Shows
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesSeason 2 Finale (And a Peek Behind the Scenes!)After around 20 episodes, season 2 of the Vocabbett podcast is coming to a close! I'd gladly continue it forever, but I was recently accepted to UCSD's college counseling program. Since they operate on a quarterly system, I'm able to start my first class in March! I honestly don't know exactly how the college counseling certificate will play into the future of Vocabbett, but as I discuss in the podcast, I do want to turn Vocabbett into a profitable, sustainable business, and while I'm having a blast with what I'm currently doing, it's not exactly self-sustaining. ...
2021-02-2506 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesMargo Durrell - Quite the CharacterIf you've seen The Durrells in Corfu, you'll undoubtedly remember the slightly dotty daughter in the series, Margo. When I finished the show (a slightly heartbreaking moment – I hope they release a new season in the future!), I was exceptionally curious about what happened next for the family. Though the show offers a fictionalized account of the Durrells' lives, the characters were based on real people. To think of them in the clutches of World War II… For episode 75 of the Vocabbett podcast, I share more about the remarkable life of Margo Durrell. You can...
2021-02-2307 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesCleopatra's Little Sister We've all heard of Cleopatra, but how many people know she had a little sister -- and a pretty remarkable one at that? Arsinoe IV was about ten years younger than Cleopatra, but my guess is that, had their ages been reversed, we'd all know Arsinoe and it would be, "Cleopatra who?" At around 12 years old, she was commanding an army and outwitting Julius Caesar! Listen to episode 74 of the Vocabbett podcast to learn all about her. And as promised, here is the link to...
2021-02-1610 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesEndlessly Exiled...But She Still Didn't QuitWhen most of us think of suffragettes (a.k.a. women who fought for the right to vote), we think of Susan B. Anthony or Emmeline Pankhurst. We should, however, also be thinking about the extraordinary Nazek al-Abid! In the latest installment in our "forgotten women" mini-series, we explore the story of this remarkable woman. Exiled countless times for voicing (and acting upon) her beliefs, she never stopped fighting. Get the whole story in episode 72 of the Vocabbett podcast! (By the way, because her name is transliterated from Arabic, it's sometimes...
2021-02-1105 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History Stories18th Century Heiress-Turned-Pirate? (Vocabulary-Boosting History)"18th century heiress turned pirate" may sound like the tagline of a cheesy romance novel, but remarkably, it's a fairly accurate description of the indomitable Anne Bonny. A few episodes into our "Forgotten Women" mini-series -- where I sneakily boost your vocabulary by telling you about some people you probably didn't learn about in school -- we're shedding light on one of the most famous female pirates from the so-called "Golden Age" of piracy. It's a story you won't want to miss! You can listen for free on your favorite podcast player, or tune in...
2021-02-0912 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesThe *Other* British Warrior QueenIf you're an Anglophile (lover of the English) like me, you've probably heard of Boudica, the warrior queen who took on the Romans. But did you know that there's *another* British warrior queen with an equally fascinating tale? Around the 8th century, Viking raiders were taking over regions of England left and right. Alfred the Great dreamed of not only fighting them off, but uniting England under one king. Sadly, he died before seeing his dream come true. Alfred's daughter, Aethelflaed, leaped onto my radar in The Last Kingdom (available on Netflix, though very v...
2021-02-0405 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesThe Powerful Woman Behind 'Mary Had a Little Lamb'"Mary had a little lamb…" Be honest. Did you go, "little lamb" again after you read that? Those five words are so catchy, they were the first words Thomas Edison ever recorded in the phonograph (making them the first words ever recorded on a machine). Not only that, but they were also some of the first words Alexander Graham Bell spoke into the telephone! It's astonishing to me that a mere century (or so) after her death, Sarah Josepha Hale — the creator of this nursery rhyme — has faded into obscurity. It would be one thi...
2021-02-0206 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesKudos & Magical GloryI don't remember the first time I heard the word "kudos," but I distinctly remember thinking that it was 1970's slang. How wrong I was! I only found out last week, though, that "kudos" goes all the way back to the days of Homer, meaning "magical glory" in ancient Greek. This means, if someone says, "kudos, you did a great job at the game," the original meaning was more like, "Magical glory! Man, you've been blessed by the gods. Great job." How cool is that? There's a fierce battle raging among...
2021-01-2804 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesThe Beak Where People SpeakAmid the recent inauguration news, I kept hearing the word "rostrum." "As he approaches the rostrum tomorrow…" "Donald Trump began his term from the same rostrum…" "In his inaugural address Wednesday, delivered from a rostrum…" Obviously this word wasn't crucial to my understanding of what was happening, but being the inquisitive sort, I needed to know all about it. A rostrum is basically a podium. There are subtle differences, but for all intents and purposes, it's a podium. That's not the good bit, though. The good bit is what co...
