Family Twist: A Podcast Exploring DNA Surprises and Family Secrets

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 deeplypersonal story of uncovering a life-changing truth about her biological fatherthrough a decade-long journey of DNA testing and family revelations. Shecandidly discusses the emotional turmoil, the impact of long-kept family secrets,and the complex relationships that ensued. Lezlee also highlights the importanceof community and support in navigating the NPE (Not Parent Expected)experience, offering insights and advice to others who might be on a similarpath. 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 WorldKey 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 WorldNPE community resources and support groups

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 deeplypersonal story of uncovering a life-changing truth about her biological fatherthrough a decade-long journey of DNA testing and family revelations. Shecandidly discusses the emotional turmoil, the impact of long-kept family secrets,and the complex relationships that ensued. Lezlee also highlights the importanceof community and support in navigating the NPE (Not Parent Expected)experience, offering insights and advice to others who might be on a similarpath. 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 WorldKey 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 WorldNPE community resources and support groupsPart Two Teaser: Stay tuned for the next episode where Lezlee dives deeper into the challenges of connecting with her biological father's family and how she found healing through community and storytelling.

In this episode of the Family Twist podcast, Kendall takes the reins as he engages in a heartfelt conversation with fellow adoptee, Greg Gentry. The two discuss their adoption experiences, touching on the challenges of reunion with biological families, the emotional impact of discovering one’s adoption later in life, and the ongoing journey of healing and understanding. Kendall and Greg find common ground in their stories, offering insights into the complexities of adoption and reunion, as well as the importance of grace and patience in these deeply personal journeys.Challenging the Concept of Anonymity in AdoptionMain Topics, Points, and IdeasGreg's Adoption DiscoveryGreg shares his experience of learning about his adoption at age 10, describing how it was a sudden and life-altering moment.He reflects on the shift in his relationships with his adoptive family after this discovery, noting a sense of disconnection that persisted throughout his life."I remember my whole world shifting, feeling it shift, feeling my connection with my adoptive sisters shift." – Greg GentryClosed Adoption and the Search for IdentityGreg discusses the challenges of being adopted in a closed adoption system, including the difficulties in accessing his birth records and non-identifying information.Despite being in partial reunion, Greg still struggles with feelings of exclusion and the emotional barriers that exist between him and his biological mother."Even as an adoptee out of the fog, I feel like it would be a hurtful situation to ask for my own information, which is unfortunate." – Greg GentryThe Impact of Reunion on RelationshipsBoth Greg and Kendall explore the emotional complexities of reuniting with their biological families. Greg speaks candidly about the difficulties he’s faced in maintaining a relationship with his birth mother, who has yet to fully embrace him.Kendall shares his own experiences of reunion, reflecting on the stark differences between his adoptive family's close-knit nature and the more distant relationships he has with his biological relatives."It's almost like I was just late to the party. And so now I'm supposed to go stand in the corner." – Greg GentryThe Emotional Toll of Adoption and ReunionThe episode delves into the emotional toll that adoption and reunion can take on adoptees, particularly when expectations are not met, and relationships remain strained.Greg expresses his frustration with the lack of connection and the ongoing struggle to feel validated by his birth family."It can make a person feel like they doubt the worthiness of their own existence. Do I have a right to be here?" – Greg GentryFinding Grace and HealingKendall emphasizes the importance of finding grace and understanding in these difficult situations, recognizing that everyone involved carries their own emotional burdens.The conversation highlights the need for patience and self-care as both Kendall and Greg continue to navigate their complex family dynamics."I need to continue to find grace for others because I get so caught up in my own story that I don't stop and think." – Kendall StulceLooking ForwardThe episode closes with both Kendall and Greg expressing hope for the future, acknowledging the challenges ahead but also the potential for growth and healing.Kendall invites Greg to return to the podcast in the future to update listeners on how his journey progresses."Thank you so much for joining me. And again, I'd like to have you back on and talk about things that have progressed." – Kendall Stulce

