If you've ever looked at your DNA matches and thought, “What do these numbers even mean?”—you're not alone.
In this live, interactive event, we’re going to walk you through the branch point principle and how it helps you know what your DNA is best positioned to help you answer right now.
This isn’t just another webinar. You’re going to actually do the work—using a printable set of match cards to place people into a tree. It’s satisfying, substantial, hands-on learning--and way more fun than reading yet another help article.

What is special about this class?
- 90 minutes of live, hands-on, interactive, step-by-step, online instruction and dedicated Q&A time with one of the world's leading DNA educators will build your skills, confidence, clarity and excitement!
- You'll learn by DOING with our custom set of DNA match cards and a practice family tree
- You'll cut through the DNA overwhelm to better understand centimorgans and how to use them as a guide
- You will implement what you learn into your own family tree with our helpful worksheet.
- You'll learn a simple idea that helps you place matches on your family tree faster (we call it “Branch Points”)
- You'll see how science and family history come together in genetic genealogy
- Worksheets, exercises and colorful visuals enhance your learning and fun
- Access to a recording of the event for a week allows you to replay, pause-and-learn at your own pace, and deepen your learning even more

Judy Engelhart
“Using the cards and colors was very helpful to me. I have always been a hands-on learner."

Maureen Taylor
“I understand more now. Love using the cards!"

Angie
“This practice session was a more hands-on approach and this time I feel like I GOT IT! Slowing it down and really doing step by step on a small scale really helped!"

Susan Greene
"The hands-on experience is very useful for reinforcing the grouping process."
How will I prepare?
- Mark your calendar for Thursday, January 22, 2026 from 2:00 - 3:30pm ET. Come live for the best experience!
- You'll need an internet connection and an updated Zoom app for this virtual experience
- You will receive worksheets by email that you'll print and cut ahead of time. (If you can't print, have paper handy to DIY them.)
Who are we?
Your DNA Guide
Our sole purpose is to teach and inspire YOU to use DNA to explore your roots. We believe you can do it, and that there is power in making your own DNA discoveries. We’ve been focused on this mission for 10 years, which experience has made us a leading global genetic genealogy education company.
Diahan Southard, Founder and CEO
I am a world-renowned genetic genealogy educator. I teach people how to use DNA testing to learn about their families. I believe that discovering your family story is so empowering! Learning it makes you stronger, more rooted, more connected, more confident. You can do it–and I can help you, just as I’ve helped thousands of people around the world.
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Why learn from Diahan Southard?

Tanna
“This was amazing! Always learning no matter how much I think I already understand. I had a hard time not leaving the video and starting this immediately. Thank you for your time and sharing your knowledge in easy terms. Thank you! Thank you!"

Jim Bartlett
“Great, logical, paced, specific steps - Thanks Diahan."

Triva
“Excellent visuals and the clearest explanations to date. Thanks!"

Terry Dunlap
“This hands-on seemed simplistic when I first saw it, but it actually helped me!"
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to have my own DNA test results to work with?
No. We will provide everything you need to participate in the class.
What if I don't have a printer?
That's ok, you can still participate in the Workshop! If you're not able to print the worksheets, just have paper handy to DIY them, along with scissors and tape.
What if something comes up and I can't attend the live event?
Go ahead and register. You will still receive the worksheets and a recording of the event with all the instructions. But it's more fun fun to come live--and live attendees will have first access to a limited-time bonus.
