The Icelandic Roots Podcast

Julie Summers brings us together with three Snorri alumni - Helga, Peter, and Diane - to explore the Snorri Plus experience. Their 30+ touring program brings participants to Iceland where they can engage deeply with culture, heritage, and contemporary life. In our conversation, we'll hear reflections, stories, and insights from their times in Iceland: what surprised them, what stayed with them, and how Iceland reveals itself as a true microcosm of the world. From healthcare to libraries to physics, we learn how interconnected life in Iceland can be, and how quickly meaningful connections form between people across disciplines, professions, and backgrounds. Programs like Snorri, Snorri Plus, and even Icelandic Roots tours offer something deeper than travel alone. This episode is a reflection on how Iceland, time and again, becomes the meeting place. Visit https://www.snorri.is/ or https://www.icelandicroots.com/ to learn more about these programs.

Hafdís Bjarnadóttir is a Reykjavík-based composer and guitarist known for breaking boundaries between genres - drawing on everything from jazz and folk to avant-garde, poetry, and contemporary classical. In this conversation, we trace her path from learning jazz guitar to composing award-winning works, reflect on her time reenacting history in costume at the Eiríksstaðir Museum, and dig into the theory, culture, and economics of being an artist in Iceland today. We also explore how collaboration shapes creativity and where the Icelandic music scene is heading. Find out more: https://www.hafdisbjarnadottir.com/ Listen to her music: https://hafdisbjarnadottir.bandcamp.com/

Claudia Peterson is the driving force behind the North American tour of the crowd-sewn, Icelandic-wool Njáls Saga Tapestry — an extraordinary living artwork born in Hvolsvöllur, Iceland, with the mission of rallying support for a permanent museum to showcase this saga masterpiece in its hometown. In this episode, we look into the tapestry’s unique place in Icelandic and world history and hear Claudia’s behind-the-scenes stories from the road — sharing how communities across North America, from Calgary to Seattle, are connecting with this epic piece of Viking heritage. We also explore personal ties to Njáls Saga, the entrepreneurial vision of letting people in on a piece of Iceland’s saga legacy, and how this community-powered effort can help build a world-class museum in southern Iceland for generations to come. You’ll hear insights on living history, the art of marketing, and the timeless psychology of humanity — all stitched together in this conversation that invites you to be part of the journey. Discover how you can support, spread the word, and help bring Njáls Saga home — a rich tapestry indeed (pun absolutely intended). https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/bringing-the-saga-era-to-the-modern-era-understanding-the-nj%C3%A1l-saga-tapestry Njáls Saga on Tour: Weaving Iceland’s Epic for the World

Sunna Furstenau, President of Icelandic Roots and head of the Genealogy Team, along with Becky Byerly-Adams, the Outreach Director, joined us to explore everything from new books and upcoming webinars to the evolving future of the Icelandic Roots database—and why preserving our stories matters now more than ever. We talked about how the team is finding new ways to engage the community: through voice and video capture, integrating personal histories directly into the database in ways that make it feel alive and deeply human. Sunna and Becky also shared updates on in-person events like the Deuce of August and Íslendingadagurinn, and gave us a glimpse into the excitement around the next group trip to Iceland. This conversation dives deeper than names and dates—it’s about connection. Whether online or face-to-face, Icelandic Roots is a collective effort to honour the legacy of our people. Sunna and Becky offer a heartfelt look at how community, storytelling, and technology come together to shape a living archive for future generations. Fill out the Cousins Across the Ocean form and share with others: https://www.icelandicroots.com/cousins-across-the-ocean

Julie Salverson is a fourth-generation Icelandic-Canadian author whose new memoir, A Necessary Distance: Confessions of a Scriptwriter’s Daughter, braids family memory with global history. In this episode, we explore Julie’s reflections on her father, CBC writer George Salverson, and her grandmother, acclaimed Icelandic-Canadian author Laura Goodman Salverson. Drawing from her father’s 1963 travel journals and her own journeys—including a meaningful trip to Iceland—Julie shares how the past ripples into the present. We talk about her experience hearing storyteller Karen Gummo recount one of Laura’s tales, and the significance of meeting Vigdís Finnbogadóttir, Iceland’s former president and a trailblazer for women worldwide. As we dive into Julie’s writing process, we explore how she sees memoir as an act of witness—writing as understanding, thinking on the page, and reckoning with diverse perspectives through time. Our conversation touches on the philosophical nature of history, the weight of inherited stories, and how the act of documenting becomes a thread across generations. From radio scripts to personal memoir, and from immigrant stories to international travels, this episode weaves together art, ancestry, and the enduring power of writing to carry memory forward. Find her book here: https://bookstore.wolsakandwynn.ca/products/a-necessary-distance Or check your local bookstore!

