Dis a Fi Mi History Podcast: Explore Caribbean Ancestry & Culture
Dis A Fi Mi History Podcast
Hosted by Wendy Aris
A space where Caribbean history, family history, and heritage come to life. This podcast explores the legacies of colonialism and uncovers the often-overlooked stories that shaped the Caribbean and its people.
Whether you're tracing your ancestral roots, exploring regional identity, or simply curious about the past that informs the present, Dis A Fi Mi History offers meaningful insights and resources for anyone interested in Caribbean genealogy and historical storytelling.
Join host Wendy Aris as she speaks with historians, archivists, cultural practitioners, and everyday people who are piecing together the threads of their family and national histories.
Dis A Fi Mi History Podcast
Hosted by Wendy Aris
A space where Caribbean history, family history, and heritage come to life. This podcast explores the legacies of colonialism and uncovers the often-overlooked stories that shaped the Caribbean and its people.
Whether you're tracing your ancestral roots, exploring regional identity, or simply curious about the past that informs the present, Dis A Fi Mi History offers meaningful insights and resources for anyone interested in Caribbean genealogy and historical storytelling.
Join host Wendy Aris as she speaks with historians, archivists, cultural practitioners, and everyday people who are piecing together the threads of their family and national histories.
Episodes

Sunday Jul 02, 2023
Sunday Jul 02, 2023
In this episode of Dis a Fi Mi History Podcast, host Wendy Aris engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Dr. Justine K Collins, a Postdoctoral Researcher & Lecturer at SOAS University of London. They delve into the intricacies of the Barbados Slave Code from the 1660s, examining its role in shaping Caribbean history and its deep-rooted connections to colonialism. Together, they explore how this legislation impacted family genealogy and the heritage of the Caribbean people. Listeners will gain insight into the lasting implications of these historical narratives, providing a framework for understanding present-day family histories in the Caribbean context. Join us for an enlightening conversation that bridges the past with the present in the exploration of Caribbean ancestry and culture. BIO: Dr. Justine K Collins is a legal historian and specialises in the intersection of law and society particularly within colonial slavery laws of the Atlantic World. She completed her doctoral studies at the Goethe University Frankfurt in conjunction with the Max Planck Institute for European Legal History and Legal Theory in Frankfurt, Germany. Her thesis engaged legal comparative analysis to trace the origins and influences of the British Caribbean slavery codes. This thesis research - Tracing British West Indian Slavery: An Analysis of Legal Transplants - was published by Routledge in 2021. Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Justine-K-Collins/dp/1032122994 Support the channel Buy me a coffee: Ko-fi.com/disafimihistory Follow: Twitter: @eppinghall Instagram: @berkshirehalleppingpress Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3WlDABsVBBYSPH8dUdD1lQ Workbook https://www.lulu.com/en/us/shop/wendy-aris/genealogy-workbook/paperback/product-88wyv4.html?page=1&pageSize=4 Theme Music "Africa" is modern ethnic track with fresh chords, African vocal, orchestra. License Creative Commons Attribution license (reuse allowed) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2zQefSvCUk #history #jamaicanhistory #jamaicapodcast #History #BritishAtlanticHistory #Slavecode #CaribbeanHistory #SlaveHistroy #JamaicaHistory #colonialism #heritage #familygenealogy #Caribbeanhistory #familyhistory

