Unraveling Adoption

"The root of the work, I would say, is really slowing down and learning how to sit with the discomfort of different sensations in the body." -- Rebecca Berg Transcript Read this episode's transcript: https://app.swellai.com/t/tp_01HQC31S90118VY2NM91EADH9Q Synopsis In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, I had the pleasure of speaking with Rebecca Berg, a registered dietitian and adoptee who specializes in the intersection of adoption and food behaviors. Rebecca shared her personal journey of overcoming orthorexia and how early childhood trauma can manifest in issues around food. We delved into the complexities of adoption trauma and its impact on food relationships, highlighting the importance of understanding the connection between food and emotional well-being. Rebecca emphasized the need for adoptees to feel connected to their bodies and prioritize self-care, especially when dealing with stress and anxiety. She discussed the concept of "safe foods" for children with trauma histories and the importance of creating a structured and consistent meal environment to promote a sense of safety and security. As an adoptive parent, Rebecca provided valuable insights on supporting adopted children with food issues, emphasizing the significance of co-regulation and offering familiar, comforting foods to build trust and stability. She also introduced the concept of "body doubling" as a supportive technique for individuals struggling with nutrition and mental health challenges. Throughout the episode, Rebecca highlighted the importance of seeking professional help from registered dietitians with expertise in mental health and eating disorders. She shared practical advice for adoptive parents and individuals struggling with food-related issues, emphasizing the need for patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to explore and experiment with different approaches to nutrition and well-being. The episode concluded with a reminder to join the upcoming town hall meeting on March 10th to address the serious issue of murders of adopted children by adoptive parents and brainstorm ways to create safer environments for adopted children in our communities. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between adoption, trauma, and food behaviors, offering practical strategies for individuals and families navigating these challenges. Timestamps Introduction to Unraveling Adoption: 00:00:02-00:00:13 Exploring the Intersection of Adoption and Food Behaviors: 00:00:46-00:00:56 Personal Journey of an Adoptee and Registered Dietitian: 00:04:12-00:05:57 Understanding Orthorexia and Recovery: 00:05:05-00:06:07 Impact of Anxiety and Trauma on Eating Behaviors: 00:08:17-00:09:48 Becoming a Registered Dietitian: 00:10:06-00:11:29 Challenges and Nuances of Food Issues: 00:12:27-00:13:22 Strategies for Grounding and Regulation: 00:14:40-00:15:56 Body Doubling and Supportive Techniques: 00:15:56-00:16:44 Advice for Adoptive Parents on Food Issues: 00:17:02-00:19:00 Importance of Safe Foods and Feeding Practices: 00:19:10-00:20:17 Seeking Help and Professional Support: 00:20:38-00:22:51 Upcoming Event and Call to Action: 00:23:01-00:24:07 Resources mentioned in this episode Contact Rebecca at https://www.nostringsnutrition.com/. Find Rebecca on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/no.strings.nutrition/ Follow Rebecca on Facebook @No Strings Nutrition: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554833143968 Attend the Town Hall meeting on Sunday, March 10, 2024, to discuss adoptee murders and what we can do to keep our community's adopted children safe. adopteemurders.eventbrite.com Other Resources APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption Check out our website: www.UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION

My adoptive father talked about it as my birthright to go back to Central America. I really like that framing. So I think that was part of the reason why they let me go on so many trips and that was such a wonderful experience. - Nelson de Witt Discover the shocking truth about Nelson de Witt's journey to uncover his past after being adopted from Central America. His story is a heart-wrenching tale of forced disappearances, political strife, and the courage to face the truth. Nelson's experiences will leave you in awe and disbelief as he navigates the complexities of adoption and the impact of historical and cultural tragedies. Stay tuned to learn more about Nelson's daring quest for truth and how it continues to shape his life today. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the impact of forced disappearances on families in Central and South America. Explore the complexities of political conflicts in Central America and how it impacted him as an adopted person. Dive into the importance of understanding historical and cultural contexts of adoptees' early lives. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== My special guest is Nelson de Witt Nelson de Witt, also known as Nelson/Roberto, is an advocate and survivor of El Salvador's civil war. He experienced a forced disappearance as a one-year-old and was reunited with his birth family at the age of 16. Nelson's personal story sheds light on the impact of forced disappearances on families. Through his experiences, he brings a unique perspective that helps to unravel the complexities of adoption and the historical and cultural context of the forced disappearances in Central and South America. His insights and advocacy work contribute to a greater understanding of the profound effects of such events on those involved - adopted or not. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit Nelson/Roberto's website at Nelsonroberto.com to learn more about his documentary film Identifying Nelson/Buscando Roberto and his book Waking from Innocent Dreams. Check out the book Missing Mila, Finding Family written by Nelson's adoptive mother, which provides her perspective on the adoption story: https://amzn.to/4bDAABo Keep an eye out for Nelson's upcoming story workshops for adoptees, which he may be launching publicly later in the year. Follow Nelson on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/dewittn19/ Impact of Forced Disappearances Influenced by social, political, and personal factors, forced disappearances have far-reaching impacts on families and societies. The individuals left behind wrestle with prolonged uncertainty, emotional distress, and other psychological ramifications. Being aware of the deep emotional trauma fostered by forced disappearances aids us in comprehending the resilience shown by survivors and provides better support and understanding to those affected. Political Conflicts in Central America Historical instances of political unrest in Central America have resulted in numerous human rights violations, including forced disappearances. These conflicts are multifaceted, characterized by fluid alliances, entrenched inequality, and differing ideological perspectives. By understanding these complexities, we gain a deeper insight into the atmosphere that gives rise to phenomena such as forced disappearances and how these events impact individuals and communities. =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption Check out our website: www.UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Background Beth introduces the podcast and herself as an adoptive mom, along with her guest Nelson de Witt. Nelson shares his experience of being separated from his birth family during El Salvador's civil war and being reunited with them at the age of 16. 00:01:09 - Growing Up and Discovery Nelson talks about growing up in his adoptive family, being told he was adopted, and the mystery surrounding his adoption. He shares the shocking news of being reunited with his biological family and the intense emotions and overwhelming experience of meeting them for the first time. 00:04:18 - Adoption and Reunion Nelson's ado

Love is an action. It's not always pink and it's not always red. Sometimes it gets black, sometimes it gets blue. But love is an action. - Alicia Murray In this episode, you will be able to: Explore the challenges of foster care and adoption journeys. Discover the profound importance of sibling connections in adoption. Embrace the value of openness in adoption and birth family connections. Find out how to provide essential post-adoption services and support. Uncover the challenges and realities of adopting older children. My special guest is Alicia Murray Our guest, Alicia Murray, brings a wealth of firsthand experience in the adoption landscape. Having been adopted at the age of ten after navigating through seven different foster placements, Alicia's journey offers a unique perspective on the challenges of adoption, particularly when it comes to older children. With a background in psychology and a current role as a family support specialist, Alicia's insights are rooted in both personal experience and professional expertise. Her work in helping foster youth find permanency further solidifies her credibility as an advocate in the adoption community. Plus she's now an adoptive mom of two sibling toddlers herself. Alicia joins us to shed light on the realities and complexities of adopting older children, offering valuable knowledge and empathy to our discussion. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== The resources mentioned in this episode are: Email Alicia at [email protected] for any questions or inquiries about their programs and services. Visit AFFCNY.org to explore an array of resources, events, programs, and support groups for adoptive families, teens, and everyone involved in the adoption process. Find AFFCNY on Instagram as @AFFCNY, https://www.instagram.com/affcny/ ; and on Facebook as @Adoptive and Foster Family Coalition of New York, https://www.facebook.com/affcny Explore the resources and support provided by Wendy's Wonderful Kids, a nonprofit organization collaborating with AFFCNY to help older adopted youth find permanent placement: https://www.davethomasfoundation.org/our-programs/wendys-wonderful-kids/ Beth's wonderful life coach, Heather Ross, has a podcast plus individual and group coaching: HeatherRossCoaching.com =============== Embrace openness in adoption A conversation with Alicia Murray unveils the transformative power of openness in adoption. She conveys a strong need for adoptive families to support a child's connection with their biological roots, affirming it's crucial for maintaining their sense of identity and well-being. With Alicia's encouraging perspective, it becomes evident that embracing openness in adoption does not necessarily divide love but multiplies it, fostering a nurturing environment for the child's overall development. =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption Check out our website: www.UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Background Beth Syverson introduces herself as an adoptive mom and certified coach. Guest, Alicia Murray, shares her experience of being adopted at age ten after multiple foster placements. 00:00:51 - Alicia's Foster Experience Alicia describes her tumultuous experience of being in multiple foster placements and finally being adopted at age ten. She also shares the challenges of being separated from her brother and the difficulties in finding a permanent home. 00:04:17 - Reconnecting with Biological Family Alicia recounts the complicated story of reconnecting with her biological family at the age of 13, including finding her grandmother's phone number in the yellow pages and the emotional reunion with her mother. 00:11:20 - Finding Purpose and Healing Alicia shares her journey of healing and finding purpose through therapy, introspection, and pursuing a career in foster care and adoption. She reflects on how her own experiences have shaped her approach as a foster and adoptive parent. 00:13:37 - Fostering and Adoption Journey Alicia discusses her initial intention to become a foster parent, her unexpected journey of adopting two siblings, and the challenges and joy

"I started meditating a lot, and eventually doing retreats, eventually going to monasteries, spending some time in a Zen Buddhist meditation center. So, yeah, I think that's kind of where I took my pain, my anguish, my existential questions, and I think there's some ambiguity there. I think there's also a kind of escapism, because I didn't know how to connect with the world or address questions that other people my age were addressing. Like livelihood, relationships, family. I just sat on a cushion." - Julian Washio Collette Can you imagine the weight of not belonging and carrying the trauma of multiple abandonments? The struggle to find a sense of identity and stability after being adopted and then relinquished and adopted again is incredibly challenging. The lack of control over your own story and the feeling of being failed by the system can leave deep emotional scars. Julian's life story will help you understand the impacts of relinquishment, and will make you aware of the importance of finding support and community to help navigate the complexities of adoption. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the unique challenges of being a double adoptee and how it shapes one's identity. Explore the profound impact of abandonment and abuse on adoptees and their journey to healing. Gain insight into the complexities of adoption and the importance of understanding its nuances. Discover the need for better support systems for adoptees and how it can positively impact their lives. Learn about the lifelong impact of multiple abandonments and how it shapes the adoptee's perspective and experiences. My special guest is Julian Washio-Collette Julian Washio-Collette, a former Catholic monk currently residing in Portland, Oregon, is our guest for this episode. As a double adoptee, Julian's personal journey of being adopted as an infant and then again at the age of nine provides a unique perspective on the complexities of adoption. With a passion for writing about spirituality, adoption, and healing, Julian's insights and experiences contribute to a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals impacted by adoption or abandonment. His story sheds light on the resilience and strength needed to navigate such intricate circumstances, making him a valuable voice in the conversation around adoption. =============== The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit Julian's blog site called Peregrine Adoptee to read his insightful writings about spirituality, adoption, and healing: peregrineadoptee.wordpress.com Explore the Unraveling Adoption website to find information about upcoming events, webinars, and workshops related to adoption and healing, including Mee Ok Icaro's upcoming webinar about Sacred Plant Medicine 101 for the Adoption Constellation: unravelingadoption.com/events =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ =============== Unique Challenges of Double Adoptees The unique challenges faced by double adoptees like Julian Washio-Collette are centered around the absence of family continuity and frequent displacement. The uncertainty, disconnection, and confusion induced by double adoptions can leave deep psychological scars. Their unprecedented experiences urge us to shed light on the hidden complexities of double adoption and foster understanding about their distinct needs and perspectives. =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption Check out our website: www.UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Background Beth introduces herself as an adoptive mom and certified coach. Julian's background as a double adoptee is highlighted, setting the stage for a complex and impactful story. 00:01:21 - Julian's Early Life Julian shares details about his first adoption and the secrecy surrounding his birth and early years. The lack of information about his early life creates a sense of fuzziness and identity dissonance. 00:05:16 - Second Adoption and Family Dynamics Julian recounts the circumstances of his second adoption at the age of nine and the abusive environment in his second adoptive family. The lack of support and bond with

"I think for adoptees, my biggest advice for them is to ask if you need something. Whether it be therapy, whether it's understanding your story, whether it's being able to know your identity, ask. And if they don't want to tell you, keep asking." -- Sariah Baker In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the profound influence of adoption trauma on self-identity and self-worth. Discover the unique struggles and triumphs faced by intercountry adoptees in the LGBTQ+ community. Recognize the pivotal role adoptive parents play in supporting the unique needs and experiences of intercountry adoptees. Learn about effective therapeutic approaches that empower intercountry adoptees to navigate their complex identities and experiences. Observe a journey of self-discovery and personal growth as an intercountry adoptee sheds limiting labels and societal expectations. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== My special guest is Sariah Baker Sariah Baker, a 31-year-old human resources manager living in Portland, Oregon, brings a unique perspective to the complexities of intercountry and interracial adoption. As an intercountry adoptee from China, raised in a white Mormon family, Sariah's story delves into the intricate layers of identity she has navigated throughout her life. Her experiences offer valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of finding and embracing one's true identity. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Subscribe to Sariah's YouTube channel The Adoptee Apostate for insightful content and poetry readings related to adoption, identity, and personal growth: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAdopteeApostate Follow Sariah on TikTok at The Adoptee Apostate for engaging and thought-provoking videos on adoption, mental health, and self-discovery: https://www.tiktok.com/@theadopteeapostate Connect with Sariah on Instagram at The Adoptee Apostate for updates on her journey, poetry, and discussions on adoption and identity: https://www.instagram.com/theadopteeapostate/ Here's the book Sariah mentioned about her Chinese orphanage, Death by Default: A Policy of Fatal Neglect in China's State Orphanages: https://amzn.to/3HAsiMI Adoption Mosaic is a wonderful organization, headed by Astrid Castro, to support adoptees: https://adoptionmosaic.com/ Other resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ =============== Uncovering the Impact of Adoption Trauma Adoption trauma can have long-lasting effects on an adoptee. It can shake one's self-perception and fuel internal struggles, particularly in relation to identity. Helping adoptees navigate and heal from such trauma requires understanding, patience, and therapeutic intervention. Embracing the Vital Role of Adoptive Parents Adoptive parents play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of adoption trauma and providing an accepting space for their children. They hold the responsibility of fostering open communication, providing emotional support, and celebrating the unique backgrounds of their adoptees. Proper understanding and support from adoptive parents can significantly aid in an adoptee's journey towards self-acceptance and self-discovery. =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption Check out our website: www.UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Background Beth introduces the podcast and the guest, Sariah Baker, an intercountry adoptee from China raised in a white Mormon family. Sariah briefly shares her background and the circumstances of her adoption. 00:02:47 - Challenges of Adoption Sariah discusses the complexities of her adoption, including the traumatic experiences in the orphanage and the challenges of being raised in a white Mormon family as a Chinese adoptee. 00:06:53 - Struggles with Identity and Trauma Sariah shares her struggles with trauma, perfectionism, and navigating her sexuality within the context of her Mormon upbringing, leading to emotional pain and self-medication with large quantities of Ibuprofen. 00:10:15 - Seeking Help and Recovery Sariah recounts seeking help for her mental health struggles and the impact of institutional treatment on breaking free from perfectionism and allowing herself to feel emotions. 00:11:28 -

"Change can happen incrementally, and oftentimes it's better that it does. We've heard the cliche 'trust the process.' Oftentimes the process is the most important thing." - David Bohl Join relinquishee/adoptee recovery coach David Bohl as he confronts the paradox of finding trust and healing in the intersection of adoption and addiction. He guides individuals towards healthy coping mechanisms and support in the face of deep-rooted trauma. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the possible impacts of adoption trauma on mental health and addiction. Embrace TRUST as a key component in the journey to recovery. Explore the unique challenges of addiction for adopted people. Find safe and supportive communities for healing and growth. My special guest is David Bohl Meet David B. Bohl, an expert in addiction and adoption, whose personal journey through addiction recovery and exploration of the complex intersection between adoption and addiction brings a unique blend of empathy and expertise to our conversation. With a background that includes serving on the boards of prominent addiction and adoption organizations and receiving credentials from esteemed organizations like the Hazelton Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies, David's insights are informed, compassionate, and relatable. His memoir, Parallel Universes, and nonfiction book, Relinquishment and Addiction: What Trauma Has to Do with It, not only solidify his expertise but also highlight his commitment to providing support for individuals affected by adoption and addiction. David's balanced approach to destigmatizing addiction and promoting recovery reflects his genuine passion for helping others navigate their healing journey. 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX The resources mentioned in this episode are: To find David Bohl's recovery coaching services, visit his website at beaconconfidential.com or Google his name with the middle initial B to find his many resources online. Buy David's memoir Parallel Universes: The Story of Rebirth: https://www.amazon.com/Parallel-Universes-David-B-Bohl-ebook/dp/B079KSVJGB Check out the book David wrote with Jamie Marich, Relinquishment and Addiction: What Trauma Has to Do With It: https://www.amazon.com/Relinquishment-Addiction-What-Trauma-Has-ebook/dp/B09NZ37CX6 Here's Jamie Marich's book Trauma and the 12 Steps: https://www.amazon.com/Trauma-12-Steps-Meditations-Reflections-ebook/dp/B08KC38MJZ Paul Sunderland's excellent video "Addiction & Adoption: Remembered Not Recalled" can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3e0-SsmOUJI Celia Center has a facilitated adoption constellation addiction group, led by David, that meets every other Tuesday. Find more information here: https://celiacenter.org/ To sign up for the Untangling Our Roots Summit in Denver in April 2024, visit the event's website for registration details. UntanglingOurRoots.com For adoptive parents interested in coaching groups, visit unravelingadoption.com/coaching or email Beth at [email protected] for more information on upcoming coaching groups or individual coaching sessions. If you're an adoptee, birth parent, adoptive parent, or ally looking for support groups or events, visit unravelingadoption.com/Calendar. I maintain a Community Calendar listing there with dozens of support groups for the adoption constellation. =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption Check out our website: www.UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION =============== Embracing trust in recovery - David emphasizes the crucial role of trust in recovery. From his own experiences, he realized that as an adoptee he had struggled to trust himself, others, and Higher Powers. His recovery journey was initiated by a process of rebuilding trust and finding healthier ways to deal with life's stressors. This topic is important as it underscores the concept that trust serves as a fundamental pillar in the path to recovery. =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Background Beth introduces herself, and acknowledges her and her son Joe's commitment to helping those impacted by adoption. She also introduces David Bohl as a guest who has struggled an

