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Hear about the best genealogy tools and tips directly from Family Tree Magazine’s editors and experts! Tune in to the Family Tree Podcast and the Best Websites Podcast for a dose of genealogy education and fun.
In this bi-monthly online radio show, host Lisa Louise Cooke takes you behind the scenes to learn more about genealogy topics from our magazine, courses and more. On the first of each month, you can tune in to the Family Tree Magazine Podcast, which features interviews with genealogy experts and Family Tree editors on how to use specific strategies and tools to access crucial genealogy records and resources, along with sneak peeks at the latest tools from Family Tree. Later in the month, join us for the Best Websites Podcast, where you will get in-depth tutorials, behind-the-scenes looks, and notable updates on some of the most valuable websites and digital tools for researching your family history.
Listen to our most recent episodes, or subscribe to listen on your favorite podcast service. Share your story with us! If you have a family history discovery you’d like to share on the podcast, email us at FamilyTree@Yankeepub.com.
All Podcasts
2023 – Family Tree Magazine Podcast
Episode 176: Strategizing Your Italian Genealogy Research – Tips from an Article by Melanie D. Holtz | September 2023
In this episode, Lisa Louise Cooke reviews an article written by Melanie D. Holtz, which offers some excellent tips on Italian genealogy research. Also, learn how to read even the most challenging handwriting on your ancestors’ documents with the help of Colleen Stutz.
Best Websites Episode 9: Meyers Gazetteer – An Interview with James Beidler | September 2023
In this episode, James Beidler highlights Meyers Gazetteer and how you can use it to better understand Germany’s boundary changes and how they might guide your German genealogy research.
Best Websites Episode 8: Cyndi’s List – An Interview with Cyndi Ingle | August 2023
In this episode of Best Websites, Cyndi Ingle of Cyndi’s list shares some of the excellent resources that her website has to offer and some tips for making the best use of these resources as you research your family history.
Episode 175: Picking the Perfect DNA Test – An Interview with Shannon Combs-Bennett | August 2023
In this episode, Shannon Combs-Bennett highlights the top DNA tests and their most notable offerings to help you decide which one best fits your needs. Also, author Charlotte Barnes tells us how we can get the kids in our lives interested in genealogy.
Best Websites Episode 7: Family Tree Magazine’s 2023 Best Websites – An Interview with Sunny Jane Morton | July 2023
In this episode, Sunny Jane Morton highlights Historypin.org, an excellent free resource that allows you to share and tag images, videos and stories in one place.
Episode 174: Finding Your U.S. Colonial Ancestors – An Interview with David Fryxell | July 2023
In this episode, David Fryxell offers practical advice for researching U.S. colonial ancestors. Plus, learn how to preserve heirloom American flags for many years to come.
Best Websites Episode 6: Family Tree Magazine’s 2023 Best Websites – An Interview with Rick Crume | June 2023
In this episode of Best Websites, author Rick Crume highlights some of the excellent websites that made the cut for 2023 on Family Tree Magazine’s lists of 101 Best Genealogy Websites and 75 Best State Websites.
Episode 173: Navigating the 1931 Census of Canada – An Interview with Kathryn Lake Hogan | June 2023
In this episode, Kathryn Lake Hogan tells us what we can find in the highly anticipated 1931 Census of Canada and offers some strategies for searching it efficiently. Plus, learn how to plan a memorable family reunion this summer with Shamele Jordan.
Best Websites Episode 5: AncientFaces.com – An Interview with Daniel Pinna | May 2023
In this episode of Best Websites, co-founder Daniel Pinna showcases everything that his platform AncientFaces has to offer as a tool for searching and sharing family memories and as a community.
Episode 172: Exploring the History Behind Post-Mortem Photography – An Interview with Robbie Gorr | May 2023
In this episode, Robbie Gorr shares the eerie but beautiful history and art behind Victorian post-mortem photography. Plus, learn how to keep those original photo prints safe with Photo Detective Maureen Taylor.
Best Websites Episode 4: Ellis Island Passenger Search Portal – An Interview with Kathryn Marks | April 2023
In this episode of Best Websites, Kathryn Marks of the Family History Center at Ellis Island tells us how to use the Passenger Search database to find ancestors who arrived in America via the Port of New York.
Episode 171: Piecing Together Your Ancestor’s Life with Newspapers – An Interview with Stephen Wendt | April 2023
In this episode, Stephen Wendt shows us how we can uncover stories about our ancestors and learn more about them as people simply by gleaning old newspapers. Also, learn how to create an inspiring outline to guide you as you write your family history.
Best Websites Episode 3: RootsTech.org – Enjoy Conference Video Content at Home | March 2023
From March 2nd to March 4th, genealogists from all over the world gathered in Salt Lake City for the highly anticipated genealogy conference, RootsTech 2023. But even if you couldn’t make it in person, you can still enjoy quality RootsTech content from the comfort of home. In this episode, Jen Allen from FamilySearch highlights the RootsTech.org on-demand library and how you can search it to find informative video content.
Episode 170: Finding the Maiden Names of Female Ancestors – An Interview with Shelley Bishop | March 2023
In this interview, Shelley Bishop offers some strategies and resources for tracking down the maiden names of female ancestors. Also, learn what you can do with those family photos that smell less than pleasant.
