Career in Ruins

Bonus Episode: Digging Deep on Divis — Neolithic Secrets & Public Archaeology with Malachy Conway

In this bonus episode from the slopes of Divis Mountain, we join Malachy Conway, Northern Ireland Regional Archaeologist for the National Trust, as he shares behind-the-scenes insights from a live community excavation during the Festival of Archaeology. 

Malachy takes us on a journey through 6,000 years of human history, from Neolithic pits and prehistoric pottery to 19th-century sheepfolds and modern-day volunteer-powered research. This is landscape archaeology at its finest — layered, complex, and full of surprises just beneath the surface.

🔍 Highlights include:
• Tracing prehistoric settlement under Victorian shepherd huts
• Reconnecting community and heritage through excavation
• The powerful role of public participation in archaeological research
• Farming, flint tools, and the archaeology of rubbish
• Nurturing the next generation of archaeologists — from kids to early-career pros

Whether you're a heritage enthusiast or simply curious about what lies beneath your feet, this episode reveals how archaeology creates meaning, fosters learning, and builds community—one trowel at a time.

🎙️ Recorded onsite with real volunteers and live excavations in progress.

🛠️ Learn more about how to get involved with National Trust NI and explore archaeology in action during the Festival: https://www.archaeologyuk.org

#DivisMountain #MalachyConway #PublicArchaeology #Neolithic #CommunityExcavation #FestivalOfArchaeology #ArchaeologyPodcast #HeritageMatters #NationalTrustNI #CareerInRuins #PrehistoricIreland #Volunteering #LandscapeArchaeology

Festival of Archaeology Special - 2025

Festival of Archaeology 2025

We’re coming to you from the launch of the Council for British Archaeology’s 2025 Festival of Archaeology, high up on Divis Mountain, Belfast, hosted by the National Trust.

In this special episode, we meet fascinating people from across the heritage world, discover the unique archaeology and history of Northern Ireland, hear first-hand about an exciting excavation, and dive into everything you need to know about this incredible two-week celebration of archaeology.

You can still join the festival, running from 19th July to 3rd August – find events near you at archaeologyuk.org.

Huge thanks to the Council for British Archaeology and the National Trust for having us.
🎧 Edited by the brilliant Martyn Williams.

S7 Ep4: A Career in Remains

In this special year-end episode of Careers in Ruins, we are thrilled to welcome Jacqueline McKinley, a trailblazer in osteoarchaeology. Jacqueline takes us on a journey through her remarkable career, from being inspired by Magnus Magnusson’s iconic documentary on Skara Brae to becoming one of the first self-proclaimed osteoarchaeologists.

With her characteristic wit and passion, Jacqueline delves into her love for burial practices and cremations, exploring what these rituals reveal about past societies’ values and beliefs. She shares insights from a career dedicated to uncovering the intimate stories behind human remains, shedding light on the lives of those who came before us.

This episode is a celebration of a career built on curiosity, determination, and a deep respect for the human past. Whether you’re an aspiring archaeologist, a history enthusiast, or simply fascinated by the way we honor the dead, Jacqueline’s story will inspire and captivate you.

Join us as we close out the year with the wisdom and warmth of a true pioneer in the field of archaeology.

S7 Ep3: A career in bogs

In this episode of Career in Ruins, Lawrence and Derek kick things off with some lighthearted chatter about the buzz surrounding Gladiator 2—what might Ridley Scott have in store for fans of ancient drama and epic storytelling?

Then, we’re joined by the incredible Professor Henry Chapman, a landscape archaeologist whose expertise spans GIS, ancient landscapes, and the unique environments of bogs. Together, we explore:

• How GIS has revolutionized our understanding of historic landscapes.
• The hidden stories bogs can tell about past human activity and climate change.
• Henry's career journey and his thoughts on the importance of interdisciplinary research in archaeology.
• and, of course, Time Team

Whether you’re into swords and sandals or peat and bog bodies, this episode offers something for everyone. Tune in for an inspiring dive into the intersection of cutting-edge technology and timeless landscapes!

