Episode 116

full
Published on:

19th Mar 2026

S2:E16 - Oded Heilinger | War Time Dad

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 importance of community, travel experiences, and the lessons learned from their own parents. Oded shares insights on navigating current events with children and the importance of giving back to the community, all while planning future adventures with his son, Ari.

Takeaways

Names carry deep cultural significance and history.

Surrogacy can be a fulfilling path to parenthood.

  • Parenting requires meticulous planning and organization.
  • Cherishing moments with children is essential.
  • Community support is vital for single parents.
  • Traveling creates lasting memories and cultural awareness.
  • Parenting involves navigating various challenges and stages.
  • Intentional parenting fosters positive values in children.
  • Discussing current events with children requires sensitivity.
  • Giving back to the community is an important lesson for children.

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Significance of Names and Their Meanings
  • 02:40 Cultural Background and Family Dynamics
  • 05:09 Parenting Journey: From Surrogacy to Single Fatherhood
  • 08:26 The Quest for a Sibling: Expanding the Family
  • 09:20 Choosing Surrogacy in Canada: A Thoughtful Decision
  • 11:00 Navigating the Surrogacy Process and Challenges
  • 12:22 Planning for Parenthood: Balancing Responsibilities
  • 14:00 Lessons from Generations: Parenting Influences
  • 16:09 The Emotional Connection of Food and Family
  • 19:26 Experiencing the Early Years of Parenting
  • 22:11 Intuition in Parenting: Trusting Yourself
  • 24:12 The Terrible Twos: A Learning Experience
  • 25:26 Building Community as a Gay Parent
  • 27:37 Embracing the Gay Community and Parenting
  • 29:43 Creating Memorable Experiences with Ari
  • 30:51 Planning the Perfect Family Trip
  • 33:59 Traveling with Kids: Experiences and Memories
  • 39:16 Oded's Journey Before Fatherhood
  • 45:48 Teaching Values: Giving Back and Community Engagement
  • 49:11 Navigating Difficult Conversations with Children
  • 56:42 Future Travel Plans and Adventures

#FatherneticsPodcast #ModernFatherhood #SurrogacyJourney #LGBTQFamilies #ParentingStories #CrossCulturalParenting #CulturalHeritage #FamilyTraditions #GlobalParenting #IsraelToUSA #ParentingAdvice #DadCommunity #FamilyBuilding #TravelWithKids #FatherhoodUnfiltered

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About the Podcast

Fathernetics
Dad Hero Stories
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
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