Speaker biographies

Tricia Seguine, MAcc, MLIS

Tricia Seguine, President of the Association of Professional Genealogists (APG), is a research consultant for the Chief Genealogist at FamilySearch. A former CPA, not-for-profit tax consultant, and business owner/operator, Tricia also served as APG’s Treasurer from 2024-2025). She has a master’s degree in library and information science from Rutgers University and graduated from Brigham Young University-Idaho with an AAS degree in family history research and a BS in professional studies. Prior to joining FamilySearch, Tricia volunteered as a genealogical researcher for two not-for-profit organizations and served as Communication Director for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the West Orlando, Florida area.

Abstract

Three professional genealogists in three different countries handle their business marketing in very different ways.  Hear their insights and perspectives about what has worked to attract clients and improve their visibility.

Speaker biographies 

Andrea Bentschneider

Andrea Bentschneider is a leading authority on German genealogy with over 20 years of experience uncovering complex family histories, WWII records, and citizenship pathways. Based in Germany, she conducts hands-on archival research within the German record system, combining rigorous local expertise with practical education for researchers worldwide. As founder of the German Genealogy Collective and Beyond History, she bridges professional research and accessible learning.

President of the Association of German-Speaking Professional Genealogists and Vice President of the International German Genealogy Partnership, Andrea is a frequent international speaker and trusted media expert featured on Who Do You Think You Are? and Finding Your Roots. She is also a long-standing conference favourite at RootsTech, consistently recognized for delivering high-impact, highly attended sessions.

Her work empowers people to reclaim identity, history, and belonging through documented truth.

For more information on Andrea’s work:

German Genealogy Collective

Beyond History

John Boeren

John Boeren, LLM, MSc, QG is a full-time genealogist in the Netherlands with over 35 years of experience. He started his genealogy business Antecedentia in January 2015. He holds a law degree from Tilburg University (Netherlands) and a degree in Genealogical, Palaeographic and Heraldic Studies from the University of Strathclyde (Scotland).

He wrote articles about research in the Netherlands for international magazines, presented at numerous international events (both online and in person), and worked with TV shows in the UK, US, and Australia. He has been working as a scholar on the New Netherland Settlers Project since January 2026. He was a board member of the Association of Professional Genealogists (APG) and is currently serving as vice chair of the Register of Qualified
Genealogists (RQG).

Chris Paton

An internationally known researcher, author, tutor, and lecturer specialising in Scottish and Irish research, Ayrshire-based Chris Paton holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Genealogical Studies from the University of Strathclyde. As well as blogging regularly at Scottish GENES (https://scottishgenes.blogspot.com), Chris has written twenty-three genealogy and history themed books. A Scottish Gaelic speaker, Chris has also previously worked as a BBC television documentary maker and as a caseworker/researcher for two Members of the Scottish Parliament.

Join us for speed networking (in-person and virtual)! Attendees will engage in lively discussions and network building. It’s the perfect way to recharge while expanding your professional network.

Join us for speed networking (in-person and virtual)! Attendees will engage in lively discussions and network building. It’s the perfect way to recharge while expanding your professional network.

Abstract

Dr Sophie Kay and Family Tree Magazine UK editor Helen Tovey will discuss current ethical challenges, impacting the ways professional genealogists research, write and present. Get your questions answered in this informative session.

Speaker biographies

Dr Sophie Kay is a professional genealogist at Khronicle®(www.khronicle.co.uk)and obtained her D.Phil. in Systems Biology from the University of Oxford in 2015. She’s the Ancestry and Genealogy Expert for archaeology show, Time Team; the Scientist-in-Residence for The Mixed Museum; and a frequent contributor to Family Tree Magazine, authoring their ‘Research Skills Workbook’ in 2024. A Member of both AGRA and APG, Sophie tackles DNA and archival challenges for private clients and public organisations.

