This Anthro Life

How can we democratize access to talent and foster equal opportunities?

In this insightful episode of This Anthro Life, we delve into the transformative power of the COVID-19 pandemic on the shift to online work. We discuss the potential of remote work to create a more equal playing field in the job market, Fredrik sharing his experience of building Superside, a platform that helps marketing and creative teams overcome design bottlenecks. Through this insightful discussion, we explore how this transition not only enhances productivity but also levels the playing field for individuals worldwide.
From the importance of speed and quality in creative endeavors to the pivotal role of values and psychological safety in organizational success, we unravel the keys to building a future where talent knows no bounds. Join the conversation as we explore how remote work, accelerated by the pandemic, is reshaping industries, amplifying creativity, and paving the way for inclusive and innovative organizations. 

Timestamps:

01:40 Exploring impacts of the pandemic on remote work adoption
02:51 Origin story of Superside and its mission
04:22 Founder's background in marketing and identifying creative bottlenecks
09:31 Spreading remote work to smaller markets around the world
11:22 Remote work enabling access to specialized global talent
12:01 Remote work reducing discrimination and enabling diversity
17:25 Flaws in traditional resume screening and interviews
22:08 Innovating better methods for skills and values testing
26:29 Focusing on career growth opportunities at Superside
30:50 Rapid growth and exceptionally low turnover at Superside
34:20 Fostering psychological safety for creativity and truth-seeking
38:42 Leadership modeling openness to criticism and dissent
42:09 Universal principles and truth-seeking in quality design

Key Takeaways:

• The internet and remote work can create fair opportunities by providing access to talent and removing geographical barriers.
• The COVID-19 pandemic has sped up the shift to remote work, demonstrating that people can be effective while working from home.
• Overcoming the traditional hurdles in creative processes can be achieved by utilizing online platforms like Superside to streamline design and marketing tasks.
• Establishing a diverse and inclusive company is not only morally sound but also results in improved performance and innovation.
• Evaluating values and cultural compatibility is essential in recruitment and team building, and this can be accomplished through structured assessments and standardized testing.

About This Anthro Life: 
This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org  and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com  for more captivating episodes and engaging content.  

Connect with Fredrik Thomassen
Website: https://www.superside.com/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredrikthomassen/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/supersidehq/ 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/f_thomassen?lang=en  

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/ 
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/ 
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com 

How do the hidden costs of technology, like social media and search engines, shape our lives in unforeseen ways?

In this compelling episode of This Anthro Life, we engage with filmmaker David Donnelly, delving into the depths of his documentary "Cost of Convenience." Donnelly's exploration uncovers the intricate web of consequences spawned by technology, spotlighting the covert toll of social media and search engine usage. Through a narrative woven with two years of intensive interviews and research, Donnelly unveils the unseen impacts of our digital age. The conversation traverses the power dynamics inherent in data collection, emphasizing the imperative of transparency. We advocate for a cultural shift, calling for an evaluation of our relationship with technology and its pervasive influence on modern society.

Explore the intricate repercussions of technology through David Donnelly's lens in "Cost of Convenience." Delve into two years of intensive research revealing unseen impacts.


Timestamp: 
0:00 The impact of digital technology on human experience, exploring themes of power, data collection, and mental health.
06:44 Data collection and surveillance in the tech industry.
14:27 The impact of technology on critical thinking and society.
17:48 Interdisciplinary approach to understanding complex problems.
23:10 The impact of algorithms on mental health and privacy.
30:37 The impact of online interactions on human connection and well-being.
33:28 The purpose of education and critical thinking.
38:04 The impact of algorithms on society, including privacy, wealth inequality, and discrimination.
43:47 AI bias, responsibility, and accountability in technology development.
49:08 Tech's impact on society, including mental health, aging, and consciousness.

Key takeaways

• Technology platforms that we use for free collect and sell our data, which can be used to predict our behavior more accurately than our minds.
• The lack of transparency in data collection and algorithmic decision-making gives those with access to the data a tremendous amount of power and influence.
• Our relationship with technology is causing a range of societal issues, including mental health problems, polarization, and misinformation.
• There is a need for a cultural paradigm shift and more informed citizenship to address the consequences of technology and advocate for transparency and control over data.

About This Anthro Life:
This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.  

Connect with David Donnelly:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dav_donnelly/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/daviddonnelly?lang=en
  
Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/ 
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/ 
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com 

How do societal norms and personal experiences intersect in shaping our understanding of love and sexuality?

In this insightful episode of This Anthro Life, we delve into transforming the landscape of Sexual Norms with Dr. Leanna Wolfe. We delve into the intricate connections between love, anthropology, and human desires. Dr. Wolfe’s memoir, "177 Lovers," serves as a catalyst, challenging conventional views on sexuality and relationships. They navigate the complex narratives surrounding virginity and parental sexual history, highlighting the discrepancies between societal expectations and lived realities. The conversation extends to the evolving landscape of sexual norms, including the rise of polyamory and its implications for intimacy and commitment. Dr. Wolfe’s insights on sexual tourism and changing attitudes toward sexual assault underscore the importance of cultural understanding and consent. Ultimately, they emphasize the necessity of embracing diverse experiences and truths in navigating the realm of sexuality.

Join us in this intellectually rich conversation with Dr. Leanna Wolfe as we delve into the unexpected intersections of love, anthropology, and the raw data of our desires. Expand your understanding of human relationships and challenge societal norms

Timestamps
00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest, Dr. Leanna Wolfe
09:12 - The impact of family narratives on sexuality and the discovery of hidden truths
16:27 - Exploring alternative ways of approaching adolescence and gender
19:02 - Shifting cultural perspectives on gender and sexuality
24:04 - The benefits of practicing polyamory for brain chemistry and excitement
33:45 - Different configurations of polyamory and managing jealousy
42:14 - The transactional nature of relationships and the importance of consent
51:10 - Research challenges and the importance of open and honest conversations about sex
56:50 - Challenges of moving away from addiction to meth and finding value in in-person connection
1:01:33 - Wrapping up the conversation and thanking the guest

Key Takeaways:

• Dr. Wolfe’s memoir, "177 Lovers," offers a unique perspective that challenges conventional norms of sexuality and explores the intricate intersections of love and anthropology.
• Societal narratives about parental sexual history and virginity may diverge from personal experiences, highlighting the complexity of cultural expectations.
• Polyamory, characterized by multiple partners, is gaining acceptance, offering both variety and stability in relationships.
• Sexual tourism raises ethical questions regarding consent, economic dynamics, and its impact on local communities.
• The #MeToo movement signals shifting attitudes toward sexual assault, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and respect for boundaries.
• Generational differences exist in understanding consent, with younger generations prioritizing open and honest communication in intimate encounters.

About This Anthro Life Podcast:
This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.  

Connect with Dr. Leanne Wolfe:
Website: https://www.drleannawolfe.com/  

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/ 
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/ 
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com 

How can entrepreneurial spirit redefine traditional career paths and drive societal change through innovative collaboration?

In this enlightening episode of This Anthro Life, inspired by "Venture Meets Mission," we engage with author Gupta to unravel the transformative potential of entrepreneurship. Gupta advocates for a nonlinear career path, urging individuals to become "dual citizens" in multiple sectors. He emphasizes trust-building between government and business, highlighting personalized entrepreneurship's role in creating meaningful impact. Gupta explores the synergy between venture capital and government collaboration to drive innovation and social entrepreneurship. His insights inspire a reimagining of traditional boundaries, focusing on mission-driven ventures. Join us in embracing this mindset for a brighter, more sustainable future.
Join us in this enlightening discussion as we uncover the transformative potential of anthropology in shaping meaningful careers and fostering innovation in today's dynamic professional landscape.

Timestamps:

0:00 Intersection of entrepreneurship, technology, and government to address societal problems.
2:48 Entrepreneurship, government, and social impact with a focus on intersectionality.
6:32 Non-linear career paths and breaking down binary choices between profit and non-profit.
11:35 Building trust between govt, business, and academia through dual citizenship 
17:17 Personalizing entrepreneurship and its cultural significance.
22:45 Entrepreneurship, uncertainty, and adaptability in a rapidly changing world.
26:52 Gen Z's purpose-driven mindset and how it's shaping the workforce.
33:33 Impact investing and bridging the digital divide.
39:31 How the government and private sector can collaborate for success.
41:57 Bridging gaps between entrepreneurship, government, and academia for societal impact.
48:19 Entrepreneurship and societal mission, aligning purpose and profit for innovation and impact.

Key takeaways: 

• Nonlinear career paths and diverse experiences enhance problem-solving and innovation.
• Trust is vital for bridging partnerships between government and business.
• Entrepreneurship transcends company creation, fostering risk-taking and job creation.
• Mission-driven focus arises from contemporary global challenges like pandemics and environmental issues.
• Entrepreneurship intersecting with government yields impactful solutions.
• Examples like SpaceX and Moderna showcase impactful ventures born from this intersection.
• Mission-aligned venture capital can effectively address global challenges such as climate change and national security.

About This Anthro Life:
This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.  

Connect with Arun Gupta:
Website: https://noblereachfoundation.org/person/arun-gupta/ 
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arungupta23/ 
Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/arungupta?lang=en  

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/ 
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/ 
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com 

Reimagining Career Trajectories: Insights from Anthropology, UX, and the Written Word
How can anthropology redefine traditional career paths and foster innovation in diverse professional landscapes? 

In this insightful episode of career anthropology, we speak with Amy Goldmacher and Amy Santee, professionals who seamlessly blended anthropology into their careers. Amy Goldmacher shares her journey from UX research to career coaching, using anthropology to empower individuals in communication. Amy Santee discusses transitioning from academia to industry, highlighting anthropology's adaptability in diverse settings. We explore the evolving perception of anthropology in the business world, advocating for increased visibility and mentorship to support aspiring anthropologists in carving out fulfilling career paths. Our dialogue underscores the invaluable contribution of anthropology to various fields and inspires listeners to embrace the multifaceted possibilities within the discipline.
Join us in this enlightening discussion as we uncover the transformative potential of anthropology in shaping meaningful careers and fostering innovation in today's dynamic professional landscape.

Timestamps
0:00 Career pivots and the evolution of anthropology.
6:12 Anthropologists in industry and career growth.
8:45 Anthropology's relevance in a changing business landscape.
12:28 Job market challenges and career evolution in the tech industry.
15:34 Career development for anthropology graduates.
21:04 Career development challenges for academic transitioners.
27:48 Writing nonfiction books and distilling ideas.
31:20 Career paths and defining success.
35:30 Career development and exploration.
38:56 Career development and experimentation.
42:30 Entrepreneurship and career development.
44:00 Strategic career development and time management.
47:33 Career paths beyond traditional anthropology.
51:21 Anthropology career paths and their applications.

Key takeaways 

• Anthropology careers have expanded beyond academia, with opportunities emerging in tech, marketing, and consulting sectors.
• Communicating the relevance of anthropology skills is vital outside academia, aiding in securing job opportunities across diverse industries.
• Success is not static but evolves with time, shaped by individual values and goals, highlighting the importance of self-awareness.
• Strategic planning and experimentation are crucial for navigating career transitions effectively and finding fulfillment in work.
• Increased visibility and mentorship within anthropology are essential for aspiring professionals to explore diverse career paths and make informed decisions.

About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.  

Connect with Amy Goldmacher:
Website: https://www.amygoldmacher.com/ 
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amygoldmacher/ 
Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/solidgoldmacher 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solidgoldmacher/ 

Connect with Amy Santee:
Website: https://www.amysantee.com/ 
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysantee/ 

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/ 
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/ 
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com 

How does poetry help us understand people better, using words that touch our hearts and reveal hidden feelings? 

In this captivating episode of This Anthro Life, we engage with Adrie Kusserow, an esteemed anthropologist who brings a unique poetic perspective to her work. We delve into the essence of anthropology, emphasizing the transformative power of storytelling and its role in shaping cultural narratives. Adrie Kusserow shares her profound journey in Kathmandu, recounting how it shifted her worldview at a tender age. The conversation navigates through the intricacies of fieldwork, drawing parallels between anthropologists and refugees, and exploring the impact of language, emotion, and technology on cultural understanding. Adrie Kusserow's book, "The Trauma Mantras," becomes a focal point, highlighting the significance of authentic personal narratives in reshaping dominant discourses. The episode culminates in a reflection on the potency of poetry in anthropology and the ongoing endeavor to confront and redefine established narratives in a dynamic world. Join me in this enlightening conversation with anthropologist Adrie Kusserow as we explore the power of storytelling and the importance of engaging with different cultural perspectives. Discover how narratives shape our understanding of the world and how we can challenge dominant narratives to create a more inclusive society. Take advantage of this thought-provoking discussion.

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to Adrie Kusserow and the Power of Anthropology
05:00 - Adrienne's Childhood and the Birth of an Anthropologist
10:00 - The Art of Writing and Engaging the Public in Anthropology
31:35 - Confronting Western Narratives of Depression and Individualism
35:00 - The Collective Nature of Suffering and Learning from Refugees
40:00 - Bhutan's Struggle with Western Influence and Youth Depression
44:30 - The Search for Authenticity and the Anthropologist's Role
50:00 - Language, Grammar, and Perception in the Anthropocene
55:00 - The Impact of Digital Communication on Emotional Depth
1:00:00 - The Interplay of Desire and Cultural Exchange in Bhutan 

Key Takeaways:

• Anthropologists are like careful watchers of everyday people, learning from how they talk, move, and live to understand their lives.
• Refugees are like their own kind of observers, trying to understand a new culture and where they fit in it.
• Sharing stories is important for understanding pain, and different groups have different stories to explain what they go through.
• In understanding mental health and pain, Western medical ideas often take over, but we should listen to people's own stories.
• Poetry can help anthropologists explore feelings, experiences, and the small details of different cultures.
• How we speak and use language affects how we see the world, so it's important to pay attention to it.

About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content. 

Connect with Adrie Kusserow
Website: https://www.adriekusserow.com/ 
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kusserow-adrie-8a882ba 
Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/mreddingtoncfi 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adrie.kusserow/  

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/ 
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/ 
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com 

How does understanding the psychology behind lying enhance our ability to unravel the truth in conversations?

In this insightful episode of This Anthro Life, we delve into the intricate dynamics of communication, emphasizing the pivotal role of context. Drawing from his expertise in forensic interviewing, he illuminates how decoding body language, facial cues, and power dynamics can reveal deeper truths. Reddington highlights empathy as a linchpin for fostering honesty, acknowledging that people often resort to lies to evade repercussions. He underscores the potency of relinquishing control in conversations to nurture openness and cooperation. By reframing lies as valuable insights, he advocates for goal-oriented dialogues that prioritize understanding over judgment. Join us in this insightful conversation and explore the nuances of communication with Michael Reddington and unravel the secrets behind effective dialogue. 

Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Michael Reddington and the art of conversation
04:16 The importance of power dynamics in conversations
12:05 The benefits of understanding why people lie
19:10 The power of achieving desired outcomes over being in control
26:45 The value of gathering information and letting it weed itself out
35:40 The impact of power differentials on trust and stress levels
44:05 The commitment and buy-in that comes from feeling like it's one's own decision
52:40 The discipline of listening method and its limitations
11:04 Importance of letting the conversation flow organically
38:02 The universality of the human experience in communication

Key Takeaways: 

• Context, including body language and non-verbal cues, is crucial for understanding the true meaning in conversations.
• Lies can reveal valuable insights into a person's motivations and concerns, allowing for deeper understanding.
• Power dynamics significantly impact conversations, and people are more likely to open up when they feel in control and psychologically safe.
• Setting clear goals and focusing on outcomes rather than personalities can lead to more productive dialogues.
• In the post-truth era, prioritizing outcomes and problem-solving may be more important than seeking objective truth.
• The Discipline Listening Method provides a framework for effective communication by emphasizing context, power dynamics, and goal setting.
• Empathy, curiosity, and a focus on mutual benefit are key to uncovering hidden truths and achieving desired outcomes through conversations.

About This Anthro Life:
This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Michael Reddington
Website: https://michaelreddington.com/ 
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelreddingtoncfi 
Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/mreddingtoncfi  

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/ 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/ 
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/ 
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com 

Have you ever wondered how anthropology intersects with personal growth and academia?

In this compelling episode of This Anthro Life, the discussion delves into the multifaceted world of anthropology, academia, and personal development. Nethra Samarawickrema shares her perspective on topics ranging from the origins of anthropology to the challenges of fieldwork and knowledge production. Key themes include the importance of active listening in fieldwork, navigating the tension between academic pursuits and community respect, and the impact of nonviolent communication in scholarly and professional environments. Additionally, the conversation explores avenues for creativity, achieving work-life balance, and finding fulfillment outside academia, including alternative career paths like UX design and coaching. Join us in this awakening episode, you might reflect on your own experiences with academic research or personal growth journeys, and how they intersect with the broader themes discussed. 

Timestamp
04:03 - The importance of listening in fieldwork and the challenge of sharing stories.
01:21 - Difficulty returning from the field and feeling unmoored.
12:53 - Writer's block and reshaping thinking.
5:00 - Discovering the power of listening in conflict mediation.
21:43 - Tension between internal truth and external legitimacy.
27:19 - Creating space for messy, contradictory experiences.
29:03 - Transformative power of conversation and therapy.
36:07 - Designing a class focused on listening.
43:59 - Words flow when not afraid of judgment.
57:30 - Transforming spaces and reinventing lives.

Key Takeaways:
Anthropology emphasizes deep listening and situated perspectives for a unique understanding of diverse cultures and experiences.
Fieldwork involves letting go of preconceptions, immersing in the unknown and truly grasping the experiences of those under study.
onviolent communication fosters empathy by listening to others' needs, creating a safe space for authentic expression.
Design thinking underscores the importance of the creative process, encouraging exploration without judgment for new insights and solutions.
Creating safe spaces with deep listening is crucial for personal growth, meaningful relationships, and aligning work with values and passions.

About This Anthro Life:
This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives.
Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content. 

Connect with Nethra Samarawickrema
Website: https://www.workwithnethra.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nethra_s/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nethra-samarawickrema-workwithnethra

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

What fascinating parallels exist between the structure of bees in a hive and the potential for humanity to function as a superorganism?

In this episode, we engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Byron Reese about the concept of superorganisms. Reese draws parallels between the structure and behavior of bees in a hive and the potential for humanity to function as a superorganism. He explores the idea that a collective entity, which he calls "Agora," could emerge from the collaboration and interconnectedness of individuals. Reese presents falsifiable hypotheses that support the existence of Agora and discusses the emergent properties and capabilities that could arise from such a superorganism. The conversation delves into the role of technology, the future of knowledge, and the potential for humanity to shape a more harmonious and evolved global society.
Join us in this engaging episode as we delve into the role of technology, the future of knowledge, and the potential for humanity to shape a more harmonious and evolved global society.

Timestamp
0:00 Blending into a larger entity and its impact on humanity.
1:42 The possibility of humans being a superorganism.
4:09 The concept of superorganisms and their implications.
8:51 Emergent properties of complex systems like Manhattan and the human body.
14:24 The evolution of knowledge storage and retrieval.
19:48 The future of knowledge and technology.
24:56 Individuality and conformity in a superorganism.
31:27 The possibility of life on other planets and the Gaia hypothesis.
37:46 Human progress and utopia.
42:39 AI, storytelling, and human connection.
47:21 Humanity as a superorganism and its implications.

Key Takeaways:

• Delve into the concept of humanity as a superorganism, challenging traditional ideas of individuality and exploring emergent properties seen in superorganisms like bee hives or cities.
• Examine the journey of knowledge storage from oral tradition to digital databases, and consider the impact of language models in consolidating human knowledge.
• Discuss the implications of emerging technologies such as Internet-connected sensors in capturing daily life experiences and enhancing human decision-making.
• Explore the balance between individuality and conformity within superorganisms, citing examples from hive-like societies and the notion of self-creation.
• Highlight the importance of cooperation within superorganisms, drawing parallels with bee colonies as a metaphor for human society and promoting interconnectedness through the "overview effect.
• Investigate the Gaia hypothesis and its implications for life on Earth, including the possibility of life on other planets and the Fermi Paradox.
• Assess human progress towards a utopian society, analyzing historical advancements in education, governance, and legal equality.
• Analyze the relationship between AI, storytelling, and human connection, considering the anthropomorphism of AI systems and our attitudes toward animal intelligence.
• Contemplate the potential evolution of humanity into a collective consciousness or singularity with technology, and the relevance of anthropology in this changing landscape.

About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Byron Reese
Website: https://byronreese.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/byronreese/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byronreese/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/byronreese/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/byronreese/

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

Have you ever pondered how acknowledging and reframing past trauma could be transformative?

In this riveting episode of This Anthro Life, we delve into the profound impact of acknowledging and reframing past trauma as the initial step toward healing. Through the wisdom letter writing method, we uncover the process of identifying life lessons learned, enabling a deeper understanding of core values and beliefs. Discover how sharing our stories brings hope, fosters collective healing, and transforms leadership styles in the workplace.Join us in this engaging episode as we delve into acknowledging and reframing past trauma as the pivotal first step toward healing.

Join us as we explore how sharing our stories brings hope and catalyzes collective healing, shaping our present and future. Together, we'll explore the profound impact of storytelling in creating a more empathetic and connected world.

Timestamps
0:00 Healing, leadership, and personal growth.
1:02 Healing through writing and acknowledging past traumas.
10:52 Healing through self-reflection and giving back.
4:39 Healing through storytelling and collective wisdom.
18:29 Storytelling, hope, and mental health.
23:25 Storytelling and leadership in the workplace.
29:11 Workplace trauma and leadership styles.
33:58 Using storytelling for personal growth and healing.

Key Takeaways

• It's essential to acknowledge past traumas to initiate the healing process effectively.
• Understanding how past experiences shape current self-awareness is crucial for personal growth.
• Transforming the story we tell ourselves about past pain is key to releasing it and moving forward positively.
• Viewing traumatic experiences through a different lens can uncover valuable life lessons and aid in healing.
• Following a structured process, like the 5-step letter writing method, provides a roadmap for healing and growth.
• Sharing personal stories not only aids in personal healing but also contributes to collective understanding and empathy.
• Storytelling, through various mediums, is a powerful tool for healing and connecting with others.
• Addressing past trauma in leaders is essential for personal and professional growth, impacting leadership style and workplace dynamics.

About This Anthro Life:
This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Sussi Mattsson
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sussi_mattsson/
inkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sussi-mattsson-21279a3

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

How is the delicate balance between recording Micronesian cultural heritage, addressing community needs, and gaining international acknowledgment for preservation endeavors managed?

Ashley in Micronesia collaborates with communities to identify research topics, stressing adaptability during fieldwork. Navigating linguistic intricacies, ethical dilemmas, and community preferences is essential while also promoting global recognition.

In this episode of This Anthro Life, we delve into the intricate duties of a cultural anthropologist in Micronesia. Using ethnographic approaches, cultural heritage is documented and safeguarded while meeting community requirements. Remaining flexible during fieldwork is paramount, adjusting to local timetables and events. The complexities of language, including bilingualism, demand careful interpretation. We explore the intersection of historical preservation and conservation, highlighting how ethnography informs comprehensive project planning. Qualitative data's significance and interpretation are underscored, advocating for anthropology's broader accessibility. Furthermore, we discuss the importance of international acknowledgment in cultural heritage preservation, emphasizing ethical considerations and community involvement. Through this endeavor, the necessity of prioritizing communities and ensuring their active participation in preservation endeavors is exemplified.

Timestamps
1:24 Ethnographic approach and community involvement in research
14:34 Language and code-switching in Micronesian cultures
24:58 Ashley's switch from applied linguistics to anthropology
32:20 The value of anthropology as a holistic discipline and the need for more examples of its integration
37:22 The need to consider the human component in metadata and the limitations of AI in capturing human interaction
42:33 Surprising aspects of being a cultural anthropologist in Micronesia
46:03 Bringing together various interests in anthropology
49:45 The systematic process of preparing UNESCO nominations
54:01 Ethical considerations in community involvement for UNESCO nominations
1:03:05 The impact of a dedicated Historic Preservation Officer and the importance of documentation

Key takeaways

• Understanding community needs informs culturally sensitive research and enhances the impact of preservation efforts.
• Recognizing and promoting the diverse cultural heritage of Micronesia is essential for its preservation and promotion.
• Prioritizing storytelling and knowledge transmission preserves Micronesian culture and fosters intergenerational understanding.
• Balancing international recognition with indigenous sacred lands requires careful ethical engagement with local communities.
• Effective cross-cultural communication and understanding cultural nuances are critical in navigating linguistic diversity during research.
• Flexibility in fieldwork schedules ensures meaningful community participation and engagement in preservation activities.
• Integrating tangible and intangible cultural elements in preservation strategies ensures comprehensive conservation efforts.
• Prioritizing qualitative data allows for a deeper understanding of cultural contexts, enriching preservation initiatives.
• Engaging in international recognition ethically involves ensuring community involvement and understanding for balanced preservation outcomes.

About This Anthro Life:
This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Ashley Meredith
Website: https://nach.gov.fm/
Linkedin: https://fm.linkedin.com/in/ameredith1

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

How can we use CLIR's help to protect our cultural heritage during climate change? Could telling stories be a big help in keeping our culture alive? Why must we work together to fight climate change and save our heritage? And can technology bring together businesses and academics to help with this?

In this episode of This Anthro Life, we talk with Charles Henry, President of the Council on Library and Information Resources (CLIR), about protecting our cultural heritage during challenges like climate change. Charles explains how CLIR supports institutions with resources and funding to make their projects more impactful globally. We stress the importance of storytelling in preserving cultural memory and the need for cooperation to tackle climate change. We also discuss how competitive models between business and academia fall short and how digital technologies can help bridge these gaps.

We discuss the serious threat climate change poses to our cultural heritage, including both physical artifacts and traditions. We talk about how things like rising sea levels, droughts, fires, and other climate-related events endanger our cultural history. Additionally, we mention the importance of digital technologies like the International Image Interoperability Framework (IIIF) in creating a neutral platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange, which is crucial for safeguarding cultural heritage against climate-related risks.Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation with Charles Henry as we delve into the crucial topic of preserving our cultural heritage in the face of climate change. Discover how organizations like CLIR are making a global impact by providing resources and funding. Explore the power of storytelling in safeguarding cultural memory and the importance of cooperation in tackling climate challenges

Timestamps:

02:05 - Charles' Journey into Libraries and Digital Information
08:36 - Making Rare Materials Accessible: The Digitizing Hidden Collections Project
11:43 - Preserving Audiovisual Materials at Risk
12:16 - Building Networks in the GLAM Community
16:27 - Challenges Facing Higher Education Institutions
19:56 - The Importance of Collaboration in Strategic Plans
21:41 - Climate Crisis Threats to Cultural Heritage
29:39 - The Power of Storytelling in Driving Change
37:53 - Introduction to the International Image Interoperability Framework (IIIF)
45:12 - Technology's Role in Preserving Cultural Heritage

Key Takeaways:

• Climate change can damage cultural stuff like old things and traditions because of floods and bad weather.
• The Council on Library and Information Resources helps libraries save old things by giving them money and support.
• Stories can bring people together, but the internet makes it hard for people to work together.
• The Digital Library of the Middle East is a good example of how the internet can save old stuff from dangerous places.
• Standards like the International Image Interoperability Framework help people share and learn about old things online.

About This Anthro Life:
This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives.
Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Charles Henry:
Website: https://www.clir.org/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-henry-7007048
Twitter: https://twitter.com/CLIRnews/

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

How is technology transforming end-of-life care experiences, and why are AI and automation crucial in reshaping the funeral industry? In what ways are cultural norms around grieving shifting, and what does the future hold for personalized and meaningful ways to honor loved ones?

In this episode of The Anthro Life, we delve into the intersection of technology and compassion in the field of end-of-life care. Faisal Abid, founder of Eirene Cremations, shares his journey from working in AI to revolutionizing the funeral industry by combining technology and empathy. We explore how Irene Cremations uses innovative tools like Funeral OS and Obituary Writer to streamline processes and empower families during the grieving process. Additionally, we discuss shifting cultural norms in end-of-life care and the potential future advancements in the industry.

