Episodes
Click here to view all available episodes at Podbean.
Episode 75 – Lauren Kuntzman, 22 June 2026
In this episode, we speak with Lauren Kuntzman of the Medina County District Library’s Family History & Learning Center and OGS Board Member about the upcoming 2026 Mavourneen Harshman OGS Librarian Day. With more than 25 years of genealogical research experience, Lauren shares insights into the vital role libraries and librarians continue to play in family history research, the importance of collaboration among genealogy organizations, and what attendees can expect from this special day of learning, networking, and discovery at the Ohio Genealogical Society Samuel D Isaly Library. ( minutes)
Episode 74 – Theresa Dandy, 8 June 2026
In this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast, genealogist and Professional OGS Member Theresa Dandy joins the us to discuss her lifelong passion for family history, tracing her journey from a fourth-grade hobbyist to a professional researcher. Theresa shares her experiences uncovering her Italian roots, navigating the complexities of German records, and her specialized skill in mining census data for hidden details. (16 minutes)
Episode 73 – The Ohio Stories Project, 25 May 2026
This episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast explores the remarkable efforts of the Hagley Museum and Library in Delaware to preserve and share Ohio’s broadcasting and film history. We’re joined by Kevin Martin and Jim Culley for a fascinating conversation about the legendary “Ohio Story” radio and television series, Cleveland’s Cinecraft Productions, and newly digitized recordings and films that bring mid-20th century Ohio culture back to life for modern audiences. (21 minutes)
Episode 72 – Laurie Hermance-Moore, 11 May 2026
In this episode, Laurie Hermance-Moore, founder of Heritage Bridge, discusses her transition from a librarian and market researcher to a professional genealogist. She explains how her team specializes in “solving the problem” for family historians, utilizing a combination of DNA clusters and “deep document research”, such as deeds, guardianship, and probate records, to break through brick walls that have stood for decades. We also explore the sensitive nature of biological family research for adoptees and how new AI search tools are revolutionizing access to court records. (25 minutes)
Episode 71 – Kim Jurkovic, 27 April 2026
In this episode, we sit down with Kim Jurkovic, the curator of the Tuscarawas County Historical Society and a 7th generation countian whose local roots stretch back to the 1830s. We explore the wealth of resources available at the Tusc Kent Archive Room, located in Founders Hall on the Kent State University Tuscarawas campus, which serves as a vital hub for regional genealogy and history. (20 minutes)
Episode 70 – Pamela Ellis, 13 April 2026
In this episode, we sit down with genealogist Pamela Ellis to explore the challenges every family historian faces—those frustrating “brick walls” where progress seems to stop. Drawing from her new book, The Brick Wall – Breaking Genealogy Barriers with AI, Pamela shares practical strategies for rethinking research problems, uncovering overlooked sources, and approaching genealogy with a more analytical mindset. We also discuss how emerging AI tools can support (not replace) traditional research methods, helping genealogists break through barriers and make meaningful discoveries. (23 minutes)
Episode 69 – Michael Strauss, 30 March 2026
In this episode we sit down with Michael L. Strauss, a military historian and professional genealogist whose work spans archives, academia, and the courtroom. A featured speaker at the 2026 Ohio Genealogical Society Conference, Michael shares insights from his upcoming sessions, including research on non-combatants in military history, the American Protective League, U.S. Patent Office records, West Virginia genealogy, the Mexican-American War, and Justice of the Peace records. Discover how these often-overlooked sources can reveal powerful new details about your ancestors and expand your research beyond the basics. (24 minutes)
Episode 68 – Maureen Brady, 16 March 2026
In this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast we welcome Maureen Brady, a veteran genealogist with more than thirty years of research experience, to preview her sessions for the 2026 Ohio Genealogical Society Conference. Maureen shares insights on the Scots-Irish as America’s first frontiersmen, tracing the British diaspora, researching in Southern Illinois, and strengthening your ability to analyze evidence. (23 minutes)
Episode 67 – Robert Cameron Weir, 2 March 2026
On this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast we speak with genealogist and educator Robert Cameron Weir. He joins us to explore strategies for solving tough research problems—from probate records and colonial New England sources to DNA shared matches and emerging tools like AI and ChatGPT. A specialist in New Hampshire and Massachusetts research, Robert previews his sessions for the 2026 Ohio Genealogical Society Conference and shares practical insights genealogists can use at every experience level. (25 minutes)
