Genealogy in Reverse with Cheri Hudson Passey
In this episode, Tami and Elizabeth discuss the concept of “reverse genealogy” with professional genealogist Cheri Hudson Passey, who recently authored a book on the subject. They explore methods for finding living relatives, differences between researching living individuals and deceased ancestors, and the emotional aspects of connecting with previously unknown family members. Cheri also shares her experience of writing the book and the importance of clear communication when reaching out to relatives.
Afterward, Tami demonstrates how easy it is to open multiple websites simultaneously by using the browser extension “Open Multiple URLs.”
During Teatime, the hosts discuss recent changes to what the VA is sending when one makes a FOIA request through birls.org. Elizabeth compares the file she received in February with the useless letters genealogists are receiving now. Then, Tami discusses the reasons behind the upcoming closure of the Plaza Hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah. Those planning to attend the 2026 RootsTech Conference should consider making hotel reservations sooner rather than later due to this closure!
Finally, Tami shares a couple of Family History Month announcements regarding upcoming events by Vivid-Pix. If you are in the area, you won’t want to miss these!
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Do you have a question or an idea for a future episode? Email us or leave a comment—we’d love to hear from you!
TIMESTAMPS
- 00:00:00 – INTRO
- 00:00:38 – Welcome to the Podcast
- 00:01:27 – Thank you to our Listeners and to WikiTree Challenge Elves
- 00:02:57 – Tami’s Milo Allen Update
- 00:04:31 – Sponsor Break
- 00:05:01 – Introduction to Cheri Hudson Passey
- 00:05:49 – Interview with Cheri Hudson Passey
- 00:28:11 – Tech Tip: Open Multiple URLs
- 00:30:54 – Teatime
- 00:33:15 – Changes in how VA Fills FOIA Requests from BIRLS.org
- 00:40:38 – The Plaza Hotel Closure and Future Plans
- 00:43:55 – Vivid-Pix Event Announcements
- 00:46:18 – OUTRO
LINKS
- Elizabeth’s WikiTree Challenge Reveal
- Cheri’s website – Carolina Girl Genealogy
- Open Multiple URLs Chrome Browser Extension
- Press Release – Closure of the Salt Lake Plaza Hotel
This episode is sponsored by Vivid-Pix. All product opinions are our own.
Great episode. I’m enjoying this new entry into the genealogy podcast landscape. Well done.
Thank you so much, Nancy! We’re happy to have you as a listener!