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What happens when a four-year-old's brave disclosure at a doctor's appointment changes the trajectory of her entire life? Sana Latrice Cotton joins us to share her extraordinary journey through foster care, adoption, and eventual reconnection with her biological family that will leave you breathless with its divine orchestration.

From being separated from her twin brother when he was incarcerated at age 15 to discovering her future husband's grandmother had mysteriously kept her childhood photo for years, Sana's story reveals how our deepest wounds often become our greatest purpose. Her raw account of navigating multiple family systems—biological, foster, and adoptive—illuminates the complex emotions adoptees experience while seeking identity and belonging.

Now the founder of Unashamed Inc., Sana has transformed her trauma into purpose by creating community for teenagers in foster care—the "forgotten" age group she believes needs the most support. Her organization provides branded merchandise that removes stigma and celebrates foster youth identity, while her "Roots and Wings" program helps adult adoptees locate their biological families. Her recent discovery of her biological father's family after decades of searching offers hope to anyone still looking for answers.

The most powerful moment comes when Sana reveals how opening her mouth as a child not only saved her life but continues to save others through her advocacy work. "Tell your story," she urges, "because it's attached to the freedom of so many other people." Whether you're an adoptee, foster parent, or someone who loves someone touched by adoption, this conversation will remind you that no part of your story is wasted when you have the courage to share it.

Follow Sana on social media @SanaLatrice or visit her nonprofit at unashamedinc.org to learn how you can support foster youth in finding their voice and purpose.

Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtis
Produce and Edited by Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Johnnie Underwood

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This intimate conversation offers a rare glimpse into how adoptees and their families navigate the complex emotions that arise when biological relatives are found. We explore the tension between excitement and caution, the fear of rejection from both sides, and the healing that happens when communication remains open.

• The deep need adoptees have to understand their biological origins beyond their loving adoptive homes
• How medical appointments can become unexpectedly painful moments for adoptees lacking family health history
• The "tunnel vision" adoptees sometimes experience in their excitement to connect with birth relatives
• Fears adoptive family members may have about being replaced or forgotten
• How children of adoptees process meeting biological relatives at their own pace
• The importance of allowing organic relationships to develop without pushing
• Finding balance between honoring adoptive family bonds while exploring biological connections
• The concept that "two things can be true at the same time" in adoption relationships

Join us on Instagram and Facebook at @soImAdopted and subscribe to our YouTube channel "So I'm Adopted" to continue this important conversation.

Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtis
Produce and Edited by Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Johnnie Underwood

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What happens when an adoptee grows up in an open adoption during the 1990s and becomes a children's book author? Sasha Sedman takes us through her remarkable journey, revealing the beautiful complexity of relationships that form when adoption is treated with honesty from the beginning.

Sasha shares the extraordinary story of her birth - how her adoptive mother became friends with her birth mother during pregnancy and was even present in the delivery room. From a wicker bassinet rescued from an alley to Raggedy Ann dolls that connect generations, the physical objects of Sasha's adoption story symbolize the thoughtful ways her families remained connected throughout her life.

The conversation explores the nuanced dynamics between adoptive and birth families, particularly the different comfort levels each person brings to these relationships. Sasha recounts meeting her paternal biological family in her twenties and discovering shared physical traits she'd never experienced before. She articulates the delicate balance of boundaries, explaining how her adoptive parents empowered her with freedom of choice while preparing her for the realities that birth family members might also have their own boundaries.

Most powerfully, Sasha reveals how her adoption experience directly influences her work as a children's author. Her book "First Day: An Adoption Story" provides families with a universal adoption narrative and space to document their unique stories. She also discusses "All Out of Ducks," her humor-filled book about parental exhaustion that incorporates critical maternal mental health resources she wishes she'd had during her own postpartum depression.

The episode culminates with Sasha's wisdom on normalizing diverse family structures and validating the complex emotions that accompany adoption. As she puts it, "Any feelings you have are valid, and any feelings other people have are valid" - a perspective that creates space for honest conversations and deeper connections in all types of families.

Ready to explore the world of open adoption through a storyteller's eyes? Listen now and discover how one author is helping families write their own narratives of belonging.

Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtis
Produce and Edited by Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Johnnie Underwood

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Saran T. Baker never imagined that at 24, fresh out of college with her first job, she would suddenly become the adoptive parent to her younger siblings after her mother's tragic death. Yet somewhere deep inside, she always knew this would be her path.

Growing up in what she candidly describes as the "hell home," Saran developed an early determination to one day provide her siblings with the safety and stability she never had. When her mother's fatal car accident made this a sudden reality, she navigated the complex interstate adoption process between Florida and Maryland, all while grieving and trying to build her own adult life.