Episode 66 – Dale R. Spaulding, 16 February 2026
On the latest episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast we talk with author Dale R. Spaulding about Curious Cathy’s Quirky Questions and its companion My Family History Journal. He shares how a simple conversation between a curious child and her grandfather can spark a lifelong interest in family history, especially for kids and homeschool families. We explore why storytelling is such a powerful gateway to genealogy, how to engage younger generations in meaningful ways, and how families can begin preserving their stories together one question at a time. (23 minutes)
Episode 65 – Kate Penney Howard, 2 February 2026
In this OGS Ohio Roots episode, we preview the 2026 Ohio Genealogical Society Conference with guest Kate Penney Howard. Kate discusses her upcoming sessions on using DNA to solve maternal surname mysteries, uncover lost GI fathers, investigate a fascinating con-man case, explore forgotten Midwestern settlements, and trace orphan train stories. It’s a conversation about discovery, problem-solving, and the powerful stories hiding in the records—and in our DNA. (25 minutes)
Episode 64 – Glenn Duncan and Tawney Beans, 19 January 2026
On this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast we speak with Akron Beacon reporter Tawney Beans and the subject of her recent article Glenn Duncan. When a routine DNA test revealed unfamiliar relatives, Glenn Duncan began unraveling a family secret hidden since the 1950s. We discuss how forged records, quiet agreements between friends, and modern genetic genealogy revealed that Glenn’s childhood playmates were actually his half siblings—and how, decades later, the truth reshaped his understanding of family. (30 minutes)
Episode 63 – Richard Schneider, 5 January 2026
In this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast, we speak with Richard Schneider, FamilySearch Coordinator at the John Parker Library at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati. Richard discusses the unique challenges of African American genealogy and the creative strategies genealogists use when traditional records fall silent. It’s a conversation about history, resilience, and why uncovering these stories still matters today. (24 minutes)
Episode 62 – Stephen Headley, 22 December 2025
In this episode, we chat with Stephen Headley, Reference Librarian in the Genealogy and Local History Department at the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library, to explore the depth and diversity of the library’s research collections. From genealogy and house histories, African American history, and rare special collections, Stephen shares how these resources help researchers uncover personal stories and better understand Cincinnati’s past. (27 minutes)
Episode 61 – John Thompson, 8 December 2025
On the this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots Podcast, we’re joined by John Thompson of the Fort Meigs Historic Site, one of Ohio’s most significant War of 1812 landmarks. We talk with him about the fort’s history, its ongoing educational mission, and what visitors can expect when they explore this remarkable piece of Ohio’s heritage. (26 minutes)
Episode 60 – Deb Deal & the 2026 OGS Conference, 24 November 2025
Join us on this episode of the Ohio Roots podcast for a conversation with Deb Deal of the 2026 OGS Conference Committee. We discuss the 2026 OGS Conference and what attendees can expect as they are “finding genealogy gems” at the 2026 Conference in Sharonville, Ohio. (14 minutes)
Episode 59 – Lorinda LeClain, 10 November 2025
Join us on this episode of the Ohio Roots podcast for a conversation with Lorinda LeClain, local historian and author of Hidden History of Athens, Ohio. Lorinda uncovers the little-known stories that shaped Athens County—from coal miners and early settlers to freedom seekers on the Underground Railroad. Discover how genealogy and local history intertwine to reveal the people and events that built this unique corner of Ohio. (22 minutes)
Episode 58 – Sally Hobert Whiting, 27 October 2025
In this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast, we talk with Sally Hobert Whiting, educator, publishing professional, and genealogist, about her journey uncovering her family’s Pilgrim roots. Sally shares the inspiration behind her historical novel, Filled with Fortitude: Pilgrim Elizabeth Tilley, which tells the story of her 13-year-old ancestor who sailed on the Mayflower. Join us as we explore her passion for genealogy, the challenges of bringing history to life through fiction, and the timeless lessons of courage and perseverance that connect us to our past. (28 minutes)
Episode 57 – Kenneth R. Marks, 13 October 2025
On this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast where we speak with Kenneth R. Marks of The Ancestor Hunt website. Kenneth shares his personal story along with the development and production of the Ancestor Hunt website, the site’s Newspaper Research Academy, and much more. (28 minutes)
