The Queer Family Podcast – LGBTQ Families & Queer Parenting Stories

Vanessa and Jory of @modernfamilynextdoor join the Pride Extravaganza to share their journey from closeted college classmates to raising three children together. They open up about religious shame, coming out to family, known donor conception, reciprocal IVF, difficult pregnancies, and the emotional realities of non-bio parenting in queer families. This conversation is funny, vulnerable, and deeply relatable for anyone navigating LGBTQ family building.
🏳️‍🌈 Key Takeaways
Vanessa and Jory share how growing up religious shaped their experiences with internalized homophobia and delayed coming out.
The couple discusses falling in love after meeting in college — despite both initially trying to avoid their attraction to women.
They open up about coming out to family members, navigating acceptance, and the emotional impact of feeling like they might lose family relationships.
Vanessa and Jory explain how they built their family through known donor conception and later expanded their family through reciprocal IVF.
The conversation explores the unique emotional realities of non-bio parenting in queer families, including fears around bonding and identity.
Vanessa shares the painful assumptions strangers made about her relationship to her son because she is Mexican and her son is white with red hair.
They discuss how little information and representation existed for LGBTQ+ families when they first started trying to conceive in 2015.
The episode highlights the intentionality, resilience, and complexity that often comes with queer family building.

🏳️‍🌈 About the guest(s)
Vanessa and Jory are the creators behind @modernfamilynextdoor where they share the realities of raising a queer family online with honesty, humor, and heart. Through their content, Vanessa and Jory have become a source of visibility and representation for other LGBTQ+ families navigating similar journeys.

🏳️‍🌈 Thanks to our sponsors
California Cryobank Use code QUEERFAM26 for a free level 3 subscription to their donor catalogue!

🏳️‍🌈 Interested in advertising? Email [email protected]

🎧 Loved this episode?
Support The Queer Family Podcast on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and help keep these stories alive!
OR become a paid subscriber through our RedCircle page for bonus episodes and one-time or recurring donations:
🔗 redcircle.com/thequeerfamilypodcast/exclusive-content
🏳️‍🌈 What resonated most with you?
Drop a comment, DM us, or email [email protected]—we love hearing your stories!
🏳️‍🌈 Let’s Connect!
Find us on IG, TikTok, Bluesky, & YouTube: @thequeerfamilypodcast 🏳️‍🌈 Watch full episodes on YouTube
🏳️‍🌈 Order the If These Ovaries Could Talk book 
🏳️‍🌈 Edited by: Jerson Barajas 🏳️‍🌈 Theme Song by: Tiffany Topol 🏳️‍🌈 Logo by: Daneen Stevenato 

🗳️ VOTE. 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ ADVOCATE. 🍼 BUILD QUEER FAMILIES.
The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a trusted professional for your specific situation!

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Chase and Oliver share their journey to becoming parents as two trans dads navigating IVF, pregnancy, identity, and queer family building.
The couple opens up about meeting as lesbians before both later coming out as trans, deciding who would carry, stopping testosterone to conceive, navigating failed IUIs, finding the right donor, and ultimately becoming pregnant through IVF.
They also discuss trans visibility, redefining masculinity, pregnancy dysphoria, chest feeding, queer travel, and what it means to raise a child in today’s political climate. It’s a deeply honest, funny, and hopeful conversation about intentional parenthood and building a family on your own terms.

🏳️‍🌈 Key Takeaways
Chase and Oliver met as lesbians before both later coming out as trans and eventually beginning their journey to parenthood together.
The couple shares what it was like for Oliver to stop testosterone in order to conceive and navigate pregnancy as a trans man.
After multiple failed IUIs with a sperm bank donor, they ultimately conceived through IVF using a different donor.
The episode explores the emotional complexity of donor selection, queer family building, and the intentionality required to create LGBTQ families.
Chase and Oliver open up about redefining masculinity, fatherhood, and what being “real dads” means to them.
They discuss pregnancy dysphoria, reconnecting with the body, and the importance of visible trans parent representation.
Throughout the conversation, the couple reflects on how queer and trans self-discovery has prepared them to raise a child with empathy, acceptance, and authenticity.

🏳️‍🌈 About the guest(s)
Chase and Oliver are trans dads, content creators, and queer travel advocates based in the Chicago area who document LGBTQ-friendly destinations and community spaces through their platform, @explorewithchase. In this episode, they share their journey to parenthood — from transitioning together after first meeting as lesbians, to navigating donor conception, IVF, pregnancy after testosterone, and what it means to redefine fatherhood and masculinity as they prepare to welcome their first child.

