Career in Ruins

careerinruins
Career in Ruins

The Career in Ruins podcast gives a unique take on the world as seen by archaeologists. Presenters Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman take you on a journey around the world that’s drawn from their experiences exploring the past. The podcast features interviews with archaeologists, heritage professionals and those with a keen eye on the past to offer an insight behind the scenes of how histories are constructed and how the past is brought into the present.

  1. 23/12/2024

    S7 Ep4: A Career in Remains

    In this special year-end episode of Careers in Ruins, we are thrilled to welcome Jacqueline McKinley, a trailblazer in osteoarchaeology. Jacqueline takes us on a journey through her remarkable career, from being inspired by Magnus Magnusson’s iconic documentary on Skara Brae to becoming one of the first self-proclaimed osteoarchaeologists. With her characteristic wit and passion, Jacqueline delves into her love for burial practices and cremations, exploring what these rituals reveal about past societies’ values and beliefs. She shares insights from a career dedicated to uncovering the intimate stories behind human remains, shedding light on the lives of those who came before us. This episode is a celebration of a career built on curiosity, determination, and a deep respect for the human past. Whether you’re an aspiring archaeologist, a history enthusiast, or simply fascinated by the way we honor the dead, Jacqueline’s story will inspire and captivate you. Join us as we close out the year with the wisdom and warmth of a true pioneer in the field of archaeology.

    1h 8m

  2. 07/12/2024

    S7 Ep3: A career in bogs

    In this episode of Career in Ruins, Lawrence and Derek kick things off with some lighthearted chatter about the buzz surrounding Gladiator 2—what might Ridley Scott have in store for fans of ancient drama and epic storytelling? Then, we’re joined by the incredible Professor Henry Chapman, a landscape archaeologist whose expertise spans GIS, ancient landscapes, and the unique environments of bogs. Together, we explore: How GIS has revolutionized our understanding of historic landscapes. The hidden stories bogs can tell about past human activity and climate change. Henry's career journey and his thoughts on the importance of interdisciplinary research in archaeology. and, of course, Time Team Whether you’re into swords and sandals or peat and bog bodies, this episode offers something for everyone. Tune in for an inspiring dive into the intersection of cutting-edge technology and timeless landscapes!

    54 min

  3. 28/11/2024

    S7 Ep2: A career in death and burial

    In this episode, hosts Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman sit down with Professor Mike Parker Pearson to delve into a career that has shaped the field of archaeology on multiple fronts. The conversation begins with reflections on the late Lord Colin Renfrew, a transformative figure in archaeology and Mike's former lecturer, whose recent passing adds a poignant note to the discussion.   Mike provides unique insights into the evolution of the discipline, recounting his involvement in the development of PPG16, a groundbreaking policy that redefined the role of archaeology within the planning process in the UK. The conversation broadens to explore contrasting practices, including innovative Denmark approaches and the ongoing tension between commercial and academic archaeology. The episode also takes a deep dive into Mike's renowned research in prehistory, touching on his work in Madagascar and his pivotal investigations at Stonehenge. With a career spanning decades and continents, Mike offers a compelling narrative about the challenges, achievements, and evolution of archaeology as both a science and a storytelling craft.   This instalment is a tribute to a life dedicated to uncovering the past, enriched by thoughtful reflections on the people, places, and policies that have defined modern archaeology.

    1h 4m

  4. 18/11/2024

    S7 Ep1: A Career at the trowels edge

    In the first episode of the new season, Derek and Lawrence sit down with Chris Leonard, Senior Project Officer at Cotswold Archaeology. Chris shares his fascinating career journey, starting with a degree in South American Studies and navigating the highs and lows of short-term contracts in commercial archaeology. From uncertain beginnings to becoming a leading professional in the field, his story is a must-hear for anyone curious about the realities of a career in commercial archaeology.   Plus, Derek and Lawrence catch us up on what they’ve been up to during the ten-month break. Expect laughter, insights, and the launch of a brand-new tradition: Career in Ruins-themed AI-generated songs! 🎵   Get ready to dig into a new season of adventure, storytelling, and, of course, ruins. Listen now! 🎧

    57 min

  5. 17/07/2024

    Tales from the Scottish Crannog Centre

    In this special episode, we bring you exclusive coverage from the launch event of the Festival of Archaeology, hosted at the scenic Scottish Crannog Centre on the banks of Loch Tay. Join us as we dive into engaging conversations with event organizers from the Council for British Archaeology, explore the vibrant stalls, and interact with the passionate site staff and living history specialists who bring the past to life. Whether you're an archaeology enthusiast or just curious about the past, this episode is packed with insights and stories that you won't want to miss.

    30 min

  6. 23/01/2024

    S6 Ep7: A career behind the camera

    Our first episode of 2024 is a fascinating chat with Karen Kirk. Karen has had a brilliant career which has spanned commercial archaeology, BBC drama productions and more recently, the production of archaeological TV programs. With shows and documentaries ranging from Digging for Britain, Time Team, Secrets of Stonehenge and Titanic’s Final Mystery, Karen talks us through how she got involved in working in such an important area which allows us to share and promote our incredible discipline.

    1h 5m

  7. 31/12/2023

    S6 Ep6: A career in historical archaeology

    The episode of Career Ruins features a conversation with Colm Donnelly, a Senior Research Fellow at Queen's University in Belfast. Derek and Lawrence reflect on the highlights of the year and discuss Colm's career journey in historical archaeology and community archaeology. Colm shares insights into his notable projects, including excavating medieval castles in Ireland and participating in post-ex Russia. The episode highlights the importance of combining historical records with archaeological evidence to understand the lives of ordinary people from the past. The conversation provides a deep dive into the world of historical archaeology and the significance of unearthing lesser-known aspects of history.

    52 min

  8. 19/12/2023

    S6 Ep5: A career in walking

    The podcast features an interview with Dr. Jim Leary, an archaeologist and author at the University of York. The trio discuss Jim's new book 'Footmarks' and, his experiences in commercial and curatorial archaeology, and his recent career move to part-time teaching. He also shares insights into his significant projects, including leading the excavation and stabilisation of Silbury Hill and investigating the Marlborough Mound.

    49 min
See All (64)

5
out of 5
35 Ratings

About

The Career in Ruins podcast gives a unique take on the world as seen by archaeologists. Presenters Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman take you on a journey around the world that’s drawn from their experiences exploring the past. The podcast features interviews with archaeologists, heritage professionals and those with a keen eye on the past to offer an insight behind the scenes of how histories are constructed and how the past is brought into the present.

Information

  • Creator
    careerinruins
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2024
  • Episodes
    64
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2022 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Career in Ruins

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