The discussion Faisal Abid covers topics such as the use of technology to automate administrative tasks in the funeral industry, the development of AI tools to assist families in writing meaningful obituaries, and the importance of transparency and communication in end-of-life care. We also explore Irene Cremations' approach to providing flexible and personalized experiences for families, as well as the potential for technology to continue reshaping cultural norms surrounding end-of-life care.

Join us for an enlightening discussion on leveraging technology like AI and automation, that end-of-life care can become more compassionate, efficient, and meaningful, allowing funeral directors to focus on providing personalized care to families.


Timestamps:
00:02:10 Faisal shares his background in technology and AI.
00:04:45 Discussion on the early stages of AI development and the challenges faced.
00:07:17 The importance of understanding language models and their limitations.
00:09:25 Language models can be perceived as human-like, emphasizing the need for education on their functionality.
00:10:39 Language models have limits on the amount of input they can process.
00:12:51 Language models will not suddenly become human-level intelligence.
00:17:02 Potential emergence of artificial consciousness in language models.
00:20:25 Exploration of different ways to interact with language models beyond chat interfaces.
00:30:08 Automation in the death care industry allows funeral directors to focus on families and serve more families.
00:45:10 Introduction to the technical details of the propagation bug.


Key Takeaways:

• Technology should aid in fulfilling human needs, not replace them, emphasizing its role in enhancing, rather than supplanting, the human experience in end-of-life care.
• Integrating technology with compassion, as seen in Irene Cremations, redefines end-of-life care by providing efficient, personalized services that prioritize emotional support for families.
• Automation via technology streamlines funeral tasks, freeing professionals to focus on emotional support, and balancing efficiency with compassion in the delicate process of end-of-life care.
• Technology enables personalized, meaningful experiences, exemplified by Irene Cremations' tools, fostering deeper connections and honoring individual lives sensitively in the context of end-of-life care.
• Adapting to shifting cultural norms, like personalized celebrations of life, with technological flexibility, allows funeral homes to meet evolving preferences and provide more tailored services to families.
• Technology fosters transparent, real-time communication, crucial in end-of-life care, building trust and offering reassurance to families during the emotionally challenging process of bidding farewell to loved ones.
• Overcoming obstacles, such as regulatory hurdles and trust in new technologies, is essential. Embracing change and innovative solutions can lead to positive transformations in end-of-life care, benefiting families profoundly

About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Faisal Abid:
Website: https://eirenecremations.com/
Linkedin: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/faisalabid
Twitter: https://x.com/FaisalAbid?s=20

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

Why does democracy inherently involve loss, and how do black grief and white grievance shape the intricate landscape of contemporary racial politics in the United States?

In this insightful episode, we unravel the intricate dynamics of racial politics in the U.S. Democracy's inherent tension and the intersection of black grief and white grievance take center stage, shaping political activism. We explore the personal costs of activism through figures like Mamie Till-Mobley and Erica Garner, challenging expectations on black communities. Beyond sensationalized violence, the episode emphasizes everyday black experiences, humanizing individuals and urging a broadened perspective. As the 2024 election looms, it reflects on the persistent influence of white grievance and hopeful movements like Occupy Wall Street. "Echoes of Change" calls for collective efforts to address unequal power distribution and create a more inclusive democracy that honors the diverse experiences of its citizens.

Join this conversion as we delve into the complex dynamics of black grief and white grievance with Dr. Juliet Hooker. Discover how loss shapes our political landscape and the implications for a more inclusive democracy. we explore the intersection of race, politics, and loss in this episode with Dr. Juliet Hooker, as she shares her groundbreaking research on black grief and white grievance, offering valuable insights into our current racial politics.

Timestamps:
05:33 - Juliet Hooker's journey into political science and focus on race and politics
09:38 - Introduction to the main topics of the book: black grief and white grievance
13:19 - Discussion on white grievance as a response to perceived or real harm
18:32 - Reflection on the need to give Black people the ability to be fully human
23:32 - Resisting the expectation to move from grief to activism quickly
29:30 - Highlighting the importance of telling quotidian stories and humanizing individuals
34:40 - Tension between black voters and the Democratic Party
38:43 - Examples of big thinking and social movements


Key Takeaways:

• Democracy involves inevitable losses, requiring acknowledgment for a more equitable society.
• Black grief and white grievance shape contemporary US racial politics, with black grief driving activism and white grievance stemming from perceived harm.
• Recognizing the unequal burden on black communities as sacrificial political heroes is crucial, necessitating space for grief without immediate pressure for activism.
• Black Grief and White Grievance: The Politics of Loss" explores these dynamics, emphasizing the catalyzing role of black grief and the fear-driven nature of white grievance.
• Acknowledging the toll on activists like Mamie Till-Mobley and Erica Garner is crucial, challenging the expectation for constant black leadership in activism.
• Moving beyond sensationalized violence, recognizing ordinary aspects of black lives, such as Eric Garner's work, shifts the narrative from death to life.
• Despite white grievance's impact, hope lies in movements like Occupy Wall Street and the Movement for Black Lives, contingent on addressing the unequal distribution of political power.

Connect with Dr. Juliet Hooker:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/creoleprof
Website: https://juliethooker.com/about/

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

How can businesses effectively integrate insights from social sciences like psychology and anthropology to gain a deeper understanding of human behavior, and how might this integration impact decision-making and innovation within the corporate world?

In this thought-provoking episode of This Anthro Life,Oliver explores the fusion of social sciences and business, sharing his journey from psychology to incorporating anthropology at Ipsos. He emphasizes the importance of merging disciplines for a deeper understanding of human behavior in the corporate world, advocating for revisiting foundational research frameworks and creating tailored ones.

Oliver addresses challenges in translating academic language to business-friendly terms and highlights storytelling's crucial role in effective idea dissemination. The integration of psychology and anthropology insights enables businesses to comprehend human behavior, fostering innovation and informed decisions. The episode reveals the transformative impact of the evolving world, where interconnectedness and technological advancements shape human behavior. Oliver discusses the risks and benefits of applying behavioral science in business, stressing ethical considerations.

Join the conversation to learn more about collective effervescence in human culture, a connection that eludes technology's grasp. Oliver's insights provide a roadmap for businesses navigating the evolving landscape, emphasizing a holistic approach rooted in social science principles.

Timestamps:
01:19 - Oliver discusses the challenge of bringing social sciences into business
05:42 - The importance of rephrasing academic language for business communication
09:15 - The need for anthropology to improve its PR
14:41 - Examples of behavioral interventions that had unintended consequences
17:16 - The predictive drivers of behavior and the narcissism of small differences
20:10 - Applying behavioral prediction in business and marketing
26:57 - Importance of in-person ethnographic research
32:22 - Gen Z's drinking habits and the impact of surveillance
37:58 - The barrier created by technology in sharing experiences
44:05 - The plausibility of AI answers and the danger of fat thinking

Key Takeaways:

• Incorporate social sciences, particularly anthropology, for understanding human behavior in a changing world.
• Visit and adapt behavioral science frameworks, recognizing their social science roots.
• Reframe academic language in business research to resonate with stakeholders.
• Understand connections between people for predicting and shaping future trends.
• Use ethnographic research for a profound understanding of culture and human behavior.
• Exercise caution in applying behavioral science, acknowledging its limitations and potential unintended consequences.
• Consider the impact of AI on human behavior, balancing its benefits with potential dangers and emphasizing fact-checking.
• Preserve technology-free spaces for fostering human connection and collective experiences.

Connect with Oliver Sweet:
Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliver-sweet-73671018/?originalSubdomain=uk
Website: https://www.ipsos.com/en/listen-us-selection-ipsos-finest-podcasts

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

Have you considered the untold stories in our perceptions of sexuality? How do community strength, the role of play and toys in sexual exploration, and the promotion of sex positivity, as seen through Carol's insights, contribute to fostering a more inclusive society?

In this captivating episode of This Anthro Life, we engage in a captivating conversation with Carol Queen, a renowned sexologist and advocate for sex positivity. Carol delves into her personal journey within the realm of sexology, emphasizing the imperative nature of embracing and understanding our sexuality. She unravels the historical influences on societal attitudes towards sex and passionately advocates for open discussions on sexual orientation, pleasure, and diversity.
This episode explores the impact of shame on limiting our comprehension of diverse sexual experiences and underscores the power of community, the role of play and toys in sexual exploration, and the overarching importance of a sex-positive mindset for a more inclusive society.

Join me in this thought-provoking conversation with Carol Queen as we explore the history of sexology and the power of sex positivity. Learn how embracing diversity and pleasure can lead to a more compassionate and understanding society.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Introduction and background of guest
05:19 - Guest's journey into the world of sexology
12:30 - Importance of connecting with others and forming communities
19:34 - Navigating personal identity in relation to societal norms
27:31 - Breaking down shame and the importance of open conversations
33:16 - Suggests taking a class to learn about sexuality and gender
40:44 - Discusses the importance of understanding history in relation to sexuality and gender
48:27 - Highlights the need to address shame and engage in open conversations
56:24 - Emphasizes the relevance of anthropology and sociology in addressing societal issues
1:04:07 - The societal control and diverse perspectives on sex, partnership, and identity

Key Takeaways:

• Embracing and understanding our sexuality is essential for personal growth and well-being.
• Historical influences significantly shape societal attitudes towards sex and sexual orientation.
• Shame can impede open conversations about sex, restricting our acceptance of diverse sexual experiences.
• Sex positivity fosters a healthy and inclusive approach to sex, prioritizing pleasure, consent, and diversity.
• Play and toys are valuable tools for sexual exploration and self-discovery, contributing to a fulfilling and enriching sexual journey.

Connect with Carol Queen:
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolq1
Website: https://carolqueen.com/
Her Book: Good Vibrations Sex Doctor, Staff Sexologist Dr. Carol Queen - GoodVibes.com

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

How does the interplay between big systems-level questions and fundamental human questions in accessibility, disability rights, and human potential? In this captivating episode of This Anthro Life, we embark on a profound exploration of accessibility, disability rights, and human potential through an enthralling conversation with a distinguished expert who has devoted his life to these pivotal issues. The discussion delves deep into the intricate fusion of macro-level concerns related to policy and governance, seamlessly intertwining with deeply personal inquiries into identity and purpose. Victor Pineda, a multifaceted individual, sheds light on the profound significance of acknowledging and embracing the diverse spectrum of human emotions and experiences. His compelling insights challenge societal preconceptions about disability, advocating for a redefinition of worth that transcends limitations.

The conversation touches upon themes of empowerment, the courage to pose meaningful questions, and the proactive endeavor to craft a better world through the avenues of technology, innovation, and inclusive governance. The far-reaching implications of this dialogue resonate with a compelling call for a societal shift towards inclusivity, diversity appreciation, and the empowerment of all individuals to thrive.
Join us as they explore the themes of accessibility, disability rights, and human potential through the lens of a thought-provoking conversation with Victor Pineda at This Anthro Life and get to know the human potential.

Timestamp

00:00:00 Disability rights, human rights, and personal identity.
00:02:00 Individuality, freedom, and empowerment.
00:08:56 Disability, aspirations, and design.
00:16:01 Objective and subjective experiences of flourishing in a chaotic world.
00:24:56 Playfulness and unlocking human potential.
00:30:05 Using technology for social impact and inclusivity.
00:37:05 Anthropology, accessibility, and governance.
00:40:55 Inclusive design in cities with a focus on accessibility and human rights.


Key Takeaways:

• Recognition of the tapestry of human emotions and the pursuit of freedom.
• Challenging assumptions about disability and redefining notions of worth.
• Empowerment through the courage to ask meaningful questions.
• Designing a better world through technology, innovation, and inclusive governance.
• The potential for transformative impact on cities, institutions, and society.
• Embracing playfulness and curiosity for innovative solutions and positive experiences.
• The ongoing dialogue for a just and inclusive world amplifies marginalized voices.

Connect with Victor PinedaLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victorpineda
Website: https://www.pinedafoundation.org/index.html

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

What are the consequences of misinformation on personal relationships, business operations, and regulatory decisions? And how does the spread of misinformation pose an existential threat to society as a whole? What role does artificial intelligence play in the creation and proliferation of misinformation?

In this thought-provoking episode of This Anthro Life, we delve deep into the chaotic world of misinformation and its potential existential threats. Our guest, James Mawhinney, founder of Media.com, shares his personal and harrowing journey through the eye of a misinformation storm that led to the creation of his platform, which aims to counteract the spread of misinformation and provide a space for individuals and organizations to manage their narratives and reputations.James recounts the story of his investment company, which, after successfully raising a significant amount of capital and investing in a diversified portfolio, faced a catastrophic turn of events.We discuss the broader implications of misinformation in today's digital age, where the speed and scale at which false information can spread pose significant risks to society. James argues that misinformation, exacerbated by artificial intelligence, is a greater threat than climate change due to its potential to cause immediate and widespread harm.

The conversation also touches on the future of media and the coexistence of traditional media, social media, and new platforms like Media.com. James envisions a world where these platforms work in tandem to provide a more organized and credible information landscape, akin to a well-structured courtroom where both sides of a story can be heard.
Join us as we discuss the growing threat of online misinformation with James Mawhinney at This Anthro Life and get to know how the spread of misinformation poses an existential threat to society!


Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction to Misinformation and Media.com
00:01:13 - James Mawhinney's Backstory and the Birth of Media.com
00:11:51 - The Speed and Impact of Misinformation
00:17:32 - Addressing Misinformation: The Role of Media.com
00:22:26 - Business Model and Vision of Media.com
00:30:54 - The Need for Verified Information Sources
00:38:16 - Coexistence of Traditional and New Media Platforms
00:40:42 - Engaging with Media.com for Accurate Information Sharing
00:44:07 - Brand Management and Credibility on Media.com
00:46:11 - Media.com's Launch and Future Plans
00:48:04 - Closing Remarks and Reflections

Key Takeaways:

• Misinformation poses an existential threat to society, spreading rapidly and causing significant harm.
• The speed at which information spreads on the internet and social media platforms is a major challenge in combating misinformation.
• Media.com was founded as a platform dedicated to countering misinformation and giving individuals and businesses the opportunity to respond and fight back.
• The platform aims to provide a safe space for individuals and businesses to respond to misinformation and share their official positions.
• Verification is a crucial aspect of Media.com, ensuring that profiles are authentic and credible.
• The platform aims to coexist with traditional media and social media, offering a centralized location for verified information.
• Businesses are increasingly concerned about their brand management and the credibility of the platforms they associate with.

Connect with James Mawhinney
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesmawhinney1/
Website: https://www.jamesmawhinney.com/

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

The traditional view of mental health often focuses on the absence of mental illness, but a new theory is emerging that emphasizes the importance of neurodiversity and individual differences in the pursuit of long-term happiness. The question is, how can we reconcile the medicalization of mental health with the idea of neurodiversity and the unique strengths that come with different neurotypes?

In this episode of This Anthro Life, we dive into a new perspective on mental health and well-being and how traditional models of mental illness focus only on treatment, not optimization of wellness. Ryan's work, which is detailed in his new book "Become Who You Are," offers a fresh perspective on how ancient philosophy and modern psychology intersect to address issues like anxiety and depression. He introduces the concept of "virtue signaling theory," which views traits like courage and compassion as evolutionary adaptations that helped humans navigate social hierarchies. Self-esteem evolved as a way to track social standing and regulate mood accordingly. Depression may result from a negative self-view due to lack of virtue expression.

Moreover, throughout the conversation, we delved into the practical applications of Ryan's theory. He shared strategies for individuals at various points on the well-being scale, from those struggling with depression to those seeking to enhance their fulfillment in life. Ryan emphasized the importance of behavioral activation, identifying personal strengths, and creating virtue domains – areas in our lives where we can exercise and showcase our virtues. We also touched on the concept of eudaimonia, the ancient Greek term for the highest human good or "the good life," which Ryan believes is achieved through the cultivation of virtues.

Ready to become who you are and find deeper happiness and fulfillment in life? Join us on This Anthro Life as we explore the importance of self-exploration and cultivating virtues with Ryan Bush

Timestamps:

00:01:33 - Ryan Bush's Journey and Interdisciplinary Approach
00:03:58 - The Sociometer Theory of Self-Esteem
00:05:54 - Understanding Self-Esteem and Virtue
00:12:11 - The Causal Relationship Between Identity and Depression
00:18:28 - Self-Improvement and Selfishness
00:20:35 - Long-Term Selfishness and Altruism
00:22:27 - Behavioral Activation and Virtue Cultivation
00:25:19 - Virtue Domains and Life Fulfillment
00:27:18 - Time Dimension in Virtue Domains
00:29:25 - Personal Journey and Designing the Mind
00:31:27 - The Search for Meaning and Virtue
00:33:45 - The Importance of Practice in Virtue Cultivation
00:35:39 - Simple Strategies for Behavioral Activation
00:41:37 - Medicalization and Mental Health
00:44:12 - Neurodiversity and Evolutionary Strengths
00:46:23 - Frequency-Dependent Selection in Neurodiversity
00:51:23 - Practical Philosophy and Well-Being

Key Takeaways:

• Traditional mental health models focus only on treatment, not optimization of well-being.
• Virtues like courage and compassion evolved as "fitness indicators" to help humans navigate social hierarchies.
• Self-esteem evolved to track social standing and regulate mood accordingly.
• Depression may result from a negative self-view due to lack of virtue expression.
• Behavioral activation can boost mood by engaging in virtue-expressing activities.
• Role models can help identify personal strengths to cultivate.
• "Virtual domains" allow expression of virtues in meaningful pursuits.
• Brief suffering may occur through cultivation but should not be the goal.
• Well-being exists on a continuum, from depression to eudaimonia.

About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Ryan Bush
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanabush/
Website: https://designingthemind.org/
Order the book at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CPCMWQG6

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

How do narratives shape our understanding of shared human experiences like dignity and respect? And, in what ways can an emphasis on human universals through inclusive narratives help fulfill fundamental human desires for dignity and respect?In this episode of This Anthro Life, we explore these questions through a discussion with sociologist Michele Lamont and her research on narratives and society. Lamont's concept of "ordinary universalism" focuses narrative frameworks on common aspects of human dignity and respect rather than divisions. Evidence shows these universal needs are fundamentally sought. Generational attitudes found Gen Z prioritizes authentic self-expression and inclusion through exploring shared experiences

In addition, Michele's research offers a unique perspective on societal trends through the lens of ordinary universalism. We also explore how Gen Z is leading the way towards a more inclusive culture and the role of narratives in driving philanthropic and political action. Michele’s examples demonstrate narrative's power to recognize structural barriers to dignity and mobilize action by cultivating understanding of our humanity. The episode emphasizes inclusive narratives to shape understanding and fulfillment of our common needs through storytelling.

Join us for an enlightening discussion on understanding and embracing the perspectives of others.



Timestamps:
00:01:07 - Discussing Erasure and Identity Recognition
00:02:35 - The Power of Narrative in Social Fabric
00:03:17 - Explaining Narratives to Non-Scholars
00:07:24 - Public Sphere and Scaling Up Narratives
00:13:28 - The Loss of the American Dream Across Classes
00:14:24 - Gen Z's Rejection of the American Dream
00:17:54 - Work-Life Balance and Gen Z's Values
00:19:43 - The Role of Technology in Shaping Narratives
00:21:26 - The Importance of Narrative in Policy and Philanthropy
00:25:21 - Dignity and Respect as Fundamental Human Needs
00:28:58 - The Shift from Individualism to Collectivism
00:33:09 - Ordinary Universalism and Common Humanity
00:36:15 - Political Language and Recognition
00:40:17 - Side Hustles and Changing Work Identities
00:46:38 - The Benefits of Embracing Inclusivity
00:49:24 - Closing Thoughts and Reflections




Key Takeaways:

• The concept of narratives is about how we perceive and understand the world through different lenses, which are influenced by social movements, media, and personal experiences.
• Gen Z is spearheading a shift towards a more inclusive culture and is seeking alternative narratives that go beyond the traditional American dream.
• The power of storytelling and narratives is crucial in changing hearts and minds for philanthropic and political action.
• The focus on dignity and respect is a fundamental need for individuals and communities, and it is essential to create a more inclusive and equitable society.
• The idea of ordinary universalism emphasizes finding common ground and recognizing our shared humanity, rather than focusing on divisions and competition.
• The role of philanthropies and organizations in scaling up narratives and promoting social change is crucial.
• The conversation also highlights the challenges of navigating differences and finding ways to coexist and tolerate diverse perspectives.
• The shift towards a more inclusive society requires a focus on inclusion in workplaces, education, and social interactions.
• Recognizing the humanity and worth of all individuals is essential for creating a more equitable and respectful society.

About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Michele Lamont
Website: https://www.michelelamont.org/about
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mich%C3%A8le-lamont-11542a151/
Twitter: https://x.com/mlamont6?s=20Order the book at: https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1982153784?tag=simonsayscom

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This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

In the episode of This Anthro Life, the dialogue investigates waste transformation and how waste can be converted into useful energy and materials. Dan explains his work with Stellar Three focusing on pyrolysis technology that uses heat in an oxygen-free environment to break down plastics and other waste into synthetic gas, oils and carbon black. This process allows waste to be converted back into raw materials to make new plastics, chemicals and fuels.The conversation touches on the large scale of the global waste problem and opportunities to address it through diversified solutions tailored to different regional needs and economic contexts. Collaboration between organizations is emphasized to collectively advance solutions and public education around waste transformation is seen as important to gain broader support and participation in these efforts.

Dan discusses various projects Stellar Three is working on around the world to implement this technology on a larger scale. He highlights how a single pyrolysis unit can service a small city and potentially power commercial developments through generating natural gas from waste. Machine learning and improved sorting technologies are also discussed to further optimize the waste transformation process over time.

Don't miss the chance to learn about pyrolysis technology and its role in converting waste into synthetic gas, oils, and carbon black - listen to the episode of This Antro Life podcast now.


Key takeaways:

• Pyrolysis is a promising technology for waste transformation using heat in oxygen-free conditions.
• Waste can be converted back into raw materials like plastics and chemicals through this process.
• Outputs can vary to suit regional needs like fuels in some areas and plastics in others.
• Projects are being implemented through modular units that can be scaled up and adapted over time.
• Improved sorting and machine learning can further optimize waste conversion efficiencies.
• Proper gas treatment is important to maximize value and minimize emissions.
• Waste transformation presents economic opportunities through new supply chains and jobs.
• Transparency is important to gain public trust in new waste solutions.
• Collaboration rather than competition is needed between organizations in this field.
• Significant investment is required but waste liabilities can be turned into energy assets.

Timestamps:
0:00:00 Waste energy and sustainability with industry expert Dan Nienhauser.
0:01:41 Waste transformation and circular economy.
0:07:25 Waste management technologies and their potential to transform waste liabilities into energy assets.
0:13:24 Converting plastic waste to fuel and chemicals.
0:19:15 Waste management and conversion technologies.
0:24:20 Sustainable energy solutions and modularity in waste management.
0:28:29 Plastic waste management and circular economy.
0:32:46 Waste transformation and its potential impact.
0:39:32 Waste transformation and its impact on communities and the environment.


About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Dan Nienhauser
Website: https://www.stellar3.co/about-us.html
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannienhauser/

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Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

What does the concept of autonomy bring to mind for you?How has AI already begun reshaping how we work and make decisions? And do you think AI and algorithms should play a role in organizational decision-making? Why or why not?

In the episode of This Anthro Life, the discussion delves into the intersection of human autonomy and the evolving landscape of AI. It emphasizes the need for diverse voices that prioritize human well-being, flourishing, and autonomy in the face of technological advancement. Brian's work, aimed at empowering leaders to prioritize people over profit and harness technology to enhance our humanity, underscores the importance of ensuring that AI serves humanity rather than subjugating it. The conversation also touches on the historical context of work, particularly during industrialization, where the focus was on efficiency over people. This highlights the need to reevaluate the role of AI in the workplace and consider how it can be harnessed to prioritize human values and autonomy.
Brian's framework for autonomous transformation emphasizes the importance of envisioning the future before technologies, ensuring that people feel a sense of belonging and purpose in the face of technological advancement. It underscores the unique capabilities of humans, such as belonging, exploration, and envisioning future states, and emphasizes the complementary relationship between humans and machines.




Key takeaways:

• The importance of envisioning what future state an organization wants to create
• Examples of working with companies to define their vision, challenges, and strategic approach
• The role of autonomy in transformation and moving from digital to autonomous systems
• How AI is highlighting the need for a renewed focus on culture and the human experience
• Differences between leaders who view people as expendable vs. those who don't
• The time lag between deciding to use new tech and it being developed for production
• How leaders can focus on expanding revenue through new opportunities
• The history of how work was set up during the industrial revolution
• Transforming beyond viewing organizations like mechanical systems and people as cogs
• The potential for technologies like AI to take work off humans' plates and elevate them to more creative roles

Timestamps:
0:00:00 AI's impact on work and society with Brian Evergreen
0:01:49 Chess and music experiences and their impact on leadership.
0:06:29 Autonomy in workplace transformation.
0:12:22 Work history and technological change.
0:20:07 AI's impact on organizational culture and success.
0:25:43 Balancing profit and doing good with AI.
0:29:43 Profit, greed, and altruism in business.
0:33:09 AI strategy and its implementation.
0:43:23 Improving worker experience in a manufacturing setting.
0:48:09 AI, human capabilities, and belonging in organizations.
0:51:05 AI's impact on jobs and leadership.
0:56:31 Leadership, technology, and decision-making.
1:00:54 Autonomous transformation with Brian Evergreen.




About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives.

Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Brian Evergreen
Purchase Autonomous Transformation through TAL’s Bookstore Affiliate Link to support independent bookstores, the author and the podcast!
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianevergreen/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/brianjevergreen Website: https://brianevergreen.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianjevergreen/

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Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

How do civilians strategically engage with conflict while seeking everyday peace? How do power dynamics and asymmetries impact the ability of civilians to strategically engage with conflict while simultaneously seeking everyday peace, and what are the implications of these dynamics for broader peace and stability in war-torn environments?

In this episode of This Anthro Life, we explore an insightful discussion with anthropologist Greta Uehling about her ethnographic research on civilians' experiences during the Ukraine conflict. Uehling introduces concepts like "everyday war" and "everyday peace" to examine how civilians strategically navigate and mitigate the effects of war through their interpersonal relationships and actions.The conversation challenges assumptions that war stops everyday life. Through stories of civilians like Alexander supporting her sniper father and "Pasha" finding community after displacement, Uehling demonstrates civilians' agency beyond preconceived notions of victimhood. She also discusses conducting ethical fieldwork in conflict zones and civilians' changing, contextual identities and relationships.

Uehling highlights lessons from Ukraine on rebuilding societies relationally after war. The discussion questions how civilians decide which connections to preserve and considers media's role in shaping perspectives. Uehling's work provides valuable insights for understanding civilians' roles below geopolitical narratives and informs further research in wartime environments.
Tune in to this episode of This Antro Life to gain nuanced, ground-level insights into civilians' experiences of war that challenge assumptions and inform more holistic approaches to conflict recovery


Key takeaways:

• Civilians play active roles in war beyond just victims, including as perpetrators, defenders, and community healers.
• Ethnographic research can provide nuanced perspectives on civilians' experiences of war that get obscured by other narratives.
• Concepts like "everyday war" and "everyday peace" show how civilians strategically engage with and seek to mitigate conflict.
• War impacts interpersonal relationships as civilians make difficult choices about which connections to preserve.
• Identities and relationships are fluid rather than fixed, changing based on one's environment and politicization.
• Zombification by restricted media shapes how civilians understand the conflict.
• Fieldwork in conflicts requires prioritizing civilians' well-being over eliciting trauma through interviews.
• Participant observation and embodied experiences can teach as much as direct questioning.
• Anthropology provides lessons for relationally rebuilding societies divided by war.
• Civilians deserve recognition as protagonists central to how wars unfold.