"Adoptive parents, go do your own work. It's kind of a natural birthright to know who you are." - Louise Browne Adoptive parents and allies: Do you want to better understand and support your adoptive child's experiences? Our guests, adoptees Sarah Reinhardt and Louise Browne, will be sharing valuable insights and guidance on how to gain a deeper understanding and provide the support that adoptees need to thrive. By listening to their stories - and other adoptees' stories they share on their Adoption: The Making of Me podcast episodes - you can gain a deeper understanding and provide the necessary support for your adoptive child to flourish. Tune in to gain some new insights to support your adoptive child's journey. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the unique challenges of adoption experiences. Explore the impact of secrecy and shame in adoption. Gain insight into adoptees' alternate realities and perspectives. Get the inside scoop about Sarah and Louise's friendship and their podcast, Adoption: The Making of Me. My special guests are Sarah Reinhardt and Louise Brownee Sarah Reinhardt and Louise Browne are the dynamic duo behind the podcast Adoption: The Making of Me. As adoptees themselves, they bring their personal stories and insights in a candid and relatable manner on their own pod. Through their podcast, they aim to unravel the complexities of adoption, offering a blend of humor, empathy, and raw honesty. Sarah and Louise's journey of coming "out of the fog" in real-time adds authenticity and depth to their discussions, making their podcast an invaluable resource for adoptive parents and allies seeking to understand and support their children's experiences. Get ready to dive into their fascinating stories and gain a deeper understanding of adoption through their eyes. And find out more about their podcast's background and hopes for the future. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== The resources mentioned in this episode are: To listen to the Adoption: The Making of Me podcast, visit their website at adoptionthemakingofme.com, or search for them on your favorite podcast platform. Support the Adoption: The Making of Me podcast on Patreon to help them continue their important work in elevating adoptive voices and providing valuable resources to the adoption community. https://www.patreon.com/themakingofmepodcast Come meet Sarah and Louise in New York for a meet-and-greet before Rebecca Autumn Sansom's and Liz DeBetta's Operation Fog Lift NYC Edition on February 2-4, 2024. Here are some of the books that were mentioned in the episode: The Primal Wound by Nancy Verrier Journey of the Adopted Self by Betty Jean Lifton The Baby Thief: The Untold Story of Georgia Tann, the Baby Seller Who Corrupted Adoption by Barbara Bisantz Raymond Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introducing the Guests Beth introduces the guests, Sarah Reinhardt and Louise Browne, who co-host the podcast Adoption: The Making of Me. They aim to uncover adoption complexities and share their own adoption stories. 00:01:23 - Different Adoption Stories Sarah and Louise discuss their different adoption experiences. Sarah had a traumatic beginning, while Louise was adopted into a loving family. They highlight the impact of adoption on their lives. 00:09:30 - Coming Out of the Fog The guests share their journey of coming out of the fog, realizing the complexities of adoption, and experiencing emotional ups and downs. They discuss the awakening moments and the challenges they faced during this process. 00:11:42 - Starting the Podcast Sarah and Louise reflect on starting their podcast without anticipating the emotional intensity of discussing their adoption experiences. They talk about bonding over being adoptees and finding camaraderie with other adoptees. 00:13:02 - Adoptee Camaraderie The guests highlight the unique camaraderie among adoptees, where they can instantly connect with others who share similar experiences. They emphasize the shared underst

"Today really is the solidified decision is that I'm going to quit marijuana for...not forever, but for one day at a time. That's how people should look at it. You don't have to, but that's how I'm looking at it, to keep myself afloat." -- Joe Nakao Unraveling Adoption's co-creator Joe Nakao catches us up on his journey to achieve personal growth and to heal his cannabis addiction, seeking support and understanding along the way. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the derailing effect of cannabis addiction Unravel the impact of genetic factors on adoptive individuals' addiction. Embrace the importance of self-compassion and support in addiction recovery. Explore the benefits of online support groups in addiction recovery. My special guest is my dear son, Joe Nakao As a co-creator of this podcast, Joe brings a personal and relatable touch to the discussion. He bravely shares his journey of addiction recovery and healing, shedding light on the complexities of his experiences as a transracial adoptee. Joe's candid and insightful reflections offer a valuable perspective on the challenges of overcoming addiction, making him an authentic and credible voice for individuals on similar paths. 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX The resources mentioned in this episode are: Check out the community calendar at unravelingadoption.com/calendar for continuously-updated support groups, including specific groups for adoptees and addiction. Here's a Filtered view of the Addiction-specific events on the Community Calendar: https://airtable.com/app2ZqjhAS6xbLNBt/shrcW41MlAT0Bivrx Join the interactive workshop How to Change Well on Zoom on Monday, January 8, 2024, at 4pm PST / 7pm EST. The workshop focuses on gracefully and intentionally making changes in your life. The cost is $20.24, and Patreon supporters receive a 50% discount on live events, including this workshop. Register at howtochangewell.eventbrite.com. Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption Check out our website: www.UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction and New Year Update Beth introduces the episode and her son, Joe, who shares his recent achievements, such as getting his driver's permit and enrolling in college. Joe also discusses his struggles with substance abuse and mental health. 00:04:21 - Impact of Substance Abuse Joe discusses the negative effects of marijuana on his life, including memory problems and lack of motivation. He and his mom also reflect on how self-medication with marijuana as a transracially adopted teen makes sense. 00:10:31 - Influence of Supplements on Recovery Joe attributes a portion of his ability to pursue recovery to the supplements he has been taking that were prescribed after his genetic testing. These supplements have helped him feel more focused and engaged in tasks that he would have previously avoided. 00:11:32 - Embracing Change and Self-Discovery Joe expresses a newfound determination to make positive changes in his life. He acknowledges the need to go deeper in his healing process and emphasizes the importance of making the decision to pursue sobriety from within. 00:13:57 - Intrinsic Motivation for Recovery Beth and Joe discuss the significance of intrinsic motivation in the recovery process. Joe recognizes that sustainable change comes from within and highlights the importance of being personally invested in the journey towards sobriety. 00:14:14 - Recognizing the bigger picture of success Joe discusses his realization about the dead-end path of his weed usage and the importance of making a life for himself. He acknowledges the benefits of weed but recognizes its negative impact on his life. 00:15:39 - Support from friends and addiction Joe shares how his friends have been supportive and want him to be better. He reflects on his desire to be in a position to help others in the same way his friends have helped him. 00:17:41 - Genetics and addiction Beth highlights the impact of genetics on addiction and how it can be especially relevant for adopted individuals who may not know their genetic predispositions. Joe emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and reaching out for support. 00:19:16 - Finding the he

"If you, as the white adoptive parent, are comfortable, you're not doing it right. Because your kid is uncomfortable." - Katie Wynen Are you touched by transracial adoption? Or do you know any adoptees who were adopted transracially? How do you personally frame transracial adoption? Some common rationalizations include the belief that love is enough, that colorblindness is the solution, and that children will assimilate easily into their new culture. But this episode will challenge those cultural norms which are based on white privilege. Stay tuned as our guest, transracial adoptee and adoption professional, Katie Wynen, shares her truth about ethical practices in transracial adoption. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the complexities of transracial adoption and how to navigate them effectively. Find support and insight to do the very best you can as adoptive parents in a diverse family dynamic. Recognize and combat the impact of white supremacy on transracial adoptive families. Discover strategies for helping a transracially adopted child navigate their racial identity in a loving and supportive environment. My special guest is Katie Wynen Katie Wynen is a transracial, Colombian adoptee who holds a Master's degree in Social Work and boasts over a decade of experience as an adoption professional. Having studied under Dr. Joyce Maguire Pavao in Boston, Katie's professional journey led her to join the staff of Pact: An Adoption Alliance in 2012. In her role, she is involved in adoption placement, leading adult adoptee support groups, and providing adoption education on a national scale. Notably, Katie's commitment to advocating for adoptees, particularly those who are people of color and LGBTQ+, was acknowledged with the Angels in Adoption 2019 award from the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute. With her extensive personal and professional background, Katie is a key resource for gaining insights into ethical practices in transracial adoption. 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit pactadopt.org for information on support calls, webinars, teen and tween club, and other resources related to adoption, including race and adoption-focused therapy. Contact Katie at [email protected] for additional resources, adoptee support groups, and therapy support resources. Check out unravelingadoption.com for a free support group for adoptive parents, individual and group coaching, and other resources for people touched by adoption. Understanding Transracial Adoption Complexities Transracial adoption brings unique complexities that need acknowledgment and understanding. As Katie Wynen highlights, adoptees of color often grapple with feelings of discomfort and a lack of belonging in their adoptive families. Moreover, nuances such as navigating racial identity within a family of a different race underscores the need for comprehensive support structures. 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 Other resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 Support and Insight for Adoptive Parents Adoptive parents play a pivotal role in shaping the experiences of their adopted children. As such, they require adequate knowledge and tools to help their children navigate challenges related to their racial identity and adoption. Wynen emphasizes the need for adoptive parents, especially those of transracial adoptions, to consider proactive approaches like finding their own support systems and continually educating themselves about various adoption issues. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Background Beth introduces herself as an adoptive mom of her 19-year-old son, Joe. She also introduces Katie Wynen, a transracial, international Colombian adoptee with a Master's degree in Social Work. 00:00:57 - Katie's Adoption Story Katie shares her adoption story, being born in Bogotá, Colombia, and being adopted by a white Episcopalian family in the U.S. She discusses growing up in a predominantly white community and the impact of being a transracial ad

"Adoption is about finding homes for babies, not about finding babies for families." -- Paul Fiscus Do you want to see an increase in awareness and advocacy for natural fathers? Join me in listening to Paul Fiscus' plea for greater support and recognition for natural fathers. He hasn't seen his 5-year-old daughter Eliza since she was an infant. Through our discussion, you will learn actionable steps to raise awareness and advocate for the rights of natural fathers. Together, we can make a difference and bring about positive change for fathers fighting for their right to parent. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the impact of unjust treatment of natural parents in adoption. Uncover the corruption in the adoption system and its impact on parental rights. Explore the role of racism in adoption cases and its effects on natural fathers. Advocate for parental rights and learn how to increase awareness and support for natural fathers. My special guest is Paul Fiscus Paul Fiscus, a devoted natural father, brings a unique perspective to the discussion on adoption and custody rights. His personal experiences have propelled him to become a passionate advocate for the rights of natural fathers. Paul's unwavering determination and in-depth understanding of the legal intricacies surrounding adoption highlight the hurdles that natural fathers can sometimes encounter. His insights and commitment to creating change in the treatment of natural fathers make him an invaluable voice in the ongoing dialogue about fathers' rights in the adoption process. 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit the website freeeliza.com to learn more about Paul's fight for his daughter and to stay updated on his advocacy efforts. Connect with Paul directly by emailing him at [email protected] if you have any specific questions or want to offer support or assistance. Connect with the Free Eliza group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/freeeliza Support or volunteer for Saving Our Sisters with Renee Gelin: https://savingoursistersadoption.org/ 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 Understand Unjust Treatment in Adoption The adoption industry is a tumultuous space characterized by decisions that can often feel arbitrary and unjust to the affected parties. This is highlighted in Paul Fiscus' experience where he faced severe challenges in fighting for his rights as a natural father. The bias and seeming corruption in the system reflect a pressing need for increased dialogue, ethical practices and actionable reform to provide fair treatment for all parties involved. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Background Beth Syverson introduces the podcast and her guest, Paul Fiscus, who shares his experience as a natural father to a daughter he hasn't seen since infancy. The conversation aims to shed light on the complexities and injustices of adoption. 00:01:16 - Becoming a Father Paul Fiscus shares his experience of finding out about becoming a father at 39 and the complexities of his relationship with the natural mother of his daughter. He discusses the challenges of co-parenting and the impact of the mother's bipolar disorder on their plans. 00:04:00 - Relinquishment and Legal Battles Paul discusses the challenges he faced when the natural mother cut off contact and the subsequent relinquishment of his daughter for adoption. He details the legal battles, ethical violations, and his relentless efforts to fight for his parental rights. 00:08:48 - Birth Mother's Motivation Paul reveals the birth mother's motivations, including her refusal to co-parent, control issues, and financial gains from the adoption. He highlights the unethical practices within the adoption industry and the impact on his daughter's well-being. 00:12:42 - Adoptive Parents' Role Paul discusses the refusal of the adoptive parents to communicate with him and their perspective on the legal process. He emphasizes the ethical and moral consideratio

Take the initiative to learn from all the resources that are out there. Recognize the importance of doing so for the benefit of adopted youth. - Meggin (Nam) Holtz If you're interested in supporting adopted youth in your family or community, then we have inspiration for you in today's episode! You may be trying to provide a loving and understanding environment, but still seeing your child struggle with feelings of not belonging. If you're feeling like your efforts to connect with an adopted youth in your life are falling short, then you are not alone! It's common to feel frustrated and discouraged when you see your child grappling with identity issues despite your best efforts to support them. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how adoption shapes identity exploration in youth. Explore the transformative power of artistic expression for adoptees. Uncover the complexities of searching for biological relatives as an adoptee, especially as a teen or young adult. Learn the importance of support and community for adopted youth. My special guest is Meggin (Nam) Holtz Joining us today is the remarkable Meggin (Nam) Holtz, an intercountry, interracial adoptee and adoption therapist. As a Korean adoptee who was raised in the US, Nam has been at the forefront of adoption advocacy, awareness, and support for over a decade. With a Master's in Social Work, she brings a wealth of expertise, working in a private practice with adopted individuals and their families, while also engaging in macro work towards adoption reform and education. Nam's award-winning documentary, Found in Korea, serves as a powerful catalyst for discussions about adoption among youth and young adults, showcasing her commitment to empowering adoptees and fostering understanding. 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 The resources mentioned in this episode are: Watch Nam's documentary film Found in Korea on Vimeo to gain insight into the experiences of intercountry, interracial adoptees who are searching for their birth parents: https://vimeo.com/ondemand/foundinkorea Connect with Meggin (Nam) Holtz on Instagram at @foundinkoreafilm and on Facebook at Found in Korea Visit the website adoptioninformed.com to learn more about Nam's therapy practice and find her contact information for potential therapy sessions. Check out the Adoptee Mentoring Society that Nam mentioned, run by Angela Tucker: https://www.adopteementorship.org/ Here are Pact's youth groups: https://pactadopt.org/youth-clubs/ Find support groups and more events for all ages and all types of people touched by adoption at Beth's Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar Explore the unravelingadoption.com website for resources, coaching groups, and individual coaching services for adoptive parents. Consider supporting the Unraveling Adoption podcast by visiting patreon.com/unravelingadoption to contribute to the show's maintenance and development. Artistic Expression for Adoptees Artistic expression can serve as a vital cathartic outlet for adoptees' feelings of confusion or alienation. Activities like dance or music not only provide a form of non-verbal communication but also can help adoptees feel connected and accepted. Identity and Adoption The concept of identity is complex for adoptees, being shaped by both their biological heritage and the family that raises them. Adopted youths often grapple with issues regarding self-identity, as they navigate the intersection of different cultures, races, and environments. Providing a supportive environment that appreciates these unique experiences can foster a stronger sense of self and understanding for adoptees. Challenges of Biological Search It's common for adoptees to seek their biological roots to answer questions about identity and heritage. However, this journey can often be fraught with emotional turmoil and disappointment. Support and guidance during this process can prevent feelings of isolation and help the adoptees deal with complex emotions constructively. 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo

I think that it's definitely a complicated thing, no matter how great the conditions are. But it definitely did something for me to have contact with my biological part of the adoptee experience. - Ben Coolman If the adoptee in your life is feeling overwhelmed by conflicting loyalties and uncertainty about where they belong, we want them to know they are not alone! Despite their efforts to maintain relationships with both sets of parents, they may find themself feeling torn between two worlds and struggling to find their own identity. This is a common experience for many kids and young adult adoptees who grew up in open adoptions, but there are ways to navigate this journey and find one's authentic self. In this episode, you will be able to: Gain insight into unique open adoption experiences. Navigate the challenges for adoptees of maintaining relationships with multiple parents. Discover the need for support tailored for young male adoptees. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== My special guest is Ben Coolman Ben Coolman, a 23-year-old philosophy grad student at Boston College, joins Beth on this episode. Ben's unique experience as a same-race domestic adoptee in an open adoption from birth brings a fresh perspective to understanding the dynamics of open adoption. Growing up with other siblings (not biologically related) in open adoptions, Ben offers valuable insights on navigating relationships with multiple sets of parents and the impact of openness on his life. His candid approach and personal journey provide a relatable and insightful take on the complexities of open adoption, making this episode a must-listen for adoptive parents, young adult adoptees navigating similar experiences, and community members who want to understand adoption's complexities better. Here's how to find Ben: Follow Ben on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bencoolman1/ Connect with Ben on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ben.coolman.10 Reach out to Ben via email: [email protected] Other Resources: Male adoptee support groups (Community Calendar filtered for Male Adoptees only): https://airtable.com/app2ZqjhAS6xbLNBt/shroqjNUz502b5FJE APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Navigating the ComplexitiesNavigating an open adoption's complex dynamic demands strength and an intuitive understanding of human emotions. Ben discussed how managing relationships with four parents can occasionally be challenging, especially the pressure to spend equal time with each parent. He also emphasized the importance of personal growth, self-security, and following intuition when managing the demanding task of evenly divided attention and care. =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption Check out our website: www.UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Background Beth introduces the podcast and her guest, Ben Coolman, a 23-year-old adoptee in an open adoption. Ben shares his origin story, highlighting how his biological parents selected his adoptive parents before his birth. 00:03:55 - Childhood Perceptions Ben reflects on his childhood perceptions of adoption, including his naive belief that everyone gets adopted. He also discusses his experiences with visits from his biological parents and their influence on his understanding of adoption. 00:08:18 - Contrasting Relationships Ben explores the differences between his biological and adoptive parents, highlighting their unique sensibilities and the distinct ways he bonds with each of them. He also touches on his evolving understanding of the adoption experience as he matures into adulthood. 00:10:01 - Navigating Relationships Ben discusses the challenges of managing multiple parental relationships as a young adult. He shares his experience of balancing holiday visits between his biological and adoptive families, highlighting the complexities of maintaining these connections. 00:13:47 - Personal Reflections Ben reflects on his personality traits, noting his fluctuation between being assertive and considering others' needs. He also shares his attempts to integrate and balance his relationships by finding a sense of belonging between his adoptive family in Providence, Boston, and New York. 00:

I think for my mother, she didn't always really see me quite as a person of equal value. - Janell Strube A biracial adoptee, Janell Strube, shares her powerful journey of navigating racial identity and the impact of racism behind closed doors. Did she ever find the acceptance and understanding she sought? In this episode, you will be able to: Realize the complexities of biracial identity. Begin to understand the impact of racism on identity formation. Navigate the unique challenges of biracial identity. Learn how to create a supportive environment for biracial or transracial adopted people. Break the cycle of intergenerational trauma through awareness and action. 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 My special guest is Janell Strube Janell Strube is an accomplished domestic interracial adoptee, memoirist, novelist, and poet. With her unique perspective as an biracial adoptee and an adoptive parent, she navigates the complexities of race and adoption with depth and insight. Having been adopted at just four days old through a church adoption and growing up in a predominantly white community, she faced challenges and prejudices that shaped her understanding of her biracial identity. Her writings and poetry offer a powerful glimpse into her journey, providing valuable insights for parents of biracial children seeking guidance and understanding. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Check out Janell Strube's memoir, novels, and poetry to gain further insight into her adoptee experiences: janellstrube.com Find Janell on Instagram: @janellstrube Subscribe to Janell's Substack: https://janellstrube.substack.com/ Attend adoption-related events, screenings, and gatherings in your local area to connect with others in the adoption community: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 Exploring impact of racism on biracial identity Racism can play a significant role in the development of a biracial identity, particularly when it manifests within the familial setting, as encountered by Janell. This can lead to confusion, insecurity, and emotional distress, potentially disrupting a child's self-esteem and sense of self-worth. The way in which a family navigates and counteracts racism can heavily influence a child's perception of their racial identity and their ability to fully embrace their dual heritage. Learning strategies to navigate challenges Navigating the challenges of biracial identity formation involves actively embracing and valuing the child's distinct cultural backgrounds. Acknowledging and addressing inherent prejudice, providing positive role models from both of the child's racial backgrounds, and listening to and validating the child's experiences are strategies that can cultivate a supportive environment. As in Janell's experience, writing can also be used as a tool for healing and making sense of one's racial identity. 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 Here's Janell's Tree poem: 💜💜💜💜💜💜💜💜 Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:17 - Early Childhood and Adoption Janell shares that she was adopted when she was four days old through a church adoption. Her birth mother, who was white, made the decision to relinquish her. Janell also reveals that she was introduced as a "mulatto child" during her childhood. 00:03:32 - Discovering Her Biracial Identity Janell explains that she learned she was adopted and biracial when she was three years old. She recalls the emotions she felt upon finding out and how her parents handled the revelation. She also discusses her perception of herself as both black and white. 00:05:59 - Community and Racism Janell discusses her experience growing up in a predominantly white community. She shares that she faced racism from some members of her community and struggled with the lack of support or protection from her parents. She also reflects on her parents' pride in adopting a mulatto child. 00:09:26 - Lack of Context and Value Janell talks about the lack of context her parents provided regarding her adoption and how it affected her sense of identity. She also mentions that her mother didn't always see her as a person of equal value, which has been an ongoing source of pain. 00:13:41 - Experiencing Racism in Closed Doors The guest shares her personal experience of racism within her own family, including her birth grandmother's refusal to be called grandmother and her birth mother's family's rejection of her because she is biracial. 00:14:31 - The Impact of Racist Comments Racist comments have a deep and lasting impact on children who are adopted into families that ignore or perpetuate racism. The guest describes these comments as cuts on the soul, causing long-term emotional and psychological harm. 00:15:19 - Lack of Cultural and Racial Mirrors The guest discusses the lack of cul

