Podcasts about adoptive parents

Expecting gratitude from adopted kids turns them against us. We are here to support them! Listen in as Randi shares her learnings on supporting her kids to help them thrive including expectations, acceptance and more... When Randi Thompson visited an orphanage in Kazakhstan more than 20 years ago, she saw teens forced to move out with no place to go, no skills, and no hope. Inspired to create a new future for these kids she went to work building Kidsave programs and she hasn't stopped since. Randi is a 30-year veteran of outcome-based marketing and communications projects designed to effect social change. In 2016, Randi was awarded the Department of Health and Human Services Children's Bureau Adoption Excellence Award for Child Welfare/Judicial Systems Change for Weekend Miracles. Randi is active in the Equity Committee of the Foster Together Network a group working to increase and enhance the provision of culturally responsive and competent care for Black children, in an effort to facilitate well-being and improve their life outcomes. To Randi, a mother, wife, daughter, sister, and grandmother, family is everything. https://www.facebook.com/KidsaveInternational/ https://www.instagram.com/kidsave/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/randi-thompson-a15a078/ https://www.kidsave.org/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." -Proverbs 22:6   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   In this week's episode of The Adoption & Foster Care Journey, Sandra Flach sits down with pediatric physical therapist and foster dad Trevor Carlson to explore how trauma, neglect, and prenatal substance exposure can impact a child's development—from tummy time to walking. Trevor shares practical, hope-filled strategies to help caregivers support healthy development while reminding us of one essential truth: connection comes before correction. In this episode, you'll discover: Why developmental milestones matter—but don't tell the whole story How trauma can affect a child's physical development Simple ways to encourage tummy time and movement Why safety and connection are the foundation for growth Encouragement for parents raising children with developmental delays Whether you're parenting a newborn, toddler, or a child with a history of trauma, this conversation will equip you with practical tools and a fresh perspective.   Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media.   Links mentioned in this episode: Tummy Time Book therapykids.org See Available Trainings The Adoption & Foster Care Journey AFCJ on YouTube justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Soul Care Saturday—52 Devotions for Foster and Adoptive Moms Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on Amazon

What does it really mean to belong?For Isaac Melber, the answer wasn't found the day he was adopted. It was built through countless small moments of love, consistency, and the freedom to embrace every part of his story.In this episode, Rebecca sits down with author, adoptee, and aspiring pastor Isaac Melber to explore life through the eyes of someone who remembers being adopted. From growing up in a remote village in Ethiopia to navigating identity, grief, anger, faith, and eventually returning to his birth country, Isaac shares a perspective that every hopeful and adoptive parent needs to hear.This conversation is filled with practical wisdom, powerful storytelling, and gentle reminders that adoption isn't about erasing a child's past—it's about helping them carry it with love, honesty, and hope.In this episode, we talk about:The small moments that create a true sense of belonging beyond simply being lovedWhy a child's anger is often directed at their story—not their adoptive parentsHow to talk honestly about loss without defining a child's future by itThe difference between helping a child feel chosen versus making them feel rescuedWhy embracing a child's birth culture should become part of the entire family's cultureWhat returning to Ethiopia taught Isaac about identity, healing, and finding peace without having every answerAbout Isaac:Isaac Melber is an Ethiopian adoptee, author, speaker, and aspiring pastor. Adopted at five years old by a family in Kentucky, Isaac now shares his story to encourage adoptees, adoptive families, and anyone wrestling with identity, loss, and belonging. His debut memoir, Twice Delivered: A Story of Two Families, Two Worlds, and One Redeeming Love, explores how faith, family, and truth shaped his journey across two worlds while offering hope to others walking their own.Connect with Isaac:Website: https://www.isaacmelber.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isaacmelber/Twice Delivered: A Story of Two Families, Two Worlds, and One Redeeming Love: https://www.amazon.com/Twice-Delivered-Families-Worlds-Redeeming/dp/B0H2HH6785RG Adoption ConsultingRG Adoption ConsultingWebsite → ⁠https://rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠ Book a Complimentary Adoption Strategy Session → ⁠https://rgadoptionconsulting.com/contactAre You Ready to Adopt? Take the Quiz to Find Out → https://www.rgadoptionconsulting.com/quiz Before you choose an agency, spend money, or move forward—start with these 10 honest conversations that will help you: https://www.rgadoptionconsulting.com/10-conversations-before-you-adopt Tune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday. If you like what you hear, I'd appreciate a follow, a 5-star rating & review! THANK YOU!For questions about adoption, episode suggestions, or to appear as a guest on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, email⁠⁠⁠⁠ support@rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠⁠⁠