Timestamps:

0:04:20 - Discussion of the concept of "everyday war" and how it challenges assumptions about civilian life stopping during conflict
0:11:21 - Choosing the title "Everyday War" to examine civilian life at a deeper level
0:15:21 - Story of "eager" and how war impacted his interpersonal relationships
0:18:34 - Exploring how politics shaped whether civilians maintained connections
0:23:59 - Lessons on conducting ethical fieldwork like prioritizing anonymity
0:31:45 - Story of "Pasha" finding community support after displacement
0:36:12 - Role of "everyday peace" in mitigating conflict through preserving relationships
0:41:24 - Discussion of how war impacts interpersonal relationships
0:49:44 - Discussion of challenges of fieldwork in conflict zones
0:56:19 - Discussion of civilians as central to how wars unfold
1:00:45 - Example of collective, nature-based approaches to conflict recovery


About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Greta Uehling
Purchase Everyday War through TAL’s Bookstore Affiliate Link to support independent bookstores, the author and the podcast!
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greta-uehling-phd-b9154a2b/
Twitter: https://x.com/uehlingumiched1?s=20
Website: https://gretauehling.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greta.uehling/

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This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/ Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

What new possibilities do you see emerging with voice technology? How might it influence our interactions with businesses and services in the future and what if your voice could transform the way we interact with technology? Imagine a world where your voice can effortlessly interact with devices and transform the way we navigate our surroundings.

In this episode of This Anthro Life, we explore the world of future technology with guest Tobias Dengel, a leading expert in digital transformation, and discuss the power of voice technology and its potential to transform how we interact with devices and the world around us. Dengel sheds light on the reasons why integrating voice technology into existing platforms is perceived as a safer approach compared to building entirely new platforms from scratch. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging the familiarity and trust already established with these platforms, enabling a smoother transition for users. Additionally, Dengel delves into the widespread adoption of voice assistants such as Alexa and Siri, highlighting their increasing presence in our daily lives. Furthermore, the discussion extends to the role of voice technology in banking applications, where it plays a crucial role in enhancing security measures and making our lives safer. The exploration of voice technology in this episode showcases its transformative potential and the various ways it is revolutionizing our interactions with devices and services.Tune in to discover Dengel's captivating insights and expertise as we envision the transformative power of voice technology.


Key takeaways:

• Voice technology is evolving and becoming increasingly sophisticated, with the adoption of voice assistants like Alexa and Siri skyrocketing.
• Adding voice to existing platforms feels safer than creating new ones altogether, as users are already familiar with the platform and trust it.
• Voice technology solves the problem of faster communication, as humans speak three times faster than they type.
• The interface of voice technology needs to be redesigned to be more efficient, as listening to machines is slower than reading or interacting with visuals.
• The more human-like voice assistants become, the less users trust them, as they feel like they are being tricked.
• Multimodality is important in voice technology, as it allows for a combination of voice, visuals, and other forms of communication to enhance the user experience.
• Voice technology has applications in various industries, such as law enforcement, warehouses, retail, and safety in industrial settings.
• The combination of generative AI and conversational AI is where the magic happens in voice technology, allowing for more accurate interpretation and response.
• Conversational designers will play a crucial role in designing effective voice experiences, considering factors like speed, efficiency, and user preferences.
• Voice technology has the potential to reshape business processes and models, such as centralized restaurants, telemedicine, and global healthcare access.

Timestamps:

00:00:07 Voice technology is evolving.
00:05:14 Design voice experiences in multimodal.
00:09:37 Voice is a powerful interface.
00:18:38 Conversational AI and generative AI.
00:21:08 Context is crucial for conversation.
00:28:31 The blend of generative AI and conversational AI is creating a user experience breakthrough.
00:29:15 Voice experiences are becoming multimodal.
00:34:06 Voice technology revolutionizes business processes.
00:39:03 The future of technology is voice-based.
00:43:30 Spread anthropological thinking to audiences.


Tobias Dengel is a seasoned technology executive with over 20 years of experience in mobility, digital media, and interactive marketing. He currently holds the position of President at WillowTree, a TELUS International Company, a global leader in digital product design and development. Dengel's expertise and leadership have contributed to WillowTree's continuous growth and recognition as one of America's fastest-growing companies, as listed by Inc. magazine for 11 consecutive years. He is also the author of the book "The Sound of the Future: The Coming Age of AI-Enabled Voice Technology," where he explores the transformative potential of voice technology in various aspects of business and society.


About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Tobias Dengel
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobiasdengel/
Twitter: https://x.com/TobiasDengel?s=20
Website: https://www.tobiasdengel.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tobias.denge.7/

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This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

What is the importance of belonging in the workplace according to research? And what are some key actions that business leaders can take to create a fantastic work culture? In this episode of This Anthro Life, we delve into the topic of building a stronger sense of belonging and identity within organizations through dimensional leadership.
Drawing from his extensive research involving more than 15,000 employees, Brad Deutser highlights the crucial role that belonging plays in fostering engagement, satisfaction, and retention. He unveils the five "Belonging Rules" that emerged from his work: harnessing the power of identity, listening without preconceived labels, prioritizing identity over purpose, challenging established norms, and demanding unwavering honesty. We also tackle the importance of addressing underlying power structures and norms to drive lasting change. A particularly compelling point raised by Deutser is the need to embrace diverse perspectives without necessitating complete agreement, as it is through this acceptance that true belonging can be achieved.Look no further! Our latest episode features an insightful conversation with Brad Deutser on identity, belonging, and fostering a sense of purpose in organizations. Tune in to This Anthro Life podcast for a dose of inspiration today!


Key takeaways:

• Learn how belonging is a fundamental human need and one of the most important factors for employee engagement and performance.
• Explore how organizations should focus on identity over purpose to strengthen culture and give employees a sense of belonging.
• Discover why addressing power structures and norms is important for lasting, meaningful change in organizations.
• Understand how listening without labels and making judgments allows for deeper understanding between people.
• Consider how challenging norms and standards in a constructive way can spur creativity and innovation.
• Appreciate how embracing different perspectives without needing to agree creates an environment for belonging.
• Recognize that transparency and honesty builds trust within an organization.
• Experience how play, fun, and creative approaches to learning and development increase engagement.
• Gain insight into how dimensional leadership considers the human elements of change rather than just strategies.
• Reflect on how small acts of empathy and understanding can make a big difference in people's experience of work.

Timestamps:
00:00:00 Importance of belonging in organizations.
00:06:35 Importance of incorporating play and fun in the workplace.
00:10:25 Belonging is crucial in the workplace.
00:15:23 Address power dynamics for lasting progress.
00:21:46 Listen without labels for understanding.
00:25:29 Listen and empathize with others.
00:34:40 Choose identity over purpose.
00:40:56 Expand your box for creativity.
00:43:15 Challenge everything for creative growth.
00:47:08 Belonging is essential for organizations.
00:55:18 Belonging is essential for growth.
00:55:30 "Anthropology is for everyone."


Brad Deutser is a trusted counselor, executive coach, and leadership guru for CEOs and top corporate management. He is the bestselling author of "Leading Clarity" and his upcoming book, "BELONGING RULES," focuses on building unity and fostering performance. Deutser's research shows that employees' sense of belonging significantly affects job satisfaction, engagement, and effort. Belonging is more influential than organizational culture and strategy in predicting these outcomes. The book highlights the financial value employees place on belonging in terms of salary and turnover. Deutser and his team surveyed over 15,000 employees across various industries and occupational roles to gather their insights. Through his work, Deutser has impacted top businesses, universities, sports franchises, and cause-based organizations. His expertise lies in creating spaces and leadership capacity for belonging and inclusion.


About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Brad Deutser
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/braddeutser/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BradDeutser
Website: https://deutser.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/labradford32/

Connect with This Anthro Life:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
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Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

Have you ever wondered if reaching for the stars is humanity's most urgent priority? Is it the thrill of exploration, the endless possibilities, or our desire to ensure that our species has a plan B? In this episode of This Anthro Life, we tackle the captivating and fascinating world of Space Exploration and Space Industry with anthropologist Savannah Mandel.
Savannah Mandel shares her research and experiences working in the human space exploration industry. She discusses her journey from being a starry-eyed lover of space as a child to developing more critical perspectives as her research progressed. She remains devoted to bringing anthropological research methods to bear, diversifying voices in the field, and furthering public understanding. We also touch on topics like decolonizing space, diversifying voices and perspectives involved in the industry, applying anthropological research to create real-world impact, and studying speculative futures. Join in for another episode that takes you on a journey beyond the stars and back down to Earth.


Key takeaways:

• Learn about space ethics and anthropology by exploring how social scientists are studying the cultural, ethical, and social dimensions of humanity's journey into space.
• Explore the ethical implications of space exploration by examining important questions about equality, justice, environmental impact, and the effects on life on Earth.
• Examine the economic forces driving the space industry by examining the role of governments, private companies, billionaires, and other financial stakeholders.
• Understand the social impact of humanity's journey into space by considering how space exploration changes societies, cultures, and humanity's view of itself.
• Challenge conventional wisdom about space exploration by questioning assumptions made by governments, corporations, and the media about colonizing space.
• Question the grand visions of the space industry by analyzing the motivations and assumptions behind proposals for space mining, tourism, and colonization.
• Ground the study of space within a broader global context by connecting space exploration to issues like inequality, climate change, and social justice on Earth.
• Consider cultural, social, and political factors influencing space exploration by examining public opinion, cultural representations, and power structures.
• Discover how anthropology can shape the future of space by advocating for diverse voices and ethical, socially conscious policies.
• Apply anthropological research to create real-world change by informing decision-making and bringing new perspectives to the space industry.

Timestamps:
00:00:32 Questioning the relevance of space exploration.
00:05:09 Questioning the ethics of research.
00:12:09 Limited voices in space exploration.
00:19:29 Space exploration should be optional.
00:21:48 Importance of discussing space ethics.
00:26:48 Anthropologists can be activists.
00:32:17 Speculative research informs present realities.
00:37:03 Science fiction influences society's future.
00:42:00 Include diverse voices in space.
00:48:01 Questioning expertise in space exploration.
00:57:45 Writing process for aspiring writers.
01:00:52 Take writing seriously as a business.
01:03:06 Importance of anthropology in space.

Savannah Mandel, a passionate anthropologist, delves into the realms of speculation, futurism, and industrial studies. With a pen in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other, she finds herself in her element. Her diverse experiences have shaped her into a versatile writer, both in non-fiction and fiction genres. When she's not engrossed in her research and writing, Savannah indulges in board games and even runs a time travel-themed role-playing game. Her captivating articles can be found in esteemed publications like the Geek Anthropologist, Anthropology Now, Anthropology News, and various online platforms.Excitement fills the air as Savannah's debut book, "Ground Control: Arguments for the End of Human Space Exploration," is set to be released through Chicago Review Press in the spring of 2024. This highly anticipated publication promises to offer thought-provoking insights into the future of human space exploration and its implications.

About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives.
Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.

Connect with Savannah Mandel
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/savannah-mandel-a90a62171/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheSpaceSav
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/savannah.lann
Website: https://www.savannahmandel.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/savthespaceanthropologist/

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

Are you curious about the untapped wisdom that exists outside of traditional academic knowledge? Do you want to learn how stories, dialogue, and sensory experiences can enhance our understanding of the world? In this episode of This Anthro Life, we dive into the fascinating world of anthropology with esteemed anthropologist and author Paul Stoller.
Paul shares his fascinating experiences studying healing practices and encountering unexplainable phenomena in Niger. We delve into the importance of storytelling, deep listening, and the need for ethnography to engage all senses. Paul further emphasizes the power of evocative writing, the value of passing down knowledge through generations, and the profound wisdom we can gain from unexpected sources. Tune in to discover the transformative potential of anthropology and how it can shape our understanding of the human condition.

Key takeaways:

• Learn how immersive fieldwork pushes boundaries of understanding and challenges preconceptions through lived experiences in other cultures.
• Explore how storytelling is a core way that cultures transmit knowledge, values, and traditions across generations through oral histories.
• Discover how "deep listening" goes beyond words to sense meanings through tone, expression, and being to understand another person truly.
• Immerse yourself in vivid place descriptions that evoke memory and enhance the reader's experience of ethnographic scenes.
• Develop your skills in bringing field research to life through techniques like constructing compelling characters and authentic dialogue.
• Appreciate how wisdom exists in unexpected places beyond academic frameworks through the practical knowledge of indigenous elders.
• Understand how long-term relationships in the field unlock hidden dimensions of cultural knowledge only revealed through deep trust over time.

Key Topics of this Podcast:

00:01:30 Wisdom lies beyond comprehension.
00:09:18 Ethnography helps understand troubled times.
00:10:11 Lack of social trust and disrespect for nature have consequences.
00:17:45 Indigenous wisdom is valuable.
00:21:17 Writing ethnography with vivid descriptions.
00:29:39 Deep listening enhances storytelling experience.
00:32:06 Storytelling connects and reveals humanity.
00:36:42 Ethnography's unique value proposition.
00:41:03 Ethnography preserves and passes knowledge.
00:44:02 Embrace vulnerability for deeper wisdom.
00:47:33. Embrace sensory approach to engage.


Our incredible guest, Paul Stoller, is an anthropologist who has spent years conducting fieldwork in West Niger. Through his experiences as an apprentice to healers in the region, Stoller has conducted anthropological research in West Africa for over 30 years, focusing on Songhai religion and spirit possession. Since 1992, he has also studied West African immigrants in New York City, exploring informal economies and immigration politics. Stoller has published 11 books, including ethnographies, biographies, memoirs, and novels. As a custodian of wisdom from the edge, Stoller emphasizes the importance of listening to knowledge and learning from it. With his unique perspective, he offers invaluable insights into the human condition, social relations, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

About This Anthro Life: This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.


Connect with Paul Stoller
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-stoller-0135a57a/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sohanci
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sohanci2/
New Book: Wisdom from the Edge (Get it from the TAL Affiliate Bookstore.org and support the show and independent bookstores!)

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This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

Did you know that conversation, one of the oldest human technologies, is reshaping the future of how we interact with machines? We’re not talking Siri or Alexa here, but conversational AI, interfaces anyone can create and hyper automation that links together our intentions, tools and technologies. Join us in this episode of This Anthro Life as we delve into the fascinating world of conversational AI, hyper automation and composable software systems with the brilliant mind of User Experience (UX) pioneer Robb Wilson. Discover why embracing conversation and removing the barriers of complex software interfaces might just be the key to unlocking new opportunities and improved outcomes in the digital age.
In this thought-provoking conversation, we explore the potential shift away from antiquated software interfaces and the exciting possibilities that conversational AI brings. From the potential of no-code approaches and decentralized business models to the interconnectedness of user experience, customer experience, and employee experience, we provide fresh insights on how automation can evolve how we work, interact with technology, elevate customer service, and foster creativity.


Key takeaways:

• Learn how to create your own skills ecosystem and embrace a no-code approach to building AI interfaces.
• Understand the potential of conversational UI to revolutionize how we interact with technology.
• Explore the impact of hyper automation on customer service experiences and employee creativity.
• Conversational AI and hyper-automation could transform jobs by automating routine tasks and freeing up humans for more creative work.
  Decentralized organizations and composable UIs that allow access to all software through natural language could reshape business models.
• Total experience design must consider both customer and employee experiences to be effective.
• Responsible development of conversational AI could help create more empowering technologies.
• Automation provides the opportunity for humans to engage in more meaningful social interactions.
• The future of work and business will likely involve a blend of human creativity and machine automation.

Our insightful guest, Robb Wilson, brings a wealth of expertise on hyper automation and composable systems. As the founder of OneReach.ai, a company specializing in creating tools for companies to build their own Alexa-like ecosystems, Robb understands the power and potential of AI in transforming industries. Get ready to be inspired and informed by his insights!


Key Topics of this Podcast:
00:00:23 The future of technology is conversational.
00:06:06 Relaxation and space foster creativity.
00:09:42 Humans can adapt and find value in automation.
00:14:58 Decentralization is the future.
00:22:26 Automation creates space for connection.
00:27:30 Total experience is transformative.
00:30:26 Employee-first approach in business.
00:35:15 Revolutionizing technology through conversational interfaces.
00:41:00 The future of software interfaces.
00:44:36 Explainability is crucial for trust.
00:55:06 Machines should make human-like mistakes.
01:01:11 Unlocking software through conversational UI.
01:06:37 Automation enhances customer experiences.


About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a thought-provoking podcast that explores the human side of technology, culture, and business. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, we unravel fascinating narratives and connect them to the wider context of our lives. Tune in to https://thisanthrolife.org and subscribe to our Substack at https://thisanthrolife.substack.com for more captivating episodes and engaging content.


Connect with Robb.
WilsonLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/invisiblemachines/
Website: https://onereach.ai/

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

What can we learn from our handling of the COVID-19 pandemic to better prepare for future crises? Why is it crucial to build a diagnostic infrastructure for future crises? And what lessons can we learn from the collaboration between healthcare providers and the sports industry during the COVID-19 pandemic? In this fascinating episode of This Anthro Life podcast, surgeon-turned-CEO Jon Cohen shares the story of how he and his team led the nation in the creation of diagnostics testing for COVID-19.

Jon has been at the forefront of the COVID-19 testing efforts, working tirelessly to build a diagnostic infrastructure and tackle the challenges posed by the pandemic. From setting up drive-through testing centers to providing testing for the NFL and the NBA, Jon has been involved in a wide range of testing initiatives. Join us as we explore the critical importance of testing during a crisis, the logistics involved, and the leadership lessons learned along the way.

Bringing us to today, Jon highlights the immense need for mental health support and the limitations of traditional therapy methods, such as in-person appointments. He mentions that with the rise of telemedicine, individuals can now access mental health services through online platforms, including texting and video calls, at any time and from anywhere. With mental health struggles increasing, he advocates for expanded telemedicine to provide more accessible care.

Dr. Jon R. Cohen is a leading healthcare executive with over 30 years of experience growing successful medical companies. As former CEO of BioReference Laboratories, he guided the firm to become a top COVID-19 testing provider during the pandemic. Renowned for his strategic vision and expertise in healthcare policy and technology, Dr. Cohen is currently CEO of Talkspace, a prominent telehealth platform expanding access to mental health services. Based in New York, he continues to drive meaningful improvements in patient care and the digital transformation of healthcare.


Key Takeaways:

• The diagnostic industry is often overlooked and misunderstood, but it plays a crucial role in healthcare, especially during a pandemic.
• There is a need for better diagnostic infrastructure and coordination at the federal level to prepare for future crises, including dedicated testing centers.
• Trusting your inner voice and intuition is important in making critical decisions during a crisis.
• Prioritizing healthcare workers and frontline responders for testing is crucial, but determining who should be tested beyond that can be challenging without clear guidance.
• Leadership during crises requires making difficult decisions with incomplete information, owning up to mistakes, and prioritizing based on evolving situations.

Key Topics of this Podcast:
00:02:26 The podcast explores diagnostic laboratories.
00:04:39 Unprecedented coordination in COVID response.
00:09:22 Drive-thrus revolutionized COVID testing.
00:13:29 Public-private partnerships are crucial.
00:20:48 Listen to your inner voice.
00:23:10 Trusting instincts in decision-making.
00:28:08 Prioritizing testing for essential workers.
00:36:48 Honesty and transparency in crises.
00:41:45 Build a diagnostic infrastructure for future crises.
00:47:00 Create a non-permission culture.
00:47:56 Non-permission culture fosters effective organizations.

About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a podcast that explores the ways in which humans interact, adapt, and create meaning within the different cultural contexts they find themselves in. Join host Adam Gamwell and his diverse array of guests as they dive deep into the fascinating world of anthropology, uncovering the hidden stories that shape our lives.

Tune in now and find out more about how the lessons learned during the COVID can change the future of diagnostic laboratories. Don’t miss out on this transformative episode of This Anthro Life!

Connect with Jon R. Cohen
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-cohen-md/
Website: https://www.talkspace.com/

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

How does language shape our understanding of experiences? How do we navigate trauma and find growth amidst adversity? Join us in this thought-provoking episode of This Anthro Life as we delve into the power of perception, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the role of our internal GPS in making sense of the world. Our guest, Amrita Subramanian, an esteemed expert in cultural contexts and relationships, sheds light on how language, trauma, and resilience intertwine in our everyday lives. Get ready to challenge conventional wisdom, uncover the hidden depths of grief, and embark on a journey of self-reflection.

Amrita Subramanian
Amrita Subramanian is a renowned expert in cultural contexts, relationships, and emotional intelligence. With a deep understanding of the complexities of language and identity, Amrita brings a fresh perspective to the podcast, challenging our assumptions and inviting us to explore the depths of our own experiences. As a seasoned speaker, consultant, and teacher, her insights into the human condition are sure to leave a lasting impact.


Key Takeaways:

• Explore the concept of an internal GPS and how it shapes our perception of self, others, and the world.
• Understand the impact of language in expressing experiences and how it reveals our capabilities and limitations.
• Navigate the challenges of processing trauma and grief during the ongoing pandemic and learn how to find resilience and growth within.
• Recognize the importance of cultural contexts and relationships in shaping our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.
• Uncover the significance of emotional intelligence and self-reflection for mental health and personal development.

Key Topics of this Podcast:
00:05:34 - The concept of trauma and how it can be both positive and negative.00:13:04 - Language is essential for understanding and exploring the limits of our experiences.00:16:34 - Upgrade your internal GPS.
00:23:03 - Gentle self-reflection is essential.
00:29:42. - Observe yourself without judgment.
00:31:09 - Navigating the complexities of self-reflection.
00:39:21 - Trauma can lead to growth.
00:41:18 - Resilience leads to post-traumatic growth.
00:50:38 - Reflect and question for growth.
00:53:21 - Psychological safety is key.
00:57:27 - Importance of honoring elders.
01:02:12 - Elders should be respected and included.
01:09:01 - Importance of self-reflection and self-care.
01:12:08 - Language shapes our perception.

About This Anthro Life This Anthro Life is a podcast that explores the ways in which humans interact, adapt, and create meaning within the different cultural contexts they find themselves in. Join host Adam Gamwell and his diverse array of guests as they dive deep into the fascinating world of anthropology, uncovering the hidden stories that shape our lives.Tune in now to unlock the secrets of wisdom, language, trauma, and growth in a rapidly changing world. Don’t miss out on this transformative episode of This Anthro Life!

Connect with Amrita Subramanian
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amrita-v-subramanian-a8687057/
Website: https://growbeyondpain.com/

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

The episode emphasizes how understanding our innate human drives and dispositions is critical, as awareness allows us to work with them constructively. In particular, humans have a "tribe drive" - an instinct to cooperate and identify with groups, even strangers. Figuring out the signals that activate this drive is an important mission. David Samson talks about the concept of tribalism and the role it plays in human behavior. He discusses the idea of evolutionary mismatch, where humans are evolved for a different environment than the one they currently live in. This episode explains that tribes are intersubjective belief networks that signal coalitionary alliances to bootstrap trust among strangers. Moreover, it explores the power of tribal signals, such as symbols, language, music, and ideology, in creating a sense of belonging and identity. Additionally, the episode emphasizes the importance of being conscious of our identity stack and the proportion of abstract tribes (e.g., political tribes) versus face-to-face community tribes in order to navigate the challenges of tribalism in the modern world.


David R. Samson
David R. Samson, Ph.D., is reshaping our understanding of human evolution. As an associate professor of Biological Anthropology at the University of Toronto, he investigates the major behavioral and physiological transitions that shaped our species. Bridging diverse fields from primatology to sleep science, his interdisciplinary research has been featured internationally by the BBC, Time, The New York Times, The Smithsonian, CBC, NPR, and National Geographic.Samson is the author of the groundbreaking book "Our Tribal Future: How to Channel Our Foundational Human Instincts into a Force for Good." He provides profound insights into how our primal tribal wiring can be harnessed as a force for unity, not division.Beyond academia, Samson pursues medieval martial arts as a distinguished member of the Society for Creative Anachronism. This gives him first-hand experience in channeling our innate tribal instincts.With his evolutionary expertise and diverse passions, Samson is illuminating new paths to overcome division and channel our tribal nature for the greater good.

Key Takeaways:

• The concept of evolutionary mismatch is introduced, highlighting how humans are adapted for a different environment than the one we currently live in.
• The power of tribal signals in building trust among strangers is explored, with examples such as secret Masonic signals and sports jerseys.
• The importance of face-to-face interactions and belonging to smaller, local communities is emphasized as a way to combat the negative effects of tribalism.
• The Roseto mystery is discussed, where a small town in Pennsylvania had significantly lower rates of heart disease and other diseases of affluence due to their strong social network.
• The idea of an "identity stack" is introduced, encouraging individuals to be conscious of the proportion of abstract tribes (such as political affiliations) versus face-to-face community tribes they identify with.
• The concept of coalitions and symbolic connections is explored, including religion, sports, and brands as examples of tribal signals.

Key Topics of this Podcast:
00:04:27 - Evolutionary anthropology shapes personal perspectives.
00:09:09 - Understanding our tribal past and present.
00:17:26 - Evolutionary mismatch causes societal challenges.
00:21:29 - Tribal signals build trust and identity.
00:26:20 - Flexibility in identity and belonging.
00:31:06 - Identity is shaped by tribes.
00:34:43 - Importance of face-to-face interaction.
00:40:07 - The power of intentional community.
00:44:51 - Social connection is essential.
00:50:09 - Importance of strong social connections.
00:55:44 - Building community improves well-being.
01:02:37 - Building a community is powerful.
01:03:25 - Community is essential for well-being.



Connect with David Samson:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Primalprimate?s=20
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalprimatologist/?hl=en
Website: https://davidrsamson.com/

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

This episode is about the importance of supporting public access to science and helping experts and scientists in their work. Dr. Nicholas B. Dirks, joins host Adam Gamwell to discuss the work of the New York Academy of Sciences, which emphasizes the importance of science and the need for public engagement. Together, we highlight the changing relationship between science and broader society over time and the misconception of science as a singular established truth. The episode also explores challenges in communicating the nature of scientific discovery, addressing public skepticism towards scientific messages, and the role of science in addressing climate change and technological advancements. Dirks emphasizes the need to support and connect science across disciplines and engage with the public effectively. Additionally, the episode touches on the tension between liberal arts and public policy, the importance of public awareness in scientific thinking, uncertainty and trust in the scientific process, the role of paradigm shifts in science, and the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.


Nicholas B. Dirks

Nicholas B. Dirks is an internationally renowned historian and anthropologist who has made significant contributions as a scholar of South Asia and colonialism. He served as the 10th Chancellor of UC Berkeley from 2012 to 2017, where he strengthened research partnerships, increased accessibility for underrepresented students, and addressed critical issues like sexual harassment. Previously, Dirks was Executive Vice President and Dean of Faculty at Columbia, overseeing faculty growth and interdisciplinary initiatives. He has authored several acclaimed books on history and anthropology, including The Hollow Crown and Castes of Mind, and received honors including a Guggenheim Fellowship and MacArthur Fellowship. Through his academic leadership, research, and writing, Dirks has advanced scholarship on colonialism and made an impact as a public intellectual and leader in higher education.
Key Topics of this Podcast:

00:08:37 Science is a process of discovery and revision.
00:10:28 Science and public engagement are crucial.
00:15:11. Science is a zigzagging process.
00:18:47 Science is a process of testing and experimentation.
00:24:43 Science is a human activity.
00:28:44 Publication bias in scientific research.
00:33:14 Diverse scientific community fosters progress.
00:38:17 Prepare for future disasters.
00:44:13 Building trust in public conversations.
00:48:16 Ethical obligations in AI development.
00:53:39 Bilingualism between science and arts.
00:58:30 Supporting science with broader understanding.
01:03:53 Anthropology encompasses diverse disciplines.


Connect with Nicholas B. Dirks:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/nickdirks?s=20
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-dirks-84a1ab149/
Website: https://www.nicholasbdirks.com/

Connect with This Anthro Life:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

Are you ready to discover the untapped potential of cognitive understanding in design and technology? Join us in this episode of This Anthro Life as we explore the transformative impact of incorporating cognitive understanding and data alongside behavioral data into the creation of engaging experiences. Our guest, Joe Schaeppi, a leading expert in human insight and cognitive understanding, will guide us through the fascinating world of regenerative experiences, sustainable design, and the power of the flow state.