While I'm away this Thanksgiving week, I wanted to make the recording of our recent Adoptee Remembrance Day vigil available to you all. The live Zoom event was on October 30, 2023. Hear powerful personal stories, emotional poetry, and calls for greater awareness of adoptee suicide, murder, and deportation. TO WATCH THE VIDEO OF THE EVENT, click here: https://youtu.be/uun76F2JQpE TO ACCESS THE WRITTEN PROGRAM FOR THE EVENT, click here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vAkPZW1duk8UlOFhWIfS0ki5xJldn88CtRVJiq9jYwg/edit?usp=sharing =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== SUICIDE PREVENTION RESOURCES: 988 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - Call 988 or go to https://988lifeline.org/ "Adoptees are Dying, But Adoption Agencies Continue to Neglect Our Cries" - Essay by ARD creator Pamela Karanova: https://therealadopteamoxie.substack.com/p/adoptees-are-dying-but-adoption-agencies Adoption and Suicide Prevention: Adult Adoptees Speak Out - Video from AFFCNY: https://www.affcny.network/posts/rebroadcast-adoption-and-suicide-prevention-adult-adoptees-speak-out-agape-monthly-educational-trainings-33532586 Ask Us Anything About Suicidality - Video from Beth Syverson and Frank King, with Joey Nakao: https://youtu.be/5SrnyyT9Jh4 Chronic Suicidality with Frank King - Unraveling Adoption podcast episode: https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/25558560 Psych Hospitals & Suicidal Ideation - Unraveling Adoption podcast episode with Joey Nakao: https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/25558716 Toward Preventing Adoption-Related Suicide- essay by Mirah Riben: https://www.huffpost.com/entry/toward-preventing-adoptio_b_8127882?fbclid=IwAR37CB0IuVD8rRy-ACkUiHhvH9o-Qo2-RotQ1UfkXLN0LDt8LSCU5OHy6X4 OTHER RESOURCES FROM OUR PRESENTERS: Rent Rebecca Autumn Sansom's documentary Reckoning with the Primal Wound: https://reckoningwiththeprimalwound.vhx.tv/buy/reckoning-with-the-primal-wound-2 Unraveling Adoption is organizing a panel discussion called "Sacred Plant Medicine for Healing the Adoption Constellation: How psychedelic journeys can heal trauma" on December 3. Free tickets and more information here: https://healingadoptiontrauma.eventbrite.com Healing the Adoption Constellation Database - find all kinds of practitioners who work with adoptees, birth parents, and/or adoptive parents: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing I'm so grateful to be in community with you all as we delve deeply into these difficult topics around adoption trauma, suicidality, murder, deportation, and the deep pain that most adoptees feel. Please reach out to me or someone you trust if you are feeling dysregulated after hearing or watching this recording. It's important but heavy material to process! Other resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:02 - Introduction Beth introduces the episode and explains that it will be a recording of the Adoptee Remembrance Day service from October 30, 2023. She encourages listeners to watch the video for a more immersive experience. 00:01:26 - Purpose of Adoptee Remembrance Day Beth explains that Adoptee Remembrance Day was created to raise awareness of crimes against adoptees, honor the lives of those lost, and bring attention to adoptee suicide and the issue of international adoptees living without citizenship. 00:04:31 - Self-care and Support Beth emphasizes the importance of self-care during the emotional event and encourages listeners to reach out for support if needed. She also provides the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number. 00:05:01 - Grounding Exercise Beth guides listeners through a grounding exercise to connect with their hearts, the present participants, and the adoption community. 00:05:25 - Adoptee Remembrance Day 2020 Adoptee Moses Farrow shares a touching video he made 3 years ago, the first Adoptee Remembrance Day. 00:09:35 - "Out of the Adoption Fog" Emily Alber shares her poem and artwork 00:10:42 - "A Very Important Day" Christine Warmus Murphy reads a poem about her adopted brother who died by suicide. 00:13:42 - Excerpt from Side by Side: Out of a

Reserve your FREE ticket to the Sacred Plant Medicine for Healing the Adoption Constellation webinar featuring Mee Ok as one of the panelists, December 3 at 1pm PST: https://healingadoptiontrauma.eventbrite.com When you're in the margins and outside of the dominant narrative, you're very aware of what is just taken for granted. - Mee Ok Icaro A transformative journey unfolds as Mee Ok, a Korean transnational adoptee, embraces the healing power of Ayahuasca, finding dramatic physical healing, challenging her beliefs, and finding spiritual growth amidst the risks and rewards of this sacred plant medicine. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the transformative power of Ayahuasca on one's healing journey. Explore cultural assimilation in the context of sacred plant medicines. Learn about how sacred plant medicines (psychedelics) can treat and cure autoimmune diseases. Understand the profound connection between the mind and body, and how it impacts physical ailments. Explore the responsible and ethical use of sacred plant medicines for personal growth and healing. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== My special guest is Mee Ok Icaro Mee Ok Icaro is a noted writer, poet, teacher, book doula, and sacred medicine support practitioner. Born in Korea and adopted by a white evangelical couple in the US, her personal journey has been shaped by the complexities of transracial and transcultural adoption. Mee Ok was one of the case studies in Dr. Gabor Maté's recent book, The Myth of Normal, where she shared her experiences of overcoming scleroderma through the use of sacred plant medicines. Her story was also featured in an episode of Netflix's series [Un]Well, shedding light on her healing journey. Mee Ok's expertise and insights have led her to participate in Dr. Maté's panel for his Wisdom of Trauma Summit, where she shared her profound knowledge on the responsible use of sacred plant medicines. Her upcoming involvement in Unraveling Adoption's Sacred Plant Medicine for Healing the Adoption Constellation panel promises to offer valuable perspectives on how adoption, trauma, and physical pain can be transformed by sacred plant medicines. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Find out more about the upcoming Sacred Plant Medicine for Healing the Adoption Constellation panel on December 3, 2023: https://healingadoptiontrauma.eventbrite.com Read Dr. Gabor Maté's book The Myth of Normal to delve into the cultural separation of the mind-body connection: https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Normal-Illness-Healing-Culture/dp/0593083881 Watch the episode of Netflix's series [Un]Well featuring Mee Ok Ikoro, and learn more about her journey with healing through plant medicine: https://mee-ok.com/netflix-unwell/ Contact Mee Ok for a free 20-minute consultation for writing coaching or sacred medicine support practitioner for your own healing journey: HealingCompassionate.space Watch an endorsement video by Dr. Gabor Maté of Mee Ok's coaching work: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Lxr4hmNBeunxCw_rHjdy6hZVnZWxbXul/view Find an adorable photo of Mee Ok from when she was a Girl Scout: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1u2k0BJJq1dUzdavAVmIvMa3AynlKUowb/view?usp=sharing Review previous podcast guest Glenn Morey's Korean adoptee project Side By Side: https://sidebysideproject.com/ Read Mee Ok's article in Michael Pollan's Medium anthology: https://medium.com/s/trips-worth-telling/ayahuasca-let-me-walk-again-43e429fcf522 Look into Soltara, the Costa Rica organization that holds ayahuasca ceremony retreats, and use the code MEEOK for a discount: https://tinyurl.com/meeok Hear the Unraveling Adoption episode that Beth and Joey did about psychedelics here: https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/25558749 Request a free consultation from Mee Ok at HoldingCompassionate.space Transformative Power of Ayahuasca Ayahuasca, a plant medicine native to the Amazon, is renowned for its transformative potential. This sacred plant allows individuals to tap into deeper levels of consciousness, confront unresolved trauma, and initiate profound spiritual and personal growth. However, engaging with Ayahuasca requires due diligence, caution, and support from reputable indigenous healers to ensure a safe and efficacious journey. Other resources mentioned in this episode: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comme

"Being commodified, treated as an object, as a thing that can be returned or exchanged, deeply affects us. I am not a thing." - Moses Farrow Did you know that adoptees are at least four times as likely to attempt suicide as their non-adopted peers? In this episode, Moses Farrow will shed light on the truth behind high suicide rates among adopted people, and will provide resources to help prevent adoptee suicide. In this episode, you will be able to: Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by adoptees and how to provide meaningful support throughout their journey. Uncover the alarming realities of high suicide rates among adoptees and discover strategies to prevent this tragedy. Explore a wide range of mental health resources specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of adoptees. Develop critical thinking skills to examine and question the adoption industry, promoting transparency and ethical practices for the benefit of all involved. My special guest is Moses Farrow Moses Farrow is an esteemed guest on Unraveling Adoption, bringing a wealth of expertise and personal insights to the discussion. As an intercountry, interracial adopted person from South Korea, Moses resides at the complex intersection of adoption, race, disability, mental health, and activism. With over two decades of experience in the mental health field, Moses has dedicated his work to serving adopted individuals and other at-risk populations. His passion for advocating a complete paradigm shift in the adoption industry is rooted in his tragic personal experiences, having lost three adopted siblings to suicide. Drawing from his extensive background and firsthand knowledge, Moses offers a unique perspective on the challenges faced by adopted people and the importance of prioritizing mental health support. We are privileged to have Moses join us on this episode as we explore the pressing issue of adoptee suicide and discuss strategies for prevention and support. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Explore Moses' website: https://www.transformadoption.com/ Follow Moses Farrow on social media to stay updated on his work in the mental health field. Consider seeking therapy or counseling for yourself or your adopted family member if you are struggling with mental health or adoption-related issues. Find a list of practitioners that care for those touched by adoption here: UnravelingAdoption.com/Healing If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, reach out for help immediately. If you're in the U.S. call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Here are other Unraveling Adoption episodes and workshops related to adoptee suicide, suicidality, and suicide prevention: Psych Hospitals & Suicidal Ideation (with Joey): https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/25558716 Chronic Suicidality with Frank King: https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/25558560 Ask Us Anything: Suicide Edition: https://youtu.be/5SrnyyT9Jh4 Virtual Candlelight Vigil for Adoptee Remembrance Day 2023: https://youtu.be/uun76F2JQpE Understanding Adoptee Challenges In this insightful conversation, Moses Farrow shares his personal experiences as an adoptee, bringing attention to the significant difficulties often faced by individuals in the same situation. He discusses the feeling of being a "square peg in a round hole," highlighting the common struggle of adoptees navigating their cultural identity and fitting into their adoptive families. Moses' shared insights underscore the importance of providing support, understanding, and validation for the unique challenges adoptees face. Tailored Mental Health Resources The discussion underscores the need for comprehensive mental health support for adoptees, taking into account the specific traumas and challenges they face. Moses highlights the prevalence of adoption trauma, urging for it to be understood as a normal response to traumatic experiences rather than pathologized as a mental disorder. He advocates for integrated mental health resources that consider the adoptee's whole experience, providing essential validation and facilitating healing and well-being. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:22 - Adoptee Suicide Beth discusses the topic of adoptee suicide and shares her personal connection to it through her son Joey. Moses, who has lost three adopted siblings to suicide, emphasizes the need for better support and understanding of adopted individuals to prevent more suicides. 00:03:19 - Moses' Origin Story Moses shares his adoption story, being adopted from South Korea at the age of two. He reflects on his Korean identity and having cerebral palsy, which he believes was caused by a difficult birth experience. 00:06:21 - Childhood Dreams Moses discusses his childhood dreams and aspirations, including wanting to be an astronaut, a movie director, and a musician. He reflects on how his interests and goals evolved over time. 00:08:15 - Mental Health and Therapy Moses talks

Register at HeatherRossCoaching.com or at https://HappyEnough.eventbrite.com Do you have a child or loved one struggling with addiction or mental health issues? Are you dreading the holidays? Happy Enough Holidays is an interactive workshop hosted by Heather Ross and Beth Syverson Tuesday, November 14th 4:30 – 6:00 pm PST / 7:30 – 9:00 pm EST $20 for 90-minute interactive workshop Here's What You Get: A Supportive Immersive Experience: Curate your holiday experience with other parents who face similar challenges and understand you during this live workshop. Custom exercises tailored to your needs and situation to help you create a clear vision for supporting yourself and your child through the holidays Reimagine Your Holidays: Rewrite the rules and set your own standards for the holidays. Uncover newfound clarity, embrace realistic expectations, and let your holiday season be a uniquely crafted experience that's entirely your own Unlock Your Inner Strength and Resilience: Resilience isn't a fixed trait It's a muscle that can be strengthened. Together we will unlock the power within you to face holiday uncertainty head-on. Two Inspiring Coaches: Heather Ross and Beth Syverson are your seasoned guides through this journey. They bring years of expertise and a wealth of knowledge in helping families navigate addiction Register at HeatherRossCoaching.com or at https://HappyEnough.eventbrite.com

"Supporting a birth mother doesn't mean just offering empty words, but actively showing her what support looks like and helping her make informed decisions." - Abby Hasberry Have you ever experienced a life-changing twist that completely altered your life view? Abby Hasberry's story of being raised in a transracial adoptive family takes an unexpected turn at age 16, revealing the complexities and challenges faced by both transracial adoptees and birth parents. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== In this episode, you will be able to: Gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by transracial adoptees, helping you provide better support and empathy as an adoptive parent, ally, or professional in the adoption field. Discover the often overlooked experiences of birth parents in adoption, allowing you to have a more comprehensive perspective and offer more compassionate support. Learn about some of the problematic practices in the adoption industry, empowering you to advocate for positive change and ensure ethical adoption processes. Explore the importance of therapy in addressing racialized trauma in transracial adoptees, equipping you with valuable insights and tools to help them heal and thrive. Dive into the inner work and forgiveness journey in adoption, enabling you to approach adoption from a place of empathy, understanding, and healing. My special guest is Dr. Abby Hasberry Dr. Abby Hasberry is our esteemed guest on this episode of Unraveling Adoption. With a background as a domestic transracial adoptee and birth parent, Abby brings a unique perspective to our discussion. Having worked as an educator and principal before transitioning to a career as a licensed marriage and family therapist, Abby is well-versed in supporting adoptees and birth parents on their healing journey. Her therapeutic approach incorporates brainspotting, narrative therapy, and parts work to address the trauma experienced by individuals in the adoption process. Resources: Explore Dr. Abby Hasberry's website to learn more about her therapy practice and the services she offers for adoptees and birth parents: https://dearabbyllc.org/ Find many more of Abby's offerings on her Linktree: https://linktr.ee/d.e.a.r.abby Supporting Birth Parents in Adoption - Birth parents, particularly those coerced into giving up their children for adoption, bear significant emotional trauma that often worsens over time. It is crucial to provide these parents with the necessary support, including comprehensive counseling and space to grieve. Abby Hasberry stresses that these parents also need acknowledgment for the immense loss they suffer, something that the adoption system often neglects. Advocating for Ethical Adoption Practices - Abby shares that the adoption industry often exploits vulnerable pregnant women, prioritizing the provision of infants to adoptive parents over family preservation. She calls attention to the need for transformative change in the adoption system, advocating for more ethical and responsible practices. This includes offering expectant mothers unbiased support, helping them thoroughly understand their options and the long-term effects of their decisions. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:26 - Abby's Adoption Story Abby shares that she was adopted in 1971 by white parents who wanted a big family. However, due to the National Black Social Workers (NABSW) statement on transracial adoption in 1972, her parents were unable to adopt another black child. Abby discusses the implications of this statement and the challenges she faced growing up as the only black child in her family . 00:03:02 - Racial Bias and Identity Beth and Abby discuss how racial bias is present in society and how it can impact transracial adoptees. Abby shares her experience of having a strong black identity and how it sometimes clashed with her mother's racial biases. They also touch on the importance of acknowledging and addressing racial biases. 00:05:34 - Growing Up in a Predominantly White Community Abby talks about her experience growing up in a predominantly white community, where she was often the only black person in her grade. She explains how this influenced her sense of identity and the challenges she faced as a black teenager, especially when she started embracing her black culture and dating black boys. 00:12:11 - Making the Decision to Place Abby discusses her decision to place her child for adoption and the lack of support she received from her parents. She also talks about feeling pressured to give up her plans for college and track. 00:13:49 - Coercion and Lack of Support Abby reflects on the lack of clear support she received from her parents during the decision-making process. She shares how they used her passion for track as a way to pressure her into choosing adoption without offering concrete so

"You can't make this up. It's a beautiful journey of discovery and connection." - Rick Wertz Adoptees searching for their birth family are often met with dead-ends and heartache, which can be overwhelming. But Brian and Rick's story will give you hope. They demonstrate the grace and determination required to HANG ON when riding the complex roller coaster ride of reunion. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the complexities and emotional challenges of adoption, providing insight and understanding into the adoptee's and the birth parent's journey. Learn effective strategies for navigating reunion and building healthy relationships with birth family members, fostering connection and growth. Understand the importance of support groups for adoptees and birth parents, finding a community of understanding and empathy to navigate the unique aspects of reunion. Explore the concept of genetic mirroring and its impact on an adoptee's sense of identity. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== My special guests are Brian Stanton and Rick Wertz Brian Stanton is an adoptee who has a captivating story to share. As an actor, filmmaker, and playwright living in Los Angeles, he has used his creative talents to explore his own adoption journey. Brian's award-winning solo play, Blank, delves into the complexities of adoption, and he further documented his search for birth family members in his film, @Ghost Kingdom. Brian's reunion with his birth father, Rick Wertz, adds another layer to his story. Their reunion, filled with twists and turns, has provided them both with valuable insights into the complexities of adoption and the challenges of building relationships with birth families. Through their personal experiences and the support of various adoption communities, Brian and Rick have gained a deeper understanding of the emotional journey adoptees and NPEs face. Their story is sure to resonate with those seeking guidance and connection in their own reunion journeys. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Rent Brian Stanton's film @Ghost Kingdom on Vimeo: atghostkingdom.com/ Look up support groups for adoptees, adoptive parents, and birth parents in your area or online through Unraveling Adoption's Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar Check out Adoptees Connect for in-person support groups around the world: AdopteesConnect.com Explore The Adopt Salon and Celia Center for adoption education and support: celiacenter.org/ Discover resources for Christian fathers at Rick's ministry Faithful Fathering: faithfulfathering.org/ Building Relationships with Birth Families Reconnecting with birth families involves nurturing meaningful relationships over time, underlined by mutual respect and understanding. This journey, as explored in the conversation between Beth Syverson, Brian Stanton, and Rick Wertz, involves unexpected twists and turns that can either lead to confusion or closer familial bonds. The essence of such relationships stems from recognizing the importance of genetic connections and their impact on defining one's identity. =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:30 - Brian's Adoption Story Brian shares his adoption story, mentioning that he was adopted shortly after birth and always knew he was adopted. He talks about his adoptive family and how his adoptive mother eventually gave him his original birth certificate when he was 23. 00:05:28 - The Reunion Brian talks about his reunion with his birth mother, mentioning that it started off well but became overwhelming for him. He reflects on the push-pull dynamic and how he wishes he had more support and understanding at the time. He shares that their communication is now solely in his hands. 00:08:22 - The Importance of Support Beth and Brian emphasize the importance of support groups for adoptees, adoptive parents, and birth parents. They mention the availability of online and in-person support groups and encourage listeners to seek them out. Brian discusses his experience with support groups and specific organizations that have helped him post-reunion. 00:09:52 - Difficult Conception Story Brian shares that his conception

