Fáilte/Welcome!
I’m a writer, speaker, and lifelong learner in the mountains of Virginia exploring Irish language and mythology, genetic heritage, and questions of identity and belonging.
My current work centers on a series of small, independently published booklets inspired by Irish mythic figures such as the Banshee and the Sea-Maiden. I also continue to develop talks and workshops about language, small-press publishing, and genetic heritage. Through these projects, I reflect on what ancient stories reveal about identity, belonging, and the Irish-American experience today.
Over the past four years, I’ve immersed myself in learning Irish and discovered a vibrant global community bound together by a shared grá (love) for language and culture. Irish has become a big part of my life and is reflected in my writing and projects.
On my Substack, Unmarked Ground, I invite you to think with me about language, culture, and how we find connection across time and place.
Unmarked Ground
Unmarked Ground is my Substack with essays on the Irish language and culture, living in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and learning throughout life. If you’re curious about language, culture, and what it means to begin again at any stage of life, I hope that you will subscribe to my newsletter on Substack.
→ Subscribe to Unmarked Ground
Mythic Irish Women
My fascination for mythic Irish women started when I began to learn the Irish language and made a deep connection with my Irish roots. Through the creation of a series of little booklets, I will be continuing my exploration of my Irish heritage through storytelling and reflection on such legends as the Maighdean Mara or Sea-Maidens of Ireland.
→ Learn more about my Writing & Projects
Talks & Workshops
Over the past two years, I have been giving talks and workshops for libraries, cultural organizations, and festivals on a variety of topics, including Irish language and mythology, genetic genealogy, writing, and small-scale publishing. I love talking with others about my work and hearing their stories.
→ See Talks & Workshops
In Search of Giants
Published in 2024, my debut book In Search of Giants: The Quest to Find the Genetic Giants of Northern Ireland explores the intersection of genetics, history, and Irish folklore through a deeply personal lens. In 2020, I found out that I was the first person in the U.S. identified with a rare genetic mutation found in Ireland that caused my gigantism. In Search of Giants was the result of that discovery. The experience was life-changing and opened the door to much of the work I’m doing today. I’ve learned to speak the Irish language and connect with others worldwide who share my genetic legacy. Discover the story behind the book by visiting my website at In Search of Giants.
Contact: colleen@colleensnyder.net
The best way to get in touch with me is by email. If you’d like to chat via Zoom or phone, send me an email and we’ll work something out.