Let's Talk Adoption

Three of the most common questions women ask when exploring adoption are deeply emotional ones. Questions about love, openness, trust, and safety. In this episode, Heather and Kim talk honestly about:Whether choosing adoption means you don’t love your babyWhat modern open adoption really looks like todayHow adoptive families are screened and why emotional safety matters tooThey also discuss the guilt, fear, and misconceptions many women carry while considering adoption, and why learning about adoption is never the same as committing to adoption.In this episode:Why women often feel shame while considering adoptionThe difference between abandonment and making a thoughtful planOpen, semi-open, and closed adoption explainedWhat healthy open adoption communication can look likeHow adoptive families are screened and preparedWhy trust and emotional safety matter in adoption relationshipsThe importance of asking questions and taking timeIf adoption has crossed your mind, you deserve information, support, and space to explore your options without pressure.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, we’re answering real questions from listeners—questions that reflect the emotions, decisions, and uncertainties so many people face in the adoption journey. From concerns about financial risk to navigating family opinions, from the heartbreak of a situation going quiet to wondering what openness really looks like, these are the kinds of questions that don’t always have easy answers—but they deserve thoughtful ones. We also hear from a birth mother wondering if it’s okay to reconnect after time has passed, and from waiting families trying to balance being open with staying true to what feels right for them. If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “Is this normal?” or “What should we do here?”—this episode is for you. You’re not alone in your questions, and you’re not alone in this journey.

Not being chosen in adoption can feel deeply personal—but is it?In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Kim and Heather talk honestly about the emotional side of waiting, especially when a family isn’t selected after being presented to an expectant mother. They explore:How adoption decisions are madeWhy connection matters more than “qualifications”How to move forward without losing confidenceIf you’ve ever wondered, “Why wouldn’t she choose us?”—this conversation offers clarity, perspective, and encouragement for the road ahead.

The short answer is yes… but it’s more complicated than that. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Kim and Heather unpack the many ways “no” shows up in adoption.

In this heartfelt episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Kim King sits down with Maureen, a two-time single adoptive mom who followed her calling to grow her family through international adoption—twice. Maureen shares the joys, challenges, and life-changing moments of adopting as a single parent. We spend special time talking about her daughter’s adoption from China, including navigating special needs adoption and the unexpected blessings that came afterward.

In Part 2 of this powerful series, Kim and Heather continue breaking down 10 more common myths about adoption, including misconceptions about birth parents, the matching process, and what life looks like after placement.

There’s a lot of misinformation about adoption—and it can create fear, confusion, or hesitation for families considering this path. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Kim and Heather break down the top 10 myths about adoption for prospective adoptive parents and replace them with truth, clarity, and encouragement.

Christian parenting podcasts have become a go-to source of encouragement for many families. They offer practical advice, faith-centered perspectives, and reassurance for the everyday challenges of raising children.But what happens when your family is built through adoption?In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Heather and Kim talk about why so many parents turn to Christian parenting podcasts — and where adoptive families may need something more. From understanding a child’s story to navigating emotions, identity, and connection, they explore the unique layers adoption brings to parenting.Whether you’re already parenting through adoption or just beginning to explore it, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at how faith and adoption come together in real life.

In this powerful episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, we sit down with adoptee and entrepreneur, John Knox, to talk about the Super Bowl commercial that sparked a nationwide conversation. “The Girl in the Middle,” a moving and conversation-provoking ad that has been viewed over 100 million times, was created with a simple but meaningful goal: to bring awareness to adoption as a third option. Beyond the campaign, John opens up about his personal adoption story, including what it was like to reconnect with his birth mother, birth father, and biological siblings as an adult. We also discuss the importance of education and awareness, and how shifting the narrative around adoption, from outdated myth to modern reality, can help more families, birth parents, and children.

