PRESENTATIONS

MODERN TOOLS & EMERGING METHODS

Practical AI: Timesaving Solutions for Genealogists
Unlock the power of AI to transform your genealogy research and reclaim valuable time in your day. Whether you’re looking to break through brick walls in your family history or just want more time to focus on what matters most, this lecture will introduce you to practical AI tools and strategies that can make your genealogical journey smoother and more productive. Join us to learn how AI can become your indispensable assistant.

GENEALOGY: FROM RESEARCH PLANNING TO WRITING 

Assumptions: Problem-Solving Friend or Foe?
This lecture examines how assumptions influence genealogical research, distinguishing between valid, fundamental assumptions and those that can mislead analysis and stall progress.

Conflict Resolution: A Key to Sound Genealogical Conclusions
Conflicting evidence is inevitable in genealogical research. This session focuses on structured approaches to evaluating, weighing, and resolving conflicts in accordance with genealogical standards.

Feedback is a Gift
“Feedback is a Gift” explores how constructive feedback can strengthen our genealogical writing and help refine our unique writing voice. In this interactive session, we’ll learn simple, effective ways to give and receive feedback with clarity and kindness. Bring your curiosity, and leave with practical tools to grow your writing and provide meaningful feedback to fellow genealogists.

Finding and Using Connecticut Vital Records
From early town books to post-1897 certificates, Connecticut has a rich collection of vital records. Maximize your ability to find and use the records that serve as the foundation for Connecticut genealogical research as we take a deep dive into various forms of vital records, the information they contain, and the laws governing their creation and use.

Hidden Histories: Extraordinary Insights from Ordinary Records
This lecture explores strategies for reconstructing lives that are poorly documented or hidden in the records, emphasizing methodology, context, and careful interpretation.

DNA

DNA & Your Family Tree
DNA is a powerful tool to confirm a lineage for those who know their family history, and for those who don’t, it can be life-changing. Learn about the most popular DNA tools and techniques available to researchers today. Join us to explore challenges and successes in the modern world of genealogy.

DNA Helps Identify Parents for James Dolan
Y-DNA and autosomal DNA correlate with documentary evidence to connect Connecticut immigrant James Dolan to his Irish parents in 1860s Walker, Northumberland, England. This case shows how genetic clues can help solve real research problems when the paper trail isn’t enough, demonstrating the Genealogical Proof Standard in action as the evidence comes together to support a solid conclusion.

Discovering Unknown Parents with DNA
DNA is a powerful tool to confirm a lineage for those who know their family history. For those who don’t, it can be life-changing. Learn the most popular tools and techniques for assisting in adoption, unknown parent or grandparent, or misattributed parent situations.

Unleash the Power of DNA: Testing Family Members
Testing family members can be a powerful tool to break down brick walls. People commonly wonder whether they should test a sibling or a parent if they have tested themselves. The answer is an unwavering “Yes!” By testing additional family members, genealogists can often assign matching DNA to specific ancestors.

Book now for late 2026 or 2027 and beyond!

 IN-PERSON, VIRTUAL, OR HYBRID OPTIONS AVAILABLE