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The Adoptee Thoughts Podcast will offer an inside look from a transracial adoptee’s perspective on international adoption, race, identity, and more. This podcast will delve into the nuances of adoption, and will not shy away from the tough topics. In Season Four of the Adoptee Thoughts podcast, I will be shining a spotlight on ADOPTION CHANGEMAKERS, ranging from adoptees, former foster youth, birth mothers, adoptive parents, and professionals who are revolutionizing the adoption and foster care community.
Episodes
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Hi all, The long awaited interview is here. Did they apologize? Yes, but I know many are still going to have an issue with it. Just remember they are still processing and starting to do the work to figure out how to heal and move forward. _________________________________________
In this raw, emotional episode, Teen Mom’s Catelynn and Tyler sit down with Melissa Guida-Richards and Dr. Abby Hasberry, LMFT, to share their immediate thoughts since shocking allegations surfaced about inappropriate contact with a minor. They address the rumors, catfishing, and the painful fallout from trying to reconnect with their biological daughter.
In this episode we dive into:
-The truth behind the leaked messages
-How grief and desperation fueled their actions
-What really happened with the supposed “minors”
-The trauma birth parents and adoptees carry
-Why accountability and nuance matter _______________________________________________
Also, please pay attention to the video so you can see important information included from messages. I know this has been very controversial, enough so that I have received thr3ats, and overall harassment from within and outside the adoption community, so I want to be very clear about my intentions.
As an adoption educator who has worked with numerous families over the years, I have seen the, extraordinary lengths that some birth parents go to for contact. I've seen folk say they'll sneak phones to their biological children, or even admit if they had an opportunity they would take them from their adoptive family. Is this okay? NO, not at all. However, we cannot teach birth parents how to cope in a healthy way, and keep communication open in a safe way that doesn't cross boundaries, unless we address why this happened in the first place.
Think of it like a dad r0bbing a pharmacy. Is this okay? No. Did he harm people? Most likely.
But does it change things knowing that he needed to get insulin for his diabetic doctor who would not survive without it.
Now, I know, I know. Many will say, oh well it wasn't that serious. And I have to remind you, that to YOU, it wasn't. Feelings are not facts. Trauma combined with a bombardment of shocking information, clearly led to reckless choices. Talking to an anonymous person let alone two and discussing information about their bio daughter. Remember that regardless of your opinions on them, they are still in this world navigating life and relationships like us all. "Cancelling" them and attacking their friends will not change that. To actually make progress and help more children we need to work together towards ethical and child centered practices. You do not have to communicate or be involved in this process, but it does not mean that others who choose to are unsafe adults.
Thanks for listening and taking everything into consideration. Stay tuned for more as we wait for the amazing Sleuth, Riley Lively, to unveil more information about this situation. Please check out our upcoming Adoption Changemaker Conference, on Nov 8th, 2025 in NYC.
Adoption Changemakers is the conference the adoption industry doesn’t want you to see. We’ve started the conversation—now we need your help to keep the momentum going and make real change, by bringing diverse voices across the constellation.
A majority of the proceeds will be DONATED to a nonprofit that provides mentoring for adoptees and foster youth. The rest will pay for travel/hotel costs for those in the adoption constellation that need it, and then if we have any left over it will be used for next years conference!
Get tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/adoption-changemaker-conference-tickets-1368767834439?aff=oddtdtcreator
For more about Abby, please check out, https://adoptionnarrativeshift.com
You can listen to Catelynn and Tylers, here:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL88xhQ-tUlW63kvIbBdHol9Iu4DZ2I_Pc&si=kah4Wnge8cM3bHrc
________________________________________________________RESOURCES: Adoption and Trauma: Risks, Recovery, and the Lived Experience of Adoption:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8926933/#R43
Trauma for birth parents: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0011000004265961
https://www.familyinstitute.org/sites/default/files/pdfs/csi_drustrup_hidden_impact_of_adoption.pdf
Adoption competent therapists: https://adoptionsupport.org/national-directory/
IMPORTANT
NOTE: If you are a child and feel uncomfortable with interactions with adults, please tell a TRUSTED ADULT ASAP (teacher, babysitter, parents, aunt/uncle, police officer)
Friday Feb 07, 2025
Friday Feb 07, 2025
In this powerful episode, we dive into the world of adoption blogging with one of the key figures from the documentary An Update on the Family--Hannah Cho.
She is a transnational Korean American Adoptee, small business owner, mother and wife. Even though she knew from a very young age that she was adopted - she didn’t start accepting and ultimately embracing her adoption story until her twenties. Thanks to finding an amazing community online, first on youtube and then other social media platforms, she is now creating a space in the beauty industry for people who look like her and who like her, didn’t see others like them when growing up.
