About Me, the Author- Diane Henriks

About the Author, Diane Henriks

Many people have asked how I started this work and what led me to where I am today. For a long time, I didn’t think my story mattered—I focused more on solving problems than talking about myself. But I’ve learned that genealogy is just as much about connection as it is about research, so here is a little more about who I am and why I do what I do.

Hi, I’m Diane Henriks—a professional genealogist, speaker, author, investigator, and the founder of Know Who Wears the Genes in Your Family. I’m extremely passionate about family history and thoroughly committed to helping people discover, document, and preserve their stories. My approach is grounded in careful analysis, logical reasoning, and a methodical way of thinking that guides every case I take on.

I specialize in descendancy research, living people search, brick wall research, and unknown parentage research. Many know me as “The Descendant Detective”, a name that grew from my long-standing focus on tracing living descendants and reconstructing complex family lines.

My work often blends traditional and genetic genealogy, and I’ve collaborated closely with private investigators on difficult searches and background investigations in both civil and criminal contexts. Along with core research services, I also offer:

• genealogical problem-solving and consultations
• genetic genealogy support
• unknown parentage case analysis
• record retrieval
• heir research & living people search
• genealogy coaching
• client-based family history books
• genealogy presentations, workshops, and classes
• volunteer “lost and found” searches that I take on when they’re quick, meaningful, and compelling

I’ve been researching genealogy for well over a decade—close to twenty years—working on both my own ancestral lines and the many families I’ve assisted along the way. I’m a proud member of the Association of Professional Genealogists, the Genealogical Speakers Guild, the Southern California Genealogical Society, and the Utah Genealogical Association. At the encouragement of colleagues at SCGS, I began publishing my work several years ago and have since authored multiple books in my specialty areas.

Outside of research and my family, some of my favorite things include tea (especially chai lattes), pumpkin and lemon everything, fog, bridges, and—of course—genealogy. What started as a small hobby, after receiving a hand-drawn family tree from my father, has grown into a lifelong dedication to helping others uncover the people and stories that shaped them.

If you ever have a question or need guidance, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help.

​Follow along on my blog, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest—and if you’re ready to begin your own family history journey, I’d love to work with you.


Updated: 11/18/2025