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Fathernetics

Jameel Mayers

Fathernetics | Dad Hero Stories

Real stories from the men who chose fatherhood and everything it took to get there.

From adoption and fostering to IVF and surrogacy, Fathernetics explores the journeys behind modern dads, who they were before, what they faced, and who they became along the way. Centered on LGBTQ+ men, with occasional perspectives from women reflecting on their own fathers, these are honest, unfiltered conversations about identity, resilience, relationships, and the realities of building a family.

Because becoming a dad isn’t simple and it’s never one-size-fits-all.

🎙️ Hosted by Jameel Mayers
📲 YouTube & Instagram: @fathernetics
📢 New episodes every Thursday

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  • 22 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 57 min
  • English

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Episodes 22

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  • S3 · E143
    Thursday · 1 hr 2 min

    S03:E13 - Lindsey Strickland | What Do You Really Know about Surrogacy?

    Think surrogacy is just a fancy way to skip the line? Think again! Today, we're diving into real-life stories of LGBTQ surrogates, unexpected family ties, and the magic moments that make this journey so uniquely human and humanizing. In this episode: The inspiring story of Lindsay, a surrogate with a heart as big as her city of North Carolina How LGBTQ families redefine heroism and parenthood by choice, not chance The importance of agency, support, and honesty in surrogacy journeys Behind-the-scenes of a birth involving intended parents, surrogates, and emotional choreography How open communication creates a family in and out of hospital walls The role of agencies that treat surrogates like humans, not checkboxes Kids’ hilarious (and adorable) take on how families are "baked" Surrogacy as a tool for education, acceptance, and community building Resources & Links: Surrogacy Is Agency | A supporter of inclusivity and surrogates’ well-being Amazon - Surrogacy and Family Building Books Connect with Lindsay: Instagram - L Strickland 1026 TikTok - NCMama and Surrogate Closing thoughts: Surrogacy isn’t just about creating a family, it’s about rewriting what family looks like more love, more diversity, and more stories that inspire smile-inducing, tear-jerking, "Wow, that’s real life" moments. Buckle up, and let’s celebrate the human side of making families one extraordinary journey at a time.

  • S3 · E142
    September 17 · 55 min

    S03:E12 - Lance Souter | Is there a Formula to the Father Figure?

    Fatherhood doesn’t come with a blueprint, but it does come with opportunities to grow. This week on Fathernetics, Friend of the Show Lance Souter (LGBTQ+ Ally) joins me for a conversation about becoming a better parent through accountability, communication, and intentional living. We talk about navigating family illness, setting goals that actually matter, challenging toxic masculinity, building stronger support systems for dads, and why the smallest moments with our kids often become the biggest memories. If you’re a queer dad, intended parent, or simply someone striving to raise great humans, this episode is for you. What resonated with you most? Share your thoughts in the comments. I read every one. Whether you’re new here or you’ve been part of the Fathernetics family from the beginning, thank you for being here. Subscribe for more conversations with queer dads, intended parents, and experts helping us build stronger families. This is Fathernetics. Let’s get into it. Guest links: Website: https://fatherfigureformula.com Instagram: @fatherfiguerformula #fathernetics #Fatherhood #LGBTQParenting #GayDads #ParentingPodcast

  • S3 · E141
    September 10 · 58 min

    S03:E11 - Chris & Robbie | What's Up With the Cordovas?

    What happens when a Britney Spears superfan, Pride celebrations, and the emotional journey to parenthood all collide? In this episode of Fathernetics, Jameel Mayers sits down with Chris and Robbie to talk about building a family through surrogacy, celebrating Pride as parents, and finding joy in the unexpected moments along the way. Their story moves from unforgettable pop culture memories to the realities of fertility treatment, financial planning, and raising a daughter in today’s world. Whether you’re exploring surrogacy, already parenting, or simply looking for an honest conversation about LGBTQ family life, this episode is full of laughter, practical insight, and encouragement. In this episode Their unforgettable Britney Spears concert story and the fan moment they’ll never forget The debate over which anniversary actually counts How Pride celebrations changed after becoming parents Why representation matters for LGBTQ families The emotional and financial realities of surrogacy IVF transfers, setbacks, and staying hopeful Parenting fears, school acceptance, and preparing for the future Building a family through patience, community, and resilience Why love, consistency, and yes… snacks, solve more problems than you’d think Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:20 Britney Spears concert memories 02:28 Proposal plans in Las Vegas 03:52 Anniversary debates and family traditions 10:52 Pride before and after becoming parents 26:34 Why LGBTQ representation matters 36:43 The surrogacy journey begins 47:58 Parenting fears and navigating acceptance 51:01 Dreams for their daughter’s future 51:52 The parenting essentials: love, patience, and snacks Connect with our Friends of the Show Chris & Robbie - @keepingupwiththecordovas If you’re considering surrogacy, IVF, adoption, or simply want to hear authentic stories from queer parents building their families, subscribe to Fathernetics for new conversations every week.