Atli Halldórsson is the co-project manager of the Snorri Programs, splitting his time between Iceland and Vancouver, Canada. In this episode, we explore the deep cultural ties between Iceland, Scandinavia, and North America—through the lens of an Icelander dedicated to reconnecting people of Icelandic descent with their roots. Atli unpacks what makes Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Copenhagen, Denmark, two of the most "Icelandic" cities outside of Iceland, tracing their history, traditions, and evolving cultural expressions. From Viking migration to modern identity, this is a wide-ranging conversation—from Atli’s time in Denmark, where he mastered riding a bicycle with no hands, to his adventures in Canada, exploring the Rocky Mountains and the Icelandic diaspora. For those keen on Icelandic culture, history, and meaningful connections, the Snorri Program offers a unique immersion opportunity. If you're interested, check out www.snorri.is And if you want to take stock of your Icelandic heritage, explore the Icelandic Roots database and stay in touch through our public newsletter: https://www.icelandicroots.com/newsletter-signup

Susan Huff is a genealogist and a descendant of Icelandic immigrants who emigrated from the Vestmannaeyjar to Spanish Fork, Utah—the oldest continuous Icelandic settlement in North America. In this episode, we explore her work with the National Archive of Iceland, where she uncovered fascinating stories from Icelandic history by examining parish records. Susan shares her insights into Iceland’s shockingly high infant mortality rate—once the highest in all of Europe—and the role tetanus played in this tragedy. We investigate how medical advancements during this era helped improve survival rates and what these historical health challenges reveal about Iceland’s past. From the struggles of early settlers to the genealogical ties that continue to link Icelandic families to Utah, this episode offers a picture of Icelandic ancestry, the Latter-day Saints, and the medical history that shaped the development of Iceland—highlighting remarkable survival stories that influenced both nations. Learn more on the blog: https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/infant-mortality-in-iceland

Mark Petursson is the president of the Leif Eiriksson Icelandic Club in Calgary and a dedicated member of the Western Icelander community. In this episode, we discuss his journey of reconnecting with his Icelandic heritage, from working in Iceland’s fishing industry as a teenager to his ongoing efforts in cultural preservation. Mark shares his experiences learning the Icelandic language firsthand, offering humorous anecdotes and reflections on the challenges of embracing a new culture. From incredible days at sea to wild nights with Brennivín, he recounts how the warmth of the Icelanders—and a few drinks—helped him pick up the language faster than any textbook. We explore the deep connection between language, family, and identity—with plenty of laughs along the way.

Brian Borgford is a prolific writer with 40 books published on Amazon. In this episode, we go over his writing process and the philosophy behind publicly sharing family histories. Brian explains how he transforms biographies of family members into novels, bringing their lives and times to the page in new and engaging ways. This conversation offers insightful perspectives on writing family histories and leveraging modern tools to preserve the past. With unexpected twists — like the surprising success of Pepper: The Story of a Lost Dog — this discussion highlights the creative journey, the importance of storytelling, and how history and art shape our understanding of the present. His work underscores the value of documenting personal and family histories, not just for ourselves but for future generations. Find his books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.ca/stores/Brian-Borgford/author/B0088L0ULC?ref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true

Audrey Ledford, a Seattle native and recent Georgetown graduate, wrote a reflective piece titled Meditation on Family and Home - Snorri 2024 for our blog. In this episode, Jack connects with Audrey—now teaching in Spain—to explore her journey with the Snorri Program and its impact on her connection to her Icelandic roots. Through their conversation, Audrey shares how walking the landscapes of her ancestors helped her better understand the bonds between family, heritage, and identity. She discusses how this experience reshaped her sense of place, deepening her connection to both her Icelandic heritage and her own family, both past and present. With a B.S. in Foreign Service, Audrey offers insights into the intersection of heritage, geopolitics, and identity, exploring how these forces influence personal connections to history and home. Takk fyrir.