Episode 56 – Willis Smiley, 29 September 2025
In this episode, we talk with author and genealogist Willis Smiley about his new Substack novel, God-Haunted: The Possible Story of Thomas Ewart. Blending meticulous genealogical research with imaginative storytelling, Willis brings to life the mysterious 1879–1880 arson attacks on his 5x great-grandfather’s Marietta, Ohio home. We explore the role of the temperance movement, the challenges of weaving fact and fiction, and how family history can inspire powerful narratives. (31 minutes)
Episode 55 – Christine Bowman, 15 September 2025
The latest episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast is an interview with Christine Bowman, Local History & Genealogy Specialist at the Massillon Public Library in Massillon, Ohio. Christine shares with us her background, the Massillon Library’s many family history resources and programs, and much more. (27 minutes)
Episode 54 – Katharine O’Connell, 1 September 2025
We speak with forensic genealogist Katharine O’Connell of North Coast Genealogy about the nature of her work as a forensic genealogist, what it means to conduct forensic genealogy, and some of the challenges inherent in it. (27 minutes)
Episode 53 – Angela O’Neal, 18 August 2025
On this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast we speak with Angela O’Neal, the Manager of Local History & Genealogy at Columbus Metropolitan Library‘s Main Library. Angela discusses the resources available to genealogists and family historians, how to access those resources, and much more. (18 minutes)
Episode 52 – Jeff Mathew, 4 August 2025
For this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast we talked to Jeff Mathew of the Adelphi Community Band from Ross County, Ohio about their 140 year history, their efforts to preserve and share the band’s history, and what the band is up to today. ( 22 minutes)
Episode 51 – Paul Zuros, 21 July 2025
We speak with Paul Zuros, Director of the Fort Steuben Museum in Steubenville, Ohio on the latest episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast about the history of the fort, its impact on early settlement in Ohio, and the important role of the land office located in Steubenville. (31 minutes)
Episode 50 – Our 50th Episode with Drew Smith, 7 July 2025
It’s our 50th episode of the Ohio Roots Podcast! We celebrate by speaking with Drew Smith—genealogist, librarian, author, and co-host of The Genealogy Guys Podcast—to explore his lifelong passion for family history and the intersection of genealogy and technology. Drew shares stories from his early days in online genealogy forums, insights from his books, and advice for researchers at all levels. (39 minutes)
Episode 49 – Dante Weisend, 23 June 2025
On this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast we speak with Dante Weisend, Site Manager of Fort Laurens. Dante shares the history of Ohio’s only Revolutionary War fort, the upcoming archaeological excavations, and their acquisition of the Patricia Hinkle Shemanski Fort Laurens Research Collection. The collection documents all of the men who served at Fort Laurens. (22 minutes)
Episode 48 – Steve Lake, 9 June 2025
On this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast we speak with Steve Lake about how his interest in the 1782 massacre at Gnadenhutten, Ohio was sparked while researching his own ancestor’s involvement. It led to the creation of Wikitree project to document the men who took part in the massacre. We discuss the project, its status, and the what it means to those with ancestors who may have been involved. (27 minutes)
Episode 47 – Brian Rhinehart, 26 May 2025
We spoke to Brian Rhinehart of CivilWarRecords.com while attending the 2025 OGS Conference and he shared with us how he got his start in genealogy, the interesting things he discovers in the course of his research, and how he helps people learn more about their American Civil War ancestors. (22 minutes)
Episode 46 – Jen Narramore, 12 May 2025
Join us for this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast as we speak with Jen Narramore, meteorologist and host of the podcast Tornado Talk, about the Virtual Tornado Memorial Project and how your family’s history could aid them in documenting historical tornados and their impacts. You can learn more about the project at www.tornadotalk.com/virtual-tornado-memorial-project (23 minutes)
Episode 45 – Maureen Brady and Michael John Neill, 28 April 2025
It’s OGS Conference week as a treat we have a special DOUBLE episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast! Join us as we discuss genealogy and the conference with presenters Maureen Brady and Michael John Neill. Discover their starts in genealogy and what they have planned for us at the conference. (40 Minutes)
Episode 44 – Aimee Rose-Haynes, 14 April 2025
We speak with Aimee Rose-Haynes, genealogist and citizen of the Cherokee Nation, about her start in genealogy, DNA analysis, and what she will present at the 2025 OGS Conference this year. You can learn more about Aimee at aimeerosehaynes.com.
