The Anna Jinja Show

Send us Fan MailHost Anna Jinja sits down with Wilson Munsterman and Mike Bila — two men who, on paper, don't have much in common. Wilson is 19, an adoptee from China, and the author of a book that's now part of the Library of Congress collection. Mike is a singer-songwriter and father, the middle child of seven, who wrote a song called "The Man That She Sees" out of something close to imposter syndrome.But Wilson chose Mike's song for this episode. And once he explains why, the whole conversation clicks into place. The song is about a father trying to close the gap between who his daughter believes he is and who he's afraid he really is. Wilson hears that and recognizes it instantly — not as a parent, but as someone who has spent his whole life navigating the distance between how people assume his adoption story goes and what it actually felt like to live it. The "grateful adoptee." The "success story." Titles that flatten a whole, complicated person into something easier to hold.The episode sits with that flattening. The Hollywood version of adoption that ends the moment the paperwork is signed, when in reality, that's when the real story starts. The self-doubt that follows someone even when — especially when — they've built something as remarkable as Wilson has by 19.And the conversation turns to choosing. Not just being chosen — which is where so much of the adoption conversation stays — but choosing, actively, again and again. Choosing the people who show up with no legal obligation to. Choosing ourselves, even on the days it doesn't feel earned. It's the whole reason this movement carries the name it does.Host Anna Jinja's husband Pete joins the episode on guitar to accompany Mike on the song, and there's something about hearing it performed in real time, right after the conversation that shaped it, that's hard to fully describe on the page.For anyone who has ever felt the weight of being someone's idea of them instead of just themselves — this episode is for you. CREATIVE INTERCHANGE: Song written and performed by Mike Bila Guitar accompaniment by Pete MatherThe Man That She Sees                         by M.T. BilaQuestions abound at this time of life - truth to tell well hell I'm scaredThe feel of alone settled deep in my bones begs the question - is anyone there?Dreams die on the vine - no she wLl never be mine - and Nashville most likely wont callBut the dream I love best so much more than the rest still thinks her dad stands twelve feet tall CHORUSThe most painful thing about living this life I live is letting her downI've found new ways to lose - only a child or a fool  would ever hang around a ship going downYesterday twelve tomorrow thirteen - now one has to wonder how long will it be until she opens her eyes and the man that she sees  is meI've spent hear after year proving her momma wrong just To find time again she was right all alongI gotta try - I gotta fight - i've got to go on -oh God please make me the man that she sees. Questions abound black and white all around but I live in shades of grayIn the shadows of life not quite wrong looks like right and not quite right is close enough so they sayAt almost forty years old I'm a low budget hero - seems like I fall much more than I flyBut there's a girl in her room thinking dad roped the moon - how much less can I do than tryREPEAT CHORUSSupport the show

Send us Fan MailThis episode follows Micki Lamb, a clinical director at Hopewell Health, who first tried to find her birth mother as a middle schooler walking through a snowstorm to mail a secret letter. Decades later, Micki discovered that her birth mother, Linda, had made a similar solitary trek at age 17—walking across Houston to safely place Micki with an adoption agency.The Anna Jinja Show brought Micki’s story to acclaimed poet Shei Sanchez without instructions or prompts. The result is "Origin," a powerful new poem that reframes the adoptee experience through the iconic line: "My birth family is in red. My adoptive family, in blue. I have begun my own, in purple." On mic, Micki and Shei meet to explore each other’s perspectives for the first time.Key Themes & Appeal•Local & Universal Resonance: Explores adoption, identity, and generational healing through two compelling voices—a former international educator turned Ohio goat farmer/poet, and a veteran child trauma therapist.•Original Arts Feature: Contains the exclusive broadcast premiere and discussion of the poem "Origin."•Emotional Depth: High-engagement narrative suitable for public radio storytelling, human-interest, and arts-focused programming blocks.Support the show

Send us Fan MailA boy's only Christmas wish was to be adopted with his brother.Dawson wouldn't leave Dalton behind. Dalton has cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and is legally blind and nonverbal. When Robbin Brydges and her husband Steven found out about Dalton through the Dave Thomas Foundation's Wendy's Wonderful Kids program, they also found out he had a little brother who refused to be split up. They adopted them both.Years later, a poet named Jean Mikhail watched their story and cried so hard she couldn't stop. She wrote a poem about it. Then she got to read it to the family, live, on this show.On this episode of The Anna Jinja Show, you'll hear Jean's poem "Psalter for a Broken World," Robbin's honest reflection on becoming "the mom of a superhero," and Dawson himself, now a junior in high school, telling his brother on air: "I don't care how far the drive is. You can come home."This episode is about the kind of family you choose, and the kind of loyalty a nine-year-old already understands better than most adults do. There are thousands of kids in foster care right now waiting for someone to say yes, the way Robbin and Steven did.If today's episode moves you, you can learn more about foster care adoption through the Dave Thomas Foundation or your local foster care agency.About Jean Voneman Mikhail, a poet from Athens, Ohio, whose work has appeared in The Northern Appalachian Review, Sheila Na Gig Online, and other literary journals. Jean draws on her rich experiences to bring heartfelt stories to the page, inspired by family and place.Support the show

Send us Fan MailBob Stewart wrote “Shadow Boxer” in 1977, decades before he’d ever hear Karen Salyer McElmurray’s name. He wrote it about shadows in general, the kind everyone carries, unnamed. He had no idea it would end up soundtracking a memoir about a mother who surrendered her son at 16 and spent twenty-five years waiting for a sound she’d only heard once: her baby’s cry, in a hospital room she wasn’t allowed to stay in.Karen’s memoir, Surrendered Child, won the AWP Award for Creative Nonfiction and was named a National Book Critics Circle Notable Book. But this episode, “Shadows and Song: Surrendering to the Truth Within,” isn’t really about the awards. It’s about the day a stranger found Karen through a Google search, and Karen’s son Andrew showed up in a driveway, fully grown, and Karen had to reconcile the baby she’d been picturing for a quarter century with the man actually standing in front of her.She calls it shadow and reality slamming into each other.This episode is all about choosing family, carrying grief you can’t fully name, and  discovering that the people we build our lives around aren’t always the ones we were given.Bob and Karen never met before this recording. Neither knew the other’s story going in. That’s still my favorite part of doing this show: watching two people who think they have nothing in common realize they’ve been speaking the same language the whole time.Support the show

Send us Fan MailKelley Shinn was sixteen, a scholarship-level cross-country runner, when a rare bacterial infection took her legs. A decade later she and her toddler daughter drove a Land Rover from England to Bosnia-Herzegovina, sponsored by the Landmine Survivors Network, to bring attention to landmine survivors around the world. Her memoir, The Wounds That Bind Us (West Virginia University Press), traces the whole arc. Losing her legs. Being adopted as an infant. Reaching, decades later, toward the woman who gave her up, and finding her at last through a pharmacy drive-through window in a moment neither of them will forget. On this episode of The Anna Jinja Show, Kelley talks about what it means to reframe a life instead of just surviving it. About being, in her words, clay that can always be remolded. About walking through a door that might only open once. Paired with her story is a song that was selected just for this conversation. Jillian Kay, an Ohio University music student you may recognize from Donkey Coffee or The Union, wrote “I'm Okay If You're Okay” as a letter to her own childhood self. After reading Kelley's story, she knew exactly where the song belonged. When she read about Kelley, she recognized the song immediately as belonging to this conversation. Jillian shares, in her own words, why lines like “roller coasters we have rode on, mountains we have climbed to the other side” felt like they belonged to Kelley's younger self as much as her own. This episode asks a question worth sitting with: what happens when you stop editing your past for other people's comfort, and start editing it for your own healing instead? Support the show

Send us Fan MailThe Athens County Children Services season of The Anna Jinja Show began with the executive director. It ends — in Episode 7, the true season finale — with the board chair. Nancy Schell has served as Chair of the ACCS Board of Directors for over a decade. She is a volunteer, appointed by the Athens County Commissioners, who shows up to set policy, provide governance, and make sure the agency remains answerable to the children and families at the center of its mission. In her professional life she is a Program Director at Ohio University. In her community life, she is one of the quiet forces that makes Athens County's child welfare infrastructure possible. In her conversation with host Anna Jinja and assistant producer Lizzi Montanti, Nancy talks about what a board chair actually does — and why someone would give that much of themselves to an unpaid position. She describes the strategic planning process that keeps ACCS from becoming siloed, the discipline of ending every hard board meeting with a good story, and the particular joy of adoption hearings, which she says move her to tears every single month. She also shares a story worth pausing on: a mother who lost permanent custody of her child, who years later returned to ACCS and now helps the agency improve its services. Nancy calls it "a huge win" — and it is, both for the agency and for every person listening who has ever wondered whether repair is possible. The episode also features a reprise of the original collaboration between Athens Poet Laureate (2020–2022) Wendy McVicker and folk legend Bruce Dalzell — the first-ever song they made together for this season, heard one last time as a closing gift. Nancy's call to action brings the full season into focus: support the levy. Consider foster care or kinship care. Talk to your neighbors about what ACCS does. And if you ever see or hear something that worries you about a child — say something. "Err on the side of caution," she says. "These children need us." Seven episodes. Seven conversations. A whole season of people who gave their time, their stories, and their art because they believe Athens County's children deserve to be safe, known, and loved.  Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it mean to tell the story of an organization that protects the most vulnerable children in your community — without exploiting those children's stories? That critical question sits at the heart of Matt Starkey's work. As the Public Information Officer and Community Events Coordinator for Athens County Children Services, Matt serves as the bridge between the agency's essential work and the public that funds, supports, and depends on it. In Episode 6 of The Anna Jinja Show's ACCS season, Matt joins host Anna Jinja and assistant producer Lizzi Montanti for a masterclass conversation about ethical storytelling, public transparency, and what it truly takes to keep children safe. Matt speaks with incredible clarity and conviction about several core themes: On community reporting: "The only way we do our jobs is if people tell us when something's happening. Listen to children. And if you hear something that doesn't seem right — report it. Err on the side of caution." On the power of showing up: "It takes someone reaching out to a child consistently. Sometimes they slap your hand away. But you keep reaching." On what art can do that a fact sheet can't: Matt describes how the agency's iconic community mural — designed alongside five local high school students — was built to spark genuine emotion. "We don't need you to think about when KidFest is. We want you to drive by and feel happy."The episode also features a cool milestone: the debut collaboration between Athens Poet Laureate (2020–2022) Wendy McVicker and folk singer-songwriter Bruce Dalzell. These two pillars of the Athens arts community had never worked together before but came together here to debut an original piece created in response to ACCS's mission. This is a cornerstone episode of the ACCS season of The Anna Jinja Show — a brilliant intersection of child welfare, poetry, music, and vital community conversation.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to earn the trust of a teenager who has been let down by the very systems meant to protect them? In Episode 5 of The Anna Jinja Show's Athens County Children Services season, host Anna Jinja sits down with Lisa Seitz — a Life Skills Caseworker at ACCS with over twelve years of experience supporting youth in foster care ages 14 to 21. Lisa's work is both practical and profound: she helps young people navigate college enrollment, secure housing, obtain state IDs, manage savings, and develop the independent living skills they'll need to thrive as adults. But the foundation of all of it, Lisa says, is trust — and trust is built in the smallest moments. In car rides where neither person has to make eye contact. In following through on a promise written in a calendar before the next visit. In explaining what an organ donor card means before a teenager is asked to make that decision at the DMV counter. "They've been let down a lot in their lives," Lisa says simply. "I just follow through with the simplest things." The episode opens with something rare and beautiful: an original poem titled "I Can Attest," written by the show's assistant producer Lizzi Montanti after a summer interning at ACCS. Written from the perspective of a caseworker, the poem captures what so often goes unseen in this work — the quiet, persistent act of bearing witness to a child's story. For anyone who works in child welfare, education, or family services — or anyone who has ever been the one caring adult in a young person's life — this episode is for you. Lisa also has a message for anyone considering foster care: "You don't have to be perfect. You don't have to be rich. We're just looking for people willing to open their homes and their hearts."  Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it look like to truly meet people where they are — not where we think they should be? In Episode 4 of The Anna Jinja Show's Athens County Children Services season, host Anna Jinja speaks with Dan Fuchs, a school outreach worker with ACCS stationed at Amesville Elementary in the Federal Hocking School District. Dan's path is unconventional: after eight years in full-time pastoral ministry, he found a new calling in prevention-focused family services — and the transition, he says, has felt entirely consistent with who he's always been. Dan speaks with rare honesty about the philosophy behind his work: that trust is built incrementally, that vulnerability is a gift, and that meeting a surface-level need — a gas card, a bag of groceries — is often the first step toward something much deeper. He also shares a challenge worth sitting with: "What if I'm wrong?" — a question he believes could transform not just our personal relationships, but our cultural ones. The episode also features a song by Riley James, an Ohio University musician and Brick City Records artist, whose song "Letting Go" weaves beautifully through the episode's themes of acceptance and identity. Whether you work in child welfare, education, community development, or simply want to be a better neighbor — this conversation is for you.Support the show

