The Queer Family Podcast

In the second episode of the series, "Nicole and Shannon Want a Baby, or Do They?," Jaimie, Nicole, and Shannon sit down with Becky Fawcett, founder of HelpUsAdopt.org, a nonprofit offering financial grants to help families cover adoption costs. Becky shares her personal adoption journey, the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ families, and the vital role of both financial and emotional support. They discuss the costs of adoption, foster-to-adopt options, and the collaboration between adoption and fertility communities—all with a focus on inclusivity and making parenthood accessible to all.

Join us in the weeks to come as we speak with experts from organizations, guiding Nicole and Shannon—and listeners—through the many paths to parenthood available to queer folks.

🏳️‍🌈Thanks to our sponsor California Cryobank (use code loveislove), and our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

🏳️‍🌈Interested in advertising? Check out our packages ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Becky Fawcett's organization, Help Us Adopt, provides grants up to $20,000 to assist families in covering these expenses.
• Inclusivity in Adoption: Help Us Adopt is committed to supporting diverse families, including LGBTQIA individuals, single parents, and people of color, counteracting the inequities present in traditional adoption grant programs.
• The Adoption Process Explained: The episode breaks down the costs and steps involved in domestic adoption, highlighting the need for transparency and the complexities surrounding agency and attorney fees.
• Emotional Aspects of Adoption: Personal stories and experiences are shared to address common fears and misconceptions about non-bio connections and the emotional journey of adopting.
• Resource Accessibility: Becky emphasizes the importance of making adoption resources and professional contacts accessible to everyone, especially those of us in underserved communities.

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈 

• Becky Fawcett is the founder of Help Us Adopt, a nonprofit organization that provides financial grants to help families cover adoption costs. She adopted both of her daughters domestically and became deeply immersed in the adoption community. Fawcett's mission is to support and advocate for a diverse range of prospective adoptive parents, including LGBTQIA families, single parents, and people of color. Her dedication stems from recognizing the inequities in adoption support and a personal commitment to making adoption accessible for all.
• Nicole and Shannon: Nicole is the long-time assistant and right-hand human on The Queer Family Podcast. She has been working on the show for two years, helping to highlight, uplift, and normalize LGBTQIA families. Shannon, Nicole's wife, comes from a background in working with children, particularly in the foster care system. Together, they explore the complexities and considerations of starting a family as a queer couple.
• 
  

🏳️‍🌈Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• Help Us Adopt - Becky's nonprofit organization providing financial grants for adoption.
• Help Us Adopt on Instagram and Facebook
• Becky Fawcett on Facebook and Instagram

🏳️‍🌈If you like the episode, make sure to leave us a review and support The Queer Family Podcast on⁠⁠⁠ Patreon ⁠⁠⁠for as low as $2/month!

🏳️‍🌈We want to hear from you!  ⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠IG⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠FB⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠: @thequeerfamilypodcast

🏳️‍🌈Watch Video Episodes right now on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠

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🏳️‍🌈Edited by Jerson Barajas. Theme song: ⁠⁠⁠Tiffany Topol⁠⁠⁠\ Logo art: Daneen Stevenato.

🏳️‍🌈Buy our merch ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈For a full transcript of this episode and more info about the host visit our ⁠⁠⁠website

The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. While we chat with amazing organizations, The Queer Family Podcast isn’t responsible for any decisions or actions taken by listeners based on the content of the show. Always consult with a trusted professional for your specific situation!

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Jaimie sits down with her assistant Nicole and her wife Shannon. Despite Nicole having worked on this podcast about queer families for over two years, they still haven’t decided if they want to have kids. As they weigh the pros and cons, the conversation covers the unique challenges queer couples face when it comes to starting a family—especially when you have two uteruses and no sperm. Jaimie offers her personal insights on parenthood, and the discussion marks the start of a mini-series that will tackle LGBTQIA+ family building. Over the next few episodes, they'll explore questions like: Does a genetic tie matter? Who gets the tie? Who will carry? Should they use a known or anonymous donor? If genetics aren't crucial, should they adopt or consider foster care? And, of course, how will they afford it all?

Join them as they speak with experts from organizations, guiding them—and listeners—through the many paths to parenthood available to queer couples.