Going through tough stuff? Really tough? Tomorrow's going to be better...Listen in as Richard shares insights on hope, optimism and persistence... Richard is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of FosterVA and Extra Special Parents, organisations he established to strengthen foster care services and improve outcomes for children, young people, and families across Virginia. With a strong background in social work and decades of experience working alongside young people, Richard brings both professional depth and personal conviction to his leadership. Richard believes foster care works best when families feel genuinely supported, listened to, and respected.  His leadership is grounded in relationships, transparency, and a commitment to doing what is right for children and those who care for them.  Through initiatives such as The Kingswell Conversations, he creates space for open, honest discussions about foster care, leadership, and the real experiences of families and professionals in the field. Outside of work, Richard enjoys hiking and kayaking, unwinding with a good film, cooking for family and friends, and playing board games.  He is also a dog lover and values the balance that time away from work brings, helping him stay grounded and connected to what matters most. Find out more at https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardkingswell/ https://www.fosterva.org/ https://www.espva.org/ https://www.facebook.com/FosterVA https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1cwslKf_116XfeZ5eyTjcA https://www.facebook.com/extraspecialparents Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

Sensitivity oils relationships like nothing else. Listen in as adoptive dad and adoption lawyer Greg and I dive deep into sensitivity, compassion and communication so we cal all thrive. Adoptions and assisted fertility make up 90% of Greg's legal practice.   An adoptive parent himself, Greg Franklin understands the challenges and joys of adopting a child. Adoptions involve a highly emotional area of law in which any legal misstep can cause devastating effects. With more than 25 years of adoption experience, Greg's goal is to develop a legally secure plan that serves the best interests of the child and respects the wishes and interests of both the adoptive or intended parents and the birth parents or gestational carriers. Greg works extensively with LGBT clients, and has represented clients in cases which have broken new ground in this area. Greg is passionate about adoptions — he is a frequent lecturer and author on ethics and adoption-related topics and he works tirelessly to achieve a positive result for adoption families. In his representation of birth parents, Greg will assist in locating adoptive parents, negotiating open adoption and post-adoption contact agreements, and coordinating the process with the hospital and the adoptive parents. Greg has considerable experience in the developing area of assisted fertility, including surrogacy and gestational carrier agreements, donor embryos and eggs, and in obtaining parentage and pre-birth orders. Greg also helps to create permanent families through stepparent and co-parent adoptions, grandparent adoptions, extended-family custody agreements, foster care and international adoptions. He will assist in selecting the right avenue for achieving adoption goals, including the decision about whether to pursue domestic or international adoption, the choice between agency and private adoptions, selecting home study resources, managing subsidy and Adoption Tax Credit issues, and locating post-adoption services. Find out more about Greg here: https://www.adoptionny.com Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

Adoption can present us with many challenges. But how do we rise to those challenges? Listen in as Ella shares insights on dealing with the unexpected, coming from love and much more... Ella Smith is Executive Director for Adoption Choices.  Originally from Colombia, Ella moved to the USA 23 years ago to the DFW area where she has strong connections and friendships.  Married to a loving husband for 25 years, they have two grown children: Christian who is a soccer coach, and David who is a pilot like his father. Ella has an extensive background working with children and families since 2008, for the last 8 years her experience has been in the adoption field, Ella is a dedicated professional with a proven track record in facilitating international adoptions and nurturing positive family relationships. Experienced in navigating complex legal and cultural landscapes to ensure successful adoptions and compliance with country accreditations. Skilled in building rapport with diverse stakeholders, including service providers, adoptive parents, single parents of either gender, LGBTQ+ parents, birth parents and government agencies. Strong understanding of the adoption regulations and protocols. Committed to upholding the highest standards of ethics and professionalism in all endeavors. Ella is dedicated to ensuring that all children find loving and caring homes. Ella holds a degree in social communication and journalism from Colombia and a master's degree in marketing management. Now residing in the DFW area, she is passionate about advocating for children's rights to be loved, valued, and respected. Ella is excited to be part of Adoption Choices of Texas and to meet all the bravest and selfless parents who wants to create a better future for their child. In her free time Ella enjoys traveling to her beloved Colombia, spend time with her diverse group of friends, and watching tv at home.  Ella also has a service dog named Stella. https://www.adoptionchoicesoftexas.org/ https://www.facebook.com/AdoptionChoicesOfTexas/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