Send us Fan Mail"My darling, you aren't mine."  Those five words opened one of the most tender, honest, and hopeful conversations we've ever had on this show.  Episode 3 of our Athens County Children Services season features poet and foster-adoptive mom Becca Lachman and Athens County Children Services (ACCS) caseworker Laura Schaeffer.  They talk about: 💛 What it means to belong to someone — and to let go 💛 The poem Becca wrote in the middle of fostering a newborn 💛 Why Laura says the families she works with have the hard job — not her 💛 Why our community needs more people willing to open their homes  "If you want to know your community in a new light, to make connections you never would have before — fostering will do that." — BeccaSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it look like to offer sturdiness to someone navigating one of life's most complex systems? That's the question at the heart of Episode 2 of The Anna Jinja Show's Athens County Children Services Season — and Stephanie Russell answers it beautifully.Stephanie is an independently licensed clinical mental health counselor (LPCC) and Treatment Foster Care Coordinator with the Southeastern Treatment Foster Care Network. A lifelong Athens County resident, she has built her career championing individuals and families in rural Appalachia through the intersecting challenges of mental health, child welfare, and substance dependence. What sets Stephanie apart is her philosophy: that to serve others well, you must first fuel yourself — through solitude, self-reflection, and yes, occasionally running to the hills of Appalachia to recharge. Alongside Stephanie, we hear from Jillian Kay, an Ohio University music production student and Athens singer-songwriter whose original song "Sometimes Blues" speaks directly to the courage it takes to face difficult emotions with honesty and grace. This conversation is for anyone who works in service of others — and who sometimes wonders how to keep going. Stephanie and Jillian show us the way.Support the show

Send us Fan MailSomething special is happening in Athens County — and it starts today. The Anna Jinja Show is launching its first season ever, and we couldn't be more excited to share it with you. This season was made in partnership with Athens County Children Services (ACCS) — the agency quietly showing up every single day, often in the hardest moments, to keep children safe and families strong. In this first episode of the season, host Anna Jinja sits down with: Otis Crockron — Executive Director of ACCS, who has called Athens County home since 1986 and brings both professional and personal passion to the work of protecting children  Bruce Dalzell — the patriarch of the Athens music scene, with 45+ years of original songwriting, who teamed up with poet Wendy McVicker to write an original song for this season Lizzi Montanti — Assistant Producer and former ACCS intern, who bridges the worlds of art and advocacy in a way that will move you The song they created together? It will stop you in your tracks. This episode is a love letter to every caseworker, foster family, kinship caregiver, and community member who shows up — quietly, faithfully — for the children of Appalachian Ohio.Support the show

Send us Fan MailI just want to know your name."  Five words. An entire life behind them.  For this episode of The Anna Jinja Show, author Emma Stevens and singer-songwriter Jim Pilgrim came together for something rare — a song born from the pages of a memoir. "I Want to Know Your Name" gives voice to the ache that millions of adoptees carry not judgment, not blame, just the need to know where they came from. Jim Pilgrim, a gifted singer-songwriter and returning guest on the show, read The Gathering Place and found himself compelled by two persistent ideas. The first: Emma's desire to know the name of her birth mother — something most people take for granted, but which wasn't available to her, leaving a vast silence at the center of her identity. The second: the nine months Emma and her first mother spent together before birth — every heartbeat, every breath shared, a bond of pure proximity that would go unnamed and unmourned for decades.  From those two seeds, Jim built a song. But the creative process didn't stop there. In a moment of real growth, Emma gave Jim honest feedback — some lyrics didn't land the way she needed them to. Jim, to his immense credit, was open. They collaborated. The song became truer. "I Want to Know Your Name" opens with the grace of someone who has done the work: You do not have to love me. You do not have to care. I'm not here to judge or blame. I just want to know your name. From there, it moves through the ache of identity displacement, the echo of a voice without a face, and the quiet longing to finally see yourself reflected in another's eyes. The conversation between Anna, Emma, and Jim is layered and generous. Emma speaks about the courage it took to speak her truth after a lifetime of people-pleasing. Jim reflects on the responsibility of entering someone else's story as a creative. And Anna — never stepping back from her own experience — shares her own complex relationship with her adoption origin story, the questions she has and hasn't asked, and the ongoing work of self-acceptance. One moment stands out: Emma compares the adoptee experience to showing up to a movie of your own life thirty minutes late. You're there. You know your name. But the first scenes — the ones that explain everything — are missing. This episode is for anyone in your life touched by adoption. It's for every creative who believes art can hold what language alone cannot. And it's a reminder — from Emma, from Jim, and from me — that healing is possible, your story matters, and the ruby slippers have been on your feet the whole time.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to advocate for 400,000 people — over 25 years — to access something as fundamental as their own birth certificate?  For Betsie Norris, it started with her own search. As an adoptee in her mid-twenties, she searched for and found her birth family — and came away with a conviction that adoption is not a single moment, but a lifelong journey that deserves honest conversation, systemic support, and legal reform.  She founded Adoption Network Cleveland in 1988, volunteering for its first seven years before serving as Executive Director ever since. Under her leadership, Ohio-born adult adoptees — including those adopted during the formerly "closed" period from 1964 to 1996 — gained access to their original birth certificates starting in 2015.  She is also co-author of Journeys After Adoption: Understanding the Lifelong Process, and the subject of the documentary An Adoptee ROARed in Ohio, which debuted at the Cleveland International Film Festival.  Betsie joins host Anna Jinja for a conversation about what drives lifelong advocacy, how DNA discoveries have changed everything, and what she wishes adoptive parents, birth parents, and adoptees understood about one another.  Joining them is Dave Lawrence, frontman of Ready Aim Flowers (Athens, Ohio), whose song "Field Notes" — inspired by a real paleontological dig — opens up into a striking allegory for searching, belonging, and the courage to dig without knowing what you'll find.  "The wounds are relationship-based," Betsie says. "And so the healing comes through relationships."  Wherever you are in your own story - this episode is for you. Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat if a poem could hold every part of you — even the parts you've been afraid to name? On this episode of The Anna Jinja Show, host Anna Jinja sits down with poet Amba Elieff, a woman who has reinvented herself more times than she can count — wife, daughter, mother, stepmother, massage therapist, corporate survivor, and above all, a poet who gives language to what most of us are too afraid to say out loud. Amba and Anna explore three of Amba's poems — each one a window into identity, the body, and the shadows we all carry. Together, they dive into questions that will stay with you long after you finish listening: Are you still the original color you were born? Or have layers of life — loss, love, trauma, reinvention — changed you into something new? And is that okay? Is your body a scrapbook? Who has been writing the pages — and when do you decide to take the pen back?  Have you ever found comfort in the darkness? What are the "shadows" that keep you tethered to the earth? Anna also reflects on what it means to grow up as an international adoptee — to be placed into a box of crayons that wasn't designed for you, to feel compelled to complete a story that began without you. This conversation is for anyone who has ever felt like they're living in the "both/and." The beauty and the grief. The belonging and the searching.   Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Some conversations don't just move you. They find you.  On this episode of The Anna Jinja Show, host Anna Jinja sits down with Linda Pevac — known to readers by her author pen name, Emma Stevens — a domestic adoptee from the baby scoop era, and the author of three unflinching memoirs: The Gathering Place, A Fire Is Coming, and Choosing to Breathe.  Linda describes growing up in a household where adoption was taboo — where speaking of it meant she was "bad," and performing who her parents wanted her to be meant she was "good." For decades, she was what she calls a dualistic thinker. Then, slowly, tenaciously, she pulled that apart.  Joining her is Rev. Dr. Rob Martin — pastor, poet, and regular voice at Athens's Words on Wednesday open mic — who was the featured artist selected to read Linda's memoir Choosing to Breathe and and write a poem inspired by her story. He called it "For Emma." He reads it aloud in this episode. And the moment Linda heard it — the nickname her father gave her woven into the verses — it brought tears to her eyes.  One line Rob wrote says it all: "The universe wanted me. Life wants life." Those are Linda’s words. Rob gave them back to her in verse. And now they belong to all of us.  This episode is for anyone who has ever felt like they were performing a version of themselves. Anyone who grew up not knowing they had permission to ask who they really were. Anyone sitting in the rubble of something broken, wondering if it can ever be beautiful again.  Spoiler: it can. That's what kintsugi is all about. Support the show

