Pause and Think

In this episode of Pause & Think, Jackie Darby sits down with Stephanie Fast to explore adoption, trauma, and the lifelong journey of healing. Together, they unpack powerful truths about parenting, faith, and identity—reminding us that healing is a process, not a quick fix.

Stephanie Fast’s life began with abandonment, uncertainty, and survival on the streets of Korea. In this deeply personal conversation with Jackie Darby, she shares how being left alone at a train station as a young child began a journey that would ultimately transform into a story of faith and redemption.Stephanie discusses her search for identity  and why she wrote She Is Mine—a book intended to preserve her legacy for her children and bring awareness to the millions of orphans still waiting for a forever home.Her story is a powerful reminder that even the most broken beginnings can lead to extraordinary purpose.

In this episode of Pause & Think, we sits down with Marlena Smith to discuss what it means to raise an adopted child with roots in two cultures? Marlena reflect on a deeply personal adoption journey shaped by missionary life in Guatemala. Together, they explore what it means to adopt while living in the country you serve, navigating cultural identity, belonging, and faith—both for parents and children.Marlena shares how God led their family to adopt a Guatemalan child while raising biological children overseas, the unexpected twists of a special-needs diagnosis that later changed, and the importance of early intervention, community support, and trust in God’s provision. As their family later transitions back to life in the United States, the conversation turns to preserving culture, language, and identity for a child whose heart belongs to two places.This episode gently wrestles with questions many adoptive, missionary, and third-culture families face: Who am I? Where do I belong? And ultimately—whose am I? It’s an honest, faith-filled conversation about grief, gratitude, intentional parenting, and creating safe spaces for children to process their stories over time.

In this episode Aixa sits down with longtime friends Chad and Marlena Smith to explore a radically different vision for missions and orphan care. Drawing from their years living in Guatemala and their work with World Orphans, the Smiths share how God reshaped their calling—from working in orphanages to focusing on family preservation and orphan prevention through the local church.Together, they unpack hard truths about global orphanhood, the beauty and complexity of walking humbly with communities, and why the church—especially small, local churches—is uniquely positioned to care for vulnerable children and families. This conversation challenges the “do more” mindset of modern missions and invites listeners into a slower, relational, gospel-centered way of being present with people.If you’ve ever wondered how faith, missions, and justice intersect—or felt overwhelmed by the needs around you—this episode offers hope, clarity, and a powerful reminder: God works through ordinary people who are willing to listen, learn, and love.

In this episode of Pause & Think, Aixa sits down with adoptive mom Kristen Williamson for an honest, mom-to-mom conversation about the realities of adopting older children. Together, they unpack the emotions few people talk about—grief, anger, guilt, unmet expectations, and the slow, difficult work of attachment.Kristen shares her journey of parenting a child from a hard place while already raising biological children, navigating sibling dynamics, jealousy, and deep insecurity. Through faith, prayer, and perseverance, she reflects on how God continually reshapes her heart and reminds her that love is not just a feeling, but a daily decision.This episode is for adoptive and foster moms who feel unseen, overwhelmed, or discouraged—and need the reminder that they are not alone, and that grace grows even in the hardest seasons.

In this episode of Pause & Think, host Jackie Darby talks with Kristen Williamson about her family’s faith-filled journey through international adoption.Kristen shares how God placed a calling on her heart, the challenges of a long and uncertain adoption process, and the emotional reality of bringing home an older child from the Philippines. She opens up about trauma, trust, patience, and the beauty that comes from obedience and perseverance.This honest conversation offers encouragement to anyone navigating adoption, waiting seasons, or learning to trust God’s timing.🎧 Listen in and Pause & Think.

In this heartfelt episode of Pause & Think, host Jackie Darby sits down once again with advocate and foster mom Caitlyn Baten for an eye-opening conversation on the realities of foster care, adoption, and the generational cycles affecting vulnerable families.Caitlyn shares her family’s journey—how she and her husband stepped into foster care before having biological children, how their faith shaped every “yes,” and the deep conviction that led them to open their home to vulnerable girls.Together, Jackie and Caitlyn unpack: Why foster care is deeply connected to issues like homelessness, trafficking, and mental health The mission of Buckner International and its commitment to strengthening families at the root The realities of youth who age out of foster care—and why the Church must not forget them Practical ways anyone can get involved: mentorship, volunteering, giving, or simply being a safe person The global movement of CAFO and the growing call for believers to step into the lives of vulnerable children and young adultsThis episode is a powerful reminder that every life matters and that the body of Christ has a role in bringing restoration, stability, and hope to children and families who need it most.