Sigfús Haukur Sigfússon was the 2024 Snorri West Alumni Intern, who has been exploring his family emigration connections across North America with Icelandic Roots. Recorded live in Reykjavik - Sigfús shares his journey of tracing family branches, and filling in the gaps of genealogy. We explore perspectives on American culture and the immigrant experience within the “melting pot” of the U.S. and Canada. Sigfús recounts personal adventures like getting lost on Washington Island. And what he's learned about Icelandic emigrants like Chester Þórðarson and his innovations in electrical transformer technology. As an English major with ambitions to be a teacher, Sigfús reflects on language learning and the educational system of Iceland. To wrap up the conversation, he also explains his process of recently publishing a book. This is a philosophical, eloquent, and wide-ranging conversation, blending genealogy with forward-looking insights. We hope you enjoy and stay tuned for more episodes from the Icelandic Roots Podcast!

Sigmundur Geir Sigmundsson, known as Simbí, grew up on a Westfjords dairy farm before attending agriculture school and traveling North America with the Snorri West program. Join us for a conversation near his home in Búðardalur, where we delve into the changing landscape of Icelandic family farms and the resilience of rural communities. We explore the challenges and possibilities of sustainable practices, pondering the future of Icelandic agriculture. Discover innovative greenhouses, thriving fish farms, and traditional sheep farming that make Iceland unique. We discuss future food production, the impact of imports and exports, and even the ongoing debate on building more road tunnels. From the beauty of the Westfjords to the intrigue of the recent presidential election (including Banana Bread with cheese!), this episode is a captivating journey through history. Enjoy this modern saga of a young Icelander's views on the world and his country. We conclude the podcast with Simbí reciting some Icelandic poetry. Stay tuned for more Icelandic adventures with us here at Icelandic Roots!

Amber Monroe is the Owner and Founder of Ísponica. In this episode we explore what lead her from the United States to start her Aquaponics company in Iceland. Amber's path, starting from her studies on lumpfish at Hólar University, has led her from a Hólar barn basement to a unique aquaponics setup in a warehouse in Hofsós, overlooking the stunning fjord of Skagafjörður. She shares her insights on rural tourism, Icelandic food production, and the controversial topic of salmon fish farms. Discover why she chose Hofsós, why aquaponics is pivotal to her vision, and how it all ties into the future of "Agri-Tourism" Learn more & visit Ísponica's website: https://isponica.is/about/aquaponics/

Our guest is María Pálsdóttir who operates the Hælið Museum - a sanatorium turned museum highlighting Iceland's fight against Tuberculosis. TB, a persistent scourge, has haunted humanity for millennia, leaving its mark on countless lives, societies, and even driving medical advancements. This episode dives into the past and present of tuberculosis in Iceland. We explore why tuberculosis was once known as the "Romantic Disease" and how it has impacted society through culture, healthcare, and even fashion! We'll discuss her work, and Björk of course. We hope you enjoy this truly fascinating journey through Iceland's fight against the "Great White Plague" and discover stories of hope, resilience, and the enduring human spirit. For more information, watch Icelandic Roots Webinar on Destination Hælið: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6uQnujl3T0&t=2820s

Hjördís Hilmarsdóttir is a passionate traveller, hiker, genealogy enthusiast, and dog breeder. With Icelandic Roots, Hjördís brings her excitement for recording diverse information in the database and correcting errors in Icelandic-language texts. In this episode, Hjördís shares her love for the Egilsstaðir region and all of East Iceland - spanning from Seyðisfjörður to Vopnafjörður! Inspired by the breathtaking landscapes, she has dedicated herself to documenting hiking trails and natural areas, from iconic destinations like Hengifoss, one of Iceland's largest waterfalls, to lesser-known hidden gems. Hjördís also introduces her Siberian huskies, some of the only sled dogs of their kind in all of Iceland! Delve into Hjördís's fascination with the stories of farms abandoned during the Askja eruption and the North American emigration years. Through her well known documentary work, she sheds light on these historical narratives and their enduring significance. We also discussed the Wilderness Centre in East Iceland - a place that embodies the deep connections between nature and the human experience in Iceland. Enjoy this journey through the wonders of East Iceland, guided by the passion and expertise of Hjördís Hilmarsdóttir. Link to the East Iceland Abandoned Farms Documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4Tb8SqS6BU&t=1389s

