The best podcasts for linguistics lovers
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Who am I?
Hey, I’m Rowan! I make the podcasts Syntax and Cryptid Counselor, and am one of the founders of the podcast network Twin Strangers Productions. My love for audio dramas is DEEP, and I’ll listen to any show you recommend! Though I’m a bit of a stickler when it comes to sound and editing quality, story and engaging characters trump over all. For this list in particular, I’m a HUGE language nerd, so any pod that has to do with linguistics or any languages is STELLAR! Will probably be updating this list as things progress.
What is my podcast playlist about?
These will generally be the first episode of a show that contains a prevalent part of linguistics or language within it. This can be a real or fake (conlang) language, but extra points if it sounds incredibly believable.
1. Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature
Why this podcast?
This show… Though I am only a partial chunk into revealing its secrets, I was ENTHRALLED by this show from the very start. Taking place in a fictional (I checked thoroughly) university, you're present in a class focusing on, as the title suggests, Anterran literature. The language and culture was presented in such a realistic way that I thought it could NOT be fiction, and spent a few minutes Googling my way around to find anything about the Anterran culture -- only to come up with searches containing this very show. Instantly gripping and intriguing, and the language/culture worldbuilding is ineffable. I hear more episodes are on the way, as well! Official Synopsis: Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature – Second Year Classics, C667, Professor [REDACTED]. This course discusses the Anterran Civilization, examining the evidence regarding the recent archeological ruins uncovered at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. The earliest human society, [REDACTED] years older than previously known to exist, will provide opportunities for analysis of ancient writing and thought. Topics include literature, religion, and philosophy. Wednesdays, Room 014 Brussels Hall, Harbridge University.
Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature
Wolf at the Door
Play first episode
5.0
Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature – Second Year Classics, C667, Professor [REDACTED]. This course discusses the Anterran Civilization, examining the evidence regarding the recent archeological ruins uncovered at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. The earliest human society, [REDACTED] years older than previously known to exist, will provide opportunities for analysis of ancient writing and thought. Topics include literature, religion, and philosophy. Wednesdays, Room 014 Brussels Hall, Harbridge University. Additional resources can be found on the class website: https://www.wlfdr.com/mot.
4 Listeners
3 Comments
3
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How many episodes does Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature have?
Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature currently has 39 episodes available.
What topics does Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature cover?
The podcast is about Fiction and Podcasts.
What is the average episode length on Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature?
The average episode length on Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature is 15 minutes.
How often are episodes of Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature released?
Episodes of Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature are typically released every 15 days, 23 hours.
When was the first episode of Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature?
The first episode of Modes of Thought in Anterran Literature was released on Jun 10, 2022.
2. The Scarab Archives
Why this podcast?
Many of you who are just now dipping into the world of audio fiction may be familiar with The Magnus Archives, one of the capstones of the current fictional world. If you're looking for something to scratch that same itch while delivering delicious linguistics, The Scarab Archives is definitely one to check out. Though each episode focuses on a new artifact which we learn the origins and stories of, there is a thread of Sumerian language and artifacts throughout, drawing ever closer with its promise of doom. The main is begrudging and stubborn, and the stories are interesting and, occasionally, horrific. Make a cup of tea and dig in! Official Synopsis: For nearly two decades, the mysterious Lazarus Foundation has collected supposedly paranormal items and stored them safely in a secret location known as the Scarab Archives. Join the Archive’s caretaker, Dr. Delbert East as he attempts to create a digital record of some of the Archive’s most terrifying pieces... and accidentally discovers a looming threat that is beyond all human understanding.
The Scarab Archives
Lazarus Creative Co
Play first episode
4.0
For nearly two decades, the mysterious Lazarus Foundation has collected supposedly paranormal items and stored them safely in a secret location known as the Scarab Archives. Join the Archive’s caretaker, Dr. Delbert East as he attempts to create a digital record of some of the Archive’s most terrifying pieces... and accidentally discovers a looming threat that is beyond all human understanding. Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thescarabarchives/support
1 Listener
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How many episodes does The Scarab Archives have?
The Scarab Archives currently has 63 episodes available.
What topics does The Scarab Archives cover?