We also discuss the darker side of influencer culture, the commodification of adoption stories, and how viral fame can shape (and distort) narratives around adoptees and family life. What happens when content creation blurs the lines between storytelling and exploitation? And how do we shift the conversation to center adoptees rather than views and engagement metrics?
**Join us as we break down the complexities of adoption, social media, and the responsibilities that come with storytelling in the digital age.** 
We don’t shy away from the hard topics—because they matter. 
**Subscribe & Stay Connected:** If this conversation resonates with you, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to keep these discussions going. Your support helps bring more visibility to adoptee voices. #AdopteeThoughts #AdoptionEthics #FamilyVlogging #HannahCho #AdopteeVoices
https://uppbeat.io/t/monument-music/better-off
License code: 0EIGKMEX90LYK9K4
Monday Mar 25, 2024
Monday Mar 25, 2024
Welcome to our latest episode of the Adoptee Thoughts Podcast! In this thought-provoking discussion, I delve into the complexities surrounding the decisions made by birth mothers and pregnant individuals to place children for adoption in the United States with Gretchen Sisson, PhD.
She is a sociologist with Advancing New Standards in Reproductive Health at the University of California, San Francisco, and the author of Relinquished: The Politics of Adoption and the Privilege of American Motherhood, a critical, ten-year examination of domestic adoption. Centering the stories of relinquishing mothers, the book chronicles our country's refusal to care for families at the most basic level, and instead allow cultural and political ideas of adoption to advance an individual, private solution to large-scale social problems. A "comprehensive and harrowing debut" (Publishers Weekly, starred review) that "contributes to our national conversation of what reproductive justice really means" (Gloria Steinem), Relinquished is a necessary examination for our post-Dobbs era.
Adoption is a deeply personal and often emotionally charged journey, shaped by a myriad of factors including societal pressures, personal circumstances, and individual beliefs. Through insightful interviews and expert analysis, we unravel the layers of this complex topic, shedding light on the diverse experiences and perspectives of birth mothers and pregnant people.
Join us as we explore the nuanced reasons behind adoption decisions, from considerations of financial stability and educational opportunities to the emotional toll of unexpected pregnancies and societal stigma. We'll also discuss the importance of providing comprehensive support and resources to birth mothers throughout the adoption process, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met with empathy and understanding.
Whether you're an adoptive parent, adoption professional, or simply interested in understanding the dynamics of adoption in the United States, this episode offers valuable insights and perspectives that will deepen your understanding of this important topic.
Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation! Subscribe to our channel and hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest episodes. Together, let's foster a greater understanding and appreciation for the complexities of adoption and the individuals impacted by this profound journey.
GIVEAWAY INFORMATION:
As a thank you for being such an amazing community I am giving away one (1) copy of Gretchen’s book, “Relinquished.” T
To enter you must:
- Subscribe to my Youtube Channel @adoptee_thoughts
- Comment your favorite part of the episode
- For additional entries tag a friend in the comments that you think would benefit from listening to this podcast episode
- Enter within 10 days from the release of this episode on March 25th, 2024
- Winner Will be announced on April 5th, 2024
Connect with Gretchen here:
https://www.instagram.com/gretchen.sisson/
You can purchase her book here:
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For more adoption content, please like and follow: @adoptee_thoughts
https://www.tiktok.com/@adoptee_thoughts
https://www.instagram.com/adoptee_thoughts/
https://www.adopteethoughts.com
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When I wrote an essay about finding out I was adopted much later in life for @huffpost I never expected it to go viral and then find my passion in adoption education and advocacy for ethical, trauma-informed, and child-centered adoption practices. Reviews of "What White Parents Should Know About Transracial Adoption"
“A powerful, worthwhile addition to the growing body of work on race and parenting.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review
“Melissa Guida-Richards lays bare a painful truth: That loss is central to adoption. For those who are adopted transracially and transnationally, the disappearance of culture, familiarity, and language carry added complexity. With grace and sensitivity, Guida-Richards offers clear, insightful guidance for adoptive parents to help their sons and daughters navigate the isolation, racism, and longing they inevitably feel.” —Gabrielle Glaser, author of American Baby
You can purchase my books here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/authors/2247656/melissa-guida-richards/
You can read the essay here: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/transracial-adoption-racial-identity_n_5c94f7eae4b01ebeef0e76e6
@TamronHallShow Hall Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BfSuIqd8RfY Good Day LA Interview with Michaela : https://www.foxla.com/video/989201 Good Day La: ___________________
Friday Jun 02, 2023
Friday Jun 02, 2023
On Season 3, Episode 6 of the Adoptee Thoughts Podcast, Christian Aragon and host Melissa Guida-Richards discuss the shocking story of his illegal adoption and reunion with his biological family. You may recognize some of his story from his viral video with "Put a Finger Down" challenge.