  • S3 · E140
    September 3 · 34 min

    S03:10 - Tosha Field | Surrogacy, Support, and Sisterhood.

    Ever wonder what it's like to carry hope—literally—for a family in need? Tasha Field breaks down the ins and outs of surrogacy from her unique perspective as a two-time surrogate and advocate for LGBTQ families. Grab a cup of tea—this episode is full of heart, science, and some seriously funny stories. Main Insights: Tasha’s journey started at age 16 and evolved into helping others build families How she explains surrogacy to her young children (spoiler: honest and adorable) The importance of transparent communication within families about surrogacy The role of men in surrogacy—like her husband’s evolving support Navigating legal, emotional, and physical hurdles in the US and abroad Supporting other surrogates with community and fashion (yes, fashion) The mental health support systems that should come with surrogacy journeys How surrogacy’s public perception is changing (or not) across borders Resources & Links: Surrogacy is — Support Organization & Community Book: The Business of Surrogacy by Susan K. Marshall Tasha Field on Instagram Supporting Surrogates: Saroswag Clothing Line Connect with Tasha: Instagram Email/Message through surrogacy.is

  • S3 · E139
    August 27 · 1 hr 2 min

    S03:09 - Dr. Adam Anthony | Once Adopted, Always Connected

    In this heartfelt interview, ally and friend of the show, Dr. Adam Anthony, shares his journey as a black adoptee, the importance of transparency in adoption, and how his experiences shape his advocacy for supporting young men of color and adoptive families. Discover insights on navigating identity, family connections, and fostering understanding in the Black community. resources Empowerment by Dr Adam - https://www.empowermentbydrad.com Yes We Adopt (Stacey Gatlin) - https://www.yestweadopt.org Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/empowermentby_dradam Adoption and foster care experiences Identity and connection for adoptees Support systems for young men of color in foster care

  • S3 · E138
    August 20 · 1 hr 4 min

    S3:E08 - Jamayne & Chris | HBCU, Houston, and Louisiana Dads..

    Ever wondered what it’s like to be an LGBTQ+ couple navigating the wild world of adoption, parenting, and good old southern hospitality? Well, buckle up because this episode is packed with honesty, humor, and heartwarming insights straight from parents who’ve done it all from adopting multiple kids to cooking, traveling, and dreaming of Coachella.In this episode: The joys and challenges of adopting multiple children quickly and unexpectedly How they navigate connection with birth families and keeping the community close The role of culture, food, and family traditions in shaping their everyday lives Their thoughts on race, identity, and advocating for kids in a changing world Honest fears about the future and excitement for what’s yet to come Let's celebrate diverse families, authentic stories, and the power of love, one chapter at a time!

  • S3 · E137
    August 13 · 51 min

    S3:E07 - @DadsTimeTwo | Webby Nominated LGBTQ+ Dad Juggernaut

    Dom came through and brought it the whole time.. Thank you, Dom! We’re talking surrogacy from the inside, what people don’t tell you, how a destination wedding sounds cute until you’re actually planning it, and what parenting really looks like day to day as a gay dad. It’s the kind of convo that feels like you’re sitting across from someone who’s already been through it and isn’t sugarcoating anything. We also get into why being visible matters. Not in a performative way, but in a “somebody out there needs to see this” kind of way. Social media, family building, patience, all of it shows up here. Watch and listen on YouTube @fathernetics Friend of the Show: @dadstimestwo #fathernetics #lgbtqdads #surrogacy #gaydadlife #fatherhood

  • S3 · E136
    August 6 · 1 hr 3 min

    S3:E06 - Dr. Ken Kemp | LGBTQ+ and being Black in America.

