34 minutes | Thursday, July 2, 2026
In this radio interview, archaeologist Paul Reed reflects on his 40-year career, discussing how archaeology is less about discovering rare artifacts and more about understanding the lives, cultures, and migrations of people in the past. He explains how sites such as Chaco Canyon provide insight into ancient communities, environmental change, water management, and the connections between past and present human societies. Reed also highlights modern archaeology's growing collaboration with Indigenous communities, the diverse career opportunities in the field, and the importance of sharing archaeological discoveries with the public. Throughout the conversation, he emphasizes that despite differences in technology and culture, people across history share many of the same fundamental needs, challenges, and aspirations.