How Language Shapes What We Believe with Amanda Montell

How Language Shapes What We Believe with Amanda Montell

August 5, 2026 · 1h 17m

About this episode

Amanda Montell joins Hayley Rawle to discuss how language influences beliefs across various domains, including religion and culture.

I'm thrilled to have sociolinguist Amanda Montell joining us to talk about the power of language in shaping what we believe—whether those beliefs are religious, political, cultural or even about ourselves. As a gigantic fan of Amanda's work on Wordslut and Cultish, it was such a delight to hear her apply her expertise to Mormon-specific jargon, speech patterns and culture. We discuss everything from "Relief Society voice" and swearing to vocal fry, the MAGA movement and girl talk. Turns out, this whole episode is girl talk. That’s why I think you’re going to love it.  Amanda Montell Amanda Montell Instagram Wordslut Cultish EVERYONE who signs up to my giveaway will receive a FREE Rose suction toy with their @bellesaco order!  https://www.bboutique.co/vibe/girlscamp-podcast #bbpartner Join the Girlscamp: After Dark Patreon account ⁠⁠here⁠ for two bonus episodes per month and more. For more Girlscamp content follow along on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠, ⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠. For ad inquiries please email girlscamp@saucemediagroup.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People in this episode

Host: Hayley Rawle

Guest: Amanda Montell

Topics covered

Sponsors

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Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Girlscamp

Books & works: Wordslut, Cultish

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