The Adoption Roadmap Podcast

Rebecca Gruenspan

Your dream is to become a mom. My dream is to help you get there. I am Rebecca Gruenspan, a single mom through domestic adoption and an adoption consultant for over a decade. I’ll be your guide, along with other adoption professionals and members of the adoption constellation, walking you step by step down this beautiful and complex path of adopting your baby. This isn't just another podcast sharing adoption stories. If you're genuinely committed to diving in with an open heart, eager to learn everything there is to know about adopting a baby, this is for you!

  1. MAR 11

    Ep. #129: Adoption is Love - Season 3 Finale

    In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Rebecca recaps her rapid fire questions she asks every guest. They share personal stories and shout outs to individuals who have impacted their journeys, emphasizing the need for education and understanding in navigating adoption. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by adoptive parents and the significance of maintaining curiosity about the experiences of adoptees. Important Links Brianna & Shay Dr. Ellen Weber Libby Jennifer Skiles Tony Hynes Connie Going Ricky Watters Raquel McCloud & Leah Outten Genie Gillespie Sydney Curtin Max Weinberg Michelle Madrid RG Adoption Consulting Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Adoption Roadmap Podcast 01:10 Shout Outs: Influences in Adoption Journeys 02:54 Rapid Fire Round: Influential Figures in Adoption 05:38 Organizations Supporting Adoption and Birth Families 08:35 Personal Stories and Community Impact 12:37 Advice for Adoptive Parents 14:24 Navigating Challenges in Adoption 16:17 Curiosity and Understanding in Adoption 17:49 The Power of Love in Adoption 19:24 Building Relationships with Birth Parents 21:49 Patience and Understanding in the Adoption Journey 23:50 The Importance of Openness and Honesty 24:42 Embracing the Child's Past 26:53 Navigating Trauma in Adoption 29:29 The Transformative Nature of Adoption 31:54 Intentionality in Relationships 33:00 Understanding Temperament and Biology 35:00 Describing Adoption: Perspectives and Insights Tune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday. If you like what you hear, I'd appreciate a follow and 5-star rating & review! THANK YOU! For questions about adoption, episode suggestions or to appear as a guest on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, email⁠⁠⁠⁠ support@rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠⁠⁠

    35 min
  2. Ep. #128: From Fears to Families with Deborah Farmer

    MAR 4

    Ep. #128: From Fears to Families with Deborah Farmer

    In Part 2 of this powerful conversation on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Rebecca Gruenspan continues her discussion with author, advocate, and adoptive mom Deborah Olivia Farmer. Deborah opens up about raising her 14-year-old son as a single Black mother, navigating father-longing, bullying, identity, and the realities of preparing a Black boy for the world. She shares honestly about fear — not fear of race-based discrimination as much as fear of cruelty from peers — and how intentional parenting, community, and cultural pride shape her son’s confidence. Important Links RG Adoption Consulting • Website → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com• Book a 30-Minute Consult → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com/contact Deborah Farmer • Website → https://www.myjourneytojoshua.com/• Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/fromfearstofamilies/ Our Chosen ChildVisit https://ourchosenchild.com and use code ROADMAP for $100 off the Social Media Plan & Post Program. Chapters 00:00 Sponsor: Our Chosen Child 01:25 Fatherhood Longing & Open Adoption 04:20 Raising Black Boys & Representation 06:40 Bullying, Identity & Self-Awareness 09:00 Controlling Your Adoption Story 12:00 Breaking Fear in the Black Community 15:45 Why Representation in Marketing Matters 19:20 Becoming Cultural Ambassadors in Adoption 22:00 My Journey to Joshua 24:20 From Fears to Families 27:00 Affirmations & Moving Forward 28:30 Rapid Fire Questions Tune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday. If you like what you hear, I'd appreciate a follow and 5-star rating & review! THANK YOU! For questions about adoption, episode suggestions or to appear as a guest on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, email⁠⁠⁠⁠ support@rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠⁠⁠

    30 min
  3. Ep. #127: For Black Families who want to Adopt... with Deborah Farmer

