Curiosity Continuum

How deep does your line of questioning go when you are curious? When do you feel like you can most freely ask questions? Do you allow yourself to be questioned by others? Why or why not?

summaryIn this conversation, Brian and Josh explore the complexities of modern communication, particularly the overwhelming nature of social media and its impact on mental health. They discuss the addictive qualities of social media, the importance of creativity over consumption, and the value of failure in achieving success. The conversation also touches on the disparity between perception and reality in the digital age, emphasizing the need for perseverance in the face of challenges. takeaways Communication today is exhausting due to multiple platforms. Humans are not wired for the constant engagement of social media. Social media can create an addictive cycle of validation. Limiting exposure to social media is essential for mental health. Creatives often do not consume content in their field to avoid bias. Success is often highlighted, while struggles are hidden. Failure is a crucial part of the journey to success. Perception on social media can be misleading and unrealistic. Real-life interactions are vital for human connection. Perseverance can inspire others in their own journeys.

n this conversation, Brian and Josh explore the themes of life choices, aging, and the concept of home. They discuss how their experiences and reflections on life have evolved as they have aged, particularly in relation to where they live and the impact of significant life events. The discussion delves into the emotional connections to places, the freedom to explore new locations, and the importance of family dynamics in shaping future decisions. Ultimately, they emphasize the value of adventure and personal growth in navigating life's journey. takeaways The place you live can significantly impact your life choices. Aging prompts reevaluation of personal goals and priorities. Home can be defined in multiple ways and locations. It's acceptable to seek adventure and change in life. Middle age often brings a desire for exploration and freedom. Family dynamics play a crucial role in life decisions. Life's constraints can lead to better choices. The emotional connection to places can shape our identity. Exploration can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. Adventure is a fundamental aspect of the human experience. titles The Journey of Life Choices The Quest for Belonging and Identity Sound Bites "Are we working to live or living to work?" "It's okay to move. It's okay to travel." "You could have more than one home." Chapters 00:00Exploring Life Choices and Locations 02:57The Impact of Aging on Life Decisions 06:02The Concept of Home and Belonging 09:01The Freedom to Move and Explore 12:02Adventure and the Human Experience 15:02Family Dynamics and Future Considerations

This is our first ever encore repost from a few years back. Please listen and continue to evolve YOUR conversation. Conversations are an art form that everyone can become a better artist. Learn how to have better conversations during your daily adventures.

Over the next few weeks we will be bringing some encores in that will really help to setup the next level of CC and what we have to offer. (original logline) Collaboration is a word often used, rarely practiced. How do we actually work together? How can we find a way forward?

Over the next few weeks we will be bringing some encores in that will really help to setup the next level of CC and what we have to offer. (Original Logline) Who do you know that is a great listener? Who do you listen intently to in your life? Whose words are big in your ears? Are you sure you know how to listen well?

We discuss in this episode how you can normalize the creative in your life and how we ( Brian and Josh) did this in the past. How we took the skills we have and have maxed out in our own life. To that end how we took that and launched it above and beyond.

When you come back to a familiar construct after you have been away or the normal flow has been disrupted, how do you process the return to form? What does the return make you want to do? How does it work for others?

Do you love LEGO bricks? What was your favorite set? Did you have a big old box of spare parts that haunted your room? Riff with us as we show love to one of our favorite toys of all time.

In this conversation, Brian and Josh discuss the concept of being great at something and the challenges that come with it. They explore the idea of overachieving and the pressure to excel in multiple areas. They also touch on the importance of recognizing and leveraging one's strengths, as well as the value of collaboration and contextual awareness. The conversation highlights the journey of personal growth and the need to embrace imperfections. Overall, it encourages listeners to find their own path to greatness and to support others in their pursuit. keywords overachieving, strengths, collaboration, contextual awareness, personal growth, imperfections, support takeaways Being great at something doesn't mean you have to excel in multiple areas or be perfect. Recognize and leverage your strengths instead of trying to be good at everything. Collaboration and contextual awareness are key to success. Embrace imperfections and learn from setbacks. Support others in their pursuit of greatness. titles The Pressure to Overachieve Recognizing and Leveraging Your Strengths

