So.... I'm Adopted Podcast!

Send us Fan MailAdoption can hold joy and ache in the same breath. We open with reunion—meeting a sister after years—and the quiet courage of calling a birth parent “mom,” even while honoring the mother who raised us. From there, we move through grief, village support, and a practical update on a genealogy case that’s finally in motion. The heart of our conversation explores transracial adoption: why the numbers are growing, how economics and systems shape who adopts, and what it really takes to raise a child whose race and culture differ from your own.We get specific. Representation starts with small choices—books and dolls that look like your child—and grows into bigger commitments: finding mentors and barbers, choosing teachers and communities that reflect them, and learning the language of care. For Black girls, hair is identity and dignity; we unpack the Crown Act’s context and why hair literacy is parenting, not a nice-to-have. We also share ten insights gathered from adult transracial adoptees: love deeply, talk about race and adoption early and often, build mixed-race friendships, and never pretend differences don’t exist. A diverse neighborhood helps, but it won’t do the work for you.Ethical questions surface—cultural loss, power imbalances, and the dangers of a rescue mindset—and we answer with intentional parenting: relationship over rescue, respect over control, listening over certainty. Along the way, we highlight Sandra Bullock’s public blueprint for awareness-driven love: celebrate heritage, prepare kids for bias, and keep learning. If family is commitment plus culture, the job is to widen the table so children can hold all their parts with pride.If this conversation moved you, follow So I’m Adopted on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, share this episode with a friend, and leave a review so more families can find us. What’s one small act that made you feel seen? Tell us.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when the truth comes early, a storm knocks out the island’s power, and a single name spoken in a courtroom echoes for decades? We bring you Jennifer’s journey—from being adopted at two days old on Guam to leading an NYC adoption agency for older youth—and the winding path between belonging, uncertainty, and grace.We talk about the power of honest language in childhood and how it turns “You’re adopted” from a weapon into a badge of identity. Jennifer shares how race and visibility shaped daily life when strangers questioned family resemblance, and why being the only sibling placed for adoption can hold both gratitude and unanswered why. A typhoon delayed the phone lines, a JAG attorney steadied the process, and years later a letter reopened a closed adoption with care, caution, and compassion. The first reunion happened at a family gathering; the next brought both families together, proof that love can hold complexity without breaking.We go deep on adoption‑competent therapy—why standard counseling often stalls with adoptee‑specific trauma, ambiguous loss, and reunion dynamics, and how specialized clinicians change the work. Jennifer traces her calling to public service, moving to New York, and stepping into leadership at an agency that finds families for teens in foster care. The job brings vicarious trauma, but also purpose: a daily commitment to permanence, safety, and dignity for youth who’ve been told they don’t matter.If you’ve ever stared at a blank line on a birth certificate or felt the pull to find a missing piece of self, this conversation offers language, tools, and a little hope. Subscribe, share this episode with someone who needs it, and leave a review with the moment that stayed with you most. Your voice helps others find the support they deserve.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a four-year-old's brave disclosure at a doctor's appointment changes the trajectory of her entire life? Sana Latrice Cotton joins us to share her extraordinary journey through foster care, adoption, and eventual reconnection with her biological family that will leave you breathless with its divine orchestration.From being separated from her twin brother when he was incarcerated at age 15 to discovering her future husband's grandmother had mysteriously kept her childhood photo for years, Sana's story reveals how our deepest wounds often become our greatest purpose. Her raw account of navigating multiple family systems—biological, foster, and adoptive—illuminates the complex emotions adoptees experience while seeking identity and belonging.Now the founder of Unashamed Inc., Sana has transformed her trauma into purpose by creating community for teenagers in foster care—the "forgotten" age group she believes needs the most support. Her organization provides branded merchandise that removes stigma and celebrates foster youth identity, while her "Roots and Wings" program helps adult adoptees locate their biological families. Her recent discovery of her biological father's family after decades of searching offers hope to anyone still looking for answers.The most powerful moment comes when Sana reveals how opening her mouth as a child not only saved her life but continues to save others through her advocacy work. "Tell your story," she urges, "because it's attached to the freedom of so many other people." Whether you're an adoptee, foster parent, or someone who loves someone touched by adoption, this conversation will remind you that no part of your story is wasted when you have the courage to share it.Follow Sana on social media @SanaLatrice or visit her nonprofit at unashamedinc.org to learn how you can support foster youth in finding their voice and purpose.