Seeking Different
161 episodes - English - Latest episode: 3 months ago - ★★★★★ - 28 ratingsSingle Mother by Choice (former co-host of The Mocha SMC Podcast) Hera McLeod teams up with her precocious nine year old daughter Estela for the podcast "Seeking Different". The Mom and Kid duo explore what it looks like to navigate the world as a non-traditional family. They discuss hot topics such as donor sibling relationships, family travel, school choice, race relations, and navigating the playground.
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Episodes
Season 2, Episode 11: Navigating the Thrills and Spills of Tween Crushes and Gossip
January 29, 2024 18:00 - 22 minutes - 15.6 MBRemember the flutters of first crushes and the buzz of schoolyard whispers? Together with my daughter Estela, we take a heartfelt plunge into the world of tween crushes and the ensuing gossip that can feel like navigating a minefield. We swap stories, with Estela offering a peek into the pulse of today's tween experiences, rife with the excitement and anxiety of burgeoning attractions, as well as the sometimes harsh reality of gossip. Through laughter and a bit of cringing, we dissect how to...
Season 2, Episode 10: Defying Silence: A Mother's Memoir and the Fight for Children's Justice
January 16, 2024 10:00 - 19 minutes - 13.3 MBHera and Estela bring you a new episode - that explains why they've taken a bit of a hiatus. They've both been writing books! And Hera has just released her memoir, ten years in the making, that's both deeply personal and universally touching. "Defying Silence," her memoir, unveils the heart-wrenching journey of losing her son and the struggle against a justice system that let them down. Hera and Estela grapple with the profound impact of stories like this and how they foster connections, al...
Season 2, Episode 9: Part II of Donor Dylan's Story - The Sperm Donor with 97 Biological Children
October 23, 2023 08:00 - 22 minutes - 15.5 MBThis is Part II of Donor Dylan's story. Picture this – you just found out you have 97 biological children. Baffled? So was our guest, Donor Dylan, when he discovered this shocking revelation due to sperm donation. In a heart-to-heart conversation, Dylan unravels his rollercoaster journey of having so many biological children. We dig into his initial reactions, the impact on his family, and how he's been dealing with the emotional maze of these complex relationships. Unraveling the darker si...
Season 2, Episode 8: The Man with 97 Biological Children (Part I) – Donor Dylan's Tale of Sperm Donation and Discovery
October 16, 2023 08:00 - 21 minutes - 15 MBEver wonder what it's like to walk into a sperm bank, answer some peculiar questions, donate, and then years later discover you have 97 biological children? That's exactly what happened to Donor Dylan, our guest in this riveting discussion. Dylan lets us into his journey of discovery, the shock of learning that he has a multitude of biological children, and the string of lies from the sperm bank that have shaped his life in unimaginable ways. We promise you a front row seat into the complex ...
Seeking Different: Season 2, Episode 7: Confronting Discrimination: A Tale of Hair, Friendship, and a Beyonce Concert
September 18, 2023 08:00 - 24 minutes - 16.8 MBWhat happens when the feeling of belonging is put to the test? You're about to hear the tale of a Beyonce concert, a couple of extra guests, and an unexpected lesson in friendship and values. We laugh, we cringe, and we learn as we recount that night when we had to sit on the floor, shunned by a friend. Through this personal story, we want to make you reflect on fairness, true friendship and the values that define not just our friendships but who we are as people. Ever felt ‘othered’ becaus...
Seeking Different: Season 2, Episode 6: Embracing Diversity - A Conversation on Unique Family Structures
September 11, 2023 08:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MBThis week we recap on the first week of school and discuss how kid social interactions have changed post pandemic (particularly for kids who were school aged during the height of it). Have you ever considered how remote learning impacted children's social skills? Picture this, a young student, fresh from a year of remote learning, navigating the trials and tribulations of the playground. We travel through this terrain on Seeking Different, delving into the intricacies of making friends in th...