Best Websites Episode 2: Enslaved.org – An In-Depth Look with Shamele Jordon | February 2023
In this episode of Best Websites, genealogist and writer Shamele Jordon highlights the many resources available on Enslaved.org, a website perfect for those who wish to research African American genealogy.
Episode 169: Researching Your Family History at Your Local Library – An Interview with Anna Rose Johnson | February 2023
In this episode, Anna Rose Johnson provides tips for taking advantage of the many resources offered by local libraries to find your ancestors. Also, learn how to preserve heirloom utensils and other kitchenware.
Best Websites Episode 1 : Ancestry.com Card Catalog Walk-Through with Lisa Louise Cooke | January 2023
In this episode of Best Websites, Lisa Louise Cooke walks us through Ancestry.com’s expansive card catalog and reveals how this resource can be used to find valuable records for free.
Episode 168: How Witness Records Can Guide Your Genealogy Research – An Interview with Robyn Smith | December 2022
In this podcast, genealogist Robyn Smith tells us how you can use witness records to guide your genealogy research. Plus: learn what you can do with those photo negatives and how to navigate WikiTree.
Episode 167: Build Your Family Tree with DNA – An Interview with Diahan Southard | November 2022
In this episode, Diahan Southard shares how you can create your family tree with just your DNA. Also: learn about how DNAPainter.com can help you better understand your DNA test results and what tools you can use to more effectively tell your ancestors’ stories.
Episode 166: Find Your Ancestor’s Old World Town of Origin – An Interview with Rich Venezia | October 2022
In this episode, professional genealogist Rich Venezia offers some valuable research tips that will help you track down your ancestor’s Old World town of origin and find meaningful records. Plus: learn how to clean tombstones efficiently and respectfully and how you can use DeadFred.com to search for old photos of your ancestors and upload your own photos.
Episode 165: Crafting Your Genealogy Will — An Interview with Denise May Levenick | September 2022
In this episode, Denise May Levenick offers tips for creating your genealogy will so that your research can live on for generations. Also: learn how to navigate the Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps as handy genealogical tools and how to find meaningful clues about your ancestors simply by studying what they are wearing in old photos.
Episode 164: Tips for Filipino Genealogy — An Interview with Todd Lucero Sales | August 2022
In this episode, professional genealogist Todd Lucero Sales offers some tips to those new to researching their Filipino heritage. Plus: learn how to streamline your genealogy research materials by knowing what to keep and what to toss and discover the capabilities of the genealogy software program RootsMagic.
Episode 163: Solving Mysteries Behind Conflicting Birthdates — An Interview with Lindsey Harner | July 2022
In this episode, Lindsey Harner walks through 5 questions that can help you solve the puzzle of an ancestor’s conflicting birthdate across many different records. Plus: learn about some tools you can use to share your family videos and photos online and how to navigate the Periodical Source Index (PERSI).
Episode 162: Exploring the Freedmen’s Bureau – An Interview with Shelley Viola Murphy | June 2022
In this episode, Shelley Viola Murphy highlights the Freedmen’s Bureau and its accessibility for genealogical research. Also: find out what resources made the 2022 Best Genealogy Websites list and learn how one TikTok user is using the platform to explore cemeteries and uncover stories from the past.
Episode 161: Find German-Speaking Ancestors Outside Germany – An Interview with James Beidler | May 2022
In this episode, James Beidler offers practical tips for tracking down German-speaking ancestors who lived outside Germany. Plus: learn how to preserve special family treasures and navigate David Rumsey’s Map Collections Project, a priceless genealogical tool.
Episode 160: Become a 20th Century Census Expert — An Interview with Gena Philibert-Ortega | April 2022
In this episode, Gena Philibert-Ortega joins us to discuss the importance of understanding 20th century census records as genealogists. Plus: we explore how to participate in the indexing of the 1950 census and sniff out both facts and fictions in family stories.
Episode 159: Preparing for the 1950 Census Release | March 2022
In this episode we’re getting ready for the release of the 1950 census by learning how to research ancestors through the 1940s, as well as how to find your ancestors’ Enumeration District with Steve Morse’s One-Step Webpages. Plus, unlikely sources for family photos and much more!
Episode 158: Overcoming Challenges in African American Genealogy Research — An Interview with Shamele Jordon | February 2022
In this episode, Family Tree University instructor Shamele Jordon joins us to discuss challenges in African American genealogy research and how family historians can overcome them. Plus we explore websites for French genealogy records, newspaper research and a new online storytelling tool.
Episode 157: Becoming a Forensic Genealogist — An Interview with Dr. Claire Glynn | January 2022
Have you ever wondered what it would take to become a forensic genealogist? In this episode, Dr. Claire Glynn joins us to discuss a new program that trains participants how to apply genetic and traditional genealogy to forensic investigations. Plus: genealogy writing strategies, Findmypast tips and much more.
Episode 156: Preserve Your Family History in the New Year | December 2021
In this episode, our host Lisa Louise Cooke and her guests discuss what archival supplies you need to safely protect and preserve your family history. Plus, editor Andrew Koch reviews the most significant genealogy news in 2021 and looks looks ahead to what’s new in 2022. Listen for all this and more, and set yourself up for genealogy success in the new year!
