Can mtDNA and XDNA help topple Geoff’s Brick Wall?

Diahan Southard
Nov 15, 2023
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Content

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Welcome
1m 43s
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Speaker's Introduction
1m 50s
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Geoff's Background Info
5m 05s
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Whose DNA Should We Use?
12m 46s
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XNDA
4m 37s
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mtDNA
5m 33s
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Haplogroups
19m 24s
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Geoff's Genealogy Strategy
6m 43s
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My Dream Will
14m 29s
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Announcements / prizes
4m 22s
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Questions / answers
7m 14s

About this webinar

Join Geoff as he consults with DNA expert Diahan Southard to determine if mtDNA and/or XDNA can help him learn more about his 4X great grandmother.

About the speakers

About the speakers

Diahan Southard knows firsthand what a difference it can make to know where you came from. What started off as an educational and career interest in genetic genealogy became deeply personal when she used DNA to discover her mom’s birth parents and
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Geoffrey D. Rasmussen is the father of four budding genealogists. He graduated with a degree in Genealogy and Family History from Brigham Young University and has served as director and vice-president of the Utah Genealogical Association. He is th
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Key points and insights

In this engaging and insightful webinar hosted by Legacy Family Tree, genetic genealogy expert Diahan Southard joins Geoff Rasmussen in a live case study to explore whether mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and XDNA can break through one of Geoff’s long-standing genealogical brick walls. Focusing on his fourth great-grandmother, Sophronia “Fanny” Kintz, Geoff combines traditional genealogical research with modern DNA analysis. The result is a compelling journey into how DNA testing—particularly mtDNA—can contribute powerful clues to longstanding family mysteries.

Through real-time demonstrations, Diahan unpacks the nuances of various DNA testing methods, explains the inheritance patterns of mitochondrial and XDNA, and guides viewers through practical techniques for leveraging those results. This session stands out for its interactive approach, offering a rare look at a real genealogist’s evolving discovery as new evidence unfolds.

Key Takeaways

  • Mitochondrial DNA Can Confirm Maternal Lineage—With Limits
    mtDNA offers a direct maternal line record, valuable for confirming deep maternal ancestry. In Geoff’s case, his grandmother’s mtDNA (inherited from her mother, and so on) perfectly matched another tester whose maternal ancestor shared the same surname—Kintz—from the same region in Germany. While mtDNA’s generational reach is extensive, its genealogical precision is limited unless paired with solid historical records.
  • XDNA’s Unique Inheritance Pattern Is a Hidden Asset. Although often overlooked, XDNA testing can provide crucial clues, especially when inherited exclusively through maternal lines in males. Diahan illustrated how to trace the XDNA path and highlighted that XDNA can be strategically used alongside autosomal data to narrow down relationships—particularly when supported by tree-building and geographic filters.
  • The Magic Happens When DNA and Genealogy Work Together. While DNA sparked the inquiry, it was Geoff’s follow-up with historical documents—census records, maps, and probate files—that ultimately confirmed Sophronia Kintz’s parentage. A will naming “Fanny King” as a daughter of Philip Kintz aligned with the DNA results, offering the crucial documentary proof to support the genetic lead. This synergy underscores the importance of combining scientific data with thorough genealogical research.

Ready to Unlock Your Own Genetic Mysteries?
To see the complete journey—complete with live demonstrations, case study analysis, and practical tips—you’re invited to watch the full webinar. Whether you’re navigating your own brick wall or just starting with DNA, this session offers actionable strategies and a dose of inspiration.

Don’t forget to explore the syllabus materials included with this webinar. Packed with tools, references, and extended explanations, these resources will help you apply the same strategies to your own research. Your next breakthrough may be just a mitochondrial mutation—or one well-placed will—away.

Comments (130)

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  1. HH
    Heather Higgins
    9 months ago

    That was a very interesting session, thank you both, Diahan and Geoff. I have used filters etc for ages but I liked how you used filters within filters. Fingers crossed it helps me find my maternal grandfather’s father. I know his name through RCE record on Scotlandspeople, found two families same name, both ‘father’s’ went to USA at a similar timeframe. Have created both trees, now trying to find out which one via DNA. Thanks again.

    Reply
  2. NM
    Nancy Matthews
    1 year ago

    I had wanted to watch this program when it was first presented and life got in the way. I have now watched the recording. This was a great program. I did my mT DNA back when that was the only option for women. I did upgrade to the full sequence last year. The problem was that I never really know how to use it. Thank you so very much for the techniques that you shared. Because of this, I believe that I have found a second cousin. Now, on to more reseach to prove what I found. Again, THANK YOU SO MUCH.

    Reply
  3. CD
    Cynthia Deal
    1 year ago

    Geoff has the best genealogy karma of all! Great webinar. Thanks.

    Reply
  4. MD
    Marilyn Dietiker
    1 year ago

    This webinar was SOOO great! Thank you both and Diahan it kind of took away the mental block I have about trying to understand DNA research. It was so amazing for Geoff to actually find and prove his 4th great grandmother! Wow!! Wow !!! I can only hope that I will find and prove my 2 x great grandfather/grandmother in time. Thank you again.

    Reply
  5. DG
    Diana Gill
    1 year ago

    OMG! This presentation was informative, instructive and inspiring. I could feel Geoff’s sense of being overwhelmed and grateful. I am happy to learn HOW, if all the stars align, you can get your family back using mtDNA. Thank you both!

    Reply
  6. PS
    Patricia Sprague
    1 year ago

    Excellent webinar!! The best that I have seen in ages.

    Reply
  7. MS
    Marilyn Smith
    1 year ago

    Thanks for another wonderful insightful and helpful learning session.

    Reply
  8. CK
    Catherine Kesseler
    1 year ago

    Great job! Really informative.

    Reply

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