Ep 58: When people start researching their family tree, one of the first questions I hear is: Should I use FamilySearch or Ancestry?

In this episode, I’m walking you through the real differences between these two platforms, how each one works, and why I personally use both in my own research.

I recorded this episode because I see so much confusion — and honestly, a lot of frustration — when people are just getting started. I want you to understand how online family trees actually work, why hints aren’t proof, where records really live, and how to research in a way that’s accurate, meaningful, and respectful to your ancestors.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, unsure, or worried you’re “doing it wrong,” this episode is for you.

In This Episode, I Talk About:

• The differences between FamilySearch and Ancestry (and why neither is “better”)

• Collaborative vs. private family trees — and the pros and cons of each

• Why hints can’t be trusted without verification

• How misinformation spreads in online family trees

• Where genealogical records are actually kept

• A simple, focused way to research one ancestor at a time

Want Support as You Research?

Know Your Family Tree

If you want to learn how to build your family tree from the ground up, this course walks you step by step through the research process — where to look, how to evaluate records, and how to build a tree you can trust.

Use code SAVE100 to get $100 off

Know Your Ancestor

This course is for when you’re ready to go deeper. We move beyond names and dates into your ancestor’s lived experience — what shaped them, what they carried, and how their story still lives in you. It also includes a research library to help you find meaningful records along the way.

Use code SAVE100 to get $100 off

✨ Origin Initiation (The Starting Point for Working With Me 1:1)

Origin Initiation is the starting point for all of my one-on-one clients. This is where we begin if you want me to work directly with you on your family tree.

In this session, I research your lineage, help verify key connections, and give you clarity on what’s already there — and what’s possible to uncover next. It’s designed to help you get grounded, oriented, and confident in your family tree before going deeper.

Some people use Origin Initiation as a powerful stand-alone experience. Others continue on into deeper research and storytelling work with me afterward. Either way, this is where we start.

Link: https://knowyourancestors.co/origin

A few spots are still available at the current price before it increases.

Let’s Stay Connected

If you have questions, episode ideas, or topics you’d love me to cover, come find me on social media — I’d love to hear from you.

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