In this conversation, Brian Rosenberg from Gays with Kids shares his journey as an HIV positive dad and the founding of Gays with Kids, an organization dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ individuals navigate parenthood. He discusses the importance of education in family building, the various paths to parenthood available, and the launch of GWK Academy, which aims to empower individuals with knowledge and resources. Brian emphasizes the need for financial accessibility in family building and the significance of finding supportive community and partners in the journey to parenthood.

Brian Rosenberg and his husband Ferd have 3 children through adoption and surrogacy. Their family-building experience led him to launch the popular Gays With Kids website and virtual community in 2014. And now Brian is super excited to announce the launch of the all-new GWK Academy Family Building, Inc. (“GWK Academy” for short), a non-profit spin-off of GWK to guide and support the entire LGBTQ+ community with their family-building journeys. Visit GWKAcademy.org or, to donate, visit https://givebutter.com/GWKAcademyLaunch

Takeaways

Brian and his husband created their family through adoption and surrogacy.

HIV positive individuals can become biological parents with the right medical support.

Education is crucial for LGBTQ+ individuals considering parenthood.

GWK Academy offers resources and courses for aspiring parents.

Financial planning is essential for family building, with various options available.

The LGBTQ+ community needs tailored support in family building processes.

Surrogacy and adoption can be expensive, but there are ways to manage costs.

Finding the right family building partners is vital for success.

Community support and education can alleviate fears and misconceptions.

Brian's mission is to empower others to become confident parents.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gays with Kids and Brian's Journey

05:54 Navigating Parenthood as an HIV Positive Dad

12:05 The Evolution of Gays with Kids and Its Mission

18:02 Expanding Services and Accessibility for LGBTQ+ Families

23:57 The Importance of Education and Community in Family Building

Sound Bites

"Don't get scared with those numbers."

"You can make it work for many budgets."

"I appreciate your support."

Empowering LGBTQ+ Parenthood: Brian Rosenberg's Journey

Navigating Family Building as an HIV Positive Dad