S7 Ep2: A career in death and burial

In this episode, hosts Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman sit down with Professor Mike Parker Pearson to delve into a career that has shaped the field of archaeology on multiple fronts. The conversation begins with reflections on the late Lord Colin Renfrew, a transformative figure in archaeology and Mike's former lecturer, whose recent passing adds a poignant note to the discussion.

 

Mike provides unique insights into the evolution of the discipline, recounting his involvement in the development of PPG16, a groundbreaking policy that redefined the role of archaeology within the planning process in the UK. The conversation broadens to explore contrasting practices, including innovative Denmark approaches and the ongoing tension between commercial and academic archaeology.

The episode also takes a deep dive into Mike's renowned research in prehistory, touching on his work in Madagascar and his pivotal investigations at Stonehenge. With a career spanning decades and continents, Mike offers a compelling narrative about the challenges, achievements, and evolution of archaeology as both a science and a storytelling craft.

 

This instalment is a tribute to a life dedicated to uncovering the past, enriched by thoughtful reflections on the people, places, and policies that have defined modern archaeology.

S7 Ep1: A Career at the trowels edge

In the first episode of the new season, Derek and Lawrence sit down with Chris Leonard, Senior Project Officer at Cotswold Archaeology. Chris shares his fascinating career journey, starting with a degree in South American Studies and navigating the highs and lows of short-term contracts in commercial archaeology. From uncertain beginnings to becoming a leading professional in the field, his story is a must-hear for anyone curious about the realities of a career in commercial archaeology.

 

Plus, Derek and Lawrence catch us up on what they’ve been up to during the ten-month break. Expect laughter, insights, and the launch of a brand-new tradition: Career in Ruins-themed AI-generated songs! 🎵

 

Get ready to dig into a new season of adventure, storytelling, and, of course, ruins. Listen now! 🎧

Tales from the Scottish Crannog Centre

In this special episode, we bring you exclusive coverage from the launch event of the Festival of Archaeology, hosted at the scenic Scottish Crannog Centre on the banks of Loch Tay. Join us as we dive into engaging conversations with event organizers from the Council for British Archaeology, explore the vibrant stalls, and interact with the passionate site staff and living history specialists who bring the past to life. Whether you're an archaeology enthusiast or just curious about the past, this episode is packed with insights and stories that you won't want to miss.

S6 Ep7: A career behind the camera

Our first episode of 2024 is a fascinating chat with Karen Kirk. Karen has had a brilliant career which has spanned commercial archaeology, BBC drama productions and more recently, the production of archaeological TV programs. With shows and documentaries ranging from Digging for Britain, Time Team, Secrets of Stonehenge and Titanic’s Final Mystery, Karen talks us through how she got involved in working in such an important area which allows us to share and promote our incredible discipline.

S6 Ep6: A career in historical archaeology

The episode of Career Ruins features a conversation with Colm Donnelly, a Senior Research Fellow at Queen's University in Belfast. Derek and Lawrence reflect on the highlights of the year and discuss Colm's career journey in historical archaeology and community archaeology. Colm shares insights into his notable projects, including excavating medieval castles in Ireland and participating in post-ex Russia. The episode highlights the importance of combining historical records with archaeological evidence to understand the lives of ordinary people from the past. The conversation provides a deep dive into the world of historical archaeology and the significance of unearthing lesser-known aspects of history.

S6 Ep5: A career in walking

The podcast features an interview with Dr. Jim Leary, an archaeologist and author at the University of York. The trio discuss Jim's new book 'Footmarks' and, his experiences in commercial and curatorial archaeology, and his recent career move to part-time teaching. He also shares insights into his significant projects, including leading the excavation and stabilisation of Silbury Hill and investigating the Marlborough Mound.