"I spend a lot of my life, and even through my art, just looking for belonging." - Nicole Rademacher Join us as we delve into the world of art therapy and adoption with guest Nicole Rademacher. Discover how Nicole uses art to heal on her own journey as an adoptee, and explore her upcoming project, "We Are Not Our Cruxes," that aims to empower adoptees and former foster youth. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the healing power of art therapy and how it can help adoptees do deeper work on their adoption trauma. Explore the complexities of transracial adoption and how it shapes an adoptee's identity through the lens of art Find out about "We Are Not Our Cruxes," Nicole's interactive, hybrid art project for the adoption constellation, starting on November 18, 2023 in Los Angeles and online. My special guest is Nicole Rademacher: Nicole Rademacher is an accomplished transcultural adoptee artist and art therapist based in Los Angeles. With a deep understanding of adoption trauma and personal experience as an adoptee, Nicole has dedicated her work to using art as a means of healing and self-exploration. Through her adventurous artistic creations and art therapy, she helps individuals tackle their nonverbal and often suppressed pain, offering them a safe space to express and process their emotions. Nicole's upcoming project, "We Are Not Our Cruxes," is a series of free, interactive, art-based healing events which is launching in November 2023 in the Los Angeles area and online. These events will provide participants with a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of adoption while engaging in a transformative art therapy process. With her extensive expertise and compassionate approach, Nicole joins host Beth Syverson on Unraveling Adoption to share her insights and shed light on the power of art therapy in the journey towards healing. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Join Nicole Rademacher's adoption-related events: Attend the "We Are Not Our Cruxes" series of free, hybrid, interactive, art-based healing events in Los Angeles starting on November 18, 2023. Participate in person or online from anywhere. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/we-are-not-our-cruxes-session-one-tickets-712649603147 Explore art therapy for adoption trauma: Consider using artistic modalities to heal from adoption trauma. Connect with Nicole Rademacher through her website, or sign up for a free 15-minute intro call: http://nicrrad.com Find Nicole's film project "Nesting" that we talked about in this episode: https://nicolerademacher.com/portfolio_page/nesting/ Explore Nic's other art projects on her artist website: https://nicolerademacher.com/ Find Nic on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/nicrrad Explore the complexities and challenges of transracial adoption - Transracial adoption brings with it multifaceted challenges, as Nicole Rademacher, a biracial adoptee, elucidates. Adoptees often grapple with their racial identity and struggle to conform to expected societal norms and categorizations. Support from adoptive families in celebrating the adoptee's birth culture and maintaining a sense of identity is crucial, assuring adoptees that they're not confined by their racial backgrounds but can embrace all facets of their identity. Experience the healing and empowering effects of art therapy - Using art as therapy provides adoptees with an empowering platform to express their emotions and experiences. Nicole Rademacher's upcoming project "We Are Not Our Cruxes" incorporates art-based healing events for adoptees and former foster youth to aid in their healing process. By acknowledging their resilience and emphasizing that their identity and experiences aren't solely shaped by trauma, art helps participants foster a positive perception of self, resulting in a sense of empowerment. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:29 - Early Childhood and Adoption Nicole shares her adoption story, explaining that she was born in 1978 and immediately placed in foster care. She was adopted into the Rademacher family in Milwaukee and grew up in North Carolina. Nicole reflects on her mixed-race identity and the challenges of fitting in visually with her white adoptive family. 00:05:04 - Transcultural Identity Beth asks Nicole about her identity as a transcultural adoptee. Nicole explains that she presents as white and often passes as such, but she also recognizes her biracial heritage. She discusses the complexities of racial identity and the challenges of fitting in with her adoptive family. 00:07:09 - Supportive Parenting Beth emphasizes the importance of adoptive parents supporting their child's cultural identity and interests. She encourages parents to listen to their adoptee's desires regarding exploring their birth culture and to be flexible and understanding. Nicole agrees and emphasizes the need for adoptive parents to be open-minded and supportive. 00:09:38 - Reunion and Family Dynamics Nicole shares that she reunite

Belonging and Racial Identity for Late Discovery Adoptee Peter Capomolla Moore Access a written transcript here, in case you have trouble understanding Peter's lovely Australian accent: https://tinyurl.com/yc8mfcjk "It's important for adoptees to understand and embrace their racial identity and sense of belonging. We must challenge the labels we are given and create our own narratives." - Peter Capomolla Moore Have you ever heard these myths about the significance of racial identity and belonging for adoptees? Myth #1: Adoptees don't need to worry about race because love is all that matters. Myth #2: Adopting a child from a different race erases their racial identity. Myth #3: Talking about race with adoptees will make them feel different and uncomfortable. In this episode, our guest Peter Capomolla Moore will debunk these myths and shed light on his own truth. In this episode, you will be able to: Gain insight into the unique experiences and challenges faced by adoptees when it comes to embracing their racial identity and how it shapes their sense of self. Uncover hidden truths through DNA testing: Learn about the role of DNA testing in unraveling family history and uncovering hidden connections, bridging the gap between adoptees and their biological origins. Navigate the unique emotional and psychological challenges faced by adoptees who discover their adoption later in life, and explore strategies for healing and finding acceptance. Learn about the importance of advocating for adoptee rights, understanding the legal and societal barriers that adoptees may face, and how to navigate the adoption system effectively. My special guest is Peter Capomolla Moore Peter Capomolla Moore is an Australian late discovery adoptee who has made significant strides in advocating for adoptee rights. As the president of Adoptee Rights Australia, Peter has fought tirelessly for the right of adoptees to obtain their own original birth certificate. He recently won a fight to have his birth father's name added to his original birth certificate, a battle that spanned six years. What sets Peter's story apart is the discovery, later in life, that he has Aboriginal heritage, leading him on a profound journey of cultural integration. With his unique background and personal experiences, Peter brings a valuable perspective to the conversation on the significance of racial identity and belonging for adoptees. His dedication to helping other adoptees navigate their own journeys is truly inspiring. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit the Adoptee Rights Australia website to learn more about their advocacy work and how you can get involved: https://adopteerightsaustralia.org.au/ Find out more about Grandmothers Against Removal here: https://supportnotseparation.blog/2018/11/21/grandmothers-against-removal/ Other resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Cover photo credit: Renee Lydiard from Nikinpa Aboriginal Child and Family Centre Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Uncover hidden truths It's essential for adoptees to unearth their origins and discover hidden truths about their past. These revelations, such as genetic history or familial connections, can play a significant role in their developmental and emotional journey. Knowing one's beginnings brings a sense of grounding and can lead to a greater understanding of one's identity and personal narrative. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:28 - Land Acknowledgement, Peter Capomolla Moore starts with a traditional acknowledgement to country, recognizing the Aboriginal land they stand on and honoring the culture and customs of the traditional owners. 00:03:05 - Upbringing and Adoption Discovery, Peter describes his upbringing as a foster child in a stable but modest family. He shares his journey of discovering his adoption in 2017 through a DNA test, which led him to uncover the truth about his biological family. 00:06:11 - DNA Matches and Family Tree, Peter explains how he initially did the DNA test to understand his grandchildren's olive skin complexion but ended up finding a close DNA match. He delves into his confusion regarding the relationships and surnames in his DNA matches, which ultimately led hi

"Don't let shame and stigma add to the struggles of being adopted. Personalized genetic testing can provide valuable insights and guidance for addiction treatment. Let's break the cycle and empower individuals to heal." - Dr. Evelyn Higgins Are you feeling overwhelmed by the endless trial and error of finding the right treatment for your mental health and/or addiction issues? Are you trying various medications and therapies that don't seem to alleviate your pain or provide lasting relief? I think many adoptees (and others!) can relate! It can be incredibly frustrating and disheartening to invest time, money, and hope into treatments that simply don't work, leaving you stuck in a cycle of disappointment and despair. WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXZoCMUQgck Parts 2 and 3 include video content (starting at 40:00) In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how genetic testing can reveal your susceptibility to addiction and other system dysregulation and empower you to make informed choices for a healthier life. Understand the importance of exploring your genetic and family history in adoption to gain crucial insights into your potential health risks and make proactive decisions. Uncover the intricate connection between neurotransmitters and genetic variations in addiction and mental health, providing a new perspective on the underlying causes and potential solutions. Explore how personalized protocols tailored to your unique DNA can revolutionize your mental health and addiction recovery journey, unlocking a pathway to lasting transformation. Learn about the transformative power of addressing genetic imbalances through targeted interventions, offering hope and new possibilities for improved mental well-being and overcoming addiction. Hear (and see!) a real-life example of an adoptee going through the genetic testing. Find out the results that Joey received from his test and the customized protocol that was prescribed afterwards. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== My special guests for this episode are Dr. Evelyn Higgins and my son Joey Nakao Dr. Evelyn Higgins is a highly accomplished professional in the field of addiction and integrative medicine. With 34 years of clinical experience, she holds expertise in addictionology and pain management. As the CEO and founder of Wired for Addiction, Dr. Higgins has dedicated herself to helping individuals struggling with addiction through personalized treatment plans based on genetic profiles. Wired for Addiction utilizes advanced technology to analyze 85 biomarkers, including neurotransmitters and genetic SNPs, providing a comprehensive understanding of an individual's unique biology. Through a 31-page gene mapping report, clients gain insights into their brain chemistry, hormonal interactions, and genetic aberrations related to addiction, anxiety, depression, and impulse control. Armed with this objective information, clients receive an individualized biochemical pathway support plan to guide their healing journey. Dr. Higgins' work has made a significant impact in the field, offering improved mental health and addiction treatment outcomes through personalized interventions tailored to each individual's genetic profile. Joey Nakao is a 19-year-old who has been on a journey of personal growth and healing while battling addiction for the past six years. As the son of Beth Syverson, the host of Unraveling Adoption, Joey's experience with addiction has led his family to explore numerous treatment options. Beth heard Dr. Evelyn Higgins on Heather Ross's podcast Living With Your Child's Addiction. She was fascinated with her expertise in addiction and genetic-based treatment plans. Joey decided to become a client of hers through her company Wired for Addiction (now also known as Wired BioHealth). With the hope of gaining insights into his unique biology and understanding how it relates to his addiction and mental health, Joey eagerly awaited the results of his gene mapping report, which you will hear about in this episode. By taking this proactive step, Joey is determined to improve his mental health and addiction treatment outcomes while uncovering a deeper understanding of himself. Through his journey, Joey aims to inspire and help others facing similar challenges, shedding light on the powerful impact of personalized interventions based on genetic profiles. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Check out Dr. Evelyn Higgins' company, Wired BioHealth (they just changed their name from Wired for Addiction), which works with individuals struggling with addiction, treatment centers, and correctional facilities. They create a 31-page gene mapping report based on saliva, cheek cells, and urine samples, helping people understand their unique biology as it relates to addiction and mental health. WiredBioHealth.c

Reserve your FREE ticket to the Sacred Plant Medicine for Healing the Adoption Constellation webinar featuring Ridghaus as one of the panelists, December 3 at 1pm PST: https://healingadoptiontrauma.eventbrite.com "Somatic therapy starts to move the body...taking breaths, activating the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems so that I started to have full body sensation as we talked about different things." - Ridghaus In the depths of his journey through adoption, Ridghaus faced a powerful twist that would forever alter his path. What began as a selfless decision to relinquish this son for adoption suddenly transformed into a revelation about his own life. A surprising call from a social worker shattered his previous beliefs and opened new doors of possibility. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the complexities of the adoptee experience and gain insights into its unique challenges and perspectives. Learn about trauma in the adoption constellation, and discover strategies for supporting healing and resilience. Recognize the importance of support and community for adoptees, and discover resources and networks to help navigate the journey. Discover the potential of psychedelics and Internal Family Systems therapy as innovative approaches for adoptee healing and personal growth. My special guest is Ridghaus Ridghaus is a fascinating and multi-talented individual who brings a unique perspective to the world of adoption. As a "human becoming" and lifelong learner, Ridghaus has explored various roles and identities, including being an archaeologist of cultural artifacts, a Dudeist priest, a poet, a teacher, a filmmaker, and a guide for others's journeys. His personal experiences with adoption have deeply shaped his understanding of the complexities within the adoption constellation. From relinquishing a son in an open adoption to discovering his own adoption later in life, Ridghaus has navigated the emotional terrain of adoption with resilience and introspection. His journey and his use of a controversial healing modality have provided him with valuable insights that he generously shares with others. Join us in this episode as we delve into Ridghaus' unique perspective and gain a deeper understanding of trauma and healing in the adoption journey. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== The resources mentioned in this episode are: Check out Ridghaus House's creative work, Six Word Adoption Memoirs: https://vimeo.com/211568644 Attend the next Untangling our Roots summit this spring to connect with others in the adoption community: https://untanglingourroots.org/ Consider working with an adoption competent therapist to navigate the complexities of adoption. Check out the Adoptee Therapist Directory here: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ Find support for adult children of alcoholics here: https://adultchildren.org/ Have you read The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk yet? https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/B08TX585RN Find out more about Internal Family Systems (IFS) here: https://ifs-institute.com/ Here are the books that are mentioned toward the end of the episode: How To Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan: https://www.amazon.com/Change-Your-Mind-Consciousness-Transcendence/dp/0735224153 This Is Your Mind on Plants by Michael Pollan: https://www.amazon.com/This-Your-Mind-Plants/dp/B08RF1K2LD The Botany of Desire by Michael Pollan: https://www.amazon.com/Botany-Desire-Plants-Eye-View-World/dp/B0B3L6G9F5 Braiding Sweet Grass by Robin Wall Kimmerer: https://www.amazon.com/Braiding-Sweetgrass-audiobook/dp/B01H4772CU The Doors of Perception by Aldous Huxley: https://www.amazon.com/The-Doors-of-Perception-audiobook/dp/B002LCSVB0 Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com Understand Adoptee Complexities Adoptees often navigate a myriad of complex emotions and experiences related to their adoption. By gaining a deep understanding of these complexities, adoptive parents can better support their children in their unique journeys. This inclusive insight assists adoptive parents in forming a healthy, resilient dynamic within their family. Explore Trauma and Somatic Experiences It's critical for parents and

Troubling Tropes in Media's Adoption Stories with Kira Omans "Adoptees are so infantilized in media and just seen as subjects in need of rescue and that they were given an opportunity at a better life." - Kira Omans In a world where narratives shape our perceptions, Kira Omans defies expectations. As a transracial adoptee from China, she carries a tale waiting to unfold. But when she stepped into the glimmering lights of Los Angeles that she became more aware of the cruel twist that media had woven for adoptees. With a fire in her heart and a determination in her eyes, Kira has embarked on a journey to challenge the harmful stereotypes in media. In this episode, you will be able to: Look anew at insidious adoption narratives in mainstream media and discover their lasting effects. Explore the unique identity challenges that transracial adoptees encounter. Understand the implications of white saviorism in shaping false adoption narratives. Identify pervasive and harmful stereotypes about adoptees portrayed in popular culture. Understand the vital importance of hearing adoption stories directly from the adoptees themselves. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== My special guest is Kira Omans With a heart for advocacy and a passion for performing, Kira Omans is a force to be reckoned with in the media industry. As an Asian-American adoptee, Kira was raised in a mostly white community in Alexandria, Virginia, and her unique upbringing has significant influence on her career and activism today. As an actor, stunt person, and voiceover artist now based in Los Angeles, she has landed roles which showcaseher talent and commitment to her craft. Yet, more important to her than the glamour of Hollywood, is the work she's doing to challenge and change demeaning adoption narratives within media spaces. Kira is dedicated to ensuring that adoptees, particularly those from transracial backgrounds, are portrayed more accurately and respectfully in their on-screen representations. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit Kira Omans' website to watch her stunt reel and learn more about her work in front of the camera and microphone: https://www.kiraomans.com/ Click on Kira's social media links: Linktree | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok Check out Kira's new database for Adoptees in Media, and add your own name if you work professionally in the media: bit.ly/adopteesinentertainment Support Chinese Adoptee Alliance, an organization that Kira Omans is involved with, by visiting their website and considering a donation or getting involved in their advocacy work: https://www.fccny.org/ Watch the movie Crazy Rich Asians to support the representation of Asian actors and actresses in the film industry: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3104988/ Consider watching the Barbie movie featuring Simu Liu, an Asian actor breaking barriers in Hollywood: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1517268 Watch the film JoyRide that Kira mentions in this episode: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13515090 Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Explore unique identity challenges The identity challenges that adoptees face, particularly transracial adoptees, are unique and complex. Nearly always wading through questions of identity and belonging, these individuals often grapple with a meaningful connection to their culture of origin. Exploring these unique challenges is essential in acknowledging and understanding the multifaceted narratives that every adoptee carries within, thereby preventing oversimplification or misconstruction of their identities in media. Understand implications of white saviorism The implications of white saviorism are deeply embedded within adoption narratives, often overshadowing the voices of adoptees. This common trope centers the narrative on adoptive parents rather than the adoptees themselves, creating an imbalanced representation. Grasping the nuances of these implications will challenge and change the prevailing discourse in the media by encouraging a balanced, adoptee-centric narrative. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:16 - Kira's Adoption Story, Kira shares that she was adopted from Zhongshan, China at ten months old and raised in Alexandria, Virginia b