Still going, until it does not. They don't make them like they used to. But, why? Do you think new fangled is better than old fashioned? Why have we lost sight of our durable analog roots to the latest innovations that affect our lives? References: Check out the website for the Centennial Light Bulb, the world's longest burning light bulb. https://www.centennialbulb.org/

summaryThe conversation explores the themes of adaptability, specialization, and the impact of AI on jobs. It discusses the importance of being able to adapt and the anxiety that can come from feeling the need to know everything. The conversation also touches on the tension between specializing and staying viable in a rapidly changing world. It highlights the value of human skills and the need to constantly evolve and reframe one's skill set. The conversation concludes with a call to embrace change and be prepared for the future. keywordsadaptability, specialization, anxiety, AI, jobs, human skills, change takeaways Adaptability is crucial in a rapidly changing world. Specializing in a particular field can be valuable, but it's important to stay current and avoid becoming obsolete. Human skills and creativity are unique and cannot be fully replaced by AI. It's important to constantly evolve and reframe one's skill set to stay relevant in the job market. Embracing change and being prepared for the future is essential. titles The Value of Human Skills in the Age of AI Constantly Evolving and Reframing Your Skill Set Sound Bites "There is something to be said about saying, this is what I do and I do not these other things." "Maybe I can't do it, or maybe I shouldn't." "Adaptation is almost like a novelty in a way that I don't always have to do it." Chapters 00:00Introduction 00:08The Importance of Adaptability in a Changing World 01:45The Tension Between Specialization and Staying Viable 05:32The Value of Human Skills in the Age of AI 08:25Constantly Evolving and Reframing Your Skill Set 16:31Embracing Change and Being Prepared for the Future 18:02Conclusion

Summary The conversation explores the movements and quests of life, the unpredictability of the future, and the diversity of human experiences. It delves into the concept of being the main character in one's own story and the impact of others as villains or side characters. The discussion also touches on risk management, the role of ignorance and faith in confidence, and the different perspectives people have that shape out experience. Takeaways Life is composed of different movements and quests, some of which may seem like side quests but can shape the overall story. The unpredictability of life can lead to unexpected inflection points and decisions that shape the future. People have different perspectives and experiences, making the overall human experience diverse. Being the main character in one's own story means navigating the roles of others as villains or side characters. Risk management involves taking calculated risks and being open to the unknown. Ignorance can sometimes lead to confidence and a fearless approach to life. Having faith in the face of adversity can bring about positive outcomes. Chapters 00:00 The Movements and Quests of Life 01:01 Navigating the Unpredictability of the Future 02:50 Dealing with Unexpected Challenges 04:38 Reflecting on Life's Surprises 07:56 The Impact of Others in Our Stories 09:45 Risk Management and Calculated Risks 13:45 The Power of Ignorance and Confidence 15:41 Continuing the Conversation Keywords life movements, quests, unpredictability, diversity, main character, villains, risk management, ignorance, faith, confidence, perspectives

In this conversation, Kara Schillerstrom Mather, a music teacher and conductor, discusses the challenges of balancing motherhood and a career. She reflects on her own experiences as a mother and the sacrifices she has made. Kara also talks about the influence of her mother and grandmother in shaping her understanding of motherhood and work-life balance. The conversation explores the importance of delegation, the need for self-care, and the constant juggling of responsibilities. They discuss the role of a conductor in an orchestra and draw parallels to parenting and leadership. They explore the importance of building trust and confidence among musicians, creating an environment of psychological safety, and inspiring individuals to bring out their best. Kara emphasizes the need for conductors to be guides rather than dictators, allowing musicians to function independently while working together as a cohesive team. They also discuss the value of failure in the learning process and the significance of each individual's contribution to the overall ensemble.

This conversation explores the changing dynamics of social contagion in the context of entertainment choices. It discusses the impact of streaming services on the collective viewing experience and the fragmentation of social currency. The need for unified social contagion is highlighted, drawing comparisons to past television phenomena like MASH and Who shot JR?. The conversation also touches on the cadence of broadcast television and the challenges of maintaining social currency in a fractured media landscape. takeaways Streaming services have changed the dynamics of social contagion in entertainment, leading to a more fragmented viewing experience. In the past, shows like MASH and Who shot JR? created a unified social contagion, with large groups of people following along and discussing the episodes. The cadence of broadcast television, with its seasons and breaks, allowed for anticipation and collective viewing experiences. Finding common ground and social currency in a fractured media landscape requires alternative ways of connecting beyond traditional topics like sports. Chapters 00:00Setting up the microphone 00:45The need for unified social contagion 04:00Who shot JR? 04:19The pits 05:23Fractured social currency 06:18Breaking Bad and climactic breaks 07:18Recapturing social currency 09:20The horse may be out of the barn 10:01Finding other ways to connect 10:17Thirsty for more

In this conversation, Josh and Brian discuss the relationship between happiness, awareness, and ignorance. They explore the idea of being present in the moment and focusing on what is important to find joy. They also touch on the role of anxiety and how it can hinder curiosity and happiness. The conversation emphasizes the importance of finding anchor points in life and having support from others.