(24 minutes)
Episode 43 – Daniel Horowitz – 31 March 2025
You don’t want to miss this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast! We speak with Daniel Horowitz of MyHeritage about what inspired his interest in genealogy and what he has planned for us at the upcoming 2025 OGS Conference. (27 minutes)
Episode 42 – Michael Strauss – 17 March 2025
Join us as we speak with genealogist and military historian Michael Strauss on the latest episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast. Michael shares with us what he has planned for his presentations at the 2025 OGS Conference and much more. (27 minutes)
Episode 41 – Denyse Allen – 3 March 2025
Join us for a discussion with 2025 OGS Conference presenter and genealogist Denyse Allen. Denise shares with us how she got her start in genealogy, previews her presentations for the conference and much more! Visit Denyse’s website at www.paancestors.com to learn more. (27 minutes)
Episode 40 – Kate Penney Howard, 17 February 2025
Continuing our discussions with 2025 OGS Conference presenters this week with a conversation with genealogist Kate Penney Howard. We discuss her own start in genealogy and what she’ll be presenting at the conference. (23 minutes)
Episode 39 – Judy G. Russell, 3 February 2025
Judy G. Russell (The Legal Genealogist) is the keynote speaker for the 2025 OGS Conference and, on this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast, we speak to her about her start in genealogy, the subject of her keynote speech “After the Courthouse Burns: Rekindling Family History through DNA”, and much more. (22 minutes)
Episode 38 – Kelli Jo Bergheimer, 20 January 2025
Our preview of the 2025 OGS Conference continues on the OGS Ohio Roots podcast. This episode we hear from presenter Kelli Jo Bergheimer about how her interest in genealogy began and the presentations she will be giving at this year’s conference. (23 minutes)
Episode 37 – Jim Beidler, 6 January 2025
Over the next several episodes of the Ohio Roots podcast we preview the 2025 OGS Conference with conversations with this year’s speakers. First up in this series of episodes is our Jim Beidler, a longtime attendee and presenter, about what he has planned for the 2025 conference. (26 minutes)
Episode 36 – Krista Horrocks, 23 December 2024
On this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast we speak with the Ohio History Connection’s Cemetery Preservationist Krista Horrocks about the importance of cemeteries in genealogical research, their care and support, and more. (33 minutes)
Episode 35 – The Ohio Genealogical Society with Lili McCutchan, 9 December 2024
For this episode of the Ohio Roots Podcast we spoke with Lili McCutchan of the Ohio Genealogical Society. Lili is the Vice President of Development for the OGS Board of Trustees and Chairperson of the OGS Technology Committee. We talked about the Ohio Genealogical Society, what we do, where we’re headed, what we need to be successful, and more. (30 minutes)
Episode 34 – The 2025 OGS Conference Preview, 25 November 2024
We speak with the co-chairs of the 2025 OGS Conference, Cheryl Abernathy and Becky Plank, about the theme of the 2025 conference, what speakers and programs attendees can expect, and information on how to register. Don’t miss this if you are planning to attend next year’s OGS Conference. (17 minutes)
Episode 33 – The Ohio Local History Alliance, 11 November 2024
We speak with Betsy Hedler, Executive Secretary of the Ohio Local History Alliance (OLHA), about the history of the OLHA, how it promotes local history throughout the state of Ohio, the programs and benefits it offers its members, and how your organization can join hundreds of others with similar missions. You can learn more about the OLHA at their website: https://ohiolha.org/ (28 minutes)
Episode 32 – Historic Zoar Village, 28 October 2024
This episode of the Ohio Roots podcast we speak with Tammi Shrum, Historic Sites Director for Historic Zoar Village and Fort Laurens Museum, about Historic Zoar Village. Tammi shares the history of the site, the museum’s history and programs, how genealogy is an important part of that history, and the genealogical resources available there. (20 minutes)
