Sydney Curtin on Open Adoption: A Birth Mother's Journey to Advocacy
The Teaching Journeys Podcast · Apr 20, 2026 · 47:42
The Teaching Journeys Podcast · Apr 20, 2026 · 47:42
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Host Dave Roberts interviews Sydney Curtin—author, songwriter, entrepreneur, consultant, and nonprofit board member—about experiences shaping her life and work. Curtin describes childhood instability, her mother’s fatal addiction, being raised by a single father, and entering an abusive relationship at 20 that led to pregnancy. Facing custody fears, she chose an open infant adoption in 2019, naming her daughter Emberlyn to mean “beautiful firestorm,” but says the adoptive parents later moved abroad and effectively closed the adoption. She wrote the workbook “Courageous Considerations” to help expectant mothers and adoptive parents set expectations and ask critical questions. Curtin discusses adoption dynamics, overcommunication vs. expectation setting, and her advocacy for adoption reform, including legally enforceable post-adoption contact agreements, access to resources and legal representation, and banning unlicensed facilitators. Her key takeaway is that self-development begins with self-forgiveness.
Sydney's Bio and Contact Information
Sydney Curtin is a published author, songwriter, and serial entrepreneur known for her executive-level work at the intersection of business strategy, leadership, and purpose-driven impact. As a highly sought-out business consultant, she brings strategy and growth to founders and organizations, is the CEO of multiple companies that she owns and operates and a board member for the nonprofit organization Unplanned Good, where she helps shape national advocacy and mission-focused initiatives. Recognized for blending sharp business acumen with authentic storytelling, Sydney has built and led multiple ventures while maintaining a respected public presence. And above all, she is a mom of three, a role that anchors her leadership, influence, and long-term vision.
Links:
https://www.facebook.com/sydney.nicole.566
To find out more about Dave go to davidrobertsmsw.com
Episodes: The Teaching Journeys Podcast