Seeking Different: Season 2, Episode 5: Conquering Back-to-School Anxiety and Planning Epic Play Dates
September 04, 2023 08:00 - 28 minutes - 19.6 MBRemember the buzz of preparing for a new school year? Those summer play dates that were the perfect blend of fun and preparation for the upcoming educational journey? We, Hera and Estela, take you back to those times, sharing personal anecdotes as we navigate the world of play dates - the joy, the inclusion, and the potential challenges. We even touch on the exciting yet nerve-wracking process of transitioning from a carefree summer to a structured school year. Our conversation dives into t...
Season 2, Episode 5: Conquering Back-to-School Anxiety and Planning Epic Play Dates
September 04, 2023 08:00 - 27 minutes - 19.2 MBRemember the buzz of preparing for a new school year? Those summer play dates that were the perfect blend of fun and preparation for the upcoming educational journey? We, Hera and Estela, take you back to those times, sharing personal anecdotes as we navigate the world of play dates - the joy, the inclusion, and the potential challenges. We even touch on the exciting yet nerve-wracking process of transitioning from a carefree summer to a structured school year. Our conversation dives into t...
Seeking Different: Season 2, Episode 4: Planning Adventure Travel with Kids (Costa Rica)
August 28, 2023 08:00 - 28 minutes - 19.5 MBIn this episode, Hera and Estela discuss planning a non-traditional family adventure. Recorded while in Costa Rica, they walk through how to find lodging and flights as well as what a day at language immersion camp looks like at Explornatura Kids camp in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. In addition to the highlights like monkey sightings and surf, they discuss the low lights and things to avoid for a better travel experience. Wild Interest Wild Interest is an audio magazine created by kids for curio...
Season 2, Episode 4: Planning Adventure Travel with Kids (Costa Rica)
August 28, 2023 08:00 - 27 minutes - 19.1 MBIn this episode, Hera and Estela discuss planning a non-traditional family adventure. Recorded while in Costa Rica, they walk through how to find lodging and flights as well as what a day at language immersion camp looks like at Explornatura Kids camp in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. In addition to the highlights like monkey sightings and surf, they discuss the low lights and things to avoid for a better travel experience. Support the show
Season 2, Episode 3: Chatting with Donor Conceived Community (DCC) Founder Melissa Lindsey
August 21, 2023 08:00 - 47 minutes - 32.4 MBIn the second episode of Season two - Hera and Estela sit down to chat with Melissa Lindsey, the founder and director of The Donor Conceived Community (DCC). DCC provides peer support, education, and resources for people navigating donor conception and DNA discoveries. Melissa shares her story, why she started the organization, and some tips for both parents of Donor Conceived People as well as children who are Donor Conceived. Support the show
Seeking Different: Season 2, Episode 3: Chatting with Donor Conceived Community (DCC) Founder Melissa Lindsey
August 21, 2023 08:00 - 47 minutes - 32.8 MBIn the second episode of Season two - Hera and Estela sit down to chat with Melissa Lindsey, the founder and director of The Donor Conceived Community (DCC). DCC provides peer support, education, and resources for people navigating donor conception and DNA discoveries. Melissa shares her story, why she started the organization, and some tips for both parents of Donor Conceived People as well as children who are Donor Conceived. Wild Interest Wild Interest is an audio magazine created by...
Season 2, Episode 2: I'm a Barbie Girl, In a Barbie World (Movie Review and Deep Thoughts)
August 14, 2023 08:00 - 25 minutes - 17.5 MBIn this episode, Hera and Estela review the new Barbie movie. They discuss the parallels between Barbie and real life as well as review the movie from the perspective of a mom and of a kid. Hera also breaks down the parts of the movie that were likely not meant for kids and Estela highlights the parts she understood more than her mom realized. Support the show
Season 2, Episode 2: I'm a Barbie Girl, In a Barbie World
August 14, 2023 08:00 - 25 minutes - 17.5 MBIn this episode, Hera and Estela review the new Barbie movie. They discuss the parallels between Barbie and real life as well as review the movie from the perspective of a mom and of a kid. Hera also breaks down the parts of the movie that were likely not meant for kids and Estela highlights the parts she understood more than her mom realized. Support the show
Seeking Different: Season 2, Episode 2: I'm a Barbie Girl, In a Barbie World (Movie Review and Deep Thoughts)
August 14, 2023 08:00 - 26 minutes - 17.9 MBIn this episode, Hera and Estela review the new Barbie movie. They discuss the parallels between Barbie and real life as well as review the movie from the perspective of a mom and of a kid. Hera also breaks down the parts of the movie that were likely not meant for kids and Estela highlights the parts she understood more than her mom realized. Wild Interest Wild Interest is an audio magazine created by kids for curious minds of all ages.... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the...
