L - Livestreams Build Community

When I first thought about going live, my stomach did flips! Livestreaming seemed intimidating. I worried about messing up or forgetting what to say. Questions raced through my mind: What if nobody shows up? What if I stumble over my words or lose my train of thought? But here's the secret I learned pretty quickly: perfection isn’t required, and every livestream gets easier with practice.

Going live has completely transformed the way I connect with others in the genealogy community. There's something truly special about engaging with viewers in real-time. The immediate reactions, spontaneous laughter, and heartfelt moments create a genuine sense of community that prerecorded videos simply can't replicate. Even those occasional hiccups, like a funny technical glitch or forgetting someone's name, often end up becoming memorable, endearing moments that viewers can relate to.

Every livestream session has helped me build confidence and become more comfortable in front of the camera. The anxiety I once felt has gradually turned into excitement. Each week, I genuinely look forward to spending time with my community, knowing that each live event brings new insights, connections, and friendships. I'm continually amazed and grateful for every viewer who takes the time to tune in, ask questions, share their stories, and support each other. Your active participation makes our time together vibrant, interactive, and incredibly rewarding.

These days, my weekly livestreams have become a favorite part of my schedule. Every Wednesday night at 9 pm EDT on TikTok, we dive deep into all things genealogy—sharing tips, discussing breakthroughs, and exploring fascinating stories from the past. The livestreams are not just educational; they've evolved into a welcoming space where everyone, from seasoned genealogists to enthusiastic beginners, can feel comfortable asking questions and contributing to the conversation.

If you’re considering starting your own livestream journey but still feel nervous, please know that your feelings are completely normal—and totally manageable. Remember, you don’t have to have everything figured out before you start. You don’t need professional equipment or a polished script—just genuine enthusiasm and a willingness to connect. Each livestream experience is a learning opportunity, and your community will appreciate seeing your authenticity and growth.

📅 Idea: Plan a short, casual “Ask Me Anything” livestream session about your genealogy research or the services you offer. It doesn’t need to be formal—think of it as having a chat with friends. You'll be amazed at how quickly connections form when you create an inviting atmosphere.

🎙️ Your turn: What's one topic you'd absolutely love to discuss live if fear wasn't holding you back? Is there a specific genealogy puzzle you'd like to unravel together or a personal story you're eager to share? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and let's encourage each other to step boldly into the spotlight!