Send us Fan MailThere is a line in the poem "Stage Gift" — written by Dr. Scott Minar for this special episode — that will have you return to over and over: "I see kindness radiates in a theater exponentially and the magic blooms in movement and voice."That is the episode in a single breath.We sit down with two remarkable Ohio University faculty members whose conversation illuminates the intersection of creative work, family, and what it truly means to belong.Steven Strafford — Head of Musical Theater at OU, Brooklyn-born playwright, and author of the nationally acclaimed solo show Methtacular! — shares the story of how he and his husband became parents to their son Seely through foster-to-adopt. Steven speaks candidly about the complexity of open adoption, the unexpected gift of finding community in Appalachian Ohio, and how raising a child has deepened his life in the theater. Scott Minar — Professor Emeritus of English at Ohio University, internationally published poet, and performing musician — responds with "Stage Gift," a poem he composed for Steven and Seely after the two men connected in conversation. Scott's work has been celebrated by Joyce Carol Oates and former U.S. Poet Laureate Mark Strand, and his poem reminds us that art is one of the most enduring ways humans say: you are not alone.This episode is for anyone who leads with curiosity. Anyone who has chosen their family. Anyone who believes that belonging is something we build together.Support the show

Send us Fan Mail"Don't overthink it." — The best adoption advice you'll ever hear.  Part 2 of this remarkable conversation on The Anna Jinja Show is here — and it goes even deeper.  Bob Pohl and Patrick are back with host Anna Jinja, picking up right where they left off. This time, they get radically honest: about the fears that almost stopped everything, about the surprises hidden inside Susan Strong's memoir One Yes at a Time, and about what it truly means to be a father — biological or not.  Bob shares the moment he realized he had romanticized his daughters' journeys — and how reading their own journal entries in the book humbled him, changed him, and made him want to listen better. Patrick opens up about discovering that someone he loved deeply had silent doubts the whole time — and what it took to make peace with that.  And then there's the song. A quiet, beautiful moment where everything that couldn't be said — was felt.  This episode is for every parent who thought they had it figured out. Every person who's ever loved someone through the messy, imperfect, extraordinary chaos of family.  This conversation was made possible because of Susan Strong's memoir One Yes at a Time: How Open Adoption Transformed Our Family and a previous interview with Susan: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2185315/episodes/16127994-susan-strong-goth-dadSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it truly mean to say YES to love?On this deeply moving episode of The Anna Jinja Show, host Anna Jinja sits down with two extraordinary men — Bob Pohl, adoptive father and husband to author Susan Strong, and Patrick, the birth father of their daughter Caitlin. Together they pull back the curtain on what open adoption really looks like from the inside — and it is nothing short of transformative.Bob describes how saying yes to open adoption didn't just change his family — it changed him as a person. It taught him to look left when he'd always looked right. To ask questions he didn't know he was missing. To live a more vulnerable, more intentional life.And Patrick? He was 17 when this journey began. Today, he and Caitlin have a beautiful, close relationship — while openly crediting Bob as her dad. His story will stop you in your tracks.This episode is a powerful reminder that love is not a finite resource. It's generative. It grows.This conversation was made possible because of Susan Strong's memoir One Yes at a Time: How Open Adoption Transformed Our Family, and a previous interview with Susan: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2185315/episodes/16127994-susan-strong-goth-dadSupport the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it mean to have two homes, two families, and two lives — and to love both fully?In the latest episode of The Anna Jinja Show, host Anna Jinja sits down with Kristina Denbow, a transnational adoptee who was adopted from Kazakhstan as a child and raised in Athens, Ohio. After years of questions about her origins, Kristina made the journey back last summer — visiting the orphanage where she spent her earliest years and reuniting with her biological sister, grandmother, and niece.What she found wasn't just closure. It was a flooding of memories, a rekindling of love, and a complicated, beautiful reckoning with identity.Joining the conversation are Sophie Mather — Kristina's longtime friend, who chose the poem "Battery" by Anne Waldman to honor her story — and Sophie's father, Pete, who offers a parent's perspective on what Kristina's courage represents.This episode speaks to something universal: the human need to know where we come from, and the remarkable capacity we must carry more than one home in our hearts.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it mean to truly love someone exactly as they are — not as a project to improve, but as a whole and complete person?  That question is at the heart of this episode of The Anna Jinja Show, and the answers from our three guests are ones I believe every professional — in education, healthcare, counseling, or leadership — needs to hear.  Kayla Obenour is a speech-language pathologist, author, and disability advocate. Her daughter Nora — who is adopted, has a disability, and is neurodivergent — has been her greatest teacher. Kayla's insight is deceptively simple and profoundly important: "Love and advocacy are not just feelings. They're practical, daily commitments." She stopped trying to fix Nora and started changing the environments that needed to change.  Emily Singer is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor specializing in complex developmental trauma. She's also a musician whose song "Exactly Who You Are" opens this episode. Emily reminds us that in therapy — and in life — what truly heals isn't technique. It's being genuinely seen.  Marlene L'Abbé is a painter and international designer whose portraits capture the inner essence of her subjects. She brings a visual and spiritual lens to the conversation — one that asks us: what do we truly see when we look at another person?  This episode is a masterclass in radical inclusion — and a reminder that seeing someone clearly is itself a form of love.  "Every single person, if you could truly see and know and understand them, you would love them so instantly — so effortlessly." Listen to the full episode and discover what this kind of seeing can unlock — in your work, your relationships, and yourself.  Guest Links:https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/marlene-labbehttps://albanycounseling.com/our-team/https://www.amazon.com/Did-You-Know-Love-Yourself/dp/1662455925Support the show

Send us Fan Mail This episode of The Anna Jinja Show brings together two powerful voices for a conversation that will stay with listeners long after they press pause. Dr. Gretchen Sisson, author of Relinquished: The Politics of Adoption and the Privilege of American Motherhood, shares a decade of research revealing the constrained choices and unacknowledged grief of mothers who relinquish children. Paired with her work is songwriter Jim Pilgrim, whose original folk-and-blues song “Down Here on the Ground” tells the story of Sofia—a 15-year-old mother navigating judgment, sacrifice, and the question: what is best for Isaiah? Together, they challenge listeners to look past easy answers and toward the complex, human reality of how families are formed and reformed.    Song: Down Here on the Ground written and performed by Jim Pilgrim  Guest Links: https://www.gretchensisson.com/ https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/jim-pilgrim/73254745 https://open.spotify.com/artist/73Ni4WHWiqlouO0WPHoGybSupport the show

Send us Fan MailDeb Gold is a certified ICF coach who helps globally-focused individuals and organizations take practical pathways to transformation to create purposeful and impactful transformation out in the world. Deb feels that it is important to share her adoption story, of how she entered the world, and how it’s informed her actions ever since and how she encourages others to open to the wisdom of the world. Wendy McVicker, Athens' third poet laureate and longtime teaching artist, reads her poem titled "Flying Lessons," and she joins the conversation with Deb and Anna about how we can engage in hope-inducing experiments together.Support the show

Send us Fan MailFull Circle: A Mother, Son, and the Music of Belonging This week's episode features both Diane and her son Levi Merrill for an intimate conversation about adoption, identity, and what it really means to create family through choice and unconditional love. Levi, a gifted singer-songwriter, producer, and guitar teacher, opens the episode with a performance of Dan Bern's "Jerusalem"—a quirky, vulnerable song that explores identity, belonging, and the courage to reveal yourself fully. The opening lyric says it all: "When I tell you that I love you, don't test my love, accept my love." For Levi, these words capture the essence of his relationship with his mom and his experience as an adoptee. He was told the truth about his adoption from the very beginning, which allowed him to fully accept his mother's love without question or hesitation. "My mom has always been my mom," Levi says in the episode. "I was born adopted. I wouldn't have it any other way." The conversation covers beautiful ground: Diane's journey through infertility to adoption, and why it was never a question for her—she wanted to be a mom The "baby phone" and 25 conversations before finding Levi's birth mother Levi's earliest memories of understanding he was adopted—and why it never felt like a big deal The role music has played in helping Levi explore identity and process grief (particularly after his father's passing) How Levi and his sister Hannah navigated being adoptees together What it means to accept love without testing it The humor, the tears, and the everyday moments that make a familyFor Anyone Who Needs to Hear This StoryIf you're questioning whether you belong, whether you're loved, whether your story matters—this episode is for you. If you've ever tested love instead of accepting it, this conversation will give you permission to soften. And if you're navigating your own adoption journey, whether as a parent, child, or someone exploring what "chosen family" means, Diane and Levi's story will remind you that love isn't about biology—it's about showing up, telling the truth, and holding space for each other's full humanity. Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does it mean to truly change the world? Sometimes it starts with creating spaces where people belong. Join us on The Anna Jinja Show as we sit down with Aidan Curran—a video producer, community builder, and passionate advocate for connection. From his work at the University of Dayton to co-advising the Asian American Association and serving on the Virtual Engagement Committee for The Park Adoption Community Center, Aidan embodies what it means to show up for others. Plus, we're featuring "I Could Change the World" by Ian Vidovic (Roads)—a song that perfectly captures the beautiful struggle of finding your path and making your mark. This conversation will inspire you to think about your own journey, the communities you're building, and the change you want to see.     Support the show

Send us Fan Mail Have you ever felt caught between two worlds—not quite belonging to either, yet somehow belonging to both? This episode of The Anna Jinja Show explores this profound experience through a conversation with Dr. Susan Branco and Meredith Francom. What you'll hear: Dr. Branco, a Colombian adoptee, licensed counselor, and researcher, shares her personal journey alongside her professional insights. The conversation centers on the "Out of the Fog" model of adoptee consciousness—a framework for understanding how we navigate identity when our stories are complex. One of the most moving moments: Dr. Branco's account of finding her birth family after 25 years of searching. While conducting research on this very topic, she located her Colombian family through a cousin who was also adopted. The reunion has brought both immense joy and ongoing navigation of cultural differences, language, and previously unknown family history. Why this matters (even if you're not connected to adoption): This episode speaks to anyone who has: Questioned where they belong Felt misunderstood or stereotyped Struggled with complex identity Supported someone on a journey of self-discovery Experienced being "othered" in any contextA quote to carry with you: "You are valuable humans on this earth. You deserve to be here. You're survivors. And there's a whole community of us out there waiting and willing and ready to support you." — Dr. Susan Branco The episode also features a powerful reading of Gloria Anzaldúa's poem "To Live in the Borderlands"—a profound reflection on existing between cultures and identities. Guest Links: https://paloaltou.edu/about/faculty/susan-branco-phd-lpc-va-ncc-acs-bc-tmh https://www.clearbrookcounselingprofessionals.com/about/ames-clinic/meredith-francomSupport the show

