellow physician or researcher about nuances but I need to remember to pull it back to the listener on the other end of the podcast. This experience is for them – not me.
What are your favourite podcasts to listen to?
Breen Brown’s podcasts, Armchair Expert, Smart less, Fresh Air, How I Built This, Tim Ferris, and my many True Crime podcasts (guilty pleasure)
How and where do you promote Baby Or Bust?
Any chance I get – all my social media outlets (Instagram, YouTube, TikTok) and anyone that will listen to me on the elevator, at the bus stop, anyone I’ve sat next to on an airplane (sorry passengers)
What’s something you never expected about podcasting? What have you learned that surprised you?
Humbling experience to learn a new skill. When I first started, I thought it would be easy since I talk to patients every day about their infertility but being a doctor and interviewing a guest are 2 totally different skills.
What is the first piece of advice you would give to anyone inspired to start podcasting?
Just do it. It’s tough. Get advice. Be humble. Fail a little. Make mistakes. Then do it again.
And, finally, are your proud of what you’re accomplishing with your podcast? Is it worth the effort?
ABSOLUTELY – can you hear me screaming that out loud. Thrilled, honored, humbled and ready to keep interviewing. Working on Season 2 now.
Pop all your work, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:
Name: Lora Shahine, MD, FACOG
Affiliation: Pacific NW Fertility, Seattle, WA
Title: Clinical Associate Professor, University of Washington
Social Platforms: Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, TikTok, Facebook
Personal Website: www.drlorashahine.com
Show website: https://link.chtbl.com/babyorbust
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