    FEB 25

    Ep. #127: For Black Families who want to Adopt... with Deborah Farmer

    In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Guest, Deborah Olivia Farmer shares her journey of adoption, motherhood, and the unique challenges faced by single black mothers. She discusses the importance of breaking stigmas surrounding adoption in the black community, the power of surrendering to life's plans, and the fears that come with raising a black son in today's world. The conversation emphasizes the need for more open discussions about adoption and the vital role of community support in the parenting journey. Important Links RG Adoption Consulting • Website → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com • Book a 30-Minute Consult → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com/contact Deborah Olivia Farmer → https://www.myjourneytojoshua.com/ → https://www.instagram.com/fromfearstofamilies/ Sweet Peach Tree → https://sweetpeachtree.com — use code ROADMAP10 for 10% off Chapters 00:00 The Intersection of Love and Adoption 03:48 Finding Purpose in Adoption 06:54 The Power of Surrender 10:07 Facing Fears in Adoption 14:28 Breaking Stigmas in the Black Community 18:35 The Need for Black Families in Adoption 22:21 Normalizing Adoption Conversations 25:16 Navigating Fatherhood as a Single Mom Tune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday. If you like what you hear, I'd appreciate a follow and 5-star rating & review! THANK YOU! For questions about adoption, episode suggestions or to appear as a guest on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, email⁠⁠⁠⁠ support@rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠⁠⁠

    29 min
  4. Ep. #126: Everything you need to know about Adoption Profiles with Jennifer Morovic

    FEB 18

    Ep. #126: Everything you need to know about Adoption Profiles with Jennifer Morovic

    In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Rebecca Gruenspan and Jennifer Morovic discuss the intricacies of creating an impactful adoption profile. The conversation covers overcoming insecurities about personal photos, the importance of emotional connections in profiles, and the rising trend of using video to enhance storytelling. Additionally, the episode delves into strategies for independent adoption, what to avoid in profiles, and the evolving language surrounding adoption. The discussion emphasizes the need for authenticity and emotional resonance in connecting with expectant parents. Important Links RG Adoption Consulting • Website → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com • Book a 30-Minute Consult → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com/contact • Our Chosen Child - Use code ROADMAP for $100 off the Social Media Plan + Post Program.→ https://ourchosenchild.com Chapters 00:00 Overcoming Photo Insecurities 06:30 Navigating Feedback in Profile Creation 10:50 Creating Emotional Connections in Profiles 15:41 The Rise of Video in Adoption Profiles 20:29 Independent Adoption Strategies 24:34 What to Avoid in Profiles 36:35 Final Thoughts and Rapid Fire Round Tune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday. If you like what you hear, I'd appreciate a follow and 5-star rating & review! THANK YOU! For questions about adoption, episode suggestions or to appear as a guest on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, email⁠⁠⁠⁠ support@rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠⁠⁠

    41 min
  5. Ep. #124: "Who you are here to be." With Michelle Madrid

    FEB 4

    Ep. #124: "Who you are here to be." With Michelle Madrid

    In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap podcast, Michelle Madrid discusses the complexities of adoption, focusing on identity, the significance of names, and the emotional challenges faced by adoptees. She emphasizes the importance of openness in conversations about adoption, the pain points that adoptees experience, and the need for adoptive parents to create a safe space for their children to explore their identities. The discussion also touches on the concept of ambiguous loss and the importance of recognizing and addressing the grief that comes with adoption. In this conversation, the speakers explore the complexities of adoption, including the emotional challenges faced by adoptees, the importance of openness in adoptive families, and the healing journey that comes with understanding one's identity. They discuss the intersections of adoption-related grief and other family traumas, the significance of using metaphors like quilts to describe family dynamics, and the resources available for both adoptees and adoptive parents. The dialogue emphasizes the need for compassion, understanding, and the transformative power of forgiveness in the adoption experience. Important Links RG Adoption Consulting • Website → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com • Book a 30-Minute Consult → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com/contact Our Chosen Child • Use code ROADMAP for $100 off the Social Media Plan + Post Program. → https://ourchosenchild.com Michelle Madrid • Website → https://themichellemadrid.com/ • ⁠Instagram⁠ • Unboxed, Unburdened, Unstoppable Podcast→ https://themichellemadrid.com/podcast • Book: "Let Us Be Greater" → https://themichellemadrid.com/book Chapters 00:00 Navigating Adoption and Identity 02:53 The Importance of Names in Adoption 06:12 Understanding the Adoptee's Perspective 09:04 Pain Points of Adoptees 12:11 The Journey of Trust and Self-Acceptance 15:05 The Role of Openness in Adoption 17:54 Ambiguous Loss and Grief in Adoption 26:44 Listening to the Wind: Embracing Adoption Stories 27:58 Intersections of Grief: Adoption and Family Trauma 35:42 The Journey of Adoption: From Pain to Healing 38:05 The Quilt Metaphor: Redefining Family for Adoptees 41:16 Finding Your Voice: Resources and Support for Adoptees 44:54 Advice for Adoptive Parents: Openness and Understanding Tune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday. If you like what you hear, I'd appreciate a follow and 5-star rating & review! THANK YOU! For questions about adoption, episode suggestions or to appear as a guest on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, email⁠⁠⁠⁠ support@rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠⁠⁠

