Siblings, Diversity and Overcoming Adversity With Jason Verlinde

Buttoned Up

In this episode, Daniel Seong interviews Jason Verlinde, who shares his experiences adopting five Asian children from Korea and China. Verlinde discusses his family’s decision to pursue international adoption due to infertility and a miscarriage, as well as their close-knit dynamic and response to inquiries about their children’s sibling relationship and ethnicity. He also recounts instances of discrimination faced by his children, as well as positive learning and growth through sports coaches’ intervention.Verlinde opens up about his daughters’ love for Korean and Asian foods, their ability to handle spicy food, and the limited access to ethnic foods in their area. He discusses the complexities of parenting, including his family’s experience and their challenges. The episode also discusses family photos, cleanses, and love for Korean and Chinese food.Overall, the episode provides insight into the joys and struggles of international adoption and the unique family dynamics and cultural experiences that arise from raising adopted children. Enjoy the show! 3 Key Episode Takeaways

1. International Adoption: Verlinde and his wife chose international adoption over domestic options due to the stability and care provided in Korea's children's foster care. They also detailed their decision to later adopt from China, emphasizing the importance of considering the needs of children in different adoption programs.

2. Family Dynamics: The Verlinde family has a beautiful, close-knit dynamic, and they've navigated challenges, including sibling rivalry, with grace. Verlinde stresses the importance of maintaining an open mind about adoption and constantly adapting to changing circumstances.

3. Diversity and Challenges: Jason Verlinde shared experiences of his children facing discrimination based on ethnicity in sports but also moments of positive learning and growth through coaches' intervention. The family also navigates assumptions about their children's sibling relationships and ethnicity, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and understanding.

Show Overview 03:49 Guest struggled with infertility, turned to adoption. 09:49 Pursued Chinese adoption due to lengthy Korean wait. 12:01 We didn't have twin boys, got fixed. 14:00 Moved by family, sketched future family pyramid. 19:28 Korean adoptees lose ties to their ethnicity. 22:11 Family photos are important for annual tradition. 25:36 Older siblings excited to welcome new siblings. 29:51 Family unity and support during struggles. 30:52 Open-mindedness crucial in overcoming adoption stigma.