Podcast
Fathernetics
Hosted by Jameel Mayers · EN
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
32episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
S3:E04 - Adrian & Shane Potter | How Gay Dads Raise Strong, Independent Kids Today.
2w ago01:02:26Tap to summarizeThis 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
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S3:E03 - Rita Soronen (CEO) - Dave Thomas Foundation For Adoption.
3w ago00:47:54Tap to summarizeWhat 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
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S3:E02 - Eric Calvario - Drag Race SuperStar and Father Extraordinaire
4w ago00:53:39Tap to summarizeRuPaul’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 SummaryWhat 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 EpisodeEric 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.ResourcesGays with KidsMen Having BabiesEric Chronicles (Instagram ↓)Connect with Eric Instagram: @ericchroniclesChapters00:00 – Meet Eric, the gay dad who landed on RuPaul’s Drag Race00:39 – From Instagram to reality TV01:57 – Why Pride Month and Father’s Day intersect for Eric02:32 – Life as a shy, proud gay dad04:25 – The casting process behind the show06:17 – 14 hours of makeup and transformation07:16 – Facing imposter syndrome on set09:02 – An emotional moment with RuPaul11:18 – Why representation changes lives12:15 – Parenting in a diverse community16:27 – The work behind professional drag17:47 – Learning the art of drag makeup21:01 – Stepping onto a global stage23:07 – Meeting the queens24:56 – Introversion in an extroverted world27:35 – Performing with Salina EsTitties30:26 – How the experience changed Eric as a dad32:15 – Building a family through surrogacy35:28 – The real cost of becoming parents37:48 – Adoption, fostering, and surrogacy compared42:24 – Protecting kids while embracing visibility43:18 – Parenting through today’s challenges44:10 – Intentional parenting and community45:40 – Finding connection with fellow gay dads47:45 – Why sharing our stories matters51:17 – Where to follow Eric
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S3:E01 - Ronaldo Dwight | Black Fatherhood Evolved...
Jul 201:27:06Tap to summarizeSeason 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
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S3:E00 - Gay Dads Do It Better | Jameel Mayers - Intro Episode
Jun 2500:26:36Tap to summarizeSeason 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/@fatherneticsInstagram: @Fathernetics Substack: www.substack.com/fathernetics#fathernetics #lgbtqdads #fatherhoodpodcast #modernfamily #gaydadlife
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S2:E29 - Esteban Mayers - Panama War Zone and the Father Who Raised Me
Jun 1800:54:09Tap to summarizeThis 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.
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S2:E28 - Gaytriarch | Serious Comedy with Gavin and David
Jun 1100:39:52Tap to summarizeIn 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 awarenessAt 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.
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S2:E27 - Cody Dolly | We Swiped Right on a Surrogate and Built a Family
Jun 401:01:34Tap to summarizeFriend 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/@fatherneticsIG: @codykdollyListen wherever you stream podcasts#fathernetics #lgbtqdads #gayparenting #surrogacyjourney #modernfatherhood
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S2:E26 - Drummond | You Need More Positive Talks in Your Life
May 2800:55:35Tap to summarizeWhat 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 platformsChapters00:00 The Birth of Positive Talks05:47 Navigating Content Creation and Networking11:53 Building Intentional Networking Spaces17:39 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Healing27:39 Generational Trauma and Its Impact39:27 Family Dynamics and Personal Growth#fathernetics #lgbtqdads #fatherhoodjourney #personalgrowth #positivetalks
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S2:E25 - Leo Massey | Jewish Therapist for the LGBTQ+ Community (Prescribed)
May 2101:11:47Tap to summarizeIn 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_leoFollow the show on Instagram: @fatherneticsWatch and subscribe on YouTube for more real conversations about modern fatherhood, mental health, and family.#fathernetics #mentalhealth #therapy #LGBTQparents #CBT #DBT
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