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1100. This week, we talk with popular online linguist Adam Aleksic, also known as Etymology Nerd. We discuss "algospeak" and how social media algorithms are changing language. We discuss euphemisms like "unalive," the spread of trending words, and how content creators adapt their speech to go viral. Adam Aleksic - The Etymology NerdAdam's book - "Algospeak"
A republished Subtext as tribute to its subject, Rachel Jendrzejewski, a Minneapolis-based interdisciplinary artist and writer who died last week after a battle with cancer.
Do you call it "pop," "soda," or "coke"? We look at the interesting history behind these regional names for carbonated beverages. Then, we look at words where you can use a Q without a U, which might help your Scrabble game.The pop, soda or coke segment was written by Valerie Fridland, a professor of linguistics at the University of Nevada in Reno and the author of "Like Literally, Dude: Arguing for the Good in Bad English." It originally appeared in The Conversation and appears here through a Creative Commons license. You can find Valerie at valeriefridland.com.The Q segment was written by Karen Lunde, a career writer and editor. In the late '90s, as a young mom with two kids and a dog, she founded one of the internet's first writing workshop communities. These days, she facilitates expressive writing workshops, both online and off. Find her at chanterellestorystudio.com.
Buckle up for May's wildest ride yet! In this episode, we break down May's motorcycle adventure filled with chaos, trust, and some seriously cute flirting! Dive into the emotional depth of May and Ai's evolving relationship, the unexpected twists, and the heartwarming (and hilarious) moments that make this LGBTQ+ story unforgettable. From heartfelt confessions to swoon-worthy exchanges, this breakdown will have you laughing, crying, and rooting for these two every step of the way.We also explore key themes like trust, vulnerability, and the beauty of queer representation in media. Whether it's May stepping out of her comfort zone or I showing her softer, more poetic side, there's so much to love about this dynamic duo. And don't worry, we've got the tea on behind-the-scenes details and character insights too!What was your favorite moment from this ride? Drop your thoughts in the comments and let's gush over this beautiful LGBTQ+ story together. Don't forget to hit subscribe for more queer media breakdowns and join us as we celebrate the joy of representation and the power of these stories! If you want to support us and gain access to bonus content become a Patreon: BGE PatreonWanna talk queer media with us and our friends? Join our Discord: BGE Discord LinkThis episode along with all our other episodes are now available on YouTube: Check out the BGE ChannelAs always, please feel free to reach out to us on all the things. We love hearing from you!Instagram @biggayenergypod Twitter @biggayenergypod Tik Tok @BiggayenergypodcastTumblr @biggayenergypod
1098. We talk with cognitive scientist Dr. Vicky Lai about how frequently we use metaphors and what happens in our brains when we hear them. We also look at her research on irony and its effect on emotion, and how metaphors relate to cancer outcomes.Dr. Vicky Lai - https://psychology.arizona.edu/person/vicky-lai
The L.A.-based Colombian playwright, performer, and teaching artist talks about sources of inspiration from the Latine theatre canon and about building close artistic relationships.
In part two of our conversation with New York gallerist Bruce Silverstein, we delve deeper into his evolving gallery vision, his commitment to challenging traditional art hierarchies, and his dedication to championing overlooked artists. Bruce reflects on the inaugural exhibition at his new gallery location, Photographer as Sculptor, Sculptor as Photographer, which encapsulates decades of his thought on the fluidity of artistic mediums. He shares insights into how artists like Constantin Brancusi, Henry Moore and Edward Weston have blurred the lines between photography and sculpture, often using the camera as an intrinsic part of their creative process rather than just a documentary tool. The episode also covers Bruce's proactive efforts to address historical biases in the art world, particularly his work with overlooked African-American photographers from the Kamoinge group, such as Chester Higgins, and his promotion of Native American artists like Sarah Sense and Dakota Mace. As well as the innovative approaches of contemporary artists Shinichi Maruyama and Marianne Tuijn, whose works seamlessly blend photography with performance, painting, and sculptural interventions. Timestamps (00:00) – Introduction and welcome (02:00) – One month in new gallery location and reflecting on the move (05:49) – Photographer as Sculptor, Sculptor as Photographer exhibition (09:30) – Constantin Brancusi - Romanian sculptor, photographer, and painter (19:03) – Expanding the scope of the gallery beyond photography (25:59) – The purpose of contemporary art and our relationship to it (28:28) – Recognition of overlooked Black artists (32:33) – Kamoinge group (1963) of New York City based African American photographers (34:42) – Chester Higgins - African American photographer (37:07) – Sarah Sense and Dakota Mace - Native American artists (43:51) – Contemporary photographers redefining the medium (44:49) – Shinichi Maruyama - Japanese photographer (48:00) – Marjan Teeuwen - Dutch artist (51:31) – Future exhibitions and plans for the new gallery space Bruce Silverstein is a leading New York gallerist specialising in modern and contemporary photography. After a successful career on Wall Street, he founded the Bruce Silverstein Gallery in 2001, quickly becoming known for his innovative exhibitions and advocacy for under-represented artists. Bruce's curatorial approach challenges traditional boundaries, integrating photography with other art forms and re-contextualizing overlooked voices in the art world. - Bruce Silverstein Gallery official website https://brucesilverstein.com/ - Follow Bruce Silverstein Gallery on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/brucesilverstein/ This episode of Subtext & Discourse Art World Podcast was recorded on 8. May 2025 between Perth (AU) and New York (US) with Riverside. Michael Dooney official website: https://www.michaeldooney.net Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/michaeldooney/
1097. Do you wonder whether "bacon" can be plural? We look at the difference between countable and uncountable nouns. Then, we look at how the Martha's Vineyard accent developed and what it tells us about language and society.The "countable" segment was written by Karen Lunde, a career writer and editor. In the late '90s, as a young mom with two kids and a dog, she founded one of the internet's first writing workshop communities. These days, she facilitates expressive writing workshops, both online and off. Find her at chanterellestorystudio.com. The "Martha's segment was written by Valerie Fridland, a professor of linguistics at the University of Nevada in Reno and the author of "Like Literally, Dude: Arguing for the Good in Bad English." You can find her at valeriefridland.com.
On this episode, 'Laolu, Furo, and Nosa are joined by Osarumen Osamuyi from The Subtext!They talk about the recent collapses of Vendease and Okra in the ecosystem, then take a closer look at Magic Beans, the first chapter of Foodpod – a limited series about Technology eating food in Africa – by Osarumen._We love hearing your thoughts! Find us on X (@TheOAPod) and Instagram (@openafricapod) and tag us in your conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
1095. Is “sick” really “good”? This week, we explore how words flip their meanings and why language changes over time. Then, we look at the 1950s idea of "U and Non-U English" and what it tells us about social climbing.The "sick" segment was written by Natalie Schilling, a professor emerita of linguistics at Georgetown University in Washington, DC, and who runs a forensic linguistics consulting firm. You can find her on LinkedIn.The "posh" segment was by Karen Lunde, a former Quick & Dirty Tips editor and digital pioneer who's been spinning words into gold since before cat videos ruled the internet. She created one of the first online writing workshops, and she's published thousands of articles on the art of writing. These days, she leads personal narrative writing retreats and helps writers find their voice. Visit her at ChanterelleStoryStudio.com.
This week on Conflict Managed, we welcome mediator and educator Richard Birke for a thoughtful conversation about what's said, and what's underneath, in conflict. Tune in as we explore: • How the unusual grabs our attention • Listening without (negative) reaction • The desire to be “further from the bear” • Needs vs. how we try to meet them • A simple listening tool: the 5-second pause • Always take the high road • Asking yourself: What do I want? What's available? What if nothing changes? Conflict Managed is available wherever you listen to podcasts and to watch on YouTube @3pconflictrestoration. Richard Birke is the chief architect behind JAMS Pathways. Drawing from his leadership experience within the JAMS Institute, Mr. Birke will leverage his wealth of wisdom and knowledge to ensure JAMS Pathways delivers industry-leading service to help clients navigate conflict. A 30-year veteran in the field and in the classroom, Mr. Birke is a hands-on leader and has won two national writing awards for his work in the psychology and neuroscience of mediation and negotiation. Additionally, he has taught dozens of innovative courses around the world, given hundreds of lectures and speeches, and mediated complex disputes involving such matters as an international child abduction, civil rights and the creation of national wilderness areas. Conflict Managed is produced by Third Party Workplace Conflict Restoration Services and hosted by Merry Brown. #ConflictManagedPodcast #WorkplaceConflict #ProfessionalGrowth #Podcast #WorkplaceWellbeing #ActiveListening #LeadershipDevelopment #ConflictResolution
1093. Why do we say “prob'ly” instead of “probably”? This week, we look at elision in everyday speech. Then, we look at a wild study showing that the way people talk is being influenced by AI.The elision segment was by Susan K. Herman, a retired multidisciplined language analyst, editor, and instructor for the federal government.
