Intentionally Overheard w/Robert Ginyard

Uncovering Family Stories with Dr. Elizabeth Keating

Robert Ginyard Season 9 Episode 1

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In this engaging conversation, Robert Ginyard speaks with Dr. Elizabeth Keating, a professor of anthropology, about her book 'The Essential Questions' which encourages readers to interview family members to uncover their stories. Dr. Keating shares her personal journey of loss and the realization of how much she didn't know about her mother, which inspired her to create a framework for family interviews. The discussion delves into the importance of understanding cultural contexts, the value of ordinary life stories, and how to navigate sensitive topics during conversations. They also explore the impact of technology on family connections and the broader implications of Dr. Keating's work in fostering intergenerational communication.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Elizabeth Keating
01:10 The Importance of Family Stories
03:45 Personal Journey and Motivation Behind the Book
06:37 Anthropological Approach to Family Interviews
10:47 Eliciting Memories Through Descriptive Questions
12:49 Understanding Generational Differences
16:43 Navigating Power Dynamics in Interviews
19:50 The Role of Empathy in Understanding Family History
22:33 The Value of Ordinary Life in Storytelling
23:49 Exploring Sensitive Topics in Interviews
26:51 The Power of Memory and Emotion
29:58 Understanding Family Dynamics and Empathy
32:49 Bridging Generational Gaps Through Conversation
35:43 The Impact of Technology on Family Stories
39:53 Reestablishing Connections Through Shared History
42:29 The Role of Anthropology in Understanding Culture
45:34 Reflections on Life and Communication



Link to buy the book: 

The Essential Questions 

https://a.co/d/4bhabIu

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