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This episode features guest Richard Miller, who discusses the Goldie May AI assistant. Richard explains the AI assistant was added to provide genealogists with an injection of brain power when they feel stuck on a family line. He says the tool helps users find answers by proposing different thinking options. They discuss how the tool assists with core research tasks. The AI assistant helps with research objectives by reviewing sources for gaps and performing pedigree analysis. It connects via Tree Crossing to tree programs like Rootsmagic and Legacy, allowing users to ask the AI assistant about their tree data. For building a timeline, Goldie May generates a "subway map" timeline showing the approximate progression of a person's life over time, incorporating data and historical context from FamilySearch, which the AI assistant can then reason over. The hosts discuss the AI assistant's role in documentation and planning. The AI assistant generates citations approximating Evidence Explained and can create custom citations in any style from pasted content or screenshots. Since Goldie May is a browser extension, this allows the AI assistant to read a webpage, write a citation and description, and attach the source to FamilySearch. For locality research, users can send screenshots of records or wiki pages to Goldie May, which provides context for the AI chat. The AI accesses the Goldie May Catalog, a listing of collections across major and minor genealogy sites, and suggests records to search. The discussion covers transcription, where the AI assistant uses Gemini 3 to transcribe images added to the research log. For research logging, the AI analyzes automatically logged links and data to create reports, summarize projects, and summarize where the user left off. Finally, Richard shares how the AI assists with writing; she prompted the model to review sources and memories about an ancestor to generate a historically accurate story at a 4th-grade level. Listeners learn how to use the Goldie May AI assistant to streamline tedious tasks, improve documentation, and efficiently generate family narratives. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links Goldie May - https://www.goldiemay.com/ Tree Crossing - https://treecrossing.com/ Goldie May AI Assistant Videos: AI just changed how much genealogy you can get done - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHoTMgopnIk The FULL, raw look at Goldie May's AI assistant for genealogists - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kimoZDQPN5g New genealogy AI features announced this week at RootsTech 2026 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YRtjvfe7zyo  Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro Institute Courses - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

Nicole and Diana open the episode by discussing Claude in Chrome for Pedigree Triangulation before introducing their interview with Mark and Steve about AI, who host the Family History AI Show. Mark Thompson also runs the Making Family History blog, and Steve Little writes on his Substack, Vibe Genealogy AI. Steve is the AI Program Director for the National Genealogical Society. They both teach widely about AI topics and family history, including their own courses. Diana shares her specific workflow for locality research, explaining her "round-robin" approach of gathering raw data from multiple AI models, such as ChatGPT and Perplexity, and then feeding that output into Claude to distill and format the information. The hosts then discuss the idea of verification as a learning tool, arguing that fact-checking the AI's transcription or summary is where the deepest learning takes place, shifting the researcher's focus from typing "drudgery" to the "art" of correlation. They discuss the future of AI and genealogy, concluding that AI will not replace the "human element" in genealogy, such as intuition and persistence. Listeners will learn practical tips on using a multi-model AI "stack" for more accurate, professional results and gain a balanced view of how AI excitement is tempered by the continued importance of the human genealogist. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links Steve Little's RootsTech classes - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/speakers/steve-little/en Mark Thompson's RootsTech classes - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/speakers/mark-thompson/en AI Genealogy Insights - Steve Little's former blog -  https://aigenealogyinsights.com/blog/ Vibe Genealogy - Steve Little's Substack - https://vibegenealogy.ai/ The Family History AI Show Webpage – https://blubrry.com/3738800/ The Family History AI Show at Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-family-history-ai-show/id1749873836 Mark's website – Making Family History – www.makingfamilyhistory.com Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro Institute Courses - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

