Ben Schott

Ben Schott, an author known for his work on secret languages, reveals how families and professions create their own unique codes and slangs, enhancing social bonds and efficiency. He shares intriguing examples from diamond dealers to Starbucks baristas. Meanwhile, Tristan Gooley, an expert on natural navigation, uncovers hidden seasonal clues, explaining how subtle changes in nature signal shifts in the environment, from leaf colors to the behavior of insects. Together, they illuminate the richness of both human communication and the natural world.

Join author Ben Schott, known for Schott’s Original Miscellany, as he dives into the captivating world of private languages in his latest book, Schott’s Significa. He explores unique codes from gondoliers to graffiti writers, showcasing how language reveals hidden cultures. Schott shares fascinating insights on dying gestural languages, the slang of the diamond district, and the playful hierarchies within subcultures. He discusses the rich tapestry of communicative methods, from secretive workplace codes to the evolving nature of fandom languages.

Ben Schott, author and designer known for his ingenious Schott's Miscellanies, chats about his latest work, Schott's Significa. He reveals the fascinating world of private languages, showcasing everything from gondoliers' communication to graffiti's unique lexicon. Schott discusses the value of shoe-leather reporting, contrasting it with AI insights, and shares anecdotes about shadowing professionals to capture nuances in language. The talk dives into topics like modern fandoms, evolving urban dialects, and the relationship between language and culture.