In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Heather and Kim explore the deeply human mix of hope and fear that women experience when they begin considering adoption for their child. This honest, compassionate conversation offers insight for both hopeful adoptive parents and women who may be navigating this decision themselves. Together, Heather and Kim walk through the most common fears— “Am I a bad mother?”“What if my child doesn’t understand?”“What if the adoptive parents forget about me?” —and contrast them with the hopes that often rise right beside those fears, including the desire for stability, love, openness, and a meaningful future for the child. Listeners will learn why these emotions are normal, why they coexist, and why understanding them matters. Adoptive parents will gain perspective that strengthens empathy and openness. Women considering adoption will hear reassurance that nothing they’re feeling is unusual or wrong. It’s a thoughtful, grounding episode that brings clarity to one of the most misunderstood parts of the adoption process: the heart of a woman who is choosing with love, courage, and complexity.

Today we focus on waiting adoptive families during the holidays. This episode explores what hope realistically looks like during the waiting season—especially during the holidays. Heather and Kim offer grounding guidance, emotional support, and professional tools to help families stay steady, protect their emotional space, and remain connected to the adoption process. The conversation covers reframing hope, honoring personal growth during the wait, practical ways to stay engaged, professional holiday navigation tips, and real stories of hope rising at unexpected moments. The episode wraps with encouraging words for waiting families and reassurance that their journey is still unfolding beautifully.

In this heartfelt Christmas episode, Kim sits down with adoptive mom and popular creator MaryAnne Budden of OpenlyParenting.com to talk honestly about the holiday season at every stage of the adoption journey.From the ache of Christmas during infertility… to the emotional tension of waiting to be chosen… to the joy—and new complexities—of celebrating Christmas after adoption, MaryAnne shares wisdom, warmth, and real-life stories.She also opens up about setting healthy boundaries around gift-giving in open adoption and how her family approaches Christmas with love and intention.If you’re an adoptive parent, waiting family, or anyone touched by adoption, this episode will remind you that hope is alive, God is faithful, and you’re not walking this season alone.Tune in for encouragement, practical insights, and a fresh Christmas perspective, no matter where you are in the journey.

In this first episode of our December “Hope in Adoption” series, Heather and Kim explore how hope shows up in adoption from every perspective—often quietly, sometimes unexpectedly, but always powerfully.They look beyond the usual ideas of hope and talk honestly about how it appears for:* Women considering adoption: the hope for stability, safety, and being understood* Waiting adoptive families: the hope that grows through persistence, preparation, and small moments of encouragement* Birth fathers: the often unseen hopes they carry for their child and their role* Everyone after placement: the hope found in connection, openness, and relationships that grow over timeHeather and Kim also share where they see hope every day in their work—from hotline calls to updates between families to the way people show up for one another during big decisions.This episode sets the tone for the whole month:Hope is real, present, and uniquely expressed throughout the adoption journey.It doesn’t look the same for everyone, and it doesn’t require everything to be perfect. Hope is steady. Hope is human. And hope is woven into every adoption story.Join us as we begin this thoughtful, encouraging series.

In this powerful episode, Kim and Heather unpack the surprising truths about birth fathers in adoption. From learning they can sometimes sign consent before birth, to discovering they can be involved in every part of the adoption plan — even have their own open adoption connection — this conversation challenges old assumptions.You’ll also hear about the “Wait what?! Adoption isn’t giving up” moment, and how birth fathers can process emotions like guilt, anger, and shame in healthy, healing ways.Whether you’re a birth father, adoptive parent, or simply curious about how adoption works, this episode will change the way you see a father’s role in the adoption story.

Are you thinking about searching for your birth mom but don’t know where to begin? In this episode, Kim and Heather walk you through how to start the search, who to contact depending on the type of adoption (private, state, or international), and how to approach the conversation with your adoptive parents.They also cover:* How to access adoption or court records* What to know about age requirements and sealed files* Whether DNA tests like 23andMe or Ancestry can really help* When to consider hiring an investigator* Free and paid search tools like AdoptionDatabase.org and ISRR* Emotional readiness and how to find support during your searchAlong the way, Kim and Heather share “Wait, what?” moments about how DNA has changed reunion possibilities and how adoptees can take charge of their search no matter where their adoption began.Whether you’re just curious or ready to take the first step, this episode offers practical tips, emotional guidance, and trustworthy resources to help you reconnect with your story.Resources Mentioned:* AdoptionDatabase.org – Free registry for adoptees and birth parents* International Soundex Reunion Registry (ISRR) – Free mutual consent reunion registry* U.S. Department of State – Intercountry Adoption Search Assistance* State Adoption Records Offices – Find your state’s contact page* DNA Testing Resources:Ancestry.com/dna (https://www.ancestry.com/dna/)* 23andme.com (https://www.23andme.com/)* MyHeritage.com/dna (https://www.myheritage.com/dna)

