Act Of Love Adoptions

What do you do when you're told your child won't succeed? How do you navigate special education, foster care, disabilities, mental health challenges, school advocacy, and educational advocacy? In this powerful episode of the A Act of Love Adoptions Podcast, we sit down with Paula Yost—attorney, advocate, foster care supporter, adoptive mother, and author—to discuss how parents can become strong advocates for the children they love. Paula shares her personal experiences raising children with unique challenges, working within the foster care system, and helping families navigate IEPs, 504 plans, special education services, disability resources, educational advocacy, and mental health supp...

In this powerful episode of the A Act of Love Adoptions Podcast, we sit down with Lenaya to share her personal adoption story. This heartfelt conversation highlights the real emotions, strength, and love that come with the adoption journey.

As we recognize Birth Mother’s Day, we honor the incredible courage, sacrifice, and love of birth mothers everywhere. Lenaya’s story is a beautiful reminder of the strength it takes to choose adoption and the lifelong impact that decision has on everyone involved.

Birth Mother's Day Eventwww.lifeafterplacement.org/lapevents

Whether you are a birt...

Open adoption can be beautiful—but it can also be challenging if expectations aren’t clear.

In this episode of the A Act of Love Adoptions Podcast, we talk about the #1 reason open adoptions struggle: communication. Whether you are a birth parent, adoptive family, or exploring adoption, this episode gives real, practical guidance to help you build healthy relationships.With over 30 years of experience, we share what we see most often—where communication breaks down, what both sides are feeling, and how to set clear expectations that support everyone involved.💛 In this episode:
What open adoption really meansThe...

In this episode of the A Act of Love Adoptions Podcast, we sit down with Kellen Hansen, known on TikTok as “That One Adopted Guy.” Kellen shares his powerful and personal adoptee story, including meeting his birth father, discovering more about his birth family, and the meaningful decision to name his daughter after his birth mother. This heartfelt conversation explores the real experiences of adoptees, identity, reunion, family relationships, and the emotional journey many adopted individuals face while learning about their origins. Whether you are an adoptee, birth parent, adoptive parent, or someone exploring adoption, Kellen’s story offers insight, hope...

In this powerful episode of the Act of Love Adoption Podcast, a birth mom, adoptee, and adoptive mom come together to share their real adoption stories honest, emotional, and full of love.

You’ll hear what adoption feels like from every side of the triad. The courage of a birth mother’s choice, the perspective of an adoptee growing up, and the heart of an adoptive mom learning through love and openness. You will hear a Birth mom that shares her adoption journey and decision, an Adoptee opens up about identity and connection and an Adoptive mom that refl...

In this inspiring episode, Kayla Moffitt mom to 5 siblings adopted from foster care, National Communications Coordinator for Foster the Family, and certified TBRI® Practitioner. She shares her journey of parenting children from hard places with compassion, humor, and hope.Kayla opens up about the realities of foster care adoption, the importance of trauma-informed parenting, and how to build lasting connections with children who have experienced loss and trauma. She also offers practical tips for parents navigating transracial adoption, keeping siblings together, and finding patience in the chaos of everyday life.Topics we cover:
Parenting siblings adopted fro...

In this podcast meet Ayden Lincoln, an adoption advocate, adoptee,  writer, and survivor with a powerful story of hope and healing.

Born in China and abandoned shortly after birth with the umbilical cord still attached, Ayden was found in a box at a train station and spent nearly the first year of life in an orphanage. Adopted into a loving family in Pennsylvania, Ayden’s life changed — but so did the challenges. From overcoming childhood trauma, ADHD, and anxiety, to becoming a voice for adoptees and mental health, Ayden has turned pain into purpose.

In this episo...

In this powerful episode of the Act of Love Adoption Podcast, we sit down with Avonley Lightstone, an adoptee and author of Strength of Scars, a raw and moving memoir about survival, resilience, faith, and healing.

At just three years old, Avonley’s life was forever changed by a tragic fire that separated her from her family. What followed were years marked by abuse, abandonment, and deep heartbreak within the child welfare and adoption system. Yet even in the darkest moments, Avonley clung to God’s promises—allowing faith to transform her pain into purpose. This conversation goes beyond...

