Podcast Summary: "TikTok Is Changing How We Talk & How We Vote"

Episode Information:

• Title: TikTok Is Changing How We Talk & How We Vote
• Host: Kara Swisher
• Guest: Adam Oleksik, a 24-year-old Harvard-educated linguist and author of How Social Media is Transforming the Future of Language
• Release Date: July 21, 2025

1. Introduction

Kara Swisher welcomes listeners to the episode and introduces Adam Oleksik, highlighting his expertise in how social media, particularly TikTok, influences language, culture, and politics. Swisher emphasizes her long-term interest in internet language evolution, setting the stage for an in-depth discussion on the interplay between social media algorithms and linguistic changes.

2. The Evolution of Language on Social Media

Creation of New Words: Adam Oleksik discusses the emergence of novel terms like "unalive," a euphemism for "kill" or "commit suicide," which originated on TikTok. He explains that such terms are often developed to circumvent content moderation algorithms that may suppress certain keywords.

"Your videos will get pushed to fewer people. And so creators try to circumvent that with coming up with quote unquote algo speak language meant to circumvent kind of online censorship." ([03:57])

Algorithmic Influence: Oleksik posits that algorithms not only shape the visibility of content but also drive the creation of new linguistic forms. This algorithmic influence extends beyond mere word creation, affecting how language is used to signal group membership and navigate platform restrictions.

3. Communication Layers on Social Media

Emoji Usage as Signals: The conversation delves into the use of emojis, such as the watermelon emoji, to signal support for causes like Palestine without explicit language that might be censored.

"The watermelon stands in for Palestine. So it has a literal meaning, it has a performative meaning... you're also performing for the algorithm." ([05:08])

Oleksik explains that such symbols operate on multiple levels—communicating with both the audience and the underlying algorithms to ensure message dissemination.

4. Algorithmic Performativity and Language

Circumventing Content Moderation: Oleksik introduces the concept of "algorithmic performativity," where users adapt their language and symbols to comply with or outmaneuver content moderation systems.

"We're playing linguistic whack a mole. The algorithm keeps coming down, and then a new mole pops up." ([06:14])

This continual adaptation reflects a dynamic interplay between creators and platform policies, influencing everyday language usage.

5. Memes and Language Evolution

Memes as Linguistic Carriers: The role of memes in language evolution is examined, with Oleksik highlighting how meme formats serve as carriers for new linguistic expressions. He uses examples like "make X Y" and "keep calm and carry on," illustrating how these templates facilitate the spread and adaptability of language.

"Phasal templates are very important meme templates. There's carriers for ideas, like make X Y." ([13:24])

Lifecycle of Memes: Discussion touches on the lifespan of memes and associated words, noting that while some phrases like "selfie" and "cancel" have enduring relevance, others like "yeet" and "on fleek" may fade over time.

6. Ownership of Words and Trademarks

Trademarking Linguistic Terms: Brooke Hammerling poses a question on the feasibility of owning a word, using the example of "three peat" trademarked by Pat Riley. Oleksik responds by explaining the complexities of intellectual property laws concerning language.

"Unfortunately, intellectual property laws can't catch up... it's very difficult to own a word." ([23:33])

He cites the example of "on fleek," initially popularized by a user on TikTok and later trademarked, but notes that by the time formal ownership is established, the term may already be obsolete.

7. Identity Formation through Language

Influencer Accents: Oleksik identifies different "influencer accents" developed to cater to specific audiences and optimize engagement. He describes the "entertainment influencer accent" influenced by figures like Mr. Beast, characterized by exaggerated expressions and strategic language to maximize retention.

"I'm using this not sort of in a jokingly way, but I will talk really quickly. I'll stress more words to grab your attention." ([29:31])

Similarly, the "lifestyle influencer accent" involves elongating vowels and using rising tones to maintain viewer interest and fill dead air.

"You'll notice the rising tones that kind of like keeps the viewer hooked because it sounds like something's always coming next." ([31:01])

8. Social Media Algorithms and Political Language

Donald Trump's Algorithmic Success: A significant portion of the discussion focuses on how Donald Trump adeptly utilized language that resonated with social media algorithms, enhancing his visibility and influence.

"The fact that Donald Trump's phrases make X Y again, this has been the worst X in the history of Y, perhaps ever... his smile is part of it." ([34:12])

Swisher and Oleksik analyze how Trump's memeable language and charismatic delivery exploited algorithmic preferences for extreme and catchy content, aiding his political re-election.

Democratic Strategies: In contrast, Oleksik critiques Democratic strategies, suggesting that progressives often rely on exclusivity and lack the same meme-savvy approaches that Republicans like Trump employ. He advises progressives to adopt more engaging and positive messaging to better navigate algorithmic landscapes.

"My advice for progressives is... package things through good vibes." ([45:15])

9. AI and the Future of Language

AI-Generated Content: The potential rise of AI-generated influencers and content is explored, with Oleksik expressing skepticism about AI fully capturing the nuances of human language and authenticity.

"They'll never be fully caught up to the way we use language. We use slang, particularly ask... it's gonna sound clunky, it doesn't sound real." ([49:22])

He anticipates a cultural backlash against algorithm-driven and AI-generated content, emphasizing the enduring human need for authentic and messy forms of communication.

Human Agency vs. Algorithms: Oleksik remains optimistic that humans will retain agency in language use, constantly adapting and outpacing AI's capabilities to understand and generate contextually rich language.

10. Conclusion: Winners and Losers in Algorithmic Language Evolution

Winners: Individuals and groups adept at leveraging memes and algorithm-friendly language templates stand to gain visibility and influence. For instance, creators who can quickly adapt to or set new linguistic trends benefit from increased engagement and follower growth.

Losers: Conversely, creators and communicators who adhere to conventional or less engaging language may find their content suppressed by algorithms. Additionally, the fragmentation of language into niche dialects can limit broader communication and mutual understanding.

Final Thoughts: Oleksik underscores the importance of awareness regarding algorithmic influences on language and culture. By understanding these dynamics, individuals can make informed choices about their communication strategies and mitigate potential negative impacts.

"We need radical awareness of what they're doing... once we become more aware, we can make our own decisions." ([53:26])

Swisher concludes by reflecting on the dual nature of social media as both a tool for cultural evolution and a driver of potentially cruder, more polarized communication.

Notable Quotes:

• "We're playing linguistic whack a mole. The algorithm keeps coming down, and then a new mole pops up." — Adam Oleksik ([06:14])

• "Phasal templates are very important meme templates. There's carriers for ideas, like make X Y." — Adam Oleksik ([13:24])

• "Language plays a circular role in identity formation. If you choose to use a certain word, you are accepting that you belong to the group using that word." — Adam Oleksik ([24:36])

• "The algorithms will remain the underlying infrastructure of mass communication on the Internet." — Adam Oleksik ([51:59])

Overall Insights:

This episode provides a comprehensive exploration of how TikTok and similar social media platforms are reshaping language, identity, and political discourse. Through Adam Oleksik's expertise, listeners gain nuanced perspectives on the symbiotic relationship between language evolution and algorithmic design. The discussion highlights both the creative agency of users in adapting language and the overarching influence of platform algorithms in dictating communicative norms. Additionally, the episode underscores the critical need for awareness and strategic communication to navigate the complex landscape of digital language transformation.