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailThis intimate conversation offers a rare glimpse into how adoptees and their families navigate the complex emotions that arise when biological relatives are found. We explore the tension between excitement and caution, the fear of rejection from both sides, and the healing that happens when communication remains open.• The deep need adoptees have to understand their biological origins beyond their loving adoptive homes• How medical appointments can become unexpectedly painful moments for adoptees lacking family health history• The "tunnel vision" adoptees sometimes experience in their excitement to connect with birth relatives• Fears adoptive family members may have about being replaced or forgotten• How children of adoptees process meeting biological relatives at their own pace• The importance of allowing organic relationships to develop without pushing• Finding balance between honoring adoptive family bonds while exploring biological connections• The concept that "two things can be true at the same time" in adoption relationshipsJoin us on Instagram and Facebook at @soImAdopted and subscribe to our YouTube channel "So I'm Adopted" to continue this important conversation.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when an adoptee grows up in an open adoption during the 1990s and becomes a children's book author? Sasha Sedman takes us through her remarkable journey, revealing the beautiful complexity of relationships that form when adoption is treated with honesty from the beginning.Sasha shares the extraordinary story of her birth - how her adoptive mother became friends with her birth mother during pregnancy and was even present in the delivery room. From a wicker bassinet rescued from an alley to Raggedy Ann dolls that connect generations, the physical objects of Sasha's adoption story symbolize the thoughtful ways her families remained connected throughout her life.The conversation explores the nuanced dynamics between adoptive and birth families, particularly the different comfort levels each person brings to these relationships. Sasha recounts meeting her paternal biological family in her twenties and discovering shared physical traits she'd never experienced before. She articulates the delicate balance of boundaries, explaining how her adoptive parents empowered her with freedom of choice while preparing her for the realities that birth family members might also have their own boundaries.Most powerfully, Sasha reveals how her adoption experience directly influences her work as a children's author. Her book "First Day: An Adoption Story" provides families with a universal adoption narrative and space to document their unique stories. She also discusses "All Out of Ducks," her humor-filled book about parental exhaustion that incorporates critical maternal mental health resources she wishes she'd had during her own postpartum depression.The episode culminates with Sasha's wisdom on normalizing diverse family structures and validating the complex emotions that accompany adoption. As she puts it, "Any feelings you have are valid, and any feelings other people have are valid" - a perspective that creates space for honest conversations and deeper connections in all types of families.Ready to explore the world of open adoption through a storyteller's eyes? Listen now and discover how one author is helping families write their own narratives of belonging.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailSaran T. Baker never imagined that at 24, fresh out of college with her first job, she would suddenly become the adoptive parent to her younger siblings after her mother's tragic death. Yet somewhere deep inside, she always knew this would be her path.Growing up in what she candidly describes as the "hell home," Saran developed an early determination to one day provide her siblings with the safety and stability she never had. When her mother's fatal car accident made this a sudden reality, she navigated the complex interstate adoption process between Florida and Maryland, all while grieving and trying to build her own adult life."I inherited a hot mess," Saran shares with striking honesty, describing children already carrying the weight of trauma, abuse, and abandonment. Without a parenting model to follow, she cobbled together approaches by watching others and relying on prayer. When her five-year-old sister asked to call her "mom" after a difficult day at kindergarten, Saran agreed—only to find herself hiding in closets, overwhelmed by a title she never experienced in a healthy way herself.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailImagine uncovering hidden family truths and forming unbreakable bonds across unexpected paths. Join us, John and Lisa, in a heartfelt exploration of adoption, identity, and the relationships that shape our lives. This episode features the inspiring Kalila Scott Sumners, who offers a deeply personal glimpse into her adoption journey. From being embraced as a "chosen child" to the emotional complexities of meeting biological family members, Kalila's story is one of resilience, love, and self-discovery. Listen as we highlight the significance of maintaining a positive narrative about one's origins and the journey of reconnecting with biological roots.Kalila's candid reflections reveal the joys and challenges of adoption, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's lineage, especially during major life events like marriage and pregnancy. As we share our own personal growth stories and aspirations for 2025, we also honor notable adoption figures such as Josephine Baker and President Gerald Ford. Their stories, along with Kalila's, demonstrate the profound connections and unique experiences fostered through adoption. This episode sheds light on the emotional journeys of adoptees, the yearning for familial connection, and the unexpected blessings that come with navigating these complex relationships.Explore the intricate dynamics of adoption and family as we discuss the challenges of uncovering hidden truths and the emotional struggles tied to meeting biological parents. We delve into the universal longing for belonging and the balance between loyalty to adoptive families and acceptance from biological roots. Through personal anecdotes and powerful exchanges, we underscore the need for support, understanding, and celebrating the enduring resilience of adoptive families. Join us for an illuminating conversation on the unbreakable bonds formed through adoption and the lifelong impact on identity and relationships.