Episode 155: Researching Ancestors Among the Five Tribes — An Interview with Judy Muhn | November 2021
In this episode, genealogist and author Judy Nimer Muhn discusses how to research ancestors who who belonged to one of the United States’ five largest indigenous tribes today: Navajo, Cherokee, Sioux, Chippewa and Choctaw. Plus, Diahan Southard is back to shed some light on DNA Painter and what third-party DNA tools can tell you about your genetic ancestry.
Episode 154: The History of Obituaries and Where to Find Them | October 2021
In this spooky episode of the Family Tree Podcast, we learn how to locate and use historical obituaries for genealogy research. We’ll also compare the the three major cemetery websites and take a closer look at the origins of Halloween. Join our host Lisa Louise Cooke and her guests as we explore these topics and much more.
Episode 153: Genealogy and Spirituality — An Interview with Author Lori Erickson | September 2021
Do you feel a spiritual connection to your ancestors? In this episode, our host Lisa Louise Cooke interviews author Lori Erickson about the connection between genealogy and spirituality. Plus, our DNA expert Diahan Southard is back to discuss how and why ethnicity estimates change, and we take a look at a Facebook group that returns lost family heirlooms to their rightful homes.
Episode 152: Our Ancestors’ Psychology: An Interview with Author Helen Parker-Drabble | August 2021
In this episode of the Family Tree Podcast, Lisa interviews author Helen Parker-Drabble about how so-called “modern” mental health problems like anxiety or depression shaped the lives of our ancestors, and how understanding their experiences can benefit future generations. Plus, our DNA expert is back and we chat with Devon Lee of the YouTube channel Family History Fanatics.
Episode 151: Shining a Spotlight on Marriage Records | July 2021
At Family Tree Magazine we like to shine a light on the most important sources for your genealogical research, and marriage records rank right up there at the top of the list. In this episode, Lisa is joined by Amanda Epperson to discuss how and why to research marriage records. Plus, our DNA expert is back to explain why you should upload your tree to your DNA test results.
Episode 150: Overcoming Scanning Challenges | June 2021
Scanning documents and photos is an important step in preserving family history – but what about those items that are hard to scan (like slides and photo negatives)? In this episode, learn how to scan these items and overcome more common scanning challenges.
Episode 149: Researching Indentured Servant Ancestors | May 2021
In this episode, join our host Lisa Louise Cooke and her guests as they discuss strategies for researching indentured servants, websites for Jewish genealogy research and so much more.
Episode 148: Explore Your Family History at the Allen County Library Genealogy Center | April 2021
This month’s podcast features an in-depth look at the vast genealogy resources available at the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Librarian Allison Singleton joins Lisa to discuss how this library can help anyone on their genealogy journey, no matter where they are. Plus, our DNA expert is back to discuss chromosome browsers, author David Fryxell shares his favorite websites for Civil War research, and much more.
Episode 147: How to Research Your Irish Ancestry | March 2021
In this episode, Lisa and her guests explore records and resources for tracing Irish ancestry. Plus, our DNA expert explains how to interpret your ethnicity results.
Episode 146: RootsTech Goes Virtual – An Interview with Jen Allen on RootsTech Connect | February 2021
The biggest genealogy event of the year has gone virtual! Lisa talks with RootsTech’s Jen Allen to see what participants can expect from RootsTech Connect. Plus, our DNA expert sheds some light on re-testing, and we get an inside look at the Freedmen’s Bureau records available on FamilySearch.
Episode 145: Free Genealogy Resources and Money-Saving Tips | January 2021
In this episode, we’re bringing you some of our favorite free genealogy resources and money-saving tips so you can start your year off strong (without breaking the bank). Plus, our DNA expert discusses how transferring your raw data can be a money-saving technique for acquiring more DNA matches.
Episode 144: How to Handle Difficult or Uncomfortable Facts When Writing Family History | December 2020
Lisa interviews author Annette Gendler about how to address difficult or uncomfortable information when writing your family’s history. Plus, tips from our DNA expert on how to persuade relatives to take a DNA test, as well as a closer look at the genealogy resources available at the State Library of Pennsylvania.
Episode 143: Researching Mayflower Connections – An Interview with Chris Child | November 2020
Chris Child, editor of the Mayflower Descendant journal, joins Lisa to discuss strategies genealogists can use to discover their connection to the Mayflower passengers. Plus, our DNA expert is back to talk about how to understand missing or unexpected matches in your DNA test results, and much more!
Episode 142: Decoding Grave Symbols – An Interview with Joy Neighbors | October 2020
Author Joy Neighbors joins Lisa to talk about cemetery research and how you can use gravestone symbols to discover more about your ancestors. Plus, our DNA experts discusses testing deceased relatives and we explore strategies for success on Find a Grave.
Episode 141: What Will Genealogy Look Like Post COVID-19? | September 2020
In this month’s episode, Lisa talks with genealogist and librarian Daniel Klein about how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected genealogy research and what genealogy will look like in the future. Plus, our DNA expert is back with tips on ethnicity estimates, and Lisa shares some of her favorite genealogy apps.
