
Lingthusiasm - A podcast that's enthusiastic about linguistics
A podcast that's enthusiastic about linguistics by Gretchen McCulloch and Lauren Gawne. "A fascinating listen that will change the way you see everyday communications." –New York Times. "Joyously nerdy" –Buzzfeed.
Weird and deep half-hour conversations about language on the third Thursday of the month.
Listened to all the episodes here and wish there were more? Want to talk with other people who are enthusiastic about linguistics? Get bonus episodes and access to our Discord community at www.patreon.com/lingthusiasm
Shownotes and transcripts: www.lingthusiasm.com
Latest episodes

May 16, 2025 • 48min
104: Reading and language play in Sámi - Interview with Hanna-Máret Outakoski
Hanna-Máret Outakoski, a Professor of Sámi languages at the Sámi University of Applied Sciences, dives into the rich intersection of multilingual literacy and Sámi language revitalization. She shares her journey growing up amidst Northern Sámi, Finnish, Norwegian, and English, highlighting the importance of writing in Indigenous education. The conversation reveals how Sámi literature has thrived since the 1500s, illustrating the role of play in language learning. They also discuss innovative approaches to teaching that blend traditional oral customs with modern literacy skills.

11 snips
Apr 18, 2025 • 48min
103: A hand-y guide to gesture
Dive into the fascinating world of gestures, a universal element of communication across all languages. Explore quirky research methods, like a special chair used to study spontaneous gestures without revealing the trick. Discover the interplay between spoken and signed languages and how personal experiences in learning ASL can alter one's gestures. Plus, enjoy insights from Lauren’s new book that aims to make gesture research accessible to everyone, blending humor with deep linguistic reflections.

6 snips
Mar 21, 2025 • 51min
102: The science and fiction of Sapir-Whorf
Discover how learning an alien language can unlock superpowers, just like in sci-fi lore! Dive into the intriguing Sapir-Whorf hypothesis and its implications on language and thought. Explore how different languages categorize colors and affect our perception. Learn about the fascinating figures behind the hypothesis and the social reflections tied to linguistic diversity. The hosts celebrate the milestones of their journey while encouraging curiosity about how language shapes our understanding of reality.

16 snips
Feb 21, 2025 • 49min
101: Micro to macro - The levels of language
Explore the fascinating levels of language from micro to macro! Learn how sounds and handshapes create meaning while discovering the dynamics of syntax and morphemes. Delve into the complexities of spoken and signed languages and understand how small syntax changes can alter interpretations. The hosts also share valuable insights into historical linguistics, sociolinguistics, and even offer a DIY linguistics course for eager learners. Language is not just a tool; it's a playful adventure waiting to be explored!

Jan 17, 2025 • 41min
100: A hundred reasons to be enthusiastic about linguistics
Celebrate 100 intriguing facts about linguistics with fascinating insights into brain language processing and playful sound symbolism. Discover the complexities of etymology and unique linguistic phenomena, like double borrowings. Explore how infants develop language skills and the connection between signed and spoken languages. Delve into conversational dynamics and the history of the word 'hundred.' Join in the creativity of language and enjoy a bingo game for diehard fans!

Dec 20, 2024 • 56min
99: A politeness episode, if you please
Dive into the fascinating world of politeness and rudeness as hosts explore linguistic nuances that shape our communication. Discover how concepts like 'saving face' vary across cultures and the impact of social settings on etiquette. The conversation veers into the comedy of polite exits and the absurdities of conversational styles. You'll also learn about generational shifts in email manners and the different uses of 'please' in British versus American English. It’s an entertaining look at the complexities of communication we often overlook!

Nov 22, 2024 • 56min
98: Helping computers decode sentences - Interview with Emily M. Bender
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Emily M. Bender, a Linguistics Professor at the University of Washington and co-host of Mystery AI Hype Theater 3000, explores how computers decode language. She reveals the difference between human and computer language learning, discussing the humorous failures that can arise. Emily emphasizes the significance of community over mere data, the ethical implications of AI training, and the creation of the Bender Rule, which promotes clarity in language use. Expect intriguing insights into the quirks of AI behavior and the future of linguistic technology!

Oct 17, 2024 • 45min
97: OooOooh~~ our possession episode oOooOOoohh 👻
Dive into the spooky side of linguistics as the hosts explore the etymology of possession and its surprising meanings! From Shakespeare’s witches to the complexities of kinship terms, they discuss how different languages express ownership. Discover the whimsical nuances of possessive constructions and the cultural significance tied to them. With playful examples, they tackle the notion of extraterrestrial communication and the challenges it presents. A delightful journey through language awaits!

Sep 20, 2024 • 35min
96: Welcome back aboard the metaphor train!
Hop on the metaphor train as hosts embark on a linguistic adventure! Discover how metaphors shape our understanding of everything from love to learning. They explore cultural nuances, revealing how languages express abstract concepts through vivid imagery. Relationships and parenting are discussed through fascinating travel metaphors, while the importance of audio quality shines thanks to listener support. Expect humor and thought-provoking insights as they dive into the intricate world of language, including the playful nature of idioms and mixed metaphors!

Aug 15, 2024 • 44min
95: Lo! An undetached collection of meaning-parts!
Discover the mysteries of understanding unfamiliar words through the Gavagai thought experiment. The hosts discuss how children assume whole objects while learning language. They unpack the challenges of categorizing animals by their actions rather than appearances. Explore the strengths and weaknesses of language learning tools and the impact of cultural nuances in vocabulary. Engage with the joy of overcoming language barriers and the fascinating complexities of communication across different cultures.