There are friends, and then there are the people who show up, no matter what. The ones who stand with you even when your stories look different, or your beliefs don’t perfectly align, or the world says you shouldn’t have much in common.

This week’s episode of Running Ahrens is a conversation we’ve wanted to have for a long time. We’re sitting down with our dear friends Jeff and Ed—a couple whose story is equal parts laughter, perseverance, legal paperwork, and the kind of love that makes you believe “forever” is possible.

Before we go any further, we want to say this:
We know that everyone’s story and background are different, and some of our listeners might find this episode stretches them in new ways. That’s okay—in fact, we think that’s what makes conversations like this matter. Our hope is that you’ll listen with curiosity and kindness, and maybe, like us, be inspired by the love, resilience, and community at the heart of Jeff and Ed’s story.

Love That Outlasts Everything

Jeff and Ed have lived through seasons where just showing up for each other was an act of courage. Their love story spans three and a half decades, multiple legal battles for recognition, the highs and lows of chosen family, and enough hilarious moments to fill an entire season of the show. They’ve taught us that love isn’t about the paperwork—it’s about showing up, laughing through the mess, and choosing each other again and again, even when it’s hard.

The Power of Showing Up
(Even When You Don’t Have To)

One of our favorite stories didn’t make the final cut of the episode, but it’s too good not to share here. Years ago, we hosted an independent movie premiere in Portland for a faith-based film we’d been working on. Honestly, it wasn’t exactly Jeff and Ed’s thing, and they knew it. But that night, not only did they show up—they brought friends, cheered for us, and supported the project and the organization for years afterward. No questions asked, no awkwardness, just pure support.

That’s what makes Jeff and Ed who they are. They model what it means to be the friend (and family) who celebrates with you, even if they’re not sure about the details. They show up. And if you’ve ever been the one on stage, or starting something new, you know just how much that matters.

What You’ll Learn From This Episode

There’s no single “right way” to build a family, love makes its own rules.
True belonging sometimes comes from the people you choose, not just the ones you’re born to.
You don’t have to agree on everything to show up for each other.
Laughter and resilience are two of the most underrated superpowers.
Legal recognition matters—but so does kindness, support, and the everyday ways we stand by the people we love.
The small ways we show up for each other can make the biggest impact.

Stay Connected with Jeff & Ed

Curious what they’re up to these days? Follow @thefishinghamlife on Instagram to keep up with Fishingham travels, what Ed may be cooking at home, with friends or outdoors on the patio, and what Jeff is up to in The Fishingham Garden or in the gardens of others.

Resources for Community, Family, and More Information

Whether you’re seeking support, connection, or just more ways to be a great ally, here are a few organizations:

PFLAG | Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (pflag.org)
Provides support, education, and advocacy for families, friends, and allies of LGBTQ+ people. Many local chapters offer immediate and virtual support and resources.
It Gets Better Project (itgetsbetter.org)
A global movement that shares stories of hope and resilience to inspire LGBTQ youth.
The Trevor Project (thetrevorproject.org)
Provides 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention services for LGBTQ young people.
HRC | Human Rights Campaign (hrc.org)
Works to ensure that every LGBTQ+ person is free to live their life openly, with equal rights ensured. Their goal includes educating leaders and advocating for equality.

So, whether you’re navigating your own version of “chosen family,” building something from scratch, or just trying to be a little braver with your love, this episode is for you. Listen with an open heart. And maybe text a friend who’s shown up for you, just to say thanks.

Here’s to the friends (and family) who make space for all of us, even when the script isn’t what they expected.

Running with you,
Justin & Sarah

Ep. 7 What It Really Means to Show Up: Lessons from Jeff & Ed