Family Twist: A Podcast Exploring DNA Surprises and Family Secrets

Have you ever felt like you were hiding behind a mask, both personally and professionally? Comedian Lauren shares her DNA surprise and the realization that she has been hiding behind masks, both personally and professionally. She reflects on her journey of self-discovery and the impact it has had on her stand-up comedy. The conversation explores the challenges of growing up in an Italian Catholic...

How can horror movies become a source of comfort and healing? Corey and Kendall Stulce announce the launch of their new podcast, Horror Heals, which focuses on the therapeutic aspects of horror culture. They discuss their love for horror movies and how they were introduced to them at a young age. The podcast will feature interviews with horror movie celebrities, artists, and fans who will share ho...

Have you ever wondered about the emotional rollercoaster of discovering long-lost family through DNA testing? The Psychological Effects of Parental Lies In this episode, Debbie Smith Olson discusses her personal story of discovering her biological father and half-siblings. She shares her experience of being lied to by her biological mother and the challenges of navigating relationships with her ne...

Have you ever wondered about the secrets and stories hidden within the world of adoption? Dr. Joyce Maguire Pavao shares her personal journey of being adopted and how it led her to become a therapist specializing in adoption and foster care. She discusses the secrecy surrounding adoption in the past and the importance of transparency and openness in the adoption process. Joyce also addresses the n...

Ever wondered what it's like to discover your true heritage and embrace a multifaceted identity amid societal norms? We're presenting a "remix" episode with Jack Malstrom, a deejay, a drag performer and Two-Spirit educator. Jack navigates the complexities of adoption, identity discovery, and cultural integration. This episode isn't just about identity—it's about the power of self-discovery and the...

How can attending an adoptee summit transform your understanding of identity and connection? In this episode of Family Twist, we're joined by Monica Hall for an insightful discussion on the Untangling Our Roots Summit. Monica shares her profound experiences at the summit, emphasizing the healing power of connecting with others who have similar adoption-related experiences. The episode explores the...

Ever wondered how an open adoption can transform lives and bridge the gap between adoptive and birth families? In this episode of Family Twist, we dive deep into the profound experiences and insights of Lori, an adoptive parent and advocate for open adoption. Lori shares her journey of navigating the complexities of adoption, the importance of openness, and the lasting impact on both her children...

Adoptee Monica Hall discusses her journey from leaving corporate America to starting her own soap company and finding her indigenous roots. She shares anecdotes about selling peppermint soap to a gay community and the success of her products. Monica also opens up about her personal life, including her experiences with relationships and her challenging childhood. She talks about her spiritual pract...

Ever wondered how discovering hidden family secrets can transform your sense of identity and belonging? In this episode, Kendall continues the conversation with Pam, an NPE (not parent expected) individual. They discuss the possibility of being the product of an affair or open relationship, and the challenges that come with it. They also talk about the importance of love and acceptance in reunion...

Can you transform trauma into a powerful personal narrative? In this compelling episode of Family Twist, we delve into the journey of healing and self-creation with guest Dee Wallace, celebrated actress and healer. Dee shares her unique insights on how to redirect energy and thoughts to manifest the life you desire, inspired by her own experiences in both Hollywood and personal healing practices....

Have you ever imagined discovering a completely different truth about your past as an adult? This episode delves deep into the powerful, emotional journeys that unfold when hidden family truths come to light through DNA testing and genealogical discoveries. For anyone curious about their own family background or grappling with questions of identity, this podcast provides a compelling exploration o...

Have you ever wondered about the alternative ways people can become parents in today's world? This episode delves deep into the fascinating and sometimes controversial world of unregulated sperm donation, a topic that touches on ethics, identity, and the human desire to connect and find meaning through family. Unregulated Donation with Spermworld Documentary Director Listeners will gain insight in...

Are you grappling with the complexities of family identity and secrets? In this episode of Family Twist, we delve deep into the emotional journey of Pam, an NPE (Not Parent Expected) who discovers her true parentage through a DNA test, uncovering the reality of being conceived through an affair. If you've ever wondered about your family secrets or the truths that DNA tests can reveal, this episode...