This episode features listener takeaways from the recent RootsTech 2026 conference. Diana discusses the overall positive impressions of the event, noting the high quality of the presentations and the unanimous message about disclosing the use of AI and double-checking its work. Nicole and Diana review several classes on AI, including transforming family history into song, understanding AI's role in archival stewardship, and mastering the basics of AI for genealogy. They share lessons on using AI to abstract information from records, create citations, and analyze research logs to identify gaps. Diana also discusses her class on using AI to clarify complex court records by translating obsolete terms and organizing chronological data. The hosts share insights on specialized research areas, methodology, and records. Diana highlights classes on DNA, including using shared-match grids to analyze and group DNA matches and a methodology to defeat the "Genealogy Gremlin" by evaluating match pedigrees and mitigating confirmation bias. They share a listener's review of Michael Lacopo's session on how to successfully approach non-responsive cousins to encourage them to share their DNA. The hosts discuss classes on research methodology, such as resolving same-name issues by building identity profiles and constructing timelines, and using genealogical analysis to solve conflicting birth dates. Diana notes that a class on probate files reveals that these records contain many rich documents beyond the will, offering clues about an ancestor's associates and lifestyle. They also share Sue Taylor's review a class on Italian records that explains the Latin grammatical forms—nominative, genitive, and accusative—found in civil and parish records. Listeners learn how to access recordings and handouts from RootsTech to apply new AI tools to their research, master advanced DNA analysis techniques, and apply genealogical proof standards to complex records and challenging research questions. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links to RootsTech Classes RootsTech Classes in the On-Demand Library - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/library Even if there's no recording, you can always review the handout! AI and Genealogy ●       Musical Memories - Transforming Family History into Song with AI (recorded) by Brandon Camp of Storied - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/musical-memories-transforming-family-history-into-song-with-ai ●       Preserving the Past with Emerging Tech: AI's Role in Archival Stewardship (recorded) by Bret Weekes, John Morrey, John Alexander, Jimmy Zimmerman - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/preserving-the-past-with-emerging-tech-ais-role-in-archival-stewardship ●       Your AI Toolkit: Essential Tools for Family History Success (recorded) by Laryn Brown - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/your-ai-toolkit-essential-tools-for-family-history-success ●       AI & Family History: Foundations & First Steps: Mastering AI Basics for Genealogy (recorded) by Steve Little - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/ai-family-history-foundations-first-steps-mastering-ai-basics-for-genealogy ●       FamilySearch for Latinos: Using AI to Grow Your Tree (recorded) by Ada Luque Nelson - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/familysearch-for-latinos-using-ai-to-grow-your-tree ●       FamilySearch Full-Text Search – Your Golden Path to Ancestral Discovery (recorded) by David Ouimette - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/familysearch-full-text-search-your-golden-path-to-ancestral-discovery ●       AI-Powered Research Logs: From Chaos to Clarity in Your Genealogy Data (recorded - not online yet) by Diana Elder - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/ai-powered-research-logs-from-chaos-to-clarity-in-your-genealogy-data ●       From Complex to Clear: Transform Court Records with AI Tools [in-person only] by Diana Elder - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/from-complex-to-clear-transform-court-records-with-ai-tools ●       The Future of AI in Genealogy (recorded) by David Ouimette, Steve Little, Diana Elder, Mark Thompson, Dave Vance - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/the-future-of-ai-in-genealogy ●       DNA Evidence Analysis with AI (recorded) by Nicole Dyer - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/dna-evidence-analysis-with-ai DNA ●       Using Shared-Match Grids and Matrices In Your Family History Research [in-person only] by Jonny Perl - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/using-shared-match-grids-and-matrices-in-your-family-history-research ●       DNA Swim School: 1-3. Diahan Southard. Shared matches. (recorded) by Diahan Southard - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/dna-swim-school-part-1-floating-with-one-dna-match ●       Using Autosomal DNA Analysis to Identify an Ancestor's Likely Parents (recorded) by Alice Childs - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/using-autosomal-dna-analysis-to-identify-an-ancestors-likely-parents ●       DNA Analysis Methodology: Defeat the Genealogy Gremlin (recorded) by Karen Stanbary - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/dna-analysis-methodology-defeat-the-genealogy-gremlin ●       Hi, We're Related! Successful Communication With Your DNA Matches [in-person only] by Michael Lacopo - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/hi-were-related-successful-communication-with-your-dna-matches Methodology ●       Genealogical Proof in Practice: Resolving Conflicts and Building Sound Conclusions [in-person only] by D. Joshua Taylor - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/genealogical-proof-in-practice-resolving-conflicts-and-building-sound-conclusions ●       The GPS in Practice: Examples of Reasonably Exhaustive Research (recorded) by Angela Packer McGhie - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/the-gps-in-practice-examples-of-reasonably-exhaustive-research ●       When Nothing Found Means Something: Negative Search Results vs. Negative Evidence (recorded) by Diana Elder - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/when-nothing-found-means-something-negative-search-results-vs-negative-evidence ●       Untangling the Darling Web: Advanced Strategies for Same Name Resolution (recorded) by Bonnie Wade Mucia - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/untangling-the-darling-web-advanced-strategies-for-same-name-resolution ●       Which Date Is Right? Solving Birthdate Conflicts Through Genealogical Analysis (recorded) by Carolynn Ladd - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/which-date-is-right-solving-birthdate-conflicts-through-genealogical-analysis Records and Sources ●       Taxes & Tithes: Researching Enslaved Communities in Colonial Virginia [in-person only] by Orice Jenkins - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/taxes-and-tithes-researching-enslaved-communities-in-colonial-virginia ●       Double Dates and Lost Days: Making Sense of the Calendar Switch [in-person only] by Seema Kenney - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/double-dates-and-lost-days-making-sense-of-the-calendar-switch ●       Indentured Servitude: Michael Brophy. Where to search for information. [in-person only] by Michael Brophy - [URL is missing] ●       Cards, Clevises, and Calomel: What Probate Files Can Reveal about Our Ancestors (recorded) by Nancy Peters - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/cards-clevises-and-calomel-what-probate-files-can-reveal-about-our-ancestors ●       Provenance & Proof: Advanced Strategies for Finding and Using Manuscripts In Your Research (recorded) by Kelly Richardson - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/provenance-proof-advanced-strategies-for-finding-and-using-manuscripts-in-your-research Geographic & Ethnic Research ●       Civil and Parish Records in Italy: From the Council of Trent to the 20th Century. (recorded) by Daniel Taddone - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/civil-and-parish-records-in-italy-from-the-council-of-trent-to-the-20th-century ●       New Adventures in the Americas: Colonial research like never before [in-person only] by Kristilee J. Manuel - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/new-adventures-in-the-americas-colonial-research-like-never-before ●       Mastering the Four Prongs of Onsite Genealogy Research [in-person only] by Michael D. Lacopo - https://www.familysearch.org/en/rootstech/session/mastering-the-four-prongs-of-onsite-genealogy-research Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse

Diana and Nicole discuss the analysis phase of their AI-assisted research into the 18th-century court orders between Samuel Daniel and the Roystons in Colonial Virginia. They explain how AI helps them understand complex legal terms like "imparlance," "covenant," "trespass upon the case," and "replevin bond" within the context of the court cases. Going through a case-by-case analysis, they trace the legal strategy that began after apprentice John Royston ran away from Samuel Daniel in 1770. They discuss Richard Wiatt Royston's initial trespass suit, Daniel's failed attempt to sue the minor John Royston, and the protracted litigation that ultimately led to Daniel successfully suing Richard as the apprenticeship guarantor, which resulted in a £10 award. They also analyze the execution on a replevin bond, which reveals details about Daniel's financial struggle. Listeners will learn how to effectively use AI as an assistant to find, transcribe, interpret, and organize complex court records faster, without sacrificing the fundamental principles of sound genealogical research. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links Transforming Court Records Research with AI: A Case Study from Colonial Virginia Part 2: Analysis - https://familylocket.com/transforming-court-records-research-with-ai-a-case-study-from-colonial-virginia-part-2-analysis/ Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro Institute Courses - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

In this episode, Transforming Court Records Research with AI: Finding and Logging, Diana and Nicole discuss how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the challenging process of working with historical court records. Diana introduces the topic by explaining that while court records are treasure troves of genealogical information, they are often unindexed and difficult to read, featuring archaic legal terminology. She presents a case study of her research to identify Samuel Daniel of Middlesex County, Virginia. She explains her breakthrough was using FamilySearch's AI-Powered Full-Text Search to quickly locate twelve scattered court record entries spanning 1773 to 1774, detailing a complex legal dispute between Samuel Daniel and the Royston family, which would have been highly time-consuming with traditional browsing. Diana shares key search strategy tips, such as using quotes for exact phrase matching and trying variant spellings. Nicole then explains the subsequent steps in the AI workflow, starting with transcribing the relevant court pages using Google AI Studio. Diana describes how she organizes the findings by logging the court orders in a research log and then uploading the compiled records to an AI tool to create a chronological table that clarifies the legal actions and outcomes of the case. Nicole wraps up the discussion by outlining critical considerations for maintaining professional genealogical standards, including verifying AI transcriptions, documenting the process, and understanding AI's limitations. Listeners will learn practical strategies for using full-text search, transcription, and organization tools powered by AI to access and analyze challenging court records more effectively. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links Transforming Court Records Research with AI: A Case Study from Colonial Virginia Part 1 – Finding and Logging - https://familylocket.com/transforming-court-records-research-with-ai-a-case-study-from-colonial-virginia-part-1-finding-and-logging/ Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro Institute Courses - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