Episode 140: Becoming a Professional Genealogist – An Interview with Diana Elder (AG) and Nicole Dyer | August 2020
Mother-and-daughter genealogy team Diana Elder (AG) and Nicole Dyer join Lisa to discuss the process of becoming a professional genealogist. Our DNA expert Diahan provides organizational strategies for DNA matches, and author Rick Crume gives us a closer look at the digitized newspapers available on GenealogyBank.
Episode 139: A Closer Look at NBC’s “Roots Less Traveled” – An Interview with Host Faruq Tauheed | July 2020
Lisa interviews Faruq Tauheed, host of the NBC TV series “Roots Less Traveled” about the show and his own genealogy journey. Plus, highlights from the 101 Best Websites for Genealogy and a look at the burgeoning market of health-focused DNA tests.
Episode 138: Simple Steps to Practical Genealogy – An Interview with Brian Sheffey | June 2020
Lisa interviews Brian Sheffey, author of the book Practical Genealogy: 50 Simple Steps to Research Your Diverse Family History. Listen for practical tips you can apply to your genealogy research, plus the latest edition of our 101 Best Websites for Genealogy and much more.
Episode 137: How to Capture Family Stories Before They’re Lost – An Interview with Rachael Rifkin | May 2020
This episode, Lisa talks with author Rachael Rifkin about preserving our family history before it’s lost to time. Plus: some great online writing tools and pointers from our DNA expert on opting in (or out) of DNA research studies.
Episode 136: How DNA Tests Shape Our Idea of Family – An Interview with Libby Copeland | April 2020
This month Lisa interviews author Libby Copeland on her new book The Lost Family and discusses how consumer DNA tests are changing the way we think of family relationships. Plus: a look at the reliability of DNA, free DNA websites and more.
Episode 135: Unusual and Underused Records for Researching Female Ancestors | March 2020
Join Lisa and her guests as she discusses unusual and underused records for researching your female ancestors. Plus: Dutch genealogy websites, genetic communities, and a few great genealogy accounts to follow on social media.
Episode 134: How to Research Enslaved Ancestors | February 2020
This month, Lisa is joined by contributing editor Sunny Morton to discuss key strategies for researching enslaved African American ancestors. Plus, a quick tutorial on RootsTech apps from FamilySearch’s Jen Allen, tips for deciphering shared matches in your DNA and much more.
Episode 133: Timeless Strategies for Genealogy Research Success | January 2020
In this episode, founding Family Tree Magazine editor David A. Fryxell reflects on the past 20 years in the genealogy world and shares his favorite timeless genealogy problem-solving strategies
Episode 132: The Best State Websites for Genealogy | December 2019
Join Lisa and her guests for an update on Family Tree Magazine’s new edition of the best state websites for genealogy!
Episode 131: Picture-Perfect Photo Books | November 2019
The podcast is back and better than ever with new tips, tricks and interviews with the experts. Join Lisa as she tackles perfect photo books and much more.
Episode 130: Online Records Roundup | March 2019
Discover valuable resources for online records with this month’s genealogy podcast.
Episode 129: Gain Major Genealogy Problem-solving Skills | February 2019
Add these genealogy problem-solving tricks and strategies to your research arsenal with this February 2019 podcast.
Episode 128: Make 2019 Your Most Organized Year Yet | January 2019
Get the key genealogy organization tricks to make 2019 your best year yet.
Episode 127: The 2018 Genealogy Year in Review | December 2018
2018 has been a busy year in the genealogy world! We’re wrapping it up with a recap, and chatting about what we look forward to in 2019. Join us!
Episode 126: Exploring Your UK Ancestry | November 2018
This episode is all about UK ancestry. Lisa and her guests discuss the best UK websites, the genes that make up the British Isles, and much more!
Episode 125: Genealogy Problem Solving | October 2018
Learn strategies for your biggest genealogy problems, discussing the difference between DNA types and looking at FamilySearch’s Communities.
Episode 124: Immigration and our Ancestors | September 2018
This month we’re discussing unusual immigration records, plus find out which websites are best for saving and sharing your research.
Episode 123: Best Genealogy Websites of 2018 (Live from FGS) | August 2018
Recorded live at the FGS conference in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, it’s our annual Best Genealogy Websites episode. We’re discussing our 101 best sites list, interviewing Daniel Horowitz from MyHeritage, chatting with Rick Voight from Vivid-Pix and much more. Don’t miss this episode!
Episode 122: DNA and Adoption | July 2018
In this month’s podcast, we’re not only discussing DNA and adoption, but also premiering several new segments.
Episode 121: Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Podcast | June 2018
The Family Tree Podcast is celebrating its 10 year anniversary! Join us as we discuss some of our favorite stories and interviews from the last decade.
Episode 120: The New Family Tree Magazine | May 2018
Need help deciding which DNA test is right for you? In this month’s podcast we’ll share tips for selecting your test. We’re also discussing Family Tree Magazine‘s new look. Join us!
Episode 119: All About Ancestry.com | April 2018
Ready to dive into Ancestry.com? Grab your headphones and join Lisa and her guests as they discuss top tips for maximizing the site.
