Family Twist: A Podcast Exploring DNA Surprises and Family Secrets

How a Nurse Practitioner Survived a Second DNA Discovery

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In Part One, Lisa shared her extraordinary adoption reunion story. A closed adoption, a lifetime of questions, a birth family who lived down the street, and the shocking discovery that she likely cared for her own biological grandfather in the ICU. It was a story about caregiving, identity, and the power of finally finding your roots.

Part Two takes us into a very different kind of discovery.

This episode explores the emotional fallout of her paternal DNA match. What begins with hopeful emails and a powerful moment of genetic mirroring turns into years of confusion, mixed narratives, addiction, emotional manipulation, and the painful truth adoptees often live with. Reunion does not guarantee safety. Sometimes it brings an entirely new wave of grief.

Lisa walks us through the relationship with her biological father, the intense early connection, the unraveling that followed, the trauma she and her daughter endured, and the strength it took to reclaim her voice again. It is an honest, vulnerable look at what happens when the fantasy of family meets the reality of human complexity.

And throughout it all, Lisa continues to ground herself in caregiving, advocacy, and her work as a nurse practitioner. As nursing faces new threats on the national stage, her story is a reminder of how much nurses carry for the rest of us and why their voices matter.

This is Part Two of Lisa’s story. If you missed Part One, we recommend listening in order.

Her book, The Adopted Nurse, expands on this journey with even more insight and compassion.

How a Nurse Practitioner Survived a Second DNA Discovery

What Listeners Will Hear

• The first phone call with her biological father.

• How hope and longing shaped her early trust.

• The intense bond that formed during their first visit.

• Signs that something was not right.

• The unraveling of the relationship.

• The impact on her daughter.

• The yearslong cycle of addiction, apologies, and emotional confusion.

• The night she and her daughter were kicked out with nowhere to go.

• How therapy and reflection helped her make sense of the narrative she was given.

• Why she will never know the full truth about her birth parents.

• How this experience deepened her work as an adoptee advocate and nurse practitioner.

• What she wants other adoptees to know before they take a DNA test.

• Her message of healing, strength, and reclaiming your own story.

Link to Lisa’s Book: The Adopted Nurse

If Lisa’s story resonates with you, or if you have your own Family Twist, we would love to hear from you. Your story matters. Your truth matters. And your voice deserves to be heard.

How a Nurse Practitioner Discovered Her Real Roots

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

With the Trump administration moving to reclassify nursing so it no longer counts as a professional degree for federal student aid, this episode couldn’t land at a more urgent moment. Nursing organizations warn that limiting access to funding threatens the very foundation of patient care, and in our household, where nurses are family, this news hits hard.

Today’s guest, Lisa, is a nurse practitioner, an adoptee, and someone who has lived through more than one life-changing twist thanks to DNA testing. Her story blends caregiving, identity, trauma, reunion, and that beautiful mix of nature and nurture we explore so often on Family Twist.

Lisa grew up in a loving adoptive home, always knowing she was adopted but never knowing the medical history she desperately needed. As a nurse practitioner and later a mother, the absence of that information became impossible to ignore. When she finally began searching for answers, she uncovered a story that feels like fate.

If you want to go even deeper into Lisa’s story, you can find her book here:

The Adopted Nurse (Amazon):

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=the+adopted+nurse

How a Nurse Practitioner Discovered Her Real Roots

Her journey includes:

• A neighbor who recognizes her immediately

• A grandfather she may have unknowingly cared for as an ICU nurse

• A birth family who lived down the street from her adoptive parents

• Birth aunts who welcome her with warmth, memory, and long-held truths

This episode explores the way caregivers are shaped by their histories, how adoptees carry both gratitude and grief, and how discovering your roots can transform everything.

Next week, Part Two goes even deeper with a second DNA discovery that completely reframes Lisa’s understanding of identity and safety. But first, this is where her story begins.

What If the Donor’s Kids Have No Idea You Exist

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What happens when you discover a whole set of siblings who grew up in the donor’s home, but you are not sure they even know you exist

In part one, a simple birthday DNA kit rewrote everything Nick thought he knew about his identity. He learned he was donor conceived at thirty-six, discovered fourteen half siblings, and realized his parents had carried the truth for decades.

But nothing prepared him for what came next.

In this episode, Nick talks about the two siblings who were raised by the donor, and the complicated question that hangs over many donor conceived adults:

Do they know about us

And if they do not, should someone tell them

Part Two explores the unsettling space between biological connection and total silence, and what it means to live with questions you cannot safely or ethically answer.

Nick also shares how he transformed his experience into a book and a podcast, giving other donor conceived people a place to speak honestly, without shame or editing. His story is both deeply personal and universally familiar to anyone navigating DNA surprises.

What We Talk About

• What it feels like to discover donor raised siblings who may be unaware of you

• The ethics of reaching out when the consequences are unknown

• How donor conceived adults become detectives whether they want to or not

• The ongoing challenges of incomplete medical histories

• Writing as a way to process identity shifts

• Why Nick created a podcast for donor conceived voices

• How openness can protect mental and emotional health

• The growing need for reform and transparency in the fertility industry

• How music helped Nick work through identity questions

Takeaways

• Donor conceived people often live with unanswered questions that affect identity, medical decisions, and relationships

• The donor’s raised children may be unaware of their genetic siblings, creating an emotional and ethical dilemma

• Stories and conversation help break isolation and build community

• The fertility industry still offers little guidance to the adults created through these methods

• Honesty and visibility remain the strongest tools for change

Reflection Questions for Listeners

• How would you feel if you learned you had siblings who did not know you existed

• What responsibility, if any, do donor conceived people have toward the donor’s raised children

• What part of your story have you been afraid to speak out loud

• How might telling your truth change your relationships or your sense of self

One Test. Two Brothers. Two Different Truths.

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What if a simple birthday gift revealed a secret your parents had been carrying for more than three decades?

For his 36th birthday, Nick’s siblings gave him a 23andMe kit. It seemed like a fun way to learn more about his ancestry, until his parents sat him down with a truth that changed everything. Nick discovered that he was donor conceived, while his brother was not.

In this first part of Nick’s story, he shares what it felt like to have the truth land without warning, why he chose compassion instead of anger, and how this discovery ultimately strengthened his relationship with the father who raised him.

Nick also explains the fertility practices of the 1980s, including sperm washing and sperm mixing, and how secrecy became standard procedure for families like his.

And when his test results came back, the surprises were just beginning.

One Test. Two Brothers. Two Different Truths.

What We Talk About

How a DNA test transformed a birthday gift into a life-changing discovery
The moment Nick’s parents told him the truth about his conception
How secrecy was encouraged in fertility medicine during the 1980s
The emotional impact of realizing your family story is incomplete
Why Nick’s empathy toward his parents shaped their healing
The mix of gratitude and confusion that comes with learning you are donor conceived
The unregulated side of the fertility industry and its lasting effects
Discovering 14 half-siblings, including two raised by the donor
Finding a new sense of identity and belonging after a DNA surprise

Key Quotes

It was the shock of my life. I did not see it coming whatsoever.

I could see the fear in my parents’ eyes, and I just wanted to make sure they were okay.

When I found out I was donor conceived, it didn’t break our relationship. It made it stronger.

Doctors told them, ‘Don’t ever say anything. There’s no way this will ever come out.’

Takeaways

DNA tests can reveal truths that change entire family narratives.
Secrets meant to protect can create years of emotional weight.
Empathy and openness can lead to unexpected healing.
The fertility industry’s lack of oversight has left many families without answers.
Understanding your origins can strengthen, not destroy, family connections.

Reflection Questions for Listeners

How would you respond if you learned your family story wasn’t what you thought?
What might honesty bring to a family that has held on to a secret for years?
How do we redefine family when biology and identity diverge?
What does compassion look like in moments of shock or betrayal?

The Not-So Only Child

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What happens when a single email from a stranger confirms the secret you have been living with your whole life?

In this episode, Rich Boerner returns to Family Twist to share the second half of his extraordinary story. In Part One, Rich discovered the truth about his father after finding a Polaroid tucked inside his mother’s old address book. That discovery shattered the story he had grown up believing and opened the door to an entirely new family.

In Part Two, Rich picks up the story a decade later, when an unexpected email from a woman claiming to be his half-sister pulls him into the next chapter of his life. What follows is an emotional mix of disbelief, connection, and forgiveness.

Rich talks about how he went from shock to understanding, how he built a new relationship with his sister, and why finally learning the truth changed the way he viewed both of his parents. He also shares how the process of telling his story became a healing experience, first for him and then for his children.

The Not-So Only Child

In this episode

How one photo uncovered a lifetime of secrets
The decade between discovery and connection
What it feels like to finally meet a sibling who already knew the truth
The complicated emotions of forgiveness after decades of silence
How Rich turned his discovery into his memoir and audiobook The Not-So Only Child
Why storytelling can be one of the most powerful forms of healing

About Rich Boerner

Rich Boerner is a veteran radio producer, audio storyteller, and the author of The Not-So Only Child: My True Story. His book began as an experiment in the recording booth, speaking his story aloud rather than writing it, and evolved into an audiobook and memoir that explores identity, loss, and reconnection.

You can find The Not-So Only Child on Amazon in print, ebook, and audiobook formats.

Why this episode matters

Rich’s journey is about more than DNA surprises. It is about what happens after the truth surfaces, when you have to decide whether to open the door to the people and the pain that come with it. His story reminds us that healing often begins with honesty, and that our voices, even shaky ones, can help others feel less alone.

Listen now

Subscribe to Family Twist wherever you get your podcasts and hear more stories that prove family secrets are the ultimate plot twist.

I Found My Father’s Name in My Mother’s Secrets

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What if the father you spent your life wondering about turned out to be someone you already knew?

As a kid growing up on Long Island in the 1970s, Rich Boerner learned not to ask too many questions. His mother had her version of the truth and repeated it word for word whenever he asked. His father was a man from Milwaukee who left when he found out she was pregnant. That was all she would say.

It was a story that sounded just plausible enough to stop the conversation. For years, Rich focused on his own life instead. He went to college, built a career in radio, started a family, and kept that mystery locked away in a quiet corner of his mind.

But after his mother passed away, everything changed. While cleaning out her apartment, Rich opened an old address book. Inside was a Polaroid photo and a note that would unravel decades of silence. His father wasn’t a stranger from another state. He was someone who had always been there.

In this first half of our two-part conversation, Rich joins Corey and Kendall to talk about growing up with half-truths, the cost of protecting a parent’s secret, and what it feels like when the life you’ve built suddenly shifts under your feet. His story reminds us how deeply love and deception can intertwine and how the search for truth can begin long after we think the story is over.

In this episode

Life as an only child raised by a single mother in a working-class New York neighborhood
The “three-sentence story” his mother told and why he believed it for so long
What he found among her letters after her death
The Polaroid that rewrote everything he thought he knew about his father
How grief can become the moment of truth

Guest

Rich Boerner is a longtime radio executive and the author of The Not-So Only Child: My True Story. The memoir chronicles the discovery of his hidden family and his path toward forgiveness, recorded and produced in his own home studio.

Coming in Part Two

Rich reconnects with the sister who knew the secret all along and learns how his father’s final wish tied their two families together. He also shares the late-night creative process that turned his story into an audiobook for his children and for anyone who has ever had to rebuild their sense of self from the truth.

When Kendall’s Story Became Her Mirror

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What happens when the podcast that’s helping you make sense of your DNA surprise starts to sound a little too familiar?

For many listeners, Family Twist is more than a podcast, it’s a lifeline. That’s exactly how it felt for Jai, whose own DNA discovery journey unfolded side by side with the stories she was hearing from Corey and Kendall. As an adoptee navigating identity, belonging, and the shock of hidden truths, Jai found comfort and courage in Kendall’s openness about rejection, reconnection, and redefining family.

This episode is for anyone who has listened to a story that suddenly felt like their own. Jai reminds us that healing doesn’t just happen through discovery, it happens through connection.

What Listeners Will Gain

1. A mirror for your own journey.

Jai’s story echoes the emotions so many of us face: curiosity, grief, hope, and the courage to seek truth even when it hurts.

2. A lesson in empathy and resilience.

She talks candidly about how Kendall’s story gave her language for emotions she didn’t yet know how to name and how compassion builds bridges even between strangers.

3. A reminder that you’re not alone.

Through podcasts, online communities, and real-life connections, Jai found strength in realizing that others have walked this road and survived it.

Right to Know: Healing in Real Time

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 00:45:00 -0500

This episode feels like the heart of Family Twist. It’s about what happens when we stop hiding, start talking, and realize we’re all part of a much bigger family than we thought.

Right to Know: Healing in Real Time

Corey shares the mic with other board members from Right to Know, the organization making sure everyone has access to their own origin story. These conversations aren’t polished or easy, but they’re full of heart, honesty, and hope.

Debbie Olson talks about the strange beauty of finding family while also finding your purpose. She turned her DNA discovery into a mission to make sure no one goes through it alone.

Kara Rubinstein Deyerin and Brad Ewell share the story behind the name Right to Know and how they built a space for people who are still reeling from the shock of new truths. Their message is simple: healing doesn’t come from pretending it didn’t happen. It comes from community.

And Steven Osborne reminds us what real courage sounds like when he tells the story of confronting his mother after decades of secrets. It’s raw, it’s human, and it’s a reminder that honesty doesn’t always heal overnight, but it’s always the first step.

This episode also celebrates the Untangling Our Roots Summit, where adoptees, donor-conceived folks, NPEs, and their families come together to laugh, cry, and find connection in the chaos. It’s proof that healing can be loud, messy, and even joyful.

Family secrets might be the hardest stories to tell, but when we tell them together, they turn into something bigger, understanding, compassion, and sometimes even a little karaoke.

The Fertility Industry’s Dark Secret, Told by Two of Its Kids

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0500

This episode nearly vanished. Literally. When Corey bumped into fellow podcaster Jeremy Bryant at a New England podcast event, he recognized his voice before placing his face. Then it hit him, they had already recorded an episode of Family Twist with Jeremy, but somehow, that recording got lost.

