"My life is boring." We've all heard it. Here is how to gently overcome resistance, use memory triggers, and interview the 'reluctant storyteller' in your family. ...more
Family Interview Guides
January 09, 2026•6 min read

A practical guide to recording family stories with trust. Includes a 60-second permission script, clear boundaries, and simple “off the record” rules so your interviews stay comfortable, private, and ... ...more
Family Interview Guides
January 05, 2026•5 min read

Start a meaningful tradition: Record a 30-minute “Year That Was” story. Get our guide on interview questions, setup tips, and digital archiving to preserve family voices forever. ...more
Family Interview Guides
December 30, 2025•6 min read

Gathering oral histories is an incredible endeavor, but it’s far more than simply pressing 'record.' At its heart, oral history is a delicate dance between asking and listening, a conversation guided ... ...more
Family Interview Guides
December 20, 2025•3 min read

Worried that recording a family interview will feel awkward or stiff? Use this gentle, step-by-step guide—complete with scripts, warm-up questions, and a simple phone-only setup—to capture real memori... ...more
Family Interview Guides
November 04, 2025•6 min read

Ask better questions with prompts that invite real stories
Stay organized with a simple session plan (prep → record → follow-up)
Capture clean audio/video with practical setup guidance
Handle sensitive moments with respectful consent and comfort tips
Preserve it properly so files stay accessible for the long haul
Project Planning & Scoping Workbook: Define your goals and create a clear roadmap.
Customizable Informed Consent Form: The essential ethical document for any project.
The Essential Interview Checklist: A step-by-step guide for before, during, and after your interview.
Guide to Affordable & Effective Recording Equipment: Our top picks for any budget.
Oral History Transcription Template: A professional template to accurately transcribe interviews.
The Interview Success Planner: Essential pre-interview worksheet for background research and preparation.
The Storykeeper's Log: Critical post-interview field notes template to capture immediate insights.
Private Facebook Group Invitation: Connect with fellow practitioners for tips, advice, and support.
What you get: A complete digital Starter Kit—prompts, planning workbook, session checklist, consent form, and recording/transcription templates.
Timeframe: Start planning today and record your first interview this week.
Who it’s for: Anyone who wants to preserve meaningful family stories with a simple, ethical process—no experience required.

© 2025 The Oral History Practice, LLC. All rights reserved.
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