The conversation explores the cyclical nature of fashion, music, and generational perspectives, as well as the impact of technology on societal connections. It delves into the concept of nostalgia and the desire to tap into the past for understanding and experience. The discussion also touches on creativity, constraints, and the value of simplicity in design and life.

This conversation delves into the nostalgia of 80s cartoons, particularly the Transformers, and the value of revisiting childhood interests to gain a deeper understanding. It also explores the concept of epiphany and the importance of filling in gaps of knowledge to gain clarity and continuity in life.

In this conversation, Brian and Josh discuss the science fiction epic 'Dune' and its impact on the genre. They explore the themes, characters, and world-building of the Dune universe, as well as its influence on real-world technology and creativity. The conversation delves into the appeal of science fiction and its ability to engage the imagination and inspire innovation.

Don't let the term "thrift" throw you. Undiscovered treasures abound in the overlooked corners of second-hand stores. Just because someone no longer places importance on something does not mean someone else finds it irresistible. And, it creates entirely new economies. What's the best thing you discovered in a thrift store?

How does boredom affect you? How do you rest? Do the dreams you have change when you have adequate fallow mental moments? How do you solve it?

In this conversation, Brian and Josh discuss the concept of the paralysis of choice, particularly in the context of streaming services and dating apps. They explore how the abundance of options can lead to indecision and a lack of commitment. They also discuss the importance of making a choice and taking the first step to overcome the paralysis of choice. The conversation highlights the need for limits and constraints to drive action and focus. Ultimately, they emphasize the significance of actively choosing and exploring different options to avoid being overwhelmed by the abundance of choices. The abundance of choices in streaming services and dating apps can lead to indecision and a lack of commitment. Making a choice and taking the first step is crucial to overcome the paralysis of choice. Limits and constraints can help drive action and focus in decision-making. Actively choosing and exploring different options is important to avoid being overwhelmed by the abundance of choices. Chapters 00:00Introduction: Europe and the Paralysis of Choice 00:43The Overwhelming Choices of Streaming Services 03:28Taking an Active Approach in Decision-Making 04:01The Need for Limits and Constraints 06:23The Cheesecake Factory Menu as an Example 07:33The Paralysis of Choice in Society 08:39The Importance of Making a Choice 10:13The Flip-Flopping of Roles in Society 11:17Choosing Constructs and Focusing Life 12:12Taking the First Step to Overcome Paralysis of Choice 13:07The Importance of Consistency and Action 14:05Freeing Mental Resources by Making a Choice 15:14Finding Quality Connections Outside of Dating Apps 16:03Conclusion: Taking the First Step

Many employers and schools target specific skills for jobs. But what about the people who can understand how things fit together, not just how each piece should function? This meta layer is where the Generalist lives, and they are always asking questions that makes their creativity thrive.

Monopoly money - We all know it's not real money. But, what if you played with REAL money? Listen to the recap of eventful game of Monopoly that Brian played with his children, ages 13 and 11, and how using real money changed their own gaming behavior and inspired real-life learning. Notes: Listen to the TedX talk that inspired our own curiosity: When money isn’t real: the $10,000 experiment | Adam Carroll | TEDxLondonBusinessSchool

In this conversation, Brian and Josh discuss the concept of micro moments of influence and how small actions can have a significant impact on others. They emphasize that even though these moments may seem insignificant to the person initiating them, they can be life-changing for the recipient. The hosts also highlight the importance of being aware of the influence we have on others, especially younger individuals who look up to us. They conclude by reminding listeners that every action matters and can contribute to the greater good. Takeaways Micro moments of influence can have a macro impact on others. Small actions can be life-changing for the recipient, even if they seem insignificant to the initiator. Being aware of the influence we have on others, especially younger individuals, is crucial. Every action matters and can contribute to the greater good. Chapters 00:00Micro Moments of Influence 03:42The Impact of Small Actions 06:03The Ripple Effect of Influence 07:27The Power of Unperceived Moments 08:27The Importance of Being Mindful

Does the heaviness of life drag on you? How do you cope with those feelings and take a break? Brian and I (Josh) discuss this and the human need to sometimes switch modes to fully understand our life situations.

Why is friendship important? Do you have any lifelong friends? In today's world, friendship is even more critical in an ever increasing digital world that can be isolating from real relationships.

