After four weeks and eight states on the road, Jason is back with the real reason Two Gay Dads disappeared: he was home for only 37 hours.In this quick and honest catch-up, Jason shares the travel chaos, exhaustion, family time, and the decision to pause the podcast rather than record on empty. Plus, he talks about returning home, a pumpkin patch outing, Great Wolf Lodge, and the everyday parenting moments that made the break worthwhile.

What if the biggest threat to your relationship isn’t fighting—but functioning?

In this heartfelt and candid episode of Two Gay Dads, Jason and Nathaniel explore what happens when a marriage slowly turns into a calendar-management system: schedules, school forms, groceries, chores, finances, and bedtime—everything gets done, except having a real conversation.

Inspired by a listener question from Chad in Milwaukee, they talk honestly about finding your way back to your partner after children, without pretending you can—or should—return to who you were before parenthood. They discuss the grief that comes with changing identities, the importance of small moments of connection, love languages, emotional and physical intimacy, household labor, gratitude, family rejection, relationship expectations, and the intentional conversations that can keep couples from drifting apart.

With plenty of vulnerability, humor, and a classic Papa fail involving a forgotten dance class, Jason and Nathaniel offer a simple challenge: make time for an uninterrupted conversation with your partner and ask, “What are you not getting that you need from me?”

Because reconnecting doesn’t always require a grand gesture. Sometimes, it starts with thirty undistracted minutes—and the choice to find each other again.

In this episode, Jason and Nate reflect on the overwhelming response to last week’s conversation with Frankie and BJ, and unpack what their viral photo says about visibility, privacy, and the power — and risk — of sharing family stories online. They respond to listener questions about how to talk to kids who feel different, how to handle staring and public curiosity, and whether adoption or surrogacy makes one path to parenthood more “legitimate” than another. Along the way, they open up about parenting challenges, the emotional adjustment of Lizzy’s second year of kindergarten, the frustrating reality of trying to access mental health care, and a very cheesy dad fail. Honest, funny, and heartfelt, this episode is a reminder that families come in many forms — and that love, not a template, is what makes them real.

What does it mean to build a family on your own terms? In this heartfelt episode of Two Gay Dads, Jason and Nate sit down with Toronto-based dads Frankie and BJ, whose journey to parenthood is a powerful story of love, resilience, and hope.

Together for 16 years, Frankie and BJ share how they met, navigated addiction recovery, discovered surrogacy, and welcomed their son Milo—born during Toronto’s WorldPride in 2014. A deeply moving photo of the moment they first met their baby went viral around the world, inspiring countless LGBTQ+ families. Years later, that same image was used without their permission in an anti-surrogacy and anti-gay political campaign, prompting Frankie and BJ to fight back.

The conversation explores partnership, patience, raising a child with intention, setting boundaries around social media, traveling the world as a two-dad family, and the importance of visibility. At its heart is a simple but powerful message: there’s no single template for family. Family is about love.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Frankie and BJ’s nearly two-decade love story
• Their path to parenthood through surrogacy
• The unforgettable photo that became known as the “Pride Baby” image
• Turning a painful political attack into advocacy
• Parenting, patience, and raising their son Milo
• Traveling as an LGBTQ+ family
• Why representation and authenticity matter

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about love, courage, and the families we create.

Most parents face the emotional rollercoaster of the first day of school—it's nerve-wracking, exciting, and full of unknowns. But for LGBTQ+ families, that milestone comes with an added layer: questions about visibility, acceptance, and safe belonging. In this heartfelt episode, Jason and Nate share their own journey navigating starting school as a same-sex family, revealing the thoughtful conversations, unexpected challenges, and joyful moments along the way.From approaching teachers about family stories to advocating for inclusive classrooms, this episode offers concrete strategies for building supportive school communities that celebrate all kinds of families. You'll discover how to foster open dialogue with educators, reinforce your child's identity, and create safe spaces where they can thrive—and how to do it all without feeling overwhelmed or exposed. They break down actionable tips like sharing family narratives on the first day, choosing identity-affirming books, and connecting with community resources that support diverse families.But it’s not just about the logistics—this conversation sparks a deeper look at the importance of belonging. What happens when your child feels different or isolated? How can caregivers help them navigate those feelings with confidence and pride? Jason and Nate emphasize the vital role of authentic communication, community, and simple, age-appropriate responses that reinforce love and acceptance. They remind us that every step we take to foster inclusion offers our children a foundation of resilience and self-worth.Whether you're a seasoned LGBTQ+ parent or just starting to think about how to give your child the best possible school experience, this episode is essential listening. It blends relatable humor with practical advice, ensuring you feel less alone and more empowered in your advocacy. Creating inclusive, welcoming schools isn’t just a goal—it’s a shared responsibility, one child at a time.

