Host, Julia Karol, launches the fifth season of Stork’d! She walks us through some exciting topics coming up in this fifth season. Episodes include experiencing shame for not wanting to have children, losing a child and being blamed and trolled on social media, navigating IVF as a couple, fertility fraud, consent during your birth experience, fertility astrology, parenting approaches and so much more.  Today, Julia shares her parenting journey and how becoming a parent has transformed her. She explores the Gray Flamingo analogy and asks the question: is it ok to lose yourself in your parenting? Julia also opens up about the experience of dating while becoming a solo parent by choice.   IN THIS EPISODE:   [00:00] Julia explains why she originally started the Skork’d podcast [02:00] Season five brings new authors and experiences to share [03:32] The theme of consent to a variety of life issues will be a focus for various podcasts in season five [08:00] Julia is focusing on a new concept called the family positivity movement which celebrates families of all types and images [10:00] Julia shares her parenting journey and discusses does it change you (i.e., reference the title of this episode the “Gray Flamingo”), and if it does change you, then what [17:46] Julia discusses her romantic relationship and how it evolved, and how pregnancy affected the relationship [22:00] Julia expresses vulnerability to this listening audience regarding the family she has built [25:34] Follow this podcast on social media.  Here is season five.    KEY TAKEAWAYS:   Every episode of season five of Stork’d will be exciting and enjoyable.  There will be so much to learn from these guests. Julia’s story of her journey to be a solo parent is brave.  She is a great role model for anyone walking through infertility. Your life changes when you have a family.  It doesn’t mean you are fundamentally better as a person, but you are fundamentally different.   RESOURCE LINKS:   Stork’d Facebook Stork’d YouTube Stork’d Instagram   About Julia Karol: When she is not hosting Stork'd®, Julia runs a private investment firm that acquires, operates, and improves businesses at a crossroads. She loves supporting businesses to grow and evolve.  Passionate about social change, Julia also supports several non-profit organizations.  Julia's passions outside work include hiking, skiing, yoga, and reading.  She lives in Boston with her dog and son.