Uncovering Hidden Roots with Peter O'Brien Uncover the profound journey of a late discovery adoptee (LDA) as he confronts the shocking truth of his adoption, embarks on a relentless search for his birth family, and navigates the complex emotions and conflicting loyalties that arise along the way. Find out the interesting way he found out he was adopted in his mid-50s, even though his adoptive parents were planning to go to the grave without him finding out. "Finding my biological family was a journey filled with ups and downs, but in the end, it helped me understand a part of myself that I never knew existed." -- Peter O'Brien In this episode, you will be able to: Expose the clandestine aspects of late adoption and learn how to surf the emotional rollercoaster it brings to the adoptee. Learn about the significant role of DNA testing in the quest for unveiling birth family genealogy. Realize the damage caused by secrecy within adoption and the indispensable role of openness. Understand the emotional maze that reunions can present and how to manage challenging expectations and outcomes. Arm yourself with the knowledge to extend support to those on their epic journey of finding biological roots and reckoning with adoption. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== My special guest is Peter O'Brien Today's guest on Unraveling Adoption is the fascinating Peter O'Brien. A late discovery adoptee, Peter's world was transformed in his mid-50s as he unearthed the secret of his adoption. Originating from Sydney, Australia, this retired accountant-turned-genealogist, leveraged his passion for family history to aid his personal awakening and understanding of his adoption journey. While his incredible story does have a twist of irony to it, it demonstrates Peter's resilience and strength in facing intriguing and often challenging revelations. His wisdom and experiences provide invaluable insights for those just discovering their adoption and grapplying with the multifaceted complexities. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Contact Peter directly: [email protected] Connect with the Post Adoption Resource Center in New South Wales for assistance and support in your own adoption journey: https://www.benevolent.org.au/services-and-programs/list-of-programs/post-adoption-resource-centre-nsw Listen to Unraveling Adoption's episode with DNA expert Julie Dixon Jackson: https://directory.libsyn.com/episode/index/id/26761494 If you are an adoptee, consider seeking counseling or therapy to process the emotions and complexities that may arise from learning about your adoption later in life. Here is a list of adoptee therapists in the US: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ If you are an adoptive parent, educate yourself on the importance of open and honest communication with your child about their adoption story. Join APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: https://forms.gle/vD8mfJy3fJUDmCJe6 The Role of DNA Testing in Finding Relatives DNA testing has emerged as a crucial tool for adoptees seeking to uncover their genetic roots and find their biological families. For Peter, DNA genealogy was instrumental in locating his birth mother and unraveling the identity of his birth father. However, it's crucial to manage expectations when using DNA testing, as the results can sometimes lead to complex and challenging family dynamics like in Peter's case of finding out his birth father had abandoned both his families. The Impact of Secrets in Adoption Adoption secrets can have profound implications on an adoptee's sense of self and their emotional well-being. The harm induced by such secrecy can be long-lasting, creating feelings of betrayal and resentment, as evidenced by Peter's experience. This key value underscores the importance of transparency in adoption, advocating for a shift from earlier practices of shrouding adoption in secrecy, towards a more open and supportive approach. =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction and Background Host Beth Syverson introduces the podcast and guest Peter O'Brien, a late discovery adoptee. Peter share

Reimagining Culture's Adoption Narratives with Gayle Swift "What our children need is our common ground, our empathy, our support. They need us to step into their lens and understand their pain and feelings."- Gayle Swift What if the prevailing mindset surrounding adoption isn't as positive as we think? In this eye-opening conversation between Beth and adoption expert Gayle Swift, the US culture's (and churches') impact on adoption is challenged. It may cause you to question everything you thought you knew about adoption. Which adoption myths do you believe? And are you willing to view it differently - from an adoptees' perspective? In this episode, you will be able to: Gain acknowledgment for an adoptee's biological heritage and interests, fostering a more comprehensive perspective about adoption. Uncover the concept known as the ghost kingdom and how it impacts adoptees, deepening your awareness of their inner world. Question the term 'Gotcha Day' and explore alternative ways to celebrate adoption, broadening your perspective on this pivotal event. Understand the immense influence the church has on adoption, and the growing need for enlightenment and support. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== My special guest is Gayle Swift Gayle Swift is a compassionate and understanding advocate for adoption, armed with both personal experience and professional knowledge. Diagnosed with cancer at a young age which took away her ability to get pregnant, Gayle and her husband took the path of adoption, solidifying a decision they'd made earlier in life. Now, she's an author of three influential and insightful books focused on adoption for varying age groups. Her mission isn't confined to writing as she also co-founded 'Growing Intentional Families Together', a platform aimed at educating and supporting adoptive families. An adoptive parent herself, she shines a light on the intricate complexities of adoption, dispelling myths and encouraging a deep understanding. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Check out Gayle Swift's three books about adoption: ABC Adoption & Me (Revised and Reillustrated): A Multicultural Picture Book: https://www.amazon.com/ABC-Adoption-Revised-Reillustrated-Multicultural/dp/1733659749 We're Adopted, So What? Teens Tell It Like It Is: https://www.amazon.com/Were-Adopted-So-What-Teens/dp/1733659714 Reimagining Adoption: What Adoptees Seek from Families and Faith: https://www.amazon.com/Reimagining-Adoption-Adoptees-Families-Faith-ebook/dp/B0847BBZHM Explore Gayle Swift's organization, Growing Intentional Families Together, which offers coaching and support for families before and after adoption: https://giftfamilyservices.com/ Listen to the podcast Essentials of Adoption Attuned Parenting by Gayle Swift's organization: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-essentials-for-adoption-attuned-parenting/id1177242730 Reconsider the use of Gotcha Day celebrations and instead acknowledge the loss and gain of adoption in a more adoptee-centric way. Read Gayle's blog post about Gotcha Day: https://lavenderluz.com/dear-abby-gotcha/ Understanding the Impact of the Ghost Kingdom The concept of the 'Ghost Kingdom' refers to the emotional and psychological impact of the adoptee's separation from their birth families. This 'phantom pain' often gets overlooked due to the celebration of adoption. Gayle Swift suggests this trauma needs more recognition, and adoptive parents should be sensitive to the layered emotions their children might experience due to their complex histories. Acknowledging Adoptees' Heritage and Interests To offer adoptees a healthy upbringing, it is vital to acknowledge their heritage and personal interests. Adoption should not mean erasure of their original identities or silencing their stories. Foster open discussions about their birth families and past, making them feel valued and heard, and consider their cultural and personal interests while making decisions about their upbringing. =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:44 - Gayle's Adoption Story, Gayle shares her family's adoption story, how she chose adoption after infertility, and her initial unde

Challenging the Adoption System with Chester Jackson "The journey is more about being on the path more than off... The hardest part about being an adoptive parent is you're almost guaranteed to be disappointed because your motivation and your drive and everything you're thinking is involved around some fantasy child. It's not about that real human." -- Chester Jackson Discovering the truth can be as exhilarating as it is terrifying. It can shatter the very foundation of your identity, leaving you scrambling to pick up the pieces. Chester Jackson's life seemed like a harmonious melody until a single piece of paper sent him spiraling into a world of unanswered questions and hidden secrets. Brace yourself as we delve into Chester's journey, where he unearths the unexpected twist that forever changed his life. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== In this episode, you will be able to: Delve deep into the complex world of adoption and how it affects the lives of adoptees. Understand the vital role clear and sincere communication plays in the harmony of an adopted family. Expose the latent issues and hidden incentives of adoptive parents, presenting possible solutions and benefits. Unravel the critical need for maintaining ties between adoptees and their birth heritage. Confront and overcome the hurdles and implicit prejudices sewn into the fabric of the adoption procedure. My special guest is Chester Jackson Meet Chester Jackson, a seasoned professional, with two decades worth of experience in the adoption sphere. His multifaceted perspective of adoption is born out of his own late discovery of being an adoptee and his role as an adoptive parent. Chester currently serves as the lifeline for many as the helpline coordinator at Adoptive Foster Family Coalition in New York, offering much needed counsel and support. Filled with both empathy and insights, Chester is known for his unwavering commitment to bettering the adoption system and all those it touches. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit the Adoptive Foster Family Coalition of New York (AFFCNY) website for more information about their services and resources: https://affcny.org/ Call the AFFCNY Helpline that Chester supervises: 888-80-helpline Reach out to Beth Syverson for parent coaching if you are an adoptive parent: [email protected] Consider seeking therapy or counseling to work through any adoption-related issues or emotions. Here's an adoptee therapist directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ Grasping Adoption's Real-life Consequences Fully understanding the real-life implications of adoption is crucial for adoptive parents. This insight stems from acknowledging that adoption not only involves taking a child into one's family but also carries lifelong emotional consequences for all parties involved. An improved grasp of these realities can help parents navigate adoption-related challenges and work towards fostering a healthy environment for their adopted children. Preserving Links to Birth Heritage Maintaining connections to the child's birth heritage plays an essential part in the adoption journey. This notion is vital as it enables the adopted child to maintain a tangible link to their roots, which can greatly assist in the formation of their identity. Adoptive parents who understand and prioritize this facet can significantly contribute to their child's sense of belonging and self-awareness. =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:06 - Chester's Adoption Story, Chester Jackson shares his experience as a late discovery adoptee (LDA). He explains that he found out he was adopted at age 33 and discusses how his adoption was a community agreement rather than a legal process. He also mentions his mixed feelings of relief and confusion upon learning the truth. 00:05:48 - Emotional Impact of Adoption, Chester discusses the emotional impact of adoption and how it affected his sense of self-worth. He highlights the importance of adoptive parents understanding and addressing their own emotions to provide a healthy environment for their children. 00:07:36 - Chester's Work in Adoption, Ch

Investigating Adoption's Fault Lines with Birth Mother Lorraine Dusky "Women today realize that giving up a child entails much more angst and long-term grief, and there's so many issues involved." - Lorraine Dusky An intrepid birth mother from the 1960s who faced disapproval and secrecy now fights for adoptee rights. Lorraine Dusky shares her personal journey and advocates for change in the complex world of adoption. 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the profound influence of genetics and culture on adoptees, helping you to cultivate more empathy and understanding. Unmask society's secrecy and shame shrouded around the adoption, and move towards less judgment and increased acceptance. Understand the pressing need for empathy, delicacy and openness in discussions about adoption, thereby bringing about a transformative change in perception. Unpack the complex narrative of adoption rights and laws, sharpening your understanding and capacity for advocacy. My special guest is Lorraine Dusky We present to you Lorraine Dusky; an audacious journalist, an intrepid adoptee rights advocate, and a birth mother who traversed through adoption's thorny path in the 1960s. Lorraine had the courage to be the first person to publicly admit her child's relinquishment for adoption. Her bold stand sparked off fierce controversies, yet she relentlessly continues to champion for adoptees' rights. Her recently released 2nd edition of her memoir, Hole in My Heart: Love and Loss in the Fault Lines of Adoption, offers a raw account of her life journey, encapsulating the tempest of emotions that unfolded before and after her daughter's relinquishment. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Purchase Lorraine Dusky's memoir, Hole in My Heart: Love and Loss in the Fault Lines of Adoption to gain insight into her personal story and experiences related to adoption: https://www.amazon.com/Hole-My-Heart-memoir-adoption/dp/0692455930 First Mother Forum: Where first/birth/natural/real mothers share news & opinions. And vent: https://www.firstmotherforum.com/ Challenging Adoption Attitudes and Perceptions Adoption is supposed to be seen as a lifetime experience reaching beyond the birth moment while impacting all involved. Lorraine Dusky's discussion centers around her book, Hole in My Heart, a candid memoir about her complex choices as a birth mother. From her experience, she hopes to challenge prevailing attitudes towards adoption by depicting her role in all its complexities, and not just as a woman who got pregnant. Lorraine also extends consideration to natural mothers, whose voice need to be heard and respected, thus stirring intellectuals, legislators, and the general public to rethink perceptions tied to adoption. The Impact of Secrecy and Shame The decision to place a child for adoption often comes with a load of shame and secrecy, a burden many birth mothers carry silently for years. This emotional tax leaves them stuck between their painful past and a hope-filled future. However, facing their fears, naming their experiences, and seeking forgiveness from their children are significant steps towards emotional freedom. Speaking from her personal experience, Lorraine Dusky unveils her years of bearing the heavy load of secrecy and shame. She kept her baby's adoption a secret for years, going as far as lying about ever being pregnant. But in the long run, she decided to face her fears and advocate for adoptee rights. Navigating her way through her struggles, disapproval, and community gossip, she pushed through with the help of her supportive mother. Her journey offers a beacon of hope to other birth mothers navigating the labyrinth of guilt, secrecy, and societal pressure. =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:41 - Lorraine's Professional Trajectory, Lorraine talks about her desire to be a newspaper reporter and her early career in journalism. She shares her disappointment in initially being placed in the women's department but eventually getting a job as a feature writer. She then discusses how she fell in love with a co-worker and became pregnant. 00:05:44 - Discovering the Pregnancy an

Reevaluating Beliefs and Exposing Racism in Evangelical Christianity with Harrison Mooney Growing up in an evangelical family, Harrison Mooney's life seemed like a carefully crafted script of faith and devotion. But beneath the surface, there was an unexpected twist that would send him spiraling into a world of self-discovery. As the only black child in a white family, Harrison's struggle to fit in took a toll on his soul. Little did he know, the very foundations of his beloved religion would come crashing down, revealing a shocking truth that would forever change his perception of faith and race. This is a story of a journey, a journey filled with unexpected twists and turns, and the power of unraveling the tangled threads of identity and belief. In this episode, you will be able to: Grasp the unique hardships and narratives of transracial adoptees. Investigate the intersection of religion and race, recognizing the profound influence that the evangelical Christian church (especially) exerted on racial identity. Understand the paramount importance of representation in literature in uplifting and authenticating marginalized communities. Uncover the significance and emotional intricacies in adoptees' pursuit to seek and connect with their birth families. Realize the crucial role adoptive parents play in affirming and supporting their children's exploration of identity and history. 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX My special guest is Harrison Mooney Stepping into our conversation today is journalist and adoptee, Harrison Mooney. Born and raised in Abbottville, British Columbia by a deeply religious white adoptive family, Harrison brings a unique perspective on the intersection of faith, race and adoption. His childhood mirrored his mother's, an immigrant who experienced displacement and the ensuing struggle to belong. With a writing career that encompasses renowned publications such as The Vancouver Sun and The Guardian, Harrison's exploration of his own narrative has touched hearts globally. His memoir Invisible Boy: A Memoir of Self-Discovery masterfully weaves together profound introspection and raw realism, offering a stark yet sympathetic perspective on his personal journey. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Read Harrison Mooney's award-winning memoir, Invisible Boy, to gain a deeper understanding of his adoption story and the complexities of adoption: https://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Boy-Memoir-Self-Discovery-Truth/dp/1586423460 Connect with Harrison on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/picturesofharrison/ Email Harrison at: [email protected] Awakening to the Inconsistencies Harrison's 'awakening' moment came during a college course on the transatlantic slave trade. It shattered his trust in his religious upbringing and sparked a reevaluation of the ideologies he had internalized. It was an awakening to the realities of racial oppression perpetuated by the church and the white nationalism entwined with his faith. His journey highlights the importance of questioning the narratives we've been taught and critically examining our inherited beliefs. Religious Upbringing and Belonging Religion, at times, can both be the cause of unity and discord. It holds the power to bring people together under a common belief system, creating a sense of shared belonging. Yet, it also has the potential to marginalize those who challenge its views, fostering an 'us against them' mentality that can deeply impact one's sense of personal identity and self-worth. In his conversation with Beth, Harrison delves into the profound influence of his family's religious beliefs on his life. His upbringing in an evangelical church, he says, wasn't merely an aspect of his life, but it was his life. Harrowing instances like the use of biblical interpretations to justify slavery, and the realization of the church's entanglement with racism, forced him to reevaluate the faith he'd grown up with. The conversation brings to the fore the complicated ties between religion, identity, and belonging. =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:06 - Harrison's Writing Style and Humor, Beth praises Harrison's writing style and humor in his memoir. Harri

Coming Out of the Fog with Melissa Brunetti "As an adoptee, you want to be wanted. I thought, well, shoot, if I don't take this guy, I don't know if anyone else is going to come along." - Melissa Brunetti Even though Melissa was an adoptee with a FABULOUS adoptive family, she realized that she was "in the fog" of adoption trauma in mid-life. In this episode, we delve into Melissa's heart-wrenching quest to unravel the mysteries of who she is, her traumatic relinquishment and reunion story, and her healing path. 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX In this episode, you will be able to: Engage with a firsthand account elevating an adult adoptee's voice Appreciate the empowering role of support networks within the adoption community. Delve into the intriguing, sometimes challenging quest for personal identity. Grasp how novel healing modalities can bolster adoptees' emotional resilience. My special guest is Melissa Brunetti Melissa Brunetti hails from the heart of California, where she not only navigates the complexities of life as a domestic adoptee but also helps others on their paths as well. Having once navigated the societal expectations to perfection - marriage, children and career included - Melissa had hit a rather low point around her 40th birthday and realized there was more to life than just ticking boxes. This realization transformed her life and she has been sharing her valuable insights on her podcast 'Mind Your Own Karma the Adoption Chronicles'. Additionally, Melissa's leadership contributions at Fireside Adoptees have been commendable as she continues to spread awareness around the intricacies of adoption. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Check out Melissa's podcast, Mind Your Own Karma the Adoption Chronicles, to hear more stories and insights related to adoption: https://www.mindyourownkarma.com/ Visit Fireside Adoptees to learn more about the work that Melissa is doing on their leadership team: https://www.facebook.com/fireside.adoptees.and.allies Watch the Fireside adoptees constellation roundtable hosted by Melissa, featuring a birth parent, an adoptive parent (Beth Syverson, this podcast's host) and an adoptee, to gain perspectives from different members of the adoption constellation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7NP310pCVA&t=3224s Listen to the episode of Melissa's podcast where Beth Syverson was a guest, discussing the adoptive parent's perspective: https://www.mindyourownkarma.com/podcast/episode/25330945/s2e47-adoptive-parent-beth-syverson-what-every-adoptive-parent-should-know Other Resources: APtitude: A Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - https://www.facebook.com/other.parents.like.me Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents of Addicted Teens: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Find a Tele-Therapist: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling =============== Unraveling Adoption is created by Joseph Nakao and Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Cover art by Joseph Nakao, photo by Beth Syverson Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube Support Safe Home on Patreon: Patreon.com/SafeHome www.SafeHomeFamilies.com =============== Unique experiences of adoptees - Each adoption journey is unique, with adoptees experiencing a distinctive mix of emotions, challenges, and triumphs. Understanding these distinctive experiences helps to demystify the complex realities of adoption and raises awareness of the varied perspectives within the adoption community. Appreciating these individual journeys fosters empathy and validation, which are crucial for the emotional well-being of adoptees. Mutual support and validation - The universal need for support and validation is amplified in the adoption community. Adoptees, birth parents, and adoptive parents all benefit from shared experiences and collective understanding. By fostering an environment of empathy, encouragement, and mutual respect, adoptees can better navigate their unique circumstances, validate their experiences, and find solidarity within the adoption community. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:11 - Melissa's Adoption Story, Melissa shares her adoption story, explaining that she was born in the Baby Scoop Era and was placed in foster care before being adopted at ten weeks old. Despite having great adoptive parents, Melissa struggled with self-esteem and unhappiness throughout her life. 00:05:45 - Positive Adoption Experience, Melissa expresses her gratitude for having wonderful adoptive parents who supported her. However, she still felt the effects of adoption, such as fear and a loss of identity. She also discusses her health issues and how her mother believes the adoption agency failed to disclose them. 00:08:13 - Losing Hersel

