List of DNA for Genealogy talks

Below is a selection of talks I’ve previously delivered, covering a range of topics in genetic genealogy. I’m always happy to tailor an existing talk—or create a brand-new one—to suit your group’s interests or event theme.

DNA for Beginners

A gentle introduction to using DNA in family history. Perfect for beginners who want to understand what a DNA test can (and can’t) reveal, and how to get started with their results.

I’ve done a DNA test, what next?

If you’ve tested your DNA but now feel overwhelmed or unsure where to begin, this talk walks you through the first steps—interpreting results, exploring matches, and making sense of it all.

DNA for Genealogy FAQs

This session answers the most common questions about DNA testing for family history, from ethnicity estimates to match relationships and everything in between.

The Genetic Detective

Learn how to build targeted family trees to solve mysteries in your DNA matches, especially useful for unknown parentage cases and puzzling connections.

The Organised Genetic Genealogist

Discover practical ways to organise your DNA research, from tracking matches and creating research logs to using spreadsheets and online tools for clarity and efficiency.

The Power of Siblings

Using the real-life example of my five uncles, this talk shows how sibling DNA tests can unlock clues, break down brick walls, and refine your understanding of inheritance.

Connecting the Dots

Explore how clustering your DNA matches can reveal ancestral groups and help pinpoint common ancestors. A practical look at how to group and interpret your match list.

The Hull Mystery – the story of John Dring

This fascinating case study combines traditional genealogy and DNA evidence to unravel a family mystery with a surprising twist—why my DNA didn’t match who I expected

Haplogroups – Basic Concepts

An easy-to-follow introduction to mitochondrial and Y-DNA haplogroups—what they are, what they tell us, and how they can (and can’t) help your family history research.