In this heartfelt episode of our adoption podcast, we sit down with Lauren, an adoptive mom who shares her incredible journey of adopting surprise twin boys and, later, their unexpected biological sibling.

Lauren opens up about the emotional moments of saying “yes” to twins she hadn’t planned for and the unexpected call that changed everything, a third baby, biologically related, needed a home too.

Lauren also shares how they navigated the financial side of private adoption, including faith-filled fundraising and community support. Her story is one of love, resilience, and trusting the process.

Whethe...

In this episode of the A Act of Love Adoption Podcast, we sit down with Brooklyn, an adoptee who courageously opens up about her adoption journey, identity, family relationships, and the emotional realities of growing up adopted. Brooklyn shares her honest experiences. What helped her, what she wishes others understood, and how adoption shaped the person she is today. This conversation offers deep insight for adoptive parents, birth parents, and adoptees wanting to feel seen, heard, and understood. If you love real adoptee voices, authentic adoption conversations, and meaningful insight into the adoptee experience, you won’t want to miss th...

In this episode, Heidi talks with Carl Young & Joel Sheagren, authors of Embracing Hope, a groundbreaking guide for parents raising teens with ASD, ADHD, FASD, and trauma-related challenges. They break down the science of neurodiversity into simple, practical tools using the 10 brain domains model, real-life scenarios, and over 72 actionable strategies, including the BUILD Method. Whether you're parenting a neurodiverse teen, supporting adoptive or foster youth, or navigating trauma-informed care, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and real hope. Link to Embracing Hope https://embracinghopebook.com/

00:00 – Introduction
00:48 – Meet Carl & Joel
03:20 – What inspired “Embracing Hope”
06:15 – Understanding neurodiversity
10:40 – ASD, ADHD, FASD...

In this fun and uplifting episode, we chat with Melissa, an adoptive mom who turned her love for family time and the outdoors into something amazing. After going through her own adoption journeys, she started Give Hope RV, a nonprofit that helps adoptive families go camping, enjoy the fresh air, and make great memories together.

Melissa shares how her adoption experiences inspired her to create a space where families can relax, connect, and enjoy simple moments like roasting marshmallows and hanging out under the stars. Whether you're an adoptive parent, thinking about adoption, or just love hearing about...

In this heartfelt episode of our adoption podcast, we sit down with Chantel, a compassionate and resilient adoptive mom, as she opens up about her personal adoption journey. From navigating the decision to adopt to building a lifelong bond with her child, Chantel shares the emotional highs, challenges, and beautiful moments that come with adoptive parenting. Whether you’re a hopeful adoptive parent, currently in the adoption process, or simply looking to hear real stories from the heart, Chantel’s experience will leave you inspired and informed. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more powerful adoption stories!
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In this powerful episode of A Act of Love Adoption Podcast, we sit down with a brave birth mom named Karma as she shares her emotional journey of placing her baby for adoption. She opens up about the challenges, love, and strength it took to make this decision and how adoption has shaped her life today. You can follow the link to Karmas Linktree https://linktr.ee/karmasbitchh

Topics Covered:
Why she chose adoption for her baby
The emotions of placing a child for adoption
Her relationship with the adoptive family
Advice...

In this heartfelt episode of A Act of Love Adoption Podcast, we sit down with Jaeger an adoptee as he shares his personal adoption journey. From growing up as an adoptee to navigating identity, family relationships, and self-discovery, he opens up about the challenges, emotions, and triumphs that have shaped his life. 

Topics Covered:
 Growing up as an adoptee: identity & belonging
 Navigating relationships with birth & adoptive families
 Overcoming challenges & embracing her adoption story
 Advice for fellow adoptees & those touched by adoption


This inspiring and emotional adoption story is a must-liste...

Placing a child for adoption is one of the hardest and most selfless decisions a birth mother can make. In this emotional episode, Gerrianne, a brave birth mother shares her story—why she chose adoption, the challenges she faced, and the love that guided her decision. She opens up about her journey, the support she received, and her hopes for her child’s future. Whether you’re considering adoption, part of the adoption triad, or simply want to hear a powerful firsthand experience, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe...