In part two of this conversation, Kendall Stulce and guest, Lori Evans Ermi, discuss their experiences with adoption and the importance of community and education. They share their personal stories of reunion and the challenges and joys that come with it. They also touch on the need for adoptees to be seen and recognized, and the importance of understanding and respecting different perspectives within the adoption community. The conversation concludes with a discussion about their upcoming podcast and the power of music in connecting with others.Adoption Songs Part TwoTakeawaysAdoption can bring both challenges and joys, and it's important to recognize and respect the different experiences and perspectives within the adoption community.Adoptees have a deep desire to be seen and recognized, and it's important to ask adoptees about their experiences and listen to their stories.Community and education are crucial in supporting adoptees and creating a more understanding and inclusive society.Music can be a powerful tool for connecting with others and expressing emotions related to adoption.Reunion can be a complex and ongoing process, and it's important to approach it with caution and respect for everyone involved.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Personal Adoption Stories09:26 The Importance of Community and Education13:47 The Power of Music in Adoption16:55 Understanding and Respecting Different Perspectives21:13 The Complexities of Reunion in AdoptionLori's site, Adoption SongsGuest bio: Lori Evans Ermi is a domestic, baby scoop era adoptee and lives in the Washington, DC suburbs of Maryland with her daughter Kate, and loyal pup Oreo. She enjoys golf, theater, music and wine country. Lori is the founder and Managing Director of The Ermi Group, LLC, a leadership coaching and development firm.

In this episode of Family Twist, Lori shares her extraordinary journey of adoption, intertwined with her love for music and family dynamics. Lori recalls her experiences and mesmerizes with stories about her daughter, an adoptee and a gifted singer who deeply contributed to her book's unique concept of pairing adoption stories with songs. Lori also discusses how music has been a healing force through life's challenges, such as her divorce and navigating adoption trauma. The episode beautifully weaves through personal anecdotes, heartfelt discussions on family relationships, and the therapeutic power of music, highlighting the profound connections and struggles inherent in the adoption journey.Adoption Songs Part 100:00 Introduction and Summit Experience00:45 The Musical Inspiration Behind the Book02:05 Vinyl Collection and Family Music Traditions03:34 Personal Stories and Adoption Journey06:12 Navigating Adoption and Personal Growth14:08 Adoption Decision and Signs17:07 The Adoption Process and Final ThoughtsLori's site, Adoption SongsGuest bio: Lori Evans Ermi is a domestic, baby scoop era adoptee and lives in the Washington, DC suburbs of Maryland with her daughter Kate, and loyal pup Oreo. She enjoys golf, theater, music and wine country. Lori is the founder and Managing Director of The Ermi Group, LLC, a leadership coaching and development firm.

Twists of Fate: Diana's Journey of Identity and Family SecretsIn this episode, Diana shares her astonishing journey of discovering her true origins. Born in Montreal instead of Manhattan, through a black market network involving baby smugglers, doctors, and illegal maternity homes, Diana unravels her past over 29 years. Exploring themes of identity crisis, familial bonds, and the determination to uncover hidden truths, Diana's story reveals complex family dynamics and her struggle to find answers amid personal loss and trauma. Through DNA testing and persistent research, she finally pieces together her mother's untold story and the secrets of her heritage.00:00 Meet Gatsby the Cat00:26 Beach Days and Crowded Shores01:01 Swimming and Scoliosis01:23 Therapeutic Beach Visits02:00 Introduction to the Show02:07 The Black Market Baby Era02:26 Discovering the Truth04:38 The Adoption Mystery05:23 Identity Crisis and Family Secrets09:39 Meeting Biological Family11:32 The Search for Birth Parents14:31 Uncovering Family History21:42 Connecting with Biological Relatives27:02 A Journey to Canada37:33 Family Background and Early Memories38:37 Suspicion and Unanswered Questions39:33 Connecting with Family and Facing Rejection40:19 Discovering Mother's Past and Media Sensationalism41:05 A Mysterious Photograph and Family Secrets42:58 Reconnecting and Facing Threats44:28 A Renewed Search for Answers45:42 Uncovering Hidden Truths48:46 A Strange Encounter and New Leads01:03:43 DNA Testing and Final Discoveries01:06:50 Reflections and Moving ForwardListen, Rate & SubscribeAppleSpotifyAmazonGoogle