A Transgender Birthmom's Complex Journey with Jack MacCarthy Amidst the backdrop of their conservative upbringing, Jack's path of self-discovery and acceptance unfolds, revealing the profound impact of a chance encounter with a queer girl at a Catholic youth group retreat. From exploring gender through the lens of art to navigating the complexities of their identity within the adoption community, Jack's story is a testament to resilience and the power of embracing one's true self. What unique challenges await a trans and/or non-binary birth parent? How can we best support LGBTQ+ people within the adoption community in general? Stay tuned to discover the chapters of Jack's remarkable tale for the first time in an adoption-specific context on this episode of Unraveling Adoption podcast. "I think what is difficult about words, labels, boxes, is trying to find the balance between too open and too closed. So a word has to, almost by definition, exclude something in order to have any meaning. But you also don't want people who are feeling resonance with that word to be left out, even if they don't necessarily fit the "definition" of it perfectly. And definitions are a slippery concept anyway because words really just mean how people use them." - Jack MacCarthy 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX My special guest is Jack MacCarthy Jack MacCarthy is a compelling artist with a background rooted in theater – both as a writer and performer. Jack has always looked to push boundaries and challenge societal norms. Even before recognizing himself as transgender, his works have often explored gender, creating an impact that his personal journey would later radiate. A founder of a theater company in New York, he juggled financial struggles with a zeal for creativity and self-discovery. A decade ago, he navigated the complexities of becoming a birth parent and choosing adoption, leading to unique insights into parenthood, identity, and the intersection of both. In this episode, you will be able to: Illuminate the significance of LGBTQ representation (or lack thereof) within the adoption community, Recognize the distinctive hurdles specific to trans/non-binary birth parents, Navigate the tangled intricacies of the adoption system, and their impact on birth parents, no matter their gender Explore support structures for trans and non-binary children and their families, The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit Jack MacCarthy's website to learn more about his work as a writer, performer, and professional queer: jackmaccarthy.com Read Jack's Kindle original, "My Boy, Their Son": https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Their-Son-Kindle-Single-ebook/dp/B07P2VXK1M Read Jack's Buzzfeed article about his rainbow family: https://www.buzzfeed.com/mariahmaccarthy/my-rainbow-family#.ogEooLpEGV Read Jack's YA Novel Squad: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780374307509 Learn more about the Outwords Archive, an oral history project collecting the stories of LGBTQ+ elders: https://theoutwordsarchive.org/ Find support through these organizations: PFLAG: https://pflag.org/ Pride and Joy Foundation: https://www.prideandjoyfoundation.com/ Gender Spectrum: https://genderspectrum.org/ LGBTQ+ adoption agency, Chosen Family Law Center: https://chosenfamilylawcenter.org/ Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Challenges for Trans and Non-Binary Birth Parents Trans and non-binary birth parents, like Jack, navigate unique hurdles within the adoption system. These challenges can range from alienation in birth parent support networks due to lack of understanding of gender identities, all the way to systemic socio-economic issues that contribute to the decision for adoption. To address these concerns, it is essential to establish safe and accepting spaces that respect diverse gender expressions, and work towards systemic changes that reduce financial and emotional burdens on these birth parents. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:42 - Background and Theater, Beth asks Jack about his background and theater experience. Jack shares that they are a writer and performer and that theater was a place where they explored gender before exploring it in real life. 00:05:20 - Family Acceptance, Jack discusses their family life,

A Transgender Birthmom's Complex Journey with Jack MacCarthy Amidst the backdrop of their conservative upbringing, Jack's path of self-discovery and acceptance unfolds, revealing the profound impact of a chance encounter with a queer girl at a Catholic youth group retreat. From exploring gender through the lens of art to navigating the complexities of their identity within the adoption community, Jack's story is a testament to resilience and the power of embracing one's true self. What unique challenges await a trans and/or non-binary birth parent? How can we best support LGBTQ+ people within the adoption community in general? Stay tuned to discover the chapters of Jack's remarkable tale for the first time in an adoption-specific context on this episode of Unraveling Adoption podcast. "I think what is difficult about words, labels, boxes, is trying to find the balance between too open and too closed. So a word has to, almost by definition, exclude something in order to have any meaning. But you also don't want people who are feeling resonance with that word to be left out, even if they don't necessarily fit the "definition" of it perfectly. And definitions are a slippery concept anyway because words really just mean how people use them." - Jack MacCarthy 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX My special guest is Jack MacCarthy Jack MacCarthy is a compelling artist with a background rooted in theater – both as a writer and performer. Jack has always looked to push boundaries and challenge societal norms. Even before recognizing himself as transgender, his works have often explored gender, creating an impact that his personal journey would later radiate. A founder of a theater company in New York, he juggled financial struggles with a zeal for creativity and self-discovery. A decade ago, he navigated the complexities of becoming a birth parent and choosing adoption, leading to unique insights into parenthood, identity, and the intersection of both. In this episode, you will be able to: Illuminate the significance of LGBTQ representation (or lack thereof) within the adoption community, Recognize the distinctive hurdles specific to trans/non-binary birth parents, Navigate the tangled intricacies of the adoption system, and their impact on birth parents, no matter their gender Explore support structures for trans and non-binary children and their families, The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit Jack MacCarthy's website to learn more about his work as a writer, performer, and professional queer: jackmaccarthy.com Read Jack's Kindle original, "My Boy, Their Son": https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Their-Son-Kindle-Single-ebook/dp/B07P2VXK1M Read Jack's Buzzfeed article about his rainbow family: https://www.buzzfeed.com/mariahmaccarthy/my-rainbow-family#.ogEooLpEGV Read Jack's YA Novel Squad: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9780374307509 Learn more about the Outwords Archive, an oral history project collecting the stories of LGBTQ+ elders: https://theoutwordsarchive.org/ Find support through these organizations: PFLAG: https://pflag.org/ Pride and Joy Foundation: https://www.prideandjoyfoundation.com/ Gender Spectrum: https://genderspectrum.org/ LGBTQ+ adoption agency, Chosen Family Law Center: https://chosenfamilylawcenter.org/ Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Challenges for Trans and Non-Binary Birth Parents Trans and non-binary birth parents, like Jack, navigate unique hurdles within the adoption system. These challenges can range from alienation in birth parent support networks due to lack of understanding of gender identities, all the way to systemic socio-economic issues that contribute to the decision for adoption. To address these concerns, it is essential to establish safe and accepting spaces that respect diverse gender expressions, and work towards systemic changes that reduce financial and emotional burdens on these birth parents. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:42 - Background and Theater, Beth asks Jack about his background and theater experience. Jack shares that they are a writer and performer and that theater was a place where they explored gender before exploring it in real life. 00:05:20 - Family Acceptance, Jack discusses their family life,

Breaking the Cycle: Addressing the Needs of Foster Children - Jenell Jones "Love isn't enough. We can't just love these kids out of the abuse and neglect." - Jenell Jones Jenell Jones, a mother of seven, had faced her fair share of challenges as a foster and adoptive parent. But when she welcomed eight-year-old Mercy into her family, little did she know the unexpected twists that awaited her. As she unraveled the undisclosed severe mental health issues that plagued Mercy, Jenell was thrown into a world of overwhelming obstacles. This gripping journey will leave you questioning the foster care system's ability to provide comprehensive support for vulnerable children like Mercy. 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX In this episode, you will be able to: Explore the labyrinth of trials faced by parents adopting from the foster care system. Highlight the chinks in the mental health armature causing a dearth of understanding and support. Appreciate the significance of clear disclosure in the convolutions of the adoption process. Comprehend the deep-seated impact of trauma and mental health issues on those in the system. Discover the critical need for all-encompassing support measures for past foster children. My special guest is Jenell Jones Introducing Jenell Jones - a remarkable woman who's deftly maneuvered the complex realities of parenting seven children, including two adopted ones. Her unique parenting journey led her to write Shattered, a memoir that recounts her family's moving story around her youngest adopted child, Mercy. Having traversed 21 foster placements and with undisclosed mental health challenges, Mercy's narrative opened Jenell's eyes to the triumphs and trials of foster care and adoption. As an advocate for foster and adoptive parents, Jenell wants to empower others navigating a similar journey, letting them know that they are not alone. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Read Jenell Jones' memoir Shattered to gain a deeper understanding of the joys and challenges of parenting traumatized children: https://www.amazon.com/Shattered-Jenell-M-Jones-M-Ed/dp/B0BWSCKZS6 Seek out resources and support networks for foster and adoptive parents, such as support groups, therapy, and educational programs. Join our APtitude support group for adoptive and foster parents here: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Connect with Jenell through her website: JenellJones.com Need for Change and Support We need a system overhaul, with comprehensive support systems, more resources, and changes in policies. The profound impact of trauma on children, as well as their families, highlights the urgency to reform current practices. Reflecting on her experiences, Jenell Jones firmly believes change is necessary. She stresses the need for conversation about systemic faults and for a range of stakeholders to come together for a holistic solution. Advocating for a more robust support system, Jenell's experiences serve as a clear calling for change. =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction, Beth Syverson introduces the podcast episode and the guest, Jenell Jones, a mother of seven kids, including two adopted children. They discuss Jenell's memoir, Shattered, which aims to help foster and adoptive parents understand the challenges of parenting traumatized children. 00:01:15 - Life Before Mercy, Beth and Jenell talk about Jenell's family before adopting Mercy. With a large family and routines in place, they were navigating through life with their other children who were getting older. 00:02:23 - The Decision to Foster and Adopt Mercy, Jenell shares that she initially didn't want to add to her family, but after meeting a little girl at church, she and her husband decided to bring her in. They didn't expect the challenges that would come with adopting an 8-year-old with undisclosed serious mental health issues. 00:05:16 - Undisclosed History and Separation, Jenell reveals that the foster agency and state knew Mercy's complete history, including 21 foster placements and a twin brother who was separated from her. However, this information was not disclosed to Jenell and her family, causing them to navigate through Me

The Lifelong Impact of Adoption with Michael Grenfell "When we receive or find new information, we have to then reorient ourselves with that information, with a new foundation or a new guidepost. It's deep identity structure stuff that we're continually renegotiating all the time throughout this journey." - Michael Grenfell In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, guest Michael Grenfell opens up about the profound impact of adoption on identity. As he shares his experiences, the complexities of navigating family dynamics and the lasting effects of adoption are unveiled. But just when it seems like resolution is within reach, conflict erupts within the family, leaving Michael in a precarious situation with no clear path forward. Tune in to discover how this adoptee's journey unfolds and the resilience he displays in the face of adversity. In this episode, you will be able to: Comprehend the critical part fathers take on in the adoption narrative, Probe into the complexities confronting adoptees in their quest to locate their birth parents, Discern how adoption imprints on an adoptee's sense of identity and self-understanding, See the necessity of candid dialogue and trust within adoptive families, Realize the power of DNA testing in an adoptee's expedition to find their biological kin. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== My special guest is Michael Grenfell You'll appreciate hearing from Michael Grenfell, an adoptee from the Baby Scoop Era in 1971, and a dedicated advocate for adoption transparency. Hailing from Sydney, Australia, Michael has navigated through the winding paths of his adoption journey and has come out the other side more self-aware and empowered. A celebrated author of poetry and crime fiction, Michael uses the written word to express his experiences and emotions and is currently working on sharing his story in memoir form. His focus on the importance of both his adoptive and natural fathers - and his own experience as a father - serves as a refreshing perspective in the adoption discussion. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Attend the screening of Reckoning with A Primal Wound, the film by Rebecca Autumn Sansom on Saturday, July 29, 2023 at 7pm PST. Tickets can be purchased at reckoningoc.eventbrite.com. Join the screening either in person in Orange County or online via Zoom. Both spaces are limited, so secure your tickets today. Connect with Michael: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grenfellmichael Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaellikestowrite/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaellikestowrite/ Check out Michael Grenfell's poetry, crime fiction, and memoir. The poem he presents in this episode, "Goodbye! Hello?" appears in this anthology: https://www.westwords.com.au/project/living-stories-2022-things-unsaid/ More of Michael's writing can be found in the Autumn and Winter 2023 Post Adoption Resource Newsletters. These can be found at https://www.benevolent.org.au/services-and-programs/post-adoption-services/information-and-resources In Australia, check out: Post Adoption Resource Center: https://www.benevolent.org.au/services-and-programs/list-of-programs/post-adoption-resource-centre-nsw Authors Michael and Beth mentioned: Dr. Gabor Maté: https://drgabormate.com/ Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk: https://www.besselvanderkolk.com/ Dr. Stephen Porges: https://www.stephenporges.com/ Identity and Parenting The impacts of adoption on identity and parenting are extensive and deeply ingrained. The adoption experience often dictates how a person perceives themselves and reflects on their parenting style. Parents who are adoptees might employ a protective parenting approach, influenced by their earlier experiences of rejection and strife. Michael's testament sheds light on how his adoption journey influenced his role as a father. His deep-seated fear of rejection initially pushed him towards hyper-vigilance over his children. However, over time, he encouraged their independence and fortified their sense of self-worth. He admitted to his initial helicopter parenting approach, a testament to how one's adoption background might shape parental instincts. =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Ti

How To Be an Anti-Racist in Adoptive Families with Lanise Antoine Shelley "It's vital to feel a sense of connectivity to your name, to your environment, and to the people that you choose to love." - Lanise Antoine Shelley If you're an adoptee who's feeling a constant sense of disconnection and confusion as you try to fit into a world that doesn't fully understand or appreciate your unique transracial adoptee experience, then you are not alone! Many adoptees may find themselves struggling to navigate their identity, grasping at societal norms and expectations that do not align with their true selves. Despite their efforts to assimilate, they may still face rejection, ignorance, and a persistent feeling of being othered. This painful reality often leads to a deep yearning for acceptance and a strong desire to reclaim their authentic identity, free from the confines of societal expectations. And if you're an adoptive parent in an interracial or intercultural adoption, open your heart up to some possibly uncomfortable but extremely important truths about race in this episode. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== In this episode, you will be able to: Deconstruct the dominant narratives in adoption and evaluate their impact on the adoptee community. Learn about the significance of adoptive parent education in cultivating a nurturing environment for adoptees, especially interracial or intercountry adoptees. Embark on a journey of self-recognition and celebration of identity as a transracial adoptee. Gain tools to become an anti-racist and make a big difference in your family and/or community. Understand the importance of the feedback channel from adoptees, ensuring a conscious and accountable parenting approach. My special guest is Lanise Antoine Shelley From the vibrant landscapes of Haiti to California's suburban tapestry, Lanise Antoine Shelley's journey transcends geographical boundaries and cultural transitions. Engrossed in the world of arts as a skilled actor, director, and painter, she deftly weaves her personal narrative of adoption into her work. Born in Saint Michel, Haiti, and transracially adopted in the USA, Lanise's intimate narrative strikes a chord with every adoptee struggling to reconcile their adoptive and biological identities. As the host of the podcast 'When They Were Young," she's amplifying adoptee voices and highlighting the importance of reclaiming one's identity. Her unique insights and empathetic approach provide an indispensable resource for transracial adoptees searching for belonging, and for adoptive parents who are open to learning new tools. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Connect with Lanise and access the resources at her website: www.laniseantoineshelley.com Check out the podcast "When They Were Young: Amplifying Voices of Adoptees" hosted by Lanise Antoine Shelley for more insights and stories from adoptees: https://www.laniseantoineshelley.com/podcast Connect with Lanise on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/youngadoptee/ Hear a podcast episode about the Enneagram and adoption: https://theadoptionconnection.com/episode-85/ Access practical guides on black hair care and transracial adoption by Isaac Edder. Get 15% off by visiting the show notes of Lanise's podcast: https://www.laniseantoineshelley.com/podcast/episode/7b0cc622/ep-58-isaac-etter-founding-identity-to-equip-parents-and-empower-children Consider the impact of the better life narrative in adoption and challenge the assumption that adoption automatically provides a better life for the child. Hear Angela Tucker's " The Adoptee Next Door" episode on this topic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01TNSVVan4Q Check out the classes for transracial families at Adoption Mosaic: https://www.adoptionmosaic.com/ Look up resources from Dr. Chaitra Wirta-Leiker, transracial adoptee, psychologist, and author: https://growbeyondwords.com/ Find an adoption therapist through Dr. Wirta-Leiker's Adoptee Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ Read How To Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi: https://www.ibramxkendi.com/how-to-be-an-antiracist Read White Fragility: Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk about Racism by Robin Diangelo: https://bookshop.org/p/books/white-fragility-why-it-s-so-hard-for-white-people-to-talk-about-racism-robin-diangelo/9008090?ean=9780807047415 Watch the documentary Rabbit-Proof Fence: https://www.amazon.com/Rabbit-Proof-Fence-Ningali-Lawford/dp/B009ZM76J2 Other resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Connecting with Haitian Culture The journey of embracing and reclaiming one's cultural identity is a foundat

Navigating Adoption's Complexities as an Adoptee and an Adoptive Parent with Damon Davis In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, guest Damon Davis shares his personal journey both as an adoptee and as an adoptive parent, shedding light on the complexities and challenges faced by adoptees and their families. Don't miss this gripping episode that explores the highs and lows of adoption and the power of resilience. In this episode, you will be able to: Traverse the paths of Damon's adoption experiences, acknowledging the multifaceted complexities entwined. Champion adoptive children's yearning for their biological lineage with supportive parents. Encounter the unique difficulties that adoptive parents face while ensuring stability and managing attachment disorders in adopted children. Recognize a tremendous call for specialized mental health resources targeted at the distinctive needs of adoptees. =========== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =========== My special guest is Damon Davis Damon Davis walks the twin paths of adoption and biology, he affords listeners an enlightening perspective on adoption. His narration brings to life his personal triumphs and trials, from being an adoptee to being a dedicated father of two adopted and one biological child. Check out his memoir and his podcast, both titled 'Who Am I, Really?' The resources mentioned in this episode are: Listen to Damon Davis' podcast Who Am I Really? on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform: Https://www.whoamireallypodcast.com Purchase Damon Davis' memoir Who Am I, Really? on Amazon or at your local bookstore: https://amzn.to/3XExart Strengthened Bond and Improved Well-being for Adoptive Families Every adoptive family yearns to nurture a strong bond with their child and foster an environment conducive to well-being. It's a delicate balance that encompasses accepting and loving the child for who they are and providing specialized support uniquely suited to their circumstances. Adoptive parents play a critical role in helping children adapt and thrive in their new family unit. This involves understanding the unique dynamics of parenting, creating an environment where open communication can thrive, and being adaptable to individual needs. When we hear Damon Davis talk about his adoptive parenting story, we see how his personal journey and insights significantly contribute to this process. He emphatically shares his understanding of the importance of accepting children for who they are whether they are biological or adopted. Damon recognizes that both genetics and time spent together can forge special bonds, but every parenting situation comes with its own unique dynamics and challenges that need continuous learning and adaptive strategies. Adoption and Trauma Adoption, while being an avenue to create families, is also an experience that often starts with adversity and trauma. The underlying adversities could range from loss, abandonment, abuse, or neglect that both the birth parents and adoptive parents may experience. It's crucial for adoptive parents to understand these underlying traumas and help the adopted child navigate these complex emotions with compassion and patience. We get a glimpse of this understanding when we hear Damon Davis recognizing the complexities of adoption. He mentions that adoption often emerges from a place of adversity, both for birth parents and adoptive parents. His acknowledgment of these challenges and the need for addressing any past traumas provides tangible advice for adoptive parents navigating the path. =========== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =========== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction, Beth Syverson introduces the podcast and her guest, Damon Davis, a domestic same-race adoptee and a parent of both a biological child and two adoptive children. They discuss the purpose of the podcast and their commitment to helping anyone touched by adoption. 00:02:02 - Damon's Adoption Story, Damon shares a brief overview of his adoption story, growing up in a same-race adoption in Maryland. He talks about his decision to search for his biological mother after the birth of his son and the joyous reunion he had with her. 00:04:12 - Surprise Reuni

