AnthroPuzzled
AnthroPuzzled is designed with the goal to help recent graduates and curious minds discover the exciting opportunities that a degree in anthropology can offer, even in the most unlikely of places. Each episode, we’ll sit down with professionals from all four branches of anthropology—cultural, biological, linguistic, and archaeological—as they share their stories of how they carved out unique and fulfilling careers. We’ll hear firsthand how they apply their anthropological training in surprising ways, whether they’re working in corporate environments, non-profits, education, or even creative industries. Let’s embark on this journey together and uncover the endless possibilities that await you in the world of anthropology. Tune in, get inspired, and start piecing together your own career puzzle.
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Academic Editing w/ Katherine Wiley
03/07/2025
Academic Editing w/ Katherine Wiley
In this episode of AnthroPuzzled, we sit down with Katherine Wiley, a cultural anthropologist and the owner of Goldenrod Editorial, an academic editing business. Together, we explore the unique world of academic editing—work that goes far beyond fixing grammar. Katherine shares how she support writers throughout the drafting process, helping them clarify their ideas and reduce academic jargon to make their work more accessible. We also dive into the strong, collaborative relationships Katherine builds with the writers she supports. Katherine’s experience in cultural anthropology, along with her time in the Peace Corps, has shaped her approach to editing. She discusses how anthropology has taught her the art of storytelling and the importance of active listening—both essential skills in her work with authors. Tune in to discover how anthropology and academic editing go hand in hand, and what it takes to help scholars bring their ideas to life.
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Human Rights & Global Health w/ Cameron Kays
02/21/2025
Human Rights & Global Health w/ Cameron Kays
In this episode of AnthroPuzzled, we sit down with Cameron Kays, Associate Director of Programs at the World Shoe Fund, to explore the intersection of human rights, global health, and anthropology. The World Shoe Fund is an important and impactful organization that helps different communities by supplying them with resources they don’t have access to, like footwear that provides a barrier against deadly disease. Cameron shares how her background in anthropology shaped her path in international affairs, offering fresh insights into the evolving challenges of global health. She reflects on how travel and cultural immersion influenced her work and the shifts in perspective she’s had since stepping into the world of humanitarian aid. We also dive into the power of co-collaboration—why it’s crucial for organizations to work with local communities rather than simply providing aid. Cameron explains how she and her team prioritize partnerships with local leaders to ensure healthcare solutions are culturally informed, sustainable, and truly impactful." Tune in to this episode to see the interconnected relationship between global healthcare and anthropology.
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Multisensory Museum Exhibits w/ Cheryl Fogle-Hatch
02/07/2025
Multisensory Museum Exhibits w/ Cheryl Fogle-Hatch
In this episode, we sit down with Cheryl Fogle Hatch, a trailblazer who talks about how she has navigated the world as a totally blind individual. Cheryl shares her personal experiences and insights into how she expertly navigates both her daily life and her work using technology like screen readers, VoiceOver, and TalkBack to access grants, research documents, and other essential information. Cheryl also discusses her journey through archaeology and museum work, where she found joy in connecting with artifacts in the collections area through touch. However, she noticed that public museum displays were often behind glass, making it difficult for others to engage with the exhibits in the same way. Seeing an opportunity to make museums more inclusive, Cheryl founded MuseumSense, a business that creates tactile replicas of artifacts, allowing individuals of all abilities to interact with and experience history in a more hands-on way. In our conversation, we also explore the different kinds of tactile experiences that can be used to make museum exhibits more accessible, including braille, sculptures, 3D prints, and even patchwork. Cheryl offers insights into how each approach can enhance the hands-on experience for visitors, making it more inclusive for people with diverse needs. She would love to do more research in tactile design. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about accessibility, innovation, and creating more inclusive spaces for everyone.
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Communications w/ Cilla Lowen
01/24/2025
Communications w/ Cilla Lowen
In this episode, we sit down with screenwriter and applied anthropologist Cilla Lowen to explore how anthropology shapes her storytelling and drives her passion for social impact. Cilla shares how her fieldwork in diverse and often challenging environments has informed her ability to craft authentic, multidimensional characters and narratives. We discuss her groundbreaking projects, including On Uneven Paths, a documentary series highlighting the challenges faced by disabled individuals in African townships, and The Wages of Sin, a feature film exploring generational alcoholism among South African farm workers. Cilla also dives into the intersection of anthropology and screenwriting, showing how storytelling can foster empathy, understanding, and action on issues like urbanization, patriarchy, and cultural erosion. Tune in to discover how Cilla uses her expertise to address systemic inequalities, balance ethical storytelling with artistic expression, and bring impactful narratives to life. Whether you’re a storyteller, anthropologist, or advocate for social change, this conversation will leave you inspired.
