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John McWhorter

Linguist and Columbia professor who explains contemporary slang, word trends, and linguistic shifts, and plays the episode's word-guessing segment.

Top 10 podcasts with John McWhorter

Ranked by the Snipd community
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454 snips
Dec 31, 2025 • 2h 29min

What to Expect in 2026 with Niall Ferguson, John McWhorter, Dr. Mark Hyman, Leandra Medine Cohen, Suzy Weiss, and Sarah Isgur

In a riveting discussion, legal analyst Sarah Isgur delves into Trump's consolidation of power and predicts a turbulent political landscape. Culture critic Suzy Weiss highlights defining moments in entertainment, while linguist John McWhorter decodes emerging slang trends. Dr. Mark Hyman shares simple health strategies for wellness, and fashion influencer Leandra Medine Cohen forecasts striking styles to watch. Historian Niall Ferguson offers a geopolitical compass, discussing potential global conflicts and the shifting dynamics of power in 2026.
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246 snips
Dec 31, 2024 • 1h 44min

What to Expect in 2025: Predictions from Niall Ferguson, John McWhorter, Nellie Bowles, Leandra Medine, and more

Join political analyst Sarah Isgur as she delves into what a Trump 2.0 administration could mean for the nation. Cultural commentator Suzy Weiss reveals the pop culture trends shaping 2025, while linguist John McWhorter discusses the evolution of language, highlighting contemporary slang. Fashion influencer Leandra Medine shares exciting trends from personal aesthetics to bold accessories, urging creativity in wardrobes. Together, they predict a dynamic year ahead, blending serious insights with humorous observations on culture and society.
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223 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 21min

#452 — Is Wokeness Finally Dead?

In this fascinating conversation, linguist and cultural commentator John McWhorter delves into the waning influence of wokeness across academia and the arts. He argues that while the peak of woke ideology may have passed, its practices still persist under various guises, especially in hiring and training. They explore how social media fuels moral panic, the implications of identity in debates over Israel-Palestine, and McWhorter's reflections on the missteps following George Floyd's death. He emphasizes the need for ongoing dialogue amid the confusion surrounding race and ideology.
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114 snips
Jan 7, 2026 • 1h

#452 - Is Wokeness Finally Dead?

In a compelling discussion, linguist John McWhorter analyzes the peaks and persistence of 'wokeness' with insights from his career at Columbia University. He critiques how moral panic is fueled by social media and reflects on the enduring impact of George Floyd's legacy. McWhorter also explores the complexities of race politics, the appeal of Trump's rhetoric, and the institutionalization of DEI. With wit and depth, he argues for a nuanced understanding of identity issues and advocates for returning to rational discourse in the face of cultural challenges.
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90 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 1h 35min

#142 Classic episode – John McWhorter on why the optimal number of languages might be one, and other provocative claims about language

In this insightful discussion, linguistics professor John McWhorter shares his expertise on the fascinating world of language. He challenges common beliefs, arguing that bilingualism doesn’t boost IQ and discusses the complexities of teaching languages in schools. McWhorter also highlights the rapid extinction of languages, the unique benefits of creoles, and speculates about the emergence of new languages and potential AI languages in the future. His engaging take on how language shapes thought, alongside his controversial views on optimal language use, makes for a thought-provoking conversation.
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53 snips
Jan 10, 2025 • 48min

John McWhorter – 2024's Seismic Sociopolitical Shift

John McWhorter, a Columbia University professor and New York Times commentator known for his sharp insights on race and social issues, dives into America's shifting race discourse. He argues we’re experiencing the most significant sociopolitical change of our time, highlighting how perceptions within minority communities are evolving, especially as the 2024 elections approach. McWhorter also critiques society's romanticization of violent antiheroes and discusses the complex legacy of Al Jolson and the cultural ramifications of his blackface performances.
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50 snips
Dec 20, 2024 • 55min

John McWhorter – Demons, Anti-Heroes, and Villains

In this engaging discussion, John McWhorter, a Columbia University lecturer and New York Times writer, tackles the hot-button issues of the day. He critiques the demonization in today’s polarized political climate, arguing for more nuanced debates. The conversation reveals that racism isn't as pervasive as it was five decades ago and questions the implications of high-profile cases like that of Jordan Neely. McWhorter also delves into the glorification of villains and the chaotic state of public safety in urban environments. A thought-provoking listen!
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28 snips
Dec 6, 2024 • 1h 1min

John McWhorter – The Path Not Taken for Black Activism

In a thought-provoking discussion, John McWhorter, a Columbia University professor and New York Times writer, reflects on the legacy of civil rights leader John Lewis and the evolution of Black activism. He critiques the effectiveness of past figures like Stokely Carmichael, noting a shift from genuine protest to performative activism today. McWhorter shares his views on the importance of education in understanding identity and examines the absence of conservative voices in current discourse, contrasting them with influential progressive figures like James Baldwin.
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25 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 58min

John McWhorter – The Democratic Leadership Vacuum

John McWhorter, a prominent linguist and cultural commentator, shares insights on the current Democratic leadership crisis. He critiques Zohran Mamdani's anti-Zionist stance and examines the party's internal struggles between principle and electability. McWhorter discusses the need for a compelling unifying figure in the Democratic Party and questions the effectiveness of Kamala Harris as a leader. He emphasizes practical solutions to racial disparities and reflects on the shift away from race-centered politics in America.
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25 snips
Jun 8, 2024 • 1h 19min

The New Neocons

Left-skeptic liberals like Nellie Bowles, Yascha Mounk, and John McWhorter are explored as potentially new neocons. The podcast delves into the history of neoconservatism, analyzing its origins and intellectual roots. It also discusses the evolution of leftist ideologies from class-based to identity politics, reflecting on the current landscape of political ideologies.

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