Defining Diego

Defining Diego is a poignant, investigative memoir that chronicles the complex intersection of international adoption, cultural identity, and personal history. Through the lens of a mother-son duo—journalist Laurie Stern and her adopted son, Diego—the podcast utilizes two decades of archival audio to explore the rise and collapse of the Guatemalan adoption industry. The narrative transcends a typical family story, evolving into a profound examination of indigenous heritage, the challenges of transracial adoption, and the search for belonging between two worlds. With a tone that is both intimate and journalistic, the show appeals to listeners interested in sociology, human rights, and deeply personal storytelling that challenges conventional narratives about family and home.