Forensic Linguistics
02/02/25 • 10 min
What does your writing reveal about you?
In this thought-provoking episode of PiXL Pearls, Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) explores the fascinating world of forensic linguistics—the science of analyzing language to uncover hidden truths.
Discover how the FBI used linguistic clues to catch the infamous Unabomber and why the way we write can expose more than we realise. From emails to everyday communication, learn how your linguistic footprint shapes perceptions, builds trust, and influences leadership. Tune in for eye-opening insights into the power of words and how to use them wisely.
Following lots of requests we are now releasing the transcript for each Pearls episode in series 7 – download them here
If you enjoyed PiXl Pearls...
Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads
Read Rachel's two books:
Time to Think: The Things that stop us and how to deal with them
Time to Think 2: The Things that stop our teams and what to do about them
Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.
The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.
Series 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.
They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.
Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.
PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.
For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/
What does your writing reveal about you?
In this thought-provoking episode of PiXL Pearls, Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) explores the fascinating world of forensic linguistics—the science of analyzing language to uncover hidden truths.
Discover how the FBI used linguistic clues to catch the infamous Unabomber and why the way we write can expose more than we realise. From emails to everyday communication, learn how your linguistic footprint shapes perceptions, builds trust, and influences leadership. Tune in for eye-opening insights into the power of words and how to use them wisely.
Following lots of requests we are now releasing the transcript for each Pearls episode in series 7 – download them here
If you enjoyed PiXl Pearls...
Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads
Read Rachel's two books:
Time to Think: The Things that stop us and how to deal with them
Time to Think 2: The Things that stop our teams and what to do about them
Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.
The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.
Series 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.
They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.
Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.
PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.
For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/
Previous Episode
Jargon Monoxide
What do the words rizz, authentic, and hallucinate say about society in 2023? And how can we, as leaders and educators, navigate the tension between appearance and reality these words reveal?
In this Pearls episode, Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) explores how the "word of the year" trend—starting with Merriam-Webster in 2003—gives us a window into our collective mindset. From the roaring 1920s’ bees knees to today’s rizz (short for charisma), these words reflect shifts in culture, priorities, and values.
Explore key lessons for educators and leaders about over-valuing charisma, the importance of knowing what you stand for and the need to check the facts presented to us – let’s use a messy present to lead into a better future. Packed with thought-provoking insights, reflective questions, and practical takeaways, this episode challenges you to consider the words you use, the ones you live by and how they shape the way you lead.
Tune in for a jargon-free take on language, leadership, and staying grounded in the messy reality of progress!
Following lots of requests we are now releasing the transcript for each Pearls episode in series 7 – download them here
If you enjoyed PiXl Pearls...
Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads
Read Rachel's two books:
Time to Think: The Things that stop us and how to deal with them
Time to Think 2: The Things that stop our teams and what to do about them
Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.
The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.
Series 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.
They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.
Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.
PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.
For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/
Next Episode
Hollow Easter Bunnies
That giant chocolate Easter bunny – the initial thrill, the inevitable disappointment of its hollowness.
In this episode, PiXL CEO Rachel Johnson dissects the surprising parallels between this childhood letdown and a critical leadership flaw: the "hollow Easter bunny" effect.
She unwraps the fascinating history of these iconic treats, then delves into the seven insidious "poser tricks" outlined in Sutton and Rao's Friction Fixers, exposing how these deceptive behaviours erode team trust and sabotage meaningful progress.
Are you, perhaps unknowingly, leading with empty promises rather than tangible results?
Join Rachel for a thought-provoking exploration of authentic leadership, where she challenges listeners to abandon hollow gestures, cultivate genuine substance, and drive impactful change within education and beyond.
It's time to trade appearances for genuine influence and lead with unwavering integrity.
Following lots of requests we are now releasing the transcript for each Pearls episode in series 7 – download them here
If you enjoyed PiXl Pearls...
Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads
Read Rachel's two books:
Time to Think: The Things that stop us and how to deal with them
Time to Think 2: The Things that stop our teams and what to do about them
Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.
The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.
Series 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.
They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.
Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.
PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.
For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/
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