Exploring the Intricacies of Linguistics and Communication

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Delve into the complexities of communication, from intonational phonology to the role of gender and racial identity in signaling and bonding. The chapter follows the journey of a linguistics professor, discussing their passion for languages and the challenges of learning Arabic. It also explores the theoretical aspects of linguistics, highlighting the cognitive and social influences on language use.

Vocal fry. Code switching. Black Twitter. Valley girls. Culture vultures. WE'RE TALKING ABOUT TALKING. Alie battles traffic to sit down with linguistics professor Dr. Nicole Holliday about intonational phonology: how tones and pitch help us bond with others and construct identities. Inspired in part by former President Barack Obama's masterful linguistic variability, Dr. Holliday's work focuses on how language is used in the crossing and construction of racial/ethnic boundaries. She graciously fielded tons of questions for a fascinating dive into the nuances and strict grammatical rules of African American Language, cultural appropriation, our educational system, honoring your identity, what not to wear in Paris and the roiling debate over who is the best rapper. Also: Alie is maybe a lizard person.

Follow Dr. Nicole Holliday @MixedLinguist on Twitter and Instagram

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Sound editing by Steven Ray Morris

Theme song by Nick Thorburn