In this episode of Research Like a Pro, Diana and Nicole discuss the all-new Version 4.2 (2026) of the Research Like a Pro with DNA Airtable Research Log. The updates are designed to streamline the genetic genealogy workflow, making DNA research more flexible and reducing duplicate data entry.  Diana details the biggest change: the "Test-taker" and "DNA Match" fields in the DNA Match Details table are renamed to "Person 1 (P1)" and "Person 2 (P2)." This simple but powerful update allows users to record the shared DNA between any two people, including matches and their shared matches, which is particularly useful for analyzing data from Ancestry Pro Shared Matches, MyHeritage, and FTDNA. Nicole highlights that the family tree URLs, kit administrator fields, and match usernames are now centralized exclusively in the People table. This makes them lookup fields in other tables, meaning users enter the information only once and save significant time. Furthermore, Nicole discusses the Timeline table enhancement, where a new formula automatically converts varied date entries (e.g., "March 1857") into a standardized sortable format. Diana confirms that core tables like Locations, FANs, and Segments remain the same, preserving existing workflows. Listeners will learn how to make the most of the new base, with tips for migrating data from older versions. Diana concludes that the changes are designed for maximum efficiency, helping researchers focus more on analysis and discovery. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links RLP with DNA Research Log 4.2 (2026) Airtable Template Updates - https://familylocket.com/rlp-with-dna-research-log-4-2-2026-airtable-template-updates/ RLP with DNA Airtable Template 2026 – Updates and Change Log (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UYWptPpc02N5S8Rn8muSoGXvE2SfCkcl_DehG9TVRvQ/edit?usp=sharing Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro Institute Courses including Merging and Separating Identities - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

In this celebratory episode of the Research Like a Pro podcast, Diana and Nicole highlight the incredible impact the RLP process has had on their listeners by sharing several inspiring success stories. They read comments from researchers, one of whom explains how the RLP workflows help them conquer imposter syndrome, and another who shares a journey from feeling overwhelmed as a beginner to pursuing accreditation. Multiple individuals note that the RLP method turned them from "searchers" into "researchers," providing the structure and discipline necessary to break down brick walls, and in one instance, even launch a genealogy business.  Nicole shares fun podcast statistics, including that all 400 episodes equate to 250 hours of continuous listening, and that the total downloads for each podcast episode are roughly equivalent to filling the home-side bleachers of a high school stadium. Diana and Nicole then summarize the core benefits listeners gain from applying the RLP process, which include overcoming overwhelm, building confidence to go from intermediate to professional, and staying motivated by connecting with peer groups. They conclude by discussing the profound purposes of family history, such as making new discoveries, uncovering the truth, and rescuing ancestors from anonymity, which ultimately helps listeners connect with the past and preserve their family's stories for future generations. Listeners learn how to be more productive and disciplined and how the RLP process provides the confidence and structure needed to advance their genealogical research. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links Episode 1 from seven and a half years ago, July 16, 2018 - https://familylocket.com/rlp-1-introduction/ Top Ten Most Downloaded Episodes of RLP RLP 185: Revisiting Timelines and Analysis Again – 6,047 - https://familylocket.com/rlp-185-revisiting-timelines-and-analysis-again/ RLP 184: Revisiting Research Objectives Again – 5,872 - https://familylocket.com/rlp-184-revisiting-research-objectives-again/ RLP 186: Revisiting Locality Research Again – 5,820 - https://familylocket.com/rlp-186-revisiting-locality-research-again/ RLP 190: Revisiting Report Writing Again – 5,762 - https://familylocket.com/rlp-190-revisiting-report-writing-again/ RLP 156: Tracing 19th Century Germans with Heidi Mathis... – 5,692 - https://familylocket.com/rlp-156-tracing-19th-century-germans-part-1-the-nitty-gritty-of-german-names/ RLP 2: Research Objectives – 5,690 - https://familylocket.com/rlp-2-research-objectives/ RLP 1: Introduction – 5,665 - https://familylocket.com/rlp-1-introduction/ RLP 158: RLP with DNA Course with Allison Part 1 – 5,660 - https://familylocket.com/rlp-158-rlp-with-dna-ecourse-part-1/ RLP 100: Top Ten Tips to Research Like a Pro – 5,610 - https://familylocket.com/rlp-100-top-ten-tips-to-research-like-a-pro/ RLP 197: Proving Your Pedigree with DNA with Debra Hoffman – 5,606 - https://familylocket.com/rlp-197-proving-your-pedigree-with-dna-with-debra-hoffman/ Upcoming Conferences NGS GenTech Toolbox workshop by Nicole - Transcribing Handwritten Documents with Artificial Intelligence - https://www.ngsgenealogy.org/gentechtoolbox/transcribing-handwritten-documents-with-ai/ North Carolina Genealogical Society Virtual Conference March 27 – Using AI to Abstract 19th Century North Carolina Deeds by Nicole - https://www.ncgenealogy.org/event/2026-ncgs-virtual-conference/  National Genealogical Society Conference May 27-30 in Fort Wayne, Indiana - https://conference.ngsgenealogy.org/ - Nicole & Diana are giving several lectures on using AI to understand terminology, Barsheba Tharp DNA case, deciphering handwriting, court records, and finding females in court records. Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro Institute Courses - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

Diana and Nicole speak with Jan Joyce, AG, CG, CGL, who developed and coordinates the new virtual institute course, "Merging & Separating Identities: Strategies and Tactics to Solve." Jan explains that the most common mistake genealogists make is failing to recognize they have a "same-name problem" and assuming multiple records belong to a single person. She notes that the challenge of merging and separating identity cases (M/S) is accelerating because of more digitized records, the explosion of DNA testing, and the rise of AI tools. Jan shares her own breakthrough M/S case, which involved a woman named Susan Gliddon in three different geographic locations, and an example of a student who had mistakenly merged two different William Thompsons for five years. Listeners learn that if they suspect an M/S case, they should immediately stop adding information to that part of their tree and begin systematically recording every descriptor for the individual into a spreadsheet. The multi-week course teaches a rigorous, step-by-step methodology, including the use of identity dossiers, timelines, and correlation techniques, using a Common Data Set to focus on learning the techniques themselves. Students gain the confidence to untangle complex cases and transform their research approach by learning to apply systematic methods to any genealogical research problem. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links Merging and Separating Identities Course registration: https://familylocket.com/product/merging-and-separating-identities/ Transform Chaos into Clarity: Organizing Your Merging and Separating Cases - https://familylocket.com/transform-chaos-into-clarity-organizing-your-merging-and-separating-cases/ Overview of the Merging and Separating Identities Course - https://familylocket.com/overview-of-the-merging-and-separating-identities-course/ From Chaos to Clarity: How Merging & Separating Identity Techniques Identified David Dewitt's Father - https://familylocket.com/from-chaos-to-clarity-how-merging-separating-identity-techniques-identified-david-dewitts-father RLP 256: Alford/Johnson Research – Interview with James Johnson - https://familylocket.com/rlp-256-alford-johnson-research-interview-with-james-johnson/ an interview with James Wesley Johnson, author of A Horse, A Gunfight, And The Law: A Historical Account of Our Alfords in Texas (name-change due to hiding from the law) Testimonials Student Experiences – Merging & Separating Identities - https://vimeo.com/1097036140/783bd4549f "This course was honestly the best course I've taken. Period." – EB "You outdid yourself with this course...so many great strategies and approaches to apply to tough research problems. I appreciate all of your hard work, effort, and sharing of knowledge to make us all better genealogists." – KT "What a stupendous week, Jan! Thank you so much for offering this course and for rounding up so many great speakers. I learned things from every person who spoke (whether as an official speaker or a member of the group taking the class)." – BS "The class pushed me out of my tunnel vision." – PG "I have to admit that I was skeptical if this approach would work for me — but I found it a great way to make connections as well as step away from my computer and stand a bit. So refreshing to learn something new that is fun too!" – KT "I have really enjoyed this course. It has made me think differently about so many things. While the focus was on M/S, so much of what was taught and discussed can be used in 'everyday research' which for me is usually 'problem solving.'" – RC "After Kim Richardson did her presentation, I should have just stayed up all night. I couldn't sleep because of all the ideas in my head. LOL!" – PG "I am always so impressed with your courses! You have a great teaching style and are respectful and patient with all participants. I learn so much from you and really appreciate your willingness to share your knowledge with the class." – CD "Today was really helpful - I feel like I learned new things at the right pace. I end the day energized rather than drained and overwhelmed." – KT "I'm really enjoying the course. Learning something new every day." – TF "I liked getting the materials each day, as opposed to getting a syllabus. I was more inclined to look at all the materials when they came to me in smaller batches." – PG Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro Institute Courses - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