🏳️‍🌈Thanks to our sponsor California Cryobank (use code loveislove), and our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

🏳️‍🌈Interested in advertising? Check out our packages ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Diverse Family-Building Paths: Nicole and Shannon explore multiple avenues for starting a family, including using known donors, sperm banks, adoption, and fostering.
• Personal Experiences: Both guests share their personal journeys and how their backgrounds influence their thoughts on parenthood.
• Challenges and Considerations: They discuss the practicalities and emotional challenges of deciding to have children, including financial considerations and the importance of support systems.
• Benefits of a Supportive Community: Emphasizing the need for a supportive network, they acknowledge that making the right decision also involves understanding the kind of support available to them.
• Future Planning: Taking tangible steps towards possible parenthood, such as freezing eggs and interviewing specialists in the field

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈 Nicole and Shannon: Nicole is the long-time assistant and right-hand human on The Queer Family Podcast. She has been working on the show for two years, helping to highlight, uplift, and normalize LGBTQIA families. Shannon, Nicole's wife, comes from a background in working with children, particularly in the foster care system. Together, they explore the complexities and considerations of starting a family as a queer couple.

🏳️‍🌈If you like the episode, make sure to leave us a review and support The Queer Family Podcast on⁠⁠⁠ Patreon ⁠⁠⁠for as low as $2/month!

🏳️‍🌈We want to hear from you! 

 ⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠IG⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠FB⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠: @thequeerfamilypodcast

🏳️‍🌈Watch Video Episodes right now on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Order the #ITOCT book based on this podcast on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠IndieBound⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Audible⁠⁠⁠.

🏳️‍🌈Edited by Jerson Barajas. Theme song: ⁠⁠⁠Tiffany Topol⁠⁠⁠\ Logo art: Daneen Stevenato.

🏳️‍🌈Buy our merch ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈For a full transcript of this episode and more info about the host visit our ⁠⁠⁠website

Our Sponsors:
* Check out ByHeart and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: byheart.com
* Check out Outdoor Electronics: www.google.com
* Check out Sunbasket: sunbasket.com/QUEERFAM


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Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Leland and Bonnie share their journey through identity, gender, and family. Leland, identifying as Two-Spirit, discusses Native American gender roles and their impactful transition story. Bonnie recalls navigating her identity from the '70s to a polyamorous marriage and raising a son. Together, they recount their creation of a trailblazing trans/non-binary surgical recovery center, a yearly educational BDSM conference, and delve into their latest project, the Beyond Gender conference, aimed at fostering community, education, and support across the gender spectrum. This episode explores acceptance, resilience, and the power of chosen family.

🏳️‍🌈Thanks to our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

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🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Two-Spirit Identity Explored: Leland's discovery and embracement of their Two-Spirit identity, reflecting on its historical significance in Native American cultures and how it informed their personal journey.
• Evolution of Gender & Sexuality Understanding: Bonnie’s early coming-out story in the 1970s, living in a polyamorous relationship, and her transformative path to queerness highlight the evolving acceptance and understanding of diverse identities.
• Community Building: The duo’s extensive work in LGBTQ+ community support, including running a recovery center for gender-affirming surgeries and organizing educational events like the Beyond Gender Conference.
• Chosen Family: Emphasizing the critical role of chosen family in LGBTQ+ lives, providing support, acceptance, and love that might be lacking in biological families.
• Navigating Political Challenges: A candid discussion on the current political climate, its impact on the LGBTQ+ community, and the urgent need for advocacy, education, and unity.

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈 

Leland - Leland, who identifies as Two-Spirit, draws from their Native American heritage, with roots in the Apache and Seminole tribes. They have significantly contributed to the LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit communities through various initiatives, including running a surgical recovery center for transgender and non-binary individuals and organizing the Beyond Gender Conference. Leland transitioned later in life and has connected deeply with their Two-Spirit identity, which emphasizes a balanced blend of masculine and feminine traits.

Bonnie - Bonnie, a dynamic and resilient individual, identifies as queer and has been active in the LGBTQ+ community for decades. She has vast experience in the medical field and has co-organized several LGBTQ+ supportive conferences. Formerly married in a polyamorous relationship, Bonnie has raised a son and ha

🏳️‍🌈Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• Beyond Leather: beyondleather.net
• Beyond Gender Conference: beyondgenderconference.org
• Free Mom Hugs (Sarah Cunningham): Supporting LGBTQ+ community through stand-in weddings and education on acceptance.
• How We Sleep at Night by Sarah Cunningham: A book detailing her journey from being a conservative Baptist to supporting her gay son.
• 
  

🏳️‍🌈If you like the episode, make sure to leave us a review and support The Queer Family Podcast on⁠⁠⁠ Patreon ⁠⁠⁠for as low as $2/month!