Credited with inventing the "intimate documentary" style of photography, Joanne Leonard was one of the first to pivot away from street style photography adopt a more personal approach that focused on her close relationships and immediate surroundings. In this episode we delve into her unique approach that captured the daily lives of women and challenged the male gaze, her use of collage to go beyond the limits of photography, and creating work inspired by the realities of motherhood which earned her a place as a feminist art icon whose work is now celebrated in major collections worldwide. This interview coincided with Joanne's first UK solo exhibition at Hackelbury Fine Art London: Vintage Photographs and Early Collages. Timestamps (00:00) – Introduction and welcome (02:19) – Growing up in Hollywood (05:10) – The Family of Man exhibition (07:21) – Studying photography and social sciences (08:50) – From Hollywood to Berkeley then Oakland, California (11:48) – "Intimate Documentary" approach to photography (16:37) – Exhibiting at the de Young Museum, San Francisco (19:44) – Teaching photography throughout the Bay area (20:56) – Working with Collage (22:15) – The Journal of Miscarriage (27:56) – Being part of the Feminist Art Movement (31:40) – Managing motherhood and being an artist (34:29) – Gaining recognition later in life (37:00) – Advice for photographers and artists (39:42) – Official Winter Olympic Photographer for the USA in 1972 (44:21) – The Impact of Technology on American Life, NEA Grant (48:42) – The Newspaper Diaries Joanne Leonard is an American photographer, photo collage artist, and feminist based in Ann Arbor, Michigan. She is known for her innovative "intimate documentary" approach to photography, focusing on family, friends, and immediate surroundings. Her work delves into often overlooked aspects of women's lives, memory, and personal history, while also engaging with larger movements in feminism, civil rights, and social justice Leonard was a professor at the University of Michigan for 31 years, retiring in 2009 after dedicating 40 years to teaching as a college professor. Her work has been included in major art history textbooks like Janson's History of Art and Gardner's Art Through the Ages, and is held in significant collections worldwide, including MoMA, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and the Victoria & Albert Museum. - Joanne Leonard official website: https://beinginpictures.com/ HackelBury presents the first UK solo exhibition by acclaimed artist, Joanne Leonard. Vintage Photographs and Early Collages features photographs from the 1960s and 1970s and unique early collage pieces from the 1970s and 1980s. This retrospective offers an intimate look into Leonard's artistic evolution and her innovative approach to visual storytelling. - HackelBury Fine Art official website: https://hackelbury.co.uk/ - Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/hackelburyfineart/ - Joanne Leonard: Vintage Photographs and Early Collages: https://hackelbury.co.uk/exhibitions/127-joanne-leonard-vintage-photographs-and-early-collages/overview/ Other mentioned resources: - Hyperallergic article: https://hyperallergic.com/910133/joanne-leonard-miscarriage-collages-that-were-too-much-for-the-art-world/ - Guardian article: https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2025/jun/04/joanne-leonard-best-photograph-marriage-intimacy This episode of Subtext & Discourse Art World Podcast was recorded on 12. June 2025 between Perth (AU) and Michigan (US) with Riverside. Portrait photo by Eleanor Rubin. Michael Dooney official website: https://www.michaeldooney.net Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/michaeldooney/
1092. Your accent may be saying more than your words. Sociolinguist Rob Drummond explains how accents shape our identities, how they differ across social classes, and why changing your accent can affect how you're perceived.Rob Drummond - https://bsky.app/profile/robdrummond.bsky.socialRob's book, "You're All Talk"
1091. Is the em dash a sign of AI writing? I looked at where the idea comes from, and we have the final answer! Then, we look at the difference between "caregiver" and "caretaker."The "'caregiver" and "caretaker'" segment was written by Jim Norrena, MFA, who has been writing and editing for more than thirty-five years. He's the founder of TypoSuction.com, an independent editing/writing service. He's taught grammar and copyediting intensives and professional proofreading workshops at Media Alliance and served as events coordinator for Bay Area Editors' Forum (BAEF). Visit Linkedin.com/in/jimnorrena/ for his complete work history and highlighted projects.