Twists of Fate: Diana's Journey of Identity and Family SecretsIn this episode, Diana shares her astonishing journey of discovering her true origins. Born in Montreal instead of Manhattan, through a black market network involving baby smugglers, doctors, and illegal maternity homes, Diana unravels her past over 29 years. Exploring themes of identity crisis, familial bonds, and the determination to uncover hidden truths, Diana's story reveals complex family dynamics and her struggle to find answers amid personal loss and trauma. Through DNA testing and persistent research, she finally pieces together her mother's untold story and the secrets of her heritage.00:00 Meet Gatsby the Cat00:26 Beach Days and Crowded Shores01:01 Swimming and Scoliosis01:23 Therapeutic Beach Visits02:00 Introduction to the Show02:07 The Black Market Baby Era02:26 Discovering the Truth04:38 The Adoption Mystery05:23 Identity Crisis and Family Secrets09:39 Meeting Biological Family11:32 The Search for Birth Parents14:31 Uncovering Family History21:42 Connecting with Biological Relatives27:02 A Journey to Canada37:33 Family Background and Early Memories38:37 Suspicion and Unanswered Questions39:33 Connecting with Family and Facing Rejection40:19 Discovering Mother's Past and Media Sensationalism41:05 A Mysterious Photograph and Family Secrets42:58 Reconnecting and Facing Threats44:28 A Renewed Search for Answers45:42 Uncovering Hidden Truths48:46 A Strange Encounter and New Leads01:03:43 DNA Testing and Final Discoveries01:06:50 Reflections and Moving ForwardListen, Rate & SubscribeAppleSpotifyAmazonGoogle

How does growing up as an Asian adoptee in a white family influence mental health and identity?This episode delves into Joey's personal story of being a Japanese adoptee raised by a white woman, exploring how his experiences with identity, trauma, and belonging led him down a path of drug use and self-harm. Joey and Beth share their candid journey through various healing pathways, offering valuable insights for families navigating similar challenges.Adoption and Identity: A Path from Self-Harm to Self-HealingMain BenefitsUnderstand the unique struggles faced by transracial adoptees and their families.Learn about the signs of inner child trauma and its potential impacts on mental health.Discover diverse and effective healing methods, including traditional therapy, life coaching, and alternative approaches like psychedelics and EMDR.Guest source: UnravelingAdoption.comGuest bio:Beth Syverson is an adoptive mom, wife, musician, and as of 2021 a podcaster, activist, and public speaker.Since 2019, her son Joey has struggled with addiction to substances plus serious mental health issues. For the first year of that roller coaster ride, she and Joey were both derailed. Beth tried to “fix” Joey, and her Supermom cape was tied on tight. But when nothing worked to “fix” him, she sought help for herself, which improved her own life and also her relationship to her wife Jan and to Joey.She and Joey created Safe Home Podcast in August 2021, with the purpose of helping other families avoid some of the pain we’ve experienced.Beth adopted Joey from Japan when he was 7-1/2 months old. She now realizes that his relinquishment trauma is one of the core issues that causes him to seek substances. Beth is a leader for other adoptive parents who are coming “out of the fog” and realizing that the adoption that created their family also created trauma for their child.In September 2022, she created a free support group for adoptive parents called APtitude, and in August 2023, she became a certified coach through the Virginia Satir Global Network so she can help more adoptive parents and others who are struggling.Listen to this episode now to hear Joey's compelling journey from trauma to healing and gain essential knowledge on supporting transracial adoptees.

