Given Name

Dr. Shanae

Given Name is a storytelling podcast that explores the meaning, memory, and cultural power behind the names we carry. Hosted by sociologist Dr. Shanae, each episode invites guests to slow down and share the story behind their first name — the lineage, the jokes, the mispronunciations, the intentions, and the joy.

  1. 6d ago

    Call Me IV

    Kyler Nathan IV (@thefourthtyler) comes from four generations of Kylers. In this episode, we talk about lineage, namesakes, masculinity, and the strange intimacy of sharing one name across generations. As a cognitive science scholar and social scientist, Kyler reflects on identity, memory, and what it means to inherit more than a name. If you'd like to hear more of this episode visit my Patreon.

    48 min

  2. May 19 ·  Bonus

    *Free* Patreon Bonus Clip: What People Get Wrong about Sickle Cell

    Naashon and I ended up having a really meaningful conversation about sickle cell, the stereotypes surrounding it, and the work still being done to support families and communities affected by it. I wanted to share part of that conversation publicly because it felt important. 🤎 More bonus conversations are available on Patreon.

    13 min

  3. May 18

    Naashon, 3 Syllables

    Some names sound different at home. In this episode, Naashon (@KingsHomage) reflects on being raised in the Rastafarian tradition, the way her father pronounces her name, and what it means to carry culture through family, stories, and intentional living. A bookseller, mother, and keeper of stories, Naashon reminds us that identity is often preserved in the quietest ways. To listen to the full episode join the Patreon!

    47 min

  4. May 12

    The Sociology of Grandma: Granny Granny

    In this special Season 2 finale, I sit down with Joy Crawford— host of What My Grandkids Call Me and lovingly known as Granny Granny—for a warm conversation about motherhood, grandmotherhood, and generational wisdom. We reflect on parenting, loving grandchildren, and the lessons that come with time, including one of Granny Granny’s favorite sayings:“You can’t compete where you don’t compare.”Funny, thoughtful, and full of perspective, this episode closes the season with joy and wisdom across generations.

    50 min

  5. May 4

    Cynithis, but Cynethis

    In this episode, I sit with one of my line sisters 💙💛🐩, Cynithis (@cyncynsation), for a reflective conversation about heritage, naming traditions, and the legacy carried through family names. We talk about shared first-name syllables across generations, what it means to continue—or break—those traditions, and how identity stretches beyond what we’re called. Thoughtful, slow, and full of quiet wisdom, this episode is one that stays with you.

    59 min

  6. Apr 27

    DaHoya ain’t here, but Da’Joya is

    In this episode, we sit with Da’Joya Barnes Majors—better known as Joy—a mother, wife, social worker, professor, coach, and someone who truly embodies her name. She shares the story behind Da’Joya, why Joy is the name that stayed, and how she’s grown into a life full of purpose, care, and brightness. A warm conversation about identity, calling, and becoming who you were named to be.

    42 min

  7. Apr 20

    Stay Out of Stacya's Way

    In this episode, we sit with Stacya, a college student and mother whose name carries intention and history. She reflects on the story behind her name, her family’s roots in Ohio, and how those connections shaped her identity. From nicknames to naming her own child, she shares why choosing a meaningful name matters—and how legacy continues through the next generation.

    42 min

  8. Apr 13

    Little Red Korvette, Keesh

    We sit with LaKeicha (@only1Keesh)—an RN and proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho💙💛 —who has always embraced being different. She reflects on what it means to grow up with a name that stands out, the importance of correcting people when they mispronounce it, and why names should never be softened or “white-washed” for the comfort of others. From her unforgettable middle name Korvette to the intentional naming of her daughter, this conversation explores identity, culture, and the power of fully owning your name.

    1h 6m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Given Name is a storytelling podcast that explores the meaning, memory, and cultural power behind the names we carry. Hosted by sociologist Dr. Shanae, each episode invites guests to slow down and share the story behind their first name — the lineage, the jokes, the mispronunciations, the intentions, and the joy.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Shanae
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Shanae

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