Clarissa talks to Genie Milgrom. Genie was raised Catholic, but always had an inkling her family was actually Jewish. After years of investigation, she was able to trace her family tree back to 16th century Jews on the Iberian Peninsula. Along the way, Genie became a historian and advocate for Crypto and Converso Jews; Jews whose ancestors were forced to convert to Catholicism during the inquisitions. She’s authored several books about her work, including a cookbook documenting a treasure trove of family recipes found in her mother’s house with a rather unique recipe for so-called “pork chops.”

Genie’s Books Mentioned

“My 15 Grandmothers” by Genie Milgrom

“How I Found My 15 Grandmothers: Como Encontre a Mis 15 abuelas” by Genie Milgrom

“Pyre to Fire” by Genie Milgrom

“Recipes of My 15 Grandmothers: Unique Recipes and Stories from the Times of the Crypto-Jews during the Spanish Inquisition” by Genie Milgrom

Other People, Places & Things Mentioned

Fermoselle, Spain

The Beit Din (Rabbinic Court)

Boyos/Boyikos

Dr. Sergio Della Pergola

Chuletas (“Pork Chops”)

Kulanu

Connect with Us

Follow Genie Milgrom:

Website: Geniemilgrom.info

Facebook: @my15grandmothers

Check out Genie’s resource website for researching Sephardic Jewish lineages at Sephardicancestry.com

Follow Clarissa Marks

Twitter: @clarissarmarks

Instagram: @clarissarmarks

Visit Onwandering.co for show notes and transcripts

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Land Acknowledgement

On Wandering is recorded on the traditional land of the first people of Seattle, the Duwamish People, and honors with gratitude the land itself and the Duwamish Tribe.