Career in Ruins

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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. 

In this episode Derek and Lawrence chat to Helen Geake, an archaeologist and member of the television show Time Team. She discusses her career in archaeology, starting from when she was unsure about what she wanted to do and eventually discovering her passion for the subject. She talks about her academic journey, including her research on Anglo-Saxon cemeteries, and her work at Norwich Castle Museum and the Portable Antiquities Scheme. The trio also reflect on the role of luck in her career and the importance of being open-minded and saying yes to opportunities.

Career in ruins are back in the saddle with their traditional interview format at the start of a very exciting new season. To kick us off we chat to the inspirational Gus Casely-Hayford, Director of the V&A East, and all round incredible person. We gain an insight into the motivation and application that has lead him to have such an incredible career in ruins.   Catch Gus's latest Radio series, Torn, on BBC Sounds https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/m001bbpf

To kick off the start of our new season we are sharing a special podcast about OUR careers in ruins. This first episode is a recording from a lecture we were asked to give to the Anthropology Society at Stony Brook University, New York, about science communication. We hope you enjoy it and a huge thank you to all the committee and members of the society for the invite and warm welcome. Keep an eye out for new episodes over the next month or so!

In this first episode of the long awaited season 6 of Career in Ruins Lawrence and Derek join in with the CBA's Festival of Archaeology by celebrating "20 years" (ish) of the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS). Archaeology's Ant and Dec of the south coast are joined by three incredible guests; Michael Lewis, Head of the PAS at the British Museum, Emma Youell, metal detectorist and PAS self recorder and Neil Redfern, head of the Council for British Archaeology. 

In this special episode, reporting from Niue in the South Pacific, Lawrence meets  Moira Enetama who is the director of the Tāoga Niue (museum). The duo discuss the impact of the Cyclone Heta in 2004 and Moira's role in promoting and protecting the cultural heritage of Niue.

This week we take a moment to pause and reflect on some of the problems facing members of our community. We are joined by Kate Geary (CiFA), Lu Stanton-Greenwood (StepChange/ BAJR) and David Connolly (BAJR) and discussions are centred on the recently released ‘Poverty Impact Report'. Some useful links below: For help and advice with debt, cost of living, benefits, hardship funds etc. http://www.bajrfed.co.uk/bajrpress/archaeologists-in-financial-crisis-bajr-survey-2022/ https://www.stepchange.org/ https://www.nationaldebtline.org/ https://capuk.org/ https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/ https://www.lightningreach.org/ For advice on housing, homelessness or tenancy https://www.shelter.org.uk/ For help with wellbeing and mental health https://www.mind.org.uk/. Text SHOUT to 85258 https://giveusashout.org/ https://www.samaritans.org/ Nearest foodbank https://www.trusselltrust.org/what-we-do/

A short message from Derek and Lawrence thanking you for listening 

Join Lawrence and Derek for an additional podcast as they go for a ramble chat with attendees of the Festival of Archaeology event in Corfe Castle, hosted by the National Trust. This “explosive” conversation covers ancient technology, forestry, maritime archaeology, computer games and much more.

Welcome to this special episode which is brought to you by the Council for British Archaeology. This episode was recorded live at the Festival of Archaeology closing event at Corfe Castle, as hosted by the National Trust on 31st of July 2022. Derek and Lawrence are joined by a brilliant panel of archaeologists as they share their journey in archaeology and discuss several themes as well as advice to prospective future archaeologists. Panellists include Jeanette Plummer-Sires (Natural History Museum), Lucy Parker (Bournemouth University), Neil Redfern (Council for British Archaeology) and Tom Dommett (National Trust).

In this special episode, join Lawrence as he attends a Festival of Archaeology event being delivered by Forestry England at Sherwood Pines. Learn a bit about what Forestry England do, how they manage their historic environment and what they have been doing to promote it during the festival. Lawrence catches up with colleagues and living historians who have helped to bring to life a day where visitors can learn all about the sites First World War history.

