Kicking off this mesmerizing tale, John and Iran make their inaugural stop in Hagerstown, Maryland. Here, in this sleepy town, they stumble upon details of an 18th-century ancestor, John H. Smith. With documents, land records, and a centuries-old will as their guide, expert genealogist Jean Conti redirects their path toward Warren County, Ohio, teasing further enigmas in Rockingham County, Virginia. As John reflects on his past, memories emerge – contrasting his Christian roots with Iran's Persian lineage. The episode hints at deeper revelations in Rockingham County, Virginia and ends with introducing listeners to CK, an AI assistant. Dive into a journey tracing the Smith legacy. Even with a name as common as John Smith, the quest for identity is both personal and profound.

The next chapter of this saga unfolds in the picturesque Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. As John, Iran, and historian Dale MacAllister delve deeper, they encounter traces of Catherine Kessler, an ancestor whose legacy might hold the key to John's German heritage. And in a twist of fate, they stumble upon a revelation - the possibility that John H. Smith was, in fact, Johann Schmidt. Enhancing this journey, Catherine's synthetic voice interweaves past and present, capturing listeners' imaginations. As the trio meanders through historic towns and venerable churches, John's tribute to his great-great-great-uncle, Hardin Albert Smith, underscores the profound interconnectedness of humanity. And throughout, CK is there, sharing playful facts, anecdotes, and fostering a unique connection with the audience online and on social media.

As the series reaches its crescendo, John, Iran Davar, and Dale embark on a deep dive into history's vaults. Rockingham County, Virginia, unfurls its tales, revealing the intricate dance of German influence in America and John's ancestral ties. Set against epochal world events – from World Wars to lunar landings – the series illuminates the profound resonance of personal history in shaping our present. The journey is an intricate maze of resilience, love, sacrifice, and the perpetual quest for identity. And as listeners are engrossed, CK is ever-present, beckoning them to chat, discover fun facts, and deepen their engagement with the content. As John unveils the layers of his ancestry, a saga of humanity emerges – inviting us all to reflect on our own stories and roots. Join this heartfelt expedition and find inspiration in every leaf of the Smith (and Schmidt) family tree.

Dive into "Long Sought" with John Oliver Smith and Iran Davar Ardalan as they journey through time, unveiling John's rich German-American lineage. Get swept up in a nostalgic adventure, inspired by the vibrant tapestry of cultures in John's ancestry. And meet CK, the quirky AI co-host, adding a sprinkle of tech magic to your listening experience. Discover your roots, one story at a time.