Episodi

  • Sexuality in Adoption: Insights from a Transracial Adoptee and Sex Therapist with Anna Linde - Ep 142
    Apr 22 2024
    Sexuality and Adoption: Insights from a Transracial Adoptee and Sex Therapist "For me, sexual and reproductive health or our sexuality is so connected with attraction, with attachment style, with self-esteem, with the wish for connecting and creating long-term bonds." -- Anna Linde Read the transcript: https://app.swellai.com/t/tp_01HVN38Q94D5ZXH9GR708NDX4E Adoptive parents, you're invited to a webinar that Anna Linde will be leading on June 5, 2024. More information and register here: https://AnnaLinde.eventbrite.com Podcast Episode Synopsis: In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, I had the pleasure of speaking with Anna Linde, a transracial adoptee and a sex therapist. Anna shared her unique perspective on the intersection of adoption and sexuality, shedding light on the complexities and challenges adoptees face in this area. Anna, who was adopted from Brazil to Sweden at just six weeks old, grew up as one of the few Black children in her community. She discussed the impact of the "white gaze" on her self-perception and how it influenced her views on intimacy and relationships. Throughout the conversation, Anna highlighted the importance of addressing shame, anxiety, and boundaries in adoptees' sexual identities. She emphasized the need for adoptive parents to create a safe space for their children to explore healthy boundaries and navigate their sexuality with confidence. The discussion delved into the role of cultural stereotypes in shaping adoptees' sexual experiences and the challenges of navigating relationships in a society that often perpetuates harmful norms. Anna shared personal anecdotes and insights from her work as a sex therapist, offering valuable perspectives on how adoptees can cultivate a positive relationship with their bodies and sexuality. Towards the end of the episode, we announced an upcoming webinar on June 5 which will be led by Anna, focusing on sexual and reproductive health for adoptees. The webinar aims to provide adoptive parents and caretakers with valuable insights and tools to support their children in developing healthy attitudes towards sexuality. Overall, this episode provided a thought-provoking exploration of the complex dynamics at the intersection of adoption and sexuality, offering valuable guidance and insights for adoptees and adoptive parents alike. Anna's expertise and personal experiences added depth and nuance to the conversation, highlighting the importance of addressing these issues within the adoption community. =============== 📆 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 =============== RESOURCES: Anna’s information: Find Anna on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-linde-08264692/ Find Anna on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/lindes_therapy/ Here’s Anna’s Linktree with more resources: https://linktr.ee/lindestherapy 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 Beth@UnravelingAdoption.com 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 =============== Timestamps: 00:00:02 - Introduction to the podcast and guest, Anna Linde 00:05:39 - Discussion on the white gaze and self-identity 00:07:49 - Impact of body image on sexuality 00:10:17 - Common sexual problems among adoptees 00:14:18 - Stereotypical sexual ideas related to race 00:18:47 - Importance of conscious work in dissecting adoption issues 00:21:34 - Advice for adoptive parents on building healthier sexual identities for children 00:25:49 - Availability of the guest, Anna Linde, for online coaching 00:27:28 - Announcement of upcoming webinar on sexual and reproductive health for adoptees on June 5, 2024
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    30 min
  • Solving the Genetic Puzzle of Health Issues in Adoptees with Jeremy - Ep 141
    Apr 15 2024
    "I hate when people say that my life should be a movie. Can we just ban that phrase?" - Jeremy Read the transcript here: https://app.swellai.com/t/tp_01HV5M7AN2D7GP4H2P1NBVSNMQ Episode Summary: In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, host Beth Syverson delves into the complexities of adoption alongside her guest, Jeremy, a 24-year-old adopted person from Texas. Jeremy shares his journey of struggling with various health issues and neurodivergence, only to discover the genetic roots of his challenges after reuniting with his birth family in 2022. Jeremy's adoption story unfolds as he recounts being adopted in Albuquerque, New Mexico, from a birth family in Denver. Raised in Texas by adoptive parents who were open about his adoption but painted a negative picture of his birth mother, Jeremy grew up questioning his identity and health issues without a clear genetic history. As Jeremy navigates his health challenges, including asthma, joint pain, and dysautonomia, he sheds light on the importance of knowing one's genetic background for proper diagnosis and treatment. With a recent diagnosis of hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Jeremy emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to recognize and address invisible disabilities like EDS. Through his journey of self-discovery and reunion with his birth family, Jeremy finds validation and understanding in shared experiences with relatives who also have EDS. He highlights the significance of acceptance and support from adoptive families, healthcare providers, and the community in addressing the unique needs of adoptees with complex medical histories. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on the impact of closed adoptions, ableism, and stigma surrounding birth parents, as Beth and Jeremy advocate for a more inclusive and informed approach to adoption and healthcare. The episode concludes with a call to action for spreading awareness and support for adoptees facing health challenges and seeking reunion. To connect with Jeremy and explore more adoption-related content, visit his Instagram account, Borderline Adoptee. Additionally, listeners are invited to engage with Unraveling Adoption through their website and Patreon community to support ongoing discussions and resources for adoptive families and individuals impacted by adoption. Stay tuned for more insightful conversations and stories on Unraveling Adoption. =============== 📆 Community Calendar: http://unravelingadoption.com/calendar ✨Healing the Adoption Constellation database: http://unravelingadoption.com/Healing 💌Sign up for our Unraveling Adoption email list: http://eepurl.com/hVIAVX =============== RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE: Find Jeremy at BorderlineAdoptee on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/borderlineadoptee/ Find out more about Ehler’s Danlos Syndrome (EDS) here: https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/what-is-eds/ Other Resources: APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption’s Challenges: http://UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude Other Parents Like Me - http://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 Beth@UnravelingAdoption.com Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: http://Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption Check out our website: http://UnravelingAdoption.com Create your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION =============== TIMESTAMPS 00:00:02 - Introduction to Unraveling Adoption: Beth Syverson introduces the podcast and shares her personal connection to adoption. 00:01:05 - Jeremy's Adoption Story: Jeremy shares his adoption story, including details about his birth family and upbringing. 00:03:01 - Searching for Birth Mother: Jeremy talks about his search for his birth mother and the impact of not knowing his genetic history. 00:05:30 - Discovering Neurodivergence: Jeremy discusses his diagnosis of neurodivergence and the challenges he faced growing up. 00:06:28 - Diagnosis of Asperger's: Jeremy shares his diagnosis of Asperger's and the challenges he faced due to misconceptions about his condition. 00:08:09 - Uncovering Health Conditions: Jeremy talks about the health issues he faced as a child and the discovery of his genetic conditions later in life. 00:10:49 - Reunion with Birth Father: Jeremy discusses meeting his birth father and the lack of medical information provided by him. 00:13:41 - Understanding Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: Jeremy explains Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, a genetic connective tissue disorder, and his journey to diagnosis. 00:18:46 - Impact of Genetic Knowledge: Jeremy reflects on how knowing his genetic history from the beginning could have positively impacted his self-identity and health management. 00:21:44 - Advocating for...
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    29 min
  • Connecting with Ancestors for Healing with Helena Soholm, PhD - Ep 140
    Apr 8 2024
    "I want to normalize the practice of spirituality and ancestral rituals. They're a normal part of our lives." Helena Soholm, PhD Read the Transcript here: https://app.swellai.com/t/tp_01HTRHNP4AKM7DD2K35958K78A Episode Summary Beth Syverson, the host of the podcast Unraveling Adoption, welcomes Dr. Helena Soholm as a guest on the show. Dr. Soholm, a Korean mudang or shaman, shares her unique journey of combining contemporary forms of shamanism and psychology to help adoptees connect with their ancestors. Despite not being an adoptee herself, Helena has been instrumental in assisting Korean adoptees in their healing process through communication with their ancestors. Helena's childhood experiences in Korea, surrounded by intuitive women and spiritual gifts, laid the foundation for her eventual path as a shaman. Her awakening to the power of ancestors led her to integrate psychology and shamanism in a profound way. Through her work, she has helped adoptees navigate their complex emotions and traumas by facilitating connections with their ancestral lineage. The podcast delves into Helena's personal journey, including her initiation as a mudang in 2018 and her experiences working with adoptees in both Korea and Denmark. She emphasizes the importance of developing one's spiritual authority and trusting oneself for healing. Dr. Soholm's approach focuses on empowering individuals to connect with their ancestors and find peace within themselves. =============== 📆 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 =============== Dr. Helena Soholm’s information: Helena’s website has much more information about her practice and upcoming events: https://www.helenasoholm.com/ Article about her Shamanic initiation: https://koreajoongangdaily.joins.com/news/article/article.aspx?aid=3049607 Dr. Soholm’s Lecture and Korean Shamanic Ritual at Yale: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bIAip2e5u0&t=616s Find Helena on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helenasoholm/ and on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helenasoholm 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 Beth@UnravelingAdoption.com 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 Timestamps 00:00:02 - Introduction to Helena Soholm: Beth introduces Helena Soholm, a Korean mudang or shaman, and discusses her unique background and qualifications. 