Episode 118: Online Trees | March 2018
This month Lisa focuses on online family trees. We’ll be discussing tips for digitizing your history, MyHeritage’s tree hints, and much more!
Episode 117: What’s New in Genetic Genealogy | February 2018
This month is all about genetic genealogy. We’ll be discussing Ancestry.com’s new Migrations tool, top DNA websites, and much more!
Episode 116: Famous Family Trees | January 2018
Our January Podcast is all about famous family trees. Join Lisa as she discusses heraldry and the upcoming royal wedding.
Episode 115: Best of Genealogy in 2017 | December 2017
In our December 2017 podcast, we’ll be discussing DNA and adoption, plus some of our favorite things from 2017!
Episode 114: Sharing Family History for the Holidays | November 2017
In our November 2017 podcast, Lisa shares tips on creating a family history book, plus websites for sharing your family history.
Episode 113: Research Secrets from the Pros | October 2017
Lisa investigates tips for breaking down brick walls, knowing when to hire an expert, and chats with the FTU Dean.
Episode 112: 101 Best Free Genealogy Websites | September 2017
Lisa discusses the 101 Best Genealogy Sites of 2017, along with interviews from the editors of Family Tree Magazine.
Episode 111: Fall Virtual Conference Preview | August 2017
Learn what you can expect from the Fall Virtual Genealogy Conference, including previews of what you learn and how to make the most of the experience.
Episode 110: Strategic DNA Testing | July 2017
Lisa dives into the topic of DNA testing, from the latest news from two of the best-known companies, getting started, and working with your results.
Episode 109: Mapping Your Family History | June 2017
In this podcast episode, we talk about using old maps and mapping tools to learn more about your ancestors through the places they’ve lived and loved.
Episode 108: Researching Your Heritage | May 2017
In this May 2017 podcast episode, host Lisa Louise Cooke brings in genealogy research experts Claire Santry and James Beidler to talk about researching ethnic heritage.
Episode 107: Ancestors in the Great War | April 2017
Learn how to research your ancestors during World War I.
Episode 106: Genealogy Websites | March 2017
In this genealogy podcast episode, discover fabulous online resources for finding your family history and working with the ones you frequent.
Episode 105: African-American Genealogy Research | February 2017
In this month’s podcast, we celebrate Black History Month with tips for finding your African-American ancestors.
Episode 104: Plan for Genealogy Success in 2017 | January 2017
Kick off the year with these tips to formulate your plan for successful genealogy research.
Episode 103: State-Based Ancestry | December 2016
In this December podcast, we explore state-based genealogy research and the available tools and techniques for discovering our U.S. ancestors.
Episode 102: Stepping Into Your Ancestor’s Shoes | November 2016
Gain invaluable insight into the lives of your ancestors by learning how to use social history to reconstruct their neighborhoods, find new records, and more.
Episode 101: Cemeteries and Genealogy | October 2016
Learn all about what cemetery records you can find and how they can benefit your genealogy research in this month’s podcast.
Episode 100: Our 100th Podcast Episode! | September 2016
Family Tree Magazine is celebrating our 100th episode with this special, hour-long podcast. From unusual surnames to special censuses, get the great genealogy search tips and tools, we revisit five highlights from the past few years.
Episode 99: Best Genealogy Websites August 2016 | August 2016
In this episode, Lisa Louise Cooke and company discuss the best genealogy websites for 2016, recently published by Family Tree Magazine.
Episode 98: Organizing Your Research | July 2016
The secret to great genealogy: Learn how to organize your family history research! This episode is all about organization tips, tools and techniques.
Episode 97: Maximizing Military Records | June 2016
Follow along with Family Tree University and host Lisa Louise Cooke as we cover the essentials of researching your ancestors’ military service.
Episode 96: Tracing Hard-to-Find Ancestors | May 2016
Get genealogy tips for researching those hard-to-find ancestors: using newspaper archives, finding missing people in the census and more.
Episode 95: Tracing Immigrant Ancestors | April 2016
In this episode, get the scoop on tracing your immigrant ancestors, from tips on finding German and Eastern European ancestors, to tracing your Irish roots.
Episode 94: Online Genealogy Tools and Apps | March 2016
Learn about some great online tools, apps and resources you can use in your genealogy research.
Episode 93: Surnames and Genealogy | February 2016
Get the best genealogy research tips and tools for searching your family’s last names – from how to handle common surnames to using of geographical data.
Episode 92: Set Yourself up for Genealogy Success in 2016 | January 2016
Set yourself up to make your genealogy research efforts successful in 2016, with ideas for organizing, researching and more!
Episode 91: Cloud Computing for Genealogists | December 2015
In this month’s episode, wrap up the year with Lisa Louise Cooke and her tips on using the cloud to back up your genealogy research online.
Episode 90: Brick Wall Busting Strategies | November 2015
In this month’s episode, learn how to break down those brick walls in your family tree with fantastic tips and tools from Lisa Louise Cooke and her guests.
Episode 89: Conquering the Courthouse | October 2015
Join Lisa Louise Cooke and guest Sunny Morton to learn 4 tips to learn how to use courthouse records in your family search and create a research plan.