We are back! And what better way to come back then to take a day out to visit the Durotriges Big Dig. Ran over 9 seasons, this research project focuses on Iron Age Dorset, examining the transition between the Iron Age and Roman Britain, and how this is represented in the archaeological record. Not only does the project offer up lots of interesting research questions and discoveries, but it also provides Bournemouth University students with an opportunity to participate in practical archaeological process. During their visit, Lawrence and Derek catch up with some of the lectures and students to find out more and learn what the field school is all about. 

In this bonus episode Derek and Lawrence talk all things New Zealand archaeology. The duo are joined by New Zealand archaeologists Josie Hagan and Dr Andy Brown. The episode features a triumphant return of Monutrumps as well as a discussion of the range of sites in New Zealand and what you can expect during New Zealand archaeology week. New Zealand Archaeology Week is from 22 April to 1 May 2022. For more info see https://nzarchaeology.org/news-events/national-archaeology-week-2022

In this, the season 4 finale, Derek and Lawrence chat about sculptures in the Forest of Dean and the discovery of Shackleton's ship. The final guest of the season is the incredible Dr Arwa Kharobi, a bioanthropologist who talks through her diverse and fascinating career in ruins and “tells” us about some of the sites she's worked on.

In this week's episode Derek and Lawrence talk to………. each other. The duo discuss orienteering, the human history of the landscape, and Time Team. They also talk about some of the results from their YouTube mini-series ‘Career in Ruins: In the field'.

This week we catch up with floatation queen and environmental archaeology professional Naomi Sewpaul. Naomie talks us through her career in ruins to date that has led to her into becoming a leading expert across the archaeological disciplines of academia, research and commercial investigations. Naomi helps us to understand how we can excavate with water and why the post excavation processes are just as valuable as geophysics or the process of excavation itself.

This week Lawrence and Derek talk about their adventures in the countryside and Lawrence's long history of heritage crime. Their guest this week is curatorial legend and Twitter master Rob Symmons. Rob is the curator of Fishbourne Roman palace: the largest Roman building north of the alps! The trio discuss Rob's career in ruins, from the early seeds of his interest in archaeology to the moment Tony Robinson took a stroll in Fishbourne's hypocaust.

In this week's episode Lawrence and Derek discuss the value of mentorship as well as the archaeological potential of shooting forests with drone-based lasers. Their guest this week is Time Team landscape superstar Professor Stewart Ainsworth. Stewart shares stories from his amazing and diverse career, from his work with the Ordnance Survey to his 20 years as a regular Sunday evening fixture on Channel 4.

In this week's episode Lawrence and Derek get a graphic insight into an often overlooked aspect of heritage communication. The duo are joined by Neil Max Emmanuel, a Creative Motion Graphic Designer, Animator, Editor, Storyboard Artist, Cartoonist/Comic Artist, Children's Book Illustrator, and all round amazing guy. I'm archaeology Neil is best known for his work on Time Team, bringing the stories to life and adding a dynamic motion aspect to Victor Ambrus' amazing artwork. He has also recently published “The Middle Ages: a graphic history” with Eleanor Janega. Derek, Lawrence and Neil discuss his unique career in ruins as well as a range of illustrative topics.

In this episode Derek and Lawrence chat to John Gater. John is an geophysicist who's had a long pioneering career in archaeology. He is best known says work on Time Team but was instrumental in the early commercial adoption of geophysics in archaeology having worked for companies such as British Gas and the English Heritage Ancient Monuments Laboratory as well as Bradford University Research. He also founded the company Geophysical Surveys of Bradford (GSB) before merging with the SUMO group. The trio discuss John career, including his stories of the earliest days of geophysics, before discussing the history of Time Team and sharing memories of their recent digs.

