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I Didn’t Know I Was Black Until You Told Me – Thomas Kirst’s Journey of Identity and Belonging
Episode #114 - In this episode, I sit down with Thomas Kirst, author of I Didn’t Know I Was Black Until You Told Me, to explore his incredible journey of identity, belonging, and breaking societal labels. Given up for adoption at birth, Thomas’ biological family was told he was stillborn.
At just 13 months old, he was adopted into an extraordinary family—a couple who, after surviving World War II, dedicated their lives to helping others. They had three biological children and went on to adopt 21 more, including Korean and Black children, raising them all together under one roof.
Thomas’ powerful story has resonated with millions, including through his viral YouTube video that challenges the idea that people need to fit into tidy boxes. In our conversation, we discuss the impact of adoption, navigating identity, and how love and resilience shape our sense of self.
As an adoptee myself, alongside my three siblings—including one from Vietnam—I was raised with the deep understanding that love creates family. My parents were the most generous, kind, and loving people, always providing the foundation to thrive. Thomas' story is one of strength, self-discovery, and embracing who you truly are.
Tune in for a thought-provoking and inspiring conversation.
Takeaways
- Thomas grew up in a multicultural family with 24 siblings.
- He faced challenges related to identity and race throughout his life.
- Thomas's parents instilled a strong sense of self-worth in him.
- He began searching for his birth parents at a young age.
- The journey to reconnect with his birth family was emotional and complex.
- Thomas emphasizes the importance of overcoming stereotypes and labels.
- He believes in finding positivity in adversity and challenges.
- Living with an open heart has been a transformative experience for him.
- Thomas's story highlights the impact of parental love and support.
- He is currently working on new projects to share his message.
Sound Bites
"I think our spirits are eternal."
"I want to make the most of my life."
"I can be whoever I want to be."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Adoption Stories
02:36 Growing Up in a Diverse Family
05:25 Navigating Identity and Race
08:23 The Journey to Find Birth Parents
11:04 The Impact of Family Dynamics
13:46 Lessons from a Multicultural Upbringing
16:48 The Power of Love and Acceptance
19:16 Overcoming Stereotypes and Labels
22:08 Living with an Open Heart
25:03 Finding Purpose and Positivity
27:37 Conclusion and Future Endeavors
33:27 end screen podcast 17.4 sec.mp4
Connect with Thomas:
Website
Book
Youtube
Let’s Connect!
Website
Youtube
Rumble
Tik Tok
Keywords
adoption, multicultural family, identity, race, overcoming stereotypes, personal growth, resilience, family connections, open heart, positivity
View all episodes
By Nancy WaltersEpisode #114 - In this episode, I sit down with Thomas Kirst, author of I Didn’t Know I Was Black Until You Told Me, to explore his incredible journey of identity, belonging, and breaking societal labels. Given up for adoption at birth, Thomas’ biological family was told he was stillborn.
At just 13 months old, he was adopted into an extraordinary family—a couple who, after surviving World War II, dedicated their lives to helping others. They had three biological children and went on to adopt 21 more, including Korean and Black children, raising them all together under one roof.
Thomas’ powerful story has resonated with millions, including through his viral YouTube video that challenges the idea that people need to fit into tidy boxes. In our conversation, we discuss the impact of adoption, navigating identity, and how love and resilience shape our sense of self.
As an adoptee myself, alongside my three siblings—including one from Vietnam—I was raised with the deep understanding that love creates family. My parents were the most generous, kind, and loving people, always providing the foundation to thrive. Thomas' story is one of strength, self-discovery, and embracing who you truly are.
Tune in for a thought-provoking and inspiring conversation.
Takeaways
- Thomas grew up in a multicultural family with 24 siblings.
- He faced challenges related to identity and race throughout his life.
- Thomas's parents instilled a strong sense of self-worth in him.
- He began searching for his birth parents at a young age.
- The journey to reconnect with his birth family was emotional and complex.
- Thomas emphasizes the importance of overcoming stereotypes and labels.
- He believes in finding positivity in adversity and challenges.
- Living with an open heart has been a transformative experience for him.
- Thomas's story highlights the impact of parental love and support.
- He is currently working on new projects to share his message.
Sound Bites
"I think our spirits are eternal."
"I want to make the most of my life."
"I can be whoever I want to be."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Adoption Stories
02:36 Growing Up in a Diverse Family
05:25 Navigating Identity and Race
08:23 The Journey to Find Birth Parents
11:04 The Impact of Family Dynamics
13:46 Lessons from a Multicultural Upbringing
16:48 The Power of Love and Acceptance
19:16 Overcoming Stereotypes and Labels
22:08 Living with an Open Heart
25:03 Finding Purpose and Positivity
27:37 Conclusion and Future Endeavors
33:27 end screen podcast 17.4 sec.mp4
Connect with Thomas:
Website
Book
Youtube
Let’s Connect!
Website
Youtube
Rumble
Tik Tok
Keywords
adoption, multicultural family, identity, race, overcoming stereotypes, personal growth, resilience, family connections, open heart, positivity