Helen Tovey is Editor of Family Tree UK and oversees the online Family Tree Plus program. She has been involved in the family history scene since 2002, originally studying History at the University of Exeter and in recent years studying the Post Graduate Certificate in Genealogical, Palaeographic and Heraldic Studies at the University of Strathclyde. She enjoys tracing her own family history, highlights being ancestor connections to Orkney, the Armed Forces, and textile-related employment.

Abstract - Challenges and Options: Accepting Payments

Accepting payments from overseas clients can be challenging. While most of Europe uses the SEPA bank transfer system, in the USA, people still send cheques via mail. Many clients are elderly, or estates/attorneys, not very flexible in making payments. This talk focuses on payment methods crossing national/continental boundaries.

Abstract - Increase Productivity with Free Technology Tools

"Zero-Cost Solutions: Technology Tools to Transform Your Genealogy Business"
Discover free technology tools to streamline your genealogy practice and increase your productivity. Examples for research, citations, time tracking, and task organization will be demonstrated. Learn how to find and evaluate options that match your unique workflow.

Speaker biographies 

Markus Schönherr

Markus Schönherr is an APG Board member and has worked as a professional genealogist since 2010, based in Vienna, Austria. He focuses on probate genealogy in Austria, Germany, and neighbouring countries, and also takes private clients for family history research, from Europe, North America and other countries worldwide.

Risa Daitzman Heywood, CG®

Risa Daitzman Heywood, CG® is a professional genealogist, writer, and presenter. She has over 25 years’ experience researching Jewish families, particularly from the Russian Empire. Risa is a director on the board of the International Association of Jewish Genealogical Societies (IAJGS) and a member of the Association for Professional Genealogists (APG). She is American and lives in Lisbon, Portugal. Risa holds the Certified Genealogist credential from the Board for Certification of Genealogists.

Abstract

A practical introduction to starting a genealogy business with confidence. Learn how to define your signature service, communicate your value, and create a simple, professional client workflow. Includes a guided activity to help you shape your core offering and a takeaway worksheet with clear, actionable next steps.

Speaker biographies 

Fiona Brooker  

Fiona is the founder of Memories in Time and loves helping people explore their family history, interpret DNA results, and share their discoveries with loved ones. A former President of the New Zealand Society of Genealogists (NZSG), she currently serves on the board of the Association of Professional Genealogists. She has studied with the Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies, is a member of PHANZA, and is a researcher for the television series My Family Mystery.

Mia Bennett

Mia Bennett is an English professional genealogist who specialises in using documentary and DNA evidence to solve family history mysteries.  She teaches internationally on DNA, methodology, English research sources and professional skills as well as running genealogy retreats.  She has been researching her family history for over 30 years and was previously a trustee of the Society of Genealogists.  Mia is an Associate of AGRA.  More information at www.miagenealogy.com/about.

Abstract

Practical AI tools for Professional Genealogists - This tip talk explores practical ways professional genealogists can use AI tools in their everyday work. Through brief demonstrations, attendees will see how selected tools can support research analysis, writing, and client communication, alongside key considerations around accuracy, privacy, and professional responsibility.

Speaker biographies 

Donna Rutherford

Donna Rutherford is a UK-based genetic genealogist, speaker, and writer specialising in DNA-led research and problem-solving for complex family history cases. She regularly lectures for genealogical societies and academic programmes in the UK and internationally. Donna has a particular interest in the practical use of AI tools for professional genealogists, focusing on efficiency, accuracy, and ethical client-focused workflows.

Michelle Dwyer Cohen

Michelle Dwyer Cohen is the Executive Director of the Association of Professional Genealogists and since 2019 has been the owner of Dwyer Research, LLC, her genealogical research business. Prior to becoming APG’s Executive Director, Michelle spent more than two decades as an executive at JP Morgan Chase.