🏳️‍🌈We want to hear from you! 

 ⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠IG⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠FB⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠: @thequeerfamilypodcast

🏳️‍🌈Watch Video Episodes right now on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Order the #ITOCT book based on this podcast on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠IndieBound⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Audible⁠⁠⁠.

🏳️‍🌈Edited by Jerson Barajas. Theme song: ⁠⁠⁠Tiffany Topol⁠⁠⁠\ Logo art: Daneen Stevenato.

🏳️‍🌈Buy our merch ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈For a full transcript of this episode and more info about the host visit our ⁠⁠⁠website

Our Sponsors:
* Check out ByHeart and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: byheart.com
* Check out Outdoor Electronics: www.google.com
* Check out Sunbasket: sunbasket.com/QUEERFAM


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ashlyn and Jessica, high school friends turned life partners from Houston, share their journey to parenthood. They discuss the challenges of coming out, choosing a sperm donor, and navigating fertility treatments. They delve into their mixed emotions as Ashlyn induces lactation to bond with their baby amid excitement and heteronormative societal pressures. With honesty and vulnerability, Ashlyn and Jessica offer a heartfelt glimpse into their struggles and triumphs as they prepare to welcome their son, highlighting the intentionality and love that define queer family-building.

🏳️‍🌈Thanks to our sponsor California Cryobank (use code loveislove), and our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

🏳️‍🌈Interested in advertising? Check out our packages ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• High School Friendship to Life Partnership: Ashlyn and Jessica share their unique journey from being best friends in high school to becoming a loving couple.
• Navigating Fertility Challenges: The couple describes their experience with a known sperm donor, their struggles with conception, and the eventual decision to pursue clinical fertility treatments and a sperm bank.
• Emotional Ups and Downs: Insights into the emotional complexities of failed insemination attempts and the impact of familial reactions to their relationship.
• Induced Lactation Journey: Ashlyn’s steps towards inducing lactation to co-breastfeed alongside Jessica, highlighting a deeper level of involvement and bonding as a non-gestational parent.
• Community Support and Resources: The vital role of supportive communities and educational resources like The Queer Family Podcast in their parenthood journey.

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈 Ashlyn and Jessica have navigated the complexities and challenges of queer family building, relying on the generosity of a known sperm donor and later turning to professional fertility services and a sperm bank. Jessica is currently 31 weeks pregnant, and Ashlyn is embarking on an induced lactation journey to co-breastfeed their baby.

🏳️‍🌈Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• California Cryobank: Use promo code "loveislove" for a free level two subscription to their donor catalog.
• 
  

🏳️‍🌈If you like the episode, make sure to leave us a review and support The Queer Family Podcast on⁠⁠⁠ Patreon ⁠⁠⁠for as low as $2/month!

🏳️‍🌈We want to hear from you! 

 ⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠IG⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠FB⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠: @thequeerfamilypodcast

🏳️‍🌈Watch Video Episodes right now on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Order the #ITOCT book based on this podcast on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠IndieBound⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Audible⁠⁠⁠.

🏳️‍🌈Edited by Jerson Barajas. Theme song: ⁠⁠⁠Tiffany Topol⁠⁠⁠\ Logo art: Daneen Stevenato.

🏳️‍🌈Buy our merch ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈For a full transcript of this episode and more info about the host visit our ⁠⁠⁠website

Our Sponsors:
* Check out ByHeart and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: byheart.com
* Check out Outdoor Electronics: www.google.com
* Check out Sunbasket: sunbasket.com/QUEERFAM


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Ali and Megan open up to Jaimie about giving the gift of family to another queer couple through surrogacy. Ali was a recently divorced mother of two when she swiped right for Megan on Tinder. Their connection was instant, and soon, they found themselves blending their lives, navigating co-parenting with Ali's ex, and talking about carrying a baby for another family. Join us as we explore the intricate dynamics of their relationship, the co-parenting experience, the emotional and logistical aspects of surrogacy, and their hopes for the future. This episode offers a heartfelt look into the beauty and challenges of building a family within the LGBTQ+ community.