The podcast is about Fiction and Podcasts.
What is the average episode length on The Scarab Archives?
The average episode length on The Scarab Archives is 15 minutes.
How often are episodes of The Scarab Archives released?
Episodes of The Scarab Archives are typically released every 12 days, 15 hours.
When was the first episode of The Scarab Archives?
The first episode of The Scarab Archives was released on Jun 22, 2020.
3. No Return
Why this podcast?
If you're looking for something with extreme worldbuilding and passion, look no further than No Return. Kier demonstrates the utmost care in how the world of No Return is built, and the stories of the characters and lands within. There are conlangs and adventures, and the writing is particularly in-depth and enjoyable. I will be listening to more of this to update this list and reviews, but definitely one to listen to, in the first place! Official Synopsis: Welcome to Erset La Tari, a world where death is a constant companion and the future is uncertain. The Land of No Return is a full cast audio drama that takes you on a journey through the different regions of this dying world. From the cities teeming with life to the barren wastelands, each series explores a different story that delves into the themes of morality, power, and survival. In Erset La Tari, the line between good and evil is blurred, and the struggle for survival is a constant battle. With a wide range of styles, No Return has something for everyone. If you're looking for action, we have stories of warriors battling against impossible odds. If you're in the mood for mystery, we have tales of detectives solving crimes in a world where the line between good and evil is blurred. If you're in the mood for horror, we have stories of the supernatural and the unknown. And for those who enjoy political intrigue, we have stories of power struggles and scheming politicians. With monthly updates and concurrent releases, No Return is an ongoing journey through a world on the brink of collapse. Join us on this journey and see how the people of Erset La Tari struggle to survive in a world where death is a constant companion. Listen to your favorite episodes, and check back each month for new stories from different regions of the Land of No Return
No Return
Kier Zhou
Play first episode
5.0
No Return: An Audio Drama by Kier Zhou
Enjoy yourself in the chaotic, fantastical world of "No Return," where the worldbuilding ambition rivals Robert Jordan, the humour channels Terry Pratchett and Douglas Adams, and the violence echoes Tom Sharpe—all wrapped in the indie punk aesthetic of a one man band making content on a laptop powered by a potato.
This full cast comedy fantasy spans a diverse array of tales:
- Clumsy Divine Quests: Join researchers on accidental divine missions.
- Mercenary Chaos: Witness comedic clashes between mercenaries and foreign warships.
- Eerie Mysteries: Delve into the haunting search for lost children.
- Ancient Secrets: Unearth treacherous truths in the Darklands.
- Sinister Plots: Navigate a city's dark underbelly filled with kidnappings and dark schemes.
- Ensemble Comedy of Errors: Dive into epic fantasy battles where magic and mayhem reign supreme.
- Actual Play: Follow the gripping saga of a burning city and the heroes fighting for its survival amidst chaos and intrigue. Told through a tightly edited TTRPG actual play.
And remember, for those seeking extra tales and behind-the-scenes magic, check out:
[https://patreon.com/NoReturnAD]
19 Listeners
6 Comments
6
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How many episodes does No Return have?
No Return currently has 151 episodes available.
What topics does No Return cover?
The podcast is about Mystery, Fiction, Myth, Comedy Fiction, Magic, Drama, Audio Drama, Podcasts and Fantasy.
What is the average episode length on No Return?
The average episode length on No Return is 17 minutes.
How often are episodes of No Return released?
Episodes of No Return are typically released every day.
When was the first episode of No Return?
The first episode of No Return was released on Jan 1, 2022.
4. Syntax
Why this podcast?
Is it really a linguistics list if I don't put my own pod on here? Take it as you will, but Syntax is entirely centered on language -- both conlang and entirely real. The story follows a team of explorers throughout an alien artifact known as the 'Breach', only able to be traversed after translating the sigil of an unknown language. The unknown language is paired with the real ancient language of Akkadian, which was spoken from the 3rd to the 1st millennium of BCE, and is inherently similar to Sumerian, as the Akkad empire took over the Sumer empire in ancient times. There's adventures, scares, lovable (I hope) characters, and translated transcripts to follow along with! I'm really only placing it here because I love language, I love Akkadian and conlangs and ancient history as seen through linguist eyes, and I love my show. Check it out! Only if you want to! No pressure! Official Synopsis: A science fiction, horror audio drama podcast that follows Silas Caldwell, a linguist, who finds himself employed by VINCULA, a biotech company with an unearthly set of artifacts in their possession. Alongside a team of scientists and explorers, Silas plunges into the world beyond the Breach, and is touched by terrors beyond his wildest dreams.