What does Christian parenting look like in an adoptive family?In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Heather and Kim talk about Christian parenting tips through the lens of adoption. Many of the values Christians hope to model as parents—grace, compassion, patience, and humility—often take on deeper meaning when parenting a child whose story began before they joined the family.They discuss what it looks like to parent with faith, how adoptive parents can speak positively about their child’s story, and why adoption can be a powerful way to teach empathy and compassion within a family.Whether you’re waiting to adopt or already parenting through adoption, this conversation offers thoughtful encouragement and perspective for families who want their faith to shape the way they raise their children.In This Episode:Christian parenting tips that apply especially well in adoptive familiesParenting as stewardship rather than ownershipSpeaking confidently and positively about your child’s adoption storyTeaching compassion and empathy through your family’s storyTrusting the unexpected paths that lead to family

Have you ever heard someone refer to an “adoption certificate”? It’s actually a phrase that shows up in online searches quite often. But interestingly, there isn’t an official document called an adoption certificate. So what are people really looking for when they search that phrase? In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Heather and Kim unpack the three different things people are usually referring to when they ask about the “adoption certificate process.”

What does it really take to adopt an older child? In this candid continuation of their series, host Kim King and licensed social worker Linda Rotz pull back the curtain on what families can genuinely expect. They tackle some of the most persistent myths — that older children don't want to be adopted, that love alone is enough, or that bonding happens instantly — and replace them with honest, compassionate insight. Linda shares real stories from her years in both private adoption and foster care, including a young woman adopted the day before her 18th birthday. From navigating trauma triggers and "parentified" children to celebrating the quiet, unexpected moments of progress, this episode is a grounded, hopeful guide for anyone considering opening their home and heart to an older child. Because it's never too late, for anyone.

When people hear there are thousands of children waiting to be adopted, it can sound like adopting an older child is straightforward. The truth? Older child adoption is often far more complex and challenging than people realize. In this three-part series, Kim sits down with Linda to unpack what older child adoption really looks like, how it differs from infant adoption, myths and truths, trauma, and what families should thoughtfully consider before saying yes to this path. Honest, practical, and hope-filled — this conversation will help you understand both the beauty and the responsibility of adopting an older child. Linda Rotz brings deep expertise and heart to her work supporting both birth mothers and adoptive families through every step of the adoption journey. Linda worked for many years as a social worker in the child welfare system, and has served as the Director of Adoptive Services for Lifetime Adoption, a Florida Child Placing Agency, since 2013. She holds degrees in Human Development and Mass Communications, pursued graduate studies focused on Social Work and Marketing, and is a certified Adoption Specialist and Child Welfare Trainer in Florida.

Adoption timelines can feel confusing and overwhelming — so we broke down EVERY stage. From home study to finalization, this episode walks you through what to expect, what can speed things up, and what can slow things down. If you’re waiting, this one is for you.

In Part Two, Linda answers the final five home study questions adoptive parents are often too nervous to ask—covering red flags, second chances, comparisons, and what happens after the report is written. Topics Covered: • Red flags vs. fixable concerns • What happens if issues come up • Comparing adoptive families • Who reads your home study • How to truly prepare

You asked if we saw the Super Bowl adoption ad… Yes. Yes, we did. And we recorded a reaction episode right away. When adoption shows up during the biggest advertising event of the year, the entire country starts talking. The commercial — centered on the idea of adoption as a “third choice” — was released ahead of the 2026 Super Bowl and quickly sparked widespread conversation online. In this episode, Kim and Heather react to the viral “third choice” adoption commercial and unpack the many reactions happening across the internet. We talk about what the ad communicated, what it left unsaid, and why adoption messaging creates such strong and emotional responses. Enjoy this special podcast episode, and write to us with your thoughts and feedback.