2021-01-2603 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesChanges to the SAT - What No One's Talking AboutWith colleges dropping the SAT left and right — and the recent announcement that they're dropping the essay and subject tests — it's normal to feel a reluctant pang of sympathy for a dying rite of passage. Here's the thing, though: The College Board (the organization that runs the SAT) is stronger than ever. Most people don't know that the AP program is also managed by The College Board, so while people celebrate the end of a standardized test…we're unwittingly letting them standardize the entire high school curriculum. I'm not against AP's. There are some great...
2021-01-2106 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History Stories'An Era of Schadenfreude'Imagine not knowing how to say that you're tired. It wouldn't make sense, right? And yet there's an emotion that most of us experience all the time, whether we want to or not...but we awkwardly don't name it. If you don't know the word "schadenfreude," you're not alone. In fact, the very history of this emotion is full of people who didn't want to bring it into the English language! Schadenfreude is when you're happy about, or interested in, the misfortunes of others. In more practical terms, it's when you la...
2021-01-1905 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesWhy We Call It Soccer (When Everyone Else Calls It Football!)You may already know that what we in the U.S. call "soccer," most of the rest of the world refers to as "football." But do you know why we call it soccer when almost no one else does? Is it just some cowboy American thing? A refusal to go with the flow? The story behind the soccer vs. football debate is fascinating, and I share it in episode 65 of the Vocabbett podcast! Take a listen below or on your favorite podcast player. Until next time! - Referenced in this...
2021-01-1405 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesDon't Be a BlatherskiteBlatherskite - "A person who talks at great length without saying much of sense." Basically, a blatherer. What a great word. Definitely my favorite word du jour. Do you know what makes this word even better? The amazing route it took to reach our fair shores. Originally a pseudo-Scottish insult, the word became popular through a song, Maggie Lauder, that was popular with American troops during the Revolutionary War! You've GOT to listen to episode 64 of the Vocabbett podcast, which features a popular modern rendition of the song. And if you're...
2021-01-1208 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesTheseus THE Pig + Helen of Troy If you're a fan of Greek history, you're probably familiar with the story of Theseus and the minotaur. But did you know that the word "academy" traces its roots all the way back to that story? To be more specific, "academies" are etymologically named in honor of the man who saved Helen of Troy from having to become Theseus' wife! We think of Theseus as this great Greek hero, but if you've ever been in any of my history classes, you know he's a total...
2021-01-0710 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesThe Juicy Tell-All Novel That Changed the WORD The WORD, get it? Haha, wordplay. You tend to hear the word "anecdote" in two contexts these days. Either it's a fancy stand-in for "story," or it's a disparaging adjective, as in, "you only have anecdotal evidence." But did you know the root of the word anecdote is far more salacious? It goes back to the juiciest tell-all novel of the Byzantine empire, when a respected historian basically published the "Gossip Girl" of Justinian's court after his death. While he was alive, he secretly documented...
2021-01-0506 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History Stories''Crazy' Moon Words + A Writing Tip We're all probably familiar with the legends of werewolves and madmen emerging from the dark on a full moon...but did you know that this legend is so pervasive, it actually made an impact on the English language? Yes, my friends. The word "lunatic," among others, is directly pulled by the Latin root luna, for moon! In episode 63 of the Vocabbett podcast, I dive into some of the theories as to why this occurred, and I also share a brilliant writing tip from Neil Gaiman's Masterclass. Referenced...
2020-12-3103 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesWhy the Months Make No SenseHave you ever looked at the calendar and thought, "Well, that makes no sense"? October starts with "oct," but it's not the 8th month. November starts with "nov," but it's not the 9th month. December starts with "dec," but it's not the 10th month. I always encourage people to pay attention to the Greek and Latin roots, but sometimes, they can mislead you! That's why stories are such a great (and important) part of improving your vocabulary – they explain the inconsistencies. And this story, as with so many others, begins in ancient Rome. You see, when t...
2020-12-2911 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesSeason 1 Finale!After a hot 59 episodes, it's time to put the Vocabbett podcast on hiatus to write book 2! The podcast WILL be back. I LOVE doing it; I just need all the creative energy focused on one goal at the moment. Thanks for tuning in! You can listen to the entire backlist at vocabbett.com/season-1. See you in a bit!
2020-10-1301 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History Stories*This* Should Never End for Writers (Not What You Think!)We've talked ideas, outlines, writing tips, and more in this writing series. But amid the technical tips, one very important component of writing can get overlooked: love of the craft. If you want to be a writer, you must enjoy writing! I've mentioned before that this series is modeled after the writing process of Barbara Mertz a.k.a. Elizabeth Peters. I was able to research her creative process for my Master's, and do you know what stuck with me more than anything else? How much fun she was having! Of course...