    Buckle up, folks. Today’s episode is a powerful mix of heartfelt honesty, mental health truths, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it really means to be an LGBTQ parent in the modern world. Spoiler: It’s not all unicorns and rainbows, well, actually, sometimes it is and that’s the point. In this episode: The importance of mental health support for Black boys and how society tends to overlook it How conversations about feelings and emotions can reshape cultural norms for Black men and boys The impact of being a dad and husband on Dr. Ken’s journey towards vulnerability and authentic parenting The nuances of coming out in a world that’s still figuring itself out Building community intentionally, because friendship isn’t just "hanging out" The reality of sports, scholarships, and the hustle mentality in youth athletics The real story behind cheerleading competitions and the heavy investments behind the scenes Insights into leadership, advocacy, and balancing a career in education, mental health, and politics as a Black LGBTQ dad And remember: Representation isn’t just about visibility; it’s about showing up authentically, supporting each other, and breaking down barriers, one heartfelt conversation at a time.

  • S3 · E135
    July 30 · 1 hr 1 min

    S3:E05 -- Stef Vachon | Stef Vachon on Bullying, Therapy, the Gay Games, and Becoming Your True Self

    What happens when you stop living for survival and finally start living as yourself? Friend of the Show Stef Vachon joins Fathernetics to talk about bullying, homophobia, therapy, figure skating, the Gay Games, and the long road to self acceptance. We also get into love, fostering, adoption, and what it means to build a family while staying grounded in who you are. This one is honest, reflective, and full of perspective for anyone navigating identity, healing, or parenthood. Watch and listen now on YouTube. Friend of the Show: Stef Vachon IG: @stefvachon YouTube: @fathernetics

  • S3 · E134
    July 23 · 1 hr 2 min

    S3:E04 - Adrian & Shane Potter | How Gay Dads Raise Strong, Independent Kids Today

    This episode of Fathernetics explores LGBTQ parenting through adoption, fostering, and raising teens in today’s world. Adrian and Shane Potter share their journey into fatherhood, including the emotional realities of fostering and how it shaped their parenting approach. They discuss traveling with kids, emphasizing the need for slower pacing and meaningful moments, along with how trying new experiences builds stronger family bonds. The conversation highlights intentional parenting, open communication, and helping kids think critically—especially as social media begins to influence identity and behavior. As their children grow more independent, they reflect on balancing guidance with freedom while staying connected through everyday “awe moments.” This episode offers a real, grounded look at modern fatherhood from an LGBTQ perspective. #fathernetics #lgbtqdads #adoptionjourney #intentionalparenting #modernfatherhood

  • S3 · E133
    July 16 · 47 min

    S3:E03 - Rita Soronen (CEO) - Dave Thomas Foundation For Adoption.

    What happens to kids who never get adopted? In this episode of Fathernetics, Rita Soronen, president and CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, breaks down the real state of foster care in the U.S. This conversation goes beyond headlines—into what aging out actually means, why older children are often overlooked, and how programs like Wendy’s Wonderful Kids are changing outcomes. We talk about the legacy of Dave Thomas, the responsibility communities carry, and what prospective parents—especially LGBTQ+ dads—should know before stepping into foster care or adoption. This is not about politics. It’s about people, kids, and what it takes to show up for them in a complicated world. If you’ve ever thought about fostering, adopting, or just want to understand the system better, this one matters. Follow and subscribe to hear more real stories from modern dads navigating adoption, surrogacy, and fatherhood. #fathernetics #fostercare #adoptionjourney #lgbtqdads #adoptionawareness

