
From Secrets to Self-Discovery with Bob Sutherland
From Open Adoption Project by Lanette & Shaun Nelson
June 2, 2026 · 46 min · Episode 129
About this episode
Bob Sutherland shares his powerful personal story of adoption, identity, and self-discovery, reflecting on his upbringing and journey to understanding his roots.
In this episode, we hear from Bob Sutherland as he shares his powerful personal story of adoption, identity, and self-discovery. Bob reflects on his challenging upbringing, being raised by a religious Jewish crime family in Brooklyn, and later uncovering his biological roots through DNA testing. He walks us through his journey of becoming a successful creative professional and author, offering insights into resilience and personal growth. The conversation explores themes of family secrets, support systems, and the importance of embracing one’s true identity. Bob’s story highlights the strength it takes to navigate complex family dynamics and the healing that comes from understanding one’s past. Bob's Book: A Potato in the Bagel Bin Kindle Edition Download Memoir Here
People in this episode
Hosts: Lanette Nelson, Shaun Nelson
Guest: Bob Sutherland
Topics covered
- adoption
- identity
- self-discovery
- family dynamics
- resilience
- personal growth
Keywords
- adoption
- identity
- self-discovery
- family secrets
- resilience
- personal growth
- DNA testing
- Brooklyn
- memoir
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: A Potato in the Bagel Bin
Places: Brooklyn, Jewish
More episodes of Open Adoption Project
- Finding Family Through DNA: Adoptee Diane Rosenblum’s Journey · June 1, 2026 · 39 min
- Discovery, Reconnection, and the Adoption Experience with Edward Di Gangi · May 31, 2026 · 40 min
- Journey and Discovery with Emma Boggess · May 30, 2026 · 53 min
- Book Club: The Baby Thief with Heather Rodriguez · December 1, 2025 · 41 min
- Book Club: All You Can Ever Know with Anna Lehnardt · November 24, 2025 · 35 min
- Representation Matters with Allison Olson · October 17, 2025 · 29 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Open Adoption Project podcast page.