Doreen Borgfjord McFarlane Canadian/American pastor and author, brings her passion for Icelandic heritage to the podcast. As a descendant of immigrants she is a passionate genealogist and a trained opera singer with a PhD in bible studies. Doreen's family history fuels her writings, including her book "Leirarskotta, Icelandic Girl Ghost." In this captivating episode, Doreen introduces us to the intriguing concept of 'Ghost Genealogy,' recounting her personal quest to unravel the mystery of a family ghost that has lingered for eight generations. Through her evocative storytelling, she seamlessly intertwines her Icelandic Roots, writing inspirations, and global adventures, uncovering unexpected connections and themes across cultures and histories (including some surprises like China). Moreover, Doreen delves into her recent article featured on the Icelandic Roots blog, exploring the significance of Icelandic bibles in the immigration to North America and how their swift translation into Icelandic may have played a crucial role in preserving the Icelandic language. Draugasögur fyrir góðar stundir! Read Doreen's Blog on the history of Icelandic Bibles: https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/bibles-in-the-icelandic-immigration-to-north-america-part-two

Jason Doctor is an American of Icelandic descent, a public policy professor at USC with a PhD in psychology. As Public Outreach Director at Icelandic Roots, he promotes Icelandic heritage through education and events. In this conversation, Jason shares his unique approach to delving into the Icelandic sagas - timeless literary treasures that offer profound insights into history and human nature. Drawing from his extensive immersion into the sagas, Jason provides valuable tips and tricks for navigating these legendary books, offering fresh perspectives on sagas like Njal's Saga, Saga of the Volsungs, Egil's Saga, and the Vinland sagas. Whether you're an Icelandic literary enthusiast or a newcomer to this fascinating realm, this episode promises to deepen your understanding and appreciation of these timeless tales. Journey with us through history, mythology, and the human psyche, as we unravel the mysteries of the Icelandic sagas together! "Fate guides all, both gods and men." -Gunnar of Hlíðarendi quote from Njal's saga which reflects the belief in a predetermined destiny that permeates many sagas - the fatalism that Jason refers to in the podcast. Here's one of Jason's article's about the Vinland Sagas: https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/the-vinland-sagas

Kent Lárus Björnsson is a Western Icelander with a unique perspective. Born and raised in Gimli, Manitoba (Canada) with deep Icelandic roots, Kent eventually returned to his ancestral homeland. Now living in Reykjavik, he works at a local school and shares his passion for exploration by offering services as a tour consultant. We delve into Kent's journey of how he made Iceland his home with all his diverse adventures along the way. From the recent volcanic eruptions to the future of Icelandic tourism, Kent also offers insightful tips for those contemplating working or living in Iceland. He's also an experienced traveller outside of Iceland and he shared with us stories of his recent 'round the world trip including some surprising twists like how he ended up as the only English speaker on a Disney train tour of Taiwan! More on Kent: https://www.icelandicroots.com/ir-volunteers/kent-l%C3%A1rus-bj%C3%B6rnsson

Join Curtis Olafson as he sheds light on efforts to raise awareness about a prevalent gene mutation in individuals of Icelandic descent. The CDKN2A mutation significantly increases the risk of melanoma, pancreatic, and other cancers, present in 10-25% of families with multiple melanoma cases and approximately 1 in 1250 Icelanders without a melanoma diagnosis. Icelandic descendants face heightened susceptibility to these cancers, with many carrying the inherited CDKN2A mutation. Curtis has made it his personal mission to bring awareness to these health concerns. Raised on his Icelandic immigrant grandparents' homestead, Curtis has dedicated more than two decades to preserving Icelandic heritage serving as President of the Icelandic Communities Association. Additionally, he has been recognized for his community service as a state Senator, twice earning the title of “Legislator of the Year” by the North Dakota Township Officers Association. Among other Icelandic stories, we also talk about the Deuce of August Icelandic Celebration, North Dakota's longest-running ethnic festival, now in its 125th year! Read the article here: https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/icelandic-cancer-related-gene-mutation-information The Deuce of August: https://www.thedeuce.org/

Continue our discussion on the essence of art, podcasting, and poetry with Karen Gummo. Karen shares her "storytelling affirmation" and her ties to Calgary's Leif Erikson Icelandic Club and more tales from her Icelandic travels; intertwining history, myth & legendary locales. Special to this Podcast, Karen retells the Icelandic Ghost Story of The Deacon of Myrká (Djákninn á Myrká). The mystical Myrká of Eyjafjörður where the story is set is west of Akureyri (you can find the locations in this story on Icelandic Roots maps). Our Podcast concludes with information on the life and times of Stephan G. Stephansson (1853–1927), the most well-known Icelandic-Canadian Poet. Born in Skagafjörður, he emigrated to North America and eventually settled in Markerville, Alberta, where he self-educated, wrote, fathered & farmed. Rediscover Western Iceland through storytelling & history. We hope you enjoy this Podcast & checkout our Blog for more: https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/the-deacon-of-myrk%C3%A1-on-christmas-eve Following the tradition of oral storytelling & practicing the art of active listening & improvisation listen to our other episodes of The Icelandic Roots Podcast.