So here it is. Jeremy’s story is about learning he was donor-conceived, discovering a growing list of half-siblings, and reconciling that truth after the father who raised him had already passed. It’s also about navigating what happens when the story you’ve always been told turns out to be wrong. Also, Jeremy hosts a paranormal podcast, so yes, you may hear something strange in the background.

The second half of the episode features an update with Jeremy’s half-sister Amber. Her discovery led to a national media moment. Amber is the creator of Biohacked, both a podcast and a documentary project about donor conception, secrecy, and the need for reform in the fertility industry. She also created a welcome packet for new half-siblings, because when your biological father helped conceive dozens of people, there is some onboarding involved.

Together, Jeremy and Amber offer two very different reactions to the same truth. One chose peace. One chose action. Both are unforgettable.

The Fertility Industry’s Dark Secret, Told by Two of Its Kids

Topics Covered

Jeremy’s discovery story and the moment his mom told him the truth
Grieving a lost parent while uncovering a second one
What happens when you meet your biological father after a DNA surprise
Amber’s origin story, and how it unraveled completely
From being called a “miracle baby” to finding out the truth
Creating a welcome packet for incoming half-siblings
How donor-conceived people are fighting for regulation, recognition, and rights
The emotional fallout of secrecy in the fertility industry

Resources Mentioned

Jeremy’s podcast, Paranormal the New Normal
Amber’s podcast and documentary project, Biohacked
Donor Conceived Community (donorconceivedcommunity.org)
NPR and other national media coverage of Amber’s story

Share Your Story

Have you uncovered a secret through a DNA test or a forgotten conversation?

My Birth Father Is Either One of Two Twins… or Their Dad

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What if the first clue to your DNA surprise was hidden in your parents’ wedding video — and years later, the search pointed to identical twins?

Episode Overview

In this episode of the Family Twist podcast, Corey and Kendall talk with Emily, a fellow New England podcaster who uncovered her DNA surprise in an unforgettable way. As a child, she noticed she was in her parents’ wedding video, and that observation launched decades of questions about her identity.

Emily’s journey stretched from childhood curiosity to a paternity test at Dunkin Donuts, to the unique complication of identical twins in DNA testing, and the heartbreak of a mother who could not talk about the past. Along the way, she faced silence, secrecy, and the reality that reunion is rarely the fantasy we imagine.

This is a story of identity, resilience, and what happens when nature and nurture collide in unexpected ways.

My Birth Father Is Either One of Two Twins… or Their Dad

What You’ll Learn

How a wedding video sparked Emily’s search for her biological father
Why secrecy and shame around conception left lasting scars
How identical twins complicate DNA test results in family discovery
Why a parent’s lack of curiosity can be as painful as rejection
How adoptees and NPEs balance gratitude for their raising families with the right to know their origins

Episode Chapters

00:00 – Welcome and introduction to Emily

01:00 – Discovering she was in her parents’ wedding video

02:00 – Learning she was adopted by her raising father

03:00 – Secrecy and shame around her conception

04:00 – Tracking down her first possible father

05:00 – Paternity test at Dunkin Donuts

06:00 – DNA testing with 23andMe, Ancestry, and GEDmatch

08:00 – The identical twins twist

10:00 – Meeting her biological father for the first time

12:00 – Family synchronicities and high school connections

14:00 – Building a relationship with her biological father and siblings

16:00 – Navigating her mother’s silence

18:00 – The weight of “you should be grateful” in adoptee experiences

20:00 – Kendall’s parallels in adoption reunion

24:00 – Managing reunion expectations versus reality

26:00 – Finding connection through music

28:00 – Closing reflections and resources

Resources and Mentions

New England Podcasters Group: Join here
Right to Know: righttoknow.us
NPE Friends Fellowship: npefellowship.org
Donor Sibling Registry: donorsiblingregistry.com

If Emily’s DNA surprise story resonated with you, share this episode with someone navigating adoption, donor conception, or an NPE discovery. Subscribe to Family Twist on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. Leaving a review helps more people discover stories of adoption reunions, family secrets, and DNA testing.

Family Twist is a podcast about DNA surprises, NPE experiences, adoption journeys, and donor conception stories. Hosted by Corey and Kendall Stulce, the show features real conversations about identity, family, and belonging. In this episode, Emily shares how she uncovered her DNA surprise through a wedding video, the unique challenge of identical twin DNA results, and the impact of family secrecy on her search for truth.

Why This Episode Left Us in Tears (and Hope)

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Can we ever truly feel safe if we don’t know where we came from?

Episode Summary:

In this deeply emotional episode of Family Twist, we welcome Bryan Post, world-renowned therapist, author, and adoptee, for a conversation that feels more like a healing session than an interview.

Bryan speaks directly to the heart of what many adoptees feel but struggle to articulate: the hidden trauma, the nervous system overload, the sense of disconnection that lingers, even in the midst of reunion.

For co-host Kendall, this conversation became personal fast. Bryan didn’t just talk theory, he listened, responded, and gently guided Kendall through some of his deepest emotional truths. It was a moment of unexpected vulnerability, and it reminded us why these stories matter so much.

If you’re adopted, donor-conceived, part of the foster care system, or love someone who is, this episode offers real insight, real compassion, and a roadmap for healing.

Why This Episode Left Us in Tears (and Hope)

Key Takeaways:

Trauma lives in the body: Even with a loving adoptive family, separation at birth creates nervous system disruptions.
Adoptees often regulate by pleasing: Bryan breaks down the “good kid” survival strategy and why it’s exhausting.
Healing starts with understanding: Bryan explains the difference between punishment and regulation and why love always works better than fear.
This was a real therapy moment for Kendall: Bryan’s response to Kendall’s story was one of patience, empathy, and genuine support.

Pull Quotes:

"If I can help one person feel seen, then that’s why I share my story." – Kendall

"Trauma isn’t what happens to you—it’s what happens inside you as a result." – Bryan Post

"Adoptees are master regulators. We survive by making sure everyone else is okay." – Bryan Post

Resources Mentioned:

Bondify (therapy app)
From Fear to Love: Your Essential Guide to Parenting Adopted and Foster Children
The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk (book recommendation)
Family Twist episode: Wendy Kramer on Donor-Conceived Identity

When Your DNA Test Turns Into a Movie Script

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What happens when a DNA test flips your world upside down and you decide to make a comedy about it? Actor, writer, and producer Lisa Brenner joins Corey and Kendall to talk about her new film One Big Happy Family, opening in AMC Theatres on October 3, 2025.

Inspired by her own discovery at age 40 that the dad who raised her wasn’t her biological father, Lisa transformed a life-altering revelation into a heartfelt comedy. In this episode, she shares how she worked through shock and grief, why she wanted to honor her mother instead of vilifying her, and how humor became her way of finding perspective.

The conversation also celebrates the late Linda Lavin, star of Alice, who delivers her final screen performance in One Big Happy Family. As lifelong fans, Corey and Kendall reflect on Linda’s impact, her strength as a trailblazing actor, and the legacy she leaves behind.

This episode is a reminder that family is complicated, comedy can heal, and DNA discoveries don’t always have to end in tragedy, sometimes they spark laughter, connection, and a brand-new story.

When Your DNA Test Turns Into a Movie Script

Topics We Cover

How a “just for fun” DNA test led to Lisa’s shocking discovery at 40
Why she chose comedy instead of melodrama to tell her story
The secrecy and shame around early IVF and donor conception in the 1960s
Honoring her mom’s role in her life and avoiding the blame game
The wild experience of finding multiple donor-conceived siblings
Working with the legendary Linda Lavin in her final film role
Why community and connection are so vital after a DNA surprise

Resources & Links

🎬 One Big Happy Family — Official Website
❤️ More Family Twist episodes at familytwistpodcast.com

Switched at birth and silenced for decades

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500

This is the rescued first conversation with author Shirley Muñoz Newsom, whose memoir The Little Dark One: A True Story of Switched at Birth chronicles discovering—at age 43—that she was switched at birth. She grew up in Gillette, Wyoming, knowing she didn’t fit, searching through library microfiche long before Google, and navigating an emotionally unavailable home where affection and belonging were withheld. In this raw, intimate talk, Shirley shares how a National Enquirer ambush multiplied the trauma, why writing opened the floodgates after decades of suppression, and how finding Aunt Mary and a constellation of cousins helped her reclaim her Mexican heritage—down to learning tortillas and recognizing a face she finally resembled.

We thought this recording was gone due to severe audio issues. Thanks to new editing tools, we recovered enough to share it. It’s not perfect, but the immediacy is powerful.

Why this story matters

A firsthand account of being switched at birth, told after decades of silence
The cost of secrecy, shame, and small-town gossip on a child’s identity
Surviving not one, but two dysfunctional families, and choosing healing anyway
Reclaiming erased culture and kinship, from Aunt Mary to a growing cousin network
How a grandson’s challenge—“What if you help just one person?”—sparked a book

Highlights and themes

Finding out at 43: DNA confirmation of what had been whispered for years
Media exploitation: A blindsiding National Enquirer spread, consent ignored
Family dynamics: “I was never hugged, never told I love you,” blamed as “not his”
Counseling and craft: Writing unlocked feelings after a lifetime of pushing them down
Community as medicine: UTOR summit resonance, podcasting as shared healing
Heritage reclaimed: Meeting Aunt Mary, cooking lessons, and cultural belonging
Recognition and reception: Positive reviews, and becoming a National Indie Excellence Awards finalist (as Shirley shares)

Memorable moments you’ll hear

“I did all my research through microfiche at the library.”
“The first time in 43 years anyone said, You look just like your mother.”
“I was never hugged, never told ‘I love you.’”
“I opened the Enquirer and there was my high-school photo for the world to see.”
“Writing the book—after two chapters, the dam finally broke.”
“My grandson said, What if you help one person?”

About the guest

Shirley Muñoz Newsom is the author of The Little Dark One: A True Story of Switched at Birth. After a lifetime of not belonging, she reclaimed her identity, faith, and heritage, and now speaks to help others move from silence to voice.

Light notes from the room

A quick dog roll call breaks the ice—six tiny pups on Corey and Kendall’s side, dachshunds on Shirley’s, and a six-pound “watchdog” cameo
A shout-out to Aunt Mary’s tortillas and the tender reminder that practice, practice, practice is its own love language

Audio note

Rescued recording. This episode was salvaged from a damaged session using new editing tools. You may hear glitches and level shifts, but the story’s heart is intact.

Call to action

Read The Little Dark One
Share this episode with anyone navigating DNA surprises, adoption, or family secrecy
If this resonates, consider attending Untangling Our Roots, or reach out to your local support community

An Adoptive Parent’s Perspective on Open Adoption

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Family Twist, Corey and Kendall sit down with Mary, adoptive mom to previous guest Chris Martin. If you haven’t already, we recommend listening to Chris’ two episodes first — his story as an adoptee lays the groundwork for the conversation you’re about to hear with his mom.

Mary opens up about the unexpected beginnings of Chris’ adoption and how what started as a plan for a closed adoption blossomed into a fully open one. She shares candidly about the joys, challenges, and deep connections that grew as two families came together out of love for one child.

An Adoptive Parent’s Perspective on Open Adoption

Together, Corey, Kendall, and Mary explore:

The surprising way Mary and her husband learned they’d become parents
How their adoption plan evolved into an open adoption — and why that mattered for Chris
The importance of seeing adoption through both parent and child perspectives
The blend of nature and nurture in Chris’ growth and personality
The role of extended families, birth parents’ spouses, and even grandparents in sustaining openness
Why Mary encourages others not to fear open adoption, but to center every decision on what’s best for the child

Mary’s voice adds a rich and heartfelt counterpoint to Chris’ earlier episodes, giving listeners a rare chance to hear both sides of an adoption story in depth.

When “Donor Conceived” Becomes Your Life’s Plot Twist

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Family Twist, Corey and Kendall sit down with storyteller and comedian Becca Rothman to talk about her remarkable DNA discovery and her upcoming live solo show, Gifted: Nature, Nurture, and an Unexpected Present.

Becca shares the journey from long-held suspicions about her conception, to finally taking a DNA test, to discovering her biological father—a pediatrician—and two half-sisters she instantly connected with. She walks us through the clues, the moment of opening that life-changing email, the careful way she reached out, and the joy of meeting her new family for the first time.

She also opens up about the creative process of turning her story into art: how she stumbled into comedy and storytelling in her late forties, became a Moth producer, and is now preparing to premiere her first one-person show in New York City. Becca talks about the balance of humor and vulnerability in sharing family secrets, the importance of breaking cycles of shame, and how Taylor Swift (yes, really!) has influenced her courage to be fully authentic.

This conversation touches on family secrets, resilience, ADHD revelations, parenting, and the healing power of storytelling and the arts.

When “Donor Conceived” Becomes Your Life’s Plot Twist

Key Themes & Topics

Secrets & Shame: Growing up with hidden truths about her conception—and why sharing them publicly now feels like liberation.
DNA Discovery: How a long-delayed 23andMe kit led to finding her biological father and two half-sisters.
Nature Meets Nurture: Spotting uncanny similarities with her new family—from writing style to leaving kitchen cabinets open.
Creative Bravery: From a rough first comedy gig to becoming a storyteller and creating Gifted, her solo show premiering in NYC.
Family Reactions: How her parents, husband, and kids responded to the discovery.
Identity & ADHD: Understanding herself more deeply after her bio dad mentioned his own diagnosis.
Music & Healing: Why Taylor Swift and Talking Heads’ “Once in a Lifetime” have been soundtracks for this chapter of her life.

About the Show

🎭 Gifted: Nature, Nurture, and an Unexpected Present

Part of the Frigid NYC Festival at Under St. Marks in New York City
Dates: September 6–7, 2025
Sunday performance already sold out, but Saturday night and livestream tickets available
More info: Frigid NYC or via Becca’s website/Instagram (@beccarothman)

Things Adoptees Hear That Make Us Want to Scream

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Family Twist, Corey and Kendall get raw, real, and a little ranty. It’s part group therapy, part comedy roast, and all about the phrases adoptees hear over and over again that range from paper-cut stings to sledgehammer blows. From “You’re so lucky your parents chose you” to “Do you know your real parents?”—they unpack why these comments miss the mark, how they flatten adoptee stories, and what people could say instead.