Episode 88: Organizing Your Genealogy | September 2015
This episode is all about getting organized so you can quickly store and secure your genealogical findings and build your genealogy portfolio.
Episode 87: Best Genealogy Websites of 2015 |August 2015
Get the scoop on the 101 best websites in genealogy and search strategies for maximizing your investigations.
Episode 86: Discover Your Roots Hints | July 86
This month, learn how to start searching for your family history with hints from Discover Your Roots, Instant Discoveries on MyHeritage and more.
Episode 85: Rooting Out Research Mistakes | June 2015
This month’s theme is Rooting Out Research Mistakes. Lisa interviews contributing editors for tips on how to keep your genealogy clean of errors.
Episode 84: Archiving Family Photos | May 2015
This month we have tips on photo organizing secrets, 25 keepsake family photo projects and Lisa provides strategies for navigating the Library of Congress Prints & Photographs Online Catalog.
Episode 83: Source Citations Made Easy | April 2015
Lisa interviews guests about key strategies for creating simple source citations. Plus, Lisa walks through how to use WorldCat’s source documentation tool.
Episode 82: Mapping Mania | March 2015
Lisa interviews guests about mapping strategies and websites to find and use old maps like HistoryGeo, David Rumsey and Google Earth, and more.
Episode 81: Online Genealogy Hints & Hacks | February 2015
This month’s theme is Online Genealogy Hints and Hacks. We talk about tips for sites from Google to Facebook to FamilySearch.org.
Episode 80: The Past & Future of Genealogy | January 2015
In the 15th Anniversary episode of the podcast, host Lisa Louise Cooke asks the editors and writers of Family Tree Magazine to reminisce about the past decade and a half in genealogy, and to speculate on the future of family history.
Episode 79: 2014 Genealogy Year in Review | December 2014
We’ll discuss major genealogy news to happen in 2014, the best family history websites of 2014, and tips from the best webinars to take place this year.
Episode 78: DNA & Your Genealogy | November 2014
Special guest CeCe Moore discusses what it’s like to research for the PBS show “Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates Jr.”
Episode 77: Haunting Ancestral Cemeteries | October 2014
This month we’re haunting ancestral cemeteries! Analyze ancestral tombstones, find obituaries online and learn how to make a cemetery research trip.
Episode 76: Your Genealogy Preparedness Plan | September 2014
This month is all about Genealogy Preparedness. Learn how to backup your research, archive physical files and ensure long-term preservation of your genealogy.
Episode 75: Best Genealogy Websites of 2014 | August 2014
Listen for highlights from our 15th annual listing of the 101 Best Genealogy Websites.
Episode 74: All About Ancestry.com | July 2014
In this month’s episode, learn all about Ancestry.com including the site’s recent attack from hackers and about the retirement of popular Ancestry.com services.
Episode 73: Tracing Your Military Ancestors | June 2014
This month’s theme is Tracing Military Ancestors. Learn how to find info on your female veteran ancestors, what military records you can find and much more.
Episode 72: Genealogy Road Trips and Tours |May 2014
Prepare for your summer genealogy road trips and tours with this episode, including what to pack and the best apps for researching on the road.
Episode 71: Record and Preserve Your Family’s Story | April 2014
For many genealogists, the goal of their research is to share it with future generations. This month, learn about some helpful tools for doing just that.
Episode 70: Combating Brick Walls | March 2014
Because brick walls are such a consistent nuisance for genealogists, learn how to combat them with the latest tips and tricks from the experts.
Episode 69: The Latest High-Tech Genealogy Research Tools | February 2014
On the heels of the annual RootsTech conference, learn about the latest high-tech research tools, including the massive databases on Ancestry.com.
Episode 68: The 175th Anniversary of Photography | January 2014
In honor of the 175th Anniversary of Photography, learn about the history of photography as well as photo editing and retouching for genealogists.
Episode 67: State Sources | December 2013
Learn about the best state websites for your genealogy and go inside the wealth of information at the Kentucky Historical Society.
Episode 66: Discovering Your Ethnic Heritage | November 2013
Learn about your immigrant ancestors with tips and tricks for researching Germany, Norway, the Czech Republic and more.
Episode 65: Digitize Your Home Movies | October 2013
It’s Family History Month! This episode, learn how to convert old home videos, organize your genealogy and how to use the site Tribal Pages.
Episode 64: Geography and Genealogy | September 2013
This month’s theme is Genealogy and Geography. Learn how to trace your ancestral village, how to add “local flavor” to your genealogy and more.
Episode 63: 101 Best Genealogy Websites | August 2013
Learn about some of this year’s best websites, including the Newberry Library, FamilySearch.org, Ancestry.com and My Genealogy Hound.
Episode 62: Civil War Roots | July 2013
Learn how to find your Gettysburg ancestors, honor the battlefield with a virtual visit and learn to navigate the Civil War Soldiers and Sailors System website.
Episode 61: Family History Freebies | June 2013
This month’s theme is Family History Freebies. Learn about some free family history tools, Heritage Quest, and how to become a FamilySearch.org Power User.
Episode 60: Conquering the Courthouse | May 2013
This month, explore overlooked and underused sources with courthouse records, probate records and CyndisList.
