Bloodlines and Bylines: The Power of Genetic Genealogy

Flower in the River: A Family Tale Finally Told

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Today’s episode is a special one, dedicated in memory of my cousin "George," (not his real name) and intertwined with an exploration of genetic genealogy.

Episode Highlights

• A Tribute to "George" Sharing the story of my cousin George, set against the backdrop of the 1930s in a coal mining town in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. His life story reflects the resilience and challenges of our family during those tough times.
• Genetic Genealogy Deep Dive: Recounting my journey into the world of genetic genealogy, beginning with my first DNA test in 2016, which unveiled a host of unknown relatives and led to surprising discoveries about our lineage.
• Mystery solved. Questions remain: Identifying George’s biological father.
• The Power and Responsibility of Genealogy: Exploring one's heritage carries both profound insights and inherent responsibilities.

Key Insights:

• Resilience in Adversity: My family's strength and defiance during the Great Depression, despite severe societal judgments and personal losses, highlight a persistent theme of tenacity in our history
• The Science of Connection: Genetic genealogy not only connects us with our past but, in my case, rekindled a love for science.
• Emotional Journeys: Uncovering one’s ancestry--anyone's ancestry-- is an emotional odyssey, often leading to transformative revelations that reshape personal identities. Yet, sometimes it yields more questions than answers.

Further reading:

• The Lost Family: How DNA Testing Is Upending Who We Are by Libby Copeland
• The Stranger in My Genes: A Memoir by Bill Griffeth

• Book website: https://www.flowerintheriver.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-z-87092b15/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zettnatalie/
• YouTube: Flower in the River - A Family Tale Finally Told - YouTube
• Medium: Natalie Zett – Medium
• The opening/closing song is Twilight by 8opus