Language & Linguistics Podcasts

Robot or Not?

John Siracusa and Jason Snell

Ever wonder if that fancy new tennis machine really counts as a robot, or if you are secretly just eating dressing instead of stuffing? Robot or Not? is the definitive—and often hilariously pedantic—court of appeal for all your pressing classification dilemmas. Hosted by John Siracusa and Jason Snell, the show takes listener-submitted questions and subjects them to rigorous, often razor-sharp, analytical scrutiny. While the title suggests a singular focus on technology, the podcast is truly a masterclass in linguistic philosophy and semantic hair-splitting. One week the hosts might be deconstructing whether a wolf-inspired prototype is a true robot or just a glorified vehicle, and the next they are debating whether asking an AI chatbot a question can be classified as looking something up. They possess an uncanny ability to peel back the layers of corporate jargon, retail marketing, and colloquial habits to get to the logical core of what things actually are. The show thrives on the chemistry between the hosts, who navigate the blurred lines between technical precision and common usage with wit and refreshing intellectual honesty. Whether they are tackling the naming conventions of superheroes or the culinary mysteries of pasta sauce, the conversation is always insightful, delightfully opinionated, and profoundly curious. If you enjoy deep dives into the way language meets reality, Robot or Not? is the perfect listen to help you finally define the world around you.

It's A Thing

Subrilliant LLC

Ever feel like the internet and everyday life are moving just a little bit too fast to keep track of? Welcome to It’s A Thing, the show that stops to inspect the weird, wonderful, and deeply specific cultural ripples we all seem to be experiencing at the same time. Hosted by Ollie Wood and Jon Meritt, this podcast is a deep dive into the trends, linguistic quirks, and random obsessions that define our modern existence. Whether they are unpacking the psychology behind a viral WNBA meme, debating the merits of a dedicated house purse, or exploring the travel philosophy of undertourism, the hosts bring a sharp, humorous lens to the trivial and the significant alike. No topic is too niche—from the strange origins of internet slang and home décor trends to the hidden logic of gas station snacks and sports superstitions. The show thrives on its eclectic, conversational format, often pulling in listener stories to help identify if a phenomenon is truly a thing, might become one, or exists only in our collective consciousness. It’s essentially a weekly check-in on the pulse of pop culture, delivered with wit, curiosity, and a healthy dose of skepticism. If you want to understand why everyone is suddenly talking about a specific internet mystery or just want to feel a little more connected to the chaotic tapestry of modern life, pull up a chair. You’ve definitely come to the right place.