In this thought-provoking conversation, we dive into the evolution of systems and technology, the psychology behind gaming, and how cognitive understanding can shape the future of design and technology. Here are some key takeaways you can expect from this episode:

• Understand the concept of regenerative experiences and how they create sustainable and impactful user engagement.
• Discover the potential of cognitive understanding in designing experiences that resonate with audience groups.
• Learn how the combination of psychological assessment and adaptive psychological assessments can empower creators to build experiences that connect deeply with their audience.
• Explore the power of the flow state and how it can unlock creativity, problem-solving, and motivation in individuals.

Our guest, Joe Schaeppi, is a trailblazer in the field of human insight and cognitive understanding. With a background in human factors psychology and anthropology, Joe has dedicated his career to designing experiences that promote mindfulness, self-knowledge, and meaningful connections. Joe is an entrepreneur and leader in the gaming and psychology fields. He co-founded and is CEO of Solsten, a company that integrates psychology and AI to realize the full potential of games. Solsten is pioneering the use of psychology-based AI in games. In addition to leading Solsten, Joe serves as a startup advisor, lending his expertise to help other emerging companies. He has a background as a practicing clinical counselor who specialized in adventure therapy and neuropsychology. He has held several leadership roles in gaming and tech companies including head of UX at Big Fish Games, UX director at MRM // McCann, and co-founder of the startup Epicstoke. His expertise in cognitive behavioral psychology and understanding the whole person makes him the perfect guide for this enlightening conversation.

• Key Topics of this Podcast:
• 00:04:05 - Importance of designing human-centric experiences.
• 00:04:48 - Understanding audience for better experiences.
• 00:12:41 - Design digital experiences for collective consciousness.
• 00:18:02 - Community-scale can dilute meaning.
• 00:22:24 - Gaming is for everyone.
• 00:28:05 - New form of capitalism emerging.
• 00:33:02 - The value of self-awareness.
• 00:38:42 - AI can enhance artistic creativity.
• 00:42:00 - AI can revolutionize music creation.
• 00:50:31 - Behavioral data inform personalized experiences.
• 00:55:38 - Consumers crave immersive narrative experiences.
• 01:04:02 - Context matters in design.
• 01:05:07 - The danger of separating cognition.
• 01:10:13 - AI and machine learning are here to stay.
• 01:15:37 - Cognition is the key to rational behavior.
• 01:20:09 - Biopsychosocial approach in design.
• 01:26:34 - The importance of holistic experience design.
• 01:30:23 - Understanding and harnessing the flow state.
• 01:35:36 - Harnessing technology for human flourishing.
• 01:39:32 - Design can shape the future.

This Anthro Life is a podcast that delves into the human experience through the lens of anthropology. Hosted by Adam Gamwell, each episode explores different aspects of life, culture, and society, offering unique insights and fresh perspectives. Don't miss this enlightening discussion with Joe Schaeppi on unleashing the power of cognitive understanding in design and technology.


Connect with Joe Schaeppi:

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/joeschaeppi?s=20
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joeschaeppi/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schaeppi/
• Website: https://www.solsten.io/

Connect with This Anthro Life:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast/
• This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/
• Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

Janine de Novais joins host Adam Gamwell to explore the importance of fostering discussions about race and racism. Janine, an educator and author, shares her expertise on creating safe spaces for dialogue and teaching towards a post-racist imagination. The conversation delves into the process of setting the stage for conversations, the concept of Grounding for Learning, and the development of the Brave Community teaching and learning method. Janine also highlights the significance of empathy, the challenges of discussing race in professional settings, and the role of education in promoting a more equitable society.

Janine de Novais is a writer, sociologist, and educator driven by a lifelong passion for understanding how human liberation is a cultural project. As a Cabo Verdean American scholar, she has experienced firsthand the power of culture to both constrain and empower. Janine brings over a decade of experience researching, teaching, and designing curricula in higher education, including positions at Harvard, Columbia, and the University of Delaware. She served as Associate Director of Columbia's Core Curriculum, helping shape one of the nation's pioneering liberal arts programs. Whether writing, consulting or teaching, Janine is driven by a passion for culture as a tool for collective liberation. She empowers people to challenge the status quo and author their futures.


Key Takeaways:

• The Brave Community method is a teaching and learning method that fosters empathy and intellectual bravery among learners.
• Grounding for learning, which combines content for learning and culture of learning, is crucial for creating a transformative learning experience.
• Curating intentional content and having a foundation is essential for effective conversations and dialogue.
• Clear and specific content, such as addressing racial disparities, is important in discussions and meetings.
• Creating a culture of open discussion requires training, protocols, and a cohesive group that can handle difficult conversations.
• Setting boundaries and expectations is important in discussions about racial disparity and discipline.
• A pedagogical approach in learning environments promotes growth, change, and the benefits of a learning community.
• Higher education should focus on teaching skills necessary for a multiracial democracy and counter prevailing narratives.
• Human engagement and values should be prioritized in technology development to avoid forgetting our humanity.

Key Topics of this Podcast:
00:01:33 - Setting the stage for conversation.
00:03:47 - Setting up a safe learning environment.
00:08:25 - Grounding for learning.
00:11:45 - Bravery in expressing needs.
00:17:31 - Bringing pedagogy into real life.
00:19:10 - Engaging with content together.
00:23:47 - Classroom setting and racial education.
00:26:47 - Bounded content and problem-solving.
00:31:13 - Using humor to dissolve tension.
00:34:11 - The value of humanities education.
00:39:24 - Culture as a learning phenomenon.
00:44:38 - Racial disparity in tech engineering.
00:47:13 - Resilient empathy and pedagogy.
00:51:24 - Forgetting our humanity.
00:55:18 - Post-racist imagination.
00:58:06 - Unethical forward projection of growth.
01:03:10 - There is no neutral stance.
01:05:45 - Not having a brave community experience.


Connect with Janine de Novais:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janinedenovais/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JaninedeNovais
Website: https://www.janinedenovais.com/


Connect with me:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisanthrolife
Website: https://thisanthrolife.org

In this episode, Emily Kennedy shares her unique journey of discovering the concept of ethnographic journalism. Journalists now face unprecedented issues like harassment, lack of public trust, and accusations of bias. As a main source of information, journalism's struggles have profound implications. Ethnographic methods and storytelling techniques could transform the communication of the human experience. The episode explores using ethnographic methods in journalism, building interviewee trust, evolving objectivity, and existential fears in both fields. Anthropology and journalism have much to learn from each other.
Emily Kennedy

Emily Kennedy is a trained anthropologist and has worked as a journalist, communications professional, and magazine editor for more than a decade. She has taught as a journalism instructor and guest lecturer at various universities and colleges. Her research and experience in the sphere of anthropology and journalism led to the creation of anthrojourno.org - an online resource for journalists looking to use ethnographic methods in their reporting

Key Takeaways:

• Journalism and anthropology share similarities in terms of pulling concepts from other disciplines and the importance of showing their methods.
• Journalists can increase trust by revealing the process behind their work.
• Both journalism and anthropology involve collaboration with various professionals.
• Ethnographic methods are used in journalism, but they are often not explicitly recognized as such.
• Journalism education has seen the rise of other approaches such as engaged journalism and design thinking.
• Improving the interview process is a common challenge in both anthropology and journalism.
• Ethnographic methods can help address challenges in journalism, such as the business model, online harassment, and trust in media outlets.
• Anthropology and ethnography offer a comprehensive perspective that can benefit journalism.
• The balance between collaboration and individuality differs in anthropology and journalism.
• Finding a balance between using formulas and being authentic is important in both journalism and ethnographic writing.

Key Topics of this Podcast:

[00:00:27] Anthropology and journalism collide.
[00:05:30] Anthropology and journalism overlap.
[00:15:14] Ethnographic methods can benefit journalism.
[00:16:08] Ethnographic interviews prioritize building rapport and showing empathy
[00:20:37] Ethnographic interviews uncover hidden perspectives.
[00:24:35] Formulas can be helpful and limiting in writing.
[00:28:56] Formula shifts and innovation are necessary.
[00:34:44] Advocacy ≠ Bias in journalism.
[00:41:31] Journalism and anthropology can intersect.
[00:43:29] Anthropologists and journalists can learn from each other.
[00:48:09] Newsworthy stories have specific qualities.
[00:54:14] Importance of open-mindedness in journalism.
[00:58:27] Ethnographic methods enhance journalism


Connect with Emily Kennedy:Anthrojourno website: https://anthrojourno.org/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/Kennedy_writes
Connect with This Anthro Life:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisanthrolife This Anthro Life website: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/ Substack blog: https://thisanthrolife.substack.com

In a world where technology is advancing at an exponential pace, we can already see that artificial intelligence (AI) will have a profound impact on our lives.

But AI is far from perfect. Too often, we end up grappling with a variety of problems when we bring AI into the real world, from increasing mental health issues in young girls and boys to anxiety for workers whose jobs are changing. And while developers don’t set out to design AI technologies to have these unsavory effects, they happen anyway.

In this episode of This Anthro Life, we explore these issues and more with Ahmed Reza, a serial entrepreneur and self-professed AI geek who has founded multiple successful companies. With over a decade’s experience in the marketing and AI space, Ahmed shares his unique perspective on AI development, tech entrepreneurship, and more.

Show Highlights:

• [05:53] Why Ahmed has been nicknamed “the intelligent man’s Forrest Gump”
• [08:12] Ahmed’s experience as a child actor in Bangladesh
• [12:45] How Ahmed came to be an entrepreneur
• [23:00] What Yobi does
• [28:38] Why we should be careful when developing AI
• [34:46] What AI can ultimately enable us to do
• [36:47] How AI can help us create a better world
• [45:36] How we can incentivize leaders to use AI technologies for good
• [54:26] The moral responsibility of AI developers
• [58:52] The story behind the development of Trephub
• [01:05:32] Ahmed’s hopes for the future

Links and Resources:

• Check out the Yobi app
• Check out the startups at TrepHub
• Connect with Ahmed Reza via LinkedIn
• Connect with Adam Gamwell via email, LinkedIn, or Twitter
• Leave a review here to support This Anthro Life
• Subscribe to the Anthrocurious Substack today

Contemporary AI systems are typically created by many different people, each working on separate parts or “modules.” This can make it difficult to determine who is responsible for considering the ethical implications of an AI system as a whole — a problem compounded by the fact that many AI engineers already don’t consider it their job to ensure the AI systems they work on are ethical.

In their latest paper, “Dislocated Accountabilities in the AI Supply Chain: Modularity and Developers’ Notions of Responsibility,” technology ethics researcher David Gray Widder and research scientist Dawn Nafus attempt to better understand the multifaceted challenges of responsible AI development and implementation, exploring how responsible AI labor is currently divided and how it could be improved.

In this episode, David and Dawn join This Anthro Life host Adam Gamwell to talk about the AI “supply chain,” modularity in software development as both ideology and technical practice, how we might reimagine responsible AI, and more.

Show Highlights:

• [03:51] How David and Dawn found themselves in the responsible AI space
• [09:04] Where and how responsible AI emerged
• [16:25] What the typical AI development process looks like and how developers see that process
• [18:28] The problem with “supply chain” thinking
• [23:37] Why modularity is epistemological
• [26:26] The significance of modularity in the typical AI development process
• [31:26] How computer scientists’ reactions to David and Dawn’s paper underscore modularity as a dominant ideology
• [37:57] What it is about AI that makes us rethink the typical development process
• [45:32] Whether the job of asking ethical questions gets “outsourced” to or siloed in the research department
• [49:12] Some of the problems with user research nowadays
• [56:05] David and Dawn’s takeaways from writing the paper

Links and Resources:

• Dislocated Accountabilities in the AI Supply Chain: Modularity and Developers' Notions of Responsibility
• Connect with David Gray Widder via his website
• Connect with Dawn Nafus via Linkedin
• Connect with Adam Gamwell via email, LinkedIn, or Twitter
• Subscribe to the This Anthro Life newsletter

Just a little trailer for 2023 new listeners to This Anthro Life!

Learn more about the podcast here: thisanthrolife.org

People with disabilities often face accessibility issues in physical environments, such as a lack of ramps, narrow doorways, and inaccessible transportation. Every barrier is a reminder that designs are choices, ones made without people with disabilities at the decision-making table.

But solving these problems requires more than physical adjustments. It necessitates understanding the experiences of people with disabilities and involving them in the creation of purposefully designed spaces, policies, and more.

In this episode, renowned disability rights advocate and Associate Professor at Stony Brook University Brooke Ellison explores the complex and often misunderstood world of disabilities with This Anthro Life host Adam Gamwell. Drawing from her latest memoir “Look Both Ways,” Brooke also shares her journey as an activist and the importance of inclusivity and accessibility.

Brooke Ellison, a brilliant author and inspiring speaker, has dedicated her life to advocating for disability rights and raising awareness about the sociocultural issues surrounding it. Having experienced a life-altering car accident at the age of eleven that left her paralyzed from the neck down, Brooke's journey has been one of resilience, determination, and self-discovery. With a PhD in sociology and a passion for making a difference, Brooke has taken on multiple roles, including serving on the President's Council on Bioethics and the Spinal Cord Injury Research Board of New York State. As a professor and medical ethics expert as well as someone living with quadriplegia, she brings a unique perspective to the conversation on disability, challenging societal norms and advocating for a more inclusive world.

Show Highlights:

• [05:48] Why Brooke wrote her two memoirs
• [12:35] The value of bringing in personal experiences when teaching about disability
• [19:57] The idea of hope as a process
• [27:42] How disabilities highlight the interconnectedness of our lives
• [32:15] The value of taking a sociocultural approach to disability
• [36:11] Why Brooke ran for public office in 2006
• [42:10] Why Brooke started the nonprofit Brooke Ellison Project
• [44:16] Interesting findings of Brooke’s dissertation on stem cell research

Links and Resources:

• Look Both Ways (TAL Affiliate Bookstore)
• Check out Brooke Ellison’s website
• Connect with Brooke Ellison via LinkedIn or her website
• Connect with Adam Gamwell via email, LinkedIn, or Twitter
• Subscribe to the This Anthro Life newsletter

In this episode, Angela Saini, award-winning science journalist and author of “The Patriarchs: How Men Came to Rule,” traces the material and social roots of patriarchy with host Adam Gamwell. The duo explores how anthropology can help us better understand the patriarchy and patriarchical power by contextualizing and breaking down big ideas. Anthropology enables us to examine broad, complex topics through specific cultural and historical lenses. It also helps us dissect grand narrative ideas to reveal their historical trajectories. But perhaps most importantly, anthropology reminds us that we need to think about big ideas contextually, especially emotionally and politically charged ideas like the patriarchy.

They dive into the definition of patriarchy and its ties to social structures, social privileges, and oppression. The conversation also touches on how different cultures interpret and shape the deployment and maintenance of gender and power to reflect their unique social norms. Saini emphasizes the importance of understanding the social variation and how male domination adapts to different changes. Drawing on many forms of evidence, she discusses the multiplicities of patriarchies, how patriarchy today functions and shapes different aspects of our lives, and how we can think big about what form of society we’d like to continue, reinvent, or totally change for ourselves and our children. Saini's work aims to bring awareness to the many different kinds of patriarchies that exist and how they are being recreated and reasserted today.

Episode Highlights:

• [05:57] Why we shouldn’t think of the patriarchy as a monolith
• [09:31] Why pre-history wasn’t necessarily patriarchal
• [13:44] Why thinkers started to question where patriarchy came from
• [17:16] Why James Mellaart believed Çatalhöyük was a matriarchal society
• [23:55] How the Haudenosaunee inspired the beliefs of women’s rights activists
• [26:57] How early civilizations’ concerns about population led to binary gender norms
• [30:24] Possibilities that slavery and patrilocality informed each other
• [36:32] Why freedom and women’s liberation are nuanced
• [43:05] The Kitchen Debate and the clash of capitalism and communism
• [50:40] How Kerala, India now positions itself as a beacon of women’s empowerment
• [55:54] How we can build the society we hope to see in the future

Links and Resources:

• The Patriarchs: The Origins of Inequality
• Superior: The Return of Race Science
• Inferior: How Science Got Women Wrong
• Connect with Angela Saini via LinkedIn
• Check out Angela Saini’s website
• Connect with Adam Gamwell via email, LinkedIn, or Twitter
• Subscribe to the This Anthro Life newsletter

When we think of robots, we tend to think of things like R2-D2, the Terminator skeleton, or a piece of machinery that automates the construction of goods in an assembly line. But that’s not all there is to robots — something anthropologist and roboticist entrepreneur Lora Koycheva understands perfectly well. In this episode, Lora shares her unique perspective on the intersection of anthropology and cyber-physical systems with host Adam Gamwell. She also discusses how anthropology can shed light on what robots afford human bodies, why the physical side of robots is just as important as their operating systems, and how robots can potentially reshape the human condition.

Episode Highlights:

• [03:03] How Lora brought together entrepreneurship, innovation, anthropology, and robotics
• [08:24] On-demand infrastructure and how it empowers robotics in the urban realm
• [11:59] How we can get comfortable with the physical side of robotics
• [18:28] How Lora came up with the idea of rebuilding the human condition in a world of robots
• [22:52] How and why Lora set up the Green Like a Robot project and why it matters for scholarship and society
• [27:04] Questions worth tackling when working with robots
• [35:51] Lora’s experience working with engineers
• [40:10] Commonalities between anthropology and engineering worth cultivating
• [45:06] Why embodiment is difficult to innovate through digital means

Links and Resources:

• Green Like a Robot
• Connect with Lora Koycheva via LinkedIn
• Connect with Adam Gamwell via email, LinkedIn, or Twitter
• Subscribe to the This Anthro Life newsletter

The COVID-19 pandemic forced many of us individually and as a global cohort to reassess how and why we live the ways that we do and what really matters to us. Through the pandemic, we may have also felt moments of awe at the natural world and questioned our place in it.

In moments like these, we’re afforded glimpses into how we choose to operate in the world and understand our place in relation to everything else. Rituals play a key role in helping us make sense of the world around us, yet we often forget that they’re even there. Today’s guest, Sasha Sagan, picks up on this thread through her writing and podcast work.

Daughter of “Cosmos” co-writer Ann Druyan and astronomer Carl Sagan, Sasha talks with host Adam Gamwell about the power of ritual for making meaning across life, death, nature, and more. She also shares how she learned to ask questions, the value of finding awe in the most mundane of rituals, and how turning our attention anew to the natural world can help us add wonder back into our lives.

Show Highlights:

• [06:53] What inspired Sasha to create her podcast “Strange Customs”
• [13:04] How Sasha’s parents taught her to love and ask questions
• [21:30] How parents may inadvertently teach their children to stop asking questions
• [29:33] Our beliefs and customs around language and communication
• [37:56] How Sasha thinks about different media as different methods for storytelling
• [47:56] How we dress up scientific phenomena in beliefs and customs
• [59:19] Why people are getting more creative with how they tackle life-defining moments
• [01:00:45] How we can demonstrate anthropology’s value
• [01:03:37] How we can add awe back into our lives

Links and Resources:

• Strange Customs with Sasha Sagan
• For Small Creatures Such as We: Rituals for Finding Meaning in Our Unlikely World by Sasha Sagan (Anthrocurious' Bookstore Affiliate Link - purchasing here supports the show!)
• Check out Sasha Sagan’s website
• Connect with Sasha Sagan via Twitter or Instagram
• Connect with Adam Gamwell via email, LinkedIn, or Twitter
• Subscribe to the This Anthro Life newsletter

How to Build a More Resilient World
The COVID-19 pandemic leveled the playing field between those who have the privilege to avoid or mitigate disasters and those who don’t. But the pandemic is just one of many ongoing challenges and crises that people are and have been facing for years.

In addition to raising awareness, much of the work that we have as people and organizations is in how we respond in moments of crisis. How do we know what works? How can we respond effectively? And will one type of aid be culturally appropriate if moved to another area? To help us answer these questions, we’re joined today by Britt Titus. Britt is the Behavioural Insights Lead at the Airbel Impact Lab, the International Rescue Committee’s (IRC) research and innovation team which designs, tests, and scales solutions for people affected by conflict and disaster.

Drawing from her decade-long experience in the humanitarian space, Britt talks about 1) how regional disaster response can be applied to global emergencies, 2) how the Airbel Impact Lab team localizes and evaluates the impact of its interventions, and 3) what’s top of mind for them in creating life-changing solutions for the communities that the IRC serves.

Show Highlights:

• [03:37] How Britt found herself at the intersection of behavioral insights design and the humanitarian space
• [08:33] How lessons gleaned from regional disaster response can be applied to global emergencies
• [12:03] The methods that the Airbel Impact Lab uses to localize interventions
• [21:05] How the Lab evaluates the impact of its interventions
• [28:21] On the process of re-sharing localized information and learnings elsewhere
• [32:22] A key challenge facing Britt and her colleagues today
• [37:32] Britt discusses the Lab’s InforMH project
• [47:21] What Britt is looking forward to in the behavioral design and humanitarian space

Links and Resources:

• Airbel Impact Lab
• International Rescue Committee
• InforMH
• TIWG Forced Migration Series: Humanitarian Response Interventions, Jeannie Annan and Britt Titus
• Connect with Britt Titus via LinkedIn
• Connect with Adam Gamwell via email, LinkedIn, or Twitter

Subscribe to the This Anthro Life newsletter

Consumers today find brands through many online sources, including search engines and social media. And with the rise of hyper-personalized ads, consumers are constantly being bombarded with brands that seem to speak to their needs and interests.

Given such a landscape, it’s becoming increasingly apparent that brands need to move beyond business fundamentals and into the fundamentals that we share as human beings if they wish to stand out. That is to say, brands need to shape not only what consumers buy, but also how they feel about and relate to brands themselves.

In today’s episode of This Anthro Life, host Adam Gamwell speaks with Dr. Matt Johnson, author of “Branding That Means Business,” about the whys and hows of consumer-brand relationships, brand strategy and identity, the role brands play in our lives, and more.

Show Highlights:

• [03:08] The fundamental principles of branding
• [05:48] On the functional value of brands
• [09:18] How brands can shape consumers’ perceptions of reality
• [15:06] The ways brands can be smart about being global
• [21:51] Why brand strategy should be specific and consistent
• [25:01] On brand polysemy
• [28:30] On the difference between corporate social responsibility and activism
• [34:15] Closing statements

Links and Resources:

• Matt Johnson’s website
• Branding That Means Business by Matt Johnson and Tessa Misiaszek (link to the Anthrocurious bookstore, where purchasing the book supports the authors, local bookstores and the Anthrocurious community. It's a win win win.)
• 231 - Branding That Means Business with Matt Johnson by The Brainy Business Podcast
• Subscribe to This Anthro Life’s newsletter
• Connect with Adam via email
• Connect with Adam via the This Anthro Life website

Indigenous cultures around the world have a trickster god or figure in their mythos. For example, the Pacific Northwest Native Americans have the Raven, a selfish, hungry, and mischievous figure who transforms the world. Stories tell how the Raven brought out the sun, moon, and stars to light the world only by cleverly deceiving others.

In today’s episode of This Anthro Life, Dr. Shepherd Siegel, activist scholar and author of “Tricking Power into Performing Acts of Love: How Tricksters Through History Have Changed the World,” discusses the Trickster archetype with host Adam Gamwell. Together, Shepherd and Adam explore attributes of the Trickster, Shepherd’s favorite Tricksters, and examples that demonstrate Trickster archetypes confronting power and tricking it into love.

Show Highlights:

• [04:05] Breaking down the title of the book
• [11:00] What love has to do with the trickster archetype
• [17:04] How Shepherd’s background came into play in writing his book
• [24:48] The different kinds of play and how they relate to the warrior and the trickster
• [29:46] The Burning Man as an example of a cultural experience premised on disruptive play
• [37:01] Why the trickster is anti-war
• [45:45] On Richard Pryor narrating George Floyd’s murder in 1979
• [56:07] Bugs Bunny as an example of a character that exemplifies the trickster archetype
• [59:07] Closing statements

Links and Resources:

• Check out the new Anthrocurious Bookshop - partnership with Bookstore.org where you can support local bookstores and the podcast when you purchase books mentioned on the show.
• Tricking Power into Performing Acts of Love: How Tricksters Through History Have Changed the World by
• Shepherd Siegel's website
• Subscribe to This Anthro Life’s newsletter
• Connect with Adam via email
• Connect with Adam via the This Anthro Life website

If you're getting something out of This Anthro Life, then please share it with your friends and family! Let them know that this podcast is a great source of interesting and informative stories about anthropology and the human experience. With your help, we can reach more people and bring them into the fascinating world of anthropology. So join us in our mission to make anthropology accessible and share This Anthro Life today!

Show Notes

Building a New Labor Market for Global Design Talent with Fredrik Thomassen

More and more businesses are switching to remote work amid the COVID-19 pandemic. But one startup was ahead of the curve, having been 100% remote since its inception in 2016.

That startup is Superside, a fully distributed design operations platform that seeks to support a global remote workforce. By introducing a remote work policy, Superside gives designers around the world better income opportunities, regardless of their gender, race, or location.

In this episode, host Adam Gamwell speaks with Superside CEO and Founder Fredrik Thomassen about remote work and how the pandemic accelerated its adoption worldwide, the promise and challenge of fully online organizations, the inclusion of minorities in the workforce as a global business imperative, and more.

Show Highlights:

[04:10] How Fredrik Thomassen started Superside
[07:37] On the power of remote work and the opportunities it opens up
[14:23] How remote work can improve workforce diversity
[20:07] Issues with traditional hiring practices
[24:50] On the importance of taking candidates’ values into account in the hiring process
[29:19] How Superside keeps its employees happy and fulfilled
[35:44] Why management is not as complicated as it is made out to be
[37:55] Why Superside as an organization values truth-seeking
[45:54] Closing statements

Links and Resources:

Check out Superside
Subscribe to This Anthro Life’s newsletter
Connect with Adam via email
Connect with Adam via the This Anthro Life website

The vast majority of published scientific literature and new research is hidden behind paywalls. Worse, what few accessible papers available online are oftentimes written in jargon, i.e., specialist language that can alienate non-expert readers.

Combined, these two issues make it difficult for researchers, scientists, and even entrepreneurs to build on new discoveries and for members of the public to access credible, peer-reviewed literature in the age of misinformation.

The good news is, natural language processing-based startups are working to change the conversation around access to scientific knowledge in impactful ways. One such startup is Consensus, an AI-powered search engine designed to provide users a view into what the research says with the click of a button.

In this episode, host Adam Gamwell is joined by Consensus CEO Eric Olson to talk about the company’s inception, the promise and new waves of natural language processing technology, and how Consensus is making scientific findings accessible and consumable for all.

Show Highlights:

[04:08] How Eric Olson got into natural language processing
[06:15] How tech can help users know what information to trust online
[08:10] The difference between giving good information and giving engaging information
[10:32] How Consensus attempts to disrupt the global search industry
[13:50] The current state of search
[15:32] How Consensus approaches partnerships
[17:07] On the size of Consensus’ corpus
[19:59] How natural language processing is evolving
[21:19] How Consensus fine-tunes its AI system
[24:53] On using AI generators to write papers
[26:47] How search platforms like Consensus can be built in a way that’s usable for laypeople
[30:32] Why context in AI is important
[33:05] The three things that differentiate Consensus from existing search engines
[39:37] What’s next for NLP-based technologies as a whole
[41:14] What’s next for Consensus
[43:10] On the hypothesis that AI can’t replace subjective, art-based roles
[46:12] Closing statements

Links and Resources:

Check out Consensus
Subscribe to This Anthro Life’s newsletter
Connect with Adam via email
Connect with Adam via the This Anthro Life website

What makes the human mind unique? How do we know there’s a future, and how do we recall the past? In this episode of This Anthro Life, Byron Reese, serial entrepreneur, technologist, and author of “Stories, Dice, and Rocks That Think: How Humans Learned to See the Future--and Shape It,” discusses these questions and more with host Adam Gamwell. Together, Byron and Adam explore the three leaps in human history that made us what we are today and how those leaps changed how we think about the future, the past, and everything in between.