Send us Fan MailThe Unexpected Path to Family: A Story of Patience, Faith & Perseverance In a world that often moves too fast, Kreig and Jillian Prior's story is a powerful reminder that some of life's greatest blessings arrive on their own timeline. After learning in 2005 that they couldn't have biological children, Kreig and Jillian didn't immediately pursue adoption. Instead, they hosted 15 international exchange students over the years—an experience that unknowingly prepared them for their true calling. In this episode of The Anna Jinja Show, they share: → How hosting Thai students led to a life-changing trip to Thailand → Navigating international adoption at ages 43 and 39 (when age limits made it "now or never") → Building bonds across language and cultural barriers → Supporting children with different attachment styles and special needs → Creating a family united not by biology, but by profound, enduring love Key takeaway: "Don't let fear stop you. To see these kids grow and thrive is such a gift. The way they have grown me and changed me is a gift from God." Whether you're considering adoption, navigating family challenges, or simply seeking inspiration, this conversation offers wisdom about patience, faith, and the many forms family can take. And Musician and pastor Chris Smith shares his creative perspective through song.  Guest Links: https://www.ohio.edu/ucm/about/staff/smithc25 https://www.holtinternational.org/thailand-older-child-adoption/     Support the show

Send us Fan MailFrom Struggling to Thriving: The Power of Choice in Your Adoption Story "Single mom struggle. I'm just going to struggle. This is going to be my story." Until one day, Rebecca Del Pozo said: "Nope. It can be different." In this deeply personal follow-up conversation, Rebecca Del Pozo shares how she transformed her mindset from scarcity to abundance—and how you can too. In this episode, discover: Why being rooted in truth and love creates an unshakeable foundation The surprising connection between trust and financial success How to "act as if" you're already the person you want to become The simple question that changed everything: "Is that really true?"Whether you're an adoptee, in the foster care system, or simply someone who's ever felt like they don't belong—this conversation will remind you that you have the power to choose your story. "We have so much power in the way we think about ourselves and in the way that we approach other people. We have choice to decide—today's going to be different than yesterday."Support the show

Send us Fan Mail"Where Am I From?" A Conversation About Belonging, Identity, and Home  "Where are you from?" It's one of the most common questions we ask when meeting someone new. But for adoptees, for those in mixed-race families, for anyone who doesn't fit the "traditional" mold, this seemingly innocent question can feel like an interrogation—a challenge to prove your belonging.  In the latest episode of The Anna Jinja Show, host Anna Jinja explores this complex question with Jade Amez, an Asian-American children's book author whose debut work, "Where Am I From?", transforms her personal adoption journey into a story that validates experiences rarely represented in children's literature.  More Than a Place: Understanding Home Jade's journey began in high school when she started exploring her roots, eventually connecting with her birth mother years later. But her story isn't simply about finding biological connections—it's about redefining what family means and creating space for children to understand their own complex feelings about identity and belonging. "We shouldn't be defined by where we live or where we grow up," Jade shares in the episode. "While those may be parts of how we identify ourselves, we're so much more than that."  A Creative Interchange: When Music Meets Story What makes this episode particularly special is the creative collaboration at its heart. Music therapist Caitlin Kraus, LPCC-S, and musician Brad Swiniarski came together for their very first songwriting collaboration to create an original song inspired by Jade's book—also titled "Where Am I From?"  The song's lyrics beautifully capture the complexity of identity: "Less of a place than who keeps me company" "All that meets the eye, more than what you see" "All that's in-between—and that's where I'm from" "I wanted her to feel like it honored her story," Caitlin explains. "The idea of home and the idea of family can mean so many different things to different people, and it's important to ask questions in an intentional way."  Why Representation Matters Growing up, Jade rarely saw books featuring adoption, mixed-race families, or the full spectrum of emotions that adoptees experience. This absence inspired her to write the book she wished she'd had as a child.   Asking Better Questions So how do we ask about someone's origins without making assumptions or causing discomfort?  Jade suggests reframing the question entirely: "Where's home for you?" "Where did you grow up?" "What would you like me to know about you?"  These alternatives open conversation without presupposing answers or invalidating someone's experience.  Listen Now Whether you're an adoptee, a parent, an educator, or simply someone who wants to create a more inclusive world, this conversation offers insights into fostering belonging for everyone.  Jade's book is available at whereamifrombook.com and wherever books are sold. And yes—there are hidden dumplings throughout the illustrations.  About the Guests: Jade Amez is an Asian-American children's book author, traveler, hockey and soccer player, and self-proclaimed dumpling enthusiast. Her debut book addresses topics absent from her own childhood reading.  Caitlin Kraus is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Board-Certified Music Therapist whose work encompasses therapy, songwriting, and community music-making.  Brad Swiniarski is a musician, father, and creator of The Bozniak Radio Extravaganza show on Radio Free Athens (WOUB 1340AM), with over 30 years of songwriting experience.   Support the show

Send us Fan Mail "I Am Here": A Conversation on Adoption, Heritage, and Cultural Identity How do we honor stories that some would prefer to erase? What does it take to raise children across racial lines in America? And how can art preserve what history tries to forget? In this episode of The Anna Jinja Show, we explore these profound questions with two guests whose personal and professional missions are deeply intertwined with heritage, justice, and belonging. David Butcher, Executive Director of the Tablertown People of Color Museum, shares his family's journey from slavery to freedom in Ohio, and offers invaluable wisdom as a father of two adopted children navigating questions of race, identity, and belonging.  Paisha Thomas, artist and founder of Land of the Freed nonprofit, uses music and activism to reclaim her ancestors' story—freed people who were violently denied 3,200 acres of land they rightfully inherited in 1846.  In this episode, we discuss: The challenges white parents face raising Black children and how to address them honestly Why cultural immersion is essential, not optional The power of museums and art to preserve what systems try to erase Resources for families, educators, and anyone committed to antiracism work David shares a profound story about his white friend who adopted Black children and couldn't stop crying the first time he attended their biological family's church—the moment he finally felt what his children had been experiencing for years.  Paisha reminds us that so much of American culture originates from Black communities yet gets rebranded and its origins erased. Her song and her nonprofit work are declarations of presence and resistance.  This conversation offers wisdom for adoptive families, educators, museum professionals, and anyone who believes that knowing our full histories—the beautiful and the painful—is essential to creating a more just future.  Guest Links: https://tablertownmuseum.org/     https://www.paishathomasart.com/  Support the show

Send us Fan MailThe Anna Jinja Show brings together adoptees across generations for a powerful discussion on surviving—and thriving through—life's most difficult transitionsThere's a moment in every young person's life when the world feels like it's consuming them whole. The pressure to fit in. The confusion about who you are. The rage at being different. For adoptees, these universal struggles carry an added weight.Ell Pyle is a young adoptee, talented singer, and barista at Donkey Coffee. For this episode, members of the local band Basket Case prepared something special: they selected one of their own songs for Ell and recorded a message explaining why.The song? "Eaten Alive.""I wrote this song about feeling like I was kind of being eaten alive by all these emotions and all these changes," explains Izze Kaukonen, vocalist for Basket Case and herself an adoptee. "If you don't take a second to take a step back, it really can eat you alive and it can be all-consuming."But why this song for Ell?Izze continues: "A lot of that feeling of being eaten alive was feeling like kind of other, like another. And a lot of that definitely came from being, you know, a minority, being adopted, just having a unique life experience in contrast to your peers."The Advice That Transcends AgeWhat emerges from this conversation is wisdom that applies far beyond the adoptee experience or teenage years.On owning your difference:"You got to own that you are different than the people around you, because that is an awesome thing, truly," Izze shares. "I used to be so ashamed of it. But then I started just being myself. And it makes you so happy to just be yourself."On accepting love during difficult times:Cass Wilhelm, Basket Case's other member featured in the episode, reflects on their own turbulent teenage years: "The only really advice that I can think of is to try your hardest to fall back on that love and to accept the love... I think that for anyone that's in that state, lashing out and feeling really frustrated and pissed off, I think that it's easy to forget how important love is."On finding community:When asked what advice she'd give to struggling adoptees, Elle offers this: "Their inner circle is called an inner circle because there are more circles that you can go out and branch out to. If you feel alone, you can find your community."The Universal in the SpecificWhile this episode centers adoptee experiences, its themes are universal. Who hasn't felt different? Who hasn't lashed out at the people who love them most? Who hasn't wondered if they'll survive the transition to the next phase of life?As host Anna Jinja notes, "This song is timeless for how life can feel like you're going to be eaten alive, but we can get through it if we can get through it together."Why This MattersIn a world that often isolates us in our struggles, episodes like this remind us that connection is the antidote. Whether through music, conversation, or simply being seen by others who understand, we find our way forward.Elle's closing message to her parents captures the heart of the episode: "Thank you for being my parents. My real parents raised me, took care of me, punished me when I did stupid things. And you stick by me even through the highs and lows."And to adoptees everywhere, she offers: "You're not alone." Why you should listen:Whether you're 16 or 60, adopted or not, this conversation speaks to the universal experience of feeling "other" and the power of community to help us through. It's honest, vulnerable, and ultimately hopeful.Plus, the song absolutely rocks.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhen an 11-Year-Old's Courage Inspires a Country Song  This episode will restore your faith in the next generation!  Her story begins with heartbreak. When Saily was just 11, she experienced two consecutive days of racist bullying at her Des Moines school. A group of boys said things so hurtful that she broke down. Her mother, Rohey, received a call from the principal. Both mother and daughter were heartbroken. But what happened next is remarkable.  From pain to purpose With the support of her family, Saily wrote a speech processing her feelings. Then came illustrations. Then, despite her initial resistance ("I'm 11. I'm not going to write a book"), she created "Rise mindfulness and finding their voice.  A song inspired by courage In our latest episode, recorded in my home state of Iowa at KHRY studio, I did something special. I introduced Saily to 18-year-old country musician Neva Alden and asked Neva to write an original song inspired by Saily's story.  Neva read the book over 20 times. The result? "She Spoke Anyway"—a haunting ballad that Neva performed live in our studio:  "She wasn't made for silence. She wasn't built to break. Turned every wound into something she could make."   This episode features a powerful intergenerational conversation: Saily sharing how she continues to face backlash for speaking up Her mother Rohey (who immigrated from Gambia, West Africa) processing her own childhood experiences with discrimination Her grandmother Tracy reflecting on raising a Black daughter and granddaughter in Iowa Neva opening up about being "different" in high school The wisdom these young women share will stay with you. As Neva says: "She was literally 11 years old when she wrote a book and decided, oh, I'm going to make a difference. It should be a sign for people not to just give up."  Why this matters Saily's message isn't just for children facing bullying. It's for all of us: Anyone who's ever felt too small to make a difference Parents supporting children through difficult experiences People who've responded to others' success with jealousy Anyone needing a reminder that our voices matter As Saily beautifully puts it: "There will always be someone trying to bring you down... But the thing that I always tell people is that you need to use your voice because you have a strong, powerful voice."  This episode will make you cry, inspire you, and remind you why young people are often our greatest teachers. And if you know a young person who needs to hear this message—or an adult who does—please share this with them.  P.S. Saily Bah's book "Rise Above: How to Turn a Negative Situation into a Positive One" is available on Amazon. It's a powerful resource for any young person navigating challenges—and for the adults supporting them.   Support the show

