Hosted by ARI public educator Lee Strange, the Midwestern Archaeology Podcast brings the archaeology and history of the Midwest to listeners through approachable conversations with archaeologists, researchers, museum professionals, educators and other experts.
From the earliest communities of the Pre-Contact Midwest to historic neighborhoods, experimental archaeology and new discoveries, each episode explores what archaeology can teach us about the people who lived here and the world they experienced.
Archaeology is about much more than artifacts. It is the study of people, communities, environments and the ways cultures change over time.
The Midwestern Archaeology Podcast makes that research more accessible by bringing listeners directly into conversations with the people studying it. Episodes examine topics such as Indigenous cultures of the Ohio River Valley, Cahokia and the Mississippian world, the Fort Ancient cultural tradition, experimental archaeology, historic communities, ancient technologies and the ways people adapted to changing environments.
Whether you are an experienced archaeology enthusiast or simply curious about the history of the region, the podcast offers an engaging place to begin exploring.
The Midwest contains thousands of years of human history, but many of its stories remain unfamiliar to the public. Archaeological sites throughout the region provide evidence of complex communities, extensive trade networks, technological innovation, cultural exchange and changing relationships with the land.
Understanding this history helps us see the Midwest differently. Familiar rivers, towns and landscapes become part of a much larger human story.
Sharing this knowledge also supports the preservation of archaeological sites. When people understand why these places matter, they are better prepared to recognize, respect and protect them for future generations.
Each episode combines thoughtful research with an accessible, conversational format. Lee speaks with scholars and professionals about their work, how archaeological interpretations are developed and what new research is revealing about the past.
Conversations have explored subjects ranging from Clovis technology and experimental archaeology to the Hopewell interaction sphere, Cahokia, Fort Ancient communities, African American history and the archaeology of human relationships with animals.
Listeners hear not only what researchers have discovered, but how they reached those conclusions and why their findings matter today.
Lee Strange is a public educator at the Archaeological Research Institute with a focus on adult education and communications. Through the Midwestern Archaeology Podcast, Lee connects researchers with the public and creates an approachable space for exploring archaeology, history and ongoing research.
Discover the cultures, communities and histories that have shaped the Midwest. Listen to the latest episode or explore the complete Midwestern Archaeology Podcast archive.
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