Episode 29 - Season 4: Openness in Adoption - Before & Beyond Placement
Adoption Diaries with Annie & Caitlin
Release Date: 11/17/2025
Adoption Diaries with Annie & Caitlin
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...
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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...
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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...
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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,...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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.
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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...
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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...
info_outlineOpenness 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.
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