RLP 404: RootsTech Class 2026 Class Takeaways

This episode features listener takeaways from the recent RootsTech 2026 conference. Diana discusses the overall positive impressions of the event, noting the high quality of the presentations and the unanimous message about disclosing the use of AI and double-checking its work. Nicole and Diana review several classes on AI, including transforming family history into song, understanding AI’s role in archival stewardship, and mastering the basics of AI for genealogy. They share lessons on using AI to abstract information from records, create citations, and analyze research logs to identify gaps. Diana also discusses her class on using AI to clarify complex court records by translating obsolete terms and organizing chronological data. The hosts share insights on specialized research areas, methodology, and records. Diana highlights classes on DNA, including using shared-match grids to analyze and group DNA matches and a methodology to defeat the “Genealogy Gremlin” by evaluating match pedigrees and mitigating confirmation bias. They share a listener's review of Michael Lacopo’s session on how to successfully approach non-responsive cousins to encourage them to share their DNA. The hosts discuss classes on research methodology, such as resolving same-name issues by building identity profiles and constructing timelines, and using genealogical analysis to solve conflicting birth dates. Diana notes that a class on probate files reveals that these records contain many rich documents beyond the will, offering clues about an ancestor’s associates and lifestyle. They also share Sue Taylor's review a class on Italian records that explains the Latin grammatical forms—nominative, genitive, and accusative—found in civil and parish records. Listeners learn how to access recordings and handouts from RootsTech to apply new AI tools to their research, master advanced DNA analysis techniques, and apply genealogical proof standards to complex records and challenging research questions. This summary was generated by Google Gemini. Links to RootsTech Classes RootsTech Classes in the On-Demand Library - https://www.familysearch.org/en/roots... Even if there's no recording, you can always review the handout! AI and Genealogy ● Musical Memories - Transforming Family History into Song with AI (recorded) by Brandon Camp of Storied - https://www.familysearch.org/en/roots... ● Preserving the Past with Emerging Tech: AI's Role in Archival Stewardship (recorded) by Bret Weekes, John Morrey, John Alexander, Jimmy Zimmerman - https://www.familysearch.org/en/roots... ● Your AI Toolkit: Essential Tools for Family History Success (recorded) by Laryn Brown - https://www.familysearch.org/en/roots... ● AI & Family History: Foundations & First Steps: Mastering AI Basics for Genealogy (recorded) by Steve Little - https://www.familysearch.org/en/roots... ● FamilySearch for Latinos: Using AI to Grow Your Tree (recorded) by Ada Luque Nelson - https://www.familysearch.org/en/roots... ● FamilySearch Full-Text Search – Your Golden Path to Ancestral Discovery (recorded) by David Ouimette - https://www.familysearch.org/en/roots... ● AI-Powered Research Logs: From Chaos to Clarity in Your Genealogy Data (recorded - not online yet) by Diana Elder - https://www.familysearch.org/en/roots... ● From Complex to Clear: Transform Court Records with AI Tools [in-person only] by Diana Elder - https://www.familysearch.org/en/roots... ● The Future of AI in Genealogy (recorded) by David Ouimette, Steve Little, Diana Elder, Mark Thompson, Dave Vance - https://www.familysearch.org/en/roots... ● DNA Evidence Analysis with AI (recorded) by Nicole Dyer - https://www.familysearch.org/en/roots... DNA ● Using Shared-Match Grids and Matrices In Your Family History Research [in-person only] by Jonny Perl - https://www.familysearch.org/en/roots... ● DNA Swim School: 1-3. Diahan Southard. Shared matches. (recorded) by Diahan Southard - ...