In part one of this two-part series, adoption social worker Linda answers five home study questions that prospective adoptive parents often wonder about but may be hesitant to ask during the home study process. Drawing on her experience, Linda provides candid and compassionate insights to demystify the home study and ease common anxieties. Topics covered include:How social workers evaluate familiesWhat truly causes a home study to failHow honest families should beMarriage, faith, and parenting concernsWhether your home is “good enough”By tackling these sensitive questions, Linda hopes to empower hopeful parents with the knowledge and confidence they need to approach the home study process with openness and trust.

For more than 40 years, Mardie Caldwell has walked alongside families and women navigating infertility, unplanned pregnancy, and adoption—always guided by faith, compassion, and a deep trust in God’s leading. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Mardie shares the story behind Lifetime Adoption, the calling that shaped its mission, and her personal journey that began with infertility and unfolded into a lifetime of service. What started as a quiet step of obedience became a national ministry rooted in open adoption, education, and unwavering respect for everyone involved.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Heather and Kim share the heart and mission of the Lifetime Adoption Foundation, the nonprofit that sponsors the show.The Foundation exists to provide education, financial assistance, and practical support to people impacted by adoption — including birth mothers and adoptive families — at different points along the journey.From birth mother scholarships and stability-focused support, to adoption education and adoptive family grants, this conversation offers a closer look at how the Foundation’s work creates opportunity, understanding, and long-term impact.In this episode, we talk about:Why the Lifetime Adoption Foundation was createdBirth mother scholarships and how education supports long-term independenceStability support for birth mothers navigating life after placementThe role of adoption education in reducing misinformationAdoptive Family (AF) Grants and how they help families move forwardWays supporters can get involved, including monetary donations, Amazon Wish List donations, Foundation bracelets, and Treasures in a Bag fundraising effortsThis episode is an inside look at how thoughtful, practical support helps strengthen individuals, families, and the adoption community as a whole.

Choosing an adoption agency is one of the most important decisions hopeful adoptive parents will make—yet many families aren’t sure what questions to ask or what values truly matter.In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption with Kim and Heather, we explore what ethical adoption really looks like and how families can discern whether an agency’s philosophy aligns with their own. From transparency and education to birth parent care and child-centered decision making, this conversation offers practical insight and gentle guidance for families navigating the adoption journey.This episode isn’t about finding a “perfect” agency—it’s about clarity, alignment, and protecting everyone involved in the adoption triad.In This Episode, We Discuss:What “ethical adoption” actually meansWhy values alignment matters more than speed or guaranteesHow ethical agencies support birth parents—regardless of outcomeTransparency, financial clarity, and informed consentPreparing adoptive parents for lifelong adoption, not just placementWhy ethical adoption doesn’t end at finalizationWho This Episode Is For:Hopeful adoptive parents exploring agenciesFamilies early in the adoption processAnyone wanting a deeper, more thoughtful understanding of ethical adoptionKey Takeaway:Ethical adoption begins with intentional choices—long before placement day—and continues long after.Listen now and share with a family who’s considering adoption.

Thinking about adoption but not sure where to start? You’re not alone.In this entry-level episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Kim and Heather walk through the very first steps of the adoption journey in a clear, approachable way. From identifying your adoption preferences to researching agencies, applying, and understanding what typically comes next, this episode is designed to bring clarity and confidence to families who are just beginning to explore adoption.No pressure. No overwhelm. Just a starting place.In this episode, we cover:How to identify what kind of adoption you’re seekingWhy preferences are helpful, not harmfulHow to research and compare adoption agenciesWhat to look for when meeting with agenciesTypical next steps after applying, including home study and educationWho this episode is for:Families newly considering adoptionCouples feeling overwhelmed by where to beginAnyone seeking a simple Adoption 101 overviewListen now and share with someone who’s just starting their adoption journey.