Brainspotting in Adoption Therapy Does this sound familiar? You've been told to simply provide love and support to your adopted child, but despite your best efforts, they still struggle with emotional trauma. Or maybe you're an adult adoptee and struggling with ongoing distress from your relinquishment. The pain of watching your child - or yourself - suffer and feeling helpless can be overwhelming. But there is hope. In this episode, we explore the power of Brainspotting as a therapy for trauma in the adoption constellation. By understanding the critical role of support structures, nurturing openness and connection, and mastering emotion regulation strategies, adoptive parents can help support their child's emotional healing. And adult adoptees can access this same healing for themselves with the help of a trained therapist. Join us to learn more and take a big step forward in your healing journey. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== In this episode, you will be able to: Understand the undisputed importance and benefits of thorough education and adoptee-centered support for adoptive parents. Become aware of the life-changing impact of nurturing openness and connection in the adoption continuum for the adoptees' wellbeing. Explore the intricacies of Brainspotting, specifically tailoring its application for trauma management in the adoption space. Master the art of regulating and balancing emotions for both adoptees and adoptive parents. Step into the world of therapy, appreciating the sanctuary it provides for both adoptees, adoptive parents, and birth parents. My special guest is Brooke Randolph Meet Brooke Randolph, a captivating blend of therapist, author, speaker, and trainer who brings her own hands-on adoption experience to the table. In adopting her first son from Samoa in 2013, Brooke truly embraced and navigated the complexities of adoption. Her work is informed by her personal experiences, plus she enriches it with a groundbreaking healing approach called Brainspotting. Brooke is a passionate advocate for therapy excellence and training, openness in adoption, and family preservation. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Look up Brooke's website: https://brooke-randolph.com/ Check out Brooke Randolph's book, It's Not About You: Understanding Adoptee Search, Reunion & Open Adoption: https://amzn.to/3Jz4mdX Find out more about Brooke's humanitarian work in Oceania: https://brooke-randolph.com/humanitarian-trainings-in-oceania/ Here's Brooke's group practice with a list of their Brainspotting therapists: https://www.greenhouseindy.com/brainspotting Here's a list of Brooke's favorite books about adoption: https://amzn.to/3pnJDmA Read one of Brooke's latest blog posts, "Why Brainspotting for Adoption Therapy: 4 Foundational Elements": https://brooke-randolph.com/blog/why-brainspotting-adoption-therapy-4-foundational-elements/ APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Adoption Support Group for Parents Adoptive parents often grapple with unique challenges throughout their adoption journey. Joining a support group can provide an avenue to share experiences, seek guidance, and gain emotional support. This helps parents better understand their child and provide them the emotional support they need. Beth, the host of Unraveling Adoption, recognized the importance of such support, founded 'APtitude', a support group that provides resources to adoptive parents. During their conversation, she shares how APtitude offers resources, a private Facebook community for adoptive parents, and a book club to facilitate the sharing of experiences and provision of support. It's an effective and safe container for parents to navigate their unique journey of adoption. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction, Host Beth Syverson introduces the podcast and welcomes guest Brooke Randolph, an adoptive mom, therapist, author, speaker, and trainer. They discuss their commitment to helping those affected by adoption and promoting excellence in therapy, openness in adoption, and family preservation. 00:02:09 - Brooke's Adoption Story, B

Dallas remembers being told he was adopted at five years old. And at 19, he had a life-shattering realization about his adoption. Struggling with anger issues and feeling disconnected from his family, he spiralled into self-destructive patterns with drugs and alcohol to cope with his pain. Now, Dallas is on a journey of self-discovery and growth, using some unconventional tools to help him cope with his struggles. But what was the unexpected twist that prompted his self-destructive behavior? And what was the key that opened the lock of his recovery? In this episode, you will be able to: Uncover the significance of identity and belonging in adopted children's lives. Learn about Dallas's personal struggles of addiction and his inspiring road to recovery. Recognize the crucial role of understanding and support in addressing adopted children's unique challenges. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== My special guest is Dallas Get to know Dallas, an inspirational figure who has successfully navigated the challenges of adoption trauma and addiction to emerge stronger and more resilient. With a past marked by substance abuse and self-destructive behavior stemming from surprising revelations about his biological parents, Dallas embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery and growth. Through his determination to overcome these challenges and the invaluable lessons he's gained along the way, Dallas supports and guides others grappling with the intricate ties between adoption and addiction. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Consider seeking professional support or therapy to navigate the complexities of adoption. Here is an Adoptee Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ Here are the books that Dallas recommends: Dopamine Nation by Anna Lemke: https://amzn.to/3CGlkTW Alan Carr's Easy Way to Stop Smoking: https://amzn.to/3JmvAEE Dallas's information: Find Dallas on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_walk_king/ Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== The Importance of Love One of the most important factors that can help adopted individuals navigate the challenges they face is love and support from their adoptive family. Communicating this love and understanding consistently can help them cope with feelings of emptiness, abandonment, or insecurity that may arise due to their adoption status. Adoptive parents should strive to be a pillar of strength and encouragement for their children, fostering a home environment where their child feels safe and valued. By creating a strong foundation of love and support, adoptive parents can help their children build resilience and instill a sense of safety and belonging that will serve them throughout their lives. Psychedelics and Forgiveness The use of psychedelics, such as psilocybin mushrooms, can sometimes lead to transformative experiences that help individuals release deep-seated anger and resentment. While not a conventional treatment method, and not recommended for everyone, Dallas's experience shows that exploring alternative therapies might be beneficial for some people in their healing journey. A critical aspect of this healing process is understanding the importance of forgiveness, both towards others and oneself. In the episode, Dallas recounts his life-changing experience with psilocybin mushrooms that allowed him to see his adoptive parents' perspective and let go of the anger he harbored towards them. However, even after this profound breakthrough, his addiction still persisted. Dallas's ultimate recovery came through a combination of forgiveness, self-reflection, and adopting healthier behaviors. =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:28 - Childhood and Adoption Story, Dallas shares his adoption story, including finding out at 5 years old that he was adopted and struggling with anger and shame throughout his childhood. He also discusses how he found out at 19 that who he thought was his biological mother was not, which sent him into a downward spiral of addiction and self-destructive behavior. 00:05:19 - Self-Destruct Mode, Dallas talks about how he turned to drugs and alcohol heavily for five years after finding out

Magnifying Adoptee Voices with Jennifer Dyan Ghoston In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, fellow podcaster Jennifer Dyan Ghoston shares her experiences as an adoptee and advocate. She raises up the importance of amplifying adoptee voices, particularly for Black same-race adoptees. But as the conversation comes to an end, a thought-provoking question lingers: are adoptive parents and allies doing enough to truly understand and support their adoptee's experiences? Tune in to find out. In this episode, you will be able to: Navigate the complex emotions surrounding adoption, providing a deeper understanding of its challenges and rewards. Appreciate the indispensable value of original birth certificates in an adoptee's life and identity formation. Hear a discussion about the importance of keeping adoptees' names and validating adoptees' experiences. Become more aware of the essential bonds of community and connection for everyone touched by adoption, such as conferences, podcasts, writing groups, and support groups. Raise your awareness of the experiences of Black same-race adoptees. 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX My special guest is Jennifer Dyan Ghoston Jennifer Dyan Ghoston is a captivating storyteller, former detective for the Chicago PD, and passionate advocate for adoptees. Born into a closed, same-race adoption, she eventually reunited with her biological family and began a new quest to understand and support fellow adoptees. As the warm and empathetic host of the Once Upon a Time in Adoptee Land podcast, Jennifer shares her experiences and amplifies the voices of other adoptees while providing guidance to adoptive parents like our host Beth Syverson. Through her journey, she aims to promote openness and understanding within the adoption community, demonstrating her dedication to empowering others with her unique perspective and experience. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Listen to Jennifer Dyan Ghoston's podcast, Once Upon a Time in Adoptee Land, to hear more adoptee stories and perspectives: www.onceuponatimeinadopteeland.com Read Jennifer's memoir The Truth So Far...A Detective's Journey to Reunite with Her Birth Family: https://amzn.to/3N8dyXL Watch the documentary Jennifer appears in, A Simple Piece of Paper: https://vimeo.com/channels/adopteefilmchannel Attend conferences like Untangling Our Roots Summit: https://untanglingourroots.org/ National Association of Adoptees and Parents (NAAP): https://naapunited.org/ Right to Know: https://righttoknow.us/ Look into the Adoptee Voices writing group: https://adoptee-voices.com/writing-groups/ Read White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo: https://amzn.to/43Hxp7k Check out Jennifer's website and order an autographed copy of her memoir: www.Jenniferdyanghoston.com Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Adoptee Voices The perspectives and experiences of adoptees can be invaluable in helping everyone involved in the adoption process understand the complexities and emotional aspects of adoption. Adoptee voices provide insights into issues that adoptive parents and community members may not be aware of, and they can shed light on the unique challenges and experiences faced by those who have been adopted. By listening to their stories, adoptive parents can better support their children and empathize with their experiences. During her conversation with host Beth Syverson, Jennifer Dyan Ghoston highlights the power of storytelling for healing and connections in the adoption community. She discusses her work co-facilitating the Adoptee Voices writing group, where adoptees come together in a supportive environment to share their experiences and foster understanding among all members of the adoption community. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction, Beth Syverson introduces the podcast and guest, Jennifer Dyan Ghoston, who shares her adoption story. They discuss the importance of adoptees telling their stories to help others understand adoption's complexities. 00:02:03 - Growing Up as an Adoptee, Jennifer shares her experience growing up in a closed adoption with loving adoptive parents who were considerably older. Her parents were not emotionally available for discussions about adoption, which

Discover how late discovery adoptee (LDA) Greg Rostron exposes the danger of secrets and lies for adoptees' mental health in this compelling and emotional episode. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== In this episode, you will be able to: Discover the crucial role honesty plays in the adoption process. Understand the effects secrets, lies, trauma, and family dysfunction may have on the mental well-being of adoptees. Learn about the deep-rooted feelings of abandonment and rejection often experienced by adopted individuals. Gain insights into specialized therapy methods tailored for adoptees and adoptive parents. Recognize the potential hazards of secrecy and the advantages of engaging in support groups. My special guest is Greg Rostron Greg Rostron is a late discovery adoptee from Sydney, Australia, who has bravely embarked on a journey of personal growth and healing after uncovering the truth about his adoption. Having spent much of his life unaware of this pivotal information, Greg experienced firsthand the impact that secrets and lies can have on an adoptee's mental health. Since reading The Primal Wound a few years ago, Greg has dedicated himself to advocacy and sharing his powerful story, emphasizing the importance of transparency and open communication within adoptive families. By addressing his own challenges and struggles, Greg has become an inspiration for others who are grappling with similar revelations about their past. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Seek therapy: It's a good idea for adoptive parents to seek therapy for themselves to work through any personal issues that may arise while raising an adopted child. And for adoptees, it's crucial to have therapeutic support available. Find adoptee therapists here: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ Join support groups: Adoptees should consider joining support groups or seeking out other adoptees to connect with and share their experiences. Here are a few support groups that Unraveling Adoption recommends: Adoptees Connect: https://adopteesconnect.com/ Fireside Adoptees: https://www.facebook.com/fireside.adoptees.and.allies Post Adoption Support in New South Wales: https://www.benevolent.org.au/services-and-programs/post-adoption-services Male Adoptees Digital Meetup: https://www.maleadoptees.com/ Adoption Knowledge Affiliates' Men's Adoptee Peer Support Group: https://www.adoptionknowledge.org/peer-support-groups.html Celia Center's Male Adult Adoptee Adopt Salon Support Group: https://celiacenter.org/events-calendar-support-groups/ Adoptees and adoptive parents can benefit from reading The Primal Wound by Nancy Verrier: https://amzn.to/42C0TCa This is the children's book about an adoptive family that Greg remembers from his childhood: Mister Fairweather and His Family by Margaret Kornitzer: https://www.biblio.com/book/mr-fairweather-his-family-kornitzer-margaret/d/644493426 Email Greg: [email protected] Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - oplm.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents who have a child struggling with addiction: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Adoptee-Therapist Directory: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== The Importance of Sharing Information Sharing information about adoption is vital for adoptees to understand their background and build a stronger sense of identity. Withholding information can lead to feelings of disconnection and a lifetime of unanswered questions, which only gets worse with time. It's crucial that adoptive families prioritize sharing information and remain open about it, even if it feels uncomfortable. During his conversation with Beth Syverson, Greg Rostron stressed the significance of sharing information about adoption with those affected by it. He----- encouraged people to record, document, and share as much information as possible while those who know the secrets are still around. It's important for adoptees to connect with their biological heritage and understand their story better. Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:00:00 - Introduction, The host, Beth Syverson, introduces the podcast episode and the guest, Greg Rostron, a late discovery adoptee from Sydney, Australia. She explains that Greg found out he was adopted when he was 28, and he remained in the "fog" for almost 4 decades until he read the book, The Primal Wound, in 2020. 00:01:28 - Childhood and Family, Greg talks about

In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, trauma expert Beth Tyson discusses the often overlooked and misdiagnosed effects of ambiguous loss on children in foster care and adoptive families, calling for greater awareness and emphasis on connection to mitigate the impacts of trauma. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== In this episode, you will be able to: Grasp the profound consequences of adoption trauma on children and families alike. Learn powerful ways to assist children during traumatic episodes. Recognize the vital importance of addressing grief and loss within the adoption journey. Identify the essential aspects of providing adoptees ongoing support. Tackle the challenges of forming and maintaining intricate family bonds in adopted families. My special guest is Beth Tyson Beth Tyson is a childhood trauma consultant, trainer, bestselling author, and public speaker who has dedicated her career to helping children and families affected by trauma. With a Master's degree in Clinical Counseling, she has worked with children in foster care, adoption, and kinship families to help them understand and cope with their experiences. Beth Tyson's passion for supporting these families has led her to create Connections Matter Academy, an animated short video series, and an award-winning children's picture book, "A Grand Family for Sullivan." By sharing her expertise with us, she aims to raise awareness about the impact of grief and loss in adoption and foster care systems, and help adoptive parents and community allies better understand adopted and fostered children's experiences. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Consider trauma-informed therapy for adoptees and foster youth. Find adoptee therapists here: https://growbeyondwords.com/adoptee-therapist-directory/ Check out Beth Tyson's animated short video series, Connections Matter Academy: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5ud5wiGudHfma-G887gutw Get or gift her award-winning children's picture book, A Grandfamily for Sullivan: https://amzn.to/3OQfZ3D Find resources for aging-out foster youth at Connect Our Kids: ConnectOurKids.org Shift your perspective on ADHD and other behavioral labels as trauma responses rather than diseases. A good resource is Gabor Maté's new book The Myth of Normal: https://amzn.to/42jyqRm Join Beth Tyson's private Facebook group Emotiminds: https://www.facebook.com/groups/emotiminds Connect with Beth Tyson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethtyson/ Sign up for Beth Tyson's newsletter and check out her website: www.bethtyson.com =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - OPLM.com Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents of Addicted Teens: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Find a Tele-Therapist: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support UnravelingAdoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Grief and Loss in Adoption Adopting a child is a life-changing event, full of emotions including joy, excitement, love, and also grief and loss. It is vital to acknowledge and recognize that at various points in their lives, adoptive parents, birth parents, and adoptees will most likely experience a range of feelings associated with grief and loss. For adoptees, this could involve grappling with the concept of identity, the loss of a biological connection, or the struggle to fit in within their adoptive family. For adoptive parents, the potential experience of unmet expectations, challenges in bonding, or the weight of responsibility can bring about feelings of grief and loss. Open communication within the family, along with external resources and support, can help manage these emotions and create a healthier environment for all involved. Guest Beth Tyson shared her experience as a therapist and trauma educator and described how, despite having loving adoptive parents, she's worked with many adopted and fostered children and youth who experienced feelings of disconnection and grief. She emphasizes the importance of addressing the complexities that come with adoption and offering resources to help adoptees process their grief and loss. In doing so, families can create stronger bonds and promote a more positive adoption experience for everyone involved. The Impact of Trauma on Children and Misdiagnosis of ADHD Trauma experienced by children can sometimes result in misdiagnoses, most notably with ADHD. Children who have experienced trauma may exhibit behaviors consistent with those seen in ADHD, such as i

In this episode, filmmaker and adoptee Glenn Morey discusses the painful experiences and anger felt by Asian American adoptees like him. In this thought-provoking podcast episode, he delves into the realities of growing up in a homogeneously white environment and the damaging effects of negative media portrayals of Asian boys and men. If you are the adoptive or foster parent of an Asian child, do you want to help them develop a strong sense of identity and community? Glenn Morey has the solution to empower Asian adoptees through fostering supportive networks and building a sense of belonging. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== In this episode, you will be able to: Delve into the critical importance of adoptee voices when exploring Korean adoption history. Examine the complexities of identity development for Asian adoptees within white communities. Acknowledge the harmful effects of negative stereotypes on the well-being of Asian American boys and men. Embrace the essential role of transracial adoptive parents in fostering their child's sense of identity. Appreciate the power of community and shared experiences in strengthening Asian American adoptees' identity. My special guest is Glenn Morey Glenn is a passionate filmmaker and Korean adoptee from Denver who, in his retirement, has made it his life's work to bring the stories of adoptees to the forefront. Together with his wife Julie, Glenn has created the impactful film project, Side by Side, which features the heartfelt stories of 100 Korean adoptees from around the world. Glenn's own experience as an interracial adoptee has given him a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs faced by Asian American boys and men, making his work truly invaluable. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit the Side By Side Project website to watch all 100 Korean adoptee stories in their entirety: sidebysideproject.com Check out the nine stories in the 38 Minutes compilation or the ten different thematic montages on topics such as seeking identity, motherland, and aging out of the Korean orphanages: https://sidebysideproject.com/11-short-films Listen to 15 of the stories in an Audible original compilation titled Given Away: https://www.audible.com/pd/Given-Away-Audiobook/B08KWRMHTZ?asin=B08KWRMHTZ&source_code=AUDOR2221105209T9J Here's the YouTube recording of a discussion with therapists who viewed the film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYpBMrXZcio&t=72s Transracial adoptive families can attend PACT Camp: https://pactadopt.org/pact-camp/ Here are the two books Glenn recommended: The Souls of Yellow Folk by Wesley Yang https://amzn.to/3OIh2mo Minor Feelings: An Asian American Reckoning by Kathy Park Hong: https://amzn.to/3IL8l6V =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - https://www.facebook.com/other.parents.like.me Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents of Addicted Teens: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Find a Tele-Therapist: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support UnravelingAdoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Growing up Asian in a Homogeneously White Community The experience of growing up as an Asian adoptee in predominantly white areas can lead to feelings of isolation and a struggle to develop a sense of identity. Adoptees often face challenges in connecting with their racial and cultural background and may feel like they don't quite fit into either world. This sense of displacement can have lasting consequences for their personal and social development. Finding ways to expose adoptees to their native culture and building connections with others from similar backgrounds can be essential to promoting a strong sense of self and fostering understanding between adoptees, their families, and the broader community. In this podcast, Glenn Morey shares his personal journey growing up as a Korean adoptee in a white community. He particularly emphasizes the importance of connecting with other people who share a similar background, as this helped him to embrace his heritage and feel more at ease with his identity. Many of the adoptees interviewed for the Side by Side project also expressed similar feelings of displacement and isolation, showing that this is a common issue faced by many Asian adoptees. By creating opportunities for connections to grow and supports to be put in place, it can help adoptees develop a greater sense of belonging and connection to their roots. Model Minority Myth and Individual Ne

