In this episode of The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Rebecca Gruenspan sits down with Genie Miller Gillespie, one of the most respected adoption attorneys in the country, for a clear, grounded conversation about the legal realities of adoption—without the fear-mongering.

With more than 30 years of experience in adoption, guardianship, and reproductive law, Genie breaks down what hopeful adoptive parents actually need to know about openness, contested adoptions, and legal risk. Together, Rebecca and Jeannie unpack common myths fueled by “Lifetime movie” narratives and replace them with real-world context, clarity, and reassurance.

Important Links

Solace Gift Boxes

→ https://adoptsolace.com

RG Adoption Consulting• Website → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com• Book a 30-Minute Consult → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com/contact

Genie Miller Gillespie, Esq.

• Website → https://illinoisadoptionlawyer.com/

Academy of Adoption & Assisted Reproduction Attorneys (AAAA / Quad A)• Website → https://adoptionart.org

Chapters

00:00 Navigating the Adoption Landscape

02:35 The Evolution of Openness in Adoption

06:03 Understanding Legal Risks in Adoption

15:53 The Complexities of Fatherhood in Adoption

21:33 Defining Legal Relationships in Adoption

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]⁠⁠⁠