🏳️‍🌈Thanks to NewGen Families, and our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

🏳️‍🌈Interested in advertising? Check out our packages ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Surrogacy Journey: Ali and Megan share their experience of becoming surrogate parents for another lesbian couple, navigating the emotional highs and logistical challenges with grace and mutual support.
• Agency Selection: The importance of choosing a surrogacy agency that aligns with one's values comes to light, as Ali and Megan discuss their positive experience with NewGen Families.
• Family Dynamic: Insight into the co-parenting dynamics between Ali and Megan, and how they navigated the complexities of integrating their lives.
• Personal Growth: The journey has been transformative not just for the intended parents but for Ali and Megan as well, leading them to deeper personal growth and a stronger family bond.
• Community and Connection: Emphasizing the power of chosen family and community, they discuss their lasting relationship with the intended parents and how the surrogacy experience created extended familial ties.

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈 Ali and Megan are a a blended family based in Wichita, Kansas. Ali came out after a prior marriage, co-parenting her kids amicably with her ex. Megan never envisioned herself as a parent until meeting Ali. Together, they have not only built a loving home with their children but also made the incredible journey of becoming a surrogacy team. Recently, Ali carried a baby for a lesbian couple in California, supported every step of the way by Megan.

🏳️‍🌈Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• New Gen Families - The surrogacy agency Ali and Megan worked with, which strives to ensure supportive, ethical, and empathetic experiences for surrogates and intended parents. Mention the Queer Family Podcast for a $1,000 discount on the surrogacy agency fee!
• 
  

🏳️‍🌈If you like the episode, make sure to leave us a review and support The Queer Family Podcast on⁠⁠⁠ Patreon ⁠⁠⁠for as low as $2/month!

🏳️‍🌈We want to hear from you! Call us: 646-470-1840 ⁠⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠IG⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠FB⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠: @thequeerfamilypodcast

🏳️‍🌈Watch Video Episodes right now on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Order the #ITOCT book based on this podcast on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠IndieBound⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Audible⁠⁠⁠.

🏳️‍🌈Edited by Jerson Barajas. Theme song: ⁠⁠⁠Tiffany Topol⁠⁠⁠\ Logo art: Daneen Stevenato.

🏳️‍🌈Buy our merch ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈For a full transcript of this episode and more info about the host visit our ⁠⁠⁠website

Our Sponsors:
* Check out ByHeart and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: byheart.com
* Check out Outdoor Electronics: www.google.com
* Check out Sunbasket: sunbasket.com/QUEERFAM


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jaimie sits down with Kelly Vincent, author of the YA series "Ugly, Uglier, and Ugliest," to discuss gender identity, representation, and the challenges faced by LGBTQIA individuals. Kelly shares personal experiences of growing up in Oklahoma, the impact of societal gender norms, and the journey to embracing an agender identity. The episode explores the importance of diverse stories in fostering understanding and normalization, with a focus on the current political climate and its effects on the queer community. Also, hear about the remarkable reception Kelly's books have received.

"I felt like I was failing at being a human because it seemed so easy for other people to be comfortable in who they were." Kelly

🏳️‍🌈Check out ByHeart and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: byheart.com, and our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

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🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Kelly Vincent's Journey: Kelly shares their personal experiences with gender confusion and societal pressures in Oklahoma, leading to their self-identification as agender.
• Books on Gender Identity: Kelly's series "Ugly," "Uglier," and "Ugliest" provide a narrative on gender identity through the eyes of a high school teenager, offering both representation and insights.
• Impact of Fiction: Kelly discusses how fiction can be a powerful tool for understanding complex issues like gender identity and fostering empathy.
• Current Political Climate: The conversation touches on the escalating political challenges facing the LGBTQIA community and the need for activism and representation.
• Educational Resource: The novels serve as valuable resources for both
• 
  

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈 Kelly Vincent is an acclaimed author specializing in young adult (YA) fiction. Growing up in Oklahoma, Kelly experienced a lot of gender confusion, which became a central theme in their writing. Their series, centered around the protagonist Nick, includes titles like "Ugly," "Uglier," and the upcoming "Ugliest." Kelly uses their platform to shed light on important social issues, gender identity, and the complexities surrounding them. Their work has gained critical praise, including a starred review from Kirkus Reviews and runner-up placement in SCBWI's Spark Award.

