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

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 WorldNPE community resources and support groups

Part 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.

Welcome to Family Twist, the podcast that dives deep into the tangled webs of family secrets and DNA surprises. Each episode, hosts Corey and Kendall Austin Stulce explore the complex and challenging truths that come with discovering you are a non-parent expected (NPE) individual—someone whose familial origins aren't what they seemed.

Through candid interviews with people from the NPE, adoptee, and donor-conceived communities, Family Twist offers a platform for stories of unexpected parentage, family secrets, and the quest for identity. From the joyful to the heartbreaking, our guests share their journeys of discovery, acceptance, and healing.

Why subscribe? Family Twist isn’t just another family history podcast. It’s a support network, a place for healing, and a beacon for anyone navigating the emotional landscape of familial discoveries. Whether you’re directly impacted by these issues or just fascinated by the profound effects of family secrets, this podcast provides insights and company as you journey through the often-unspoken parts of family life.

Join us as we unravel the hidden threads of the past, bringing them into the light to foster understanding and connection. Hit subscribe to never miss an episode of Family Twist — where family stories are heard, secrets are revealed, and healing begins. And remember, family secrets are the ultimate plot twist!

• No. of episodes: 164
• Latest episode: 2025-04-22
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