Have you ever wondered what’s up with double negation, the history of gender neutral pronouns, or why swearing is taboo? Then get ready for this week’s guest, linguist Anne Curzan! Anne and Jonathan talk about how the English language has evolved since the 1300s and how our words are SO powerful because of their central role in our identities and communities ... Show More
Aug 24
What Taking a Break Looks Like, Scarf Spelling Bee, JVN's Favorite Fragrances
This week, we’re talking: our hiatus, AOC, scarf spelling bee, voter registration, and our HBOTW! Wanna see JVN on stage? Get tix to the Hot & Healed Comedy Tour here. Catch Getting Better & The Monday Edit, now on YouTube! Check out the JVN Patreon for exclusive content, bonus e ... Show More
25m 29s
Aug 19
How to Work With Yourself, Not Against Yourself with Gretchen Rubin
Gretchen Rubin is back on Getting Better for a happiness check-in with JVN! This week, they’re talking about what actually helps us understand ourselves, and why knowing how we respond to expectations can make it easier to change our habits, navigate relationships, and create a l ... Show More
54m 24s
Aug 17
Lindsay Clancy Case Breakdown, HIV Social Safety Net, Going with the Flow
This week, we’re talking: the Lindsay Clancy case, HIV Social Safety net, getting better at going with the flow, english breakfast recs, and much more! Wanna see JVN on stage? Get tix to the Hot & Healed Comedy Tour here. Catch Getting Better & The Monday Edit, now on YouTube! Ch ... Show More
38m 32s
Dec 2023
The special sauce of human language. Gotten. NATO alphabet. A1 sauce.
959. Learn why human language goes beyond basic communication to allow spontaneous creativity, expression of identity, and leadership in linguistic change — things animals and chatbots can't quite achieve. Plus, I answer a British listener's question about the confusing way Ameri ... Show More
14m 19s
Jul 2020
Feminism and the English Language with Wordslut
<p>Amanda Montell, author of 'Wordslut: A Feminist Guide to Taking Back the English Language', stops by to discuss reclaiming gendered insults, cursing, women's linguistic innovation, sexism in our language and owning your own voice.</p><p> </p> Learn more about your ad-choices a ... Show More
1h 5m
<p>What way can the language we use reinforce existing stereotypes and biases? </p><p>In this episode of <a href="https://www.fastersmarter.io/"><em>Think Fast, Talk Smart</em></a><em>,</em> <a href="https://www.fastersmarter.io/guests/sarah-soule/">Sarah Soule</a>, Senior Associ ... Show More