Dr. Melissa Rizzo answer the question: How do you think your life would change after first discovering a family secret that you had a brother that had been adopted as an infant and then years later having the opportunity to meet this sibling?  We will find out one such story from Melissa Rizzo and how she sought to understand how adopted individuals construct family and individual identities and reconstruct these identities after search and reunion with their birth family. Most of our music producer’s songs have a connection to angels and after hearing Melissa's story, he picked a song for this show. We will listen and as we do, lets think about why he may have selected the song he wrote titled “All My Life”. Support the Show.

Join us for an intimate exploration into the remarkable life of Susan Roth, an adoptee who thrives on breaking boundaries and seizing every opportunity with unwavering passion, humor, and courage. Discover Susan's multifaceted journey as she seamlessly weaves connections, whether through her masterful woodworking, compassionate nursing, or her role as the visionary behind a bustling travel enterprise, crafting unforgettable adventures for global explorers.Adding depth to our conversation, Susan's daughter and twin, Maya Roth-Wadsworth, joins us to share insights into their unique bond and shared experiences. Tune in as we unravel the threads of Susan's inspiring narrative and celebrate the resilience and love that define her extraordinary story.Support the Show.

Embark on a journey through the intricate world of identity, relationships, and family dynamics, framed by the unique perspectives of twinship and adoption. Both twins and adoptees often confront profound questions of individuality and belonging. Twins navigate comparisons and the challenge of being seen as a unit rather than as individuals, while adoptees grapple with questions of biological heritage and roots, each exploring their sense of self in distinct ways. Join us as Madie shares her transformative journey, a testament to personal growth, resilience, and self-discovery. Her narrative encourages us to embrace our uniqueness, honor diverse paths, and foster meaningful connections. In conversation, Anna and Madie delve into the shared experiences of adoption and twinship, unraveling insights and heartfelt anecdotes at the intersection of their lives.Tune in for a compelling exploration of twinship and adoption, brimming with invaluable perspectives and touching narratives. Nick Kizirnis, talks about why he selected “Shadow Walk” for Madie. He writes: Why "Shadow Walk"? WELL ... back in 1995 my band the Mulchmen began recording music for a few college film students senior film projects ... often they were recorded "live" to picture, but other times I would record several ideas and then the director would pick.  Of maybe a dozen ideas, "Shadow Walk" was my favorite, but it was never picked! Unfazed, the band recorded our own version for it which I'm super happy with. It sounds like it should be a theme song to some sci-fi western or one of those radio play podcasts, don't you think?  So this is for Madie as she looks into music and motion pictures for connections to the show. :)Support the Show.

This episode introduces you to two incredible individuals who will captivate you with their stories and insights. Audrey McQuillan is a powerhouse currently rocking her MBA journey at Ohio University. She serves as a GA for the show and is taking it to the next level! Joining Audrey is the incredible Kate Walton, an artist and friend the host met during her time in England. Kate's sanctuary by the Grand Union Canal at Fishery Wharf Café is a haven for creativity and music, where she hosts workshops and events that nourish the soul. Her journey of healing and creative exploration is truly inspiring, and her motto of 'Making her life her living, by living her life' speaks volumes!Together, Audrey and Kate radiate passion and purpose, and in this episode, we're diving deep into their journeys, uncovering insights that will resonate with each and every one of you. Support the Show.

Today’s episode is a creative interchange between a student-athlete and a poet. During her high school years, Katelyn earned four varsity letters for field hockey, showcasing her dedication and talent. Her journey continued at Ohio University, where she distinguished herself as the Mid-American Conference Offensive Player of the Year, demonstrating her exceptional skill and determination on the collegiate stage.Anna connected Katelyn to Betty Smith. From the depths of her soul, Betty Smith's poetry resonates with the essence of life's journey. For nearly four decades, she has crafted verses that speak of love, loss, and the human experience. As a mother, bonus mom, and cherished grandmother, Betty's words reflect the profound bonds that define family, transcending biological ties. Experience the power of poetic expression as Betty shares her insights and inspirations on adoption and belonging.Together, let us celebrate the diversity and beauty of family, honoring the bonds that unite us all. Join Katelyn and Betty as we embark on a heartfelt exploration of adoption, embracing the joys and challenges that define the journey of love and belonging.Support the Show.

