Last October, we opened the door to the unseen world, in GHOST PART 1! Now, in Part Two, we return to the shadows. This time, we go deeper, exploring the origins of ghost stories and why humans have been drawn to them. We’ll also explore the ghosts we carry inside ourselves, regrets, grief, and memories that never quite rest. Storyteller Donna Washington joined us to share her insight into how ghost stories began and even left us with a chilling tale. Join us as we uncover why ghosts communicate, why we love their stories, and what they reveal about our shared search for meaning.

In this episode, we explore the noisy roots of Hullabaloo, from hunting cries and Shakespearean chaos to lullabies and 18th-century satire. Along the way we meet Smollett’s character in The Adventures of Sir Launcelot Greaves, where the word first appears as “hollo-ballo.” We explore how comedy and music can soothe chaos, how satire and melody made sense of a messy 1760s  and 1960's world, and why we’re still surrounded by our own modern-day hubbub, hurly-burly, and hullabaloo. A funny, thoughtful episode that ends with the art of surviving noise.

In this episode, we explore the many meanings of the word zenith — from its Arabic astronomical roots in samt ar-ra’s, to the solar moment when no shadow is cast, to the metaphorical peaks of empires, careers, and enlightenment. We dive into the scientific significance of the zenith in celestial navigation and shadowless solar days, trace its journey through mistranslation and medieval astronomy with Al-Battani, and consider how technological zeniths — like those of the Zenith Radio Company — reflect fleeting moments of innovation. But we don’t stop there. We go higher. We reflect on the philosophical and spiritual zenith through the lens of the Buddhist Eightfold Path — asking whether our personal zenith is a destination… or a journey. Whether you’re standing in your shadow or at your brightest, this one’s for anyone wondering: Is my zenith behind me, above me… or still ahead?

In this episode of One Word, we wade through the wonderful mess of gobbledegook — the overstuffed, overly complicated language that clutters up our communication. From the corporate boardroom to social media buzzwords, we explore how jargon gets in the way of clarity, masks confusion as intelligence, and often leaves meaning behind. And just when you think you've heard it all, we throw in a bonus word: maverick. Learn how a stubborn Texan cattle rancher gave rise to a word we now use for trailblazers and rebels. It's a wordy ride through nonsense and nuance — and maybe, by the end, you’ll think twice before using “synergy” unironically.  

What if we told you that terrific once meant something terrifying? Words evolve, just like we do, and in this episode of One Word, we’re diving into the fascinating transformation of terrific—from something that instilled fear to something, well, terrific! We’ll unravel the history of this linguistic shift, tracing how and why words often flip their meanings over time. Along the way, we’ll quiz our co-hosts on other words that have done the same (spoiler: awful used to mean full of awe!), explore John Milton’s Paradise Lost and its grand themes of resilience and redemption, and discuss the science behind humanity’s natural tendency toward positivity. Can a shift in language reveal something deeper about human nature? Do we lean toward optimism because we need it? And how can reframing our perspectives—just like we do with words—lead to real personal healing and catharsis? Expect laughter, insight, and a reminder that sometimes, just like words, our lives evolve for the better. Tune in and discover why a little terrific thinking might just be the key to happiness.

In this episode of One Word, we dive into the overwhelming world of cacophony, from its origins as a term for harsh, discordant sounds to its modern metaphorical uses in society, and the digital age. We explore how noise, both literal and figurative, affects our minds, emotions, and communities, and we uncover ways to silence the chaos in pursuit of clarity, focus, and meaning. Along the way, we examine the history and evolution of cacophony, and its impact on our well-being. Can we find catharsis in the storm? Is there a way to turn the noise into something meaningful? Through discussion, storytelling, and insight, we seek the balance between sound and silence, noise and harmony—because in a world of endless distractions, choosing what to listen to iS an act of power.

In this episode of One Word, we dive into the fascinating history and power of abracadabra. From ancient healing charms to modern-day magic, this word has captivated and mesmerized people for centuries. But beyond its mystical roots, abracadabra represents something deeper—our human desire to create, to heal, and to transform our reality with words. We explore how language itself is a form of magic, shaping the world around us, and discuss our responsibility to use words wisely. Through stories of catharsis, belief, and even the jolly moments where magic sparks joy, we uncover how we all share in the power of abracadabra. Join us as we unravel the magic behind the word, the history it carries, and the ways we can bring its power into our own lives. Because, in the end, the greatest magic is the one we create through our words and actions.

