Megan and Greyson join Jaimie to talk about their journey to parenthood. They discuss using a known donor, at-home insemination with a Frida Fertility kit, and navigating family planning as an LGBTQIA couple in Florida’s challenging political climate. Megan highlights disability representation in parenting, while Grayson shares stories of his transition and military service, offering a powerful narrative of love, resilience, and identity.

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

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🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Megan and Greyson are embarking on a new journey as expectant parents while tackling unique challenges posed by their backgrounds, including transgender identity and cerebral palsy.
• Their story highlights the intricacies of family planning for LGBTQIA families, including the use of known donors and personal insemination kits like Frida Fertility.
• Grayson’s transition in his 30s adds depth to discussions about representation, acceptance, and the ongoing fight for transgender rights in today's socio-political climate.
• The couple shares their strategies for navigating a healthcare system not fully adapted to their needs, emphasizing the importance of personalized care.
• Megan showcases resilience, advocating for visibility an

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈

• Megan and Grayson: Megan and Greyson are proud expectant parents hailing from Tallahassee, Florida. Megan is an inspiring advocate for people with disabilities, working full-time and studying simultaneously while managing cerebral palsy. Greyson is a transgender male who bravely transitioned in his 30s. He served as a veteran in the U.S. Military during "don't ask, don't tell" and currently works with the Florida Department of Corrections. Their journey together reflects resilience, love, and the power of family.

🏳️‍🌈Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• Frida Fertility: An at-home insemination kit used by Megan and Grayson.
• Mosie Baby: Another option for at-home insemination kits mentioned in the episode.
• @heyginasena : Referenced as a social media influencer providing actionable steps for LGBTQIA rights advocacy.

🏳️‍🌈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!

Join Jaimie for an inspiring episode with Aspen and Eren, exploring LGBTQIA+ family dynamics, gender identity, and inclusive parenting. Aspen shares their journey from wanting to parent solo to finding love with Eren and choosing a known donor. Eren discusses their non-binary identity and the challenges of authentic, supportive parenting in a society slow to embrace fluidity. This episode highlights resilience, love, and the importance of representation for LGBTQIA+ families and future generations.

🏳️‍🌈Thanks to our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

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

🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Aspen and Eren's family journey highlights the possibilities of building a family outside traditional norms, focusing on love and personal identity.
• Transitioning and self-exploration need not fit into a binary definition, and it's natural for one's understanding of self to evolve.
• Visibility and representation in media are crucial for normalizing LGBTQIA+ families and offering support to those navigating similar paths.
• Maintaining open, honest discussions about origins and identity fosters a secure, open environment for children.
• Books and storytelling serve as effective tools for parents to introduce and normalize diverse identities and orientations to their children.

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈

• Aspen and Eren are a dynamic trans and non-binary couple who bravely share their unique journey of identity, family-building, and self-discovery. Aspen, a passionate advocate for expressing gender fluidity, courageously navigated the process of becoming a parent through home insemination. Bringing vast experiences and resilience, they have crafted a family with Eren, a non-binary partner who embraced their own complex identity and parentage dynamics. Together, they are devoted to creating a supportive environment for their child, enlightened by their diverse journey.

🏳️‍🌈Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• Mosie Baby Kit: A tool used by Aspen for home insemination.
• Books mentioned include those explaining the LGBTQIA spectrum for children, like "He's My Mom" and the Alphabet book on identities.

🏳️‍🌈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!

Jaimie and guest S. Bear Bergman delve into love, family, and LGBTQIA identity against the backdrop of the 2024 political climate. Bear shares his journey from coming out at 15 to 35+ years of activism and parenting as a queer, trans parent. He opens up about the joys and challenges of inclusive parenting, co-parenting with a known donor, and living progressive values. Bear also introduces his new book, Special Topics in Being a Parent, packed with insights for inclusive parenting. Tune in for a heartfelt, hopeful, and humorous look at modern queer family life.

🏳️‍🌈Thanks to our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

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

🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Progressive Parenting: Emphasizes the need for inclusive, conscious parenting practices that align with progressive ideals in modern family life.
• Transitional Advocacy: Bear shares his journey and the pivotal role of educational and activist work in fostering acceptance and understanding.
• Queer Families: Insights into building and nurturing queer families, addressing known donor situations, adoption laws, and the value of community support.
• Educational Literatura: Highlights the importance of inclusive literature as seen through Bear's publishing company, Flamingo Rampant.
• Resilience and Hope: Encourages finding strength and positivity in community bonds during challenging times, particularly relevant to queer parents and children.