Being told to just raise your kids doesn't sound like a great piece of advice. But it landed profoundly for Susan. She heard it as a pointer to stop trying to think too far ahead. To listen to wisdom in the moment. To stop overthinking. Who doesn't need less overthinking right? Listen in for your own aha moments. Founder and Executive Director, Susan Silverman grew up in a family that fostered older children, and getting to know kids without a permanent, loving family of their own had a big impact on her. Now, she and her spouse have five children, three were born to them and two were adopted. She is the author of a memoir, Casting Lots: Creating a Family in a Beautiful, Broken World and has been featured in the New York Times, NPR, BBC, ABC, and more. Susan has a BA from Boston University, an Ed.M. from Harvard University, and an MA and Rabbinical Ordination from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. Connect with Susan here https://www.instagram.com/susansilverman7 https://www.2nurture.org/ https://www.facebook.com/2ndnurture/ https://www.instagram.com/2ndNurture Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

We want our kids to grow. We know we have to nurture them to make that happen. So how do we do that? Listen in as Jenny who has 4 kids including her youngest who's adopted shares what she's learning about nurturing and more... Connect with Jenny here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-fridge-413047134/ https://www.facebook.com/jenny.fridge https://www.instagram.com/jennyfridge/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

Have you ever walked away from a conflict with your child wondering… “How do I stay connected without making things worse?”

325 | [Healing Series] Narcissism in Adoptive Parents with Katy Perkins, LICSW-S This is a special episode in our healing series where I interview therapists who are also adoptees themselves, so they know from personal experience what it feels like to be an adoptee. Today we are joined by Katy Perkins to talk about a hot topic in our community, narcissism in adoptive parents. We talk about what it would have looked like to grow up in a family with a narcissistic parent or one with narcissistic tendencies, the impact it could have had on us as kids and now into adulthood. I was fascinated by everything Katy had to share in this conversation and I hope it's helpful for you!   Full Show Notes and Transcript Here   Join our adoptee community on Patreon here   Check out our upcoming live events here!   Find out more about Adoptees for Family Preservation here!   Support Haley's new podcast here!   This podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Nothing stated on it, either by its hosts or any guests, is to be construed as psychological, medical or legal advice. Please seek out professionals in those fields if you need those services. The views expressed by the hosts of Adoptees On or any guests are their own and do not represent the opinions of any organization or other person unless otherwise stated.

Why does your child's behavior feel so hard… even when you're trying to do everything right?In adoption, behavior isn't just behavior.It's layered with loss, attachment, and experiences that often go unseen.And in the moments that feel the most overwhelming—when your child is melting down, shutting down, or pushing you away—it's easy to wonder:Am I handling this wrong?In this episode, we're breaking down what's really happening beneath those moments—and how to respond in a way that actually builds trust and connection over time.I'm joined by Jeanette Yoffe, adoptee, therapist, and founder of the Celia Center, who brings both lived experience and over 20 years of clinical work supporting adoptive families.This conversation goes beyond surface-level parenting advice.We talk about why behavior can feel so intense in adoptive families, how early experiences shape the way children relate to their parents, and what it really looks like to stay grounded when emotions run high.If you've ever felt triggered, unsure, or like you're not getting it “right,” this episode will meet you there—and give you a different way to move forward.In this episode, we talk about:Why behavior in adopted children can feel more intense and personalWhat's actually happening beneath meltdowns, shutdowns, and pushing awayThe difference between reacting vs. responding in high-stress momentsWhat “co-regulation” really looks like in real lifeHow trauma and early separation impact attachment and trustWhy children often internalize blame—and how that shows up in behaviorRecognizing when your child is emotionally younger than their ageThe 5 A's framework and how to use it in everyday momentsHow to manage your own triggers so you can show up more consistentlyWhat helps build safety, connection, and long-term trustAbout Jeanette:Jeanette Yoffe is a licensed psychotherapist, adoptee, and founder of the Celia Center, a nonprofit supporting individuals and families impacted by adoption and foster care. With over two decades of experience, she specializes in attachment, trauma integration, and family healing. She is also the author of The Traumatized and At-Risk Youth Toolbox and creator of the YouTube channel Genetically Speaking, where she breaks down complex topics into practical, accessible tools for families.Connect with Jeanette: https://www.jeanetteyoffe.comLearn more about Celia Center: https://celiacenter.orgRG Adoption ConsultingWebsite → ⁠https://rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠ Book a 30-Minute Consult → ⁠https://rgadoptionconsulting.com/contactAre You Ready to Adopt Your Baby Quiz: https://www.rgadoptionconsulting.com/quizTune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday. If you like what you hear, I'd appreciate a follow, a 5-star rating & review! THANK YOU!For questions about adoption, episode suggestions, or to appear as a guest on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, email⁠⁠⁠⁠ support@rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠⁠⁠