Karen Gummo's world of storytelling & history Part 1 of our interview. We unravel tales from her recent trip to Iceland, where she performed in the grand opening of the Edda building. Learn the origin story that ignited Karen's fascination with Laura Goodman Salverson (1890–1970), who was a distinguished Icelandic-Canadian author. (Laura's literary works, deeply rooted in Icelandic heritage, earned her two Governor General's awards for literature. In 1923, Salverson introduced her inaugural novel, "The Viking Heart.") Moving past conventional boundaries, we dance delicately between the paranormal & the historical; myth & reality; emotion & truth... "Who am I to tell this story?" Discover valuable insights on overcoming the fear of becoming a storyteller & journey thru Western Icelandic Heritage, touching diverse landscapes from Markerville & Red Deer to British Columbia & the wandering gypsy spirit of Saskatchewan. "There's Truth in Every Story... Where is the Truth for you in that story?" Let this thought resonate as we navigate the Icelandic sagas & folklore, questioning what is fact and what is metaphorically true. Explore the nuanced perspectives of history, from the written word to oral storytelling, intertwined with emotions & memory. Bridging the gap between past and present. Enjoy listening & lookout for Part 2 of our Podcast. Discover YOUR Icelandic Roots: IcelandicRoots.com For more about Karen Gummo, visit http://karengummo.com Learn about Laura Salverson: icelandicroots.com/post/torment-and-triumph-in-the-nineteen-twenties

Part 2 with Atli Geir Halldórsson and Julie Summers, co-project managers of the Snorri Programs. Continuing our exploration of language learning, touching on the influence of technologies like AI language models. We look ahead to the future of genealogy, pondering what the next generation of genealogists might discover within the vast digital archives our society is constructing. Atli and Julie share valuable insights into Iceland, the Snorri Programs, and the promising paths ahead for our North American-Icelandic communities. Strong is the Bond. Cheers to 2024 and the enduring legacies of Snorri and Icelandic Roots! Samband Íslands og Norður-Ameríku: mál, tækni og framtíð ættfræðinnar. We're thankful for your continued support of Icelandic Roots! Follow the Podcast for more conversations like these - and do be sure to checkout IcelandicRoots.com

Meet Atli Geir Halldórsson and Julie Summers, co-project managers of the Snorri Programs, who both joined in 2023, bringing diverse experiences to the table. Atli, with a background in managing Nordjobb and volunteering at the Nordic Youth Democracy, splits his time between Iceland and Vancouver, Canada, where he has ancestral emigration ties. Julie, previously a writer and editor for the Lögberg-Heimskringla and a longstanding member of the Icelandic Roots team, currently resides in Germany. In our conversation, we dive deep into the connections between North America and Iceland. We explore Icelandic language learning, discussing its future and sharing insights from both a native speaker (Atli) and a language enthusiast (Julie). The discussion expands to the Icelandic Roots database, drawing comparisons with what Icelandic citizens access through the Íslendingabok. Join us for a fascinating exploration of heritage, language, and the intricate ties between two lands. For those keen on Icelandic culture, history, and meaningful connections, the Snorri Program offers a unique immersion opportunity. If you're interested, check out www.snorri.is for program details, deadlines, and application requirements. It's one of the best ways explore Iceland & connect with your heritage. & you can always learn more of your heritage on the Icelandic Roots database. Our public newsletter: https://www.icelandicroots.com/newsletter-signup Find upcoming events on our calendar: www.icelandicroots.com/event-calendar

