A Bit About Me

     Hi, I’m Jessica Gosnell—wife, mom, genealogist, educator, and co-founder of Embracing Your History. My love for family history began when I was a teenager, sparked by stories my dad shared and the records he passed down to me. As a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, family history has always been part of my life and faith, but over time, it became something even deeper: a calling. My dad taught me the basics, passed along his research, and shared his passion for preserving the past. Now, I’m the keeper of all the things, and I wear that title with pride.

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     For more than 30 years, I’ve been uncovering my family’s story, especially in western North Carolina, where my roots run deep. My favorite documents to work with? Death certificates. I know that sounds strange, but they’re often packed with clues that bring hidden stories to light. I also work in healthcare as a corporate trainer, so helping people learn and connect new information is a skill I use every day, both in and outside of genealogy.

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     When DNA testing entered the picture, something shifted for me. I realized how powerful family history could be for people searching for their identity, trying to understand where they come from, or building connections they’ve never had before. That’s what led me to co-create Embracing Your History: to help others find those connections, uncover their past, and carry those stories forward.

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     One of my biggest passions is encouraging younger generations to discover their roots in ways that feel meaningful to them. You don’t need to wait until retirement or become an expert—there are so many ways to engage with your family history right now, right where you are. Whether it's through photos, stories, traditions, or DNA, I love helping people discover that family history isn’t just about the past—it’s about identity, belonging, and legacy.

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     At Embracing Your History, I bring curiosity, compassion, and a deep belief that everyone has a story worth telling. Whether I’m researching for clients or guiding someone new to genealogy, I want you to feel supported, inspired, and excited about what you’ll discover. The stories are already there. Let’s go find them.