5 hours ago
From Faith to Family: How Two Ex-Mormon Gay Dads Built a Life of Love and Triplets
READ TIME: 15 MIN.
The journey to parenthood is unique for every family, but for Jake and Sean, two ex-Mormon gay dads, the road was especially remarkable. Once members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, their path led from religious tradition through personal transformation to joyful parenthood as fathers of triplets. Their story, widely shared on social media and chronicled in interviews and features, is emblematic of growing diversity in American family life and the increasing visibility of LGBTQ+ parents in mainstream culture .
Jake and Sean both grew up in Utah, deeply embedded in Mormon culture, which traditionally holds conservative views on LGBTQ+ identity. Coming out as gay required courage and self-acceptance, as both men faced the challenge of reconciling their faith with their authentic selves . Their experiences echo those of many LGBTQ+ individuals raised in faith-based communities, where acceptance can be fraught and support networks limited.
Their stories came together in adulthood, first through social media and later in-person, as they found connection and common ground. The couple’s openness about their backgrounds and the obstacles they faced has resonated with audiences on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, where they share daily life, parenting tips, and reflections on their journey as @daddiestothree .
Determined to build a family, Jake and Sean pursued surrogacy and in vitro fertilization (IVF), processes that can be complicated for same-sex couples, especially in states like Utah where legal frameworks and cultural attitudes may lag behind those of more progressive regions .
Their surrogacy journey was marked by careful planning, legal navigation, and the support of allies. The couple worked closely with medical professionals and legal experts to ensure their parental rights were protected. Jake and Sean’s transparency about the financial, emotional, and logistical aspects of surrogacy provided valuable information for other LGBTQ+ families considering similar paths .
The most unexpected turn came when IVF resulted not in one child, but three. The arrival of triplets transformed their lives overnight, ushering in a whirlwind of diapers, sleepless nights, and deep joy. Their experience with multiple births has become a cornerstone of their story, and they regularly share resources and advice for other parents of multiples.
Jake and Sean’s family has become a beacon for LGBTQ+ representation, especially for those from religious backgrounds. Their social media presence, under the handle @daddiestothree, offers a candid look at the realities of parenting triplets, and more broadly, the challenges and triumphs of building a family outside traditional molds. Their openness helps normalize the presence of LGBTQ+ parents and encourages conversation about the evolving definition of family in America .
The couple has participated in podcasts and media interviews, such as the “Who’s Your Daddy” podcast, where they discuss topics like surrogacy logistics, maintaining a healthy relationship, and navigating social responses to their family . By sharing both the joys and hurdles, Jake and Sean advocate for greater understanding and legal protections for LGBTQ+ families.
LGBTQ+ families in Utah and across the United States continue to face challenges, from legal recognition of parentage to social acceptance in schools, places of worship, and community settings. Jake and Sean’s story puts a spotlight on these issues, illustrating both the progress made and the work that remains .
Their visibility has helped others find courage, whether coming out to family or embarking on the journey to parenthood. The couple’s experience is a testament to the resilience of LGBTQ+ individuals and the transformative power of love and community. As more families like theirs share their stories, barriers fall, and broader acceptance grows.
Jake and Sean’s approach—centered on affirmation, education, and openness—serves as a model for others. By engaging with followers and participating in dialogues about surrogacy, parenting, and identity, they contribute to a growing network of support for LGBTQ+ families.
As society continues to evolve, stories like Jake and Sean’s signal hope for future generations of LGBTQ+ individuals seeking family and belonging. The couple’s advocacy and visibility are changing perceptions, promoting acceptance, and inspiring others to live authentically. Their journey underscores the importance of legal reforms, social support, and representation.
By sharing their lives, Jake and Sean help pave the way for a more inclusive world—one in which every family, regardless of origin, faith, or identity, can find acceptance and joy.
