Language & Travel Hacking

Saving money with the world's easiest language Dec 16, 2024

In this episode, Benny shares his frugal travel plans for the upcoming New Year, featuring the Junulara Esperanto Renkontiĝo (Youth Esperanto Week) in Belgium. He explains how Esperanto events provide a unique mix of cultural immersion, affordable travel, and socializing with open-minded, language-loving individuals. From low-cost accommodation to vegan-friendly meals, Benny highlights the financial benefits of participating in such events, including how they transform school facilities into welcoming, budget-friendly venues during holiday closures. He also reflects on why Esperanto, despite being a niche language, has enriched his travels and helped him connect with like-minded adventurers around the globe.

Benny also takes listeners through his broader travel itinerary, including stops in Luxembourg and Portugal, before embarking on an extended Indonesian adventure. As he looks ahead to a year of conscious spending, he shares his approach to combining language learning with frugality. Wrapping up the episode, Benny invites listeners to join his New Year Language Hacking Bootcamp, a supportive program designed to kickstart their 2025 language learning journey. Whether you’re curious about Esperanto, budget travel, or language learning tips, this episode is packed with inspiration to enrich your year-end plans.

Mentioned in this episode:
15a Junulara E-Semajno Event: https://verdajskoltoj.net/es/jes-24-25/

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot

Announcing my big 2025 language and travel project! Dec 10, 2024

Benny Lewis shares his ambitious plans for 2025, which revolve around learning Indonesian and traveling across Indonesia. Following his 2024 adventure exploring every state in Brazil, Benny plans to spend the first two months of the new year in Bali. While Bali is a tourist hub, he intends to use it as a comfortable base for intensive language study, focusing on achieving a B1 conversational level within two months. His goal is not fluency but functional communication to explore Indonesia's lesser-traveled islands like Sumatra and Java, engaging with locals and deepening his cultural experiences. Benny emphasizes that Indonesian is relatively easy to learn due to its simple grammar, Latin script, and familiar vocabulary influenced by Dutch and English.

In addition to his language-learning project, Benny will dedicate part of his time in Bali to writing his next book, balancing four hours of daily language study with writing. While he acknowledges the challenges of working with limited time, he is confident that Indonesian's simplicity and his prior exposure to the language will help him succeed. Benny encourages listeners to follow his journey, join Bootcamp to learn alongside him. His ultimate goal is to replicate the immersive travel experiences he enjoyed in Brazil by diving deep into Indonesia's culture and connecting with its people beyond the tourist trail.

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot

What is it like to visit every state of Brazil? Dec 03, 2024

In this episode, Benny Lewis shares his journey of completing a long-time travel goal: visiting all 26 states of Brazil plus the federal district. Over the course of nine months, Benny explored the country deeply, opting for buses and boats whenever possible to immerse himself in authentic local experiences. He recounts highlights such as the breathtaking Lençóis Maranhenses, socializing with locals in every state, and navigating logistical challenges, especially in remote regions like Acre and Amazonas. Speaking Portuguese proved invaluable, enabling meaningful interactions and making him often the first foreigner many Brazilians had met.

Benny emphasizes the importance of going beyond typical tourist destinations to truly understand a country's culture. He reflects on how this experience enriched his appreciation for Brazil, solidifying it as his favorite country. By prioritizing connections with locals over sightseeing, Benny created lasting memories and stories for every state. This project also strengthened his ties to Brazilian culture, which he cherishes deeply. Benny closes by encouraging listeners to embrace similar deep travel experiences and to explore the richness of less-visited parts of the world.

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot

Moving abroad: What to think about (part 2) Nov 18, 2024

In this episode of the Language and Travel Hacking Podcast, host Benny Lewis dives into part two of his guide to preparing for a potential move abroad. Building on the previous episode's core tips, Benny emphasizes the importance of considering how to financially sustain oneself while living in a new country. He discusses the challenges of finding local employment due to high competition and language barriers, recommending remote work as an alternative. Benny suggests securing online work from a U.S. or EU-based employer to take advantage of the favorable currency rates. Although remote jobs may sometimes come with a pay cut, he explains how this can still be feasible in countries with lower living costs. He also highlights the flexibility that part-time or freelance remote work can offer, which can ease the transition without the need for full-time local employment.

Benny continues by addressing the logistical steps to smooth the move, from mail forwarding and health insurance adjustments to storing belongings and planning initial accommodations. He suggests leveraging online communities and social media to gain insight into the culture and daily life of the destination, and even starting a separate social media account to immerse in the local language and trends. Benny also advises gradual time-zone adjustments for easier acclimation upon arrival. With almost 25 years of experience moving between countries, he shares his expert advice on building routines and adapting to cultural differences to hit the ground running. Benny plans to delve deeper into each of these tips in future YouTube videos and invites you to reach out for more personalized insights.

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot

Moving abroad: What to think about (part 1) Nov 11, 2024

In this episode of the Language and Travel Hacking podcast, Benny Lewis dives into the essentials of planning a move abroad. Inspired by recent conversations with listeners and current events, Benny shares his insights on creating a solid foundation before relocating. He emphasizes the importance of careful planning, listing pros and cons of potential destinations, and considering personal connections or cultural ties to a place. His approach encourages listeners to plan not only where but also when and why to go, setting the groundwork for a successful transition abroad.

Benny also touches on practical aspects of preparation, like decluttering and selling belongings well ahead of time, canceling non-essential subscriptions, and boosting savings for a smooth start in a new country. And if you’re aiming for a culturally immersive experience, Benny stresses the value of language preparation. He suggests dedicating a few months to active study before departure, a tip he has learned from his own travels. As always, Benny invites listeners to reach out with questions or reflections and shares how his language coaching program can support them in taking on their language and travel goals.

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot

Improving language skills through learning other new things Nov 04, 2024

In this episode, Benny shares a unique approach to language learning while traveling: enrolling in local classes for non-language subjects. Benny explains that by taking lessons in activities like dancing, cooking, or even martial arts, he gets valuable language exposure in real-world settings. He has experienced this firsthand, having learned salsa in Colombia, tango in Argentina, and hip-hop in the U.S., often entirely in the local language.

Benny points out that even beginners can participate, as physical activities allow for easy mimicry, so understanding every word isn’t necessary to keep up. He recommends finding classes through Google Maps, university bulletin boards, or by asking locals, as these methods often lead to more affordable, authentic experiences.

Group lessons are also an excellent way to connect with others naturally, building friendships and social circles in an informal setting. By adding this extra dimension to his travels, he combines language practice with personal interests, making for a truly enriching experience. Benny encourages listeners to try this approach on their next trip – it just might become a highlight of their language journey!

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot

Several tools to share your travel itinerary Oct 28, 2024

In this episode of the Language and Travel Hacking Podcast, Benny dives into tools for sharing travel itineraries, inspired by his friend Derek Sivers. Benny discusses why sharing travel plans can be useful for friends and followers who want to stay updated on your whereabouts. He highlights simple tools like Google Docs for basic details and more advanced platforms, such as Nomads for city lists, and TripIt for detailed itineraries synced to Google Calendar, which he uses for real-time updates and for coordinating with trusted contacts.

Benny also shares his approach to displaying current and upcoming travel plans on his website, leveraging a Notion database that updates automatically to show his latest location and future destinations. You can visit bennylewis.com to see his full travel map and links to his social profiles, or even book a consultation call for travel or language-learning tips. Tune in to get inspired on how to keep your friends and followers in the loop during your next travel adventure!

Mentioned in this episode:
- Nomadlist: https://nomads.com/
- Tripit: https://www.tripit.com/
- Kayak: https://www.kayak.com/
- Wanderlog: https://wanderlog.com/
- Benny's website: https://bennylewis.com/
- Notion: https://www.notion.so/

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

Using travel to get in shape Oct 21, 2024

In this episode, Benny shares his inspiring journey of losing 20kg (44lbs) through travel. After reaching 120kg (265lbs) and feeling stuck in unhealthy habits, Benny chose to reset his routine by traveling to the remote beach town of Jericoacoara in Brazil. There, he found himself walking daily, avoiding food delivery apps, and engaging in physical activities like windsurfing. Benny discusses how simple lifestyle changes, like walking instead of relying on delivery apps, allowed him to break bad habits and focus on healthier routines, all while enjoying the beauty of Brazil.

While travel may not work for everyone’s fitness journey, Benny believes changing environments can help reset routines and break unhealthy patterns. He encourages listeners to consider how they can make small but impactful changes to their habits, whether through travel or adjustments at home. Tune in to hear Benny’s tips on maintaining wellness while exploring new places and how you can apply similar strategies in your own life.

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

How I became a polyglot Oct 15, 2024

In this episode of the Language and Travel Hacking Podcast, Benny revisits the story of how he became a polyglot. He shares his early struggles with maintaining multiple languages, especially during his time learning Spanish, Italian, and French. Benny explains how his breakthrough came in 2006, during his stay in Florianópolis, Brazil, where the international environment allowed him to practice switching between languages with ease. He emphasizes the value of events like Couchsurfing meetups for practicing multiple languages and how they helped him develop the skill of smoothly transitioning between different languages in real-time conversations.

Benny also offers tips for language learners looking to enhance their polyglot abilities. He advises that while switching between languages can be challenging, it’s a skill best developed once you’ve reached a solid intermediate level in each language. Benny highlights the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone by attending international events and actively engaging with speakers of different languages, rather than sticking to the one you know best. He closes by encouraging listeners to share feedback about the podcast, as he continues to explore topics related to both language learning and travel.

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

Travel Health Hacks: Avoiding and Managing Illness on the Road Oct 09, 2024

In this episode of the Language and Travel Hacking Podcast, host Benny Lewis dives into the challenges of staying healthy while traveling. Drawing from 21 years of travel experience, Benny shares his personal stories of getting sick on the road, from a severe illness in Egypt to dealing with the smoke from burning rainforests in Brazil. He emphasizes the importance of being prepared for health issues that might arise during travel, offering practical tips such as staying informed about local conditions, getting necessary vaccines, and adjusting travel plans when necessary.

Benny also provides advice on preventative measures like maintaining a flexible travel schedule, securing travel insurance, and researching local doctors and pharmacies. He highlights the benefits of regular check-ups and vaccinations, noting his own routine of visiting health clinics in Thailand. While illness is sometimes unavoidable, Benny stresses that with good planning and proper care, you can minimize health risks and enjoy your travels to the fullest.

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

Escaping Depression? Why Travel Isn't the Answer Oct 02, 2024

In this episode, Benny Lewis shares a personal story about the misconception that travel can cure depression. Reflecting on his own struggles with divorce, clinical depression, and burnout in 2019, Benny explains how he attempted to heal by traveling, only to find that it made things worse. He emphasizes that travel is not a solution for depression and stresses the importance of seeking therapy and building healthy routines instead.

Benny also shares how, after working on his mental health, he was able to enjoy travel again, including a fulfilling climb up Kilimanjaro. He encourages listeners to focus on healing first, rather than using travel as an escape, so they can truly appreciate future adventures.

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

Getting detained by the Federal Police: Travel mishap story Sep 27, 2024

In this episode, Benny shares two stories of his experiences trying to extend his stay in Brazil, one in 2006 and the other more recently. The first time, things didn’t go so well. Benny, still new to traveling, didn’t do his research and approached the process with a lot of impatience and arrogance. After waiting in line for hours without eating, he ended up being rude to the federal officer handling his request. She, in turn, denied his extension, and after some unfortunate comments made in frustration, Benny was briefly detained.

Fast forward 18 years, and Benny’s approach is completely different. This time, he came prepared, patient, and respectful, with no high expectations. Even though there were still some complications, like needing to use WhatsApp to get forms, Benny stayed calm and polite. His efforts paid off, and he was able to extend his stay for three more months, allowing him to continue exploring Brazil. His story highlights how much difference patience and preparation can make when dealing with tricky travel situations.

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

Area codes around the world to help with your travels Sep 20, 2024

In this episode, Benny explores how knowing area codes can enhance travel experiences and even improve social interactions. When traveling, recognizing phone numbers based on area codes, particularly on apps like WhatsApp, helps you identify where people are from, making conversations flow more naturally. Benny also shares a personal hack for avoiding spam calls in the U.S. by getting a phone number from an unfamiliar location.

Benny highlights the logical patterns of area codes in countries like Brazil, where codes spiral outward from populous areas, and contrasts this with more complex systems like the U.S. He emphasizes how this seemingly small detail can be both practical and a fun way to engage with local cultures during travel.

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

21 years a nomad: What's changed since 2003? Sep 12, 2024

Benny dives into how travel has changed over his 21 years as a digital nomad. Reflecting on his early travels in the 2000s, Benny shares how meeting people and finding affordable accommodation used to be easier, with tools like Orkut and Couchsurfing at their prime, and the days of finding hidden gems through newspaper ads. Today, platforms like Airbnb have driven up prices, and connecting with others on the road has become more challenging.

Despite the changes, Benny remains optimistic, encouraging listeners to venture off the beaten path to rediscover the authenticity of travel. This episode is full of personal stories and practical insights from someone who has seen the world evolve. Tune in to hear how Benny balances the highs and lows of modern travel.

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

Benny Travel Update: 3 Months in the Amazon Aug 07, 2024

In this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, Benny shares updates from his latest travel adventures. After completing a bus journey across South America, he's now traveling down the Amazon River and visiting all 26 Brazilian states, with only six left to go.

Benny talks about his experience on the Amazon, from navigating the triple border of Peru, Colombia, and Brazil, to spending three days on a boat where he enjoyed stunning views and practiced Italian with fellow travelers. He also discusses the challenges of booking last-minute travel in Brazil and his love for being back in his favorite country.

Additionally, Benny announces he's opening up his calendar for one-on-one consultations, offering language learning coaching, travel advice, and insights into the nomadic lifestyle at a discounted rate. You can take advantage of this by going to languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Benny's travel update: 3 huge South American travel projects for 2024 Mar 11, 2024

In this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, host Benny shares his travel plans and projects for the year, all centered around South America. He discusses three major travel projects: visiting all Brazilian states, traveling from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean entirely by bus, and navigating the entire Amazon River by boat.

Benny explains his motivations for these journeys, emphasizing his desire to explore new places with minimal carbon footprint. Benny also mentions the linguistic challenges he faces, including adapting to different dialects of Portuguese and Spanish along the way. Despite the rough conditions of some of his travels, he expresses excitement for the adventure ahead.

Click here to check out Teacher AI as mentioned in this episode.

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Benny shares his optimism and enthusiasm about his favourite AI language tool Mar 04, 2024

In this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, Benny explores the game-changing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into language learning. Breaking away from his previous skepticism, Benny unveils a cutting-edge tool where users can engage with an AI teacher for unlimited language practice at a fraction of the cost of traditional lessons.

Highlighting benefits such as affordability and personalized learning, Benny invites listeners to join the exciting journey into the future of language acquisition. Don't miss out on this transformative opportunity—tune in now and revolutionize your language learning experience!

Click here to check out Teacher AI as mentioned in this episode.

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: Benny Shares His Skepticism About AI's Role in Language Learning Feb 26, 2024

In this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, Benny discusses the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in language learning. He acknowledges the potential of AI to revolutionize language education, including the possibility of replacing human teachers with AI-powered systems. However, Benny expresses skepticism about the current effectiveness of such systems, citing limitations in conversation depth and the tendency for some to exaggerate their AI capabilities.

Despite recognizing the benefits of AI for providing affordable and comfortable speaking practice, Benny emphasizes the importance of human interaction in developing authentic communication skills. He warns against over-reliance on AI, which may hinder the development of interpersonal skills crucial for real-world conversations. Benny plans to explore both the advantages and drawbacks of AI in future episodes and invites listeners to join the conversation and share their experiences with language learning.

Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: Other ways to avoid being an obvious foreigner Feb 05, 2024

Benny Lewis discusses strategies to avoid standing out as an obvious foreigner when speaking a new language, drawing from his experiences in Brazil. Academic choices of written words, like or simply saying things that are just illogical, can make you stand out more.

Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: The interesting trick; teaching people other info so they´ll put up with my bad language skills Jan 29, 2024

Benny shares his insights on how to engage in conversations as a beginner or intermediate language learner. He emphasizes the importance of having interesting things to say, such as sharing personal skills, stories, or tricks, to keep the other person engaged and patient.

Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: How to be the 1st ever Jan 22, 2024

Benny Lewis expresses his enthusiasm for the unique opportunity of being the first foreigner many Brazilians will ever meet during his travels off the beaten path. He encourages language learners to explore less touristy areas, underlining the special privilege of representing the world to those he encounters.

Benny highlights the crucial role of language skills, specifically speaking the local language, in creating these one-of-a-kind connections. He reflects on the significance of leaving a lasting positive impression, mentioning how he brings souvenirs to make these encounters memorable.

Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: Mental health struggles and being a language learner Jan 15, 2024

Benny Lewis shares his experience with a recent intensive Korean language project after a 10-year gap. He reflects on personal challenges, emphasizing the importance of considering mental health during language learning. Benny encourages listeners to go easy on themselves, focus on progress, and find a balance between ambition and self-care.

Watch the full uncut video of Benny speaking Korean after his language mission here: Benny's Korean: Final conversation to demonstrate basic conversational level

Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

How to dive deep into dialects (Benny's 2024 language plan) Jan 08, 2024

In this podcast episode, Benny shares his language learning plans for the year, focusing on Portuguese and exploring the diverse dialects in Brazil. He offers practical advice, suggesting starting with the standard version of the language before delving into specific dialects. Benny shares tips on finding resources, emphasizing the importance of searching in the language itself for better results.

Drawing from his own experiences, Benny discusses reaching out to native speakers through platforms like YouTube and Instagram to gain exposure to authentic language use. Benny also talks about incorporating cultural elements, such as music and intonation, into the learning process.

Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: How to learn a language in 2024: Taking a resolution and turning it into a true project Jan 01, 2024

In the first Language Hacking Podcast episode of 2024, Benny discusses effective language learning strategies for New Year's resolutions.

Instead of vague goals, Benny advocates for SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. Drawing from his Fluent in 3 Months philosophy, Benny emphasizes public accountability, community involvement, and aligning methods with language goals.

Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: Geoguessr, Geography, country studies (How Benny relaxes) Dec 25, 2023

In this festive episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, Benny Lewis brings a unique twist, stepping away from traditional language learning to share an exhilarating passion – geography. As the world celebrates Christmas, Benny takes you on an exciting journey into his downtime adventures, fueled by a fascination with countries, capitals, and flags. Forget stamp collecting or video games – Benny introduces you to the thrill of Geoguesser, a game that transports you to random locations worldwide through Google Street View, challenging you to guess your whereabouts.

Join Benny on his live-streamed Geoguesser sessions on Twitch, where he not only unravels the mysteries of diverse locations but also showcases his knack for identifying language signs and cultural nuances. Dive into Benny's world of virtual travel, where every street sign, script, and cultural cue becomes a clue to unravel the geographical puzzle. Feel the excitement as Benny shares how he enhances his global awareness through Anki decks and various online resources.

Resource Mentioned in this Episode:
- Anki

Join Benny's live stream on Twitch at @polyglot Twitch channel

Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: When should I move on to the next language, if I want to be a polyglot? Dec 18, 2023

In this episode of the Language Hacking podcast, Benny Lewis tackles a question that language enthusiasts often ponder: When is the right time to move on to the next language in your polyglot journey? Benny dismisses the common notion that polyglots must juggle multiple languages simultaneously and introduces a compelling alternative—focusing on one language until achieving a solid B2 proficiency level.

Benny delves into the pitfalls of trying to learn several languages at once, including interference and lack of focus. Benny's advice is laced with personal anecdotes, emphasizing the importance of building a mental fortress around a language to prevent interference from others. He shares insights into the benefits of taking breaks from languages once they've reached a higher proficiency level, likening it to fortifying your linguistic skills.

Follow Benny’s progress on his Korean mission on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: What are the resident logistics of a nomad? Benny's Travel update and long-term travel plan Dec 11, 2023

In this podcast episode, Benny Lewis offers a practical glimpse into the workings of his nomadic lifestyle. Navigating the realms of an Irish passport, British citizenship, and a U.S. green card, Benny shares insights into the pragmatic use of multiple passports for streamlined travel experiences. He breaks down the intricacies of sustaining U.S. residency through a specialized travel permit, all while efficiently operating his company from the heart of Texas.

With plans to sustain this nomadic lifestyle for a minimum of two more years, Benny reflects on the joy of exploring the world and immersing himself in diverse cultures. He provides a straightforward and grounded discussion on the practical aspects of managing residencies, multiple citizenships, and the intricacies of tax considerations for those living a nomadic life.

Follow Benny’s progress on his Korean mission on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: Melting ice: Constant work to push through a plateau Dec 04, 2023

Benny Lewis opens this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast with a brief but impactful message for language learners who might be feeling stuck in the intermediate stage. Drawing on an analogy from other fields, Benny likens the language learning journey to melting ice. He highlights the challenge of not seeing immediate results despite putting in months or years of effort.

Follow Benny’s progress on his Korean mission on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: Travel update: downsizing Nov 27, 2023

Join Benny in this laid-back podcast episode as he discusses the pragmatic transition from physical to digital language resources. Discover the convenience of downsizing possessions for a more stress-free travel experience and an embrace of a minimalist lifestyle.

Follow Benny’s progress on his Korean mission on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: Dialects: when should you learn them? Nov 13, 2023

Join Benny in this episode as he explores a fascinating topic that he often gets asked: “Should I care about dialects?” He reveals why dialect differences are not a significant issue for beginners, and why the main hurdles of learning a language are the same for all dialects.

He also reveals some perks of learning from a tutor who speaks a different dialect of the same language.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking) or Twitter (@‌fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Check out Benny’s progress during his mission on his YouTube channel

Ask Benny: Dance lessons and online tutorials in your target language Nov 06, 2023

How would you like to learn new things and boost your target language in one go?

In this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, Benny shows you how to do just that. He introduces you to a variety of learning activities in your target language that you can find online or locally, such as K-Pop dancing. He also offers his advice on how to cope with the challenges and obstacles that may arise during your language learning journey.

Follow Benny's Korean Instagram at @kpoplyglot.

Also, follow Benny’s progress on his Korean mission on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking) or Twitter (@‌fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: Why November 1st is the most important date in my language learning story Oct 30, 2023

In this episode, Benny Lewis celebrates a milestone in his language learning journey: the 20th anniversary of his first successful language project. He takes you back to Valencia, Spain, where he faced many challenges and frustrations with learning Spanish for the first six months.

He tells you how he tried different methods that did not work for him, such as attending group lessons, reading Lord of the Rings, and studying the dictionary. He shares how he felt hopeless and discouraged with his progress and how he was the worst student in the class.

He also reveals how he turned things around and learned to speak Spanish fluently by changing his approach and mindset. Listen to this podcast to learn more about his inspiring story and his language learning tips!

Follow Benny’s progress on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking) or Twitter (@‌fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: Virtual immersion: Do what you normally do in the target language! Oct 23, 2023

In this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, Benny Lewis reveals how he turns his daily routine into a virtual immersion experience in his target language.

He challenges you to think of ways you can do the things you enjoy in the language you are learning, such as scrolling through TikTok, watching Netflix, listening to Spotify, and more.

Follow Benny’s progress on his Korean mission on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking) or Twitter (@‌fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Check out Benny’s progress during his mission on his YouTube channel

Ask Benny: Benny's late-2023 language learning update Oct 16, 2023

Join Benny Lewis in this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast as he talks about his amazing experience of learning Korean in Korea for five months and how he reached his objectives.

He also tells you about his upcoming trips to Europe and how he plans to use his Spanish and Catalan skills in different places such as Barcelona, Ibiza, and other areas where it is spoken.

Instagram links mentioned in this episode:
Spanish @irlandesastre
Catalan @catirlandes
Portuguese @brasirlandes
French @irlangdais

Also, follow Benny’s progress on his Korean mission on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking) or Twitter (@‌fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Ask Benny: Deep thought: Does age make us worse learners or is it something else? Oct 09, 2023

Benny has been pondering a deep question lately, and he shares his thoughts on it in this episode. This is a somewhat deep question that he often gets asked: “Does your age affect your ability to learn languages?”

Follow Benny’s progress on his Korean mission on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking) or Twitter (@‌fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Check out Benny’s progress during his mission on his YouTube channel

Ask Benny: Different types of language exchange events: Stand-up and sit-down Oct 02, 2023

Join Benny in this episode as he explores the world of language exchange events. He explains the differences between two common styles of these events, and how to decide which one works for you.

He also shows you how to find great language partners and have lively conversations in your target language. Whether you like a relaxed or a formal style, you will find out how to make the most of language exchange events.

Follow Benny’s progress on his Korean mission on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#141 Dan Mirea on TikTok, Psychology & Linguistics Jul 17, 2023

Have you ever had a conversation with someone who is head over heels about languages?

In this interview, psychology researcher Dan Mirea discusses the links between psychology and linguistics (including whether individuals switch personalities when they switch languages) and talks about his journey as a psychology student who was able to gather a huge following on social media by sharing his passion and interest for languages.

Other topics covered include how (and when) people develop confidence in language learning and when speaking foreign languages, tips on how to become a language content creator online, Dan’s process for content creation, and how his psychology research has affected his language learning journey.

Mentioned in this Episode

[Dan’s TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@danniesbrain)
[Dan’s Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/danniesbrain/)
[Mental Health for Romania](https://mentalhealthforromania.org/en/)

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: What Was Your Biggest Mistake During Your Korean Mission? Jun 26, 2023

In this episode, Benny explains how he got overwhelmed with his use of Anki in the second month of his Korean mission, and what solutions he found to balance his learning back.

PS: Listen to this episode if you want to learn how to fix your learning mistakes even when you’re weeks into your mission.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking) or Twitter (@‌fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Check out Benny’s progress during his mission on [his YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/@irishpolyglot ).

Ask Benny: What Are Your Favourite Korean-Learning Resources? Jun 09, 2023

In this episode, Benny lists the most helpful resources that have helped him throughout his Korean mission. He goes into details about what makes those resources great to help all Korea learners out there!

Resources:

PS: We have an on-going promotion with Benny’s favourite resource, 90 Day Korean, which you can check out here. The promotion only runs until June 12th, so make the most out of it now!

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking) or Twitter (@‌fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Check out Benny’s progress during his mission on his YouTube channel.

#140 Peggy on “Little Victories” Jun 05, 2023

Do old-school language learning methods still work in our technology-focused and app-driven world?

Fluent in 3 Months student Peggy tackled this question while learning Spanish with us. She also discovered how to balance motivation and discipline through “little victories”.

Peggy shares her experience with realizing failures are more important than successes, building language islands and figuring out what topics are the right ones to choose, how to design a personalized language learning routine, and how the Fluent in 3 Months program helped her through community and support even when she already had a language learning system that worked for her.

Mentioned in this Episode

In this episode, we mention the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge which has been replaced by Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp. We guarantee that anyone who completes Bootcamp will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

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Podcast theme: “[A New Beginning](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B086W5YPN8/ref=dm_ws_tlw_trk5)” by Shannon Kennedy

#139 Will Scott on Learning French Daily May 22, 2023

“Before the Challenge I would have laughed if you told me I was going to study [French] every day for a week.” This is what Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participant and French learner, Will Scott, shared. Discover how he found success with the language and completely revamped his learning through fun and the support of a community.

Will Scott shares how traveling to Salamanca didn’t do much for his Spanish learning, how building language islands around his juggling hobby added fun into his language learning routine, the power of documenting your progress in a new language, and how he set up French dinner parties with his friends to practice the language.

(Pss… Listen to this episode to hear Will ask Shannon and Benny questions about how to use flashcards and spaced-repetition to master their languages.)

Mentioned in this Episode

Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp

We guarantee that anyone who completes Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: How Did the Korean Mission Go? May 15, 2023

In this episode, Benny goes over his Korean mission and lists some of the best decisions he’s taken and the setbacks he’s encountered.

He analyses the CEFR level he is at, outlines a plan to improve over the next weeks, and shares where he will travel to for the following months.

PS: Listen to this episode if you want to hear about Benny’s idea for a new hobbie… it involves K-pop!

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking) or Twitter (@‌fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Check out Benny’s progress during his mission on his YouTube channel.

#138 Anika on How to Learn Telugu May 01, 2023

How do you learn to speak another language when there are little to no resources available for learners?

Fluent in 3 Months student Anika took head-on as she learned Telugu with us. She shares how she taps into native resources with the help of native speakers and what to do when the spoken language you’re learning is different from its written language.

Anika shares her experience with finding content in another language and hiring native speakers to help her create her own learning resources. She also discusses what it’s like learning her partner’s native language, using the TPRS method to learn language, and how to take initiative with your language tutors.

Mentioned in this Episode

In this episode, we mention the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge which has been replaced by Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp. We guarantee that anyone who completes Bootcamp will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: Can I Learn a Language With My Partner? Apr 24, 2023

Benny gives his opinion on learning a language with the help of your partner and why it can cause difficulties both to the language learning and the relationship itself.

Instead, he suggests alternatives that would still allow your partner to help you practise the language indirectly!

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

#137 Victoria Galmarini on Mundo Lingo and Language Exchange Events Apr 17, 2023

What’s it like attending an in-person language exchange event?

Victoria Galmarini, Lead Manager for MundoLingo, an in-person language exchange organization, shares how to run a language exchange event, ways exchanges differ in different countries, and what a successful language exchange event looks like.

(PS: Learn a little about Benny’s experience at language exchange events by listening to this episode!)

Mentioned in this Episode

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: Why 3 Months? Apr 10, 2023

Benny answers the big questions that a lot of skeptics asking him: Why 3 months?

Listen to this episode to hear the founder of world-famous Fluent in 3 Months language brand explain how setting himself a deadline of three months motivates him to actually learn a new language.

Benny reflects on his “learning drought” over the last 10 years, his new mission, and the work and sacrifices he has put in to lay the ground for his Korean mission this time.

Follow Benny’s progress on his Korean mission on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#136 “Grammar Girl” Mignon Fogarty on How to Make Grammar Less Boring Apr 03, 2023

How can you make grammar “less boring” to learn?

Mignon Fogarty, founder of the platform Quick and Dirty Tips and of the beloved Grammar Girl podcast, comes onto the Language Hacking podcast to help answer this question. She tells Benny how Grammar Girl was born from having to look up grammar rules often as part of her job, and how she grew her podcast into a successful business.

Mignon then explains how language evolution tends to emerge primarily from younger people, hence why using social media to stay on top of grammar evolution is completely valid! She and Benny discuss changes in the English language, including the emotional weight of punctuation online, and how social media can be the number one resource for fun language facts.

(PS: Listen to this episode if you wonder what kind of experience in life you need to become a polyglot. Benny explains how his background in engineering helps him face language learning in a more productive way.)

Mentioned in this Episode

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#135 Azren on Going from Window Cleaner to Language Teacher Mar 27, 2023

How can you find good resources to learn uncommon or less popular languages?

Azren grew up multilingual and made a career out of his passion for languages. He currently speaks English, French, Spanish, Gujarati, and Mandarin, but his online tutoring business covers 11 more… Some of which are not widely spoken worldwide.

In his interview with Benny, Azren explains how he went from working for a window-cleaning franchise during his university studies to developing his own language-tutoring team. He goes into details about how he carefully selected tutors over the course of several years, and how he maintains the same patient rhythm to constantly grow his business by organically recruiting team-members to cover new languages.

Then the conversation moves on to a pain point for minority language learners: finding resources, either digitally or physically, a struggle which Azren has learned.

From intensive learner to intensive learner, Azren and Benny discuss Azren’s methods to do full immersion, talk about how he stumbled upon the online polyglot community, how it helped him to grow as a language learner, and how it has impacted his teaching style.