Come join us for an engaging episode featuring Jacob Motta, a dedicated graduate student with a deep love for sports. Delve into Jacob's distinctive take on leadership, his commitment to continuous self-betterment, and how his varied experiences have honed his ability to adapt on the fly, all while contributing to Anna’s passion project. Don't overlook his profound insights, accompanied by the perfect song with a sports theme selected for Jacob by Nick Kizirnis. Tune in to a conversation that delves into Jacob's advocacy for adoption awareness and his aspirations within the sports sector. Nick Kizirnis explains why he chose this song for Jacob:  The song I chose for Jacob is called "Bustin' Golfclubs" and it's one of the first "surf instrumentals" I ever wrote with two of my closest friends almost 30 years ago. At the time I was recently graduated from college and we were all working very hard at making a living playing music, but things weren't going that well. The three of us took a break from the bands we were in and decided to write something for fun, and this is what came out of that.  I thought of Jacob not as much for the sports connection (the band yells "Tee Off!" ih the middle of the song) but because this song was a problem solver for us - ie "how can we put some fun back into playing music" and as it was a new style of music for, we all figured it out together as we created it.  I'll add that not only did we end up writing almost 3 albums in this style, it's some of the most successful music we ever released, with many songs appearing on early reality TV shows and indie films. Who knew?  The experience I had with my friends working together as a team and challenging ourselves opened up opportunities and positive experiences we never thought possible!  Support the Show.

Linnea's story is a beautiful blend of nature, arts, and a heart full of passion. Linnea encountered the concept of belonging in the most incredible way – through the Anna Jinja Show! The motif of belonging that runs through the show resonated deeply with Linnea, drawing her into a world where she felt connected and understood. What makes Linnea truly extraordinary is her commitment to making a difference. Linnea brings her unique perspective, creativity, and enthusiasm to the project, making a meaningful impact with every step. A talented poet, Susan Neale, was asked to weave Linnea’s story into a beautiful poem. The words come to life as they paint a vivid picture of Linnea's experiences, trials, and triumphs. It's a poetic celebration of resilience, self-discovery, and the journey to finding one's place in the world. Join us in celebrating Linnea Hietala, a remarkable individual whose journey unfolds like poetry, inspiring us all to embrace our uniqueness and find our own melodies in the symphony of life. Support the Show.

Embark on an emotional journey as we delve into an extraordinary life story, narrated by a daughter (Madeleine White) and her mother (Jo Renton). Madeleine, born in Germany with roots in Canada and the UK, is not only a magazine publisher and editor but also the author of 'Mother of Floods' and a poignant poetry collection titled 'The Horse And The Girl.' Both mother and daughter share their stories and poems that revolves around their experience and connection to adoption.Jo recounts her childhood, marked by the revelation of her father's identity—a Native-Canadian soldier named Donald Potts. Intriguingly, her parents had a brief romance, culminating in a poignant moment when Donald pressed a ten-pound note into baby Jo’s tiny hand during their last encounter.Facing the challenge of finding her father after her mother's passing in 1993, Jo turned to Project Roots for assistance. Against the odds, the search led to a heartwarming reunion with her father's family in Temagami, Canada.Tune in to this episode on The Anna Jinja Show and share this captivating story of love, loss, and family bonds with your network. Let's celebrate the resilience of the human spirit and the power of connections that transcend time and distance.Support the Show.

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Join us for an inspiring journey with David Bynum, a man whose life story is nothing short of extraordinary. Born and adopted in Columbus, OH, David began his search in 2018 and is currently in reunion with both sides of his biological family.A married father of three and grandfather of six, David is a U.S. Army Veteran and Retired Correctional Officer. Recently retired from coaching High School Football at Reynoldsburg High School due to the COVID-19 pandemic, David and his wife Marie own ByDam Multimedia, the parent company to Star107fm.com, an online radio station with a global presence.David's company produced the award-winning documentary release, "From A Place of Love – My Adoption Journey," gaining national attention in the adoption/foster community.Mike Ratliff performs his selected song, "Believe in Me," a tune chosen to resonate with David's inspiring story and the overarching theme of The Anna Jinja Show.From the winding highways to the soulful diners, Mike's journey is etched in the melodies he crafted during his years on the road. "Believe in Me" is not just a song; it's a connection to the raw authenticity of life's journey.Don't miss out on this extraordinary fusion of music and storytelling! Support the Show.