  • S3 · E132
    July 9 · 53 min

    S3:E02 - Eric Calvario - Drag Race SuperStar and Father Extraordinaire

    RuPaul’s Drag Race, Gay Fatherhood, Surrogacy, and LGBTQ+ Representation with Eric Calvario. Eric shares his RuPaul’s Drag Race journey, gay fatherhood, surrogacy, LGBTQ+ representation, and how drag strengthened his family and confidence. Episode Summary What happens when a shy dad says yes to a casting call that changes everything? Eric joins Fathernetics to share the incredible story of appearing on RuPaul’s Drag Race and how the experience reshaped his confidence, his identity, and his role as a father. From marathon makeup sessions and national television to raising children with his husband Cliff, Eric opens up about balancing performance with parenthood and why authentic LGBTQ+ representation matters now more than ever. The conversation also explores the realities of building a family through surrogacy, the financial and emotional challenges many queer parents face, and the importance of organizations that help make parenthood possible. Along the way, Eric reflects on finding community with other gay dads, challenging stereotypes, and creating a world where children grow up seeing diverse families celebrated. Whether you’re exploring surrogacy, already raising a family, or simply looking for an inspiring story about courage, authenticity, and queer parenthood, this episode offers an honest look at what it means to show up fully as yourself. In This Episode Eric shares how a spontaneous casting opportunity led to RuPaul’s Drag Race. Behind the scenes of the 14-hour drag transformation process. Overcoming imposter syndrome while performing on a global stage. How drag became another way to connect with his children. Building a family through surrogacy with his husband Cliff. The financial realities of LGBTQ+ family building. The role of organizations like Gays with Kids and Men Having Babies. Why visibility and representation matter for LGBTQ+ families. Finding community among queer dads from every path to parenthood. Raising children with confidence, compassion, and authenticity. Resources Gays with Kids Men Having Babies Eric Chronicles (Instagram ↓) Connect with Eric Instagram: @ericchronicles Chapters 00:00 – Meet Eric, the gay dad who landed on RuPaul’s Drag Race 00:39 – From Instagram to reality TV 01:57 – Why Pride Month and Father’s Day intersect for Eric 02:32 – Life as a shy, proud gay dad 04:25 – The casting process behind the show 06:17 – 14 hours of makeup and transformation 07:16 – Facing imposter syndrome on set 09:02 – An emotional moment with RuPaul 11:18 – Why representation changes lives 12:15 – Parenting in a diverse community 16:27 – The work behind professional drag 17:47 – Learning the art of drag makeup 21:01 – Stepping onto a global stage 23:07 – Meeting the queens 24:56 – Introversion in an extroverted world 27:35 – Performing with Salina EsTitties 30:26 – How the experience changed Eric as a dad 32:15 – Building a family through surrogacy 35:28 – The real cost of becoming parents 37:48 – Adoption, fostering, and surrogacy compared 42:24 – Protecting kids while embracing visibility 43:18 – Parenting through today’s challenges 44:10 – Intentional parenting and community 45:40 – Finding connection with fellow gay dads 47:45 – Why sharing our stories matters 51:17 – Where to follow Eric

  • S3 · E131
    July 2 · 1 hr 27 min

    S3:E01 - Ronaldo Dwight | Black Fatherhood Evolved...

    Season 3 of the Fathernetics podcast opens with an honest, layered conversation on what it really means to be an LGBTQ dad today. Ronaldo Dwight joins the show to talk about identity before and after fatherhood, intentional friendships, therapy, marriage, and the quiet shift that happens when you realize your life is no longer just yours. From protecting your children’s energy to protecting your own, this episode is about growth, boundaries, and choosing community on purpose. Ronaldo shares the full surrogacy journey, including the financial strain, the emotional weight, and the heartbreak of losing a child before welcoming their second daughter. The conversation moves through Men Having Babies conferences, parenting agreements, and the truth that once the child is here, no one questions how they arrived. It is real, vulnerable, and grounded in the kind of perspective only lived experience brings. This episode centers LGBTQ parenting, representation, emotional health, and raising daughters in a world that still misunderstands gay fathers. It is about listening more than lecturing, apologizing when needed, and asking for help when pride says not to. Season 3 starts with depth, humor, and clarity. @rondwight & @2dads2ladies

  • S3 · E130
    June 25 · 26 min

    S3:E00 - Gay Dads Do It Better | Jameel Mayers - Intro Episode

    Season 3 of Fathernetics kicks off a little differently. This time, it’s just me, interview style. Answering the questions people actually ask and what it’s like building a space for LGBTQ+ dads. No big debate. Just an honest check-in about how far this thing has come. The growth has been real. More listeners. More messages. More dads saying, “I needed this," and that only happens because of the incredible Friends of the Show who’ve trusted this mic with their stories and because you keep showing up. Season 3 is grounded. If you’ve been here from the beginning, I appreciate you. If you’re just finding us, welcome in. You’re right on time. YouTube: youtube.com/@fathernetics Instagram: @Fathernetics Substack: www.substack.com/fathernetics #fathernetics #lgbtqdads #fatherhoodpodcast #modernfamily #gaydadlife

  • S2 · E129
    June 18 · 54 min

    S2:E29 - Esteban Mayers - Panama War Zone and the Father Who Raised Me

    This Father’s Day special episode of the Fathernetics podcast brings together Jameel Mayers and his father, Esteban, for an honest conversation about fatherhood across cultures and generations. They reflect on parenting values shaped in Panama and the United States, the challenges of immigration, and how education, discipline, and community play a role in raising grounded kids. The discussion weaves in historical context, including the long-term impact of Operation Just Cause, and how major events influence family dynamics and parenting choices. At its core, this episode centers on presence, responsibility, and the legacy fathers pass down, offering a thoughtful look at what it means to show up as a parent, then and now.