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when adoption intersects with marriage? Join us as we explore this question through the lens of our own relationships, with our significant others, Janice and Titus, lending their insights. From uncovering family secrets to navigating complex emotions, our 13th chapter marks a milestone in understanding the profound effects of adoption on personal identity and family dynamics. Through personal stories and candid conversations, we emphasize the necessity of open communication and understanding in nurturing these unique relationships.The secrets and revelations of adoption create ripples across generations. We share experiences of how differing approaches to adoption disclosure have influenced our identities and family dynamics. With contrasting stories, including feelings of exclusion due to visible differences and the comfort of early adoption awareness, we illuminate the complex tapestry of adoptive family experiences. The narrative spans reactions of adoptive parents, the struggle for identity, and the emotional journeys tied to discovering biological roots, where chosen families often step in to fill emotional voids left by loss or secrecy. We discuss the impact of family trauma and loss, exploring how meaningful conversations can foster healing and resilience. The power of chosen families in providing support during both challenging and celebratory times is highlighted, emphasizing a new sense of belonging. As the festive season unfolds, we invite you to reflect on the importance of intentional relationships and the transformative journey of embracing your roots with grace and empathy.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailImagine uncovering life-altering truths about your past nearly four decades into your life. This is the journey our guest shares, where unexpected revelations about family roots and adoption bring a cascade of emotions. We start by reflecting on the extraordinary lives of celebrated adoptees like Jamie Foxx and Babe Ruth, illustrating how nurturing environments and supportive relationships can shape destinies. Their stories set the stage for our guest’s poignant tale, as they navigate the emotional landscape of discovering their own adoption story and the love and loss that accompanied it.Our conversation takes a remarkable turn with the unfolding of an unexpected reunion. A mysterious visitor brings shocking news that challenges the very foundation of our guest’s identity, revealing a biological mother thought to be deceased but alive in Alaska. As the layers of family dynamics and motivations unravel, we explore the complex emotions and financial expectations that come with such revelations. Through the turbulence of reconnecting with newfound siblings and confronting a resentful biological mother, our guest’s journey highlights resilience, self-reliance, and the search for belonging in a fractured family.Finally, we delve into the trials of navigating intricate family relationships, from the painful realities of sibling isolation to the empowering acts of self-sufficiency. Practical skills and personal growth become lifelines in overcoming family trauma, while moments of compassion and empathy provide guiding lights. We share stories of strength and perseverance, including the importance of faith and spiritual guidance as anchors amidst adversity. Through this exploration, the enduring power of family love, respect, and resilience shine through, leaving a profound impact on all who listen.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailOur latest episode of "So I'm Adopted" or should we say "So I wish I was Adopted", promise to deliver a heartfelt tale and more. Join us as we navigate the intricate world of nontraditional family dynamics. Our conversation sheds light on the emotional intricacies of mixed-race identities and strained family relationships, offering hope through stories of reconciliation and healing. With insights from our guest, Katrina, we explore the unique paths people take, from education to unexpected career shifts, and the resilience required to thrive amidst adversity. Katrina shares her personal experience of growing up on a military base, feeling like an outsider as a mixed-race child caught between two worlds. From the pivotal moment Her mother considered giving her up for adoption, to her father's decision to bring her to Virginia, every aspect of her journey is laid bare. Discover how upbringing influences personal growth and relationships, particularly within marriage and as parents. Reflections on parental figures, both biological and adoptive, highlight the lasting impact of early adversity on parenting styles. We delve into the cultural nuances of identity, sharing anecdotes about essential Black films and the crucial role of a supportive community. Trina opens up about her healing journey from a challenging childhood, emphasizing the importance of love and understanding in shaping our identities. This episode is a testament to the power of shared stories in fostering connection and resilience.