Episode 59: American History | April 2013
This month, explore American history for genealogists with historic maps, social history tools and top genealogy blogs.
Episode 58: Finding Your Female Ancestors | March 2013
This month, research your female ancestors by learning how to tease out maiden names, good sources to check and more.
Episode 57: Heritage in Historical Photography | February 2013
In this episode, learn tips on historic photo identification and preservation from the Family Photo Detective
Episode 56: Explore Online Resources | January 2013
This month, explore genealogy online by learning about Google Books, WikiTree.com, Ancestry.com and the Ultimate Google for Genealogists Collection.
Episode 55: Documenting Your Journey | December 2012
Celebrate the holidays by recording your family history. Learn quick tips for getting your family history book into library stacks.
Episode 54: Digitize Your Documents and Photos | November 2012
This month, give thanks for your family by digitizing your documents and photos. Learn tricks for scanning old pictures, and get the details on digital photography essentials.
Episode 53: A Grave Podcast | October 2012
This month, celebrate Halloween by learning how to navigate a cemetery, tips and tricks for tombstones and the benefits of Find A Grave.
Episode 52: Preventative Medicine for Your Research | September 2012
This month, practice some preventative medicine with your family tree by guarding it from sick sources and learn what DNA tests can reveal about your genealogy.
Episode 51: Mobile Genealogy | August 2012
Take your genealogy on the road with some great new mobile apps, learn tips and tricks for family history travel and tour the top mobile websites of 2012.
Episode 50: Researching the War of 1812 | July 2012
Celebrate The War of 1812 Bicentennial, get an update on the 1940 census and learn tips for Revolutionary War genealogy resources.
Episode 49: Finding Historical Context | June 2012
Find out the best websites for putting your ancestors in historical context and get a taste of your family’s food history.
Episode 48: Understanding the 1862 Homestead Act | May 2012
Understanding the 1862 Homestead Act, using the Newberry Atlas of Historical Boundaries, and demystifying confusing land record terms.
Episode 47: Tips for Researching the 1940 Census | April 2012
In this episode, we’re celebrating the release of the 1940 census with tips, websites and resources you can use in your research.
Episode 46: Finding Living Relatives | March 2012
Finding living relatives, verifying data from online family trees, and an interview with Daniel Horowitz, Chief Genealogist at MyHeritage.com.
Episode 45: Social Security Death Index | February 2012
The campaign to save the Social Security Death Index, an interview with Mocavo’s Chief Genealogist, a sneak peek at the Spring 2012 Virtual Conference!
Episode 44: Catch Up with MyHeritage’s Daniel Horowitz | January 2012
Finding living relatives, verifying data from online family trees and an interview with Daniel Horowitz, Chief Genealogist at MyHeritage.com.
Episode 43: Navigating Naming Conventions | December 2011
This month’s podcast features tips on naming conventions, as well as a discussion of the Western States Historical Marriage Index.
Episode 42: Preserving Your Family’s Recipes | November 2011
Tips on how to get relatives to discuss family history, a discussion of the Historic American Cookbook Project and news on the Genealogists for Families project at Kiva.com.
Episode 41: Using Autosomal DNA to Solve Family Mysteries | October 2011
In this episode we explore using autosomal DNA testing to solve family mysteries, planning a research trip to Salt Lake City and more.
Episode 40: A Tour of the Periodical Source Index (PERSI) | September 2011
Search secrets for online newspaper collections, as well as pointers for using the Periodical Source Index to find articles about your ancestry.
Episode 39: Tracing Your Roots in the Old Country | August 2011
Tips for tracing your roots in the old country, including a crash course in German genealogy with Family Tree University instructor Jim Beidler.
Episode 38: Preparing for the 1940 Census Release | July 2011
Get acquainted with Family Tree Magazine’s 101 Best Websites of 2011. David A. Fryxell points out some of his favorite resources.
Episode 37: Planning a Successful Research Trip | June 2011
Hit the road with Family Tree Magazine as we offer up advice for taking research trips and preserving your ancestors’ souvenirs.
Episode 36: National Photo Month at Family Tree | May 2011
It’s all about photos this month as Lisa explores Flickr, gets advice from our Photo Detective and talks digital photography with Nancy Hendrickson.
Episode 35: All About Civil War Research | April 2011
April’s episode is all about Civil War and military research. We chat with Michael Varhola, the author of Life in Civil War America.
Episode 34: Best Websites for Irish Resources | March 2011
Trying to find an ancestors whose case has gone cold? Lisa Alzo offers brick wall busting strategies from our March 2011 issue.
Episode 33: Resources for African American Research | February 2011
February is Black History Month, and this edition of the podcast is chock full of great resources for African-American researchers.
Episode 32: Starting on the Right Foot | January 2011
We’ll show you how to get 2011 started on the right foot. We’ve got tips for using a research plan and ways you can make 2011 the year of the heirloom.
Episode 31: Saving and Sharing Family Memories | December 2010
Learn how to preserve your family’s legacy. We offer tips for collecting family stories, preserving heirloom recipes and organizing your memories online.
