What's in a Name?

Jayma
  • 5.0 (9)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Ever wondered if there was any meaning in your name? My podcast explores all things onomatology... the study of names!

  1. S5.19-123 - What's in a Name... "Mita"

    4D AGO

    S5.19-123 - What's in a Name... "Mita"

    Send us Fan Mail ✨ The Power of a Name — and Why It Matters More Than We Think ✨ In this episode of my podcast, I had the privilege of sitting down with Mita Malik—a marketing and HR executive, author, and powerful storyteller—for an incredibly meaningful conversation about names, identity, and leadership. Mita shared the origin of her name and how her journey with her name has shaped her personal and professional life. From childhood experiences of wanting an “easier” name, to navigating corporate spaces where her name was intentionally mispronounced, her story is a powerful reminder that names are not small details—they are deeply tied to dignity and belonging. One moment that truly stayed with me: “The most basic form of respect is honoring someone’s name.”  We talked about: Why mispronouncing (or renaming) someone—especially from a position of power—can cause lasting harmHow leaders set the tone for inclusion through seemingly “simple” actionsThe courage it takes to reclaim your name and your voiceAnd how knowing the meaning behind your name can actually strengthen confidence and purposeThis conversation reinforced something I deeply believe: leadership starts with respect, and respect starts with names. 🎧 If you’re a leader, a people manager, or simply someone who cares about creating more human workplaces, I hope this episode invites you to reflect—and maybe even ask someone how to correctly pronounce their name today. 👉 I’d love to hear from you in the comments:  Has learning the meaning of your name—or someone else’s—ever changed how you saw yourself or them? #Leadership #Inclusion #Belonging #NamesMatter #EmotionalIntelligence #Podcast #Onomatology #RespectInTheWorkplace Support the show Connect with me on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/whats_in_a_name_podcast?igsh=N3F0NjQ3bnduc292&utm_source=qr

    30 min
  2. S5.18-122 - What's in a Name... "Steve" - Part Two

    APR 12

    S5.18-122 - What's in a Name... "Steve" - Part Two

    Send us Fan Mail In this special Part 2 episode, I’m joined once again by Steve, one of my earliest podcast guests, for a deeper and more reflective conversation on the meaning of names and the role they play in identity, respect, and connection. We explore why getting someone’s name right is far more than a courtesy—it’s a signal of care. Steve shares personal stories from both his professional life and his work as a sports announcer, showing how pronunciation, curiosity, and intentionality can transform everyday interactions into meaningful connections. This episode goes beyond definitions. It’s about slowing down, asking better questions, and discovering the “rest of the story” behind the people we meet—whether at work, in our communities, or in our personal lives. If you enjoy thoughtful conversations, subtle mindset shifts, and practical ways to connect more deeply with others, this episode is for you. 🎧 Listen in—and you might just see names (including your own) in a whole new way. Support the show Connect with me on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/whats_in_a_name_podcast?igsh=N3F0NjQ3bnduc292&utm_source=qr

    13 min
  3. S5.17-121 - What's in a Name... "Tiffany"

    APR 11

    S5.17-121 - What's in a Name... "Tiffany"

    Send us Fan Mail What’s in a name—and how much power does it really carry? In this episode, host Jayma dives into the fascinating world of onomatology—the study of names—with a deeply reflective and inspiring conversation featuring Tiffany, an award‑winning HR executive, leader, and creative visionary. Together, they explore the meaning, history, and lived experience behind the name Tiffany, which originates from Greek roots meaning “manifestation of God” or “revelation of the divine.” Through thoughtful storytelling, Tiffany shares how discovering the meaning of her name later in life became both affirming and eye‑opening. From career success and creativity to faith, leadership, accountability, and the idea of continual “rebranding” as we grow, this conversation reveals how a name can shape identity, mindset, and purpose. You’ll hear reflections on: How names can influence confidence, leadership, and self‑perceptionThe connection between manifestation, intention, and turning vision into realityFaith, accountability, and what it means to be a “manifestation of good” in the worldWhy names matter—especially when naming the next generationThis episode is a powerful reminder that our names hold stories, meaning, and potential—sometimes waiting for us to discover them. Support the show Connect with me on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/whats_in_a_name_podcast?igsh=N3F0NjQ3bnduc292&utm_source=qr

    27 min
  4. S5.16-120 - What's in a Name... "Amber"

    APR 3

    S5.16-120 - What's in a Name... "Amber"

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I sat down with Amber to explore the meaning behind her name — and what started as a conversation about a name that is a "color" turned into something so much deeper. The name Amber traces back to Arabic origins, signifying warmth, natural beauty, and even fierceness. In certain Indian languages, it means the sky. What really stuck with me was her reflection on personal evolution — the idea that expanding your perspective and giving yourself permission to grow doesn't change who you are at your core. It shapes who you're becoming. 🎧 Give it a listen — and ask yourself, do you know the meaning of YOUR name? Support the show Connect with me on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/whats_in_a_name_podcast?igsh=N3F0NjQ3bnduc292&utm_source=qr

    21 min
  5. S5.15-119 - What's in a Name... "Francois"

    MAR 28

    S5.15-119 - What's in a Name... "Francois"