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailEver wondered what it feels like to navigate the intricate labyrinth of adoption and family dynamics? Join us as we welcome Shakia Simmons, an adoptee and Hampton University alumna, who brings her unique perspective on this emotional journey. Shakia's insights, woven with light-hearted banter about football and a tribute to the late James Earl Jones, add depth and warmth to our conversation. Shakia's story is a heartfelt exploration of the complexities of adoption within a family. Adopted at nine months by her relatives, she sheds light on the emotional tapestry of her life, balancing relationships with both her biological and adoptive families. As she shares her adoptive father's profound loss and his decision to raise her as his own, supported by her biological mother, our listeners gain a poignant insight into her unique family dynamics. Shakia's narrative is a testament to the enduring bonds of family and the challenges of acceptance that come with it.Our conversation extends to the broader theme of family dynamics and unconditional love, particularly the special bond between a mother and her son. We touch on the emotional nuances that can arise in marital relationships, emphasizing the crucial role of communication and empathy. The episode culminates in a powerful discussion on forgiveness and acceptance, highlighting personal journeys of healing and the importance of seeking support. This episode is a deeply moving exploration of family, love, and the human spirit's resilience.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailWhat shapes a person's path more profoundly: the family they’re born into or the family that steps in during times of need? This episode unearths the stories of famous adoptees like Ice-T and Simone Biles, whose lives were irrevocably molded by non-traditional family dynamics. Hear how Ice-T's aunts provided a sanctuary after he lost his parents, and how Simone Biles' grandparents became her bedrock after her turbulent experience in the foster care system. These narratives reveal the resilience and strength that can flourish within non-traditional family structures, and the irreplaceable roles extended family members can play in offering stability and love.The emotional intricacies of family relationships take center stage as we recount Kirk's heart-wrenching reunion with his mother after over two decades of estrangement. Confronting deep-seated pain and unresolved trauma, Kirk's story brings to light the necessity of understanding, forgiveness, and compassion in healing broken bonds. Through his experience, we explore the cyclical nature of familial pain and the immense struggle that accompanies seeking closure and answers from biological parents. This chapter highlights the power of grace, empathy, and the arduous journey of emotional reconciliation within families.Finally, the focus shifts to the profound process of emotional healing, barriers we erect to shield ourselves from trauma, and the impact of sharing personal struggles. Inspired by Kirk Franklin’s candidness about his own challenges, we underscore the importance of addressing emotional barriers rather than masking them, and the healing power of open communication and forgiveness. These stories illustrate how brokenness does not diminish one's capacity to inspire and create, much like how broken crayons can still color. Through faith, hope, and perseverance, we aim to inspire listeners to recognize their collective purpose and the transformative potential of their own stories. Tune in for a compelling discussion that will leave you pondering the powerful dynamics within your own family.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailJoin us as John shares the heartwarming and emotional journey leading up to his daughter Jayla's graduation, a milestone that brought his family together in unexpected ways. Lisa and John open up about the profound impact of non-traditional relationships and the emotional layers that come with adoption, highlighting the involvement of John's first mother in their celebration. This episode is a testament to the humility, wisdom, and strength that define familial bonds.We also explore how adoption has shaped the lives of legendary figures like Steve Jobs and John Lennon. Discover how Jobs' adoptive parents nurtured his unconventional learning style, paving the way for his groundbreaking work at Apple, and how John Lennon’s upbringing by his aunt and uncle may have influenced his musical and artistic legacy. These stories underscore the extraordinary potential within children who might be misunderstood in more traditional settings, spotlighting the critical role adoptive environments play in fostering remarkable achievements.Reflecting on the search for biological connections, we delve into the bittersweet discoveries and emotional complexities that come with uncovering one's roots. From societal pressures on maternal bonds to the practical importance of medical history, we navigate the nuanced journey of acceptance and self-discovery. As we celebrate cherished family traditions and the enduring influence of our father's  wisdom, we encourage you to appreciate every connection and make the most of the time with your loved ones. Dive into humorous anecdotes, valuable life lessons, and heartfelt reflections in this episode dedicated to the evolving roles and invaluable support of a father.