The Queer Family Podcast

Jaimie kelton
The Queer Family Podcast

The show all about family; but with gay! Queer mom, Jaimie Kelton, humorously goes in-depth with weekly LGBTQIA+ guests about their families; how they made them, and how they show up in a world that wasn't necessarily designed for them. The mission is to normalize, elevate and celebrate, while confirming that we're just like other parents, trying not to yell at our kids when they still haven't put their shoes on and we're 25 minutes late for school. The end result is a compelling podcast that amusingly explores the age-old question: what's it like to live as an LGBTQ family in a world built for the straights?

  1. LGBTQ Fertility Options: Exploring California Cryobank

    4 DAYS AGO

    LGBTQ Fertility Options: Exploring California Cryobank

    In the third episode of the series, Nicole and Shannon Want a Baby, or Do They?, Jaimie, Nicole, and Shannon dive into the world of donor conception with Sydney Sharon, an expert from California Cryobank. With 45 years of experience in the fertility industry, California Cryobank is known for its strong support of LGBTQIA+ families. Sydney discusses the advantages of using a large sperm bank, including their extensive donor catalog, stringent screening processes, and comprehensive support services. The episode covers critical topics like the psychological and medical screening of donors, ethical considerations when choosing a sperm bank, and the services that help simplify the donor conception journey—from preconception to post-conception. Join us as Nicole and Shannon continue exploring the many paths to growing their family with expert guidance. 🏳️‍🌈Thanks to our sponsor California Cryobank (use code loveislove), and our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters. 🏳️‍🌈Interested in advertising? Check out our packages ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠ 🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈  Comprehensive Support: California Cryobank offers extensive support services throughout the donor conception journey, including preconception consultation, sibling registries, and post-conception services.Stringent Screening Processes: The sperm bank ensures donors undergo rigorous psychological and medical screenings to provide the highest quality donor profiles.Inclusive Services: They offer unique benefits like second-parent adoption letters and free vial transfer options, specifically catering to LGBTQIA families.Financial Planning: With several financial support options, including financing and storage plans, California Cryobank helps make the donor conception process more accessible.Community Building: The sibling registry and other communit 🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈  Sydney Sharon is the Social Media Influencer Manager at California Cryobank, the leading sperm bank in the United States. Sydney is not only a professional in the field but also a proud mother of three donor-conceived children thanks to California Cryobank. With a deep personal and professional investment in the world of donor conception, Sydney offers unique insights and comprehensive support for families navigating their fertility journeys.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:  California Cryobank: cryobank.com (Use code "loveislove" for free level two subscription)Follow The Queer Family Podcast on Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes content. 🏳️‍🌈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 ⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠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 i

    59 min
  2. LGBTQIA Adoption: How to Afford $50K in Costs

    SEP 23

    LGBTQIA Adoption: How to Afford $50K in Costs

    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 FacebookBecky 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 ⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠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: ⁠⁠⁠Tiffa

    49 min
  3. Nicole And Shannon Want a Baby, Or Do They?

    SEP 16

    Nicole And Shannon Want a Baby, Or Do They?

    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 ⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠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 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    45 min
  4. Two-Spirit, Polyamory, BDSM, and Beyond: Building LGBTQIA+ Family & Community

    SEP 9

    Two-Spirit, Polyamory, BDSM, and Beyond: Building LGBTQIA+ Family & Community

    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. 🏳️‍🌈Interested in advertising? Check out our packages ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠ 🏳️‍🌈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.netBeyond Gender Conference: beyondgenderconference.orgFree 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 ⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠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. 🏳️

    58 min
  5. From High School Besties To Queer Mamas

    SEP 2

    From High School Besties To Queer Mamas

    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 ⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠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 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    53 min
  6. A Tale of Love, Kids, and Surrogacy

    AUG 26

    A Tale of Love, Kids, and Surrogacy

    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 ⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠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 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    54 min
  7. Exploring Gender Identity and Representation with Author Kelly Vincent

    AUG 19

    Exploring Gender Identity and Representation with Author Kelly Vincent

    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. 🏳️‍🌈Interested in advertising? Check out our packages ⁠⁠⁠here.⁠⁠⁠ 🏳️‍🌈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 ⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠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

    48 min
  8. Surrogacy, Sperm Donation, and Raising a Rainbow Family

    AUG 12

    Surrogacy, Sperm Donation, and Raising a Rainbow Family

    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 ⁠⁠thequeerfamilypodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠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 Advertising Inquiries: https

    53 min
4.7
out of 5
330 Ratings

About

The show all about family; but with gay! Queer mom, Jaimie Kelton, humorously goes in-depth with weekly LGBTQIA+ guests about their families; how they made them, and how they show up in a world that wasn't necessarily designed for them. The mission is to normalize, elevate and celebrate, while confirming that we're just like other parents, trying not to yell at our kids when they still haven't put their shoes on and we're 25 minutes late for school. The end result is a compelling podcast that amusingly explores the age-old question: what's it like to live as an LGBTQ family in a world built for the straights?

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