(PS: If you’re struggling to get out of an intermediate plateau, Azren has some must-hear advice for you!)

Mentioned In This Episode

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: How Do You Start Speaking From Day 1? Mar 20, 2023

Join Benny as he explains how he has started his Korean mission from absolute scratch—and how you can do the same! The steps are simple:

Avoiding English at all costs—so no English conversation, even with your tutor.

Cheating your way through your first conversation (with Benny’s very own cheating technique).

Throwing yourself into the project without fear or objections holding you back!

Follow Benny’s progress on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#134 Pierre on Beating Fear & Shyness Mar 13, 2023

Can introverts and shy learners also benefit from joining learner communities?

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge (now Bootcamp) participant and Norwegian learner, Pierre, tells Benny and Shannon how the joining the Fluent in 3 Months community helped him overcome his fear of speaking another language, and how he was able to learn more quickly than with any other methods.

Pierre also chats about learning a lesser studied language like Norwegian, how speaking German helped him along the way, and lists some ways to get feedback on your language skills.

(If you also want tips on learning a language to prepare for a trip, this is the episode for you!)

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#133 Zac on the Power of Music for Language Learners Mar 06, 2023

Can music help you learn languages?

Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp participant and Spanish learner, Zac, discusses:

How his learning approach changed in the Bootcamp (formerly the Challenge)
The power of music when learning a new language
How to pick up your studies when you’ve gone off track

Zac also explains how he picks a language to focus on. He gives his favorite tips for choosing a language tutor, and discusses how self-talk can support language learning.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Mentioned in this Episode

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: What Language Is Benny Learning Now? Feb 27, 2023

Did you hear about Benny’s new project? He’s learning a new language, and to keep in style, he will treat his new mission as a full-time job! Having relocated to Bali for this, he has until May to get “fluent” in this new language.

So which one is he learning?

Drum roll… The reveal is in the episode!

PS: He also explains what he means by “fluent”. This one is for the skeptics!

Follow Benny’s progress on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#132 Emanuel on “Stage Fright” in Language Learning Feb 20, 2023

How can tutors help their students avoid anxiety and the feeling of “stage fright” when speaking a new language?

Emanuel Vasconcelos is one of the favorite Spanish teachers among the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp community, and Elizabeth’s primary Spanish tutor. In this interview, they discuss Emanuel’s journey to becoming a Spanish language teacher and the methods he uses to help his students improve their language learning effectively.

Emanuel explains how his focus is working with students using constructive techniques rather than the usual error-correction dynamic that many teachers follow.

A lot of the Language Hacking Podcast guests are students from the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp (formerly, the Challenge), so Emanuel’s perspective is an eye-opener!

PS: Plenty of personal anecdotes from Elizabeth’s and Benny’s learner experiences in this episode, so don’t miss out on them!

Mentioned in this Episode

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#131 Deanna on Avoiding Language FOMO Feb 13, 2023

What does it feel like to learn the language you have always wanted to learn?

Fluent in 3 Months student and Italian learner, Deanna, talks about the power of accountability, finding the right resources, and what it feels like to finally learn the language you always wanted to learn.

In this interview, Deanna, Benny, and Shannon discuss how to figure out whether a tool isn’t working for you or if you’re just not ready for the tool and to choose which language learning tools you’re going to use. The episode also covers topics such as avoiding FOMO when it comes to language resources and pushing through when your efforts aren’t giving you results.

If you’ve been wondering how to surround yourself with your target language, Deanna’s advice will help you get started the right way.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Mentioned in this Episode

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: How Do You Prepare For a 3 Month Mission? Feb 06, 2023

In this episode, Benny pulls back the curtain to reveal behind the scenes when he prepares for a new 3 months challenge, and how this helps him get the most out of the learning period.

Between clearing his schedule, dealing with the logistics of his new move, and preparing updates for followers, there is a lot to do beforehand!

PS: All is fair in language learning: going for a retreat before getting started is a great idea to relax ;)

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

Follow Benny’s progress on [his YouTube channel(https://www.youtube.com/@irishpolyglot).

Benny's Fluent in 3 Months Projects History (+ a Big Announcement) Jan 30, 2023

Benny is ready for a new Fluent in 3 Months project, during which he will focus for 90 days on becoming conversational in a new language! In this episode, Benny revisits his past projects and reflects on what he can take from his experience onto this new adventure.

Tune in to Benny’s YouTube channel and the Fluent in 3 Months YouTube channel in the month of February to follow Benny’s progress!

PS: Benny will announce the language for his new project very soon in a new Language Hacking Podcast episode, so stick around!

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

#130 TY on Finding the Fun in French Jan 23, 2023

Is it easier to learn a language when it’s fun?

Fluent in 3 Months student and French learner, TY, discusses taking part in Fluent in 3 Months programs and finding the fun in language learning with hosts Benny and Shannon.

A language teacher herself, TY discusses her experience creating a program for kids to create their own languages and how recording videos of yourself speaking your language can be used as an effective learning tool.

Listen to this episode if you wonder how you can creatively learn a language alongside others, stay on track with your learning when major life events happen, and how to efficiently work with your spouse as you learn their native language.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#129 Philippa Wentzel on Lingoda and Language Technology Jan 16, 2023

Will technological advances keep impacting language learning positively?

This is a question that Philippa Wentzel, Curriculum Team Lead of the popular online language resource Lingoda, attempts to answer in her discussion with Benny.

In this interview, Philippa explores topics such as how academic learning can be unsatisfying, how Lingoda relies on UX analysis to make sure they stay on track with learners’ needs, and the pros and cons of using technology in language learning.

Philippa also explains how Lingoda offers learners control over their language learning and curriculum by using a “choose your own path” approach.

Mentioned in this Episode

Lingoda

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#128 Greg on “To-Do” Lists to Learn Czech Jan 09, 2023

Is it possible to learn a language better from home than in a foreign country?

Fluent in 3 Months student and Czech learner, Greg, explained to Benny and Shannon how he spoke more Czech in 90 days of learning with Fluent in 3 Months than while living in the Czech Republic.

In this interview, he also talks about ditching the perfectionist mindset and using to-do lists to improve his learning, as well as finding a connection between project management and language learning.

This episode is for you if you want to learn how you can stay on track when things come up that could derail your learning and utilize the people around you to keep from burning out

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

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Mentioned in this Episode

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

New Year's Special: Reflections and Resolutions Jan 02, 2023

New year, new goals! In this special episode, Benny is joined by four other Fluent in 3 Months team members⁠—David, Alice, Elizabeth, and Ashley⁠—to reflect on their language learning in 2022 and discuss their 2023 learning goals.

Techniques that haven't worked, exciting new launches, tips and tricks to achieve new goals... Hear all about what the Fluent in 3 Months team has to say about these topics and get inspired to stick to your language learning resolutions in 2023.

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#127 Honorée on Learning Languages Through Passion and Asking for Help Dec 26, 2022

What exactly do you need to learn a language?

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participant and French learner, Honorée, chats about taking part in the Challenge, her plan to learn 5 languages in 10 years, and the importance of consistency and accountability in language learning.

Honorée’s advice ranges from how to identify your weak points so you can focus on where your efforts will have the most impact to how building confidence is important and how to do it. She also discusses time management, language islands, and maximizing learning efficiency in learning a language as an adult.

(Pss… Listen to this episode to hear Honorée switch the papers and be the one to ask Benny and Shannon questions.)

Featured Resources

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Mentioned in this Episode

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: What is Christmas like for a solo traveller? Dec 19, 2022

Benny shares his plan of flying back to Ireland this year for the winter holidays. As a solo traveller, he appreciates this occasion to spend time with his family. Benny also shares his experience on how the weeks leading up to Christmas are different in the various countries he has visited or lived in during the period.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#126 Miguel on Community and Connection in Language Learning Dec 12, 2022

Can anyone join the active polyglot community?

If you’re hesitant to join the active polyglot community, polyglot and language mentor Miguel, also founder of the blog The Multilingual Bronxite, shares about what he’s discovered from taking part in these communities.

In this interview with Benny, Miguel shares his perspective on the usefulness of the polyglot community. As a regular participant and speaker himself at international polyglot events such as Polyglotar, Miguel explains how the community is less intimidating than what would seem from the outside. As he puts forward, everyone is learning, so everyone is very open and like-minded!

Miguel also discusses how studying on your own can prove more valuable than learning languages the academic way as well as his opinion regarding immersion. Does it really help you learn a language, or does that depend on your skill level?

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#125 Michael Campbell on the Power of “Reps” for Language Learners Dec 05, 2022

How closely does improving your body impact improving your memory?

Michael Campbell, founder and CEO of Glossika, one of the most popular language resources on the Internet, shares how he has improved his physical and mental abilities by making important changes in his life.

In this unusual episode (which focuses more on self-improvement than languages), Micheal and
Benny discuss the benefits of changing diets and switching mindsets to achieve a healthier personal health.

Michael also compared using Glossika and learning languages to being consistent in going to the gym. The main comparison between being successful at both? Repetition.

Mentioned in this Episode

Glossika

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: How do language exchange events work? Nov 28, 2022

Benny explains how language exchanges work by describing his own experience with the MundoLingo events. He covers how events are organised to make language recognition easy, shares how the set-up is ideal even for introverts, and mentions a few tips to make the most about the event.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#124 Olly Richards on Creating the StoryLearning Method Nov 21, 2022

This episode includes a Black Friday promotion. Follow this link to get the Black Friday price.

Check out all our Black Friday deals on 50+ languages here.

How can language learning happen through reading stories?

Olly Richards, creator of the Uncovered Language Courses, is back on the Language Hacking Podcast to answer the question above.

Olly shares his story and explains how he combined his background in education, his polyglot skills, and his passion for writing in order to make language learning more accessible to the everyday language learner. He explains how there is more to language learning than just passive absorption

Benny and Elizabeth encourage Olly to talk about the structure of his courses, how they cover microskills needed by beginners to build solid bases in a new language, and the struggle to find the right native tutor to support the courses’ development.

The discussion also covers Olly’s recently released intermediate-level Uncovered courses and how they follow the same methodology as his beginner courses.

If you’re interested in testing out Olly’s Uncovered method, take advantage of the Uncovered Courses Black Friday promotion going on right now!

Follow this link to get the Black Friday price.

Mentioned in this Episode

Uncovered Language Courses Black Friday Deals
Olly’s first podcast episode: #005 | Olly Richards on Living Abroad and Story Learning
French Uncovered review: French Uncovered
Italian Uncovered review: Italian Uncovered
German Uncovered review: German Uncovered
Spanish Uncovered review: Spanish Uncovered
Japanese Uncovered review: Japanese Uncovered

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#123 Kelsey Lechner on Speaking 6 Very Different Languages Nov 14, 2022

How much does living in different countries shape your personality and influence your personal development?

In an episode packed with cultural exploration anecdotes, writer, translator, and educator Kelsey Lechner shares her experience with learning six vastly different languages, keeping her career tightly related to languages in unexpected ways, and adapting to new cultures while living in countries like Tanzania, Japan, and Bangladesh.

Kelsey also shares her flexible language learning strategy pointers, which she developed while learning Japanese, Spanish, Mandarin Chinese, Swahili, and Bengali. She and Benny discuss how social acceptance works when trying to adjust to new cultures, how to take missteps in cross-cultural communication in stride, and how to deal with culture shocks.

(Psss… Wait until minute 28 for a funny anecdote about how mixing up Bangladesh and Spanish led Kelsey to hit up on someone without meaning to!)

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Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#122 Brian Powell on How Learning a Dead Language Changed His Perspective Nov 07, 2022

Are dead languages worth learning?

Latin learner, polyglot, and professional translator Brian Powell answers this question by explaining his experience with learning Latin and the way it changed his perspective on learning languages.

Among other topics discussed in this conversation with Benny, Brian explains the “Living Latin” movement, using Latin in a spoken way, and whether or not Latin is a useful stepping stone to learn modern romance languages.

Brian also shares about his love for grammar, insights on the other languages he has learned, including Arabic, Farsi, and French, as well as stories and tips from his career as a translator.

PS: Definitely listen to this episode if you want to hear Benny’s special pronunciation of Latin words :)

Mentioned in this Episode

Brian’s blog post on Fluent in 3 Months: How to Speak Latin: A Beginner’s Guide to Living Latin
Lingua Latina Per Se Illustrata
ScorpioMartianus YouTube channel
MagisterCraft
Latinitium
Assimil
italki
IndustryArabic

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: How Do I Create a Language Immersion Environment at Home? Oct 31, 2022

Benny starts off this episode with a personal case study related to language immersion at home: studying Egyptian Arabic while still living in Brasil back in 2012. He then gives his favorite tips for home immersion.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#121 Nina on How to Break the Intermediate Plateau Oct 17, 2022

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participant and Greek learner, Nina, shares her experience taking part in the Challenge and connecting with her husband, in-laws, and daughter through Greek with hosts Benny and Shannon.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

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Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Figuring out how much you want your language teachers to correct you
How to get through the intermediate plateau
Learning multiple languages simultaneously
Reading to learn languages
Coming back to languages after a break
Becoming more direct with your language tutors in order to get the most out of your lessons
Balancing your energy and being more aware of your energy levels
Learning languages with the unpredictable schedule of having a new baby
Learning your partner’s native language
How Nina supports her daughter’s language learning and multilingualism

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#120 Melanie on Learning French With Her 7 Kids Oct 10, 2022

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participant and French learner, Melanie, discusses taking part in the Challenge and connecting with her kids through French with hosts Benny and Shannon

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

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Mentioned in this Episode

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Learning French in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
How language helped Melanie find new ways to connect with her kids
Learning a language alongside her kids and how supporting one another goes both ways
Creating a language learning environment with 7 kids
Learning a heritage language
Ways to support your kids’ language learning
How being a part of her kids’ language learning journeys has helped Melanie improve her own learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: New Language Goals Plans! Focusing on 5 Languages From Now On Oct 06, 2022

The life of a polyglot globe-trotter only knows one constant: change! In this new update, Benny explains why his decision to postpone his trip to Thailand is the best for his goals in Thai. In fact, he will be focusing on including five languages in his daily life in the next few months.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#118 Joaquin on the Bilingual-Trilingual Journey Sep 26, 2022

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participant and French learner, Joaquin, explains how deciding to study in France helped him become serious about his goal to learn French, and how he kept his progress up by working hard to keep himself accountable.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

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Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How to stay accountable when learning a new language
Why being bilingual doesn’t mean it’s always easy learning new languages
Joaquin, Elizabeth, and Benny’s ways to includes some fun language days to their learning schedule
Mini-missions and how they make learning languages seem more approachable
Joaquin’s experience with Language Hacking French

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: How do you learn vocabulary while traveling? Sep 21, 2022

Since Benny started travelling again, he has had to adapt his learning to his new schedule and route. In this episode, he shares his tips on how to make the most of a little-known WordReference feature, using flashcards in the best way, and keeping working on the languages you know even while traveling abroad.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#117 Dr. Barbara Oakley on Learning How to Learn Sep 19, 2022

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Rebel with a Clause

Patreon Extended Episode

Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to extended episodes and loads more content. Here’s what you’ll hear in the long-form episode:

Motivation around learning and how to make progress when you feel like you’re bad at something
Dr. Oakley’s 3 language survival tools
Advice Dr. Oakley would have given herself when she was starting out with language learning
How to get back into a language you stopped learning
How Dr. Oakley would start learning a new language today
Dr. Oakley asks Benny what to do when a teacher assigns you things that just don’t make sense for you personally

Learn more and access this bonus content on Patreon.

