This week we conduct a scientific* test in to whether doing family history make you feel that little bit more happy… Did Nate do any of his family history homework? Tune in to find out. Plus, we have a Q&A on war medals

* the test was not really scientific, but we feel as though we have a clear answer.

** in the recording at one point Helen rants about science. Take her with a pinch of salt. She is neither a scientist nor a DNA expert. She has a little knowledge… and we all know what that means…

Family Tree Designer Nathan Ward and Editor Helen Tovey shoot the breeze as Nathan embarks on his family history journey…

After a long 20 minutes Nathan had summoned up enough spit, spat in the tube, sealed the kit, and popped it in the post. But, how was he getting on with the rest of his family history investigations? Turns out it can be hard to know where to start, especially if you feel like you’re going round in circles! Plus a Q&A on birth times

Nathan and Helen take stock of their family history progress over the past week. Nate’s feeling a tad overwhelmed at the sheer number of family history things to do. Helen gets bossy and orders him to make a family history plan – right there and then. Research logs, Using tags in Ancestry, AI photos, a bit of history - it's all here!

What’s next for Nathan, who has built his tree back to his 2x great-grandparents in just a week? What’s next for Helen who is in the process of lopping an erroneous branch of her tree, which has been happily attached since 2016? And, question of the week: ‘What’s a good methodology for researching back 7 generations?’

With a shiny new year of genealogy opportunities ahead of them, Nathan’s got his DNA test results back and is mulling over what they mean, and Helen’s recommending that he gets down to his traditional research and investigate the 1921 Census – now new on Ancestry – for clues about his family a century ago

Nathan’s tracked down his great-granny’s marriage record (despite some sketchy information from Helen) – but he’s wondering is it worth paying for? What will he gain?

This week Nathan and Helen ramble down research paths, discussing the value of family history research logs, pondering on whether to pay or not to pay, and reflect on the ideal ways to pass the family history baton on

DN-who-cares … Forget DNA for the moment. Nathan is now obsessed with tracing his ancestors using old-school documents to build his family tree. Showing off his ace family history organisational skills – we take a tour (in our mind’s eye) of his worksheets and research log. Podcast with Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward.

Helen puts on her super sleuth hat and tries to help a listener solve a family history mystery, giving plenty of top research tips along the way. Meanwhile, Nathan sulks about his DNA test results

Yes it’s painstakingly slow, precise, particular – but that’s also the joy of genealogy research. Immersing yourself in a family history search. Join Helen & Nate for a real-time genealogy session as they go on the hunt for Auntie Mildred

Along the way find tips to help you take control of your search and do your genealogy smarter

Helen & Nate are joined this week by professional genealogist Jude Rhodes. She’s here to share a different perspective to help Nate on his family history journey. Plus Nate hits on an idea to combine two of his favourite past-times – running and genealogy…

In this week’s Family Tree Talk, Nathan Ward, aka the Running Genealogist, and designer of Family Tree, shares his new-found love of getting away from the screen to do some family history on foot. There really is nothing like visiting places related to your family history. In conversation with Helen Tovey, editor of Family Tree.

It can be… as Duncan discovers. This week on Family Tree Talk, editor Helen Tovey speaks with an old friend, Duncan Vessey, about his recent experiences as a newbie embarking on his family history journey. ‘Expected the unexpected’ are wise words of warning for the uninitiated, as he would learn all too quickly - finding answers to mysteries in recent generations can be challenging, sometimes even traumatic.

Family Tree team members Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward chat family history – including the particular challenges of how to trace our female family members, and solutions to help us do it! (Plus Nathan also muses: can he blame his love of chocolate on a DNA trait)?

Follow our quick guide to some of the key family tree tools on Ancestry, with Family Tree editor, Helen Tovey. Plus Family Tree designer Nathan Ward shares his research experiences of reading WW1 unit war diaries (it’s emotional). And a quick peek at Mitotree – the DNA tree that tells the shared story of our motherlines, going back 100,000 years!

Helen Tovey, editor of Family Tree, and Nathan Ward, designer (aka the Running Genealogist) chat family history, speaking of their recent discoveries including a First World War solider and the records that can help to trace the war years of a WW1 British soldier.

How do you go about getting better at family history? Family Tree editor Helen Tovey and designer Nate Ward discuss ways to level up those genealogy skills! From taking a course to taking the time to slow down, there are numerous ways to improve your genealogy research skills. Tune in to find out more.