2020-10-0803 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesUnconventional Editing AdviceThe resounding writing advice today tends to be, "Just get the words on paper. You can edit it later. You can't edit a blank page. All first drafts are garbage anyway…Just get your word count and keep going!" I can virtually guarantee that if you take this approach with essays, you'll end up with a garbage product or you'll have to re-do it. For books? Well, my experience is largely the same. The editing process is BRUTAL when you play fast and loose with the first draft. So, contrary to popular opinion toda...
2020-10-0604 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesWriting and...Popcorn? If you're following along and writing a book with me, you're probably into the actual drafting process. Woohoo! While exciting, I'll be the first to admit that this can be a uniquely intimidating time. It's one thing to have an outline; it's another thing to stare down the barrel of 300-odd blank pages. So today, I'm letting you in on what I think is the easiest way to populate the various scenes in your book (it's also the method I use for short stories!).
2020-10-0104 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesIs Your Subject Your Subject? (Two Meanings!) As we wrap up our writing mini-series, I have just a few more pieces of word-altering advice to give you! Today's advice has two meanings, and it's: is your subject your subject? Big Picture Are you telling the story from the right point of view? In drafting book #2, I realized my predetermined subject was no longer the only person with a gripping story to tell, and decided to have two narrators instead of the one I'd imagined. ...
2020-09-2907 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesHow to Write Non-Boring Descriptions I'll never forget my experience listening to Frankenstein on Audible. I went to the store, got groceries, was driving home, and sweet Mary Shelley (or the narrator, at any rate) was still droning on about some mountain. Now, Mary Shelley is far more successful than I will ever be, so perhaps I shouldn't weigh in here, but I'm of the opinion that shorter descriptions are better. And that leads me into today's topic in our writing mini-series: how to write non-boring descriptions. Continuing...
2020-09-2406 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesThe Golden Rule of (Creative) Writing!The most important piece of creative writing advice you'll ever receive? Show. Don't. Tell. You might have heard it before, but it definitely bears repeating! In a nutshell, here's the difference between the two... When you're telling the story, it sounds like: Sally was sad. When you're *showing* the story, it sounds like: Sally ate her popcorn on the couch, ugly-crying and shouting at the TV that love isn't real. - Now, it's a rather cliche example, but which one of these characters do yo...
2020-09-2205 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesHow Helpful Are Character Sketches (And What Did Elizabeth Peters Do?)Well hello! If you're new to Vocabbett, I help students improve their vocabulary through stories. Because of that, I tend to do a lot of writing. At the moment, I'm taking you behind the scenes as I write the sequel to Ahead of Her Time! Today, we're talking about character sketches, and I'm continuing to draw on the creative process of Barbara Mertz (a.k.a. Elizabeth Peters) for inspiration. Here's what I found while researching her process: She did use character sketches early in her career, but stopped by 1992(ish). As she explaine...
2020-09-1705 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesWriting Tips: Plotters vs. PantsersIn today's installment of our "how to write a book" mini-series, we're diving into outlines! And, yes, I know outlines aren't the most fascinating topic, so I'll keep it short. : ) Here's what you should know: not every author uses an outline. In general, there are two camps in the writing community: Plotters, who plot their novels in advance Pantsers, who follow where the book leads (writing "by the seat of their pants") I've mentioned before that, in drafting the sequel to Ahead of Her Time, I'm trying to base my process on that of...
2020-09-1503 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesStatus Report on the Sequel to 'Ahead of Her Time' (With Details!)*SPOILERS AHEAD* – If you haven't yet read Ahead of Her Time (which you can download for free as a Vocabbett member!), start there and come back! - Fans of Noor & co, rejoice! I am starting to make real headway on the sequel to Ahead of Her Time. In episode 50 of the Vocabbett podcast, I share where I am in the idea-formulating process, revealing some (non-spoilery) details about book 2. I also share some difficulties I'm facing, and how I've tentatively resolved them. Specifically, I grappled with the knowledge that "Cleopatra in the present...
2020-09-1006 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesHow a Bestseller Gets Ideas (With Inspiration From Elizabeth Peters!)Have you ever loved a book so much that when you finished it, you just sat in stunned silence for a moment? How did the author get these ideas? you ask. Maybe you turn to Google and find some witty response from the author, or nothing at all. For aspiring writers, this can be maddening! If each book is an invention, ideas are the schematics and blueprints. I want to know how you built this! Today on the Vocabbett podcast, we're diving into the "behind the scenes" of how authors get their ideas, d...
2020-09-0807 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesWriting Lessons Learned From 'Ahead of Her Time'Aspiring writers are often told to "write what you know." It's valuable advice, no doubt, lending verisimilitude to an otherwise unbelievable narrative. HOWEVER, here's the problem: our lives rarely conform to a three-act structure. While writing what we "know" may leave us with good scenes, it often leaves us lacking in the plot department. That's exactly what happened with me while writing Ahead of Her Time. I can't tell you how many hundreds of pages I had to re-write to turn my hodgepodge collection of scenes into a proper story! I'm...
