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Welcome to "Adoption Diaries," a heartfelt podcast hosted by Annie and Caitlin, where the intricacies of adoption are explored through personal stories, expert insights, and candid conversations. In this 10-episode series, join us on a transformative journey through the diverse experiences of adoption, from the initial steps of self-discovery to the joyous moment of welcoming a new family member.
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As children grow, their understanding of adoption evolves - and so does the role of adoptive parents. Tune into this insightful conversation that Annie & Caitlin have with Elena S. Hall, author and adoptee. Learn how parents can support older adoptees thorugh changing emotions, identity, and development, and new questions that arise over time. Together, we will talk through resources, books, and voices to listen to as your family grows. This episode offers both encouragement and education, helping adoptive families stay grounded and responsive as they walk alongside their child through every stage of understanding, belonging, and becoming. Check out all of Elena's incredible work here! Follow Elena on her Instagram page. And as always, if you are wanting to learn more about who we are and what we do here at Tiny Hearts, head to our website for more info.
Transracial adoption is a lifelong journey of learning, listening, and intentionality. In this episode, Annie & Caitlin share practical ways families can support their child's identity and belonging - from choosing barbershops and doctors offices to surrounding your child with diverse representation in books, toys, and media. They dive into why these seemingly small choices matter deeply for a child's self-worth and cultural connection. Drawing from their own experiences, Annie & Caitlin share resources and tools that help transracial families from awareness to active, everyday inclusion. If you are wanting to learn more about TinyHearts and what they do, head over to the website for more info!
Your adoption journey begins with the relationships you build - and your connection with professionals is one of the most important. In this conversation with Kendahl, Annie, & Caitlin they talk about all things adoption, including why your profile book matters, and how those early interactions can shape your experience in meaningful ways. Together, they break down what makes a strong profile book, how to highlight your family's authentic story, and how to approach professional partnerships with confidence. Whether you are just starting or refreshing your profile, this episode gives you tangible tools for your profile book an d partnerships. If you are tuning in real-time JOIN US for our Free Webinar - December 11th, 2026. And if you are just wanting to learn more about who we are and what we do you can find more info here: Tiny Hearts Website / Little Ampersand & Co Website.
That first call with an expectant Mom can hold so much anticipation - and a lot of emotion. In this episode, Annie & Caitlin walk through how to prepare for the conversation, what questions to ask (and what to avoid), and how to create a safe, genuine space for connection. They offer language, mindset shifts, and real examples of how to lead with empathy and humility, rather than pressure or perfection. Whether it's your first call or you've had several, this episode helps families understand how trust is built from the very first conversation - one small, thoughtful step at a time. If tuning in real time - join us for our FREE webinar on December 11th, 2026! And if you are just wanting to learn more about who we are and what we do, head over to our website for more info!
The adoption wait can stir up so many emotions on the journey - joy, longing, gratitude, and sometimes grief. In this episode, Annie & Caitlin offer a heartfelt pep talk for anyone navigating the wait. Whether you're waiting to be matched, navigating openness, or findng your footing with a new connection, this conversation invites you to pause and breathe. Together, they share gentle reminders to extend grace to yourself, trust the timing of your story, and find small, steady ways to care for your heart during the this time. This isn't a "how-to" episode - it's a moment to exhale, reflect, and remember that you are right where you are meant to be. If you are tuning in real time - join us - for our FREE WEBINAR - December 11th, 2026. And if you are wanting to learn more about who we are and what we do, head to our website for more info.
Openness is more than a concept - it's a posture of the heart. In this episode, Annie & Caitlin explore what healthy openness looks like both before and after placement. They talk through what it means to discuss openness during the waiting stage, how to prepare emotionally, and how to approach the topic with honesty and grace. Beyond placement, openness often shifts and grows. Annie & Caitlin share insights on navigating those changes with flexibility, respect, and empathy for everyone involved. Whether you're building a new relationship or learning to nuture an existing one, this episode offers gentle guidance for keeping connect at the center of adoption. If tuning in - real time - join us for our FREE webinar on December 11th, 2026! And if you are just wanting to learn more about who we are and what we do, head to our website for more info!
