On the latest episode of AnthroPuzzled, we sit down with data scientist and entrepreneur Stephen Paff who blends anthropology, math, and machine learning to understand people through data.

With a background in both anthropology and mathematics, he approaches data science as a social science at its core, using technical tools to answer questions about human behavior, decision-making, and culture. His work spans high-stakes environments, from analyzing data during COVID-19 in a New York hospital system to leading large-scale insights work at Google.

Now, as the founder of Idea Corner LLC, he applies a bottom-up, anthropological approach to building products, focusing on what people actually need rather than forcing top-down solutions. He also breaks down misconceptions about math and programming, emphasizing that these are learnable skills and encouraging students to explore data science in accessible ways before committing to advanced degrees.

Listen now to explore how anthropology is reshaping data science, and why understanding people is at the center of it all.

On the latest episode of AnthroPuzzled, we sit down with a technology strategist who blends anthropology with tech to guide organizations in making smarter, people-centered investments.

With a background in both technology and anthropology, Minakshi uses ethnographic interviews to uncover the real challenges teams face, going beyond surface-level needs to understand workplace culture, internal dynamics, and decision-making processes. Her approach prioritizes people over technology, ensuring that solutions are built around human experiences rather than imposed systems.

Working primarily in risk and compliance, her role focuses on shaping long-term technology strategies, from annual planning to multi-year investment decisions. By applying anthropological thinking throughout the process, Minakshi helps organizations anticipate challenges, reduce friction, and build systems that actually work for employees.

Listen now to explore how anthropology is transforming the way we build, implement, and think about technology.

On the latest episode of AnthroPuzzled, we sit down with Celia Orsini, an archaeologist and writer with a PhD in early medieval archaeology from the University of La Sorbonne and the founder of Archaeology for Well-Being.

Celia applies archaeological knowledge, heritage, and material culture to support mental health, connection, and team cohesion in contemporary workplaces. Through immersive workshops, she uses the past to help individuals and teams reflect on identity, belonging, and well-being in ways that are accessible, inclusive, and grounded in shared human experience.

Rather than treating archaeology as something confined to museums or academic research, Celia's work reframes it as a practical tool for addressing modern challenges such as stress, isolation, and disconnection. Her sessions draw on universal themes like landscape, food, and healing, using storytelling, sensory engagement, and reflection to foster curiosity, empathy, and a stronger sense of community. Her work bridges archaeology and well-being, translating insights from past societies into meaningful practices for the present.

Listen now to learn how archaeology can support well-being and why the past still matters in shaping healthier, more connected lives.