Show Highlights:

[03:16] The inception of “Stories, Dice, and Rocks That Think: How Humans Learned to See the Future--and Shape It”
[05:23] Homo erectus and the Acheulean hand axe
[06:38] How the Acheulean hand axe is a genetic object, not a cultural one
[08:27] The awakening that ancient humans had undergone
[09:27] Language as a means to conceptualize the future and gain knowledge of the past
[13:02] The four things that all languages have
[16:01] How humans’ group action became more than just the sum of its parts
[18:57] A superorganism named Agora as a metaphor for how people working together can get more done
[24:06] How the probability theory helps us understand how we imagine the future
[24:37] The probability problem
[28:01] How there is predictability in randomness
[34:33] The human body as a superorganism
[36:30] The problem with data in artificial intelligence
[41:48] Galton’s regression to the mean and eugenics as a cautionary tale
[44:59] Eternal vigilance as the price of current and future technological advancements
[47:04] Why humans are not machines
[50:05] The 21st purpose of telling stories, according to Byron
[52:32] Closing statements

Ashley Meredith serves as the National Cultural Anthropologist and Deputy National Historic Preservation Officer for the Federated States of Micronesia. Micronesia is a sovereign island country in Oceania situated northeast of Australia and Papua New Guinea and consists of 600 islands covering a massive area of around 1 million square miles. There are 18 languages spoken across the islands.

Echoing what we might call a traditional fieldwork approach, Ashley works with a team to document, preserve, and establish cultural pathways for different Micronesian communities. This includes work like ethnographic surveys, linguistic studies and observational fieldwork.
Yet, her work is also applied anthropology. She talks with communities to understand what they want in terms of infrastructure, tourism, education, or heritage development and works with them to find resources, generate funding and support. Beyond this, she interfaces between communities, government and international relations including with the United States and UNESCO.

Ashley’s breadth of experience provides a key perspective for rethinking how we use data. This includes why we need qualitative data in a world obsessed with numbers, but also how transmission matters. As we explore in this conversation, transmission has to do with cultural practices like storytelling as much as with technological limitations such as internet speed across the islands.

Interdependence is the idea that the wellbeing of our world and for our physical and emotional selves depends on those around us, yet when we find ourselves up against a challenge bigger than ourselves, our sense of interdependence becomes stronger.

When we move that scale even larger (i.e. a global climate crisis), interdependence becomes paramount. Climate change not only affects our everyday lives, but affects cultural history and cultural artifacts such as books and architectural styles, as well as more ephemeral practices like theater, song and language.

How well we are able to face these challenges has to do with how we tell stories. How well we tell stories depends on what we choose to protect, preserve, and make prosper in our cultures. If you’ve used the Internet in the last 20 years, or 20 minutes, you know that there isn’t a lack of information or stories online, but how much of our and others’ cultural heritage exists digitally, how accessible is it, and who is able to contribute?

These are questions that Charles Henry engages with in this episode. Charles is the president of the Council on Library and Information Resources (CLIR), a nonprofit that works with libraries, cultural institutions, and higher learning communities to improve research, teaching, and learning environments.

Check out the Council on Library and Information Resources: https://www.clir.org/about-us/history/

Digital Library of the Middle East, one of the world’s largest online archives of Middle Eastern and North African artifacts. https://www.clir.org/2020/07/clir-and-stanford-libraries-announce-digital-library-of-the-middle-east-platform/

The HBCU Library Alliance Partnership, which is a long-term partnership to foster awareness of and access to collections held by Historically Black Colleges and Universities. https://www.clir.org/initiatives-partnerships/hbcu-library-alliance/

When we think about social science and social scientists working out in the world, we tend to jump to the science part, you know jobs that focus on research - consumer research, user experience research, or qualitative studies for non-profits. But if you have any experience with therapy, whether as a patient or therapist, worked with a career or life coach, or anything to do with conflict mediation, you might have noticed there’s more than a little overlap in skill sets with anthropology.

I have been really fortunate to get to know Nethra Samarawickrema, co-founder of the Listen Up Lab, an anthropologist and coach and all around calming presence - something we need more of today.

What’s her secret? Well a lot of things, but one I want to pull out here is her application of a mode of listening called Nonviolent Communication. Nethra reveals the common connection between anthropology and nonviolent communication that drew her to both and shows how they complement one another. Think about things like withholding judgment, active listening, situated perceptiveness.


If this episode sounds good to you, I highly recommend you check out our conversation with Jeremy Pollack on how to manage social conflict, communicate effectively and finding common ground. These episodes complement one another really well.

https://www.thisanthrolife.org/how-to-manage-social-conflict-communicate-effectively-and-find-common-ground-with-jeremy-pollack/

Listenup Lab: https://www.listenuplab.com/

Listen Up Lab is running a 2-day online workshop called FLOW to support writers and artists with unblocking themselves on April 23 and 24th, 2022. The details and sign up information can be found here: https://www.listenuplab.com/course-content-flow

Nethra would love to connect with people who might be interested in coaching related to work, creativity, or getting in touch with their needs in their relationships. She offers free introductory hour-long coaching sessions that folks can sign up for on my website here: https://www.workwithnethra.com/

If you’re alive in 2022 you’ve probably heard of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency. Whether you’re an active trader, just dabble, or think you’d never touch the stuff, cryptocurrency raises a fascinating challenge to the question of what is money? And how can technology fundamentally reshape how we engage in finance and social life? Is crypto a revolution?

If you're listening to this episode in early 2022, then you're probably well aware of the ongoing inflation and commodity price increases both in the United States and globally. You know, money and finance are often the table stakes of how we think about navigating life today. That can both be part of the background or very much in the foreground of our minds, depending on how things are going. And as we wrestle with economic uncertainty in the wake of war, a changing climate and geopolitical shifts things can feel bleak. But at these moments, it's important to stay curious and ask where and how are we trying to make things better? And this is a bit about where that revolutionary technology part just might come in.

Mick Morucci is a crypto-anthropologist, Bitcoin expert and the co-founder of geyser.fund, and NFT social discovery platform. He’s also a prolific writer and publishes regularly on Bitcoin, block chain technologies and NFTs.

In this episode we explore:
- the cultural and financial origins of Bitcoin
- what is a blockchain
- money as information and story
- open source technologies
- why decentralization matters
- privacy and surveillance
and more!

https://www.mickmorucci.com/
https://geyser.fund/

Check out some of Mick's writing:
Bitcoin as a Divine Idea - https://bitcoinmagazine.com/culture/bitcoin-as-a-divine-idea
Why Anthropologists are More Interested in Bitcoin than Economists - https://bitcoinmagazine.com/culture/anthropologists-are-interested-in-bitcoin
The Social Experience of NFT Art - https://forefront.news/blog/feat-mick-social-experience-of-nft

Episode produced by Adam Gamwell

It's a common truism that history is often written by the victors, but it is equally true that the actual story is more complicated. One of the most poignant examples of this is the "discovery" of the new world by Christopher Columbus.

So today I am super excited to have author Andrew Rowen back on the podcast. Andrew caught our attention back in 2017 for his book encounters, "Unforeseen 1492 Retold", which rather than another single sided story is a bicultural retelling that portrays the life stories of both Columbus and the Taíno chieftains from their youth to their encounters during the invasions of 1492.

Andrew is back to talk about the sequel "Columbus and Caonabó 1493 to 1498 Retold". In this episode, we explore Andrew's rationale for producing a bicultural series of novels and choosing historical fiction over historical nonfiction in order to bring to life the context thought processes and perspectives of people present at the time in the 15th century.

This also meant writing in a way that doesn't prescribe how events would turn out because of course, folks in the 15th century had no idea what was going to happen. The 1493 to 1498 epoch also entailed some of the most challenging aspects to explore such as the growing discontent between Taíno chieftans and Spaniards, Columbus' continual insistence on enslavement, the role of disease and sickness in cross-cultural encounters and the political machinations of queen Isabella and king Ferdinand. This episode has a bit of everything, you know, whether you're interested in the world of the 15th century and, or you're curious about the process of writing historical fiction, including how to do archival and on-site research and do character development in ways that make sense with the research that you're finding and the challenges of telling bicultural histories in respectful and honest ways.

Website: AndrewRowen.com
Facebook: @andrewsrowen

Production: Adam Gamwell
Editing: Craig Stanton
Music: Crackle and Chop, Epidemic Sounds

Have you wondered why fantasy stories mostly are just copies of Medieval Europe? Why pop culture has been so obsessed with zombies? Or why Black Panther and the Falcon and the Winter Soldier seemed to hit the right chord at the right time for American conversations on race? To answer these questions, we're diving into world building, the process of creating realized worlds for (mostly) fictional stories and how anthropology could literally change the game.

On this episode Astrid Countee joins Adam Gamwell to co-host a conversation with the very dynamic duo of biological anthropologist/archaeologist Kyra Wellstrom and cultural anthropologist Michael Kilman. Kyra and Michael are educators and authors, and their latest book caught our attention because it does two things at once. First, it serves as an introductory textbook for anthropology students, digging into key ideas like culture, ritual, food, power and death. But second, it’s premised around how to use anthropology for building better world for game design, fiction writing, and filmmaking.

Building a better worlds is about creating more authentic characters based on actual science and data on culture. Thus the book is both an introductory text for anthropology students and creators.

Production: Adam Gamwell
Music:
Take 2 - Pro Rees
A Nifty Piece of Work - New Fools
Ragtime - peerless

Charles Foster set out to answer one of the most perplexing questions of all - what sort of creatures are we humans? - in one of the most unique ways possible: immersing himself in experiences that evoke three central epochs in the development of consciousness - the upper Paleolithic, around 40k years ago, the neolithic, around 10k years ago when humans invented/stumbled upon and couldn’t get out of agriculture, and the Enlightenment, which ushered in the scientific revolution in Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Interested in checking out Charles' new book Being a Human: Adventures in 40,000 years of Consciousness? We've got copies to give away!

Music: Epidemic Sounds
Intro - Jazz Bars - Dusty Decks
Outro - Up & Down - Toby Tranter

Editing: Craig Stanton
Research: Kiera Myles
Production: Adam Gamwell

This Anthro Life turned 8 years old in October 2021. That's a long time for a podcast. When recently invited to share what I've been working on for a newsletter, TAL's 8th birthday got me thinking about what I've learned working between anthropology and podcasting for almost a decade.

I've fancied myself a public anthropologist for a while, but it has been podcasting, and working in an unusual medium (for anthropology) that has taught me some of the most important lessons for what public anthropology actually is.

Music - Epidemic Sounds
Lenzer - A Fork Fight
Yomoti - Fansi Pan

It's not everyday I get to talk with other anthropology podcasters, and even more infrequently that I get to talk with undergraduate anthropology podcasters. I'm joined on the show today by Gabriella Campbell, Gabriella is a senior at University of California Santa Barbara where she focuses on forensic anthropology, both contemporary and ancient. She's also the creator and host of That Anthro Podcast, a weekly interview show that explores the world of bioarchaeology, bones, forensics and more. Gabriella and I dig into what it's like to work in forensics while learning the trade. This includes some crucial and fascinating forensic recovery work she’s doing in response to the Monteceto mudslides.

We dig into:
- Applying forensic anthropology to the Montecito mudslides
- Contemporary forensics vs ancient forensics
- How to teach anthro earlier in kids' education, early education projects
- On podcasting, creativity and learning to trust our instincts
- Advice for undergrads - from an undergrad

Check out:
That Anthro Podcast
That Anthro Podcast Instagram

Music:
Duracell - Jontha Links
Epidemic Sounds
Episode Art: Adam Gamwell

A job search strategy is essential, but what if you don’t even know what to look for or what you want to do? A career plan is something you can do before job searching to define the kind of work you want to do and how to engage with like minded people, so you’ve got opportunities and pathways to work you’ll find fulfilling and meaningful, regardless of industry.

While some old-school academics might see creating a career plan as selling out, Career Coach and Strategist Amy Santee and Design + Business Anthropologist Adam Gamwell, say you’re selling yourself short if you don’t. In this seminar we’ll share stories from our experiences and walk you through creating your own plan across defining your values, mapping your journey, finding your people and trying your voice.

Whether you’re a student and looking for your first job, a mid career professor or industry insider and curious about what else is out there, a career plan is relevant for anyone.

We’ll dig into defining your values as a starting point, mapping a vision of your future by looking at your past, how to take action on your plan, and learning to trust your intuition as much as the data you gather. Today's episode is a slice from a workshop series Adam Gamwell put together with Prof Jonathan Anjaria of Brandeis University.

Amy Santee Career Coaching
Amy's LinkedIn
Jon Anjaria
Brandeis University Anthropology

Episode production and art: Adam Gamwell
Music Epidemic Sounds:
Sweet Talk - Tyra Chanty
Zanzibar - Jones Meadow

Dr. Meena Kaushik takes us through her story from the revolutionary idea in the late 1970s of applying semiotics to brand and market research to founding Quantum, which today is a global enterprise research organization in seven countries, through how they have digitally adapted insights research in the face of COVID.
Meena Kaushik started her journey as an academic studying the symbolism of death rituals in Hinduism. She conducted extensive fieldwork amongst the Doms of Varanasi, a low caste community working in the city’s cremation grounds, for her Ph.D. in Sociology at the Delhi School of Economics.
She ventured into qualitative market research by accident and fell in love. Her training in ethnography deepened how consumer behaviour, consumer culture and consumer psyche were being understood in India in the mid to late 1980s.
A consulting stint with the Indian Market Research Bureau soon became a full fledged position and she helped found the qualitative division at MARG as a Director of Qualitative Research. Kaushik adapted anthropological methods, semiotics, and social psychology to qualitative market research problems in India, giving qualitative approaches a credibility they’d never had in the past.
In 1990 she founded Quantum Consumer Solutions with Srilekha Agarwal and Meera Vasudevan, Asia’s first purely qualitative research firm. Today Quantum has operations in seven countries with 220 employees.
TAL spoke to Dr. Kaushik about the birth of this new “qualitative consciousness” in post-liberalization India, and how to create value for qualitative insights in industries that have been traditionally dominated by numbers.
We dig into:

How she brought anthropologist and qualitative insights to market research in India
Fairness and Skin Lightening Creams: How interdisciplinary social science can get a company to reframe brands around empowerment
Acknowledge privileges, like the cultural preference for lighter skin, without ignoring or pandering to it
Why we should be talking about insights research rather than qualitative research, and how her company has adapted to digital ethnography and new forms of research since COVID rocked the world
Digital ethnography methods to create a “semiosphere” > a holistic view of how people make meaning in their lives
Advice for transitioning into market research, skills agencies look for
Adapting from research as an output to design strategy, offering solutions on top of research insights
Commodities and the crisis of meaning: Why it’s essential for brands to have higher meaning and purpose in the lives of consumers

TAL Correspondent and this episode's host: Madhuri Karak is Community Engagement Lead at Rare’s Center for Behavior & the Environment, managing a virtual learning platform for practitioners blending behavioral insights with design thinking to solve our biggest environmental challenges. She is currently a Mellon - American Council of Learned Societies Public Fellow and has a Ph.D. in cultural anthropology. You can find more of her work here.
Organization: https://www.quantumcs.com
Interview w/Kaushik: https://wow.outlookbusiness.com/meena-kaushik/

Credits
Production: Madhuri Karak and Adam Gamwell
Music: Zanzibar - Jones Meadow, Epidemic Sounds
Art: Adam Gamwell

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Phil Surles is a cultural anthropologist and consultant who focuses on branding. He works with companies to change their culture for the better and focuses on integrating anthropology into industry. From art school to anthropology to industry Phil discusses how he combined all of his passions into his consulting work. Phil, Astrid, and Adam discuss what it means to be an anthropologist working in industry and ethical issues that may arise. Phil is also working on a new platform called Mindshare where businesses can tap into the expertise of human scientists for expert interviews, consulting and more.

On today’s Episode

How to study anthropology with the intention of going into industry, not academia

To intervene or not intervene-- the anthropologists ethical dilemma

How anthropologists can bring their ethics and methodology to industry and change it for the better

What is a public intellectual and how does it relate to thought leadership and activism


Where to Find Phil Surles:
Twitter
LinkedIn
Mindshare

Episode Credits
Music (Epidemic Sounds)
Intro: Embody by Ballpoint
Outro: Tried in Fire by Ballpoint
Episode art- Sara Schmieder
Production- Sara Schmieder, Elizabeth Smyth, and Adam Gamwell

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If Dr. Hellen Fisher isn’t a household name in your house (yet), her work certainly is. Helen is a biological anthropologist and basically the reason you can date online. She’s an expert on romantic love, gender differences, the evolution of human emotions and attraction. She has also been the Chief Scientific Advisor for Match.com and was instrumental in their offshoot, Chemistry.com. She has explored how love patterns are actually deeply coded in our physiology and neuropsychology. We talk about how to understand sex, love, and dating across human behavior, patterns in courtship, and the evolution of bonding.
But beyond this, Helen is a wildly popular author, TED speaker and public intellectual. To this end brings to the table a wealth of insight into how to translate anthropological insights in ways that feel meaningful to people today.
Hellen discusses her career path, how she strayed from the field of academia, became an accredited author and eventually an advisor to Match.com We discuss how to handle media attention, the tactics of public speaking, and how to connect to your audiences.
In this episode we focus on:

Fisher’s formula for making anthropology matter in the mainstream

The biological anthropology of how we find love and who we are attracted to

The ways in which we can apply/sell anthropology in a context outside of academia

Effective tactics of public speaking and audience engagement


Guest Bio: Helen Fisher is a biological anthropologist who studies human behavior, love, and attraction. She has been the Chief Scientific Advisor for Match.com for ten years and was instrumental in their offshoot, Chemistry.com. Additionally Fisher is known for her TedTalks and is even a Ted All-Star but not only is she popular on the TedTalk circuit she also has appeared in several YouTube videos and has written books about love and relationships. Some of her books include Anatomy of Love (2016), Why We Love (2004), and Why Him Why Her? (2009).
Where to Find Helen Fisher:
helenfisher.com
Pew Research on online dating
Music: Epidemic Sounds

Girl Like You (Instrumental Version) - Flux Vortex

Sweet Talk (Instrumental Version) - Tyra Chantey


Episode Art: Sara Schmieder
Episode Production: Elizabeth Smyth, Sara Schmieder, Sarah McDonough, Adam Gamwell
Leave a Review for our Book Give Away! (We've got one copy of Ghost Work with your name on it! - Leave us a review at one of the sites below and email a screen shot to [email protected] so we know it's you).
This Anthro Life - Anthropology Podcast | Podchaser
‎This Anthro Life on Apple Podcasts

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TAL Correspondent Sara Schmieder brings us an all new interview about the power of cemetery restoration, race in the American South, and bringing legacy to light.
Dr. Ryan Smith is a professor of religious history, material culture, and historic preservation at Virginia Commonwealth University. His latest book Death and Rebirth in a Southern City: Richmond’s Historic Cemeteries (2020) explores the history and reclamation of sacred cemeteries through the lens of race. By working with friends groups from various Richmond cemeteries he charts their evolution over time and how abandoned cemeteries have been reborn. Dr. Smith also authored Robert Morris’s Folly: The Architectural and Financial Failures of an American Founder (2014) and Gothic Arches, Latin Crosses: Anti-Catholicism and American Church Designs in the Nineteenth Century (2006).

In this episode we discuss:
· What it means to be a friend of a cemetery
· How cemeteries are being revived and protected
· Segregation and cemeteries
· The importance of sacred spaces for Black, Jewish, and other marginalized communities

Links:
https://www.richmondcemeteries.org/
https://friendsofeastend.com/
https://shockoehillcemetery.org/

Episode Art: Sara Schmieder
Producers: Sara Schmieder, Adam Gamwell
Music: Epidemic Sounds
Bam Bam – Yomoti
Shades of Purple – Gregory David

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In today’s episode Adam Gamwell and Astrid Countee are joined by multispecies anthropologist John Hartigan jr. John is an anthropology professor at the University of Texas at Austin. In his latest work, Shaving the Beasts: Wild Horses and Ritual in Spain, John studies the social lives of wild horses in Spain and Catalonia and the Spanish ritual dating back to the 1500s of “Rapa das Bestas”- in which villagers heard wild horses together into public ceremonial rings and shave their manes and tails. Why is an anthropologist studying horses you ask? John’s work dives into the complex social lives of these horses, what happens with human ritual causes violence and social breakdown - in this case amongst horses - and asks the question of how we can learn about human culture from other species?
In this episode we focus on:

What studying nonhuman species like plants and horses tells us about being human

How to do rapid ethnographic fieldwork

How the sociality of humans shapes and is shaped by other species

Why ecology needs anthropology and vice versa


Where to Find John Hartigan:
John Hartigan Jr. is an anthropology professor at the University of Texas at Austin who focuses on multispecies ethnography, media, and race. He has done fieldwork in Spain, Mexico, Peru, Colombia, and Detroit, Michigan. Hartigan’s latest book is Shaving The Beast: Wild Horses and Ritual in Spain, in which he explores the ritual of rapa das bestas in Galicia, Spain where villagers heard wild horses together to shave their manes and tails. Through multispecies ethnography, Hartigan tells the story of this ritual through the horses’ eyes, experiencing the traumatic event as he tells the story of the horses and their society. Hartigan has also authored Care of the Species: Cultivating Biodiversity in Mexico and Spain (2017), Racial Situations: Class Predicaments of Whiteness in Detroit (1999), Odd Tribes: Toward a Cultural Analysis of White People (2005), What Can You Say? America’s National Conversation on Race (2010), and Aesop’s Anthropology: A Multispecies Approach.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/aesopsanthro

Music: Epidemic Sounds
Tilden Parc - The Weekend (Instrumental Version)
Nebulas [ocean jams]
Episode Art: Sara Schmieder
Leave a Review for our Book Give Away!
This Anthro Life - Anthropology Podcast | Podchaser
‎This Anthro Life on Apple Podcasts

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BOOK GIVEAWAY!! Leave a Review of This Anthro Life for a chance to win a copy of Ghost Work! Leave us a written review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser by May 8, 2021, and email us a screenshot (so we know it's you) at [email protected].
We'll randomly pick four winners out of the group from anyone who submits a review by May 8th, 2021. Now just a heads up: We're only counting serious reviews where you write something thoughtful. We'll take five stars of course if you want to just help out, but please no writing "I'm just doing this to get a free book." Feel free to share what you love about the podcast, why you find it valuable, How long you been listening or what keeps you listening? Remember, reviews help others discover the show and help us shape the content based on what you find valuable, so thanks for participating, we can't wait to hear from you!
Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/this-anthro-life-216403
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id871241283
Mary Gray is an anthropologist whose work explores how technology informs work, a sense of identity, and human rights. Gray applies these concepts as the Senior Principal Researcher at Microsoft Research and as the Faculty Associate at Harvard University’s Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society. Additionally she remains in a faculty position at the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering. Gray has also authored books such as In Your Face: Stories from the Lives of Queer Youth and Out In the Country: Youth, Media, and Queer Visibility in Rural America but her most recent book, coauthored with Siddharth Suri Ghostwork: How to Stop Silicon Valleyfrom Building a New Global Underclass focuses on how task based work is being utilized by bigger businesses and how this represents a change in the way we conceptualize work.
In this episode we focus on:

What is Ghost Work?
The gap between what a person can do and what a computer can do
Algorithmic cruelty
The future of work and what that means for contract labor
Tech not as devices, but as conduits for social connection
How to bring empathy into the workplace


Where to Find Mary Gray:
Website:https://marylgray.org/
Twitter:https://twitter.com/marylgray
Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/marylgraymsr/
Music: Epidemic Sounds

Dylan Sitts - Ice Cold Beverage

91 Nova - Lushwork

Blue Steel - Up Here


Episode Art: Adam Gamwell
Photograph in Episode Art: Adrianne Mathiowetz
Episode Production: Elizabeth Smyth, Sarah McDonough, Adam Gamwell

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Oscar Barrera is a Business Anthropologist based out of Veracruz, Mexico who brings a global mindset to helping businesses turn hurdles into opportunities for positive change. He is an expert in innovation, change management, and strategy. In this episode in partnership with Experience By Design podcast cohosts Adam Gamwell and Gary David dig into Oscar's story to learn the steps he took in moving from academia to business. We also dig into

follow along case stories of how Oscar used the social sciences to help businesses see and solve organizational problems, find new marketing opportunities, and help people craft new narratives that empower them to be the heroes of their own stories
why we believe it is not only ethical to bring the social sciences into business, but why it is fundamentally necessary to do so
how to get started learning the world of business

This episode is jam packed with great stories and advice!
Connect with Oscar on LinkedIn
Oscar's website (Spanish): Antropología Corporativa

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Take a walk with anthropologist and consultant Grant McCracken and host Adam Gamwell, as they discuss Grant's new book The New Honor Code: A Simple Plan for Raising Our Standards and Restoring Our Good Names and dig into Grant's uncanny ability to excavate and weave together (American) culture, media, and storytelling, and pull out provocative insights like the need to get more anthropologists and cultural experts into the C-Suite, how we might re-invent honor in the contemporary world, and how setting anthropology free from the academy can reshape it and make the field better for it.
In The New Honor Code, Grant draws together ideas from Elizabethan England, insights found while hanging out in people's living rooms interviewing them about their television watching habits for Netflix, the rise of celebrity culture as the closest thing we have to honor today - and why that's a problem - and the seemingly uncrossable gap between American boomers and millennials/GenZ. In mixing all these ideas together, he asks what is honor, why did it seem to disappear from our culture and what would it look like to create a system of honor in contemporary United States that would dissuade people from acting badly with impunity.
We dig into all these topics in this episode and Grant has some great advice for any social scientist looking to go into consulting or business or if you're in business, how we can be more savvy and practical about infusing anthropological mindsets and thinking into organizations without hitting people over the head with it, especially if they find the idea of culture confusing.

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In January 2021 armed rioters stormed the US Capitol in a harrowing and politically fomented insurrection. It was an apex of years of divisive and condemnable rhetoric and fear-mongering used to stoke insecurities and desperate action. How do we ensure this never happens again? Or how do we dismantle the social structures that feed hate, fear, and contempt? What this event, and on the flip side, our celebration of Martin Luther King jr. Day (when we recorded this episode 1/18/21), reveal is that understanding what leads to social conflict and how to manage and resolve conflict is more essential than ever. Today Adam Gamwell and Astrid Countee talk with conflict management expert and author Jeremy Pollack about healing a divided nation by learning to talk with our neighbors more. We dig into:

Why humans need help managing conflict
Cognitive and perceptual biases that prevent us from communicating clearly with one another
How to communicate clearly around fears and intentions to find common ground
How to understand and disarm Worldview defense
That we need to start talking to our neighbors more!
The importance of local leadership in modeling intergroup communication and shared goals

Jeremy Pollack is the Founder of nationwide conflict resolution consulting firm Pollack Peacebuilding Systems and author of the new book Conflict Resolution Playbook: Practical Communication Skills for Preventing, Managing, and Resolving Conflict. Jeremy is a fellow at Stanford University’s Center for International Conflict and Negotiation, and an expert on human conflict with an academic background in social psychology, evolutionary anthropology, negotiation, conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremypollack1/
https://www.facebook.com/pollackpeacebuilding/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3K6m_0bO31lD7JUc0th_vQ/featured
https://pollackpeacebuilding.com/


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Language warning. We use the word sh*t a lot in this episode, since it is, in fact all about poop.
To wrap up this crappy, some may even say shitty year, host Adam Gamwell and intern Elizabeth Smyth discuss the origin of the word shit, how the way we defecate is culturally constructed, what our poop reveals about us, and so much more in this New Year’s Eve mini-episode of This Anthro Life. Farewell 2020, it’s been real.
In this episode we dig into:

What poop tells us about culture and our biology

Whether to sit or squat?

