The Unexpected Path to Family: A Story of Patience, Faith & Perseverance

In a world that often moves too fast, Kreig and Jillian Prior's story is a powerful reminder that some of life's greatest blessings arrive on their own timeline.

After learning in 2005 that they couldn't have biological children, Kreig and Jillian didn't immediately pursue adoption. Instead, they hosted 15 international exchange students over the years—an experience that unknowingly prepared them for their true calling.

In this episode of The Anna Jinja Show, they share: → How hosting Thai students led to a life-changing trip to Thailand → Navigating international adoption at ages 43 and 39 (when age limits made it "now or never") → Building bonds across language and cultural barriers → Supporting children with different attachment styles and special needs → Creating a family united not by biology, but by profound, enduring love

Key takeaway: "Don't let fear stop you. To see these kids grow and thrive is such a gift. The way they have grown me and changed me is a gift from God."

Whether you're considering adoption, navigating family challenges, or simply seeking inspiration, this conversation offers wisdom about patience, faith, and the many forms family can take.

And Musician and pastor Chris Smith shares his creative perspective through song.

Guest Links:

https://www.ohio.edu/ucm/about/staff/smithc25 https://www.holtinternational.org/thailand-older-child-adoption/

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From Struggling to Thriving: The Power of Choice in Your Adoption Story "

Single mom struggle. I'm just going to struggle. This is going to be my story."

Until one day, Rebecca Del Pozo said: "Nope. It can be different."

In this deeply personal follow-up conversation, Rebecca Del Pozo shares how she transformed her mindset from scarcity to abundance—and how you can too.

In this episode, discover:

• Why being rooted in truth and love creates an unshakeable foundation
• The surprising connection between trust and financial success
• How to "act as if" you're already the person you want to become

The simple question that changed everything: "Is that really true?"

Whether you're an adoptee, in the foster care system, or simply someone who's ever felt like they don't belong—this conversation will remind you that you have the power to choose your story.

"We have so much power in the way we think about ourselves and in the way that we approach other people. We have choice to decide—today's going to be different than yesterday."

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"Where Am I From?" A Conversation About Belonging, Identity, and Home

"Where are you from?" It's one of the most common questions we ask when meeting someone new. But for adoptees, for those in mixed-race families, for anyone who doesn't fit the "traditional" mold, this seemingly innocent question can feel like an interrogation—a challenge to prove your belonging.

In the latest episode of The Anna Jinja Show, host Anna Jinja explores this complex question with Jade Amez, an Asian-American children's book author whose debut work, "Where Am I From?", transforms her personal adoption journey into a story that validates experiences rarely represented in children's literature.

More Than a Place: Understanding Home Jade's journey began in high school when she started exploring her roots, eventually connecting with her birth mother years later. But her story isn't simply about finding biological connections—it's about redefining what family means and creating space for children to understand their own complex feelings about identity and belonging.

"We shouldn't be defined by where we live or where we grow up," Jade shares in the episode. "While those may be parts of how we identify ourselves, we're so much more than that."

A Creative Interchange: When Music Meets Story What makes this episode particularly special is the creative collaboration at its heart. Music therapist Caitlin Kraus, LPCC-S, and musician Brad Swiniarski came together for their very first songwriting collaboration to create an original song inspired by Jade's book—also titled "Where Am I From?"

The song's lyrics beautifully capture the complexity of identity: "Less of a place than who keeps me company" "All that meets the eye, more than what you see" "All that's in-between—and that's where I'm from" "I wanted her to feel like it honored her story," Caitlin explains. "The idea of home and the idea of family can mean so many different things to different people, and it's important to ask questions in an intentional way."

Why Representation Matters Growing up, Jade rarely saw books featuring adoption, mixed-race families, or the full spectrum of emotions that adoptees experience. This absence inspired her to write the book she wished she'd had as a child.

Asking Better Questions So how do we ask about someone's origins without making assumptions or causing discomfort? Jade suggests reframing the question entirely: "Where's home for you?" "Where did you grow up?" "What would you like me to know about you?" These alternatives open conversation without presupposing answers or invalidating someone's experience.

Listen Now Whether you're an adoptee, a parent, an educator, or simply someone who wants to create a more inclusive world, this conversation offers insights into fostering belonging for everyone. Jade's book is available at whereamifrombook.com and wherever books are sold. And yes—there are hidden dumplings throughout the illustrations.

About the Guests: Jade Amez is an Asian-American children's book author, traveler, hockey and soccer player, and self-proclaimed dumpling enthusiast. Her debut book addresses topics absent from her own childhood reading.

Caitlin Kraus is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Board-Certified Music Therapist whose work encompasses therapy, songwriting, and community music-making.

Brad Swiniarski is a musician, father, and creator of The Bozniak Radio Extravaganza show on Radio Free Athens (WOUB 1340AM), with over 30 years of songwriting experience.

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