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Career Opportunities in Business w/ Robert Morais
01/10/2025
Career Opportunities in Business w/ Robert Morais
In this episode, we sit down with Robert Morais to explore the world of Business Anthropology and how you can break into this unique field. We dive into what business anthropology is, its growing relevance in today’s business landscape, and practical tips on how to start a career in it. We also delve into the growing role of Artificial Intelligence in business and how it can serve as a powerful tool for generating fresh ideas, perspectives, and even questions you may not have considered before. Additionally, Robert shares insights on the importance of connecting with individuals currently working in the field you're interested in. While learning from someone with decades of experience is invaluable, talking to peers and those actively engaged in the field today can offer even more practical and up-to-date knowledge. Tune in to hear about the intersection of anthropology, business, and AI, and gain a deeper understanding of how these elements can shape your career and approach to innovation.
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Multimodal Ethnography w/ Carrie Perkins
12/27/2024
Multimodal Ethnography w/ Carrie Perkins
In this episode, we sit down with Carrie Perkins to explore her innovative VR project, Art of Exile. Using multimodal ethnography, this immersive platform documents and shares the experiences of displaced individuals from Myanmar, showcasing the creative resilience of refugee artists through video, audio, and virtual reality. Carrie discusses the challenges of using technology to represent marginalized communities while ensuring accessibility, offering a thought-provoking look at the intersection of art, technology, and cultural storytelling. Carrie also provides valuable advice for aspiring academics, highlighting the competitive nature of the academic job market and the importance of starting the interview process up to a year in advance. She emphasizes the need to search broadly for positions that align with individual expertise and goals. Additionally, Carrie underscores the significance of grant-writing skills for scholars. She recommends taking courses to build expertise, as these skills not only enhance research opportunities but also strengthen academic applications. Tune in for insights on immersive storytelling, navigating academia, and essential skills for academic success!
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Academia & Biological Research w/ Haley Ragsdale
12/13/2024
Academia & Biological Research w/ Haley Ragsdale
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Haley Ragsdale, a biological anthropologist and postdoctoral research associate, whose fascinating research explores how life experiences influence reproductive investment and the development of offspring during pregnancy. Dr. Ragsdale explains the complex factors that shape fetal development and how these insights can inform our understanding of human biology. We also dive into the world of academia and research careers, discussing the differences between a postdoctoral research associate and a postdoctoral research fellow, including the critical factors of funding and salary. Dr. Ragsdale shares her journey into academia, offering an honest look at the ups and downs of the path to becoming a researcher. In addition, we explore the question of whether pursuing a master’s or PhD is necessary for a career in research and academia. Dr. Ragsdale highlights how much this depends on the specific field and career goals, providing a nuanced perspective on higher education in the sciences. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the intersection of reproductive biology, academic careers, and what it really takes to succeed in research!
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Public Archeology w/ Mike Thomin
11/29/2024
Public Archeology w/ Mike Thomin
In this episode, we dive into the world of public archaeology with museum manager Mike Thomin. We explore the benefits of working in smaller museums, where you can learn a variety of roles, compared to larger institutions that often focus on more specialized positions. We also discuss the ethical side of archaeology, including the key differences between grave robbing and legitimate archaeological work, as well as the legal importance of leaving artifacts in place, especially on state lands in Florida. Mike shares his involvement with the Northwest Florida Maritime Landscape Alliance for Preservation (MLAP) and efforts to secure a National Heritage Area designation for northwest Florida, which would be the first of its kind in the state. Finally, we talk about the role of public archaeology in educating and engaging local communities—from schools to local businesses, nonprofits, and even state legislators—about the importance of preserving cultural heritage for future generations. This insightful conversation underscores the value of public engagement in archaeology and the crucial work being done to safeguard our historical and cultural resources for future generations.
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Audience Research w/ Jena Barchas - Lichtenstein
11/15/2024
Audience Research w/ Jena Barchas - Lichtenstein
In this episode, we’re joined by Jena Barchas-Lichtenstein, an expert in audience research, who works closely with museums to understand and engage their visitors. We dive into the world of audience research, exploring its methods—from surveys to ethnographic approaches—and how it differs from UX research. Jena also shares the challenges of audience research, where data often doesn't provide the expected or hoped-for answers. Sometimes, this means rethinking approaches or pivoting to new methods entirely. We also explore linguistic anthropology, with Jena offering insights into how it differs from general linguistics. While linguistics focuses on the structure of language—syntax, phonetics, and semantics—linguistic anthropology examines how language is tied to culture, society, and human behavior. Jena explains that at its core, linguistic anthropology is about understanding how language reflects and shapes identity, social relationships, and cultural norms. Whether you're an aspiring linguistic anthropologist or just curious about how language shapes human experience, this conversation offers valuable insights into the intersection of language, culture, and society.
