In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap, Rebecca Gruenspan is joined by Natalie Bauman as she shares her unique perspective as both an adoptee and an adoptive parent. Natalie recounts her journey to find her biological parents, a search that profoundly shaped her understanding of family and identity, as well as a remarkable revelation that emerged through DNA testing. Natalie discusses her decision to adopt domestically, which led to the unexpected and joyful phone call that made her a mother. Rebecca and Natlie also discuss some of the challenges of transracial adoption and the importance of confronting biases and surrounding oneself with a supportive community during the process. Rebecca and Natalie’s conversation underscores the significance of listening to and preserving adoptees' stories, as these narratives are vital for future generations.

Important Links mentioned in Today's Episode

The Digital Mosaic - Natalie's Video Storytelling App 

Story Corps

Jews of Color Initiative 

⁠⁠RG Adoption Consulting⁠⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠The Adoption Roadmap⁠

Chapters

04:17 The Emotional Dynamics of Adoption

09:07 Reconnecting with Biological Family

12:23 Preserving Family Stories through Genealogy

19:34 Natalie’s Adoption Journey and Unique Revelation

27:22 Adopting Rebecca's Daughter and Conclusion

34:53 Becoming a Mother

36:20 Privacy and Consent in Adoption Storytelling

39:14 Balancing Parent's Story and Child's Story

45:27 Support and Mentorship in the Adoption Journey

57:31 The Influence of Adoption on Professional Work

01:01:46 Challenges and Misunderstandings of Transracial Adoption

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

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

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