CRM Archaeology

Grab your trowel and your tablet—because CRM archaeology isn’t just about digging holes, it’s about digging into the real-world issues that shape how we protect the past! Hosted by seasoned professionals with muddy boots and sharp minds, this podcast brings you lively discussions, field stories, expert interviews, and the occasional rant about the wild world of Cultural Resource Management. Whether you're a CRM veteran, a student, or just curious about what archaeologists actually do all day (spoiler: it’s not all Indiana Jones), this show has something for you. Tune in, geek out, and stay informed on everything from field tech life to federal regs!

Airlie House 2.0: Let's Go! - Ep 329
Rachel Roden Rachel Roden

Airlie House 2.0: Let's Go! - Ep 329

This episode focuses on the Airlie House 2.0 movement and their efforts to improve the future of CRM archaeology. Expanding upon the first Airlie House Report, the current members of this ad hoc group of CRMers, professors, SHPO and THPO staff, and agency archaeologists is tackling complex issues like the shortage of CRM archaeologists, creative mitigation, tribal consultation, and community engagement. They are trying to all of this in the face of a changing regulatory landscape, sclerotic university anthropology departments, and the onslaught of AI integration. They are also asking: What would archaeological training look like without academia? This is an episode you’ll want to share with your colleagues.

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Do Unversity Rankings really matter? - Ep 325
Rachel Roden Rachel Roden

Do Unversity Rankings really matter? - Ep 325

In this episode, the hosts discuss the latest U.S. News & World Report university rankings and question their relevance to archaeology and cultural resource management (CRM). They argue that Ivy League prestige and rankings have little to no impact on hiring or success in archaeology, emphasizing that program quality, practical skills, and experience matter far more than a school’s name. The panel shares examples where Ivy League graduates were not stronger candidates and notes that perceived academic “elite” advantages are often statistical noise or social bias. Overall, the episode encourages students and parents to focus on strong, field-relevant programs rather than chasing rankings or prestige.

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When Did you Finally Say "WOW, I'm an Archaeologist!!" - Ep 324
Rachel Roden Rachel Roden

When Did you Finally Say "WOW, I'm an Archaeologist!!" - Ep 324

In this episode, Heather, Andrew, and Bill share the moments—both as students and professionals—when they realized they were truly archaeologists. Through personal stories from field school, CRM work, and teaching, they explore how confidence, passion, and identity develop over time. The discussion highlights that archaeology is more than excavation, emphasizing problem-solving, people skills, and the many paths a career in CRM can take.

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