The Story of Language
Languages carry the traces of centuries of change, contact and human creativity. These episodes explore where languages and writing systems came from, why they change, how they influence one another and how the languages we use today became what they are.
Episode 5
It's Not 'Chinese' - The Many Languages of China
Did you know "Chinese" isn't a single language? Dive into the diverse family of Chinese languages, from Mandarin to Cantonese. Learn how a shared writing system unites them and what this means for you as a learner.
3/12/25
Listen now
Episode 4
Kingly, Royal, Regal: The Hybrid History of English
Ever wonder why English spelling is so strange or its vocabulary is so huge? Discover the chaotic history of English, a language shaped by Vikings, French conquerors, and the printing press. Learn why its weirdness is its greatest strength.
2/25/25
Listen now
Episode 6
A Symphony of Tongues - The Languages of India
India isn't just one country; it's a subcontinent of languages from two distinct families, Indo-Aryan and Dravidian. Discover how Hindi and English bridge this divide, explore the ancient roots of Tamil, and learn what makes these languages unique.
4/10/25
Listen now
Episode 3
Beyond the Stereotypes - The Many Worlds of Spanish
Debunking Spanish myths! Discover the difference between Spain & Latin America, the language's secret Arabic roots, and why it’s not as easy as you think.
7/18/25
Listen now
Episode 2
A Symphony of Expression - The Languages of Africa
How do linguists map Africa's vast linguistic landscape? We explore its language families, unique click consonants, tonal speech, and the philosophy of Ubuntu.
5/23/25
Listen now