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Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen

Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen

Kathleen Brandt

A "brick-wall" DIY genealogy podcast that features your questions and Kathleen Brandt's answers. She wants your stories, questions, and “brick walls”. But be ready to add to your "to-do" list. As Kathleen always says, this is a Do it yourself (DIY) genealogy podcast. “I'll show you where the shovel is, but I'm not digging up your family.”
Maybe, you have no idea where to start searching for an ancestor. Or, perhaps you want to know more about your family folklore. Host Kathleen has 20 years in the industry and is the founder of a3genealogy. She's able to dispense genealogy research advice and encouragement in understandable terms that won't get you lost in genealogy jargon. Along with her husband and co-host, John, she helps you accomplish "do-it-yourself" research goals, learn some history, and have a bit of fun along the way. Light-hearted and full of detailed info, Hittin' the Bricks is your solution for your brick-wall research problems.

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Top 10 Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen - Secrets from a Genealogy Librarian: Sherri Camp

Secrets from a Genealogy Librarian: Sherri Camp

Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen

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02/11/25 • 31 min

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Unlock the secrets of your ancestry with Sherri Camp, our featured genealogy librarian from the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library.

Join us as Sherri takes us on her remarkable journey through the world of genealogy and discover the invaluable resources available at the library, including the family history collections.

Resources Cited:
The Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library
https://tscpl.org/

Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society
https://www.aahgs.org/

Kansas Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society
http://www.kaahgs.org/
African American Topeka
by Sherrita Camp
https://a.co/d/aY0j8sT

Black Profiles in Courage: A Legacy of African-American Achievement
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Alan Steinberg:
https://a.co/d/6fqL0hE

Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: Off the Wall with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials.
Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.

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Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen - Identifying Native Americans: The Mysteries of the Tyeskey Lineage
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07/25/23 • 30 min

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Ever wondered what mysteries your family name might hold? Our guest, Dina Newman from Kansas City, shares her captivating DIY genealogy journey of tracing her roots, uncovering unexpected connections and piecing together a complex family history. As we delve into the unusual last name of Tyeskey, we explore not only a tale of adopted surnames but also a story that reaches back to ex-slave Phyllis Petite and a Texas plantation owner, Jack Bell. This isn't just a tale of name changes; it's a deep dive into the identities that names can shape, and the stories they silently hold.
As we navigate the winding roads of Dina's family history, we uncover the intriguing heritage of the Tyeskey family, and their ties to Oklahoma and Texas. We also shed light on the riveting tale of Phyllis Petite, revealing unexpected historical threads that challenge the familiar narratives of Dina's family history. From Fort Gibson to Rusk County, Texas, prepare to embark on an enthralling excursion into the past, unraveling mysteries, and exploring the fascinating intersection of names, family, and identity.

Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: Off the Wall with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials.
Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.

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Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen - Dare to Write: Meet David W Jackson, Part 1

Dare to Write: Meet David W Jackson, Part 1

Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen

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07/15/24 • 25 min

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"My Jackson family identified as Caucasian for the last five generations, but after 30 years of genealogical research I rediscovered a family secret. My great-great-grandfather, Arthur Jackson, was born an African-American slave in Virginia in 1856."
David W. Jackson, founder of the Orderly Pack Rat and author of "Born a Slave," reveals the hidden chapters of his family's past. He has written or contributed to over 60 titles. David shares his unique strategies for structuring his book, the importance of timelines, and the breakthroughs achieved through "cluster research."
Get an insider's perspective on the world of self-publishing as David provides invaluable tips on managing citations, the nuances between self-publishing and traditional publishing, and the challenges of promoting one's work. Learn about his experiences with Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP).
David W. Jackson
[email protected]
orderlypackrat.weebly.com

Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: Off the Wall with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials.
Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.

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Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen - Placing Out Children: Riders of the Orphan Trains
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02/01/24 • 24 min

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Researching your ancestor was "placed out" during the orphan train movement of 1854 - 1920's? Brace yourself for an episode that might just reshape how you research this pivotal, yet shadowy, segment of American history.
John questions Kathleen on the transport of children bustling East Coast cities to all 48 states. No state was missed as the trains traversed the heartland's rural expanses to the reach the southern and western states.
Kathleen brings a wealth of knowledge to our conversation, casting a light on the diverse tapestry of experiences faced by the orphaned children. John is also seeking more information on his half-brother, Bob, who grew up within the walls of a boys' "boarding home" rather than the family homes.
This episode doesn't just recount the past; it connects us to the human stories that continue to echo through time.
Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen is supported by our generous sponsors:
MyHeritage.com
Caymus Vineyards, CA
& Private Donors to TracingAncestors.com

Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: Off the Wall with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials.
Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.

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Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen - Oct Mailbag & Navy Veteran Records

Oct Mailbag & Navy Veteran Records

Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen

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10/21/24 • 23 min

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The October Mailbag: Naval Veteran Research and Heritage Month
Journey through the National Archives with us as we highlight the distinctions between researching Navy records and other branches.
Let's celebrate in October: Family History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month and Naval Research.
Family History Month Resources

  1. Family Search 31 October celebrations ideas
  2. National Genealogical Society and Brain Health
  3. Library of Congress

September / October Newsletter

This episode promises a blend of history, humor, and celebrations.

Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: Off the Wall with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials.
Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.

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Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen - Amy Johnson Crow: 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks

Amy Johnson Crow: 52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks

Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen

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12/23/24 • 33 min

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Prepare to be inspired as we feature the illustrious genealogist Amy Johnson Crowe on "Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen." Discover how Amy's knack for uncovering family histories has influenced countless enthusiasts, including our host Kathleen herself.
Embark on a journey through the innovative "52 Ancestors in 52 Weeks" program that champions genealogical exploration through weekly prompts.
Website: https://www.amyjohnsoncrow.com/52-ancestors-in-52-weeks-new/

Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: Off the Wall with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials.
Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.

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Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen - Subscribe and Win: Special Offer

Subscribe and Win: Special Offer

Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen

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03/06/24 • 1 min

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Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: Off the Wall with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials.
Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.

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Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen - Researching Your Athlete: High School to Olympian
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08/10/24 • 23 min

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Imagine uncovering hidden athletic gems within your own family tree! This episode of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen promises just that, as we celebrate the achievements of our ancestors from the amateur, collegient, professional, or Olympian athlete.
Did your ancestor face challenges like gender or racial discrimination? Or did a military draft or War outbreak squash your ancestors athletic dreams.
This episode offers valuable tips on tracing your family's sports history to include pioneering women and African American athletes.
Read More Tracing College & Professional Athletes

Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: Off the Wall with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials.
Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.

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Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen - Genealogy Wins: Presidential Libraries & Problem Names
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01/13/25 • 23 min

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In this genealogy podcast episode, we discuss the significance of presidential libraries for genealogical research as part of our 2025 Presidential Library series. These libraries are an underutilized resource for genealogical projects, and Kathleen has uncovered dozens of ancestral documents for clients using them.

Kathleen also shares tips and tools for tackling genealogy brick walls and researching common surnames. For one client, she navigated the challenges of researching the surnames North, Hams, and Heard.

As always, we’re excited to share a helpful genealogical tool. Have you tried the libcat.familysearch.org catalog? This powerful tool can fast-track your brick wall research and even help you bypass calls to the courthouse. Just sign in with your familysearch.org username/password.

If you’re unfamiliar with FamilySearch, signing up for free access is simple—no credit card required, just a username and password.

Let’s take a moment to thank FamilySearch for digitizing and freely sharing their invaluable resources!

Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: Off the Wall with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials.
Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.

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Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen - The Elusive Ancestor: Quest for Great-Grandfather Richard Bush
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06/22/23 • 30 min

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We've got an intriguing genealogy mystery on our hands, as we chat with Bonnie Flatt from Illinois about her brick wall: Her DIY research reveals her great-grandfather, Richard Bush. Born in 1834 in either Illinois or Indiana, Richard's origins remain elusive, and Bonnie's quest for answers has led her to explore various strategies, such as understanding the naming conventions of the time period, investigating land records, and examining military records, wills, deeds, and probates.
Elusive Ancestor Research Tips
Unscramble the family using and analyzing the following:

  1. Marriage Records
  2. Analyzing Census Records by following children names, and ages and others living in the home.
  3. County Court Records
  4. Cemetery Records. Or death certificates if recorded by state
  5. DNA Analysis to connect to family, if applicable. May wish to use a professional.
  6. Wills
  7. Land Records
  8. Military records

Need More Information visit a3Genealogy blog: Elusive Ancestor Research tips and Hints posted 25 Jun 2023: linktr.ee/a3genealogy

Be sure to bookmark linktr.ee/hittinthebricks for your one stop access to Kathleen Brandt, the host of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen. And, visit us on YouTube: Off the Wall with Kathleen John and Chewey video recorded specials.
Hittin' the Bricks is produced through the not-for-profit, 501c3 TracingAncestors.org.

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FAQ

How many episodes does Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen have?

Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen currently has 42 episodes available.

What topics does Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen cover?

The podcast is about Do It Yourself, History, Research, How To, Ancestry, Family, Podcasts, Education and Dna.

What is the most popular episode on Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen?

The episode title 'Unraveling Roots: Revealing Kaufman Ancestral Secrets' is the most popular.

What is the average episode length on Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen?

The average episode length on Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen is 25 minutes.

How often are episodes of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen released?

Episodes of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen are typically released every 16 days, 5 hours.

When was the first episode of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen?

The first episode of Hittin' the Bricks with Kathleen was released on Jan 7, 2023.

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