In this podcast meet Ayden Lincoln, an adoption advocate, adoptee,  writer, and survivor with a powerful story of hope and healing.

Born in China and abandoned shortly after birth with the umbilical cord still attached, Ayden was found in a box at a train station and spent nearly the first year of life in an orphanage. Adopted into a loving family in Pennsylvania, Ayden’s life changed — but so did the challenges. From overcoming childhood trauma, ADHD, and anxiety, to becoming a voice for adoptees and mental health, Ayden has turned pain into purpose.

In this episode, Ayden shares:

The emotional reality of being adopted from China

Healing from early abandonment and trauma

Living with ADHD and anxiety as an adoptee

Finding identity, hope, and purpose through advocacy

Graduating college and building a future with strength and resilience

Whether you're part of the adoption triad or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation is a reminder that you are never alone — and that every story, no matter how it begins, can grow into something beautiful. https://aydenlincoln.org/

Are you Pregnant? We can help:

Text us at: 801-450-0094

Call us: 1-800-835-6360

Get more info:

https://aactofloveadoptions.com/pregnant/


Are you considering adoption?

Call us: 1-888-767-7740

Request a Free Application Packet:

https://aactofloveadoptions.com/adoptive-parents/


Connect With Us:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aactoflove/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_act_of_love/

X:  https://x.com/ActofLoveAdopt

TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@actofloveadoptionsutah

Podcast Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlVgW4lopNIBWGUcCJzWY1vwge8jE7R5_

Would you like to be on our podcast? Please fill out the form below:

https://aactofloveadoptions.com/podcast/

The A Act of Love Podcast is brought to you by A Act of Love Adoptions, a licensed Utah adoption agency with over 30 years of experience and more than 2,500 successful placements. Led by an adoptive mom, we provide compassionate adoption support for birth parents, adoptive families, and anyone exploring private adoption services. Learn more at aactofloveadoptions.com
📲 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @aactofloveadoptions

In this powerful episode of the Act of Love Adoption Podcast, we sit down with Avonley Lightstone, an adoptee and author of Strength of Scars, a raw and moving memoir about survival, resilience, faith, and healing.

At just three years old, Avonley’s life was forever changed by a tragic fire that separated her from her family. What followed were years marked by abuse, abandonment, and deep heartbreak within the child welfare and adoption system. Yet even in the darkest moments, Avonley clung to God’s promises—allowing faith to transform her pain into purpose. This conversation goes beyond survival. Avonley shares what it means to live as an adoptee carrying trauma, how faith became a lifeline, and how healing is possible even after profound loss. Her story is honest, courageous, and filled with hope for adoptees, birth parents, adoptive families, and anyone walking through trauma.

Are you Pregnant? We can help:
Text us at: 801-450-0094
Call us: 1-800-835-6360
Get more info: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/pregn...

Are you considering adoption?
Call us: 1-888-767-7740
Request a Free Application Packet: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/adopt...
Connect With Us: Facebook:   / aactoflove   Instagram:   / a_act_of_love   X: https://x.com/ActofLoveAdopt TikTok:   / actofloveadoptionsutah  

Podcast Playlist:    • Act of Love Adoptions Podcast  

Would you like to be on our podcast? Please fill out the form below: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/podcast/

The A Act of Love Podcast is brought to you by A Act of Love Adoptions, a licensed Utah adoption agency with over 30 years of experience and more than 2,500 successful placements. Led by an adoptive mom, we provide compassionate adoption support for birth parents, adoptive families, and anyone exploring private adoption services. Learn more at aactofloveadoptions.com
📲 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @aactofloveadoptions

In this heartfelt episode of our adoption podcast, we sit down with Lauren, an adoptive mom who shares her incredible journey of adopting surprise twin boys and, later, their unexpected biological sibling.

Lauren opens up about the emotional moments of saying “yes” to twins she hadn’t planned for and the unexpected call that changed everything, a third baby, biologically related, needed a home too.

Lauren also shares how they navigated the financial side of private adoption, including faith-filled fundraising and community support. Her story is one of love, resilience, and trusting the process.

Whether you're a hopeful adoptive parent, birth parent, or just love inspiring family stories, this episode offers hope, encouragement, and insight into the beauty of open adoption and sibling connection.

Brought to you by A Act of Love Adoptions — a licensed Utah adoption agency with over 30 years of experience and more than 2,500 successful placements. Learn more at aactofloveadoptions.com

The A Act of Love Podcast is brought to you by A Act of Love Adoptions, a licensed Utah adoption agency with over 30 years of experience and more than 2,500 successful placements. Led by an adoptive mom, we provide compassionate adoption support for birth parents, adoptive families, and anyone exploring private adoption services. Learn more at aactofloveadoptions.com
📲 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @aactofloveadoptions

In this episode of the A Act of Love Adoption Podcast, we sit down with Brooklyn, an adoptee who courageously opens up about her adoption journey, identity, family relationships, and the emotional realities of growing up adopted. Brooklyn shares her honest experiences. What helped her, what she wishes others understood, and how adoption shaped the person she is today. This conversation offers deep insight for adoptive parents, birth parents, and adoptees wanting to feel seen, heard, and understood. If you love real adoptee voices, authentic adoption conversations, and meaningful insight into the adoptee experience, you won’t want to miss this episode.