How does the journey of seeking one’s birth parents unfold in real life, with all its emotional complexities?For many, the decision to seek out biological roots is driven by a deep need for connection and identity. However, this journey can surface unexpected emotional challenges, from rejection to surprising familial revelations, as Kendall and our guest, Jean Widner discuss. Positive Reunions and Painful Rejections Benefits Listeners Will Gain:Firsthand accounts of the emotional impact of seeking and sometimes finding birth parents, illustrating the dual possibilities of healing and hurt.Perspectives on how individuals cope with the varied outcomes of adoption searches, providing potential strategies for others in similar situations.An exploration of the support systems and psychological resources that can aid in navigating the often tumultuous process of familial discovery.Join Kendall and Jean as they share their heartfelt experiences of pain, trauma, and healing on their quests to uncover their origins. Guest bio:Jean Widner was born at the Salvation Army Booth Memorial Hospital for Unwed Mothers in Spokane, Washington. She graduated from Central Washington University in 1987 with a double Bachelor of Science Degree in Fashion Merchandising.With a background in retail, Jean owned two successful e-commerce retail companies, which she sold to pursue her passion for writing and living a larger purpose than just selling ‘stuff’. Widner amplified her e-commerce knowledge and created an online content and marketing services company while also developing BoulderCity.com, a social-based website that is Southern Nevada’s prominent small-town news source.Developing her reporting skillset paired with her love for writing and creative content creation, Jean quickly became the “go-to” source with BoulderCity.com for news verification relating to government affairs, public interest stories, and special events within Boulder City, Nevada. Additionally, she launched a local authors series which fosters a publicity platform for independent books.She currently lives in Boulder City, NV, when she is not traveling with the love of her life and her two golden retrievers. Further, her ambitions have left her with a love for education. She aims to share her expertise in marketing with other local entrepreneurs wherever possible and apply those same skills into the marketing of this project.While Jean is now a seasoned media member, her book “The Adoption Paradox: Stories of Loss, Love, and Healing Told by Adoptees, Parents, and Birthparents” will be her debut piece. She is currently a member of the Boulder City Sunrise Rotary, Lions Clubs International, Boulder Business Development, Boulder City Chamber of Commerce, Henderson Writers Group, and Southern Nevada Writers Group.Book link: The Adoption Paradox: Stories of Loss, Love, and Healing Told by Adoptees, Parents, and BirthparentsUntangling Our Roots SummitListen, Rate & SubscribeAppleSpotifyAmazonGoogle

In this conversation, Corey Stulce interviews Jordan Elizabeth Braxton about her transition journey and her experiences as an intersex woman. Jordan shares her realization of being female from a young age and her decision to transition later in life. She discusses the challenges she faced, including societal expectations and anti-LGBTQ laws. Jordan also talks about her involvement in the drag community and her drag alter ego, Dyetta Pepsi. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of acceptance, unconditional love, and the need for accurate information about transgender and intersex experiences. Jordan's transition from male to female at the age of 55 was met with acceptance and support from her family, friends, and colleagues. She emphasizes the importance of not taking no for an answer and pursuing what makes you happy. Jordan shares her experiences of being an activist, competing in pageants, and performing as a drag queen. She also discusses her gender affirming surgery and the joy and fulfillment she has found in her life. The conversation highlights the themes of acceptance, resilience, and self-discovery.A Journey of Self-Discovery and TransitionTakeawaysTransitioning is a personal journey that varies for each individual, and it often involves coming out socially, medically, and professionally.Acceptance and support from family and friends can make a significant difference in a person's transition experience.Drag queens have played a vital role in the LGBTQ community, providing entertainment, support, and visibility.Misinformation and discrimination against transgender and intersex individuals persist, highlighting the need for education and advocacy.Giving back to the community and advocating for LGBTQ rights are essential aspects of creating a more inclusive society. Don't take no for an answer and pursue what makes you happyAcceptance and support from family, friends, and colleagues can make a big difference in a person's transitionBeing an activist and participating in pageants and drag performances can empower and educate othersGender affirming surgery can bring immense joy and fulfillmentResilience and self-discovery are key in navigating life's challenges