🏳️‍🌈Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• The Art of Being Ugly Series
• Kirkus Reviews:
• SCBWI: Society for Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators
• 
  

🏳️‍🌈If you like the episode, make sure to leave us a review and support The Queer Family Podcast on⁠⁠⁠ Patreon ⁠⁠⁠for as low as $2/month!

🏳️‍🌈We want to hear from you! Call us: 646-470-1840 ⁠⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠IG⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠FB⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠: @thequeerfamilypodcast

🏳️‍🌈Watch Video Episodes right now on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Order the #ITOCT book based on this podcast on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠IndieBound⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Audible⁠⁠⁠.

🏳️‍🌈Edited by Jerson Barajas. Theme song: ⁠⁠⁠Tiffany Topol⁠⁠⁠\ Logo art: Daneen Stevenato.

🏳️‍🌈Buy our merch ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈For a full transcript of this episode and more info about the host visit our ⁠⁠⁠website

Our Sponsors:
* Check out ByHeart and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: byheart.com
* Check out Outdoor Electronics: www.google.com
* Check out Sunbasket: sunbasket.com/QUEERFAM


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jaimie chats with Damien Chambers, a gay dad through surrogacy, a known sperm and embryo donor, and founder of Surrogacy Agency, NewGen Families. They discuss the emotional and legal intricacies of surrogacy, sperm and embryo donation, and the creation of ethical surrogacy journeys. Get insights into Damien's experiences and learn about the importance of trust and support in the surrogacy process. For those on the queer family-building journey, this episode offers valuable perspectives and information.

Tune into the full episode to hear more about Damien Chamber's journey, the intricacies of surrogacy, and tips for navigating the legal and emotional aspects of queer parenthood. Don't forget to stay tuned for more enlightening episodes celebrating and normalizing LGBTQIA families

🏳️‍🌈Check out ByHeart and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: byheart.com, and our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

🏳️‍🌈Interested in advertising? Check out our packages ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Trust and Connection: Establishing a deep trust and connection with your surrogacy agency is crucial for a successful journey. Damien emphasizes the importance of feeling a genuine vibe with the agency representatives.
• Legal and Psychological Preparation: Proper legal and psychological screenings are essential to ensure a smooth surrogacy or sperm donation process, protecting all parties involved, especially the child.
• Ethical Surrogacy: Damien's agency, NewGen Families, is committed to ethical and supportive surrogacy practices, ensuring all legal obligations are clear and adhered to.
• Personal Experience: Drawing from his personal experiences, Damien highlights the emotional nuances and unexpected turns in the journey of becoming a parent through surrogacy and sperm donation.
• Surrogate and Egg Donor Relations: Keeping an open and respectful relationship with surrogates and egg donors can provide a supportive environment and cherished connections for the future child.

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈 Damien Chambers is a gay father via surrogacy, entrepreneur, sperm donor, and embryo donor. He is the founder of NewGen Families, a surrogacy agency dedicated to creating supportive, safe, and ethical surrogacy journeys for future parents irrespective of their race, gender, or sexual orientation. Damien has a profound commitment to helping others achieve their dream of starting a family.

🏳️‍🌈Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• NewGenFamilies.com – Damian Chambers' surrogacy agency offering supportive, safe, and ethical surrogacy journeys.
• Society for Ethics in Egg Donation and Surrogacy (SEEDS): Professional standards organization ensuring ethical practices in surrogacy and egg donation.
• 
  

🏳️‍🌈If you like the episode, make sure to leave us a review and support The Queer Family Podcast on⁠⁠⁠ Patreon ⁠⁠⁠for as low as $2/month!

🏳️‍🌈We want to hear from you! Call us: 646-470-1840 ⁠⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠IG⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠FB⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠: @thequeerfamilypodcast

🏳️‍🌈Watch Video Episodes right now on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Order the #ITOCT book based on this podcast on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠IndieBound⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Audible⁠⁠⁠.

🏳️‍🌈Edited by Jerson Barajas. Theme song: ⁠⁠⁠Tiffany Topol⁠⁠⁠\ Logo art: Daneen Stevenato.

