Gloriously Ordinary Sundays - 11th January 2026

As you will probably know, the brilliant Bryony Shannon and I recently launched the Gloriously Ordinary Language Myth Busters Podcast.

Gloriously Ordinary Language is rooted in Test Two of Gloriously Ordinary Lives - it’s about making the language we use real, inclusive and human. 

In episode 3 we’re busting the myth that we need a glossary or language guide.

We've had several conversations recently about the need for glossaries or language guides. Our gut feeling is that we think this is a myth we need to bust.

While guides may be created with good intentions, they often get lost. The guide becomes 'the place I go to find out whether I'm allowed to say that?' and we move quickly into the policing of language. Lists of words to use and words to avoid are too prescriptive and mean we miss the best and most important bit - being curious.

What we want is for people to have those lightbulb moments when they recognise the power and impact of the words we use.

Check out episode three and let us know if there are any more myths you’d like us to bust.

PS. Did you see? The Gloriously Ordinary Sundays Podcast episode 14 is here. You'll hear that I am absolutely thrilled to introduce you all to the lovely ⁠⁠⁠Marianne Selby-Boothroyd⁠⁠⁠, who's joining the Gloriously Ordinary Lives team... that's right, the Gloriously Ordinary Lives team! How exciting is that? Have a listen, and we'd love to hear what you think!