Are you Pregnant? We can help: Text us at: 801-450-0094 Call us: 1-800-835-6360

Get more info: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/pregnant/

Are you considering adoption? Call us: 1-888-767-7740 Request a Free Application Packet: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/adoptive-parents/

Connect With Us: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aactoflove/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_act_of_love/ X: https://x.com/ActofLoveAdopt TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@actofloveadoptionsutah Podcast Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlVgW4lopNIBWGUcCJzWY1vwge8jE7R5_

Would you like to be on our podcast? Please fill out the form below: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/podcast/

The A Act of Love Podcast is brought to you by A Act of Love Adoptions, a licensed Utah adoption agency with over 30 years of experience and more than 2,500 successful placements. Led by an adoptive mom, we provide compassionate adoption support for birth parents, adoptive families, and anyone exploring private adoption services. Learn more at aactofloveadoptions.com
📲 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @aactofloveadoptions

In this episode, Heidi talks with Carl Young & Joel Sheagren, authors of Embracing Hope, a groundbreaking guide for parents raising teens with ASD, ADHD, FASD, and trauma-related challenges. They break down the science of neurodiversity into simple, practical tools using the 10 brain domains model, real-life scenarios, and over 72 actionable strategies, including the BUILD Method. Whether you're parenting a neurodiverse teen, supporting adoptive or foster youth, or navigating trauma-informed care, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and real hope. Link to Embracing Hope https://embracinghopebook.com/

00:00 – Introduction
00:48 – Meet Carl & Joel
03:20 – What inspired “Embracing Hope”
06:15 – Understanding neurodiversity
10:40 – ASD, ADHD, FASD & trauma overlap
15:22 – 10 brain domains explained
22:45 – Dysmaturity & executive function
30:12 – The BUILD Method
45:00 – Tools to help your teen today
58:50 – Final advice for parents

you Pregnant? We can help: Text us at: 801-450-0094 Call us: 1-800-835-6360 Get more info: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/pregnant/ 

Are you considering adoption? Call us: 1-888-767-7740 Request a Free Application Packet: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/adoptive-parents/ 

Connect With Us:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aactoflove/ 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_act_of_love/
X: https://x.com/ActofLoveAdopt 
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@actofloveadoptionsutah Podcast Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlVgW4lopNIBWGUcCJzWY1vwge8jE7R5_ 
Would you like to be on our podcast? Please fill out the form below: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/podcast/

The A Act of Love Podcast is brought to you by A Act of Love Adoptions, a licensed Utah adoption agency with over 30 years of experience and more than 2,500 successful placements. Led by an adoptive mom, we provide compassionate adoption support for birth parents, adoptive families, and anyone exploring private adoption services. Learn more at aactofloveadoptions.com
📲 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @aactofloveadoptions

In this fun and uplifting episode, we chat with Melissa, an adoptive mom who turned her love for family time and the outdoors into something amazing. After going through her own adoption journeys, she started Give Hope RV, a nonprofit that helps adoptive families go camping, enjoy the fresh air, and make great memories together.

Melissa shares how her adoption experiences inspired her to create a space where families can relax, connect, and enjoy simple moments like roasting marshmallows and hanging out under the stars. Whether you're an adoptive parent, thinking about adoption, or just love hearing about creative ways people support each other, you’ll really enjoy this story.

Give Hope RV https://www.givehoperv.com/   / givehoperv   
Pregnant? We can help: Text us at: 801-450-0094 Call us: 1-800-835-6360

Get more info: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/pregn... Are you considering adoption? Call us: 1-888-767-7740 Request a Free Application Packet: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/adopt... 

Connect With Us: Facebook:   / aactoflove   Instagram:   / a_act_of_love   X: https://x.com/ActofLoveAdopt TikTok:   / actofloveadoptionsutah   Podcast Playlist:    • Act of Love Adoptions Podcast   Would you like to be on our podcast? Please fill out the form below: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/podcast/

The A Act of Love Podcast is brought to you by A Act of Love Adoptions, a licensed Utah adoption agency with over 30 years of experience and more than 2,500 successful placements. Led by an adoptive mom, we provide compassionate adoption support for birth parents, adoptive families, and anyone exploring private adoption services. Learn more at aactofloveadoptions.com
📲 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @aactofloveadoptions

In this heartfelt episode of our adoption podcast, we sit down with Chantel, a compassionate and resilient adoptive mom, as she opens up about her personal adoption journey. From navigating the decision to adopt to building a lifelong bond with her child, Chantel shares the emotional highs, challenges, and beautiful moments that come with adoptive parenting. Whether you’re a hopeful adoptive parent, currently in the adoption process, or simply looking to hear real stories from the heart, Chantel’s experience will leave you inspired and informed. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful adoption stories!

Are you Pregnant? We can help: Text us at: 801-450-0094 Call us: 1-800-835-6360 Get more info: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/pregn...