Episode 31 – Fort Recovery Museum, 14 October 2024
This episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast we speak with Kim Rammel, Site Manager of the Fort Recovery Museum and Christine Thompson an Archaeologist with Ball State University about the history of Fort Recovery, St. Clair’s Defeat, recent discoveries, and their positive efforts working with Ohio’s indigenous peoples. Hard work well done and worth a listen. (29 minutes)
Episode 30 – Q&A with OGS Archivist Jenna Kish, 30 September 2024
On this special episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast, we present audio from a recent Q&A webinar with OGS Archivist Jenna Kish. She discusses the OGS archives and answers questions from webinar participants. (40 minutes)
Episode 29 – Curt Witcher, 16 September 2024
On this episode of the Ohio Roots podcast when we speak with Curt Witcher, the Manager of The Genealogy Center at the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana. We discuss the library’s history and program offerings as well as their approach to assisting patron with their personal family history efforts. You won’t want to miss this one!
Episode 28 – Carol Swinehart, 2 September 2024
This episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast we speak with Carol Swinehart of the Ohio Chapter of Palatines to America – German Genealogy Society and learn about Carol’s start in genealogy, the group’s history, efforts, programs and more. (26 minutes)
Episode 27 – Allison Barnhart, 19 August 2024
Celebrate the Ohio Roots podcast’s 1st Birthday by listening to our latest episode with author and family historian Allison Barnhart! She discusses her new book “The Record Keeper: The Unfolding of a Family Secret in the Age of Genetic Genealogy” and how it has impacted her understanding of her own family history. (29 minutes)
Episode 26 – Shenley Puterbaugh, 5 August 2024
This episode of the Ohio Roots podcast we speak with Shenley Puterbaugh of inspirefamilyhistory.com about how she became inspired to pursue family history and genealogy and techniques for how she inspires others to do the same. (28 minutes)
Episode 25 – Sunda Peters, 22 July 2024
Longtime OGS member and supporter Sunda Peters joins us on this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast to discuss her decades-long history with the OGS, how she has supported and aided the OGS over the years, and why joining the OGS is important for anyone exploring their Ohio roots. (25 minutes)
Episode 24 – Marleen Applegate, 8 July 2024
The 2024 OGS Fall Retreat is coming up! On this episode of the Ohio Roots podcast we speak with OGS Conference Coordinator Marleen Applegate about what to expect at 2024’s OGS Fall Retreat being held in Dublin, Ohio in September. For more information and to register click here. (18 minutes)
Episode 23 – Kevin Borland, 24 June 2024
Join us on the latest episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast as we discuss with Kevin Borland of Borland Genetics how they go about recreating the DNA of ancestors and how that information can be used to aid in genealogical research. It’s a fascinating topic! (28 minutes)
Episode 22 – Timothy G. Anderson, 10 June 2024
This episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcasts features Dr. Timothy G. Anderson, a historical geographer with research interests in the historical settlement geography of Ohio during the early National period and a long-standing interest in the cultural landscapes associated with Germanic Diasporas. He is the co-editor of Settling Ohio: First Peoples and Beyond. (37 minutes)
Episode 21 – Bonnie Wade-Mucia, 27 May 2024
This episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast Executive Director and host Noel Poirier speaks with Bonnie Wade-Mucia, Director of the Mayflower Families Silver Books Project at the General Society of Mayflower Descendants (GSMD). (22 minutes)