00:08:16 - Helena's Journey to Becoming a Shaman: Helena shares her personal journey and struggles with embracing her calling to become a mudang. 00:15:50 - Helena's Connection with Adoptees: Helena discusses her awakening to the ancestors and how she helps adoptees connect with their lineage. 00:26:28 - Healing and Connection for Adoptees: Helena explains the outcomes and benefits adoptees experience through her ceremonies and ancestral connections. 00:34:51 - Seeking Reputable Ancestral Work: Helena provides guidance on finding reputable practitioners for ancestral work and emphasizes the importance of trusting one's intuition. 00:36:45 - Empowering Self-Healing: Helena emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals to heal themselves and build their spiritual authority.
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    39 min
  • Embracing Complex Identity: Insights from a Non-Binary Adoptee of Color with Anthony Lynch - Ep 139
    Apr 1 2024
    "I think everyone has had this experience of feeling like they're in two places or even more than that, but not quite enough of any." -- Anthony Lynch Read the Transcript: https://app.swellai.com/t/tp_01HSYYTTTDQ2QVDVHZ079SXA3E Episode Summary: Beth Syverson, the host of the podcast "Unraveling Adoption," welcomes Anthony Lynch, a 24-year-old non-binary transracial adoptee living in London, as a guest on the show. Anthony is the co-founder of In Between Lines, an organization that empowers individuals with complex identities. Throughout the episode, Anthony shares insights into their personal journey as a transracial adoptee with Jamaican and white heritage, growing up in a multicultural family in London. Anthony discusses the challenges of navigating multiple identities, including being adopted, non-binary, and mixed race. They highlight the importance of embracing one's full identity and the complexities that come with straddling different cultural backgrounds. Anthony also sheds light on the concept of intersectionality and how it influences individual experiences and societal perceptions. The conversation delves into the significance of creating spaces for individuals with complex identities to share their stories and connect with others. Anthony shares about the work of In Between Lines, including an upcoming exhibition featuring individuals with diverse backgrounds and identities. They emphasize the need for a more nuanced understanding of identity and the importance of fostering inclusivity and acceptance. Beth and Anthony also discuss the upcoming parliamentary inquiry on adoptee voices in the UK, where Anthony is a steering group member. They touch on the mental health implications of complex identities and the role of policymakers in supporting individuals with diverse backgrounds. Throughout the episode, Beth and Anthony explore the power of authenticity, community, and understanding in embracing complex identities. They encourage listeners to reflect on their own identities and challenge societal norms that limit individuals to singular labels. The episode concludes with a call to share the conversation with others and continue the dialogue on identity and acceptance. =============== 📆 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 =============== Anthony’s Contact Information: Find Anthony on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-emanuel-lynch/ In-Between Lines on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inbetweenlinesorg/ In-Between Lines website: https://inbetweenlines.co.uk/ Anthony Lynch is a researcher working in the intersection between Lived Experience and Policy. Their work with Complex Identities began when they co-founded In-Between Lines, an award-winning creative community for individuals belonging to multiple ethnicities, cultures, and families. As a research assistant at Coram, the UK's oldest Children's charity, they use their lived experience as a mixed non-binary adoptee to inform policy. They are also a steering group member for an upcoming parliamentary inquiry into adoptee voices, organized by the All Party Parliamentary Group on Adoption and Permanence. =============== 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 Beth@UnravelingAdoption.com 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 =============== Timestamps: 00:00:02 - Introduction to Unraveling Adoption Podcast: Beth Syverson introduces the podcast and herself as an adoptive mom. 00:01:06 - Guest Introduction: Anthony Lynch: Anthony Lynch is introduced as a non-binary transracial adoptee and co-founder of In Between Lines. 00:02:12 - Anthony's Origin Story: Anthony shares their background as a fostered and adopted individual with a complex mix of ethnicities. 00:03:29 - Blending In with Siblings: Anthony discusses how they were able to blend in with their biracial siblings and hide their adoptive identity. 00:04:29 - Coming Out as Non-Binary: Anthony talks about their recent realization and acceptance of being non-binary. 00:05:27 - Embracing Complex Identities: Anthony emphasizes the importance of embracing all aspects of their complex identity. 00:06:49 - Intersectionality and Multiple Identities: Anthony delves into the concept of ...