With equal parts humor and honesty, Corey and Kendall explain how these clichés can turn gratitude into a prison, erase adoptive parents, or script feelings adoptees never asked for. They don’t just rant, though. They share practical, respectful alternatives and invite listeners—adoptees and non-adoptees alike—to reflect on the power of words.

If you’ve ever felt like screaming when someone told you “everything happens for a reason,” this episode gives you permission. Consider it adoptee group therapy with a laugh track.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

Why “You’re so lucky your parents chose you” erases loss behind adoption.
The problem with asking “Do you know your real parents?” and how to reframe.
The myth of “at least you were wanted” and how it silences nuance.
Why “your birth mom must have loved you so much to give you up” oversimplifies complicated truths.
Why adoptees bristle at “blood is thicker than water.”
Alternatives to clichés: what to actually say when adoption comes up.
The reminder that adoptees are not “special” props—they’re layered people with layered stories.

Takeaway Message

Adoption isn’t about being lucky or broken. It’s both love and loss, gratitude and grief, connection and disconnection. Adoptees deserve space to tell their own stories without scripts handed down in clichés.

Ghosting the Ghost Parent

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this candid conversation, Corey and Kendall tackle one of the most painful realities in the adoptee and DNA surprise world — reaching out to a biological parent and getting… nothing in return.

Ghosting the Ghost Parent

Kendall opens up about his own experience with his birth mother: the initial reply that offered hope, the “I need time to process” that turned into months of silence, and the slow realization that this wasn’t a pause — it was a soft no. Together, Corey and Kendall unpack what that kind of rejection feels like, why parents sometimes choose silence, and the emotional work it takes to keep living fully without the answers you want.

This is not a story about closure. It’s a story about reclaiming your voice when someone else chooses not to be part of your story.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Kendall’s personal account of being shut out by his birth mother
The difference between ghosting in dating and ghosting in family relationships
The mental spiral of “filling in the blanks” when a parent won’t engage
Possible reasons behind a parent’s refusal that don’t make the hurt any less
Why waiting can cost you more than it gives you
How Kendall found support and started to heal
A direct message from Kendall to his birth mother — and to anyone living with parental silence

The Return to Man Weekend: Family, Fire Pits, and Full-Circle Moments

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this heartfelt follow-up to one of our earliest episodes ("The Man Weekend"), Kendall shares stories from a recent rustic getaway with members of his birth family at their long-held property in northern New Hampshire. It’s a full-circle moment—spending time around the campfire with his brother, uncle, cousins, and nephews, deepening bonds with people he didn’t grow up with but now can’t imagine life without. From installing a water system to laughing until they lost their voices, this trip was more than just a weekend—it was a memory-in-the-making.

Corey joins the conversation to reflect on how far Kendall’s found-family journey has come, and how these connections—old and new—continue to shape their lives. They also touch on the emotional reality of balancing adoptive and biological family histories, the joy of watching young relatives grow up, and even a cautionary tale involving sesame meatballs.

Toward the end, Corey and Kendall introduce plans for future solo episodes addressing current issues in the adoptee, NPE, and donor-conceived communities—and share the powerful message behind a recent email from a listener whose life was changed by discovering Family Twist.

📌 Topics Covered:

The return to Kendall’s birth family’s New Hampshire property
What’s changed since “The Man Weekend” (including plumbing!)
Reconnecting with cousins, uncle, and brother Chris
The joy of bonding with nephews as they enter adulthood
Humor, shenanigans, and nearly killing Pete with sesame
Reflecting on the emotions of what was missed—and what’s now gained
Future plans for solo episodes focused on NPE/adoptee/DC community issues
The impact of Family Twist on a listener’s decision to search for their truth

🔗 Related Episodes:

The Man Weekend (link to original episode)
Chris Finds a Brother: Kendall’s First Birth Family Connection

Love Beyond DNA: The Man Who Raised Me

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In Part 2 of our conversation with author and advocate J. Steven Osborne, we explore what happens after the shock of a DNA discovery, when the dust starts to settle, and you're left piecing together not just your origin story, but your identity.

Steven opens up about the emotional toll of learning that Jack Osborne, the man who raised him and loved him unconditionally, wasn’t his biological father. It felt like losing him all over again—except this time, it was to a lie, not to death. What follows is a deeply moving tribute to the man Steven still calls "Dad" and a powerful reminder that family is not about genetics—it’s about showing up, staying present, and choosing love every single day.

We also discuss:

The surreal moment his sister’s DNA test confirmed the truth
How his wife Becky became both researcher and rock in his journey
The painful confrontation with his mother—and the unexpected truth hidden in her memoir
How his siblings embraced him with fierce, unconditional love
And why Steven now defines family by just two things: love and commitment

💥 Steven’s memoir, DNA – Did Not Anticipate, is a must-read for anyone navigating a DNA surprise, NPE discovery, or complex family secret. It’s raw, darkly funny, and filled with grace.

Quotes to remember:

“He wasn’t just a good man. He was a great man. And he was my dad—DNA be damned.”

“Go find the family you deserve.”

📘 Order Steven’s book → https://dnadidnotanticipate.com/

🔗 Learn more about Right to Know → righttoknow.us

If you’ve ever felt like an outsider in your own story, this episode is for you.

#FamilyTwistPodcast #JStevenOsborne #DNADidNotAnticipate #FoundFamily #NPE #DNARevelation #FamilyIsLove #RightToKnow #MPE #DNAHealing #ChosenFamily

A DNA Discovery on the Tarmac

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500

J. Steven Osborne believed he knew where he came from until an ancestry DNA test turned his world upside down. What started in 2021 as a casual curiosity for Native American heritage ended with a jaw-dropping response: a first cousin in Prince Edward Island. And his father? Not who he thought. Join Corey as Steven recounts the powerful, painful, and sometimes absurd journey that unraveled in real time.

In this Part One of the conversation, Steven takes us back to a childhood in Tory Hill, Kentucky—full of blended houses, foster kids, Pentecostal rituals, and 14 siblings. A loving but turbulent family life set the stage, and his father Jack became his emotional anchor. But on a flight home from Hilton Head, his sister’s DNA match confirmed what shattered everything: his biological father was someone else entirely.

A DNA Discovery on the Tarmac

This episode ends at that gut-punch moment—leaving listeners hanging, hearts racing, and fingers gripping the armrest. Part Two dives deeper into grief, identity, forgiveness… and yes, more revelations that defy fiction.

📘 Teaser for DNA – Did Not Anticipate

Steven co-wrote the memoir with his wife, forensic genealogist Becky Brower Osborne. Originally meant as healing journaling, the story morphed into an 80,000-word rollercoaster of intrigue, humor, heartbreak, and redemption—from disbelief to forgiveness, and finding belonging in unexpected places DNA Did Not Anticipate+9DNA Did Not Anticipate+9Buzzsprout+9.

Praise for the book:

“Life‑is‑stranger‑than‑fiction”—a true shocker of a memoir Amazon+3DNA Did Not Anticipate+3RightToKnow+3
“Gut‑wrenching grief woven with laugh‑out‑loud moments”—a compelling read for anyone who's faced a DNA surprise Buzzsprout+5BookLife+5DNA Did Not Anticipate+5

🗣️ This Episode Is For You If You’ve Ever…

Wondered who you are when DNA contradicts family lore
Experienced the emotional wreckage of a mistaken identity
Found healing in humor, resilience, and forgivenes
Crave a raw, deeply personal story told with both sharp wit and open heart

📌 What You’ll Hear in Part One

🧬 The “Aha!” moment on a plane when everything changed
Emotional flashbacks to Pentecostal upbringing and chaotic blended family life
The love story of Steven and Becky and how writing became his therapy
Hints of the darker revelations waiting in Part Two

🔗 Links & Resources

❤️ Why We Love This Episode

Steven’s story is a testament to resilience: finding humor in heartbreak, courage in chaos, and family in truth. It’s a must-listen for anyone redefining their past—especially when that journey begins at 30,000 feet.

The Adoption Paradox

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Author, adoptee, and fierce truth-teller Jean Widner returns to Family Twist—and this time, she’s holding a finished book in her hands. In this emotionally raw and intellectually rich conversation, Corey sits down with Jean to talk about the release of her long-anticipated book, The Adoption Paradox, and the deeply personal story behind it.

What began as a community-driven exploration of adoption evolved into something far more intimate—a reflection on grief, rejection, and what it means when your birth mother says “no.” Jean unpacks the anger, longing, and love that poured into her writing, including the moment a friend called her book “a love letter to your mother”—a revelation she hadn’t seen coming.

We also dive into the darker side of the adoption industry: predatory marketing tactics, the for-profit machinery behind child placement, and why “rescue” language is so harmful. Plus, Jean and Corey share a few behind-the-scenes truths about being marketers themselves, and what it means to use those skills for good.

The Adoption Paradox

This episode covers:

Jean’s reflections one year after her birth mother’s painful rejection
The real story behind The Adoption Paradox
Why sealed birth certificates and loyalty tests still hurt
Marketing ethics in adoption and who’s profiting from secrecy
How community and storytelling create space for healing
Why Fast Car by Tracy Chapman is the perfect song for her adoption journey

If you’ve ever felt like you couldn’t tell the whole truth about your story, this conversation is for you. Jean reminds us that sometimes the most radical act is just naming what happened, without the bow.

📖 Grab Jean’s book: adoptionparadox.com

Addiction, Absence, and the Road Back to My Birth Father

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In Part 2 of our powerful conversation with Chris, the emotional stakes deepen. Chris takes us through the winding road of reconnection with his birth father—once lost to addiction and incarceration—and how a long-awaited letter cracked the door open to forgiveness and healing.

We also explore the life-changing moment Chris met his half-brother from his birth father’s side, a child who didn’t just resemble him physically—but emotionally, energetically, and spiritually. It’s a reflection that brought up joy, grief, and a surprising sense of full-circle peace.

Chris also recounts a vulnerable and honest phone call with his birth mother where, for the first time, they both acknowledged the loss—and the love—that came from their separation.

And as Chris reconnects with the final missing pieces of his extended family, he shares what it feels like to finally, fully, know where you come from—and where you belong.

This is a conversation about truth, timing, and the power of second chances.

Addiction, Absence, and the Road Back to My Birth Father

In This Episode:

– Meeting his half-brother and seeing his mirror image

– Rebuilding a relationship with his birth father after addiction

– The emotional weight of a long-overdue apology letter

– A healing phone call with his birth mother about separation and regret

– Family secrets on his birth father’s side—and how they ripple through generations

– Understanding identity through the lens of nature and nurture

– Belonging to multiple families, and claiming all of them

– Finding a home in the adoption community

Why It Matters:

Chris’s story challenges the assumption that “knowing everything” means you escape the pain. Even in the most open adoptions, healing takes time and sometimes, it takes meeting a sibling who looks like you to see yourself more clearly.

#FamilyTwistPodcast #AdopteeVoices #DNAReunion #BirthFatherHealing #HalfSiblings #PrimalWound #OpenAdoption #AdoptionTruth #FamilyHealing #IdentityJourney #MisattributedParentage #AdoptionPodcast

Two Families, One Primal Wound

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Chris’s story may not begin with a shocking discovery but it’s no less extraordinary. In this episode, Kendall and Corey sit down with Chris to explore a rare but deeply moving example of an open adoption that worked exactly as intended. Chris has known his birth parents for his entire life, and his adoptive parents invited his birth family in from day one.

But as we quickly learn, openness doesn’t mean immunity from pain. Chris reflects on how—even in a home full of love and acceptance—he still struggled with feelings of not being “enough,” of needing to prove his worth. He shares his journey through anxiety, early childhood trauma, and the therapeutic breakthroughs that helped him recognize the impact of the primal wound, even when adoption was never a secret.

Chris also speaks candidly about his experience surviving E. coli and kidney failure as a young child, and how that trauma shaped his early years. Through it all, his story is one of deep introspection, hard-earned insight, and powerful reminders that no two adoptee experiences are exactly alike—but the emotional threads often run in parallel.

Two Families, One Primal Wound

💬 Topics Covered:

How a high school teacher’s lesson on IVF led to an adoption offer
The emotional complexity of open adoption
Navigating anxiety and the need to “earn” belonging
The impact of childhood trauma and medical emergencies
How therapy, self-reflection, and community help shape healing
The primal wound, even when you're never kept in the dark
Nature vs. nurture through the lens of two families

💡 Why It Matters:

Chris’s story challenges the myth that adoptees raised in open, loving homes don’t struggle with identity or belonging. His willingness to speak about the nuance in his journey adds to the growing conversation around how all adoption stories—twisty or not—carry emotional weight.

🔜 Stay Tuned:

Part 2 continues Chris’s journey, with deeper reflections on how he navigates dual family connections, personality traits passed through biology, and the ongoing evolution of self-understanding.

What Happens When a Transracial Adoptee Tells the Whole Truth?

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In Part 2 of our powerful conversation with Lisa MM Butler, we go deeper into what happens after the DNA tests, after the reunions, and after the losses. Lisa, an outspoken transracial adoptee, writer, illustrator, and library worker, shares how the death of her adoptive parents left her grappling with the question: Whose family am I part of now?

Lisa takes us inside her inner world of healing, through art, graphic memoirs, and workshops created by and for adoptees. We talk about chosen family, sibling distance, and what trust looks like when it’s been broken again and again. She also dives into the dangerous realities of international adoptees facing deportation, institutional erasure of Black history, and how reproductive control intersects with the adoption industry.

This episode is raw, nuanced, and filled with moments that will stick with you long after you hit stop. Lisa reminds us that art can hold grief, community can build safety, and sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is say it out loud.

What Happens When a Transracial Adoptee Tells the Whole Truth?

“After my adoptive parents died, I had to decide, what does ‘family’ even mean now? And do I still belong?”