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Tyler, a gay dad of three, shares his transformative journey from a strict Christian upbringing to living his truth as an "ex-hetero." Highlighting his struggle with faith, family, and coming out later in life, Tyler talks about the importance of self-love, parenting shifts, and building a resilient, chosen family. Jaimie and Tyler also delve into combating toxic masculinity and the ongoing political and social challenges facing LGBTQIA+ families. This episode offers an inspiring look at embracing differences, resilience, and authenticity amidst adversity.

Embark on Tyler's journey of self-discovery and transformation, and gain invaluable insights into the power of living authentically. Tune in to this compelling episode and stay connected for more inspiring stories from the Queer Family Podcast.

🏳️‍🌈Check out ByHeart and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: byheart.com, and our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

🏳️‍🌈Interested in advertising? Check out our packages ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Personal Transformation: Tyler shares his journey from a conservative, religious upbringing to embracing his identity as a gay man.
• Parenting Evolution: Insights into how Tyler's parenting style changed dramatically after leaving the church and coming out.
• Cultural and Societal Challenges: The impact of George Floyd’s death and societal stereotyping on Tyler’s decision to leave conservative ideologies behind.
• Importance of Chosen Family: Highlighting the significance of supportive friends and allies in the LGBTQIA community.
• Navigating Social Pressures: Strategies for dealing with family and community resistance while raising children with open-minded values.

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈 Tyler: Tyler, a gay dad of three from rural North Carolina, navigated a life deeply entrenched in conservative Christian values. After years of internal struggle and external conformity, Tyler left his heterosexual marriage, came out as gay, renounced religious affiliations, and transformed his parenting style. Now, he embraces a life filled with authenticity, therapy, and a supportive chosen family.

Jaimie: Jamie is the vibrant host of The Queer Family Podcast. Passionate about highlighting, celebrating, uplifting, and normalizing LGBTQIA families, Jamie's engaging style and personal insights make her a relatable and effective advocate for the community.

🏳️‍🌈Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• Podcasts mentioned:
• "Extremely American" (Podcast about Christ Church in Idaho)
• "Slow Burn" (Season covering the civil rights movement and Harvey Milk)

🏳️‍🌈If you like the episode, make sure to leave us a review and support The Queer Family Podcast on⁠⁠⁠ Patreon ⁠⁠⁠for as low as $2/month!

🏳️‍🌈We want to hear from you! Call us: 646-470-1840 ⁠⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠IG⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠FB⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠: @thequeerfamilypodcast

🏳️‍🌈Watch Video Episodes right now on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Order the #ITOCT book based on this podcast on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠IndieBound⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Audible⁠⁠⁠.

🏳️‍🌈Edited by Jerson Barajas. Theme song: ⁠⁠⁠Tiffany Topol⁠⁠⁠\ Logo art: Daneen Stevenato.

🏳️‍🌈Buy our merch ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈For a full transcript of this episode and more info about the host visit our ⁠⁠⁠website

Our Sponsors:
* Check out ByHeart and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: byheart.com
* Check out Outdoor Electronics: www.google.com
* Check out Sunbasket: sunbasket.com/QUEERFAM


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jaimie is still on a short break with her family, but we thought you’d enjoy a hilarious interview with ally extraordinaire Michelle Buteau from 2019! Michelle Buteau talks about her six-year journey to parenthood. From a brain tumor to IUI to IVF to surrogacy to the work she did with Andy Cohen to legalize surrogacy in New York State. This episode originally aired when the podcast, co-hosted & co-founded by Robin Hopkins, was known as "If These Ovaries Could Talk." Enjoy this special throwback! 🏳️‍🌈If you like the episode, make sure to leave us a review and support The Queer Family Podcast on⁠⁠⁠ Patreon ⁠⁠⁠for as low as $2/month!

🏳️‍🌈Check out ByHeart and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: byheart.com.

🏳️‍🌈 Thanks to our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

🏳️‍🌈Listen to Robin Hopkins' new podcast: Well Adjusting...

🏳️‍🌈We want to hear from you! ⁠⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠IG⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠FB⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠: @thequeerfamilypodcast

🏳️‍🌈Watch Video Episodes right now on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Order the #ITOCT book based on this podcast on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠IndieBound⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Audible⁠⁠⁠.

🏳️‍🌈Edited by Jerson Barajas. Theme song: ⁠⁠⁠Tiffany Topol⁠⁠⁠\ Logo art: Daneen Stevenato.

