
Journey and Discovery with Emma Boggess
From Open Adoption Project by Lanette & Shaun Nelson
May 30, 2026 · 53 min · Episode 126
About this episode
Emma Boggess shares her adoption journey, the impact of discovering her Jewish heritage, and offers advice for prospective adoptive parents.
Emma opens up about her adoption story, growing up with loving parents who were transparent about the process. Her journey took a surprising turn when an Ancestry DNA test revealed her Jewish heritage, eventually leading to a heartfelt connection with her birth father. Emma reflects on how adoption shaped her identity, her sense of belonging, and her gratitude for life’s unique perspective. She candidly shares the joys and challenges of adoption, emphasizing the importance of open communication and support within the adoption community. For prospective adoptive parents, Emma offers wise advice: approach adoption with humility and a readiness to meet the child’s individual needs.
People in this episode
Hosts: Lanette Nelson, Shaun Nelson
Guest: Emma Boggess
Topics covered
- adoption
- identity
- heritage
- communication
- support
- parenting
Keywords
- adoption story
- Jewish heritage
- Ancestry DNA
- identity
- belonging
- open communication
- adoption community
- parenting advice
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Ancestry
More episodes of Open Adoption Project
- From Secrets to Self-Discovery with Bob Sutherland · June 2, 2026 · 46 min
- Finding Family Through DNA: Adoptee Diane Rosenblum’s Journey · June 1, 2026 · 39 min
- Discovery, Reconnection, and the Adoption Experience with Edward Di Gangi · May 31, 2026 · 40 min
- Book Club: The Baby Thief with Heather Rodriguez · December 1, 2025 · 41 min
- Book Club: All You Can Ever Know with Anna Lehnardt · November 24, 2025 · 35 min
- Representation Matters with Allison Olson · October 17, 2025 · 29 min
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