He now lives in Utah. He received his doctorate from Arizona State University. He previously owned a retail software company. He is the author of two popular genealogy blogs, "Genealogy's Star” and “Rejoice, and Be Exceeding Glad.” He is the author or co-author of over 25 books on genealogical research. With over 35 years of genealogical research experience, he currently volunteers at the Brigham Young University Family History Library in Provo, Utah. He has presented at genealogical conferences throughout the United States and Canada. He has seven children, and 33 grandchildren.