Part 2 of our conversation with Julian Lozos, Associate Professor of Geophysics at California State University, Northridge. We pick right back up discussing earthquake processes and the role of computer modeling in both volcano and earthquake science. We explore the impact of these technologies on the lives of people and their safety in regions prone to seismic events. Continuing our exploration, we delve into the recent history of Icelandic eruptions, speculating on what 2024 might bring for volcanic activity in Iceland. Another fascination we explore is the intriguing relationship between volcanic eruptions and Icelandic tourism. We reflect on the impact Eyjafjallajökull had on tourism and consider the potential allure of the current Fagradalsfjall volcanic system on the Reykjanes Peninsula and the town of Grindavík. In this episode, we also touch on the recent development of the theory of plate tectonics and its connection to the historic Map of Iceland by Abraham Ortelius - full of sea monsters and other curiosities… To wrap up the podcast, we read an excerpt from the book "Living Planet" by British Naturalist David Attenborough of BBC fame on the topics of Icelandic Geology and volcanoes as the "Furnaces of the Earth." Subscribe now for the latest insights into all things Iceland - from geology to genealogy, we've got you covered! Listen to Part 1 of our interview with Julian Lozos. And checkout our Blog for more: https://www.icelandicroots.com/blog

Julian Lozos is an Associate Professor of Geophysics at California State University, Northridge. His work uses computer modeling techniques to understand earthquake processes, most notably within the San Andreas Fault system. Deeply passionate about geology, Julian is captivated by Iceland. He has explored recent eruptions on the island and immersed himself in Grindavík and the geological wonders of that region. In Part 1, we delve into the captivating history of Fagradalsfjall's eruptions. Situated on the Reykjanes Peninsula, this active volcano, a relic of the Last Glacial Period, triggered a temporary state of emergency in Grindavík and disrupted operations at the Blue Lagoon Spa. What could 2024 have in store for volcanic activity in this mesmerizing region? Find out in Part 2. Subscribe for the latest on all things Iceland. Explore Icelandic Volcanic History on our Blog: https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/50th-anniversary-of-eldfell-eruption-at-westman-islands

Part 2 of our interview with Nelson Gerrard; we delve deeper into his literary journey and the intricate process of bringing his books to publication as way to give back to the community that had supported him. We venture into the concept of illuminating the invisible landscape through understanding history, unraveling the profound connections that history opens up in our surroundings. Our conversation extended to the magic of travel and the unique experiences of farming, as Nelson recounts his adventures in caring for ~150 animals on his farm. Exploring myth, story, and the parallel realms of history, a captivating conclusion to our conversation with Icelandic historian Nelson Gerrard.

Recorded within the historic walls of Éngimýri, a kaffi-fueled discourse with the great Nelson Gerrard, a Manitoba-based historian, genealogist, and author of Icelandic River Saga and The Icelandic Heritage. Our conversation delves into the Icelandic immigrant experience in North America, weaving together genealogy, language, and the allure of myth in a captivating exploration of our roots. In Part 1, Nelson discusses the restoration of historic houses with the Icelandic River Heritage Sites and shares insights from his time living and working at the Emigration Centre in Hofsós, Iceland. Nelson illuminates his lifelong dedication to genealogy - a fascination that first gripped him at the tender age of 12. Listen in to find out what sparked his interest in Icelandic history and learn the role pride has in understanding one's heritage. We also glean insights into his book-writing process and so much more. Explore further at https://www.icelandicriverheritage.ca/ And for additional learnings check out our blog https://www.icelandicroots.com/blog

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

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/.

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

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

In this special episode, we delve into the heart of one of North America's oldest and most vibrant ethnic celebrations: the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba, held in the picturesque town of Gimli, Canada. Join us on a cultural journey through time, exploring the rich history and traditions that make this festival a cherished annual event. It's a gathering that brings people of all ages, backgrounds, and nationalities together to experience the spirit of Iceland right here in Manitoba, featuring lively music, dancing, traditional Viking-inspired games, and something for everyone to enjoy. Dating back to 1890, the festival is one of North America's oldest ethnic celebrations. It began with Icelandic settlers in Gimli, Manitoba, seeking to preserve their cultural heritage while adapting to Canadian life. The festival was born out of their desire to celebrate their Icelandic roots and has evolved into an annual tradition attracting visitors from far and wide. Owen and Cass chat with Marilyn Valgardson, the President of the Icelandic Festival, to discuss the upcoming festival this weekend. Details of events, history, and what to expect are all on the agenda. Join us and discover one of Manitoba's longest-running festivals and one of the biggest Icelandic celebrations outside of Iceland!