This episode features Virginia Pratt, who brings decades of expertise to the discussion, including five years on the FamilySearch Research Wiki Team and a bachelor's degree in Family History from BYU. Virginia joins Nicole and Diana to discuss the essential, free online genealogical resource: the FamilySearch Research Wiki. Nicole asks Virginia to explain the Wiki's purpose, access methods, and how to navigate the main page, noting that it should be used for finding information on localities and record types, not individuals. Diana then asks Virginia to explain locality pages, where Virginia details what researchers can find at the country, state, and county levels regarding record keeping and jurisdictions. The conversation transitions to topic pages, where Virginia explains how they help genealogists find background information on records for specific areas, including online resources, historical context, and language-specific terms. Finally, Nicole asks Virginia to walk listeners through a practical example of using the Wiki for research in the John J. Hoover case study, demonstrating how to find information about records available in Henry County, Indiana, and Otero County, Colorado. Listeners will learn how to use the FamilySearch Research Wiki to find explanations of record types, develop effective research strategies, and successfully locate records for their ancestors worldwide. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links Research Like a Pro Institute Courses including Merging and Separating Identities - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Virginia's four-part series on the Wiki at Family Locket: Using the FamilySearch Research Wiki – Part 1: Getting Started https://familylocket.com/using-the-familysearch-research-wiki-part-1-getting-started/ Using the FamilySearch Research Wiki – Part 2: Understanding Locality Pages https://familylocket.com/using-the-familysearch-research-wiki-part-2-understanding-locality-pages/ Using the FamilySearch Research Wiki – Part 3: Understanding Topic Pages https://familylocket.com/using-the-familysearch-research-wiki-part-3-understanding-topic-pages/ Understanding the FamilySearch Research Wiki – Part 4: Case Study https://familylocket.com/understanding-the-familysearch-research-wiki-part-4-case-study/ Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

The episode opens with Diana and Nicole catching up on their latest work, focusing on testing AI models for accuracy in handwritten-text transcription tasks. The hosts then discuss the novel TransAtlantic by Irish author Colum McCann and what family historians can learn from its structure to write better family narratives. Diana explains that the novel views the immigration story from the Irish perspective, following the fictional character Lily Duggan and three subsequent generations, with the prose connecting each fictional character to a true story and an actual historical figure. Nicole shares the first historical snapshot, covering Lily Duggan's 1845 meeting with the formerly enslaved abolitionist Frederick Douglass in Ireland. She then details the 1919 Atlantic crossing of Lily's daughter Emily and granddaughter Lottie, where they witness the first non-stop transatlantic flight by aviators Alcock and Brown. Diana picks up the thread by discussing Lottie's later meeting with US Senator George Mitchell during his 1998 peace brokering visit to Northern Ireland, and the final chapter, where Lily's great-granddaughter, Hannah, possesses the unopened letter that connects all the women. Listeners learn three key ideas for writing their own family stories: use a focal object passed down through generations, consider historical characters an ancestor may have encountered, and research important historical events in the time and place their ancestors lived to understand how those events may have impacted them. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links What Genealogists Can Learn from Colum McCann's "TransAtlantic": Writing Family History - https://familylocket.com/what-genealogists-can-learn-from-colum-mccanns-transatlantic-writing-family-history/ TransAtlantic: A Novel, by Colum McCann - https://amzn.to/3Z0KBDI (affiliate link) Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro Institute Courses - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

In this episode, hosts Diana and Nicole share a personal and informative journey as they visit their Love County, Oklahoma, roots to walk in the footsteps of Diana's ancestors, Richard and Nancy (Briscoe) Frazier. Diana recounts the lives of her 2nd great-grandparents, discussing their survival through the Civil War in the Ozarks, Richard's service as a teamster for the Confederacy, and their eventual migration from Missouri to Texas and then across the Red River into the Chickasaw Nation (Burneyville) in the 1890s. Nicole shares details from their visits to the Burneyville Cemetery, where Richard and Nancy are buried alongside two of their children. She provides an analysis of their headstones, including the epitaphs and the early 20th-century Christian symbolism, and discusses a treasured family photo of Nancy with her grandchildren, Ettie Belle and Bert Harris. Diana then recounts her visit to the Love County Historical Society Pioneer Museum. She highlights how local museums provide essential context, noting the replicas of ferries—like Tuck's Ferry—that the Frazier family would have used to cross the Red River. Diana shares her experience meeting the curator, Laquitta, and discovering an obituary for one of Nancy's sons, Colon Frazier. Listeners will learn the immense value of visiting the physical locations of their ancestors' lives and using cemetery and museum research to bring their family history to life. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links Visiting My Love County, Oklahoma, Roots - https://familylocket.com/visiting-my-love-county-oklahoma-roots/ Billion Graves - https://billiongraves.com/ Richard Frazier Findagrave - https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/14296957/richard-frazier Nancy Briscoe Findagrave - https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/14139934/nancy_e-frazier John C. Harris Findagrave - https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/80781198/john-christian-harris - this memorial has GPS coordinates attached when you click "show map" Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro Institute Courses - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

