In this episode Aixa welcomes Cosette Eisenhauer-Epp, a transracial adoptee from China raised in Dallas, TX. Cosette opens up about her adoption journey, identity struggles, and the emotional layers of growing up in a family that doesn’t look like her. From navigating cultural gaps to the unexpected grief of changing her last name after marriage, Cosette's story is raw, reflective, and filled with grace.

This episode offers deep insight for adoptive families, adoptees, and anyone who wants to better understand the complexity of identity, loss, and love in adoption.

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Adoption, Identity & Grace: A Transracial Adoptee’s Journey

Why do so many adopted children and even adoptive parents silently battle loneliness — even when surrounded by love?

In this deeply vulnerable episode of Pause & Think, hosts Aixa and Jackie open up a raw, unfiltered conversation about the emotional undercurrent often left out of the adoption narrative: feeling unseen, misunderstood, and isolated — and how that loneliness can linger into adulthood.

Through honest personal stories, spiritual reflection, and practical wisdom, this episode brings light to a heavy topic — and offers real hope for healing.

Adoption & Loneliness  — What No One Talks About

In this heartfelt episode host Jackie Darby sits down with Amber Parker to share the powerful and deeply personal story of her family’s adoption journey. From a childhood calling to adopt a little girl from China to a series of miracles that led to Ruby joining their family just before the country closed its borders, Amber opens up about the joys, heartbreaks, and spiritual lessons woven throughout the process.

Whether you're an adoptive parent, an adoptee, or someone who wants to better understand the journey, this conversation is raw, real, and full of hope.

Amber’s Journey: Adoption, Trauma & Healing

In this episode of Pause and Think, Jackie and Aixa open up about the emotional complexities surrounding birthdays for adopted and foster children. From feelings of loss and confusion to the longing for birth stories and baby pictures, they explore how these seemingly joyful celebrations can be deeply painful. Through vulnerable storytelling, biblical reflection, and grace-filled parenting insights, they offer encouragement to adoptive families navigating these tender moments. Together, they remind us that God knew us before we were formed and that healing is possible—one honest conversation at a time.

Adopted Birthdays: Cake, Questions & Closure

In this thought-provoking episode of Pause & Think, Aixa and Jackie engage in a vulnerable conversation about the complexities of "Gotcha Day"—the day many adoptive families celebrate when a child joins their family. Drawing from their personal experiences—Aixa as an adoptive mother and Jackie as an adoptee—they reflect on how this day can mean vastly different things depending on one’s perspective.

They explore the joy and celebration many families feel, while also addressing the grief, shame, and identity struggles that some adoptees may experience. Together, they offer wisdom on creating space for children to express their full range of emotions, respecting individual experiences, and being sensitive to the deeper layers of adoption.

“Gotcha Day: Celebration or Trigger? Navigating Adoption with Sensitivity”

In this deeply moving episode of Pause & Think, hosts Aixa and Jackie welcome Pastor Sandra from Church of the Crossroads in Laredo, Texas, to share her powerful testimony. Abandoned at birth and adopted through the Texas Cradle Society, Pastor Sandra opens up about her early life filled with trauma, including abuse and the pain of multiple father figures. She reflects on how her adopted mother’s unwavering love and faith in God planted the seeds of purpose and identity.

Pastor Sandra discusses her journey from brokenness to boldness—becoming a missionary, a leader, and later an adoptive mother herself. Despite facing the unimaginable grief of losing her son to addiction, she powerfully testifies to God’s relentless fatherly love and the spiritual significance of adoption.

This conversation unpacks themes of identity, healing, the spirit of adoption, and how churches can embrace and teach the biblical reality that we are all chosen and adopted by God through Christ.

"From Abandonment to Adoption: Pastor Sandra’s Powerful Journey of Healing & Hope"

Jedd pt2

Discover how understanding God's deep love can be the catalyst for meaningful action. This isn't just about activism; it's about letting the profound love for you and all God's children come alive, compelling you to make a real difference in the world. Join the conversation as we delve into how knowing our Father more fully can inspire unconditional love and impactful change. Also discover how CAFO empowers foster parents and church leaders, building a support system that inspires and unites communities. Get a behind-the-scenes with President Jedd Medefind to look at their vision to strengthen champions for a brighter future.

Unlocking the Divine: Let God's Love Fuel Your Impact

Discover how the church's family concept challenges traditional norms by providing love, healing, and community to those often left out. Let's explore why supporting orphans, and adoptees can transform lives, making organizations a beacon of hope for everyone seeking belonging and support.

Adoption and the Church as a True Family

Have you ever felt the fear of the unknown when considering adoption? Let's delve into an inspiring journey where faith and perseverance guide the way. Join us as we dive into Matt and Brooke's unexpected journey from domestic adoption plans to embracing international adoption from Colombia. Discover how their love for Latin American culture inspired a life-changing decision. 

Stay the Course: A Faithful Journey in Adoption

Let’s pause and think! Join us for honest conversations about adoption and parenting, as we lament, encourage, give hope and explore our true identity and worth in Christ.

For more information go to: www.whoseami.org