Our Adoption Story: Foster Care, Private Open Adoption, and Blending a Family
18 Summers: Podcast for Parents
Release Date: 03/30/2026
Our Adoption Story: Foster Care, Private Open Adoption, and Blending a Family
18 Summers: Podcast for Parents
There is not just one path to growing a family. In this episode of 18 Summers, we sit down to share our honest, firsthand experiences with the different types of adoption. From navigating the uncertain and beautiful mess of foster care to pursuing a private open adoption and completing a step-parent adoption, we are laying it all out there. We discuss how we built a standout adoption profile, the reality of unwrapping the "unknown present" of unexpected medical needs, and the importance of setting healthy boundaries. We also tackle a deeply frustrating comment that blended and adoptive...
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The Parenting Beliefs We Need to Question
18 Summers: Podcast for Parents
Is the goal of parenting to keep our children happy? While it sounds like a noble objective, prioritizing constant happiness might actually be doing more harm than good. In this episode, we dive into the "happiness trap" and explore why a range of emotions, including disappointment and sadness is essential for a child’s development. We break down the danger of over-scheduling, the necessity of failure, and why treating your children "equally" might actually be unfair. We discuss: The Happiness Myth: Why setting a benchmark for constant happiness puts immense pressure on children and makes...
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18 Summers: Podcast for Parents
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18 Summers: Podcast for Parents
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18 Summers: Podcast for Parents
Family trips are supposed to be magical. So why do they sometimes feel messy, chaotic, and completely exhausting? In this episode, Jamie and Jim unpack the real reasons parents avoid traveling with their kids. From schedule disruptions and budget fears to airport meltdowns and unexpected emergencies, they share honest stories from years of traveling as a growing family of seven. The truth? Travel is rarely perfect. But it builds something far more valuable than comfort. It builds culture, resilience, perspective, and shared stories that shape your family for life. If you’ve ever wondered...
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What Every Parent Should Know Before Adopting
18 Summers: Podcast for Parents
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What School Will Never Teach Your Child
18 Summers: Podcast for Parents
Is school actually preparing your kids for real life… or just teaching them how to pass tests? In this episode, Jamie and Jim Sheils unpack the uncomfortable truth about modern education and why some of the most important life skills are never taught in a classroom. From emotional intelligence to financial literacy, they share the three core areas every child needs to thrive personally and professionally and how you can start teaching them at home right now. Key takeaways to listen for The three life skills schools ignore that shape long-term success Why discipline is overrated and devotion...
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18 Summers: Podcast for Parents
Want a family that thrives, not just survives? Lee Benson breaks down his game-changing formula to turn everyday moments into lasting bonds. Tune in to learn how intentional dinners, distraction-free hangouts, and simple rituals can transform your household into a powerhouse of love, growth, and community. Key takeaways to listen for Practical strategies for setting family goals and assigning meaningful roles The surprising influence of music and emotional energy on family and business success Growing impactful communities: from personal passion to global influence How to eliminate...
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Work-Life Harmony for Professional Parents with Scott Danner, AAMS®
18 Summers: Podcast for Parents
Balancing boardrooms and ball fields is no small feat. Scott Danner, AAMS®, demonstrates how he balances a high-octane career with parenting two teenage soccer players, navigating double-booked calendars, empty-nest moments, and home-based hacks. Learn about his four-pillar L.I.F.E. Model to stay aligned amid chaos and build a lasting legacy by tuning in! Key takeaways to listen for What unexpected parenting surprises teach about resilience A simple ritual that builds stronger family ties 4 healthy-risk opportunities that fuel teen development Reasons why a dedicated “home base”...
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18 Summers: Podcast for Parents
What if your kid’s lemonade stand became a legit business? In this episode, we crack the “Education Matrix” code, turning allowances into assets, guiding kids to buy real estate, launch ventures, and master money without brewing entitlement. Get ready-to-use tools and stories to make you their first business coach. Key takeaways to listen for Why everyday financial topics in conversations are vital for kids How a simple visual can change kids' learning curve around money Mastering one specialized skill vs. being well-rounded The best financial lessons you can give your kids A way...
info_outlineThere is not just one path to growing a family. In this episode of 18 Summers, we sit down to share our honest, firsthand experiences with the different types of adoption.
From navigating the uncertain and beautiful mess of foster care to pursuing a private open adoption and completing a step-parent adoption, we are laying it all out there. We discuss how we built a standout adoption profile, the reality of unwrapping the "unknown present" of unexpected medical needs, and the importance of setting healthy boundaries.
We also tackle a deeply frustrating comment that blended and adoptive families hear far too often: "Just wait until you have your own kids."
Whether you are actively considering adoption, curious about the process, or navigating a blended family of your own, we hope our story offers clarity and encouragement for your journey.
Episode Highlights:
0:00 The Different Paths to Growing a Family
0:32 Our Honest Experience with Foster to Adopt
2:45 The Hard Decision to Stop Fostering
5:16 Pivoting to Private Adoption
7:23 How We Built a Profile That Stood Out
9:30 Proactive Steps to Speed Up the Waiting Process
11:20 Unwrapping an "Unknown Present" (Navigating Medical Needs)
14:05 Open vs. Closed Adoption Explained
16:53 Setting Healthy Boundaries in Open Adoption
18:53 Why Adoption is Not a Charity Project
21:23 Step-Parent Adoption and Blending Families
23:45 Dealing with the "Have Your Own Kids" Comment
26:10 Final Words of Wisdom for Prospective Parents
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