Career in Ruins

The conversation delves into the surprises and challenges of writing a book on Stonehenge, the evolving nature of Stonehenge research, the significance of Neolithic monument complexes, the origins of Stonehenge's stones, a glimpse into the past at 2500 BC, and the unanswered questions surrounding the Aubrey Holes.

Takeaways

• Stonehenge's research is ever-evolving, with new discoveries and updates constantly shaping our understanding.
• The significance of Stonehenge extends beyond its mystery, with connections to wider prehistoric monument complexes and the broader landscape.

Chapters

• 00:00 Unveiling Stonehenge: The Book and Its Surprises
• 03:11 The Ever-Evolving Stonehenge
• 08:11 Neolithic Monument Complexes
• 11:00 Stonehenge's Stone Origins
• 18:54 A Glimpse into the Past: 2500 BC
• 22:08 Unanswered Questions: The Aubrey Holes

Welcome to the launch of the 2026 Festival of Archaeology at Westonbirt National Arboretum.

This year's theme is Archaeology & Nature, and throughout the day we explore why these two subjects can't be separated. From ancient woodlands and prehistoric landscapes to Stonehenge, conservation and climate change, we speak to the people shaping the future of archaeology.

In this episode you'll hear from:

• 🌳 Andrew Smith (Director, Westonbirt National Arboretum)
• 🪨 Dr Sue Greaney (English Heritage) on Stonehenge and her new book
• 🔨 Dr James Dilley (AncientCraft) demonstrating prehistoric technologies
• 📱 Natasha Billson (Behind the Trowel)
• 🌿 Forestry England and the Council for British Archaeology
• ...and many more of the people making the Festival of Archaeology happen.

Whether you're an archaeologist, student, heritage professional or simply curious about the past, this episode is packed with fascinating conversations about how archaeology helps us understand the landscapes we live in today.

If you enjoyed this episode, please consider liking, subscribing, and sharing the video—it really helps us continue making free archaeology content.

The conversation begins with a reconnection and catching up between Derek and Lawrence, followed by a discussion on recent projects and exciting content. The conversation then transitions into a reflection on archaeological musings and craft fairs, exploring the themes of reuse, craft, and everyday life in the archaeological record. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to archaeology, including teaching, learning, and cultural differences in archaeological practices. It also delves into the motivation for pursuing a PhD in archaeology and provides book recommendations for archaeology enthusiasts. The discussion highlights the vocation of archaeology and the differences in archaeological practices across countries.

Takeaways

• Archaeological craft and reuse
• Challenges of creating archaeological content
• Exciting upcoming projects Archaeology as a vocation
• Differences in archaeological practices across countries

Chapters

• 00:00 Archaeological Musings and Craft Fairs
• 19:35 Discussion of Movies and TV Shows
• 26:31 Motivation for Pursuing a PhD
• 34:13 Cultural Differences in Archaeological Practices Across Countries

Join Derek as he takes Career in Ruins to Hengistbury Head, Dorset to meet curator and archaeologist Dr Hayden Scott-Pratt. In this on-location interview inside a reconstructed Iron Age roundhouse, Hayden shares his journey from undergraduate experiments in copper smelting to curating one of Britain’s most important archaeological sites. Discover why Hengistbury Head was once a major Iron Age international trading port, connecting Britain with continental Europe and the Mediterranean. Learn about imported amphorae, cross-Channel communities, ancient industries, and the evidence for large-scale trade in goods like pottery, iron, and livestock. Hayden also explains the creation of the site’s experimental archaeology village, where volunteers built a full-scale roundhouse using traditional tools and materials. The project brings ancient crafts, cooking, farming, and daily life to life for schools and visitors—right on top of a scheduled archaeological monument with 12,000 years of human history. If you’re interested in Iron Age Britain, experimental archaeology, museum careers, or the story of one of the UK’s most fascinating coastal heritage sites, this episode is for you. #IronAge #HengistburyHead #ExperimentalArchaeology #MuseumCareers #ArchaeologyPodcast #DorsetArchaeology #AncientTrade #IronAgeRoundhouse #CuratorInterview #HeritageCareers #BronzeAge #RomanBritain #ArchaeologyUK

In this episode of Career in Ruins, hosts Lawrence and Derek reflect on the new year, share personal updates, and pay tribute to their late friend Kerry Ely. They discuss exciting developments in archaeology, introduce Afifa Khan, who shares her journey from a young enthusiast to a professional archaeologist, and explore the challenges of commercial archaeology. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration, the role of technology, and the need for more women in the field. They also touch on the theme of envy and inspiration within the archaeological community, concluding with thoughts on time travel and future aspirations.