    Send us Fan Mail What if you've been carrying the meaning of your name your whole life — and didn't even know it? In my latest episode of the podcast, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Francois — a musician, software professional, and free man in every sense of the word. His name, rooted in French and Latin, means "Frenchman" or "free man" — and honestly, it couldn't be more fitting. Francois describes himself as a wandering soul who doesn't feel tied to just one place, someone with a deep longing to explore, expand, and absorb everything life has to offer. That kind of spirit? It came through in every word he shared. Born in South Africa and now living in the US, Francois became an American citizen in 2024 — and he also happens to be the third guest on my podcast from South Africa 🇿🇦 (shoutout to Cassy and Elzette!). There's something special about that country's people — they just show up with so much warmth, openness, and authenticity. What I loved most about this conversation was how open-minded Francois was. He approached every question with curiosity, even turning the mic around and asking me thoughtful questions in return — including whether I truly believe a name shapes the way we see the world. (Spoiler: after 115+ interviews, I have some strong thoughts on that. 😊) Whether you're fascinated by onomatology (the study of names), curious about identity across cultures, or just love a genuinely real conversation — this episode is for you. 🎧 Give it a listen and let me know: do YOU think your name reflects who you are? And if YOU would like to be a guest on the podcast, my DMs are open. I'd love to explore the meaning behind your name.  Support the show Connect with me on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/whats_in_a_name_podcast?igsh=N3F0NjQ3bnduc292&utm_source=qr

    27 min
  6. S5.14-118 - What's in a Name... "Leticia"

    MAR 22

    S5.14-118 - What's in a Name... "Leticia"

    Send us Fan Mail What if your name was more than just a name — what if it was your life's calling? In our latest podcast episode, I had the joy of sitting down with my lovely colleague, Leticia — and let me tell you, her name says it all. Rooted in Latin origins, Leticia literally means "Joy" and "Happiness" — and after working alongside her, I can say with complete confidence: she is every bit of that definition and more.  During our conversation, Leticia opened up about how positivity isn't just a personality trait for her — it's a purpose. Whether it's in her personal life or her professional one, she goes out of her way to lift others up, lend a hand, and show up for the people around her. Why? Because seeing others happy genuinely brings her joy. And honestly? Her spirit is contagious — in the very best way.  If you've ever wondered what it looks like to truly live your name, this episode is for you. Leticia's outlook on life is a beautiful reminder that joy isn't just something you feel — it's something you choose and something you share. Support the show Connect with me on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/whats_in_a_name_podcast?igsh=N3F0NjQ3bnduc292&utm_source=qr

    18 min
  7. S5.13-117 - What's in a Name... "Jennifer"

    MAR 12

    S5.13-117 - What's in a Name... "Jennifer"

    Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ New Podcast Episode | Thought Leadership, Identity & the Future of Work I’m excited to share my latest podcast conversation with Jennifer McClure—globally recognized keynote speaker, executive advisor, and Founder & Chief Excitement Officer of DisruptHR. Jennifer is known for challenging leaders to move beyond operational excellence and step into transformational impact. With decades of experience in executive HR leadership and a global platform spanning 30+ countries, she brings bold perspective on leadership, influence, and navigating change with intention. In this episode, we explored something both personal and powerful: the meaning of names and how identity shapes leadership, influence, and the way we show up in the world. From the symbolism behind Jennifer’s name—often associated with waves, transformation, and constant motion—to deeper conversations about personal branding, privilege, and claiming your voice, this discussion was thoughtful, insightful, and refreshingly human. ✨ What you’ll hear in this episode: How names and identity intersect with leadership and personal brandReflections on differentiation in a crowded worldWhy respect, recognition, and meaning still matter deeply in the future of workJennifer’s perspective on influence, transformation, and leading with intentionJennifer doesn’t just talk about disruption—she equips leaders to become architects of it, without losing their humanity along the way. 🎧 If you’re an HR leader, people leader, or anyone navigating change and identity in your work, this episode is for you.  👇 I’d love to hear—how has your name or identity shaped the way you lead? Support the show Connect with me on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/whats_in_a_name_podcast?igsh=N3F0NjQ3bnduc292&utm_source=qr

    23 min
  8. S5.12-116 - What's in a Name... "John"

    MAR 7

    S5.12-116 - What's in a Name... "John"

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with John, a nonprofit leader and mentor based in Columbus, Ohio. This is the second John I have interviewed. We explored the meaning behind his name—John, which translates to “God is gracious”—and reflected on how names, identity, and purpose intersect in meaningful ways. This conversation dives into onomatology (the study of names), faith, leadership, and how understanding our names can offer fresh perspective on who we are and how we show up in the world. Grateful for John’s thoughtful insights and for conversations that continue to challenge and inspire. 🎧 Listen now and consider: what does your name say about you? Support the show Connect with me on Instagram… https://www.instagram.com/whats_in_a_name_podcast?igsh=N3F0NjQ3bnduc292&utm_source=qr

    18 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Ever wondered if there was any meaning in your name? My podcast explores all things onomatology... the study of names!

Information

  • Creator
    Jayma
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    123
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 What's in a Name?
  • Show Website
    What's in a Name?