Send us Fan MailYou know those conversations that start in one place and end up somewhere completely unexpected—somewhere even more profound than you imagined? That's exactly what happened when the host, Anna Jinja, brought together Dan Smith (Cleveland Adoption Network's 2019 Volunteer of the Year) and Nashville singer-songwriter Milly Raccoon.  Here's what you need to know: This episode is about adoption—but it's also about so much more. It's about the universal human experience of searching for where we belong while learning to appreciate where we already are.  Dan's Story: Dan walked into his first adoption support group meeting and couldn't even drive home afterward. He sat in his car, overwhelmed with tears, knowing he had to return. That meeting became the catalyst for his journey into both finding his birth parents AND becoming a dedicated volunteer who now facilitates support groups himself. His wisdom about taking your time in the search process is something everyone needs to hear (whether you're touched by adoption or not).  Milly's Music: Then there's Milly Raccoon, who wrote "The Fine Art of Taking It Slow" while performing on an empty street, imagining a diamond buried in the earth that no one knows is there. Her Patsy Cline-esque vocals and soul-searching lyrics created the perfect soundscape for this conversation.  When Dan heard the song for the first time during our recording, his reaction was pure magic.  The Surprise Guest: And here's where it gets even better—we had a surprise third guest, Beth Miller, whose story about a stranger whispering "please don't give up" at an adoption conference will absolutely wreck you (in the best way).   What You'll Learn: Why rushing to find biological family can be a harmful experience ·  The non-physical similarities that bring the most joy in reunion ·  How helping others becomes its own healing journey ·  Why playing to an empty street taught a musician about presence ·  The wisdom of the "adoption constellation" and how it applies to all of us  Why This Episode Matters: Whether you're directly touched by adoption or simply someone who's ever felt like you're searching for something you can't quite name, this conversation will resonate. It's about learning to slow down, to appreciate what's right in front of us, and to recognize that we all carry diamonds within us—even when they feel buried in darkness.  Creative Content  The Fine Art of Takin it Slow Song by Milly Raccoon  A diamond has been hiding, buried in the earth And under constant pressure since the moment of her birth Miners try to find her to behold her precious gleam But darkness overtakes them and she was but just a dream  Time is passing like a freight train through some lonely country town We can watch from behind our windows, wondering where it might be bound Or you could lie beside me, darling, in the candle's dancing glow Where the secret's just a gentle touch and the fine art of takin it slow  We all keep our list of reasons to extinguish a burning love Fire's wild and needs constant tending; nothing ever is enough And we cannot know the future until the moment's past Take me back to the night I met you, before the spell was cast  Time is passing like a freight train through some lonely country town We can watch from behind our windows, wondering where it might be bound Or you could lie beside me, darling, in the candle's dancing glow Where the secret's just a gentle touch and the fine art of takin it slowSupport the show

Send us Fan MailPicture this: You're driving to Cleveland to meet your girlfriend's new foster baby. You walk up the stairs, knock on the door, and when it opens, the two-month-old LEAPS from her arms into yours.  That's exactly what happened to Yvan Demosthenes 25 years ago. And it changed everything.  This episode is special for three reasons:  1. It shows how connections happen in unexpected places The introduction that led to this interview? It came from a conversation about napkins between two colleagues. (You'll have to listen to hear the full story, but trust me—it's delightful.)  2. It redefines what family means Yvan and his wife Linda (who he'd known since age 10!) weren't even married when Michael came into their lives. Six years passed before they wed, but the family bond was instant and unbreakable. Today they have three children and a relationship built on choice, not just biology.   3. It offers wisdom we all need As someone serving on 13 nonprofit boards with a Doctorate in Education, Yvan brings incredible perspective to parenting, leadership, and community building. His advice for prospective adoptive parents? "Allow yourself to be in the moment. Use the enthusiasm to begin and get yourself through the journey."  We also featured something super cool: Lori Bauer joins the conversation to share how she accidentally became the connector who made this episode possible. It's a beautiful reminder that we never know the ripple effects of our relationships. The episode includes a stunning poem about connection that will make you think differently about every person in your life. As poet Kadambari Madhok writes: "We all are connected, isn't that great? We can hold hands and heal each other in despair and in pain."  Why this matters to YOU:  Whether you're adopted, considering adoption, or simply navigating relationships in your life, this conversation offers powerful insights about: Recognizing the families we choose Showing up consistently through challenges Embracing unexpected opportunities Building connections that transcend biology Michael is now 25 with his own girlfriend, navigating young adulthood while his dad watches proudly (and admittedly keeps tabs on where he lives!).  The love, humor, and honesty in Yvan's storytelling will stay with you long after you finish listening.  Guest Links:https://www.hamiltondemo.com/abouthttps://eyesopeninternational.org/yvan-demosthenes/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-bauer-5905661b/Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhat does Wi-Fi have to do with hope? Everything, as it turns out. Host Anna Jinja sits down with three incredible changemakers who are quite literally connecting foster youth to their futures. Laurie McKnight, Jeremy Jenkins, and Tim Henderson are bridging the gap between young people aging out of the foster system and life-changing careers in the broadband industry. Here's what will blow your mind: ✨ Jobs starting at $40K-$60K with just TWO WEEKS of training ✨ Career paths reaching six figures ✨ Real mentorship creating real transformation ✨ Second chances that change lives! Plus, we kick off with a serendipitous poetry moment that'll give you chills—poet Daniel Magner's "Wi-Fi" becomes the perfect metaphor for connection, access, and belonging. This isn't just about laying fiber optic cables. It's about laying the foundation for futures these young people never dreamed possible. Guest Links: https://www.ohio.edu/voinovich-school/people/mcknight https://hellopoetry.com/tag/wifi/  Creative Interchange/ Poem written and read by Daniel MagnerWifiIt's the closest I've got to a soul.Ever present and when it isn'tI'm hollow,desperate to feel its powerful touch,wash over me, connect me to the hive mind,the swirling voice, collective planet,except those with no access.Yes, it is life blood,cool streams in the desert,a thing so desperately sought.Support the show

Send us Fan MailSometimes the most powerful episodes come from the most unexpected sources.  This week, we're thrilled to share a special episode guest-curated by 11-year-old musician Jack Healey. After his mother, Tara Huffman (Executive Director of Athens County CASA/GAL), appeared on our show, Jack volunteered to write a song and select guests for his own episode.  Meet Jack's Guests: Gabe and Abby Miller Jack chose his 5th grade teacher, Gabe, and Gabe's wife, Abby—foster parents who have provided care for 15 children over three years. Their story challenges everything you might think you know about foster care.  What You'll Hear: Jack's original song "Trust in You," exploring themes of resilience and second chances Why the Millers chose foster care before even getting married How they maintain relationships with children long after placements end The surprising positive connections they've built with birth families What really makes foster parenting sustainable (hint: it takes a village) Jack's hopes for foster children in his community A Few Moments That Will Stay With You: "Don't go into it thinking you're going to be a hero," Abby shares. "Remember that you're there to wrap up everyone involved in the child's life too." Gabe still receives Father's Day texts from girls who were their very first placement. They've facilitated Easter egg hunts where siblings placed in different homes could still celebrate together.  And Jack? He's learned the most important lesson of all from Mr. Miller: "To be a kind person and to help people."  Why This Episode Matters In a world that often feels divided, this conversation reminds us that community care takes many forms. Teachers who openly share their experiences. Eleven-year-olds who use their creative gifts to amplify important messages. Foster parents who see their role as supporting entire family systems, not just individual children.  As Anna reminds us, we all experience adoption in our lives—actively choosing the people, values, and experiences that create who we are.  This episode is a beautiful example of that truth in action.  Listen now and share it with someone who needs to hear Jack's message of trust, belonging, and hope.  P.S. — Jack is already working on his second album. We have a feeling this won't be the last time we hear from this talented young artist!    Support the show

Send us Fan MailRebecca Del Pozo's Journey from Adopted Child to Millionaire Real Estate Mom Sometimes the most beautiful stories begin with what looks like an accident. At 18, Rebecca Del Pozo applied for non-identifying information about her biological family - standard procedure for adoptees in Canada. What came back was supposed to be scrubbed of any identifying details. But someone forgot to remove one crucial piece: her biological mother's last name. That "mistake" led to a reunion that would heal two families and set Rebecca on a path to helping thousands of others discover their own worthiness. In this episode of The Anna Jinja Show, Rebecca shares: ✨ How being told she was "extra special" from age 3 shaped her entire worldview ✨ The moment she realized her learning differences were actually superpowers  ✨ Her journey from adoptee to adoptive mom - and the full circle it created ✨ The simple affirmation practice that transforms everything Plus, don't miss: Colin Cameron's haunting original song "Window Pane" - a masterpiece about time, change, and finding heaven "when we're all in one place." The Most Powerful Two Words You'll Hear: "I am." Rebecca reveals why these two words, followed by your truth, can rewire your entire life. "When your own voice, when you hear your own voice saying those powerful truths, over time, you'll start believing it." Perfect for you if: You've ever felt like an outsider looking for belonging You're building something meaningful while raising a family You want to transform challenges into competitive advantages You believe our stories have the power to heal others.Whether you're an adoptee seeking connection, an entrepreneur building something meaningful, or simply someone who's ever wondered if you're "enough" - this conversation offers both inspiration and practical tools for transformation.Creative Content: SongWindow Pane By Colin CameronVerse 1:Chandler is asleepHe’s got baseball in his dreamsThrew a quarter out the windowCause I’ve got all I’ll ever needYeah, it’s hard to really knowWho we’ll be and who we won’tAin’t it funny how things keep changing?Ain’t it funny how they don’t?Chorus:So, Despite the grey hairs and lines on my faceI’ve come to knowThat heaven is when we are all in one placeVerse 2:Now Ryan is a dadDoes his best to be what he never hadAnd Joel’s a dad tooAin’t it funny how we do the things we do?Chandler’s got a jobGives advice from some classic book he gotAin’t it funny how things keep changing?Ain’t it funny how they’re not?Chorus:So, Despite the grey hairs and lines on my faceI’ve come to knowThat heaven is when we are all in one placeAnd by the grace of God Or something divineI never have to worry too much‘Cause if our well runs dryI think we’ll be fineBecause I know we won’t be without love(So,) (Despite the grey hairs and lines on my face)(I’ve come to know)(That heaven is when we are all in one place)Verse 3:I’ve got a woman, her heart is goldShe says she’ll love after I’m old and goneWhen I am cold, and when I am lostShe shows me homeIn case I forgotSupport the show