Syntax
Twin Strangers Productions
Play first episode
5.0
A science fiction, horror audio drama podcast that follows Silas Caldwell, a linguist, who finds himself employed by VINCULA, a biotech company with an unearthly set of artifacts in their possession. Alongside a team of scientists and explorers, Silas plunges into the world beyond the Breach, and is touched by terrors beyond his wildest dreams.
Syntax Season 4 underway!
This show is a full cast audio drama, and has adult themes and horror settings. Made by Twin Strangers Productions. For more audio dramas, go to twinstrangersproductions.com
Website: syntaxpodcast.com
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
20 Listeners
2 Comments
2
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How many episodes does Syntax have?
Syntax currently has 60 episodes available.
What topics does Syntax cover?
The podcast is about Sci-Fi, Fiction, Drama, Audio Drama, Paranormal, Horror Podcast, Podcasts, Scary Story, Series, Science Fiction, Horror and Cryptid.
What is the average episode length on Syntax?
The average episode length on Syntax is 46 minutes.
How often are episodes of Syntax released?
Episodes of Syntax are typically released every 13 days.
When was the first episode of Syntax?
The first episode of Syntax was released on Mar 12, 2022.
5. The Moon Crown
Why this podcast?
Is this show mainly about linguistics? No. Is that going to stop me from putting it on this list? Also no! The Moon Crown is a fantastic audio fiction based on Filipino mythology, and it will take you on a wild ride, guaranteed. M. Molder does an incredible job with all the hats they wear -- writer, lead VA, and editor -- but damn if this podcast isn't some of the best soundwork I've EVER heard. It's primarily a psychological thriller interwoven with timey-wimey shenanigans that will keep you guessing. The characters are to be trusted and protected -- or are they? Either way, they're all voiced amazingly and have superb chemistry. The reason why this is on the 'linguistics list' is because I love any pod that has other languages I can hear being spoken. Since it's based on Filipino mythology, we were spoon-fed words as creature names, but on occasion we hear full on Tagalog being spoken, particularly in the most recent episode. I'm eagerly awaiting their finale of the first season, and if you aren't entirely into the history of other cultures as a linguist, then can you really call yourself a linguist? Official Synopsis: In a world where beasts and entities have integrated into society, a group of outcasts set out on the run after a discovery that could change the existence of entities everywhere. Lou sends out broadcasts in hopes of reaching an audience with a warning of what's to come. Unfortunately, the listener she reaches might not be the kind of person she's hoping to find. The Moon Crown is a full-cast, weird fiction and horror audio drama meant for adult audiences, and is based on Filipino mythology with a little western mythology mixed in.
The Moon Crown
Momo
Play first episode
5.0
In a world where beasts and entities have integrated into society, a group of outcasts set out on the run after a discovery that could change the existence of entities everywhere.
Lou sends out broadcasts in hopes of reaching an audience with a warning of what's to come. Unfortunately, the listener she reaches might not be the kind of person she's hoping to find.
The Moon Crown is a full-cast, weird fiction and horror audio drama meant for adult audiences, and is based on Filipino mythology with a little western mythology mixed in.
More information can be found on themooncrown.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
9 Listeners
2 Comments
2
Explore this Podcast
How many episodes does The Moon Crown have?
The Moon Crown currently has 36 episodes available.
What topics does The Moon Crown cover?
The podcast is about Fiction, Drama, Audio Drama, Podcasts, Science Fiction and Cosmic Horror.
What is the average episode length on The Moon Crown?
The average episode length on The Moon Crown is 14 minutes.
How often are episodes of The Moon Crown released?
Episodes of The Moon Crown are typically released every 12 days, 5 hours.
When was the first episode of The Moon Crown?
The first episode of The Moon Crown was released on Jun 9, 2022.
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