Featured in This Episode

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How Dr. Oakley got into learning how to learn
Joining the military to learn a new language at the Defense Language Institute
Using the Speak from Day 1 Approach
How Dr. Oakley’s philosophies around language learning influenced her learning in other fields
Working as a Russian translator on Soviet trawlers, teaching in China, being an Army Captain in Germany, working as a radio operator at the South Pole Station and how these things shaped Dr Oakley’s perspectives
How teaching makes you a better learner through retrieval practice
The story behind the MOOC “Learning How to Learn”
Tricks for encouraging your kids to love learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#116 Hez on What to Do When You Want to Learn Everything at Once Sep 12, 2022

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participant and Spanish learner, Hez, chats with Benny and Shannon about fighting perfectionism and practicing patience in language learning.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

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Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

What to do when you’re impatient and you want to learn everything all at once
Fighting perfectionism and being kind to yourself in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
The Buddhist idea of a Beginner’s Mind
Keeping up your language learning during stressful periods in your life
Ways to have fun with your language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Benny's Next Language Project - Next Stop: Another Continent Sep 07, 2022

In this Ask Benny episode, Benny discusses his next language project. Benny will rediscover a language he already studied back in 2010 by flying from Brazil to a new surprise destination. He discusses his new approach to learning the language and his plans for preparing himself ahead of landing. Discover Benny’s next language project in this episode!

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

#115 Gabby Wallace on How Language Teachers Learn a Language Sep 05, 2022

Gabby Wallace, creator of Go Natural English, joins Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy to talk about teaching English online, how renovating houses is like learning languages, and what it was like to live in a favela in Brazil.

Featured Resources

italki

Patreon Extended Episode

Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to extended episodes and loads more content. Here’s what you’ll hear in the long-form episode:

Building a language teaching business online
Learning languages to travel - how to prepare and what to do with the language after travel is over
Shannon and Benny’s tips for avoiding language interference with similar languages
Gabby’s ideal day of language learning

Learn more and access this bonus content on Patreon.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

What inspired Gabby to begin teaching English
How being a language learner makes you a better language teacher
Ways renovating houses and real estate connects to language learning
How to balance really diverse projects
Living in a favela in Brazil
How to choose topics for online content as a language teacher
Corporate language training

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Benny's Language Project Update (+ Mini Discovery Related to Learning Vocabulary) Aug 31, 2022

In this Ask Benny episode, Benny gives an update on his current language mission in Jericoacoara, Brazil, and the new hacks and strategies he has worked on and used. If you're looking into vocabulary-learning tips specifically, this episode is for you.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com.

#114 Luca Sadurny on Mosalingua and Ikigai Aug 29, 2022

Luca Sadurny, co-founder of Mosalingua, talks about how learning French helped him discover that everyone can learn a language when using the right method. A discovery that later led to the foundation of the popular language learning resource Mosalingua.

Featured Resources

Mosalingua

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Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics discussed in this episode include:

Luca’s background and the background and development of Mosalingua
Ikigai, a concept which motivates you to learn languages in the right way
How everyone can learn languages if they have the right method
How to raise trilingual children and the one-parent-one-language approach
Time management techniques and how to find time for yourself

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#113 Elena Mutonono on Tutoring in Ukraine and Creating an Online Business Aug 22, 2022

Elena Mutonono, former ESL teacher and now coach for language teachers, joins Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy to talk about language teaching, the ethics of the online language teaching space, and sustainable language teaching.

Featured Resources

Online Bound Podcast

Patreon Extended Episode

Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to extended episodes and loads more content. Here’s what you’ll hear in the long-form episode:

Redefining what a “good” language teacher is
Things language students should be aware of when choosing a teacher
Our roles as thought leaders in the language space

Learn more and access this bonus content on Patreon.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Going from in-person tutoring in Ukraine to teaching online
Facing burnout as a language teacher and figuring out how to teach in a sustainable way
Finding balance by saying no to many things as a language teacher and what to say no to
Differences between online and offline teaching and setting realistic expectations for both
How choosing one focus can help you feel more fulfilled in your teaching career

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#112 Damian on Surprising His Friend by Learning Bosnian Aug 15, 2022

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participant and Bosnian learner, Damian, chats with Benny and Shannon about finding connection with friends and family through languages.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Patreon Extended Episode

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Learn more and access this bonus content on Patreon.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Why Damian learned Bosnian
How Damian’s language learning changed when he joined the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Learning languages and music to set an example for his kids
How to stay invested and motivated in your languages
Connections between music and language
Using scripts to prepare for conversations in another language
Learning with more than one tutor and balancing the right number of lessons

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: How Can My Tutor Help Me Make Flashcards? Aug 10, 2022

This Ask Benny episode is about flashcards, and how you can use your lessons or conversations with a tutor to create your vocabulary list. Benny explains how his tutor helps him make lists of words and phrases during lessons, and then what he does to turn this into flashcards using Anki.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#111 Steve Kaufmann on the Evolution of LingQ Aug 08, 2022

Steve Kaufmann, renowned polyglot and founder of LingQ rejoins Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy to talk about the LingQ language learning app, how intensive your language learning really needs to be and more.

Featured Resources

LingQ

Patreon Extended Episode

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The origin story behind LingQ
Steve’s philosophies and practices in motivation and habits
Steve’s 3 survival language resources
Steve’s ideal day of language learning
Advice to those experiencing the intermediate plateau
The importance of being active physically and comparisons between sports and language
Feedback Benny and Shannon have received from language learners

Learn more and access this bonus content on Patreon.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

LingQ and the journey to creating one of the most popular language learning tools
How Steve’s son Mark went from hockey player to key player at LingQ
How people read more than they may realize
Expanding LingQ from a reading and listening app to a tool integrated with Youtube, Netflix and other platforms
New features in LingQ
How Steve’s own learning in LingQ has changed as new features are added
Parallels between running a business and language learning
How Steve’s beliefs around the intensity of language learning have changed
Why language learners need to be okay with uncertainty
How LingQ has impacted the lives of people all over the world

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#110 Kittichai Boonthong on Learning English and Japanese, and Cultural Differences Aug 01, 2022

Language Hacking Podcast co-hosts, Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy, bring on Kittichai, known as “The Duke” to talk about his role at Fluent in 3 Months, learning English and Japanese, and becoming a travel vlogger.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Learning Japanese using the Speak from Day 1 approach
How Kittichai learned English and how it differed from his experience learning Japanese
Working at an international company and adapting to the cultural differences
How Fluent in 3 Months has influenced Kittichai’s language journey
Being inspired by Benny’s travels and becoming a travel vlogger in Thailand
Kittichai’s perspective on foreigners learning Thai
The biggest struggles Thai learners face
Why foreigners in Thailand often don’t learn Thai
Using video games as a tool for learning languages

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: How Can I Use Social Media to Learn Languages? Jul 27, 2022

Benny is a big fan of using social media to practise his languages, and in this Ask Benny episode, he shares tips and tricks for getting the most out of each social media platform. From making multiple profiles and choosing who to follow, to training the algorithm, Benny has figured out how to make Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok work for him.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#109 Ellen Jovin on “The Grammar Table” Jul 25, 2022

Creator and proprietor of The Grammar Table, Ellen Jovin, joins Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy to talk about traveling the country to discuss grammar, learning the languages of New York, and finding joy in learning grammar.

Featured Resources

Rebel with a Clause

Patreon Extended Episode

Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to extended episodes and loads more content. Here’s what you’ll hear in the long-form episode:

The most common grammar questions Ellen encountered on the road with The Grammar Table
How knowing more grammar frees you from the confines of grammar
Ellen’s ideal day with languages
Ellen’s advice for someone who dreads learning grammar
Ways to make learning grammar easier and how to remember it better
Ellen’s grammar pet peeves

Learn more and access this bonus content on Patreon.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Words and Worlds of New York and learning the languages of the city
Why many people hate grammar and why Ellen doesn’t
The positives of getting outside and pairing language learning with walking
The story behind “The Grammar Table”
Setting boundaries around grammar and common misconceptions
Ways grammar rules are actually somewhat arbitrary
Regional uses of languages and loving our linguistic diversity
How The Grammar Table has also been an opportunity for Ellen to learn about other languages
The power of humility in all things
Playing with language and loving grammar and how things are put together

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: How Do I Make A Personalised Phrasebook? Jul 13, 2022

In this Ask Benny episode, Benny explains how he goes about making a personalised phrasebook. He shares examples of useful sentences that he knows he needs to use when introducing himself, as well as phrases for talking about his interests and work. Benny then explains how he compiles a vocab database, how he makes flashcards, and what other resources he uses during the process.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#107 Paul Jorgenson on How to Make Difficult Languages Easy Jul 11, 2022

Creator of the immensely popular YouTube channel LangFocus, Paul Jorgenson, joins Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy to talk about building a Youtube channel around a passion for languages, living abroad, and language dabbling.

Paul also shares his secrets for effective time management as he balances family life with his life as a creator and language learner by using non-negotiable routines.

Featured Resources

italki

Patreon Extended Episode

Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to extended episodes and loads more content. Here’s what you’ll hear in the long-form episode:

How to learn languages with different writing systems without apps
Tips for overcoming stress and burnout
Benny and Shannon’s strategies for speaking multiple languages without mixing them up
Paul’s language survival resources
Paul’s ideal day of language learning
Advice for a complete beginner to language learning

Learn more and access this bonus content on Patreon.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:
Learning languages with few accessible resources

Strategies for making “difficult” languages easy to learn
Moving to Japan and living in Japanese
Dabbling in dozens of languages as a Youtube creator in order to create content
Building a YouTube channel around an interest in languages
Crowdsourcing audio samples of different languages
How Paul’s language learning strategies have changed as tech has improved
Being a public figure as an introvert
Time management and the importance of non-negotiable routines as a content creator, language learner, and parent
Being a role model and inspiration in the language community

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#106 Zsuzsanna on Learning Languages as a Family Jul 04, 2022

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participant and Spanish learner, Zsuzsanna, chats with Benny and Shannon about finally finding success in language learning, the importance of friendship and connections in language, and being a gregarious introvert.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Patreon Extended Episode

Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.

Mentioned in this Episode

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Learning Spanish in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge and finally finding success in language learning
How friendships and connections can make learning languages a positive experience
Being a gregarious introvert and what that means for language learning
The importance of consistency
Raising a bilingual son
Learning Spanish through a non-native language
Why Office Hours are one of the best parts of the Challenge
How accountability can impact your success

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: What is the 80/20 Rule? Jun 29, 2022

Benny explains how to apply the Pareto Principle (aka the 80/20 rule) to language learning. Benny shares how to go about focusing on 20% of a language to get you 80% of the results. He explains his ideas for what you can save until later, and what you should prioritise, so that you can keep your learning as efficient as possible, and make as much progress as you can without wasting time and effort on non-essential elements.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#105 Fiel Sahir on Learning a Language Without “Studying” Jun 27, 2022

Enthusiastic learner, New York resident, musician, and polyglot, Fiel Sahir, joins Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy to talk about finding mentors, learning heritage languages, studying Chinese with the Language Hacking Mandarin book, and using languages in a non-language-related field.

Fiel, in his own words, says one of his greatest strengths is his endless curiosity. It’s led to him making incredible connections, learning lots of languages, finding community, and a life of learning. If you’re interested in learning a heritage language, learning without strictly “studying” or how music influences your language learning, this is the episode for you.

Featured Resources

Patreon Extended Episode

Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to extended episodes and loads more content. Here’s what you’ll hear in the long-form episode:

How to learn languages without “studying”
The influence music has on language learning
How Benny and Shannon’s language learning philosophies have developed over years of learning
Fiel’s future language learning plans

Learn more and access this bonus content on Patreon.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How a long car ride led to Fiel’s passion for language learning
Finding mentors and the role a good mentor can play in your growth
The power of curiosity
Studying music at a German university
Learning a heritage language and connecting with culture
What it’s like living in one of the most multilingual cities in the world
The powerful influence of community in language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#104 Corentin on How to Reinvent Yourself as a Language Learner Jun 20, 2022

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participant and Dutch learner, Corentin, chats with Benny and Shannon about “redefining” yourself as a language learner and finding success in your new identity.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Patreon Extended Episode

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Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Living in Brussels and needing to learn Dutch
How to help your production in a language catch up to your comprehension
When to focus on one language learning skill and when to focus on the four core skills
“Redefining” yourself as a language learner
Why the Challenge helped Corentin more than traditional language classes
Taking control of your own language learning for success
Using a to-do app to coordinate with a team while language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: Why Learn Esperanto? Jun 15, 2022

Benny shares the reasons he learned Esperanto and why it's so useful, despite it not being an officially recognized language. The international Esperanto community is one that Benny loves being a part of, not least because they know how to throw a good party! And learning this as one of your first languages has been shown to have significant benefits for learning subsequent languages, giving you momentum, confidence, and skills that are highly transferable.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#103 Simon Ager on Creating an Encyclopedia of Languages Jun 13, 2022

Linguistics expert and language enthusiast, Simon Ager, talks with Benny and Elizabeth about creating one of the internet’s biggest (and first) encyclopedias of languages and writing systems.

On his website, omniglot.com, Simon has cataloged over 340 writing systems and collated information about more than 1,600 languages. Simon has studied a wide range of languages including Chinese, Japanese, French, German, and he has a particular interest in Celtic languages.

Mentioned in this Episode

Patreon Extended Episode

Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to extended episodes and loads more content. Here’s what you’ll hear in the long-form episode:

Comparing learning music and languages
Singing as pronunciation practice
Metaskills: The skill of learning a new skill
Benny and Elizabeth’s best languages

Learn more and access this bonus content on Patreon.

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Making the most of immersion experiences
Simon’s favourite resources, including Duolingo and Memrise
A typical day of language learning
First steps for using Omniglot.com
Using your languages to aid research on Wikipedia
Getting a Masters in Linguistics, and where it can take you
Celtic languages and their revival
Responding to “why bother?” criticism
Integrating the four pillars of language into daily life
People-watching in your target language

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#102 Professor Argüelles on Learning a Language in 15 Minutes a Day Jun 06, 2022

Professor, polyglot and all-round language expert, Alexander Argüelles, talks with Benny and Elizabeth about his routines, methods, favourite activities and language learning interests.

Professor Argüelles employs his vast experience to help people learn languages through a variety of methods, including reading circles and videos on his YouTube channel, and he shares a lot of advice and inspiration during this conversation.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

What it’s like to be inside the brain of someone who speaks numerous languages
Learning a language in 15 minutes a day
Doing what you love in your language
Reading in target languages
A daily language learning routine
How to learn a language through reading circles
What shadowing is
The “scriptorium” method
Mythology, religion and language
Digital detox and screen-free time

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

Ask Benny: Two Big Announcements! Jun 01, 2022

This week Benny shares some exciting news in a special Ask Benny episode. Benny is heading back out on the road, to live the nomadic life he loves. This means new language challenges and lots of interesting updates from his travels.

Things are also changing for the podcast, as this week we launch the option to support us on Patreon. The podcast is still continuing as normal on the usual channels, and if you sign up to Patreon at https://languagehacking.com/patreon you'll now get access to extended interviews, exclusive content from our hosts, discounts on Fi3M products and lots of other valuable language learning content.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

#101 Scott Brills on World Travel & Language Survival Basics May 30, 2022

World traveler, tour coordinator, and language learner, Scott Brills, joins Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy to chat about “faking” comprehension, deep-diving into cultural experiences, and cross-country adventures around the world.

Scott has an impressive travel résumé having taken part in the Mongol Rally, traversing India in a rickshaw, and building a business that provides travelers with rich cultural immersion experiences. If you’re interested in travel, living abroad, or multicultural entrepreneurship, this is the episode for you.

Mentioned in this Episode

Patreon Extended Episode

Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to extended episodes and loads more content. Here’s what you’ll hear in the long-form episode:

Dealing with the logistics of building work and making a living in other countries
Scott’s ideal language learning routine
Scott’s 3 Language Survival Resources
How to fit in language learning as a busy entrepreneur
What the hosts’ favorite languages are
What languages the hosts struggled with most
Memorable gaffs the hosts made in their languages

Learn more and access this bonus content on Patreon.

