Episode Fifty-Seven
Izze, Vanessa, & Jorma Kaukonen
Rock Legend Jorma Kaukonen, Vanessa, and Daughter Izze Share a Deeply Personal Story on Family, Adoption, and Music
This episode is one for the books! Join us as we sit down with Jorma Kaukonen, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer behind Jefferson Airplane and Hot Tuna, along with his powerhouse wife, Vanessa, and their daughter, Izze.
Hear the heartwarming backstory of their family, including the emotional journey of Izze's adoption from China, Vanessa’s life-changing moment hearing the universe’s whisper, and the incredible bond that ties this family together.
Plus, Jorma's beautiful song "Simpler Than I Thought," inspired by Izze, will leave you deeply moved. Get a rare look inside their world—music, family, and a deep love that transcends boundaries. Don’t miss this exclusive conversation!
Anna Jinja mather
host and producer
Anna Jinja Mather was adopted from Seoul, Korea, and grew up in Iowa. Her heart is filled with love for people and their stories. By sharing her adoption story and all that she is learning to help her navigate through personal and professional challenges, she hopes that this will lead us to believe, accept, and value the inherent worthiness of all people.
She has dedicated her life to a number of nonprofit organizations and causes as a volunteer or employee, which has led to a myriad of unexpected opportunities and adventures – including stepping into the role of a radio producer and host at KHOI 89.1 FM.
Anna recently relocated to Athens, Ohio, from Ames, Iowa, where she served as the executive director of Able Up Iowa, a non-profit helping people of all abilities become independent. Her previous employment includes working for several nonprofit organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, Kids Voting, and the Dayton Contemporary Dance Company.
Thanks to Hope (a wise mutual friend), Anna met and fell in love with a marvelous man named Pete while he was traveling in the Pacific Northwest during his car-top tent adventure. In 2022, Pete surprised Anna with a marriage proposal at their favorite wine bar on April 12. The next week, they were married at the Ames Public Library. She now lives happily with her husband, Pete, and their dog, Floyd, in the little blue house of happiness.
Anna invites you to join her learning adventure by listening to the people and creative content that makes her feel at home in this world.