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈

• S. Bear Bergman is a writer, activist, and educator specializing in LGBTQIA+ topics. A queer and trans father, Bear has been involved in activism from a young age. Known for his insightful writing and advocacy, Bear has also established a children's inclusive publishing company, Flamingo Rampant, which focuses on creating literature that celebrates diverse identities in families and communities.

🏳️‍🌈Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• S. Bear Bergman’s Website: sbearbergman.com
• Flamingo Rampant (Inclusive Children's Publishing Co.): Flamingo Rampant Website
• Bear’s New BooK: Special Topics in Being a Parent

🏳️‍🌈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

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!

Join host Jaimie as she talks with Alicia and Emily, a queer couple who left a conservative Christian university in Texas for a new life in Scotland. They reflect on the challenges they faced with family acceptance and the struggles of growing up in restrictive environments. In Scotland, they’ve found a supportive healthcare system that has made reciprocal IVF not only affordable but also accessible, transforming their parenthood journey. Against the current socio-political climate in the U.S., Alicia and Emily's story offers an inspiring look at finding community and hope abroad as they pursue their family dreams.

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

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

🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Healththcare Differences: Scotland's national healthcare system offers more affordable and accessible fertility treatments than are typically available in the U.S.
• Reciprocal IVF Journey: Alicia and Emily chose reciprocal IVF, with Emily providing the eggs and Alicia carrying their daughter, illustrating an ideal familial path for them.
• Family and Acceptance: Navigating familial relationships as a queer couple from a conservative background was challenging, yet Alicia and Emily have learned to find and create supportive networks.
• Mental Health Advocacy: Alicia's experience with therapy and medication underscores the importance of mental health stability, especially when navigating processes like fertility treatment.
• Queer Visibility: Their story contributes to greater visibility of queer families, and highlights the vital need for supportive environments and policies.

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈 

• Alicia and Emily are a queer couple originally from the United States, who are now living in Scotland. Both Alicia and Emily grew up in conservative religious environments in Texas, where they first met in university. Overcoming personal, familial, and societal challenges, they relocated to Scotland, where they are now raising their daughter. Emily works in a specialized field, which facilitated their move abroad, while Alicia has found strength in therapy and advocacy for mental health.

🏳️‍🌈Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• California Cryobank: Explore donor options and use promo code "LOVEISLOVE" for a Level 2 subscription at cryobank.com.

🏳️‍🌈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

Jaimie welcomes Nico Lang, creator of Queer News Daily and author of "American Teenager." With the 2024 presidential election looming, they explore the complexities of trans youth experiences and the crucial role of supportive families in today's challenging socio-political climate. Nico shares insights from their book, highlighting the diverse lives of trans kids across the U.S., and emphasizes the importance of representation and advocacy. With personal reflections and shared stories, this episode underscores the need to affirm the humanity and rights of queer individuals, urging listeners to engage and support the community.

🏳️‍🌈Thanks to our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

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

🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Nico Lang shares their insights into the creation of "American Teenager" and the importance of telling stories of trans youth as a means to foster understanding and empathy in society.
• The conversation reveals the multifaceted challenges faced by trans youths and their families, including societal rejection and self-identity struggles.
• The episode highlights varied responses from parents of trans children, stressing the necessity for empathy, support, and active involvement in their child's journey.
• As elections approach, both Nico Lang and Jaimie urge listeners to exercise their right to vote, influencing policies that fundamentally affect LGBTQIA+ communities.
• Through personal anecdotes and insights, Nico encourages readers and listeners to support local LGBTQ+ communities and engage in acts of kindness and inclusion.

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈 

• Nico Lang is an LGBTQ+ journalist and author, renowned for amplifying the voices and stories within the queer community. As the creator behind the social media profile "Queer News Daily," Nico provides crucial news and insights pertinent to LGBTQIA+ communities worldwide. Recent achievements include the publication of "American Teenager," a compelling book that sheds light on the experiences of trans youths across the United States. With over a decade in queer journalism, Nico has contributed to numerous publications and is dedicated to advocating for underrepresented voices in the LGBTQ+ spectrum.

