Vocational Pathways w/ Dena Michele Rosko

On the latest episode of AnthroPuzzled, we sit down with Dr. Dena Michele Rosko, an ordained minister, author, publisher, educator, and story systems anthropologist whose work bridges theology, creativity, organizational systems, and anthropology. With a PhD in Organizational Systems and graduate studies in communication and leadership, Dena shares how anthropology shapes her understanding of storytelling, compassion, identity, and community transformation. Dena reflects on her dissertation research exploring organizational compassion, Victor Turner's concept of communitas, and the ways marginalized experiences can lead to transformation and "complex wholeness." Through narrative methods, photography, and storytelling, she examined how communities, churches, and organizations can better support people navigating hardship and change. The conversation also explores liminality, creativity, motherhood during doctoral studies, and how systems and structures can either nurture or interrupt human connection and healing. We also dive into Dena's work as an author and publisher, including her growing imprint Dogwood Group and her nine-book Heritage Chronicles series, which blends theology, fantasy, memoir, caregiving, and poetry to explore themes of identity, heritage, resilience, and belonging. Along the way, Dena offers candid advice about graduate school, networking, academic systems, and building a meaningful career rooted in passion, creativity, and service. Listen now to explore storytelling, organizational compassion, liminality, higher education, and how anthropology can help create more compassionate and human-centered communities.