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.

In this episode, Gene, Emily, Kay, and their guest Loree discuss their experiences as adoptees. They explore topics such as name changes, the impact of adoption on family dynamics, and the search for biological parents. Loree shares her story of being adopted by her stepfather and the challenges she faced growing up. The conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding divorce in the 50s and 60s and the changing landscape of adoption laws. Overall, the episode provides insights into the complexities and emotions involved in the adoption journey. In this conversation, Loree and Gene discuss their experiences with adoption and the complexities of family dynamics. Loree shares her journey of being adopted and her search for her biological father. She also talks about her relationship with her adoptive family and the importance of chosen family. Gene shares his perspective as an adoptive parent and the challenges and joys of raising adopted children. They both emphasize the importance of acceptance, understanding, and love within the adoptive family.

• Adoptees often have their names changed, which can impact their sense of identity.
• The dynamics within adoptive families can be complex, with adoptees feeling a sense of not fitting in.
• The search for biological parents can be emotional and may involve navigating strained relationships.
• The societal stigma surrounding divorce in the past influenced adoption decisions.
• Adoption can bring both challenges and joys to the adoptive family.
• Each person's adoption journey is unique, and it is important to respect their choices and experiences.
• Acceptance, understanding, and love are crucial in building strong relationships within the adoptive family.
• Intergenerational storytelling can help honor the past and create a more connected and compassionate future.

In this episode, Gene Trowbridge and his family interview Jim Resha, who shares his adoption story. Jim grew up with his adoptive father, Ed, and had no recollection of his biological father, Sam. His adoption was finalized at the age of four, and his name was changed. At 19, Jim's great uncle uncovered the identity of his biological father, leading to their first meeting. While Jim's mother was supportive, Ed felt hurt by the reunion. Jim and his sister traveled to San Diego to meet their father, driven by curiosity and a desire to learn more about their past.

Jim Resha opens up about the emotional journey of being adopted, including the challenges of navigating relationships with both his adoptive and biological families. He reflects on the importance of communication and understanding within adoptive families and offers advice for those in similar situations. The conversation also delves into topics such as addiction among adoptees and the significance of birthdays for those who are adopted.

• Adoption stories can vary greatly, but many adoptees have questions about their biological origins and struggle with issues of identity and belonging.
• The process of adoption can involve changing a child's name, which can have both practical and emotional implications.
• Adoptees may have different relationships with their adopted and biological parents, and these relationships can evolve over time.
• Reunions with biological parents can be emotional and complex, and the reactions of other family members can vary.
• Curiosity about one's biological origins and a desire to fill in the gaps of one's personal history are common motivations for seeking out biological parents. Reconnecting with a biological parent after many years can be emotionally meaningful and significant.
• Adoptees may have complex relationships with both their adoptive and biological families, and it can take time to navigate these relationships.
• Communication and understanding are key in adoptive families, and it is important to have open conversations about adoption and biological connections.
• Birthdays can be a sensitive time for adoptees, as they may reflect on their biological family and their own sense of identity.
• Each adoptee's experience is unique, and it is important to approach adoption with empathy and respect.

In this episode of the Hey, Am I Adopted podcast, Gene and Emily Trowbridge interview Matt Faircloth about his adoption story. Matt was adopted at a young age and grew up with his adoptive parents and his sister. He always knew he was adopted and it was never a negative or burdensome experience for him. As he got older, he became curious about his biological parents and eventually started the search for them. He found his birth mother and had a positive relationship with her, but his birth father denied contact. Matt's adoptive parents were supportive throughout his search, and he never felt like he was betraying them. Matt Faircloth shares his experience of meeting his birth mother and building a relationship with her and his half-sisters. He discusses the nervousness and awkwardness of the initial meetings, but also the joy of getting to know each other and finding common interests. Matt talks about the challenges of being adopted, such as dealing with teasing and not knowing his genetic lineage. He emphasizes the importance of open conversation about adoption and creating a supportive community for adoptees.