About the Adoptee:
Christian Matthew Aragon was illegally adopted and raised by a woman who claimed to be my birth mother. He found his biological family at 36 and is just now getting to start his life with them.
How to connect:
Follow him @mattaragon87 on TikTok!
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To read more of the work by your host Melissa Guida-Richards and resources available for purchase from panels to workshops, to book club information go to adopteethoughts.com or her Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/adoptee_thoughts/
Her book are available anywhere books are sold.
Preorder the companion Workbook here:
Monday Feb 06, 2023
Monday Feb 06, 2023
On Season 3, Episode 5 of the Adoptee Thoughts Podcast, Scott McCreary, Leigh Ann Baglin, Katie Ares, and host, Melissa Guida-Richards discuss the siblings reunion journey, including the ups and downs.
About the Adoptees:
Scott McCreary is a 39-year old adoptee from South Korea. He grew up in Oklahoma and presently lives in Missouri with his wife. Currently working at a local hospital and extremely happy to experience life with my siblings and catch up on all the time passed by.
Leigh Ann Baglin is a 37 year-old South Korean adoptee residing in New Jersey with her husband and two biological children. She currently holds her LSW and works as a school therapist at the middle and high school levels. She has worked in various mental health settings such as adoption agencies, school-based youth programs, child welfare agencies, and group homes. Leigh is in active reunion with her birth father and is looking forward to growing with and sharing experiences with Katie and Scott.
Katie Ares is a 40-year-old Korean adoptee. Born in Kyungsan, South Korea, Katie was adopted at the age of three months. Raised as an only child, she lived in Pennsylvania before her family moved to Central Florida (which she considers her hometown). Most of Katie's career has been spent in roles within the nonprofit sector. Katie now calls Arizona home, where she spends her free time exploring the outdoors with her husband and two dogs. Katie is grateful to have connected with Leigh and Scott, and is enjoying the important role of being an unni and noona.
How to connect:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/scott_a_mccreary/
https://www.instagram.com/leighanners/
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To read more of the work by your host Melissa Guida-Richards and resources available for purchase from panels to workshops, to book club information go to adopteethoughts.com or her Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/adoptee_thoughts/
Her book are available anywhere books are sold.
Preorder the companion Workbook here:
Friday Oct 28, 2022
Friday Oct 28, 2022
On Season 3, Episode 4 of the Adoptee Thoughts Podcast, Molly McLaurin , and host, Melissa Guida-Richards discuss their upcoming Transracial Adoption 101 course and Molly's experience as a transracial adoptee. They dig into how the course came to be, connecting via social media, and the impact of educating on adoption.
About Molly McLaurin:
Molly E. McLaurin is an adoptee, twin, wife, mom and business owner. Molly founded Monarch Connections to bring people together, find what’s missing and to make meaningful connections. In 36 months, she has connected with 675 people at events and 25 through Life Coaching. One thing Monarch Connections created an adoptee community called Adoptee Talk, and Adoptee Talk: Teens, to empower adoptees. Growing up as a transracial adoptee, Molly often felt left out, and/or that she stood out in a way that was isolating. Monarch Connections and Adoptee Talk operate so others can belong. Molly authored, EXPLORING TRANSRACIAL ADOPTION AND THE INVISIBLE PROTECTION OF PRIVILEGE, while serving as a member of the Field Center’s Young Professionals Council. She is glad you are here and hope you decide you can learn from this course and improve your adoptee(s) lives.
How to connect:
website: https://www.monarch-connections.com
instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monarchconnections/
email:
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To read more of the work by your host Melissa Guida-Richards, check out guida-richards.com, or the podcast's website adopteethoughts.com.
Her book is now available anywhere books are sold.
📖What White Parents Should Know About Transracial Adoption: An Adoptee's Perspective on Its History, Nuances, and Practices
Buy here!
Tuesday Sep 20, 2022
Tuesday Sep 20, 2022
On Season 3, Episode 3 of the Adoptee Thoughts Podcast, Lynn Woo Mykytyn, MA LPCC LADC, and host, Melissa Guida-Richards discuss Paige's experience as an adoptee and her role as a therapist. They dig into the nuance of this work, how it felt to grow up in a white majority family, and how she advocates for adoptees and birth parents.