Family history brickwalls can occur at any stage of the genealogy journey – whether you’re a few steps in, or have been researching for decades. In this episode tree-tracing rookie Nathan Ward chats about his sticking points and brainstorms with Helen Tovey ways to get unstuck! There are always solutions to try… check them out!

You take a DNA test – that’s the easy part! But what happens next? In this week’s Family Tree Talk editor of Family Tree, Helen Tovey, and designer Nate Ward catch up with DNA advisor Karen Evans. She’ll be sharing top tips on how to begin exploring your DNA test results. What to do… what to not do… and how to get it right! She’ll be covering what ethnicity estimates mean. Taking you on a tour of your DNA match list to spot the key elements. And explaining how your family tree research can help to make sense of your DNA.

Digging into their family stories, Nathan Ward, Designer of Family Tree, and Helen Tovey, Editor, chat about their recent research endeavours – piecing together tales of multiple marriages, VE Day experiences and more. Plus learn how to merge duplicate ancestors on your Ancestry tree (you never know when you may need this tip!).

Tune in for tips to keep calm, step back, and enjoy your genealogy. (Usually) family history really doesn’t need to be a race, but is instead something that is best savoured slowly! Nathan Ward, Designer of Family Tree, and Helen Tovey, Editor, chat about their research endeavours and ponder this and that about genealogy.

“Keep up the good work and keep making me smile over the ironing board!” – says a Family Tree Talk fan.

“That’s our pleasure” – say Nathan and Helen. “We’re always happy to chat family history.”

If you have a topic you’d like to hear aired on the Family Tree Talk podcast, or a question you’d like to ask, just email us at editorial@family-tree.co.uk

(PS And about that cracking family history membership we mention in the pod – find out about it here: https://www.family-tree.co.uk/membership)

In this episode, Nathan shares surprising new leads uncovered in ancestor death certificates, while Helen delves into a WWII squadron diary from The National Archives that reveals dramatic details about her grandfather being shot down. Plus, the duo explores how AI could assist Nathan in taking his family history research to the next level. Tune in for real discoveries, research tips, and a look at the future of genealogy.

In this episode of Family Tree Talk, Helen Tovey catches up with newbie-ish family historian Nathan Ward to see how he’s getting on with his research—and it turns out, he’s made amazing progress! From uncovering historic documents to following online hints, Nate shares the highs and lows of his family history journey. Helen offers advice on using hints wisely and avoiding common pitfalls. Together, they explore how to research thoroughly, the thrill of unexpected discoveries, and the irresistible pull of those family history rabbit holes.

In this episode of Family Tree Talk, hosts Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward are joined by passionate family historian Karen Evans, who shares her expert advice on getting the most out of the Ancestry website. From clever search strategies to solving tricky tree problems, Karen offers practical tips and insider tricks to help you research smarter and break down those brick walls. It’s a must-listen for anyone using Ancestry—or thinking about it! Karen also tells us about her new online course, How to use Ancestry (better), designed to help you take your research to the next level.

In this latest episode of Family Tree Talk, hosts Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward are joined by a special guest — their boss, Matt Hill! Together, they share their strangest family history discoveries, the heirlooms they treasure most, and which ancestor they'd invite to dinner. From tracing long-lost relatives in America to tales of 1800s travel adventures, this episode is packed with fascinating stories and genealogy inspiration. Whether you're new to family history or a seasoned researcher, you’ll love this mix of expert insight and personal reflection. Tune in for fun, facts and a few surprises along the way!

In this episode of Family Tree Talk, Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward get stuck into some real family history discoveries and practical tips. Helen shares how Ancestry Hints helped her trace her grandpa’s cousin’s dad—and why she’s a total convert to Hints! Meanwhile, Nathan digs into an intriguing email from listener Marilyn, who suspects a shared connection with him. Could they be related? Plus, your hosts explain how to set up a second family tree on Ancestry, how to make your tree public or private, and how to change the home person in your tree settings. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned family historian, there's something here to help you get more from your research.

In this episode of Family Tree Talk, hosts Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward chat to DNA Detective Michelle Leonard about how to use DNA results to break through your toughest family history brickwalls. Michelle shares practical advice on how to get started with DNA research and explains how her in-depth DNA Bootcamp course can help you make sense of your Ancestry DNA matches — no matter your experience level. Want to learn more? Check out her upcoming course here: bit.ly/4bFZOzA and browse more expert-led sessions at family-tree.co.uk/how-to-guides/webinars.

