Phoebe Woods

Phoebe Woods, Ph.D., is a linguistics professor and the current head of the language innovation department at the University of Cambridge, UK. She explores the fascinating world of how speech shapes our societies and identities; her latest book, "Voices in Flux: Embracing Change in Modern Language," delves into the evolution and cultural impact of contemporary linguistic trends that often spark debate. Alongside publishing several scholarly papers, she contributes lively and engaging content to the beloved podcast, "Word on the Street," and offers an insightful lecture series with Cambridge Online Courses. Phoebe has shared her expertise on platforms as diverse as the BBC Radio 4's "Today" program, The Guardian newspaper, and TED Talks, bringing her passion for language to a wide audience.

It’s now early spring of 2024, and Phoebe finds herself bustling between her office at King's College, where she mentors enthusiastic students, and various speaking engagements across the city of Cambridge. Her days are filled with discussions about the fluidity of language, challenging conventional views on what constitutes 'proper' English, and celebrating the richness brought by dialectal diversity. Whether it's over coffee with colleagues in the historic Senate House or during her interactive lectures in the university's modern facilities, Phoebe sparks curiosity and invites everyone to rethink their understanding of language in our fast-changing world.