In this episode, hosts Emily and Gene Trowbridge engage in a heartfelt conversation with Jessi, who shares her unique adoption story. Jessi was adopted by her biological aunt and uncle at the age of 12 after experiencing a tumultuous childhood marked by her mother's struggles with addiction. The discussion delves into the complexities of family dynamics, the impact of foster care, and the importance of stability in the lives of adoptees. Jessi reflects on her relationships, trust issues, and the challenges of blending families as a parent. The episode concludes with Jessi offering advice to young adoptees, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and the eventual rewards of adulthood.

Show Notes:

• Jessi was adopted at almost 12 years old.
• Her biological mother struggled with addiction.
• Jessi's experience in foster care shaped her views on stability.
• She has a close bond with her younger brother.
• Stability is crucial for adoptees.
• Jessi made choices to create a stable life for herself.
• She learned to separate her mother's issues from her own self-worth.
• Trust issues stem from her childhood experiences.
• Jessi emphasizes the importance of chosen family over blood relations.
• Adulthood can bring a sense of empowerment and control.

In this episode we talked about Sharon's adoption story and her journey to reconnect with her biological family. Sharon shares her earliest memory of being in a building in downtown Chicago and later finding out that it was the day she signed her adoption papers. She talks about the moment she found out she was adopted at the age of four and how it didn't affect her much. Sharon also discusses her passion for figure skating and how it provided an escape and stability in her life. The conversation touches on the nature versus nurture debate and the importance of boundaries in relationships with biological family members. Sharon shares her adoption journey and the unique challenges and experiences she faced as an adoptee. She discusses the process of searching for her biological parents and the emotional impact of reconnecting with them. Sharon also talks about the importance of finding one's identity and belonging, as well as the adaptability and curiosity often found in adoptees. She shares her experiences with substance abuse and eating disorders, highlighting the environmental factors that contributed to these struggles. Sharon emphasizes the significance of gratitude and the common theme of adoptees feeling the need to express thanks for being kept or not being aborted. She also discusses the complexities of her relationships with her biological parents and the challenges of navigating those dynamics. Sharon concludes by encouraging other adoptees to share their stories and connect with the adopted community.

• Adoption stories can vary greatly, but many adoptees have a strong desire to connect with their biological families.
• Childhood memories and experiences can shape an adoptee's identity and sense of self.
• Engaging in activities or sports can provide a sense of stability and escape for adoptees.
• The nature versus nurture debate is relevant to adoptees as they navigate their identities and relationships with biological and adoptive families.
• Adoptees often struggle with issues of identity and belonging, but they can find connections and a sense of belonging in various communities and relationships.
• Adoptees may exhibit adaptability and curiosity, as they navigate different cultures and backgrounds in their search for identity.
• Expressing gratitude for being kept or not being aborted is a common theme among adoptees, highlighting the unique emotional journey they experience.
• Relationships with biological parents can be complex and may require setting boundaries and prioritizing one's own well-being.
• Sharing adoption stories and connecting with the adopted community can provide support and understanding for adoptees.

Ryan shares his adoption story, highlighting the circumstances surrounding his adoption and his relationship with his birth mother. He discusses how he never felt abandoned and always understood that his birth mother made the best decision for him. Ryan also talks about his curiosity about his biological family and his journey to connect with them. He shares his experience of meeting his birth mother and extended family, and how it felt to be in a room with people who look like him. Ryan emphasizes that while he appreciates his biological family, he feels more connected to the family he grew up with. In this conversation, Ryan shares his experience of being adopted and reconnecting with his biological mother. He discusses the emotions and considerations involved in reaching out to his birth mother and the impact it had on his relationship with his adoptive parents. Ryan emphasizes the importance of open communication and understanding within adoptive families. He also touches on the stigmas and misconceptions surrounding adoption and encourages parents considering adoption to embrace the process and be open to the possibilities it brings.

• Adoptees often have a curiosity about their biological family and a desire to know more about their origins.
• Meeting biological family members can provide a sense of connection and identity, especially when physical similarities are present.
• Adoptees can have a strong bond with their adoptive family and feel more connected to them than their biological family.
• Understanding the circumstances and reasons behind the adoption can help adoptees feel secure and loved.
• Open communication and understanding within adoptive families can help address identity issues and create a supportive environment.
• Adoption is not always associated with negative experiences or identity struggles; many adoptees have positive and fulfilling lives.