Episode 30: Focusing on US Research | November 2010
US research is the focus of this episode, with the best websites for state research and the Washington State Digital Archive
Episode 29: Tracing Immigrant Ancestors | October 2010
In this episode, we’ve got advice on tracing immigrant ancestors, news about Ancestry.com’s acquisition of Footnote.com, Scots-Irish research tips and more.
Episode 28: Going Green with Your Research | September 2010
We’ve got a roundup of portable scanners, advice on going green with your research and a look at the new FamilySearch Beta website.
Episode 27: Finding Mr. Right | August 2010
Having trouble finding your family tree’s Mr. Right? Helpful advice from Sharon DeBartolo Carmack will help you break down your brick wall.
Episode 26: Best Websites and Preservation Resources | July 2010
We talk about our list of Family Tree Magazine‘s 101 Best Websites for 2010, and give you links to some of the best preservation resources online.
Episode 25: Preserving Your Heirlooms | June 2010
We celebrate the podcast’s second anniversary with tips for preserving your own legacy and heirlooms.
Episode 24: Hanging Out in the Cemetery | May 2010
We’re hanging out in the cemetery this month, with advice on doing tombstone rubbings and info on a great cemetery website.
Episode 23: Brick Wall Busters Book | April 2010
Be the first to know about our new book, 101 Brick Wall Busters. Plus, get tips for preserving heirloom quilts.
Episode 22: New Genealogy Show and a Census Extravaganza | March 2010
The March 2010 episode of our podcast is a census extravaganza to go along with our May 2010 issue.
Episode 21: Resources for African American Research | February 2010
Tune into the February 2010 episode of our podcast, which features tips on African-American genealogy, newspaper preservation and tips for getting your genealogy in shape.
Episode 20: Our 10th Anniversary | January 2010
The January 2010 episode of our podcast is celebration of Family Tree Magazine’s 10th anniversary. Founder and contributing editor David Fryxell talks with us about the origins of Family Tree Magazine and shares some of the top tips from its pages over the last decade.
Episode 19: Our Search for Humorous Tombstones | December 2009
Learn about our humorous tombstone search, plus Lisa talks with Illya D’Addezio about his website: Live Roots.
Episode 18: Footnote’s New Interactive Census Collection | November 2009
Diane Haddad gives you the inside scoop on Footnote’s new interactive census collection, which will add 9.5 million documents to the website’s collection.
Episode 17: Researching Your Native American Ancestors | October 2009
Searching for Native American roots? Jim Warren offers advice from his article in the November 2009 issue.
Episode 16: Diving Deep in the Library of Congress | September 2009
In this episode we explore the variety of US collections available at the Library of Congress.
Episode 15: Best Websites and a Redesign Sneak Peek | August 2009
Lisa talks with publisher Allison Stacy about Family Tree Magazine’s 10th anniversary, as well as a sneak peak of the magazine’s redesign.
Episode 14: Reverse Genealogy | July 2009
In this episode’s top tips segment, Family Tree Magazine contributing editor Maureen A. Taylor tells us how reversing the rules can deliver some great results.
Episode 13: Where to Find Us this Summer | June 2009
Allison and Lisa talk about upcoming genealogy events where you can meet Family Tree Magazine staff, network with fellow researchers and take away great ideas for tracing your roots.
Episode 12: Searching Census Records | May 2009
In this episode we get some tips from the experts on using census records to discover your ancestors.
Episode 11: Hidden Clues in Old Hairstyles | April 2009
Photo Detective Maureen A. Taylor talks with host Lisa Louise Cooke about historical hairstyles and what they can tell us about our ancestors.
Episode 10: RootsMagic Updates and Research-Friendly States | March 2009
We review the best and worst states for genealogy research, plus a look at the Family History Library, World Vital Records and Irish roots.
Episode 9: Web Guides and Memory Makers | February 2009
We share new record releases, money-saving research tips, plus advice for creating, sharing and preserving family photos.
Episode 8: Setting Your Genealogy Goals for the New Year | January 2009
Learn secrets for searching online library catalogs, historical newspapers on GenealogyBank, and great ideas for tracing your roots in the new year.
Episode 7: 2008 Year in Review | December 2008
Highlights from this episode include genealogy gifts, top tips for making the most of Google, hints for interviewing relatives over the holidays and more.
Episode 6: Civil War Resources and More | November 2008
This episode is all about Civil War Research, including a look at the Soldiers and Sailors Database from the National Park Service.
Episode 5: Skeletons in the Closet | October 2008
Lisa chats with Sunny McClellan Morton, author of the article “Skeletons In The Closet” from the Nov 2008 issue, plus much more.
Episode 4: Live from the FGS Conference | September 2008
Host Lisa Louise Cooke and managing editor Diane Haddad bring you news from the 2008 Federation of Genealogical Societies conference.
Episode 3: Reaching Out to Readers | August 2008
Lisa and Allison discuss ways that listeners and readers can get involved with Family Tree Magazine.
Episode 2: Best Websites Preview and More | July 2008
This episode is all about websites! Join us as we feature some of our favorites from the upcoming 101 Best Websites for Genealogy feature.
Episode 1: Recharging Your Research | June 2008
Welcome to the premiere episode of the Family Tree Magazine podcast! We’re sharing our best tips, resources and more.
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