Family Memories & Research Dilemmas: Helen & Nate Catch Up
In this episode of Family Tree Talk, hosts Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward catch up on their latest family history finds. Helen shares a brilliant new way she’s discovered to encourage relatives to record their memories — perfect for preserving living history. Meanwhile, Nate’s deep in decision-making mode, wondering which historical document to focus on next and which tempting research rabbit hole to follow. Join the conversation for relatable stories, practical tips, and a warm slice of real-life family history fun.
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48:19
Think Like a Genealogist: Research Logs, Questions & Plans with Dr Sophie Kay
Feeling stuck in your family history research – or simply drowning in a sea of notes and records? In this episode of Family Tree Talk, host Helen Tovey is joined by professional genealogist and educator Dr Sophie Kay to explore how a clear research methodology can transform the way you work. Discover how research logs, well-framed questions, and practical research plans can bring structure, clarity and results to your genealogy. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned sleuth, Sophie’s expert insights will help you avoid common pitfalls, break through brick walls, and make your family history research more rewarding than ever.
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49:57
WWI Soldier, Nun & RAF Airman: Nathan’s Surprising Family Tree Finds
In this episode of Family Tree Talk, hosts Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward delve into Nathan’s latest genealogy discoveries — from a potential First World War soldier to a nun and an RAF airman (or maybe even a pilot!). As Nathan tries to piece together these intriguing lives, he turns to Helen for advice on how to be sure he's got the right people in his tree. Tune in for practical tips, expert insights, and a peek behind the scenes of real-life research as our hosts explore the highs and head-scratchers of tracing your family history.
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40:45
Smash Your Brickwalls with DNA: Expert Tips from Michelle Leonard
In this episode of Family Tree Talk, hosts Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward chat to DNA Detective Michelle Leonard about how to use DNA results to break through your toughest family history brickwalls. Michelle shares practical advice on how to get started with DNA research and explains how her in-depth DNA Bootcamp course can help you make sense of your Ancestry DNA matches — no matter your experience level. Want to learn more? Check out her upcoming course here: bit.ly/4bFZOzA and browse more expert-led sessions at family-tree.co.uk/how-to-guides/webinars.
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37:05
Mastering Ancestry: Top Tips from Family History Pro Karen Evans
In this episode of Family Tree Talk, hosts Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward are joined by passionate family historian Karen Evans, who shares her expert advice on getting the most out of the Ancestry website. From clever search strategies to solving tricky tree problems, Karen offers practical tips and insider tricks to help you research smarter and break down those brick walls. It’s a must-listen for anyone using Ancestry—or thinking about it! Karen also tells us about her new online course, How to use Ancestry (better), designed to help you take your research to the next level.
Nathan knows nothing about his ancestors. Helen knows almost everything about family history. Join them as they delve into Nate’s family’s past. Will there be any skeletons in his cupboard?Join us for genealogical facts, figures and how-to information, heavily laced with speculation, surmise, stories and waffle as Family Tree Designer Nathan Ward embarks on his family history journey aided and abetted by Family Tree Editor Helen Tovey. 99% family history guaranteed.