Inside Transracial Adoption

Navigating Adoption and Racial Identity: A Candid Father-Son Conversation

EPISODE 08: Join us for a heartfelt and humorous episode of Inside Transracial Adoption as Isaac Etter and his dad, Bruce Etter, delve into childhood memories, adoption dynamics, and the importance of communication. From Isaac’s daredevil leap out of a window to the challenges of navigating racial identity and adoption, this episode offers a unique perspective on parenting, resilience, and the bonds that hold a family together. Bruce shares his experiences as a father and teacher, revealing the joys and struggles of raising a transracially adopted child. Don’t miss this touching conversation filled with laughter, wisdom, and the enduring power of family support.

From Infertility to Parenthood: A Family's Journey of Adoption

EPISODE 06 (BONUS): There are many reasons as to why a family might want to adopt- and this week's episode explores the harsh realities of one of those reasons, Infertility. On this week's bonus episode, special guest, Anna Koehle sits down with Julie and her husband Bruce to share their family's journey of adoption after infertility.

From Infertility to Parenthood: Embracing the Realities of Adoption

There are many reasons as to why a family might want to adopt- and this week's episode explores the harsh realities of one of those reasons, Infertility. Julie invites special guest, Anna Koehle to discuss the emotional challenges of grief, loss and joy of adoption and infertility through personal and shared experiences.

Code Switching – Navigating Through Two Cultures

EPISODE 05: Isaac and Julie highlight the term "Code-Switching," discussing what it is and how Isaac and his family have navigated it through the different spaces in his life. Code-Switching is seen to show up in transracial adoption situations, especially with an adoptee trying to find their place within their own culture. Isaac and Julie discuss how embracing Code-Switching has brought a sense of community and home for Isaac as he sought his place in Black spaces. From embarrassing stories and misunderstandings between them, Julie and Isaac reflect on how code-switching has opened up meaning and a strong connection, particularly in how it has brought them closer together.

GOTCHA – The Ups, Downs, Emotions, and Controversy of Adoption Days

Isaac and Julie delve into the nuanced world of adoption days, shedding light on their personal experiences, the mixed emotions they evoke, and the surrounding controversy, especially regarding the term "Gotcha Day." Through reflections on their recent participation in the Barker Adoption Foundation Conference and the complexities of marking adoption anniversaries, they explore the varied reactions and feelings within the adoptive community.  From the joy of finding connection and understanding at adoption-focused events to the deeper contemplations of identity, belonging, and family dynamics, this episode navigates the sensitive landscapes of celebration, grief, and everything in between. Engaging, enlightening, and always encouraging, Isaac and Julie invite listeners into their journey, offering insights into the evolving nature of adoptive family relationships and the significance of these pivotal moments.