Behind the Scenes of Because She's Adopted: A Filmmaker's Journey with Kristal Parke - Ep 148

"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_01HZE3F00W8S92RJM8N2F3METT

EPISODE SUMMARY:

In this episode of Unraveling Adoption, I had the pleasure of interviewing Kristal Parke, an adoptee and filmmaker behind the acclaimed documentary Because She's Adopted. Kristal shared her journey of self-discovery and identity exploration through the creation of her film, which delves into her childhood, reunion with her birth mother, struggle with addiction, and intentional reconnection with her Indigenous heritage. The film has received critical acclaim and won awards, shedding light on the complexities of adoption.

Kristal discussed the impact of her film on her family, crew, and herself, highlighting the vulnerability and growth that came with sharing her story. She emphasized the importance of owning her narrative and the evolution of her understanding of adoption. The podcast episode also touched on the behind-the-scenes process of creating the documentary, including the support of her adoptive family, crew members, and the challenges and joys of filming.

Listeners were encouraged to watch the film, which is set to be officially released by fall 2024. Kristal shared details on how to stay connected with updates and screenings.

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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

• Catch the Hiraeth Hope & Healing screening on June 15, 2024: https://www.hiraethhopeandhealing.com/because-shes-adopted

 

Other Resources:

• APtitude Support Group for Adoptive Parents Facing Adoption’s Challenges: UnravelingAdoption.com/APtitude

• Other Parents Like Me - 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 [email protected]

Find us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube

Support Unraveling Adoption on Patreon: Patreon.com/UnravelingAdoption

Check out our website: www.UnravelingAdoption.com

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Timestamps:

• • 00:00:02 - Introduction to Kristal Parke: Beth introduces Kristal Parke, a Canadian adoptee and filmmaker, and talks about her acclaimed documentary "Because She's Adopted."

  • 00:05:31 - Unique Adoption Story: Kristal shares the unique story of how she was chosen based on her gender for adoption.

  • 00:10:18 - Residential School Trauma: Kristal discusses the traumatic experiences of Indigenous children in Canadian residential schools.

  • 00:12:26 - Reunion with Birth Mother: Kristal recounts her emotional reunion with her birth mother and meeting her older brother.

  • 00:14:58 - Impact on Family: Kristal reflects on how her family, including her brothers and father, were affected by the documentary.

  • 00:17:43 - Supportive Husband: Kristal talks about the role of her husband in the documentary and the title choice "Because She's Adopted."

  • 00:20:16 - Serene Reflection: Kristal describes a peaceful moment in Manitoba that symbolized her journey of self-discovery during filming.

  • 00:24:27 - Personal Growth: Kristal shares how making the film helped her own her story and continue her journey of self-discovery.

  • 00:26:33 - Film Release Information: Kristal provides details on how to watch the film and stay connected for updates.