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailAs we approach Mother's Day, Lisa and I find ourselves wrapped in the warmth of gratitude for the incredible women who raised us—our adoptive mothers. Their love and influence run deep, and in this heartfelt episode, we examine the layered emotions adoptees may experience during this time. From the personal tales of country music's Faith Hill to the surprising family discovery of Jack Nicholson, we thread stories of identity, reunion, and the complex tapestry of family dynamics woven by both birth and adoptive parents.During our  conversation John is sharing how reuniting with his biological mother brought new dimensions to his life. Together, we navigate the bittersweet terrain of Mother's Day, discussing how it can be both a celebration and a moment of reflection for those with intricate family relationships. We consider the balance of honoring all parental figures and reveal personal coping mechanisms that help manage the holiday's emotional triggers, offering solace and understanding to anyone finding their way through the joys and pangs of such occasions.Encircling the theme of maternal love, we reminisce on cherished memories—from the simplicity of Southern wit to the profound impact of shared wisdom. Our hosts stories create a vibrant mosaic of family life, illustrating how moments of humor and humanity bind us to our loved ones. These narratives underscore the beauty of nurture over nature and how the essence of family can transcend traditional boundaries. Join us for an honest and touching exploration that celebrates the indelible mark of mothers, both given and chosen, and the lifetime of memories they gift us.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailEmbarking on a heartwarming journey, we honor the intricate stories of adoption that have influenced lives from the humblest beginnings to the heights of influence. We pay tribute to the riveting adoption tales of figures like Nelson Mandela, whose story resonates with the biblical Moses, and actress Lynn Moody, biological daughter who uncovered her as her mother in the most surprising way. These narratives not only shed light on their personal identities but also weave into the broader human experience, capturing our imaginations and anchoring our latest discussion.Navigating the complex web of family dynamics, we sit down with an adoptee turned mother, who gives us a raw look into the emotional kaleidoscope found in families with both adopted and biological children. Her candid sharing unravels the layers of love, anger, and reconciliation that accompany the lifelong adoption journey. The conversation goes beyond personal anecdotes, illuminating the significance of the first family, the nuances within the adoption lexicon, and the solidarity found in support groups and podcasts—a testament to the resilience and community within the adoption narrative.In our final chapter, we find courage in vulnerability as our guest recount her own adoption story and its profound impact on her approach to parenting and professional life. The past and present collide, revealing how pre-verbal memories and trauma can resurface in unexpected ways, particularly when forging connections in our roles as a parent. We also delve into the emotional complexities of reuniting with biological relatives, exploring the multifaceted nature of gratitude and familial love. It's an intimate look at how the quest for identity and connection shapes us, binds us, and inspires us to evolve in our understanding of family and self. Join us as we traverse this deeply human experience, seeking understanding in the shared and unique paths of adoption.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailEmbark on an emotional expedition with social worker and foster parent trainer, Allison Davidson, as we uncover the layers of the foster-to-adopt journey. Allison brings a wealth of knowledge from her 25 years in the field, guiding us through the process with a focus on its financial approachability and the rigorous background checks designed to safeguard the children's welfare. Together, we bust myths about adoption disqualifiers and lay bare the heart and soul that goes into creating forever families.Navigating the foster care system can feel like threading a needle with a tapestry of legal and emotional threads. This episode delicately balances the two, delving into the complexities of adoption laws, the importance of cultural representation in foster homes, and the impact of maintaining biological connections. We traverse through Virginia's legal landscape, where I share my personal adoption narrative, revealing the profound influence of access to birth family information on identity and sense of self.Concluding our journey, Allison inspires with stories of resilience and transformation, highlighting the profound satisfaction of witnessing children find their permanent havens. For those moved by our discourse and considering fostering with the intent to adopt, she details the initial steps to take with local agencies. We're reminded that while the path of foster care to adoption can be an emotional labyrinth, the rewards of providing love and stability to a child in need are boundless. Join us as we embrace the spirit of compassion and commitment inherent in the foster-to-adopt adventure.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan Mailmagine standing at a crossroads, the path behind you a tapestry of silence and secrets, the way ahead promising a reunion with a piece of your soul you didn't know was missing. As we reveal our personal experiences with adoption and the significant impact of reuniting with our biological mothers, our tales intertwine with the heart-stirring stories of others, including the public reunion of Kirk Franklin with his father, offering a guiding light for anyone navigating the complexities of identity and belonging.Through reflections on Kirk Franklin's own odyssey and the transformative power of such experiences, we underscore the essential role of acceptance and ongoing growth, not just for adoptees, but for everyone forging connections with their past.As the tapestry continues to unfurl, we touch upon the broader implications of family ties and the unexpected ways in which life's serendipities can lead to healing, acceptance, and a deeper understanding of our heritage. From the catharsis of an emotional church reunion to the revelation of hidden truths join us as we journey together through the lives and loves that shape us, both through birth and the families we choose.