Abstract

Designed for established professionals ready to refine, strengthen, and streamline their genealogy business. Explore strategies for specialising, improving client processes, and building sustainable systems. Includes a guided activity to elevate your signature offer and a takeaway worksheet with practical tools to support ongoing business growth.

Speaker biographies 

Fiona Brooker  

Fiona is the founder of Memories in Time and loves helping people explore their family history, interpret DNA results, and share their discoveries with loved ones. A former President of the New Zealand Society of Genealogists (NZSG), she currently serves on the board of the Association of Professional Genealogists. She has studied with the Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies, is a member of PHANZA, and is a researcher for the television series My Family Mystery.

Mia Bennett

Mia Bennett is an English professional genealogist who specialises in using documentary and DNA evidence to solve family history mysteries.  She teaches internationally on DNA, methodology, English research sources and professional skills as well as running genealogy retreats.  She has been researching her family history for over 30 years and was previously a trustee of the Society of Genealogists.  Mia is an Associate of AGRA.  More information at www.miagenealogy.com/about.

Abstract

Speaking can be a rewarding part of a professional genealogy career, but creating a sustainable speaking business requires more than good presentation skills. This interactive session explores the realities of building a speaking practice—from choosing topics and crafting titles, to setting fees, negotiating contracts, and marketing yourself effectively.

Speaker biographies 

Cathie Sherwood

Passionate about history and dedicated to family history, Cathie transitioned from a 20-year career as a university academic to applying her expertise in education and technology to Irish, English, and Scottish research, as well as genetic genealogy.

As the founder of Family History Academy, she curates online courses, while her professional research service, Ancestor Discovery, solves complex genealogical puzzles. Cathie is an active international speaker and continues to seek innovation in family history education.

Annette Burke Lyttle, CG^®

Annette Burke Lyttle, CG^® owns Heritage Detective, LLC, providing professional genealogical services in research, education, and writing. She speaks on a variety of genealogical topics and loves helping people uncover and share their family stories. Annette is a course coordinator for the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy and the British Institute. She is past president of the Association of Professional Genealogists and editor of The Florida Genealogist.

Speaker biographies 

Jenifer Kahn Bakkala

Jenifer Kahn Bakkala is a professional genealogist, author, and a two-time winner of the National Genealogical Society’s Award for Excellence in Genealogy and Family History. Specializing in narrative biography, deep research, and family history, she is the author of An American Family: Four Centuries of Labor, Love, and Reward (2018), The Maynard, North, and Deforest Families: A Story of Immigration, Industry, and Community (2021), and co-author of Ancestral Lines of Iain W. F. Shepherd and Helen Waugh (Gray) Shepherd—Journeys in Time (2023).   

Jenifer teaches in two interactive writing courses at Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy, and she serves on the Board of Directors of the Association of Professional Genealogists, where she is chair of APG’s Continuing Education Committee. Jenifer is owner of JKB Genealogy in Northborough, Massachusetts.

Jen Shaffer

Jen Shaffer is a full-time professional genealogist and owner of The Formidable Genealogist. In addition to client research, she is passionate about short form genealogy education and posts daily social media videos across TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and Bluesky. She has been interviewed by many newspapers and TV stations regarding TikTok use for small businesses. She has published articles in periodicals and writes digital research guides to help others level up their research. She recently researched for and appeared on Relative Secrets, a television show hosted by Jane Seymour.

Jen has a very broad knowledge of various research subjects, while also specializing in Slavic, Nordic, Irish, Mexican, Canadian and U.S. research. Her formal education is in the linguistics field with a B.A. in Russian Language, a B.A. in Russian Studies and countless courses in Spanish, German, Norwegian and Latin. She also holds a certificate of Russian language immersion from Veliky Novgorod State University in Veliky Novgorod, Russia.

Join industry experts for roundtable discussions on various topics, including advocacy, technology, investigative genetic genealogy, and writing. 

Join industry experts for roundtable discussions on various topics, including advocacy, technology, investigative genetic genealogy, and writing.