This week we catch up with brilliant Natalie Haynes. We find out how comedy has shaped her career in classics and how the classics have shaped her career in comedy. Full of laughs and insight, we learn what it takes to a have a successful Radio 4 comedy series, write columns in leading papers and have your novel short listed for the Women's Prize for Fiction.  Natalie is a classicist, author and stand-up comedian as well as the host of Radio 4's “Natalie Haynes Stands Up For the Classics” which is also available as a podcast. Natalie's books include A Thousand Ships and Pandora' Jar and have featured on numerous best seller lists. 

After popular demand we have added out new theme tune to our library as a surprise special gift for Spotify users. Add to your favorite playlist and listen whenever you like!   Theme tune by Charles Harrison based on the tune created by Guy Dowsett.

Welcome back to the first episode of this new season of Career in Ruins. It's been six months since we last did a pod and my word have we been busy. This week our hosts, Derek and Lawrence, catch up on what they have been up to, address some of the amazing archaeology that has been on the telly box of late and interview the fantastic Dr Cat Jarman. Cat is bioarchaeologist and archaeologist specializing in using forensic techniques to understand past peoples. Her research involves vikings, diet, and mobility. Her book 'River Kings' was one of the Times' best history books of 2021. Cat can also be seen hosting the BBC's Digging for Britain and  Ancient Secrets of Althorp on Channel 4.    Theme tune by Charles Harrison based on the tune created by Guy Dowsett (series sound engineer).  Logo created by Ed Hudspeth.

In this Festival of British Archaeology special Career in Ruins gets a significant upgrade as Lawrence is joined by Neil Redfern (CEO, Council for British Archaeology) with a special guest appearance by Matt Williams (Time Team legend and RSPB reserves archaeologist) in Derek's absence. The podcast was recorded on-location at RSPB Arne where the team explore the importance of archaeology against the backdrop of this year's festival theme “exploring local places”. Lawrence, Neil and Matt discuss the many ways to celebrate and enjoy natural and cultural heritage and the opportunities for archaeologists to share local and hidden heritage with the wider public.   Hosted by Lawrence Shaw Artwork by Ed Hudspeth Sound production and theme tune by Guy Dowsett (Bucketofsound.com)

In this Dig4arch special Derek and Lawrence talk to people behind the new campaign that aims to send a clear message that archaeology matters, Dr Chloë Duckworth (Newcastle University) and David Connolly (BAJR). They discuss the current risks to archaeology and explore some of the ways to overcome them the panel are joined by representatives from key organisations within the discipline to explore a range of issues, Kate Geary (CIFA), Neil Redfern (CBA) and Kenneth  Aitchison (FAME). The panel also discuss what you can do to help protect archaeology's future and how future archaeologist might shape the discipline.  Find out more here dig4arch.co.uk  Hosted by Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman Artwork by Ed Hudspeth Sound production and theme tune by Guy Dowsett (Bucketofsound.com)

This episode we are joined by Dr Toby Driver, Senior Investigator (Aerial Survey) at the Royal Commission Wales. Toby discusses his career in archaeology, how he got into aerial research and how the process works. We also discuss a number of things that have caught our attention, including the passing of Victor Ambrus (Time Team), the lost stone circle of Stonehenge and the Great British Dig.

This episode we are joined by Gareth Chaffey, Senior Project Manager at Wessex Archaeology.  Gareth discusses his career in archaeology, his experimental partnership with Butser Ancient Farm and  how he taught Derek everything he knows. Derek, Lawrence and Gareth also discuss new jobs, commercial archaeology and share some secrets about he CiR twitter feed. NOTE: this episode was recorded in late 2020 Hosted by Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman Artwork by Ed Hudspeth Sound production and theme tune by Guy Dowsett (Bucketofsound.com)

This week we are joined by Dr Sadie Watson, UKRI Future Leaders Fellow at MOLA.  Sadie discusses her archaeolgoical background, her fellowship in ‘Measuring, maximising and transforming public benefit from UK Government infrastructure investment in archaeology' and her work on the amazing Bloomberg excavation . Derek, Lawrence and Sadie also discuss podcasts, the future of archaeology in the UK and metal detecting reality TV. Hosted by Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman Artwork by Ed Hudspeth Sound production and theme tune by Guy Dowsett (Bucketofsound.com)