Seeking Different: Season 2, Episode 1: Summer Recap and CONSENT!
August 07, 2023 08:00 - 16 minutes - 11 MBIn the first episode of season two, Hera and Estela and joined by little sister Isa as they give a quick summer camp recap and discuss the topic of consent. Hera explains to the girls how everything from touching hair to hugs and kisses are things that require permission. Support the show
Season 2, Episode 1: Summer Recap and CONSENT!
August 07, 2023 08:00 - 16 minutes - 11 MBIn the first episode of season two, Hera and Estela and joined by little sister Isa as they give a quick summer camp recap and discuss the topic of consent. Hera explains to the girls how everything from touching hair to hugs and kisses are things that require permission. Support the show
Season 1, Episode 12: Interview with Angela Stepancic, Founder of the First Black Owned Sperm Bank - Reproductive Village Cryobank (RVC)
May 16, 2023 08:00 - 25 minutes - 17.3 MBIn the final episode of season one for Seeking Different, Hera and Estela sit down with Angela Stepancic (founder of Reproductive Village Cryobank) to discuss her plans to open the first Black owned cryobank that's specifically focused on helping Black families by sourcing Black donors. Angela talks through her journey to opening (coming summer 2023) to include why she was called to start this business, her thoughts around regulations in the sperm industry, and some of the things her bank is...
Seeking Different: Season 1, Episode 12: Interview with Angela Stepancic, Founder of the First Black Owned Sperm Bank - Reproductive Village Cryobank (RVC)
May 16, 2023 08:00 - 25 minutes - 17.3 MBIn the final episode of season one for Seeking Different, Hera and Estela sit down with Angela Stepancic (founder of Reproductive Village Cryobank) to discuss her plans to open the first Black owned cryobank that's specifically focused on helping Black families by sourcing Black donors. Angela talks through her journey to opening (coming summer 2023) to include why she was called to start this business, her thoughts around regulations in the sperm industry, and some of the things her bank is...
Seeking Different: Season 1, Episode 13: Interview with Angela Stepancic, Founder of the First Black Owned Sperm Bank - Reproductive Village Cryobank (RVC)
May 16, 2023 08:00 - 25 minutes - 17.7 MBIn the final episode of season one for Seeking Different, Hera and Estela sit down with Angela Stepancic (founder of Reproductive Village Cryobank) to discuss her plans to open the first Black owned cryobank that's specifically focused on helping Black families by sourcing Black donors. Angela talks through her journey to opening (coming summer 2023) to include why she was called to start this business, her thoughts around regulations in the sperm industry, and some of the things her bank is...
Season 1, Episode 12: Growing the Family from Two to Three
April 25, 2023 08:00 - 24 minutes - 16.9 MBIn this episode, Estela dishes about what it was like becoming a big sister and Hera shares her thoughts on the differences between having one child as an SMC and having two. They also discuss how their family was built on top of the tragedy of losing Estela's brother and Hera's son Prince. Support the show
Seeking Different: Season 1, Episode 12: Growing the Family from Two to Three
April 25, 2023 08:00 - 25 minutes - 17.3 MBIn this episode, Estela dishes about what it was like becoming a big sister and Hera shares her thoughts on the differences between having one child as an SMC and having two. They also discuss how their family was built on top of the tragedy of losing Estela's brother and Hera's son Prince. Wild Interest Wild Interest is an audio magazine created by kids for curious minds of all ages.... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show
Seeking Different: Season 1, Episode 11: Family Trip to Colombia
