Fathernetics

Jameel Mayers
  • 5.0 (23)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Weekly

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

  1. 6d ago

    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 forgetThe debate over which anniversary actually countsHow Pride celebrations changed after becoming parentsWhy representation matters for LGBTQ familiesThe emotional and financial realities of surrogacyIVF transfers, setbacks, and staying hopefulParenting fears, school acceptance, and preparing for the futureBuilding a family through patience, community, and resilienceWhy love, consistency, and yes… snacks, solve more problems than you’d think Timestamps00:00 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.

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

  2. Sep 3 ·  Video

    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 familiesHow she explains surrogacy to her young children (spoiler: honest and adorable)The importance of transparent communication within families about surrogacyThe role of men in surrogacy—like her husband’s evolving supportNavigating legal, emotional, and physical hurdles in the US and abroadSupporting other surrogates with community and fashion (yes, fashion)The mental health support systems that should come with surrogacy journeysHow surrogacy’s public perception is changing (or not) across borders Resources & Links: Surrogacy is — Support Organization & CommunityBook: The Business of Surrogacy by Susan K. MarshallTasha Field on InstagramSupporting Surrogates: Saroswag Clothing Line Connect with Tasha: InstagramEmail/Message through surrogacy.is

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

  3. Aug 27 ·  Video

    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 experiencesIdentity and connection for adopteesSupport systems for young men of color in foster care

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

  4. Aug 20 ·  Video

    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 unexpectedlyHow they navigate connection with birth families and keeping the community closeThe role of culture, food, and family traditions in shaping their everyday livesTheir thoughts on race, identity, and advocating for kids in a changing worldHonest 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:E08 - Jamayne & Chris | HBCU, Houston, and Louisiana Dads..

  5. Aug 13 ·  Video

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

  6. Aug 6 ·  Video

    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 itHow conversations about feelings and emotions can reshape cultural norms for Black men and boysThe impact of being a dad and husband on Dr. Ken’s journey towards vulnerability and authentic parentingThe nuances of coming out in a world that’s still figuring itself outBuilding community intentionally, because friendship isn’t just "hanging out"The reality of sports, scholarships, and the hustle mentality in youth athleticsThe real story behind cheerleading competitions and the heavy investments behind the scenesInsights 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:E06 - Dr. Ken Kemp | LGBTQ+ and being Black in America.

  7. Jul 30

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

  8. Jul 23

    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:E04 - Adrian & Shane Potter | How Gay Dads Raise Strong, Independent Kids Today
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5
out of 5
23 Ratings

About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Jameel Mayers
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    68
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Jameel Mayers
  • Show Website
    Fathernetics