Strong Message Here Words of the Year (with Natalie Haynes)
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Dec 18, 2025 
Join broadcaster and classical scholar Natalie Haynes as she explores the words that defined the year. She and Armando dissect the quirky choices made by lexicographers and question the absurdity of terms like 'aura farming' and 'biohacking.' Natalie hilariously discusses Austria's whimsical word of the year, an elk named Emil, and the frustrations of online 'rage bait.' They also delve into parasocial relationships, critiques of AI art, and the peculiarities of Trump's rhetorical style, proving that language never ceases to amaze.
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Ancient Animal Advent Tradition
- Natalie Haynes celebrates 'Ancient Animal Advent' by posting daily museum pictures of animal motifs.
- She says the tradition is the highlight of her year and a joy to prepare from her museum photos.
The Advent Calendar Chocolate Story
- Armando Iannucci recounts an aunt who opened one chocolate from an advent calendar then ate all remaining chocolates to avoid unfairness.
- The story became a family legend illustrating impulsive rationalisation.
Moderation Shapes Online Civility
- Online platforms amplify extreme content because outrage drives engagement and money.
- Removing moderation under the guise of free speech encourages rage-baiting and escalates conflict.