There are seasons when life quietly shifts, and suddenly the future you imagined no longer feels certain. For some, that uncertainty comes after pregnancy loss or infertility. For others, it follows unexpected changes, like being single longer than planned, walking through divorce, or losing a spouse and facing life in a way you never anticipated. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Heather and Kim speak honestly to those living in that in-between space. They acknowledge the grief that can come with unmet expectations, the exhaustion of waiting, and the fear of not knowing what comes next, especially when it comes to building a family. This conversation offers reassurance, perspective, and hope without pressure. Whether you’re deciding not to pursue parenthood, feeling unsure, or quietly wondering if there may still be a path forward, this episode reminds listeners that curiosity does not require commitment, and learning about options—like adoption—is simply a way to gain clarity. If life hasn’t turned out the way you thought, you’re not alone. And if parenthood is still something you desire, it may be more possible than you realize.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Heather and Kim explore the deeply human mix of hope and fear that women experience when they begin considering adoption for their child. This honest, compassionate conversation offers insight for both hopeful adoptive parents and women who may be navigating this decision themselves. Together, Heather and Kim walk through the most common fears— “Am I a bad mother?”“What if my child doesn’t understand?”“What if the adoptive parents forget about me?” —and contrast them with the hopes that often rise right beside those fears, including the desire for stability, love, openness, and a meaningful future for the child. Listeners will learn why these emotions are normal, why they coexist, and why understanding them matters. Adoptive parents will gain perspective that strengthens empathy and openness. Women considering adoption will hear reassurance that nothing they’re feeling is unusual or wrong. It’s a thoughtful, grounding episode that brings clarity to one of the most misunderstood parts of the adoption process: the heart of a woman who is choosing with love, courage, and complexity.

Today we focus on waiting adoptive families during the holidays. This episode explores what hope realistically looks like during the waiting season—especially during the holidays. Heather and Kim offer grounding guidance, emotional support, and professional tools to help families stay steady, protect their emotional space, and remain connected to the adoption process. The conversation covers reframing hope, honoring personal growth during the wait, practical ways to stay engaged, professional holiday navigation tips, and real stories of hope rising at unexpected moments. The episode wraps with encouraging words for waiting families and reassurance that their journey is still unfolding beautifully.

In this heartfelt Christmas episode, Kim sits down with adoptive mom and popular creator MaryAnne Budden of OpenlyParenting.com to talk honestly about the holiday season at every stage of the adoption journey.From the ache of Christmas during infertility… to the emotional tension of waiting to be chosen… to the joy—and new complexities—of celebrating Christmas after adoption, MaryAnne shares wisdom, warmth, and real-life stories.She also opens up about setting healthy boundaries around gift-giving in open adoption and how her family approaches Christmas with love and intention.If you’re an adoptive parent, waiting family, or anyone touched by adoption, this episode will remind you that hope is alive, God is faithful, and you’re not walking this season alone.Tune in for encouragement, practical insights, and a fresh Christmas perspective, no matter where you are in the journey.

In this first episode of our December “Hope in Adoption” series, Heather and Kim explore how hope shows up in adoption from every perspective—often quietly, sometimes unexpectedly, but always powerfully. They look beyond the usual ideas of hope and talk honestly about how it appears for: Women considering adoption: the hope for stability, safety, and being understood Waiting adoptive families: the hope that grows through persistence, preparation, and small moments of encouragement Birth fathers: the often unseen hopes they carry for their child and their role Everyone after placement: the hope found in connection, openness, and relationships that grow over time Heather and Kim also share where they see hope every day in their work—from hotline calls to updates between families to the way people show up for one another during big decisions. This episode sets the tone for the whole month: Hope is real, present, and uniquely expressed throughout the adoption journey. It doesn’t look the same for everyone, and it doesn’t require everything to be perfect. Hope is steady. Hope is human. And hope is woven into every adoption story. Join us as we begin this thoughtful, encouraging series.

In this powerful episode, Kim and Heather unpack the surprising truths about birth fathers in adoption. From learning they can sometimes sign consent before birth, to discovering they can be involved in every part of the adoption plan — even have their own open adoption connection — this conversation challenges old assumptions. You’ll also hear about the “Wait what?! Adoption isn’t giving up” moment, and how birth fathers can process emotions like guilt, anger, and shame in healthy, healing ways. Whether you’re a birth father, adoptive parent, or simply curious about how adoption works, this episode will change the way you see a father’s role in the adoption story.

