Family Twist: A Podcast Exploring DNA Surprises and Family Secrets

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 Benefits

1. Understand the unique struggles faced by transracial adoptees and their families.
2. Learn about the signs of inner child trauma and its potential impacts on mental health.
3. Discover diverse and effective healing methods, including traditional therapy, life coaching, and alternative approaches like psychedelics and EMDR.

Guest source: UnravelingAdoption.com

Guest 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.

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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 Birthparents

Untangling Our Roots Summit

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Want more Corey and Kendall?

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Your Patreon membership also helps cover the costs of keeping Family Twist going. Plus, subscribers get new Family Twist episodes a day early!

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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 Transition

Takeaways

• Transitioning 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 happy
• Acceptance and support from family, friends, and colleagues can make a big difference in a person's transition
• Being an activist and participating in pageants and drag performances can empower and educate others
• Gender affirming surgery can bring immense joy and fulfillment
• Resilience and self-discovery are key in navigating life's challenges

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Support the show

Want more Corey and Kendall?

Join us for Family Twist After Hours, our weekly unfiltered bonus podcast featuring personal stories, family secrets, behind-the-scenes conversations and plenty we don't share on the regular show.

Your Patreon membership also helps cover the costs of keeping Family Twist going. Plus, subscribers get new Family Twist episodes a day early!

Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/FamilyTwistPodcastAfterHours

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 family and the shame and secrecy surrounding sperm donation. Lauren discusses the importance of authenticity and finding her voice on stage. The transition into her 40s has allowed her to trust herself more and make decisions that align with her true self.

Pod Swap with Forty Drinks

Takeaways

The journey of self-discovery can lead to a deeper understanding of one's true self and the ability to be more authentic.

Growing up in a culture of shame and secrecy can have a profound impact on one's sense of identity and belonging.

The transition into one's 40s can be a time of reflection and reevaluation, leading to a greater focus on personal fulfillment and authenticity.

Trusting oneself and making decisions that align with one's true self can lead to a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

Authenticity and vulnerability are key in finding one's voice and connecting with others.

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Support the show

Want more Corey and Kendall?

Join us for Family Twist After Hours, our weekly unfiltered bonus podcast featuring personal stories, family secrets, behind-the-scenes conversations and plenty we don't share on the regular show.

Your Patreon membership also helps cover the costs of keeping Family Twist going. Plus, subscribers get new Family Twist episodes a day early!

Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/FamilyTwistPodcastAfterHours

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:

1. Understand how horror culture can be a surprising avenue for mental wellness and stress relief.
2. Hear personal anecdotes about the transformative power of horror from Corey and Kendall.
3. 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!

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Support the show

Want more Corey and Kendall?

Join us for Family Twist After Hours, our weekly unfiltered bonus podcast featuring personal stories, family secrets, behind-the-scenes conversations and plenty we don't share on the regular show.

Your Patreon membership also helps cover the costs of keeping Family Twist going. Plus, subscribers get new Family Twist episodes a day early!

Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/FamilyTwistPodcastAfterHours

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 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.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Want more Corey and Kendall?

Join us for Family Twist After Hours, our weekly unfiltered bonus podcast featuring personal stories, family secrets, behind-the-scenes conversations and plenty we don't share on the regular show.

Your Patreon membership also helps cover the costs of keeping Family Twist going. Plus, subscribers get new Family Twist episodes a day early!

Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/FamilyTwistPodcastAfterHours

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 Pavao

Key Benefits for Listeners:

1. 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.
2. Explore the evolution of adoption policies and practices, including the challenges and ethical concerns that have shaped them over the decades.
3. 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).

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Support the show

Want more Corey and Kendall?

Join us for Family Twist After Hours, our weekly unfiltered bonus podcast featuring personal stories, family secrets, behind-the-scenes conversations and plenty we don't share on the regular show.

Your Patreon membership also helps cover the costs of keeping Family Twist going. Plus, subscribers get new Family Twist episodes a day early!

Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/FamilyTwistPodcastAfterHours

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 Life

Key Benefits for Listeners:

1. Gain insights into the unique challenges and triumphs faced by adoptees as they explore their roots and establish their identities.
2. Understand the significance of the Two-Spirit identity within Indigenous cultures and its modern-day implications and challenges.
3. 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 Radio

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Want more Corey and Kendall?

Join us for Family Twist After Hours, our weekly unfiltered bonus podcast featuring personal stories, family secrets, behind-the-scenes conversations and plenty we don't share on the regular show.

Your Patreon membership also helps cover the costs of keeping Family Twist going. Plus, subscribers get new Family Twist episodes a day early!

Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/FamilyTwistPodcastAfterHours

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 Door

Benefits 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!

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

Want more Corey and Kendall?

Join us for Family Twist After Hours, our weekly unfiltered bonus podcast featuring personal stories, family secrets, behind-the-scenes conversations and plenty we don't share on the regular show.

Your Patreon membership also helps cover the costs of keeping Family Twist going. Plus, subscribers get new Family Twist episodes a day early!

Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/FamilyTwistPodcastAfterHours

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 Families

Benefits 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 Whole

Podcast: Adoption: The Long View

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Support the show

Want more Corey and Kendall?

Join us for Family Twist After Hours, our weekly unfiltered bonus podcast featuring personal stories, family secrets, behind-the-scenes conversations and plenty we don't share on the regular show.

Your Patreon membership also helps cover the costs of keeping Family Twist going. Plus, subscribers get new Family Twist episodes a day early!

Join us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/FamilyTwistPodcastAfterHours