Home / Topics / LGBTQ+ Foster Parenting & Foster-to-Adopt
Explore firsthand experiences from queer dads and LGBTQ+ families navigating foster parenting, reunification, and foster-to-adopt. Every family’s path is different.
Explore firsthand stories from queer dads, intended parents, advocates, and family-building professionals.
Aug 2026
In this heartfelt interview, ally and friend of the show, Dr. Adam Anthony, shares his journey as a black adoptee, the importance of transparency in adoption, and how his experiences shape his advocacy for supporting young men of color and
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Jul 2026
What happens when you stop living for survival and finally start living as yourself? Friend of the Show Stef Vachon joins Fathernetics to talk about bullying, homophobia, therapy, figure skating, the Gay Games, and the long road to self acc
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Jul 2026
This episode of Fathernetics explores LGBTQ parenting through adoption, fostering, and raising teens in today’s world. Adrian and Shane Potter share their journey into fatherhood, including the emotional realities of fostering and how it sh
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Jul 2026
What 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 hea
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Apr 2026
In this episode of the Fathernetics podcast, Alex and Dustin share an honest, wide-ranging conversation about life as LGBTQ+ parents. From their shared love of music and concerts to their journey through fostering and adoption, they reflect
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Apr 2026
This episode brings Jameel Mayers and Casey Benson together for a real conversation about fatherhood, homeownership, and the emotional work behind raising kids with intention. They get into cultural differences, immigration stories, family
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Mar 2026
In this conversation, Jameel Mayers and Oded Heilinger discuss the significance of names and cultural heritage, Oded's journey from Israel to becoming a father through surrogacy, and the challenges and joys of parenting. They explore the im
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Jan 2026
In this engaging conversation, Ricky shares his experiences as a single dad navigating the complexities of parenting, creativity in Halloween celebrations, and the journey to fatherhood through adoption. He discusses the importance of commu
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Aug 2025
In this episode of Fathernetics , we sit down with Ethan Levy — whose life story captured national attention when his adoption by LGBTQ parents made the New York Times . Raised between the iconic shores of Fire Island and the vibrant street
Listen to this story →Eligibility and licensing depend on the jurisdiction and agency. LGBTQ+ prospective foster parents can explore local requirements and affirming agencies.
Foster care typically prioritizes child safety and reunification when possible. Adoption is a separate legal pathway that may occur in some cases.
Fathernetics conversations explore uncertainty, relationships, support systems, and the experiences of families who foster and adopt.