In this opening episode, Annie & Caitlin share the heart behind Walking With You and why they believe no one should navigate the adoption process alone. They'll reflect on how this series was created to meet families right where they are - whether you're waiting, newly matched, or years into parenting - and to remind you that support, learning, and community matter at every stage. Listeners will get a preview of what's to come across the next episodes, along with encouragement to pause, reflect, and deeply engage with each topic. This season is both practical and personal, offering a safe space to learn, grow, and feel seen on your adoption journey. If tuning in real time join us for our free webinar December 11th, 2026! And if you are just wanting to learn more about who we are and what we do, head to our website for more info!
As we close our Season 3 of Adoption Diaries and the year 2024, we're taking a moment to reflect on the powerful stories, heartfelt conversations, and impactful lessons shared throughout this season. In this finale, Annie will revisit key moments from the season and shares personal takeaways. Join us for this reflection wrap-up as we celebrate the connections we've built, the growth we've experienced, and the hope we carry forward into 2025.
In this heartfelt and practical episode of "Adoption Diaries", Annie and Caitlin explore the importance of having open, honest, and age-appropriate conversations with your child about their adoption journey. From starting the dialogue in early childhood to deepening the conversation as your adoptee grows, this episode offers strategies and insights to help parents navigate these meaningful discussions. Discover how to create a safe and supportive environment for your child to ask questions, express emotions, and embrace their story. Whether you're just beginning these talks or looking for ways to continue them with older children, this episode will leave you feeling empowered and equipped to guide your adoptee with love and confidence. Don't miss it!
In this episode of Adoption Diaries, we dive into one of the most pivotal moments on the adpotion journehy: deciding with your partner if adoption is the right path for your family. We know that reaching this decision is rarely straightforward. That is why we're sharing essential tips to help guide you both through the process with intention, openness, and a sense of partnership. From examining personal motivations to navigating fears and expectations, we cover how you can approach each step with compassion and clarity. Whether you're just beginning to explore adoption or ready to take the leap, this episode is packed with insights to help you and your partner make a decision that feels right for your unique path.
In Blending Bonds: Navigating Adoption with Biological Children, Annie sits down with Caitlin for an honest and heartfelt conversation about Caitlin's adoption journey. Through Annie's thoughtful questions, Caitlin shares her experiences of adopting while raising biological children, offering insight into how her family navigating the joys, challenges, and transitions that come with blending biological and adoptive bonds. This episode sheds light on what it's like to embrace adoption as a family unit and the intentional steps Caitlin took to honor every child's unique story.
On this episode of "Adoption Diaries", Annie and Caitlin will dive into the complexities of navigating the holiday season while in the waiting phase of adoption. The holidays can be a season of joy, and for hopeful adoptive parents, they can also bring unique challenges - unanswered questions, well-meaning family inquiries, and the weight of waiting during a time focused on togetherness. Annie and Caitlin offer practical tips to help you manage these emotions, set healthy boundaries, and find moments of peace and hope. Whether it's navigating family gatherings or creating new traditions to honor your journey, this episode will help you approach the season with intention and grace.
During this episode of "Adoption Diaries" Caitlin leads a heartfelrt interview with Annie, focusing on the intricacies of transracial adoption. Annie candidly shares her insights, challenges, and joys, offering valuable perspectives on navigating identity, culture, and belonging with transracial adoptive families. Tune into this authentic, transparent, and open conversation, as we learn, grow, and unfold chapters together. Resources: Documentary: 1000% Me: Growing Up Mixed https://www.amazon.com/1000-Me-Growing-Up-Mixed/dp/B0BYTHQKPK Instagram Book Accounts: ihaveabook4that blackbabybooks maistorybooklibrary Book: A Practical Guide to Transracial Adoption (Isaac Etter)
As we reach the culmination of "Adoption Diaries" Season 2, hosts Annie & Caitlin invite you to join them in a heartwarming and reflective season finale. In this episode they will take time to appreciate and honor the diverse voices that have been shared within the adoption community throughout the season. Annie & Caitlin will engage in meaningful recap and reflection, weaving together the threads of the conversation that unfolded over the course of Season 2. This finale is the collective celebration of the rich tapestry that forms when every storty is acknowledged. And it is a reminder that every story matters and together, as a community, we unfold chapters that contribute to the collective narrative of adoption.
