
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
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 164 | Founded | 4 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | Society & CulturePersonal Journals | |||

If DNA surprises were carnival rides, they’d be roller coasters. There are years spent leading up to the test results- the slow climb. The shocking results - the drop. And from there, we find ourselves on twists, turns and loops. We can’t always see ... more
So much of our identity is wrapped up in the stories we tell ourselves. How we came to be, who our parents are, who our grandparents are. What they did how how they lived. For adoptees, many of those details are a mystery.
In this week’s episode, Ba... more
Hosting DNA Surprises gives me the incredible opportunity to speak to incredible people every week. And almost everyone I speak to says something along the lines of “I’ve been told to write a book!” It’s true - our stories are stranger than fiction. more
Welcome to Season 13 of DNA Surprises. We’re kicking off this season with a story that asks the question, what do you do when you learn that not one, but both of your parents are not related to you? A child of Russian immigrants, Maria shares her lat... more
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I’ve listened to quite a few episodes . I just listened to Lori’s story and omg I’m flabbergasted !!! Her mother is a total monster !I feel ill listening . I don’t know how she stays in touch with this woman . She’s a complete racist ! Not letting her tan. Making her get a nose job !!!! Saying she’d kill herself is she took a DNA test ?!?!?!?! Disgusting !!! Go no contact for your own kids sake !
I find the stories fascinating and well presented. Alexis is a good interviewer. I have one suggestion, though I don't know that this is the place to leave it. The list of episodes should be listed by dates recorded, newest to oldest. Right now there is no order whatsoever. An episode from one year is followed by one from a different year.
Very Appropriate for those who have experienced meeting siblings or parents for the first time
I’m really moved and feeling ‘normal’ after listening to by accident finding this podcast. It found me gratefully. Am adopted, currently investigating if it was a legal one or just a handover, victim of crime and have done the ancestry DNA 🧬 research as well. Alexis you are so kind in your work here and to all who have shared their unique and universal stories.
You are beautiful and brave. My biological and ‘adoptive’ parents have passed. I’m unraveling it all now it all makes sense and I’m not... more
I like the podcast a lot. Alexis does a great job asking questions that prompts further detail from the guests. The only improvement that’s needed is the audio on the host’s side.
Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.
How this podcast ranks in the Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube charts.
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Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.
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Content centers around personal narratives of individuals uncovering unexpected family connections and identities through DNA testing. Episodes feature various guests who share their emotional journeys, revealing complex family dynamics and identities often tied to non-paternal events (NPEs), adoption, and donor conception. Notable themes include the psychological impact of these discoveries, the evolution of family relationships, and the quest for identity following the unveiling of long-held family secrets. This particular focus on the emotional and relational implications sets the content apart, providing a safe space for listeners who may have experienced similar revelations themselves.
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These podcasts share a similar audience with DNA Surprises:
1. NPE Stories
2. Family Twist: A Podcast Exploring DNA Surprises and Family Secrets
3. Missing Pieces - NPE Life
4. Family Secrets
5. Finding Family DNA
DNA Surprises launched 4 years ago and published 164 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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Recent guests on DNA Surprises include:
1. Kimberly Warner
2. Lauren LoGiudice
3. Sarah Kelly
4. Josh Hourselt
5. Iliamari Vazquez Houston
6. Jenna Hedstrom
7. Lanita Ugstad
8. Venessa De La Cruz
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