Are you thinking about searching for your birth mom but don’t know where to begin? In this episode, Kim and Heather walk you through how to start the search, who to contact depending on the type of adoption (private, state, or international), and how to approach the conversation with your adoptive parents.

Let’s Talk Adoption, host Kim King sits down with Alice H. Murray — award-winning writer, longtime adoption attorney, and author of God Adopted Us First: Faith Lessons From an Adoption Attorney’s Adventures. With over three decades of experience guiding adoptive families, Alice shares the joys and challenges of her work, how faith shaped her practice, and the surprising ways humor and miracles showed up in the middle of serious legal moments.

In this episode of the “Wait, What? Unexpected Things in Adoption” series, Heather and Kim share heartfelt insights from the voices often least heard in adoption — birth mothers. Discover the surprising “wait, what?!” moments they experience: the mix of deep love and grief, the comfort that open adoption can bring, the empowerment of planning an adoption their way, and the realization that the perfect family for their child truly exists. You’ll also hear how birth fathers can have a role in the process and how courage, faith, and love guide birth mothers as they make selfless, hope-filled decisions. Whether you’re an adoptive parent, birth parent, or simply someone who cares about adoption, this episode offers compassion, understanding, and a reminder that adoption isn’t about giving up — it’s about giving love and opportunity.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption with Heather & Kim, we explore those “wait—what?!” moments every adoptee experiences. From realizing many birth moms chose adoption out of love, to understanding that identity grows over time, and that reunion isn’t always the ending imagined — we unpack the layers of adoption and what adoptees wish people knew.Join us for encouragement, reflection, and a reminder: your story is complex, meaningful, and still unfolding.

Adoption can be one of the most meaningful journeys a family ever takes — but it’s also one of the most confusing. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Kim and Heather unpack the biggest “Wait, what?” moments that hopeful adoptive parents experience as they begin their journey.

Infertility, loss, and the waiting that comes before adoption can strain even the strongest marriages. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Kim and Heather share practical tips and biblical guidance to help couples stay connected, communicate openly, and keep their marriage strong while navigating the journey to parenthood. From date-night conversation prompts to faith-filled encouragement and actionable ways to process grief together, this episode offers hope and support for couples facing obstacles on the road to adoption. Whether you’re just starting your journey or already in the process, you’ll walk away inspired to strengthen your marriage, trust God’s timing, and move forward together as a united team.

Communication is the heartbeat of every adoption journey. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, hosts Kim and Heather dive into the importance of clear, honest conversations on every level—between spouses, with friends and family, with adoption professionals, with your child’s birth mother, and with your child as they grow.You'll hear practical tips for navigating sensitive conversations, setting healthy boundaries, and building trust at every stage of the processWhether you’re just beginning your adoption journey or are already matched, this episode will help you strengthen your relationships and create a strong foundation for the road ahead.

In this important episode of Let's Talk Adoption, hosts Heather Featherston and Kim King address a difficult topic: emotional scams targeting hopeful adoptive families. Although adoption scams are rare, understanding how they work is crucial for protecting yourself on your adoption journey.   The hosts discuss a recent high-profile federal case that highlights the devastating impact of emotional scams. Unlike financial scams focused on money, emotional scams revolve around manipulation for attention, power, or control. These aren't situations where an expectant mother legitimately changes her mind—they involve people who never intended to place a child at all.   Heather and Kim outline key red flags families should watch for, including urgency and control, story inconsistencies, constant crises, isolation tactics, and over-the-top manipulation.   They conclude with an important message: don't let fear of scams keep you from pursuing adoption. Experienced adoption professionals regularly field potential scams, so families don't have to. Far more real, life-changing stories of hope and connection exist than stories of scammers.   When you work with a trusted agency, you have experienced advocates protecting your family and helping you navigate the adoption journey safely. For more details and practical advice, listen to the full episode. If you suspect you've encountered a scam, reach out to your adoption professional immediately.