Sunday Jun 18, 2023
Sunday Jun 18, 2023
In this episode of Dis A Fi Mi History Podcast, host Wendy Aris speaks with Dr. David Beck Ryden, a prominent Associate Professor of History at the University of Houston – Downtown. With degrees in Economics and History, Dr. Ryden's expertise lies in the intricate narratives of British American slave societies. Join us as we delve into his research on manumission in late eighteenth-century Jamaica and examine the far-reaching impacts of colonialism on Caribbean heritage. Through his articles in prominent journals and his editorial work on pro-slavery pamphlets, Dr. Ryden reveals vital insights into the legacies that shape our understanding of Caribbean history today. Whether you're interested in family genealogy or simply curious about the Caribbean's past, this conversation promises a deep exploration into the threads connecting our present to our colonial history. Book: https://www.thriftbooks.com/a/david-beck-ryden/1564268/in Late Eighteenth-Century Jamaica Article Link: https://brill.com/view/journals/nwig/92/3-4/article-p211_1.xml?language=en Endangered Archives Programme Link: https://eap.bl.uk/collection/EAP148-3-1/search Website: https://quanthistory.wordpress.com/about/ Support the channel Buy me a coffee: Ko-fi.com/disafimihistory Follow: Twitter: @eppinghall Instagram: @berkshirehalleppingpress Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3WlDABsVBBYSPH8dUdD1lQ Workbook https://www.amazon.com/Genealogy-Workbook-Family-History-Research/dp/B09NRHG3M3/ Theme Music "Africa" is modern ethnic track with fresh chords, African vocal, orchestra. License Creative Commons Attribution license (reuse allowed) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2zQefSvCUk #history #jamaicanhistory #jamaicapodcast #History #BritishAtlanticHistory #Manumissions #CaribbeanHistory #SlaveHistroy #JamaicaHistory #colonialism #caribbeanhistory #familyhistory #familygenealogy #heritage

Sunday Nov 06, 2022
Sunday Nov 06, 2022
In this episode, join me as I speak with Robin R Foster about her insightful book, My Best Genealogy Tips: Finding Previously Enslaved Ancestors. We delve into the world of family genealogy and discuss effective strategies for tracing your heritage, particularly when it comes to uncovering the stories of ancestors from the Caribbean who were formerly enslaved. Discover valuable resources and tips that will help you navigate the complexities of family history and embrace your cultural heritage with confidence. Bio: Robin dedicated to helping you past your research challenges in finding resources to identify your ancestors. I loved helping others while volunteering at FamilySearch, and I am excited to help anyone who needs assistance. Former Family History Center Director at Greenwood South Carolina Family History Center Founder of Genealogy Just Ask PLUS Website: https://www.genealogyjustask.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GenealogyJustAsk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genealogyjustask/?hl=en Twitter:@genelogyjustask Purchase Book Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/My-Best-Genealogy-Tips-Ancestors/dp/B0B9238BGQ Contact: Twitter: @eppinghall Email: disafimihistorypodcast@gmail.com Genealogy Workbook: Purchase: https://www.amazon.com/Genealogy-Workbook-Family-History-Research/dp/B09NRHG3M3/ #genealogy #blackhistory #slavehistory #genealogicalresearch #ancestralroots #Caribbeanancestry

Sunday Oct 23, 2022
Sunday Oct 23, 2022
In this episode, we delve into colonialism and Caribbean history with renowned genealogist Paul Crooks. Mr. Crooks is not only an author but a passionate speaker who has dedicated over 13 years to uncovering the rich narratives of African Caribbean genealogy. His groundbreaking journey led him to be the first individual of African Caribbean descent to trace his ancestry back to his enslaved ancestors in Jamaica during the transatlantic slave trade. Join us as Paul shares his experiences and insights into the importance of heritage and family history in understanding our past and shaping our identities today. Whether you are interested in your own family genealogy or the broader implications of colonialism in the Caribbean, this episode offers valuable perspectives and a deeper appreciation for the stories that define us. Website: https://paulcrooks.info/ Books - Amazon Link https://www.amazon.com/Paul-Crooks/e/B001K81MDU? Course Offerings: https://www.eventbrite.ca/o/black-history-speaker-paul-crooks-18089386487 Contact Twitter: @history_speaker Instagram:@ ancestrytalks Dis A Fi Mi History Podcast Contact: Twitter: @eppinghall Email: disafimihistorypodcast@gmail.com Genealogy Workbook: https://www.amazon.com/Genealogy-Workbook-Family-History-Research/dp/B09NRHG3M3/ #slaverecords #podcast #jamaicanhistory #ancestralroots #AfricanCaribbeangenealogy #

