Innovative Storytelling for Social Impact
and Culture Change
Unlock Your Creative Potential and Change the World through the power of anthropology and human-centered storytelling
About Anthrocurious
Welcome to Anthrocurious, an innovation storytelling and human insights collective. We specialize in crafting meaningful experiences through rigorous research that drive social impact and promote positive culture change.
With backgrounds in cultural anthropology, human sciences, and extensive experience in media production and business consulting, we transform complex social science research into engaging, actionable narratives. Our mission is to amplify underrepresented voices and create powerful stories that inspire people from all walks of life.
Since 2015 with the inception of This Anthro Life podcast, we have been creating complex social science research into engaging and impactful media through coaching sessions, courses blending storytelling with impactful messaging techniques alongside research services tailored for organizations thinking about people thinking about businesses.
Human-Centered Approach
We believe in the power of understanding human experiences and perspectives to drive meaningful change.
Innovation Through Storytelling
Crafting narratives that resonate deeply and inspire action through rigorous research and creative insight.
Social Impact Focus
Every project is designed to promote positive cultural transformation and address real-world challenges.
Community Driven
Building meaningful connections and fostering collaboration across diverse communities and perspectives.
Latest News & Content
Discover the newest blog posts, podcast episodes, videos, events, media appearances, and more from our community
Content Type
Event Timeline
Ghosts in the Machine: Reanimating Anthropological Engagement with AI
Artificial intelligence is haunted-by its past imaginaries, by the politics of its present, and by the futures it promises or threatens to deliver. Anthropology, too, is haunted: by disciplinary forebears, by uneven histories of engagement with technology, and by a legacy of critique that, while essential, is not sufficient. This roundtable calls for a renewed, more balanced anthropological approach to AI-one that reanimates the spirit of earlier ethnographic and theoretical engagements from the 1980s and 1990s, before the long silence that followed. Between 2000 and 2018, anthropological scholarship on AI was sparse and often shaped by critical distance-important but limited in its reach. Since 2018, we see signs of reawakening: a cautious return to the field, accompanied by methodological and ethical innovation. Yet the discipline still tends to linger in the shadows, watching but not always intervening. If we are to shape more just and humane AI futures, we must step beyond armchair critique and into active, public, and participatory engagement. This panel takes seriously the 2025 AAA meeting theme of Ghosts to interrogate how past anthropological engagements-and absences-continue to structure the field's current relationship with AI. We ask: What have we forgotten or refused? What insights from past ethnographies of computation, cognition, and automation might guide us today? And how might anthropology become a more generative presence in contemporary AI development, rather than a ghost at the margins? We aim to foreground a diversity of perspectives, including those of critics, designers, researchers, and educators, to explore how anthropology might both exorcise and embrace its ghosts in the machine. In doing so, we seek not only to critique AI, but to craft new ways of engaging it-ethically, ethnographically, and with an eye toward shaping the future.
Report like an anthropologist
From ethnographic interviews to semiotic mapping: Small newsrooms can do big things, you just need the right tools
The Evolution of Work: More Than Just a Paycheck
What if work isn’t just about what we do, but how we think about it? In this episode of This Anthro Life, host Adam Gamwell is joined by Claudia Strauss to unravel the myths and realities behind today’s shifting work culture. They explore the viral claim that “nobody wants to work anymore,” uncovering the hidden forces driving changes in labor, passion, and productivity. From the history of the Puritan work ethic to the rise of AI and gig work, this conversation challenges us to rethink what it really means to find purpose in what we do. How has the idea of hard work evolved? Why do some jobs feel more meaningful than others? And what happens when the very definition of work itself begins to change? This episode is a must-listen for anyone questioning the future of work, purpose, and fulfillment. Whether you’re an employee, entrepreneur, or simply rethinking your career, this conversation will shift your perspective—and maybe even the way you work. Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction: Does Nobody Want to Work? 3:45 - The Myth of the "Lazy Worker" 8:22 - Historical Shifts in Labor and Employment 14:10 - The Role of Technology and Automation 21:30 - Wage Stagnation vs. Cost of Living 29:05 - The Psychology of Work: Burnout and Mental Health 37:50 - The Gig Economy & Changing Job Markets 45:20 - Corporate Power and the Decline of Worker Rights 52:15 - The Future of Work: Universal Basic Income & AI 58:50 - Final Thoughts: Redefining Work for the 21st Century Links: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/ https://thisanthrolife.substack.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/ https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life/ About Claudia Strauss: https://www.pitzer.edu/faculty-staff-directory/claudia-strauss https://www.claudiastrauss.org/about-5 https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudia-strauss-94723835
What is it like to study at UC Berkeley's I-House?