Join Jack & Sierra Jenson on their Snorri Internship in Hofsos as they reflect on their enchanting time at Brimnes, the summer home of esteemed Western Icelander, Bill Holm. Sierra illuminates the rich tapestry of humanity at the Emigration Center Museum (Vesturfararsetrið), while Jack delves into the profound impact of Bill Holm's writings. Together, they embrace the essence of the Icelandic diaspora, sharing Icelandic connections Rooted within a global community. Further yet, they recount their encounter with a rogue Walrus in Sauðárkrókur and first-hand experience of the Reykjavik earthquakes which led to the recent volcanic eruption. To learn more about Bill Holm, click the links below: https://milkweed.org/author/bill-holm https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/the-windows-of-brimnes-an-american-in-iceland Information on the Icelandic Emigration Centre: https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/welcome-to-vesturfarasetri%C3%B0 And discover more Icelandic history & culture with our public newsletter: https://www.icelandicroots.com/newsletter-signup

Interview with PhD Candidate Erik Schoonover discussing all things related to Icelandic geology. Erik was a fellow member of the Snorri program with our cohort in summer 2022. His grandma emigrated to the US from Iceland as part of the Post-WW2 1960’s wave. Listen and learn all about geology (and geological puns), hotdogs in Iceland, more Snorri stories, and an overall enlightening discussion on the natural sciences of Iceland and beyond. From the Holocene Epoch to the Anthropocene, to the Basalt Igneous rocks, this episode is sure to be ground-breaking (there's a geology pun somewhere). Erik’s Geology Podcast Recommendation: Planet Geo Podcast Icelandic history, heritage, & culture: Sign up for the Icelandic Roots newsletter: https://www.icelandicroots.com/newsletter-signup See all of the fun upcoming events on our calendar here: www.icelandicroots.com/event-calendar

Get to know your hosts Owen, Jack, and Cass as we dive into the history of Icelandic immigration to North America and discuss what we hope to achieve with this podcast going forward. Join us and discover the life-changing cultural exchange program that brought us together - the Snorri Program - where young people of Icelandic descent from North America and Iceland explore their shared heritage. Whether you're a fellow Snorri alum or simply interested in learning more about Iceland and its people, this episode is a must-listen. Takk fyrir að hlusta, gaman að hitta þig! Sjáumst. Learn More: Icelandic Roots The Snorri Program info

Join us as we dive into the exciting world of Gimli, MB with Julianna Roberts! The director of the New Iceland Heritage museum also happens to be Owen's Mom! Discover the legacy of New Iceland, where Icelandic settlers thrived despite challenges. Today, they celebrate 134 years of cultural heritage through events like the Icelandic festival. Julianna Roberts, with her lifelong involvement in the Icelandic community, now manages the New Iceland Heritage Museum in Gimli, MB.

Your three new hosts: Owen Roberts, Jack Plumley and Cass Heigaard, are joined by Sunna Furstenau for a quick introduction to Icelandic Roots and our focus for the new Season of this Podcast. Sunna is a prominent figure in promoting cultural exchange between Icelanders and North Americans. She grew up in Eyford in Thingvalla Township, North Dakota, and always had an interest in family history. In 2003, she connected with Icelandic genealogist Hálfdan Helgason and started helping George Freeman with the genealogy center at the Deuce of August celebration. In 2012, she traveled around Iceland as the INLNA guest speaker and started a blog to document the journey, calling it Icelandic Roots. The following year, Sunna and her husband founded the nonprofit Icelandic Roots, centered around the genealogy database that Hálfdan Helgason had started. Sunna remains deeply involved in various projects, with the goal of preserving and promoting our shared Icelandic heritage. Stay tuned for lots of fun and educational podcast episodes dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories of Icelandic heritage. Visit the Icelandic Roots Website for more

Volunteer Icelandic Roots genealogists Dave & David share their journey in helping to build an impressive database of Icelandic emigration records that tell the stories of thousands of families who left the island.

Jason tells us about how the Saga Project is making it easier for Icelandic descendants to connect to the lands of their ancestors through maps and stories in the Icelandic Roots genealogy database. Plus, Natalie gives a PSA on how to watch the new Viking Valhalla series on Netflix. Non-Icelanders can view the Saga Map at: http://sagamap.hi.is/is/ Learn more about Icelandic history, heritage, and culture with our public newsletter: https://www.icelandicroots.com/newsletter-signup Find the Fitness Challenge details + upcoming events on our calendar: www.icelandicroots.com/event-calendar Learn more about the sagas: What is a saga? https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/what-is-a-saga Flóamanna Saga https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/fl%C3%B3amanna-saga Fljótsdalur Saga https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/flj%C3%B3tsdalur-saga The Saga of Þorsteinn Staff Struck https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/the-saga-of-%C3%BEorsteinn-staff-struck The Saga of the Vopnafjörður https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/the-saga-of-the-people-of-vopnafj%C3%B6r%C3%B0ur Tracing Njáll’s Saga https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/tracing-njalls-saga Saga Thing Podcast https://sagathingpodcast.wordpress.com/