Sandy White Hawk's heartbreaking story of being taken from her Native American family at a young age is a familiar tale, but her unexpected twist of reconnection will leave you in tears. From feelings of isolation to the overwhelming emotions of meeting her birth family, Sandy's journey is a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and the devastating impact of forced removal. Find out how Sandy is helping other Native American adoptees and formerly fostered individuals reconnect with their Native American roots too. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== In this episode, you will be able to: Examine the long-lasting impact of Native American child removal policies on the psyche and well-being of members of Indigenous communities. Acknowledge the value of cultural comprehension in drafting policies that respect diverse communities. Encourage the prioritizing of family preservation in Indigenous communities. Discover healing rituals that Sandy White Hawk helps facilitate for Native American individuals affected by adoption and foster care systems. Learn about the necessity of enforcing the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) to uphold the rights of Native American families. My special guest is Sandy White Hawk Sandy White Hawk is a Lakota adoptee who has been passionately advocating for the rights and well-being of Native American children and families for decades. This Minnesota-based powerhouse is the founder of the First Nations Repatriation Institute and has dedicated her life to helping others reconnect with their heritage. As a survivor of child removal herself, Sandy knows firsthand the devastating effects this practice can have on individuals and their communities. Her inspiring story has been featured in three documentaries and her powerful memoir, A Child of the Indian Race: a Story of Return. Sandy's extensive experience and commitment to this cause make her an invaluable resource for all of us who are interested in prioritizing family preservation in Native American communities and beyond. =============== The resources mentioned in this episode are: Read Sandy White Hawk's memoir, A Child of the Indian Race: A Story of Return: https://amzn.to/3Mb34q0 Watch the documentaries featuring Sandy White Hawk's story: Blood Memory: https://www.tpt.org/america-reframed/video/blood-memory-ze8gfl/ The People's Protectors: https://www.pbs.org/show/peoples-protectors/ Dawnland: www.ustanderproject.org Learn more about the First Nations Repatriation Institute and consider supporting their work: https://www.wearecominghome.org/ Consider donating to the National Native American Boarding School Healing Coalition: https://boardingschoolhealing.org/ Educate yourself about Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) with this ICWA Fact Sheet: http://www.nativepartnership.org/site/PageServer?pagename=PWNA_Native_History_ICWA&s_src=ICWAGoogleAds&gclid=Cj0KCQjwmZejBhC_ARIsAGhCqncBANIrOVwOkvesF74qNTnwdKuPzuStXe5_TS1AoOwd5FPqHStiyt0aAiwXEALw_wcB The Baby Thief: The True Story of the Woman Who Sold Over Five Thousand Neglected, Abused and Stolen Babies in the 1950s: https://amzn.to/3BY5yDP The Child Catchers: Rescue, Trafficking, and the New Gospel of Adoption: https://amzn.to/3MF2J0e =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - https://www.facebook.com/other.parents.like.me Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents of Addicted Teens: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Find a Tele-Therapist: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support UnravelingAdoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Support for Adoptive Parents Adoptive parents play an essential role in the healing and growth process for Native American children who have experienced separation from their birth families. Offering support to adoptive parents means providing access to resources and guidance, fostering cultural understanding, and assisting them in addressing the unique challenges they and the adoptees face. Adoptive parents must prioritize the cultural heritage and psychological well-being of their adopted child, and seek guidance when needed to meet these demands. Sandy White Hawk's insights and experiences in the episode highlight the importance of openness in adoption, particularly those who care for Native American children. She shared that her own adoptive mother denied Sandy's Native American heritage, causing significant emotional turmoil in her life. By offering support to adoptive parents and ensuring they understand the cr

Are you an LGBTQ+ adoptive parent or adoptee in need of support and resources? Look no further! Tony Hynes has the solution for you to connect with a community and discover valuable resources to support your family. Join the growing network of LGBTQ+ adoptive families and find the resources you need to thrive. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== In this episode, you will be able to: Gain insights into challenges experienced by LGBTQ+ adoptive families in today's society. Understand the crucial role of purposeful communication in adoptive families. Tackle difficult topics such as separation, grief, and loss within adoptive family relationships. Find valuable support resources catering to the unique needs of LGBTQ+ adoptive families. Delve into the intersections of a child's identity in adoptive family settings. My special guest is Tony Hynes With lived experience overcoming obstacles faced by LGBTQ+ adoptive families, Tony Hynes has become a respected and sought-after voice in the community. Tony's personal journey as an interracial adoptee with lesbian parents has equipped him with invaluable insights into the challenges LGBTQ+ adoptive families face in today's society. His dedication to supporting and empowering others in their quest to build loving homes for their children has made him a trusted ally for countless families. Tony's Contact Info & Resources: Tony's Book: The Son With Two Moms: https://amzn.to/42yJs6e Tony's Articles: Why We Shouldn't Call Adoptees "Lucky": https://catapult.co/stories/essay-adopted-why-we-shouldnt-call-adoptees-lucky-tony-hynes I Am the Black Adoptee of White Parents: What George Floyd Taught Me About Race and the Adoption Industry: https://medium.com/hynes-on-adoption/i-am-the-black-adoptee-of-white-parents-what-george-floyd-taught-me-about-race-and-the-adoption-5052180d8b56 Tony's Email: [email protected] Find Tony on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tony_hy/ Resources mentioned in this episode: Check out Tony Hynes' other interviews on adoption-related podcasts, including: Lori Holden's Adoption: the Long View: https://www.adopting.com/adoption-podcasts/adoption-the-long-view/adoption-in-interracial-lgbtq-families Angela Tucker's The Adoptee Next Door: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLiDXe4qnn8 Simon Benn's Thriving Adoptees Podcast: https://thriving-adoptees.simplecast.com/episodes/belonging-with-tony-hynes-interracial-adoptee-training-specialist Three Sides to Every Adoption: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ENzs7fdEClM Support the Center for Adoption Support and Education (C.A.S.E.), where Tony Hynes works as a training specialist, by making a donation or participating in their training programs. https://adoptionsupport.org/ Find an LGBTQ+-affirming Unitarian Universalist Church: https://www.uua.org/lgbtq/welcoming/ministers Other Organizations that Support LGBTQ+ Families that Tony Mentions: Rainbow Families: https://rainbowfamilies.org/ Family Equality: https://www.familyequality.org/ COLAGE (Children of Lesbians and Gays Everywhere): https://colage.org/ PFlag (Parents & Friends of Lesbians and Gays): https://pflag.org/ =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - https://www.facebook.com/other.parents.like.me Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents of Addicted Teens: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Find a Tele-Therapist: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support UnravelingAdoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Episode Summary: Intersectionality of Racism and Homophobia For interracial children adopted by LGBTQ+ parents, growing up and navigating their identity is shaped by both the racial and sexual orientation aspects of their family. In Tony Hynes' experience, he had to contend with not only being a black child adopted by white parents, but also having two moms. This led to numerous questions from classmates and acquaintances. He faced negative comments during his college years that caused him to reconsider some of his friend relationships. Tony's experience demonstrates the importance of understanding and appreciating the intersectionality of race and sexual identity in adoption. It is crucial for potential LGBTQ+ adoptive parents to understand the possible hardships they may face while embarking on their adoption journey and to be prepared to address these issues with the support of a strong community and educational resources. Guest Tony Hynes shares that his adoption was facilitated by his two moms, Mary

If you're feeling the crushing disappointment and heartache of repeatedly hitting dead ends in your search for biological family despite exhaustive DNA testing and genealogy research, then you are not alone! In this episode, you will be able to: Witness Julie's heartwarming tale of finding and reconnecting with her birth family. Grasp the significance of genetic genealogy in uncovering one's heritage. Examine the layered emotions and potential mental health challenges facing adoptees and their families. Evaluate the ethical concerns tied to DNA testing and gaining consent during the search for biological kin. Gather advice and best practices for adoptees venturing to locate their birth families. My special guest is Julie Dixon Jackson, an empathetic and skilled genetic genealogist hailing from Southern California. As an adoptee born in Australia during the Baby Scoop era, Julie spent over two decades searching for her biological family. In this episode, she shares her expertise by helping fellow adoptees, NPEs, and donor-conceived individuals discover their origins through her company, CutOff Genes Investigations. Julie also hosts the CutOff Genes podcast, which delves into a variety of DNA-related topics, particularly in the context of adoption. Join Beth Syverson as she chats with Julie about the vital role genetic genealogy plays in uncovering family origins. The resources mentioned in this episode are: Visit Cutoff Genes Investigations website to learn more about genetic genealogy and adoption search services: https://cutoffgenes.com/ Check out Julie Dixon Jackson's podcast, Cutoff Genes, for insights into DNA and adoption-related topics: https://cutoffgenes.libsyn.com/ Connect with Julie on Facebook for updates and news related to adoption and genetic genealogy: https://www.facebook.com/cutoffgenespodcast Searching for Biological Family The search for one's biological family is a profound and often emotional experience. Adoptees may grapple with feelings of confusion, excitement, and anxiety as they embark on this journey. Patience, persistence, and resourcefulness are critical as adoptees navigate this path. The use of DNA testing and genealogical research has revolutionized this search and increased the likelihood of finding lost family connections. Julie Dixon Jackson's personal story, as shared in this Unraveling Adoption episode, demonstrates the determination and ingenuity needed to find her biological family. Despite facing numerous obstacles and uncertainties, Julie combined her skills in genetic genealogy with the use of DNA testing to progressively uncover her ancestry. Her experience serves as an inspiring testament to the power of persistence and the importance of seeking one's roots. Learning About Her Family History The revelation of one's family history is a life-altering experience, providing a newfound sense of identity, belonging, and context. Adoptees who delve into their biological roots often find answers to long-held questions and develop a deeper understanding of themselves. However, this journey may also unearth difficult truths or cast current family relationships in a new light. In this Unraveling Adoption episode, Julie Dixon Jackson recounts her experiences of learning about her biological family's history. She describes the emotional rollercoaster she went through while uncovering new information and making sense of her findings. Julie's story showcases the importance of resilience, perspective, and support as individuals learn about their family history and forge new connections. The insights and lessons gleaned from her journey can serve as guidance and inspiration for others embarking on a similar path. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - https://www.facebook.com/other.parents.like.me Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents of Addicted Teens: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Find a Tele-Therapist: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support UnravelingAdoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== Timestamped summary of this episode: 00:01:07 - Julie's Adoption Story, Julie Dixon Jackson shares her adoption story as a Baby Scoop era adoptee from Australia and discusses her journey to find her biological family, including the use of genetic genealogy. 00:04:00 - Effects of Adoption on Identity, Julie talks about the effects of adoption on her identity and why she struggled with independence and self-soothing. 0

After spending 15 years searching for answers, Rich Uhrlaub discovered that both his birth parents had passed away long before his quest had begun. This devastating realization fueled Rich's passion to become an advocate for truth and transparency in adoption, challenging an industry that had grown apathetic to the plight of those it served. In this episode, you will be able to: Gain insight into adoptees' needs for truth and transparency, emphasizing the need for access to birth records and biological family information. Follow the path of Rich Uhrlaub as he champions legislative change through his experiences and advocacy work. Delve into the necessity of truth and transparency in adoption, exposing the realities of the multibillion-dollar adoption industry. Cultivate a cooperative environment for adoptees, adoptive parents, birth parents, and allies. Unleash the power of art and creativity as a means of promoting adoption awareness and self-expression. My special guest is Rich Uhrlaub Rich Uhrlaub is a passionate adoptee rights activist who has dedicated the past 25 years to promoting truth and transparency in the multibillion-dollar adoption industry. With his personal experience as an adoptee, Rich has been instrumental in advocating for legislative reform and providing support to fellow adoptees in search of their origins. As a board member of Adoption Search Resource Connection, he plays a crucial role in assisting adoptees during their search process. Rich's unwavering commitment to the cause extends to his creative pursuits, with an adoption-related musical in development called For the Record. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== RESOURCES: Rich's information: Adoption Search Resource Connection (ASRC): https://www.asrconline.org/ ASRC playlists of adoption-related music, film, etc.: https://www.asrconline.org/film-music-stage-accordion Rich's For the Record musical: FTRMusical.com Male adoptees support group: https://www.maleadoptees.com/ Male Adoptee/Alumni Impact Summit, May 12-14, 2023: https://www.maleadoptees.com/ DONATE TO: Coalition for Truth & Transparency in Adoption (A 501(c)(4) Organization): https://www.adoptiontruthandtransparency.org/ Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - https://www.facebook.com/other.parents.like.me Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents of Addicted Teens: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Find a Tele-Therapist: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support UnravelingAdoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== The key moments in this episode are: 1:27 Rich's adoption story and childhood 8:50 How did Rich's interest in adoptee rights begin? 13:50 What's happening with adoption legislation right now? 19:16 Getting thick skin while working for adoption reform 21:30 Normalizing adoptees seeking their own genealogy 22:40 "Truth and transparency" instead of "adoptee rights" 24:30 Uniting adoption constellation members in legislation activism 27:59 What can adoptive parents do to promote truth and transparency in adoption? 30:17 Support for male adoptees 36:20 Walking on eggshells as a movement 37:40 What can adoption allies do to help truth & transparency legislation?

After spending 15 years searching for answers, Rich Uhrlaub discovered that both his birth parents had passed away long before his quest had begun. This devastating realization fueled Rich's passion to become an advocate for truth and transparency in adoption, challenging an industry that had grown apathetic to the plight of those it served. In this episode, you will be able to: Gain insight into adoptees' needs for truth and transparency, emphasizing the need for access to birth records and biological family information. Follow the path of Rich Uhrlaub as he champions legislative change through his experiences and advocacy work. Delve into the necessity of truth and transparency in adoption, exposing the realities of the multibillion-dollar adoption industry. Cultivate a cooperative environment for adoptees, adoptive parents, birth parents, and allies. Unleash the power of art and creativity as a means of promoting adoption awareness and self-expression. My special guest is Rich Uhrlaub Rich Uhrlaub is a passionate adoptee rights activist who has dedicated the past 25 years to promoting truth and transparency in the multibillion-dollar adoption industry. With his personal experience as an adoptee, Rich has been instrumental in advocating for legislative reform and providing support to fellow adoptees in search of their origins. As a board member of Adoption Search Resource Connection, he plays a crucial role in assisting adoptees during their search process. Rich's unwavering commitment to the cause extends to his creative pursuits, with an adoption-related musical in development called For the Record. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== RESOURCES: Rich's information: Adoption Search Resource Connection (ASRC): https://www.asrconline.org/ ASRC playlists of adoption-related music, film, etc.: https://www.asrconline.org/film-music-stage-accordion Rich's For the Record musical: FTRMusical.com Male adoptees support group: https://www.maleadoptees.com/ Male Adoptee/Alumni Impact Summit, May 12-14, 2023: https://www.maleadoptees.com/ DONATE TO: Coalition for Truth & Transparency in Adoption (A 501(c)(4) Organization): https://www.adoptiontruthandtransparency.org/ Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - https://www.facebook.com/other.parents.like.me Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents of Addicted Teens: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Find a Tele-Therapist: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support UnravelingAdoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== The key moments in this episode are: 1:27 Rich's adoption story and childhood 8:50 How did Rich's interest in adoptee rights begin? 13:50 What's happening with adoption legislation right now? 19:16 Getting thick skin while working for adoption reform 21:30 Normalizing adoptees seeking their own genealogy 22:40 "Truth and transparency" instead of "adoptee rights" 24:30 Uniting adoption constellation members in legislation activism 27:59 What can adoptive parents do to promote truth and transparency in adoption? 30:17 Support for male adoptees 36:20 Walking on eggshells as a movement 37:40 What can adoption allies do to help truth & transparency legislation?

In this week's Unraveling Adoption podcast, Beth talks with Astrid Castro, Founder and CEO of Adoption Mosaic. She's a transracial intercountry adoptee, coming from Colombia at the age of 4 along with her older sister. She has been in reunion with her birth family since 2012. Her organization, Adoption Mosaic, creates a strong community of people who can envision a new future of ethical and conscious adoption. Adoption Mosaic provides adoptee-centered courses, speakers, and consultation services to teach adoption competency to anyone in the adoption constellation and beyond. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== RESOURCES: Astrid's information: Adoption Mosaic, including 15 min. free consultations: https://www.adoptionmosaic.com/ "Adoptee searches for her long-lost birth mother in Colombia: Family Matters" article about Astrid's reunion in The Oregonian: https://www.oregonlive.com/living/2012/07/family_matters_adoptee_searche.html Astrid's Episode on Adoptees On with Haley Radke: https://www.adopteeson.com/listen/156 Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - https://www.facebook.com/other.parents.like.me Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents of Addicted Teens: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Find a Tele-Therapist: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== TIME STAMPS 2:55 Astrid's adoption story 7:07 How common is it to get pregnant after adopting? 9:40 Growing up in the US as a transracial adoptee, lacking language to speak about adoption 14:40 How supportive are Astrid's adoptive parents? 15:07 The need for more education for hopeful and new adoptive parents 22:08 Astrid's shocking story of how she became available for adoption through the black market, and the impact of losing her language 37:03 Astrid's reunion with her first mother 40:26 Astrid's adoptive parents' reaction to unethical adoption details that were discovered in reunion 43:15 Adoption Mosaic's training offerings for adoptive parents 52:49 Adoption is an ongoing process for the rest of your life, not a one-time event

In this week's Unraveling Adoption podcast, Beth talks with Fred Nicora, a Late Discovery Adoptee, or LDA. Fred's memoir is called Forbidden Roots: A Memoir of Late-Discovery Adoption. Because of his life experience, he now speaks out about truth and transparency in adoption. He has 13 years in recovery from substance use disorder and he now runs a small hobby farm in Southeastern Wisconsin. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== RESOURCES: Fred's information: Forbidden Roots: A Memoir of Late Discovery Adoption: https://amzn.to/43CUJ6H Fred's gluten free bread store: https://www.fredsbreadstore.com/ Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - https://www.facebook.com/other.parents.like.me Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents of Addicted Teens: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Find a Tele-Therapist: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== TIME STAMPS: 1:15 How late is late for a Late Discovery Adoptee? The story of Fred's discovery of his adoption at age 41 4:08 Did Fred have any clues along the way? 5:54 Life struggles and identity issues that Fred attributes to his adoption, looking back 7:02 Was adoption even on his radar? 8:54 Fred's relatives' reactions after his discovery 12:19 Who am I now? The search process with limited access to his own documents 14:03 Wisconsin adoption legislation SB-15 16:20 Complicated reunion with his birth mom 19:25 Is there less stigma around birth mothers today? 24:05 Finding alcohol and using it to cope with complex feelings 26:22 Practicing faith and developing tools to stay spiritually fit 37:58 How does Fred's LDA journey as an adoptee differ from someone who's always known they were adopted? 41:16 Late discovery strains relationships 44:04 Fred's advice for adoptive parents 47:38 NPEs (Non Parental Event), DNA, and protecting birth moms

In this week's Unraveling Adoption podcast, Beth talks with Amanda Baum, co-founder of Fireside Adoptees Facebook Group. They recently launched a sister site called Fireside Adoptees Constellation which is open to anyone touched by adoption. Now living in North Carolina, she is an intercountry adoptee originally from Mexico but adopted into Utah. Amanda will be talking about how being a transracial adoptee has affected her life. And she will talk about ways she gets and gives support in the adoption community. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: UnravelingAdoption.com/Calendar 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== RESOURCES: Amanda's information: Fireside Adoptees Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1411791922534076 Fireside Adoptees Constellation Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/616673970200012 Email Amanda at: [email protected] Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption's Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - https://www.facebook.com/other.parents.like.me Heather Ross - Life Coaching for Parents of Addicted Teens: https://heatherrosscoaching.com/ Find a Tele-Therapist: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/online-counseling =============== Unraveling Adoption is produced and hosted by Beth Syverson Music written and performed by Joseph Nakao Email questions or comments to [email protected] Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support UnravelingAdoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption www.UnravelingAdoption.com =============== TIME STAMPS: 1:33 Amanda's childhood and adoption story as a Mexican intercountry transracial adoptee 4:38 Culture shock of moving to a bigger, more diverse school 6:48 The difficulties of growing up as a transracially adopted child 9:57 Creating a blended transracial family 12:33 Amanda's unfruitful search (so far) and the start of her activity in the adoption community 14:23 Microaggressions and bullying makes her feel "found out," navigating race as a transracial adoptee 19:57 Connecting with other Mexican and Latin American adoptees 21:12 How and why Amanda started Fireside Adoptees 27:00 Why she named it Fireside Adoptees and what resources the groups offer 29:04 Let's get curious!