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    27 min
  • Self-Realization through Memoir Writing with Monica Hall - Ep 138
    Mar 25 2024
    "I think that being an adoptee groomed me to relinquish my own child." -- Monica Hall Transcript of this episode: https://app.swellai.com/t/tp_01HSM5N1067HY39ZRSGK11MB5T Podcast Episode Synopsis: In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, host Beth Syverson welcomes guest Monica Hall, an adoptee and birth mother who has recently published her memoir titled Practically Still a Virgin: an Adoption Memoir. Monica shares her journey of healing and self-discovery through writing her memoir, which delves into the complexities of adoption, trauma, and family relationships. Monica opens up about her challenging childhood in Alaska, where she faced abuse and trauma within her adoptive family. She candidly discusses her experiences of relinquishing her daughter for adoption and the guilt and complexities that came with it. Through writing her memoir, Monica unravels layers of repressed memories and emotions, ultimately finding healing and clarity. The podcast episode highlights Monica's writing process, where she initially struggled with self-doubt and perfectionism but found guidance and support from a dedicated editor. Monica emphasizes the importance of allowing oneself to start writing without judgment and to embrace the process of uncovering deep-seated emotions and experiences. As Monica shares her personal journey of healing and self-discovery through writing, she encourages other adoptees and birth mothers to embark on their own memoir-writing journey. The episode concludes with a special giveaway of Monica's memoir, inviting listeners to participate by writing a review of the podcast or becoming a Patreon member. Listeners are encouraged to explore Monica's powerful memoir, Practically Still a Virgin, and to support her in sharing her story of resilience and growth. The episode serves as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of storytelling and the importance of finding healing through self-expression and reflection. =============== 📆 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 =============== RESOURCES: Monica's Website: MonicaHall.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 Beth@UnravelingAdoption.com 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 Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction to Unraveling Adoption Podcast 00:05:30 - Overcoming Childhood Trauma and Identity Issues 00:09:25 - Starting the Memoir Writing Journey 00:16:08 - Writing Process and Reflections 00:20:46 - Uncovering Layers of Trauma and Family Relationships 00:24:18 - Recovery and Healing Journey 00:26:23 - Advice for Aspiring Memoir Writers 00:27:41 - Book Giveaway Announcement and Support for Unraveling Adoption Podcast
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    30 min
  • Finding Family: "The Keepers and The Throwaways" with David R. Ford and Tibby Ford - Ep 137
    Mar 18 2024
    "I think adoptees who are going to go try to find their family have to recognize that... once you get into the process, you just have to roll with it, right? You have to be optimistic and hopeful and just play it out." -- David R. Ford Episode Synopsis In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, host Beth Syverson delves into the complexities of adoption alongside her guest, David R. Ford, an adoptee who reunited with his birth family 20 years ago. The episode explores the theme of family relationships, especially in the context of reunion with birth families. Beth introduces David as an adoptee who was adopted at birth through a private adoption handled by a lawyer. David shares his early childhood experiences and the limited information he had about his birth parents, including the revelation that he had a seven-year older brother. Despite not initially feeling the need to find his birth parents, David's journey to reconnect with his birth family began in his late 30s. Through a series of events, David eventually reunites with his birth mother and discovers he is one of seven children, four of whom were given up for adoption. The podcast delves into the complexities of navigating newfound relationships with siblings and birth family members, highlighting the challenges and joys that come with such reunions. Beth also brings on Tibby, David's wife, to provide insights into the experience of being a spouse navigating the complexities of adoption reunion. Tibby shares her perspective on the intense emotions and dynamics