Community Spotlight
People, Creativity & Connection
Community Spotlight celebrates the people, projects, creativity, and experiences that help shape our community.
Throughout the year, we may feature books, podcasts, films, artwork, advocacy efforts, volunteer contributions, personal journeys, and community initiatives. Periodically, we may also host themed spotlight series focused on topics relevant to our community.
During June, in recognition of NPE Awareness Month, we are highlighting voices, resources, and projects connected to unexpected DNA discoveries and identity exploration.
June Community Spotlight Series
NPE Awareness Month
Throughout June, we are highlighting books, podcasts, projects, organizations, and individuals helping expand understanding of the NPE experience and the impact of unexpected DNA discoveries on identity, family, and belonging.
The Faces of NPE Project shares annual image representing individuals who have discovered that one or both of their parents is not their biological parent(s) either through DNA testing or family secrets revealed to raise awareness and spark dialogue. Learn more here.
Mothers, Lies & DNA Surprises is a podcast hosted by Stacy, a double NPE, exploring the complex relationships many people experience with their mothers before, during, and after unexpected DNA discoveries.
Through honest conversations, the podcast offers connection, understanding, and a reminder that no one has to navigate these experiences alone. Learn more here.
Nick Ludwig is a donor-conceived author, podcast host, and advocate whose work explores identity, family, and the impact of unexpected DNA discoveries. In this Q&A with Severance Magazine, he discusses his donor-conception discovery at age 36, the creation of his book and podcast Inconceivably Connected, and the importance of creating spaces where others can share their stories and feel less alone. Read here.
Relative Strangers: Inheritance, Identity, and the Meaning of Kinship. This nonfiction anthology brings together 28 writers exploring the life-changing impact of unexpected family discoveries, unknown relatives, DNA revelations, identity, belonging, and the evolving meaning of family. We’re honored that one of Hiraeth Hope & Healing’s cofounders is among the contributors featured within this collection. Order here.
Two Names, One Infant is a personal essay by Kathleen Shea Kirstein that explores the impact of discovering later in life that she was adopted and had begun life with a different name. Through reflections on identity, secrecy, grief, and belonging, she examines the lasting effects of being kept from her own story. Read here.
A Quick Note: These spotlights highlight just a few recent additions and discoveries. Our community is rich with books, podcasts, articles, creative projects, organizations, and lived experiences. We encourage you to continue exploring the many resources available throughout our website and community spaces.
What You Might Find Here
Featured spotlights may include:
• Books and publications
• Podcasts and media projects
• Films and documentaries
• Music and creative arts
• Photography and visual storytelling
• Community initiatives
• Advocacy and awareness efforts
• Volunteer contributions
• Personal projects and milestones
• Meaningful journeys and experiences
• Resources created by community members
Every spotlight is unique because every path is unique.
Participation is always voluntary, and individuals choose what they would like to share.
We believe there is value not only in telling our stories, but also in celebrating the creativity, curiosity, resilience, and connection that can emerge along the way.
Interested in Being Featured?
We welcome community members who would like to share a project, creative work, experience, resource, or milestone that may be meaningful to others.
To be considered for a Community Spotlight, please email us with a brief introduction and information about what you would like to share.
A Note About Community Spotlights
Community Spotlights are intended to foster connection and celebrate the diversity of experiences within our community. Inclusion does not constitute an endorsement by Hiraeth Hope & Healing, Inc. of any individual, organization, product, service, opinion, or project.