Poop’s superpower for healing gut microbiota and potential energy source

How poop in space might tell us if we are, in fact, extraterrestrials ourselves


Also check our new blog Voice and Value where we dive deeper into all things human: Voice and Value – Medium
Articles referenced:

The History of Poop Is Really the History of Technology

Poop Worlds: Material Culture and Copropower (or, Toward a Shitty Turn)

Poop (Somatosphere)

How Fossilized Poop Gives Us The Scoop on Ancient Diets

Watching What We Flush Could Help Keep a Pandemic Under Control https://nyti.ms/2J2MJaa

Human feces from the developing world could power millions of homes


Follow this Anthro Life on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram!
Twitter: This Anthro Life Podcast (@thisanthrolife) / Twitter
Instagram: This Anthro Life Podcast (@thisanthrolife) • Instagram photos and videos
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life-podcast
Website: This Anthro Life
Music: Epidemic Sounds
No Regrets - Guy Trevino
Basmati - Farrell Wooten
Episode Art: Liz Smyth

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In this episode we meet Dr. Stan Thangaraj, an anthropology professor at the City College of New York whose research includes immigration in the U.S, being interviewed by Vyjayanthi Vadrevu, a business anthropologist and ethnographer. Together, the two discuss basketball, community, identity, race relations and so much more. Stay tuned with us as you learn about why race relations are so important and the answers to the following questions:

What does sports and their global popularity reveal about race relations in the US?
What can we learn from the merging transnational identities?
How has the “Black Lives Matter” Movement impacted the nonwhite and nonblack communities?
What are the politics within the diasporic communities?
Why is it so important to continue research and teaching about these communities?


Sponsors for this episode:
Check out the world's first Neuromarketing Bootcamp and sign up today with our Affiliate link!
Neuromarketing Bootcamp by Neuroscientist Matt Johnson and Marketing Director Prince Ghuman
Use offer code ANTHROLIFE for $500 off: Affiliate link: https://www.popneuro.com/neuromarketing-bootcamp
And check out Matt and Prince’s episode on neuromarketing on This Anthro Life https://www.thisanthrolife.org/a-neuroscientist-and-marketer-walk-into-a-bar-neuromarketing-and-the-hidden-ways-marketing-reshapes-our-brains-with-matt-johnson-and-prince-ghuman/

Check out our new Medium Blog "Voice and Value": https://medium.com/missing-link
collaborative provocations and stories that get us closer to human and deepen our perspective on society, culture, and our future.
Stanley Thangaraj is an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the City College of New York (CUNY). His interests are at the intersections of race, gender, sexuality, and citizenship. He studies immigrant and refugee communities in the U.S. South to understand how they manage the black-white racial logic through gender, how the afterlife of colonialism takes shape in the diaspora, and the kinds of horizontal processes of race-making.His monograph Desi Hoop Dreams: Pickup Basketball and the Making of Asian American Masculinity (NYU Press, 2015) looks at the relationship between race and gender in co-ethnic-only South Asian American sporting cultures.
Vyjayanthi Vadrevu is an ethnographer/ design researcher and strategist with a background in anthropology, business development, and nonprofit administration. She works on social impact design projects as well as corporate technology projects, delivering insights to help clients better serve their end users and beneficiaries. Vyjayanthi is also a trained bharatantyam dancer, with additional experience in Odissi, Kuchipudi, Kathak, and West African dance, and uses movement and choreography to connect to the deepest parts of the human experience.
Music: Epidemic Sound
Show notes: Xin Yao Lin, Elizabeth Smyth
Episode art by: Sara Schmieder

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Do you have a sense of how much time you spend each day on social media and smartphone? Whether you can live with them or you can't live with them, we know for most of us, these are ingrained parts of our everyday lives. In this episode, we will uncover the life in the age of social media and smartphones, featuring Dr. Daniel Miller and Georgiana Murariu from the University College of London. Stay tuned as you learn about the ‘Why We Post’ project, ‘Anthropology of Smartphones and Smart Ageing, and the ‘AnthroCOVID’ project. We dig into:

How do people use social media differently around the world?
What are some strategies for making research accessible?
What is the impact of smartphones on health?
What are some creative ways that people have documented lives during the pandemic?
How do you get so many anthropologists to work together globally?
What is some advice for researchers who want to do collaborative and comparative work?

Daniel Miller is a Professor of Anthropology at University College London and directed the ‘Why We Post’ project, which investigated the uses and consequences of social media in nine different countries around the world. The project resulted in twelve open access books, one about each fieldsite and two comparative ones. He is currently leading a project called ASSA (The Anthropology of Smartphones and Smart Ageing) which aims to analyze the impact of the smartphone on people’s lives based on 11 simultaneous 16-month ethnographies around the world. He is also the founder of the digital anthropology program at University College London (UCL).
Follow Daniel on @DannyAnth
Georgiana Murariu is a public dissemination officer at UCL, working with Daniel Miller and the team of researchers on the ‘Anthropology of Smartphones and Smart Ageing’. She is currently developing and implementing a dissemination strategy for the project which includes helping create a MOOC based on the project’s findings as well as using social media and digital tools to encourage the public to engage with the project’s findings and anthropology as a discipline.
Follow Georgiana on Twitter: @georgiana_mu
Twitter: @UCLWhyWePost
EPISODE SPONSOR: Check out the world's first Neuromarketing Bootcamp and sign up today with our Affiliate link!
| Use offer code ANTHROLIFE for $500 off: Affiliate link: https://www.popneuro.com/neuromarketing-bootcamp

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This Anthro Life is based on lifting up the voices and value of anthropologists and human scientists in all fields through sharing their stories, thought leadership, struggles, and winding paths. Today we've got something special, where we turn the mic around on our host, Adam Gamwell and hear some of his story on how he is building a career as an anthropologist. TAL's Adam Gamwell recently guested on fellow business anthropologist Keith Kellersohn's new YouTube series Anthro Perspectives, where he interviews anthropologists in industry and businesses about their work. This episode has a bit of everything:

whether you're an anthropology student in school looking to get your first job,
an academic looking to move into industry,
if you're already working somewhere out there and looking to change careers,
or perhaps if you don't work anthropologists and you want to find out and understand value anthropology can bring to your business.

We cover all of this and more in our conversation.
One of the most helpful things in these scenarios I find is hearing other people's stories about how they did it or are doing it, or even how they just stumbled around in the dark and making it up as they went along and still came out with some kind of experience. I think perhaps the latter is closer to my own story.
So I invite you to join me for a chat about career paths, learning to articulate the value anthropology. Social sciences provide to businesses and a bit about why I do what I do. Thanks to Keith for sharing this episode.
Check out the world's first Neuromarketing Bootcamp and sign up today with our Affiliate link!
Neuromarketing Bootcamp by Neuroscientist Matt Johnson and Marketing Director Prince Ghuman
| Use offer code ANTHROLIFE for $500 off: Affiliate link: https://www.popneuro.com/neuromarketing-bootcamp
Episode Art: Sara Schmieder
Music: Epidemic Sounds

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When most people think of forensics or forensic anthropology the first thing that comes to mind are TV shows like CSI or Bones, or maybe in Six Feet Under.
This may sound overly obvious, but people die every day. And this means that every day someone has to deliver dealth notifications to next of kin, especially when people live apart. Often times coroners are the ones who deliver these notifications. Coroners are elected or appointed public officials whose primary duty is to determine and certify cause of death.
and while they have the scientific knowledge to do so, sometimes with the help of apps and digital tools, the social part of dealing with death, both for next of kin and the coroners themselves, is often ignored.
We all experience death at some point but across 2020 more people have been directly impacted by death than ever before due to COVID-19. Meaning that more people than ever are receiving death notifications, which was a difficult conversation even before the pandemic. These notifications are challenging to give, Imagine knocking on a door or picking up the phone delivering the news that someone has passed away. It’s essential work. And it’s not easy. It’s also deeply social and cultural.
This is why I’m talking to Lilly White a forensic anthropologist who focuses on the cultural side of forensics, especially on the lives of coroners and medical examiners and the best ways to handle death notifications. Lily got her PhD from the University of Montana in 2019 and currently owns and operates Bones and Stone Anthroscience with her husband.
So today we’ll be talking about how cultural anthropology can play a role in forensic anthropology especially with death notifications.
Top Takeaways

We dig into the unseen/secret life of coroners (from a cultural perspective)

Death notice work is essential but emotionally difficult so there’s a struggle keeping coroners in the practice

The challenges of scientific training and having to deliver the worst possible news; the mix of scientific and social knowledge

We’ll open the conversation like I often like to do, with Lily’s story and how she found her way into forensics and forensic anthropology, what life is like training to be a coroner, and her path to running her own forensics business today.


Read about Lilly’s work in NYC with COVID-19 deaths (University of Montana)
Lilly’s Instagram: Bone & Stone Anthrosciences (@deathphd) • Instagram photos and videos
What is a Coroner?

Episode art: Sara Schmieder

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Artificial Intelligence. Natural Language Processing. Machine Learning. Big Data. If you've studied Anthropology at all, you'll likely notice these terms don't often get use, unless you happen to be studying one of these areas, like doing an ethnography on artificial intelligence. Yet if these tools are used everyday across millions of applications and software lines of code to make our world run, how might they help us understand ourselves better? Big data often gets used to understand patterns people's behavior and thinking at a high level, and it is common to see people split into segments from this data.
So in the world of market and consumer research you may know that people are commonly categorized into segments or generations - you've likely seen people written about as Millennial or Baby Boomers (OK, Boomer). But what limitations to understanding people are present when putting them into segments and generations and only seeing them from a high level? That's often where ethnography comes in, and where anthropologists like to live with and get to know people on their terms. But there's a huge stretch between massive Big Data sets and individual ethnography, right?
What if there were a way to do ethnography with big data? That is, what if there were a way to be able to understand the nuances of cultural meaning people assign to things from big data sets? What this entails is, in essence quantifying ethnography. And turns out, the key has to do with focusing on meaning. That and some computer science wizardry.
I'm excited today to have on the show one of the pioneers in this field, Ujwal Arkalgud, CEO, cultural anthropologist, and co-founder of Motivbase, a global tech research firm that has cracked the cultural code and developed software and research tools that bring together the analytical power of anthropology and the wide reach of big data.
We’ll dig into

the concept of micro cultures, which are are a set of meanings that make up a market space,

the need to study of meaning and behavior in business, why don’t companies think about meaning as a primary mover?

why traditional market research doesn’t effectively get at meaning,

how the internet has changed the way we make culture and meaning and that betting on cultural homogenization is a trap


Checkout Movitbase here
Microcultures: Understanding the consumer forces that will shape the future of your business
Ujwal's Medium page
If you enjoy This Anthro Life, please consider supporting the show with $5 - $20 a month on Patreon. We're self funded so rely on you to help make the show happen!

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It's no surprise that many of us find ourselves increasingly on mobile devices or the internet. We shop online with ease, connect with friends and family on social media, check the news, and play games. And especially during the era of COVID millions, more people are figuring out if they can work remotely.
In this episode, Adam sits down with Dr. Julie Ancis, one of the world's leading cyberpsychologists to talk about how digital technology in life online is impacting the ways we think and interact with one another. As an interdisciplinary scholar, practitioner, and pioneer in the field, Dr. Julie Ancis is starting as Director and Professor of an exciting new Cyberpsychology program at the New Jersey Institute of Technology and currently writes for the new Cyberpsychology blog for Psychology Today where she's been offering advice on how to practice mental wellbeing as so many of us move online, especially during the time of COVID.
Digital technology can be a blessing and a curse, right? Connecting us in new ways to old friends, but it can also be addicting, cause people to unfairly compare themselves to one another on social media to feel more lonely even. When it comes to things like the news, it can be more difficult to discern fact from opinion. But don't worry. It's not all zoom and gloom. What we'll find is that it's up to us to become discerning critical thinkers about our own psychology and the psychology of others when it comes to life online. And understanding that we do in fact have the tools each and every one of us to become critical thinkers. And, if you feel like you want to learn and get an even better handle on it, there's a brand new cyber psychology program at NJIT launching just around the corner.
Dr. Julie Ancis
Ancis Consulting
New Jersey Institute of Technology Cyberpsychology Program
Psychology Today Cyberpsychology Blog
Catch Julie on:
Twitter
Facebook
Instagram
Checkout my This Anthro Life sister project Mindshare
And our upcoming panel “Ethics are for Everyone: Four Anthropologists Talk Shop on ethics across design, business and technology” Eventbrite registration here

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Ever wonder why certain new ideas stick while others don’t? We often hear a lot about innovation when it comes to new ideas, but really that’s only part of the equation. Psychology, marketing, neuroscience - and yes - anthropology can help us make sense of why some new ideas stick while others fall flat.
On this episode Adam Gamwell talks with neuroscientist Dr. Matt Johnson and Professor of marketing Prince Ghuman about the fascinating role neuroscience plays in our evolving consumer lives. Matt and Prince have a new book out called Blindsight: the (Mostly) Hidden Ways Marketing Reshapes our Brains that explores the emerging field of neuromarketing.
This is a fascinating conversation that gets into the neuroscience, marketing, and psychology of why we consume, why certain kinds of advertisements work for different groups of people, and -something long time listeners of This Anthro Life know - the need to clearly communicate our work as human, Neuro, and social scientists to other disciplines and people in general. And speaking of that, we dig into one of Adam's favorite subjects of all time - Star Wars - to figure out why nostalgia marketing can be so powerful.

Book link: getbook.at/blindsight
Blog link: https://www.popneuro.com/neuromarketing-blog
Bio: https://www.popneuro.com/blog-authors
Twitter: @pop_neuro
Prince Ghuman’s Twitter @princeghuman248
Matt Johnson’s Twitter: @mattjohnsonisme
Instagram: @pop.neuro


on LinkedIn: Prince Ghuman and Matt Johnson, PhD.

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What is it about coffee and tea - two simple drinks - that both transcends culture and is intimately bound up by it? In this episode, Adam talks with Independent documentary filmmaker and coffee anthropologist Brooke Bierhaus about her film "The Connected Cup" which explores the heart of coffee and tea as global human connectors across cultures and backgrounds. For the film Brooke traveled to over 9 countries to film and capture intimate moments, stories, and portraits of human life around the connected cup.
We dig into:

Brooke's process for filming across 9 countries
how coffee and tea provide a window into what makes the good life and happiness
cultures of coffee and tea around the globe
narrative and ethnographic voice as part of filmmaking

https://www.theconnectedcup.com/
https://www.instagram.com/itsbrookebierhaus/
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm10149658/
Brooke's Bio from IMDB: Brooke Bierhaus is an American award-winning documentary filmmaker and visual storyteller. Brooke is known for her feature film, "The Connected Cup", following the heart of coffee and tea around the world as a global language of connection. Brooke has worked and produced stories in 22 countries.

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Today we talk with Voltage Control president Douglas Ferguson and we're taking you beyond the prototype. If you ever run a design sprint, or even if you simply sat down at your desk to think through a really cool idea for a product or a new podcast or how do we improve something in your neighborhood. You started the design process. The question is, how do you go from a good idea to putting something out into the world? Douglas helps us find out.
"You gotta slow down to go fast" - Douglas Ferguson
Voltage Control president, design thinking facilitator and innovation coach Douglas Ferguson recently published a book called Beyond the Prototype that aims to help teams and organizations (and individuals!) go from generating awesome ideas to implementing them. Over the course of our conversation we cover:

the power of systems thinking
seeing variables in the design ecosystem
facilitation as model through systems thinking
The connections between organizations and society.
HR departments using design thinking to point the lens inward
Caution that when we compress ideas there is opportunity to meaning to be lost
Why facilitation is such a crucial role

for example, realizing if you’re using one word to mean two things, or two words to mean the same thing - skilled facilitating brings these discrepancies and differences in meaning into focus for teams to help them overcome roadblocks in understanding


Why so many start up founders get stuck on the idea of scale rather versus pursuing a smaller, but passion-driven idea
How design facilitation sessions are about harnessing the power of the child’s mind - playful energy
and debriefing as a crucial stage in any process: can you answer the question of why did we did this?

Links and Resources mentioned in today's episode
voltagecontrol.com
beyondtheprototype.com
startwithin.com
Beyond the Prototype book
Jake Knapp - Sprint: How to Solve Big Problems and Test New Ideas in Just Five Days
Greg Satell - Cascades: How to Create a Movement that Drives Transformational Change
David Epstein - Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World

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The Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) is a next-generation observatory currently under development that has created a watershed moment for the scientific community and Hawaiian society. This is because of its planned location on Mauna Kea… the most sacred mountain in the Hawaiian religion. But the case of TMT and Mauna Kea is not an outlier because mountain summits often have profound meanings to both indigenous cultural practitioners and technology developers. For example, Kanamota is another sacred mountain that is the site of technological development. It's also known as Mount Saint Helena. Ian Garrett is the co-founder and director of the Center for Sustainable Practice in the Arts (CSPA) and an Associate Professor of Ecological Design for Performance at York University. He's collaborating with indigenous communities to understand and express how contested spaces are experienced through virtual reality. In this second installment of Starstruck, we talk with him about his ongoing collaborations with indigenous communities and explore the use of diminished reality to make the observatories on Mauna Kea disappear.
Starstruck Episode 001
Check out our Prelude episode on the background of the Thirty Meter Telescope, Will We Find God with this Machine?

Produced by Adam Gamwell + Missing Link Studios + Mindshare

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Produced in collaboration with Experience by Design.  We are witnessing a moment in our lifetimes that we will hopefully never see again. The world is gripped in a pandemic of a scale unseen for a  century. Beyond the human toll, we are seeing how healthcare systems  people once had trust in crumble before their eyes. In this episode,  Adam and Gary talk with Shelley White and Meenakshi Verma-Agrawal of the  Simmons University Masters of Public Health program on what we learn  from this moment, and how we can design a more inclusive healthcare  system.
Shelley White is an Assistant Professor of Public Health and Sociology, and Program Director of the Master of Public Health.
Meenakshi Verma-Agrawal is the Assistant Program Director and Associate Professor of Practice at MPH@Simmons.
What  a difference a week makes. Or does it? With the expanding pandemic of COVID-19 disrupting more lives, many here in the United States might  feel caught off guard, or that things have changed to rapidly. Now  health care is a constant concern.
What Shelley White and  Meenakshi Verma-Agrawal help us put in perspective is that even though  we can all get sick, public health and care has always been political,  and who has access to care, and even what diagnoses one gets, have been  deeply tied to class, race, ethnicity and other socioeconomic  classifications. Public health, in fact, is designed. Moments of  pandemic, where a virus crosses borders and bodies with no care for the  social structures we’ve erected, brings to light the radically unequal  way our public health systems are designed. For middle class families  who find themselves for the first time concerned about the lack of  available health care or beds at a hospital, must now contend with the  fact that this is a common reality for many poorer communities and  communities of color.
But moments of crisis like this are also  moments of hope. As Dr. White notes in the conversation, we have to  remember that there are more people who seek equity and change than  those who benefit from the status quo. What's radical is to acknowledge  the racial, social, and economic injustices that frame our public health  system and to then set about to change those inequities for a more just  world.

covid-19
public health
healthcare design
experience design
health inequalities


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Gigaom CEO, publisher and author of "The Fourth Age: Smart Robots, Conscious Computers, and the Future of Humanity" stops by virtually to chat with Adam and guest host Astrid Countee to help us make sense of just what Artificial Intelligence is, what are its promises and limits, and what this means for the possibilities of conscious computing and smart robots. Byron breaks down the philosophies behind our ways of thinking about AI in way that gives us new social tools to approach the deep technological revolution we are undergoing in a more human and even optimistic manner. 

Website: https://byronreese.com/
Twitter: @byronreese
Facebook: @byronreese
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/byronreese

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The Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) is a next-generation observatory currently under development that has created a watershed moment for the scientific community and Hawaiian society. This is because of its planned location on Mauna Kea… the most sacred mountain in the Hawaiian religion. Dr. Mindshare been studying this issue from their perspective as a cultural anthropologist for over a decade. This prelude offers a brief history of the controversy.
TMT reveals the value of systems thinking — or thinking like a social scientist — for understanding the human experience more fully. Over the course of 2020 Mindshare will be collaborating with anthropologist Adam Gamwell, of This Anthro Life, alongside thought leaders from various disciplines to provide another level of insight as this story unfolds. Everything Dr. Mindshare posts can be used freely under a Creative Commons-ShareAlike license, including the audio version of this paper below. Feel free to register/log in to Mindshare if you would like to follow this project and join this conversation about TMT.
Link: Original Article/Transcript: https://www.mindshare.app/home/provocations-public/starstruck-how-science-sparked-an-uprising
Twitter: www.twitter.com/drmindshare

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Bill Fleming stops by to chat with Adam about branding, marketing and design. Bill is a Boston-based Independent Brand & Marketing Strategist, and Business Consultant for Designers.
On this episode we talk about what brands are, how the cultural work of branding has changed in recent decades with the advent of new and easier to use technologies, and how we can think about brands as conversations - not just between businesses and customers but also between businesses.
Transcript of this episode
Billfleming.com
Bill on Twitter
Ideas and Articles we reference
https://www.commarts.com/columns/the-sensitive-anthropology-of-branding
https://raleighgreeninc.com/blog/2011/07/31/an-anthropologists-approach-to-branding/
https://lippincott.com/insight/b2b-brands-in-the-human-era/
This episode is brought to you in part by Experience By Design, a new sister podcast Adam makes with sociologist of work Dr. Gary David. ExD explores all things at the intersections of experience and work, from employee experience at Amazon to escapee experience with Escape the Room adventures to making people love Jet Blue despite hating airports. It's a fascinating world, come explore it with us. 

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A happy New Years! Enjoy this mini-episode with Adam and Dr. Ryan Collins exploring happiness and the good life according the Aztecs. New Years is a great time to reflect on where we've been, where we're going, and what's it all for. We find some answers and surprising wisdom with the Aztecs. 

Purcell - The Aztecs on Happiness
Carrasco - Daily Life of the Aztecs

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Special guest podcast! - Adam Gamwell guests on Trending in Education with Mike Palmer.  
For this week’s extra, Mike is joined by Design  Anthropologist and Podcaster, Dr Adam Gamwell, to explore how robots,  science fiction, and anthropology are interrelated. In a free flowing  and imaginative conversation, we explore how the narratives and secular  myths of pop culture and our collective consciousness provide insights  into how we understand what it means to be human, how we engage with the  Other, and how we grapple to understand how new technologies are  driving profound changes to the world around us.
Listen in for an illuminating conversation. We hope you enjoy!
Catch more great episodes of Trending in Education over on Stitcher

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Why More Security Never Feels like Enough
Storyslamming Anthropology Series, Story 3. Written and Performed by Astrid Countee
In recent years, the terms Public and Anthropology have been paired with more frequency. Yet, what this seemingly suspect partnership is, how it could function, and what goals it could have are still in relative formation. Today, public anthropology might mean several different things ranging from jargony lectures that are “open to the public”, digital media (like blogs, videos, or podcasts) that are generally accessible online, or presentations given to an informant public on work produced by a researcher. Large voids remain. We ask, then, why not turn to already publicly oriented writing for inspiration? What if “Guns, Germs and Steel” (Diamond 1999), “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind”, (Harai 2015) or “Freakonomics” (Levitt and Dubner 2009) were written by anthropologists?
What if we told you that once upon a time, they were? When Margaret Mead wrote “Coming of Age in Samoa” in 1928, anthropologists and non-anthropologists alike flocked to her work because of its accessibility - and felt topical relevance. Could such an achievement be attainable today?
While some scholars might reject an approach based on “popular” writing, we argue that the enormous success of the above books (as well as the podcasts, YouTube videos and Netflix series based on them) demonstrates a general interest in theories of humankind, what it means to be human in the contemporary world, and throughout history. We ask why have anthropologists not followed suit? Despite the massive amount of scholarship published each year by anthropologists, none seem to crack that elusive space between rigorous research and “pop-science.” While there are trade offs between academic complexity and writing for a lay audience, the theme of the 2017 American Anthropological Association conference, "Anthropology Matters!" speaks to our need to talk across (and storytell) different worlds. Our goal with this experimental panel was to invoke the public spirit of Franz Boas, Margaret Mead, Melville Herskovits and others to speak to 21st century concerns from a comparative perspective in clear language. We picked papers that revealed juxtapositions, seemingly counter- or non- intuitive links between subjects, objects, ideas, emotions, practices, or traditions that we felt can intrigue, educate, and delight participants. The goal of this series of to expand our genres of sharing ethnographic and anthropological insight. We hope you enjoy!
Story 1: #MeToo: Stories in the Age of Survivorship by Emma Backe
Story 2: Fear and Loathing in Truth or Consequences by Taylor Genovese

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in this episode, Adam and guest host Leslie Walker talk with visual anthropologist and film producer Chris Chan, producer of the 100 Years of Beauty series on YouTube. If you haven't seen this series (or some of the spinoffs from companies like Vogue and Allure, definitely take a few minutes to enjoy). As an ethnographer, he also makes a wonderful behind-the-scenes series that documents the research he and his team does for each country called Chanthropology. 
We cover 

the development of the 100 YOB series, 
vernacular media - the kind of content that people become inspired by, and then in turn, make their own versions of. 
we dig into Chanthropology, Chris' behind the scenes ethnographic videos on why the producers and makeup artists make the aesthetic choices that they do. 
how to think about beauty and aesthetics as political, not merely as passive consumerism.
and yes, at some point in the episode, Chris mentions the Human Centipede. But for the reasons you'd think. It's amazing. (his comment, not the film)


This Anthro Life is produced and (lightly) edited by Adam Gamwell. I'm a small team of 1, so if you get something out of this show please consider supporting TAL on Patreon and helping make it happen. Even $5 a month makes a huge difference and me and our thousands of listeners are so grateful :). 
If you've read this far I'll be looking for production help soon! Transcription correction, content editing, social media and marketing - so if you've got some experience or want to learn the trade and want to help out, drop me a line at [email protected]. 
Chris is Director of Content at Cut.com
100 Years of Beauty and the Beast of YouTube with Chris Chan
Episode 129


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At long last we are back! In this episode host Adam Gamwell talks with Design Researcher and Strategist Amy Santee. 
This is one of these conversations that's a few years in the making. Adam has been following Amy's work for a while now both on her blog anthropologizing.com where she writes about anthropology in industry, design and business, on LinkedIn and other social media sites as well as at conferences sharing the good work of doing anthropology in industry. Adam and Amy discuss what Design Research is and how it works, how it aligns and differs from traditional anthropology and ethnography, and how tactics and methods can be applied both in industry or academia. 
Amy Santee is a design research and strategy consultant who helps teams build products, services and brands through an understanding of people, context and experience. Trained as an anthropologist, Amy uses a human-centered lens to make sense of complex problem spaces and create value for others. She has worked primarily in digital product design, innovation and strategy, in areas such as ecommerce, entertainment, retail, home improvement, health care, enterprise software, and consumer tech. Amy is active in the applied anthropology community and blogs about design, business, organizational culture and careers at anthropologizing.com. She also provides career advising services and presentations to groups on these topics. You can learn more about her on LinkedIn or visit her website, amysantee.com.
Transcript of the episode here
As always, your reviews and support mean the world to us and help the show continue. Please help sponsor the show with a monthly or onetime donation on Anchor or Patreon.
Episode 128


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In this special interview, TAL's Ryan Collins talks with scholar, activist and artist Jason de Leon about the ongoing humanitarian crisis at the US-Mexico border. In addition to these roles, de Leon is a MacArthur Fellow and National Geographic Explorer. He uses his platforms to create public dialogue, exhibitions, and media about undocumented migration, the human costs of the US immigration policy known as 'deterrence through force.' This very human conversation reveals the emotional toll, and sometimes trauma, that comes with precarious work on the border with undocumented migrants, smugglers, shady legality and deadly terrain as well as deep questions and reflections about privilege, position, and power. 
Full Transcript of the episode here
Checkout some of Jason's projects
http://www.hostileterrain94.com/
http://undocumentedmigrationproject.com/
MacArthur Fellow Video
Episode 127



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In this episode Adam Gamwell talks with Alex Limpaecher and LaiYee Ho, co-Founders of Delve. While Delve is a qualitative research suite, to help code transcripts, find insight, and pull actionable insights from data, the conversation takes focus on the subject of research. Specifically, the driving question is: how can qualitative and quantitative data work together? Here, academic and industry methodologies with anthropology are put into conversation leading to insights and actionable steps from social data. 
Transcript for the episode: https://www.thisanthrolife.com/delve/
From the Delve Site:
Delve is an online tool that helps you code and analyze transcripts from in-depth interviews or focus groups. 
Make your research process structured and transparent by creating a coding structure that evolves into your final insights.
Delve is more streamlined than coding with spreadsheets and documents, and more intuitive than traditional CAQDAS software.
Delve tool: https://delvetool.com/
Episode 126