Introducing Maggie Giansante, an extraordinary student reporter for the Post, driven by a mission close to her heart. Join us as Maggie's dedication to storytelling takes the spotlight, delving into the world of adoption in our upcoming episode. What inspired Maggie to focus on this story? Adoption transcends a mere word; it's a rich tapestry of unique stories. With a sister adopted from Colombia, Maggie firmly believes in the transformative power of sharing these extraordinary narratives. In Maggie's words, "I believe in the power of storytelling to connect us all. These stories are more than just words; they are the threads that weave us into a stronger, more compassionate community." Listen in as Maggie opens up about her family, engaging in a delightful conversation inspired by the selected song from Milly Raccoon and the New Normal’s album that complements her adoption story and her unwavering passion for storytelling. Join us for an insightful journey on our upcoming episode!Support the Show.

Iowa-based artist, advocate and mentor, Jill Wells (she/her) has firmly situated herself within art and advocacy work. A 2005 graduate of Drake University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, she is well known for her dynamic, colorful, and tactile multimedia works investigating race, history, stereotypes, accessibility, and human experiences. By exploring the powerful alignment between arts integration and Universal Design, Wells' work seeks solutions for innovative pathways into accessible art."My art practice has always been the pathway that allows me to live life without regret by doing something about the problems that trouble me. My work explores intersectional social issues of racism, unequal opportunity, disability discrimination, and inaccessible design, and seeks solutions in and through art. In creating, I can experience clarity and access the past and the present to increase the quality of life for others, leading to better social integration for others and myself now and into the future."Jill Wells' journey is not only one of art and advocacy but also of motherhood. Her story includes the heart-wrenching loss of her biological child, William, who tragically passed away from SIDS at just three months old in 2004. Jill’s path to parenthood led her to adopt Vincent, and she openly shares her experiences and insights on adoption.Jill Wells is more than an artist; she's a force for change, an advocate for inclusion, and a mentor for those who dare to make a difference. Join us for this incredible interview as we celebrate her art, her advocacy, and her unique perspective on life. Together, we can create a world where art knows no boundaries and everyone has a voice. Support the Show.

| Introducing our remarkable guest, Dr. Joy Stuewe Hoffman, whose superpower is empathy. She passionately believes in the potential for human growth and the profound impact of storytelling. With a diverse background as an educator, loving mom, devoted partner, Korean transracial adoptee, and aspiring baker, Joy brings a unique perspective to our show.  Joy takes pride in being the parent of two college students, Hanna and Clifton Alexander. Her journey began when she was adopted from Seoul, Korea, by her caring parents, Clifton and Isabel Stuewe, at just 10 months old. Joy's pioneering work in her dissertation was among the earliest studies focusing on Asian American, specifically Korean American, transracial adoptees in the college setting.  Join us to explore the world through Joy's empathetic lens and discover the power of her inspiring story.Nick Kizirnis personally selected "Quiet Signals" from his album of the same name after discovering Joy's inspiring background and story. This particular track carries a deliberate, meandering ambiance that leads to a mysterious and captivating conclusion. Nick expressed his satisfaction with how the song captures these emotions, especially as it was created during the challenges of lockdown.Support the Show.

About a week after returning home from a transformative service trip in Honduras, our host received a heartfelt surprise from her stepdaughter - a friendship bracelet and a touching note that read: "I'm so glad that you're now not only part of the Mather family but part of our Honduras family as well."This touching note confirmed her beliefs about adoption – how we are all adopted into or out of homes, cultures, communities, and relationships as we grow and evolve. Tune into an episode that explores adoption not only in the traditional sense but as a beautiful tapestry of love, connection, and shared experiences that unites us all. Two remarkable guests from our service trip team, a mother and her daughter, share their extraordinary journey and how it forever transformed their views on life, love, and family. And you will be enchanted by the harmonious melodies of a talented member of the Songwriter's Circle. He selected a song, "Everyone is Welcome" that resonates with the universal bonds we all share. It's a musical tribute to our collective human experience.This enchanting episode promises to be a heartwarming celebration of human connection, the enduring power of love, and the ways we are all adopted into the beautiful mosaic of life. Don't miss this extraordinary event that will touch your soul and remind you of the connections that make us who we are.Support the Show.

