I Didn’t Know I Was Black Until You Told Me: Identity, Adoption & Belonging with Thomas Kirst

Episode #114 - In this deeply personal and powerful episode of The Awakened Heart Podcast, I sit down with Thomas Kirst—author of I Didn’t Know I Was Black Until You Told Me—to explore what it truly means to belong.

Given up for adoption at birth, Thomas’ biological family was told he had died. But at just 13 months old, he was adopted by an extraordinary couple who survived World War II and went on to raise 24 children—three biological and 21 adopted from diverse backgrounds, including Korean and Black children—all in one loving home.

Thomas’ story went viral online for good reason. It challenges the narratives society tries to place on us about race, identity, and what it means to "fit in." Together, we discuss:

The complexities of adoption and identity

Growing up in a multiracial family of 24 siblings

The power of unconditional love

Breaking free from the labels society tries to impose

As an adoptee myself, with three siblings (including one from Vietnam), this conversation hit close to home. I was raised knowing that love, not blood, makes a family. Thomas’ story is a powerful reminder that we don’t have to conform to anyone’s box—we get to define who we are.

Tune in for a conversation that will expand your perspective and open your heart.

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:
https://authorthomaskirst.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Didnt-Know-Black-Until-Told/dp/1640968814

https://www.facebook.com/share/18YRVfz6tR/?mibextid=wwXIfr

https://youtu.be/82dkyG-w7wU?si=Da617FnVglvBRmde

FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/awakenedheartcollective/

TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@awakenedheartcollective?_t=ZT-8tt4YE5tTl0&_r=1

CHECK OUT MY PODCAST:
"The Awakened Heart Podcast" available on all podcast players:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4GjFH6cqjWWitBfUZxa066

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-awakened-heart-podcast-with-nancy-walters/id1507253957

Website: https://www.theawakenedheartcollective.com/

Keywords
adoption, multicultural family, identity, race, overcoming stereotypes, personal growth, resilience, family connections, open heart, positivity