What if studying at UC Berkeley’s International House is more than just an experience—it’s a transformation? In this episode of This Anthro Life, host Adam Gamwell is joined by international students and experts to explore the deep cultural, social, and intellectual exchanges that happen inside the iconic I-House. They dive into what makes I-House a unique melting pot, from lifelong friendships and unexpected challenges to the ways living in a global community reshapes perspectives on identity, belonging, and the future. How does immersion in such a diverse environment change the way we see the world? What can we learn from the personal stories of those who’ve called I-House home? And how does this kind of international exchange influence careers, innovation, and even global diplomacy? This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in cross-cultural connections, higher education, and the impact of global communities. Whether you’re a student, traveler, or just fascinated by how diverse perspectives shape our world, this episode will make you rethink the meaning of home and belonging. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction 06:15 - Understanding the Core Issue 12:30 - Expert Insights and Analysis 19:45 - Real-World Examples 27:10 - Key Challenges and Solutions 35:25 - Practical Strategies to Apply 43:50 - Common Mistakes to Avoid 51:15 - Future Trends and Predictions 59:40 - Final Thoughts and Takeaways 1:07:20 - Closing Remarks Links: https://www.thisanthrolife.org/ https://thisanthrolife.substack.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/ https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life/ About Shaun Carver: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauncarver https://ihouse.berkeley.edu/about/leadership-team
What Can You Do with an Anthropology Degree?
Are you curious about the incredible versatility of an anthropology degree? In this episode of This Anthro Life, host Adam Gamwell breaks down the many paths available to anthropologists beyond studying ancient cultures. From tech and healthcare to nonprofits, business, and even solving crimes, Adam explores how anthropology equips professionals to tackle real-world challenges. Discover how anthropologists use their unique skills to bridge cultural gaps, analyze human behavior, and create impactful solutions across industries. Whether you're considering a career in anthropology or simply intrigued by its applications in today's world, this episode will inspire you to see the value of understanding human connections in new ways. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation about culture, careers, and the power of anthropology! Chapters: Introduction to Anthropology Careers - 0:00 Beyond Ancient Cultures - 0:15 What Anthropologists Do - 0:44 Solving Real-World Problems - 3:01 Anthropologists in Business and Tech - 7:16 Impact in Public Health - 9:00 Nonprofits and Advocacy Roles - 10:21 Anthropology in Museums and Government - 12:02 Job Market and Career Flexibility - 14:00 The Value of Anthropology Today - 16:56 Links https://www.thisanthrolife.org/ https://thisanthrolife.substack.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thisanthrolife/ https://www.facebook.com/thisanthrolife https://www.linkedin.com/company/this-anthro-life/
Our Services
Transform your vision into impactful narratives through our comprehensive suite of research-driven services
Storytelling Campaign Development
Communicate your brand story through data-driven storytelling with research-backed narratives that resonate.
- Brand narrative strategy
- Research-backed content
- Multi-channel campaigns
Experience Design
Define and align touch points and journeys, from concept to products and services.
- User journey mapping
- Service design
- Product conceptualization
Content Creation
Bring your ideas to life with impactful storytelling through professional-quality content.
- Podcast production
- Video storytelling
- Written content
Audience Strategy & Research
Deep understanding of your people, uncovering data insights for strategy development.
- Ethnographic research
- User personas
- Behavioral analysis
Speaking, Training & Workshops
Take your skills to the next level with our immersive learning experiences.
- Public speaking training
- Storytelling workshops
- Custom courses
Book a Call
Schedule a time to discuss how we can bring your vision to life
Or reach out directly:
hello@anthrocurious.com