🧬 Featured Guest: Lisa MM Butler

Lisa MM Butler is a transracial adoptee, writer, illustrator, library worker, and advocate. Born and raised in Wyoming, Lisa was adopted out of foster care after being relinquished by her white mother due to her Black heritage. She is in reunion with members of her biological father’s family, though both birth parents have declined to meet her.

Lisa is a board member of VOICES: A BIPOC Adoptee Community, a grassroots nonprofit dedicated to supporting BIPOC adoptees through healing-centered programming, creative expression, and collective care. Her work focuses on amplifying adoptee voices through children’s literature, zines, graphic memoirs, and community workshops. Her passion lies in using storytelling as a tool for processing trauma, building identity, and making sure no adoptee feels alone in the fog.

Learn more about her work at: www.bipocadoptees.org

🔑 Topics Covered in This Episode:

🖼️ Reconstructing identity through art, illustration, and clown archetypes
📚 The lack of accurate children’s books from adoptee perspectives—and how Lisa’s changing that
🎨 Graphic memoirs, zines, and the role of creativity in processing trauma
🧠 Trust, attachment, and the slow work of letting people in
💔 Sibling disconnection and grief after the death of adoptive parents
🏠 Chosen family vs. biological or legal family—what connection actually means
🌎 Intercountry adoption and the terrifying reality of adoptees facing deportation due to lack of naturalization
South Korea’s admission of systemic child trafficking in international adoption
⚖️ Reproductive control, Freedom Farms, and the ethics of forced family separation
🎶 Soul music and R&B as healing modalities
🧩 The adoptee experience as uniquely powerful—and widely relatable

🛠️ Resources & Mentions:

VOICES: A BIPOC Adoptee Community – www.bipocadoptees.org
Adoptees for Justice – www.adopteesforjustice.org
Adoptees United – www.adopteesunited.org
Samm Henshaw – Soul/R&B musician Lisa recommends for healing
Tina Strawn’s Legacy Trips – Anti-racism immersive experiences in Montgomery, AL

📣 Stay Connected:

🎧 Listen to Part 1 of Lisa’s story if you haven’t already, where we discuss relinquishment, reunion, and reclaiming space as a BIPOC adoptee.

📩 Know an adoptee or someone in the constellation who needs to hear this? Share this episode with them.

📲 Follow us on Instagram @FamilyTwistPodcast

🔁 Leave a review, subscribe, and help us tell more stories that deserve to be heard.

And always remember: Family secrets are the ultimate plot twist.

DNA Doesn’t Lie, But Families Do

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In Part One of this powerful two-part episode, Corey and Kendall sit down with Lisa, who shares the beginning of her journey into the world of unexpected DNA discoveries. Lisa believed she understood her place in her family — until a test revealed otherwise. What follows is a story of emotional whiplash: from excitement and curiosity to confusion, rejection, and deep grief.

DNA Doesn’t Lie, But Families Do

Lisa bravely opens up about the shock of discovering her biological parentage, the resistance she’s faced from those who hold the keys to her history, and the emotional toll of being shut out by people who could help her heal. Her story will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt erased, unseen, or denied.

This is a raw and unfiltered look at the emotional complexity of identity, truth-telling, and the cost of silence.

Topics Covered:

The emotional shock of an NPE discovery
Family denial and gaslighting
Grief and anger in the face of rejection
The search for identity without cooperation
Early steps in Lisa’s healing process

Team Red and the Ultimate Family Plot Twist

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What happens when you pair a woman searching for her birth family with an uncle who’s all-in for the ride? You get Team Red: Kayli and Dan, standouts from Season 15 of BYUtv’s Relative Race, and this episode of Family Twist dives into every twist, turn, and tearjerking reunion from their epic 10-day journey.

Team Red and the Ultimate Family Plot Twist

Kayli, adopted at birth, had lingering questions about her origins. Dan, her biological uncle and instant teammate, helped chase those answers across the country—one challenge, one stranger-turned-relative, one emotional reckoning at a time. Together, they uncovered family secrets, rewrote narratives, and reminded us why DNA alone doesn't make a family—love, courage, and showing up do.

Whether you’re an adoptee, part of an NPE journey, or just someone who believes in the power of second chances, this episode will hit home.

What You’ll Hear:

How Kayli and Dan became Team Red on Relative Race
Behind-the-scenes insight from their 10-day trek
The most emotional moments (including the relatives they didn’t expect to meet)
What it’s like to experience real-time family discovery on national TV
How the experience changed their lives—and their family trees

Quote Highlights:

“I didn’t realize how much I needed this until I was in it.” – Kayli

“When Kayli asked me to join her, I didn’t hesitate. And I’m glad I didn’t.” – Dan

Resources & Links:

Watch Season 15 of Relative Race: BYUtv.org

They Erased His Father. He Wrote Him Back In.

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Peter’s story doesn’t end with a DNA test or a family reunion. It enters the courtroom.

In this gripping conclusion to our two-part conversation with Australia-based adoptee and advocate Peter, we follow his six-year legal fight to have his biological father’s name added to his original birth certificate—a document that, like so many issued in the wake of forced adoption, was incomplete by design.

Peter didn’t have lab-certified DNA proof. His father had died decades before. The system told him that wasn’t good enough. But Peter knew: identity isn’t about paperwork—it’s about truth. And that truth matters, not just to him, but to every adoptee whose history has been buried, silenced, or rewritten.

They Erased His Father. He Wrote Him Back In.

What You’ll Hear:

The crushing reality of receiving an “original” birth certificate with half your history missing
Why the state demanded proof that was literally impossible to obtain
The emotional weight of visiting his father’s grave in Italy—without ever meeting him
How Peter’s legal win became a beacon for other adoptees in Australia
The founding of Adoptee Rights Australia and his push for national reform
Why adoptee stories deserve to be heard in courtrooms, not just podcasts

Why It Matters:

This isn’t just Peter’s story. It’s the story of countless adoptees around the world—people still fighting for recognition, for justice, and for the basic dignity of being fully seen. Peter’s courage changes that narrative. He didn’t just reclaim a name—he reclaimed his place in the world.

Listen if You’ve Ever Wondered:

What it feels like to discover your identity was a legal fiction
How adoption systems hide behind outdated laws and cold policies
What it takes to stand up to a government that wants you to stay invisible
Why adding a name to a piece of paper can change a life—and a country

Trigger Warnings:

Adoption trauma, legal erasure, family betrayal, systemic injustice, and grief related to family separation.

Australia’s Adoption Scandal Hits Home and Hard

Tue, 27 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Imagine building out a detailed family tree… only to find out you’re not actually in it. That’s what happened to this guest from Australia, who took a casual DNA test at age 59—and uncovered a life-changing secret: he was adopted, and no one had ever told him.

In Part One of this deeply personal two-part conversation, we follow his journey from Aussie amateur genealogist to late-discovery adoptee facing a tidal wave of buried truths. And yes, he really did confront his adoptive parents the day before Mother’s Day.

Australia’s Adoption Scandal Hits Home and Hard

What’s Inside:

The shocking DNA result that unraveled six decades of belief
An Australian’s painful entry into the world of forced adoption
How “burned adoption papers” were meant to erase his truth
The first call with his birth mother—who had just broken a 59-year silence
A reunion with siblings who never knew he existed
A country’s legacy of secrecy—and one man’s refusal to stay silent

Why It Matters:

This isn’t just one man’s story—it’s part of a larger reckoning with Australia’s history of forced adoption, where thousands were stripped of their identities. And it’s a wake-up call for anyone who still believes their birth certificate tells the whole truth.

Heads-Up:

This episode discusses adoption trauma, family deception, and the emotional toll of late discovery. Please listen with care.

Coming Soon – Part Two:

The six-year legal battle to have his father’s name restored—and how he became one of Australia’s loudest voices fighting for adoptee rights.

Family Is Complicated, And We’re Not Done Talking About It

Tue, 20 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this milestone episode, the hosts of Family Twist take a heartfelt, unfiltered look back on three years of storytelling, 150 episodes, and the ever-evolving journey of uncovering and healing from family secrets.

Family Is Complicated And We’re Not Done Talking About It

What began as a podcast to share one adoptee’s story has blossomed into a powerful platform amplifying voices from the adoption, donor-conceived, NPE (Not Parent Expected), and DNA discovery communities. With vulnerability, wit, and unwavering honesty, the hosts explore:

Why “family secrets are the ultimate plot twist” remains their most resonant theme

The ongoing emotional toll of being someone’s secret—and the healing that comes from being acknowledged
How guest stories have stirred deep empathy and fierce protectiveness
The complicated feelings around birth family rejection, even years after reunion
Why ethnic identity, once a background detail, now feels like a source of rooted pride
Evolving perspectives on adoption, kinship care, and what family should mean
Behind-the-scenes podcasting challenges: guest droughts, unexpected breakthroughs, and learning to let the story unfold in real time
Aspirations for a book, live events, and collaborations that blend heartbreak with humor

This episode isn’t just a reflection—it’s a recommitment. To the community. To truth-telling. To showing up, every week, with an open heart.

Whether you've been with the podcast since episode one or you're just discovering it now, this episode offers a deeply moving, occasionally hilarious, and always honest window into why stories like these matter—and why they need to be told.

The Birth of the Donor Sibling Registry

Tue, 13 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this powerful, first-time full release of our conversation with Wendy Kramer, co-founder of the Donor Sibling Registry (DSR), we explore the deeply personal and transformational story behind one of the most influential voices in the donor conception world. Originally thought to be partially lost due to a damaged audio file, this complete conversation captures every twist, turn, and truth.

The Birth of the Donor Sibling Registry

Wendy shares how her journey began in 1990 when her son Ryan was born via an anonymous sperm donor. What started as a personal experience quickly evolved into a mission to help other donor-conceived individuals and families find answers, medical information, and—most importantly—connection.

We talk candidly about:

How Wendy’s young son sparked a life-altering conversation at age two

The early challenges of seeking information in a pre-DNA testing world

Ryan becoming the first known donor-conceived person to identify his biological father through DNA testing

The emotional, profound first meeting between Ryan and his biological father

The ever-growing half-sibling group—now 28 and counting—and how they’ve built relationships

The founding of the Donor Sibling Registry and how it’s connected nearly 25,000 people

The unethical practices of sperm banks and the lack of industry accountability

The emotional toll of secrets, shame, and what happens when families choose fear over truth

Powerful parallels between donor conception and Kendall’s own adoption journey

Plus: You’ll hear about how Ryan’s story continues to impact new donor-conceived individuals as they discover unexpected half-siblings—and how Wendy has built a “soft landing” for them in a world still catching up to the reality of DNA, identity, and truth.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone touched by donor conception, adoption, or family secrets—and for anyone seeking to better understand the emotional power of being known.

The Pain We Carry, the Monsters We Love

Tue, 13 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500

🩸 Episode Summary:

In this hauntingly heartwarming bonus episode of Family Twist, Corey and Kendall open the crypt to their other podcast, Horror Heals—where trauma, grief, and found family intersect with creepy dolls, final girls, and haunted conventions.

You’ll hear from six remarkable guests who’ve turned fear and pain into art, community, and healing. These are the stories of a horror icon reclaiming her narrative, a PTSD plushie inventor, a veteran finding solace through eerie dioramas, and more. Through these voices, we’re reminded that healing doesn’t always come from a DNA match—sometimes it comes from horror movies, hot glue guns, and the weird, wonderful people who truly see us.

The Pain We Carry, the Monsters We Love

👥 Guests Featured:

Adrienne King, legendary final girl from Friday the 13th, shares how fan connection helped her overcome trauma from a real-life stalker.
Jennifer Ginty, creator of Moody, a monster doll for processing emotions, shows how PTSD inspired purpose.
Eerie Earl, a military veteran and miniatures artist, finds peace and camaraderie through eerie creations.
Andre Gower, star of The Monster Squad, shares how his film became a lifeline for a child with severe autism.
Catherine Bonetti, the mind behind Devil Eyed Dumplings, talks about how creepy dolls and horror conventions helped her overcome social anxiety.
Nate Gaik, actor and survivor of childhood abuse, reclaims power by playing a witch on screen—and confronting the shadows of his past.

💡 Why it matters to Family Twist listeners:

These stories reflect what our show is all about—resilience, identity, chosen family, and healing in unexpected places. If you’ve ever felt like an outsider, struggled with grief, or searched for a place to belong, this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen to the full Horror Heals episodes at: horrorheals.com

Why I’m Not Angry They Didn’t Tell Me She Was Dying

Tue, 06 May 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Listener Note: This episode contains sensitive content, including the death of a pet, home invasion, and terminal illness.

In this powerful continuation of Kendall’s adoption journey, we dive deep into one of the most defining and devastating chapters of his life: the years following his adoptive mother Betty’s terminal diagnosis.

Why I’m Not Angry They Didn’t Tell Me She Was Dying

Corey and Kendall reflect on the difficult balance Betty and Ruble struck — trying to give Kendall a joyful childhood filled with travel, birthdays, and laughter, even as Betty’s health declined. From cross-country road trips in a Monte Carlo to a handmade pool-shaped birthday cake, this episode paints a vivid picture of love under pressure.

But that love story is interrupted by tragedy: a break-in at their home while they were visiting Betty in the hospital. The burglars didn’t just ransack the house — they poisoned the family dog, creating a trauma that Kendall still dreams about decades later.

In a raw and emotionally honest conversation, Kendall opens up about what it felt like to be shielded from the truth, how much he admires his parents’ strength, and the complicated feelings he later developed about how he handled things with Ruble after Betty’s death.

If you’re part of the adoption community, dealing with grief, or curious about how family secrets shape our lives — this episode is essential listening.

Topics Covered:

Betty’s terminal illness and how the family kept it from Kendall
Summers filled with joy, despite looming loss
The emotional impact of childhood travel and adventure
The trauma of coming home to a burglarized house — and a poisoned pet
Grief, guilt, and coming to terms with how we treat our parents
What it means to be emotionally honest in hindsight

Have a question for Kendall about his adoptive parents? We’re taking listener questions for an upcoming follow-up episode. Email or send us a voice message — we’d love to include your question in a future show.