1090. Your hands may be saying more than your words. Lauren Gawne explains how gestures shape communication, how they differ across cultures, and why removing gestures can make your speech less fluent.Lauren Gawne → Superlinguo
1089. Do you wonder when you should use "further" or "farther"? We have the answer (where there is one). Then, you've seen lorem ipsum everywhere, but what does it mean? And where did it come from?The "lorem ipsum" segment was written by Jim Norrena, MFA, who has been writing and editing for more than thirty-five years. He's the founder of TypoSuction.com, an independent editing/writing service. He's taught grammar and copyediting intensives and professional proofreading workshops at Media Alliance and served as events coordinator for Bay Area Editors' Forum (BAEF). Visit Linkedin.com/in/jimnorrena/ for his complete work history and highlighted projects.
What does it take to build and sustain Switzerland's first and only international art fair dedicated to photography? In this special, Michael Dooney is joined by Sven Eisenhut-Hug (co-founder and director of Photo Basel) and Elwira Spychalska (art historian and artistic director of Photo Basel) to mark the fairs 10th anniversary. Together they discuss the evolution of Photo Basel, the challenges of curating a global photography platform and meeting the needs of different audiences, key aspects of this boutique art fair, and how Photo Basel fosters meaningful connections between galleries, collectors, and the public. Timestamps (00:00) – Introduction and welcome (01:27) – Entry to photography before Photo Basel (03:19) – Photo Basel, boutique family owned art fair (06:18) – How was it starting a new art fair in Basel? (08:06) – The first and still the only photography specific fair in Switzerland (09:37) – When did Photo Basel come into its own? (12:31) – Constantly growing and evolving the fair with each new edition (14:05) – Beyond Photography parcours (15:40) – Curating a selection of galleries to meet the different faces of photography (20:18) – Unexpected works presented in the Beyond Photography parcours (22:05) – Novum parcours (never before exhibited work) (27:52) – The new generation of photography collectors (31:13) – Guided tours and education about photography collecting (32:50) – Maurice de Mauriac Award (34:42) – SIYU Award - Emerging Swiss Photography Talent Prize (37:38) – Featured Panel Talk: Emerging Artists, Galleries and the Art Market (39:00) – Photo Basel and Positions Berlin partnership (42:28) – Advice for first time visitors to Photo Basel and photography fairs photo basel is is Switzerland's first and only international art fair dedicated to photography-based art. To mark its 10th anniversary edition, photo basel welcomes 39 galleries from 15 countries. More than 450 photographic positions by over 150 artists will be shown from the 17th to 22nd of June 2025. photo basel official website: https://www.photo-basel.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photobasel/ Sven Eisenhut-Hug is a Basel-based entrepreneur renowned for his significant contributions to the art world, particularly in the realm of photography. Born and raised in Basel, Switzerland, he co-founded photo basel in 2015 and Art Salon Zürich in 2022, establishing the country's first and only international art fair dedicated to photography. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sveneisenhut/ Elwira Spychalska is an art historian specialising in photography, based in Basel. She works across several museums in the city and is currently the artistic director of photo basel. Her practice moves between curatorial work, research, and writing, engaging with both historical archives and contemporary image cultures. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_elwira/ This episode of Subtext & Discourse Art World Podcast was recorded on 2. June 2025 between Perth (AU) and Basel (CH) with Riverside. Michael Dooney official website: https://www.michaeldooney.net Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/michaeldooney/
Brian talks to the Minneapolis-based playwright about learning from criticism, connecting with collaborators, and finding his voice.
Was kann ich von einem schwierigen Pferd für meinen Bühnenauftritt lernen? Eine Urlaubserkenntnis im Sattel hat Sonja Gründemann wieder etwas bewusst gemacht - und das hat mit Haltung zu tun - für die Businessbühne.
1087. You use the word "the" hundreds of times a day, but are you pronouncing it wrong? Today I have the rules I never learned about whether to say “thuh” or “thee.” Then, we look at why Latin died (and why "died" isn't quite the right way to describe it).The "Latin" segment is by Karen Lunde, a career writer and editor. In the late '90s, as a young mom with two kids and a dog, she founded one of the internet's first writing workshop communities. These days, she facilitates expressive writing workshops, both online and off. Find her at chanterellestorystudio.com
Lala and Peelo G. bring the heat with a no-holds-barred breakdown of lesbian sports pop culture—from Ashlyn Harris & Sophia Bush's messy timeline to Sam Kerr & Kristie Mewis's new baby and international entanglements. They analyze Azzi Fudd & Paige Bueckers' undeniable chemistry and potentially a 'soft launch.' Also, the two dive into the Angel Reese vs. Caitlin Clark foul debate including concern for the upcoming WNBA All-Star Game in Indiana. Lastly, Lala & Peelo G. mention the Sophie Cunningham contentious controversy with Phoenix Mercury CEO. Yikes. It's not just a game—it's lesbian lore in motion.
