Graduate students face many challenges, and mentorship literature calls for adoption of various types of student supports. This Design Case (a form of scholarly writing focused on reflections on lived experiences) tells the story of the development of a "research family" as an alternative to a traditional research group from the perspective of faculty co-facilitators and a doctoral student. The authors describe their journey, which included challenges, negotiations, and realizations. Implications indicate a need for faculty to develop a growth mindset and for institutions to provide holistic support for faculty, including professional development, mentorship supports, and changes to work expectations.