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For this episode, we're doing something a little different. I'll be your guest. I got interviewed by the wonderful Sarah Dunigan on her podcast Anthro Dish, a weekly podcast about food identity and culture about design anthropology and some of the research I did on quinoa production and conservation in Peru for my PhD. I'll let Sarah intro the episode and run it unedited on my end. Just wanted to drop in and let you know we're here and in the spirit of helping our fellow anthro podcasters cross promote and get their good work out there. 
Sign up for our NEW Weekly Newsletter here,
Check out Sarah's podcast Anthro Dish and the episode page from our conversation on Quinoa Production and Design Anthropology

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In this episode, Adam and Aneil reflect on Aneil’s fieldwork in climate finance. Climate finance is an area of finance focused on mobilizing investment for climate change solutions, namely infrastructure that is sustainable. Aneil’s research is centered on the growth of the green bond market within climate finance. Green bonds are debt instruments that finance infrastructure deemed sustainable by the climate finance community, such as public transit, green building, renewable energy, and water infrastructure (Tripathy 2017).
We analyze some snippets of interviews with climate finance practitioners and reflect on why notions of sacrifice appear so prominent in how they approach finance. It is unexpected, provocative, and humanizing. 
Max Weber Spirit of Capitalism and the Protestant Ethic
Definition of Finance from Mirriam Webster Dictionary
For more on Sacrifice: 
Marcel Mauss and Hubert Spencer On Sacrifice
This Anthro Life: Making Sense of Finance: Boundaries, Institutions, and power and Caitlin Zaloom

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Storyslamming Anthropology Series, Story 2. Written and Performed by Taylor Genovese
In recent years, the terms Public and Anthropology have been paired with more frequency. Yet, what this seemingly suspect partnership is, how it could function, and what goals it could have are still in relative formation. Today, public anthropology might mean several different things ranging from jargony lectures that are “open to the public”, digital media (like blogs, videos, or podcasts) that are generally accessible online, or presentations given to an informant public on work produced by a researcher. Large voids remain. We ask, then, why not turn to already publicly oriented writing for inspiration? What if “Guns, Germs and Steel” (Diamond 1999), “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind”, (Harai 2015) or “Freakonomics” (Levitt and Dubner 2009) were written by anthropologists? 
What if we told you that once upon a time, they were? When Margaret Mead wrote “Coming of Age in Samoa” in 1928, anthropologists and non-anthropologists alike flocked to her work because of its accessibility - and felt topical relevance. Could such an achievement be attainable today? 
While some scholars might reject an approach based on “popular” writing, we argue that the enormous success of the above books (as well as the podcasts, YouTube videos and Netflix series based on them) demonstrates a general interest in theories of humankind, what it means to be human in the contemporary world, and throughout history. We ask why have anthropologists not followed suit? Despite the massive amount of scholarship published each year by anthropologists, none seem to crack that elusive space between rigorous research and “pop-science.” While there are trade offs between academic complexity and writing for a lay audience, the theme of the 2017 American Anthropological Association conference, "Anthropology Matters!" speaks to our need to talk across (and storytell) different worlds. Our goal with this experimental panel was to invoke the public spirit of Franz Boas, Margaret Mead, Melville Herskovits and others to speak to 21st century concerns from a comparative perspective in clear language. We picked papers that revealed juxtapositions, seemingly counter- or non- intuitive links between subjects, objects, ideas, emotions, practices, or traditions that we felt can intrigue, educate, and delight participants. The goal of this series of to expand our genres of sharing ethnographic and anthropological insight. We hope you enjoy! 
Story 1: #MeToo: Stories in the Age of Survivorship by Emma Backe


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Welcome to This Anthro Life x EPIC 2019. This is the first episode in our 2019 collaboration with the Ethnographic Praxis in Industry Community or EPIC. EPIC is a professional organization that brings together ethnographers and social science practitioners across fields like user experience research and design, marketing, computer science, academia, and more. This year’s conference theme is agency, which is fascinating given the rapid rise of artificial intelligence, voice recognition software and platforms like Alexa or Hey Google, and controversies over privacy and sale of people’s personal data. 
Today host Adam Gamwell and guest host Matt Artz virtually sit down with the EPIC conference chairs Julia Haines and Lisa Di Carlo.
Julia conducts research at the intersection of technology, innovation, and human practices. She is a Senior User Experience Researcher at Google where she leads UX research for a team of over 400 designers and engineers, bringing an inclusive, human-centered perspective to the project. She is a co-founder of the Responsible AI License (RAIL) initiative and an inaugural member of the ACM’s Future of Computing Academy. 
Lisa is an anthropologist and lecturer in the Sociology Department at Brown University. She teaches courses on design anthropology, applied qualitative research methods and research ethics. The common threads throughout her research are migration and displacement, .from labor migration, to religious conversion as migration and displacement, to social innovation through the migration of ideas. When not preparing a massive conference, she conducts ethnographic research primarily in the Mediterranean area, most frequently in Turkey and Turkish diaspora communities. 
We have a wide ranging conversation that covers questions such as 

what agency looks like in industry and classrooms, 
what responsibilities corporations have to the agency of users, 
how we can make computing more equitable, 
the pace of research in academia and industry, 
how students and other professionals looking to move into industry ethnography and research can get a leg up. 


As always, we want to hear from you! Drop us a voice message on Anchor or a message on Twitter @thisanthrolife or email at [email protected]. If you get some value out of listening to the show, please consider supporting us at Patreon.com/thisanthrolife or on Anchor.fm with a dollar or a few bucks a month, whatever you can afford. Your support makes this show possible. Thank you!

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Adam sits down (in a cafe, so this is live, people) with Jay Hasbrouck, Founder and Principal of Filament Insight and Innovation and author of Ethnographic Thinking: From Method to Mindset, a how-to guide for anyone looking to better understand and apply many of the methods ethnographers learn to their own businesses and practices. We talk through some of the techniques Jay covers in his book as well as talk candidly about the world of consulting and client relationships. 

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Adam and Andrea continue the conversation with Julie Lesnik, author of Edible Insects and Human Evolution, but this time they’re going prehistoric. Oh, and they’re talking about gorillas and chimpanzees too. Learn how to fish for termites, why we wish we had more baskets, and why any of those things matter to understanding human evolution. Edible Insects, part 3
Check out discussion questions here: https://www.thisanthrolife.com/insects/
More about Julie:
https://www.entomoanthro.org/about-julie.html
https://www.octopusandape.com/

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Think you could eat a cricket? What about a spider? In this episode of TAL Adam Gamwell and guest host Andrea Eller are chatting with Julie Lesnik about her new book, Edible Insects and Human Evolution. Listen in as they discuss why Americans tend to be so grossed out by bugs, and if it’s always been that way. Edible Insects, part 2
We know many of you are educators, and some are already using TAL in the classroom. Great! To help support the educational impact of TAL, we are including some discussion questions from each episode. Please feel free to use these (in whole or part) for classroom discussion prompts, essay questions, or larger research inspirations. We think we cover a lot of quality anthropological knowledge on TAL, and we hope you think so too! 
TAL and their contributors are dedicated to the value of audio scholarship. Let us know how you end up using these questions in the comments below. We’d like to know how you want us to make more educational materials in the future. Check out the discussion questions here: http://www.thisanthrolife.com/insects


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Edible Insects part 1. Will crickets ever catch on as an alternative source of protein in the United States? How about cockroach “milk”? Why do people in so many parts of the world NOT eat insects? Where does that disgust for or against eating certain things come from? Adam is joined once again by guest host and biological anthropologist Andrea Eller to dig into edible insects, what just might be a new marketing idea for McDonald's, and how insects reveal underlying cultural trends of disgust, environmental resource use, gender and economic trends.

Part 2 of The Social Life of Robots, with Emma Backe. In this episode hosts Adam Gamwell, Ryan Collins and Emma Backe tackle sex and gender norms underlying digital voice assistants like Siri, Cortana and Alexa, the history and gendering of science and technology studies (STS) and what this means in an era of AI and robots, and third, theories of rights such as the right to work, the right to sex and how robots clarify and confound these issues.

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Welcome to CultureMade: Heritage Enterprise in a World on the Move, an audio collaboration between the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, the American Anthropological Association, and This Anthro Life Podcast. 
In this fifth and final episode, Adam Gamwell, Leslie Walker, and Ryan Collins focus on cultural survival, a complex subject framed by migration, misconceptions over language and identity, as well as by resilience of the human spirit across borders. With a subject like cultural survival, the question comes to mind, what factors threaten shared heritage, tradition, and disband communities? Here we are joined by Alejandro Santiago González (Ixil), and Mercedes M. Say Chaclan (K’iche) representatives of Washington, DC-based Mayan League, an organization working to sustain Maya culture, communities, and lands. Alejandro and Mercedes share their experiences and give insight into the ongoing struggles Maya peoples face today, including issues of language, translation, and communication for indigenous immigrants who are currently in the United States. Helping to elucidate this subject, we are joined by Ph.D. Folklorist Emily Socolov, a frequent collaborator with the Smithsonian Institution’s Division of Folklife and Cultural Heritage and an Executive Director of the Non-Profit Mano a Mano: Mexican Culture Without Borders, serving the Mexican immigrant community in New York. 

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In the pop culture imagination, perceptions of robots and AI occupy a space of mystery and intrigue that gravitates between harbingers of impending societal collapse and bringers of mythical salvation. However, where does contemporary science and technology stand? Moreover, how do the social experiences of the past and in the present color our understandings of emerging technological realities? On this episode, hosts Adam Gamwell and Ryan Collins are joined by Emma Backe to discuss these questions and more. In Part I of Making Robots Human our conversation embraces the humor of pop culture AI while making room to address that our fears and hopes of robotic futures are revealing of our complex social concerns today. 

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Welcome to CultureMade: Heritage Enterprise in a World on the Move, an audio collaboration from the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, the American Anthropological Association, and This Anthro Life Podcast. In this episode, Adam Gamwell, Leslie Walker, and Ryan Collins dive into the topic of curation. What does it mean to put on a festival or put on a museum exhibit? How can we understand culture on display and introduce outsiders to other social realms? Sharing their narratives and experiences with different forms of curation are Diana Baird N’Diaye, Cultural Specialist and Curator at the Smithsonian Center for Culture and Folklife, Arman Atoyan, CEO and Founder of the (AR) and virtual reality (VR) app and game development company Arloopa, and Pablo Girona, a researcher from Tucuman, Argentina who studies cultural heritage in Catalonia and Quebec. To learn more about Diana Baird N’Diaye’s work visit: https://folklife.si.edu/authors/diana-n-diaye. And, to learn more about Arman Atoyan and Arloopa, visit: http://arloopa.com/

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On this episode of This Anthro Life, hosts Adam Gamwell and Matt Artz are joined by assistant professor and musicologist Nate Sloan and music journalist and songwriter Charlie Harding, the hosts of Switched on Pop, a podcast about the making and meaning of popular music. On Switched on Pop, Charlie and Nate break down pop songs to figure out what makes a hit and what is its place in culture. They also help listeners find "a-ha" moments in the music, make you laugh, dance, and dig deeper into the world of pop music. Here Nate and Charlie speak with TAL on the study of popular music, the appropriation of musical elements, what defines “pop” and how that is changing. This episode focuses on Nate and Charlie’s choice to use podcasting as the narrative venue to house their storytelling and dives into the value of deep listening. Tune in to hear more. To learn more about Switched on Pop check out: www.switchedonopop.com and
http://gideonandhubcap.com

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Welcome to CultureMade: Heritage Enterprise in a World on the Move , an audio collaboration from the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, the American Anthropological Association and This Anthro Life Podcast

In the US, fashion has been relegated to large impersonal retail spaces and increasingly online stores. Fashion in the US, as many know all too well, is transactional. The sense of community one has through clothing is often expressed through style though it is exceedingly rare for truly deep relationships to develop between the designer and the purchaser, even if an article of clothing is commissioned. But, community and fashion can be much more integrated.

With this episode, we invite you into the conversations we had with participants in the Crafts of African Fashion program at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in 2018. We speak with Soumana Saley a Nigerian leather worker and designer, Cynthia Sands and her mentee Tomara Watkins, also known as Tam, two fashion designers who work between the United States and the African continent, and the program’s curator Diana Baird N’Diaye. This episode was broken into three underlying themes of African fashion, and craft production focused on: the local marketplace, transnational and international fashion trends, and the relationships between consumers and producers within a community.

The Crafts of African Fashion is an initiative promoting the continuity of heritage arts in Africa, exploring the vital role of cultural enterprises in sustaining communities and connecting generations on the continent and throughout the diaspora. The activities for this portion of the Festival took place in the Folklife Festival Marketplace.

About our Speakers:

Diana N’Diaye is a Cultural Specialist and Curator at the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage. She holds a PhD in anthropology and visual studies from The Union Institute.

Soumana Saley is a leather craft artisan from the West African country of Niger. He currently lives in Millersburg, Pennsylvania running his own business. You can learn more about Soumana and see his products on his online store accessible at https://www.facebook.com/pg/soumanasaleyonline/ and you can learn more about Soumana’s school at https://www.ngodima.org/.

Cynthia Sands is an African American textile artist and businesswoman in Washington, DC. Sands’ art career includes experimenting and blending contemporary and original African artistic methods, materials, and dying techniques. She also works closely with African artisans to sustain the use of indigenous art and craft making tradition for social development, income generation, skills-transfer, and art education. You can learn more about Cynthia and her work at the website: www.entuma.com.

Tomara (Tam) Watkins, is a mentee of Cynthia Sands and is the founder of Loza Tam, a hair accessory line created in collaboration Ghanaian women artisans and entrepreneurs. Visit Tam’s online store at www.Lozatam.com.

Adam Gamwell is the co-host and executive producer of the This Anthro Life (TAL). He is the founder and director of Missing Link Studios www.missinglink.studio a new media collective dedicated to producing creative media for social impact. Adam holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from Brandeis University.

Ryan Collins is the co-host and editor of This Anthro Life (TAL). Ryan holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from Brandeis University.

Leslie Walker is the project manager of the Public Education Initiative at the AAA. He served as a special guest host, collecting stories during the Folklife Festival the forthcoming podcast series with This Anthro Life.

Contact Us

Contact Adam and Ryan at thisanthrolife -at - gmail.com or individually at adam -at- thisanthrolife.com or ryan -at- thisanthrolife.com
Find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram @thisanthrolife.

All of our content can be found on thisanthrolife.com. Be sure to leave us a review, let us know if you like the show. We love to hear from you.

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“I hope that more people will listen to more music outside of their own little comfort zone. I think that we enrich ourselves, we are better human beings when you open up your heart to other cultures, other music, to other worlds to other points of view. Because ultimately, as I said in the very beginning, we’re all the same. We’re all humans, and we all can connect in different ways with the things that we like. But, when we see it through the eyes of a different person. Then we better ourselves. We enrich ourselves.”

Welcome to CultureMade: Heritage Enterprise in a World on the Move , an audio collaboration from the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, the American Anthropological Association and This Anthro Life Podcast.

The above quote comes from Betto Arcos, music journalist and host of NPR’s The Cosmic Bario. Music, whether you create it or are an avid listener, pulls you in a deep sensory allure. The connection humans make with music is so deep that it can impact us physically and serve as a key point of return for our memories. As our guests from the Smithsonian Folklife Festival can attest, as much as it conjures deep feelings and memories, we learn something through the experience of music. Joining the distinct artists together in their views on music is a central theme, that music can help us overcome social difference. For Betto, this recognition is central to his desire to create music. Betto Arcos, in his own words:

“I think that’s ultimately why I do it [create music]. I feel like there is a responsibility. There is a sense of a higher reason, why I do this. But deep down it’s also because I love music. Because I’m passionate about it and I feel like we can only do better as a human race, as people, if we know about each other a little more.”

About our Speakers

Betto Arcos is a music journalist based in Los Angeles, host of The Cosmic Barrio, a reporter for NPR, and regular reporter for PRI. You can learn more about Betto at: http://bettoarcos.com/

Or follow him on Twitter @ArcosBetto

Amy Horowitz is an activist, promoter, feminist scholar, Roadwork team putting women artists and musicians on the road, the first multiracial, multicultural coalition. You can learn more about Amy Horowitz at: https://amyhorowitz.org/

And read about RoadWork https://www.roadworkcenter.org/

Arpan Thakur Chakraborty, Rabi Das Baul, Girish Khyapa and Mamoni Chitrakar are the Baul performers, mystic minstrels from the Indian state of Bengal. The Bauls are known for devotional songs that honor the divine within. Additionally, Mamoni Chitrakar is a traditional Indian patachitra singer and painter from West Bengal. You can learn more about their causes at: www.banglanatak.com

The purpose of this series is to create narratives linking the diverse peoples, perspectives, and activities across the Festival from a series of micro ethnographies like those above. The open format interview style allowed participants to define in their own words the relationships between their artisanship, musical ability, or experiences and how migration and movement shape their lives. Conversations with curators and other researchers supplemented the interviews with Festival participants and helped us to identify the research involved in selecting participants and the presentation of cultural heritage for the Festival. This approach allows us to foreground a central or thematic conversation and narrate events and activities at the Festival that listeners can paint in their minds as if they had been there to experience it.

About Our Hosts

Adam Gamwell is the co-host and executive producer of the This Anthro Life (TAL). Adam holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from Brandeis University. He founded and produces narrative media out of Missing Link Studios.

Ryan Collins is the co-host and editor of This Anthro Life (TAL). Ryan holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from Brandeis University.

Leslie Walker is the project manager of the Public Education Initiative at the AAA

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Welcome to CultureMade: Heritage Enterprise in a World on the Move, an audio collaboration series from the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, the American Anthropological Association and This Anthro Life Podcast.

Join hosts Adam Gamwell, Leslie Walker and Ryan Collins as they explore what it means to craft, form, and make culture in a world defined by movement, migration, and changing borders. Step into behind the scenes conversations and candid interviews from the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Hear from artists, fashion designers, dancers, weavers, and craftsmen who give life to heritage and shape the many worlds of traditional culture in a planet on the move.

"Art is a Movement" How does art help contribute to political protest? Should art never be sold for money? How can dance unify a community? How are traditions like calligraphy and traditional dances passed on between generations?

In this episode, we overview the subject of art as informed by representatives from The Armenian program and the Catalonia program of the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. The above ideas on art put forth by Ruben Malayan encompasses the complex feelings, ideas, and understandings that art not only evokes within society but also those of who seek to understand art from a more holistic perspective.

Art is complex. Though what counts as art within a society is often recognizable to insiders, the rationale as to why is often much more difficult to discern. Anthropology, at its best, can help us explore the complexities of art. Through critical dialogue, anthropologists can ask what it means to experience art from the vantage point of different cultures and explore the messages that the artist intended to convey.

The purpose of this series is to create narratives linking the diverse peoples, perspectives, and activities across the Festival from a series of micro ethnographies like those above. The open format interview style allowed participants to define in their own words the relationships between their artisanship, musical ability, or experiences and the ways in which migration and movement shape their lives. Conversations with curators and other researchers supplemented the interviews with Festival participants and helped us to identify the research involved in selecting participants and the presentation of cultural heritage for the Festival. This approach allows us to foreground a central or thematic conversation and to narrate events and activities at the Festival that listeners can paint in their minds as if they had been there to experience it.

Read more and see photos here: https://www.thisanthrolife.com/art-is-a-movement/

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This Anthro Life is opening the conversation with EPIC (the Ethnographic Praxis in Industry Community) on the theme of Evidence. Taking center stage at this year's Annual EPIC Conference. “Evidence” is a subject of increasing social importance in today’s political climate. What constitutes evidence and when it is found to be credible all have far-reaching consequences. Because of this, practicing anthropologists are exploring concerns of and around evidence through experimentation, new methodologies, and research innovations that speak to contemporary ethnographic practice.

Joining TAL to open the conversation on evidence is Dawn Nafus and Tye Rattenbury, two of the EPIC 2018 Conference organizers. Our discussion with Dawn and Tye focused on the relationship of evidence in their work as ethnographic and data research scientists. Dawn and Tye work at the intersection of computational and ethnographic approaches.

Dig in Deeper Here: https://www.thisanthrolife.com/epic-evidence/

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Andrea Eller is a biological anthropologist driven by a question of how do our bodies continue to react to things today? In other words, how does evolution continue to impact us and why is this important? To address this, Andrea Eller looks at how bodies respond and adapt to circumstances of chronic stresses. The stresses that Eller looks at, however, are both physiological and social. Not only does Andrea postulate explanations to account for change over time in relation to more visible circumstances like ecology, tool use, and disease. But, Andrea also considers less visible issues like, class, race, and gender as critical factors that also impact our physiology over time.

Evolution Responds, it does not React

One of the compelling predicaments that Eller discusses with Adam has  to do with current data on primates. For example, data from captive  primates are excluded from wider studies. In part, the problem is that  there is a growing population of captive primates. With more an more  primates being born into captivity, there is a concern that adaptation  is occurring in many primates. As Eller notes, the pressures to adapt in  one environmental setting or another (called selective pressures) will  be different. That means looking at the same species of primates  requires context. Whether coming from different settings, the wild,  scientific laboratories, or zoos, data on primate adaptations will  differ.
Similarly, humans use clothing as a tool for adapting to different  environments. Down or wool coats would seem out of place at Miami beach  just as scuba gear would not be an appropriate choice for reaching base  camp at Mount Everest even though each of these clothing options  reflects different human adaptations.
Mindfulness Training – Outreach and Engagement
One of the most captivating aspects of Eller’s conversation was her  genuine passion for public outreach. For Eller, it is an ongoing  struggle to help get the public to see evolution in a different light.  Too often she sees a perspective of humans being the masters of the  planet, rather than one group of participants within it. However,  combating this perspective (among others) requires outreach and  engagement. For Eller, this begins with engaging kids. “Kids haven’t had  all of the primate educated out of them,” she says. They are more open  to experience awe and be captivated out of curiosity when seeing  examples not only of our evolutionary past but the present as well.

Read more: https://www.thisanthrolife.com/andrea-eller/

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When TAL first interviewed Hamilton Morris, it was shortly after he and his production team had finished season 1 of Hamilton’s Pharmacopoeia. Now, Morris has completed two seasons of his critically acclaimed show on VICE. This time on TAL, Morris has a more reflective tone.
With Adam Gamwell and Ryan Collins, Morris shares his experiences as a filmmaker in traditional and counter-culture environments. These experiences have given Morris a unique window into psychedelics, underground pharmaceutical research, and the ethics of sharing information. The last point hits home for many anthropologists and social researchers, who also must be wary of the unintended consequences of sharing information. Depending on what is at stake, information can endanger informants and friends. Similarly, journalists and ethnographers are confronted

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Dr. Tricia Wang sees her work consulting as sitting at the crossroads of data and social justice. As a global tech ethnographer, Dr. Wang is obsessed with how technology and humans shape each other. In her own words, she wants to know, “How do the tools we use enable us to do more of what humans do, like socializing, emoting, and collaborating? And how do human perspectives shape the technology we build and how we use it?” 
Said differently, Dr. Tricia Wang’s expertise inhabits a gray space between industry and the academy. A space where many social scientists do not find easy comfort. Yet, Dr. Wang’s very candid enthusiasm is enough to draw in even the most ardent skeptics. In her own words, Dr. Wang has “always been between worlds” seeing the best in both. Though academics tend to value known discovery methods, and excel, they are less likely to engineer new prototypes. 

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Welcome back listeners! Adam and Ryan have taken some time away as of late to finish and defend their dissertations. Now that Ryan is done, and Adam defends in just one week (so close!), TAL is getting back into gear with new content in the development and production stages. Now, another key detail, several episodes recorded earlier this spring are also on their way. Some of these are guest interviews (including a second interview with Hamilton Morris of HBO’s VICE and Hamilton’s Pharmacopeia) as well as the remainder of our Story Slamming Ethnography episodes (we haven’t forgotten about those). All that is to say, there is an extensive repertoire of content coming your way, including an upcoming collaboration with EPIC. Speaking of…
With this episode of This Anthro Life, we are joined by Dr. Alexandra Mack and collaborative guest host Matt Artz. Together we interview Alex and explore her story. What makes our discussion with Alex so distinct is her breadth of research and applic

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Thanks to the Society for Applied Anthropology (SfAA) for having Adam Gamwell and Matt Artz of This Anthro Life present at the annual meeting in Philadelphia. We presented as part of the New Methods, Interventions And Approaches session.

Our paper title was Consulting Podcasters: Prototyping a Democratic Tool for Multiple Voices, Storytelling and Solution Finding. You can read it here. 

The session was recorded for the SfAA Podcasting project.

The simple idea behind the notion of consulting podcasting is that we  are using the podcast format to intentionally bring together  professionals to co-create meaningful conversations that provides expert  advice through the anthropological paradigm of the emic and etic.  Consulting podcasting applies the flexible, digital recording techniques  of podcasting with a process of in-the-moment of real-time discovery.  To that end we askew rigid preconfigured narratives or storyboards in  favor of an open-format conversation that mimic the methods of  semi-structured interviews. We allow room for the conversation to  breathe.
With openness we let guest stories speak and allow them to unfold  along their own path, on their own terms, without imposing our own  worldviews or narratives. In the process, we learn of a speaker’s  insider perspective, their motivations, and methods. We then compliment  the insider perspective with our outsider perspectives – as voices that  encourage deeper reflection and context building around issues of key  importance to the guest, to co-create a larger meta-narrative that makes  up the consultative engagement.
Check out Adam's and Matt's Creative Consulting and Production work at Missing Link Studios

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On this episode of This Anthro Life, hosts Ryan Collins and Adam Gamwell are joined by TAL correspondent and guest host Astrid Countee and by a very special guest, Valorie Aquino. They joined us to talk about the 2017 March for Science. Valorie is one of the key organizing 30’s something scientists who helped make the 2017 march a reality. As she conveys in this episode, doing so was no easy task. This required countless late nights, missed social occasions, hours of frustration, and unfortunately, the all to occasional naysayers. Yet, Valorie’s story is one complete perseverance, rooted in a deep passion for science that began at an early age

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Welcome listeners to the second installment of our Diversity and Inclusion crossover series, bringing together This Anthro Life with Brandeis University. For those of you who are new to the show, This Anthro Life (TAL) was launched as a scholar-practitioner program designed to bring anthropological and social science research and thinking to interdisciplinary and public audiences. The original idea behind the podcast is to use our skill sets and toolkits  as anthropologists to translate and socialize data, cultural patterns, and research into accessible open format dialogues and conversations that provided solutions for social impact and actionable insight.

