12. Emma: Thinking Adoption Hadn’t Affected Me—Until It Did

Today, Shaosheen is joined by Emma, a Chinese American adoptee who grew up in Marin County, California. Emma shares what it was like growing up in a predominantly white community, where she largely felt “normal” and didn’t think adoption had a significant impact on her identity, often (and understandably) feeling more aligned with the world around her than with her Chinese heritage.As she got older, that perspective began to evolve. Together, they explore the moments that shaped Emma’s awareness of her identity, from school and adolescence to becoming more conscious of how others perceived her. They also discuss the realities of transracial adoption, including common misconceptions and how individual each adoptee’s relationship with their identity can be.Emma reflects on her adoptive parents’ efforts to connect her with her culture, what resonated (and what didn’t at the time), and how her understanding of her identity has evolved. She also shares why she chose to write about her story, with the aim of helping other adoptees feel seen and understood.We post new episodes every other Tuesday and you can find us both on IG, YouTube & TikTok: @emmamingfuller @notmadeinchinapodcast