    50 min
  6. Ep. #123: Identity Before Adoption, with Michelle Madrid

    JAN 28

    Ep. #123: Identity Before Adoption, with Michelle Madrid

    In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap Podcast, guest Michelle Madrid delves into the complexities of identity, healing, and acceptance in the adoption journey. Michelle shares her personal experiences as an international adoptee and the importance of reconnecting with one's 'first me.' The conversation explores various healing modalities, the significance of supporting adoptees in their journeys, and the impact of reunion with birth families. Michelle emphasizes the importance of embracing ancestral connections and the ongoing journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Important Links RG Adoption Consulting • Website → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com • Book a 30-Minute Consult → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com/contact Our Chosen Child • Use code ROADMAP for $100 off the Social Media Plan + Post Program.→ https://ourchosenchild.com Michelle Madrid • Website → https://themichellemadrid.com/ • Instagram • Unboxed, Unburdened, Unstoppable Podcast → https://themichellemadrid.com/podcast • Book: "Let Us Be Greater" → https://themichellemadrid.com/book Chapters 00:00 Navigating Identity and Acceptance 09:11 Reconnecting with the First Me 14:34 Exploring Healing Modalities 22:12 Supporting Adoptees in Their Journey 27:01 The Impact of Reunion and Healing 39:05 Embracing Ancestral Connections Tune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday. If you like what you hear, I'd appreciate a follow and 5-star rating & review! THANK YOU! For questions about adoption, episode suggestions or to appear as a guest on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, email⁠⁠⁠⁠ support@rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠⁠⁠

    46 min
  7. Ep. #122: Understanding Adoption's Impact on Learning with Dr. Max Weinberg

    JAN 21

    Ep. #122: Understanding Adoption's Impact on Learning with Dr. Max Weinberg

    In this episode, Dr. Max Weinberg discusses the seven core issues of adoption and their impact on children in school settings. He emphasizes the importance of creating adoption-affirming classrooms and the role of teachers in fostering a sense of belonging for adopted children. The conversation also touches on the challenges of disclosure and advocacy for parents navigating the school system, highlighting the need for supportive relationships between families and educators. In this conversation, the speakers explore the multifaceted experience of adoption, emphasizing the importance of community support, the joys and challenges of parenting through adoption, and the need for trauma-informed education in schools. They discuss the significance of building connections within communities, the surprising joys that come from parenting adopted children, and the complexities of navigating trauma in educational settings. The conversation also highlights the domains of belonging for adopted children and offers valuable advice for adoptive parents, ultimately framing adoption as a journey filled with love, resilience, and growth. Important Links RG Adoption Consulting → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com Book a 30-Minute Call with our an Adoptive Parent on our Team → https://rgadoptionconsulting.com/contact Solace Gift Boxes → https://adoptsolace.com Dr. Max Weinberg → Belonging Education → https://www.belonging.education/ → IG → https://www.instagram.com/belongingeducation/ → ⁠Strengthening School Belongingness for Adopted/Looked After Students Chapters 00:00 Understanding the Seven Core Issues of Adoption 07:57 Creating Adoption-Affirming Classrooms 18:01 Navigating Disclosure and Advocacy in Schools 24:37 Building Community Support for Adoptive Families 27:44 The Surprising Joys of Parenting Through Adoption 30:45 Navigating Trauma-Informed Education 34:42 Domains of School Belonging for Adopted Children 40:09 Advice for Adoptive Parents 45:20 The Complexity and Privilege of Adoption Tune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday. If you like what you hear, I'd appreciate a follow and 5-star rating & review! THANK YOU! For questions about adoption, episode suggestions or to appear as a guest on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, email⁠⁠⁠⁠support@rgadoptionconsulting.com⁠⁠⁠

    47 min
5
out of 5
35 Ratings

About

Your dream is to become a mom. My dream is to help you get there. I am Rebecca Gruenspan, a single mom through domestic adoption and an adoption consultant for over a decade. I’ll be your guide, along with other adoption professionals and members of the adoption constellation, walking you step by step down this beautiful and complex path of adopting your baby. This isn't just another podcast sharing adoption stories. If you're genuinely committed to diving in with an open heart, eager to learn everything there is to know about adopting a baby, this is for you!

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