The Adoption Roadmap Podcast

In this episode of The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Rebecca sits down with Dr. Ellen Weber Libby—psychotherapist, adoptive parent, and author of The Calling to Adopt: Should I or Shouldn’t I?

Adoption is one of the few life decisions where there’s truly no turning back. But how do you know if adoption is your calling or simply a hopeful wish? Dr. Libby shares decades of wisdom from her clinical practice and her own adoption journey, guiding listeners through the soul-searching questions every hopeful parent must face before moving forward.

🔗 Important Links

• RG Adoption Consulting → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com
• Dr. Ellen Weber Libby
• Dr. Ellen Weber Libby’s The Calling to Adopt: Should I or Shouldn’t I?
• Sweet Peach Tree (Sponsor) → sweetpeachtree.com – use code ROADMAP10 for 10% off

Chapters:

00:00 – Welcome & Sponsor: Sweet Peach Tree
01:20 – Introducing Dr. Ellen Weber Libby (psychotherapist, adoptive parent, and author)
03:30 – The Power and Danger of Dreams in the decision to adopt
05:30 – Is Adoption a Calling—or Just a Wish?
07:20 – Hidden Motivations (guilt, loss, religion, personal narratives)
09:40 – Attachment Fears & Personal Stories from Dr. Libby
11:30 – Balancing Support vs. Opposition from family and loved ones
13:55 – The Role of Community in adoption decisions
15:45 – Secrecy in Adoption Journeys: Pros & Cons
18:30 – Processing Loss in Adoption vs. Pregnancy
20:30 – Essential Conversations Before Adopting (partners, family, closest support)
24:10 – Using Ellen’s Book for Dialogue & Journaling
26:10 – Why Boundaries Matter with Friends & Family
28:40 – When Grandparents Cross the Line (a client story)
30:30 – How to Hold Boundaries with Love
31:45 – Educating Family: Resources to Share (The Adoption Roadmap, The Calling to Adopt)
32:30 – Closing Thoughts & Part Two Teaser

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]⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap podcast, Brianna and Shay share their emotional journey through adoption, discussing the challenges of fall-throughs, the importance of support systems, and the need for cautious optimism. They reflect on their experiences with adoption consulting and the significance of community support, emphasizing the need for flexibility in preferences and the emotional toll of waiting. The conversation highlights the transformative nature of adoption and the importance of education and self-reflection throughout the process.

🔗 Important Links

• RG Adoption Consulting → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com

• The Adoption Continuum Community (our post-adoption online membership space) → WAITLIST

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Adoption Journey

01:46 Navigating Emotional Ups and Downs in Adoption

05:18 Understanding Fall-Throughs in Adoption

10:48 The Role of Support Systems in Adoption

12:11 Cautious Optimism and Community Support

15:49 Trusting the Process of Adoption

18:33 Flexibility in Adoption Preferences

22:08 The Challenge of Waiting in Adoption

24:40 Current Status and Future Prospects

26:44 The Impact of Adoption Consulting

29:41 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

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]⁠⁠⁠

Season 3 of The Adoption Roadmap Podcast kicks off with a bold, heartfelt story. In this two-part conversation, host Rebecca Gruenspan sits down with Brianna and Shay Cherry, a vibrant Black same-sex couple from Charlotte, North Carolina—and proud RG Adoption Consulting clients—to share the beginnings of their adoption journey.

Married for two years and partners for six, Brianna and Shay open up about:

• What first sparked their desire to adopt

• The financial and emotional barriers they had to navigate

• How they found RG Adoption Consulting and why they trusted their gut to sign on

• Why visibility as a Black same-sex couple in adoption is powerful, even when it comes with painful bias

• Rejection, resilience, and how they lean on their support systems

• What it means to set boundaries with loved ones while waiting for “the call”

This episode is full of laughter, real talk, and wisdom for any hopeful adoptive parent—especially if you’re navigating adoption as a couple of color, an LGBTQ+ family, or anyone who’s ever wondered how to handle the ups and downs of this process.