How much control do we have? How does humility help us see control more clearly? Adoptive mother and adoption professional Tina shares what she'd have done differently if she'd had a time machine including.. reading the Connected Child by Karyn Purvis. https://lfcsmo.org/ https://www.facebook.com/LFCSMO/ https://www.instagram.com/lfcs.mo/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

Connection. We all want don't we? And we want our kids to feel connected to. How well are parents connected with us can influence how we connect with our kids. Listen in as adoptive mother of 4 Lenette talks about connection, raising kids with prenatal opioid and substance exposure and more... Lenette Serlo is the Founder & CEO of Generation O, The National Organization for Opioid-Exposed Children, the first national movement dedicated to supporting families raising the half million children born with prenatal opioid exposure. A graduate of Michigan State University and an adoptive mother of 4 substance-exposed children, Lenette combines personal lived experience with a diverse professional background to advance both compassion and science in this emerging field. Under her leadership, Generation O has become a growing voice for caregivers and a trusted source translating complex research into plain English. By spotlighting the long-term consequences of prenatal opioid exposure—including impacts on brain development, learning, and behavior—Lenette is raising awareness, building partnerships, and ensuring that the unique needs of these children are recognized in healthcare, education, and policy. https://www.linkedin.com/in/lenetteserlo/ https://www.facebook.com/lenetteserlo/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564529017720 https://generationo.org/ https://www.instagram.com/generation_o_org https://www.linkedin.com/company/gen-o-nooec/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

Have you ever felt guilty for slowing down… even when your body and mind were clearly telling you that you needed to?

Adoption trauma coach, Dr. Melody Aguayo, meets with therapist Bryce Hamilton LSCSW, to discuss raising adopted children. They talk about... The post Mitigating Adoption Trauma As An Adoptive Parent with Dr. Melody Aguayo appeared first on WebTalkRadio.net.

Our grounding is the base from which we connect with others and allow them to feel safe and secure. Listen in as Judith and I explore self awareness, empathy, handling ambiguity and more.  Find out more about Adoption in Merseyside here: https://www.adoptioninmerseyside.co.uk/ https://www.instagram.com/adoptioninmerseyside/ https://www.facebook.com/adoptmerseyside https://www.linkedin.com/company/adoptioninmerseyside/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

What if the tough stuff happens to help us to our most profound learnings? Doesn't that change our minds about what we are going through? Listen in as Cara and I dive deep into expectations, empathy and much more. You're going to love this... Here's a bit about Cara from her ministry's website: As an educator, children's ministry director, and life-long learner, I've dedicated my career to nurturing young minds and hearts. My personal journey as an adoptive parent has deepened my understanding of trauma and resilience. I'm passionate about empowering families and communities to create supportive environments where every child can thrive. https://gathering-well.org/ https://www.facebook.com/thegatheringwellsf/ https://www.instagram.com/the_gatheringwell/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

Hello and welcome to conversations from the AandF podcast.  In this episode I speak to Dallas a parent through adoption who lives in Canada she shares the experience of adopting two children and the impact of caring for children with complex and challenging behaviour on her relationship with her husband and beyond. Dallas is frank about her circumstances and the difficulties that she faces and regardless of the context and country.   As always if you've experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, BlueSky or email us at AandFpodcast@gmail.com   Listen/subscribe on iTunes here Spotify here

Don't we all want to feel we belong? It's so painful when we don't. Listen in as Jyotika shares insights on belonging, origin stories and more... Jyotika is the Executive Director of St. Nick's Kids, where she leads the organization's mission to support children and families through adoption services. Previously, she served as the Director of Adoptions, overseeing all intercountry adoptions. Jyotika earned her Master's in Social Work from Fordham University in New York in 2019. Since 2006, she has worked in adoption services, beginning her career at Steffas & Associates, P.C., where she assisted with both domestic and intercountry adoptions. Throughout the past two decades, she completed her master's degree and played a key role in helping St. Nick's Kids achieve accreditation. https://snkinc.org/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555386085410 https://www.instagram.com/stnickskids/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