In this heartwarming episode of our adoption podcast, we sit down with an adoptive mom who shares her powerful and positive adoption story. She opens up about the emotional growth, surprises, and joys that came with her adoption journey, offering support and insight for both hopeful adoptive parents and those already navigating adoptive parenting. Her story is a beautiful reminder that love makes a family, and that even the unexpected moments can lead to lasting connection and transformation. Whether you're considering open adoption, currently in the process, or just curious about what it’s like to be an adoptive mom, this episode...

In this episode, we sit down with Mike Gaines, author of Michael Gets Adopted  heartfelt story inspired by his own adoption journey. Adopted at two and a half years old, Mike shares how he reimagined his story through an older child's perspective—shining a light on the challenges older children face in finding a forever home. Dedicated to his late mother, this beautifully illustrated book is a tribute to love, family, and the power of adoption. Join us as we discuss his journey, the inspiration behind his book, and his hope to bring awareness to older child a...

In this episode of A Act of Love: Adoption Stories, we welcome Kendahl, an adoptive mom and thriving business owner, to share her powerful story. Kendahl dives into her adoption journey, the transformative experience of becoming a mom through adoption, and how she manages the delicate balance of motherhood and entrepreneurship.

She offers heartfelt advice for families considering adoption, insights on overcoming challenges, and her perspective on how adoption has shaped her personal and professional life. Join us for this inspiring conversation full of love, resilience, and the beauty of adoption. Perfect for anyone interested in adoption, parenting...

In this episode, we sit down with Kayle Barney, an inspiring adoptive mom, to discuss her incredible journey through adoption. Kayle shares her experiences, the challenges and joys of being an adoptive parent, and her heartfelt advice for anyone considering adoption.

Topics Covered in This Episode: The emotional process of adoption Building a bond with adopted children Overcoming adoption challenges Advice for prospective adoptive parents This episode is a must-listen for anyone touched by adoption or looking to learn more about building a family through love and courage.  

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In this episode of A Act of Love Podcast, we sit down with Phillip Enkey, Adoptee, and talented singer/songwriter who shares his personal adoption journey and how it has shaped his music and life. From the challenges of identity and belonging to the powerful stories that inspired his artistry, Phillip opens up about his experiences as an adoptee and how he channels them into creative expression. Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation that celebrates the beauty and complexity of adoption through the lens of a gifted artist.

Phillip Enkey https://www.youtube.com/results?search...

In this episode, we meet Danielle, a courageous birth mother who made the heart-wrenching decision to place two of her children for adoption. Danielle shares the emotional rollercoaster she experienced, from discovering she was pregnant to finding the perfect families for her children. Her journey is one of love, strength, and selflessness, as she made these decisions with her children’s futures in mind. Through her story, Danielle shines a light on the difficult, yet loving, choice birth mothers often face when placing their children in adoption. Danielle’s story is one of resilience and hope, showing how her decision was...

In this episode, we sit down with Quincy, a birth father who shares his deeply personal journey through the adoption process. Quincy opens up about the emotional complexities he faced when he made the decision to place his child for adoption, a choice that was born out of love and a desire to provide a better future for his son. Through his candid reflections, Quincy explores the often overlooked role of birth fathers in adoption stories, offering listeners a unique and heartfelt perspective on what it means to be a part of this life-changing decision.As Quincy talks through his...

In this podcast episode, Nate and Afton share their heartfelt journey as an adoptive family, offering a personal and candid glimpse into the highs and lows of the adoption process. They discuss their experiences, from the decision to adopt to navigating the complex legal and emotional landscape that followed. Nate and Afton open up about the challenges, joys, and lessons learned along the way, including how adoption has shaped their family and deepened their understanding of love. This episode provides inspiration and insight for families considering adoption or those seeking to understand the adoptive experience from a real-life perspective.
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In this touching episode of Act of Love, we explore the deeply personal and transformative journey of adoption through the eyes of three remarkable women. Sissy is a courageous birth mom who made the life-changing decision to place her child for adoption. Allison is the loving adoptive mom who embraced that child with open arms and an open heart. And Erica is the adoptee who grew up surrounded by love and is now reflecting on her unique story.Join us as these women share their experiences, emotions, and the bonds that tie them together. Through their voices, you'll gain insight into th...