🔗 Important Links

• RG Adoption Consulting → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com

• The Adoption Continuum Community (our post-adoption online membership space) → WAITLIST

  
  

  Chapters

  00:00 – Welcome to Season 3 + About The Adoption Continuum Community
  01:28 – Meet Brianna & Shay: Partners, Fashion, and Their Adoption Dreams
  02:22 – What Sparked Their Decision to Adopt
  04:29 – Overcoming Financial Barriers & Choosing Parenthood Together
  05:30 – How They Found RG Adoption Consulting (Google → Gut Feeling)
  07:15 – Why They Chose to Work With RG as Clients
  08:14 – The Power of Visibility as a Black Same-Sex Couple in Adoption
  09:34 – Facing Biases and Barriers Along the Way
  11:03 – Rejection Before Being Seen: How It Feels Different
  12:19 – Support Systems: Family, Friends, and Surprising Reactions
  13:54 – Boundaries While Waiting & Healthy Ways Loved Ones Check In
  17:09 – Preferences: Hoping for a Girl, Raising Boys, and Honest Reflections
  18:13 – Part 2 Teaser: Navigating Fall-Throughs and Heartbreak

  
  

  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]⁠⁠⁠

  
  

In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Rebecca Gruenspan reflects on the journey of the podcast through 100 episodes, highlighting key themes and insights from various guests. The conversation covers the complexities of adoption, including the importance of community support, financial planning, cultural identity, and the roles of birth parents. Rebecca emphasizes the emotional aspects of adoption, including joy and grief, and the need for open communication and understanding in the adoption process. The episode serves as a comprehensive recap of the valuable lessons learned throughout the podcast's journey.

Important Links

Dr. Joyce Maguire Pavao

Aida Phillips

Kerry Hackett 1

Kerry Hackett 2

Mother's Day

Julie Brumley

Wilson Munsterman

Dr. Sara Silvestri

Jessie Mattos

Mental Health Episode (Anonymous)

Gift of Adoption Fund

Donna Pope 1

Donna Pope 2

Rachel Patten

Becky Fawcett

Cam Lee Small

Sara Cole

Katy Kinirons Mejia

Helena Angela

Jeff Dunn

Simon Benn

Ramya Gruneisen

Lindsay Bruggeman

Jennifer Kelly

Laurie Shelton

Josie Mi

Tarcia Smith

Damon Davis II

Damon Davis I

Kate Papkin

Kelly Ellison

Tamika Swint

Dan Miller, Ben Greenberg

Natalie Bauman

Francine Apy

Diana Schimmel

Matt Joyner

Maureen Dykinga

Lucrece Bundy

Whitney Michael

Kate Shanahan

Kathryn Russell

Allison Olson

Linda Sexton

Kerry Hackett

Amy Imber

Sweet Peach Tree

Our Chosen Child

RG Adoption Consulting

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Adoption Roadmap Podcast

02:53 Reflections on the Journey of Podcasting

06:05 Understanding the Home Study Process

08:52 Single Motherhood and Adoption

12:14 The Importance of Open Adoption

14:54 Navigating Power Dynamics in Adoption

18:10 Building Resilience and Embracing Diversity

21:03 Transitioning from Private to Foster Care Adoption

23:53 Financial Planning for Adoption

27:08 Legal Considerations in Adoption

29:50 Positive Perspectives on Adoption

33:07 Exploring Identity and Heritage in Adoption

35:58 The Role of Social Media in Adoption Success

39:41 The Duality of Joy and Pain in Adoption

41:10 Navigating Mental Health in Adoption

49:09 Financial Barriers and Support in Adoption

52:00 The Role of Birth Mothers in Adoption

53:53 Health Concerns and Medical Records in Adoption

55:46 Identity and Self-Worth in Adoption

57:37 Somatic Healing and Adoption Trauma

01:00:51 Celebrating Mother's Day in the Adoption Community

01:01:45 Post-Adoption Support and Community

01:02:42 Cultural Dynamics in Adoption

01:04:06 The Psychology of Adoption and Emotional Care

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! THANK YOU!

