Services

Alongside my role as a lecturer in public history and genealogy, I also work as a freelance academic consultant, historical researcher, and professional genealogist.

Over the past two decades, I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of organisations — from national broadcasters and production companies to heritage institutions and local community projects. My work has supported programmes for the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Wall to Wall, Flame Television, Strawberry Blond, and Voltage TV, as well as collaborations with cultural organisations including the National Trust, Contact Theatre, the Pankhurst Centre, and The Royal Exchange Theatre.

Whether you are an individual seeking answers about your family’s past, a solicitor requiring probate research, or a broadcaster in need of historical consultancy, I bring academic rigour, professional research skills, and a passion for uncovering hidden stories.

Explore the links below to learn more about the specialist services I provide.

• Academic Consultant – providing historical expertise for broadcasters, heritage organisations, funding bodies, and community projects
• Family Trees & Genealogy – beautifully researched family histories presented in clear reports and written narratives.
• Power Hour – 1-2-1 session with Michala to help overcome brick walls and family mysteries.
• House Histories – uncovering the story of your home and the people who lived there.
• Probate & Legal Genealogy – tracing heirs and providing clear, court-ready family tree reports for solicitors, executors, and families.
• Adoption & Parentage DNA Research – interpreting DNA results and records to uncover biological family connections with sensitivity and care.
• Next of Kin Tracing – rapid-response research (24–72 hours) to identify relatives for coroners, councils, and police.
• Irish Citizenship Research – proving Irish ancestry and sourcing the records needed for passport and citizenship applications.