1086. What does it really take to earn a living as a writer? Jane Friedman explains the multiple paths writers take — from speaking and consulting to newsletters and hybrid publishing—and offers grounded, practical advice for navigating the business of writing in 2025 and beyond.Jane Friedman is the author of "The Business of Being a Writer."
What happens when photography becomes a tool for social change rather than just documentation? In this episode, Michael Dooney speaks with acclaimed British photographer and artist Mark Neville about his journey from art school to the front-lines of conflict, and how he uses collaborative photography projects to empower communities, challenge social norms, and effect real-world impact. Neville shares stories from his time as an official war artist in Afghanistan, discusses the making of influential projects like The Port Glasgow Book Project and Stop Tanks With Books, and reflects on his ongoing work in Ukraine. Listeners will gain insights into the ethics of documentary practice, the power of art as activism, and what it means to make photography for—and with—the people it represents. Timestamps (00:00) – Introduction and welcome (01:49) – Artist and photographer living and working in the Ukraine (04:54) – The Port Glasgow Book Project: Art for the community (08:04) – Getting attention of the art world (12:00) – Turning point towards a social engaged artistic practice (14:42) – Stop Tanks with Books Project: Art as activism in Ukraine (17:56) – Russian invasion of Ukriane (20:55) – Postcode Ukraine Charity (25:06) – War Artist in Helmand, Afghanistan (27:33) – Battle Against Stigma, book project (33:34) – Invitation to start making work in Ukraine (34:54) – Diary of a Volunteer, book project (37:51) – Individual experiences of Postcard Ukraine charity members (39:48) – Support for Ukrainian people (42:06) – How can listeners learn more and get involved? Mark Neville (b. 1966, London) is a British artist and photographer renowned for his socially engaged practice at the intersection of art, documentary, and activism. His projects often involve close collaboration with communities, aiming to empower subjects and address issues such as inequality, mental health, and conflict. Notable works include The Port Glasgow Book Project, Battle Against Stigma, Fancy Pictures, and Stop Tanks With Books. Neville has exhibited internationally, worked as an official war artist in Afghanistan, and was nominated for the Pulitzer Prize by The New York Times in 2012. Mark Neville official website: https://www.markneville.com/ Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/marknevillestudio/ Postcode Ukraine: https://www.postcodeukraine.com/ This episode of Subtext & Discourse Art World Podcast was recorded on 28. March 2025 between Perth (AU) and Ukraine with Riverside. Michael Dooney official website: https://www.michaeldooney.net Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/michaeldooney/
1084. This week, Gabe Henry talks about his new book, "Enough Is Enuf," and the long, strange quest to simplify English spelling. Learn why the "Chicago Tribune" made simplified spelling its house style for decades and why Roosevelt's attempt to make it law backfired.Find Gabe Henry at http://GabeHenry.com.
1083. Is it "woke," "woken," or "waked"? We break down why the verb "wake" is one of the trickiest in English, with four competing forms and centuries of change. Then, we lighten things up with a look at vacation vocabulary—from "staycation" to "glamping."The "wake" segment was written by Natalie Schilling, a professor emerita of linguistics at Georgetown University in Washington, DC, and who runs a forensic linguistics consulting firm. You can find her on LinkedIn.The "vacation" segment was written by Samantha Enslen, who runs Dragonfly Editorial. You can find her at dragonflyeditorial.com.
1081. Is an epitome a summary or a shining example? We look at why this word trips people up and how its meaning has changed over time. Then, we take a linguistic safari through the world of baby animal names—and what they tell us about language, culture, and human history.The "baby animal names" segment is by Karen Lunde, a career writer and editor. In the late '90s, as a young mom with two kids and a dog, she founded one of the internet's first writing workshop communities. These days, she facilitates expressive writing workshops, both online and off. Find her at chanterellestorystudio.com
1080. Linguist Andrew Cheng explains why people's accents shift over time, especially when they move—and how YouTubers make perfect data subjects. If you've ever cringed at your old voice recordings, this one's for you.Andrew Cheng is a professor of linguistics at the University of Hawaii. You can find him on Bluesky at LinguistAndrew.NEW: Sign up for my AP Style webinar on June 12: bit.ly/4k1XmpIUse the code MACMIL for $50 off.