If there are edges, there's a middle. What's your center? Why is it important?

Take a journey with us down memory lane as we recount our very first episode. In this special recording we ( Brian and Josh ) recount the first episode of Curiosity Continuum , The Value Of Friendship. We talk about how its the same and different than today and how we use this knowledge to look into the future of CC. Join us for this riveting discussion!

Why should we always "think outside the box?" Is the box inherently bad? We discuss what "The Box" is, its meaning, and its importance.

Limited resources force you to focus your creativity and resourcefulness. The best innovations often come when lack of time, money, and tools - because if it already existed, it would not be innovative. How have limits uncapped your unlimited imagination?

This conversation explores the importance of humor and satire in drawing attention to serious issues and promoting understanding. It emphasizes the need to explore different perspectives and challenge fixed mindsets. The concept of planting seeds of thought is discussed as a way to initiate meaningful conversations and promote change. The conversation also highlights the need for a common goal in political discussions and the dangers of constant arguments without understanding. Overall, the conversation encourages open-mindedness and the use of humor to foster dialogue and progress. Humor and satire can be effective tools for drawing attention to serious issues and promoting understanding. Exploring different perspectives and challenging fixed mindsets is crucial for meaningful conversations. Planting seeds of thought can initiate change and promote open-mindedness. In political discussions, it is important to have a common goal and seek understanding rather than constant arguments. Chapters 00:00The Importance of Humor and Satire 01:14Understanding Satire 03:12Exploring Different Perspectives 05:00Breaking Down Fixed Mindsets 06:28Planting Seeds of Thought 10:52Seeking Understanding in Politics 13:17The Quagmire of Constant Arguments 14:39Conclusion

This conversation explores the power and importance of distractions. We discuss how distractions can pull us away from our focus and the significance of being present in the moment. We talk about reminiscing about the analog experience of video stores and how distractions played a role in discovering new movies. The conversation also delves into the dependency on technology and the need to find balance. Ultimately, Brian and I highlight how distractions can lead to unexpected and meaningful experiences in life. Chapters 00:00The Power of Distraction 03:22The Analog Experience of Video Stores 08:26Distractions as an Exercise 10:33Becoming Dependent on Technology 12:06Living Distracted and Finding Focus 13:53Distractions as Opportunities

We discuss the importance of spending time together and the value of wasting time. We explore the concept of shared experiences and presentness, highlighting the difference between passive consumption and active engagement. The impact of devices on shared experiences is also examined, with a focus on the addictive nature of technology. Our conversation concludes with a call to take an active role in managing device usage and reclaiming meaningful experiences. Spending time together is an important way to build relationships and create meaningful connections. Wasting time can be valuable, especially for creative individuals who need downtime to recharge and find inspiration. Shared experiences require presentness and active engagement, which is often lacking in the age of technology. Taking an active role in managing device usage is crucial for reclaiming meaningful experiences and making the most of our limited time. Chapters 00:00Introduction and Setting 00:57The Importance of Spending Time Together 02:23The Investment of Time 03:21Shared Experiences and Presentness 05:16The Value of Wasting Time 09:00The Impact of Devices on Shared Experiences 10:24Building Single Experiences 13:38The Paralysis of Choice 15:36Taking an Active Role in Device Usage 16:19Conclusion

This conversation explores the importance of being together in the same room and the difference between recording separately and being together. It also delves into the evolution of music recording, the immersive experience of being together and the perceived sound vs. the perfect sound. The challenges of digital conversations and the importance of in-person conversations are also discussed. Being together in the same room allows for immediate feedback and a more authentic experience. Recording separately can result in a more controlled environment, but lacks the spontaneity and dynamic of real-time collaboration. The evolution of music recording has led to a more perfect, curated sound, but may lack the human element and context of playing with other musicians. Dolby Atmos provides an immersive audio experience that can enhance the perception of sound. The perceived sound is different from the perfect sound, as our analog brains perceive sound in a biological, non-digital way. Digital conversations present challenges in maintaining a natural conversation flow and interrupting each other. In-person conversations are valuable for building relationships and understanding how others interact. Having an earnest conversation in person can lead to a more organic and engaging conversation. Chapters 00:00The Importance of Being Together in the Room 03:18The Difference Between Recording Separately and Being Together 05:15The Benefits of Real-Time Collaboration 06:12The Evolution of Music Recording 07:41The Immersive Experience of Dolby Atmos 09:07The Perceived Sound vs. the Perfect Sound 10:24The Challenges of Digital Conversations 11:23The Importance of In-Person Conversations