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Content Design w/ Gaby Lapera
11/12/2024
Content Design w/ Gaby Lapera
On this episode of AnthroPuzzled, we’re thrilled to chat with Gaby Lapera, the lead content designer at Parafin and the host of the AnthroBiology Podcast. In her role at Parafin, Gaby combines her expertise in content design and UX to craft clear, engaging written experiences for everything from in-app text and FAQs to loan applications and automated email templates, all with the aim of enhancing user engagement and making complex processes more accessible. Outside of her professional work at Parafin, Gaby is also deeply committed to the anthropology community. To stay connected to the field, she launched the AnthroBiology Podcast, where she engages with biological anthropologists to explore a wide range of topics—from the intricacies of bone analysis to the social behaviors of chimpanzees and the broader implications of human evolution. If it’s connected to humans or anthropology, Gaby dives into it. In this episode, we discuss Gaby’s unique career path, the intersection of anthropology and technology, and how she’s working to make anthropology more accessible and engaging for a wider audience. Tune in for an insightful conversation on how Gaby is bridging the gap between digital design and the world of anthropology.
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Strategic Initiatives w/ Daniel Ginsberg
10/18/2024
Strategic Initiatives w/ Daniel Ginsberg
In this episode, we host Daniel Ginsberg, the former Director of Strategic Initiatives at the American Anthropological Association (AAA) who shares their insights on collaborating with an elected executive board of anthropologists and their role in shaping the organization's future. They emphasize the importance of advocacy in promoting anthropology to the general public and addressing pressing societal issues. We dive into Daniel’s journey as a career changer going from an English Second Language (ESL) teacher to researching anthropology careers to developing educational programs, culminating in their current position. Daniel also reflects on their graduate school experience and shares the challenges of navigating life as a PhD student. Listeners are invited to reflect on a insightful discussion about the crucial role of anthropology in contemporary society and the diverse opportunities for making a meaningful impact in this evolving field.
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Space Anthropology w/ Savannah Mandel
10/04/2024
Space Anthropology w/ Savannah Mandel
In this episode, we sit down with Savannah Mandel, a pioneering space anthropologist and author of the thought-provoking book Ground Control: An Argument for the End of Human Space Exploration. Savannah shares her insights on the ethical dimensions of space exploration, emphasizing the social and economic implications of the growing commercial space industry and she is advocating for a more inclusive approach, and urges us to consider the ethical responsibilities that come with these advancements. We also discuss the evolving landscape of academic publishing, examining whether academics should enlist agents or publicists to navigate the complexities of sharing their work. Tune in for an engaging conversation that challenges conventional views on space exploration and underscores the importance of diverse voices in shaping our future among the stars.
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Anthropology Career Readiness Network w/ Elizabeth Briody
09/20/2024
Anthropology Career Readiness Network w/ Elizabeth Briody
In this enlightening episode of Anthropuzzled, we sit down with Elizabeth Briody, a renowned anthropologist and consultant, to explore the evolving landscape of anthropology careers. Elizabeth, co-founder of the Anthropology Career Resource Network (ACRN), sheds light on how this network supports budding anthropologists and enhances career development within the field. We dive into her latest work with ACRN, including their new book, Career Tools for Anthropology: A Workbook, which provides invaluable resources for navigating and excelling in anthropological careers. Elizabeth also shares her insights on consulting with university anthropology departments to enrich their programs, emphasizing the need to blend theoretical knowledge with practical methods to better prepare students for real-world challenges. Additionally, we discuss the importance of educating students, parents, and businesses about the significance of anthropology and what it has to offer. Tune in to discover how practical experience, strategic planning, and broader awareness can shape a successful path in the field of anthropology.
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Distribution Marketing w/ Hanna Stram
09/06/2024
Distribution Marketing w/ Hanna Stram
In this episode of AnthroPuzzled, we chat with Hanna Stram, Coordinator of Distribution Marketing at Fox Entertainment. Hanna delves into her role in orchestrating marketing strategies and the crucial role networking has played in her success. She shares how building a strong professional network has been key to her career growth and offers practical tips for effective networking. We also explore Hanna’s unique background in anthropology and how it has influenced her approach to marketing. Her experiences studying anthropology have equipped her with a deeper understanding of human behavior and a knack for asking thought-provoking questions, skills that have proven essential in her marketing career. Join us for an engaging discussion that blends marketing insights with a fresh perspective on how diverse experiences can enhance professional development.
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Introducing AnthroPuzzled
09/01/2024
Introducing AnthroPuzzled
Welcome to AnthroPuzzled, where we explore the many career paths available with an anthropology degree. I’m your host, Abby Letsinger, and every two weeks, we’ll uncover how the skills and insights from studying anthropology can lead to fascinating opportunities. I hold degrees in Business Management and Cultural Anthropology from the University of West Florida. Four years after graduation, I’m still finding my own career path and want to help others do the same. This podcast aims to share my journey and assist you in discovering various career options in anthropology, whether in academia, museum work, or beyond. Anthropology is the study of humans—our past, present, and everything in between. It includes four main branches: Cultural, Archaeological, Biological, and Linguistic Anthropology. Each offers unique perspectives and career possibilities. In each episode, we’ll talk to professionals from these fields to see how they’ve applied their anthropological training in diverse careers, from business and technology to government and the arts. Whether you’re a student, recent graduate, or simply curious, AnthroPuzzled is here to guide and inspire you as we explore the world of anthropology together.
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