The Arch and Anth Podcast

What is the podcast about?

The overarching mission of The Arch and Anth Podcast is to delve into the captivating intricacies that make human beings such a unique, diverse, and endlessly interesting species. It serves as a gateway to the world of archaeology and anthropology, where experts diligently work to unravel the enigma of human cultures and biology.

Archaeology is the pursuit of understanding past societies by scrutinizing the remnants left behind by historical and prehistoric people. This encompasses a wide range of artifacts, from ancient tools and burial goods to human skeletons and the remnants of long-forgotten structures.

Anthropology, on the other hand, explores human behavior and biology, both past and present. Social anthropologists study the rich tapestry of cultural diversity, examining how different societies organize their family and economic lives, their customs, knowledge, and communication patterns. Biological anthropologists investigate the biological diversity in today’s humans and trace the remarkable evolutionary journey that has led to our present state.

How often do episodes come out?

The podcast treats its listeners to at least three new episodes every week. Each episode revolves around Dr. Rivera’s engaging interviews with archaeologists and anthropologists, shedding light on their unique work. These interviews are far from dry; they are designed to be fun and informal, offering a relaxed atmosphere for both guests and listeners. Episodes generally span 30 to 40 minutes, occasionally longer, depending on the availability of the guest and the depth of the subject matter.

Who is this podcast aimed at? Will it be hard to understand?

The beauty of The Arch and Anth Podcast lies in its accessibility. This podcast caters to a diverse audience without assuming any prior knowledge about the fields of archaeology and anthropology. Each episode endeavors to be thought-provoking and entertaining, ensuring that listeners of all backgrounds find something captivating within its virtual pages.

Should we listen to your podcast in order of release?

While the podcast does occasionally reference past episodes, the majority of them are self-contained. If you’re planning to explore all the episodes, it’s best to start at the beginning for a seamless experience. However, feel free to dip into specific topics that pique your interest.

How do we listen and subscribe to the podcast?

Listening to The Arch and Anth Podcast is a breeze. Under each podcast heading on the main website page, you’ll find a convenient download link for an .mp3 file. Simply click to play or right-click to download and save them to your computer.

For Apple aficionados, the podcast will soon be available on the Apple Podcasts app, allowing you to subscribe and enjoy episodes effortlessly. Additionally, you can access the podcast on any mobile device by opening the website and streaming episodes. Android users can use popular apps like Stitcher, Soundcloud, Spotify, or Downcast to store files, remember your position, and even adjust playback speed to suit your preferences.

For those who prefer RSS feeds, here’s the direct link: https://archandanth.libsyn.com/rss.

How can we learn more besides the podcast?

Delve deeper into the world of archaeology and anthropology through the show notes of each podcast episode. These show notes include links to various resources, articles, and additional blogs and podcast episodes, all touching on the episode’s topics. These curated resources, assembled by Michael and his guests, offer a treasure trove of knowledge for those eager to explore these fascinating fields.

Is there a way to speak to Michael and other listeners directly?

Engagement is encouraged on The Arch and Anth Podcast. You can initiate or participate in conversations by visiting the comments section beneath each episode and blog post. Additionally, you can connect with Michael and fellow listeners through the dedicated Facebook group, The Arch and Anth Podcast, share your thoughts on Twitter, or leave comments on the podcast’s Instagram posts.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, becoming a patron on Patreon grants access to the exclusive Patron-only Facebook group. Here, you can engage in discussions, share links, and even influence the show’s direction. Join the community today and be a part of the excitement!

What is the blog on this website?

The blog on The Arch and Anth Podcast website is a treasure trove of insights curated by Michael himself. Expect to find at least one essay per week, covering a range of topics. Michael’s posts may include his perspectives on recent research findings, valuable tips and resources for scholars, or personal anecdotes about his journey as an archaeologist, anthropologist, and science communicator.

If you’re a blogger or academic eager to contribute, the Contact page welcomes your pitches and ideas. Michael is open to collaborations and guest posts, so don’t hesitate to get in touch.

How do you choose what to podcast/blog about?

Archaeology and anthropology are vast disciplines, encompassing the entirety of human existence across the globe and throughout history. Michael aims to provide a comprehensive overview of topics typically covered in college or university-level courses. If you have specific suggestions or areas of interest, don’t hesitate to share them. Keep in mind that securing guests and scheduling interviews may take time, but your input is valuable.

I have my own podcast/blog. Would you like to collaborate?

Absolutely! Collaborations are a fantastic way to cross-promote and enrich content. Michael is open to appearing on your podcast or contributing guest posts to your blog. Likewise, he welcomes you to be a guest on The Arch and Anth Podcast or contribute a blog post here. Reach out through the Contact page to explore exciting possibilities.

I have a book/project I would like to share. Would you interview me?

Michael enthusiastically invites self-nominations from individuals with compelling books or projects to share. Given the expansive nature of archaeology and anthropology, he is always on the lookout for guests with intriguing insights into history, science, language, culture, food, medicine, and more. If you have a hard-copy book, contact Michael via email for details on where to send it. For articles or digital books, sharing a .pdf copy is a great option. Don’t hesitate to get in touch through the Contact page.

Do you do written interviews?

In addition to audio podcasts, The Arch and Anth Podcast is keen on publishing written interviews as blog posts. If you’re interested in collaborating on this format, reach out to explore this exciting avenue of content creation.

Who designed this website?

The eye-catching logo gracing the podcast art and the website’s top banner is the artistic creation of Ella Jane Macleod, skillfully crafted using Adobe Illustrator. You can discover more of her artistic work on her Instagram page.

Michael adapted the website’s layout using the Salinger Pro theme for WordPress, designed by GalussoThemes. Other illustrations featured on the site are appropriately credited, except for the sidebar links, which Michael personally designed.

How did this podcast begin?

Curious about the origins of The Arch and Anth Podcast? Michael’s ‘About’ page offers a deeper dive into what inspired him to embark on this captivating journey. In summary, his passion for podcasts and the desire to share the wonders of archaeology and anthropology with a wider audience fueled the inception of this podcast. The initial equipment for recording was funded by the Public Engagement Office of the University of Cambridge, UK. To sustain and enhance the content, the podcast relies on its patrons who generously contribute through Patreon. Explore the Patreon page to learn more about the perks of becoming an Arch and Anth Podcast patron.