In this festive December episode of One Word, we embrace the spirit of the season by diving into the word "jolly." Beyond exploring its linguistic roots and literary history, we delve into the traditions, stories, and symbols that make this time of year so joyful.From the origins of holiday staples like mistletoe and Christmas carols to the philosophical idea of well-timed humor (eutrapelia), we uncover the deeper meanings and history behind what makes the holidays so uniquely cheerful.We’ll also discuss the things that bring jolliness into our lives during the season—shared laughter, community traditions, and festive surprises. Plus, test your holiday knowledge with a fun trivia game full of surprising seasonal facts.This episode is a warm reminder of how joy, in its many forms, can connect us, uplift us, and make this time of year truly magical!

In this episode of One Word, we dive into the rich, complex, and sometimes downright messy world of healing. From ancient remedies to the fascinating processes your body and mind undergo to mend themselves, this journey is equal parts science, history, and heart.

In this two-part episode of One Word, we dive into the eerie and fascinating world of ghosts. Part one takes us through the origins and history of the word ghost, uncovering how it has evolved across time and cultures. We also share our own personal ghostly encounters, discuss the places where ghosts are said to linger, and explore the reasons why spirits remain tied to certain locations. From classic hauntings to doppelgangers, we’ll break down the different types of ghostly phenomena that keep us intrigued (and spooked). Don’t miss this spine-tingling journey into the supernatural!  

Get ready to be truly mesmerized! In this episode of One Word, we plunge into the wild world of mesmerism—the 18th-century craze where people swooned, writhed, and fainted, all in the name of "science." Meet Franz Anton Mesmer, the man behind the magnetic fluid healing hype, and follow his dramatic rise and fall. We’ll also see how iconic figures like Charles Dickens and Benjamin Franklin played a part in this bizarre movement. But how does this relate to today? We’re still getting mesmerized by things with no real value—think viral trends and flashy fads. In this fun, enlightening episode, we’ll teach you how to break free from the spell and find true catharsis in things that matter. With a perfect blend of laughs, history, and surprising truths, you’ll walk away entertained and a little wiser!

In this episode, we explore the deep connection between catharsis and humanity, tracing its roots from Aristotle's Poetics to modern-day therapy and social media. Discover how art has served as a powerful tool for emotional release and healing throughout history, and how it continues to shape our experiences today. No matter how you come to the purification of catharsis, it remains a vital part of the human experience, offering us a way to connect, reflect, gain insight and find relief. Join us as we journey through the art of emotional expression and its timeless impact.

In this month's episode, we delve deep into the concept of destiny, exploring its nuances and distinctions from fate. Join us as we navigate through the intricate pathways that lead us towards our destined paths. Throughout the episode, we explore various factors that can serve as guiding lights on our journey towards fulfilling our destinies. We uncover the hidden forces within ourselves that shape our lives and guide us toward our best selves. But that's not all. We also dive into the ancient art of manifestation rituals, uncovering timeless practices that have helped individuals throughout history align with their destinies. As we weave together the threads of destiny, we invite you to enjoy the interconnectedness of season three's words, seamlessly blending into our exploration of this captivating topic. So, join us as we unravel the mysteries of destiny, embarking on a journey of discovery, enlightenment, and empowerment. "Destiny" awaits, guiding you towards a deeper understanding of your own path in life.

In this episode of "One Word," we delve into the multifaceted world of "Trivial." Join us as we navigate the thin line between what's trivial and what's vital, exploring how this distinction shapes our perceptions and decisions. Your hosts embark on a journey through literature with a captivating exploration of Oscar Wilde's views on triviality. Wilde, renowned for his wit and wisdom, offers profound insights into the nature of the trivial and its role in our lives. We dive into the world of mathematics and science, where the notion of a "trivial response" takes on a whole new meaning. Join us as we unravel the layers of triviality, gaining a deeper understanding of its significance in our daily lives. Whether you're a philosopher pondering life's mysteries or a scientist unraveling the secrets of the universe, this episode offers something for everyone. Tune in to "One Word" and discover the profound truths hidden within the seemingly trivial, including the definition of what makes a sandwich a sandwich.