Send us Fan MailFrom Foster Care to Father of 10Some songs are written to be heard. Others are written hoping they'll somehow travel through the airwaves to reach someone who may never know they exist.Joe Toles wrote "Dreamin'" as the second kind - a lullaby from a boy in foster care to a mother he'd never met, hoping his voice might somehow find her across the distance and let her know he was thinking of her.That boy is now the father of ten adopted sons and the founder of The Joseph Toles Foundation. His story is this week's Anna Jinja Show, and it's one that will change how you think about family, belonging, and the power of transforming pain into purpose.Joe's Journey:Born in 1959 to an interracial couple (before interracial marriage was legal) Spent one-third of his life in foster care - never adopted Became Auburn University Division I All-American track athlete & team captain Now: Licensed Mental Health Counselor and foundation founderThe Message That Changes Everything:"None of this is your fault."These are the words Joe wishes he could tell his younger self - and the foundation of his work with children and families today. As someone who felt "too light and too dark in the same room at the same time," Joe understands the complexity of identity in ways that inform everything he does.What You'll Discover:✨Why "family is the most effective way to support a child in foster care" ✨ How Joe found belonging through ancestry research when his immediate family story was painful ✨ The role music played as his refuge when everything else felt out of control ✨ His approach to helping young people develop positive self-identity ✨ Why he believes "we all deserve to be where we allow ourselves to be"Featured Music: Joe performs his original song "Dreamin'" - the raw, unedited version he wrote as a child. It's heartbreaking and beautiful, and you'll understand why music became his sanctuary.Special Guest: Meet Lizzi Montanti, our newest team member, who asks the questions that help illuminate the universal aspects of Joe's story. Her perspective as someone who has also navigated identity challenges creates a beautiful intergenerational dialogue.Perfect for you if:•You work with children or families in challenging situations•You've ever struggled with belonging or identity•You're interested in how personal pain can become professional purpose•You believe in the power of chosen family•You want to understand trauma-informed approaches to healingJoe's Current Work: Through The Joseph Toles Foundation and his virtual workshops on identity formation, Joe continues helping young people discover their worth. His podcast "Out of the Starting Blocks and Into the Race" shares more of his journey and insights.The Deeper Truth: Joe's story isn't just about surviving foster care - it's about how someone who spent his childhood looking for family became the person who creates family for others. It's about the boy who wrote songs to a mother he'd never met becoming the father of ten sons who will never question whether they belong.Listen now and prepare to be moved by both Joe's vulnerability and his strength. His story reminds us that somebody has survived before us, and that survival can become the foundation for helping others thrive.Support the show

Send us Fan MailWhen Stories Become Data: How Two Researchers Are Uncovering the Transformative Power of Adoption NarrativesThat's exactly what Dr. Melissa Rizzo and Dr. Joe Bianco are exploring in their new research project—a qualitative analysis of The Anna Jinja Show’s episodes focusing on adoption and foster care experiences.In this episode, they discuss:How they're analyzing guest narratives to identify themes around identity, trauma, and resilienceThe importance of truth-telling in healthy identity formationPost-traumatic growth: how pain can transform into purposeWhy qualitative research using personal narratives mattersWe also feature a special creative interchange segment with Athens Poet Laureate Wendy McVicker, who shares her moving poem about growth emerging from darkness and difficult circumstances.Why This Episode MattersFor years, the host avoided talking about her own adoption story. She didn't have the language, the framework, or the community to help her process this fundamental part of her identity. When the host discovered Dr. Rizzo's dissertation research on adoptees searching for biological family, it opened her eyes to what she had been missing. Meeting both her and Dr. Bianco (who also happens to have a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel—bonus points!) felt like finding fellow travelers on this journey.Their research validates what she experienced firsthand: sharing our stories creates connection, reduces isolation, and helps us grow together.As Dr. Bianco noted during our conversation, those of us without certain lived experiences need to hear these stories to avoid "being an unwitting participant in the kind of society that alienates people in the first place."Host’s Personal NoteOne of the most powerful moments came when discussing how secrets and withheld information prevent healthy identity formation. As someone who operated "through the fog" for most of my life, the host understands now how accessing truth and community changes everything.If you or someone you know is navigating adoption, foster care, or questions of identity and belonging, this episode offers both academic insight and deeply human wisdom.Creative Interchange/PoemWhat grows secretly in midwinter? by Wendy McVickerWhat grows secretly in silence, what seeds dream in the darkness?A stone on the sill promisesendurance. Sometimesthat’s all you need. Putyour head down, wait outthe storms and the wind.Wait for clouds to once againshape the shapeless sky, bringrain to ease your thirst.These winter dawns are as dark and hardas stone, cold and withholding.You remember that.You remember a housewithout heat, without warmth,a house where your motherhaunted the back rooms and left you wandering the great hall in the cold.You collected stones and namedthem, planted a gardenaround your bed. You sangto ward off the shadows.On the last day, you wrote,“We have tomorrow brightbefore us like a flame.”You gathered your stonesand carried them to the shore.In moonlight you fed themto the sea. In moonlightyou sailed away.Support the show

Send us Fan Mail"Light and Shadow: Cooking Up Bright Futures for Foster Youth" It started with a simple question Tom Stevenson asked the host: "Do you remember a time when you made a dish for somebody, something really special that you were connected to? And then you shared that with someone else?" Anna Jinja told him about her love for baking: she brings chocolate chip cookies to those she asks for a favor, explaining that the secret ingredient is love—and who could possibly say no to a cookie baked with love? That's when she knew this wasn't just a story about workforce development. Meet the Dream Team: This week the host sat down with extraordinary people creating a program that is absolutely extraordinary: Tom Stevenson - Ohio University's Director of Food & Beverage Operations, whose own journey of leaving home at 16 and finding family in restaurant kitchens now shapes how he mentors others Michelle Mays - Foster care survivor turned FosterHub founder, creating the transitional housing and support she wished she'd had Bernhard Debatin - Songwriter whose "Light and Shadow" captures the universal experience of searching for home The Program That's Changing Everything: Together, they've created a 7-week culinary mentorship program for foster youth aging out of the system. But here's what makes it special - it's not really about teaching cooking techniques. It's about what Tom discovered in his own journey: "There's a family you're born to and there's a family you create." The teaching kitchen becomes a place where young people who've never experienced stable belonging learn not just food safety and knife skills, but something more fundamental - that they have gifts worth recognizing, that someone wants to see those gifts flourish, and that they deserve a seat at the table.  Why This Matters to All of Us: Michelle shared something that stopped me in my tracks: "A lot of kids when they first age out, they go into survivor mode. They're not thinking about their futures." How many of us - adoptees, immigrants, anyone who's felt displaced - recognize that survivor mode? And how many of us wish we'd had someone to help us move from surviving to thriving? This program does exactly that. It says to young people: your immediate survival needs are handled, now let's talk about your dreams. Let's discover your gifts. Let's build the confidence and community you need to flourish. The Universal Truth: While designed for foster youth, this program embodies something every human needs: recognition, community, and the experience of creating something meaningful for others. As Tom reflected, "I think sometimes when I was younger, I wasn't sure what my gift was. And I wasn't sure if somebody wanted to know what that gift was." How many of us are still wondering that? Listen Now to hear the full conversation, including Bernhard's beautiful song that had us all reaching for tissues (the good kind of tears). This episode will change how you think about mentorship, community, and the transformative power of saying to someone: "You belong here. Your gifts matter. Welcome to the table."Support the show

Send us Fan MailSometimes the most profound stories are told in the simplest words. In this episode, Dr. Sharon Boyle shares not just her adoption journey, but the raw, beautiful poem she wrote one week after meeting her birth mother for the first time. "Reunion Day" begins: "I watched her like a silent movie and picture photograph, trying to memorize the way she spoke and the throaty way she laughs." Those words, written by a 25-year-old Sharon just days after a life-changing meeting, capture something universal about the human need for connection and recognition. Meet Dr. Sharon Boyle: Sharon is Ohio University's Associate Professor of Music Therapy and Director of Arts and Health - credentials that reflect a career built on understanding how creativity heals. But her professional expertise grew directly from personal experience: using writing and music as a teenager to process the loneliness and disconnection she felt as an adoptee. A Journey That Keeps Expanding: What began with finding her birth mother in 1996 has continued to unfold for 30 years: A 30-year relationship with her birth mother A half-brother discovered five years later (now a 24-year relationship) Her birth father, whom she met just last year A half-sister discovered recently, expanding her sibling count from two to four The Moment That Changes Everything: Sharon describes seeing a recent photo of herself with biological cousins: "I look like all of these people, and I've never seen that before." At 54, she was experiencing for the first time what most of us take for granted - seeing family resemblance, understanding where physical traits come from, feeling the ancient pull of biological recognition.  Why This Episode Matters: In a world where many people feel disconnected from community and uncertain about belonging, Sharon's story offers hope. It reminds us that the search for identity and connection is lifelong, that families can be found at any age, and that the creative expression of our experiences can become gifts we offer others. As Sharon puts it: "Creative outlets are really important for adoptees... it helped me find value in what my experience was." Listen now to hear Sharon read "Reunion Day" in her own voice and share insights from three decades of building relationships across multiple families - adoptive and biological. Her story will change how you think about identity, belonging, and the ongoing work of becoming who we're meant to be.  Creative Content: Reunion Day  I watched her like a silent movieand picture photographTrying to memorize the way she spokeand the throaty way she laughsI saw tears hover in her heavy brown eyesand my heart wept silently in her honor.I wanted to tell her it was all rightthat we both turned out okay.It seems we both tried to capture 25 years in a single, solitary day.I showered her with my childhoodthrough dusty photo memories I'd kept-I stared when she wasn't looking and tried desperatelyto memorize her beautiful faceI noticed her hands looked like mine, wellmaybe just a trace.I met my mother today, the one who gave me life-The one who gave me sadly awayShe felt she had no choice.-Sharon Boyle June 27, 1996, one week after reunion daySupport the show