“And after Jesus had dismissed the crowds, He went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, He was there alone…” -Matthew 14:23   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach shares a message about Soul Care. Foster and adoptive parents can feel overwhelmed, and not just by their children. Trauma and big behaviors along with school problems, countless appointments, court dates, reunification, stressed relationships, grief and loss. Factor in aging parents, adult biological kids, grandchildren, marriage, and household responsibilities and our cup quickly drains.   The Lord beckons us to come to Him for Soul Care. He invites us to green pastures and still waters so He can restore our soul. We need a fresh filling of Living Water every day. Stale bread and empty cups won't sustain us on the adoption and foster care journey.   Listen in as Sandra shares 6 Keys to Soul Care for Foster and Adoptive Parents on Episode 525 wherever you get your podcasts.    Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media.   Links mentioned in this episode: The Adoption & Foster Care Journey AFCJ on YouTube justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Soul Care Saturday—52 Devotions for Foster and Adoptive Moms Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on Amazon ReNew Retreat in NC

In this powerful and deeply insightful episode of From Foster to Forever, I sit down with child therapist and author Stacy Schaffer to explore what foster and adoptive parents really need to understand about childhood trauma, attachment, and healing.Stacy specializes in play therapy, a transformative approach that helps children express emotions they don't yet have the words for. Through tools like sand tray therapy, somatic release, and creative expression, she offers a window into how children process grief, loss, and complex family dynamics.Together, we dive into the realities that many foster and adoptive families face—but don't always talk about openly.This conversation is both validating and eye-opening, offering practical tools and emotional reassurance for parents navigating the beautiful and challenging journey of raising children from hard places.

It's a trap we all fall into. Thinking that others will change. Waiting for others to change. But we have to change first. Listen in as Mercedes shares her insights on change for the better... Mercedes is a compassionate leader dedicated to supporting grandfamilies in Texas. As a grandmother of eleven and great-grandmother of four, Mercedes's journey into grandparent caregiving began in 2011 when she adopted five of her grandchildren. Recognizing the lack of resources for grandparents like herself, she founded Texas Grandparents Raising Grandchildren (TXGRG) to fill this gap. Under her guidance, TXGRG has become a vital source of support and advocacy for grandfamilies statewide. Mercedes is not only a caregiver but also a passionate advocate for grandparent-headed households. She tirelessly works to amplify their voices and advocate for policies that address their unique needs at all levels of government. Mercedes's dedication has earned her recognition, including the prestigious 2022 Casey Excellence for Children's Award. Her unwavering commitment ensures that all grandfamilies are resourced, connected, and thriving. Mercedes Bristol is a true champion for grandfamilies, making a positive impact across Texas. https://www.facebook.com/txgrg2019/ https://www.instagram.com/tx_grg/ https://www.txgrg.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/mercedes-bristol-78249816/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

Have you ever felt so overwhelmed that words simply wouldn't come—and all you could do was cry?

“I see you. You've got this.”