"I inherited a hot mess," Saran shares with striking honesty, describing children already carrying the weight of trauma, abuse, and abandonment. Without a parenting model to follow, she cobbled together approaches by watching others and relying on prayer. When her five-year-old sister asked to call her "mom" after a difficult day at kindergarten, Saran agreed—only to find herself hiding in closets, overwhelmed by a title she never experienced in a healthy way herself.

Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtis
Produce and Edited by Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Johnnie Underwood

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Imagine uncovering hidden family truths and forming unbreakable bonds across unexpected paths. Join us, John and Lisa, in a heartfelt exploration of adoption, identity, and the relationships that shape our lives. This episode features the inspiring Kalila Scott Sumners, who offers a deeply personal glimpse into her adoption journey. From being embraced as a "chosen child" to the emotional complexities of meeting biological family members, Kalila's story is one of resilience, love, and self-discovery. Listen as we highlight the significance of maintaining a positive narrative about one's origins and the journey of reconnecting with biological roots.

Kalila's candid reflections reveal the joys and challenges of adoption, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's lineage, especially during major life events like marriage and pregnancy. As we share our own personal growth stories and aspirations for 2025, we also honor notable adoption figures such as Josephine Baker and President Gerald Ford. Their stories, along with Kalila's, demonstrate the profound connections and unique experiences fostered through adoption. This episode sheds light on the emotional journeys of adoptees, the yearning for familial connection, and the unexpected blessings that come with navigating these complex relationships.

Explore the intricate dynamics of adoption and family as we discuss the challenges of uncovering hidden truths and the emotional struggles tied to meeting biological parents. We delve into the universal longing for belonging and the balance between loyalty to adoptive families and acceptance from biological roots. Through personal anecdotes and powerful exchanges, we underscore the need for support, understanding, and celebrating the enduring resilience of adoptive families. Join us for an illuminating conversation on the unbreakable bonds formed through adoption and the lifelong impact on identity and relationships.

Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtis
Produce and Edited by Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Johnnie Underwood

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What happens when adoption intersects with marriage? Join us as we explore this question through the lens of our own relationships, with our significant others, Janice and Titus, lending their insights. From uncovering family secrets to navigating complex emotions, our 13th chapter marks a milestone in understanding the profound effects of adoption on personal identity and family dynamics. Through personal stories and candid conversations, we emphasize the necessity of open communication and understanding in nurturing these unique relationships.

The secrets and revelations of adoption create ripples across generations. We share experiences of how differing approaches to adoption disclosure have influenced our identities and family dynamics. With contrasting stories, including feelings of exclusion due to visible differences and the comfort of early adoption awareness, we illuminate the complex tapestry of adoptive family experiences. The narrative spans reactions of adoptive parents, the struggle for identity, and the emotional journeys tied to discovering biological roots, where chosen families often step in to fill emotional voids left by loss or secrecy.

 We discuss the impact of family trauma and loss, exploring how meaningful conversations can foster healing and resilience. The power of chosen families in providing support during both challenging and celebratory times is highlighted, emphasizing a new sense of belonging. As the festive season unfolds, we invite you to reflect on the importance of intentional relationships and the transformative journey of embracing your roots with grace and empathy.

Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtis
Produce and Edited by Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Johnnie Underwood

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Imagine uncovering life-altering truths about your past nearly four decades into your life. This is the journey our guest shares, where unexpected revelations about family roots and adoption bring a cascade of emotions. We start by reflecting on the extraordinary lives of celebrated adoptees like Jamie Foxx and Babe Ruth, illustrating how nurturing environments and supportive relationships can shape destinies. Their stories set the stage for our guest’s poignant tale, as they navigate the emotional landscape of discovering their own adoption story and the love and loss that accompanied it.

Our conversation takes a remarkable turn with the unfolding of an unexpected reunion. A mysterious visitor brings shocking news that challenges the very foundation of our guest’s identity, revealing a biological mother thought to be deceased but alive in Alaska. As the layers of family dynamics and motivations unravel, we explore the complex emotions and financial expectations that come with such revelations. Through the turbulence of reconnecting with newfound siblings and confronting a resentful biological mother, our guest’s journey highlights resilience, self-reliance, and the search for belonging in a fractured family.

Finally, we delve into the trials of navigating intricate family relationships, from the painful realities of sibling isolation to the empowering acts of self-sufficiency. Practical skills and personal growth become lifelines in overcoming family trauma, while moments of compassion and empathy provide guiding lights. We share stories of strength and perseverance, including the importance of faith and spiritual guidance as anchors amidst adversity. Through this exploration, the enduring power of family love, respect, and resilience shine through, leaving a profound impact on all who listen.

Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtis
Produce and Edited by Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Johnnie Underwood

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Our latest episode of "So I'm Adopted" or should we say "So I wish I was Adopted", promise to deliver a heartfelt tale and more. 

Join us as we navigate the intricate world of nontraditional family dynamics. Our conversation sheds light on the emotional intricacies of mixed-race identities and strained family relationships, offering hope through stories of reconciliation and healing. With insights from our guest, Katrina, we explore the unique paths people take, from education to unexpected career shifts, and the resilience required to thrive amidst adversity. Katrina shares her personal experience of growing up on a military base, feeling like an outsider as a mixed-race child caught between two worlds. From the pivotal moment Her mother considered giving her up for adoption, to her father's decision to bring her to Virginia, every aspect of her journey is laid bare. 

Discover how upbringing influences personal growth and relationships, particularly within marriage and as parents. Reflections on parental figures, both biological and adoptive, highlight the lasting impact of early adversity on parenting styles. We delve into the cultural nuances of identity, sharing anecdotes about essential Black films and the crucial role of a supportive community. Trina opens up about her healing journey from a challenging childhood, emphasizing the importance of love and understanding in shaping our identities. This episode is a testament to the power of shared stories in fostering connection and resilience.

Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtis
Produce and Edited by Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Johnnie Underwood

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Ever wondered what it feels like to navigate the intricate labyrinth of adoption and family dynamics? Join us as we welcome Shakia Simmons, an adoptee and Hampton University alumna, who brings her unique perspective on this emotional journey. Shakia's insights, woven with light-hearted banter about football and a tribute to the late James Earl Jones, add depth and warmth to our conversation. 

Shakia's story is a heartfelt exploration of the complexities of adoption within a family. Adopted at nine months by her relatives, she sheds light on the emotional tapestry of her life, balancing relationships with both her biological and adoptive families. As she shares her adoptive father's profound loss and his decision to raise her as his own, supported by her biological mother, our listeners gain a poignant insight into her unique family dynamics. Shakia's narrative is a testament to the enduring bonds of family and the challenges of acceptance that come with it.

Our conversation extends to the broader theme of family dynamics and unconditional love, particularly the special bond between a mother and her son. We touch on the emotional nuances that can arise in marital relationships, emphasizing the crucial role of communication and empathy. The episode culminates in a powerful discussion on forgiveness and acceptance, highlighting personal journeys of healing and the importance of seeking support. This episode is a deeply moving exploration of family, love, and the human spirit's resilience.

Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtis
Produce and Edited by Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Johnnie Underwood

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What shapes a person's path more profoundly: the family they’re born into or the family that steps in during times of need? This episode unearths the stories of famous adoptees like Ice-T and Simone Biles, whose lives were irrevocably molded by non-traditional family dynamics. Hear how Ice-T's aunts provided a sanctuary after he lost his parents, and how Simone Biles' grandparents became her bedrock after her turbulent experience in the foster care system. These narratives reveal the resilience and strength that can flourish within non-traditional family structures, and the irreplaceable roles extended family members can play in offering stability and love.

The emotional intricacies of family relationships take center stage as we recount Kirk's heart-wrenching reunion with his mother after over two decades of estrangement. Confronting deep-seated pain and unresolved trauma, Kirk's story brings to light the necessity of understanding, forgiveness, and compassion in healing broken bonds. Through his experience, we explore the cyclical nature of familial pain and the immense struggle that accompanies seeking closure and answers from biological parents. This chapter highlights the power of grace, empathy, and the arduous journey of emotional reconciliation within families.

Finally, the focus shifts to the profound process of emotional healing, barriers we erect to shield ourselves from trauma, and the impact of sharing personal struggles. Inspired by Kirk Franklin’s candidness about his own challenges, we underscore the importance of addressing emotional barriers rather than masking them, and the healing power of open communication and forgiveness. These stories illustrate how brokenness does not diminish one's capacity to inspire and create, much like how broken crayons can still color. Through faith, hope, and perseverance, we aim to inspire listeners to recognize their collective purpose and the transformative potential of their own stories. Tune in for a compelling discussion that will leave you pondering the powerful dynamics within your own family.

Music by Curtis Rodgers IG @itsjustcurtis
Produce and Edited by Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Lisa Sapp
Executive Producer Johnnie Underwood

Tell us your story or leave a comment by following us on
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Email [email protected]