In this episode of Family Tree Talk, hosts Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward delve into Nathan’s latest genealogy discoveries — from a potential First World War soldier to a nun and an RAF airman (or maybe even a pilot!). As Nathan tries to piece together these intriguing lives, he turns to Helen for advice on how to be sure he's got the right people in his tree. Tune in for practical tips, expert insights, and a peek behind the scenes of real-life research as our hosts explore the highs and head-scratchers of tracing your family history.

Feeling stuck in your family history research – or simply drowning in a sea of notes and records? In this episode of Family Tree Talk, host Helen Tovey is joined by professional genealogist and educator Dr Sophie Kay to explore how a clear research methodology can transform the way you work. Discover how research logs, well-framed questions, and practical research plans can bring structure, clarity and results to your genealogy. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned sleuth, Sophie’s expert insights will help you avoid common pitfalls, break through brick walls, and make your family history research more rewarding than ever.

In this episode of Family Tree Talk, hosts Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward catch up on their latest family history finds. Helen shares a brilliant new way she’s discovered to encourage relatives to record their memories — perfect for preserving living history. Meanwhile, Nate’s deep in decision-making mode, wondering which historical document to focus on next and which tempting research rabbit hole to follow. Join the conversation for relatable stories, practical tips, and a warm slice of real-life family history fun.

In this episode of Family Tree Talk, hosts Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward speak to Dr Mike Esbester, head of the Railway Work, Life & Death Project, to uncover the rich history of railway workers in the UK. Marking the 200th anniversary of the modern railway (Railway200), Mike explores the huge impact the railways had on our ancestors’ lives — from the jobs they did to the dangers they faced. Learn how to trace your railway-working relatives and discover how working conditions, roles, and risks have evolved over time. It's a fascinating journey into an industry that transformed Britain.

In this episode of Family Tree Talk, hosts Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward share the latest twists and turns in their family history research. This week, Nathan decided to resist the usual rabbit holes and focus on growing his tree — but puzzling records soon had him questioning what he could safely add. Meanwhile, Helen tuned into her grandmother’s fascinating WW2 memories of working for SIS (Special Intelligence Service), a reminder of the rich family stories waiting to be uncovered. Plus, Helen admits to nearly making a rookie mistake — and shares how to avoid the classic ‘leap before you look’ research trap.

In this episode of Family Tree Talk, Nathan uncovers an unexpectedly large number of Dinahs and Francises in his tree — are they a coincidence, or a genealogical puzzle waiting to be solved? Meanwhile, Helen dives into two intriguing investigations: her Granny’s wartime sweetheart and a 5x great-grandfather with curious “home guard” ties in the 18th century. Remarkably, both Nathan and Helen actually stuck to their family history plans this week! Tune in to find out what they discovered — and if you're looking for a way to keep your own research on track, we've got a tool that might just help…

In this week’s episode of Family Tree Talk, one-time rookie researcher Nathan Ward, spreads his wings and explains the tactics he’s been using to smash through research road blocks left, right and centre. Helen Tovey listens in… in awe of the family history progress made. Tune in for practical tips to help overcome the sense of family history ‘overwhelm’, and make strides in your family history investigations.

In this episode of Family Tree Talk, Nathan Ward reveals a truly tangled family tree featuring multiple marriages, overlapping timelines, and a seemingly endless number of children.

· Who belongs to whom?

· & How can he tell family unit from the next?

As the puzzle unfolds, Helen Tovey offers practical tips and a calming voice of reason to help make sense of the confusion.

Whether you're new to genealogy or a seasoned researcher, you'll enjoy this lively conversation full of helpful ideas for unpicking even the knottiest branches of your family tree.

This week co-hosts Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward share their latest discoveries and family history tasks. Nathan continues to make good progress on his tree, but he’s kind of feeling he’s reached a standstill with an ancestor that he just can’t find on the 1881 Census. Might you have a handy hint to help him out? Plus Helen rolls up her sleeves and starts to add a collection of documents to her tree that have been languishing in a folder for years now. Can you relate?! Tune in for genealogy pondering and chuntering.

No genealogy nitty-gritty is too itty-bitty and small for Helen Tovey and Nathan Ward. This episode they chat about what it’s actually like doing family history. Helen shares how she’s tackling some genealogy records she’s been meaning to file for years (9 years in fact!), while Nathan wonders whether he needs to park his research on one branch and roll up his sleeves for a new family history adventure. Tune in for genealogy chit chat – we’d love you to join us.

