If you're a grandchild thinking about capturing your grandparents' stories, you're already ahead of most people. Many only wish they had when it's too late. The good news: you don't need fancy equipment, interview skills, or lots of time. Just willingness and a few conversations. Here's how to create something you'll treasure for the rest of your life.
Why this matters more than you think
Your grandparents lived through things you've only read about in history books. Wars, social changes, technology shifts, family secrets. When they're gone, those first-hand accounts vanish forever. Recording their stories isn't just a nice project—it's rescuing irreplaceable history.
Starting the conversation
Don't announce "I want to interview you." Instead, start with curiosity: "Grandma, what was it like when you met Grandpa?" Let them talk. Once they're rolling, mention you'd like to save these stories. Most grandparents are flattered, not reluctant. They want to be remembered.
Questions that unlock great stories
Skip the boring stuff like dates and addresses. Ask about feelings and experiences: "What scared you as a kid?" "What's the bravest thing you ever did?" "What do you wish you'd known at my age?" "What was your biggest adventure?" These questions spark real stories.
Using voice recording
Text can't capture grandpa's laugh or grandma's accent. Voice recording preserves personality. Secured Memories transcribes automatically, so you get both: the actual voice for listening, and text for the printed book. In 20 years, hearing their voice will mean everything.
Making it a regular thing
Don't try to capture everything in one marathon session. Weekly 20-minute calls work better. Ask 2-3 questions, record the answers, done. Over a few months, you'll have hours of material without exhausting anyone.
Involving siblings and cousins
Share the project. Different grandchildren ask different questions and hear different stories. Secured Memories lets everyone contribute. Grandparents often tell stories to one grandchild they'd never tell another. Capture all versions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Capture family stories with guided prompts, easy recording, and a beautiful book export.
Start Recording Grandparents' Stories