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 how horror has helped them overcome challenges in their lives. Corey and Kendall emphasize the sense of community and acceptance they have found in the horror community and how it has been therapeutic for them. They also mention their plans to attend horror conventions and engage with listeners on social media.Horror Heals!Listener Benefits:Understand how horror culture can be a surprising avenue for mental wellness and stress relief.Hear personal anecdotes about the transformative power of horror from Corey and Kendall.Get a sneak peek into the upcoming Horror Heals podcast and its unique approach to healing through horror.Don’t miss this episode to discover the unexpected healing power of horror and learn about our new podcast, Horror Heals, launching on Friday, September 13!

Have you ever wondered about the emotional rollercoaster of discovering long-lost family through DNA testing?The Psychological Effects of Parental LiesIn 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 newfound family. Debbie also talks about the DNA Surprise Network, a resource she created to support others going through similar experiences. She highlights the importance of mental health support and community for individuals who have experienced DNA surprises. Debbie and Alexis Hourselt, of the podcast DNA Surprises, are organizing a retreat in Phoenix to provide a space for healing and connection.Listen to this deeply personal and enlightening episode to understand the nuances of DNA discoveries and how they reshape identities and family stories.

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 need for policy changes in adoption and the importance of educating professionals in various fields about the complexities of adoption. She emphasizes the significance of supporting adoptive families and providing resources for adoptees to explore their roots.The Need for Policy Changes in Adoption with Dr. Joyce Maguire PavaoKey Benefits for Listeners:Gain a deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological intricacies of being adopted, from personal identity searches to the reality of finding biological family members.Explore the evolution of adoption policies and practices, including the challenges and ethical concerns that have shaped them over the decades.Receive practical advice and resources for anyone navigating the adoption process, whether they are considering adoption, are adoptees themselves, or work within the foster care and adoption systems.Discover the untold narratives of adoption and how they could resonate with or enlighten your own life experiences by tuning into this compelling episode.Guest bio: Joyce Maguire Pavao, Ed.D.,LCSW, LMFT, was the Founder and CEO of Center For Family Connections, Inc. (CFFC - est. 1995-2012) in Cambridge, MA and New York. Adoption Resource Center was founded in 1978 and PACT (Pre/Post Adoption Consulting and Training) was established in 1982-becoming part of CFFC from 1995 to 2012. PACT and ARC are back standing on their own, as of March, 2012. Dr. Pavao is building comprehensive post adoption services throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with Riverside After Adoption Consulting and Training (AACT) they are doing an extensive project with the Department of Mental Health in Massachusetts. Dr. Pavao has done training, both nationally and internationally. She is a Lecturer in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, and has consulted to various public and private agencies, schools, and the court system. Additionally, she has worked closely with individuals and families created by adoption, foster care, and other complex blended family constructions. She has developed models for treatment and for training using her systemic, intergenerational, and developmental framework The Normative Crises in the Development of the Adoptive Family and her book The Family of Adoption (1998/2005) has received high acclaim. Dr. Pavao has received many awards and honors, including the Adoption Excellence Award for Family Contribution (2003), and the Angels in Adoption award (2000).

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 courage to embrace one’s full self in the face of societal expectations.Indigenous Bombshell and Embracing a Two-Spirit LifeKey Benefits for Listeners:Gain insights into the unique challenges and triumphs faced by adoptees as they explore their roots and establish their identities.Understand the significance of the Two-Spirit identity within Indigenous cultures and its modern-day implications and challenges.Learn how personal heritage and cultural understanding can profoundly affect personal and community relationships, fostering a deeper sense of belonging and acceptance.Tune into this powerful episode to explore Jack Malstrom's remarkable journey and discover how embracing your true self can lead to a deeper understanding of your heritage and identity.Listen to Jack's radio show: Rose City Native RadioListen, Rate & SubscribeAppleAmazonGoogle Spotify