Hope. The hope that the past doesn't determine the future. A positive outlook. Life as an adoptive parent and as an adoptee can be tough. What keeps us going? Love, for sure. And hope! Listen in as we dive into overcoming trauma, abuse and other tough stuff. Robin Sizemore, Executive Director of Hopscotch Adoptions Inc., was recognized in 2012 by the Winston-Salem Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc as a person who has “Transform Lives and Impacted the Community”. Among five other recipients, Robin Sizemore, was recognized in the area of “International Awareness” for her work and advocacy of children through international adoption and aid.  Robin was also the recipient of the “Angels in Adoption” award in 2008, in recognition of her service to children since 1995. She is an adoptive mother and has been an adoption professional since 1995. In addition to placing children in forever families, Robin has been involved in both national and international levels regarding policies and regulations impacting child welfare: she has brought educational opportunities to a variety of officials in Georgia and Armenia, spearheaded cooperative humanitarian efforts, and hosted numerous international delegations through the U.S. State Department and Ministries in other countries which are associated with institutionalized children. Robin has a warm rapport with the wide range of individuals involved with children in need, including government officials, orphanage directors and staff, hospital and humanitarian aid administrators, and adoptive families and children alike. Robin volunteered as a Council on Accreditation Hague Accreditation evaluator and team lead from 2016- 2020 and earned a Certificate of Nonprofit Executive Director Academy Institute/ Nonprofit Executive Director Academy Institute -Center for Creative Leadership – Guilford County Nonprofit Consortium 2014 and a Certificate of Nonprofit Management Nonprofit Management – Guilford Nonprofit Consortium – High Point University 2013. Robin and her husband James are the adoptive parents of the first internationally adopted child from Georgia and, with their second adoption, of the first direct “birthmother to adoptive mother” international placement in Georgia. In addition to their two beautiful children from Georgia. Robin and James have also been blessed with the surprise birth of their youngest and third child. Robin's work is well regarded and highly respected within the country programs and she is considered a valuable resource and thoughtful orphan advocate by U.S. and international officials as the result of her dedication to children and families through humanitarian assistance programs over more than a decade. Robin has developed direct programs for Hopscotch with highly experienced and reliable partners in Armenia, Bulgaria, Georgia, Ghana, Guyana, Morocco, Pakistan, Serbia, Trinidad & Tobago, Ukraine, and appreciates the uniqueness of complex Kinship cases in need of a provider, when called upon. Robin graduated in 1986 from Appalachian State University, Boone, North Carolina, with a Bachelor of Science from the School of Communication and Media Arts, with a Concentration in Public Relations and Minor in Marketing. https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-ellington-sizemore-a4188a7/ https://www.instagram.com/hopscotch_adoptions/ https://www.facebook.com/HopscotchAdoptions/ https://hopscotchadoptions.org/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

Hello and welcome to conversations from the AandF podcast.  In this episode I speak to Richard McCombe an adoptive parent. He shares his family's experience of adoption including the challenges that they have faces caring for children with complex needs and complex behaviour. Richard lives in Scotland and the different aspects of that experiences are also shared.  As always if you've experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, BlueSky or email us at AandFpodcast@gmail.com   Listen/subscribe on iTunes here Spotify here

Raising kids - adopted or not - isn't a sprint. It's a journey. And the more we learn, the easier we can navigate the bumps along the way. Listen in as adoptive mother Kim shares her learnings along the way - including why she's still learning. Kim Smith is  also the Founder and Executive Director of Cradled In Grace, find out more here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberly-smith-3912b5164/ https://cradledingrace.com/ https://www.facebook.com/cradledingrace.adoptionconsultants/ https://www.instagram.com/cradledingrace/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

“As water reflects the face, so the heart reflects the person.” ~Proverbs 27:19 Have you ever paused long enough to notice what your heart is trying to tell you? What story does reflection time reveal about your heart?

When we know better, we do better. Experienced adoption professional got a second chance at parenting after adopting her grandson when she was 55. Listen in as she shares what she's learned about going beyond basic needs to helping her son thrive despite trauma. Big insights on integrity, moral standards and expectations.Gladys is Senior Director of Foster Care and Adoption at The Children's Shelter, San Antonio, Texas, USA.Find out more about her and the Shelter  here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gladys-foster-blackwell-155194b4/https://www.facebook.com/TheChildrensShelterhttps://www.instagram.com/thechildrensshelterhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/the-children%27s-shelter/https://childrensshelter.org/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

Have you ever sensed in your body that you've reached your limit—before your mind was ready to admit it?

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Question: How do we handle an adoption that has been closed from the first mom's end? We don't even have a photo of her despite our request.Our #1 Secret Tip for Navigating Open Adoption5 Tips for Navigating Sticky Situations with Birth ParentsWho Holds the Power in Adoption: Birth Parents or Adoptive Parents?Where is Mommy? Helping Kids Cope with Absent ParentsSupport the showPlease leave us a rating or review. This podcast is produced by www.CreatingaFamily.org. We are a national non-profit with the mission to strengthen and inspire adoptive, foster & kinship parents and the professionals who support them.Creating a Family brings you the following trauma-informed, expert-based content: Weekly podcasts Weekly articles/blog posts Resource pages on all aspects of family building

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your own emotions as an adoptive parent — unsure how to calm yourself down or pick yourself back up when the weight feels like too much? Hi Neighbor, For many Christian adoptive parents, the challenge goes beyond supporting a child through trauma; it's learning how to regulate yourself when the demands of parenting feel overwhelming

A Texas man accused of killing a Houston-area couple is the biological father of their seven-year-old adopted daughter, and investigators say a custody dispute is what led to the shootings. An Iowa man has been sentenced to probation after federal prosecutors say he deliberately ran over a flock of Canada geese, killing one of the birds. Drew Nelson reports.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever felt completely alone in your adoption journey — like no one truly understands what you're carrying or the struggles you're facing?

