We’re living in a world of facial recognition, AI that writes your grocery list, and cars that can parallel park themselves — and yet… folks still can’t pronounce your name right?
Really?
Let’s talk about it.
When “I’m Bad with Names” Becomes an Excuse
We’ve all heard it — “I’m just bad with names!”
But what they often mean is: I’m bad with names that aren’t familiar to me. And that’s a completely different issue.
Let’s call it what it is: name mispronunciation, especially when repeated and unchecked, is a subtle form of exclusion. It sends a message — intentional or not — that your identity is too much work.
Whether it’s being called by a nickname you didn’t choose, watching someone not even try to pronounce your name, or being asked, “Can I just call you something easier?” — it chips away at your sense of belonging.
And honestly? It’s exhausting.
Our Names Carry Stories
Your name is not a mistake.
It’s a story. A legacy. A language. A love letter from your family, your culture, your ancestors.
Mispronouncing someone’s name isn’t just a slip of the tongue — it can be a missed opportunity to build trust and respect.
When someone makes the effort to learn your name and say it correctly, it creates space for authenticity. It tells you: You matter here.
So What Can We Do About It?
Whether you’re an educator, nonprofit leader, HR professional, or just someone who doesn’t want to mess this up again — here are a few simple strategies:
✅ Ask. Don’t assume. “Can you help me pronounce your name correctly?” is a powerful question.
✅ Practice. Use voice memos, write it out phonetically, or repeat it back until it feels right.
✅ Model it. In meetings, introduce people using their correct names. If you hear a mispronunciation, gently correct it.
✅ Own your mistakes. If you mess it up, don’t panic. Apologize sincerely, correct yourself, and move forward.
Let’s Normalize Name Respect
At the end of the day, this isn’t about perfection — it’s about intention, and more importantly, impact. The way we say each other’s names is one of the first steps toward inclusion.
So if you’ve ever had your name mispronounced, shortened, or “rebranded” without your consent — this episode is for you.
🎧 Listen to the full episode:
Why Are You Still Butchering My Name in 2025?
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Let’s stop remixing people’s names like a DJ set. Say it right, honor it fully, and lead with it proudly.