2020-09-0306 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesWant to Write a Book? Let's Do It Together!I probably couldn't pick a worse time to do this. Who has time to write a book amid all the back-to-school madness? Unfortunately, inspiration is striking at the moment, and I'm a slave to the muse, so I'm going to get started on book 2! But that's the beautiful thing about the internet, isn't it? You can write a book with me now, in real time, or come back to this series later! Over the next few weeks, as I get started on the sequel to Ahead of Her Time, I'm going to pull back...
2020-09-0104 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History Stories'Brave New World' TV Series ReviewLately, I've been bombarded with ads for shows on NBC's new streaming service, Peacock TV. Top among their new shows, it seems, is Brave New World, a fresh take on the classic dystopian novel. I hate to ever leave a bad review about anything, but I suspect students might stumble upon it after being assigned the book, so let me just say… This show is shockingly inappropriate for something kids might accidentally tune into. Seriously, I'm pretty sure I've seen cleaner episodes of Game of Thrones. Let me just repeat: T...
2020-08-2704 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesAnd the TV Character With the Biggest Vocabulary Is...Isn't it a shame that shows only seem to become cult classics once they're over? That's what seems to be happening with Schitt's Creek, a Canadian comedy that recently aired its final season. For Vocabbett readers, though, this show offers more than just some laughs… You might also learn a word or two from the show's inimitable matriarch, Moira Rose! I'll be honest. When I first saw the show, I was a little confused by her character. I couldn't figure out what her accent was supposed to be, among other things, but now I a...
2020-08-2505 minVocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesIs *This* Sneakily Sabotaging Your Grammar? (P2!)Let's be honest: music is no good for reinforcing proper grammar habits, even if we all love it. However, I think for most songs, we kind of know when they're abusing grammatical conventions to fit the rhyme. There are times, though — times like these — when the errors are so subtle (and so commonly-used!) that we might not even realize they're happening. As a result, we get LOTS of erroneous impressions, and when the opportunity arises to use the right version, it just doesn't sound "right." In episode 44 of the Vocabbett podcast, we dive in...
2020-08-2004 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesThe Surprising Link Between Dogs, Celebrities, and the Queen!Love, jealousy, betrayal, friends turning each other into animals...all hiding in one tiny SAT word! In episode 43 of the Vocabbett podcast, we dive into the story (stories, really!) behind the word "cynosure." You'll never believe the path it's taken, starting on the humble backside of a dog and ending as a word befitting the queen. Listen now to hear the story!
2020-08-1808 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesThe SAT Word That Makes Everything BetterWe're all looking for a certain something to make our lot in life better. I can't promise that this episode will bring it forth, but it will give you an elevated vocabulary to describe what you're looking for! In episode 42 of the Vocabbett podcast, we dive into the word "ameliorate" and what to do when you don't have an interesting etymological backstory. - Don't want to become a full-fledged Vocabbett member, but still want to support the podcast? Pledge a few bucks a month on Ko-Fi! www.ko-fi.com/voc...
2020-08-1305 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesFear and Fascination: Secrets of the Italian Bus System (A Vocabulary-Boosting Story) Well, hello! I've got a ridiculous little vocabulary-boosting story for you today. I wrote it back in Italy when our English professor asked us to write about something unexpected about our new life abroad (I think - truthfully I don't remember the exact prompt!). This is what I came up with! 😂 You can get the text of this story, and so much more, as a Vocabbett member! Sign up today at www.vocabbett.com. - Don't want to become a full-fledged Voca...
2020-08-1106 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesImportant Vocabbett Podcast Update!Hello, hello! If you haven’t already heard the news, I wanted to let you know that beginning August 15, the Vocabbett podcast will become a members-only feature. If you don’t have a Vocabbett membership, you won’t be able to listen! 😱 I began the podcast in the spring as a way to provide free educational content amid the school closures, and by August 15, I’ll have created almost 50 free episodes! I would love to continue this journey with you. Every family needs to decide how to navigate this chapter them...
2020-08-0600 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesOf Karens and QuislingsIt's not often that someone's name transforms into an insult, but when it does, it's usually pretty memorable! We've recently witnessed the transformation of "Karen" from a pretty innocuous name to one with a whole host of negative connotations, but this isn't the first time such a transformation has occurred. Throughout history, there's a strong pattern of names being used as insults, particularly for traitors. If someone's a Benedict Arnold, you probably know that means they're a traitor. But what about a quisling? Same thing! Vidkun Quisling was a No...