Join us for an emotionally stirring and uplifting conversation featuring the host's beloved little sister and the exceptionally talented musician, Milly Raccoon. Together, they'll lead us on a journey celebrating the unbreakable bonds that tie us together, be it by blood or by choice. This episode is a heartfelt testament to the extraordinary power of family, friendship, and the vibrant creativity that thrives within these remarkable connections. Don't miss this heartwarming experience!Trained by campfires and tavern jams all over the world, Milly Raccoon’s eccentric and poignant lyrics mix with musical stylings that seem to have travelled out of the past, emulating classic country, early jazz, and other antiquated Americana. There is a connecting thread of spirituality, healing and liberation weaving through her work. Milly selected, "This Ancient Love" for Anna's little sister!Support the Show.

Get ready to be captivated as we introduce you to the host's husband, a masterful storyteller who fearlessly plunges into the profound depths of family bonds, the intricate tapestry of identity, and the life-altering connections that sculpt our destinies. In a truly poignant moment, he skillfully recites Mary Oliver's mesmerizing poem, 'The Journey,' seamlessly weaving its verses into his own narrative, crafting an unbreakable bond between his personal odyssey and the overarching themes of the show. Join us for an unforgettable expedition into the human spirit as he leads us on a compelling voyage through the heart and soul of his remarkable journey with adoption. Support the Show.

Meet Iris Anderson, a student at Columbia University, Class of 2026, who's on a mission to unravel the mysteries of biology and psychology. But Iris isn't just about hitting the books; she's a passionate writer, weaving narratives inspired by her own life's twists and the fascinating people who surround her.Iris penned an eye-opening article titled, "I Was Adopted From China. People Ask If I Feel 'Lucky' — And My Answer Isn't What They Expect." This thought-provoking piece, featured on HuffPost, dives into her unique journey and the questions that arise when discussing international adoption. But there's more to this story!Join us as Iris delves deeper into her article and takes us on a fascinating journey of self-discovery. She'll also reveal her intriguing response to a song carefully selected for her by a show's music producer. It's a conversation you won't want to miss!Support the Show.

Writer and poet Rebecca Christain talks with Anna about milestone moments, aging gracefully, and shares her poem written for Anna's adoption story.  The poem was written for the host after Rebecca heard her discuss the questions about her own origin story after hearing other adoptees find out theirs were lies. Rebecca's poem:  Searching for Esau We all have our book of Genesis, don’t we?According to Scripture, mine was this: My mother left me in a box with a notePleading with someone to care for her baby.And so across the ocean my new parents did.Still I fantasized about my brave mother,until I learned from others one by one--adopted from the same agency--that they too were tucked into boxeswith an identical note.Thus was my birthright stolen.LIke Jacob the second twin I grasp the heel of Esau,My first and vanished self.  A song was selected that was written and performed by Ian Vidovic for this episode. Support the Show.

Michelle Madrid, an adoptee empowerment coach who has lived both sides of the adoption experience, shares her the insights that led to Let Us Be Greater, the first book to explore the sense of loss, abandonment, and pain experienced by adoptees to help them heal. Support the Show.

Do you ever get that feeling deep in your gut that you just can't ignore? A hunch, an instinct, a gut feeling that guides you in unexpected ways?  This is Cathy's adoption story of how her gut instinct led her to finding her biological family. Her story is a testament to the power of intuition and the strength that comes from trusting your gut. The song "All the Space" was selected by Nick after reading Cathy's story. This song and all of the songs on the Quiet Signals album are about life and connection. They were written during a dark isolating time and came out of nowhere when I was trying to figure out how to navigate the pandemic, take care of my family, and also deal with my own health issues. "All the Space" originally sounded very different, but as I worked on it with cellist Kate Wakefield (of Lung) we stripped away layers and layers of music and sound until we were both barely playing anything. At that point the song sounded full and meaningful and I felt like it made the perfect closing song to the album, a gentle and loving send off to go out into the world in peace and happiness even while the world was unknown.Support the Show.