On this episode, TAL hosts Adam Gamwell and Ryan Collins are joined by Dr. Janine de Novais  of the Harvard Graduate School of Education (HGSE) to expand on the  ideas behind “Brave Community” (discussed in episode 1 of the Diversity +  Inclusion in Higher Ed series) and to understand the major hurdles she  finds with diversity and inclusion in higher education today. With her  dissertation Dr. de Novais explored the ways in which classroom  experiences in higher education do and do not contribute to deep  learning that influences students understandings of race. Dr. de Novais’  scholarship also focuses on a practice-based question: what kind of  learning about race do college students need given our racially diverse  and deeply unequal society? Her answer: Brave Community–a  pedagogy that relies on academic grounding, the distinctive culture of a  classroom, to support students. As we learned in our interview, much of  Dr. de Novais’ interests today are influenced from life experiences. 
Read more here on thisanthrolife.com

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Welcome to Story Slamming Anthropology. This series features both innovative narrative and audio performance drawing on the deep toolkit and methods of anthropology.  The goal with Story Slamming Anthropology is to invoke the public  facing spirit of Franz Boas, Margaret Mead, Melville Herskovits and many  others to speak to 21st century concerns from a comparative perspective  in clear language. The narratives here are based on juxtapositions,  seemingly counter- or non- intuitive linking’s of subjects, objects,  ideas, emotions, practices, or traditions that will intrigue, educate,  and delight. In doing so, the goal of these stories is to bring  anthropological storytelling to wider audiences and to demonstrate that  anthropology matters today more than ever.
This narrative, #MeToo: Stories in the Age of Survivorship, is written and performed by Emma Louise Backe. 
The reckoning of #MeToo has  ushered in a renewed politics of storytelling, one whose capillary reach  and discursive power requires critical analysis and reflexive  consideration of how we listen to and seek out stories. As an  ethnographer of sexual violence, who conducted fieldwork on a rape  crisis hotline during the Pussygate controversy and has served as a Peer  Advocate in George Washington University’s Anthropology Department to  respond to incidents of sexual misconduct, I wanted to situate and  historicize the #MeToo movement, with the recognition that the academy  must similarly grapple with the perils of harassment and assault. This  recognition of violence, particularly in light of the suffering slot,  must be accompanied by the acknowledgement that the anthropological  community contains survivors as well as perpetrators, experiences of  trauma as well as complicity and predation. By offering an ethnopoetic  approach to #MeToo, I propose opportunities to explore the gaps between  lived experience and knowledge production, one whose theoretical  intercession recognizes that a disposition towards care must also leave  room for hesitation and creative reconfigurations of listening.
Emma Louise Backe is a social justice  sailor scout working in international development and global health on  issues related to gender-based violence and women’s health. She has a  Master’s in Medical Anthropology and Certificate in Global Gender Policy  from George Washington University. When she’s not advocating on behalf  of reproductive justice and consent, she manages The Geek Anthropologist, writes for publications like Lady Science, and tweets from @EmmaLouiseBacke.
If you enjoy Story Slamming Anthropology, or are would like to share a narrative of your own, let us know!  You  can contact Adam and Ryan at thisanthrolife -at – gmail.com or  individually at adam -at- thisanthrolife.com or ryan -at-  thisanthrolife.com

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Design and anthropology have been  seen together with increasing frequency over the last few years, but how  do design and anthropology fit together in relation to industry? And,  how does this pairing create insight? Adam and Matt (a guest host at  This Anthro Life) are joined by Dr. Natalie Hanson to explore these questions and more.
Dr. Hanson has been working at the  intersection of business strategy, technology, social sciences, and  design for nearly 20 years. This gives her a relatively unique  perspective on the worlds of anthropology and design. Hanson is also the  founder of Anthrodesign, which started as a list serve and now has its own Slack channel (you could join too by following the instructions here).
Read more on thisanthrolife.com

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Welcome listeners to the first installment of our Diversity and Inclusion crossover series, bringing together This Anthro Life with Brandeis University. For those of you who are new to the show, This Anthro Life (TAL) was launched as a scholar-practitioner program designed to bring anthropological and social science research and thinking to interdisciplinary and public audiences. The original idea behind the podcast was to use our skill sets and toolkits  as anthropologists to translate and socialize data, cultural patterns, and research into accessible open format dialogues and conversations that provided solutions for social impact and actionable insight.
With the Diversity and Inclusion  Series, we are opening a semester long podcast series about diversity  and inclusion in higher education and beyond. Here, our inspiration  comes from anthropologist Ruth Benedict’s  claim that anthropology’s job is to make the world a safe place for  human differences. One small step in doing so is to have conversations  on tough topics, and that is precisely what we aim to start with this  series.
Conversations matter. This  conversation is about opening questions on, what does it mean to engage  diversity in an academically grounded way, in the context of critique?  What do students need in order to do this well? For Dr. Janine de Novais, of the Harvard Graduate School of Education, some answers come from her dissertation research which demonstrates the power of conversations in classroom settings. She focused broadly on the dynamics and possibilities of learning about race in the classroom by comparing two different courses on the subjects of slavery and black political thought. What she concluded was that students “became more intellectually brave, and displayed greater interpersonal empathy” when classrooms settings were safe to express intellectual issues even on difficult and emotional subjects.
Read more of the story here

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In this Conversations episode, This  Anthro Life hosts Adam Gamwell and Ryan Collins are joined by author  Andrew Rowen to discuss his new novel, Encounters Unforeseen: 1492 Retold. Coming in the months trailing the 525th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s  (or Cristobal Colon’s) voyage to the America’s, Rowen’s novel seeks to  add some much needed depth to the modern myths on the subject.  Encounters Unforeseen doesn’t start at the (in)famous voyage, or even in  Europe. Instead, The drama alternates among three Taíno  chieftains—Caonabó, Guacanagarí, and Guarionex—and Bakoko, a Taíno youth  seized by Columbus, Spain’s Queen Isabella I of Castile, King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Columbus. 
Some text from the Press Release:  After 525 years, the traditional literature recounting the history of  Columbus’s epic voyage and first encounters with Native Americans  remains Eurocentric, focused principally—whether pro- or  anti-Columbus—on Columbus and the European perspective. A historical  novel, Encounters Unforeseen: 1492 Retold now dramatizes these  events from a bicultural perspective, fictionalizing the beliefs,  thoughts, and actions of the Native Americans who met Columbus side by  side with those of Columbus and other Europeans, all based on a close  reading of Columbus’s Journal, other primary sources, and anthropological studies.
Read more on thisanthrolife.com

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In this Conversations episode of This  Anthro Life, Adam Gamwell and Ryan Collins explore the subject of  sensory ethnography –  a focus in anthropology that tends to deemphasize  the written word to explore visual, acoustic, and other sensory  perceptions. Today, researchers explore senses increasing in the media  through virtual simulations, visual and auditory stimuli that cause  different reactions (fostering disorientation or meditative states), and  of course art. But, how we perceive the world around us can also be  influenced by culture and our surroundings, from music, to dance, to  collective effervescence. After all, viral examples in recent years  (like the infamous dress),  demonstrate that human perception varies visually from person to person  (often in the recognition of more or less recognized colors in the  light spectrum). Individual distinctions aside, as humans we’re limited  in our generally ability to sense and see the world around (infrared and  ultraviolet light are imperceptible to us, for example). Yet, tactile  sense is intrinsic to our relatively unique to our ability to produce  and use tools. Though it tends to overlooked and under recognized in  most anthropological settings, sense is critical to the human  experience. This episode explores just a few examples of projects  related to sensory ethnography and how they take us beyond our everyday  experience of the perceived world around us. 
What is Sensory Ethnography
Sense and perception has always been part of ethnographic work, but it hasn’t always been emphasized. According to David Howes,  studies focused on sense perception have been documented as early as  the 16th century, when smell, auditory, and visual perceptions were  emphasized. In 20th Century ethnography, however, the senses took a  backseat. Switching again in recent years, with broadly accessible  digital video and auditory technologies, the senses have once again come  back into focus.
Read more about sensory ethnography here

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Will Emojis be the death of writing? Are emojis modern day hieroglyphs? Is the increased use of emojis in textual conversations a sign of the end of language as we know it? Join us for one of our most popular conversations revisited! Your trusty hosts Ryan and Adam discuss the origin of emojis as well as the importance of actively seeking to understand the hidden biases of language.

What is an Emoji?
The term emoji originates from the japanese kanjis of “picture word”. Shigetaka Kurita  created the emoji in order to develop a way to send pictorial texts  using less data. Japanese phone users were sending pictures to convey  messages, but their phones were unable to handle the large amounts of  data involved in sending pictures, so Kurita created the emoji keyboard  that allowed for standard pictorial characters to be sent for the same  amount of data as a letter.
Read more on thisanthrolife.com

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In this Conversations episode of This Anthro Life, Adam Gamwell and guest host/TAL correspondent Matt Artz  explore the world of Design Anthropology with the help of Dr. Elizabeth  “Dori” Tunstall. Design Anthropology is a subject near and dear to our  hosts, who have been excited to devote an entire episode to the subject.  But, what is Design Anthropology? If you’re scratching your head, no  worries. Adam, Matt, and Dr. Tunstall have it covered and describe the  five iterations of design anthropology using examples of their use in  the field. Over the course of the episode Adam, Matt, and Dr. Tunstall  briefly cover issues of ethics within design anthropology as well as a  touching upon how to find jobs in design.   
Adam, Matt, and Dr. Tunstall also make time to get into the topics of whether:

the IRS is really as bad as popular culture makes them out to be.
How can we avoid cultural misappropriation?
And finally, how do value systems get expressed in design? 

“The goal of design anthropology is to create conditions of  compassion among human beings and conditions of harmony as it relates to  the natural world and all of the things that are within it” – Dr. Tunstall
Read more on thisanthrolife.com

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Hey Listeners! Adam and Ryan are back from their brief summer hiatus (a time filled with fieldwork, dissertation writing, and travels abound) with new content, a fresh Patreon campaign, lined up interviews, an upcoming limited series on diversity in the university setting and much more! Support our new campaign on Patreon! Go ahead a click that nice image to visit our new page, to read about what we want to do, and how you can give securely. Just a dollar a month makes a huge difference for us! 
 
Kicking off the new season, Adam and Ryan dive into a new FreeThink  episode, in the style and length of our Conversations. In this episode,  they continue to make the case for why the world needs anthropology and  social science thinking more than ever. They also speak in favor of  interventionist anthropology in recognition of the plethora of social  issues, subaltern experiences, cultural miscommunications, and civil  tensions which are in the media’s focus more than ever.
With This Anthro Life’s new season we really want to emphasize the importance of our Patreon campaign.  Through Patreon, Adam and Ryan will engage listeners more directly  through new content, special episodes, video, and more. For the last 5  years, TAL has been almost entirely self-funded (though a huge thanks to  the few folks who have so generously contributed to the cause) and this  reality makes it difficult to produce the quality content you, our  listeners, have come to expect. But, we’re dedicated to persevering and  continuing because we believe in the anthropological focuses we discuss,  the content we produce, and in you, our listeners. We’re incredibly  humbled by the fact that we are soon to celebrate our 30,000th  subscriber and that our community continues to grow. We want to  celebrate this with you. Please take a moment to view our Patreon  page and choose which bracket is best suited for you. With any donation  you make, know that you are directly contributing to TAL and your  support means the world to us. TAL could not be produced without you and  it will continue to grow because of you.

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In response to several surveys that attempt to quantify happiness, Ryan, Adam, and Aneil spend this episode of This Anthro Life exploring happiness through the lens of fetishism. They discuss Daniel Gilbert’s Stumbling on Happiness, the film Happy, and more! They seek to answer the following questions: What kinds of things make us happy? How does happiness inhere in objects and how do we use objects to display our happiness? They end on a positive note by concluding that we have control over our happiness and suggesting a happy community may be a key part of being happy.  

In the episode we use the term fetish, made famous by Sigmund Freud, to mean something that points to something else.  It masks what is there (I.e. a statue of a deity that seems to be what  people are worshipping, but it is just a material thing that is pointing  to the deity). It can be any material type of the thing that points towards an abstract idea.
3 Ways Our Imagination Fails to Guide Us to Happiness

Our  imagination tends to add and remove details people might not recognize  that key details are fabricated or missing from their imagined  scenarios.
Imagined  futures and pasts are more like the present than they actually will be.  The future is not some far off thing. You are living the future.
Imagination fails to realize that things will feel different once they actually happen. We adjust to things. 

Read more on thisanthrolife.com

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This episode is a little different from our normal content. In it we feature a presentation Adam gave for Pivotal Labs in which he explores This Anthro Life’s (and his own) developing philosophy about conversations and podcasting as social technologies and what the worlds of anthropology and podcasting can do. Some topics Adam touches on include: what anthropology does in the world, conversation as “little social laboratories”, mapping the contemporary podcast ‘cosmos’, podcasters as cultural brokers, and the kinds of stories we well as Charismatic Data. 
During this pseudo-episode (think of it like a Conversation meets a FreeThink) Adam asks the questions: What makes conversation a social technology? And how can data be charismatic?

During this pseudo-episode (think of  it like a Conversation meets a FreeThink) Adam asks the questions: What  makes conversation a social technology? And how can data be charismatic?
As Adam mentions, the audio recording during the talk got messed up,  so today we’re presenting you a ‘podcasted’ version of the talk edited  for length. You can check out the original talk on YouTube here, courtesy of Pivotal Labs. The original talk also includes much more about Adam’s research and TAL.
As always, remember TAL is an entirely self-funded labor of love, so  any help is always appreciated. We’ll be launching a Patreon campaign  soon for ongoing support. For now, please give securely at PayPal, every  bit makes a difference to us. 
Read the full story here

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This Anthro Life has teamed up with Savage Minds to bring you a special 5-part podcast and blog crossover series. While thinking together as two anthropological productions that exist for multiple kinds of audiences and publics, we became inspired to have a series of conversations about why anthropology matters today. In this series we’re sitting down with some of the folks behind Savage Minds, SAPIENS, the American Anthropological Association and the Society for American Archaeology to bring you conversations on anthropological thinking and its relevance through an innovative blend of audio and text.

In our fourth episode of the TAL + SM  collaboration Ryan and Adam chat with Dr. Kristina Killgrove about her  strategies for engaging popular audiences through writing. We start  by discussing interdisciplinary collaboration and its role in improving  writing. Then we explore Kristina’s strategies for choosing content to  cover in her blog, Powered by Osteons. We end by considering some ways anthropology has changed in terms of crowdfunding and the possibilities of open data.
Read the full story here

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This Anthro Life has teamed up with Savage Minds to bring you a special 5-part podcast and blog crossover series. While thinking together as two anthropological productions that exist for multiple kinds of audiences and publics, we became inspired to have a series of conversations about why anthropology matters today. We’re sitting down with some of the folks behind Savage Minds, SAPIENS, the American Anthropological Association and the Society for American Archaeology to bring you conversations on anthropological thinking and its relevance through an innovative blend of audio and text.

In our third episode of the TAL + SM crossover series (blog post here),  we explored SAPIENS’ approach to producing anthropological content for  popular audiences. Ryan and Adam were joined by the digital editor of  SAPIENS, Daniel Salas, to discuss the implications of using anthropology  to engage the public through journalism. The episode focused on the  questions How do you reconcile scientific and anthropological writing,  and is this mixture a new genre? Is there a balance to be found between  producing timeless “evergreen” stories versus current events focused  content for audience engagement? 
Read the rest here

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In the second conversation of the TAL + SM crossover series, Ryan and Adam were joined by AAA Executive Director Ed Liebow and Program Manager for Educational Outreach Leslie Walker. They explored the work of the AAA, the changing natures of work and research today, and critically assessed anthropology in terms of scope and impact.

Read the article here

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This Anthro Life has teamed up with Savage Minds to bring you a special 5-part podcast and blog crossover series. While thinking together as two anthropological productions that exist for multiple kinds of audiences and publics, we became inspired to have a series of conversations about why anthropology matters today. For this series we’re sitting down with some of the folks behind Savage Minds, SAPIENS, the American Anthropological Association and the Society for American Archaeology to bring you conversations on anthropological thinking and its relevance through an innovative blend of audio and text.
Read the article here

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We like to bring you some of our favorite conversations from our catalogue as we think about new ways to explore the topic. This week we’re bringing you our Visual Anthropology conversation split into two, digestible parts, so here’s part 2. Plus we (still) miss Aneil and wanted to hear his voice again. We hope you enjoy the conversation revisited with us! Join us for an ‘enlightening’ trip as we ‘shed some light’ on the world of sight, seeing, and visual anthropology. In this episode we explore the deep impact of visual culture across the globe and time from ancient Greece to the invention of photography to metaphors of knowledge, to genotypes and phenotypes, arrangement of food, and more!
If you like TAL, please drop us a 5-star review on iTunes or Stitcher or however you enjoy the podcast. If you are able, dropping us a couple of bucks makes a huge difference in making the show sustainable!


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We like to bring you some of our favorite conversations from our catalogue as we think about new ways to explore the topic. This week we’re bringing you our Visual Anthropology conversation split into two, digestible parts. Plus we miss Aneil and wanted to hear his voice again. We hope you enjoy the conversation revisited with us! Join us for an ‘enlightening’ trip as we ‘shed some light’ on the world of sight, seeing, and visual anthropology. In this episode we explore the deep impact of visual culture across the globe and time from ancient Greece to the invention of photography to metaphors of knowledge, to genotypes and phenotypes, arrangement of food, and more!
 

Read More

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How do academics write for a variety of audiences? Is routine a necessary part of creating? How many times will Ryan mention Stephen King? In this episode of This Anthro Life, Adam and Ryan talk with Anita Hannig of Brandeis University about the writing process behind her new book, Beyond Surgery: Injury, Healing, and Religion at an Ethiopian Hospital.  While they are looking at writing as a craft from the perspective of anthropologists, Ryan, Adam, and Anita draw on a variety of perspectives outside of the discipline to suggest some tips for writing routine, reaching a broad audience, and writing ethnography.

About Anita Hannig
Anita Hannig is an assistant professor at Brandeis University.
Read more at thisanthrolife.com

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FreeThink 6 – Who Are the 13,000?

In this week’s Free Think, Adam and Ryan introduce a new member of our team, Matt Artz, who will be leading a new project to study and research you! We hit 13,000 subscribers in the past week which is a huge milestone for us. In order to keep This Anthro Life growing we would like to better integrate the desires of our listeners with how we market, produce, and choose our content. We want to get to know you! To do this we will be updating the What’s Your Story page with a space to submit your emails if you would like to be interviewed by one of the team. We will post more information in the coming weeks. We cannot wait to hear your thoughts on the podcast and ways we can make it better! NOTE: Since recording this episode less than a week ago, we are now over 14,100 subscri

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On this episode, Adam and Ryan dive into the complexities of our ever  evolving human family. How we understand our ancient ancestors,  cousins, and ape family has the potential to impact our understanding of  what it means to be human and how we are still changing. The new and  exciting data we dive into this episode is all about Homo Naledi,  perhaps the most recent addition to our family. As of the day we  recorded this episode, April 25th, the first concrete date range for the  species was publicized (but stay tuned for further developments).  Rather than being very early (that is more ancient) and dating to the  time of the earliest Homo Erectus specimens as originally hypothesized  (some 2 million years ago), it now appears that Naledi was potentially a  contemporary of the earliest Homo Sapiens (that’s us) ranging from 200  to 300 thousand years ago. This means we need to re-evaluate our genus  once again and think about the complexities of dating our ancestors.
Quick definitions:

Species – a group of living organisms consisting of similar  individuals capable of exchanging genes or interbreeding; Homo,  Australopicus
Genus – one step below species on the taxonomic system: A. afarensis (Lucy), H. sapiens (us), H. neandertal, H. naledi

Read more on thisanthrolife.com

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This episode of This Anthropological Life presents a little differently from our normal episodes. The Society for Applied Anthropology generously allowed us to release the audio from Adam’s presentation at the SFAA 2017 Annual Meeting in Santa Fe, New Mexico, so this episode is based entirely on this presentation. Adam discusses a quinoa gastronomy project he is working on in conjunction with Dr. Alipio Canahua Murillo and Chef José Maguiña. They are designing an agricultural-gastronomy project in the region of Puno, Peru in order to create new dishes based on endangered varieties of quinoa. 

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Freethink #5: Finding Balance in the midst of Burnout
In this week’s free think Ryan and Adam talk burning out and finding balance. They reflect on their travels to conferences for the Society for Applied Anthropology and the Society for American Archaeology and why conferences are inspirational and invigorating. Also the AMAZING fact that TAL now has over 11,000 subscribers!! Thank you so much to everyone for helping us build the tribe, let’s keep taking this to the top! Social Consciousness FTW.

Links to Learn More:
Sapiens and Fuente’s essay on Nature’s Most Creative Copulators

This episode focuses on a conversation between Adam and Amy about a TEDtalk titled The Power of Vulnerability presented by Brené Brown. In this video, Brown breaks down the “wholehearted individual” one who has courage, social connection, compassion, and an appreciation for his/her vulnerabilities. They were unashamed to be vulnerable. They are comfortable with saying I love you first, putting an opinion piece out regardless of potential backlash, being authentic without fear. As Brown stresses, the wholehearted have ”the willingness to do something with no guarantees”.  It’s allowing for things to fall outside of your control. To accept the controllable and the chaotic aspects of lif

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As you may have noticed, TAL has been on a bit of a break from releasing new episodes. But, the good news is that we have not been idle. The other night when Ryan and Adam were out and about they got to talking about TAL and their perspectives on public anthropology. What does the future hold? What inspires change? Realizing they were on to something good, they pulled out a phone and hit record. This episode is what came out. We hope you’ll enjoy! This episode was recorded live and near a kitchen so please forgive the extra noise :). In this FreeThink Ryan and Adam get a little personal, shedding light on their own stories, views on art, religion, creative writing, literature, and what it is that drives the team to do anthropology.
“Human Being is an art, and we gotta dig into that” – Adam

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Psychedelia is the culture and experiences of psychedelic substances. Where did all the research on psychedelic drugs go? Could psychedelics be used in psychotherapy? How are hallucinogenic drugs used cross-culturally? In this episode of This Anthro Life Adam and Ryan explore the world of psychedelic drugs with Hamilton Morris of Vice’s Hamilton’s Pharmacopeia. We discuss his fieldwork in the Amazon where he hunted for a locally important frog, the potential diagnostic, medicinal, and therapeutic uses of psychedelics, as well as the obstacles in the way of studying human consciousness. Special thanks to Alice Kelikian.

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with Aneil and Ryan 

Special Guest: Serra Hakyemez
Is waiting political? Can you cut in line at Starbucks during your hectic morning commute?  In this episode of TAL we team up with Serra Hakyemez, a Junior Research Fellow from the Crown Center for Middle East Studies at Brandeis University to discuss her paper entitled, “Waiting, Acting Political, Hope, Doubt, and Endurance in the Anti-Terrorism Courts of Northern Kurdistan”, which focuses on the ways political detainees’ families are actively shaping and constructing community identities while waiting in the courthouse (Brandeis Anthropology Research Seminar). 

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Today’s D+A minisode follows last week’s powerful conversation with Jara Connell on protests and people-powered forms of resistance. In this minisode Jara offers us a nugget of wisdom to be cautious about thinking all protests are the same or that we can even evaluate them with the same criteria.
TAL D+A Minisodes are short, actionable steps you can take in your everyday life to become more socially savvy, culturally competent and holistic in your actions. If you have any suggestions for D+A minisodes or longer Conversations, drop us a line! We’re always looking for new ideas.


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What does mass-protesting accomplish? Does no arrests equate success? Why is protesting disruptive? And more! In this action packed episode of This Anthropological Life, Aneil, Adam, and Ryan talk to Jara Connell about mass protesting and the strategies behind social movements.


Who is Jara Connell?
Jara is a PhD candidate at Brandeis University. She focuses on race, space, and policing in Saint Louis. Jara’s Master’s thesis dealt with sex and gender politics in Ferguson. When Jara is not advocating for social change and challenging dominant political agendas she takes her cat, Booger, on walks.
Twitter
Linkedin


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Minisodes are finally here! If this is your first TAL Podcast experience, welcome! We recommend you start off with our regular Conversation series – 25ish minute dialogues about everything and anything human – one topic at a time.
Design + Application (DnA, get it??) Minisodes are bite-sized actionable insights and social building blocks to help you become more socially savvy, culturally competent, and holistic in thinking and action. With D+A we move from anthropological thinking to anthropological doing. These are 5-10 minute nuggets from our guests on Conversations or inspiring tidbits we come across that you can use in your daily lives. We release these weekly on Monday mornings to give you a boost for the week.
To kick things off, Dr. Andi Simon discusses with the TAL team how to deal with change. 

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How can we make change easier? Do women lead differently from men? What is corporate anthropology? Ryan, Adam, and Aneil are back to answer these questions and more with Dr. Andi Simon. Change is hard, but with Dr. Simon’s toolkit of anthropological knowledge, games, and theater she is able to help businesses change a little easier.

We have a copy of Dr. Simon’s great book On the Brink: A Fresh Lens to Take Your Business to New Heights to give away to one lucky listener. How do you do that? Drop us a review on iTunes within a week of this episode release (Released January 25th), and email us with what review you wrote. We’ll pick a lucky winner from the reviewers and send you the book!


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Do you need Podcast advice? How is social media transforming the nature of protesting? Can we hatch a good episode out of chickens? Join us in our latest Free Think where we talk upcoming episodes, public anthropology, podcasting, and the future of This Anthropological Life.
Links to Check Out
Anthro Story
The Podcast Garage
Stride and Saunter
Standing R

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Are balance and movement something that can be culturally shaped? Why aren’t female rats being used in drug studies? In this episode of This Anthropological Life we team up with Vivekanand Pandey Vimal to talk about his research that explores how people learn to balance when their sensory systems are taken away. We then relate studies on balance and movement to anthropology and discuss the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration. Show notes by Nina Oria-Loureiro.

Listen to this week’s podcast to learn more about

Vivek’s experiments
Rats
Collaboration
Balancing on skyscrapers

Who is Vivek?
Vivekanand Pandey Vimal is a Neuroscience PhD candidate at Brandeis University.

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Have you ever felt disconnected from your relationships and your life because of your reliance on your phone and social media? Do you ever feel nostalgia for the art of handwriting letters? Hannah Brencher understands what you are feeling. In this episode of This Anthropological Life, we discuss the difficulties of being present, the importance of time in maintaining relationships, the pitfalls of random acts of kindness, and the joys of writing a love letter. Copy Prepared by Nina Oria-Loureiro

Take Aways

* “The only thing that can beat out fear is love. It can’t be just a statement. It has to be something we live, throug

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Join us for another listen of TAL Conversations favorites on Multi-species and Non-Human Centered Anthropology. Originally aired December 2013, with a follow-up conversation coming soon!
Do you have a pet? Do you talk to your pet? How about your house plants? Ever thought about where those vegetables you use as food and bought at the grocery store came from? Like, really came from? “Human Nature”, Anna Tsing writes, “is an interspecies relationship”. It’s never been just about humans; life on this planet (and possibly beyond) is an entanglement of many different kinds of living selves, inert objects, and assemblages of ideas. This week, Adam and Ryan will try to figure out just what the heck this idea might mean and what implications it has for rethinking our connections with and construction of the material and social world.
Tune in a very special episode of This Anthropological Life where we take on the very idea of “Human Nature”

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Do you find yourself increasingly frustrated at the lack of real conversations between candidates and politicians? Are you confused about why someone who doesn’t walk to the beat of your life claims to represent the whole of your interests and everyone you know? This episode is not about the candidates, we’ll leave the bashing to them and other pundits. Rather, with this episode we aim to expose some of the mechanisms driving American politics and show different social truths about political systems in general. Join Adam, Aneil, and Ryan as they discuss the debate and informed positions on big questions like “Does my vote, a single vote, matter?”, “What is the role of government?”, and “Have we outgrown our current political system?”


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Join Aneil, Adam and Ryan for the second FreeThink episode, where they talk unscripted about upcoming projects and potential interdisciplinary collaborations beyond the mic.
FreeThink is a new series of episodes that works like a backstage pass, where we talk unscripted about what’s on our minds and hearts, the nuts and bolts of making a podcast today, and the larger projects we are working on surrounding the show. If you’ve never heard This Anthropological Life, we don’t recommend starting with these episodes. check out our more in-depth Conversations series with some of our favorite episodes curated just for you. TaL Best Of (so far…).
When you’re ready, we’d love to have you join us here for a deeper dialogue.

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Glad you’re here! Check out some of our favorite episodes in any order and get to know the anthropological life. And, if you’re long-time listeners we hope you’ll enjoy revisiting these gems with us. If you like us, be sure to subscribe and visit our previous episodes on the downloads page.

Episode: 10 Beer Though we made this episode two years ago and the quality is not what we do now but in terms of content its one of our all time favorites. We cover some of the historical uses of beer, its changing meaning over time, the development of taste, and perhaps even share a few ancient recipes! From contemporary hipster cans to drinks of ancient Egyptian Pharaohs you don’t want to miss this episode! Cheers, Prost, Salud, Allinta Qali!
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Adam, Aneil, and Ryan are all back in the TaL studio for the first time in 18 months! And it feels good. Today we talk shop about where we’ve been and where we’re going with TaL. Check out the conversation on evolving the show content with new episode lengths and direction (same great content, shorter, more-digestible bites) and new minisodes based on Adam’s growing obsession with design and applied anthropology offering you practical ways to apply anthropological thinking and action to your daily life, and professionalizing our craft with new partnerships with the American Anthropological Association among others!
We’re super excited to be back for you and can’t wait to build this new season along with you!

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