This episode focuses on the exciting custom clustering feature now available in Ancestry's Pro Tools. Diana introduces the tool, explaining how it allows for the strategic targeting of specific ancestral lines, offering more flexibility than the original clustering tool. She describes Ancestry's process, which looks for matches sharing 65 cM to 1,300 cM with the user, and then finds those matches that also share at least 20 cM with each other. Nicole discusses the key benefits of using custom clusters: they help you hone in on specific ancestral lines, quickly identify groups descending from common ancestors, and work more efficiently at distant generations. Before creating a cluster, Diana reviews critical points from Ancestry, noting that clusters expire after 30 days unless saved to a group and you are limited to 25 clusters in your history. Nicole shares Ancestry's recommended centimorgan ranges based on the generational distance of the ancestor you are researching. She then walks through the four steps for creating a cluster: choosing a target match, selecting four additional "sidekick" matches, setting the centimorgan range, and generating the cluster. Diana provides a real-world example from her Cline family research, detailing how she used a custom cluster with a 20-50 cM range to test a hypothesis about the parentage of John C. Cline. The results successfully separated her matches into distinct sub-clusters that provide additional evidence for her research. Listeners learn practical tips for success, including saving clusters strategically, trying different target and sidekick match combinations, and systematically tracking all experiments in a research log like Airtable. This powerful strategy helps you apply a new approach to breaking down your DNA research brick walls. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links How to Use Ancestry DNA Custom Clusters in Your Research – with Video - https://familylocket.com/how-to-use-ancestry-dna-custom-clusters-in-your-research-with-video/ Ancestry Support Article - Matches by Cluster https://support.ancestry.com/s/article/Matches-by-Cluster?language=en_US Ancestry Support Article - Custom Match Clusters https://support.ancestry.com/s/article/Custom-Match-Clusters?language=en_US  Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro Institute Courses - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

Nicole and Diana open the episode by discussing what they are currently working on, including their projects for the 14-day challenge. They then turn to the challenge of family history research when conflicting dates appear for an ancestor. Diana explains that because original records may not exist, genealogists must rely on sources created later in a person's life, which often do not agree. Diana uses a case study of her relative, Mary Elizabeth (Royston) Slagle, to show how to analyze and correlate evidence to find the most accurate birth date. They examine numerous records for Mary, starting with several U.S. census records from 1840 to 1910, which provide conflicting birth years. They discuss the value of the marriage bond for Mary's 1855 marriage to Joseph Slagle, analyzing why her father acting as surety does not prove she was underage in this specific Alabama instance. Finally, they look at conflicting death records—a newspaper obituary, death certificate, and gravestone—which offer yet more dates. By correlating all the evidence, including Thomas Beverly Royston's residency and land records, Diana concludes that the most reliable birth date is May 4, 1835, in DeKalb County, Alabama. Listeners learn to carefully analyze each piece of evidence, its informant, and its reliability to reach a sound genealogical conclusion. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links When Birthdates Don't Agree: Analyzing and Correlating Evidence - https://familylocket.com/when-birthdates-dont-agree-analyzing-and-correlating-evidence/ Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro Institute Courses - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

