In this episode of The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Rebecca Gruenspan—adoptive parent, consultant, and founder of RG Adoption Consulting—takes you inside her signature presentation: a masterclass on the basics of domestic adoption.

From her own story of 26 failed IUIs to becoming a single mom through adoption, Rebecca walks you step by step through what it really takes to build your family this way. She covers the questions hopeful parents ask most often—about open adoption, profiles, timelines, and costs—and doesn’t shy away from the realities, risks, and emotional work required.

You’ll learn why readiness (emotional and financial) is critical, how to manage fears and expectations, and why building the right team around you makes all the difference. Whether you’re just beginning to explore adoption or you’ve already started your journey, this episode gives you the clarity, encouragement, and practical insight you need.

🔗 Important Links
• RG Adoption Consulting → ⁠https://rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠
• Book a 30-Minute Consult → ⁠https://rgadoptionconsulting.com/contact⁠
• Sweet Peach Tree (Sponsor) → ⁠sweetpeachtree.com⁠ – use code ROADMAP10 for 10% off

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome & Sponsor Message
00:42 – Rebecca’s Story: From Infertility to Adoption
02:36 – The Emotional Storm of Family Building
04:22 – Common Questions & Fears Around Adoption
05:10 – Why Open Adoption Is the Norm Today
06:59 – “Will We Ever Get Picked?” (Singles, LGBTQ+, Parents in Their 40s+)
08:49 – Adoption Timelines, Dead Ends & Staying Committed
09:54 – Readiness: Grief, Healing & Opening Your Heart
12:45 – Managing Fear & Knowing the Risks
13:55 – Why There’s No “Entitlement” in Adoption
15:20 – Building Your Adoption Team (Home Study, Attorney, Consultant & More)
19:20 – The Adoption Profile: Why It Matters More Than You Think
22:40 – Don’t Put All Your Eggs in One Basket (Diversifying Agencies)
24:08 – Questions to Ask When Presented with a Situation
26:32 – Preparing for Transracial, Special Needs & Drug-Exposed Adoptions
27:33 – The Rising Costs of Adoption & How to Plan for Them
30:04 – Grants, Loans, Fundraising & the 2025 Tax Credit
31:13 – How Consultants Support Families Step by Step
32:35 – Final Encouragement: “You’ve Got This”

Tune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday. If you like what you hear, I'd appreciate a follow and 5-star rating & review! THANK YOU!

For questions about adoption, episode suggestions or to appear as a guest on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, email⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