2020-08-0405 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesMispronouncing This SAT Word Could Get You KilledNever thought you'd read that title, eh? No, The College Board has not implemented some kind of Hunger Games-style exit questionnaire, but the story is equally shocking! The book of Judges, in the Old Testament of the Bible, tells the story of a battle between the Ephraimites and the Gileadites. Having won the battle, the Gileadites decided they didn't want any survivors to make it home, so they set up checkpoints along the Jordan River. Anyone who wanted to pass was asked two questions: Are you an Ephraimite? How do you pronounce "sh...
2020-07-3005 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History Stories"Manly" Words & Double MeaningsWow, that's really manly of you, to be such a good person!" – Ancient Romans As we continue diving into the study of etymology, it may amuse (annoy? probably not surprise…) you to find sneaky double meanings in many English words, many of which are rather sexist. For instance, since the Latin root "vir" meant "man," many of our "vir" words have an element of "manliness" built into them. Are you virtuous? If you're a man, it means you're a good man. And if you're a woman? You're good…like a man, I guess...
2020-07-2805 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesMoney, Geese, & Warnings: Linguistic Roots You Wouldn't Believe!Would you believe me if I told you that the word "money," something so valued and coveted, actually traces its roots back to a flock of geese? In episode 36 of the Vocabbett podcast, we dive into the "mon" root and some of its derivatives, words like "premonition" and "monetize." You won't believe the route this root has taken! : ) To take your study of etymology to the next level, sign up for a Vocabbett membership at www.vocabbett.com. - Don't want to become a full-fledged Vocabbett member, but still w...
2020-07-2308 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesAn Apology/Can Words Speak?I started this episode of the Vocabbett podcast with a quick apology...The last episode wasn't up to my usual standards, and without making excuses, I wanted to share why! : ) After that, we returned to our regular vocabulary-boosting content! There are two sides to the coin when it comes to using stories to improve your vocabulary. If you're a seasoned Vocabbett listener, you're probably familiar with the first: I write stories and weave "big" words into them. Like immersion for learning a foreign language, this immerses you in the world of SAT...
2020-07-2108 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesManaging TV During QuarantineWe're all watching more TV than normal these days, but if you want to keep your edge and come out of quarantine smarter than ever, it's time to become more intentional about your TV choices. There's nothing inherently wrong with watching Friends re-runs for the 400th time, but it's probably not going to teach you much either! In this podcast, I share more about how to look at TV during this time. And over at Vocabbett, I've compiled a list of my top 5 shows that are (in my opinion!) just as entertaining as they are e...
2020-07-1603 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesHow to Emerge From Quarantine Smarter Than EverLet me ask you a question: If you could take a pill and emerge from quarantine smarter, richer, and healthier than ever before — with zero side effects — would you take it? To be honest, I think most of us would! The crazy part? You might be able to get all that from the simple act of reading. Yep! Reading has statistically been shown to improve standardized test scores, both mental and physical health, and even been linked to increased earning power. In episode 33 of the Vocabbett podcast, I share more abo...
2020-07-1405 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesSurvey Results: How YOU Feel About Back-to-School PlansIn episode 31 of the Vocabbett podcast, I asked how YOU are feeling about back-to-school plans, creating a survey and asking people to reach out. For this episode, I thought you might be interested to hear the results! Now, let's be clear: this is a survey of the Vocabbett audience. It's a pretty small sample size, and should not be construed as the thoughts of the entire country! However, I was very surprised by some of what I learned! Tune in to episode 32 of the podcast to hear it all! -
2020-07-0904 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesFall 2020 School Choices - A Third Option?Well, hello! After a week off for the 4th of July, I returned to find that my local school district announced some big changes for the fall. People are being asked to decide whether they want 100% in-person or 100% virtual schooling. To be honest, I don't know if I'd be comfortable with either of these options. Has your school made any announcements yet? What are your thoughts? Are you happy with your current situation? In episode 31 of the Vocabbett podcast, I discuss how I fear our education system is f...
2020-07-0708 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesTrapped in a Pyramid: A Vocabulary-Boosting Short Story Welcome to episode 30 of the Vocabbett podcast! I wrote this story when I was studying abroad in Cairo, and while it draws on true experiences, it is definitely a work of fiction! **Note: there is a curse word in it, so if you don't want to hear it, maybe skip this episode!** To read along to this story, and get the definitions of SAT vocabulary words at the bottom of each page, become a Vocabbett member at www.vocabbett.com! - Don't want to become a full-fledged...
2020-06-2505 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesLet's Talk Summer Reading (Plus "Salt to the Sea" Review!) There's an old quote that the world is a book, and those who don't travel read only one page. I quite agree, but I have my own little spin on it — that those who don't read live only one life. I can't imagine how much less rich my life would be if I'd only lived in this time and space. Because of books, I feel like I've gotten to live in Henry VIII's court, been chased by lions in the Colosseum, the list goes on...! I recently read an exc...