Jodi Dunlop is an artist and musician from Gimli/Winnipeg, Manitoba. She shares her experiences growing up in Gimli - the heart of New Iceland, working for the New Iceland Heritage Museum and the Lögberg-Heimskringla (Canada's oldest ethnic newspaper still printing) as well as her journey into music. Her band, Mise en Scene, was named Rock Artist of the Year in 2021 at the Western Canadian Music Awards. Their new music and upcoming shows can be found on their website: www.misensceneband.com Learn more about Icelandic culture, heritage, history, and language on our website www.icelandicroots.com. Find upcoming events on our calendar: www.icelandicroots.com/event-calendar

March 19th, 2022 is the one-year anniversary of the Geldingadalsgos volcanic eruption on the Reykjanes Peninsula in Iceland. This capricious volcano captivated a global audience around the world as 24-hour webcams captured the changing nature of the fissures and lava flow. This episode features interviews from some of our friends, family, and volunteers who had the opportunity to see the volcano up close with their own eyes. Join us as we hear them describe their experiences and impressions. Read more about the volcano: https://www.icelandicroots.com/post/iceland-s-volcanomania-2021-edition Learn more about Icelandic history, heritage, and culture with our public newsletter: https://www.icelandicroots.com/newsletter-signup Find upcoming events on our calendar: www.icelandicroots.com/event-calendar

In this episode, Will interviews American Author, Nancy Marie Brown, author of numerous books about Viking history and culture, including her most recent novel, The Real Valkyrie: The Hidden History of Viking Warrior Women. This episode's featured song is "Love and War" by Mise en Scene. Learn more about Icelandic culture, heritage, history, and language on our website www.icelandicroots.com. Find upcoming events on our calendar: www.icelandicroots.com/event-calendar

In this episode, Will interviews renowned North Dakota photographer retired professor, and author, Wayne Gudmundson. Together they discuss the jigsaw puzzle that is Iceland's history and the complex story of immigration to North America. Hear excerpts from Wayne's new book, "A Song for Liv", where he chronicles his Icelandic family's journey to North Dakota. Wayne's book, Song for Liv, is available for purchase from the North Dakota State University: https://epayment.ndus.nodak.edu/C22800_ustores/web/product_detail.jsp?PRODUCTID=11212&SINGLESTORE=true Learn more about Icelandic heritage, history, culture, and language on our website: www.icelandicroots.com Find upcoming Icelandic events on our calendar: www.icelandicroots.com/event-calendar

In this episode, we look at the works of Bill Holm, a poet and essayist born on a farm north of Minneota, Minnesota. Holm is the author of twelve books of poems and essays covering topics about life in rural Minnesota, American society, and Iceland. For more information on Icelandic heritage, culture, and genealogy, connect with us on our website www.icelandicroots.com and find us on social media as “Icelandic Roots”.

In this episode, we are looking at the life and legacy of the Icelandic-American poet Kristján Níels Júlíus Jónsson, aka K.N. Júlíus or Káinn (pronounced cow-en). Podcast hosts Will and Natalie discuss the timeline of his life and discuss the interesting stories that have lingered about him. We also talk to Icelandic musician, writer, and actor, Bragi Valdimar Skúlason, about his connection to Káinn’s poetry and his band, Baggalútur’s latest album, which features a full list of Kaínn’s poems turned to song. Listen to the end to hear “Sólskinið í Dakota” at the end. For more information on Icelandic heritage, culture, and genealogy, connect with us on our website www.icelandicroots.com and find us on social media as “Icelandic Roots”.

In this episode, we introduce you to Icelandic Roots: who we are, what we do, and why we started a podcast. Volunteers Jackie and Natalie take turns interviewing Icelandic Roots founder and director, Sunna Furstenau about her love of her Icelandic heritage, how she turned her hobby of genealogy into a thriving non-profit, and her vision for the future of the organization. The featured song of this episode is "So Cold" by Sigrun Stella, so listen to the end!