Sunday Oct 09, 2022
Exploring Caribbean Family History with Carlston Walters - Part 2
Sunday Oct 09, 2022
Sunday Oct 09, 2022
In today's episode, I will be speaking with Carlston Walters of Caribbean Family History, a group dedicated to Caribbean genealogy. This organization assists family history researchers in overcoming their obstacles in tracing their roots. Join us as we delve into the significance of family history and how it intertwines with Caribbean heritage. Carlston shares valuable tips for navigating the challenges of researching Caribbean ancestry and the importance of understanding our past in the context of colonialism. Tune in to discover how you can uncover your family’s story and connect with a rich tapestry of Caribbean history. Contact: Email: cfhg.sol.birm@gmail.com Website: http://www.caribbeanfamilyhistorygroup.org/ Contact: Twitter: @eppinghall Email: disafimihistorypodcast@gmail.com Genealogy Workbook: https://www.lulu.com/en/us/shop/wendy-aris/genealogy-workbook/paperback/product-88wyv4.html?page=1&pageSize=4 https://www.amazon.com/Genealogy-Workbook-Family-History-Research/dp/B09NRHG3M3/ #podcast #caribbeanhistory #familyhistory #HistoryPodcast #GenealogyPodcast #LearnYourHistory #PodcastCommunity #LivingHistory #ResearchYourRoots #AfricanDiaspora #DiasporaStories #HeritageMatters #OurAncestors #LegacyAndHeritage #CulturalIdentity #FamilyHistoryResearch #GenealogyJourney #TracingRoots #AncestryResearch #FamilyTreeResearch #GenealogyCommunity #CaribbeanHistory #CaribbeanHeritage #CaribbeanGenealogy #IslandRoots #KnowYourRoots #CaribbeanDiaspora

Sunday Sep 25, 2022
Exploring Caribbean Family History with Carlston Walters - Part 1
Sunday Sep 25, 2022
Sunday Sep 25, 2022
In today's episode, I will be speaking with Carlston Walters of Caribbean Family History, a group dedicated to Caribbean genealogy. This organization assists family history researchers in overcoming their obstacles in tracing their roots. Join us as we delve into the significance of family history and how it intertwines with Caribbean heritage. Carlston shares valuable tips for navigating the challenges of researching Caribbean ancestry and the importance of understanding our past in the context of colonialism. Tune in to discover how you can uncover your family’s story and connect with a rich tapestry of Caribbean history. Contact: Email: cfhg.sol.birm@gmail.com Website: http://www.caribbeanfamilyhistorygroup.org/ Contact: Twitter: @eppinghall Email: disafimihistorypodcast@gmail.com Genealogy Workbook: https://www.lulu.com/en/us/shop/wendy-aris/genealogy-workbook/paperback/product-88wyv4.html?page=1&pageSize=4 https://www.amazon.com/Genealogy-Workbook-Family-History-Research/dp/B09NRHG3M3/ #podcast #familyhistory #colonialism #familygenealogy #heritage #CaribbeanHistory #CaribbeanHeritage #CaribbeanGenealogy #IslandRoots #KnowYourRoots #CaribbeanDiaspora #FamilyHistoryResearch #GenealogyJourney #TracingRoots #AncestryResearch #FamilyTreeResearch #GenealogyCommunity #AfricanDiaspora #DiasporaStories #HeritageMatters #OurAncestors #LegacyAndHeritage #CulturalIdentity #HistoryPodcast #GenealogyPodcast #LearnYourHistory #PodcastCommunity #LivingHistory #ResearchYourRoots

Sunday Mar 20, 2022
Dr. Kofi Barima on Obeah’s Role in Jamaica’s Fight Against Colonialism
Sunday Mar 20, 2022
Sunday Mar 20, 2022
In today's episode, we're diving into Caribbean history as I speak with Dr. Kofi Barima, an assistant professor at Jackson State University specializing in Public History and the Atlantic World. We explore the significant role of Obeah in Jamaica's slave revolt and its broader impact on freedom and identity in the Caribbean. Join us as we uncover the connections between Obeah, colonialism, and the enduring fight for heritage and autonomy in the region. Dr. Barima's insights offer invaluable perspectives on family history and genealogy, reminding us of the resilience and strength inherent within our cultural narratives. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on the intersection of spirituality and the struggle for freedom in Jamaica. Paper Link: http://www.jpanafrican.org/docs/vol9no4/JuneJuly-3-Barima.pdf Website: https://godboxtours.com/about-ghana/ Contact: Twitter: @eppinghall Email: disafimihistorypodcast@gmail.com Genealogy Workbook: https://www.lulu.com/en/us/shop/wendy-aris/genealogy-workbook/paperback/product-88wyv4.html?page=1&pageSize=4 #spirituality #identity #JamaicanHistory #CaribbeanHistory #AntiColonial #ColonialResistance #FreedomStruggles #RebelHistories #Obeah #AfricanSpirituality #CaribbeanSpirituality #DecolonizeHistory #AncestralPower #SpiritualResistance #HistoryPodcast #DecolonizingHistory #LearnYourHistory #GenealogyPodcast #PodcastCommunity #LivingHistory #AfricanDiaspora #CaribbeanHeritage #KnowYourRoots #OurAncestors #HeritageMatters #DiasporaStories

