Grammar Girl Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing

'Rebel with a Clause,' the movie, with Ellen Jovin and Brandt Johnson

Jan 16, 2025

Ellen Jovin, author of "Rebel with a Clause" and creator of a unique grammar table project, shares her journey of connecting with people about language across the U.S. Brandt Johnson, her filmmaker husband, discusses the documentary inspired by this endeavor. They explore how grammar conversations can build emotional connections and recount heartwarming moments from their travels. The challenges and joys of filmmaking, especially during the pandemic, bring a relatable touch to their storytelling, making grammar feel both fun and essential.

24:51

Creator website

Episode guests

Brandt Johnson

Ellen Jovin

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Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Ellen Jovin's initiative to engage people in conversation about grammar highlighted the importance of direct communication over technology in language discussions.

Brant Johnson's challenges in filming emphasized the need for careful planning to capture authentic human interactions while documenting the project.

Deep dives

The Motivation Behind the Grammar Table

The initiative to set up the grammar table stemmed from a desire to foster direct communication and reduce the dependency on technology. Ellen Jovan felt overwhelmed by the digital nature of her professional life and wanted to engage people in meaningful conversations about language. This interactive approach allowed her to transition from the online realm of grammar enthusiasts to real-life interactions that emphasized the primary purpose of language: communication. Ellen's natural curiosity about people and genuine friendliness attracted numerous individuals to share their stories and engage in discussions about grammar.

Intro

3min

Connecting Through Grammar

8min

Grammar Adventures on the Road

9min

Emotional Connections in Documentary Filmmaking

3min

Premiere Insights and Bonus Content Unveiling

2min

1048. Ellen Jovin set up a folding table on the street in all 50 U.S. states to talk with people about grammar, which led to the book "Rebel with a Clause." Now, her story, and the story of people who talked with her, is a movie by the same name. Mignon talked with Ellen and her documentarian husband, Brandt Johnson, about what they learned about both filmmaking and humanity.

Find them at RebelWithAClause.com.

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