that come with welcoming new family members into their lives. The episode touches on the importance of supportive adoptive parents, the emotional toll of navigating difficult family dynamics, and the significance of maintaining core values and boundaries throughout the reunion process. David reflects on the metaphorical significance of the title of his memoir, "Blind in One Eye," and the journey of self-discovery and acceptance that comes with reuniting with one's birth family. As the episode wraps up, Beth encourages listeners to explore the resources and support available on the Unraveling Adoption website, emphasizing the importance of seeking guidance and validation in the adoption journey. The episode concludes with a message of staying safe and embracing authenticity in navigating the complexities of adoption and family relationships. =============== 📆 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 =============== Resource Mentioned in this Episode: Contact David and find out more about his memoir Blind In One Eye at: https://blindinoneeye.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 Beth@UnravelingAdoption.com 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 Timestamps Introduction to Unraveling Adoption: 00:00:02-00:00:13 David's Adoption Story: 00:01:23-00:02:57 David's Search for Birth Family: 00:03:29-00:06:41 Reunion with Birth Mother: 00:07:15-00:09:33 Relationship with Siblings: 00:10:04-00:12:40 Tibby's Perspective on Family Reunion: 00:15:18-00:17:02 Navigating Family Dynamics: 00:17:28-00:21:39 Book Title Explanation: 00:25:26-00:26:29 Closing Remarks and Resources: 00:27:19-00:28:46
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    29 min
  • Unveiling Biracial Identity with Bethany Fraser - Ep 136
    Mar 11 2024
    "I was always trying to fit in and chameleon wherever I was." -- Bethany Fraser Transcript Read this episode's transcript: https://app.swellai.com/t/tp_01HR5W5M78X0PE4FV5GJNREW2AIn this episode of Unraveling Adoption, host Beth Syverson welcomes guest Bethany Fraser, an adoptee and host of The Adoptee Diaries podcast. The conversation delves into the complexities of adoption, focusing on the impact of secrets and identity issues within the adoption experience. Bethany shares her personal journey of discovering her biracial identity in her 40s, after a secret about her ethnicity was kept from her by her adoptive parents. The discussion explores the emotional and psychological effects of this deception on Bethany's identity, psyche, and relationships. Throughout the episode, Bethany reflects on her experience as an adoptee, highlighting the importance of truth, trust, and transparency in adoption. She emphasizes the need for adoptive parents to be open and honest with their children about their origins and ethnicity, to foster a sense of belonging and self-awareness. The conversation is candid and heartfelt, with both hosts sharing their vulnerabilities and insights into the complexities of adoption. Beth and Bethany aim to create a space for adoptees to share their stories and find support within the adoption community. =============== 📆 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 =============== Resources mentioned in this episode: Find Bethany's podcast The Adoptee Diaries on your favorite podcast app or through this link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-adoptee-diaries-truth-trust-and-transparency/id1687716450 Find Bethany on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/theadopteediaries/ Read an essay Bethany wrote for Barker Adoption Foundation: https://www.barkeradoptionfoundation.org/adoption-resources/barker-blog/adoptee%E2%80%99s-experience-family-fortitude-forgiveness-story-searching 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 Beth@UnravelingAdoption.com Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTubeSupport Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoptionCheck out our website: www.UnravelingAdoption.comCreate your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=ADOPTION TIME STAMPS: 00:00:02 - Introduction to Unraveling Adoption 00:01:33 - Early Awareness of Adoption and Ethnicity 00:03:33 - Early Interactions with Other Adoptees 00:05:12 - Questioning Ethnic Identity 00:07:05 - Reflecting on Parents' Motivations 00:09:47 - Prompt to Discover Ethnicity 00:11:22 - Ancestry DNA Results Revealed 00:12:44 - Unpacking Cultural Layers 00:14:07 - Curiosity and Self-Identity 00:15:03 - Impact Before Discovering Truth 00:16:08 - Masking True Self 00:17:44 - Feeling Displaced 00:18:27 - Seeking Community and Support 00:20:30 - Advice for Adoptive Parents 00:22:37 - Discovery of Parents' Knowledge 00:24:04 - Emotional Impact of Revelation 00:25:37 - Launch of The Adoptee Diaries 00:27:31 - Encouragement for Adoptive Parents 00:29:08 - Call to Share and Support Unraveling Adoption