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

In this episode of The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Rebecca Gruenspan sits down with Dr. Joyce Maguire Pavao—a pioneer in the world of adoption, an adoptee herself, and the author of The Family of Adoption. With over five decades of clinical experience, Dr. Pavao challenges the idea that adoption is something to be “fixed,” and instead invites us to see it as a lifelong experience that demands truth, openness, and deep emotional care.

In this powerful conversation, Dr. Pavao unpacks the psychology of adoption, the concept of ambiguous loss, and the invisible grief so often overlooked. She shares practical guidance for adoptive parents—how to talk about adoption, how to recognize adoption-related trauma, and how to support their children through it without over-pathologizing them. From early separation and normative crises to adoption-competent therapy and systemic change, this episode is filled with wisdom every member of the adoption constellation needs to hear.

Important Links

Dr. Joyce Maguire Pavao

Email: [email protected]

The Family of Adoption

Sweet Peach Tree – Clean, natural hair + skin products for melanin-rich families.
Use code ROADMAP10 for 10% off your first order

RG Adoption ConsultingTake our FREE quiz: “Am I Ready to Adopt?”

Chapters

00:00 Celebrating Milestones and Community Engagement

03:14 Understanding Adoption: A Lifelong Journey

05:48 The Child-Centric Approach in Adoption

09:13 Normative Crises in Adoption

12:05 The Impact of Early Adoption Experiences

14:55 Creating Adoption Competent Therapists

18:05 Ambiguous Loss in Adoption

20:50 Supporting Children Through Invisible Loss

24:01 Indirect Communication Strategies for Parents

26:54 Recognizing Trauma in Adopted Children

30:06 Understanding Behavioral Responses in Adoptees

33:02 The Complexity of Adoption Experiences

36:13 Encouraging Open Conversations in Adoption

38:57 The Role of Parents in Navigating Adoption Challenges

41:58 Empowering Adoptees to Share Their Stories

46:31 Navigating Family Dynamics in Adoption

49:41 The Vulnerability of Pre-Adoptive Parents

55:29 The Need for Honest Conversations in Adoption

57:40 Challenges in the Adoption System

01:02:33 The Importance of Community in Healing

01:10:31 Therapeutic Approaches for Adoptive Families

01:12:32 Understanding Healing vs. Fixing

01:16:29 Building Connections and Community

01:23:59 Embracing the Truth of 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! THANK YOU!

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

If it feels like your adoption journey has hit a wall—you're not alone. In this honest and encouraging solo episode, Rebecca gets real about the emotional rollercoaster of waiting to adopt. From navigating guilt and doubt to understanding why things come in waves, you'll walk away feeling seen, grounded, and empowered with actionable steps you can take right now.

Whether you're wondering if you're being "too choosy," struggling with silence from agencies, or just need to know that someone gets it—this one’s for you.

Important Links

- RG Adoption Consulting

- Want support on your journey? Let’s chat

- Tarcia Smith's Episode

Chapters

00:00 Navigating the Adoption Journey

03:09 Understanding Guilt in Adoption

06:07 The Waves of Adoption Activity

12:07 The Long Haul of Adoption

16:54 The Importance of Asking Questions

19:13 Building a Supportive Community

🎧 Tune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday and Friday morning. If you like what you hear, we’d love a follow and a 5-star rating & review!

💌 For questions about adoption, episode suggestions, or to appear as a guest, email:

[email protected]

In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Rebecca Gruenspan breaks down one of the most critical steps in your adoption journey: the home study. From must-ask questions to picking the right provider, paperwork hacks, safety requirements, and the controversial advice that could save you stress later—Rebecca shares it all. You’ll walk away with clarity, confidence, and a clear plan to get through your home study faster and with fewer headaches. If you're just getting started or preparing to match, this is a can't-miss episode.