A reading of the poem "How a Place Becomes Holy" by Yehoshua November, reflections on the power of calling out to G-d with the few, ambiguous words we have, and the delicate invitations in both creativity and faith to trust what stirs inside us. Episode sponsored in honor of the safety and protection of the Jewish people in the Holy Land. To inquire about sponsorship & advertising opportunities, please email us at info@humanandholy.comTo support our work, visit humanandholy.com/sponsor.Find us on Instagram @humanandholy & subscribe to our channel to stay up to date on all our upcoming conversations ✨Human & Holy podcast is available on all podcast streaming platforms. New episodes every Sunday & Wednesday on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts.TIMESTAMPS00:00 - "How a Place Becomes Holy"02:00 - Self-Trust in Creativity03:45 - Holiness as the Subtext of Reality04:22 - Story of Yeshaya Bar-Daki: A Cry for Life06:50 - An Experience at the Mikvah 08:58 - The Holiness in Everyday Life11:45 - Trusting the Heart's Longings
Co-hosts Jared Yates Sexton and Nick Hauselman discuss Trump as the mad king, his cognitive client ever more apparent as he made an appearance on Meet The Press and admits he doesn't know if he has to follow the constitution. Plus, he wants to re-open Alcatraz after watching the Eastwood movie, while removing funding to NPR and PBS. Support the show and gain access to the Weekender episodes on Friday by going to our Patreon and becoming a patron. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The writer of 'Funny, Like an Abortion' and 'The Night Witches' talks about long commutes, writing science plays, and the parts she wishes she'd been able to play in school.
Emmy-winning producer Shannon Malone-deBenedictis joins Lauren for a raw, hilarious, and unfiltered chat about showing up unapologetically in a world full of BS. From surviving Hollywood's image obsession to calling out the epidemic of weak leadership hiding behind subtext, Shannon breaks down why being direct is the ultimate power move. Expect F-bombs, stories of sharks and water buffalo, and a no-holds-barred look at fat bias in media, the myth of mentorship, and why problem-solving—not perfection—is the real career flex. About Shannon Malone-deBenedictis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-malone-debenedictis/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/padlincreative/ Website: www.padincreative.com About The Spitfire Podcast View Past Episodes: www.spitfirecoach.com/episode Have an idea for an episode, send it to: grow@spitfirecoach.com
1076. Dan Gerstein, founder of Gotham Ghostwriters, looks at how ghostwriting fiction really works, who's hiring ghostwriters, and why AI can't replace human storytelling. We also talked about how ghostwriters negotiate royalties, film rights, and what makes a great collaboration work.Find Dan at GothamGhostwriters.com.
1075. People often confuse "i.e." and "e.g." We'll help you get them right — no Latin required. Then, in honor of Shakespeare's birthday, we look at five common myths about his contributions to the English language, including whether he coined thousands of words and how much Latin he actually knew.The "Shakespeare" segment was by Jonathan Culpeper, a chair professor in English Language and Linguistics at Lancaster University, and Mathew Gillings, an assistant professor at the Vienna University of Economics and Business. It originally appeared in The Conversation and appears here through a Creative Commons license.
1074. Is AI good enough to replace lexicographers? Wordnik founder Erin McKean shares what works, what doesn't, and why the future of dictionaries is far from settled.Find Erin McKean at wordnik.com, dressaday.com, and wordnik@worknik.com.
1073. Today, we have practical tips for writing better paragraphs (and it's not the formulaic topic-sentence structure). Then, we look at the surprising history of phrases like “mad money” and “pin money” and what they show about women's roles and financial independence through time.The "paragraph" segment originally appeared on the OUP Blog, and was written by Edwin Battistella, who taught linguistics and writing at Southern Oregon University. He is the author of Sorry About That: The Language of Public Apology, Do You Make These Mistakes in English?, Bad Language, and The Logic of Markedness.The "mad money" segment is by Karen Lunde, a career writer and editor. In the late '90s, as a young mom with two kids and a dog, she founded one of the internet's first writing workshop communities. These days, she facilitates expressive writing workshops, both online and off. Find her at chanterellestorystudio.com
1072. Is AI coming for our jobs—or just the boring parts? This week, Samantha Enslen of Dragonfly Editorial talks about how she sees AI changing the work of writers and editors. We talked about real clients, real fears, and hope for the future. Plus, Samantha shares her favorite old-school fiction (spoiler: Agatha Christie strikes again!).Find Samantha Enslen at DragonflyEditorial.com.