At a recent conference, someone asked: "Are there actual studies that prove open adoption is good for children?"   In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Heather and Kim dive into the research and share findings from decades of studies on open adoption.   We’ll explore what the evidence shows about benefits for adoptees, adoptive parents, and birth parents — and also talk honestly about the challenges and situations where openness may not be possible or wise.   If you’ve ever wondered whether open adoption is just a trend or a well-supported practice, this episode brings clarity and balance straight from the research.  

Adoption doesn’t end on the day the papers are signed—it’s the beginning of a lifelong journey. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Kim King sits down with adoptive mom and blogger MaryAnne Budden of Openly Parenting to talk about the joys, surprises, and challenges of parenting after placement. MaryAnne shares her family’s experience with open adoption, how staying connected with her daughter’s birth mother has been both meaningful and practical, and what she wishes she had known before becoming a parent. MaryAnne’s adoption journey began with Lifetime Adoption, a licensed child-placing agency. She first learned about Lifetime through family members who had successfully adopted with them. Inspired by their experiences, she moved forward with her own adoption through Lifetime—and later, another relative also completed a successful adoption with the agency. Whether you’re waiting to adopt, just beginning your parenting journey, or years into it, this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone—and that support, reassurance, and encouragement are always within reach. Connect with MaryAnne: openlyparenting.com Instagram: @openlyparenting The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast belong solely to the individual guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of Let's Talk Adoption, its hosts, or affiliates. The information shared is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, or medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for personal matters. While we aim to provide helpful content and resources, Let's Talk Adoption does not assume responsibility or liability for any decisions made based on what is shared in this podcast.

Adopting a child doesn’t always mean adopting a newborn. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Kim and Heather break down the three main ways families can adopt a child who’s already been born: foster care adoption, international adoption, and private/independent adoption. Learn what each path involves, from costs and timelines to the emotional realities and do’s and don’ts you’ll want to know. If you’ve been wondering where to start—or which option might be the best fit for your family—this episode will help bring clarity.  

Adoption conversations on social media often swing between two extremes: either it’s celebrated as the ultimate act of love, or condemned as harmful and exploitative. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Heather and Kim unpack why adoption gets painted in such black-and-white terms online. Together, they explore the truths behind both perspectives, ask the hard questions adoption raises, and offer practical ways to sort through the noise. If you’ve ever felt discouraged or confused by what you’ve read about adoption on social media, this conversation will help you find balance and hope.

Starting the adoption process can feel exciting and overwhelming. Many hopeful parents find themselves waiting for the “perfect” time: for more savings, fewer risks, or the feeling that every detail is in place. But what if waiting is actually holding you back from becoming the parent you’re meant to be? In this episode of the Let’s Talk Adoption Podcast, hosts Kim King and Heather Featherston dive into one of the biggest questions adoptive families face: When is the right time to start adoption? What You’ll Learn in This Episode ✔️ Why waiting for perfection can delay your path to parenthood ✔️ The most common fears and hesitations hopeful parents experience ✔️ How to take your “next step” in adoption—even if you don’t feel fully ready ✔️ The powerful reminder to “do it afraid” and trust the process ✔️ Resources and encouragement for Christians who feel called to adopt Heather also shares insights from her book, Called to Adoption, available on Amazon. It’s a guide for Christians exploring adoption or supporting others who are called to adopt. Take the Next Step in Your Adoption Journey Every step you take brings you closer to the child who is meant to be in your family. If this episode speaks to you, we’d love to hear your story or answer your questions. Connect with us at [email protected]

