Sep 16, 2024
"When I was nine years old,...my parents just looked at each other and looked back at me and said, Michael, we just want to tell you that we love you very much and that you're adopted." -- Mike Thorne
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EPISODE SUMMARY:
In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, I had the pleasure of
speaking with Mike Thorne, an adoptee and community leader. Mike
shared his journey of discovering his adoption at age nine, which
profoundly impacted his self-worth. We discussed the importance of
building personal trust communities—supportive networks that
provide emotional and intellectual guidance, especially for those
navigating the complexities of adoption.
Mike also reflected on his time as a board member of the National Council for Adoption (NCFA), emphasizing the need for diverse perspectives in adoption discussions. He encouraged listeners to seek out their own support systems and focus on their dreams rather than being held back by past experiences.
This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the
importance of connection and understanding within the adoption
community. I hope you find inspiration in Mike's insights and
encourage you to explore his TEDx Talk and memoir for further
understanding. Thank you for joining us, and I look forward to
continuing this important conversation in future
episodes.
RESOURCES:
Mike Thorne’s information:
Watch Mike’s TEDx Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/michael_thorne_three_words_that_can_transform_our_lives_they_aren_t_what_you_think?subtitle=en
Read Mike’s memoir Hustle With Heart: Unlocking Self-Worth Through Personal Trust Communities: https://www.amazon.com/Hustle-Heart-Unlocking-Self-Worth-Communities/dp/1958729698/
Other resources mentioned in this episode:
NCFA - National Council for Adoption: https://adoptioncouncil.org/
Simon Benn’s organization & podcast Thriving Adoptees: https://www.thrivingadoptees.com/
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/
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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
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TIME STAMPS:
00:00:00 - Introduction to Unraveling Adoption
Welcome to the podcast and introduction of host Beth Syverson and
her son Joey.
00:01:00 - Mike Thorne's Adoption Story
Mike shares his vivid experience of discovering he was adopted at
the age of nine.
00:02:30 - Navigating Adoption Conversations
Discussion on the lack of resources and conversations around
adoption during Mike's childhood.
00:03:55 - Understanding Late Discovery Adoptees
Exploration of the term "late discovery adoptee" and its
implications.
00:05:00 - Age-Appropriate Communication in
Adoption
The importance of age-appropriate discussions about adoption with
children.
00:06:00 - Adoptee Perspectives in Education
Mike discusses his daughter's experiences as a teacher and the
impact of sharing adoption stories.
00:07:00 - Mike's Leadership in Adoption Advocacy
Mike's involvement with the National Council for Adoption and the
importance of adoptee voices.
00:08:30 - Adoptee Panel at NCFA Conference
Insights from the adoptee panel at the NCFA conference and its
impact on attendees.
00:10:00 - The Need for Male Voices in Adoption
The significance of including male and non-binary perspectives in
the adoption conversation.
00:11:00 - Evolution of NCFA
Discussion on the changes within the National Council for Adoption
and its leadership.
00:12:00 - Mike's Future Goals in Maine
Mike shares his plans to connect with local organizations in Maine
to support adoption and foster care.
00:13:00 - Corporate Leadership Background
Mike discusses his corporate experience and how it informs his
approach to leadership.
00:15:00 - The Importance of Personal Trust
Communities
Introduction to the concept of personal trust communities and their
role in personal growth.
00:18:00 - Overcoming Perfectionism in Adoptees
Mike reflects on the perfectionism often experienced by adoptees
and its roots.
00:20:00 - Building Supportive Networks
The importance of finding the right people to support you in
various aspects of life.
00:22:00 - Adoptee Spaces and Support
The value of finding supportive spaces for adoptees to share their
experiences.
00:24:00 - Challenges for Adoptive Parents
Discussion on the struggles adoptive parents face in understanding
and supporting their children.
00:26:00 - Collaboration Among Organizations
The need for collaboration among nonprofits to improve outcomes for
children in the adoption system.
00:28:00 - Mike's Vision for the Future
Mike shares his aspirations for making a difference in the adoption
community.
00:30:00 - Encouragement for Listeners
Mike encourages listeners to focus on their dreams and find
supportive communities.
00:32:00 - Conclusion and Resources
Wrap-up of the episode, including resources for listeners to
connect with Mike and Beth.