Kari Rudd: A Whole New World, A Whole New Me

In this powerful episode, we’re joined by Kari Rudd, a Korean adoptee based in Santa Barbara, California. Kari shares her transformative journey of searching for identity and belonging after her challenging experiences with adoption.

Kari was adopted at around six months old into a family that faced significant struggles. After being removed from her adoptive family as a teenager, she has lived a life marked by resilience and quest for understanding. Now serving alongside her husband, Eric, as ministers and administrators of a transitional living center and church, Kari offers a unique perspective on healing and community. She has embraced the KAD community over the past year, discovering a whole new world—and a whole new version of herself.

What to Expect in This Episode:

Kari candidly discusses her adoption experience and the profound effect it has had on her sense of self and belonging. We discuss themes such as identity, her struggles with her faith, fear, obligation, and guilt within the context of the church, racism, scarcity mindset and people pleasing as a trauma response, mental health issues, self-compassion and healing, and heartbreaks from corruption of government and privatized adoption agencies.

Connect with Kari here: 

kari.rudd@usw.salvation-army.org

Share your thoughts on this episode and connect with us on social media. Let’s continue the conversation on the importance of amplifying every adoptee’s story.

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

Website: https://www.theempoweredadoptee.com/
Facebook: The Empowered Adoptee 
Instagram: the.empowered.adoptee
Email: hello@theempoweredadoptee.com

Summer Mini Retreat in Atlanta Now Open to All Adoptees! 

June 22–24, 2025 | Atlanta, GA

The intention of this summer retreat will be to continue the KAAN theme of “Growth and Change” We see you. We understand the complexities of your journey, and we invite you to join us for a transformative summer retreat designed specifically for you—a space to heal, connect, and reclaim your identity.

And we are excited to share that Laurie, Claire, and Hollee Mcginnis will all be attending KAAN this year! Please reach out if you are attending we would love to connect with you.

Imagine being in a sanctuary created by adoptees, for adoptees—surrounded by people who truly understand your story and the complexities of your experience. This retreat is not just an event; it's a chance to empower yourself, make meaningful connections, and foster transformation.

Expect a beautiful balance of rest, reflection, and empowerment, surrounded by supportive adoptee kin who truly understand the complexities of this journey.

What you can expect:

 Ancestral Healing: Dive deep into the rich tradition of making whole napa pogi kimchi with Hollee McGinnis, reclaiming the wisdom of those who came before us as we honor our heritage.

 Healing Modalities: Experience emotional release and nervous system regulation with EFT Tapping, Somatic Movement, and Somatic Breathwork—tools that will serve you long after the retreat.

 Nourishing Meals: Indulge in delicious, homemade Korean meals, prepared with love to nourish your body and soul.

 Ease of Travel: Enjoy free transportation from the KAAN event and the airport, making your journey as effortless as possible.

This is not just a retreat; it’s an invitation to transform your narrative.
Register by June 7th, 2025: https://www.theempoweredadoptee.com/