In this episode, the hosts reflect on their recent experiences at an awards ceremony, share insights from their visit to the Titanic exhibition, and discuss their ongoing projects. They welcome Professor David Nash, who shares his journey from geology to archaeology, focusing on his research on silcrete and sarsens, the formation of the stones of Stonehenge, and the interdisciplinary nature of his work. The conversation delves into the mysteries of Stonehenge, the significance of ancient DNA, and the excitement of time travel to witness the construction of historical monuments.

In this episode of Career in Ruins, hosts Lawrence and Derek engage in a lively discussion with Rob Sutton, Director of Heritage Consultancy at Cotswold Archaeology. The conversation covers a range of topics including the intersection of archaeology and video games, the importance of storytelling in archaeology, and Rob's extensive career journey from a young enthusiast to a leading expert in heritage consultancy. The episode highlights the challenges and rewards of commercial archaeology, the significance of preserving historical narratives, and the joy of engaging with the public about archaeology. Rob shares personal anecdotes and insights into the evolving landscape of archaeology and heritage management, making for an engaging and informative episode.

Following the brilliant Time Team episode on the project, Career in Ruins visit Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to catch up with archaeologist Hugh Willmott and his team. Beneath the watchful gaze of the famous Cerne Abbas Giant, Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman delve into the story behind the abbey’s excavation — tracing its journey from Anglo-Saxon origins, through the turmoil of the Dissolution of the Monasteries, to the remarkable discoveries now emerging from the trenches. Join us on site as we meet the students, volunteers, and craftspeople bringing this medieval site back to life. From Roman coins and decorated floor tiles to intricately carved masonry and a live smithing demonstration, the dig offers a vivid glimpse into the abbey’s past — and even teaches us how to forge a medieval knife from scrap metal found in the spoil heap.

Catch up with the recent Time Team episode here: https://youtu.be/DY68mzYXWK8?si=lyNhe5y5EPRZWPmW

🔗 Follow the Cerne Abbey Project: Instagram – @Cerne_Abbey

🎙️ About Career in Ruins: Hosted by Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman, Career in Ruins takes you behind the scenes of archaeology, heritage, and discovery — one trench at a time.

#TimeTeam #CerneAbbey #Archaeology #CerneAbbasGiant #CareerInRuins #MedievalAbbey #DorsetHistory #ArchaeologicalExcavation #Heritage #ArchaeologyPodcast #StudentArchaeology #Fieldwork #History

In this episode, Derek and Lawrence engage in a lively discussion with David Connolly, exploring his extensive career in archaeology, the significance of community engagement, and the evolution of BAJR. They delve into themes of heritage crime, the importance of skills in archaeology, and the pride and envy that come with working in the field. David shares personal anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the value of listening and learning from others in the profession. The conversation culminates in a thought-provoking time machine segment, where David reflects on a pivotal moment in history at the fall of Nineveh.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Korea in Ruins

03:00 Reflections on Previous Episodes

05:53 The Impact of Media on Archaeology

08:44 David Connolly's Journey in Archaeology

11:43 Life Lessons from Archaeology

17:16 The Role of Badger in Archaeology

26:46 The Birth of BAJR: A Community for Archaeologists

31:49 Building Trust and Influence in Archaeology

38:06 Engaging with Pseudo-Archaeology: A New Approach

41:15 Pride in Archaeological Achievements

46:18 Time Travel: A Journey to Nineveh

In this Halloween-themed episode, Derek and Lawrence explore the origins and traditions of Halloween, discussing its historical significance, cultural practices, and spooky stories. They delve into the connections between Halloween and archaeology, including Edgar Allan Poe's influence and the myths surrounding tomb raiding. The conversation also touches on personal experiences with Halloween festivities and more.

00:00 Halloween Special Introduction

02:34 The Origins of Halloween

05:23 Halloween Traditions and Rituals

08:04 Edgar Allan Poe and Archaeology

11:16 Curses and Tomb Raiding

13:35 Spooky Archaeological Experiences

16:49 Halloween Reflections and Future Plans