The Icelandic Roots Podcast

The Genealogist’s Bookshelf: Unveiling Family Tales with Heather Lytwyn

Heather Lytwyn is a dedicated genealogy enthusiast who uncovers the fascinating history of her family in what she calls 'Virtual Family Reunion.'
Heather, with over 30 years of teaching English, now leads the Icelandic Roots Book Club.
The Book Club has featured noteworthy authors like first lady Eliza Reid, Alfreda Jonsdottir, Nancy Marie Brown, and translator Philip Roughton. And has covered works by Halldór Laxness, Hannah Kent, and Bill Holm.
Tune in for a captivating discussion on Icelandic literature, community building, and the future of Icelandic Roots.
 
Follow this link for more on our Book Club: https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/join-the-icelandic-roots-book-club

Viking Saga: Zachary Sigurdson on History, Reenactment, and Writing Books

In an engaging rendezvous, Owen Roberts reconnects with his fellow Snorri Alumni, Zach Sigurdson.
In their conversation they discuss Viking History and the reaching of North America (Vinland) along with personal tales of family history.  
 
Zach is an author & Viking reenactment enthusiast from Winnipeg, Manitoba. 
 
His passion for Viking culture and history shines through, making this episode a riveting journey through time and heritage.
 
For more about Zach and to explore his work, visit his website at https://zfsigurdson.com/.

Mallory Swanson on Icelandic Emigration, Genealogy | Horses, Hofsós & Heritage

In this episode, Jack welcomes Mallory Swanson from the Emigration Centre, Vesturfararsetrið, to share her personal journey of connecting to her Icelandic Roots, leading her to make Iceland her home.
Together, Jack and Mallory explore the origins and historical significance of the Emigration Centre, uncovering its profound ties in the picturesque town of Hofsós.
The podcast also takes an enchanting detour into the world of Icelandic horses, celebrating their importance in the Skagafjörður region. Dive into the natural beauty of this stunning fjord, often regarded as the jewel of Iceland's fjords.
Discover the magic of helping individuals connect with their Icelandic heritage through genealogy at the museum, as Jack and Mallory share heartwarming stories.
Lastly, the episode offers a forward-looking perspective on genealogy, discussing how future generations will continue to embrace their family history and the vital role of genealogy in preserving cultural heritage.
 
Checkout the brand-new website for the Emigration Centre:
https://www.hofsos.is/this-is-us
 
And follow our Blog for more stories of Icelandic History and Culture:
https://www.icelandicroots.com/blog
 

Saga of a Snorri - Special Icelandic Roots Report by Jack Plumley

In this special bonus episode, Jack shares excerpts from an article he wrote for the Icelandic Roots Blog.
The story delves into his captivating journey back to Iceland for the Snorri Internship, unveiling anecdotes of earthquakes, encounters with walruses, and his work with the Emigration Centre at Hofsós.
He also narrates fascinating adventures of driving north with Kent Björnsson and chronicles his time under the guidance of Valgeir Þorvaldsson and Mallory Swanson at Vesturfarasetrið.
The episode delves into the unique environment of Brimnes, late author Bill Holm's legendary residence, which has ignited Jack's creativity and is inspiring his own writing project in Iceland.
 
Subscribe to our Newsletter to receive compelling stories like these, along with a wealth of historical insights and captivating content from our diverse team of artists, genealogists, and enthusiastic individuals.
https://www.icelandicroots.com/newsletter-signup
 
Visit our Blog to explore the depths of one of the most comprehensive repositories of Icelandic culture available online - follow this link to access our vast collection of stories and articles:
https://www.icelandicroots.com/blog