Lost and Found: The Adoption Story Behind Family Twist

Updated On: October 15, 2026

Send us a text

Corey and Kendall take a trip down memory lane, revisiting Kendall’s incredible adoption story—the inspiration behind Family Twist. For new listeners who may have missed the beginning, and loyal fans who want to hear more, Kendall shares untold details about his journey from being adopted as a baby to discovering his birth family at age 47 through a DNA kit.

Listener Anne’s touching letter prompts Kendall to reflect deeply on the loss of his adoptive parents, Betty and Rubel, who adopted him after years of longing for a child. Their story of love, perseverance, and resilience shaped Kendall’s outlook on life, and Corey brings new insights into how their legacy continues to inspire the podcast.

Lost and Found: The Adoption Story Behind Family Twist

Highlights include:

  • The Start of Kendall’s Story: How a DNA kit and a birthday surprise revealed six half-siblings, 13 nieces and nephews, and two living birth parents.
  • Listener Anne’s Powerful Letter: Anne, a long-time listener, offers a heartfelt perspective on Kendall’s journey and the enduring love he feels for his adoptive parents.
  • A Love Story in Arkansas: Betty and Rubel’s love story, their struggles with infertility, and the joy of welcoming Kendall into their lives.
  • Nature vs. Nurture: Kendall reflects on the connections between his adoptive and biological families, exploring how traits and personality are shaped by both.
  • The Legacy of Loss: Kendall shares his thoughts on mourning his adoptive parents and how discovering his birth family has deepened his appreciation for Betty and Rubel.

Listener Shout-Out:

Anne’s message is a reminder of the global reach of Family Twist and its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level. Thank you, Anne, for your kind words and for sharing our podcast with others.

Call to Action:

If you’ve been inspired by Kendall’s story or know someone who might be, please share Family Twist with a friend. Whether you’re an adoptee, part of the NPE or donor-conceived community, or just someone who loves stories of resilience and connection, this podcast is for you.

Tune In:

Discover the origins of Family Twist and hear the untold stories behind Kendall’s journey in this moving episode.

Follow & Connect:

Stay updated on the latest episodes and stories:

Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review—your feedback fuels our passion for storytelling.

More Episodes

Family Secrets Exposed and Finding Belonging

Have you ever wondered what hidden family secrets might come to light through DNA surprises and unexpected reunions?Family Secrets Exposed and Finding BelongingIn this episode of the Family Twist podcast, we dive deep into the riveting life story of Dr. Katie Nall, who shares her extraordinary journey of discovering hidden family members, navigating the complexities…

Listen »

Taking Care of Other People’s Children

Family Twist Podcast Episode 37: Taking Care of Other People's ChildrenOur guest this week is Debbie Ausburn, a prosecuting attorney who has helped raise many children via the fostering system. Debbie's book, "Raising Other People's Children" details the lessons learned by her foster children charges. "Parenting other people’s children has been the greatest challenge and…

Listen »

Discovering and Connecting with Long-Lost Siblings

Ever wondered what it would feel like to discover a sibling you never knew you had?In this insightful episode of Family Twist, hosts Corey and Kendall Stulce revisit conversations with Kendall’s half-siblings. Listen as they explore the deep emotional landscapes revealed through their familial connections, offering listeners a glimpse into the complexities of reuniting with…

Listen »

Join the Family

Subscribe now