Cate & Ty Break It Down

Cate & Ty are back with Kristina as she continues to recount her unbelievable reunion story with her birth mother. From awkward first meetings, to restrictive visitation rules, and her determined efforts to maintain contact with her birth mom in secret, Kristina takes us all on an emotional rollercoaster. In the end, a change in environment doesn't automatically bring happiness. Kristina reflects on the shock of moving from a privileged upbringing to living with five younger siblings, her decision to reconnect with her adoptive parents, and the complex feelings of not fully fitting in either family.Check out Kristina on Tiktok @kristinarichie and her newest book Unraveling Adoption: Weaving Between Two Worlds wherever books are sold!Thank you to our sponsors!Me Undies: Visit MeUndies.com/Breakitdown and use code BREAKITDOWN to get up to 50% off.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On today's episode, Cate & Ty sit down with Kristina Richie, whose adoption story is so emotional and full of tense moments that we had to split it in two parts. For Part 1, Kristina begins by talking about her childhood being filled with secrets and a desperate search for identity, to a dramatic reunion with her birth mother at her high school pep rally. Kristina recounts the emotional toll of hiding truths, the rebellion that followed, and the eventual reckoning once the truth was out. Join us for Part 2 next week as Kristina shares more of her enduring quest for connection.Check out Kristina on Tiktok @kristinarichieThank you to our sponsors!Little Spoon: Simplify your kids' mealtimes. Go to: littlespoon.com/BREAKITDOWN and enter our code BREAKITDOWN at checkout to get 50% OFF your first Little Spoon order. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Cate & Ty are joined by Rei Clarke (@rei_clarke) who talks about the dynamics of social media, especially TikTok, where controversial hot takes often gain the most engagement. She also brings the heat and asks Cate & Ty some questions that followers have been asking regarding the recent catfishing attempt. Rei also shares her personal story of growing up with an addict mother and an absent father, being raised by her grandparents, and how the search for love and affection affected her relationships in adulthood. She reflects on the importance of breaking cycles and the transformative power of therapy.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cate & Ty as they sit with Connor Howe, known as @Adopted_Connor on social, as he challenges conventional narratives surrounding open adoption and exposes the often overlooked complexities of the adoption industry. As an adoptee himself, Connor discusses how open adoption, while intended to be a solution, can still lead to pain, confusion, and a sense of not belonging for adoptees.Connor also explains the profit-driven nature of adoption agencies, including their marketing tactics, and the role of unregulated adoption consultants. He also emphasizes the traumatic impact of adoption on adoptees, birth parents, and even adoptive parents, highlighting the need for adoption-competent therapy and support. Buckle up! Thank you to our sponsors!Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/BreakItDown today to get 10% off your first monthLittle Spoon: Simplify your kids' mealtimes. Go to: littlespoon.com/BREAKITDOWN and enter our code BREAKITDOWN at checkout to get 50% OFF your first Little Spoon order. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cate & Ty are joined by Traci Weafer, known as TraciDoula on social media, to discuss everything about birth and pregnancy. Traci opens up about her own adoption story, the impact it had on her identity and how these experiences shaped her path to becoming a doula. She shares her insights on homeschooling, the evolving landscape of childbirth, and the crucial role of doulas and midwives in navigating the medical system. Traci's passion is for educating parents on their rights and choices, and emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy to ensure a respectful birth experience.To learn about her services, visit her website at tracidoula.comThank you to our sponsors!Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/BreakItDown today to get 10% off your first monthSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On today's episode, Cate & Ty share some updates on Baxter, their rescue chihuahua, who they think has some PTSD from previous owners. They also talk about their early days living together and the struggles they had with a landlord. Also, the return of the card game We're Not Really Strangers! What assumptions did they make of each other? Cate has empath problems? Ty has distorted perception? W​hat else will the cards ask?Thank you to our sponsors!Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/BreakItDown today to get 10% off your first monthSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cate & Ty as they tackle some fan questions regarding navigating sensory issues with kids, porn in relationships and their journey as young parents. They also dive into a serious discussion about the state of America, touching on the events of Charlie Kirk's assassination and the ongoing gun violence plaguing the nation.Thank you to our sponsors!Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/BreakItDown today to get 10% off your first monthQuince: Go to Quince.com/breakitdown for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Cate & Ty unpack the emotional milestone of their last child being in school full-time. This leads into a passionate discussion about public school versus homeschooling, their personal reasons for their decision, and the societal biases that often come with these decisions. Cate & Ty also address the shocking comments Ty received after sharing his autism diagnosis. They discuss the dangers of ableism, the judgment surrounding mental health, and the importance of empathy in the face of hate. Lastly, on a lighter note, the house welcomes a new furry member into the family!Thank you to our sponsors!Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/BreakItDown today to get 10% off your first monthQuince: Go to Quince.com/breakitdown for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A meetup of reality TV! Lindsie Chrisley drops by the show to catch up with Cate & Ty. Lindsie talks about how the Chrisley family life was before the cameras started rolling, the struggles of blending families and the effect it had on her during her marriage. Also, Lindsie opens up about her depression and how she was able to accept and get help during a time where she knew she couldn't do it by herself. (Originally aired 3/5/2025)Thank you to our sponsors!Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/BreakItDown today to get 10% off your first monthMagic Spoon: Get $5 off your next order at MagicSpoon.com/BREAKITDOWN or look for Magic Spoon on Amazon or in your nearest grocery store.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Happy 10th Wedding Anniversary to Cate & Ty! On today's episode they dive into their relationship's evolution, including past separations and therapy missteps. But the main event? Ty's recent autism diagnosis! From getting kicked out of daycares, being hyper-focused on social cues, and having a compulsion to do somersaults, Ty describes the frustration he felt throughout his childhood and not knowing why he did what he did. Inspired by their daughter Vaeda, Ty shares the relief and sadness, but also clarity and understanding of his past which now he says he will use to parent differently.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Cate & Ty get vulnerable about their unexpected pet loss after their 16-year-old dog's passing, sharing the emotional toll and their belief in animal reincarnation. They also talk about the chaotic juggling with middle school orientation and birthday party planning. It gets wild when they read some listener secrets, exposing the most bizarre fetishes to infidelity and family cover-ups.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Join Cate & Ty as they sit down with Dr. Abby, a transracial adoptee, birth mother, and adoption-informed therapist. Dr. Abby breaks down the true meaning of informed consent in adoption, revealing the systemic issues and personal traumas often hidden beneath the surface. She also shares her personal journey, from her coerced relinquishment as a teenage birth mother to her own experience as an adoptee navigating identity and reunion.For more information visit https://adoptingprivilege.com/Thank you to our sponsors!Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/BreakItDown today to get 10% off your first monthMe Undies: Visit MeUndies.com/Breakitdown and use code BREAKITDOWN to get up to 50% off summer deals!Quince: Go to Quince.com/breakitdown for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Prepare to have your mind blown as Cate & Ty sit down with Diana(@blackmarketbaby), an adoptee whose story only gets wilder and wilder. From uncovering the truth about her birth mother's "tiger king" lifestyle and essentially selling her children in the 80s, to navigating complex family dynamics and searching for her biological father, Diana shares her journey of identity and finding her truth in a world that often paints a pretty picture of adoption.Thank you to our sponsors!Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/BreakItDown today to get 10% off your first monthEveryPlate: Go to everyplate.com/podcast and use code BREAKITDOWN199 to get started. Applied as discount on first box, limited time only.Magic Spoon: Get $5 off your next order at MagicSpoon.com/BREAKITDOWN or look for Magic Spoon on Amazon or in your nearest grocery store.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Camping, kids, and the Trad Wife! Cate & Ty share candid stories from their recent spontaneous camping trip – their first alone in years! From "mom guilt" moments and terrifying tales of lost children, Cate & Ty also discuss adulting woes, Mountain Dew-fueled childhood memories, and Ty discovers the Trad Wife debate and a video that had him going down a rabbit hole.