April 18, 2023 08:00 - 26 minutes - 18.4 MBIn this episode, Hera and Estela discuss traveling as an SMC family to Cartagena, Colombia. Highlights include a scary bus incident in Playa Blanca and the incredible experience they had in the Afro-Colombian Village of Palenque. They share the highlights as well as some savvy tips for traveling with kids. Wild Interest Wild Interest is an audio magazine created by kids for curious minds of all ages.... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show
Season 1, Episode 11: Family Trip to Colombia
April 18, 2023 08:00 - 26 minutes - 18 MBIn this episode, Hera and Estela discuss traveling as an SMC family to Cartagena, Colombia. Highlights include a scary bus incident in Playa Blanca and the incredible experience they had in the Afro-Colombian Village of Palenque. They share the highlights as well as some savvy tips for traveling with kids. Support the show
Seeking Different "Bonus Mini EP": Season Recap and "Into the Mind of a Four Year Old"
April 04, 2023 08:00 - 13 minutes - 9.49 MBIn this mini episode, Estela and Hera look back on the first season thus far to talk about favorite moments, things they learned, and Estela discusses how ignorance about non-traditional family can play out in the school setting. Isa makes an appearance at the end of the episode to give her definition of a donor as well as a hilarious look into the mind of a four year old. Support the show
Bonus Mini EP: Season Recap and "Into the Mind of a Four Year Old"
April 04, 2023 08:00 - 13 minutes - 9.49 MBIn this mini episode, Estela and Hera look back on the first season thus far to talk about favorite moments, things they learned, and Estela discusses how ignorance about non-traditional family can play out in the school setting. Isa makes an appearance at the end of the episode to give her definition of a donor as well as a hilarious look into the mind of a four year old. Support the show
Season 1, Episode 9: It Goes Down on the Playground
March 28, 2023 08:00 - 18 minutes - 12.6 MBIn this episode, Hera and Estela discuss recess and the playground where ALL the drama goes down. From navigating bullies to the evolution of kid conversations. The littlest McLeod - Isa - also makes a special appearance in this episode and reveals her understanding of "donor" as well as her feelings about heroes and Orange Juice.
Seeking Different: Season 1, Episode 9: It Goes Down on the Playground
March 28, 2023 08:00 - 18 minutes - 12.6 MBIn this episode, Hera and Estela discuss recess and the playground where ALL the drama goes down. From navigating bullies to the evolution of kid conversations. The littlest McLeod - Isa - also makes a special appearance in this episode and reveals her understanding of "donor" as well as her feelings about heroes and Orange Juice. Support the show
Season 1, Episode 8: It Takes A Village
March 21, 2023 08:00 - 32 minutes - 22.5 MBIn this episode of Seeking Different, Hera and Estela interview Lara McLeod (Hera's sister) and discuss the importance of having a village. Being a parent is hard no matter what type of family you have, and having a strong village to help raise your children is critical to family health. Lara, affectionately known as "Tia", discusses how she felt about Hera using a donor to become a mom, what being an aunt has been like for her, her feelings on family dynamics, and how being an aunt has infl...
Seeking Different: Season 1, Episode 8: It Takes A Village
March 21, 2023 08:00 - 33 minutes - 22.9 MBIn this episode of Seeking Different, Hera and Estela interview Lara McLeod (Hera's sister) and discuss the importance of having a village. Being a parent is hard no matter what type of family you have, and having a strong village to help raise your children is critical to family health. Lara, affectionately known as "Tia", discusses how she felt about Hera using a donor to become a mom, what being an aunt has been like for her, her feelings on family dynamics, and how being an aunt has infl...
