Send us Fan Mail Episode Snapshot: We don't just inherit stories. We choose which ones we carry forward. In this episode, Dr. Katie welcomes genealogist, speaker, and Rich Roots founder Rich Venezia for a conversation about identity, belonging, and the powerful act of returning to our roots. Together, they explore how family history is not simply about dates, records, or distant relatives — it is about understanding the stories, choices, migrations, traditions, and relationships that shaped who we are today. Summary: For many of us, especially in the United States, identity can feel fragmented. We may know pieces of where we come from — Irish, Italian, Pennsylvania Dutch, German, Canadian, or something else entirely — but we may not know the people, stories, sacrifices, and lived experiences behind those labels. Rich Venezia helps people uncover those deeper stories. In this conversation, Rich shares how his own journey into genealogy began as a way to stay connected to his grandmother and grew into a lifelong calling. He explains why understanding family history can help us feel more grounded, more connected, and more resilient — not because our past defines us, but because it gives us a larger story to belong to. Katie and Rich also explore the idea of the “intergenerational self,” the importance of asking sensory questions of loved ones, and how family stories can help us better understand both inherited identity and chosen identity. Whether we are exploring our biological lineage, adopted family, chosen family, or the people who shaped us along the way, this conversation reminds us that our roots are not just behind us — they are part of what helps us move forward. Key Learnings: 1. Looking back can help us feel more grounded moving forward. Understanding our roots can give us a deeper sense of identity, resilience, and connection to something bigger than ourselves. 2. Family history is more than names and dates. The richest discoveries often come through stories, traditions, food, memories, photographs, places, and sensory details. 3. Identity is both inherited and created. Our bloodline may shape part of who we are, but so do the people who raised us, loved us, mentored us, and helped us become ourselves. 4. The stories we carry forward are a choice. Learning about the past gives us agency. We can honor what came before while choosing what values, traditions, and stories we want to continue. 5. Curiosity is a doorway to belonging. Even a few questions, photos, or records can open up a deeper connection to family, heritage, and self-understanding. Guest Resources Learn more about Rich Venezia and his work at Rich Roots: https://www.richroots.net/ Guest Bio: Rich Venezia is a genealogist, keynote speaker, and founder of Rich Roots, where he helps people uncover their family history and reconnect with where they come from. Through his research, storytelling, and speaking, Rich helps individuals and families discover the people, places, and stories that shaped their identity — and reminds us that looking back can be a powerful way to better understand who we are today. Connect with Katie on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. You can also get free resources to help you on your purpose journey at www.katiesandoe.com.