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The internet can be a dark place and, as veteran social media users, Cate & Ty share their thoughts on the rampant spread of bullying, the issue with "snark pages", and the tragic stories of lives lost. We offer a heartfelt call to action for spreading kindness, fostering empathy, and supporting those who are struggling. 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this week's solo episode, Cate & Ty share their recent travel chaos, including a bank card hacking disaster in New York City. They also get real about the challenges of parenting and play "Couples" card game, revealing their communication styles, insecurities, and the surprising similarities that make their relationship work. And what's Tyler's hilarious, unwavering stance on feet fetishes? Let's find out!Thank you to our sponsors!Magic Spoon: Get $5 off your next order at MagicSpoon.com/BREAKITDOWN or look for Magic Spoon on Amazon or in your nearest grocery store.Me Undies: Visit MeUndies.com/Breakitdown and use code BREAKITDOWN to get up to 50% off summer deals!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cate & Ty sit down with psychotherapist and adoptee Amy Silvia (@psychotherapist.amy_) , who shares her personal journey through the Baby Scoop Era and the complex process of reconnecting with her birth family. Drawing on decades of clinical experience working with thousands of adoptees and birth parents, Amy unpacks the profound impact of genetic mirroring, attachment trauma, and the crucial need for "adoptee-focused" therapy. Amy sheds light on the crucial difference between "adoption competence" and truly "adoptee-focused" care, highlighting the mental health struggles faced by adoptees and birth parents, including the shockingly high rates of suicidal ideation. Discover how normalizing difficult adoption conversations can lead to profound healing for the entire adoption triad.Thank you to our sponsors!Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/BreakItDown today to get 10% off your first monthEveryPlate: Go to everyplate.com/podcast and use code BREAKITDOWN199 to get started. Applied as discount on first box, limited time only.ZocDoc: Go to Zocdoc.com/CateAndTy to find and instantly book an appointment todayQuince: Go to Quince.com/breakitdown for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Cate & Ty tackle your most intimate questions! They discuss keeping the spark alive in long-term relationships, navigating intimacy with kids, and decoding the red flags of infidelity and manipulation. Plus, they share candid thoughts on modern reality TV and the importance of open conversations with your children about sex.Thank you to our sponsors!Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/BreakItDown today to get 10% off your first monthZocDoc: Go to Zocdoc.com/CateAndTy to find and instantly book an appointment todaySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cate & Ty sit down with David Shane (@davidbshane), an adoptee who shares stories of love, mindfulness, and human connections on social media, but one day decided to share his journey of being contacted by his biological mother. David opens up about his upbringing, filled with open communication from his adoptive parents, which instilled in him a strong sense of self from a young age. He shares how the reunion with his biological younger sister, and eventually biological parents, came with emotional challenges and expectations, and the aftermath. Cate and Ty discuss with David about the fragility of life, the importance of overcoming fear in pursuing connections before it's too late, and the idea that not all reunions are positive but deserve to be explored with a strong support system. Drawing from his experiences, David offers advice for both adoptive and biological parents, emphasizing the critical role of unconditional support, open communication, and respecting the adoptee's pace during the reunion process.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cate & Ty are back for another solo ep! This week, they're sharing life updates, including the kids being out of school for the summer and thoughts on Raya starting full-time preschool next school year. They delve into the challenges and joys of parenting, from dealing with early risers and emotional goodbyes to school to looking forward to being involved grandparents. Plus, we dip into the jar of "Secrets Anonymous," where we get the craziest of listener confessions that include accidental nude pics, an affair, a closeted parent, and sexual kinks.Thank you to our sponsors!Better Help: This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Visit BetterHelp.com/BreakItDown today to get 10% off your first monthSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.