About Me

My Background

I grew up in a small, homogenized town in central Pennsylvania, where I was the only person with my unique ethnic and cultural background. My parents, originally from Long Island, New York, shared fascinating but fragmented stories about our Eastern and Central European Jewish ancestry. A particular mystery surrounding my grandmother, who had been adopted by Jewish immigrants, piqued my curiosity and sparked a lifelong passion for uncovering family histories.

From Paralegal to Genealogist

Before becoming a genealogist, I worked for a decade as a paralegal. In that role, I honed advanced research and documentation skills, which have proven invaluable in my work in genealogy. The questions surrounding my family’s history, marked by adoption and relatively recent immigration, fueled my desire to delve deeper into my past and help others explore theirs.

Education and Expertise

I hold a degree in Anthropology from Temple University, where I specialized in linguistic anthropology and historical research methods. This academic foundation, combined with my practical experience, allows me to approach genealogical research with a comprehensive and methodical perspective.

My Professional Journey

In Philadelphia, I established Genistory to pursue my passion for genealogical research. My work often involves extensive archival research, DNA analysis, and cross-referencing historical records to build detailed family trees and place studies. One of my most notable achievements was solving the mystery of my grandmother’s adoption and uncovering my biological family’s deep American roots, which stretch back several generations and include significant roles in early American history.

My Interests

When I’m not immersed in research, I indulge my passion for learning new languages and studying comparative linguistics. I am fascinated by how languages evolve over time and how linguistic patterns can reveal the historical movements of people. I enjoy delving into the history of various immigrant groups and exploring the push-pull factors that have influenced waves of migration. Additionally, I frequently visit historical sites around Philadelphia, enriching my understanding of the past and its impact on the present.

My Philosophy

I believe that understanding our past is crucial to comprehending the present and shaping our future. No matter how ordinary or extraordinary, every family contributes to the rich mosaic of human history. My mission is to help you discover and celebrate your heritage.

Contact Me

I invite you to explore your family’s history with me. Let’s embark on this journey together!

Thank you for visiting my website. I look forward to helping you uncover your family’s unique story.

A Focus on the Individual

Every person and their decisions create a ripple effect, influencing not only their immediate surroundings but also the future and the generations that follow. Choices made by individuals, whether monumental or seemingly trivial, can alter the course of history in ways that are often unpredictable. These decisions shape family dynamics, cultural traditions, and societal norms, leaving an indelible mark on descendants. For instance, a decision to migrate, pursue a particular career, or adopt a child can significantly impact the lives of future generations, determining their opportunities, challenges, and identities. This interconnectedness highlights the profound and far-reaching consequences of our actions, emphasizing the importance of understanding and preserving our personal and collective histories.