Heyy!!!
Bookworms! Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of the Best Anthropology Podcasts. These gems are like treasure chests full of insights into human culture, history, and society.
Whether you’re a seasoned anthropologist or just love exploring humanity’s tapestry, these shows are for you! From ancient civilizations to modern societies, they cover it all in engaging discussions and expert interviews.
So, grab your headphones and get ready to embark on a journey of discovery from the comfort of your own home or during your daily commute. Let’s explore what it truly means to be human together!
Best Anthropology Podcasts
After scouring and meticulously applying my criteria, I’ve curated a killer list of anthropology podcasts. Each brings its own flair, guaranteeing listeners a smorgasbord of content to enjoy.
The Familiar Strange
With a focus on doing anthropology, this podcast, created by a group of dedicated Australian anthropologists, dives into the complexities of culture and human behavior. It’s a brilliant mix of academic insight and engaging storytelling that makes the unfamiliar a bit more familiar.
This Anthro Life
Helmed by Dr. Adam Gamwell, this podcast uses anthropology to tackle big questions about human behavior and decision-making. Its broad appeal lies in how it blends cultural insights with practical applications in business and social policy.
The Anthropocene Reviewed
Author John Green reviews facets of the human-centered planet in a unique format that blends humor, history, and anthropology. While not solely focused on anthropology, its explorations of human impact on the planet touch upon key anthropological themes.
AnthroPod
Produced by the Society for Cultural Anthropology, this podcast brings academic rigor to the public domain, discussing various aspects of anthropology from an academic perspective yet making it accessible and intriguing to a general audience.
Anthropology in Business with Matt Artz
Matt Artz seamlessly bridges the gap between anthropology and the business world. His podcast is a goldmine for those interested in understanding how anthropological principles can optimize business strategies and consumer experiences.
SAPIENS: A Podcast for Everything Human
This Anthropology Podcast offers a window into humanity itself, sponsored by the Wenner-Gren Foundation and created by scholarship holders. It’s where the latest research meets real-world implications, creating a rich dialogue about what it means to be human today.
That Anthro Podcast
Based out of UC Santa Barbara, this show delves into a plethora of anthropological subjects, engaging with a wide range of guests from the academic and practical spheres to explore the discipline’s diverse impacts.
Camthropod
This anthropology podcast from the Cambridge Department of Social Anthropology offers deep dives into anthropological research and fieldwork findings, presenting them in a way that’s both educational and profoundly engaging.
Anthropological Airwaves
As the official podcast of the American Anthropologist journal, it discusses the myriad ways anthropology can be applied in real-world scenarios, bringing a scholarly depth to contemporary issues.
Armchair Expert with Dax Shepard
While a broader scope podcast, Dax Shepard frequently explores themes pertinent to human behavior, society, and culture through his engaging interviews, showcasing the crossover appeal of anthropological themes in mainstream discussions.
Each of these anthropology podcasts brings something valuable to the auditory table, making the vast and varied field of anthropology accessible, engaging, and endlessly fascinating to a broad audience. Whether you’re a dedicated anthropologist, a student of life, or someone curious about the world around you, there’s something in these anthropology podcasts for you.
Anthro to UX with Matt Artz
“Anthro to UX with Matt Artz” is a podcast dedicated to anthropologists looking to transition into the field of user experience (UX) research. Hosted by Matt Artz himself, a business anthropologist specializing in design anthropology, the show features conversations with leading anthropologists who have successfully made the leap to UX.
Through these discussions, listeners gain insight into the practical aspects of UX research and receive valuable advice on preparing resumes and portfolios. It’s an essential resource for any anthropologist considering a career move into UX.
AnthroDish
“AnthroDish” explores the fascinating intersections of food, culture, and identity. Hosted by anthropology Ph.D. student Sarah Duignan, each episode dives into topics that reveal how our relationships with food shape our worldviews and experiences.
Featuring interviews with guests from a variety of backgrounds, including academics and everyday people, “AnthroDish” offers a rich tapestry of stories and perspectives that will nourish your mind and perhaps change the way you think about food.
AnthroAlert: An Anthropology Podcast
“AnthroAlert: An Anthropology Podcast” is a unique show recorded live on USF Bulls Radio. The podcast aims to bring anthropology out of the academic sphere and into the public domain by interviewing anthropologists about their work.
Covering a wide range of anthropological topics, “AnthroAlert” offers listeners the chance to learn about the latest research and how it applies to contemporary societal issues. It’s an engaging listen for anyone interested in the practical applications of anthropology.
Zora’s Daughters
“Zora’s Daughters” tackles hot topics of interest to Black folks with academic rigor and insightful commentary.
Hosted by Alyssa and Brendane, the podcast closely reads pop culture through the lens of academic scholarship, asking critical questions and challenging assumptions.
Topics range from cultural appropriation to abolition, all explored with the aim of inspiring conversation and real change. Whether you’re looking to learn, unlearn, or just engage with thoughtful discourse, “Zora’s Daughters” promises enriching discussions that resonate.
How to Get the Most Out of Anthropology Podcasts
Immersing yourself in anthropology podcasts opens doors to human history, culture, and society. But with so many options, how do you navigate? Here’s a guide to make the most of your journey:
Find Your Vibes:
- Explore diversity: Sample various shows to find what interests you most.
- Trim your list: Stick with the podcasts that consistently captivate you.
- Embrace variety: Include podcasts covering different regions, eras, and customs.
Engage Actively:
- Take notes: Write down intriguing facts and questions to dive deeper.
- Join the chat: Connect with hosts and fellow listeners on social media.
- Apply insights: Relate podcast topics to your daily experiences for new perspectives.
Dive Deeper:
- Follow references: Check out books or articles mentioned in episodes.
- Explore research: Delve into academic journals for deeper understanding.
- Connect with experts: Follow anthropologists online for fresh insights.
With these tips, your anthropology podcast journey will be both enriching and exciting, no matter if you’re a seasoned pro or a curious newcomer!
Bonus suggestion from a generous author
So recently I started reading a book called “Sapiens a Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noah Harari. This book explores the history of the human species from the emergence of Homo sapiens in Africa to the 21st century.
Harari discusses how Homo sapiens came to dominate the planet, examining the roles of the Cognitive Revolution, the Agricultural Revolution, the unification of humankind, and the Scientific Revolution.
Now, I’m not saying that you should read the book, but try listening to the audiobook version instead. I personally really liked how this book managed to explain such complex topics. Try it out.
Conclusion:
Podcasts are the modern storytellers, blending ancient tales with digital wizardry. Dive into anthropology’s captivating realm through these top picks. With engaging narratives and lively discussions, they unravel the tapestry of human life. Whether you’re a newbie or a pro, these shows offer a thrilling journey into our past, present, and future. So, plug in and let the adventure begin.
