How to Interview Family Members Before It’s Too Late

It’s a thought that nags at many of us: "I really should ask Dad about his time in the service," or "I wish I knew more about Grandma's childhood." Yet, we often put it off. We worry it will be awkward, or we simply think we have more time.

The truth is, time is finite. Interviewing your family members is an act of love and preservation that you will never regret.

Overcoming the Hesitation

It can feel strange to turn a casual visit into an interview.

• Frame it as a Project: Tell them, "I'm trying to put together our family history for the kids, and I need your help."
• Start Small: Don't aim for a 3-hour biography in one sitting. Start with 15 minutes over coffee.

The Setup

• Audio is Gold: Video is great, but audio is less intrusive. People often forget a microphone is there, whereas a camera can make them self-conscious.
• Prepare, but Flow: Have a list of questions, but follow the conversation where it leads.

Questions that Unlock Stories

Go beyond dates and facts. Ask about feelings and sensory details.

• "What was the hardest decision you ever had to make?"
• "How did you know you were in love?"
• "What is the one piece of advice you want our family to remember?"
• "What are you most proud of?"

Handling Difficult Topics

Every family has shadows. If a topic seems painful, be gentle. You can say, "We don't have to talk about that if you don't want to." However, sometimes, people are waiting for permission to share their burdens. Listen without judgment.

The Urgency of Now

We often wait for a "special occasion" to do this. Make today the occasion. The voice of your loved one—their laugh, their pauses, their unique way of speaking—is a treasure that disappears if not captured.

EchoAgain allows you to take these recordings and create a lasting digital presence, ensuring that your family's stories and voices are preserved with the highest fidelity.