PODCAST
Shared Language or Shared Chaos: Why Words Matter
There are two hard things in computer science: cache invalidation and naming things. In this episode, we tackle the latter. A single word like "integration" or "account" can mean entirely different things to a COO, a…
Episode 17 · 25 min · December 22, 2025
Show notes
There are two hard things in computer science: cache invalidation and naming things. In this episode, we tackle the latter. A single word like "integration" or "account" can mean entirely different things to a COO, a salesperson, and an engineer, leading to confusion, rework, and failed projects. The solution? A "ubiquitous language."
Join Ben Griswold (Grizen) and Noah Heldman (OutcomeSource) as they dive into the critical, and often overlooked, importance of creating a shared vocabulary across business and technology teams. Drawing on hilarious real-world examples (from "contract contract" in code to a mix-up between "ETL" and "ELT"), they explain why naming things is one of the hardest and most valuable skills in consulting. This is a masterclass in clear communication and the art of getting everyone on the same page.
*In This Episode, You'll Learn:*
* The real-world confusion caused when a COO hears "integration" and thinks M&A, not APIs.
* What "Ubiquitous Language" from Domain-Driven Design (DDD) actually means (and why it could have been named better).
* The hilarious story of a "contract contract" and why clear naming in code is essential.
* Why engineers should adopt the language of the business, not the other way around.
* The danger of acronyms: A funny mix-up between ELT (Extract, Load, Transform) and ELT (Executive Leadership Team).
*Connect with Us:*
* Ben Griswold | Grizen: https://grizen.com
* Noah Heldman | OutcomeSource: https://outcomesource.com
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