REPLAY Behind the Scenes of Because She's Adopted: A Filmmaker's Journey with Kristal Parke - Ep 178

"I truly felt the weight of the world telling the story. I felt like it was a great responsibility, but I had to do it." -- Kristal Parke

Read the Transcript here: https://app.swellai.com/t/tp_01JG7AR0SN4Y6M7WW6E7WEK0AT

EPISODE SUMMARY:

In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kristal Parke, a talented filmmaker and adoptee, about her acclaimed documentary, Because She's Adopted. As we kick off 2025, we are excited to offer a replay of our conversation, which dives deep into the complexities of adoption and the personal journey Kristal undertook while creating her film.

Kristal shares her experiences growing up as a Canadian adoptee, her reunion with her birth mother, and her struggles with addiction and identity. We discuss the unique aspects of her story, including the impact of her Indigenous heritage and the challenges she faced in reconnecting with that part of herself. Kristal's film has resonated with many, winning awards and touching the hearts of viewers, including her own family and film crew.

Throughout our conversation, we explore the emotional weight of telling one's story and the healing that comes from vulnerability. Kristal's journey not only highlights the importance of understanding adoption from multiple perspectives but also emphasizes the ongoing impact it has on families and future generations.

Join us for a screening of Because She's Adopted on January 11th, 2025, where you can engage with Kristal and ask questions about her powerful work. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the complexities of adoption and the importance of sharing our stories. Thank you for listening, and I hope you enjoy this insightful conversation with Kristal Parke.

Join Kristal for an online screening of Because She’s Adopted on January 11, 2025, at 4pm PST / 7pm EST, including a Q&A with Kristal afterwards.  More information and tickets are here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/online-screening-of-kristal-parkes-documentary-because-shes-adopted-wqa-tickets-1097838266809?aff=oddtdtcreator

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RESOURCES:

Kristal’s information:

• Check our Kristal’s film’s website to keep informed of future events: KristalParke.net

• Follow the film at Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61551013663413

• Or on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/becauseshesadopted/

• Email Kristal at [email protected]

• Watch a trailer of the film Because She’s Adopted: https://youtu.be/uCnQPDnxgA0?si=VY6e4ZvgfbyTHzXF

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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 [email protected]

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Check out our website: www.UnravelingAdoption.com

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Timestamps:

• 00:00:00 - Welcome to Unraveling Adoption
  Introduction to the podcast and host Beth Syverson.

• 00:01:15 - Introducing Krystal Parke
  Overview of Krystal Park and her film "Because She's Adopted."

• 00:02:24 - The Impact of the Film
  Krystal shares her hopes for the film and its emotional impact.

• 00:04:33 - Support from Adoptive Parents
  Discussion on her adoptive parents' reactions to the film.

• 00:05:06 - Reunion with Birth Family
  Krystal talks about her reunion with her birth mother.

• 00:06:58 - Exploring Identity and Gender
  The complexities of identity and gender expectations in adoption.

• 00:08:19 - Indigenous Heritage
  Krystal discusses her Indigenous roots and reconnection challenges.

• 00:10:29 - Journey to Manitoba
  Details about her significant trip to Manitoba.

• 00:11:26 - Understanding Residential Schools
  Explanation of the impact of residential schools on Indigenous peoples.

• 00:13:09 - The Sixties Scoop
  Discussion on the Sixties Scoop and its effects on her birth mother.

• 00:14:58 - Reunion Reflections
  Reflections on the emotional complexities of her reunion.

• 00:16:09 - Family Support in Filmmaking
  Importance of family support during the filmmaking process.

• 00:18:44 - Brothers' Perspectives
  Insights from her brothers about adoption and family dynamics.

• 00:19:51 - The Role of Humor in the Film
  How humor was used to balance the film's heavy themes.

• 00:20:45 - Children's Reactions
  Her children's understanding and support for the film.

• 00:21:51 - Cultural Connections
  Significance of cultural identity for her children.

• 00:23:44 - Filming Experience
  Memorable moments and dynamics of the filming process.

• 00:26:02 - Personal Growth Through Filmmaking
  Krystal reflects on her growth and understanding of her story.

• 00:27:43 - Future Aspirations
  Discussion on potential future projects and self-discovery.

• 00:29:34 - Closing Remarks
  Beth wraps up the episode and encourages listener engagement.