If there is a syllabus or slides, you can download them below. If you are attending in person, view this session on the in-person website.
Voices That Vanish: How to Capture Family Stories That Matter
Everyone has a story but not everyone gets the chance to tell it. Family members hold memories, traditions, & personal histories that don’t appear in any census or vital record. This session will teach you how to capture those voices before they vanish. Learn how to plan & conduct effective interviews with relatives, from choosing the right questions to navigating emotional moments. We’ll cover recording options from simple smartphone setups to more advanced tools, offer tips for making interviews feel natural, respectful, & meaningful. You’ll also learn how to preserve your recordings for future generations, including transcription, consent, & sharing strategies. Whether you want to document a grandparent’s early years, a sibling’s memories, or your own life story, this session gives you the confidence & tools to begin. If you’ve ever wished you could go back & ask just one more question don’t wait. Learn how to ask now.
A mobile device is required for this session.
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