Are you considering adoption? Call us: 1-888-767-7740 Request a Free Application Packet: https://aactofloveadoptions.com/adopt...

Follow us on Social Media:
Facebook:   / aactoflove  
Instagram:   / a_act_of_love  
Twitter:   / actofloveadopt  
Pinterest:   / aactoflove  

The A Act of Love Podcast is brought to you by A Act of Love Adoptions, a licensed Utah adoption agency with over 30 years of experience and more than 2,500 successful placements. Led by an adoptive mom, we provide compassionate adoption support for birth parents, adoptive families, and anyone exploring private adoption services. Learn more at aactofloveadoptions.com
📲 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @aactofloveadoptions

In this powerful episode of A Act of Love Adoption Podcast, we sit down with a brave birth mom named Karma as she shares her emotional journey of placing her baby for adoption. She opens up about the challenges, love, and strength it took to make this decision and how adoption has shaped her life today. You can follow the link to Karmas Linktree https://linktr.ee/karmasbitchh

Topics Covered:
Why she chose adoption for her baby
The emotions of placing a child for adoption
Her relationship with the adoptive family
Advice for other expectant moms considering adoption

This is a raw, heartfelt, and inspiring story of love and sacrifice. Whether you're a birth parent, adoptive family, or someone touched by adoption, this episode is for you. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real adoption stories! 
#AdoptionStory #AdopteeJourney #OpenAdoption #AdoptionPodcast #FindingIdentity #AdoptionAwareness #AdopteeVoices #ActOfLoveAdoption

Are you Pregnant? We can help:
Text us at: 801-450-0094
Call us: 1-800-835-6360
Get more info:https://aactofloveadoptions.com/pregnant/


Are you considering adoption?
Call us: 1-888-767-7740
Request a Free Application Packet:https://aactofloveadoptions.com/adoptive-parents/


Follow us on Social Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aactoflove/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/a_act_of_love/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ActofLoveAdop
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/aactoflove/

The A Act of Love Podcast is brought to you by A Act of Love Adoptions, a licensed Utah adoption agency with over 30 years of experience and more than 2,500 successful placements. Led by an adoptive mom, we provide compassionate adoption support for birth parents, adoptive families, and anyone exploring private adoption services. Learn more at aactofloveadoptions.com
📲 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @aactofloveadoptions

In this heartfelt episode of A Act of Love Adoption Podcast, we sit down with Jaeger an adoptee as he shares his personal adoption journey. From growing up as an adoptee to navigating identity, family relationships, and self-discovery, he opens up about the challenges, emotions, and triumphs that have shaped his life. 

Topics Covered:
 Growing up as an adoptee: identity & belonging
 Navigating relationships with birth & adoptive families
 Overcoming challenges & embracing her adoption story
 Advice for fellow adoptees & those touched by adoption


This inspiring and emotional adoption story is a must-listen for adoptees, birth parents, adoptive families, and anyone wanting to understand the real impact of adoption. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real adoption stories!
#AdoptionStory #AdopteeJourney #OpenAdoption #AdoptionPodcast #FindingIdentity #AdoptionAwareness #AdopteeVoices #ActOfLoveAdoption

Are you Pregnant? We can help:
Text us at: 801-450-0094
Call us: 1-800-835-6360
Get more info:https://aactofloveadoptions.com/pregnant/


Are you considering adoption?
Call us: 1-888-767-7740
Request a Free Application Packet:https://aactofloveadoptions.com/adoptive-parents/


Follow us on Social Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aactoflove/
Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/a_act_of_love/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ActofLoveAdop
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/aactoflove/

The A Act of Love Podcast is brought to you by A Act of Love Adoptions, a licensed Utah adoption agency with over 30 years of experience and more than 2,500 successful placements. Led by an adoptive mom, we provide compassionate adoption support for birth parents, adoptive families, and anyone exploring private adoption services. Learn more at aactofloveadoptions.com
📲 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @aactofloveadoptions

Placing a child for adoption is one of the hardest and most selfless decisions a birth mother can make. In this emotional episode, Gerrianne, a brave birth mother shares her story—why she chose adoption, the challenges she faced, and the love that guided her decision. She opens up about her journey, the support she received, and her hopes for her child’s future. Whether you’re considering adoption, part of the adoption triad, or simply want to hear a powerful firsthand experience, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more real adoption stories!

Are you Pregnant? We can help:
Text us at: 801-450-0094
Call us: 1-800-835-6360
Get more info:https://aactofloveadoptions.com/pregnant/


Are you considering adoption?
Call us: 1-888-767-7740
Request a Free Application Packet:https://aactofloveadoptions.com/adoptive-parents/


Follow us on Social  Media:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aactoflove/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_act_of_love/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ActofLoveAdopt
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/aactoflove/

The A Act of Love Podcast is brought to you by A Act of Love Adoptions, a licensed Utah adoption agency with over 30 years of experience and more than 2,500 successful placements. Led by an adoptive mom, we provide compassionate adoption support for birth parents, adoptive families, and anyone exploring private adoption services. Learn more at aactofloveadoptions.com
📲 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @aactofloveadoptions