Tim & Caitlyn Baten join us to discuss the joys and complexities of foster care and adoption — the both/and of grief and beauty. They speak on honoring birth parents, raising children of diverse backgrounds, and what it means to pursue openness with humility, truth, and love. Their testimony highlights the power of community, the role of the church, and how God shows up in ordinary moments — even through formula shortages, meal trains, and handwritten prayers. A heartfelt episode for foster families, future adoptive parents, and anyone wanting to support vulnerable children.

Pause & Think, hosts Aixa García and Jackie Darby  talk openly about adoption — both international and domestic — and what it really means to belong.Aixa shares her experience as a Guatemalan adoptive mom, while Jackie reflects on her journey as a Korean-born adoptee raised in the U.S. Together, they explore how every adoption story carries both beauty and loss, how identity and race intersect with love, and why acknowledging a child’s roots builds true belonging.From waiting seasons to deep cultural reflections, this episode invites listeners to see adoption as a reflection of God’s heart — a story of redemption, identity, and unconditional love.💬 “Our identity doesn’t rest on our appearance or birthplace — it rests in our Heavenly Father.”

In this moving continuation of Pause & Think, host Aixa García sits down again with José and Sherry Salazar to tackle one of the most common fears about foster care — “I could never do it. I’d get too attached.”With honesty and grace, the Salazars unpack what it means to love deeply, let go faithfully, and depend on God through heartbreak and hope. They share how their children have grown through the beauty and pain of fostering, what it looks like to pray for biological families, and how the global Church can rise to meet the needs of vulnerable children.This episode reminds us that attachment isn’t a weakness — it’s a reflection of God’s heart.

In this heartfelt episode of Pause & Think, host Aixa sits down with José and Sherry Salazar in Guatemala City to explore how God has shaped their family’s story through obedience, sacrifice, and love for the vulnerable. From meeting at an orphanage to welcoming 11 children into their home, the Salazars share how faith guided every “yes” along the way — even when the road was hard.They talk about redefining family, raising biological and foster children side by side, creating space for others at the table, and learning that God’s interruptions are never late. This episode is a beautiful reminder that the Great Commission starts at home and grows through community, courage, and grace.

In this inspiring episode of Pause & Think,  Kristen Thomas shares her powerful story of transformation—from growing up in foster care to becoming an adoptive mom.Kristen opens up about:💬 How a “one-night foster placement” turned into a lifelong family through adoption.💬 Walking alongside her daughter Elise, who overcame challenges with confidence, identity, and autism.💬 The reality of foster care and adoption—both the struggles and the incredible moments of joy.💬 Practical encouragement for foster/adoptive parents who may feel weary in the trenches.💬 How her nonprofit, Tamarisk Community, is creating belonging for youth who have aged out of foster care.Her story is a powerful reminder that God can redeem brokenness, that belonging changes everything, and that every “yes” to love has ripple effects far beyond what we can imagine.👉 Don’t miss this conversation filled with honesty, laughter, and hope.

In this episode of Pause & Think, host Jackie Darby sits down with Kristen Thomas from Raleigh, NC, to share her powerful journey through foster care, kinship care, and aging out of the system. Kristen opens up about the struggles of instability, trauma, and feeling unseen—yet also how faith, community, and resilience helped her find healing and purpose.👉 Stay tuned for Part 2, where Kristen shares her own adoption story and the journey with her daughter.

Aixa and Jackie sit down with Jamie Finn — foster mom, author, and founder of Foster the Family — for a vulnerable, grace-filled conversation on the realities of foster care, adoption, and gospel-driven compassion.Jamie shares her journey from “one kid, one time” to over 30 children in her home and four adoptions. She speaks candidly about identity, control, grief, and the constant refining work of God in the foster care journey. This episode is a must-watch for parents, pastors, church leaders, and anyone wanting to understand how ordinary families can live out radical love in their homes.🔔 Subscribe for more honest conversations that challenge, uplift, and inspire.

In this episode of the Pause & Think Podcast, Jackie and Aixa share their powerful experience at the ACH Summit  in Guatemala City—a gathering of leaders, churches, and families from 13 countries across Latin America, united to live out James 1:27 by serving orphans, widows, and vulnerable children.From its small beginnings in 2010 to becoming a Latin American movement, the ACH Summit is transforming how the church responds to adoption, foster care, and child protection. Jackie and Aixa reflect on:✨ The origins of ACH as the Latin American counterpart to CAFO✨ How adoption and foster care stories are shaping new generations✨ The launch of support groups for adult adoptees (Group 139, based on Psalm 139)✨ The beauty of God’s design in building sustainable, Christ-centered movements💡 If you’re passionate about orphan care, adoption, or simply want to be encouraged by how God is moving in Latin America, this conversation is for you.👉 Next year’s ACH Summit will be held in the Dominican Republic—join us for powerful teaching, fellowship, and a vision to impact vulnerable lives.🔔 Subscribe to Pause & Think Podcast for more stories of faith, family, and transformation.