Show Notes:

• Being adopted doesn't mean there is a lack of love or connection with your adoptive family.
• Curiosity about biological parents is common among adoptees.
• The search for birth parents can be a complex and emotional journey.
• Support from adoptive parents is crucial during the search process. Meeting a birth mother and building a relationship can be nerve-wracking and awkward, but it can also be a joyous experience of getting to know each other.
• Adoptees may face challenges such as teasing and not knowing their genetic lineage, which can be difficult to navigate.
• Open conversation about adoption and creating a supportive community can help adoptees feel understood and supported.
• It's important to respect the wishes and boundaries of birth parents and other family members involved in the adoption process.
• Adoption stories can vary greatly, but sharing experiences can help create a sense of belonging and connection.

In this episode, the Gene, Emily and Paul Aubin discuss various aspects of the adoptee experience, including when they first learned they were adopted, feelings of difference and isolation, struggles with identity and abandonment, and the impact of adoption on relationships. They also touch on themes of shame, control, and the need for acceptance and validation. The conversation highlights the importance of knowing one's heritage and the search for biological family. The hosts and guest share personal stories and reflections, providing insight into the unique challenges and emotions that adoptees may face. Paul shares his experience of being adopted and the impact it had on his life. He discusses the challenges surrounding birthdays and abandonment issues that many adoptees face. He also highlights the importance of faith and spirituality in finding hope and healing. Paul talks about the low-grade trauma of being separated from birth parents and the need to overcome it. He shares his journey of transitioning from the corporate world to a faith-based career and how it has brought him peace and fulfillment. Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding one's why, being selfless in the search for biological parents, and setting realistic expectations.

Show Notes:

• The adoptee experience involves various emotions and challenges, including feelings of difference, isolation, and abandonment.
• Adoptees often have a strong desire to know their heritage and biological family.
• Shame and the need for acceptance and validation are common themes among adoptees.
• The search for biological family can be a complex and emotional journey.
• Adoptees may struggle with identity and the need for control and stability.
• Understanding and addressing the unique experiences and emotions of adoptees is important for their well-being and self-acceptance.
• Faith and spirituality can provide hope and healing for adoptees, as they are reminded of their identity as children of God.
• Being separated from birth parents at a young age can result in low-grade trauma that adoptees need to overcome.
• When searching for biological parents, it is important to understand one's why, be selfless in the process, and set realistic expectations

In this episode, Gene and Emily interview Paul Aubin, author of the book Secrets of the Father, about his journey of finding his birth parents. Paul was told he was adopted at the age of five and later decided to search for his biological parents after discovering he had high cholesterol. The search was challenging in the pre-internet era, but Paul had a series of serendipitous events that led him to his birth mother. He shares his emotional reunion with her and the impact it had on his life. Paul Aubin shares his journey of searching for his birth parents and the surprising discoveries he made along the way. He recounts how he stumbled upon an adoptee conference and met Nancy Sidderley, a researcher who helped him in his search. Paul shares the challenges he faced, including an empty file and a cover-up surrounding his birth father's identity. He also reveals the emotional meeting with his birth mother and the revelation that his birth father was a Catholic priest. Despite the obstacles, Paul remains grateful for the divine intervention that led him to uncover his true identity.

Show Notes:

• Being told about adoption at a young age can help children develop a healthy understanding of their identity.
• Health issues can be a motivating factor for adoptees to search for their biological parents.
• The search for birth parents can be challenging, especially in the pre-internet era.
• Serendipitous events and coincidences can play a significant role in the journey of finding birth parents.
• Reuniting with birth parents can have a profound impact on an adoptee's life. Coincidences and divine intervention can play a significant role in adoption searches.
• The search for birth parents can be filled with challenges, including empty files and cover-ups.
• Meeting birth parents can be emotionally complex and may not always result in the desired outcome.
• Adoptees may uncover surprising and unexpected aspects of their identity and family history.