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Living abroad at a young age in Japan
Combatting loneliness and fear of living alone in another country
How to get through the roadblocks along the path to fluency
Why you sometimes just need to be thrown into the deep end
Running culinary tours in Japan and safaris in Tanzania
Taking part in the Mongol Rally, driving through 16 countries for charity and learning to rely on the support of strangers
Traveling across India in a rickshaw on three different occasions
Learning a language by “faking” comprehension
Gaining the confidence to approach complete strangers in another language

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#100 Celebrating 100 Episodes with Scott Young May 23, 2022

Our first ever Language Hacking Podcast guest, author, and course creator, Scott Young, revisits the show to catch up with Benny and Shannon and share what’s changed for him over the last two years with his language learning and projects.

Scott is an expert on learning and how to work better. He’s a best-selling author who took on the MIT Challenge, A Year Without English, and many more intensive learning projects. In this episode, he shares many of his thoughts on momentum, confidence, and balancing life with other pursuits.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How Scott’s life has changed over the past two years
Building a multilingual family and learning Macedonian
How to stay engaged in learning
Dealing with the long-term maintenance work of learning languages
How to get back into learning after losing momentum and confidence
Time and energy management for intensive learning projects
Setting concrete learning goals
Top 5 things Scott learned since our last discussion with him
How to prioritize personal projects

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

#99 Shannon and Elizabeth on Self-Compassion in Language Learning May 16, 2022

Language Hacking Podcast co-hosts, Shannon Kennedy and Elizabeth Bruckner catch up and talk about how this last year has been a time of learning, and building self-compassion and resilience in both language learning and life.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Moving your body and language learning to help with anxiety and other negative emotions
Putting yourself out there with positive energy and being open to connection
The power of being quiet and observation before jumping in
The art of being interested in other people and being of service to others
Touch and tactile learning
Sneaking in language learning in unexpected situations
Keeping an index card with a list of tools and an action plan for difficult moments
Mindfulness practices and language learning
Re-reading your favorite books in another language
12-step meetings and using them for language learning
Art and music therapy

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: What are Language Islands? May 11, 2022

This new episode is all about language islands. Benny explains how creating these specific areas of language knowledge, based on your personal needs or interests, is a solid way to build confidence and get speaking when you start learning a language. And using these topics as a focus will help you reach fluency quicker, as you're able to talk about your islands in depth, and with confidence.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

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#98 Benny and Shannon on Language Learning When Life Happens May 09, 2022

Language Hacking Podcast co-hosts Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy catch up and share what their own recent language learning projects, takeaways, and milestones have been, as they approach the 100th episode of the podcast.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

What Shannon and Benny have been working on in the last year
Shannon’s thoughts on consolidation and consistency in language learning
Why Benny needs projects and urgency to find success in language learning
Personal challenges Benny and Shannon have faced and how they worked through them
Shannon and Benny’s plans over the next year

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#97 Louisa on Learning About Herself Through Italian May 02, 2022

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participant and Italian learner, Louisa, speaks to Benny and Shannon about how she learned as much about herself, as she did about languages, while taking part in the Challenge.

Louisa found as many opportunities to personally develop in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge as she did as learned Italian.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Language learning goals
Learning about yourself while learning languages
Starting over with language learning as an adult
Using role play to learn languages
Traveling to Italy and getting to use the language
The struggles and rewards of using a speaking-based approach to learning languages
The importance of breaks
Why language learning apps become “busy work”
Language learning routines during intensive study periods and around everyday life
How to get through moments of self-doubt
Building language islands

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: What is the Pomodoro Technique? Apr 27, 2022

Benny shares how he uses the "Pomodoro Technique" in his language missions,, and explains how you can use it to work or study for longer periods of time. The Pomodoro Technique is a very accessible system of working that requires nothing more than a timer and a little bit of self discipline (but not that much!). Benny has found it really helps him to manage his ADHD, maintain focus, and not give into distractions.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

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#96 Fiona’s 90-Day Italian Challenge Apr 25, 2022

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge winner, Fiona, joins Benny and Elizabeth to talk about her progress learning Italian, the myth of “natural talent”, and how excited she is to speak to family, friends and Italian locals without the need of a translator.

This episode features Fiona, who made significant progress with Italian in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Busting the myth of “natural talent”
Getting help with you’re a technophobe
The two-way street of the Challenge community
Overcoming reluctance to create videos
Differences between learning in school and learning with the Challenge
How Fiona learns Italian from her daughter and practises with her husband
Tips for new language learners and first time Challengers
Finding every opportunity you can to talk in your target language
Combining language practise with exercise and building routines
Perseverance as the key to success and parallels with climbing a mountain
Benny’s approach to learning and maintaining multiple languages
How to mindfully approach strangers in their native language
Memorising ice-breaker phrases for striking up conversation, or just barging in!

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#95 Jeremy Ginsburg on "Beginner's Mind" Apr 18, 2022

Business coach and self-proclaimed “VietNomad”, Jeremy Ginsbury, talks with Benny Lewis about his experiences living in Israel, Ghana and Vietnam, and being on reality TV in another language.

Ready to get back into more serious language learning, Jeremy reflects on the bits and pieces of different languages he has picked up throughout his life, and how the positive feedback he has received by locals has been a great source of motivation.

Featured Resources

Speak in a Week

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics discussed in the interview are:

The impact of using the foreign version of your name when travelling
Studying abroad in Israel and Ghana
Facing depression when living and working abroad
Ways personalities change in different languages and countries
“Beginner’s mind” and the power of naivety
Failing fast and failing often
Knowing yourself being very important for learning
Jeremy’s experience on a Vietnamese reality TV show
Integrating your interests into your language learning - yoga, music, ice bathing
Using communities you’re part of through hobbies, as a way to practise language

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: What's Your Favourite Language App? Apr 13, 2022

In this episode, Benny talks about why, after many years of using it, Anki is still his favourite app for language learning. Anki is a free flashcard app that utilises spaced repetition theory to help you learn vocabulary that you input yourself. While some people may find Anki a bit bland, Benny explains how the simplicity of the software not only makes learning more efficient and focussed, but also has a lot of specific benefits for someone with ADHD.

Benny guides you through the key features of Anki and the process of importing your own vocabulary lists, so you can make sure you're learning words that are relevant to you.

You can find a more detailed guide to using Anki here: https://www.fluentin3months.com/anki-cards/

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

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#94 Sam on Comedy and Humor in Language Learning Apr 11, 2022

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participant, Sam, joins Shannon and Benny to talk about how the Challenge changed the way he learned languages and helped him find consistency and discover new language learning methods.

This episode features Sam, who made significant progress in many languages in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics discussed in the interview are:

Hating languages in school and going on to love them later in life
Discovering your learning style and how it leads to success
How the Challenge changed the way Sam learned languages
How to work through roadblocks in your learning
Why “done” is better than perfect
Using comedy as a language learning tool
Combining writing with shadowing as a learning method
How novelty and newness can keep you engaged and excited about your languages
Stick-with-it-ness and the power of consistency

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#93 Laetitia on How to Find a Great Language Tutor Apr 04, 2022

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge coach, Laetitia, joins Benny and Elizabeth to talk about her varied experience learning or dabbling in many languages: English, German, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Dutch and Vietnamese.

This episode features Laetitia, who made significant progress with several language in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

The importance of having an inspirational tutor
Things to consider when looking for a tutor
Finding your tribe with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
The pitfall of expecting learning to be passive
Why you should take the time to find out which methods and resources work for you
Being as nice to yourself as you would be to a friend
The pointlessness and dangers of comparisons and perfectionism
Remember, you don’t know every word in your native language!
How technology can be a great tool for learning, so don’t be scared of it
Reading to maintain languages and being happy to understand 60%
Culture shock and learning “on the job” in Japan - a little goes a long way
How to create an effective language exchange

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: Does Daily Duolingo Really Help? Mar 30, 2022

For this episode, Benny shares his opinions and experience of the Duolingo app. Getting points and maintaining a streak may be great motivators, but does it really work if you want to speak the language? Benny explains how gamified apps can be a valuable part of your language learning, but to be successful, there is another important element that should be central to your practise.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

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#92 Tom O’Neill on Language Learning for Introverts Mar 28, 2022

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participant and coach, Tom, joins Shannon and Benny to talk about his building confidence and courage as an introverted language learner as a part of the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

This episode features Tom, who made significant progress in many languages in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics discussed in the interview are:

Learning new writing systems and Asian languages
Using scripts to get ahead in your conversations in another language
Why you sometimes need to do things that are outside your comfort zone, like videos, to get ahead in your learning
How introversion impacts your language studies - both good and bad
How to pick the right language tutor
How to build confidence and courage in yourself and your language skills
Maintaining motivation when life throws curveballs at you
Tips for avoiding the comparison trap
Choosing things to talk about in another language
How to get through moments in conversations where you don’t understand
Why it’s important to celebrate success - whether big or small
Juggling multiple languages as a hobbyist

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#91 Manish on Juggling Multiple Languages Mar 21, 2022

Long-time participant in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge, Manish, joins Shannon and Benny to talk about his experience learning a wide variety of languages through many different methods.

This episode features Manish, who made significant progress in many languages in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Finding the confidence to talk to strangers in another language
What to do if someone close to you doesn’t support your language goals
Moving from in-person to online learning
Juggling multiple languages from diverse language families
The value of community and support
Manish’s many years of experience with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Strategies for reviewing languages and notes
Paying it forward and sharing your experience with new learners
The importance of learning colloquial language

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: St Patrick's Day / Seachtain na Gaeilge Special Mar 16, 2022

This week’s Ask Benny is a celebration of the Irish language. Benny talks about some of his favourite websites for learning Irish, including dictionaries, media sites, and other useful resources. This special episode is essential listening for anyone learning, or wanting to learn, Gaeilge (the Irish language). Links to all of the resources Benny mentions in this episode can be found below.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

Featured Resources

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#90 St. Patrick’s Day Special: Sadelle’s Irish Journey Mar 14, 2022

In this week’s special St. Patrick’s Day episode, Community Coach for the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge, Sadelle Wiltshire, talks with Elizabeth and Benny about learning Irish and joining the Challenge at an upper-beginner level.

This episode features Sadelle, who made significant progress with her Irish speaking abilities in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Additional Recommended Resources

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Joining the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge at an A2 level
Humor as a motivator when learning
Music and singing when learning Irish
Getting your head around Irish pronunciation
How to deal with the different Irish dialects
Gaelic vs Irish
How to build a community in your target language
First steps and resources for Irish
The secret to having fun in your target language
Overcoming shyness, perfectionism and fear of speaking

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#89 Elena Guillén on Going from Dabbler to Consistent Learner Mar 07, 2022

Language dabbler and native Spanish speaker, Elena Guillén, speaks with Benny and Shannon about learning Hindi during the pandemic, as a part of the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

This episode features Elena, who found the routine and structure of the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge helped her make significant progress with Hindi in just 90 days.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

The pros of being an introverted language learner
Learning languages with ADD and finding focus
Using structures vs frameworks
Overcoming perfectionism and distraction
Tips for studying lesser-learned and ancient languages
Finding commonalities between languages
Advantages and disadvantages of knowing multiple languages
Learning through music, songs and films
Learning vocabulary with the “goldlisting” method
The power of community and accountability
The fun of learning different writing systems

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: How Do You Gather the Courage to Speak? Mar 02, 2022

In this episode Benny gives a pep-talk to help you find motivation and courage to start a conversation in your target language. It can be so tempting to avoid speaking, whether it's because you're shy, embarrassed, or scared of making mistakes. But if you can bite the bullet and take the leap, you'll be surprised by just how much you can achieve. Listen to this episode if you need a bit of a confidence boost!

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

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#88 Cara Leopold on Fast-Talking Native Speakers Feb 28, 2022

Listening expert, Cara Leopold, talks with Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy about how she helps people improve their ability to understand fast-talking native speakers.

For the majority of people, listening is the first language skill we develop - it actually starts before we’re born! Cara explains how visual context, transcripts, and relevant content are all crucial for effective listening development. She also talks about how English changes when it’s spoken quickly, and gives advice for using subtitles effectively to learn a language by watching movies.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

The stress of classroom listening activities at school
Why our listening ability may be behind our other language skills
Overcoming the fear that comes with not understanding when someone speaks
Visual clues playing an important role in listening
How to improve your listening comprehension
Ways to use TV and movies as tools to improve listening
Different ways to use subtitles effectively
Being an eco-friendly language learner

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#87 John Fotheringham on “Anywhere Immersion” Feb 21, 2022

Language Mastery creator and author, John Fotheringham, joins Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy to discuss “anywhere immersion”, learning difficult languages, and finding the fun in language learning.

John has a wealth of experience learning Japanese and Mandarin, which he shares with us in this episode. If you’re interested in learning either of these, or any other “difficult” language, this is the episode for you.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Learning “difficult” languages like Japanese and Mandarin
How to immerse yourself in a language at home
Practising your language with Alexa
Learning languages through activities that you love
Living abroad and creating memories in the local languages
How to choose language learning tools and methods suited to you personally
Fun ways to learn languages
Experiencing languages as a learner, teacher, and mentor
Recommended books for language learners

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: How Can I Find Content in a Less Common Language? Feb 16, 2022

In this week's "Ask Benny" episode, Benny addresses the problem of finding content in a less commonly spoken (or learned) language, and shares how he "trains" online algorithms to find the content he wants. He also reveals his method for finding good radio stations in your target language, and who he likes to ask for recommendations.

Benny put together this episode based on his recent experience seeking out engaging content in Catalan, Irish, and American Sign Language (ASL).

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

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#86 Andrew Hamerlinck on What Sports Coaches Can Teach Language Learners Feb 14, 2022

Soccer coach and fitness trainer, Andrew Hamerlinck, speaks with Benny and Shannon about learning German and Spanish to chat with his fellow soccer players in their native languages.

This episode features Andrew, who made significant progress with his German and Spanish speaking abilities in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How language and sports intersect
Using mini milestones or missions to say motivated
The importance of discipline, accountability, and community
Habit-stacking fitness and language learning
Building scripts
Language islands
Using “dials” to assess your workload

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#85 Alicya on Wine Tasting to Learn French Feb 07, 2022

Writer and long-term expat, Alicya, speaks with Benny and Elizabeth about learning French through the lens of another passion - wine tasting.

This episode features Alicya, who made significant progress with her French speaking ability in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Arriving in France with zero French
Why the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge is so good, even for a shy or introverted person
What it’s like living in France as an American
Why Alicya had a harder time with French than Spanish and Italian
How to make the most of a language exchange opportunity
Raising a bilingual child
Learning to read, and reading to learn
Wine as a gateway to learning about French culture and history
Developing a French “wine language island”
Learning to do things using your target language
How to tackle a polyglot Challenge

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: New "Language Hacking Mandarin" Book Release Feb 02, 2022

This week Benny talks about his experience with Mandarin, and why it doesn't deserve its reputation of being a difficult language for native English speakers to learn. He explains that if you focus on speaking, and leave the Chinese characters to one side, there are actually a lot of things that make Mandarin less complicated than many other languages.

Benny discusses learning and teaching Mandarin with Northwestern University professor, Dr. LiCheng Gu in more detail in episode 85. Benny, Shannon Kennedy, and Dr Gu worked together to write the new "Language Hacking Mandarin" book, which is a fantastic resource for anyone wanting to make quick and effective progress speaking Chinese.

You can get a copy of "Language Hacking Mandarin" here.

To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@languagehacking) or Twitter (@fi3m), or you can email ask@languagehacking.com

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#84 Dr. Gu on Co-Writing ‘Language Hacking Mandarin’ Feb 01, 2022

Northwestern University Professor and author, Dr. LiCheng Gu, has a conversation with Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy about co-authoring Language Hacking Mandarin, how language education has changed over the last 30 years, and why Chinese is easier than you think.

Language Hacking Mandarin is available now. You can order it from your preferred retailer, online or in stores.