In this conversation, we discuss the role of subject matter experts and our frustrations with the term. We emphasize the importance of exploring new perspectives and the need to adapt skills and apply them in different contexts. We will also share personal experiences that highlight the importance of understanding customer needs and the limitations of subject matter expertise. Ultimately, we fall on the side of valuing deep level experience over subject matter expertise in most situations. Subject matter experts bring unique perspectives and knowledge to specific topics, but it's important to also explore new perspectives from people with different areas of expertise. Adapting skills and applying them in different contexts is crucial for innovation and problem-solving. Subject matter expertise should not be the sole criteria for hiring or decision-making; understanding customer needs and providing the desired results is equally important. Deep level experience, gained through years of practice and varied experiences, can often be more valuable than subject matter expertise. Chapters 00:00 The Role of Subject Matter Experts 03:08 Exploring New Perspectives 05:00 Adapting Skills and Applying Them 08:22 The Frustration with Subject Matter Experts 12:13 The Importance of Context and Customer Needs 14:36 Deep Level Experience vs Subject Matter Expertise

How do you become aware of new creative possibilities? How do you deal with them? What do you do to adapt your expertise when the possibilities intersect with you?

(Slight audio weirdness on this one, but still great content!) How do you become aware of new possibilities? How do you deal with it? What do you do to adapt your expertise when the possibilities intersect with you? What do you do with it?

Special Edition: Originally a live stream to YouTube and Facebook on February 11, 2024, Brian gets deeply personal on how his first trip back to Korea impacted him. Brian shares original writings, personal insights, and messages to other adoptees and parents of adoptees. The livestream happened the same day as Super Bowl LVIII and Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year. Of course, two worlds coming together at once on the same day. From Brian: Thanks for patiently waiting as we worked out the kinds today! The technical issues made me neglect to address this - Brian, you were solo today. What happened to your co-host, Esther Shin MacIntosh? We had to change format last minute due to sickness. Join me in praying for a speedy recovery for her. And, fear not! We will plan a reschedule of some kind and let you know. First time/this time - One Korean. Second time/next time - Two Koreans. You all just don't know what you're getting yourselves into Thanks for the love and support today! #korea #koreanadoptee #internationaladoption #identity #ethnicidentity

Do you have a special skill from childhood that you didn't fully understand until adulthood? What did you use to refine it? When did you realize it all?

The question to a highly successful, recently retired sales leader: What practices do you see modern sales teams lacking that would turn them from average to stellar? Special thanks to Randy for his decades of friendship and generosity with his time and wisdom! Proactive vs. Reactive Creators vs. Consumers Timeframe from Contract to Close

Part 2 of Brian's Korea trip updates. Brian talks about what it meant to reconnect with his foster mom from 43 years ago.

A more personal episode, Brian shares how his first time back to his Motherland stood out in his mind and how it changed him.

How long can you sustain your current pace? When/how do you recharge to be at your best? Why are you at your current pace? What would happen if you just stopped doing some things?

Brian shares a poignant metaphorical essay on dealing with the many pieces of identity. The Harmony of Identity In Western music, there are only 12 notes. These 12 notes, in combinations and patterns, expressed over time, speak a language of the soul in words not formed with syllables. The richness and color of music comes not solely from melody, which is a single progression of notes, but from harmony, where two or more notes come together to create a combined sound at the same time. The space between these notes shapes how the harmony sounds, or the tonality. This tonality is unique to that group of notes and defines the character of that sound. Simple or complex, it resonates. But did you know that the best sounding harmonies are based on a series of compromises? If you listen to a well-tuned piano, each individual note is not perfectly in tune to the exactness of its actual pitch. If it was, the instrument would sound strident and harsh and would not make you think of music. To make this instrument sound musical, a skilled piano tuner (as in, a human being) will start with one pitch, generally middle C, and tune that note to the calibration point, which is often a tuning fork that resonates only at that specific frequency. From there, the piano tuner will temper the tuning of the surrounding notes to that starting note. Meaning, they will adjust the tuning of other notes to resonate in context with the other notes to sound pleasant, not perfect. So what of identity? We do not choose the starting notes of our identity we are given in this life. Too often, we strive to hide or diminish a note, thinking it does not, or should not, belong. We may overplay a single note at the expense of our own dimensionality. Or, we try to make perfect each individual note and only end up in internal dissonance. When in truth, all these notes together makes us special. Whether close or far apart, those seemingly conflicting parts of us give us character. It’s a messy work of compromise and tempering, and a constant need to tune. But in the outworking, we find peace within the process of making the many notes within us, resonate together in imperfect harmony. By what measure are you calibrating your starting pitch of identity? How have you tempered the individual notes in your identity to craft your unique sound? What harmony of identity resonates from you?

