The GradLings Podcast

"You study linguistics? Actually, what is that? How many languages can you speak?" - Everyone, ever.

Our project was born from the bits and pieces of conversations on Boden’s back patio that always seemed to return to a common theme: Graduate students did not have a platform that shows that it’s ok not to know everything about linguistics and academia (gasp).

Justin, Boden, and I launched the GradLings podcast in 2017 to create an accessible and supportive outlet for students to discuss their experiences of venturing into the world of higher education through the various subdisciplines of linguistics.

From 2017 until 2021, we had the honor bringing together fellow grad students from around the world to share their stories, fears, advice, questions, victories, and—like all good linguists—impressive puns. We are so proud that our program could foster open discussions that centered life within and, most importantly, beyond the academy.

Just like us, GradLings was never a “serious” space, although we never shied away from serious conversations. If you take a listen to our archived episodes here, you can expect to learn some pretty cool things and probably have a bit of a laugh during your study break or with your morning coffee. 

You can visit our website or social media platforms (@gradlingpodcast) to learn about our program and the wonderful colleagues and friends who joined us on the podcast. You can also skim through this lovely write-up from the Collegian, the official magazine of the Barefield College of Arts & Sciences at the University of Alabama.