Hosts Jason Brunner-Burns and Nate Brunner-Burns are experienced parents and advocates who share their personal stories and insights. They bring a warm, relatable voice to complicated topics, making this episode both inspiring and actionable.

When a simple bike outing turns into a neighborhood scare, we reveal how everyday moments highlight the importance of teaching independence and safety, even when it’s uncomfortable. Plus, we tackle tough questions from listeners expecting their first child, sharing our biggest lessons on navigating curiosity, boundaries, and the importance of visible pride for queer families.In this episode, Jason and Nate share the raw realities of managing big feelings in young children — from tantrums fueled by dysregulation to the balance of gentle and consequence-based parenting. You'll discover how to affirm your family’s love and diversity, no matter how society tries to simplify or shame it. We break down the impact of recent anti-LGBTQ billboards that dismiss our families and explain why standing tall, being out, and teaching resilience is more critical than ever. We also explore how strangers’ questions—like “who's the mom?”—are really opportunities to be quiet advocates. Jason and Nate discuss how sharing our pride and setting boundaries helps shape confident kids who see their uniqueness as strength. Plus, we FIGHT back against misleading slogans about families, emphasizing that every child deserves respect and love, regardless of how their family looks. Ideal for LGBTQ+ parents, allies, and anyone determined to build a more inclusive future, this episode invites you to celebrate the diverse, beautiful realities of family and community. If you're committed to raising leaders, teaching resilience, and challenging harmful narratives, this is your go-to listen. Join us as we reflect on the small victories and big battles shaping the next generation—because our families are not just real; they are vital.

Don't miss out—hit play now and be part of the movement to normalize all families, one conversation at a time.

Moving cross-country with a kid is chaos wrapped in a rollercoaster—and juggling it all can feel like an impossible feat. In this season two premiere, Jason and Nate pull back the curtain on their recent wild move, sharing the real, raw struggles behind the scenes and the unexpected joys that come with building a new life. From hoisting furniture over balconies to navigating toddler emotions, they reveal how honesty, humor, and a dash of patience keep them moving forward—and how you can do the same. In this episode, you'll discover practical tips for managing the emotional toll of uprooting your family and turning stressful moments into memorable milestones. Jason shares his lessons learned in downsizing, dealing with moving companies, and the importance of involving your child in the process—making goodbyes meaningful and new spaces feel like home. Nate offers insights on balancing logistics and mental health, including how to keep humor alive amid chaos, and the value of leaning on friends when the unpacking gets overwhelming.We break down:

• How to involve your kids in saying farewell to their old home in a way that eases their transition
• Strategies for handling late-night frustrations and unexpected setbacks, like damaged furniture or missed deadlines
• Creative ways to make moving fun for kids, from shopping for decor together to celebrating their new space with silly traditions
• Why making space for honesty and emotional expression helps parents and children adapt faster and happier
• The importance of building community and asking for help when the stress peaks

Why does all this matter? Because moving with a family is one of life's most demanding projects—and doing it with humor and heart turns it into a story you'll look back on with pride. The lessons shared in this episode empower you to face your next move—big or small—with confidence, resilience, and a few laughs along the way. Perfect for parents in the midst of a move, those planning their first cross-country transition, or anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by change, this episode offers real talk and practical insights you won’t find elsewhere. Tune in, and discover how to turn chaos into new beginnings—because you’re not alone, and you’ve got this.

Two Gay Dads' Season One Finale: Pride, Love, and Resilience

Get ready to feel seen, inspired, and empowered! In this bold season finale, Jason and Nate share raw stories, heartfelt reflections, and fierce calls to action that remind us all of our power and purpose. This isn’t just an episode—it's a rally cry for love, authenticity, and community.

