In this episode of The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, Rebecca sits down with Dr. Ellen Weber Libby—psychotherapist, adoptive parent, and author of The Calling to Adopt: Should I or Shouldn’t I?
Adoption is one of the few life decisions where there’s truly no turning back. But how do you know if adoption is your calling or simply a hopeful wish? Dr. Libby shares decades of wisdom from her clinical practice and her own adoption journey, guiding listeners through the soul-searching questions every hopeful parent must face before moving forward.
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Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome & Sponsor: Sweet Peach Tree
01:20 – Introducing Dr. Ellen Weber Libby (psychotherapist, adoptive parent, and author)
03:30 – The Power and Danger of Dreams in the decision to adopt
05:30 – Is Adoption a Calling—or Just a Wish?
07:20 – Hidden Motivations (guilt, loss, religion, personal narratives)
09:40 – Attachment Fears & Personal Stories from Dr. Libby
11:30 – Balancing Support vs. Opposition from family and loved ones
13:55 – The Role of Community in adoption decisions
15:45 – Secrecy in Adoption Journeys: Pros & Cons
18:30 – Processing Loss in Adoption vs. Pregnancy
20:30 – Essential Conversations Before Adopting (partners, family, closest support)
24:10 – Using Ellen’s Book for Dialogue & Journaling
26:10 – Why Boundaries Matter with Friends & Family
28:40 – When Grandparents Cross the Line (a client story)
30:30 – How to Hold Boundaries with Love
31:45 – Educating Family: Resources to Share (The Adoption Roadmap, The Calling to Adopt)
32:30 – Closing Thoughts & Part Two Teaser
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For questions about adoption, episode suggestions or to appear as a guest on The Adoption Roadmap Podcast, emailsupport@rgadoptionconsulting.com