🏳️‍🌈 Thanks to our sponsors
California Cryobank Use code QUEERFAM26 for a free level 3 subscription to their donor catalogue!

🏳️‍🌈 Resources Mentioned
@explorewithchase on all social media platforms

🏳️‍🌈 Interested in advertising? Email [email protected]
🎧 Loved this episode?
Support The Queer Family Podcast on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and help keep these stories alive!
OR become a paid subscriber through our RedCircle page for bonus episodes and one-time or recurring donations:
🔗 redcircle.com/thequeerfamilypodcast/exclusive-content
🏳️‍🌈 What resonated most with you?
Drop a comment, DM us, or email [email protected]—we love hearing your stories!
🏳️‍🌈 Let’s Connect!
Find us on IG, TikTok, Bluesky, & YouTube: @thequeerfamilypodcast 🏳️‍🌈 Watch full episodes on YouTube

🏳️‍🌈 Order the If These Ovaries Could Talk book 

🏳️‍🌈 Edited by: Jerson Barajas 🏳️‍🌈 Theme Song by: Tiffany Topol 🏳️‍🌈 Logo by: Daneen Stevenato 
🏳️‍🌈 Shop merch here. 🏳️‍🌈 Full transcript & episode info available on our websit
🗳️ VOTE. 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ ADVOCATE. 🍼 BUILD QUEER FAMILIES.
The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a trusted professional for your specific situation!

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Episode Summary (Podcast Apps)
Dianni is spiraling a little… because she and her girlfriend are talking about moving in together. 😅
In this Tea Time episode, Jaimie and Dianni get real about lesbian U-Hauling, commitment anxiety, ADHD messiness, relationship fears, and what actually happens when your life starts getting more serious.
From clutter fights and “where does this belong?” energy to deeper conversations about intimacy, long-term partnership, and building a life together, this episode is basically queer couples therapy… but funny.
Also: Jaimie accidentally becomes the queer fairy godmother again.
Tea Time with Jaimie & Dianni is our new Patreon bonus series — and for the next two weeks, we’re giving everyone a free taste before these episodes disappear behind the paywall on June 1st.
🏳️‍🌈 Key Takeaways
Why moving in together can feel exciting and terrifying at the same time
The difference between avoidant attachment and classic lesbian U-Hauling
ADHD habits, clutter, and the fights couples actually have
Why relationships aren’t always romance and butterflies
How partnership becomes teamwork during real life challenges
The “you done with this?” strategy for cohabitation survival
Why love often looks like learning each other’s weirdest habits

🏳️‍🌈 Interested in advertising? Email [email protected]
🎧 Loved this episode?
Support The Queer Family Podcast on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and help keep these stories alive!
OR become a paid subscriber through our RedCircle page for bonus episodes and one-time or recurring donations:
🔗 redcircle.com/thequeerfamilypodcast/exclusive-content
🏳️‍🌈 What resonated most with you?
Drop a comment, DM us, or email [email protected]—we love hearing your stories!
🏳️‍🌈 Let’s Connect!
Find us on IG, TikTok, Bluesky, & YouTube: @thequeerfamilypodcast 🏳️‍🌈 Watch full episodes on YouTube
🏳️‍🌈 Order the If These Ovaries Could Talk book 
🏳️‍🌈 Co-Produced by Jaimie Kelton & Dianni Hall 🏳️‍🌈 Theme Song by: Tiffany Topol 🏳️‍🌈 Logo by: Daneen Stevenato 
🏳️‍🌈 Shop merch here. 🏳️‍🌈 Full transcript & episode info available on our website

🗳️ VOTE. 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ ADVOCATE. 🍼 BUILD QUEER FAMILIES.
The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a trusted professional for your specific situation!

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Episode Summary (Podcast Apps)
Welcome to Tea Time with Jaimie & Dianni — a brand new bonus series from The Queer Family Podcast.
For the next two weeks leading up to the Pride Extravaganza, we’re giving listeners a free taste of the Patreon-exclusive chaos before these episodes disappear behind the paywall on June 1st.
In this first episode, Jaimie gives us a brutally honest recap of the recent gay family cruise she went on. From lesbian vs. gay boy energy to cruise culture, parenting exhaustion, queer community dynamics, and all the chaos in between — nothing is off limits.
This episode is free on the main feed for a limited time before the series moves exclusively to Patreon on June 1st.