2020-06-2307 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesDon't Miss Vocabbett's Summer Challenge!On this episode of the Vocabbett podcast, we're taking a little break from the vocabulary-boosting stories to share some more details about our "500 Words in 50 Days" summer SAT challenge! Among the details we discuss: 1) How I'm going to help you learn/master 500 words 2) The fact that the top three winners will earn cash prizes 3) How long the challenge will take to complete (spoiler alert: you probably won't need the full 50 days!) Sign up today at vocabbett.com/500words!
2020-06-1806 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesCould You Learn 500 Words in 50 Days? (*Summer Challenge*)Could you learn 500 words in 50 days? With Vocabbett, my guess is "yes"! I'm so excited about this episode because I'm launching an amazing summer challenge that, honestly, *every* high school student should be signing up for! A roadmap to get the most out of Vocabbett in the shortest amount of time — plus challenges, prizes, and more — you are going to LOVE it! And, yes, I said prizes. The challenges will have points, and the person with the most points by the end of the challenge will receive a $50 gift card to the store of thei...
2020-06-1609 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesAndreas: The Man in the WallsWelcome to episode 26 of the Vocabbett podcast! This is a special episode for me because it closes the loop on a story I first started writing more than TEN years ago. Filled with obscure history, love, and heartache, it's a tad more serious than the stories I normally write, but hopefully you still like it! In order to read along, simply become a Vocabbett member www.vocabbett.com. -- Mentioned in This Episode: Elizabeth Gilbert's Big Magic (affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission at no addit...
2020-06-1111 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesKaren and the WeedWe're back this week with another vocabulary-boosting short story! A parody poking fun at an archetype in society today, "Karen and the Weed" is a lighthearted tale about a woman frustrated by her neighbor's (lack of) lawn maintenance. Featuring nearly 30 high-frequency SAT words, it's both educational and entertaining! - Loving Vocabbett? Refer a friend and earn up to $40. Apply for the Vocabbett Ambassador program at www.vocabbett.com/ambassadors. - Don't want to become a full-fledged Vocabbett member, but still want to support the podcast? Ple...
2020-06-0908 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History Stories*Bonus Episode* - One Way EDUCATORS Can (and Should) Change the Curriculum Next YearIn the last episode of the Vocabbett podcast, I suggested that a more autonomous trend might emerge in education in a post-COVID-19 world. That episode largely spoke to parents and students. In this *bonus* episode, I wanted to speak to educators about how they can make changes to the existing framework to better respect and nurture the students in their care. Are you an educator who doesn't want to walk away from the existing system, but knows changes need to be made? Hit play for one way you can change your cu...
2020-06-0709 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesHow Schools Can (And Should) Be Changing in the FallWith summer finally upon us, it's only natural that people have begun to ask what school will look like when (if?) we return in the fall. Though a number of recurring themes have emerged (outdoor learning, family-style dining, more virtual learning), I have to admit...I've been disappointed not to see more innovative paths forward being proposed. On episode 23 of the Vocabbett podcast, I share an idea for a new model that might gain traction in a post-COVID world — a model which could benefit students from ALL socioeconomic backgrounds. I don't have all the...
2020-06-0416 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesRooting Out Injustice & Oppression How do we prevent something like this from ever happening again? That's the question I've been asking myself in the wake of George Floyd's horrific death in Minnesota. I don't have all the answers, but here's what I know: Oppression, by definition, can only exist when there's an imbalance of power. Education is one of the best tools we have to level the playing field and correct those imbalances. The more educated (and hard-working) you are, the better the job you will likely...
2020-06-0205 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesThe SAT: A Thing of the Past?Much has been made of the University of California's recent decision to remove the SAT/ACT from its admissions requirements. It's caused many people to draw the (eminently logical) conclusion that they no longer need to prepare for the SAT. "No SAT means no SAT prep, right? I can just stop learning all this stuff?" WRONG! Listen to episode 21 of the Vocabbett podcast to find out why, in my opinion, announcements like this can cause extraordinary unintended consequences...and how you should be interpreting them! -- Loving Vo...
2020-05-2806 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesThe Time-Traveling TeacherHello! Many of you are finishing up a unique school year (to put it lightly!), and are finally heading into summer. Congratulations! Rest assured that even though school is out, the Vocabbett podcast isn't going anywhere. Let me know if you listen to it somewhere cool! A hike? The beach? Anyway, I hope you enjoy today's vocabulary-boosting short story! -- Loving Vocabbett? Refer a friend and earn up to $40. Apply for the Vocabbett Ambassador program at www.vocabbett.com/ambassadors. - Don't...
2020-05-2606 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesThe "Pitch" Perfect CrimeI am SO excited about this podcast because I've got a good, old vocabulary-boosting story for you guys. I got the idea for this one after the last "Pitch Perfect" movie came out, and I think you're really going to enjoy it! Featuring 15 SAT words and a comical storyline, the story imagines the "pitch" perfect crime. I hope you like it! -- Loving Vocabbett? Refer a friend and earn up to $40. Apply for the Vocabbett Ambassador program at www.vocabbett.com/ambassadors. - Don't want to b...