This week we are joined by Matt Ritchie, Archaeologist for Forestry and Land Scotland. Matt discusses his diverse career, love of innovative outreach and his particular passion for Ferries. Derek, Lawrence and Matt also discuss the value of local heritage and how its managed as well as delving into the contentious issue of the Stonehenge tunnel project.   Hosted by Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman Artwork by Ed Hudspeth Sound production and theme tune by Guy Dowsett (Bucketofsound.com)  

This week we are joined by Kristina Douglass, Joyce and Doug Sherwin Early Career Processor in the Rock Ethics Institute and Assistant Professor of Anthropology and African Studies, Penn State Collage. Kristina brings her fascinating prospective to how she became the leading professional that she is today, as well as discussion around the positive outcomes from Covid and research, multiculturalism, and the role of archaeology in re-evaluating historic racial narratives. Derek, Lawrence and Kristina also discuss her work in Madagascar, extinct flora and fauna and the pit falls of archaeological interpretation when looking at the computer game Fall Guys.   Hosted by Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman Artwork by Ed Hudspeth Sound production and theme tune by Guy Dowsett (Bucketofsound.com)    

In this extended special, Career In Ruins forms an alliance with ArchaeoDuck to delve into the use of archaeology and anthropology in the Star Trek franchise. The podcast is an extended version of “Star Trek Archaeology, which can be found at the link below. Who are the best and worst archaeologists in the various series? What do Star Trek and archaeology have to do with colonialism? Will Professor Galen ever remember to wear gloves when handling ancient objects? And why do we all have such a crush on Benjamin Sisko? We tackle these questions and more, with plenty of juicy clips and a few unintentional quips. Sit back (preferably with a cup of Earl Grey tea, hot), and enjoy. Did you enjoy hearing from Archaeoduck? You can hear much more from her incredible YouTube channel. Archaeoduck YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/archaeoduck Archaeology and Star Trek: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKpqJvwwwMw&t=781s    Hosted by Lawrence Shaw, Derek Pitman and Chloë Duckworth  Artwork by Ed Hudspeth Sound production and theme tune by Guy Dowsett (Bucketofsound.com)

This week the team are joined by a fantastic panel to discuss climate change and the historic environment. This special episode, produced on behalf of CITiZAN (Coastal Intertidal Zone Archaeological Network), has been made specifically for the Council for British Archaeology’s, Festival of Archaeology Digital Week. Derek and Lawrence are joined by CITiZAN Project Manager, Caroline​ Barrie‑Smith, Director of the Council for British Archaeology, Neil Redfern, Head of Environmental Strategy at Historic England, Dr Hannah Fluck and specialist in Pleistocene landscapes at the University of Southampton, Dr Rachel Bynoe.   The panel reflect on how climate change is affecting archaeology and the historic environment both in a positive and negative way and assess where the profession stands in the climate change crisis debate. The team finish off with a quick trip in the time machine which throws up some interesting questions.

This week’s pod sees a three-way conversation between presenters Derek Pitman, Lawrence Shaw and their guest Stu Eve. The three of them reflect on aspects of the news that week, space travel and archaeology and have a game of DomuTrumps (not a typo). We also get great insight into Stu’s career which ranges from setting up a commercial archaeology consultancy with his business partner to developing research around virtual reality and phenomenology.