Is adoption right for every couple? In this candid conversation, Heather and Kim explore the heart-check questions every hopeful parent should ask before starting the adoption process. From emotional and relational readiness to practical considerations and motivations, they share real-world insight from years of working with adoptive families. You’ll hear why adoption isn’t a one-size-fits-all path, the difference between healthy and unhealthy reasons to adopt, and how to know when it might be time to wait. Whether you’re just starting to explore adoption or are already deep in research, this episode offers the honest, compassionate guidance you need to discern your next step. Not sure if adoption is right for you? What questions should you be asking yourself? How do you know you’re ready — as a couple and as a family? Heather and Kim share the honest truth about readiness, motivations, and why it’s okay if your answer is “not right now.”

If you're adopting or even considering it, this episode is a must-listen. Heather and Kim break down the latest updates to the federal Adoption Tax Credit, including the new 2025 limit of $17,280, partial refundability, and expanded access for families with lower or moderate incomes. We explain what the credit is, how it works, and what makes the changes in the “Big Beautiful Bill” so impactful. You’ll also learn how the special needs exception can benefit families, how tribal governments now play a role, and what to keep in mind when tracking expenses or working with a tax professional. Whether you’re adopting privately, through foster care, or with the help of an employer benefit, this practical episode will help you understand how to take advantage of the financial help that’s available. Resources Mentioned: IRS Adoption Credit Information Dave Thomas Foundation: Adoption-Friendly Workplace Toolkit

Starting the adoption process can feel overwhelming—but what if a little honest insight could save you heartache and set you up for success? In this episode, Heather and Kim share the top three things every hopeful adoptive family should know before beginning their newborn domestic adoption journey. From shifting your mindset away from “purchasing a baby” to preparing for unexpected twists and honoring the birth mother’s role, this conversation is filled with real talk, wisdom, and encouragement. Whether you’re just starting out or reassessing your journey, this episode will help you walk forward with humility, empathy, and hope. During this episode we reference Called to Adoption by Mardie Caldwell, C.O.A.P., this is a great reference for anyone thinking about growing their family through adoption.

Feeling lost in the alphabet soup of adoption? In this episode, Heather and Kim decode the most common acronyms used in the adoption world—from ICPC and TPR to PRE, AP, and even PPC. You’ll laugh, learn, and leave feeling more confident about what those mysterious letters actually mean. Plus, we share a few made-up acronyms that perfectly describe the emotional rollercoaster of adoption. What You'll Learn: What ICPC is—and why it keeps you stuck in the hotel longer than expected The respectful way to refer to an expectant or placing parent What Pregnancy-Related Expenses (PRE) really cover Helpful terms to know when baby is born and in care Fun, fictional acronyms that adoption families will totally relate to! Play along during the episode or use this bingo card as a fun way to learn adoption terms! Mark off each acronym as you hear or recognize it. (Click on the image to download a copy)

Meet the Host – Kim King

Meet the Host: Heather Featherston

Welcome to the Let’s Talk Adoption, the original adoption podcast. This is where real stories meet real conversations. Whether you’re an adoptee, a birth parent, an adoptive parent, or someone navigating the complexities of the adoption journey, this is your space.This season, we’re diving deeper—more voices, more truth, more heart. We’re covering all things adoption.So subscribe today and join us every week as we talk, listen, learn—and grow together. Because adoption isn’t one story. It’s many. And they all deserve to be heard.

Guest: Heather Featherston This show offers tips and secrets for financing your adoption and how to find new ways to help fund your adoption. Also discussed are ways to budget and to save money when making baby-related purchases.  

Guest: Melanie Beth Mosberg Birth mother Melanie Beth Moseberg discusses the importance of the relationship between the adoptive family and the birth parent(s), and offers tips for making that relationship go smoothly.

Guest: Dr. Charles Sophy What can you expect if your child has been exposed to pre-natal drug abuse? In the second part of this two-part program, Dr. Sophy talks about the effects of drug and alcohol on a child after birth, what parents can anticipate, and services that are available.