In this episode, Dr. Max Weinberg discusses the seven core issues of adoption and their impact on children in school settings. He emphasizes the importance of creating adoption-affirming classrooms and the role of teachers in fostering a sense of belonging for adopted children. The conversation also touches on the challenges of disclosure and advocacy for parents navigating the school system, highlighting the need for supportive relationships between families and educators. In this conversation, the speakers explore the multifaceted experience of adoption, emphasizing the importance of community support, the joys and challenges of parenting through adoption, and the need for trauma-informed education in schools. They discuss the significance of building connections within communities, the surprising joys that come from parenting adopted children, and the complexities of navigating trauma in educational settings. The conversation also highlights the domains of belonging for adopted children and offers valuable advice for adoptive parents, ultimately framing adoption as a journey filled with love, resilience, and growth.Important LinksRG Adoption Consulting → https://rgadoptionconsulting.comBook a 30-Minute Call with our an Adoptive Parent on our Team → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com/contactSolace Gift Boxes→ https://adoptsolace.comDr. Max Weinberg→ Belonging Education → https://www.belonging.education/→ IG → https://www.instagram.com/belongingeducation/→ ⁠Strengthening School Belongingness for Adopted/Looked After StudentsChapters00:00 Understanding the Seven Core Issues of Adoption07:57 Creating Adoption-Affirming Classrooms18:01 Navigating Disclosure and Advocacy in Schools24:37 Building Community Support for Adoptive Families27:44 The Surprising Joys of Parenting Through Adoption30:45 Navigating Trauma-Informed Education34:42 Domains of School Belonging for Adopted Children40:09 Advice for Adoptive Parents45:20 The Complexity and Privilege of AdoptionTune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday. If you like what you hear, I'd appreciate a follow and 5-star rating & review! THANK YOU!For questions about adoption, episode suggestions or to appear as a guest on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, email⁠⁠⁠⁠support@rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠⁠⁠

Have you ever found yourself wondering whether you made the right choice as a parent—especially when loving your child means making decisions that feel heartbreaking, confusing, or impossible to explain?

How often do you realise that you're wrong? It's incredibly freeing. It's the ultimate lubricant for life. It reduces frustration and oils relationships. But if you're like me, your beliefs can get way of humility. Listen in as Arnie dives into humility, change, making a difference and much more. Truly empowering.Arnie and his wife Donna have been foster parents for over 20 years and are the parents to three daughters and three sons, four of which are adopted into his family from the foster care system.Arnie currently serves as the Executive Director of the National Foster Parent Association (NFPA). NFPA is a non-profit organization representing thousands of foster, adoptive and kinship parents, established to provide opportunities for advocacy, networking, and education.Arnie's role includes developing partnerships and building relationships that benefit foster parents by providing the resources, services and support they need to provide care for children in need.He serves on multiple national, state, and local government committees, and strives to provide one voice in advocating for core needs for family-based care.https://www.facebook.com/NFPAonlinehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/nfpaonline/https://nfpaonline.org/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Dr. Max Weinberg discusses the importance of belonging in educational settings, particularly for adopted children. He shares insights from his personal experiences as a white father raising Black children and emphasizes the need for inclusive, trauma-informed classrooms. The conversation explores the challenges faced by students who feel marginalized and the role of educators in fostering a sense of community and care. Dr. Weinberg advocates for a shift in educational practices to better support diverse learners and highlights the significance of building relationships between students and teachers.Important LinksRG Adoption Consulting → https://rgadoptionconsulting.comBook a 30-Minute Call with our an Adoptive Parent on our Team → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com/contactSweet Peach Tree→ https://sweetpeachtree.com — use code ROADMAP10 for 10% offDr. Max Weinberg→ Belonging Education → https://www.belonging.education/→ IG → https://www.instagram.com/belongingeducation/→ Strengthening School Belongingness for Adopted/Looked After StudentsChapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Max Weinberg and His Work03:50 Understanding Belonging in Education08:05 The Importance of Welcoming Environments10:05 Creating a Community of Care15:17 In Loco Parentis: The Role of Educators22:21 Personal Experiences Shaping Perspectives on Equity28:50 The Complexity of Homework and Relationships31:09 Understanding Learning Differences in Adopted Children39:41 Building Student Agency and Connection to the WorldTune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday. If you like what you hear, I'd appreciate a follow and 5-star rating & review! THANK YOU!For questions about adoption, episode suggestions or to appear as a guest on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, email⁠⁠⁠⁠support@rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠⁠⁠