How are your passions intertwined with your economic activities? What do you want to shift in proportions in your activities in a given week? When was the last time you re-evaluated what you've been doing?

In this episode, Brian and Josh discuss Brian's upcoming trip to Korea and the complexity of the topic. They explore the importance of language and communication, as well as the reasons behind choosing to learn a specific language. They also discuss the desire to visit ancestral places and the immigrant experience. The conversation touches on the preservation of heritage and identity, as well as the process of cultural integration. Brian emphasizes the importance of recording thoughts and experiences while exploring the world and oneself. Takeaways Language can be a powerful tool for connecting with others and understanding different cultures. Exploring ancestral places can provide a deeper understanding of one's heritage and identity. The immigrant experience involves adapting to a new language and culture while preserving one's own. Preserving and celebrating one's heritage is important for personal and cultural identity. Recording thoughts and experiences while exploring the world can lead to personal growth and self-discovery.

Does the first person with the idea, win? Have you ever had an idea that was just not right, right now? Why do those who see it second succeed?

Brian shares the emotionally candid essay that he submitted as part of his application for his trip to Seoul, South Korea. THE ESSAY Korea – An Unfamiliar Place, Deep Within My Heart My story, like many Korean adoptees of the 1980s, started with an orphanage, Korean foster care, and a plane ride before arriving stateside in the USA. I grew up as a Korean adoptee in a small town in central Minnesota, as the only child in the family to older parents. Both my parents were the youngest of their siblings, and the timing of my adoption meant I was years younger than all my first cousins, and years older than my second cousins. I was alone in my age group within my extended family. My adoptive parents were loving and provided me a stable home and safe place to grow up. And, the wisdom given to parents raising a child of a different race in those days was largely color blindness – to de-emphasize the uniqueness of the diversity of humankind by reinforcing the message that where you came from was not important, and that it should not be regarded as important now. While there are indeed shared human experiences across all ethnic groups, and key themes that should unite us as humans: Being Korean, which I am, was left in a neglected place. And while my adoptive parents reinforced my personal value and worth, they did not know to educate themselves and learn more about where their son came from so they could share stories with him of his homeland. I did not attend any adoptee camps growing up, nor did I learn anything of Korean culture, food, or language. My first exposure to something largely Korean was watching the 1988 Olympics on television. I learned what kimchi was in middle school, watching re-runs of M*A*S*H. I do not believe the actions of my parents were malicious in anyway, but the silence in the deep place is felt, even as a child. Now in my 40s, I recently mentioned adding kimchi to my fried rice recipe. My adopted mother, now nearing her 80s, asked in all earnestness, “What’s kimchi?” For years, well into adulthood, I shut the door to the unfamiliar place to preserve myself, and become somehow, not Korean. But the door could never be fully closed, and only by reopening it in my adult years after college and into married life have I realized the vastness of the place this has taken up in my heart. As a dad to two wonderful children, now both in their teenage years, it has been eye-opening to me to listen and watch them identify openly and proudly as Korean, something that was silent for me well into adulthood. Their vibrance for life and their curiosity into their ethnic heritage made me realize that the undiscovered places within me needed to be explored and appreciated in a new way. I want them to see their dad grow and explore what it means to know yourself in a healthy way. I have always been curious and love learning new things. I know that one of the best ways to learn is to immerse yourself in the subject matter. Any standing internal ambivalence about the leap evaporates when you take a dive. With the economic consequences of COVID lockdowns to my personal finances, I thought any trip would be years out, even though the desire burned bright. A trip to Korea represents the opportunity to dive into the deep, unfamiliar place within my heart and experience the richness of my heritage. I have never been back to Korea. I don’t know who my birth family is. I don’t know any Korean language. I know little about Korean culture. For me, my family, and my legacy: Let’s go explore Korea. Let’s meet the Korean people. The land of my birth, the roots of my family, the place where past and present kiss and propel me into the future. Unfamiliar places should not stay unfamiliar. Korea, the Motherland. Deep in my heart, forever on my mind.

A deeply personal episode - Brian was selected to travel to Korea, his Motherland. He has never been back since his adoption. How do these friends unpack this conversation about the pre-trip anticipation? What do adoptees experience in the formation of identity?