The Language of Abundance: Lessons from the Creator of Avatar’s Na’vi with Dr. Paul Frommer

21/10/2025 42 min

Listen "The Language of Abundance: Lessons from the Creator of Avatar’s Na’vi with Dr. Paul Frommer"

Episode Synopsis

What happens when curiosity meets courage? In this inspiring conversation, Amy Sylvis reconnects with her former USC professor, Dr. Paul Frommer,  linguist, educator, and creator of the Na’vi language for Avatar. From astrophysics to the Peace Corps to Hollywood, Dr. Frommer’s story is one of bold pivots, lifelong learning, and a deep sense of purpose. He shares lessons from his global journey, teaching in Malaysia, studying Persian in Iran, inventing a language for the world’s most successful film, and reminds us that abundance isn’t about possessions, but about truth, beauty, love, and authenticity.This episode invites you to rediscover who you are, follow opportunity even when it scares you, and live abundantly through contribution and curiosity.Connect with Dr. Paul [email protected] with Amy Sylvis:https://www.linkedin.com/in/amysylvis/Contact Us:https://www.sylviscapital.comhttps://www.sylviscapital.com/webinar00:00 Introduction 01:29 Meet Dr. Paul Frommer01:52 Reconnecting After Years04:39 Dr. Frommer's Journey Begins07:31 Creating the Navi Language for Avatar10:25 Teaching in Malaysia18:08 Linguistic Talents and Early Influences19:39 A Year in Iran22:15 Reflecting on Opportunities and Support22:48 Influence on Dissertation and Academic Contributions24:11 Creating the Navi Language for Avatar26:43 Challenges and Joys of Language Creation28:55 Community and Evolution of the Na’vi Language36:14 Personal Reflections on Abundance and Life

More episodes of the podcast Secrets To Abundant Living