Season 1, Episode 7: Two Moms, A Son, and Two Households
March 14, 2023 08:00 - 24 minutes - 17 MBIn this episode of "Seeking Different", Hera and Estela interview Mom Denise and her Son Sawyer. Sawyer explains how he feels his family is "normal" in their progressive town in the suburbs of Tampa, Florida. They also discuss what it's like to move between two parental homes, favorite books, and a love affair with Boba Tea. Support the show
Seeking Different: Season 1, Episode 7: Two Moms, A Son, and Two Households
March 14, 2023 08:00 - 25 minutes - 17.4 MBIn this episode of "Seeking Different", Hera and Estela interview Mom Denise and her Son Sawyer. Sawyer explains how he feels his family is "normal" in their progressive town in the suburbs of Tampa, Florida. They also discuss what it's like to move between two parental homes, favorite books, and a love affair with Boba Tea. Wild Interest Wild Interest is an audio magazine created by kids for curious minds of all ages.... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show
Season 1, Episode 6: School Choice - Featuring Kid Logic
March 07, 2023 09:00 - 31 minutes - 21.6 MBIt was Independent School Decisions week in the DMV this past week and our house is all a buzz! In this episode of Seeking Different, Hera and Estela discuss what goes into deciding on a school and give an inside look from a kid's perspective of the admissions process - from "the buddy" to the on site testing to choosing the best school. Support the show
Seeking Different: Season 1, Episode 6: School Choice - Featuring Kid Logic
March 07, 2023 09:00 - 31 minutes - 22 MBIt was Independent School Decisions week in the DMV this past week and our house is all a buzz! In this episode of Seeking Different, Hera and Estela discuss what goes into deciding on a school and give an inside look from a kid's perspective of the admissions process - from "the buddy" to the on site testing to choosing the best school. Wild Interest Wild Interest is an audio magazine created by kids for curious minds of all ages.... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show
Seeking Different: Season 1, Episode 5: Divorce, Blended Families, and Gender Identity
February 28, 2023 09:00 - 27 minutes - 19.2 MBIn this episode of Seeking Different, Hera and Estela interview mother Abigail from The Podcast "The Judgement Free Zone" and her child Kenley "KG". They candidly discuss what it's like to have a blended family, divorce, and gender identity. Kenley is one of the bravest children we've met, and breaks down what's like to be born in a girl body but feeling very much like a boy. Wild Interest Wild Interest is an audio magazine created by kids for curious minds of all ages.... Listen on: Apple...
Season 1, Episode 5: Divorce, Blended Families, and Gender Identity
February 28, 2023 09:00 - 27 minutes - 18.7 MBIn this episode of Seeking Different, Hera and Estela interview mother Abigail from The Podcast "The Judgement Free Zone" and her child Kenley "KG". They candidly discuss what it's like to have a blended family, divorce, and gender identity. Kenley is one of the bravest children we've met, and breaks down what's like to be born in a girl body but feeling very much like a boy. Support the show
Season 1, Episode 4: Baby Making - A Conversation with Alease The Embryologist
February 21, 2023 09:00 - 33 minutes - 23.2 MB"Mama, where do babies come from?" Is this a question you've had your kids ask and don't even know where to begin? Is your child donor conceived and this question feels even more complicated as a result? We are here to help you sort through how to explain embryo creation to a child. Estela and Hera ask Alease Barnes (also known as Alease The Embryologist) about her career, what it's like being one of the only Black Embryologists in her field, and "technically" how babies are made. Support t...
Seeking Different: Season 1, Episode 4: Baby Making - A Conversation with Alease The Embryologist
February 21, 2023 09:00 - 34 minutes - 23.7 MB"Mama, where do babies come from?" Is this a question you've had your kids ask and don't even know where to begin? Is your child donor conceived and this question feels even more complicated as a result? We are here to help you sort through how to explain embryo creation to a child. Estela and Hera ask Alease Barnes (also known as Alease The Embryologist) about her career, what it's like being one of the only Black Embryologists in her field, and "technically" how babies are made. Wild Inte...
Season 1, Episode 3: Black History Month Reflections
February 14, 2023 09:00 - 20 minutes - 14.4 MBWe wish Black History Month could be all year long, but this Black History Month we'd like to share our thoughts on some of the current events - Like Ron DeSantis trying to whitewash history and the things we wish schools would teach as it relates to Black History. Estela learns about Critical Race theory and a bit about how the American government really felt about MLK Jr. while he was alive. Estela talks about her favorite lessor known icons from Black History and interesting things she's ...
Seeking Different: Season 1, Episode 3: Black History Month Reflections
February 14, 2023 09:00 - 20 minutes - 14.4 MBWe wish Black History Month could be all year long, but this Black History Month we'd like to share our thoughts on some of the current events - Like Ron DeSantis trying to whitewash history and the things we wish schools would teach as it relates to Black History. Estela learns about Critical Race theory and a bit about how the American government really felt about MLK Jr. while he was alive. Estela talks about her favorite lessor known icons from Black History and interesting things she's ...