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    31 min
  • Coming Out: LGBTQ+ Challenges in Adoption with Joe Toolan - Ep 135
    Mar 4 2024
    "I had to be OK with the fact that they might not accept me for who I am." - Joe Toolan Transcript Read this episode's transcript: https://app.swellai.com/t/tp_01HQC31S90118VY2NM91EADH9Q Episode Summary In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, host Beth Syverson delves into the complexities of adoption through the lens of LGBTQ+ adoptees. Joined by guest Joe Toolan, a transracial, queer adoptee from Guatemala, the episode explores the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the adoption process. Joe shares his personal journey of growing up in a conservative white family in Maryland, navigating his identity as a queer, Latine, indigenous, transracial adoptee. He reflects on the struggles of coming out to his adoptive family and the impact it had on their relationship. The episode highlights the importance of support and acceptance for LGBTQ+ adoptees, emphasizing the need for adoptive parents to create a safe and affirming environment for their children. Resources such as PFLAG, the Trevor Project, and GLSEN are recommended for allies and family members seeking to educate themselves and support LGBTQ+ individuals. As Joe recounts his reunion with his birth family in Guatemala, the episode showcases the power of authenticity and self-acceptance in building meaningful connections. Despite initial concerns about acceptance, Joe's birth mother's unconditional love and support demonstrate the transformative impact of embracing one's true identity. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the LGBTQ+ adoptee community, seek support from advocacy organizations, and participate in upcoming events like the town hall meeting addressing the safety and well-being of adopted children. Through heartfelt storytelling and insightful conversations, Unraveling Adoption provides a compassionate and informative platform for exploring the intersection of adoption and LGBTQ+ identities, fostering understanding and empathy for all individuals touched by adoption. Resources mentioned in this episode Contact Joe through Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/toolan_joe/ Find help for LGBTQ+ people and their allies here: PFLAG: https://pflag.org/ The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/ GLSEN: https://www.glsen.org/ Guatemalan adoptees can find support through the organization Joe works with, Adoptees of Guatemalan Roots: https://www.guateroots.org/ 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 Beth@UnravelingAdoption.comFind us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTubeSupport Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoptionCheck out our website: www.UnravelingAdoption.comCreate your own podcast through Libsyn: https://signup.libsyn.com/?promo_code=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 =============== Timestamps: 00:00:02 - Introduction to Unraveling Adoption 00:01:15 - Embracing LGBTQ+ Voices 00:01:37 - Early Childhood and Adoption Story 00:02:14 - Growing Up in a Conservative Community 00:03:35 - Coming Out as LGBTQ+ 00:04:39 - Navigating Relationships After Coming Out 00:05:03 - Challenges of Coming Out Again in Reunion 00:05:42 - Support Systems and Role Models 00:06:57 - Finding Community in College 00:07:53 - Coming Out to Friends 00:08:14 - Struggles with Family Acceptance 00:09:00 - Navigating Authenticity and Acceptance 00:10:10 - Parental Acceptance and Support 00:11:18 - Curiosity About Birth Family 00:12:29 - Beginning the Search for Biological Family 00:13:55 - Receiving Information from Adoptee Groups 00:14:58 - Reunion Process Initiation 00:15:48 - Emotional Response to Reunion News 00:16:00 - Initial Contact with Birth Family 00:17:00 - Concerns About Reunion and Acceptance 00:18:27 - Authenticity in Reunion Process 00:19:00 - Emotional Reunion Moment 00:20:36 - Acceptance and Unconditional Love 00:21:23 - Connecting with LGBTQ+ Adoptee Communities 00:22:18 - Resources for LGBTQ+ Support 00:23:05 - Advice for Adoptive Parents 00:24:46 - Connecting with the Guest 00:25:26 - Invitation to Town Hall Meeting
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    27 min