On this episode of The Defender, Rob, Herbie, Karla, and Ford unpack the newly released 2025 intercountry adoption numbers, down to 973 children from 1,172 the year before. They break down why the drop isn't about declining need but about a harder process: older kids, sibling groups, more complex needs, and mounting bureaucratic delays. The team talks through what Lifeline is doing in response (focusing on smaller emerging programs, hosting initiatives, and advocacy), and makes a direct call to action: pray, advocate with your representatives, consider hosting, and if you're ready, take the next step toward adoption. A candid, hopeful conversation about a shifting landscape and the families and children still waiting.

Katie Adams, manager of Lifeline's expat adoption program, joins Dr. Rick to trace her path from a childhood on Fort Benning through a faith awakening in high school, a major shift from nursing to social work at Samford, and a season of service with kids with special needs. She shares how a global pandemic redirected her toward Lifeline, how she fell unexpectedly in love with India's adoption program, and how she now helps missionary and military families overseas navigate the practical, financial, and emotional sides of adopting internationally.

Rick Morton sits down with sisters Ava and Lily Bamberg, both adopted from China and now students at Auburn University, home to the nation's only collegiate power soccer team. Ava and Lily share how they found their way to Auburn, what power soccer looks like on the court, and what it took to become one of the most dedicated teams in their division, including a championship season that moved them up to the sport's top competitive tier.

The conversation turns to their adoption story, and their mother joins in to describe the unmistakable moment she knew God was calling their family to bring each daughter home. Ava and Lily also open up about what they've learned growing up with disabilities, how their faith and family have shaped their sense of purpose, and what they wish local churches understood about welcoming and including people with disabilities well.

Learn more about Lifeline Children's Services at lifelinechild.org.