Journalist Jenny Kleeman explores the world of genealogical DNA tests in The Gift, a podcast from the BBC.

DNA tests have grown exponentially in popularity and can be fascinating and provide helpful clues for family historians. They can also have unintended consequences, and put a spotlight on long-hidden relationships or situations.

Each episode of The Gift focuses on a particular issue. Listener stories help examine the potential for a DNA test to unearth the unexpected and change your life forever, even if you think there’s nothing unusual to be found.

These are stories of family secrets, IVF, forced adoption, and babies switched at birth. The first series begins with a story of fertility fraud. Another story shares the experience of an Australian man whose DNA test leads to the discovery of his father’s double life. And another deals with genetic predisposition to serious illness, and how it can lead to tough decisions.

The Gift provides important insight, and is recommended listening for anyone curious about taking a DNA test, and anyone who already has.

There are two series of The Gift currently available, with six episodes in each plus one bonus episode. Each episode is about 30 minutes long. Listen to The Gift podcast via the BBC website or your favourite podcast platform.