1071. Is it "Taylor and I" or "Taylor and me"? We explain why photo captions follow their own grammar rules. Then, we explore the subtle difference between "immigrate" and "emigrate," how the terms are used historically, and why their meanings often depend on perspective.The "photo captions" segment is by Karen Lunde, a former Quick & Dirty Tips editor and digital pioneer who's been spinning words into gold since before cat videos ruled the internet. She created one of the first online writing workshops, and she's published thousands of articles on the art of writing. These days, she leads personal narrative writing retreats and helps writers find their voice. Visit her at ChanterelleStoryStudio.com.The "immigration" segment was by Brenda Thomas, a freelance writer who enjoys writing about a variety of topics in the humanities and education.
1070. Fiction editor Joshua Essoe explains the hidden techniques behind pacing in storytelling. Learn how good pacing shapes reader engagement, why well-placed story beats and emotional shifts matter, and how popular films like Memento and Fight Club use pacing to captivate audiences. Joshua also looks at managing flashbacks, using white space strategically, and avoiding common pacing pitfalls in fiction writing.Joshua's "Pacing and Cutting" Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/joshuaessoe/guides-to-writing-pacing-and-cutting
1069. Have you ever wondered why we have silent L's in words like "walk" and "half"? Those questions lead us to L-vocalization, spelling pronunciation, and why American and British speakers differ. Plus, we look at some of the most dangerous words in the English language: "always" and "never."The "L vocalization" segment is by Karen Lunde, a former Quick & Dirty Tips editor and digital pioneer who's been spinning words into gold since before cat videos ruled the internet. She created one of the first online writing workshops, and she's published thousands of articles on the art of writing. These days, she leads personal narrative writing retreats and helps writers find their voice. Visit her at ChanterelleStoryStudio.com.
1068. Did Yosemite Sam ever actually say "tarnation"? What's "fridgescaping," and why is it trending? And why is AI filling the internet with nonsense words like “lrtsjerk”? Linguist and translator Heddwen Newton shares her favorite new slang, explains the Mandela Effect, and breaks down how AI-generated content is making language even messier.Find Heddwen Newton at her newsletter, English in Progress.
1067. Think "'til" is a valid alternative to "until"? Think again! We learn about the difference between "till" and "until" and why many style guides frown on "'til." Then, we uncover the hidden power of interjections—words like "um," "huh," and "mm-hmm"—and how they help us negotiate meaning, keep conversations flowing, and even challenge artificial intelligence.The "interjections" segment was written by Bob Holmes, a science writer living in Edmonton, Canada and who until recently, had no idea how often he uses interjections. The piece originally appeared in Knowable Magazine, a digital publication dedicated to making scientific knowledge accessible to all. And they've produced a special standalone episode of their podcast about interjections, so if you want to learn more, check that out too. You can find their podcast and explore new articles at knowablemagazine.org.
Welcome to a Freaky Friday mailbag edition of THE Podcast Daily as Austin Ward, Bill Landis and Jeremy Birmingham answer user questions from our Subtext subscribers.Want to talk even more Ohio State football with the guys? Text us! Send a text to 614-662-4509 to get started and receive your first two weeks free.#OhioStateFootball #bigtenfootball #BigTen #buckeyesfootball #Buckeyes #THEPodcast
1066. Do you really need that comma? Should your dashes have spaces? Is there ever just one "right" way to punctuate? June Casagrande, author of "The Best Punctuation Book, Period," busts punctuation myths, compares style guides, and looks at the surprising complexity of the humble em dash.Find June Casagrande at grammarunderground.com.
1065. Is it "OK" or "okay"? We look at the surprising history of one of the world's most recognized English words and how a 19th-century election campaign helped it stick. Then, we have some fun with Victorian tea culture and the many idioms it inspired, from Cockney rhyming slang to "scandal broth."The "tea" segment is by Karen Lunde, a former Quick & Dirty Tips editor and digital pioneer who's been spinning words into gold since before cat videos ruled the internet. She created one of the first online writing workshops, and she's published thousands of articles on the art of writing. These days, she leads personal narrative writing retreats and helps writers find their voice. Visit her at ChanterelleStoryStudio.com.