Send us Fan MailFrom Sleepless Nights to Healing: When Adoption Parenting Feels Impossible  "It's a very isolating life. You almost feel like you're not worthy, that you're the one doing everything wrong." - Liz Garcia  If you've ever found yourself lying awake at 3 AM wondering if you're failing as an adoptive parent, you're not alone. In our latest episode of The Anna Jinja Show, we dive deep into the raw reality of adoption - not just the beautiful moments, but the messy, complicated, heartbreaking parts that nobody talks about. Host Anna Jinja welcomes Liz Garcia, founder of The Simplified Struggle, alongside her 20-year-old daughter Gabriela for a conversation that will leave you feeling less alone and more hopeful than you have in months.  The Story Behind the Struggle Liz's journey began when she and her husband adopted toddler twins from Peru. What followed were years of navigating "wacky behaviors" that professionals couldn't explain, trying over 30 different therapists, and feeling constantly misunderstood by a system that wasn't equipped to help. But here's what makes this episode extraordinary: Gabriela shares her side of the story. At 20, she offers insights that every adoptive parent needs to hear about what it feels like to navigate childhood and adolescence as an adopted child.  What You'll Discover  For Parents: · Why your child's need for independence isn't rejection of your love ·  Practical strategies for managing challenging behaviors ·    How to advocate effectively for your child in school and healthcare systems · Why the "mama bear" instinct sometimes needs to take a back seat  For Everyone: ·       The universal themes of belonging, rejection, and finding home ·  How peer reactions shape an adoptee's self-perception · The healing power of honest conversation between parents and children        Your Invitation to Healing Anna Jinja weaves this conversation together with Millie Raccoon's hauntingly beautiful "Insomniac's Lullaby," creating space for both the pain and the hope that defines the adoption experience.  Whether you're a parent in crisis, an adult adoptee searching for understanding, or someone who loves someone touched by adoption, this episode offers something precious: the reminder that healing is possible, connection can be rebuilt, and you are not alone in this journey.  Creative Content:Creative Content:“Insomniac’s Lullaby” by Milly RaccoonSleep on, my love, sleep on It's never good with you gone And you only stay if you sleep through the day My sleeping love, sleep on Come ride this train with me We'll see the north country And all day we'll lie like when we die Come ride this train with me Goodbye to father and mom Three thousand miles from home When I was born, I was already grown They know not where I roam I never sleep at night I gotta wait until it's light I lie awake and weep, and I never sleep I cannot sleep at nightSupport the show

Send us Fan MailFull Circle, Full Moon: An Adoption Story How three remarkable women turned a foster-to-adopt journey into a song that celebrates the unexpected beauty of non-linear love  In a world that often expects stories to follow straight lines, the latest episode of The Anna Jinja Show reminds us that the most beautiful narratives often move in circles – complete, perfect, and exactly as they should be.   The Song That Says It All: "Once upon a time, we drew it as a line, but it was a full circle, full moon rising in its time, and you are mine."  When Caitlin sat in Jenn and Hannah's living room, listening to their story, she heard themes that transcend adoption: uncertainty, patience, the fog of doubt clearing to reveal unexpected treasure. Her song doesn't just tell their story – it gives voice to anyone who has ever waited for something important, wondered if things would work out, or discovered that the destination was more beautiful than they ever imagined.  The tiger lily imagery in the song isn't accidental. As Caitlin explains in the episode, it represents the bold, confident flower that doesn't shy away from being bright and noticeable – much like Hannah herself, who got a tiger lily tattoo to commemorate her adoption date.  What This Story Teaches Us Privacy and Sharing Can Coexist Hannah's approach to her adoption story is refreshingly honest: she's private about it unless someone specifically asks, but she's always willing to connect with others going through similar experiences. This balance offers a template for anyone navigating how much of their personal story to share publicly.  Creative Expression Can Unlock Stories We Struggle to Tell As Caitlin notes in the episode, "things like music, art, metaphor can sometimes give life to the stories that are hard to tell." Sometimes we need creative bridges to help us process and share our most meaningful experiences.  The Lasting Impact Perhaps the most profound moment in the episode comes when Hannah observes: "The adoption itself is one day, but the adoption journey is something you carry your whole life." This insight captures something essential not just about adoption, but about all the formative experiences that shape us. We don't just survive difficult circumstances – we carry them forward, often transforming them into sources of strength, empathy, and purpose.  Why This Episode Matters Now In a time when many people feel disconnected from community and uncertain about where they belong, stories like Jenn and Hannah's offer hope. They remind us that families are formed through choice and love, that waiting periods often lead to exactly what we need, and that the most important journeys rarely follow straight lines.  Support the show

Send us Fan MailWe are bouncing with excitement to share our latest episode featuring Lou Mei Gutsch - a master's student whose story is so uplifting, it should come with a happiness warning label! Why This Episode Will Make Your Week: 🥀 The "Winter Rose" Origin Story: Adopted from China as "Mei Fan" (beautiful winter-blooming rose), Lou Mei's name perfectly captures her ability to bring beauty and life to any situation. 🎒 Academic Overachiever Alert: When her wilderness literature professor asked students to choose ONE Mary Oliver poem, guess how many Lou Mei selected? EIGHT. Because when you love learning, why limit yourself? ⛄ The Snow Dance Tradition: Every first snowfall, Lou Mei and her sister step outside to do their annual snow dance. Can you imagine anything more pure and joyful? 🍚 Dreams of Rice Paddies: Her goal to return to China and work in rice paddies to connect with her heritage is both beautiful and inspiring. The Quote That Made Us Cry Happy Tears: "I feel so thankful and grateful to have such wonderful parents who are loving and supportive and inspiring too... they just spread nothing but love and good vibes to everybody." Plus, Don't Miss: A surprise testimonial from her professor Dr. Bruce Martin that will make you believe in the power of education Her parents Rebecca and Ken sharing the adoption journey with incredible warmth Lou Mei's wisdom on healing through nature and choosing positive relationships A beautiful Mary Oliver poem about first snow that perfectly captures the magic of new beginningsWhy You Need This Episode Right Now: In a time when it's easy to focus on what's wrong with the world, Lou Mei's story is a masterclass in choosing joy, embracing resilience, and surrounding yourself with love. Her infectious positivity isn't toxic optimism - it's earned wisdom from someone who has faced real challenges and chosen to bloom anyway. Creative Content: Poem selected and read by Dr. Bruce Martin  First Snow by Mary Oliver The snow began here this morning and all day continued, its white rhetoric everywhere calling us back to why, how, whence such beauty and what the meaning; such an oracular fever! flowing past windows, an energy it seemed would never ebb, never settle less than lovely! and only now, deep into night, it has finally ended. The silence is immense, and the heavens still hold a million candles, nowhere the familiar things: stars, the moon, the darkness we expect and nightly turn from. Trees glitter like castles of ribbons, the broad fields smolder with light, a passing creek bed lies heaped with shining hills; and though the questions that have assailed us all day remain — not a single answer has been found – walking out now into the silence and the light under the trees, and through the fields, feels like one.Support the show

Send us Fan MailIn this deeply moving episode, host Anna Jinja sits down with Anna Sheffield, a young adoptee from Iowa City, and her mother, Kristin Cotterell Sheffield, to explore the layers of identity, belonging, and love that define adoption.  The conversation flows between mother and daughter perspectives—offering both honesty and tenderness—as they recount their family’s adoption journey, challenges of transracial adoption, and the resilience built through love, faith, and storytelling. Listeners will hear not just the story of adoption, but also universal reflections on attachment, identity, and what it means to be family.  Key Themes & Highlights A Mother’s Love and Vision: Kristin reflects on her lifelong openness to adoption, her struggles with miscarriage, and the powerful moment of meeting and holding Anna at birth. Growing Up Adopted: Anna shares her childhood experiences, including moments of bullying, the “grateful adoptee” expectation, and navigating identity in a transracial family. Attachment & Resilience: The mother-daughter duo candidly discusses Anna’s need for reassurance and how she would sometimes test her mother’s love, a dynamic familiar to many adoptive and foster families. Creative Legacy: Kristin recites a poem, “Prayer” by Walter Dean Myers, which she read to Anna throughout her childhood—a powerful reminder of beauty, worth, and belonging. Transformation & Hope: Together, they embrace the metaphor of the butterfly emerging from its cocoon, symbolizing the challenges and triumphs of growth, change, and self-discovery.Why This Episode Matters For General Listeners: It’s a heartfelt story of resilience and the bonds that hold us together. For Adoption/Foster Communities: It provides authentic voices and lived experiences that resonate with adoptive families, adoptees, and professionals. For Broader Audiences: It’s about more than adoption—it’s about family, identity, and the universal search for belonging. Creative Content: Poem selected and read by Kristin Cotterell SheffieldPrayerby Walter Dean MyersShout my name to the angels.Sing my song to the skies.Anoint my ears with wisdom.Let beauty fill my eyes. For I am dark and precious.And have such gifts to give.Sweet joy, sweet love,Sweet laughter.Sweet wondrous life to live. Support the show

Send us Fan MailFinding Home in Two Worlds: Max's Journey from China to Minneapolis and Beyond: A Story of Courage, Identity, and Belonging  What does it mean to belong when you're caught between two worlds? In this deeply moving episode of The Anna Jinja Show, host Anna Jinja sits down with Max, a Chinese-American adoptee whose story challenges everything we think we know about family, identity, and home.  Adopted from Northern China at just 15 months old by a single mother in Detroit, Max grew up in Minneapolis navigating the complex terrain of being an international adoptee. But his journey took an even more courageous turn as he embraced his identity as a trans man, adding another layer to his already multifaceted experience of belonging.  "I think one misconception about adoption is that people think it's a single event," Max shares. "But for adoptees, you have to realize it is an ongoing journey... something you do have to carry and that grows with you throughout your life."  Max's story is remarkable not just for its honesty, but for its hope. From attending a Chinese immersion program in high school to finding love with his girlfriend Alexis (thanks to Alexis working at Anna’s workout location!), Max demonstrates how we can create families and communities that celebrate all parts of who we are. This conversation touches on the unique challenges faced by Asian adoptees - from microaggressions to the constant feeling of being "not enough" in either culture - while celebrating the resilience and wisdom that comes from navigating multiple identities.  Whether you're an adoptee yourself, part of an adoptive family, or simply someone seeking to understand the beautiful complexity of belonging, Max's story offers profound insights wrapped in genuine warmth and authenticity.  Don't miss this essential conversation about finding your place in the world and creating the family that truly sees you.Creative Content:  | Heart Of You by Ian Vidovic    (Verse) Hello! Mr Sun Starved from lack of Moon, feeling blue? Seeking out the whispers Of enchanted gloom Pardoned by your heart From the room, It's so true  (I am part of you)  Goodbye Mrs. Moon Burned with flames we loose with a clue Fretting with a tangle That comes unglued Sparring with nature From the few, Its so true  (Verse 2) Joined by An oath Of new life That I hold  (I am a part of you)   Light binds Where you go With star shine At your throat O-at, O-at  (I am a part of you)  I sparkle you close in my mind that overflows  Chorus Twisting, turning, feel my burning gears for winding, a love so binding again and We'll wrap ourselves instead  Cause I am the heart of youSupport the show

