On her podcast about language, The Allusionist, Helen Zaltzman has covered everything from cryptic crosswords to translations to public apologies. But don't worry: She's not judging your vocabulary when she's reading something for fun.

"When I'm not forced by work to do this kind of interpretation, I like to switch that part of my brain off," she says.

On today's episode of Follow Friday, Helen talks with Eric Johnson about poorly-spelled names, stand-up comedy, blind dates, the word "queer," horrifying kitchen gadgets, witch doctors, and more.

Follow us:

- Helen is @HelenZaltzman on Twitter and Instagram

- This show is @followfridaypod on Twitter and Instagram

- Eric is @heyheyesj on Twitter

Who Helen follows:

- Jo Neary: @wifeonearth on Instagram

- TheGuyliner: theguyliner.com

- Nancy: in your favorite podcast app

- Rhik Samadder: @whatsamadder on Twitter

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Theme song written by Eric Johnson, and performed by Yona Marie. Show art by Dodi Hermawan. Additional music by Katherine Chang and Purple Planet Music.