“I'm telling all the skeptics who may be listening, just go in there with an open mind because you're not going to lose anything. You have so much more to gain.” - Jonathan Moon

 

EPISODE SUMMARY:

In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, I had the privilege of speaking with Jonathan Moon, an adopted person who has navigated the complexities of relinquishment and adoption trauma. Jonathan's journey began in Korea, where he faced significant challenges as a child, including living on the streets and experiencing significant instability. He was adopted to the U.S. at the age of nine and has recently embarked on a path of healing and self-discovery.

Jonathan shared his unique story, including his reunion with his grandmother through a Korean TV show and the emotional complexities surrounding his birth family. He discussed the struggles he faced growing up, including the impact of his father's alcoholism and abuse, and how these experiences shaped his identity.

Throughout our conversation, Jonathan emphasized the importance of community and connection among adoptees, highlighting how sharing similar experiences can foster understanding and healing. He also opened up about his journey toward healing, which has included acting classes, therapy, and alternative healing practices like myofascial release and ketamine therapy.

Jonathan's story is a testament to resilience and the ongoing process of healing from trauma. He is currently working on an artistic film titled Voice of Waters, which aims to share his experiences and insights with a broader audience. I encourage listeners to check out his website and support his work.

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RESOURCES:

Jonathan’s information:

• Find out about Jonathan's upcoming film, Voice of Waters, and sign up for his website here: https://www.voiceofwatersfilm.com/

Other Resource Mentioned in the episode:

• The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk M.D.: https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748
• Miofascial release: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Myofascial_release
• Ketamine therapy: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ketamine

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

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Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: http://Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption

Check out our website: http://UnravelingAdoption.com

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00:00 - Introduction to Unraveling Adoption
Welcome to the podcast and introduction of host Beth Syverson and guest Jonathan Moon.

00:01:14 - Meeting at Untangling Our Roots
Discussion about the adoption conference where Beth and Jonathan met.

00:02:51 - Jonathan's Early Life
Jonathan shares his background, including his birth parents and early memories.

00:05:48 - Life with His Grandmother
Description of Jonathan's childhood living with his maternal grandmother.

00:08:00 - Transition to Living with His Father
Jonathan recounts the move to live with his birth father and half-brothers.

00:09:20 - Challenges at His Father's Home
Jonathan discusses the difficulties he faced living with his father and brothers.

00:12:52 - Living on the Streets
Jonathan shares his experiences of running away and living on the streets.

00:15:04 - Adoption Process
Jonathan describes how he was adopted to the U.S. and his initial thoughts.

00:18:34 - First Days in America
Jonathan reflects on his arrival in the U.S. and the adjustment to his new life.

00:20:34 - Family Dynamics
Discussion about Jonathan's adoptive family and his place within it.

00:22:05 - Struggles with Trauma
Jonathan opens up about the impact of his past traumas on his life.

00:23:24 - Military Experience
Jonathan talks about his time in the military and coping mechanisms.

00:24:18 - Reunion with Birth Family
Jonathan shares the story of his reunion with his grandmother and birth mother.

00:27:33 - Confronting His Birth Father
Discussion about Jonathan's decision to not reunite with his birth father.

00:28:55 - Journey to Healing
Jonathan discusses his healing journey and the steps he has taken.

00:29:24 - Acting and Self-Discovery
How acting classes helped Jonathan confront his trauma.

00:31:20 - Therapy and Healing Modalities
Jonathan shares his experiences with therapy and alternative healing methods.

00:33:22 - Myofascial Release Therapy
Description of myofascial therapy and its impact on Jonathan's healing.

00:35:16 - Ketamine Therapy
Jonathan discusses his experiences with ketamine therapy and its transformative effects.

00:37:43 - Profound Experiences with Ketamine
Jonathan recounts a significant session where he felt a deep connection with his family.

00:40:31 - Exploring Other Healing Practices
Jonathan talks about trying Reiki and other energy work.

00:41:34 - Creating Voice of Waters
Discussion about Jonathan's film project and its significance in his healing journey.

00:42:42 - Closing Thoughts and Resources
Beth encourages listeners to explore Jonathan's work and upcoming events related to adoption.