This week’s pod sees us returning to our traditional format. We have our first lockdown interview with Caroline Barrie-Smith, Project Manager of the brilliant CITiZAN project. We gain insight into her different career trajectory and reflect on the role distance learning can play in a career change and helping people to land fantastic jobs in the future, post C19. Hosted by Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman Artwork by Ed Hudspeth Sound production and theme tune by Guy Dowsett (www.bucketofsound.com)

It’s the big Career in Ruins birthday bonanza! Continuing in lock-down, this week’s episode features a host of special guests including sometimes co-host Harry Manley, star of Channel 4’s Great British Dig and ArchaeoDuck, Dr Chloë Duckworth, Chris Jones, Historic Environment Officer for Northumberland National Park, Time Team’s Professor Carenza Lewis and Bournemouth University’s Miles Russell and Professor Mark Gillings. Hosted by Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman Artwork by Ed Hudspeth Sound production and theme tune by Guy Dowsett (Bucketofsound.com

In this weeks episode Lawrence and Derek are joined in virtual space by Dr Anna Rohnbogner​. The team discuss their careers under lock-down, pandemics and celebrity chefs. The episode also features a disease themed Monutrumps and some recommendations for heritage themed virtual resources.

This week’s episode is a throwback to when Derek and Lawrence were invited to attend the Short Sounds Film Festival. The trip puts them in a reflective mood as to the role of sound in Archaeology, perhaps an overlooked sense in what is very much a vision led profession. We hope you enjoy this short episode and spoiler alert, we have another new game jingle!   This podcast was recorded out and about in cafes and reception areas. Therefore, any music heard in the background is there through accidental inclusion.

This week, Lawrence is joined by Dr Anna Rohnbogner as they discuss new archaeology TV shows, holidays, #Archaeology31, and more. Anna brings her A game for MonuTrumps, including secret pet cemeteries and Roman temples hidden in industrial estates. In addition to this, they reflect on a fascinating interview with Mark Bowden, Senior Investigator managing the Assessment Team West and South for Historic England. Find out how Mark progressed through his Career in Ruins and how his research is linked to King Arthur!

This week Derek and Lawrence chat to Adam Stanford, the mastermind behind Aerial Cam who is responsible for some of the most spectacular aerial and terrestrial archaeological imagery of the last decade. They also reflect on the future of archaeology over the term of the next parliament and discuss some positive action we can all take to help protect and promote heritage. The episode also features the triumphant return of “Monutrupms” and a special Christmas message from the team behind the C-word podcast

This week’s episode sees us catching up with Dr Sara Perry, Director of Research and Engagement at Museum of London Archaeology (MOLA). In a three-way discussion we find out how Sara got into her career in ruins and why she is so interested in how we share, interpret and connect with cultural heritage. We also dare to boldly go where no podcasters have been before in our trip in the time machine.   Hosted by Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman Artwork by Ed Hudspeth Sound production and theme tune by Guy Dowsett (Bucketofsound.com)

This week’s episode was made in conjunction with the Council for British Archaeology. We go on an adventure to their annual Archaeology Day in London and speak to some brilliant people, from the mastermind behind the Mithraeum, Sophie Jackson, the Director of the CBA, Mike Heyworth, and the winners of the Marsh Archaeology Awards. You will get some insight into how the award winners got to where they are and what advice they would give to others, as well as hear the first interview with Mike since announcing he is stepping down as Director of the CBA. We hope you enjoy it!

Welcome back to season 2 of Career in Ruins. This week we interview Richard Osgood, Senior Archaeologist at UK Ministry of Defence. He shares all his experiences from the different ways that he got into the subject including work on Operation Nightingale and the benefits of "fun runs".  This episode is brought to you by the Council for British Archaeology Hosted by Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman Artwork by Ed Hudspeth Sound production and theme tune by Guy Dowsett (Bucketofsound.com)

This week we interview Professor Jane Downes, Director of the UHI Archaeology Institute. She shares all her experiences from the different ways that she got into the subject including work on cremations and barrows to her work on Easter Island and the Cook Islands. We also discuss tree diseases, bubbles and outreach.   Hosted by Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman   Artwork by Ed Hudspeth

This week we are joined by Dr Andrew Brown. He shares all his experiences from the different ways that he got into the subject, to working in New Zealand, Wales and Australia. We also have a game of monument Top Trumps and discuss archaeo-fashion and Stonehenge.   Hosted by Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman   Artwork by Ed Hudspeth   Sound production and theme tune by Guy Dowsett (Bucketofsound.com)