In this episode of the Adoption Roadmap Rebecca Gruenspan interviews Laurie Shelton, a seasoned adoption specialist with over 26 years of experience guiding birth parents through the adoption process. Rebecca and Laurie discuss the significant changes in the adoption landscape, including the shift from closed to open adoptions, rising adoption costs, and the increased awareness of scams. Laurie reflects on the emotional complexities of adoption, emphasizing the importance of ethical practices, support for birth parents, and trust in the process. Additionally, she opens up about her personal experience with burnout, the emotional toll of the work, and her journey back to adoption after a brief departure. Laurie is now part of PairTree, where she continues her passion for making positive change in the adoption industry. The episode highlights her dedication to supporting birth parents, her belief in adoption reform, and her commitment to ethical practices in the field.
Important Links
Laurie Shelton - Modern Adoption Advocate
Maybe You Should Talk To Someone by Lori Gottlieb
Modern Adoption with Jess and Erin
Ashley Mitchell and The Lifetime Healing Foundation
Chapters
02:20 The Evolution of Adoption Practices
04:40 The Shift from Closed to Open Adoption
08:31 Understanding the Impact of Scams in Adoption
12:00 Lessons from Personal Stories in Adoption
20:41 Ethics and Reflection in Adoption Practices
32:50 Navigating Conversations with Expectant Mothers
37:01 The Process of Options Counseling
42:02 Experiencing Burnout in Adoption Work
52:36 Finding Your Dream Job in Adoption
56:22 Challenges for Birth Families and Hopeful Parents
58:25 The Philosophy of Transformation in Adoption
Tune in to The Adoption Roadmap Podcast every Wednesday and Friday mornings. 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
