In this episode, we welcome Beth Dubber, a busy still photographer and an adoptee who later became a foster-to-adopt mom. Beth shares her multifaceted story, including her experiences with IVF, adoption, and navigating life as both an adoptee and an adoptive parent.

She discusses the challenges of infertility, her sobriety journey, and surviving breast cancer. Beth opens up about the emotional and psychological aspects of adoption, societal perceptions, and the complexities of her experience. She emphasizes the importance of support systems like foster family agencies (FFAs) and the necessity of open conversations regarding trauma in adoptive families.

This episode offers insightful perspectives for anyone interested in adoption, fostering, and overcoming personal hurdles, while always maintaining a sense of humor.

Links:

The Primal Wound (book she recommends)

You Should be Grateful (another book discussed)

Paul Sunderland lecture on Adoptees and addiction

Adoptees On podcast

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:38 Beth's Family and IVF Journey

02:51 Challenges and Triumphs of IVF

12:49 Adoption and Foster Care Decision

16:07 Adoptee Experience and Support

30:21 Facing the Fear of Loss

31:14 Parenting Reflections and Challenges

31:38 Expressing Emotions and Providing Safety

33:15 Navigating Racial Identity and Adoption

35:55 Adoption Conversations and Normalization

39:59 The Impact of Family Dynamics

43:57 Co-Parenting and Living Arrangements

46:57 Adoption Process and Challenges

55:55 Addressing Pre-Birth Trauma

01:00:09 Resources and Final Thoughts