Holmberg's Morning Sickness - Arizona: Best of HMS Podcasts
Episode: When Did Naming Your Kids Become So Fashionable
Release Date: March 12, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness (HMS) on 98 KUPD, hosts John Holmberg, Brady Bogen, Bret Vesely, and Dick Toledo delve into the intriguing and often controversial topic of contemporary naming trends. Titled "When Did Naming Your Kids Become So Fashionable," the discussion centers around the surge in unique and unconventional baby names, particularly among white communities, and the cultural implications thereof.

The Evolution of Baby Naming Trends

The conversation begins with the hosts expressing their frustration over the increasing trend of unconventional names. They note a shift from traditional naming conventions to more creative and, in their view, "dumb" names. John Holmberg initiates the discussion by highlighting how names that were once predominantly used within the Black community are now being adopted widely by white parents.

Notable Quote:
“Didn't even black people used to laugh at that when they're Shaquanda and Robitussin and all the kids that were running around...” — Host 2 [01:15]

This observation sets the stage for a broader conversation about cultural appropriation in naming.

Examples of Unusual and Controversial Names

The hosts provide a plethora of examples illustrating the trend:

• Orangelo & L'Mangelo: Names inspired by food items like lemon and orange jello.

  Notable Quote:
  “L'Angelo and his brother Orangelo, which was his parents named them lemon and orange in the cupboard...” — Host 2 [01:15]

• Military-Inspired Names: Children named after military ranks, such as Sergeant or Lieutenant.

  Notable Quote:
  “But now you know you've done something and black people are laughing at this...” — Host 2 [06:14]

• Automotive Names: Kids named after car models like Eagle Talon, Colt 45, and even references to vehicles like the Mitsubishi Eclipse.

  Notable Quote:
  “That's naming cars. That's like having a kid named Desoto or, you know, AMG Packard...” — Host 2 [05:53]

• Phonetically Altered Names: Names like Johozia and JHOSYA, which are unconventional spellings of traditional names.

  Notable Quote:
  “Jay Lee's sounds like something I take when my throat hurts. I need some...” — Host 2 [06:06]

These examples underscore the hosts' perspective that such names stray too far from traditional norms, leading to mockery and challenges for the children bearing them.

Cultural Appropriation and Community Reactions

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around cultural appropriation, where naming practices traditionally rooted in the Black community are being adopted by white parents without understanding their origins or significance.

• Black Community's Mockery: The hosts mention that Black listeners often find these naming trends humorous and criticize them, indicating a shift in cultural dynamics.

  Notable Quote:
  “But now there's people name. That's naming cars. That's like having a kid named desoto or, you know, AMG Packard.” — Host 2 [05:53]

• Unique Spellings and Creativity: While some argue that unique spellings add creativity, the hosts contend that it often results in unnecessary complexity and mockery.

  Notable Quote:
  “You can't use the affect anymore, Brett. It's white people doing it.” — Host 2 [06:09]

Impact on Children and Social Perception

The hosts express concern over the long-term effects these naming trends may have on children, including potential stigmatization and challenges in social settings.

• Legal and Social Implications: Names like Talon and Colt 45 are mentioned as being so unconventional that they can lead to legal issues or social ridicule.

  Notable Quote:
  “I think all kids named Talon should go to jail for a little while.” — Host 2 [06:18]

• Mispronunciations and Identity Issues: Instances where individuals struggle with pronouncing or spelling their names correctly, leading to frustration and a lack of personal identity.

  Notable Quote:
  “He introduced himself, I said, how you doing? My name's John. I'm Brady. And he goes, Joel.” — Host 2 [12:06]

Cultural Consistency in Naming Practices

Contrasting the discussed trends, the hosts commend cultures that maintain consistent and traditional naming practices, such as the Mexican community, which predominantly uses names like Jose, Jesus, and Luis.

Notable Quote:
“Mexicans have stuck to their guns. You gotta hand it to them... You just don't.” — Host 2 [15:40]

This comparison emphasizes the hosts' preference for maintaining cultural and linguistic consistency in naming.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with the hosts reiterating their stance against the proliferation of unconventional baby names, especially those adopted from other cultures without due consideration. They advocate for more traditional and easily recognizable names to ensure children are not burdened with unnecessary challenges stemming from their names.

Final Notable Quote:
“Come up with a regular name for your kids.” — Host 2 [15:40]

Key Takeaways

• Cultural Shift: There's a noticeable shift towards unique and unconventional baby names, particularly among white parents, often borrowing from Black naming conventions.

• Critique of Creativity: While some view unique spellings and creative names as a form of self-expression, the hosts argue that it can lead to social and legal complications for the children.

• Cultural Appropriation: The adoption of names from other cultures without understanding their significance can lead to mockery and perpetuate stereotypes.

• Impact on Identity: Unconventional names can affect a child's identity and how they are perceived in society, potentially leading to challenges in personal and professional settings.

• Advocacy for Tradition: The hosts advocate for maintaining traditional naming practices to preserve cultural integrity and ensure the well-being of the children.

This episode of Holmberg's Morning Sickness offers a spirited and critical examination of modern naming trends, highlighting the balance between individuality and cultural sensitivity.