Dec 23, 2024
"I didn't realize how strong I was until, you know, I got into therapy and started to understand all the things that I've overcome." - Ron Jenkins
Read the transcript of this episode here: https://app.swellai.com/t/tp_01JFJJKB7XP00HAV5P6H6ETQGJ
EPISODE SUMMARY:
In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, I had the privilege of speaking with Ron Jenkins, a remarkable individual whose journey through the complexities of foster care and adoption is both harrowing and inspiring. Ron's story begins with the tragic loss of his mother as a young child, leading him and his siblings into the foster care system. He was eventually adopted by a woman who, rather than providing a safe haven, exploited the system for drug money, resulting in a chaotic and violent environment.
Ron candidly shares the trauma he experienced, including the loss of several brothers to violence and the pervasive fear that defined his childhood. Despite these challenges, he made a conscious decision to steer clear of gangs and drugs, ultimately finding a mentor who changed the trajectory of his life. This mentor not only provided guidance but also became a father figure, helping Ron navigate his way to a football scholarship at Fresno State University.
Throughout our conversation, Ron emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, therapy, and the need to break the cycle of trauma. He encourages listeners, especially men, to seek help and recognize that they deserve the same opportunities as anyone else. Ron's journey of healing and his commitment to helping at-risk youth through mentorship and advocacy work is truly inspiring.
We also touched on the impact of sexual abuse in Ron's life and how it shaped his relationships. He highlights the importance of addressing these issues through therapy, which has been instrumental in his healing process.
As we wrapped up, Ron shared exciting news about a movie being made about his life, and he invited anyone interested in supporting this project to reach out. This episode is a powerful reminder of resilience, the importance of community, and the potential for transformation, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. I hope Ron's story resonates with you and inspires you to seek help, advocate for yourself, and support others in their journeys.
===============
📘Get our new book Adoption and Suicidality: amazon.com/Adoption-Suicidality-Healthcare-Professionals-Unraveling/dp/B0DCBCTSLL
📆 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:
Ron’s information:
Ron’s email: rongolf6807@gmail.com
Documentary coming 2025-2026 - email Ron to find out how best to support that project
Other resources mentioned in this episode:
Celia Center, led by Jeanette Yoffe: https://celiacenter.org/
Runaway Girl: Escaping Life on the Streets by Carissa Phelps: https://www.amazon.com/Runaway-Girl-Escaping-Life-Streets/dp/0143123335
Carissa’s nonprofit organization’s website: https://runawaygirl.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
===============
Please rate (*****) and/or review Unraveling Adoption in Apple Podcasts and Spotify (even if you listen to it on another app). Your feedback will help more listeners find our episodes. Thank you!
===============
TIME STAMPS:
00:00:00 -
Introduction
Welcome to Unraveling Adoption with
host Beth Syverson and guest Ron Jenkins.
00:01:43 - Ron’s
Adoption Story
Ron shares his early experiences in
foster care and adoption.
00:02:21 - Foster Care
Challenges
Discussion of difficulties faced due
to his adoptive mother's drug use.
00:03:57 - Violence and
Trauma
Recounting violent incidents and
trauma in his childhood.
00:06:36 - Avoiding
Gangs
Ron discusses his choices to stay
away from gang involvement.
00:10:07 - Loss of a
Brother
Heartbreaking story of his brother's
murder and its impact.
00:12:39 -
Self-Advocacy
Ron reflects on learning to advocate
for himself.
00:14:23 -
Mentorship
Introduction of Mr. Burnett, a key
mentor in Ron's life.
00:16:30 - Impact of
Sports
How sports provided structure and
discipline.
00:20:08 - Helping
Youth
Ron talks about his work with
at-risk youth.
00:22:43 - Trust and
Self-Advocacy
The importance of learning to trust
and advocate for oneself.
00:25:04 - Value of
Therapy
Emphasizing therapy's role in
healing from trauma.
00:28:05 - Sexual Abuse
Experiences
Ron shares his experiences with
sexual abuse.
00:33:16 - Relationship
Patterns
How past abuse influenced his adult
relationships.
00:36:10 - Breaking the
Cycle
The importance of addressing abusive
patterns.
00:38:49 - Healing and
Strength
Reflections on healing through faith
and therapy.
00:39:39 - Book
Recommendation
Ron recommends "Runaway Girl" for
inspiration.
00:40:52 - Movie
Project
News about a movie being made about
Ron's life.
00:42:17 - Closing
Remarks
Beth thanks Ron and encourages
listeners to connect with resources.