In Episode 32 of Finding Family DNA, Jay and Misty sit down with Chakari Smith, an adoptee who grew up in Philadelphia and entered foster care at age 7 before being adopted at 11. Despite reconnecting with her birth mother later in life, Chakari never knew her father—until a combination of DNA testing, genealogy, and birth index research led Misty to uncover his identity. Chakari shares the emotional journey of discovering a half-brother, forming a relationship with her incarcerated father, and reflecting on the strength it took to break cycles of addiction. It’s a powerful story of resilience, reconnection, and redefining what family means.

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00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:21 Special Announcement: Patreon and YouTube Milestone

02:01 Guest Introduction: Chakari's Story

03:07 Chakari's Childhood and Adoption Journey

05:00 Reconnecting with Birth Family

11:46 Finding Chakari's Birth Father

13:29 PSA and Sponsor Message

15:07 The Search Process Explained

19:49 Connecting with Birth Father and Half-Brother

23:14 Building a Relationship with Birth Father

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