Featured Resources

Language Hacking Mandarin

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Teaching foreign languages at the university level
How language education has changed over the last 30 years
Learning Chinese characters
Why Chinese is easier than you think
Common challenges Chinese learners face and how to overcome them
Creating language courses and books
Working on the Language Hacking Mandarin book, and how its approach to language teaching is vastly different from traditional language learning
The conversational approach to language learning and how it “sits” in academia
Advice for getting started with Chinese
Using pinyin when learning Chinese
How languages are taught and learned in China versus the US

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#83 Hugo Cotton on Learning Through Topics that Matter Jan 24, 2022

Inner French podcast creator and host, Hugo Cotton, chats with Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy about using languages as tools to learn about other things, choosing compelling language content, and how to use what you’re hearing in another language in conversations.

Hugo knows how to both choose and create compelling comprehensible input for language learners. He uses this strength to host the popular language podcast, Inner French.

Featured Resources

Inner French

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

The story behind the creation of Inner French
Using languages as a tool to learn about other things
What Hugo likes about certain language learning podcasts
Good resources for learning a language in this way, without being too complicated
Tricks for finding good resources in another language
Choosing compelling content as a language teacher
Using controversial conversation topics to spark interest and passion
Biggest struggles French learners face
How to use what you’re hearing and learning in another language, in conversations

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: How Can I Incorporate the 4 Pillars of Language Learning into My Routine? Jan 19, 2022

This week, Benny looks at the four pillars of language - reading, writing, speaking, and listening - and talks about his approach to each of them. He also shares his favourite online resources for working on each skill. For beginner learners who want to speak a new language, Benny's advice is to focus almost all your efforts on speaking and listening. If speaking is your goal, it should be your main focus.

Using graded materials such as podcasts is a great way to practise listening, and later, short texts like Twitter posts or online articles will help you make reading progress without getting overwhelmed. Writing is a low priority for most learners until the advanced stages, unless you need it for your job.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#82 Liz of “Talk the Streets” on How to Get Started with Portuguese Jan 17, 2022

Liz from Talk the Streets chats with Benny Lewis about her passion for speaking Portuguese, living in Portugal, and helping others learn the language so that they can enrich their experiences in the country.

Liz made it her mission to introduce more people to the Portuguese language and culture, after being shocked to find her university textbooks in the “Miscellaneous Languages” section of the library. She tells Benny about her experience moving to live permanently in Lisbon, and how she’s expanding opportunities to learn European Portuguese, rather than the more prevalent Brazilian dialect.

Featured Resources

Drops

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Learning Spanish at school and adding Portuguese at university
Why Portugal is a good place for entrepreneurs to live
The biggest differences between Brazilian and European Portuguese
Learning about culture through language and music
Why Liz chose to focus on learning European Portuguese
Resources specific to learning European Portuguese
Culture shock when moving to Portugal
Liz’s “eureka!” moment with her Portuguese level
Techniques and methods for getting started learning Portuguese
How intermediate speakers can improve their pronunciation

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#81 Carine Lemaire on Fearless Language Practice Jan 10, 2022

Language coach and French teacher, Carine Lemaire, shares about her experience growing up trilingual, being a language learner with ADHD, watching 300 hours of TV, and the pitfalls of language apps.

Carine’s approach to teaching is very student-led, and she has a great understanding of how important it is to learn in a way that suits you and your personality. She talks about how her ADHD impacts her study routine, and ways to manage “type A” students’ expectations.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Growing up trilingual (French, Italian and Swahili), and losing a language when you stop practising it
David Bowie and other British music as a motivation to learn English
Pros and cons of teaching groups and one-to-one
How to solve language learning “emergencies”
Watching 300 hours of TV to improve listening skills
The importance of trust between teacher and student
How to learn languages as a “type A” person
Benny’s daily language learning routine (or lack thereof)
Working with, and around, ADHD
The pitfalls of gamified learning apps
Becoming a writer in a non-native language, and learning by making mistakes
Differences between French in France and Belgium
Carine’s French Chatter podcast, and learning from intermediate French speakers
Persistence, variety, and being fearless in your language practise

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: Benny's 2022 Language Learning Plans Jan 03, 2022

After several years living in the USA, Benny is finally returning to a life of full-time travel. This means he'll have a lot more opportunities to use his languages and build new language skills. In terms of language learning, the plan is to spend the first half of the year working hard to push his main languages to their best. As for the second half of the year... that's a story still to unfold.
To access our New Year deals visit languagehacking.com/deals.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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Ask Benny: How to Get Started with a New Language in 2022 Jan 01, 2022

Benny loves helping people start their language learning journey. Whether it's your first new language or your tenth, it's important to consider how you start, so you can build confidence quickly. In this episode Benny talks about how to get set up with spoken lessons and how to find course recommendations. And of course, having friends who support you is key - whether you join the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge, or build your own community, it's the most important way to ensure continued success.
To access our New Year deals visit languagehacking.com/deals.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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Ask Benny: How to Make New Year's Resolutions that Actually Stick Dec 31, 2021

Benny looks towards the New Year and shares ways you can make your New Year's Resolutions more effective. More often than not, vague goals fizzle out over time, but you'll have much more success if you're SMART in setting your resolutions.
To access our New Year deals visit languagehacking.com/deals.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#80 Yawhann’s 90 Day Language Challenge Dec 27, 2021

This episode features Yawhann, who learned conversational Cantonese and Mandarin in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How parents can encourage their kids to embrace their heritage languages
Why “I don’t have enough time” is usually an excuse rather than a good reason
Strategies for keeping conversations with natives in your target language
Using your technical skills in learning languages
The ways language creates cultural connections
Hann’s experience in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge and the importance of accountability
Learning similar languages
When it’s the right time to learn your second, second language
Reframing your language learning progress as successes rather than small steps

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: Mental Health and Language Learning Dec 22, 2021

Benny is getting stuck back into some language projects, which have recently included Irish, Spanish, Chinese, and Catalan. As he's doing this, he's taken the opportunity to reflect on how difficult life events and mental health challenges have impacted his language learning. It has been challenging, with some very hard times leading to Benny making his mental health recovery a priority.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#79 Lina Vasquez on Holistic Language Coaching Dec 20, 2021

Holistic language coach, Lina Vasquez, talks to Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy about growing up multilingual, holistic language learning, and how personal development impacts how you learn languages.

Lina really understands herself as a learner, and knows how to play to her strengths. She uses her knowledge of psychotherapy and positive psychology to help people understand themselves better, so they can approach learning in a way that will be both effective and enjoyable.

Featured Resources

Lina’s Coaching

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Growing up bilingual
Deciding when to dabble and when to deep dive with a language
What holistic learning is and what holistic language coaching looks like
Incorporating meditation into language learning
Quick tips for implementing a more holistic language learning approach
Mindfulness practices for language learners
Using your strengths and personality to design your language learning routine
Building your self-esteem and confidence by getting to know yourself
Indirect ways personal development impacts your language learning
Mental blocks that get in our way of our overall development and how to break through them
Lina’s personal strategies for learning languages

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: Reactivating My Catalan After 15 Years Dec 15, 2021

This week Benny gives an update about his own language learning progress and shares his method for jump-starting a dormant language. In 2006 Benny spent the summer intensively learning Catalan, but hasn't maintained it since. After 15 years of letting this language lie dormant, it's time to get it back ahead of his upcoming trip to Mallorca.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#78 Christmas Special: Top Gifts for Language Learners Dec 13, 2021

Benny, Elizabeth, and team members from Fluent in 3 Months share their favourite gifts for language learners. Use this to get ideas for your festive shopping this year, or pass this wishlist on to your friends, family, and Santa Claus!

Whether you’re thinking about what to buy or what you’d like to receive, this episode is packed with ideas that will help make this a perfect polyglot Christmas. We’ve got suggestions for all budgets, all language levels, and all ages, so you’re bound to find something that will put a smile on a language learner’s face this festive season.

Featured Gifts

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the gift ideas mentioned during the episode are:

A bullet journal, colourful pens, and sticky notes
A ringbinder, plastic pockets, paper, and hole puncher
Books, and graphic novels
The Harry Potter series, Marc Levy, and Edward Rutherford books
Recipe books, and cooking a traditional Christmas dish
A magazine subscription
Making a playlist of target language songs
Giving someone the gift of time so they can study
A board game, and children’s activity books
Gift cards for books or online lessons, and coupons for tech support
Keyboard cover/skin, and wireless or waterproof headphones

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#77 Gabriel Silva on Learning Two Languages at the Same Time Dec 06, 2021

Polyglot and language coach, Gabriel Silva, talks with Benny Lewis and Elizabeth Bruckner about his method for learning two languages at the same time, and the joy of random interactions in your target language.

Gabriel is very active on YouTube and Instagram, and his popular #1SentenceChallenge inspires learners around the world to share videos of their progress. Gabriel helps his students to manage their expectations when it comes to learning, and is very transparent about how long it has taken him to reach milestones in his languages.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Fluctuations in motivation and how to “ride the wave”
The pitfalls of grammar-based languages courses
Finding the fun and pleasure in language learning
The joy of interactions with random people in your target language
Matching your learning activities to your energy levels
An 80/20 approach to learning two languages at once
Managing frustration and not giving up
The benefit of walking away from a problem for a while, and adding variety to your learning
Gabriel’s #1SentenceChallenge
Consistency as the key to progress
How recording yourself speaking, even just for yourself, can be so helpful
How to manage expectations, and how being part of a community can really help

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: What if I Can't Prepare Before a Lesson? Dec 01, 2021

Benny shares how he manages lessons when he is particularly busy. We all have weeks that are busier than usual. Benny recommends that you resist the temptation to cancel your lessons! It's not ideal to skip the prep, but the lesson can still be really valuable if you follow Benny's advice.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#76 Ben Phillips on How to Live and Study Abroad for Free Nov 29, 2021

19-year-old student, Ben Phillips, talks to Benny Lewis and Elizabeth Bruckner about his experience of doing a highschool German exchange programme, and how he stayed focussed and motivated enough to reach C1 level after just a year.

Ben explains how, after unsuccessfully dabbling in Japanese, Greek and Mandarin, he was able to excel at German in such a short period of time, how and why reading is so integral to his learning, and the ways he has been able to travel and live abroad more or less for free.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

High school language exchanges and language camp with the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange
Attending a German school and the joy of finally being able to participate in a class discussion
Taking and passing the C1 test in German after only a year of learning
How to make the most of opportunities to learn a language while living abroad
The importance of keeping your goal in mind
How speaking with people and learning about a culture in your target language is its own reward
Overcoming the temptation to slip back into English while living abroad
How to set monthly goals and why they’re useful
How to find time to study and still do the things you enjoy in your free time
Tracking your accomplishments, like finishing a book in your target language
Reading as a key part of your language practice - novels, Twitter, and using LingQ
Finding motivation to study when you don’t have the pressure of being in the country
Scholarships and work exchanges as ways to travel and have enriching experiences abroad for free

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#75 Doree Huneven on Worldwide Travel, Reward Systems and Sleeping Languages Nov 15, 2021

Polyglot and avid traveller, Doree Huneven, joins Benny Lewis and Elizabeth Bruckner to talk about her experience learning multiple languages, travelling the world, and how the violin has made her a better learner.

Doree shares why she thinks discipline is the key to being a successful language learner and having fun, and why the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge is so appealing, even to an experienced language learner. We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How a family camping trip to Mexico sparked her love of languages
Teaching English in Egypt and learning Arabic
How studying and teaching the violin help with language learning
Why discipline is an invaluable asset
The value of being active in the Fi3M Challenge community
Why, as an experienced language learner, she still joined the Fi3M Challenge
Developing communities as you travel
The desire to connect with people as a driving force for learning
How language resources have changed over the last 50 years
Mimicking phrases, copying body language, and blending in with locals when you travel
Saving money, cutting costs, and making travel more financially accessible
The “Doree Huneven Reward System”
What Doree does with her “sleeping” languages

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: What's the Best Way to Prep for a Language Class? Nov 08, 2021

Benny shares his advice about how to prepare for a 1-1 language lesson, and his method for note taking before, during, and after lessons.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#74 Stephen Krashen on the Comprehensible Input Method Nov 01, 2021

Linguist and professional researcher joins Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy to discuss comprehensible input, compelling input, and language acquisition.

Stephen Krashen is a professor emeritus who is well-known for his work and research into comprehensible input. He has hundreds of publications to his name and has greatly contributed to the field of language acquisition.

Featured Resources

Stephen Krashen

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How a trip to Ethiopia led to Stephen Krashen’s career in linguistics
How adults go through a predictable language acquisition pattern
Why we know grammar but struggle to use it correctly, and how to bridge this gap
What comprehensible input is and why it works
How comprehensible input differs from compelling input
Why graded readers are effective resources for language learners
The power of reading fiction
How the speaking approach is still a mostly input approach
Making the shift from input to output
Accents, and how we’re better at them than we think
Managing your time with multiple languages
Romanization and its role in language acquisition

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#73 Juliana Russell on “Do Kids Learn Languages Better than Adults?” Oct 25, 2021

Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy chat with Juliana Russell of Language Mindset about supporting kids learning languages, resilience in language learning, and if kids really are better language learners than adults

Featured Resources

italki

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Developing a passion for languages through failure
Building a language business
Strategies for teaching children languages
Are kids really better language learners than adults?
Advantages and disadvantages for kids learning languages
How parents can support their children learning another language even if they’re not a native speaker
How to be a more resilient language learner
How to support a child who is resisting learning a new language
Ways to practice language with your kids outside of the classroom
How to maintain your languages when you can’t travel

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: What Should I Do Differently in Speaking Lessons at Different Levels? Oct 20, 2021

This week Benny talks about how to approach speaking sessions with a teacher differently, depending on your level. The "Speak from Day One" approach is an excellent starting point for beginners, but it's important to make sure you're improving and being challenged as you move into intermediate and beyond. Benny describes how and when he likes a teacher to correct mistakes, and how you can use homework assignments to really drive improvement.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#72 Jeremy Bardo on Going Viral in Another Language Oct 18, 2021

Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy chat with musician and translator Jeremy Bardo about his experience going viral with a Spanish language music video. We also discuss the myth of the language gene and finding joy in embarrassing moments.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

The myth of the “language gene”
Overcoming perfectionism by finding joy in embarrassing moments
Finding balance in your language studies
The power of technology in language learning
Cognates and how they can help you
Using a Spanish phrase book as a conversation starter
How learning languages helps you become a more compassionate language teacher
Important qualities language teachers should have
Identifying when an error is important and deserves feedback with your students
Using your interests to learn languages
Recording music and going viral in your non-native language
Finding a foothold in a new language with just a few words

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#71 Brittany Williams’ 90 Day Japanese Challenge Oct 11, 2021

This episode features Brittany, who learned conversational Japanese in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How the Challenge helped Brittany become an effective, independent language learner
How and why the Speak from Day 1 approach works
Ways to stay engaged in your language learning
The power of scripting as a language learning tool
The impact of community in language learning
Building confidence through consistency
How the Challenge helped Brittany become a better English tutor
Strategies for overcoming perfectionism
Japanese resources for independent study
Why it’s important to understand the culture of your language

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: How Can I Speak Zero English in a Language Lesson? Oct 06, 2021

As a beginner, the idea of having a lesson where you only speak your target language can seem impossible. Benny shares some great ideas and resources that you can use to avoid your native language and start as you mean to go on. Speaking from day one is a daunting prospect, but with a bit of preparation and planning, it's absolutely achievable.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#70 Herr Professor on How Engineers Approach Language Learning Oct 04, 2021

In this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy talk to Manuel of “Herr Professor” about growing up multilingual, teaching German, and how engineers approach language learning.

