2025 is practically in hindsight which means that everyone is making lists. But dictionaries crown a top jewel of lexicon for the year, each using a different method to select the word that reigns supreme.  We'll chat with Word Nerd Emily Brewster what her employer, Merriam-Webster, has discovered is its top word of the year. 

We’ll also look forward to February when creatives and justice seekers will converge on UMass Campus. The Black Artistic Freedom Conference is now in its 3rd year and has just opened registration for its day long offerings on Feb 21st. Organizer and founder Imani Wallace joins us to talk about the intersectionality of art and social justice, the evolution and impetus of the Black AF Conference, and what cool things you can win if you’re brave enough to get onstage. 

And Mr. Universe, Kainaat Studios and Hampshire College’s Salman Hameed, also gets nostalgic as we look back and review some of our favorite moments in Space and exploration from 2025, and a quick reminder of where you can discuss your favorites with others tomorrow.