In this episode, Diana and Nicole discuss the crucial process of writing a formal research report for the ongoing case study to identify the father of Cynthia (Dillard) Royston. Diana explains that a report is essential for synthesizing details, bringing a research phase to a close, and providing next steps. She outlines the project's objective—to find a candidate for Cynthia's father in Cass County, Georgia, during the 1830s—and notes the constraints, particularly the missing early Cass County deed records. They review previous research, including the systematic elimination of 13 Georgia Dillard candidates and the use of DNA analysis that suggests Elijah Dillard as a probable brother. The hosts share the heart of the research: the Cass County investigation. Diana details how four Dillard households found in the 1840 census were investigated and ultimately eliminated as Cynthia's family line. Nicole then reveals the major breakthrough: an analysis of the 1832 Georgia Gold Lottery identifies three new, high-priority father candidates who drew land lots specifically in Cass County: James Dillard, Joseph B. Dillard, and Roliver (Toliver) Dillard. The episode concludes with Diana's suggestions for future research, including targeted documentary work on these three men and finding a Y-DNA tester for the Elijah Dillard line. Listeners learn key principles for writing a strong genealogy report, such as documenting everything, acknowledging limitations, and creating clear next steps for future research. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links Merging and Separating Course - https://familylocket.com/product/merging-and-separating-identities/ Revisiting the Father of Cynthia (Dillard) Royston: Part 6 Writing the Report - https://familylocket.com/revisiting-the-father-of-cynthia-dillard-royston-part-6-writing-the-report/ Cynthia Dillard Father Candidate Phase 4 Oct 2025 - https://familylocket.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Cynthia-Dillard-Father-Candidate-Phase-4-Oct-2025.pdf  Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro Institute Courses - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/

This episode addresses the importance of methodically logging research and creating source citations as you follow a research plan. Diana shares her strategy for quickly creating citations for FamilySearch records, emphasizing the value of creating the citation first to understand the source and ensure it's done. Nicole explains how she sets up and fills out her research log using the Research Like a Pro Airtable template, which includes features for grouping, sorting, and linking records to a timeline. Diana walks listeners through an example by detailing how she researched a potential parent for Cynthia (Dillard) Royston, Elizabeth Dillard, finding her in a 1838 Cass County, Georgia deed. Diana then demonstrates her method for creating the FamilySearch source citation, highlighting the process of capturing the digital layer (URL and access date) first and then constructing the physical layer with details from the record image. Nicole also discusses her use of Google AI Studio for transcribing and a separate AI for abstracting the record. This research confirmed Elizabeth Dillard was from South Carolina, eliminating her as a candidate for Cynthia's mother. Diana shares that her other candidate was also eliminated, and she now shifts her research focus to the 1832 land lottery. Listeners learn a clear, systematic process for research logging, creating detailed source citations, and incorporating AI into their transcription and abstracting workflow. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links Revisiting the Father of Cynthia (Dillard) Royston: Part 5 Research Logging and Citations - https://familylocket.com/revisiting-the-father-of-cynthia-dillard-royston-part-5-research-logging-and-citations/ Sponsor – Newspapers.com For listeners of this podcast, Newspapers.com is offering new subscribers 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription so you can start exploring today. Just use the code "FamilyLocket" at checkout.  Research Like a Pro Resources Airtable Universe - Nicole's Airtable Templates - https://www.airtable.com/universe/creator/usrsBSDhwHyLNnP4O/nicole-dyer Airtable Research Logs Quick Reference - by Nicole Dyer - https://familylocket.com/product-tag/airtable/ Research Like a Pro: A Genealogist's Guide book by Diana Elder with Nicole Dyer on Amazon.com - https://amzn.to/2x0ku3d 14-Day Research Like a Pro Challenge Workbook - digital - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-digital-only/ and spiral bound - https://familylocket.com/product/14-day-research-like-a-pro-challenge-workbook-spiral-bound/ Research Like a Pro Webinar Series - monthly case study webinars including documentary evidence and many with DNA evidence - https://familylocket.com/product-category/webinars/ Research Like a Pro eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-e-course/ RLP Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-study-group/ Research Like a Pro Institute Courses - https://familylocket.com/product-category/institute-course/ Research Like a Pro with DNA Resources Research Like a Pro with DNA: A Genealogist's Guide to Finding and Confirming Ancestors with DNA Evidence book by Diana Elder, Nicole Dyer, and Robin Wirthlin - https://amzn.to/3gn0hKx Research Like a Pro with DNA eCourse - independent study course -  https://familylocket.com/product/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-ecourse/ RLP with DNA Study Group - upcoming group and email notification list - https://familylocket.com/services/research-like-a-pro-with-dna-study-group/ Thank you Thanks for listening! We hope that you will share your thoughts about our podcast and help us out by doing the following: Write a review on iTunes or Apple Podcasts. If you leave a review, we will read it on the podcast and answer any questions that you bring up in your review. Thank you! Leave a comment in the comment or question in the comment section below. Share the episode on Twitter, Facebook, or Pinterest. Subscribe on iTunes or your favorite podcast app. Sign up for our newsletter to receive notifications of new episodes - https://familylocket.com/sign-up/ Check out this list of genealogy podcasts from Feedspot: Best Genealogy Podcasts - https://blog.feedspot.com/genealogy_podcasts/