Join Annie & Caitlin as they offer a much needed pep talk for hopeful families navigating the adoption journey. This episode serves as a beacon of encouragement and guidance for those experiencing the challenges and uncertainties of waiting. They will share practical strategies and insights aimed to help hopeful families find their "one thing" - that one small, manageable step they can take when feeling overwhelmed by the wait. They will provide actionable steps and perspectives to empower the listeners to navigate the journey with resilience and optimism. This episode reminds listeners that they are not alone in their journey. Whether it's connecting with support networls, engaging in self-care practices, or taking proactive steps towards readiness, Annie & Caitlin offer a roadmap for finding hope and purpose amidst the challenges of the adoption process.
On this episode of "Adoption Diaries" Annie & Caitin sit down with Danielle, a remarkable adoptive mama who shares her journey of becoming a mother through adoption not once, but twice. Danielle is also a content creator on Instagram! We love her page adoptingourlittles - so head over and check it out! Danielle candidly shares her experiences, challenges, and triumphs in navigating her adoption story. She talks through her intial decision to adopt, to building a relationship with her sweet littles birth family. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the intricacies of adoption from someone who is experiencing the journey first hand. Whether you are considering adoption, are an adoptive parent, or simily tuning in and learning more, this episode offers perspective and heartfelt stories that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the world of adoption.
During this episode on "Adoption Diaries" host Annie will engage in a compelling conversation with Adrian, he shares how he navigated the complexities of being a transracial adoptee growing up in the state of Vermont. This episode provides a platform for Adrian to openly share his unqiue experiences and perspectives on the adoption journey. Annie will actively listen, discuss, and learn from Adrian's narrative, gaining valuable insights into growing up as an adoptee. Join us for a thought-provoking dialogue that explores not only Adrian's journey but the broader themes of identity, belonging, and the impact of adoption on an individual's life.
During this "Pep Talk" on "Adoption Diaries", Annie & Caitlin explore "being present where your feet are." This episode is tailored to both hopeful adoptive parents and those who have a sweet little one at home. Annie & Caitlin will share how to truly embrace the present moment and how to navigate the complexities of adoption while staying grounded in the here and now. Whether it is savoring small moments, finding joy in the unknowns, or creating lasting memories along the way; this will be a gentle reminder for all parents in the adoption community to take a step back, breathe, and appreciate the journey. Tune in as you will be encouraged to be present where your feet are, foster a sense of gratitude, and appreciate your unique story and the chapters that are unfolding day by day.
In this episode of "Adoption Diaries" hosts Annie & Caitlin dive into the profound and often unheards stories of birth parents. They will engage in a candid conversation with Leah Outten, a birth parent, and the author of "The Sixteenth Year: An Open Adoption Memoir." This episode will peel back the layers of Leah's experience, emotions, and insights into the intricacies of being a birth parent. Annie & Caitlin provide a compassionate space for Leah to share her story. Join us as we continue to amplify diverse narratives, this episode promises to be a moving and enlightening glimpse into a crucial aspect of the adoption journey. Book Link - The Sixteenth Year
During this episode Annie & Caitlin will sit down for a conversation with Stephanie Shivers who is a Community Trauma Trainer and has worked as an Adoption Professional most of her career. Stephanie is passionate about moving the conversation from "What's wrong with you?" to "What happened to you?" and dismantling the stigma of mental health. Annie, Caitlin, and Stephaie engage in an insightful dialogue, shedding light on the profound impact of trauma and the significance of being trauma informed when providing support and healing to community. From creating safe spaces to open communication to prioritizing empathy and compassion, the conversation underscores the transformative power of trauma informed approaches and well-being. Join us for this conversation as "Adoption Diaries" continues to amplify diverse perspectives and voices, this episode promises to be a valuable resource. Book Suggestions: The Connected Child: Bring Hope and Healing to Your Adoptive Family - by: Karyn B. Purvis The Connected Parent: Real-Life Strategies for Building Trust and Attachment - by: Karyn B. Purvis The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma - by: Bessel van der Kolk M.D. The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child's Developing Mind - by: Daniel J. J. Siegel M.D. The Voice of the Heart: A Call to Full Living - by: Chip Dodd
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