About Lynn Woo Mykytyn, MA LPCC LADC:
Lynn Woo Mykytyn, MA LPCC LADC, is the founder of Sando Wellness & Counseling in Minnesota and works as a counselor supporting teens, adults, parents, and couples. Lynn built her practice on the concept that identifying what is right with us can support and motivate change in the areas of our life that no longer serve us. She believes that mental health and wellness has to do with all elements of our lives and all aspects of self; something that cannot be captured in a diagnosis and specializes in issues related to anxiety, depression, and addiction, as well as identity and transracial adoption.
How to connect
website: https://www.sandowellness.com/
instagram and twitter: @sandowellness
email: Lynn@sandowellness.com
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To read more of the work by your host Melissa Guida-Richards, check out guida-richards.com, or the podcast's website adopteethoughts.com.
Her book is now available anywhere books are sold.
📖What White Parents Should Know About Transracial Adoption: An Adoptee's Perspective on Its History, Nuances, and Practices
Buy here!
Tuesday Sep 06, 2022
Tuesday Sep 06, 2022
On Season 3, Episode 2 of the Adoptee Thoughts Podcast, Paige Knipfer, and host, Melissa Guida-Richards discuss Paige's experience as an adoptive mother and her role as an adoption consultant. They dig into the nuance of this work, what she does to make sure her business is ethical, and how she advocates for adoptees and birth parents.
About Paige Knipfer:
She is the owner of Love Grown Adoption Consulting to assist prospective families through the adoption journey. She is an adoption educator and adoptive mom.
https://www.lovegrownadoptionconsulting.com
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To read more of the work by your host Melissa Guida-Richards, check out guida-richards.com, or the podcast's website adopteethoughts.com.
Her book is now available anywhere books are sold.
📖What White Parents Should Know About Transracial Adoption: An Adoptee's Perspective on Its History, Nuances, and Practices
Buy here!
Wednesday Jun 29, 2022
Wednesday Jun 29, 2022
Hi Friends! Thank you so much for your wonderful support, I am so excited to share this episode with you. It was recorded in 2020, but due to my father's passing around that time I didn't have a chance to edit it until now. I hope you enjoy, and check out Alessia's work.
On Season 3, Episode 1 of the Adoptee Thoughts Podcast, Alessia Petrolito, and host, Melissa Guida-Richards discuss Alessia's experience as a Black adoptee from the United States and what it was like growing up in Italy and later visiting America.
About Alessia Petrolito:
Born in the U.S., adopted and raised in Italy. Interested in Visual and Critical Studies and the connection between Art, Adoption and virtual communities, she presented her artistic research at 5th and 7th ICAR - International Conference on Adoption Research, respectively held in New Zealand and Italy. She currently lives in Turin, where she is working for an Art Foundation. linktr.ee/arpadoptic
Personal blog arpadoptic.com
Adoption Cloud project blog adoptcloud
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To read more of the work by your host Melissa Guida-Richards, check out guida-richards.com, or the podcast's website adopteethoughts.com.
Her book is now available anywhere books are sold.
📖What White Parents Should Know About Transracial Adoption: An Adoptee's Perspective on Its History, Nuances, and Practices
Buy here!
Monday Aug 23, 2021
Monday Aug 23, 2021
On Season 2, Episode 5 of the Adoptee Thoughts Podcast, Astrid Castro, and host, Melissa Guida-Richards discuss Astrid’s work in the adoption community, reunion, as well as the nuances of learning our language from our birth culture.
About Astrid Castro:
Astrid has a degree in sociology with an emphasis in adoption. For twenty plus years, she has traveled the country to lead youth groups, present workshops on transracial parenting, talking with children about adoption and various other workshops focusing on adoption. Prior to creating Adoption Mosaic, Astrid worked in both the private and public sectors of various adoption organizations such the Oregon Post Adoption Resource Center (ORPARC), Holt International, Rocky Mountain Adoption Exchange, to name just a few.
Astrid co-authored Adoption in the Movies, which takes the reader on a guided tour of 27 movies and documentaries that are ‘dripping with adoption’ asking questions that encourage the viewer to engage in ongoing dialogue and discussion. She also developed an innovative, evidence-based, 27-minute training DVD titled, Adoptive Parent Training: Developing Communication Skills. The training demonstrates how adoptive parents can communicate openly and honestly with family, friends and especially children.
Astrid is a former member of the board of directors of the North American Council on Adoptable Children, the author of many articles on the subject of adoption and contributed a chapter to the book Parents As Adoptees.
Website: https://adoptionmosaic.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adoptionmosaic/
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To read more of the work by your host Melissa Guida-Richards, check out guida-richards.com, or the podcast's website adopteethoughts.com.
Her book is now available for preorder and in stores on October 5th!
📖What White Parents Should Know About Transracial Adoption: An Adoptee's Perspective on Its History, Nuances, and Practices
Buy here!
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