What do faith, family, and the law all have in common? Today on Let’s Talk Adoption, host Kim King sits down with Alice H. Murray — award-winning writer, longtime adoption attorney, and author of God Adopted Us First: Faith Lessons From an Adoption Attorney’s Adventures.With over three decades of experience guiding adoptive families, Alice shares the joys and challenges of her work, how faith shaped her practice, and the surprising ways humor and miracles showed up in the middle of serious legal moments.In this heartfelt and hopeful conversation, Kim and Alice discuss:* What an adoption attorney really does behind the scenes* How God led Alice into this unique calling* Common misconceptions about adoption and adoption law* The connection between spiritual and earthly adoption* Why humor and faith are powerful tools in the adoption journeyWhether you’re an adoptive parent, birth mom, adoptee, or simply love hearing how God works through ordinary people, this episode will encourage you to see adoption — and your own story — through a lens of grace and purpose.

In this episode of the “Wait, What? Unexpected Things in Adoption” series, Heather and Kim share heartfelt insights from the voices often least heard in adoption — birth mothers.Discover the surprising “wait, what?!” moments they experience: the mix of deep love and grief, the comfort that open adoption can bring, the empowerment of planning an adoption their way, and the realization that the perfect family for their child truly exists.You’ll also hear how birth fathers can have a role in the process and how courage, faith, and love guide birth mothers as they make selfless, hope-filled decisions.Whether you’re an adoptive parent, birth parent, or simply someone who cares about adoption, this episode offers compassion, understanding, and a reminder that adoption isn’t about giving up — it’s about giving love and opportunity.

In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption with Heather & Kim, we explore those “wait—what?!” moments every adoptee experiences. From realizing many birth moms chose adoption out of love, to understanding that identity grows over time, and that reunion isn’t always the ending imagined — we unpack the layers of adoption and what adoptees wish people knew.Join us for encouragement, reflection, and a reminder: your story is complex, meaningful, and still unfolding.

Adoption can be one of the most meaningful journeys a family ever takes — but it’s also one of the most confusing. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Kim and Heather unpack the biggest “Wait, what?” moments that hopeful adoptive parents experience as they begin their journey. From confusing state laws to open adoption myths, financial questions, and the emotional side no one talks about — they’re breaking it all down with honesty and compassion. You’ll also learn why words matter in adoption, and how understanding the lifelong nature of adoption helps you become a more thoughtful parent. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the fine print, mixed messages, or emotions of adoption, this episode will help you find clarity and confidence as you move forward.This episode is focused on adoptive parents, but stay tuned for future episodes made especially for birth parents and adoptees. 

Infertility, loss, and the waiting that comes before adoption can strain even the strongest marriages. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Kim and Heather share practical tips and biblical guidance to help couples stay connected, communicate openly, and keep their marriage strong while navigating the journey to parenthood.From date-night conversation prompts to faith-filled encouragement and actionable ways to process grief together, this episode offers hope and support for couples facing obstacles on the road to adoption.Whether you’re just starting your journey or already in the process, you’ll walk away inspired to strengthen your marriage, trust God’s timing, and move forward together as a united team.Scripture shared in this episode: Mourn with those who mourn. Romans 12:15Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2-3A gentle answer turns away wrath. Proverbs 15:1A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

Communication is the heartbeat of every adoption journey. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, hosts Kim and Heather dive into the importance of clear, honest conversations on every level—between spouses, with friends and family, with adoption professionals, with your child’s birth mother, and with your child as they grow.You'll hear practical tips for navigating sensitive conversations, setting healthy boundaries, and building trust at every stage of the processWhether you’re just beginning your adoption journey or are already matched, this episode will help you strengthen your relationships and create a strong foundation for the road ahead.

In this important episode of Let's Talk Adoption, hosts Heather Featherston and Kim King address a difficult topic: emotional scams targeting hopeful adoptive families. Although adoption scams are rare, understanding how they work is crucial for protecting yourself on your adoption journey.   The hosts discuss a recent high-profile federal case that highlights the devastating impact of emotional scams. Unlike financial scams focused on money, emotional scams revolve around manipulation for attention, power, or control. These aren't situations where an expectant mother legitimately changes her mind—they involve people who never intended to place a child at all.   Heather and Kim outline key red flags families should watch for, including urgency and control, story inconsistencies, constant crises, isolation tactics, and over-the-top manipulation.   They conclude with an important message: don't let fear of scams keep you from pursuing adoption. Experienced adoption professionals regularly field potential scams, so families don't have to. Far more real, life-changing stories of hope and connection exist than stories of scammers.   When you work with a trusted agency, you have experienced advocates protecting your family and helping you navigate the adoption journey safely. For more details and practical advice, listen to the full episode. If you suspect you've encountered a scam, reach out to your adoption professional immediately.