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 emotional journey of adoptees and birth parents, highlighting stories of reunions, the deep sense of loneliness many adoptees face, and the importance of compassion and understanding in these unique relationships.I Knocked On My Birth Mother's DoorBenefits of Listening:Gain insight into the transformative power of adoption summits and how they foster healing and connection.Learn about the emotional impact of reunions between adoptees and their birth families, including heartwarming and challenging stories.Understand the importance of listening to birth parents' stories to grasp the full scope of the adoption experience.Tune in to hear Monica's moving stories and discover how shared experiences at adoption summits can lead to profound healing and connection—listen now!

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 and their birth families. If you're an adoptive parent, a birth parent, or anyone touched by adoption, this episode will provide valuable perspectives and practical advice.Adoptive Mom Builds Relationships with Birth FamiliesBenefits of Listening:Discover the real meaning of open adoption and how it can positively affect the adoptee's life and family dynamics.Learn from Lori's personal experiences and professional insights on building healthy, honest relationships between adoptive and birth families.Gain practical advice on handling the emotional and psychological aspects of adoption for both parents and children.Don't miss this heartfelt and informative episode to gain new insights and practical tips on navigating the world of open adoption—tune in now!Guest bio:Lori Holden is author of the groundbreaking book Adoption Unfiltered: Revelations from Adoptees, Birth Parents, Adoptive Parents, and Allies, co-authored with adoptee Sara Easterly and birth parent Kelsey Vander Vliet Ranyard. She wrote the highly acclaimed The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption with her daughter's birth mom, is host of the podcast Adoption: the Long View, and has explored adoption for 17 years at LavenderLuz.com. Lori was nominated by Senator Michael Bennet to be honored as an Angel in Adoption® by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute.Guest links:Book: The Open-Hearted Way to Open Adoption: Helping Your Child Grow Up WholePodcast: Adoption: The Long ViewListen, Rate & SubscribeAppleSpotifyAmazonGoogle

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 practices and the importance of maintaining a high vibration. The conversation touches on the power of storytelling and the healing process, as well as the impact of adoption on individuals and families. Monica discusses her experiences with family dynamics, including distancing herself from toxic family members and the realization that she had been enabling their behavior. She reflects on her upbringing and the impact it had on her relationships and self-worth. Monica also talks about the process of writing her memoir and the challenges she faced in condensing her story. She shares her journey of reconnecting with her biological daughter and the complexities of being an indigenous person. Overall, Monica's story is one of resilience, healing, and the search for identity and belonging.High Vibrations with the Author of Practically Still a VirginBenefits of Listening to This Episode:Inspiration for Entrepreneurial Ventures: Learn how Monica turned her passion for natural products and herbology into a thriving business, providing practical inspiration for listeners looking to start their own entrepreneurial journeys.Insights into Personal Growth Through Heritage: Gain insights into how connecting with one's cultural and familial roots can lead to significant personal growth and self-discovery.Understanding the Impact of Adoption on Identity: Monica discusses her experiences with adoption from both personal and professional perspectives, offering listeners deeper understanding of how early life experiences can shape personal identity and relationships.Guest bio:Monica Hall is a speaker, writer, coach, and entrepreneur. In addition to working as a business consultant, Monica has founded several companies, including an eponymous skincare line and a successful business centered on natural, chemical-free body care, and has worked in advertising and marketing for more than twenty years.Her entrepreneurial spirit is fueled by the often traumatic experiences of her youth, which helped to cultivate the fierce and fearless personality that prepared her to build and direct successful industry-leading companies. Monica loves sharing her story and giving hope to those in crisis, which she has done for over three decades. She devotes much of her time to working with women by guiding them through life’s challenges. This has been instrumental in her development, and Monica describes it as a life-changing experience.Freely giving her time has helped her to shed a self-centered worldview and gain new insight into human motivation and interactions.Connect with Monica:https://www.instagram.com/monicahallauthor/About Practically Still a VirginA gripping memoir recounting a fifteen-year-old adoptee's experience of rape and the pregnancy that changed her life.Adopted and raised during Alaska’s lawless 1970s oil-boom era, Monica grows up amid trauma and dysfunction. As a teen, she rebels into delinquency.When Monica is raped and becomes pregnant, her religious parents push her into giving up her baby, her only known blood relative for adoption. These events kick off a decades-long search for family and belonging.Thread by thread, she weaves...

