In this kickoff to National Adoption Month, host Brian Mavis sits down with his cohosts (and adoptive parents) Courtney and Travis to discuss the real-world challenges and beauty of adoption. Together they unpack common myths about adoption, share their own powerful stories—from fostering to international adoption—and explore the ethical and emotional complexities that come with saying “yes” to a child.

Key topics covered:

• Their family stories: international adoption, adoption through foster care, and breaking “birth order”
• The biggest myths about adoption—cost, home ownership, and who’s eligible
• Why “foster to adopt” isn’t the right mindset
• The ethical advantages of adoption through foster care
• The “marriage of adoption” and the lifelong commitment it represents
• What support (and lack thereof) adoptive families can expect
• The I Belong Project and how it’s helping connect waiting kids with forever families
• Practical, heartfelt advice for those considering adoption

Whether you’re just exploring adoption or already in the process, this episode offers honest insight, encouragement, and direction from those who’ve lived it.

Resources Mentioned

• America’s Kids Belong – www.americaskidsbelong.org

• Learn more about the I Belong Project and watch videos of kids waiting for adoption
• Explore “The Fostering Front Door” to learn about ways to get involved