2020-05-2107 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History Stories5 Ways to Instantly Sound Smarter, Part 5!We made it! Episode 18 of the Vocabbett podcast contains the final installment of our "5 Ways to Instantly Sound Smarter" mini-series. And, seeing as it's the last episode, I thought it might be time to change things up a bit! Rather than cover a grammar rule you should probably follow, this episode covers a "rule" you might want to break! Any guesses as to what it is? Listen now to find out! - Loving Vocabbett? Refer a friend and earn up to $40. Apply for the Vocabbett Ambassador program at...
2020-05-1907 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History Stories5 Ways to Instantly Sound Smarter, Part 4 + Why Grammar Matters (Not What You Think!)As I was writing this episode, I realized that there is an inherent risk in talking so much about grammar: it makes you sound a tad judgmental. But that's not where I'm coming from at all! In today's episode, we dive into why grammar matters (and it's probably not what you think!), as well as the fourth way to instantly sound smarter! - Loving Vocabbett? Refer a friend and earn up to $40. Apply for the Vocabbett Ambassador program at www.vocabbett.com/ambassadors. - Don't wan...
2020-05-1407 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History Stories5 Ways to Instantly Sound Smarter, Part 3 + Vocabbett Ambassadors!This episode packs a double-whammy in its usefulness, bringing you the third way to instantly sound smarter and introducing a new summer opportunity for students: the Vocabbett Ambassador program! Get all the details in today's podcast, and head to www.vocabbett.com/ambassadors to apply. - Don't want to become a full-fledged Vocabbett member, but still want to support the podcast? Pledge a few bucks a month on Ko-Fi! www.ko-fi.com/vocabbett
2020-05-1207 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesHow to Instantly Sound Smarter, Part 2Welcome to part 2 of our mini-series, "How to Instantly Sound Smarter!" Following on the success of good vs. well, let's tackle another common offender: less vs. fewer. For years, I blithely went through life thinking they were interchangeable. A big thanks to my brother for pointing out the error of my ways! Here's the trick in a nutshell: Fewer is for anything you CAN count. Less is for anything you CAN'T count. And voila! Correctly use less vs. fewer, and you will instantly sound smarter. -...
2020-05-0705 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History Stories5 Ways to Instantly Sound Smarter + How Mrs. Abbett Embarrassed Herself on This IssueI am SO excited about this podcast because it kicks off a little mini series called "5 Ways to Instantly Sound Smarter." In this series, I will teach you how to fix 5 of the most common grammatical mistakes that, for better or for worse, people get rather judgmental about. And don't worry — I'm not going to be like, "To fix this, go buy a copy of the MLA handbook and blah, blah, blah." No. I will teach you how to fix every issue within the length of the podcast, always doing my be...
2020-05-0507 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesAll Cows Go to Heaven + Membership Update!Episode 13 of the Vocabbett podcast shares an anthropomorphic, bovine-centric short story...which is merely SAT-speak for it's a story about a talking cow! It's nice and quick, but still packed with SAT words. I also share a little update about the Vocabbett membership. Namely, the founding member bonus is about to expire, so now is the time to join if you're on the fence! Get all the information at www.vocabbett.com. -- Love the Vocabbett podcast? Support it on Ko-Fi! www.ko-fi.com/vocabbett
2020-04-3005 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesBrilliant Insults...LiterallyEpisode 12 of the Vocabbett podcast shares brilliant insults from television and literature. And when I say "brilliant," I mean that in both the British sense ("that's brilliant, darling!") and the literal sense, as in, they're full of SAT words! Let me be clear that just because I'm sharing these insults does NOT mean I think you should use them. Be kind at all times! -- Enjoying the Vocabbett podcast? Support it on Ko-Fi!
2020-04-2806 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesHow to Avoid This School Closure MistakeToday's podcast deviates from my usual vocabulary-boosting stories to address the latest updates regarding COVID-19 and school closures — specifically, one big mistake I see people making! When we first learned about the closures, many of us thought they would last for two weeks. And because they've been expanding incrementally, many of us have continued with the same plan and mindset — even though circumstances have radically changed. In many states, students won't be returning at all before summer break. Have you re-evaluated your plan in light of the changing circumstances? -- Referenced in th...
2020-04-2306 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesBoudicea Story + Are Ideas Living Things?Today's podcast shares an excellent vocabulary-boosting story about a modern girl named in honor of Boudicea, the ancient female warrior who took on the Roman empire. It's FILLED with SAT vocabulary words (I might even describe some of them as GRE words!). If you want to read along, simply become a Vocabbett member at www.vocabbett.com! At the end of the podcast, I share a little bit more about the backstory, including my unconventional take on where ideas come from. It might surprise you to know that this opinion isn't as...
