Arnold first shared about his experience discovering an unknown biological daughter on the Watershed DNA blog many years ago. In episode 3 this season, Arnold joined Brianne to share more of his story. He is back again to answer listener questions, offering reassurance and parting words to fathers and families who find themselves in a similar situation.

I have worked with biological fathers on the other side of discovery, and some are struggling to balance it all and know what is the “right” thing to do. The best outcomes happen when communication is slow and paced (think snail mail pace and not Facebook chats and text messaging). Decisions to meet up need to be based on all-around readiness, not geographical convenience or other pressure.

Today’s guest, Arnold (shared with permission), reflects on the past six years since he first learned he had a biological daughter he never knew existed. His story is one of vulnerability and openness, of loss and healing, and finding courage to reveal a surprise child discovery after years of choosing not to share.

This episode covers:

• Arnold’s experience of preparing to share about his biological child discovery, first with his wife and later his children

• Arnold (and his late wife’s) decision to meet his biological daughter in person and develop a relationship with her privately

• Finding community with other bio dads and from online support groups

• How coaching with Brianne set him up for success in sharing the surprise news

Genetic counselors are healthcare professionals trained in both medical genetics and counseling. Most are comfortable answering questions about the health implications of DNA test results. This includes what conditions may run in families, what risks might exist for relatives, and when medical follow-up is recommended. Read more about genetic counselors from Brianne Kirkpatrick Williams and Watershed DNA.

Watershed DNA was featured in The New Yorker magazine’s recent article, “The Family Fallout of DNA Surprises.”  This piece by Jennifer Wilson sheds light on the emotional impact of unexpected DNA discoveries – a journey that can be both deeply challenging and transformative. Watershed DNA is committed to meeting people in these moments with compassion and guidance, helping them process new information, navigate family dynamics, share with others, and find the path forward.

Molly gave advice through her post to the biological fathers who were discovered by DNA testing and shocked to learn there was a child ‘out there’ they never knew about.

Research into the experiences of people getting unexpected results from a home DNA test is still in infancy. A new study based at McGill University aims to explore the experiences of consumer DNA testers who receive an unexpected result with implications to their own parentage.

Conveying unexpected news is never easy, and it's natural to feel uncertain going into it. The world of DNA testing and surprise DNA discoveries has made ‘breaking the news’ a new part of life for many people.

Watershed DNA’s founder Brianne Kirkpatrick shares on the blog of 23andMe some tips for healthcare providers about what to do with a patient’s unexpected DNA family discovery.

If you’re a podcast listener, you might enjoy the latest interview of Watershed DNA founder Brianne as she chats with the host of Patient Stories, Eleanor Griffith, about resources. Episode 63 is a follow up to a conversation that first took place on Patient Stories two years ago.