In this follow-up conversation, we welcome back Julie Duvall—an aged-out Korean orphan, late-life adoptee, and fierce advocate for adult Korean orphans. Julie returns to share more deeply about her ongoing journey of healing, faith, and purpose.

We dive into the realities faced by those who grow up in orphanages without ever being adopted, and the emotional landscape that unfolds in adulthood—from identity formation to grief, resilience, and love. Julie opens her heart about what has helped her not only survive, but thrive, and how she’s using her story to uplift others through her nonprofit, Love Beyond the Orphanage.

This episode is an invitation to listen with compassion, to learn from narratives often left out of adoption conversations, and to reflect on how we support one another in healing.

💬 What You'll Hear in This Episode:

• Julie’s reflections on how adulthood continues to reveal new layers of healing and grief as an aged-out orphan
• The emotional journey of being adopted at 23 and how this impacted her sense of self and belonging
• How faith, mentorship, and community have shaped Julie’s path forward
• Insights on how society can better support orphans who age out of institutional care
• Updates on Love Beyond the Orphanage and its mission to walk alongside adult orphans with dignity and love
• Encouragement and wisdom for adoptees, orphans, and allies navigating their own healing journey

📚 Resources & Connect:

🌐 Website: Love Beyond the Orphanage
📧 Email: lovebeyondtheorphanage@gmail.com

📚 Additional Resources & Support:

• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• Therapy & Emotional Support: Look for identity-affirming therapists on https://www.inclusivetherapists.com

💌 We’d love to hear from you:
If this episode resonated, feel free to reach out, ask questions, or share your story. You are not alone. You are deeply worthy of love and healing.

If you found this episode helpful, please consider subscribing, rating, and leaving a comment on The Empowered Adoptee Podcast. Share this episode with others who may benefit from understanding and overcoming self-sabotage in their relationships! We love you and appreciate all of your support <3

If you would like to connect with us, you can find us here:

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