Important Links
AdoptionLearningPartners.org
CreatingAFamily.org
Buy The Adoption Roadmap Book on Amazon
Ready to Start Your Adoption Journey? Book a Call!
RG Adoption Consulting

Chapters
00:00 What is an Adoption Home Study?
02:21 How to Find the Right Provider
06:44 4 Questions to Ask When Interviewing Agencies
09:03 What the Home Study Process Actually Looks Like
13:51 What You Don’t Need to Do for Your Home Visit
16:19 Why Saying “Yes” to More Can Save You Stress Later
21:06 Red Flags, Secrets, and What You Should Disclose
25:32 What to Know About Education Requirements
27:58 How to Involve Your Family in the Process
29:58 Timelines, Renewals, and Multi-State Rules
31:06 Why the Home Study is More Than a Checklist

🎧 Tune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday and Friday morning. If you like what you hear, we’d love a follow and a 5-star rating & review!

💌 For questions about adoption, episode suggestions, or to appear as a guest, email:
[email protected]

In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Rebecca Gruenspan discusses the current need for families in the adoption process, the importance of pre-birth visits, financial planning for adoption, the stages of the adoption journey, and the often-overlooked role of birth fathers. She emphasizes the need for openness and understanding in navigating these complex topics, providing insights and practical advice for prospective adoptive families.

Important Links

Your Adoption Finance Coach

Ready to Start your Adoption journey? Book a Call!

RG Adoption Consulting

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Adoption Opportunities

02:21 Navigating Pre-Birth Visits

12:52 Financial Planning for Adoption

13:21 Understanding the Stages of Adoption

19:02 The Role of Birth Fathers in 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! 

THANK YOU!

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

⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap Podcast, host Rebecca Gruenspan introduces powerful insights from various guests, focusing on the complexities of adoption. The conversation features Cam Lee Small, a transracial adoptee, who shares his personal journey, including the emotional aspects of reunification with his birth family. The episode also addresses critical medical concerns by Dr. Sara Silvestri, MD, for adoptive families, particularly regarding prenatal exposure to substances, and emphasizes the importance of honesty and self-reflection in the adoption process. Additionally, the role of adoption consultants is discussed with RG Senior Consultant, Rachel Pattern, highlighting their support for families navigating the adoption journey. In this episode, the conversation delves into the multifaceted roles of adoption consultants, the personal journey of Katie Kinirons-Mejia as a birth mother and insights into parenting from Sara Cole. The discussion emphasizes the importance of education, support, and community in the adoption process, as well as the emotional complexities faced by birth mothers. The episode also highlights practical parenting strategies to foster connection and cooperation between parents and children.

Important Links

Cam Lee Small's Episode

• Cam Lee Small

Dr. Sara Silvestri's Episode

• Dr. Sara Silvestri aka 'The Adoption Doc'

Rachel Patten's Episode

Katy Kinirons Mejia's Episode

Sara Cole's Episode

• Sara Cole

RG Adoption Consulting

Take our FREE Quiz 'Am I Ready to Adopt?'

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Adoption Roadmap Podcast

01:12 Meet Cam Lee Small: A Transracial Adoptee's Journey

04:31 The Letter to Future Adoptive Parents

09:57 Reunification and Identity Exploration

15:45 Understanding Medical and Health Concerns in Adoption

27:55 Navigating Substance Exposure Risks in Adoption

33:32 The Role of Adoption Consultants

39:58 Understanding the Adoption Process

40:24 Katie's Personal Journey and Advocacy

45:19 The Importance of Sharing Stories

46:51 The Complexity of Birth Mother Experiences

50:07 Parenting Insights from Sarah Cole

59:09 Rediscovering Parental Confidence

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! 

THANK YOU!

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

⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Rebecca Gruenspan discusses the complexities of adoption, focusing on prenatal substance exposure, important acronyms related to adoption, and the significance of early intervention for children. She emphasizes the need for support and resources for adoptive parents navigating these challenges, including the importance of understanding various disorders and the legal frameworks involved in adoption.

Important Links

RG Adoption Consulting

Join The Adoption Continuum WAITLIST

Academy of Adoption of Assisted Reproduction Attorneys

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Prenatal Substance Exposure

02:02 Decoding Adoption Acronyms

10:06 Navigating Early Intervention and Support

14:00 Resources for Adoptive Parents

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! 

THANK YOU!

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

⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