In this episode Aixa welcomes Cosette Eisenhauer-Epp, a transracial adoptee from China raised in Dallas, TX. Cosette opens up about her adoption journey, identity struggles, and the emotional layers of growing up in a family that doesn’t look like her. From navigating cultural gaps to the unexpected grief of changing her last name after marriage, Cosette's story is raw, reflective, and filled with grace.This episode offers deep insight for adoptive families, adoptees, and anyone who wants to better understand the complexity of identity, loss, and love in adoption.🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful stories like this.

Why do so many adopted children and even adoptive parents silently battle loneliness — even when surrounded by love?In this deeply vulnerable episode of Pause & Think, hosts Aixa and Jackie open up a raw, unfiltered conversation about the emotional undercurrent often left out of the adoption narrative: feeling unseen, misunderstood, and isolated — and how that loneliness can linger into adulthood.Through honest personal stories, spiritual reflection, and practical wisdom, this episode brings light to a heavy topic — and offers real hope for healing.

In this heartfelt episode host Jackie Darby sits down with Amber Parker to share the powerful and deeply personal story of her family’s adoption journey. From a childhood calling to adopt a little girl from China to a series of miracles that led to Ruby joining their family just before the country closed its borders, Amber opens up about the joys, heartbreaks, and spiritual lessons woven throughout the process.Whether you're an adoptive parent, an adoptee, or someone who wants to better understand the journey, this conversation is raw, real, and full of hope.

In this episode of Pause and Think, Jackie and Aixa open up about the emotional complexities surrounding birthdays for adopted and foster children. From feelings of loss and confusion to the longing for birth stories and baby pictures, they explore how these seemingly joyful celebrations can be deeply painful. Through vulnerable storytelling, biblical reflection, and grace-filled parenting insights, they offer encouragement to adoptive families navigating these tender moments. Together, they remind us that God knew us before we were formed and that healing is possible—one honest conversation at a time.

In this thought-provoking episode of Pause & Think, Aixa and Jackie engage in a vulnerable conversation about the complexities of "Gotcha Day"—the day many adoptive families celebrate when a child joins their family. Drawing from their personal experiences—Aixa as an adoptive mother and Jackie as an adoptee—they reflect on how this day can mean vastly different things depending on one’s perspective.They explore the joy and celebration many families feel, while also addressing the grief, shame, and identity struggles that some adoptees may experience. Together, they offer wisdom on creating space for children to express their full range of emotions, respecting individual experiences, and being sensitive to the deeper layers of adoption.

In this deeply moving episode of Pause & Think, hosts Aixa and Jackie welcome Pastor Sandra from Church of the Crossroads in Laredo, Texas, to share her powerful testimony. Abandoned at birth and adopted through the Texas Cradle Society, Pastor Sandra opens up about her early life filled with trauma, including abuse and the pain of multiple father figures. She reflects on how her adopted mother’s unwavering love and faith in God planted the seeds of purpose and identity.Pastor Sandra discusses her journey from brokenness to boldness—becoming a missionary, a leader, and later an adoptive mother herself. Despite facing the unimaginable grief of losing her son to addiction, she powerfully testifies to God’s relentless fatherly love and the spiritual significance of adoption.This conversation unpacks themes of identity, healing, the spirit of adoption, and how churches can embrace and teach the biblical reality that we are all chosen and adopted by God through Christ.

pt 2

Discover how understanding God's deep love can be the catalyst for meaningful action. This isn't just about activism; it's about letting the profound love for you and all God's children come alive, compelling you to make a real difference in the world. Join the conversation as we delve into how knowing our Father more fully can inspire unconditional love and impactful change. Also discover how CAFO empowers foster parents and church leaders, building a support system that inspires and unites communities. Get a behind-the-scenes with President Jedd Medefind to look at their vision to strengthen champions for a brighter future.

Discover how the church's family concept challenges traditional norms by providing love, healing, and community to those often left out. Let's explore why supporting orphans, and adoptees can transform lives, making organizations a beacon of hope for everyone seeking belonging and support.

Have you ever felt the fear of the unknown when considering adoption? Let's delve into an inspiring journey where faith and perseverance guide the way. Join us as we dive into Matt and Brooke's unexpected journey from domestic adoption plans to embracing international adoption from Colombia. Discover how their love for Latin American culture inspired a life-changing decision. 