Saturday Dec 04, 2021
My Best Genealogy Tips with Robin R Foster: Navigating Family History Research
Saturday Dec 04, 2021
Saturday Dec 04, 2021
In this episode, I speak with Robin R Foster about her newly published book, 'My Best Genealogy Tips: Quick Keys to Research Family Ancestry'. We delve into key strategies for navigating family genealogy research, emphasizing how to effectively uncover your ancestry. Bio: Robin is dedicated to helping you navigate the challenges of family history research and find resources to identify your ancestors. With a background in volunteering at FamilySearch, Robin is passionate about her heritage and excited to assist anyone in their genealogy journey. Former Family History Center Director at Greenwood South Carolina Family History Center Founder of Genealogy Just Ask PLUS Website: https://www.genealogyjustask.com/ Book Link: https://books2read.com/ap/nBQZP7/Robin-R-Foster YouTube: https://youtu.be/zZuVf_f9NN8 Contact Twitter:@Eppinghall Instagram:@berkshirhalleppingpress Workbook: https://www.lulu.com/en/us/shop/wendy-aris/genealogy-workbook/paperback/product-88wyv4.html?page=1&pageSize=4 #familyhistory #Genealogyresources #ancestralroots #GenealogyTips #FamilyHistoryResearch #AncestryResearch #TracingRoots #GenealogyCommunity #FamilyTreeResearch #GenealogyJourney #GenealogyPodcast #HistoryPodcast #PodcastCommunity #ResearchMadeSimple #LearnYourHistory #StorytellingThroughHistory #FindingFamily #FamilyStories #ResearchYourRoots #GenealogyMotivation #AncestryDiscovery

Sunday Nov 14, 2021
Sunday Nov 14, 2021
In this episode, we delve into an important aspect of Caribbean history with Dudley McLean II, who discusses his thought-provoking article for the Jamaica Observer, "Blacks Owned Slaves." This conversation unpacks the complexities of heritage and family history within the context of colonialism, revealing how these narratives have shaped modern Jamaican identity.
Join us as we explore the realities of Black ancestry, the legacies of colonialism, and the often-overlooked stories surrounding slavery in Jamaica. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in family genealogy and understanding the intricacies of Caribbean heritage.
Article: https://www.jamaicaobserver.com/the-agenda/jamaica-s-best-kept-secret-blacks-owned-slaves_183096
Dudley Constantine McLean II is the founder and the executive director of Associación de dabate Xaymaca (AdebateX), which convenes debating in Spanish for high schools. He was formerly employed by OGM Integrated Communications (2003-2005) and The Marketing Counselors Ltd. (2005-2007) as a Media Planner and Speech Writer. Mr. McLean received his education at New Bridge Preparatory, deCarteret College and Church Teachers’ College: Mandeville, where he specialized in English Literature and Religious Education. In October 2002, he graduated from the University of the West Indies [Cave Hill, Barbados] with a Second Class Honours Degree in Theology, becoming the first Jamaican student to read for a degree at the historic Anglican Theological College of the West Indies, Codrington College, since 1860. As a publisher, Mr. McLean published under the Laudate Dominum label, Death of a Village—The Story of St. Simons by Barbadian, Dr. Lionel Harcourt Smith (2002) Follow Twitter:@Eppinghall Instagram:@berkshirhalleppingpress Workbook: https://www.lulu.com/en/us/shop/wendy-aris/genealogy-workbook/paperback/product-88wyv4.html?page=1&pageSize=4 Theme Music "Africa" is modern ethnic track with fresh chords, African vocal, orchestra. License Creative Commons Attribution license (reuse allowed) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2zQefSvCUk #history #jamaicanhistory #jamaicapodcast #colonialism #caribbean history #familyhistory #familygenealogy #heritage #ColonialHistory #JamaicanHistory #CaribbeanHistory #AtlanticWorld #PostColonialStudies #HistoryMatters #CaribbeanAncestry #KnowYourRoots #AncestryResearch #DiasporaStories #HeritageMatters #AfricanDiaspora #BlackHistory #RaceAndHistory #OurAncestors #LegacyAndIdentity #UncoveringHistory #HistoryPodcast #GenealogyPodcast #LearnYourHistory #ResearchYourRoots #PodcastCommunity #LivingHistory

