The Anna Jinja Show
The Anna Jinja show focuses on the stories, issues, and questions connected to adoption and foster care experiences.
The host is an international adoptee with biological roots in Korea and adopted roots in the United States. As you can imagine, her journey and experiences as a transracial adoptee are multifaceted. Her experiences have been with the pain of discrimination and rejection as well as the joys of self-discovery and learning to embrace all aspects of her identity.
Along the way, she has discovered that she is not alone. We’re all – in some ways – adopted into or out of homes, cultures, communities, and relationships as we grow and evolve. This show illuminates the theme of adoption, in all ways, in our lives. And how those experiences create who we are and who we are yet to be.
Her hope is that through engaging with the guests and creative content, we are welcomed home in this world, cradled in the belief that we belong, that we are worthy, and that we are loved.
So stay tuned, and you may discover your own adoption story.
The Anna Jinja Show
Kasey and Justin Padgett & Nick Kizirnis
Heartwarming Adoption Journey: A Story of Love, Adoption, & New Beginnings
We are beyond thrilled to share the incredible story of Kasey and Justin Padgett, a couple whose selfless love transformed the lives of four siblings, all with the support of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. Huge shoutout to Mary Ellen Smalley for introducing us to their story—one that inspires hope, resilience, and the power of family. ❤️
Justin, a fifth-grade teacher in Kentucky, noticed one of his students searching "how to get adopted" on his Chromebook. The heartbreaking realization that the child and his siblings couldn’t return to their biological family set Justin and his wife, Kasey, on an extraordinary journey to adopt all four children. Their decision turned their household into a bustling family of six overnight relocating, buying essentials, and leaning on community support to make it work. This love story of chosen family was even featured on Good Morning America, where the Padgetts were surprised with the ultimate gift: a dream trip to Hawaii! 🌴
To make the moment even more special, our music producer Nick Kizirnis selected a song inspired by their journey, reflecting the joy and determination this family embodies.
For anyone inspired by their story and thinking about adoption, the Kasey and Justin emphasize the importance of reaching out—whether to local social services, foster networks, or organizations like the Dave Thomas Foundation. As Kasey says, "There’s an amazing community ready to guide and support you."
Stay tuned as we dive into their story, hear a special song inspired by their journey, and celebrate the power of love and resilience.
💬 What do you think of the Padgetts’ journey? Let’s celebrate their story and share resources to inspire others to explore the beauty of adoption. Drop a 💕 in the comments if this touched your heart!
#AdoptionStory #FamilyLove #DaveThomasFoundation #Inspiration #ChosenFamily