Stefan Fatsis
Journalist and author of Unabridged: The Thrill of (and Threat to) the Modern Dictionary, appearing to discuss how dictionary editors handle slurs and charged words.
Top 3 podcasts with Stefan Fatsis
Ranked by the Snipd community
12 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 37min
Racist slurs, naughty words, and how dictionary editors define them
Join journalist Stefan Fatsis, author of 'Unabridged,' as he dives into the world of slurs and the editorial battles behind their definitions. Discover how dictionary editors navigate heated debates over terms like the N-word and why its lookups spiked recently. Fatsis shares insights on the evolution of language, from controversial entries like 'ain't' to the ongoing discussions about gendered terms. He also highlights the challenges faced by lexicographers in the digital age, including the threats posed by AI and declining staffing.
12 snips
Apr 3, 2025 • 1h 32min
Josh Levin and Stefan Fatsis on Launching the Sports Gabfest, the Benefit of Mutually Reinforcing Weirdo Tendencies, and Why They Hate the Hall of Fame
Josh Levin is the Editorial director of the Slow Burn podcast and author of The Queen, while Stefan Fatsis has penned several books including Word Freak. They delve into the quirks of sports media, expressing disdain for the Hall of Fame and discussing their unconventional paths in journalism. Their 'mutually reinforcing weirdo tendencies' shape their collaboration, enhancing their podcasting experience. They reflect on the evolution of their friendship and how their time on ‘Hang Up and Listen’ has influenced their current work, providing insights into both sports and media.
Oct 9, 2025 • 33min
The fight for the modern dictionary, with Stefan Fatsis
Join journalist and author Stefan Fatsis as he shares insights from his book, "Unabridged." Stefan discusses his unique experience embedded at Merriam-Webster, revealing the contrast between its vintage 1940s headquarters and the modern digital landscape. He tackles the challenge of updating old definitions while incorporating trendy new words, and highlights the impact of the internet on dictionary use. With a nod to the legacy of lexicographer Philip Gove and the ongoing threats from AI and Google, Stefan emphasizes the importance of engaging with dictionary sites to keep them relevant.