2020-04-2114 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesAre These Songs Subtly Sabotaging Your Grammar?I know what you're thinking. "Umm...Mrs. Abbett, isn't EVERY song riddled with grammatical errors? Why, yes, they are. However, for this podcast I haven't focused on the obvious errors, ones so large they're basically just creative license. Instead, I've selected three songs with errors I ACTUALLY hear people make in the day-to-day. Can you guess which ones they are? -- Become a Vocabbett member today! -- P.S. Not interested in the membership, but want to see the podcast continue? Support it...
2020-04-1608 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesThe Big Mistake Most Courses Make...And How to (Potentially!) Fix itWhat is the BIG mistake that most courses make? I know, it's a rather loaded question. However, considering that courses are the foundation of our education system, it's certainly something worth exploring! But, never fear. If I present you with a problem, rest assured that I'll also present you with a solution — or the best one I can come up with, at any rate! Referenced in this episode: www.vocabbett.com
2020-04-1413 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesAMBL root + Death at the Villa TarcontiIn episode 7 of the Vocabbett podcast, we chat the Latin root "ambulare" before moving on to chapter one of my vocabulary-boosting novelette Death at the Villa Tarconti! Keep reading on Amazon when the podcast ends! You'll want to pick up at chapter two!
2020-04-0907 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesVocabbett Update + Homage to My Favorite AuthorIn episode 6 of the Vocabbett podcast, I hint at some changes coming to Vocabbett before sharing a (vocabulary-boosting) story that pays homage to my favorite author, Elizabeth Peters! If you're a fan of Elizabeth Peters' Amelia Peabody series, this podcast is a must-listen. And if you've never heard of her? You're welcome! You're going to love her books. You can read along with today's vocabulary-boosting short story at www.vocabbett.com/casting-call! Also Referenced in This Podcast: Crocodile on the Sandbank by Elizabeth Peters (book #1 in the Amelia Peabody series)
2020-04-0711 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesShakespeare Never Existed: A Vocabulary-Boosting Short StoryIn episode 5 of The Vocabbett Podcast, we continue to sneakily improve our vocabulary through fun, unique stories. Today, the story revolves around a Shakespearean scholar who wakes up to find...she is the only one who has ever heard of William Shakespeare. What would you do in her shoes? Listen to the podcast to find out how it all shakes out! You can also read along at Vocabbett. Link below! 👇 https://www.vocabbett.com/post/shakespeare -- Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and leave it a 5-star revi...
2020-04-0212 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesThe Ghosts of Google Earth: A Vocabulary-Boosting StoryIn episode four of The Vocabbett Podcast, I share a behind-the-scenes look at what's going on at Vocabbett before diving in to the short story of the day: The Ghosts of Google Earth! A lighthearted story imagining a cadre of ghosts panicked at the prospect of being photographed, you can read along at https://www.vocabbett.com/post/ghosts-of-google! Other Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Ahead of Her Time: An SAT Vocabulary Novel by Erica Abbett Death at the Villa Tarconti: An SAT Vocabulary Novelette by Erica Abbett
2020-03-3111 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesHera and the Headmaster: A Vocabulary-Boosting StoryNow that you know the secret superpower behind the Vocabbett method (*cough!* stories!), it's time to see it in action. In this podcast, I share a fun, vocabulary-boosting short story I wrote called "Hera and the Headmaster." Fans of Percy Jackson and Greek mythology are sure to enjoy it! The story imagines Hera, the notoriously vindictive goddess of marriage and motherhood, being called to her mortal son's school after he misbehaves. The story sneaks in 21 potential SAT words, and you can read along at www.vocabbett.com/post/podcast3! Starting next wee...
2020-03-2709 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesTurbo-Charge Your Vocabulary With This Simple TrickFlashcards, study guides, computer programs...sometimes it seems like these are the only ways to memorize new words. But did you know that there are elite memory athletes? People who can memorize a shuffled deck of cards in less time than — I kid you not — it would take me just to look at them? How do they do it? Almost universally, they say they make up a story to remember the cards. Storytelling is a uniquely effective — and relatively painless — memorization tool. When combined with intentional repetition of new vocabulary words? Well, you've just made...
2020-03-2610 min
Vocabbett - Fun Vocabulary & History StoriesHow the "Questions" Secret Can Help You Amid School ClosuresAmid the school closures currently sweeping the nation as a result of COVID-19, many families are making difficult decisions about how to continue receiving a quality education. Never fear! The Vocabbett podcast is here to help you navigate these unprecedented times. Hosted by Erica Abbett — a former English and history teacher, the author of the young adult novel "Ahead of Her Time," and the founder of Vocabbett — episode number one shares a unique mindset trick that can help get us all in the right frame of mind to approach online and home-based learning. --...
2020-03-2205 min