About Dana old
My Journey Begins
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]I’m Dana Leeds, and my journey beautifully combines three of my passions: teaching, genealogy, and science. This intersection of interests began taking shape in 1998 with a family reunion invitation. Though I couldn’t attend, the mention of my great aunt Beulah’s family history book sparked my curiosity. When she offered to share her research files if I got genealogy software, I jumped at the chance. That simple exchange ignited what would become a lifelong passion.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Science Meets Genealogy
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]My path to genetic genealogy connects with my background in biology education. During my undergraduate years, I worked in a research lab at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, studying DNA and seeking a treatment for sickle cell anemia. This scientific foundation would provide a strong foundation for my genetic genealogical work.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]The Leeds Method Story
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]In 2013, I ordered my first DNA test from Ancestry, followed by two more tests in 2014. While I initially did limited DNA work, by 2017 I was actively using genetic genealogy in my research. I helped a couple of my DNA matches identify their biological parents and then assisted an older gentleman who came to our local genealogical society seeking help identifying his biological father. My fourth case was a man who was confused about why he didn’t match his mother, who had also tested.
As I worked this case without knowing how others approached such situations, I developed what became known as the Leeds Method in 2018. The method went viral after Blaine Bettinger shared it in his Genetic Genealogy Tips & Techniques Facebook group, leading to speaking engagements at CeCe Moore’s 2018 i4GG Conference and an opportunity to share the stage with Diahan Southard at RootsTech 2019.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Impact and Growth
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]The impact of the Leeds Method has been both humbling and extraordinary. What started as a personal problem-solving technique has helped thousands of people identify their biological parents and grandparents. This was before Ancestry DNA had features like paternal/maternal match sorting or custom groups, and seeing genealogists use the method to unlock family mysteries and create clusters for more distant ancestor research has been incredibly rewarding.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Sharing Knowledge
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]I share my knowledge and experiences through multiple channels. My blog, which I started in 2016 as “The Enthusiastic Genealogist” (a nickname earned when my excitement couldn’t be contained after making my first “across the pond” connection at a Dallas genealogy library), has evolved into “Genealogy with Dana Leeds.” In May 2024, I launched my YouTube channel focusing on genealogy, DNA research, and methodology.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Personal Life
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]When I’m not researching family mysteries or “playing” with DNA matches, I’m often reading (averaging over 40 books annually), pursuing self-improvement through online courses, or enjoying nature. I’m particularly focused on learning French, using a combination of Duolingo, online videos, French music, and virtual group classes. I love observing birds, insects, and seasonal changes in the natural world.
I live in Oklahoma with my husband, and we’re proud parents of a daughter who graduated from NYU in 2024 after being homeschooled for most of her life. Our family recently expanded to include two rescue kittens, Rosie and Lillie, who often make guest appearances in my social media posts and YouTube videos.
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]Looking Forward
[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text css=””]My journey has grown from a simple family reunion invitation into a career that allows me to help others discover their roots and connect with their heritage. Whether I’m solving DNA mysteries or creating educational content, I bring the same enthusiasm that earned me my original moniker years ago in that Dallas library.
Visit my blog on this site or my YouTube channel, Genealogy with Dana Leeds.
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