Growing up with two moms gave Jay a strong foundation, but during his college years a handful of men stepped into his life in ways he didn’t expect. Professors, mentors, and coaches who modeled integrity, humor, and accountability—sometimes through advice, sometimes through tough love, and sometimes without realizing the impact they were making.

Now as a dad, Jay reflects on how those lessons stuck with him and how they shape the way he tries to show up for his own daughters today.