At a recent conference, someone asked: "Are there actual studies that prove open adoption is good for children?"   In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Heather and Kim dive into the research and share findings from decades of studies on open adoption.   We’ll explore what the evidence shows about benefits for adoptees, adoptive parents, and birth parents — and also talk honestly about the challenges and situations where openness may not be possible or wise.   If you’ve ever wondered whether open adoption is just a trend or a well-supported practice, this episode brings clarity and balance straight from the research.  

Adoption doesn’t end on the day the papers are signed—it’s the beginning of a lifelong journey. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Kim King sits down with adoptive mom and blogger MaryAnne Budden of Openly Parenting to talk about the joys, surprises, and challenges of parenting after placement. MaryAnne shares her family’s experience with open adoption, how staying connected with her daughter’s birth mother has been both meaningful and practical, and what she wishes she had known before becoming a parent. MaryAnne’s adoption journey began with Lifetime Adoption, a licensed child-placing agency. She first learned about Lifetime through family members who had successfully adopted with them. Inspired by their experiences, she moved forward with her own adoption through Lifetime—and later, another relative also completed a successful adoption with the agency. Whether you’re waiting to adopt, just beginning your parenting journey, or years into it, this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone—and that support, reassurance, and encouragement are always within reach. Connect with MaryAnne: openlyparenting.com Instagram: @openlyparenting The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast belong solely to the individual guest and do not necessarily reflect the views of Let's Talk Adoption, its hosts, or affiliates. The information shared is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered professional, legal, or medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals for personal matters. While we aim to provide helpful content and resources, Let's Talk Adoption does not assume responsibility or liability for any decisions made based on what is shared in this podcast.

Adopting a child doesn’t always mean adopting a newborn. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Kim and Heather break down the three main ways families can adopt a child who’s already been born: foster care adoption, international adoption, and private/independent adoption. Learn what each path involves, from costs and timelines to the emotional realities and do’s and don’ts you’ll want to know. If you’ve been wondering where to start—or which option might be the best fit for your family—this episode will help bring clarity.  

Adoption conversations on social media often swing between two extremes: either it’s celebrated as the ultimate act of love, or condemned as harmful and exploitative. In this episode of Let’s Talk Adoption, Heather and Kim unpack why adoption gets painted in such black-and-white terms online. Together, they explore the truths behind both perspectives, ask the hard questions adoption raises, and offer practical ways to sort through the noise. If you’ve ever felt discouraged or confused by what you’ve read about adoption on social media, this conversation will help you find balance and hope.

Starting the adoption process can feel exciting and overwhelming. Many hopeful parents find themselves waiting for the “perfect” time: for more savings, fewer risks, or the feeling that every detail is in place. But what if waiting is actually holding you back from becoming the parent you’re meant to be? In this episode of the Let’s Talk Adoption Podcast, hosts Kim King and Heather Featherston dive into one of the biggest questions adoptive families face: When is the right time to start adoption? What You’ll Learn in This Episode ✔️ Why waiting for perfection can delay your path to parenthood ✔️ The most common fears and hesitations hopeful parents experience ✔️ How to take your “next step” in adoption—even if you don’t feel fully ready ✔️ The powerful reminder to “do it afraid” and trust the process ✔️ Resources and encouragement for Christians who feel called to adopt Heather also shares insights from her book, Called to Adoption, available on Amazon. It’s a guide for Christians exploring adoption or supporting others who are called to adopt. Take the Next Step in Your Adoption Journey Every step you take brings you closer to the child who is meant to be in your family. If this episode speaks to you, we’d love to hear your story or answer your questions. Connect with us at info@letstalkadoption.com

Is adoption right for every couple? In this candid conversation, Heather and Kim explore the heart-check questions every hopeful parent should ask before starting the adoption process. From emotional and relational readiness to practical considerations and motivations, they share real-world insight from years of working with adoptive families. You’ll hear why adoption isn’t a one-size-fits-all path, the difference between healthy and unhealthy reasons to adopt, and how to know when it might be time to wait. Whether you’re just starting to explore adoption or are already deep in research, this episode offers the honest, compassionate guidance you need to discern your next step. Not sure if adoption is right for you? What questions should you be asking yourself? How do you know you’re ready — as a couple and as a family? Heather and Kim share the honest truth about readiness, motivations, and why it’s okay if your answer is “not right now.”

If you're adopting or even considering it, this episode is a must-listen. Heather and Kim break down the latest updates to the federal Adoption Tax Credit, including the new 2025 limit of $17,280, partial refundability, and expanded access for families with lower or moderate incomes.

We explain what the credit is, how it works, and what makes the changes in the “Big Beautiful Bill” so impactful. You’ll also learn how the special needs exception can benefit families, how tribal governments now play a role, and what to keep in mind when tracking expenses or working with a tax professional.

Whether you’re adopting privately, through foster care, or with the help of an employer benefit, this practical episode will help you understand how to take advantage of the financial help that’s available.

Resources Mentioned:
IRS Adoption Credit Information
Dave Thomas Foundation: Adoption-Friendly Workplace Toolkit