In this episode of “One Word,” we dive deep into the essence of harmony, exploring its multifaceted presence in music, art, and our everyday lives. Join us as we unravel the intricate connections between harmony and its diverse manifestations, from the rhythmic symphonies of music to the vibrant canvases of artistry. As we delve into the topic, we uncover surprising parallels between the harmonies of various creative mediums and the harmonies we seek in our personal journeys, and how harmony within ourselves can lead to greater harmony in our societies and world. Through thought-provoking discussions, we reflect on how harmony enriches our experiences, fostering balance, unity, and beauty. However, our exploration doesn’t stop there. We challenge conventional notions of harmony, exploring its nuances and uncovering unexpected insights. From the unexpected dissonances that add depth to musical compositions to the contrasting elements that elevate artworks, we embrace the complexity of harmony in all its forms. This episode even features a special mention of ponies! Tune in to discover how these delightful creatures intertwine with our analysis of harmony! So, whether you’re a music aficionado, an art enthusiast, or simply curious about the mysteries of harmony, this episode promises to inspire, enlighten, and perhaps even surprise you. Join us on this journey as we uncover the harmonious melodies that weave through the fabric of existence.  

Embark on a captivating exploration of the past in this month's episode of "One Word," as we dive into "nostalgia."  Join us as we go deep into the realms of memory, emotion, and the fascinating ways our senses can transport us back in time. Join us as we unravel the history of nostalgia, once regarded as a disease, and uncover the science behind why our brains have such powerful nostalgic reactions. From the smell of an old book to the taste of a childhood treat, discover the intricacies of nostalgia and how it shapes our perception of the world around us. Don't miss this insightful journey into the essence of reminiscence and the profound impact it has on our lives.

In this episode, our focus is on the enchanting theme of "festive." Join us as we embark on a global journey into unique festivals, both real and imagined, that ignite the spirit of celebration. From traditional cultural celebrations to fantastical gatherings, we unravel the threads that bind us in joyous unity. Discover the significance of holiday festivities and the profound impact they have on our shared human experience. We explore the rich customs that make our world so wonderfully diverse.  As we navigate through the realms of festivity, we contemplate the deeper meaning of these joyous expressions. Join our insightful discussions on the importance of sharing and embracing the spirit of celebration in our lives. Explore how these moments of joy and connection contribute to the overall well-being of humanity.  So, tune in to "One Word" and let the enchantment of "festive" inspire you as we celebrate the beauty of togetherness, the magic of diverse traditions, and the universal need for expressing joyousness.

In this episode, join us for the thrilling conclusion of our two-part series on Slang, where we unravel the colorful tapestry of slang from across the decades. In "Slang Part Two," we embark on a journey through time, exploring the origins and evolution of slang expressions that have shaped the way we communicate. From the lively streets of the United States to the vibrant colloquialisms of the United Kingdom, we dissect the nuances of slang that have stood the test of time. Join our hosts as they unravel the mysteries behind popular slang phrases, revealing the cultural influences and historical contexts that gave rise to these gems. Discover the hidden stories behind your favorite expressions. But it's not just about the origins; we also tackle the pressing question of appropriateness. When is it okay to sprinkle your conversation with slang, and when should you stick to the more traditional forms of expression? Our hosts provide insightful commentary on navigating when slang can be used.

Get ready for a linguistic rollercoaster on this two-part episode of "Word Play Unleashed!" In the first half, we dive deep into the world of language nuances, dissecting the fine line between slang and colloquialism. Join us as we unravel the intricacies and unveil the hidden gems of expression that shape our daily conversations. In the second half, we've got a hilarious twist as two generations face off in a battle of words. Picture your hosts taking turns guessing the meanings of each other's slang, resulting in a riot of laughter and enlightenment. It's the ultimate showdown where language meets generations, making for an episode that's as informative as it is side-splittingly fun. Tune in and prepare to be schooled in the art of linguistic time travel! We have one word for you: SLANG 

Fears can be natural but they can also be irrational! Join your hosts as they uncover the truth behind phobias and what is rational vs irrational, find out if groups are using phobias to manipulate you, and we even explore unique phobias and Halloween phobias just for fun! From ancient Greece to today, get ready to unravel your phobia or get tips on taming your it.  We just have one word for you ... Phobia.