Featured Resources

Herr Professor

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How Manuel used his technical background to learn new languages
How to turn language input into output
Why speaking is one of the biggest challenges for language learners
What makes input useful and how to avoid passive listening
What to do when you have trouble focusing on your language learning tools
How to find compelling, comprehensible input at your language level
Why building habits is so important in language learning
The importance of being able to drop things that don’t work and focus on the things that do

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#69 Sara Maria Hasbun on the Psychology of Language Learning Sep 27, 2021

Sara Maria Hasbun, founder of Meridian Linguistics, shares about psycholinguistics, working in the language industry, and “extreme” language learning.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Choosing which language to learn
Learning languages in diverse language families
Studying psycholinguistics
Dialect and accent in sign languages
Living in different countries and learning the languages
Differences between a polyglot and a linguist
Learning a language with few resources
Why fluency doesn’t need to be the end goal for learning a language
Deciding when to learn a new language and when to focus on past languages
Technology and language
Balancing entrepreneurship in languages with language learning
Using accountability systems for motivation
Rote learning and its benefits
Combatting the boring aspects of language learning with tricks and bribes
Lessons from living abroad
“Extreme” language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: How Can I Start Reading in My Target Language? Sep 22, 2021

Reading in your new language can be a daunting task, but Benny has some great advice this week for taking it one step at a time. By starting small and building up gradually, you'll make steady progress. There are so many brilliant resources out there that you can use, and reading isn't just a solo activity, so make sure it's something you practise with your teacher or exchange partner.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#68 Anthony Metivier on Building a Magnetic Memory Sep 20, 2021

“Warrior of the mind” Anthony Metivier chats with Shannon Kennedy and Benny Lewis about his Brain Exercise Bootcamp and memory strategies for language learners.

Featured Resources

Brain Exercise Bootcamp

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Memory methods for language learners
Why personalization is necessary for language learning
Learning German and Mandarin with memory techniques
Why language learning is more than just memorizing
How it’s easy to cheat your learning with SRS
How to get better at building mnemonics
Ways to speed up your memorizing
How memory exercises can benefit your mental health
Tips for learning “dead” languages

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#67 Mari Silvestrini on Energy and Momentum in Language Learning Sep 13, 2021

Polyglot Mari Salvestrini shares how she uses Instagram for accountability in her language learning, how to develop language routines based on energy, and why breaks are important in this episode with hosts Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy.

Featured Resources

Memrise

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Using Instagram for accountability
Getting momentum in language learning when in low spirits
The online community and finding support
Developing a language learning routine based on energy levels
Tricks for focusing better
Mari on helping her mom relearn her native language
Mari on gaining the confidence to share her story on Youtube
Tips for becoming a more confident language learner
Slow learning and why it might be the right language learning strategy for you
Overcoming challenges in language learning
Why breaks are important
Fighting perfectionism in language learning
How to learn multiple languages at the same time

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: Should I Learn Verb Conjugations Before Trying to Speak? Sep 08, 2021

Grammar getting you down? Benny's here to help! This week he takes the pressure off by explaining how he approaches (or ignores!) grammar, particularly verb conjugations, when he starts a new language. Making mistakes is an important part of the learning process, especially in the early days, and the most important thing is to be understood. Leaving the grammar to one side for a while and focussing on communication can really help you progress at the beginning of your language journey.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#66 Anja Spilker on Creating a Language School in Mexico Sep 06, 2021

Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy talk to Anja Spilker about learning Nahuatl, combating negative feedback as a language learning, and running a language business.

Featured Resources

ZALOA Languages

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Living in Mexico in a second language
Opening a language school
Using social gatherings to gain conversation skills in a new language
Combining fitness with language learning
Building a business in another country
Learning Nahuatl and discovering a passion for indigenous languages
Helping create resources to support others with lesser learned languages
Combating negative feedback as a language learner
Strategies for keeping your conversations in the target language
Learning languages for travel
Transitioning from brick-and-mortar to an online business

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#65 Alice Cimino on Learning With Downton Abbey Aug 30, 2021

Alice Cimino, a 19 year old third culture kid, chats with Benny Lewis about growing up bilingual, being homeschooled, learning languages as a teenager, and much more.

Featured Resources

How I Learned Fluent Spanish and English the Hard Way (It’s Also the Best Way!

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Growing up in Guadeloupe and integrating Italian into her life
Moving as a teenager to the Dominican Republic with no Spanish
Homeschooling and the associated strengths and pitfalls
Learning English by reading Harry Potter
Improving her British accent with Downton Abbey and Love Island
Writing articles and learning to be creative in her non-native language
Why learning language number five isn’t as easy as it sounds

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: How Can I Find the Right Teacher? Aug 25, 2021

Have you ever struggled to find a language teacher who feels like a good fit for your learning style? You're not alone! What works for one person might not work for you, and Benny has some great tips this week for finding someone you can work well with. Knowing what you want from a teacher is an important starting point, and trying out a few people and reflecting on the experiences is crucial to finding a successful working relationship.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#64 Shahidah Foster on Starting Black Girls Learn Languages Aug 23, 2021

Shahidah Foster, founder of Black Girls Learn Languages, chats with Shannon Kennedy and Benny Lewis about learning languages as a black woman and inspiring black voices in the language community.

Featured Resources

Sisters Only Language Summit

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Starting your own language learning business and event
Challenges learning languages as a woman of color
Imposter syndrome in language learning
Living and learning languages abroad
Inspiring black voices in the language community
Pushing yourself to your limits
Using wordplay as an entrepreneur
Finding your connection and why in language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#63 How to Become a Fearless Language Learner with Halima Salim Aug 16, 2021

Halima Salim, founder of Blackboard English and the Fearless English Podcast, discusses empowering women language learners, overcoming negative self-talk and changing ideologies in the ESL community with Shannon Kennedy and Benny Lewis.

Featured Resources

Blackboard English

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Living in Saudi Arabia as an illegal immigrant and its impact on education
Moving to the UK and learning English
Becoming a fearless language learner
Shutting down negative self-talk
Facing your greatest fears
Learning to read and write at a later age
Creating opportunities for women through English
Changing ideologies in the ESL community
Supporting your children learning another language
Creating a supportive Instagram community
Gaining confidence “being yourself”

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: How Can I Speak from Day One When I Don't Know a Single Word? Aug 11, 2021

Benny answers the question of how to start speaking a language before you know any words. He shares a couple of language hacks - like becoming familiar with cognates - that you can use ahead of your first conversation. His advice will help you feel prepared enough to dive in and speak from day one.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#62 Relearn a Language with Marissa Blaszko Aug 09, 2021

This episode features Marissa Blaszko who joins Benny and Elizabeth to discuss their language learning journey as a polyglot and keen heritage language learner! Marissa is the creator of Relearn a Language, a website that aims to popularize understandings of heritage language while sharing fun language learning resources.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Creating viral memes around language learning
Celebrating diversity and inclusion in the language learning community
Analysing data across the online language learning community
How to identify in the language learning community
Self care, therapy, and shame
Learning their heritage language and speaking with their grandparents

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#61 Svenja on Language Islands, Daily Habits and Finding Breakthroughs Aug 02, 2021

This episode features Svenja, who learned conversational Russian and Arabic in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Benny and Shannon have a conversation with Svenja about her experience of learning several languages as a part of the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How the Challenge helped Svenja make a breakthrough with her Arabic studies
Differences between learning a language in school versus on your own
Building language islands
Language learning struggles with grammar, pronunciation, and time management
Maintaining multiple languages
What a polyglot’s daily learning routine looks like
How to gain confidence as a language learner
Why it’s difficult to learn a language alone

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: How to Learn a Different Writing System Jul 28, 2021

Benny discusses languages with different writing systems, and when he starts learning to read and write. Depending on the language and writing system, it can be a few weeks or sometimes several months into the process before he tackles the writing system of a new language.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#60 Katie Pascoe on Virtual Reality Language Learning Jul 26, 2021

This episode features Katie Pascoe, editor of the Language Hacking podcast. Katie also co-founded VR Languages and helped create Dynamic Spanish.

Dynamic Spanish gets you speaking Spanish confidently in VR with the Starter Pack for beginners. More advanced learners can explore Spain in 360 guided tours with Dynamic Spanish Trips.

Katie also discusses her recent experience with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Getting an ear for languages by eavesdropping on family conversations in Punjabi
Living in, and learning languages in Korea, Brazil and Spain
The dynamic of learning languages as a couple
Creating VR Languages and a virtual reality Spanish course, Dynamic Spanish, for beginners and more advanced speakers
The immersion and experiential learning of language courses in virtual reality
How to use VR with a phone or an Oculus Quest
How Katie improved her past tense and subjunctive with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#59 Maria Ortega on the Poetry of Learning Languages Jul 19, 2021

Poet, artist and polyglot Maria Ortega Garcia talks to Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy about mindfulness, language learning as an introvert, and the power of using art and poetry as language learning tools.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Learning languages as an introvert
Mindfulness in language learning
Using poetry as a tool for languages
The biggest struggles students face trying to learn languages with poems
How artistic expression and creativity fit into language learning
Exploring identity through languages
Using art as an inspiration for language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#58 Janina Klimas on Using Acting Techniques to Improve Your Languages Jul 12, 2021

Language teacher and expat Janina Klimas shares how to create compelling language lessons for students, how acting is like language learning, and why recording yourself speaking your target language is so important.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Language acquisition vs language learning
How acting can boost your language learning and teaching
Building excitement around languages for your students as a teacher
What being a “reading specialist” means
Teaching and studying abroad
Figuring out your proficiency and levels in a language
Why recording yourself speaking is so important
Independent vs academic language learning success
Games you can play to learn languages
Language, culture, racism, and bias

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#57 Géraldine Lepère on Cultural Clues to Sound More French Jul 05, 2021

Benny and Elizabeth speak with French YouTube superstar Géraldine Lepère about the importance of understanding culture when learning a language.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

What to say to sound more French
Differences between French and Mexican culture
Adjusting to French culture
How to connect with French people
Reading French literature

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#56 Jo Franco on Being a Netflix Travel Chick Jun 28, 2021

Benny and Shannon dive deep with Netflix star, YouTube influencer and polyglot Jo Franco about growing up bilingual, developing a love of travel and language learning, and building connection through language.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Immigrating to the US and learning English in an ESL camp
Living between cultures and finding your identity
The language learning “spark”
Overcoming the fear of making mistakes
Jo’s travel show on Netflix
Building connections through language
Negative travel experiences and why they don’t stop Jo from traveling
Finding joy in challenges
Journaling as a language learning tool
Why the Circle is the best show for language learners
The importance of mindset in language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#55 Elfin Waters on Falling in Lust with Languages Jun 21, 2021

Native Italian speaker and teacher Elfin Waters shares with Benny and Shannon about falling in love with languages as an escape, using Instagram as a language learning resource, and building Italian language content for language learners.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Growing up in a family that prioritizes language learning
Shifting from language learner to language teacher
Getting in touch with the country with the language
Using Instagram as a learning tool
The power of compounding lots of small tasks
Slow learning and having fun with creativity
Finding joy in language learning
What language retreats are and finding the right one
Learning specific Italian dialects
Using food for language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#54 Jim and May on Spanish and Go Jun 14, 2021

Benny and Elizabeth chat with Jim and May of Spanish and Go about meeting to exchange Spanish and English, falling in love, and creating a language business together. Jim and May are the founders of Spanish and Go, language podcasters, content creators, and language teachers.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Combining love, travel, languages, and content creation
Developing content for language learners based on their greatest needs
Creating projects when you travel
Switching from English to Spanish in a relationship
Adjusting to Puerto Rican Spanish from Mexican Spanish
Cultural immersion
Day of the Dead
Immersion retreats in Mexico

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#53 Anja Winter on How Engaging Language Content Keeps you Coming Back Jun 07, 2021

Benny and Shannon have a discussion with Anja Winter about creating an online business and developing interesting, compelling lesson content to help students with language learning motivation.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Being a German language YouTuber and a digital nomad
Incorporating body movement into language learning
The importance of asking for help
Finding inspiration for lesson material as a language teacher
Advice for language teachers for creating an online business
Limiting the amount of resources you use
Making grammar fun with dialogues and phrases
Helping students overcome their biggest challenges
Studying abroad and immersion in languages
Using dialogues to learn languages
Maintaining motivation
Using Netflix and movies to learn
Student-teacher relationships and building connections

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: Update on Benny's Language Projects Jun 02, 2021

This week Benny gives a brief update about his current language projects, and how he's easing himself back into good routines. After a significant period away from language learning, it's important to take the time to figure out your methods and rebuild your study habits. The goal is to return to a place of consistent progress.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#52 Mark Pentleton on Creating Coffee Break Podcasts May 31, 2021

Benny and Elizabeth chat with Mark Pentleton about how he started the Coffee Break language podcasts and how his role shifted from language teacher to language learner.

Featured Resources

Coffee Break

Mentioned in this Episode

Coffee Break

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Starting and developing Coffee Break language podcasts
Moving from teacher to learner on the podcast
Helping his children learn languages at home
How students can overcome the intermediate plateau
Having patience and avoiding comparison with others
The opportunities that come from speaking languages
How to view mistakes and be resilient
How Mark found and built the Coffee Break team

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#51 Dustin and Ruben Share Accent Tips to Sound Like a Native Speaker in Spanish May 24, 2021

Benny and Shannon chat with Dustin Luke and Ruben Adery about how to develop an authentic Spanish accent by using rhythm, musicality, body language, and other local insider information.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

What happens when a language scientist and a casual learner team up
Tips for rolling your r’s
Having an authentic accent beyond pronunciation
Rhythm and musicality of pronunciation
Learning colloquial phrases and chunking phrases
Mindset and “getting into character” in a language
Body language and other local insider tips for learning languages
Getting local, native speakers to open up and use the language with you
Learning a specific dialect without moving to the country with the Five I’s
The sounds with the most variance in Spanish
Finding viral videos in your target language
How learning another language is like living another life
Teaching your nonnative language

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: How to Stop Getting Tempted by Shiny New Languages May 19, 2021

Have you ever been trying to learn one language, but found yourself tempted by a new one and distracted from your original goal? Benny is here to help! He shares ideas for staying engaged and interested in the language you're learning, which will help stop your eye from wandering.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#50 Dayna Brockbank on Budget Language Learning with Cartoons, Anki, and italki May 17, 2021

Benny and Shannon chat with Dayna Brockbank about learning languages on a budget with Duolingo, italki and Anki by building systems for motivation.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Learning Spanish while living in Chile in complete immersion
What makes language immersion work
How language learners waste time to try to be more effective
Tips for budget traveling
Building a career you can take traveling
Finding motivation with systems
How to choose which languages you learn
Building conversation skills in a new language
Learning for the sake of learning
Common struggles amongst English language learners
Something is better than nothing in language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#49 Alex Rawlings on Speaking 11 Languages Fluently May 10, 2021

Benny and Shannon discuss dual identities, language learning, and strategies for reviving a language with Alex Rawlings, who was once named Britain’s most multilingual student.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How Alex became Britain’s most Multilingual Student
How a polyglot keeps their languages active and prioritizes what to work on
Dealing with dual identities as someone who’s bicultural
Taking language learning from hobby to career
Living in South Africa and learning Afrikaans
Extensive reading as a language learning strategy
Strategies for reviving a language you’ve studied in the past
Using courses at the beginner stage of learning
Why you should adopt the philosophy of a “non-perfectionist”
Learning strategies for advanced language learners
Finding your voice in another language
Discovering stories in other languages

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: Is it Better to Learn Phrases Rather Than Words? May 05, 2021

When it comes to learning vocabulary, is it best to learn individual words, or phrases with the words in context? Benny gives his opinion, talks about his insights and explains how he likes to use flashcards and other techniques to learn vocabulary both as standalone words and in context.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#48 Sarah Gillespie on the Treasure Hunt of Learning a Rare Language May 03, 2021

This episode features Sarah Gillespie, who learned conversational Hiligaynon in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Benny and Elizabeth have a conversation with Sarah Gillespie about her experience of learning a heritage language with few resources as a part of the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Learning Hiligaynon in 3 months with the Challenge
Learning heritage languages
Enjoying the learning process with songs
Using trends to learn languages
Finding resources for more obscure languages
Using lots of apps, software, and habit forming techniques like habit stacking
How to use your target language with family and getting to know them better

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#47 Luca Lampariello on Questioning Everything When Learning Languages Apr 26, 2021