Saturday Oct 09, 2021
Exploring Family History through Col William Marsh's Legacy with Jennifer H S Brown
Saturday Oct 09, 2021
Saturday Oct 09, 2021
In this episode, we speak with Retired History Professor Jennifer H S Brown from the University of Winnipeg. We discuss the importance of understanding your family history, drawing insights from the book about her ancestor, Col. William Marsh, co-authored with her late husband, Wilson B Brown. This exploration leads us on a journey uncovering Jennifer's 5x Grandfather and the possible connection to the Marsh family of Jamaica, shedding light on Caribbean history and heritage. Join us as we delve into concepts of family genealogy and the impact of colonialism on Caribbean ancestral narratives. Jennifer Stacey Harcourt Brown was born in Providence, Rhode Island on December 30, 1940. She obtained an A.B. (Hons) in Ancient & Medieval Culture from Brown University in 1962. She received an A.M. in Classical Archaeology from Harvard University the following year. In 1976 she completed her Ph.D in Cultural/Social Anthropology at University of Chicago. Brown taught at Colby College in Waterville, Maine from 1966-1969. She taught at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb intermittently from 1969-1982 and also on a sessional basis at Chiang Mai University, Thailand, and Indiana University. She was editor for the Middle American Research Institute at Tulane University from 1975-1982. She came to the University of Winnipeg as an Associate Professor in History in 1983. She was made a full professor in 1988. In 1997 she became the Director of the Centre for Rupert's Land Studies. In 2004 she became Canada Research Chair for Aboriginal Peoples and Histories. Dr. Brown has published extensively in fur trade and Aboriginal history. Her book Strangers in Blood, published by University of British Columbia Press, received Honorable Mention for the Canadian Historical Association's Sir John A. Macdonald Prize. In 2002 she received a British Academy Visiting Professorship at the Institute of Social & Cultural Anthropology and Pitt Rivers Museum at the University of Oxford. She was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, Academy II (Social Sciences) in 2008. For a more in-depth account of her career consult Brown's vitae in Box 1 Fd. 1 of both of the first two accessions. Dr. Brown retired in 2011. Book: https://www.amazon.ca/William-Marsh-Vermont-Patriot-Loyalist/dp/1492829692 Follow: Twitter: @eppinghall Instagram: @berkshirehalleppingpress Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3WlDABsVBBYSPH8dUdD1lQ Workbook https://www.lulu.com/en/us/shop/wendy-aris/genealogy-workbook/ "Africa" is modern ethnic track with fresh chords, African vocal, orchestra. License Creative Commons Attribution license (reuse allowed) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2zQefSvCUk #history #jamaicanhistory #genealogy #ancestor discovery #Marshfamily #Jamaica genealogy #ColonialHistory #AmericanRevolution #EarlyAmerica #18thCenturyHistory #VermontHistory #HistoricalResearch #FamilyHistory #TracingRoots #AncestryResearch #GenealogyCommunity #OurAncestors #FamilyTreeResearch #HistoryPodcast #GenealogyPodcast #PodcastCommunity #LearnYourHistory #HeritageStories #LivingHistory #AncestryJourney #KnowYourRoots #HeritageMatters #LegacyOfHistory #HistoryAndIdentity

Dis A Fi Mi History Podcast
Welcome to Dis A Fi Mi History Podcast—where Caribbean history comes alive! Dive into the rich kaleidoscope of the Caribbean’s past and discover how it shapes your own family’s story. Whether you’re tracing your roots or just curious about the region’s vibrant heritage, this podcast is your go-to resource for exploring the people, places, and events that made the Caribbean what it is today.
The title of the podcast Dis A Fi Mi History means in English This is My History.
Wendy Aris | Caribbean Genealogy Specialist