🏳️‍🌈Resources mentioned in the episode: 

• Queer News Daily Instagram
• Book: "American Teenager" by Nico Lang (Available on Bookshop.org and local bookstores)

🏳️‍🌈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

 Part of the mini-series following Nicole and Shannon’s journey to parenthood, Jaimie and the couple chat with Angela Rastagar from Sunfish about the financial challenges queer families face. They explore the costs of sperm donation, egg donation, IVF, and surrogacy. Listeners are introduced to the resources and support Sunfish provides, including grants, a loan marketplace, and a unique IVF success program, all aimed at facilitating a smoother journey to parenthood.

🏳️‍🌈Thanks to our ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

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

🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Angela Rastagar emphasizes the financial challenges of queer family-building, describing the costs associated with sperm and egg donations, IVF, and surrogacy.
• Sunfish offers a range of resources, including a cost calculator, a searchable grants database, and financial education to help prospective parents plan their financial journey.
• Angela shares insights on potential financing solutions for those embarking on assisted reproductive journeys through Sunfish's loan marketplace and support services.
• Nicole and Shannon are encouraged to start by evaluating their fertility as a practical first step in their family planning process.
• The importance of proactive financial planning is highlighted, 

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈 

• Angela Rastagar is the co-founder and CEO of Sunfish, an organization dedicated to making assisted reproductive journeys more affordable. With a background in biology and significant experience as a director at one of the largest surrogacy agencies, Angela has committed her career to supporting reproductive rights and family building. Her work focuses on reducing financial barriers in fertility and assisted reproduction through innovative solutions and resources, including education and financial planning assistance.
• 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: 

• Sunfish: For resources and support on assisted reproductive journeys, visit joinsunfish.com.
• Follow Sunfish: Connect with Sunfish on social media via their handle @joinsunfish for updates and resources.

🏳️‍🌈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

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!

Nicole and Shannon continue their journey to parenthood with Jaimie as they explore the known donor route with Danielle from Seed Scout. Danielle shares her personal story and the motivation behind her agency, which provides ethical family-building options for LGBTQIA families. Together, they discuss the benefits and complexities of known versus anonymous donors, including ethical concerns, medical history updates, and donor relationships.

Key topics include transparency, ethical considerations in donor selection, and the personal experiences of donors and recipient families. The conversation also covers Seed Scout’s comprehensive process, from matching potential donors to legal steps and ongoing communication that prioritizes the child's future and health. Jaimie, Nicole, and Shannon offer listeners valuable insights into the nuances of choosing a donor, balancing ethics, choice, and the desire to build a loving family.

🏳️‍🌈Thanks to our sponsors and ⁠⁠⁠Patreon⁠⁠⁠ supporters.

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

🏳️‍🌈Key Takeaways:🏳️‍🌈 

• Danielle's Foundational Work: Danielle created Seed Scout to provide an ethical and transparent path to parenthood.
• Benefits of Knowing Your Donor: The episode emphasizes the value of choosing a known donor for securing updated medical records and fewer half-sibling connections.
• Complex but Rewarding Process: Although labor-intensive, the process involves careful selection, legal agreements, and regular donor communications to ensure transparency and ethical integrity.
• Diversity and Representation: Seed Scout prioritizes a diverse donor pool, offering donors from various ethnic backgrounds and life experiences.
• Intentional Family Building: The episode underscores the thorough, intentional process that LGBTQ+ families undergo to ensure ethical, loving family creation.

🏳️‍🌈About The Guest(s)🏳️‍🌈 

• Danielle Winston is the founder of Seed Scout, an agency dedicated to connecting clients with known sperm donors, offering a transparent and ethical alternative to traditional sperm banks. After starting her own family with her wife, who is a pediatrician, Danielle recognized a gap in the donor conception process that led her to launch her company. They help families navigate complex emotional and logistical paths to parenthood with unique focus points, such as updated medical histories and facilitating ethical donor engagements.
• 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: 

• Seed Scout – Seed Scout's Website https://www.theseedscout.com/
• Follow The Queer Family Podcast on Patreon 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 ⁠⁠[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

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!

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 ⁠⁠[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

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!

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

🏳️‍🌈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

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!

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

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.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