Embracing the Beautiful Mess of Surprise Family

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Family Twist, Corey and Kendall sit down with Eve Sturges, therapist, writer, and host of the podcast Everything’s Relative, to share her powerful journey through the twists and turns of family discovery. After taking a DNA test, Eve uncovered life-changing truths about her origins — and embarked on a heartfelt road trip across the country to meet three newly discovered half-siblings.

Embracing the Beautiful Mess of Surprise Family

Corey and Eve discuss the emotional complexity of finding new family later in life, the courage it takes to lean into truth instead of running from it, and how those unexpected revelations can simultaneously shatter and rebuild your sense of identity. Eve opens up about the vulnerability of meeting strangers who are somehow your closest relatives — and what it really means to redefine the word "family."

They also explore the deeply relatable moments of grief, anger, connection, and humor that come with uncovering hidden family secrets — a journey Corey and Kendall know all too well.

Topics Discussed:

Eve’s DNA discovery and cross-country sibling reunion trip
The emotional stages of a family twist: shock, grief, acceptance, and joy
Finding strength and resilience when your origin story is rewritten
The power of storytelling in healing and community building
Overlapping themes between Eve's journey and Kendall's family discovery
How 'Everything’s Relative' amplifies voices navigating the messy beauty of NPE, adoption, and donor-conceived experiences

Resources Mentioned:

Everything’s Relative Podcast: Listen Here
Eve’s Website: Visit Here
Support organizations for NPE, adoptees, and DNA surprise discoveries

Connect with Family Twist:

Eve Sturges is a therapist, writer, and host of the acclaimed podcast Everything’s Relative, where she shares real stories of DNA discoveries, surprise family revelations, and the evolving meaning of identity. After taking a DNA test, Eve uncovered a deeply personal family secret that propelled her into the growing community of NPE (Not Parent Expected) individuals, adoptees, and donor-conceived people.

With humor, heart, and honesty, Eve uses her platform to foster healing, connection, and empowerment for anyone navigating a new version of their family story. When she’s not podcasting or working with therapy clients, Eve loves writing, road-tripping, and embracing the unpredictable beauty of life’s unexpected turns.

Learn more at evesturges.la and everythingrelativepodcast.com.

The Full Story You Haven’t Heard (Until Now)

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

This week on Family Twist, we’re celebrating a major milestone—three years of storytelling, surprise DNA discoveries, and untangling family secrets. And to mark the occasion, we’re bringing you a brand-new edit of one of our most meaningful conversations: a full, uncut interview with Brian Stanton, an acclaimed playwright and adoptee whose solo show, Blank, explores identity, origin, and the emotional terrain of adoption.

When we first released our conversation with Brian, time constraints meant cutting things short. But we always knew his full story deserved to be heard. Now, for our third anniversary, we’re setting the record straight—sharing the complete, powerful dialogue about how art can be a lifeline through family trauma, confusion, and healing.

Brian’s story runs parallel to Kendall’s in striking and emotional ways. Both experienced the complexity of growing up with missing pieces and found strength by stepping into the light of their truth—Kendall through podcasting, Brian through theater. In fact, theater is what first brought Corey and Kendall together, making this conversation feel full circle.

Brian Stanton is a Los Angeles-based actor, writer, and adoptee whose acclaimed solo show Blank explores his personal journey to uncover the truth about his identity. Through raw storytelling and theatrical vulnerability, Brian brings to light the emotional complexity of adoption and the universal search for belonging. He has performed Blank across the U.S. and internationally, sparking important conversations about family, secrecy, and self-discovery. Brian believes in the transformative power of theater—and uses the stage as a space for healing, both for himself and for others navigating similar journeys.

🎭 In this episode, you’ll hear:

Brian’s deeply personal journey of writing and performing his solo show Blank
Why adoption stories are never truly finished—and how that fuels Brian’s creative process
Kendall reflecting on seeing Blank and the emotions it stirred in his own search for identity
The therapeutic, transformative nature of storytelling—onstage and off
A behind-the-scenes look at how Corey and Kendall’s love story began with theater

Whether you’re part of the adoption, NPE, or donor-conceived community—or simply drawn to stories of identity and transformation—this episode is a heartfelt tribute to the power of performance, memory, and finding your voice.

🎧 Listen if you love:

True stories of adoption and DNA surprises
Theater as a tool for healing
Conversations that go deep, fast
Real-life plot twists and reconnection
Honest dialogue about family trauma and growth

🔗 Mentioned in this episode:

Brian Stanton’s solo show Blank
Previous Family Twist episodes about Kendall’s story (for new listeners!)
Our anniversary shoutout to the Family Twist community

The Day I Was No Longer a Ghost

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In the continuation of Jeremy’s deeply moving story, everything changes with one message: “We discovered we have a brother.” After a lifetime of being the family secret—unwanted by a mother who abused him, erased by a father who walked away—Jeremy took the risk of opening the door. And what came through was nothing short of transformational.

The Day I Was No Longer a Ghost

In Part 2 of this powerful two-part episode, Jeremy walks us through:

Reaching out to the man who abandoned him—and the cold reply he didn’t expect
The email from his siblings that knocked him to his knees
Holding a cousin’s hand for the first time and realizing, this is my family
The lifelong wounds of rejection—and how healing begins with being seen
The joy, awkwardness, and grace of building real relationships with newfound siblings
Why a “Gotcha Day” means more when you’ve never been claimed before
How love, when it’s real, doesn’t flinch

This is not a fairy tale. It’s better. Because it’s earned.

Through tears, therapy, and unflinching vulnerability, Jeremy built something stronger than a reunion—he built a family.

If you’ve ever wondered what it would feel like to finally belong, this episode is for you.

"Brace for Impact": Surviving Trauma and Searching for Identity

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

When Jeremy first reached out to Family Twist, his email stopped us in our tracks. The pain, the longing, the strength—it was all there in his words. In this raw and unforgettable episode, Jeremy shares the first part of his life story: a childhood marked by instability, abuse, and the aching absence of family identity.

"Brace for Impact": Surviving Trauma and Searching for Identity

Born from an affair, Jeremy was raised by a mother struggling with addiction and severe mental health issues. He endured emotional and physical abuse, neglect, and an ever-changing last name as men cycled in and out of their lives. With no father in sight, and a mother who viewed him more as a weapon than a son, Jeremy’s early years were filled with fear and confusion.

But even in the darkest corners, Jeremy found light. Music became his refuge. His innate charm became a survival tool. And while he spent his teenage years couch-hopping and navigating life without consistent love or safety, the dream of finding his real family—the people who looked like him, sounded like him, belonged to him—never truly disappeared.

In this first part of Jeremy’s journey, we explore:

The lifelong effects of in utero and childhood trauma

How music and performance became lifelines

Surviving parental neglect and emotional abandonment

The deep yearning to know where—and who—you come from

How internalized fear of rejection shapes adult relationships

Jeremy’s story is heartbreaking, brave, and deeply human. It’s also just the beginning.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where a chance encounter at a wedding leads to a stunning discovery—and the beginning of a love story no one saw coming.

DNA Surprises in a Time of Erasure

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this powerful and timely episode, Corey and Kendall sit down with Alexis Hourse;t, the creator and host of the DNA Surprises podcast — a show dedicated to exploring the emotional complexity of unexpected DNA discoveries. Alexis shares her own deeply personal story of finding out through a consumer DNA test that she was not who she thought she was—and how that revelation sent her on a journey of identity, belonging, and healing.

DNA Surprises in a Time of Erasure

Alexis opens up about:

Navigating the shock of discovering her African American heritage after being raised with a different understanding of her identity
The emotional impact of losing connection to a culture she never got to fully claim growing up
How starting DNA Surprises just months after her discovery became a crucial tool for healing
The importance of community when family and identity are thrown into question
How recent political efforts to erase history and the unexpected bankruptcy of 23andMe complicate DNA journeys today

This episode goes beyond the personal and dives into how larger societal forces—racism, history erasure, and privacy concerns—affect individuals finding their roots through DNA.

Whether you are part of the DNA surprise, adoption, NPE (Not Parent Expected), or donor-conceived communities, or simply someone interested in the power of personal storytelling and resilience, this episode will resonate.

About Alexis Hourselt

Alexis Hourset is the creator and host of DNA Surprises, a podcast that shares the journeys of people who experience unexpected DNA discoveries, also known as DNA surprises. Since launching in 2021, Alexis has built a strong community, providing a platform for others navigating identity shifts, family complexities, and the emotional impact of uncovering hidden histories. She is also a writer, speaker, and advocate for those processing the often-complicated realities of DNA testing.

Alexis lives in Arizona with her family and is passionate about building spaces where people feel less alone on their journey to understanding themselves.

Connect with Alexis:

🎧 Listen to DNA Surprises: https://www.dnasurprises.com

📸 Instagram: @dnasurprises

In this episode:

✔ What it's like to discover you’ve been living with a hidden identity

✔ The healing power of community and podcasting

✔ Why history and identity matter more than ever right now

✔ Coping with the emotional weight of family secrets

✔ The unexpected ripple effect of 23andMe’s bankruptcy on DNA discovery journeys

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My Family Was Right Next Door

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What if your biological family—siblings, a mother, even potential fathers—had been living just a few towns away your entire life, and you never knew?

My Family Was Right Next Door

In this emotionally charged episode of Family Twist, we meet a mother-daughter duo who peel back the layers of a decades-old secret. The mother was adopted in the 1950s under a veil of societal shame. Decades later, her daughter took on the role of family detective, determined to uncover the truth about her mother’s origins—and what she discovered would shock even the most seasoned genealogy sleuth.

From anonymous letters and DNA testing to surprise wedding encounters and jaw-dropping family resemblances, this story unfolds like a mystery novel with real-life stakes: identity, legacy, and longing.

You’ll hear how:

A chance obituary led to a massive family discovery
A doppelgänger sister was hiding in plain sight—on Facebook
A private investigator cracked open the story with information from an unexpected source
Coincidences piled up: haunted mansions, sandwich shop sightings, even a Panera encounter
The power of persistence brought long-lost relatives face to face

This is a tale of secrets kept, lives intertwined, and a daughter's relentless drive to give her mother the one thing she deserved all along: acknowledgment.

Whether you’re part of the adoption, NPE, or DNA surprise community—or simply love a gripping human story—you do not want to miss this episode.

Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions around adoption, familial rejection, and grief.

The Long Road Home to Irish Citizenship

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What happens when the country of your birth refuses to acknowledge where you really come from? For adoptees, proving their origins can be a legal nightmare—especially when official documents don’t tell the whole truth.

In this two-part Family Twist special, our guest shares his astonishing journey to uncover his heritage, navigate international red tape, and fight for his rightful place as an Irish citizen. Part 1 set the stage for his shocking discovery—now, in Part 2, we dig into the legal battle that changed everything.

The Long Road Home to Irish Citizenship

📌 In this episode, you’ll hear:

✅ Why Ireland’s citizenship laws left adoptees in legal limbo

✅ How a DNA expert became the key to proving the truth

✅ The years-long legal fight that almost ended in defeat

✅ A surprising twist that opened the door for other adoptees

✅ What it feels like to finally hold an Irish passport after a lifetime of uncertainty

This is a story about resilience, justice, and the power of DNA to rewrite history. If you’ve ever questioned the meaning of identity, this episode is a must-listen.

🔊 Don’t miss Part 1! If you haven’t heard the first half of this conversation, go back and listen before diving in.

🎧 Subscribe, share, and join us for this unforgettable journey on Family Twist!

#FamilyTwistPodcast #AdoptionStory #DNAChangesEverything #LostAndFound #IdentityMatters #AdopteeRights #IrishCitizenship

Uncovering My Secret Irish Heritage Through DNA

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this intimate and reflective solo-hosted episode, Kendall dives deep into a powerful conversation with guest John Portmann, exploring themes of family, identity, adoption secrecy, and the life-changing power of DNA discoveries.

Uncovering My Secret Irish Heritage Through DNA

Key Highlights:

Growing Up Adopted:
John shares parallels with Kendall in their early experiences of adoption, highlighting the profound role their adoptive parents played in creating a sense of security through openness and religious narratives.
The adoption narrative instilled by John's religious parents: "God chose our family."

Family Dynamics and Adoption:

Both Kendall and John experienced early awareness of their adoption but had distinctly different emotional journeys.
John discusses his upbringing, his adoption in Arizona, and childhood relocation to Pennsylvania.
Reflections from John on suppressing curiosity about biological origins during childhood versus the persistent desire for answers later in life.

Health History & Identity:

John addresses the challenges adoptees face when asked about family medical history by doctors or financial planners.
John explains how practical considerations, like retirement planning, sparked his curiosity about personal origins.

DNA as a Gateway:

The transformative moment when John received DNA test results from Ancestry.
John's shock, confusion, and excitement upon discovering he was 100% Irish and connecting with potential family members.

Searching and Finding Biological Family:

John recounts his initial, confusing interactions with DNA matches and the struggle to interpret results.
Introduction to the DNA detective who significantly impacted John's search—a Canadian university professor who provided empathetic, professional, and effective assistance.
John discusses overcoming initial fears and vulnerability about trusting strangers with deeply personal information.

The Deep Impact of Adoption Secrets:

The emotional complexities surrounding adoption secrecy, societal attitudes, and the powerful longing for identity validation.
Insights from John into how societal shame and religious beliefs influenced the adoption process historically, especially within Catholic communities.

Fighting for Identity and Citizenship:

John shares his challenging journey toward proving his Irish ancestry and gaining Irish citizenship despite legal and bureaucratic hurdles.
Advocacy, resilience, and perseverance as John navigated complex international bureaucracy.
The crucial role DNA evidence played in breaking down barriers in adoption and identity recognition, both in the U.S. and internationally.

Reflective Insights:

Kendall and John share mutual understanding as adoptees, reflecting on the lifelong impact adoption can have on identity, belonging, and self-discovery.
Discussion on how revealing hidden truths can heal generational wounds and empower adoptees.

When Open Adoption Isn’t So Open

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Family Twist, Corey and Kendall sit down with Connor, who is in the process of writing a memoir about his experience with open adoption. Connor pulls back the curtain on the often-glossed-over complexities of open adoption, sharing how the promises made to birth parents, adoptive families, and adoptees themselves are often more marketing than reality.

When Open Adoption Isn’t So Open

Connor shares his journey of navigating two families—his adoptive family and his biological family—yet still feeling like he doesn’t fully belong in either. He delves into how open adoption is often sold as a healing mechanism for all parties, but without enforceable mechanisms, it can leave lasting scars.

A standout moment in the episode is Connor’s story about being just around the corner from his birth father while on a trip to Ireland. He had the opportunity to meet him but hesitated, a decision he now deeply reflects on. This moment underscores the internal conflict many adoptees face—the fear of rejection, the hesitation to disrupt someone else’s life, and the ever-present quest for answers.

The episode also dives into how society often misunderstands adoption, with Connor addressing the harsh feedback he sometimes receives when he shares his truth on social media. He discusses the idea of "adoption as addition, not replacement," emphasizing that the goal shouldn’t be to erase a child’s history but to enrich their sense of identity.

The conversation wraps with a discussion of how music has helped Connor process his emotions, particularly through the song "Father of Mine" by Everclear. Corey and Kendall add their own experiences, including how music helped Kendall bond with his birth father.

Key Themes:

The Misleading Marketing of Open Adoption: Connor explains how open adoption is often marketed with promises of continued contact and healing, but the reality is rarely so clear-cut.
Identity and Belonging: The episode explores the struggle of adoptees who have connections with both adoptive and biological families yet still feel out of place.
Family Secrets and Guilt: Connor and Kendall both share experiences of feeling guilty for wanting to connect with their biological families and how family secrets can perpetuate this feeling.
Missed Opportunities and Self-Preservation: Connor's story of nearly meeting his birth father in Ireland but holding back out of fear is a powerful example of how difficult these decisions can be.
The Need for a New Adoption Narrative: The episode calls for a shift in how adoption is discussed, focusing on honesty and the real challenges faced by adoptees.

If this episode resonated with you or if you have your own adoption story to share, connect with us on social media or visit our website. And if you know someone who might benefit from this conversation, please share this episode.

Subscribe to Family Twist wherever you get your podcasts, and stay tuned for more stories that reveal the true twists of family life.

What Happens When Your “Aunt” Is Actually Your Mother?

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What happens when the life you’ve always known changes in an instant? For Natalie, a single conversation just before her 18th birthday unraveled everything she thought she knew about herself. She grew up believing she was the biological child of her Filipino immigrant parents—until they sat her and her triplet siblings down and revealed a shocking truth: they were conceived using an egg donor.

In this eye-opening episode of Family Twist, we dive into Natalie’s incredible journey of identity, family, and self-discovery. From learning that her biological mother was actually her mom’s best friend, to realizing she had half-siblings she’d known her whole life, Natalie takes us through the emotional rollercoaster of reconciling her past with her present.

She shares how this revelation impacted her relationships, how she processed her new reality, and how she’s found healing through community, humor, and self-reflection. We also discuss the challenges within the donor-conceived community, the ethics of anonymous donations, and what it truly means to define family.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

✔️ The Moment of Truth – How Natalie’s parents revealed the secret and why they waited until she was almost 18.

✔️ Growing Up in the Dark – How Natalie’s Filipino heritage shaped her identity, and what changed when she learned she wasn’t biologically connected to her mother.

✔️ Meeting Her “New” Family – The shocking realization that her mom’s best friend was actually her biological mother and that her childhood friends were actually half-siblings.

✔️ Processing Identity Shifts – The emotional and psychological impact of learning the truth and how she navigated the complexity of relationships after the revelation.

✔️ The Power of Community – How connecting with other donor-conceived individuals helped her process her experience and find a sense of belonging.

✔️ The Ethics of Donor Conception – The complicated reality of anonymous donations, medical history concerns, and the hidden industry behind assisted reproduction.

✔️ Healing Through Humor – How Natalie has used humor and storytelling as a tool for resilience and self-acceptance.

From DNA Surprise to Maximum Security

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What would you do if a DNA test revealed a biological parent you never knew existed—who also happened to be serving a life sentence in a maximum-security prison? That’s exactly what happened to our guest, Brad Ewell. In this powerful three-part series, Brad shares his incredible journey from uncovering a decades-old family secret to standing face-to-face with his biological father inside Angola State Penitentiary.

From DNA Surprise to Maximum Security

In this final installment, Brad takes us through the moment he met his father, how that eight-hour visit shattered his expectations, and the complicated emotions that followed. What started as a plan to “check the box” on meeting his only living biological parent turned into something far more profound. Brad also walks us through the fight for his father’s parole, the complex feelings surrounding justice and redemption, and how this discovery reshaped his understanding of family.

Join us for an emotional and eye-opening conversation about identity, resilience, and the unexpected twists of fate that shape our lives.

Key Topics:

✅ Brad’s initial reluctance to meet his biological father

✅ Visiting Angola State Penitentiary and his shocking first impression

✅ The unexpected honesty from his father—and how it changed everything

✅ The complicated emotions of balancing two families

✅ Fighting for his father’s parole and what it taught him about justice

✅ Finding closure and redefining what family means

🎧 Tune in now for an unforgettable conclusion to Brad’s story!

Shocking Family Secrets Keep Unraveling

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In part one, we learned how Brad Ewell’s entire world changed with a single DNA test. What he thought was just a fun ancestry experiment unraveled a family secret buried for 49 years. A message from a stranger. A birth certificate with missing details. A phone call that ended in stunned silence. And finally, the words that changed everything:

"Bradley, you're adopted. And we’ve been trying to figure out how to tell you."

But that was just the beginning of Brad’s journey.

Shocking Family Secrets Keep Unraveling

In this second installment, we go deeper into the layers of secrecy and deception that shaped his life:

✔️ The unsettling moment Brad realized his adoptive parents would never have told him the truth

✔️ A shocking health-related revelation that could have changed everything—but didn’t

✔️ The gray-market adoption setup that kept the secret locked away for decades

✔️ The bombshell discovery of his biological father… who has been in prison for murder since 1972

✔️ The even bigger shock—his biological father was also his aunt’s ex-husband

Yeah. You read that right.

🔮 And it doesn’t stop there.

Brad now has a decision to make—does he reach out to the man who never knew he existed? Or does he keep his distance?

The answer? Brad took a step that would change everything.

And in the final installment of this series, we’ll follow him inside Angola Prison, where he meets his biological father for the first time. What happened in that moment? You’ll have to stay tuned to find out.

📌 Don’t miss the conclusion to this jaw-dropping story—subscribe now! Whether you’re listening on Family Twist or Horror Heals, the final part of Brad’s journey is one you do not want to miss.

🔥 Want More?

🎧 Listen Now on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | Amazon Music | Wherever You Get Your Podcasts!

🎙 Hosted by Corey & Kendall Stulce

From Horror Fan to Horror Story

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Some stories are so unbelievable, they sound like they belong in a movie. But this isn’t fiction—this is Family Twist. And for this special crossover episode, we’re also bringing our Horror Heals audience along for the ride.

Brad Ewell thought he knew who he was. That changed in an instant.

What started as a simple curiosity—one of those “Hey, let’s do a DNA test for fun” moments—turned into a slow-burning, reality-shifting discovery. A message from a stranger. A birth certificate that didn’t quite add up. A phone call that changed everything.

From Horror Fan to Horror Story

In this episode, Brad shares:

✔️ The shocking moment he discovered his entire identity wasn’t what he thought

✔️ How horror and art became his unexpected lifeline during a difficult time

✔️ The eerie way fate brought Corey and Brad together—via The Exorcist

✔️ Why horror books and films have always played a role in his life

✔️ The emotional weight of family secrets—and the power of uncovering the truth

And here’s the kicker—this is just the beginning.

🔮 We have two more episodes with Brad coming your way, where the twists keep coming. You won’t believe what happens next.

📌 Don’t forget to subscribe! Whether you’re listening on Family Twist or Horror Heals, you won’t want to miss Parts 2 and 3 of Brad’s incredible story.

🔥 Want to See Brad’s Art?

Check out his stunning horror-themed artwork—including his prints of iconic horror figures on the pages of the very books they came from! We’ll share some of our favorite pieces from Brad on our social media.

Stream NPE Documentary for Free

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Family Twist, we sit down with Jon Baime, the writer, producer, and director of the powerful NPE documentary, Filling in the Blanks. Now streaming for free on Amazon Prime, Tubi, and the Roku Channel, the film explores Jon’s personal journey as a donor-conceived individual and the emotional discoveries that unfolded after taking a DNA test.

Jon shares candid insights into how his father’s adamant resistance to DNA testing led to life-altering revelations, as well as the complex emotions tied to uncovering long-hidden family secrets. From confronting identity crises to fostering new relationships with biological relatives, Jon walks us through the filmmaking process and the healing power of storytelling.

We also delve into the shared experiences of NPEs (Not Parent Expected) and donor-conceived individuals, highlighting the documentary’s impact on viewers within these communities. Whether you’re navigating your own DNA discovery or curious about the hidden dynamics of family relationships, this episode is a must-listen.

Topics Covered in This Episode:

The inspiration behind Filling in the Blanks
Jon’s father’s resistance to DNA testing and the shocking revelation of being donor-conceived
The emotional and psychological impact of discovering biological relatives
Jon’s approach to balancing humor and heavy subject matter in the documentary
Insights into the NPE and donor-conceived communities
The unique challenges of telling such a personal story through film
Audience reactions and the film’s role in promoting healing

Where to Watch the Documentary:

Filling in the Blanks is streaming now on Amazon Prime, Tubi, and the Roku Channel.

Lost and Found: The Adoption Story Behind Family Twist

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

Corey and Kendall take a trip down memory lane, revisiting Kendall’s incredible adoption story—the inspiration behind Family Twist. For new listeners who may have missed the beginning, and loyal fans who want to hear more, Kendall shares untold details about his journey from being adopted as a baby to discovering his birth family at age 47 through a DNA kit.

Listener Anne’s touching letter prompts Kendall to reflect deeply on the loss of his adoptive parents, Betty and Rubel, who adopted him after years of longing for a child. Their story of love, perseverance, and resilience shaped Kendall’s outlook on life, and Corey brings new insights into how their legacy continues to inspire the podcast.

Lost and Found: The Adoption Story Behind Family Twist

Highlights include:

The Start of Kendall’s Story: How a DNA kit and a birthday surprise revealed six half-siblings, 13 nieces and nephews, and two living birth parents.
Listener Anne’s Powerful Letter: Anne, a long-time listener, offers a heartfelt perspective on Kendall’s journey and the enduring love he feels for his adoptive parents.
A Love Story in Arkansas: Betty and Rubel’s love story, their struggles with infertility, and the joy of welcoming Kendall into their lives.
Nature vs. Nurture: Kendall reflects on the connections between his adoptive and biological families, exploring how traits and personality are shaped by both.
The Legacy of Loss: Kendall shares his thoughts on mourning his adoptive parents and how discovering his birth family has deepened his appreciation for Betty and Rubel.

Listener Shout-Out:

Anne’s message is a reminder of the global reach of Family Twist and its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level. Thank you, Anne, for your kind words and for sharing our podcast with others.

Call to Action:

If you’ve been inspired by Kendall’s story or know someone who might be, please share Family Twist with a friend. Whether you’re an adoptee, part of the NPE or donor-conceived community, or just someone who loves stories of resilience and connection, this podcast is for you.

Tune In:

Discover the origins of Family Twist and hear the untold stories behind Kendall’s journey in this moving episode.

Follow & Connect:

Stay updated on the latest episodes and stories:

Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review—your feedback fuels our passion for storytelling.

Why Saying No to Family Can Be the Healthiest Choice

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

In this unforgettable continuation of Karen’s journey, we dive deeper into the raw, real, and often messy world of family relationships. Karen opens up about the bold choices she’s made to protect her well-being, the bittersweet beauty of reconnection, and the courage it takes to set boundaries—even with the people we love most.

Why Saying No to Family Can Be the Healthiest Choice

Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:

When love isn’t enough: Karen shares the hard truth behind stepping away from her birth father and why it was the healthiest choice for her.

Sibling bonds and brokenness: The ups and downs of connecting with half-siblings, including one sibling’s struggle with addiction and another’s unexpected rejection.

Generational echoes: How the shame and trauma carried by her birth mother during pregnancy shaped Karen’s life—and the work she’s done to break free.

Boundaries and grace: The emotional tightrope of maintaining a relationship with her adoptive mother in the shadow of political divides and unkind comments.

Why community matters: Karen reflects on the importance of shared stories and how finding others who “get it” has been a lifeline.

Karen’s story isn’t just about the pain of loss or the weight of family secrets; it’s about resilience, growth, and the radical act of choosing yourself. This episode will challenge you, inspire you, and remind you that healing doesn’t happen overnight—but it’s always worth the fight.

A Half-Sister's Passing and an Adoptee's Awakening

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0500

What if the worst day of someone else’s life was also the beginning of your greatest revelation? In this jaw-dropping episode of Family Twist, we explore an adoptee’s extraordinary journey, starting with a mysterious medical episode and culminating in an emotional family reunion. But it’s the uncanny connection to her half-sister—a woman she never met—that will leave you questioning fate itself.

A Half-Sister's Passing and an Adoptee's Awakening

Here’s why you’ll want to listen:

Discover how a simple letter to Catholic Charities uncovered long-buried secrets.

Hear the heart-wrenching story of a half-sister’s untimely passing—and the eerie timing that connected their lives.

Explore the bittersweet reality of adoption reunions, from joyous discoveries to the complexities of navigating new relationships.

Gain insight into how this journey inspired a calling to help others through adoptee-competent therapy.

This isn’t just a story about adoption. It’s about loss, love, and the inexplicable ties that bind us. From the moment Karen woke up with unexplained anxiety to the day she connected with her birth family, you’ll be hooked on every twist and turn of this compelling narrative.

Why Listen All the Way Through?

The truth revealed in the final moments of this story is too powerful to miss. You’ll leave with a renewed appreciation for resilience, the mysteries of connection, and the incredible strength it takes to bridge the gap between past and present.

Subscribe now and press play—this is one episode you won’t forget.

Contact us to share your own Family Twist story

Your support helps us keep bringing you the most heartfelt and impactful adoption stories. Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it!

Twisting Out of 2024 and Into 2025

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

We reflect on our wonderful guests from 2024, and tease what's to come in 2025!

Breaking the Stigma as the Child of an Affair

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Episode Description:

In this special expanded edition of Family Twist, Corey and Kendall revisit 2024’s most downloaded episode featuring Pam, a courageous advocate who discovered through DNA testing that she is the child of an affair. Pam shares the emotional journey of uncovering her biological parentage, navigating family dynamics, and becoming an advocate for others in the NPE (Not Parent Expected) community.

Kendall also dives into his own DNA discovery story, revealing the life-changing realization that his biological father wasn’t who he thought. With humor and heart, Kendall recalls thinking his test results were 'ruined' by a morning kiss and how his persistence eventually led him to uncovering the truth.

Breaking the Stigma As the Child of an Affair

Key Highlights:

Pam’s personal discovery of her biological parentage through DNA testing.
The emotional complexities of being the child of an affair and navigating relationships with biological family members.
Kendall’s candid and humorous recounting of his DNA discovery and its emotional fallout.
The advocacy work Pam has undertaken to create support spaces for those with unexpected parentage discoveries.
The importance of finding community and support in NPE, adoption, and DNA discovery groups.

Key Quotes:

"I just wanted to know how Irish I was. Instead, I discovered my entire identity wasn’t what I thought." – Kendall
"You can’t erase the fact that I’m here. I deserve to exist." – Pam
"Family twists don’t just change lives; they reveal truths that have been buried for decades." – Corey

Connect With Us:

If you have a story to share or know someone whose family twist deserves to be told, reach out to us at [insert email address].

Additional Resources:

Learn more about NPE advocacy at [insert resource link].
Join support groups for DNA discoveries, adoption, and NPE [insert group link].
Check out past episodes of Family Twist on [insert platform links].

Don’t Forget to Subscribe!

Be sure to follow us wherever you listen to podcasts so you don’t miss upcoming episodes featuring more extraordinary stories like Pam’s.

The Lost Episode of Family Twist

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Make sure and listen to episode 100 of The Family Twist Podcast before listening to this "lost," bonus episode with Monica Hall.

The Lost Episode of Family Twist

In this special “lost” episode, we reconnect with the unforgettable Monica Hall, whose previous appearance left us laughing, crying, and marveling at her resilience. This time, Monica dives even deeper into her extraordinary journey of healing, empowerment, and reconciling with her past. Monica shares stories about finding the daughter she gave up for adoption, and the potentially literal demons that haunted her and her son, Levi.

Monica recounts haunting tales from her teenage years, including the trauma of sexual violence and her subsequent quest for closure. In a moment straight out of a thriller, she describes confronting her past head-on by tracking down the man who wronged her—a journey filled with equal parts courage and catharsis. From shadowy figures and family secrets to her son’s “Spidey sense,” Monica’s story is gripping and raw, offering listeners an unfiltered look at the resilience of the human spirit.

This episode also explores how trauma and healing intersect, touching on themes from Corey and Kendall’s other podcast, Horror Heals. Monica’s tale reminds us that no matter how dark the story, there’s always hope for light and growth.

What You'll Hear in This Episode:

Revisiting Monica’s Story: A quick recap of Monica’s life journey, from leaving corporate America to rediscovering her indigenous roots and building a global soap empire.
Haunted by the Past: Monica shares chilling accounts of shadowy figures and demons tied to family trauma, and her relentless pursuit of healing through confrontation.
The Power of Writing and Reflection: How writing her memoir helped Monica process decades of pain and repressed memories.
Family, Trauma, and Healing: Monica’s reflections on the complexities of adoption, family secrets, and her ongoing work to reconcile her past.
Connections to Horror Heals: How Monica’s experiences align with the themes of horror as a tool for mental wellness.

Why You Should Listen:

This bonus episode isn’t just about revisiting Monica’s incredible life; it’s about exploring the power of owning your story. Monica’s raw honesty, dark humor, and relentless spirit remind us that even the most challenging twists in life can lead to transformative growth. Whether you’re here for her wit, her wisdom, or her unwavering courage, this episode will leave you inspired to face your own shadows.

Unearthing Grit, Family Secrets and Finding Strength

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Family Twist, Corey and Kendall sit down with Jill Krizinovich, better known by her pen name, Margo Reilly. Jill is the author of the forthcoming memoir When You Shake the Family Tree and its predecessor When the Apple Falls Far from the Tree. Jill shares her remarkable journey of resilience and self-discovery, navigating family secrets, a shocking DNA discovery, and the ripple effects of generational trauma.

Unearthing Grit, Family Secrets and Finding Strength

Listen as Jill reveals the origins of her pen name, the grit it took to overcome a tumultuous childhood, and her determination to uncover and tell her truth. Corey and Kendall connect with Jill on a deeply personal level, discussing the shared challenges of DNA surprises and how finding community has transformed their experiences. This heartfelt conversation will inspire anyone grappling with identity, family, and the quest for belonging.

Timestamps:

00:00 – 03:45: Welcome and introductions; Jill’s snow-filled New England backdrop

03:46 – 10:32: Jill’s alter ego, Margo Reilly: The meaning behind the name

10:33 – 20:15: Jill’s childhood challenges and the development of her resilience

20:16 – 33:55: The DNA discovery that changed Jill’s life

33:56 – 42:30: Navigating family rejection and acceptance

42:31 – 51:20: Writing for healing: Jill’s journey to sharing her truth

51:21 – 58:00: The power of community in healing family wounds

58:01 – 1:02:30: Closing thoughts and Jill’s hopes for her readers

Resources and Links:

Preorder Jill’s memoir: When You Shake the Family Tree (Available December 12th, 2024)
Read Jill’s first book: When the Apple Falls Far from the Tree
Follow Jill (Margo Reilly) on Instagram and Facebook
Learn more about DNA surprises and community resources at Untangling Our Roots

Key Takeaways:

Resilience can stem from even the most challenging experiences and guide us through unimaginable revelations.
Family secrets may feel protective in the moment but often lead to generational harm.
Building a supportive community is a critical part of healing from DNA surprises and family estrangement.
Sharing our stories can bring clarity and catharsis—and help others feel less alone.

Listener Challenge:

If Jill’s story resonated with you, take a moment to reflect on how family secrets have impacted your life. Consider journaling, reaching out to someone you trust, or exploring your own genealogy as a step toward understanding and healing.

Turning Thanksgiving Memories into Traditions

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Welcome to a special Thanksgiving episode of Family Twist! As the holiday season kicks off, Corey and Kendall take a brief pause to share heartfelt moments of gratitude and reflect on Thanksgiving traditions from their childhoods to today. From Kendall’s memories of his father’s long holiday weekends and lively house-hopping parties in Missouri to Corey’s packed family gatherings and their early days hosting “Thanksgiving orphans” in California, this episode is full of nostalgic warmth and humor.

Turning Thanksgiving Memories into Traditions

Now living in New England, the tradition continues as Corey and Kendall celebrate Thanksgiving with Kendall’s brother and extended family, complete with delicious food, laughs, and a sweet dog named Clover, who dreams of turkey leftovers.

The duo also teases exciting plans for Family Twist in 2025, including crossover episodes with their sister podcast, Horror Heals, and an upcoming milestone before the end of the year.

Whether you’re prepping the turkey or driving to your Thanksgiving destination, take a quick break with Corey and Kendall as they bring the spirit of family and gratitude to your day.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Kendall’s childhood Thanksgiving traditions, including his dad’s long weekends and house-hopping parties.

Corey’s family’s rotating Thanksgiving hosting schedule and packed celebrations.

Stories of hosting “Thanksgiving orphans” in California.

Thanksgiving with the Clarks in New England and the beloved family dog, Clover.

A sneak peek at what’s coming for Family Twist in 2025.

Switched at Birth, Saved by Love

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

For Shirley, life was a mystery with pieces that never quite fit—until a DNA test in 2001 revealed the unthinkable truth: she had been switched at birth. Raised in one family and belonging by blood to another, Shirley’s world was upended. In her memoir, The Little Dark One: A True Story of Switched at Birth, she recounts the trials and triumphs that followed, from grappling with family secrets to finding her place in a supportive community of adoptees and others with similar experiences.

When Corey and Kendall met Shirley at the Untangling Our Roots Summit, they immediately connected with her story. In a space filled with adoptees, NPEs, and donor-conceived individuals, Shirley found her tribe—people who understood the weight of family secrets and the power of shared experiences. Shirley describes the summit as “a group of nodding heads” who listened with empathy, providing the understanding she longed for but couldn’t find elsewhere.

Beyond her discovery, Shirley’s story is also about resilience and betrayal. After locating her biological family, she faced a heartbreaking betrayal when family members sold her story to tabloids. Despite this, Shirley found solace and love through her chosen family, including her beloved Aunt Mary, who welcomed her into her heritage and taught her the traditions of her roots. “DNA does not make a family, love does,” Shirley says, a mantra that has guided her through the twists and turns of her journey.

Writing The Little Dark One was a cathartic process for Shirley, bringing to light the emotions she’d buried for decades. She discovered how trauma had manifested in her physical health and found healing not only through writing but also through faith. “My body was falling apart,” she recalls, crediting therapy for saving her and helping her confront the past.

Shirley’s journey is a story of self-acceptance, healing, and the enduring strength of the human spirit. Her message resonates with all who struggle to find where they belong, reminding us that healing is possible and that sometimes, family is found where we least expect it.

Read Shirley's book, The Little Dark One: A True Story of Switched at Birth, available on Amazon and in local bookstores.

Switched at Birth, Saved by Love

Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, Corey and Kendall speak with Shirley, the courageous author of The Little Dark One: A True Story of Switched at Birth. Shirley shares her remarkable journey of self-discovery, healing, and the power of faith after uncovering a life-altering truth: she was switched at birth. Together, they dive into the emotional and physical toll of her experience, the betrayals she faced, and the strength she found through her chosen family and the community of adoptees, NPEs, and donor-conceived individuals. This episode delves deep into themes of rejection, identity, forgiveness, and the resilience it takes to turn pain into purpose.

Key Topics Discussed:

Finding Community and Belonging: Shirley recounts her experience at the Untangling Our Roots Summit, where, for the first time, she felt truly understood by people with similar stories of family twists and hidden truths.

Discovering She Was Switched at Birth: Shirley details her journey of discovery, piecing together her past and finding her biological family in the early days of DNA testing and research.

Betrayal and Resilience: The painful experience of family members selling her story to tabloids and how she learned to find strength amidst betrayal.

Faith as a Foundation: Shirley’s journey through her faith and how it provided her with solace, strength, and a foundation for healing.

Healing Through Writing: How writing The Little Dark One uncovered buried trauma and contributed to her healing, both emotionally and physically.

The Power of Chosen Family: Shirley shares touching stories of her Aunt Mary and others in her biological family who welcomed her with open arms and love, showing that family is made by love, not just DNA.

Memorable Quotes:

"DNA does not make a family, love does." – Shirley, on the profound connections found beyond biological ties.

"My body was falling apart. Therapy was saving me." – Shirley, discussing the physical toll of buried trauma and the healing process.

"It’s not about hurting anyone. It’s about helping just one person." – Shirley’s motivation for sharing her story and writing her book.

Resources Mentioned:

Shirley's book: The Little Dark One: A True Story of Switched at Birth, available on [Amazon] and local bookstores.

The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, a resource that helped Shirley understand the physical impact of trauma.

Join the Conversation: Follow the Family Twist podcast to hear more stories of family secrets, adoption, and self-discovery.

This Episode Will Change How You See Adoption

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In part two of this eye-opening conversation, Kendall Stulce and Rich Uhrlaub pick up where they left off, diving even deeper into the emotional highs and lows of the adoption journey. This episode unveils the unfiltered realities adoptees face, from unexpected family rejections to the healing power of creative expression. Rich continues sharing insights into his musical For the Record(s), a powerful work that voices the silenced stories of adoptees and birth families, capturing the struggle to reclaim identity amid a culture of secrecy.

This Episode Will Change How You See Adoption

Kendall and Rich also explore the social and psychological impact of adoption. They discuss their own paths to self-discovery, reflecting on how the need for answers transcends personal histories and taps into universal human questions. For anyone who has ever felt like a “second-tier” relative or struggled to make sense of their past, this episode is a powerful reminder that healing is possible—even in the face of silence and denial.

Key Takeaways:

Art as a Means of Healing: Rich shares how creating For the Record(s) allowed him to process deep-seated emotions around his adoption, turning personal pain into a universally resonant story.
The Complexities of Family Reunions: Kendall and Rich reflect on the bittersweet reunions with biological families, revealing how relationships don’t always meet the expectations that adoptees carry with them.
Navigating Rejection and Silence: This episode shines a light on the emotional impact of being excluded from family milestones and the frustration adoptees face when denied basic truths about their origins.
Advocating for Adoptee Rights: Rich discusses his continued work in adoption advocacy, including his role in legislative changes that aim to give adoptees the right to know their biological roots.

Quotes from the Episode:

“Sometimes reconnecting with family doesn’t feel like a happy ending; it feels like starting a whole new story with no guarantees.” - Kendall Stulce
“Art gives us a way to channel the emotions we can’t put into words. For me, For the Record(s) became that voice.” - Rich Uhrlaub
“The right to know where we come from is as fundamental as it gets—why is that still so controversial?” - Rich Uhrlaub

Episode Highlights:

Turning Pain into Performance - Rich reveals how the creation of For the Record(s) helped him make sense of his adoption story, transforming personal struggles into a story that resonates widely.
Expectations vs. Reality in Family Reunions - Both Kendall and Rich share candid stories of meeting biological family members and the challenges that arise when reality doesn’t align with dreams.
Breaking the Silence - This conversation unpacks the pain and frustration adoptees feel when denied basic truths about their origins, and the emotional toll of facing family rejections.
Fighting for Adoptees’ Rights - Rich emphasizes the importance of advocating for adoptee rights, sharing his experience of helping to bring legislative change in Colorado.

The Musical Exposing Adoption’s Darkest Secrets

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this gripping episode, Kendall Stulce opens up a powerful, no-holds-barred conversation with writer, advocate, and adoptee Rich Uhrlaub, the creative mind behind For the Records—a bold new musical that brings the haunting truths of adoption to the stage. Set in 1967, Rich’s musical unravels the hidden heartache of the baby scoop era, a time when adoption was shrouded in secrecy, leaving adoptees to grapple with questions about their identities and worth.

The Musical Exposing Adoption’s Darkest Secrets

As a long-time advocate, Rich has fought tirelessly to give adoptees their stories back. Kendall and Rich delve deep into the emotional maze of finding biological family members and the unexpected rejections and heartbreak that can come with it. Together, they lay bare the highs and lows of family reunions, from joyful connections to the painful reality of still feeling like a stranger. This is a story of resilience, raw honesty, and the universal human desire to belong. Don't miss the first of this two-part conversation that is as unforgettable as it is eye-opening.

Key Takeaways:

For the Records: Rich shares the lightning-bolt moment when he knew his story—and the stories of so many adoptees—had to be told on stage. Hear how his powerful musical confronts the unspoken truths of adoption.
The Quest for Identity: Kendall and Rich dive into what it’s like to uncover your biological roots, only to face the complex family dynamics and often bittersweet reunions that follow.
Fighting for Truth: Rich’s advocacy has helped countless adoptees reclaim their stories, but he reveals the frustrating legal obstacles that still stand in the way for many.
Hard Conversations, Real Healing: From the anger of being sidelined in family celebrations to the quiet strength of just showing up, Kendall and Rich get real about what it means to seek answers—and acceptance—without losing yourself in the process.

Episode Highlights:

Rich’s Musical Vision - Discover how a hot tub brainstorm led Rich to write For the Records, a musical that lays bare the forgotten voices of the baby scoop era.
Adoptees’ ‘Second-Tier’ Status - Kendall and Rich share brutally honest accounts of what it’s like to be viewed as ‘outsiders’ in their own families, even after reconnecting.
Confronting the Past, Embracing the Present - The conversation reveals how societal norms have shaped the adoption journey, from legal battles to the internal struggles that adoptees continue to face.
The Fight for Every Adoptee’s Right to Know - Rich recounts his work to bring truth to light for adoptees, including groundbreaking legal wins in Colorado that are breaking down barriers for adopted people everywhere.

Guest link:

For the Record(s) the musical

Tricks, Treats, and Trauma Healing: A Halloween Crossover Special

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this special Halloween crossover episode, Corey and Kendall invite listeners into the unique space where family stories and horror healing meet. As the founders of both Family Twist and Horror Heals, Corey and Kendall explore the ways that family traditions, especially around Halloween, can bring people closer together—even in the most unexpected ways.

Our guest, Darin, is a Halloween enthusiast and devoted family man who has woven spooky traditions into his family life. Together, Corey, Kendall, and Darin share memories of haunted houses, eerie movie marathons, and the comforting nostalgia that horror can bring. Corey also opens up about his own childhood experiences and how horror became a source of resilience and connection during challenging times.

Listeners of both Family Twist and Horror Heals will find familiar themes of family bonds, trauma healing, and the unexpected ways horror can play a role in mental wellness. This Halloween, join us as we celebrate the magic that horror and family can create together.

Listen now and get inspired to make this Halloween one to remember, filled with treats, traditions, and a little horror magic!

What Your Therapist Isn’t Telling You

Fri, 18 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this special crossover bonus episode, we share an insightful conversation from our sister podcast, Horror Heals, where we explore how horror can be a powerful tool for healing trauma. Corey and Kendall dive into Kendall’s adoption journey and DNA found family story, connecting it to the themes of resilience and recovery that often arise in both horror films and real-life experiences.

What Your Therapist Isn’t Telling You

Guest: Dr. Ashley Allen

We’re joined by Dr. Ashley Allen, a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in mood disorders, PTSD, grief, and trauma. Known for her work with neurodivergent LGBTQ+ individuals, Ashley offers a surprising perspective on how horror films can provide emotional processing, catharsis, and empowerment.

What We Discuss:

Kendall’s adoption story: A personal look at how Kendall’s DNA found family story ties into themes of trauma, discovery, and healing.
The link between horror and mental health: How horror can help individuals cope with anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders by creating a controlled environment for confronting fears.
Horror as a therapeutic tool: Why Dr. Ashley Allen introduces horror to her neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ clients to foster resilience and provide a sense of control over their emotions.
The inclusive nature of horror conventions: How horror fan communities offer nonjudgmental, safe spaces for those who often feel like outsiders.
Facing fears through film: Exploring how horror allows both therapists and clients to tackle real-life challenges by building resilience through fictional fear.

Key Takeaways:

Horror movies can offer a unique therapeutic experience, allowing people to process trauma and gain control over their emotions in a safe way.
The horror community often serves as an inclusive, accepting space for neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ individuals to connect with others and find empowerment.
By confronting fictional fears, people can build resilience and emotional strength that helps them tackle real-life challenges.

Quotes from Dr. Ashley Allen:

"For those with trauma or mood disorders, horror offers a controlled way to confront overwhelming emotions."
"Horror creates a safe space for fear—perfect for my neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ clients to find empowerment and relief."
"Even therapists sometimes need an escape; for me, horror provides that in the most cathartic way."

Listen to the Full Episode:

If you’re curious about how horror can unlock new paths to healing, don’t miss this powerful conversation. Tune in to learn how fictional fear can transform into real-life resilience. And be sure to check out more episodes from Horror Heals for similar stories of healing through horror.

Discovering Roots in Sicily and Indigenous Heritage

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In Part 2 of our heartfelt conversation with Cree filmmaker, Kristal Parke, we explore her journey of reconnecting with her Opaskwayak Cree Nation roots and her Sicilian heritage. From embracing her Indigenous identity to the emotional weight of her birth family reunion, Kristal reflects on how her documentary, Because She’s Adopted, has helped her and others process the deep impacts of adoption. Join us as we dive into the transformative power of heritage and family bonds.

Discovering Roots in Sicily and Indigenous Heritage

Key Moments:

• Revisiting Sicily and the Opaskwayak Cree Nation: Kristal’s feeling of “coming home.”

• Cultural and personal growth: What it means to be adopted and indigenous.

• The making of Because She’s Adopted and its continued healing impact.

• Reflections on family, self-compassion, and emotional honesty.

Guest links:

Kristal's website

The Primal Wound: Adoption’s Hidden Trauma

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this powerful episode of Family Twist, Corey and Kendall Stulce sit down with Cree filmmaker and adoptee, Kristal Parke, to discuss her impactful documentary Because She’s Adopted. Kristal’s film dives deep into the complex emotional landscape of adoption, exploring themes like the primal wound, hidden trauma, and how adoptees often navigate identity challenges and mask their pain.

Kristal shares her journey of meeting her birth mother—an experience that profoundly shaped her sense of self. Corey and Kendall, who have had their own transformative reunion experiences, explore these themes with Kristal, discussing the intricate ways family, whether by blood or bond, influences identity. Kristal also offers a glimpse into her upcoming six-part podcast series, Because She’s Adopted, which promises to take listeners even deeper into the topics of her documentary.

This episode offers insightful perspectives on adoption’s impact on identity and the journey toward healing, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in family dynamics, belonging, and self-discovery.

Key Talking Points:

Introduction to Kristal Parke and Her Documentary: Overview of Because She’s Adopted and Kristal’s experiences as a filmmaker and adoptee.
The Primal Wound and Hidden Trauma: Exploring how early separation and loss impact adoptees, often resulting in a lifelong sense of “otherness.”
Kristal’s Reunion with Her Birth Mother: A moving recount of her reunion and the significance of this experience in her life.
Adoption, Identity, and Healing: Insights on the complex ways adoption affects one’s identity, the trauma adoptees often carry, and the healing journey.
Kristal’s Upcoming Podcast, Because She’s Adopted: Preview of her limited-series podcast, a deep dive into the documentary’s central themes.
Corey and Kendall’s Personal Reflections on Adoption: Their own family stories, reunions, and the ways adoption has shaped their lives.
Embracing Cultural Heritage and Identity: Kristal’s journey in reconnecting with her Cree heritage and Sicilian family, along with Kendall’s discovery of his Irish roots.
Family Reunions and Self-Discovery: The experiences of meeting birth family members, embracing cultural roots, and finding a deeper understanding of self.

Memorable Quotes:

“There’s this nagging feeling adoptees have that you can’t put your finger on—it’s the trauma, the separation trauma.” — Kristal Parke
“Meeting my birth mother was a profound moment. I never expected the overwhelming emotions that would follow me for years.” — Kristal Parke
“Every adoptee’s story is different, but somehow they’re all the same, too. There’s an unspoken bond in shared experiences of separation and healing.” — Corey Stulce

Guest links:

Kristal's website

Spooky Season with Kendall and Corey

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Family Twist, Corey and Kendall Austin Stulce reflect on their Halloween experiences growing up, contrasting their childhood traditions and the cultural perceptions of Halloween. They delve into the significance of community and identity, particularly in relation to donor conception and adoption. The conversation also explores the positive impact of horror culture on mental wellness, emphasizing the importance of sharing personal stories and experiences.

Support Lauren LoGuidice’s short film "Honestly" via Seed & Spark

Takeaways

Halloween was a fun and creative time for Kendall's family.

Corey's parents straddled the line between fun and conservative values.

Trick or treating was a strategic event in Kendall's childhood.

Generational differences in Halloween celebrations are notable.

Horror culture can provide a sense of community and belonging.

The importance of embracing one's identity is highlighted.

Mental wellness can be positively influenced by horror movies.

Sharing personal stories can help others heal from trauma.

The podcast aims to connect with more guests who have unique stories.

Community support is vital for those with adoption or donor conception experiences.

Key Topics Discussed:

Kendall’s unique Southern Baptist Halloween experiences growing up with his adoptive parents
Corey and Kendall’s first Halloween together as a couple, dressed in Rocky Horror Picture Show costumes
A fan's personal story of using horror movies to cope with trauma
Reflections on family trauma, including Kendall’s father’s alcoholism
Support for past guest Lauren Lowe’s donor conception short film project
Crossover themes between Family Twist and Horror Heals podcasts

Relinquishment, Addiction, and the Healing Power of Water Part 2

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Relinquishment, Addiction, and the Healing Power of Water Part 2

Relinquishment, Addiction, and the Healing Power of Water Part 1

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Family Twist, Corey and Kendall Stulce sit down with David to explore the profound and raw themes of relinquishment, addiction, and healing. The conversation starts with an intriguing discussion about the Blue Mind movement, the scientifically backed benefits of water for mental health. David shares how being near water has become a personal meditative tool that helps him stay grounded in a chaotic world.

Relinquishment, Addiction, and the Healing Power of Water

As the episode unfolds, David opens up about his own adoption experience, the complex emotions around relinquishment, and how discovering the term “primal wound” helped him better understand the trauma associated with being an adoptee. Corey and Kendall reflect on similar experiences, making this conversation deeply personal and emotional.

The episode also delves into David's struggles with addiction and how it began as a means of self-medication for the pain he couldn’t fully articulate. His raw account of navigating through trauma, rejection, and the search for identity will resonate with many in the adoption and recovery communities.

Key topics include:

Blue Mind: The healing power of water and its meditative qualities.
The primal wound: Understanding pre-verbal trauma in adoptees.
Relinquishment and its impact on identity and attachment.
Addiction as a coping mechanism for trauma.
The journey of self-discovery and healing through recovery.

Bonus: Monstrous Childhood to Healing Monster

Fri, 13 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0500

Hello, friends! Kendall and Corey launch their new podcast, Horror Heals, today, and we wanted to share one of the first episodes with you. If you like, please share, subscribe and review.

Have friends or family who might like horror? Please share!

And subscribe and leave a review so we can reach more people

who need to know that Horror Heals!

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-horror-heals-podcast/id1764754181

https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/corey-stulce3

https://www.youtube.com/@horrorhealspodcast

https://horrorheals.com/#

Suggest a guest:

HorrorHealsPodcast@gmail.com

If You Only Knew: Navigating DNA Surprises and the NPE World Part 2

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0500

In this compelling episode of the Family Twist podcast,

Corey and Kendall Stulce sit down with Lezlee, author of If You Only Knew:

Navigating DNA Surprises and the NPE World. Lezlee shares her deeply

personal story of uncovering a life-changing truth about her biological father

through a decade-long journey of DNA testing and family revelations. She

candidly discusses the emotional turmoil, the impact of long-kept family secrets,

and the complex relationships that ensued. Lezlee also highlights the importance

of community and support in navigating the NPE (Not Parent Expected)

experience, offering insights and advice to others who might be on a similar

path. This episode is part one of a two-part series, exploring the intricacies of family, identity, and the quest for truth.

If You Only Knew: Navigating DNA Surprises and the NPE World

Key Topics Discussed:

Lezlee’s journey of discovery and the significance of the phrase, “If you only knew.”
The emotional impact of discovering the truth about her biological father.
The role of DNA testing in uncovering family secrets.
The complex relationships with her birth certificate father, biological father, and extended family.
The challenges and emotional toll of confronting family members and dealing with denial.
The importance of community, support, and sharing stories in the NPE experience.
The impact of losing key family members who held valuable pieces of her history.

Notable Quotes:

“We’re just the product of this situation. We didn’t ask for this to happen.”
“Blood is not thicker than water; we choose our family through love and connection.”
“It’s a race against time—knowing your past is your right.”

Resources Mentioned:

Lezlee's book: If You Only Knew: Navigating DNA Surprises and the NPE World
NPE community resources and support groups

If You Only Knew: Navigating DNA Surprises and the NPE World Part 1

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0500