Hope is sometimes in short supply within adoptive families navigating tough stuff. Why is that? How can we overcome fear, choose hope and enjoy a brighter future? Listen is as Carly talks faith, truth and helping kids be who they want to be. Carly Souza is an adoptive mother and Fostering Hope Director at The Hub in Las Vegas.Find out more at https://www.linkedin.com/in/carly-souza-aa9a382b/https://thehublv.com/https://www.facebook.com/thehublvhttps://www.instagram.com/thehublv/ Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

How can adoptive parents experience peace in their lives? I believe it can be as simple as learning to listen.  Hi Neighbor, Some of the questions I hear most often from other adoptive parents sound like this: ❓ How do you keep going when it feels overwhelming?

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Question: I would love to hear about family profiles for adopting older teens. Resources:Adopting a Child of a Different Race or CultureAdopting Older KidsEvaluating Risk Factors in Foster Care AdoptionSupport the showPlease leave us a rating or review. This podcast is produced by www.CreatingaFamily.org. We are a national non-profit with the mission to strengthen and inspire adoptive, foster & kinship parents and the professionals who support them.Creating a Family brings you the following trauma-informed, expert-based content: Weekly podcasts Weekly articles/blog posts Resource pages on all aspects of family building

Have you ever wondered whether the Bible actually models the kind of emotional honesty you're trying to practice—especially in the middle of adoption trauma, parenting challenges, or the everyday noise that makes it hard to hear God?

Am I the Genius? is the show where you get real answers to questions you've always wondered but didn't think to ask. Subscribe on YouTube - youtube.com/@amithegenius?sub_confirmation=1 Am I the Jerk? on Instagram - instagram.com/amithegenius Am I the Jerk? on Spotify - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0uEkxvRMpxLuuHeyPVVioF?si=b279dadfe593432b⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ x.com/amithejerk facebook.com/amithejerk SUBMIT YOUR OWN STORIES HERE ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://amithejerk.com/submit⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Mint Mobile - Get this new customer offer and your 3-month Unlimited wireless plan for just 15 bucks a month at MINTMOBILE.com/AITJ Quince - Keep it classic and cool — with long-lasting staples from Quince. Go to Quince.com/AITJ for free shipping on your order and three hundred and sixty-five -day returns. EveryPlate - Dig into these flavor-packed meals your household will love. New customers can enjoy this special offer of only $1.99 a meal. Go to everyplate.com/podcast and use code AITG199 to get started. Green Chef - Head to Greenchef.com/50AITJ and use code 50AITJ to get fifty percent off your first month, then twenty percent off for two months with free shipping. Lola Blankets - Get 35% off your entire order at Lolablankets.com by using code AITJ at checkout. Uncommon Goods - To get 15% off your next gift, go to UncommonGoods.com/AITJ Don't miss out on this limited-time offer. Uncommon Goods. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Has your adopted child ever experienced loss, rejection, or disappointment when seeking connection with their birth family?

When the path ahead feels unclear and your heart feels heavy with “what ifs,” it can seem like you're walking through a fog that just won't lift. Hi Neighbor, In this episode, we talk about what it means to trust God when you can't see what's next in your adoption journey. I'll share 5 anxiety Bible verses—timeless truths from Scripture to help you find peace, courage, and direction when everything around you feels uncertain. Together, we'll explore: ✨ How God's Word becomes your “low beam” light in the fog

This October, we're going Behind the Mask — looking at what we hide, what we reveal, and how adopted people learn to show up as their full selves. April sits down with Melissa Guida-Richards — adopted person, author, and creator of the Adoption Changemakers Conference — to talk about authenticity, culture, and the importance of real connection in the adoption community. Together, they explore what it means to unmask, how to hold space for nuance, and where joy and healing live in this work. Follow Melissa Guida-Richards on social media @adoptee_thoughts and visit adoptee-thoughts.com for details about the Adoption Changemakers Conference. Follow April Dinwoodie on Instagram, Facebook, and X (Twitter) @JuneInApril, on YouTube @AprilDinwoodie, and visit JuneInApril.com to keep the conversation going.  

Imagine a group of compassionate adoptive parents. A safe place where people GET IT, share encouragement, and offer practical, faith-rooted support. Sounds amazing, right?