Have you ever wondered how uncovering hidden family truths could reshape your identity and relationships? Dive into the first part of this intriguing journey of Brian Stanton, an actor and writer who reveals the profound impact of DNA discoveries and adoption on his life. In this episode, listeners will explore the intricate dynamics of adoptive relationships, emotional support, and personal disco...

Have you ever thought about the impact of meeting your birth parents can have on your life and existing family relationships? In this compelling second part of Brian Stanton's story, we dive deeper into his emotional experiences of connecting with his birth mother and the subsequent challenges with his adoptive family. Adoptee Writes His Own Script Part Two This episode offers a deep dive into the...

In this surprise-filled episode of Family Twist, we dive into filmmaker Luke Davies’ compelling journey of self-discovery, ignited by the results of a home DNA test. Raised in Rochdale, England, Luke grew up believing he was white British, only to have a DNA test in his 20s reveal a rich tapestry of ancestral backgrounds, including West African, Portuguese, and more. This unexpected revelation lea...

In this gripping episode of "Family Twist," we delve into Sharon Adams' remarkable journey of self-discovery, initiated by a curiosity-driven DNA test as she approached her 70s. This quest uncovers a hidden lineage, introducing her to a father and two half-sisters, Beth Mamo and Kathy Reddy, she never knew she had. Kendall navigates through their compelling narrative of discovery, acceptance, and...

Dive into an uproariously insightful episode with Lauren, a stand-up comedian whose journey from genealogical confusion to comedic triumph is anything but ordinary. With a warning for our listeners: we don't censor comedians, so expect some raw and real language. Lauren shares her tale of discovering her donor conception through a DNA test, her quest to find her biological father, and how these re...

In this episode, we're thrilled to conclude the conversation Jennifer Schweibinz from DNAngels, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping individuals unravel genetic surprises. From uncovering unknown biological parents to shedding light on forgotten familial bonds, DNAngels highlights the importance of knowing our roots, no matter how twisted they may be. In the conversation, we unravel the...

Corey here. Comedy has always been a passion of mine. I started watching stand-up on HBO when I only caught a handful of the jokes. Richards Lewis would be among the first I watched. I was transfixed. When I got the opportunity to interview him years later, it was a giddy joy. Sadly, the interview never surfaced. It was to preview some shows in San Francisco that Richard had to cancel, because his...

In an episode that epitomizes the very essence of Family Twist, we unveil a story so captivating it blurs the lines between disbelief and destiny. Sit tight as they introduce Jennifer Schweibinz from DNAngels , whose DNA test unraveled a family secret so profound it challenged her identity and reshaped her understanding of family. From DNA Trauma to DNAngel Part One Episode Highlights: The Revelat...

In the second half of our eye-opening episode, Family Twist host Kendall continues the conversation with Jennifer from DNAngels . This segment illuminates the incredible work of DNAngels in reuniting individuals with their biological families and the profound impact of finding community through this podcast. The discussion delves into the essence of healing, grace, and the friendships forged in th...

This week, our guest, Jaclyn Frosolone, shares her compelling narrative, shedding light on the profound impacts of discovering one's origins in the world of donor conception. Prepare to be moved, educated, and inspired as we explore themes of identity, family secrets, and the quest for belonging. Beyond the Donor: A Deep Dive into Conception and Connection Episode Highlights: Jaclyn's initial disc...

In this soulful episode of the Family Twist podcast, we are joined by Janeen, a vibrant soul who embarked on an unexpected journey into her past, unraveling secrets that would forever change her understanding of identity, family and belonging. Following the death of her father, Janeen, along with her brother Jermaine, delved into building a family tree. Their quest for connection led to DNA tests,...

This episode takes us through an extraordinary exploration of family, identity and the unforeseen connections DNA testing can reveal. Our guest, Brenna Siperco, shares her compelling story of curiosity, discovery, and the complex emotions surrounding donor-conceived relationships. This episode not only peels back the layers of Brenna's personal journey but also delves into broader discussions on t...