🏳️‍🌈 Key Takeaways
Jaimie shares her honest experience attending a gay family cruise.
The episode explores differences between lesbian and gay male social culture.
Jaimie reflects on parenting exhaustion versus child-free queer life.
Dianni and Jaimie discuss queer community spaces and generational differences.
• The new Tea Time series will move exclusively to Patreon after June 1st.

🏳️‍🌈 Interested in advertising? Email [email protected]

🎧 Loved this episode?
Support The Queer Family Podcast on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and help keep these stories alive!
OR become a paid subscriber through our RedCircle page for bonus episodes and one-time or recurring donations:
🔗 redcircle.com/thequeerfamilypodcast/exclusive-content

🏳️‍🌈 What resonated most with you?
Drop a comment, DM us, or email [email protected]—we love hearing your stories!
🏳️‍🌈 Let’s Connect!
Find us on IG, TikTok, Bluesky, & YouTube: @thequeerfamilypodcast 🏳️‍🌈 Watch full episodes on YouTube
🏳️‍🌈 Order the If These Ovaries Could Talk book 

🏳️‍🌈 Co-Produced by Jaimie Kelton & Dianni Hall 🏳️‍🌈 Theme Song by: Tiffany Topol 🏳️‍🌈 Logo by: Daneen Stevenato 
🏳️‍🌈 Shop merch here. 🏳️‍🌈 Full transcript & episode info available on our website

🗳️ VOTE. 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ ADVOCATE. 🍼 BUILD QUEER FAMILIES.
The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a trusted professional for your specific situation!

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

What happens when a kid from a queer family chooses to stand up and defend his family in front of lawmakers?
Zach Wahls—author, advocate, and Iowa State Senator—first made national headlines as a teenager when he spoke out in support of his two moms during a marriage equality hearing. The moment went viral and helped shift the conversation around LGBTQ+ families.
But this conversation goes far beyond that speech.
Zach shares what it was really like growing up with two moms in the Midwest—from navigating homophobia in school to the fear of speaking up, including the moment he stayed silent as a kid and how that experience shaped his path into advocacy.
The conversation also explores the intentionality behind queer family building, how parents can support their kids in finding their own voice (without forcing them into advocacy), and what it means to grow up in a family that’s often politicized.
Now running for U.S. Senate, Zach also speaks to what’s at stake in the current political moment—and why this fight still matters.
This episode is about courage, timing, and finding your voice—when you’re ready.
If this conversation resonates with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it—and don’t forget to follow, rate, and review The Queer Family Podcast to help more families find these stories.

🏳️‍🌈 Key Takeaways
Growing up with two moms wasn’t the hardest part—navigating the world’s reaction was
The moment Zach didn’t speak up—and how it shaped his future advocacy
Why intentional parenting is a defining trait in queer families
How to support kids in advocating for themselves—without forcing them into it
What’s at stake politically right now for LGBTQ families and beyond
Why finding your voice is a process—not a requirement

🏳️‍🌈 About the guest(s)
Zach Wahls is an Iowa State Senator, author, and nationally recognized advocate for LGBTQ+ families. Raised by two moms, he first gained national attention for his viral 2011 testimony in support of marriage equality. Today, he continues his advocacy through public service and is currently running for the U.S. Senate.

🏳️‍🌈 Resources Mentioned
Website: https://zachwahls.com/

🏳️‍🌈 Interested in advertising? Email [email protected]
🎧 Loved this episode?
Support The Queer Family Podcast on Patreon for exclusive bonus content and help keep these stories alive!
OR become a paid subscriber through our RedCircle page for bonus episodes and one-time or recurring donations:
🔗 redcircle.com/thequeerfamilypodcast/exclusive-content

🏳️‍🌈 What resonated most with you?
Drop a comment, DM us, or email [email protected]—we love hearing your stories!
🏳️‍🌈 Let’s Connect!
Find us on IG, TikTok, Bluesky, & YouTube: @thequeerfamilypodcast 🏳️‍🌈 Watch full episodes on YouTube

🏳️‍🌈 Order the If These Ovaries Could Talk book 

🏳️‍🌈 Edited by: Jerson Barajas 🏳️‍🌈 Co-Produced by Jaimie Kelton & Dianni Hall 🏳️‍🌈 Theme Song by: Tiffany Topol 🏳️‍🌈 Logo by: Daneen Stevenato 
🏳️‍🌈 Shop merch here. 🏳️‍🌈 Full transcript & episode info available on our website

🗳️ VOTE. 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️ ADVOCATE. 🍼 BUILD QUEER FAMILIES.
The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a trusted professional for your specific situation!

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy