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Artwork for DNA Surprises

DNA Surprises

Alexis Hourselt
DNA Testing
Non-Paternal Event
Family Dynamics
Adoption
Mental Health
Identity
Identity Crisis
Childhood Trauma
Patriarchy
Family Relationships
Non-Paternal Events
Irish Heritage
Donor-Conceived
Family Secrets
NPE
Ancestry
23andme
Jewish Heritage
Memoir Writing
Family Identity

Welcome to DNA Surprises, a podcast that delves into the world of unexpected DNA discoveries. I'm your host, Alexis Hourselt. In July 2021, my life took a surprising turn when I found out l'm an NPE-a person who's experienced a non-paternal event. In other words, my biological father isn't who I thought he was. Join me as we explore the stories of NPEs, adoptees, and donor-conceived people and the... more

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes154Founded4 years ago
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Artwork for DNA Surprises

Latest Episodes

Dad. Bio dad. Genetic father. Father. After people connect with their newfound biological fathers, they often struggle with what to call them. And what about the dads we grew up with? Raised dad. Step-dad. Birth-certificate dad. Then there’s the well... more

The truth will set you free. That’s the hope, right? In this week’s episode, Joe shares how taking a test for fun led to him uncovering the truth about his paternity, which relieved him of the guilt and burden of maintaining a relationship with his b... more

YouTube

Much like life, DNA surprises are rarely tied up in a perfect bow. We don’t get answers to all of the questions we have, and it’s up to us to make peace with that…or keep digging. In this week’s episode, Angie shares how she uncovered that she has a ... more

Welcome to season 12 of DNA Surprises.

This season marks nearly four years of sharing these stories. And while each story is unique, the threads that tie our stories together remain strong.

For example, there are many ways that people uncover their... more

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Recent Guests

Lauren LoGiudice
Comedian and storyteller exploring her donor-conceived identity
Episode: Lauren's DNA Surprise
Sarah Kelly
A 57-year-old woman sharing her experience of discovering her non-paternal event and exploring her Italian heritage.
Episode: Sarah K's DNA Surprise
Josh Hourselt
Audio Engineer
Siren Recording Studios
Episode: Jessica B's DNA Surprise
Iliamari Vazquez Houston
Trauma therapist specializing in maternal mental health, anxiety, and BIPOC first responder families.
With An Open Heart LLC
Episode: Bonus Episode | Generational Healing - A Conversation About Generational Trauma with Therapist Iliamari Vazquez Houston
Jenna Hedstrom
An ERYT 500 and expert breathwork facilitator, a versatile yoga teacher and spiritual mentor.
Jenna Page Healing
Episode: Bonus Episode | Just Breathe - An Introduction to Breathwork with Jenna Hedstrom
Lanita Ugstad
Advanced yoga teacher, certified trauma-informed mindfulness coach, birth educator, and labor doula.
Sacred Equine Journeys
Episode: Bonus Episode | Trauma-Informed Yoga with Lanita Ugstad
Venessa De La Cruz
Licensed clinical social worker and certified EMDR and brain-spotting therapist
Ignite Hope Counseling
Episode: Bonus Episode | Processing Betrayal Trauma with Therapist Venessa De La Cruz
Shannon P.
A 58-year-old woman from Montana who discovered her biological parentage through DNA testing.
Episode: Shannon P's DNA Surprise
Megan Irwin
A licensed therapist specializing in grief and loss, trauma, PTSD, and associated challenges.
Megan Irwin Counseling
Episode: Bonus Episode | Inner Child, Inner Healing - An Intro to Parts Work with Therapist Megan Irwin

Host

Alexis Hourselt
Host of a podcast that explores DNA surprises through personal stories of NPEs and their journeys of identity discovery.

Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars from 326 ratings
  • Love this podcast

    I’m not a NPE but after getting my DNA results I’ve been a bystander to secrets like this. I broke the news to a cousin that she had a half sister and they got to meet. A lot of angst went into making that call. But ultimately I decided that I would want to know, so I had to at least give her the opportunity. The sisters met and had a wonderful time. I don’t know if they kept in touch but I don’t think they had any regrets. The cousin that I knew said that her daddy was human and imperfect and s... more

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    DAP***
    United States3 months ago
  • Where’s Elizabeth Parts 1 & 2?

    Hi, I love this podcast. In the newest episode, you suggest watching Elizabeth Parts 1 & 2. What were the dates for those? I can’t find them.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Charmrt
    United States5 months ago
  • Lifeline!

    Thank you so much for creating this amazing resource for all of us experiencing NPE. It’s such a blindsiding event in our lives, with no rule book. Proving a platform for people to share, and for us to learn, is invaluable. Thank you!!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    ajdury
    United States7 months ago
  • Eye opening podcast

    Thanks for this podcast Alexis. I find these stories fascinating but also heartbreaking for many of the NPE’s. So many secrets coming to light through new technology. It really questions what ‘family’ is. They have all been very powerful stories and it really shows how important knowing where you came from is. Opened my eyes to the ethical issue of donor conceived children too. My sister donated 12 years ago in the uk, so it will be interesting to see if a biological niece of mine may reach out ... more

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    FrancisCFrancis
    United Kingdom8 months ago
  • Compelling

    Thank you for helping me heal through listening to these stories! I'm an NPE also and relate so much to you and your guests. You have given me words to describe the complex feelings a DNA surprise can cause. Knowing I'm not alone has been so helpful in my journey. Thank you!

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Patti3456
    United States9 months ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Listeners appreciate the emotional depth and authenticity of the stories shared, often finding solace in knowing they are not alone in their experiences.
The host is commended for her compassion and understanding approach, creating a safe space for guests and listeners alike.
Many express gratitude for the support and community fostered through the podcast, highlighting its role in their personal healing journeys.

Chart Rankings

How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.

Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Joe's DNA Surprise
Q: What advice do you have for someone who just uncovered a DNA surprise?
Take it slow. I went too fast; talk to your family members first.
Joe's DNA Surprise
Q: What advice do you have for a parent who is keeping a DNA surprise from their child?
You have to tell them as soon as they're old enough to comprehend it.
Joe's DNA Surprise
Q: What were you thinking when you uncovered this information? How are you feeling?
I was shocked, but never upset, which was strange to me.
Michelli's DNA Surprise
Q: What advice do you have for someone who just uncovered a DNA surprise?
Oh, take your time. It was really helpful for me to have permission to let it take time. I took some time off from work. You really have to make space for all this new reality.
Michelli's DNA Surprise
Q: What advice do you have for a parent who is keeping a DNA surprise from their child?
You've got to tell the truth. You don't have to tell the truth today, but at some point in that child's life, they deserve to know the truth.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
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Age Range
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Frequently Asked Questions About DNA Surprises

What is DNA Surprises about and what kind of topics does it cover?

This podcast explores the often shocking and complex narratives of individuals who discover unexpected truths about their biological parentage through DNA testing. The content focuses heavily on personal stories, featuring guests who share their experiences as NPEs (Not Parent Expected), adoptees, and donor-conceived individuals. The discussions often delve into themes of identity, family secrets, and the emotional turmoil that accompanies such revelations, emphasizing the transformative nature of uncovering hidden family histories. Unique for its supportive and empathetic approach, the host facilitates candid conversations that not only validate the experiences of those navigating these difficult discoveries but also highlight the importan... more

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How many listeners does DNA Surprises get?

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How many subscribers and views does DNA Surprises have?

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Which podcasts are similar to DNA Surprises?

These podcasts share a similar audience with DNA Surprises:

1. NPE Stories
2. Missing Pieces - NPE Life
3. Family Twist: A Podcast Exploring DNA Surprises and Family Secrets
4. Family Secrets
5. NPE -Child of an Affair

How many episodes of DNA Surprises are there?

DNA Surprises launched 4 years ago and published 154 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

How do I contact DNA Surprises?

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What guests have appeared on DNA Surprises?

Recent guests on DNA Surprises include:

1. Lauren LoGiudice
2. Sarah Kelly
3. Josh Hourselt
4. Iliamari Vazquez Houston
5. Jenna Hedstrom
6. Lanita Ugstad
7. Venessa De La Cruz
8. Shannon P.

To view more recent guests and their details, simply upgrade your Rephonic account. You'll also get access to a typical guest profile to help you decide if the show is worth pitching.

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