Episode 20 – Jay Stoneman, 13 May 2024
Jay Stoneman is the twenty-something President of the Carroll County Chapter of OGS and in this episode we discuss how he became interested in genealogy, the activities of the Carroll County Chapter, reaching out to younger audiences, mentoring, and more. (25 minutes)
Episode 19 – Marge Stefanski, 29 April 2024
We speak with Marge Stefanski of the Toledo Polish Genealogical Society (TPGS) on the this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast. We discuss the Polish history and neighborhoods of Toledo, the activities of the TPGS, and researching Polish ancestors. (23 minutes)
Episode 18 – Kristin Wenger, 15 April 2024
This episode OGS Executive Director Noel Poirier speaks with LegacyTree genealogist Kristin Wenger about the unique challenges and opportunities presented in researching Ohio Moravian ancestors and Moravian ancestry in general. (23 minutes)
Episode 17 – Erin Harris, 1 April 2024
Ohio Roots speaks with Erin Harris, webmaster for the Montgomery County Chapter of OGS, in our latest episode. We discuss how the chapter has embraced technology, the importance of a website, Erin’s own genealogical explorations, and much more! (29 minutes)
Episode 16 – Steve Little, 18 March 2024
Join us for the latest episode of the Ohio Roots podcast where we speak with the National Genealogy Society’s AI Program Director, Steve Little. Steve discusses the use of artificial intelligence in conducting genealogical research and where that technology is taking genealogy in the future. You don’t want to miss this discussion! (28 minutes)
Episode 15 – Lochlyn Ramsey, 4 March 2024
OGS Executive Director speaks with Lochlyn Ramsey, a young man who took it upon himself to transcribe the memoir of an early 20th century resident of Huron County. (20 minutes)
Episode 14 – Garry Knight, 19 February 2024
OGS Executive Director Noel Poirier speaks with Garry Night, President of the Montgomery County Chapter of OGS about the chapter’s history, programs, and his own genealogical explorations. (32 minutes)
Episode 13 – Billie Stone Fogarty, 5 February 2024
OGS Executive Director Noel Poirier speaks with noted genealogist Billie Stone Fogarty of HeritageTrackers, LLC about conducting Indigenous Peoples’ genealogical research and the challenges of undertaking such research. She provides tips on how to get started and where to look. (36 minutes)
Episode 12 – James Beidler, 22 January 2024
James Beidler joins the Ohio Roots podcast to discuss the Genealogical Society of Pennsylvania with OGS Executive Director Noel Poirier in the newest episode. James is currently serving as the GSP’s Interim Executive Director. Visit genpa.org for more information on the Genealogical Society of Pennsylvania. (27 minutes)
Episode 11 – OGS Archivist Jenna Kish, 8 January 2024
The OGS’s Archivist Jenna Kish speaks with Ohio Roots about her role preserving and making accessible the important archival collections of the Ohio Genealogical Society held in the Lyle H. West Archives at the OGS Samuel D. Isaly Library in Bellville, Ohio. She also discusses how to prepare a collection for donation to the OGS (or anywhere) and what happens to those collections when they arrive. (33 minutes)
Episode 10 – Thomas Cirincione, 26 December 2023
Our guest on this episode of the OGS Ohio Roots podcast is Thomas Cirincione, President of the Cleveland Italian Ancestry Organization (CIAO). We discuss CIAO, its activities and programs, researching Ohio’s Italian immigrant community, and more. You can learn more about CIAO at their website (ciaocle.com) and you can also find them on Facebook (www.facebook.com/ClevelandItalianAncestryOrganization). (28 minutes)
Episode 9 – Todd Kleismit, 11 December 2023
OGS Executive Director Noel Poirier speaks with Todd Kleismit, Executive Director of the America-250 Ohio initiative. America 250-Ohio is a multi-year commemoration where Ohioans from all 88 counties will be in the spotlight of the impact Ohio’s unique role in our nation’s story. Todd explains the effort, what is planned, and how organizations can become involved. For more information visit: https://america250-ohio.org/ (31 minutes)
