Episode 13: The Power in Pause & Reclaiming Your Story with Francine Apy
On this episode of the Spark Something New podcast, I welcome Francine Apy, an adoptive mother and former HR executive. Francine shares her journey of adoption, her advocacy work, and the founding of her organization, SoulFilling, which supports adoptive families in reframing their stories. The discussion delves into the power of reclaiming and reframing your story and how that leads you to healing, connection, and living out your purpose. Francine also emphasizes the need for quiet reflection to receive a SPARK that might ignite a fire within you.
Episode Chapters
00:28 Meet Francine Apy: Advocate and Author
03:27 Francine's Journey as an Adoptive Mother
06:43 The Evolution of Adoption
09:32 Celebrating Adoption and Changing the Narrative
16:45 The Power of Language in Adoption
23:22 Living with Purpose
37:05 Practical Advice for Reclaiming Your Story
43:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Episode Resources
Connect with Francine Apy on LinkedIn
Learn more about SoulFilling
Buy "Briana's Brave Day at School" Children's Book
Episode Guest
About Kristin Popp
Francine Apy is an author, adoption advocate, and the founder of SoulFilling, a platform dedicated to inspiring conversations and sharing uplifting and balanced stories of adoption. As a mother to three adopted sons, and a aunt to 5 nieces who were also adopted, Francine understands firsthand the importance of creating open, ongoing conversations about adoption, providing families with comfort, confidence, connection and open communication.
With over 25 years of experience in HR leadership, coaching, professional development, and training, Francine brings a wealth of expertise to her advocacy work. She holds a BA from LeMoyne College, completed the Coaching Training Intensive (CTI) through the Coaching and Positive Psychology (CaPP) Institute, and has further refined her voice through the Write, Speak, Coach Master Class. Her work blends storytelling with a deep commitment to empowering individuals and families touched by adoption and beyond!
Francine’s debut children’s book, Brianna’s Brave Day at School, introduces young readers to the power of sharing your story and understanding when faced with questions about adoption. Her work amplifies stories where things are going well for birth families, adoptive families, and adoptees, fostering authentic conversations at home, work, and school.
Through podcast interviews, book readings, and collaborative projects, Francine connects with the adoption community to celebrate its triumphs while navigating its challenges. Her mission is to shine a light on adoption stories that inspire hope and growth, helping families and individuals feel seen, heard, and understood.