In this episode, we're joined by Shauna Mundt, a historical archaeologist specializing in Cultural Resource Management (CRM). Shauna shares what CRM work really entails, why it's essential for preserving history, and how anything over 50 years old can be considered a cultural resource.

We explore the ethical responsibilities archaeologists carry as stewards of the past—ensuring cultural resources are protected in line with local, state, and federal laws. Shauna also sheds light on the unpredictable challenges CRM professionals face in the field, from harsh weather and wildlife to the ongoing threat of looting.

Plus, we dive into how technology like GIS mapping plays a crucial role in documenting and preserving historical sites.

Whether you're curious about archaeology or passionate about heritage preservation, this episode offers a thoughtful look at the people working to protect our shared history.

On the latest episode of AnthroPuzzled, we talk with Angela VandenBroek, Assistant Professor of Cultural Anthropology and Business at Texas State University. Angela shares her winding path into anthropology and how she’s applied it in unexpected places—from archaeology to retail—showing that anthropology is a versatile mindset and toolkit, not just a career.

Angela explains how anthropology can improve business practices by helping companies better understand people—both consumers and employees. She highlights its role in strategy, culture, and innovation, especially for entrepreneurs.

In her teaching, Angela emphasizes that human behavior is complex and can't be understood through yes-or-no questions. She encourages students to take an empathetic approach—putting themselves in others' shoes to better understand different perspectives.

Tune in to learn how anthropology can powerfully shape the world of business.

On today’s episode of AnthroPuzzled, we talk with Edher Zamudio, Student Services Specialist at UC Davis and part-time Ethnic Studies Instructor at Cosumnes River College. We dive into how anthropology can inform and improve student support work in higher education.

Edher grew up in Peru and moved to the U.S. near the end of high school. His journey through college and graduate school was shaped by mentors who helped him find his path—an experience that now motivates him to be that guide for others.

In his work, Edher acts as both a mediator and mentor. He helps students—especially those who are undocumented or recently relocated—navigate university systems, understand policies, and feel supported. He also works closely with program coordinators to make sure students are receiving what they need to succeed. Edher’s background in applied anthropology plays a key role in how he approaches his work. Drawn to the discipline’s focus on understanding people and cultures, he credits anthropology with making him a more empathetic and effective advocate.

Tune in to hear how anthropology can be a valuable tool in student services—and how it’s helped Edher support students in meaningful, lasting ways.

On this episode of AnthroPuzzled, we were honored to interview Nirupama Hayden, a Certified Diversity Executive and Associate Consultant. We discuss how anthropological knowledge is vital in jobs with diversity components and in negotiation.

Companies today face a multitude of challenges, among the most pressing being issues related to belonging and inclusion. These challenges lead to inefficiencies in client services and create unhealthy work environments. As a diversity executive, Nirupama works with companies to identify the best solutions to these problems and ensure they do not arise again.

Nirupama applies her understanding of anthropology to address the root causes of workplace issues. She also leverages these skills to analyze and navigate the unique social environments within each company. According to her, many workplace problems stem from miscommunication between different levels of the organization. To foster an ideal work environment, employees must learn to collaborate, compromise, and communicate effectively. Her work ensures that all employees feel safe and heard in their workplace. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and addressing diversity issues with care and intentionality.

Beyond consulting, Nirupama also applies her anthropological expertise in teaching. She creates positive learning environments that significantly increase passing rates and enhance student success. By incorporating the communication skills she advocates for as a diversity executive, she makes her classes engaging and impactful. Her teaching leaves lasting impressions on many students, even altering the course of their lives.

Stay tuned to learn more about how anthropology skills are an asset in diversity and consulting work.

In this episode of AnthroPuzzled, we sit down with Mujtaba Hameed, an anthropologist and Associate Director at Stripe Partners, a technology consulting firm. Together, we explore what it means to be a consultant and how anthropology plays a crucial role in this field.

Mujtaba, an applied anthropologist, specializes in ethnography and user research, tracking the shifts and changes in modern technology and culture. By staying up to date with the ever-evolving world of technology, he formulates strategies that help clients like Apple, Google, and Instagram stay ahead of the curve. His deep curiosity about human behavior allows him to translate complex insights into actionable plans, ensuring his clients can best utilize technology to benefit themselves.

Mujtaba also draws on his linguistic skills to present these insights in an accessible and understandable way for clients, making his advice both practical and impactful. His work has taken him from LA to Tokyo and beyond, offering a global perspective and a unique anthropological lens for understanding and influencing the tech industry.

Tune in now to uncover how anthropology is shaping the world of technology consulting!

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.

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.

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.