Therapy Twins Joan and Jane were raised in Connecticut. Both of the sisters are former nurses and their background and life experiences are varied and complex.

Just to set up the relationships-Jane is two minutes older than he twin Joan. For most of their lives, they've always been referred to as as 'Jane and Joan', so now they like to refer to themselves as Joan and Jane. Lori, their older sister by three years, is considered the twins 'second mama.'

My guests explain why they believe their mother was not overwhelmingly affectionate and loving. They believe it began when their maternal grandmother abandoned all of her five children, including the twin's mom, Evelyn. However, Evelyn's father insisted on keeping all of his children and raising them himself. At that point in time the twins mom's life changed drastically. Evelyn and her twin sister, Rita, had to go work and take care of injured soldiers and the local elderly and live at a nearby facility. It was not a pleasant environment to say the least.

Joan and Jane's parents met while roller skating and it was love at first sight. Evelyn worked at the local elementary school in the cafeteria for years. She wasn't necessarily a good cook but every night there was a full meal on the table. From an early age the family was very close. Dinner, conversations, fresh cut fruit every night. "Our mom was a doll" always dressed up and presentable.

Joan explains "I think she sacrificed a lot of herself so we could have more. I couldn't even imagine somebody better than she was."

Jane on the other hand has a different perspective. " As the 'other' twin, I was born with a glass half empty and I was a depressed child. I understand now that a mother glows when a child glows. I grew up with a big chip on my shoulder that my mother preferred Joan. Recently I came to the conclusion that when I got my depression treated, and I was bright and airy, I got the look, the smile from my mother and I'm so grateful. The fact that she didn't leave us was good enough and that's all you need is a good enough mother." Because of miscommunication they lost many years of a loving relationship.

Fortunately Jane and her mom both admitted the miscommunication before Evelyn passed in saying to each another "Oh I'm sorry I thought you didn't like me" and vice a versa. Jane insists that "when you change your perception in life and view things a little bit differently, you'd be amazed at the lovely memories you could have." All Jane can remember now is the good.

My guest's mom said "being an identical twin forces you to be comfortable being seen through a microscope.

Joan and Jane are therapists for anyone and everyone, not just twins. Between the two women, they've had some terrifying life experiences including PTSD, a mugging, sexual assault, near airplane crash and more. They believe that they experienced early childhood trauma beginning in the 1960's, when they spent 30 days in separate incubators before they allowed mom and dad to touch the girls. It wasn't till they got home after one month that they experienced physical and emotional touch. The twins feel that this trauma helps them with working with their clients suffering from similar experiences.

You can hear endless stories of the twins sharing symbiotic experiences, emotionally and physically. And yes, they both have criminal records so don't be surprised if their arrest records show up when you google them.

Find out more about the twins at:

https://therapytwins.com/

"In their book "Under The Hood," the twins reveal their own mental illnesses with comedy and heart to smooth the ride. Learn how to steer your mind in a totally different dirction with simple, easy doable techniques that offer an opportunity to ignite humor and the agent of Change!!

"Should Have Listened To My Mother" is an ongoing conversation about mothers/female role models and the roles they play in our lives. Jackie's guests are open and honest and answer the question, are you who you are today because of, or in spite of, your mother and so much more. You'll be amazed at what the responses are.

Gina Kunadian wrote this 5 Star review on Apple Podcast:

SHLTMM TESTIMONIAL GINA KUNADIAN JUNE 18, 2024

“A Heartfelt and Insightful Exploration of Maternal Love”

Jackie Tantillo’s “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast is a treasure and it’s clear why it’s a 2023 People’s Choice Podcast Award Nominee. This show delves into the profound impact mother and maternal role models have on our lives through personal stories and reflections.

Each episode offers a chance to learn how different individuals have been shaped by their mothers’ actions and words. Jackie skillfully guides these conversations, revealing why guests with similar backgrounds have forged different paths.

This podcast is a collection of timeless stories that highlight the powerful role of maternal figures in our society. Whether your mother influenced you positively or you thrived despite challenges, this show resonates deeply.

I highly recommend “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast for its insightful, heartfelt and enriching content.

Gina Kunadian

"Should Have Listened To My Mother" would not be possible without the generosity, sincerity and insight from my guests. In 2018/2019, in getting ready to launch my podcast, so many were willing to give their time and share their personal stories of their relationship with their mother, for better or worse and what they learned from that maternal relationship.

Some of my guests include Nationally and Internationally recognized authors, Journalists, Columbia University Professors, Health Practitioners, Scientists, Artists, Attorneys, Baritone Singer, Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist, Activists, Freighter Sea Captain, Film Production Manager, Professor of Writing Montclair State University, Attorney and family advocate @CUNY Law; NYC First Responder/NYC Firefighter, Child and Adult Special Needs Activist, Property Manager, Chefs, Self Help Advocates, therapists and so many more talented and insightful women and men.

Jackie has worked in the broadcasting industry for over four decades. She has interviewed many fascinating people including musicians, celebrities, authors, activists, entrepreneurs, politicians and more.

A big thank you goes to Ricky Soto, NYC based Graphic Designer, who created the logo for "Should Have Listened To My Mother".

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SHLTMM PODCAST:

Link to website and show notes: https://shltmm.simplecast.com/ and https://www.jackietantillo.com/

Or more demos of what's to come at https://soundcloud.com/jackie-tantillo

Listen wherever you find podcasts:

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Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/shouldhavelistenedtomymother/

https://www.instagram.com/jackietantillo7/

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-tantillo/

YOUTUBE:

https://www.youtube.com/@ShouldHaveListenedToMyMother