Send us Fan MailFrom Heartache to HopeIn our latest episode of The Anna Jinja Show, host Anna Jinja brings together three extraordinary voices for a conversation that will change how you think about adoption, family, and resilience.Meet Lane Igoudin, the author whose memoir "A Family Maybe" chronicles his and partner Jonathan's journey through the Los Angeles County foster care system - the largest in the nation with 30,000 children. Lane's raw, honest account reveals the emotional rollercoaster of emergency placements, court battles, and the painful uncertainty that foster families endure.Meet Rita Soronen, President and CEO of the Dave Thomas Foundation, who brings decades of expertise to explain why Lane's story matters and what needs to change in our child welfare system.And meet Bruce Dalzell, the gifted musician who was so moved by Lane's story that he composed an original song titled "Future" - a haunting tribute to the universal experience of parenting and hope.Why This Episode Will Move YouThis isn't just another adoption story. It's a masterclass in resilience that reveals:•The shocking realities inside America's largest foster care system•How love persists despite institutional barriers•Why advocates say the system hasn't changed since 2006•The creative power of storytelling to drive social changeLane's memoir reads "like a made-for-TV story" according to Rita, filled with layers of family history, cultural identity, and the complex intersection of LGBTQ+ adoption rights. Yet it's painfully real - a testament to the thousands of families fighting for permanency every day.The episode includes Bruce's original song "Future," inspired by Lane's words: "In our children's laughter, we hear our future." It's a moment that will leave you breathless.Who Should Listen•Prospective adoptive parents seeking honest insights beyond textbook training•Current foster families who need to know they're not alone•Social work professionals wanting to understand the family perspective•Anyone who believes in the power of love to overcome systemic challenges•Music lovers who appreciate how art can transform personal stories into universal truthsThis episode proves that adoption stories aren't just about the children - they're about the adults who choose to open their hearts despite uncertainty, and the communities that must support them.Listen now and discover why Anna Jinja believes we all experience adoption in our lives - actively choosing the people, values, and experiences that create who we are.Support the show

Send us Fan MailSimon Benn's Vision: How Your 250 Words Can Transform Adoptee Lives | The moment that changes everything often looks ordinary. For Simon Benn, it was learning at age 40 that his childhood teddy bear came from his birth mother. "A volcano of anger erupted," he shared on The Anna Jinja Show. That moment launched him into a journey that would eventually help thousands of adoptees thrive. Now, Simon is asking for something that seems small but could create massive ripple effects: your 250 words.Here's where people contribute to the book https://forms.gle/93u641bZf2DzXDGs6The Hidden Crisis Adoptive Parents Don't Know They're Creating Here's what Simon discovered after 550+ podcast interviews with adoptees: Most adoptive parents are flying blind. They love their children fiercely, but they're missing critical insights that could help their kids not just survive but truly thrive. The cost of this knowledge gap? Adoptees struggling with identity, trauma, and belonging - often in silence. The solution? A crowdsourced book that captures the collective wisdom of the adoption constellation.  Consider this: What if your 250 words prevent another adoptee from spending years in therapy working through something you could have helped their parents understand from day one? The Ripple Effect of Contribution When you submit your wisdom to Simon's project, you're not just helping one family. You're: ·Creating systemic change - Better-informed adoptive parents raise adoptees who can thrive ·Building community - Your contribution connects you to a network of change-makers ·Amplifying your impact - The book includes a contributor showcase featuring your work · Supporting the cause - All profits go directly to post-adoption charities The Time Leverage Factor Anna Jinja made a crucial observation: "Even if I don't get included in the book, it was so helpful for me to think through my submission." Translation: The act of crystallizing your wisdom into 250 words is therapeutic work that benefits YOU immediately, regardless of the book's outcome. You're not just giving - you're receiving clarity, purpose, and connection. The August 31st Deadline: Your Moment of Choice Simon extended the deadline because he realized something important: More voices mean more adoptees helped. But here's the psychological reality - deadlines create decision points. August 31st isn't just a date; it's the moment you choose between action and regret. Ask yourself: Six months from now, when this book is helping adoptive parents create more secure attachments with their children, do you want to be someone who contributed to that transformation, or someone who thought about it? The 2-Minute Commitment That Creates Lasting Impact The submission process is intentionally simple: · Fill out a basic Google form · Choose your category (adoptee, adoptive parent, birth parent, professional) · Enter your 50-250 words · Submit That's it. Two minutes of your time for potentially decades of impact on adoptee wellbeing. Your Next Step Simon's work proves that adoptees can move from surviving to thriving when they have the right support and resources. Now he's creating the tool that gives adoptive parents that roadmap. Your voice is needed. Your experience has value. Your 250 words could be the insight that transforms a family's journey. The question isn't whether you have something valuable to share. The question is whether you'll share it. Ready to make your impact? The submission form is waiting. Deadline: August 31st, 2025 Remember: You're not just contributing to a book. You're contSupport the show

Send us Fan MailStep by Step, Bit by Bit: How Two Women Created a Community of Love for 30+ ChildrenWhat started as children visiting friends turned into something extraordinary. Linda Sistrunk and Lish Greiner never intended to become unofficial foster parents. But when children in their community needed safety, love, and stability, their home became a haven.Over the years, more than 30 children have found refuge in their converted six-bedroom house. Some stayed for days, others for years. All were loved unconditionally.The Reality Behind the LoveIn our latest episode of The Anna Jinja Show, Linda and Lish share the unvarnished truth about what it really means to open your heart and home to children in crisis. Their story is beautiful, messy, and deeply human.The Challenges Were RealThis wasn't a fairy tale. The couple faced:Complex family dynamics: Each child came with their own network of biological family members, each with different needs and circumstance.Marriage strain: "We had a lot of conflict together," Linda admits honestly. "We had to work extremely hard. We've done a lot of therapy. We've done some time apart."The Music That Captures It AllSinger-songwriter Kim Kaler's "Scarf Song" provides the perfect soundtrack to their story. The gentle melody and lyrics about patience, trust, and building something meaningful "step by step, bit by bit" mirror the slow, careful work of creating belonging."Your heart has its own security detail, And your mind has a lock. You're sure won't fail, I don't wanna push, I don't wanna rush Anything But I sure wish you would stay."The song captures the delicate balance of welcoming someone while respecting their need to move at their own pace—exactly what Linda and Lish did with each child who entered their home.What We Can LearnTheir story offers profound lessons for anyone wanting to make a difference:1. Love Without Conditions"There was very little expectation that they gave back to us," Linda explains. "Their job was not to make us feel loved. We never really felt that they needed to prove to us that they were thankful."2. Honor the Whole FamilyRather than judging the biological parents, Linda and Lish worked with them, respecting their struggles while providing stability for the children.3. Marriage Requires IntentionalityThe couple's honest discussion about how their service nearly destroyed their relationship—and how they fought to rebuild it—offers hope for anyone whose marriage has been tested by external pressures.The Power of Ordinary LoveWhat strikes me most about Linda and Lish's story is how ordinary it is. They're not wealthy philanthropists or trained professionals (though Linda is a social worker). They're simply two people who saw need and responded with love."We always knew that the love we had for one another was based upon caring for our community," Linda reflects. "We always knew that we had a higher purpose than what just she and I were doing together."Their message is clear: You don't need to be perfect to make a difference. You don't need to save anyone. You just need to be willing to love, step by step, bit by bit.Be prepared for tears, inspiration, and a renewed faith in the power of love to transform communities.What would your community look like if more people simply opened their doors? What would your life look like if you took just one step toward creating belonging for someone who needs it?The answers might surprise you.Support the show

Send us Fan MailAn Adoptee’s Story of Courage, Connection, and Coming Full Circle Kristina's journey isn't just about going back to Kazakhstan – it's about the universal human need to understand where we come from and how that shapes who we become. Her story begins in a baby house in Taldikorgan, moves through multiple placements, and eventually lands in Ohio, where she was adopted by Signe Denbow at age eight.  The Weight of Multiple Abandonment What makes Kristina's story particularly poignant is her experience of multiple abandonment. As she shared with host Anna Jinja, "I couldn't really believe that she was going to keep me because I had been abandoned twice before." This vulnerability – the fear that love might be temporary – is something many adoptees carry but rarely discuss so openly.  The Power of True Friendship & Love One of the most beautiful aspects of this episode is hearing from Kristina's longtime friends Emily and Pete Mather, who selected and read a poem about childhood friendship.  Her adoptive mother's support for this journey exemplifies what love looks like in action. Rather than feeling threatened by Kristina's need to explore her origins, Signe Denbow has helped make the trip possible, understanding that wholeness sometimes requires facing difficult truths.   The Courage to Face Fear "I'd be lying if I said I wasn't scared to go back," Kristina admits. But as host Anna Jinja points out, that's exactly what courage looks like – facing fear and moving forward anyway. This episode of the Anna Jinja Show offers hope to adoptees and their families, reminding us that seeking answers about our origins doesn't diminish our love for those who raised us. Instead, it can deepen our appreciation for the abundance of love that surrounds us. Creative Content: Naïve by Tim Seibles / selected and read by Emily MatherWhen I was seven, I walked homewith Dereck DeLarge, my arm slung over his skinny shoulders,after-school sun buffing our lunch boxes. So easy, that gesture, so light— the kind of love that lands like a leaf. It was 1963.  We were two black boys whose snaggle-toothed grins held a thousand giggles. Remember? Rememberwanting to play every minute, as if that was why we were born? Those hands that bring usshouting into this life must open like a fanfare of big band horns. Though this world is nothing like where we’d been, we come anyway, astonished as if to Mardi Gras in full swing.There must be a time when a child’s heart builds a chocolate sunflower while katydids burnish the daywith their busy wings. This itching fury that holds me now—this knowing the early welcomethat once lived inside me was somehow sent away:how I talk myself back into all the regular disguisesbut still walk these streets believing in the weatherof the unruined heart. My friends, with crow’s feetedging their eyes, keep looking for a kindercity, though they don’t want to seem naïve.When was the last time you wrapped your armaround someone’s shoulder and walked him home?Support the show