In this touching episode of Act of Love, we explore the deeply personal and transformative journey of adoption through the eyes of three remarkable women. Sissy is a courageous birth mom who made the life-changing decision to place her child for adoption. Allison is the loving adoptive mom who embraced that child with open arms and an open heart. And Erica is the adoptee who grew up surrounded by love and is now reflecting on her unique story. Join us as these women share their experiences, emotions, and the bonds that tie them together. Through their voices, you'll gain insight in...

Welcome to today's special episode, where we are honored to have two incredible guests who share a unique and deeply personal bond through the journey of open adoption. First, we have Cherie Burton, a dedicated birthmom and passionate podcast host. Cherie placed her daughter in an open adoption, and through her experiences, she has become a powerful advocate for the emotional complexities and profound connections that open adoption can bring. Joining Cherie is Wendy Toomer, the remarkable adoptee she placed. Wendy's perspective adds a rich, heartfelt dimension to their shared narrative. Together, Sheree and Wendy provide an authentic and deeply m...

On this episode we are bringing focus to Parkinson’s Disease and want to welcome you to a heartfelt podcast chronicling the inspiring journey of George Ackerman, PHD, JD, MBA. George is not just an accomplished academic and professional, but also a dedicated son who turned his personal tragedy into a powerful advocacy mission. Join us as George offers hope, guidance, and a sense of community to those touched by . George's story is rooted in his deep love and dedication to his mother, Sharon, who bravely battled Parkinson’s disease until her passing. As her primary caregiver, George faced the immens...

Michelle's journey in the world of adoption began at the tender age of 11 when she herself was adopted. This profound experience shaped her understanding of family, love, and resilience. Now, as an adoptive and foster mother, Michelle brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to the challenges and triumphs of creating a loving home for children in need. Her story is one of courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication to providing a safe and nurturing environment for children. Join us on this episode as we delve into Michelle's inspiring journey, exploring the highs and lows of adoption and fostering, and her...

In the realm of adoption, Laraine stands as a pillar of support and compassion, her dedication spanning over two decades as a seasoned social worker specializing in assisting birthmothers, Laraine embodies wisdom, empathy, and resilience. With her wealth of experience, she navigates the delicate terrain of adoption with a nuanced understanding of its emotional complexities, providing unwavering guidance and support to birthmothers every step of the way. Through her steadfast advocacy and deep-rooted commitment, Laraine has touched countless lives, ensuring that birthmothers feel empowered, valued, and respected in their decisions. Her journey is a testament to the transformative power of emp...

On this week's inspiring podcast episode you will meet Paula. Paula is on a mission to extend her knowledge and expertise to individuals involved in the adoption triangle—birth parents, adoptive parents, and adopted children alike.

We were delighted to have Paula as our guest on this week's podcast, where she opens her heart and shares her incredible journey. Join us as we explore her inspiring story, her insights into open adoption, and her mission to empower others in the adoption community. This episode is a testament to the strength of family, the beauty of adoption, and the po...

Welcome to this episode of Act of Love Adoptions Podcast. Today, we're privileged to share an intimate conversation with Whitney, a birth mom with an extraordinary story of resilience, transformation, and strength that led her to triumph against all odds. Through raw and heartfelt storytelling, she shares her experiences of navigating the complexities of adoption and the profound decision to place her child for adoption. With unwavering courage, she overcame challenges, embraced growth, and ultimately found success on her own terms. Join us as we delve into her empowering narrative of love, sacrifice, and the extraordinary strength of the human...

On today's episode we are joined by Samantha Weilandt, a birth mother from the south with a beautful religious background. Join us as Samantha shares her stories and what led to her becoming a birth mother.

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