1064. Is Wikipedia the last refuge on online truth? With AI-generated content and misinformation spreading online, Wikipedia is growing in esteem, but who decides what gets published? How does Wikipedia determine things like credibility and notability? Wikipedia consultant Jonathan Rick gives us the inside scoop on Wikipedia's strict sourcing rules, why some pages get deleted, and how you can become an editor.Jonathan Rick helps people make sense of — and profit from — business communication. Whether through ghostwriting, speaking, or marketing, he helps clients engender buzz, shape public opinion, and become thought leaders.
1063. Why is it called "corned beef" when there's no corn involved? We look at how the word "corn" evolved to mean different things over time. Then, we look at the role of accent marks in English — why some words keep them, why others lose them, and what they tell us about language.The "corn" segment was written by Valerie Fridland, a professor of linguistics at the University of Nevada in Reno and the author of "Like Literally, Dude: Arguing for the Good in Bad English." You can find her at valeriefridland.com.The "diacritic" segment was written by Karen Lunde, a former Quick & Dirty Tips editor and digital pioneer who's been spinning words into gold since before cat videos ruled the internet. She created one of the first online writing workshops, and she's published thousands of articles on the art of writing. These days, she leads personal narrative writing retreats and helps writers find their voice. Visit her at ChanterelleStoryStudio.com.
1062. Did you know that 21% of U.S. adults struggle with basic literacy? In this eye-opening episode, literacy specialist Kate Crist talks about the literacy crisis in America, how reading is taught incorrectly in schools, and what we can do to fix it. She has real stories of students and adults overcoming reading struggles, the science behind learning to read, and practical advice for parents, educators, and anyone who wants to help.Resource list Literacy rates:PIAAC, NAEPWhy do we have these low rates of literacy?Two great films - The Truth About Reading [OFFICIAL TRAILER] [NOW STREAMING] and Right to ReadPodcast = Sold a StoryHow can I help the readers in my life?Family Guides from Seek Common Ground (what your kids should know at grade level)FULCRUM for advocacy resourcesTo understand how we learn to read, this graphic guide cannot be beat: How We Read (written for adolescent students, it's great for adults too)Tools to use at home: Reading Buddies, Toddlers Can Read, Learning Dynamics, How to Teach your Kid to Read in 100 easy lessons For older readers City Stories and this set of recommendations from the Literacy Architects (and if you want to get super nerdy, this article from Reading Rockets And if you have the money/are low-cost resources in your community: Get a literacy tutor.What is phonics?Really, it's part of the science of reading ( body of interdisciplinary research about reading: studies done all over the globe for the last 5 decades. There is a preponderance of evidence to inform how to read and what instruction should look like) The Reading League has this cool definition guide.Phonics is part of foundational skills, which is only part of what kids need to learn to read. Check out: Early reading accelerator quick start guide This graphic from FULCRUM Or this from the AZ department of education give a visual for the full picture of what a reader needs to become a good reader.
1061. Ever wonder why we say "It's raining" even though "it" doesn't refer to anything? We explain the logic behind this quirky English rule. Then, we look at some of the most dramatic moments in grammar history, including a semicolon duel, a costly comma mistake, and a famous book with 5,000 typos.The "dummy 'it'" segment is by Karen Lunde, a former Quick & Dirty Tips editor and digital pioneer who's been spinning words into gold since before cat videos ruled the internet. She created one of the first online writing workshops, and she's published thousands of articles on the art of writing. These days, she leads personal narrative writing retreats and helps writers find their voice. Visit her at ChanterelleStoryStudio.com."Ghost Town Mad" by Lex Friedman.
1060. Why do villains always have British accents? Why was "Parasite" a game-changer for non-English films? And how is AI secretly shaping the voices you hear on screen? With the Oscars coming up, Dr. Andrew Cheng talks about how films are evolving to reflect linguistic authenticity — and why it matters. From heritage speakers in "Anora" to made-up languages in "Dune" and "Avatar," we look at the complexities of representing real and fictional languages in film.Dr. Andrew Cheng teaches Linguistics at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, located in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. His academic research focuses on the sounds of language, the social perceptions of language, and all sorts of linguistic phenomena associated with bilingualism and multilingualism. When he's not geeking out about linguistics, he can be found playing tabletop games, hiking in the jungle, or, of course, watching movies. You can find him on Bluesky and Letterboxd (for film buffs).