  • S2 · E128
    June 11 · 39 min

    S2:E28 - Gaytriarch | Serious Comedy with Gavin and David

    In this episode of the Gaytriarchs Podcast, hosts David and Gavin explore what it means to raise children in a politically charged climate as gay fathers. Blending humor with honest reflection, they unpack how modern parents can address politics, global instability, and social tension while protecting their children’s emotional well-being. The episode opens with relatable banter about New England winter weather, using snow and icy sidewalks as a metaphor for how quickly something beautiful can turn complicated. A story about a slippery sidewalk accident becomes a reminder that everyday parenting moments often hold unexpected lessons. This conversational start sets the tone for deeper discussions about resilience, adaptability, and perspective in family life. This episode speaks directly to parents searching for guidance on raising children in uncertain political times. Key themes include: • How to talk to kids about politics • Parenting during political division • Raising emotionally secure children • Gay dads and family communication • Teaching kindness and civic awareness At its core, this conversation reminds listeners that while the political climate may shift, strong family values, open dialogue, and humor remain steady anchors. Parenting today requires intention, empathy, and courage—but it also leaves room for laughter along the way.

  • S2 · E127
    June 4 · 1 hr 1 min

    S2:E27 - Cody Dolly | We Swiped Right on a Surrogate and Built a Family

    Friend of the Show Cody Dolly sits down to talk about surrogacy, LGBTQ family planning, and what it really takes to build a family with intention. From triathlons and travel to budgeting for surrogacy and finding the right match, this conversation breaks down the real life process behind becoming gay dads. If you are exploring surrogacy, parenting as an LGBTQ couple, or just want honest talk about modern fatherhood, this one is for you. Watch on YouTube at youtube.com/@fathernetics IG: @codykdolly Listen wherever you stream podcasts #fathernetics #lgbtqdads #gayparenting #surrogacyjourney #modernfatherhood

  • S2 · E126
    May 28 · 55 min

    S2:E26 - Drummond | You Need More Positive Talks in Your Life

    What happens when two men decide that positivity is not soft, it is strategy? In this episode of the Fathernetics podcast, Kiki with Friend of the Show Drummond (IG: @drummondculture)to unpack the origin of Positive Talks and why intentional spaces matter more than ever. We get into content creation, real networking versus surface connections, and how building community takes purpose. We also go deeper with crazy talk around generational trauma, family dynamics, and how our upbringing shows up in our parenting. Drummond shares how self discovery and healing changed how he navigates relationships, leadership, and fatherhood. Watch on YouTube | Listen on all podcast platforms Chapters 00:00 The Birth of Positive Talks 05:47 Navigating Content Creation and Networking 11:53 Building Intentional Networking Spaces 17:39 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Healing 27:39 Generational Trauma and Its Impact 39:27 Family Dynamics and Personal Growth #fathernetics #lgbtqdads #fatherhoodjourney #personalgrowth #positivetalks

  • S2 · E125
    May 21 · 1 hr 11 min

    S2:E25 - Leo Massey | Jewish Therapist for the LGBTQ+ Community (Prescribed)

    In this episode, we sit down with therapist and Friend of the Show Leo Massey (@lmsw_leo) to talk about normalizing therapy, breaking down misconceptions around CBT and DBT, and why representation in mental health matters — especially for LGBTQ+ families. We also get into parenting, coping skills, neurodivergence, ADHD, and how understanding support systems can change lives. This conversation is honest, grounding, and deeply relatable. Follow Leo on Instagram: @lmsw_leo Follow the show on Instagram: @fathernetics Watch and subscribe on YouTube for more real conversations about modern fatherhood, mental health, and family. #fathernetics #mentalhealth #therapy #LGBTQparents #CBT #DBT

  • S2 · E124
    May 14 · 1 hr 5 min

    S2:E24 - August Black | Mr. Black talks about being an intentional Trans-Dad

    What does fatherhood look like when your journey doesn’t follow the script? In this Fathernetics episode, August Black shares his experience as a transgender dad navigating masculinity, identity, and raising a daughter with intention. We talk about coming out more than once, balancing strength and softness, working in the gaming voiceover world, and what it really means to show up as a parent. This is an honest conversation about modern fatherhood, trans parenting, and LGBTQ+ family life. IG: @augustsinsta Watch on YouTube and listen wherever you get your podcasts. #fathernetics #lgbtqdads #transparents #modernfatherhood #queerfamilies

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