Main insights:

• The emotional rollercoaster of moving with a young child and how to support big feelings in kids
• Personal coming out stories—how early truths shape us and how acceptance unfolds over time
• The impact of role models, representation, and visibility on LGBTQ+ youth, especially in small towns
• Reflecting on iconic Pride moments pre- and post-Lizzy, from parades to personal memories
• The importance of celebrating queer culture, drag, rainbow flags, and our unique identities
• The ongoing fight for rights: why Pride is a protest, not just a parade
• The dangerous efforts to silence or marginalize LGBTQ+ voices—FCC ratings, anti-LGBTQ laws, and political rhetoric
• How history, resilience, and community have always carried us forward, despite attempts to erase us
• The urgent need to keep fighting for protections, equality, and recognition
• The power of small acts of activism, visibility, and kindness in creating change

Resources & Links:

• Rainbow Flags – Symbol of Pride and representation
• FCC Public Notice on LGBTQ Programming Ratings – Important advocacy info
• Support for Trans Rights – How to get involved and support

This episode is a love letter to our community

—a reminder of where we've been, where we're going, and how we will continue to fight, celebrate, and love out loud. Happy Pride, everyone. We are worthy, we are loved, and we are here to stay!

Buckle up, because this episode hits straight to the core of what it means to truly live, love, and navigate the wild ride of parenthood and life’s transitions. From the magic of Disney cruises to the raw honesty about moving and redefining patriotism, these two gay dads lay it all out — with passion, authenticity, and a whole lot of heart.

In this episode:

• The joy and chaos of their latest Disney cruise experience, including touching moments and unforgettable memories
• How they navigated being LGBT parents in a welcoming environment and the importance of support from cast members
• The significance of focusing on family, closure, and creating new memories during their upcoming move
• A candid discussion on patriotism, representation, and the current political climate
• Inspiring stories of community support, resilience, and standing up against hate
• The power of fearlessness and how their daughter is teaching them to embrace life boldly
• Exciting plans for future travels, adventures, and new chapters in a big city

Resources & Links:

• Disney Cruise Line Official
• Ratatouille French Restaurant on Disney Cruise, for an unforgettable dining experience

Connect with the Guests & Hosts:

• Nathaniel & Jason — Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
• Lizzy’s journey to fearless childhood — Watch and follow her adventures!

Special Note:

Gear up for season two starting July 20 — great content, honest stories, and more unapologetic love. Hit subscribe, so you never miss the magic. This episode is an anthem for love, belonging, and brave new beginnings.

Remember, friends: your voice matters. Your story is powerful. Speak up, show up, and keep love at the center.

Boldly Coming Out: Embracing Your Authentic Self and Honoring Our Community

This episode hits home with raw honesty, powerful storytelling, and unapologetic bravery. Join us as we share personal stories, dive into the importance of representation, and pay tribute to trailblazers like Jason Collins who inspire us all to live our truth. This is about more than holidays; it’s about standing tall in who we are.

In this episode:

• How our family redefines Mother’s Day as “Papa’s Day” to honor our love and identity
• The emotional journey of making holidays feel authentic and inclusive
• Exploring the significance of “Significant Women’s Day” and expanding celebration beyond traditional roles
• Practical advice for LGBTQ+ families on navigating mainstream holidays authentically
• The power of community and visibility—highlighting Jason Collins’ legacy
• Addressing online hate and why kindness is the real revolution
• Lessons from Lizzy’s “standard time” parenting style
• The story of Two-Spirit advocacy and the importance of cultural preservation
• Honoring Jason Collins: a hero who embodied courage and authenticity in sports and beyond

Resources & Links:

• Jason Collins - NBA Player and LGBTQ+ Icon
• Two-Spirit Advocacy Organization
• Metropolitan Community Churches
• Hallmark Mother’s Day movies
• Julia Roberts Mother’s Day movie (Netflix)

Connect with us:

• 2 Gay Dads – YouTube | Instagram | Facebook
• Nathaniel - Facebook| Instagram
• Jason - Facebook| Instagram

This episode is a call to authenticity, resilience, and kindness. We share our truths and honor those like Jason Collins whose courage has changed the world. Together, let’s celebrate love in all its forms and continue the fight for a more inclusive, compassionate society. Because at the end of the day, living loudly and living true is what truly matters. Walk proud. Be bold. The world needs your light.