On the latest episode of AnthroPuzzled, we sit down with Stephen DeCasien, a nautical archaeologist and postdoctoral researcher at Dalian University of Technology specializing in ancient naval warfare and experimental archaeology. Stephen shares how his passion for the ancient world led him to study Greek and Roman warships and reconstruct the bronze rams that once powered naval combat.

He explains how experimental archaeology reveals the materials, labor, and ingenuity behind ancient seafaring societies, while also discussing the relationship between nautical and maritime archaeology. The conversation explores shipwreck research, life as a scholar in China, and the value of studying abroad and engaging with different cultures. Throughout the episode, Stephen reflects on how anthropology cultivates curiosity, empathy, and a deeper understanding of our shared human past.

Listen now to explore ancient ships, experimental archaeology, maritime connections, and the enduring spirit of human innovation.

On the latest episode of AnthroPuzzled, we sit down with Eboni Westbury, a zooarchaeologist, and PhD researcher whose work spans Aboriginal Australian archaeology and the study of Neanderthal behavior through animal bones. Eboni shares how her lifelong fascination with history and bones led her from forensic anthropology to archaeology and cutting-edge zooarchaeological research.

Eboni discusses her work in both cultural resource management and academic research, explaining how animal remains reveal ancient human behavior, migration, and cultural traditions. She also explores how new technologies, including GIS, machine learning, and spatial analysis, are transforming archaeology and helping researchers better understand Neanderthal communities and knowledge sharing.

The conversation also covers fieldwork across Australia, Europe, and the Pacific, the importance of practical experience for aspiring archaeologists, and why anthropology teaches us to think differently about culture, history, and the world around us.

Listen now to explore zooarchaeology, Neanderthal research, Aboriginal Australian archaeology, and the evolving future of archaeological science.

On the latest episode of AnthroPuzzled, we sit down with Melissa in De Nile, a museum educator, Egyptologist, and digital creator who brings ancient Egyptian history, art, and archaeology to life through social media, livestreams, and educational content. Melissa shares how she combines her passion for public education with her love of the ancient world.

Melissa reflects on her winding journey from creative writing student to archaeologist, museum professional, and online educator. She discusses the realities of graduate school, finding a career path outside academia, and making archaeological knowledge accessible to wider audiences. Along the way, she shares stories from excavations in Italy, the United Kingdom, and the Caribbean, as well as insights from her research on ancient Egyptian dogs.

The conversation also explores popular misconceptions about ancient Egypt, the importance of cultural understanding, and how anthropology encourages empathy, curiosity, and a broader perspective on the world.

Listen now to explore Egyptology, museum education, archaeology, and the power of making history accessible to everyone.