Thank you to podcast listeners Sharyn, Jacqueline and Brian who each brilliantly stepped up to help Nathan find his Mary Ann, who was seemingly absent from the 1891 Census. Podcast co-hosts Nathan Ward and Helen Tovey explain the super-simple solution for the missing Mary Ann (it’s always simple once you know, hey!), and share the tactics they’d tried too, to no avail. Listening & learning! Tune in for genealogy chat and chunter.

Tune in for the latest episode in which Helen Tovey & Nathan Ward discuss their most recent forays in to family history. Helen is at long last dusting off her project to find out more about her Mary Ann and find the answer to the question mark over Mary Ann’s father. While Nathan asks super-useful, reflective and insightful questions to help Helen focus up, and shares an update on his own genealogy endeavours.

Farmer? Seedsman? Bridge-painter? Commercial traveller? What did your ancestor do all day? Tune in as podcast co-hosts Helen Tovey & Nathan Ward chat genealogy, and share thoughts about their ancestors’ occupations – and the clues these can reveal about lives, obstacles and opportunities in times gone by.

Tune is as podcast co-hosts Nathan Ward and Helen Tovey chunter family history, including: a small confession about some facts from last time, to make sure nobody’s led astray; a peek at their recent research endeavours; and chat about the importance of family stories. Both Nate and Helen, too, reflect anew on old family stories, and find things weren’t always – perhaps - quite as they seemed.

Podcast co-hosts Nate Ward and Helen Tovey chat family history. Nate’s been revisiting his first forays into family history research, and making sure that the research he did right at the beginning of his genealogy journey is as solid as he’d like. (And what a good idea that is too – after all, everything that comes after, is built on each of our earliest endeavours. So getting those foundations solid is an excellent plan). Helen’s been skipping a bit of home-work, but is actually writing up some of her family stories at long last.

Podcast co-hosts Nathan Ward and Helen Tovey compare notes on their family history endeavours over the past few days. Nate has been busy tracking down his direct ancestors’ siblings - to gain a timeframe for when the family was in India, and when they returned to British shores. Wrestling a little with several generations by the same name, he’s managed to do it! Helen has been mulling over the challenges of telling the stories of more recent ancestors, but has actually made a start.

Well it turns out that Nathan's many times grandpa did marry his Irish sweetheart, and her life as a soldier's wife would see her travel the globe. Nate & podcast cohost Helen Tovey go back to the beginning and see what clues can be spotted on his discharge papers (found in the extensive military collections on Findmypast) and make a plan of where to look next.

Podcast co-hosts Nathan Ward and Helen Tovey catch up about their recent research forays. Nate’s been making great progress filling in the details of his Victorian soldier in the 36th Foot... It turns out his Mum had some of the details already. But we think that one of the joys of family history is doing the detective work yourself – agree? Let’s what he’s discovered.

This week podcast co-hosts Nathan Ward and Helen Tovey chat about their recent family history research forays and reflect on those unexpected details that are there – waiting to be found in the records. From census records to the sisters of King Henry VIII - the chat is all about those tiny clues, that we, as family historians, tend to treasure.

From short walks down the lane to the neighbouring village, to brave voyages across the world, when doing family history we discover that our ancestors sometimes moved about more than we might think. What was it that made them move though? Podcast cohosts Nathan Ward and Helen Tovey chat about push-pull factors - and other family history hacks, hints and chat.

It’s a busy week in this episode of the podcast with co-hosts Nate Ward and Helen Tovey. If you only do a few things in the coming few days:

1. Order any wills you need from https://www.gov.uk/search-will-probate (£1.50 - going up to £16 on 17/11/2025).

2. Make sure you make use of the free access to online military records (eg check the major family history data websites).

3. Go download the combat reports of Czech Battle of Britain flying ace Jan Francsizek.

And yes, go on - tune in to this week’s episode of the podcast to find out more!

Nathan Ward is 99% sure that Private A Hearn, who died in 1918, is his relation. He has papers a-plenty, notes from a distant cousin, and even an annotated family tree from them. But he can't quite see how his Albert Hearn matches the poor young man MIA in that final year of the First World War. Tune in as Nate and podcast co-host Helen Tovey weigh up the information and try to piece together the true story of the past.

Podcast co-hosts Nathan Ward and Helen Tovey catch up on their latest family history endeavours, reflect on the importance of remembering, and begin to think about which family history goals they want to actually complete between now and the end of the year. Wish them luck!