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 experiences, as well as the complexities of family dynamics and secrets. Kendall shares her own experiences with her birth mother and the emotions that come with uncovering family secrets. The conversation highlights the need for processing and healing in order to move forward. The conversation explores the themes of self-discovery, the impact of family secrets, and the importance of love and acceptance. It delves into the movie "Soul" and how it relates to the journey of the soul and personal experiences. The conversation also touches on the idea that connecting with biological family members is part of one's soul's journey and the importance of embracing that connection. It concludes with a discussion on the complexities of family secrets and the need for honesty and open communication.Family Shadows and the Children of AffairsBenefits of Listening:Being the product of an affair or open relationship can present unique challenges and complexities in one's identity and family dynamics.Reunion experiences can be filled with mixed emotions, and it's important to navigate them with love, acceptance, and understanding.Family secrets can have a lasting impact on individuals and relationships, and it's important to process and heal in order to move forward.The journey of uncovering family secrets can be both painful and therapeutic, allowing for personal growth and a deeper understanding of oneself. Self-discovery is a significant part of the NPE journey, and it can be influenced by various factors, including personal experiences and external influences.Family secrets and shame can have a damaging impact on individuals, preventing them from acknowledging and accepting their true origins.Connecting with biological family members is seen as part of one's soul's journey, and it is important to embrace that connection and the stories it brings.Honesty and open communication are crucial in navigating the complexities of NPE discoveries and building meaningful relationships with biological family members.Discover more captivating family stories here!Listen, Rate & SubscribeAppleSpotifyAmazonGoogle

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.How to Redirect Thoughts to Manifest the Life You DesireThis episode explores the vital connection between personal philosophy and healing, providing listeners with a profound understanding of how our energies and beliefs shape our lives. Whether you’re dealing with family trauma, seeking personal growth, or curious about how to harness your inner power, this conversation offers transformative perspectives.Listeners will gain:Strategies to harness and redirect personal energy to foster healing and positive outcomes.Insights into overcoming trauma by rewriting personal narratives, supported by real-life examples and Dee’s extensive experience.Practical advice on cultivating self-love and responsibility, essential for anyone looking to empower their life choices and relationships.Dive into this episode to discover how to redefine your story and heal from past traumas, guided by Dee Wallace’s inspiring journey and expertise.

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 of the complexities involved in uncovering one's true heritage. In it, we revisit past guests from Family Twist that are taking part in the Untangling Our Roots conference in April 2024.Untangling Our Roots: The Power and Pitfalls of Genetic DiscoveriesBenefits of Listening:Gain insight into the emotional and psychological impact of uncovering unexpected family secrets and how individuals navigate these discoveries.Understand the broader implications of DNA testing and genealogy in redefining family relationships and personal identity.Be inspired by real-life stories of reconciliation and the quest for truth, showing the resilience and transformation possible when confronting the past.Uncover the hidden stories of family, identity, and resilience that resonate with us all by listening to this insightful episode of the Family Twist podcast.Guest episodes:Brad Ewell: NPE Held Prisoner by Parental SecretsJon Baime: NPE's Documentary is Filling in the BlanksPeter J. Boni: Unveiling the Secrets of Assisted Reproductive TechnologyWendy Kramer and the Donor Sibling Registry Part 1Lauren LoGiudice: The Comedy of DiscoveryMichelle Tullier: NPE: Guess What? My Dad is Not My Dad.Right to KnowNational Association of Adoptees and Parents