aka the Single Leaf, Professional Genealogist

Lynn Broderick

Lynn Broderick, also known as the Single Leaf, is a writer by birth, a teacher by profession, and a researcher by passion. She enjoys researching individuals of the past in the context of family, community, and social history.

She began her formal genealogical education at the age of 15, mentored by many respected genealogists. A longtime member of genealogical societies and associations, she champions ethics and standards within the field. She currently serves as Treasurer of the Association of Genealogy and Schools (AGES), a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to fostering excellence in genealogical education.

In addition to extensive online work, she conducts research at the FamilySearch Library, university libraries, and archives throughout the United States. In addition, she hosts the first ever NGSQ/Record Study Group, a group committed to discussing articles from these premier genealogical journals to enjoy the benefits of peer-to-peer learning. She also hosts a monthly advanced genetic genealogy group.

With the rapid expansion of generative AI, Lynn and colleagues recognized the urgent need for ethical guidance. Their collaboration resulted in the Coalition for Responsible AI in Genealogy that published Guiding Principles for Responsible AI in Genealogy.

Lynn has contributed to the FamilySearch and RootsTech blogs. When asked to develop a way to engage more men in genealogy, she combined her childhood memories of NFL football and her own genealogical football moment to develop genealogy football. In 2019 she created Henry the Sleuth, the one and only genealogy sloth, whose stories follow their investigations and adventures.

When not in her office or at repositories, she can be found among her scattered herd. If you happen to watch the award-winning show Heartland—and you don’t blink—you might catch a glimpse of you-know-who at the rodeos in Seasons 17 and 18.