Discover the profound journey of an adult adoptee finding healing in faith when biological roots remain elusive. Through the love of our Heavenly Father, explore how peace and joy prevail beyond traditional family ties.

In this episode, we dive into a heartfelt journey as a high school junior asks for the ultimate graduation gift—finding her biological family. A touching exploration of identity, longing, and the innate connection to one's roots. Join us as we discover the emotional layers and universal truths of adoption and belonging.

Celebrating One Year!

Forgiving Mom: The Path to UnderstandingJoin us in this heartfelt episode as we dive into a powerful conversation on forgiveness and understanding within family dynamics. Discover the journey Ana took to reconcile and empathize after a long-awaited talk with their mother. Perfect for anyone exploring empathy in family ties.

Interracial Adoption - Unveiling Hidden Cultural Layers: Zawadi Morrow pt2Join us as Zawadi shares a heartwarming tale of surprise and nostalgia, celebrating family and identity. We dive into the challenges of interracial adoption and explore how cultural nuances play a pivotal role. Discover how cross-cultural experiences within families shape understanding and appreciation of diverse identities.

Dive into Zawadi's riveting story of survival amidst cultural customs in the heart of Africa.  He shares about his beginnings, set against the backdrop of rural Congo's challenges and traditions. Discover the touching story of how one brave decision secured a future filled with love and belonging. for his grandchild. Experience the transformation from an uncertain start to a life where identity and hope flourish.

Join Jackie Darby and Aixa de Lopez as they navigate the often complicated, deeply emotional world of adoption. In this episode, they share candid conversations about the highs and lows, the challenges and triumphs, and how their faith guides them through it all. Don’t miss this heartfelt discussion!Discover how one mother's journey through adoption was transformed by a supportive community and the importance of seeking professional help. Tune in for heartfelt conversations on parenting, faith, and finding hope.

Dive into the heart of Christmas as we reflect on its deep connections to family, adoption, and the birth of Jesus. Discover why the true spirit of the season is about embracing imperfections and celebrating the perfect love that overcomes all. Ready to change your perspective on holiday traditions?

No matter the highs or the lows in your parenting journey, there's hope and gratitude to be found. Join us as we explore how every season, whether challenging or calm, can be special with a little faith and love. Dive into "Pause and Think" for an uplifting take on embracing the ebb and flow of family life.

Why are we afraid of our children's tears in adoption? Let's dive into the often-overlooked emotional journey, transforming grief into healing through validation and love. Discover how to be a true safe haven for adoptive children.Monica shares her transformative journey as a young traveler who found more than just adventure in Peru. Discover how a trip to help children at risk turned into a profound encounter with God, sparking a quest for identity and purpose. #PauseAndThink

Looking for a game-changer in your parenting routine? Discover how simple, heartfelt rituals can build family bonds and soothe the mind.  Learn why ending the day with gratitude can transform your child's well-being and yours. Find out the best evening questions to ask! Tune in for insights you won't want to miss.

We discuss an emotional journey of hope, identity, and discovery – proof that love's impact has no expiration date.  Discover the moment Tony dials a number left in an unexpected email, uncovering a lifelong mystery. Tony also shares his birth story that unravels societal tensions, and how his Father’s was instrumental in shaping his identity and faith in Christ

Join us in this heartfelt episode as Kara shares her emotional journey of meeting her birth parents for the first time. This honest conversation delves into the unexpected emotions and questions stirred during her reunion.  We also share our personal insights on whether to embark on the journey to find birth parents. Discover how to make the best choice for yourself, grounded in wisdom and faith. Perfect for adoptees grappling with this life-changing decision.

Discover how shifting focus from personal history to faith can transform your sense of identity and worth.  Jackie and Kara share their contrasting life stories after being adopted into North American families. Discover the unique challenges and triumphs that define their journeys.

Ever think about how essential it is for kids, especially adoptees, to truly feel and express their sorrow? Listen as we dive into why acknowledging loss is crucial in parenting and how embracing these emotions can lead to healing.

Ever wondered about the complexities of adoption? It's not just black and white! Join us as we delve deep into the redemption and beauty interwoven with loss and struggle, sharing powerful parallels to the Gospel and how they shape identity and family. For more resources go to: www.whoseami.org

Parenting is hard, and adoption adds another layer of complexity. But why is it crucial to keep open, ongoing conversations about adoption with your child? Tune in as we discuss the challenges and share heartfelt advice on why honesty is always the best policy.  We  share about resources in Spanish.   Alianza Cristiana para los Huérfanos (ACH).   www.achlatam.orgFro more resources go to:  www.whoseami.org

Join us as we share our adoption and parenting journeys, lament together, and build a community rooted in encouragement and hope. Your story matters!For more resources go to: www.whoseami.org