Season 1, Episode 2: A Mama, A Mom, and Twin Donor Siblings
February 07, 2023 09:00 - 25 minutes - 17.4 MBIn this episode of Seeking Different, Hera and Estela chat with Asher, Ari, and Mom Leah of the Pryor-Lease Family (a two Mom Family). Asher and Ari are twins and two of Estela's donor siblings. The kids chat about what it's like to tell people you don't have a Dad, the cool things about their family, and navigating school as a non-traditional family. Support the show
Seeking Different: Season 1, Episode 2: A Mama, A Mom, and Twin Donor Siblings
February 07, 2023 09:00 - 25 minutes - 17.9 MBIn this episode of Seeking Different, Hera and Estela chat with Asher, Ari, and Mom Leah of the Pryor-Lease Family (a two Mom Family). Asher and Ari are twins and two of Estela's donor siblings. The kids chat about what it's like to tell people you don't have a Dad, the cool things about their family, and navigating school as a non-traditional family. Wild Interest Wild Interest is an audio magazine created by kids for curious minds of all ages.... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Su...
Season 1, Episode 1: Living Out McLeod - Single Mother by Choice Family
January 31, 2023 09:00 - 28 minutes - 19.4 MBOn the first episode of Seeking Different, co-hosts Hera and Estela give a brief intro about why the show is called Seeking Different, a little about the family, what you can expect from the show, and leave you with their top tried and true travel tips. Support the show
Seeking Different: Season 1, Episode 1: Living Out McLeod - Single Mother by Choice Family
January 31, 2023 09:00 - 28 minutes - 19.8 MBOn the first episode of Seeking Different, co-hosts Hera and Estela give a brief intro about why the show is called Seeking Different, a little about the family, what you can expect from the show, and leave you with their top tried and true travel tips. Wild Interest Wild Interest is an audio magazine created by kids for curious minds of all ages.... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show
Introducing: Seeking Different
January 17, 2023 09:00 - 1 minute - 1.35 MBFormer Mocha SMC Co-Host Hera teams up with her precocious nine year old daughter Estela in the new Podcast, "Seeking Different". They explore what it looks like to navigate the world as a non-traditional family. This mother and daughter duo will discuss hot topics such as donor sibling relationships, family travel, school choice, race relations, and navigating the playground. Follow @ Seeking Different on social media, Subscribe to our podcast "Seeking Different", and stay tuned for our fir...
Season 4, Episode 11: Parenting the Child in Front of You
November 14, 2022 10:00 - 51 minutes - 35.7 MBAs single mothers by choice we get to make many of the decisions for our children, up to a certain point. At the point when their personalities and their individual needs emerge many of us learn that the one size fits all approach that we grew up with will not work with our children. We’ve had to adjust parenting styles and even to our support village so that we can safely and consistently parent the child in front of us.
Season 4, Episode 10: Ask Us Anything Part Two
November 07, 2022 10:00 - 32 minutes - 22.6 MBIn this episode, the Mocha SMCs answer questions such as: should I move to be closer to my family, how do I start planning for a will, and what should I put on my child's birth certificate. They also get real about whether you can work and be home full time with your child.
Mocha SMC: Season 4, Episode 10: Ask Us Anything Part Two
November 07, 2022 10:00 - 33 minutes - 23.1 MBIn this episode, the Mocha SMCs answer questions such as: should I move to be closer to my family, how do I start planning for a will, and what should I put on my child's birth certificate. They also get real about whether you can work and be home full time with your child. Wild Interest Wild Interest is an audio magazine created by kids for curious minds of all ages.... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show
Mocha SMC: Season 4, Episode 9: Ask Me Anything Part I
October 31, 2022 09:00 - 28 minutes - 19.9 MBIn this episode of the Mocha Single Mothers by Choice, the Mocha SMCs discuss DNA discovery, relationships with donor siblings, and how to talk about your conception story with your children and others in your life. Wild Interest Wild Interest is an audio magazine created by kids for curious minds of all ages.... Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show
Season 4, Episode 9: Ask Me Anything Part I
October 31, 2022 09:00 - 28 minutes - 19.5 MBIn this episode of the Mocha Single Mothers by Choice, the Mocha SMCs discuss DNA discovery, relationships with donor siblings, and how to talk about your conception story with your children and others in your life.