Episode 8 – Deb Deal and the 2024 OGS Conference, 22 November 2023
In this special bonus episode of the Ohio Roots podcast Executive Director Noel Poirier speaks with Deb Deal, Co-Chair of the 2024 OGS Conference, about what is planned for the 2024 OGS Conference in April 2024 at the Kalahari Resort and Convention Center in Sandusky, Ohio. (20 minutes)
Episode 7 – LaJoy Mosby, 13 November 2023
This episode OGS Executive Director Noel Poirier speaks with LaJoy Mosby, President of the Afro-American Historical & Genealogical Society about the society and its activities and the challenges of researching African-American ancestors. You can learn more about the Afro-American Historical & Genealogical Society at their website: www.aahgs.org (30 minutes)
Episode 6 – Tammy Sloan Pelton, 30 October 2023
Our guest on this episode is Tammy Sloan Pelton, the President of the Ashland County Chapter, OGS. She speaks with OGS Executive Director Noel Poirier about the chapter’s history, its efforts to engage with new members and the community, and her own genealogical experiences and accomplishments. You can learn more about the Ashland County Chapter, OGS by visiting their website at www.ashlandccogs.org. (29 minutes)
Episode 5 – Karynne Moses, 16 October 2023
This episode OGS Executive Director Noel Poirier speaks with genealogist Karynne Moses of Moses Genealogy Research and Translation. Karynne’s research focuses on German and Portuguese genealogy and she offers tips and information on how she goes about her research and the challenges it presents. Karynne can be found at mosesgen.com. (26 minutes)
Episode 4 – Austin Reid, 2 October 2023
OGS Executive Director Noel Poirier speaks with Austin Reid. Mr. Reid, a native of Lancaster, Ohio has been exploring the stories of Ohio’s smaller and vanished Jewish communities since 2017. His research has been featured in several media outlets including The Canton Repository, Columbus Jewish News, Richland Source, Steubenville Herald-Star, Zanesville Times Recorder, and WOSU. (27 minutes)
Episode 3 – Linda Swanson, 18 September 2023
This episode OGS Executive Director Noel Poirier speaks with the OGS Librarian Linda Swanson. Linda began with OGS as its Digital Librarian in September 2019. Today she manages the library’s print collections, supervises the archive collections, directs the library’s digital projects, oversees the computers and technology, and more! Her undergraduate work was done at Denison University in Granville (majors in English literature and music) and her Master’s in Library and Information Science was secured from Kent State University. She has also worked at the Newberry Library in Chicago and the Ashland University Library. (33 minutes)
Episode 2 – Peggy Lauritzen, 4 September 2023
OGS Executive Director Noel Poirier speaks with Peggy Clemens Lauritzen, AG, FOGS in this episode. Peggy serves as a Family History Director, and is a frequent conference speaker. She is the author of several Legacy QuickGuides on Appalachia, she is also an instructor at Ancestry Academy, Family Tree University, and a columnist for Reminisce magazine. Peggy was recently named a Fellow of the Ohio Genealogical Society. (24 minutes)
Episode 1 – Sunny Morton, 21 August 2023
Join OGS Executive Director Noel Poirier as he speaks with noted genealogists and speaker Sunny Jane Morton. Sunny is known to Ohio audiences as the past Editor of Ohio Genealogy News, which she did for 10 years. She’s also a longtime Contributing Editor at Family Tree Magazine and the Content Manager over at Diahan Southard’s Your DNA Guide website. She is co-author of How to Find Your Family History in U.S. Church Records, available at Genealogical.com or on Amazon and taught recently at the Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh in July 2024 on the topic of U.S. church records. (32 minutes)
Questions or suggestions about future guests? Email us at [email protected]