🏳️‍🌈Buy our merch ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈For a full transcript of this episode and more info about the host visit our ⁠⁠⁠website

🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• The hosts express their nervousness about the release of their upcoming book and the audio book version.
• Michelle Buteau shares her personal journey of meeting her husband through a one-night stand, dealing with a benign brain tumor, and going through fertility treatments to have twins via surrogacy.
• The hosts discuss the challenges and misconceptions faced by LGBTQ+ individuals when it comes to starting a family.
• They highlight the importance of support and education in breaking down barriers and creating a more inclusive society. Fertility struggles can be emotionally and physically challenging, and it's important to have support and understanding from loved ones.
• Misconceptions and lack of education about non-traditional family structures can lead to uncomfortable and insensitive questions and comments.
• Advocacy and education are crucial in changing the landscape of fertility clinics and ensuring inclusivity for all individuals and couples.
• Surrogacy can be a viable option for building a family, but it requires careful consideration and finding the right agency and surrogate.
• Legislation and advocacy efforts can make a significant impact in improving access to surrogacy and reproductive rights for all individuals.

🏳️‍🌈We want to hear from you! 🏳️‍🌈

• Call us and leave a voicemail or text: 646-470-1840
• Email: [email protected] IG/Twitter/FB/TikTok/YouTube: @thequeerfamilypodcast
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• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNhon0J_IfFovDUAzS9v2WQ

🏳️‍🌈Order the #ITOCT book Amazon, IndieBound, Audible🏳️‍🌈

https://amzn.to/3F9qRUc

🏳️‍🌈Buy our merch here🏳️‍🌈

https://bit.ly/TQFPmerchandise

🏳️‍🌈Edited by Jerson Barajas. Theme song: Tiffany Topol\ Logo art: Daneen Stevenato🏳️‍🌈

🎙️ Episode Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Book Release Nervousness

07:41 Michelle Buteau's Fertility Struggles

17: 21 Challenges Faced by LGBTQ+ Individuals in Healthcare

26:08 Promoting Education and Love for Inclusivity

29:25 Fertility Insight from Home

29:30 The Emotional Toll of Fertility

30:51 The Journey of IVF and Miscarriages

32:43 Embryos Banked and the Surrogacy Option

43:44 Advocacy and Lobbying for Surrogacy Rights

52:08 Resilience, Perseverance, and the Power of Love

Our Sponsors:
* Check out ByHeart and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: byheart.com
* Check out Outdoor Electronics: www.google.com
* Check out Sunbasket: sunbasket.com/QUEERFAM


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Jaimie’s still on a short break with her family, but we thought you’d enjoy Sarah Kate Ellis’s hilarious interview from 2019! Sarah Kate Ellis, CEO of GLAAD and Kristen Henderson, from Antigone Rising join us to talk about having a baby at the exact same time, why representation in media matters and that time Kristen's water broke. This episode originally aired when the podcast, co-hosted & co-founded by Robin Hopkins, was known as "If These Ovaries Could Talk." Enjoy this special throwback! 🏳️‍🌈If you like the episode, make sure to leave us a review and support The Queer Family Podcast on⁠⁠⁠ Patreon ⁠⁠⁠for as low as $2/month!

🏳️‍🌈Check out ByHeart and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: byheart.com.

🏳️‍🌈 Thanks to our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

🏳️‍🌈Listen to Robin Hopkins' new podcast: Well Adjusting...

🏳️‍🌈We want to hear from you! ⁠⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠IG⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠FB⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠/⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠: @thequeerfamilypodcast

🏳️‍🌈Watch Video Episodes right now on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ and on ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈Order the #ITOCT book based on this podcast on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠IndieBound⁠⁠⁠, ⁠⁠⁠Audible⁠⁠⁠.

🏳️‍🌈Edited by Jerson Barajas. Theme song: ⁠⁠⁠Tiffany Topol⁠⁠⁠\ Logo art: Daneen Stevenato.

🏳️‍🌈Buy our merch ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠

🏳️‍🌈For a full transcript of this episode and more info about the host visit our ⁠⁠⁠website

Our Sponsors:
* Check out ByHeart and use my code QUEERFAM for a great deal: byheart.com
* Check out Outdoor Electronics: www.google.com
* Check out Sunbasket: sunbasket.com/QUEERFAM


Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy