Stories That Live In Us

How did a simple search on Ancestry.com spark a lifelong passion, a stronger mother-daughter bond, and a stint as a host on a popular genealogy television show? Tune in to find out.

As we celebrate Independence Day, join me as I chat with Mary Tedesco, the dynamic co-host of PBS's Genealogy Roadshow. Discover how her initial curiosity about her Italian grandparents' immigration story blossomed into a fulfilling genealogy career. From tracing her mother’s extensive family across 27 states to uncovering her Revolutionary War patriot ancestor, George Brenner, Mary’s journey is a vibrant reflection of America itself—a rich tapestry interweaving past and present.

An active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Mary also shares her experiences within this iconic organization, highlighting impactful community service projects, particularly during the pandemic.
With “America 250” on the horizon, her enthusiasm for commemorative efforts is palpable and infectious, urging us all to preserve our heritage and inspire future generations to cherish our shared American story.

Celebrate lineage and liberty this Fourth of July by delving into a story that bridges generations and ignites patriotic spirit.
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Mary's Bio:
Mary Tedesco is a professional genealogist, speaker and former Co-Host of the PBS television series “Genealogy Roadshow.” She actively volunteers with the Daughters of the American Revolution, currently serving as the National Chair of the Insignia Committee and Massachusetts State Vice Regent. Other volunteer positions include: Councilor of New England Historic Genealogical Society and Texas Genealogical College (TGC) board member and chair of the Scholarship Committee. Mary holds an MBA from the University of Notre Dame, a BA in Mathematics from Boston University and a certificate in Genealogical Research from Boston University’s Center for Professional Education.

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For ideas on how to connect more deeply with your family through family stories, follow Crista on Instagram @CristaCowan.

Genealogist Sunny Morton didn’t even know someone was missing from her family tree until a single mention in an obituary led her to a Nun.
Sister Mary Bertilla. This single name sparked a long search that culminated in the discovery of a remarkable, yet nearly forgotten, woman who dedicated herself to faith and service. Her story, encapsulated in a touching obituary, highlights the silent sacrifices she made.
Across the U.S. there are records in forgotten archives for more than 350,000 Women Religious - sisters and nuns - whose quiet contributions have deeply shaped our nation. These women, often overlooked in family histories because they have no descendants, have stories that deserve to be told.

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Please rate and review this podcast and then share it with your family and friends.
For ideas on how to connect more deeply with your family through family stories, follow Crista on Instagram @CristaCowan.

Do we have a family motto? Not officially. But if we did, it might be "Cowans Show Up For Each Other!" As for my personal creed as an aunt? It's simple: Love each of them for exactly who they are and help them discover who they want to become.

In this episode, freshly returned from a week-long cruise to Alaska and recorded just eight hours after our arrival, you'll hear me chat with all seven of my niblings. We laugh, they respond in the monosyllabic style only teenagers have mastered, but through it all, you'll catch a real glimpse of how we turn family chaos into cherished memories.

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Please rate and review this podcast and then share it with your family and friends.
For ideas on how to connect more deeply with your family through family stories, follow Crista on Instagram @CristaCowan.

When an unexpected email unearthed irreplaceable family heirlooms, it reminded me that people—including our own relatives—are often not quite what they seem.

My grandpa’s youngest sister, Aunt Madeleine, was always a bit of an enigma within our family—emotionally distant and reserved. More than once she said things that left us all a little stunned. Yet, certain discoveries suggest that perhaps family mattered to her more than I ever realized.

Family treasures not only tell stories; sometimes, the paths these treasures take are stories in themselves. Do you have a silent treasure keeper in your family? Join me as we explore the hidden depths and unexpected legacies that shape our family narratives.

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Please rate and review this podcast and then share it with your family and friends.
For ideas on how to connect more deeply with your family through family stories, follow Crista on Instagram @CristaCowan.

I created this podcast to inspire you to form deeper connections with your family - past, present, and future. All families are messy and life is constantly changing but we don’t have to allow that to disconnect us. I’ve spent my whole life discovering the power of family history and I know that sharing the stories that live in you can change everything.

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Please rate and review this podcast and then share it with your family and friends.
For ideas on how to connect more deeply with your family through family stories, follow Crista on Instagram @CristaCowan.