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailDiscovering that you're adopted can be like opening a book mid-story; you scramble to piece together the narrative that led you here. Our podcast, "So I'm Adopted," is that space where the adoption narrative unfolds, where stories of emotional complexity within adoptive families, biological parents, and adoptees heal and connect us. Adoptees often wander between identities and relationships, and it is through the raw honesty of their stories that we unearth the importance of acceptance and maintenance in these unique bonds. Join us as we share tales from Manchester to Hampton and beyond, inviting you to reflect on the power of relationships in shaping who we are.The journey of understanding adoption doesn't stop at the personal; it ripples through every layer of our lives, influencing how we perceive and engage with the world. This podcast episode doesn't shy away from the complexities, whether it's the impact of non-traditional relationships on adoptive communities or how past traumas might shadow our present realities. It's a candid exploration of how being raised in one environment can wholly affect one's approach to marriage and family life. As your host, I interlace my anecdotes with insights from professionals, prioritizing emotional intelligence and patience as cornerstones for nurturing change in those we love.Through the lens of my own story, as someone who didn't discover their adoption story until later in life, we navigate the delicate process of sharing vulnerabilities and fostering transparency. The episode unfolds with tales of unexpected family revelations and the transformative potential of love, patience, and nurturing. Every adoption story holds a unique significance, and we're here to amplify these voices, encouraging our listeners to seek understanding and healing in their narratives. Get ready to connect deeply with a community that celebrates the strength found in our shared vulnerabilities.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailHave you ever pondered the intricate layers of identity that come with being adopted? Join us as we welcome a special guest to share in the heartfelt exploration of this profound journey, a path marked by discovery, acceptance, and a quest for a sense of self. Together with Lisa and John, we unravel the emotional tapestry that adoptees navigate, from the simplicity of a childhood revelation to the complexities of forming an adoptive identity and the lifelong impact it has on individuals and families.This episode offers an earnest look into the poignant process of uncovering biological roots, and the delicate balance between curiosity and respect for the bonds of an adoptive family. Our guest brings humor and heartache to the conversation, recounting those late-night rituals with an adoptive mother, the challenge of insensitive comments, and the search for answers that leads to surprising discoveries and new family connections. The intimate accounts shared reveal not just the adoptee’s experience, but also the crucial support systems that provide guidance and reflection along the way.We close with a candid discussion on the importance of personal closure, gratitude, and the strength found in the stories that shape our lives. Whether adoption touches your life personally, or you're seeking to understand its profound impact, this episode illuminates the powerful narratives that can define a life. Tune in for a conversation that promises to connect, enlighten, and perhaps even offer a sense of closure to those on their own adoption journey.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]

Send us Fan MailDiscovering my own adoption story felt like unearthing a hidden chapter of my life, one that explained so much yet raised countless questions. We, Lisa and John, both adoptees, invite you to traverse this complex terrain with us in our podcast, "So I'm Adopted." By bringing to light the myriad emotions and experiences surrounding adoption, we craft a narrative that extends beyond our personal revelations to encompass the diverse stories within the adoption community.The journey of adoption is layered with love, loss, secrecy, and the quest for identity. Our conversations traverse the silent struggles of adoptive families, the heartache of foster siblings who come and go, and the poignant quest for normalcy in a life punctuated by change. With the wisdom of psychologists and social workers, we delve into the psychological impact of these dynamics, offering a beacon of hope and understanding for anyone touched by the adoption process. Our candid discussions reveal not only our own stories but also the courage it takes to confront the past and forge a path toward reconciliation and healing.As each chapter unfolds, we peel back the veil on topics too often shrouded in silence—like the reasons some mothers keep adoptions secret and how these truths, once revealed, ripple through families. We share our personal anecdotes, such as the life-altering moment of learning about my adoption from my elderly grandmother, and stories from our guests that span the spectrum of adoptive experiences. It's through these shared narratives that we find solace, build community, and extend a hand to those still grappling with their own adoption journeys. Join us as we embrace these stories with compassion, opening the door to deeper connections and collective understanding.Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtisProduce and Edited by  Lisa Sapp Executive Producer Lisa SappExecutive Producer Johnnie Underwood Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on IG soimadoptedpodFB so.i'm adoptedYoutube SO...I'M ADOPTEDEmail [email protected]