Benny and Shannon chat with Luca Lampariello, a well-known polyglot and language coach, about learning “useful” languages, breaking through limiting beliefs, and the most important thing when learning another language.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How languages can change your life
Learning “useful” vs “useless” languages
Going into language learning when coming from a technical background
Breaking through limiting beliefs
How Luca started his career in languages
Common mental blocks for language learners
How to speak with a native-like accent
Bidirectional translation
The most important thing when learning another language
How the desire to be a part of a community can be powerful motivation
How to juggle 14 languages

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: How to Watch Movies in My Target Language? Apr 21, 2021

This week Benny gives some advice about how to watch movies and TV in your target language, especially when it comes to subtitles. Watching media is a fantastic way to improve your language skills, but you need to do it the right way if you want to get the most out of it.
To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#46 How Ashton Went from B1 to C1 Spanish in 48 Days Apr 19, 2021

This episode features Ashton Bitten, who learned conversational Spanish in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

In this episode, Benny and Shannon talk to Ashton about her experience of going from intermediate (B1) to advanced (C1) Spanish in 48 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Being a language dabbler
Going on a trip to Rwanda, learning the language, and getting inspired to learn more languages
How failing a language proficiency exam led Ashton to focus on speaking
Discovering the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge and going from B1 to C1 in Spanish in 3 months
Using materials for native speakers to learn Spanish
Breaking down the CEFR language levels
Learning completely new languages after learning your first second language
Going from theory to speaking the language
Overcoming nervousness about speaking another language
On changing personalities with each language
Finding the “right” time to learn a language and time management
How COVID has impacted her language learning and dealing with those guilty feelings
Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy
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#45 Damon Dominique on Being a Travel & Language YouTuber Apr 12, 2021

Benny and Shannon talk to Damon Dominique, a French educator who got his start online as part of Damon and Jo, about learning languages to build connection, teaching without lecturing, and how to find confidence teaching online.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Going from traveler to travel vlogger
Being excited by learning languages through travel and creating connections
How reality tv inspired Damon to travel and learn languages
Creating entertaining language learning content on YouTube
Tips for building confidence and getting comfortable in front of the camera
Humor in language learning
Dating and navigating relationships in other languages
Being honest when sharing content online
Having different personas in different languages
How languages offer you a new perspective and shape who you are

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: Should I Learn Two Languages at Once? Apr 07, 2021

The answer to this week's question may surprise you. People often assume that polyglots learn multiple languages at the same time, but as Benny explains, this isn't as common as you might think. Listen to find out why learning more than one language at a time isn't necessarily the best tactic.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#44 Lizzy Rimington Shares Insider French Secrets from 30 Years Living in France Apr 05, 2021

In this episode, Benny and Elizabeth get the inside scoop on how to become a French cultural insider with Lizzy Rimington who has lived in France for the past 30 years.

Mentioned in this Episode

Benny’s Spanish Challenge

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Studying French at school and not actually learning the language
How living as an au pair kicked off Lizzy’s French understanding
How to integrate into French culture and build friendships
Why French etiquette is so important
Humor and how it can help you build relationships inner languages
The ways customer service is different in France than in other countries
What it’s like being vegetarian in France
What to do when the French insist on speaking English
When to use formal speech vs informal speech in French
Tips for getting French practice when you aren’t ready for a native speaker
Tricks you can use when you’re a beginner in a language

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#43 Eliza Simpson on Accent Training with Hollywood Stars Mar 29, 2021

Benny and Shannon chat with Hollywood Accent Training Coach to the stars, Eliza Simpson, on finding your voice in another language through accent and pronunciation.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Techniques and mechanics you learn to pick up accents
Visual aspects of learning the sounds of a language
What does vocal coaching look like?
Difference between dialect and accent
Dealing with difficult sounds in a language
How learning the accent of the language you’re learning in your native language helps you speak and other techniques you can use to learn accent
Tips for improving accent and pronunciation
Using comedy as a tool for language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: When Do I Learn Grammar? Mar 24, 2021

You asked, and Benny is here to answer! In this short episode he talks about why he thinks tackling grammar shouldn't be your top priority when learning a new language - phew, what a relief!

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#42 Jessie and Kike on Lockdown Language Success Mar 22, 2021

This episode features Jessie, who learned conversational Catalan in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

In this episode, Benny and Shannon speak to Jessie who learned her partner Kike’s native language as a part of the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Tackling a language like Catalan with few resources
What it’s like to have your partner learn your native language
Helping your partner learn your language
The benefits of doing more than one Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
How Jessie’s language learning progress inspired Kike to learn a language too
Why it’s a myth that you need to live in a country to learn the language
Learning a very specific dialect like Menorquin
The power of community in language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#41 Benny Lewis on How Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is Like Learning Languages Mar 15, 2021

Elizabeth interviews Benny about his experience climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro and how it parallels learning a language.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Mentioned in this Episode

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro and achieving a travel dream
Giving up on language learning
The compare and despair trap
Being okay with mistakes
Letting go of other people’s judgements
Finding the silver lining
How focusing on the end goal blinds you to the day to day progress
The importance of asking questions and getting an outside perspective
Why you make sure you have good people behind you

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: How Do You Remember Vocabulary in Another Language? Mar 10, 2021

You wanted advice for memorising vocabulary, and Benny is happy to deliver. Benny explains that it’s not about having a particularly great memory, but instead, using specific tactics to make things stick.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#40 Kris Broholm on Anti-Goals in Language Learning Mar 08, 2021

Benny and Elizabeth talk to Kris Broholm from Actual Fluency about language learning with depression, the language community, and the power of finding support.

This episode discusses depression. If you are currently experiencing depression, we recommend speaking with a professional. You can call Safe Help Line at (888) 379-6507 or any other support hotline

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Challenges of living abroad and why it’s not the secret to language learning
Learning languages with depression
How language learning can counter the effects of depression
The benefits of support and accountability from other people
Creating wins in language learning
Avoiding the comparison trap
Anti-goals

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#39 Julie Ferguson on Speaking 5 Languages as a Deafblind Polyglot Mar 01, 2021

In this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, we talk to Julie Ferguson who has learned five languages and is getting ready to learn her sixth – Scots Gaelic. She’s severely deaf and legally blind and has come up with loads of creative strategies for learning languages which she shares in this podcast as well as accessibility for both language resources and travel.

Featured Resources

Julie’s articles on Fluent in 3 Months

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Overcoming physical challenges to learn languages
Being a visual learner while legally blind
Getting help from a tutor and not solely relying on self-study
Creative strategies for improving the accessibility of language learning resources
How the accountability of the classroom helps Julie keep on top of her studies
What it was like learning Swedish in Sweden
Getting over the frustration of asking people for help
How to keep conversations in the local language
Traveling and accessibility
Tips for avoiding language interference
Building resilience in your language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: What’s the Simplest Thing I Can Do to Learn a Language? Feb 24, 2021

We continue our new "Ask Benny" series with one of your most common questions. This week Benny talks about why he thinks speaking from day one is the key, and how you can do this even when travel is not an option.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#38 Chuck Smith on Why You Should Learn Esperanto Feb 22, 2021

Benny and Shannon talk to Chuck Smith, a notable figure in the language learning and Esperanto communities about Esperanto and its culture, and why Esperanto should be your next language.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

What Esperanto is and its history
Why learn Esperanto?
Does Esperanto really help you learn other languages?
The lack of irregular verbs in Esperanto
The lack of taboos and exclusivity in Esperanto
The empowering nature of Esperanto conversations
The unique aspects of Esperanto culture
Going to Esperanto events in Europe
Founding Amikumu
Why grammar books may not be the best way to reach your language learning goals

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#37 Bryce and Michele on Falling in Love while Learning Each Other's Language Feb 15, 2021

This episode features Bryce, who learned conversational Portuguese in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

In this episode, Benny and Shannon talk with two Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participants, Bryce and Michele, who are husband and wife learning their native languages with help from one another.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Mentioned in this Episode

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Connecting with your partner and their family through their native language
Speaking Portuguese for an hour during the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Language learning milestones and building confidence
Learning English while living in Kansas and dealing with culture shock
Having patience with your partner
Falling in love as a motivation
Raising multilingual children and connecting with them through language
How to practice a language with your partner
Approaching language learning like an air infantryman
Using Dream Teams in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Bringing Brazilian culture into the American home
Advice for when you and your partner don’t speak the same language

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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Ask Benny: What's Your Current Language Project? Feb 10, 2021

This is the first episode of our new "Ask Benny" series where Benny answers listener questions. In this episode, Benny gives an update on where he is with his own language learning projects.

To ask Benny a question, please email ask@languagehacking.com

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#36 Lýdia Machová on Learning a New Language Every 2 Years Feb 08, 2021

In this episode, Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy discuss everything from language interpreting to language coaching, the Goldlist Method to novelty in language learning with Lýdia Machová.

In our chat with Lýdia, we also cover how to become more than a passive language learner, finding ways to enjoy your language learning, why you should focus on one specific language skill at a time, why Lýdia focuses on a language for two years, and how to be okay with giving up a language.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

What’s involved in working as a language interpreter
How to become more than a passive language learner
Finding ways to enjoy your language learning
Making language learning fun, systematic, intensive, and effective
The importance of novelty in language learning
Using the Goldlist method
Why you should focus on one specific language skill at a time
Why Lýdia focuses on a language for two years
How to be okay with giving up a language
How many languages polyglots actually speak

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#35 Richard Simcott on Being a World Famous Polyglot Feb 01, 2021

In this episode, we talk to renowned polyglot Richard Simcott about learning languages at university, raising a multilingual child, and finding motivation to learn languages through human connection.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Studying language at university
Secrets to working on more than one language at a time
How to maintain languages with anchor languages
Reactivating, improving and learning languages
Finding motivation to learn languages through human connection
Uploading videos and becoming a part of the polyglot community
The origins of the Polyglot Conference and shifting to the online space
What language learning resources and methods Richard Simcott uses
How Richard is learning Korean with his daughter
Criteria for choosing a language tutor
Raising multilingual children

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#34 Lindie Botes on Being a Third Culture Kid Jan 25, 2021

In this episode, Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy have a conversation with Lindie Botes about learning multiple languages, growing up as a third culture kid, and what it’s like growing up bilingual.

In our chat with Lindie, we discuss transitioning from language learner to language mentor, gaining the confidence you need to put yourself out there, and different systems and processes for keeping track of your language learning.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Transitioning from language learner to language mentor
Gaining the confidence to put yourself out there as a language learner
How to deal with criticism and ignore trolls as a polyglot YouTuber
Getting inspiration from a parent language learner
Being a “third culture kid”
How a polyglot chooses the languages they learn
Learning Japanese from Korean with language laddering
Learning multiple languages at once
How to learn other writing systems
Systems and processes for keeping track of your language progress
How design influences Lindie’s language learning
How the online language community has influenced Lindie
Growing up bilingual and whether or not it gives you an advantage learning other languages
Do you have a different personality in different languages?
Journaling in another language

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#33 Katie Harris on the Joy of Languages Jan 18, 2021

In this episode, we chat with Katie Harris, the founder of Joy of Languages, host of Easy Languages Italian and the creator of the #languagediarychallenge. Katie is also a previous student in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Moving to Italy, living in Italy and avoiding the English bubble
Finding joy when learning languages and motivating yourself with cocktails!
Doing something you love in another language vs doing something you love while learning another language
How to feel calm before a video conversation
Katie’s experience with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
What to do when the novelty wears off in language learning
The importance of language learning communities
Journaling in a foreign language on Instagram
Katie’s experience as a host of Easy Languages and overcoming the nerves around approaching strangers in another language
Watching hours of French reality TV
Learning multiple languages

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#32 Evelyn on Learning Korean During Lockdown Jan 11, 2021

This episode features Evelyn, who learned conversational Korean in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

In our chat with Evelyn shares how she made huge leaps forward in her Korean learning with the support of community in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How to maintain motivation through community
Fighting perfectionism when learning a very different language
Why the resources you use don’t matter as much as the time you’re putting in
Having success during lockdown with the Fluent in 3 Months challenge
Keys to her success with the Korean language and what makes Korean easy
How the community helped her overcome learning plateaus
Using drills to learn Korean
Thinking differently because of Korean
Understanding Gangnam Style
How to deal with bad days in language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#31 Nelson Dellis on Building Memory Superpowers Jan 04, 2021

In this episode, we talk to US memory champion Nelson Dellis about learning a heritage language, teaching his kids new languages, and memory hacks used by the champions.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Going from memory champion to language learner
Learning Flemish to get closer to his family
Memory champion techniques to learning languages
Using images to remember words
Breaking down words for easier recall
Enhancing your memory in a short space of time
The power of speaking and language exposure
Multigenerational learning: learning with his mom and teaching his son
Fixing fossilized errors
Using Drops to learn words when starting a language
Balancing revision vs learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#30 Nissa on learning Bengali in 3 Months Dec 28, 2020

This episode features Nissa, who learned conversational Bengali in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Nissa shares about learning a less-commonly-taught language, and coming to understand herself through languages.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Mentioned in this Episode

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Understanding the world and herself better through languages
Studying French in high school as a good student but still not being able to speak the language
Breaking through the comprehension wall
Learning Bengali with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Learning a language with few or no resources
Making real progress in a short period of time by focusing on processes
Overcoming perfectionism and fear of making mistakes
How to best undertake a 90 Day Challenge and Dream Teams
Learning with a nonnative speaker
Best ways to utilize a language tutor
Learning Yupik, an Eskimo language
Giving up on languages

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#29 Judith Meyer on Opening Up Opportunity with Languages Dec 21, 2020

Judith Meyer is the writer behind Teach Yourself’s Script Hacking series, creator of LearnYu, and several other language learning resources and tools.

In this episode, Judith Meyer, renowned polyglot and language educator shares how she uses unique, specialized language goals to make progress in her languages quickly. She also discusses her involvement in the creation and development of several language courses and resources.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How Judith learned Esperanto online
How she uses specific language goals to motivate herself
How she prepared to give a speech in Indonesian
How to get comfortable learning a language outside of the European language family
How she manages to maintain multiple languages
Motivation in language learning and her struggles learning Arabic
How learning languages has opened up so many opportunities
Picking resources based on your needs as a learner
Her work developing language learning books and courses

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#28 Lindsay Williams the Language Dabbler Dec 14, 2020

Lindsay Williams of Lindsay Does Languages is a co-founder of Women in Language, the creator of Language Stories, and is passionate about language learning.

In this episode, Lindsay Williams joins us to discuss traveling around the world while learning languages, recording her docuseries and podcast Language Stories, and what it’s like being a “language dabbler”.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Moving to Costa Rica for three months at 18 years old
Her experience traveling around the world with her husband Ashley creating Language Stories
Advice for learning indigenous languages (Guarani)
Keeping up language learning while backpacking around Latin America
Maximizing immersion experiences
Plan of action for learning a language before a big trip
Being a “language dabbler”
Habit stacking, habit chaining, and time management
Language learning systems, goals, and routines
How to teach and be taught languages

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#27 Jessica Tefenkgi Ruelle on Mindfulness in Language Learning Dec 07, 2020

Jessica Tefenkgi Ruelle of French Sunnyside teaches mindfulness to language learners. She helps learners discover their authentic selves through self-awareness, journaling, and other coaching techniques.

In this episode, Jessica shares how to be more mindful in language learning and improve your self-awareness, how to create a new identity in another language, and tips for journaling in another language.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Blending mindfulness, self-awareness, and languages
Discovering yourself through the language
Creating a new identity in a different language
Overcoming fear using mindfulness
Importance of knowing your why and how it’s particular helpful when you hit the intermediate plateau
Journaling in a foreign language
Going on retreats in a foreign language
How to help language learners work through personal stories and open themselves up

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#26 Jonathan Huggins on the “One Method” Strategy Nov 30, 2020

Jonathan Huggins first discovered his love for learning languages when he started diving into his father’s language learning library. That passion brought him to France to study music and continues to be a part of his life as he teaches English online while living abroad and raising his kids to speak multiple languages.

In this episode, we chat with Jonathan about why classroom learning worked for him, how to learn languages in the age of distraction, and how to create sustainable language routines.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How he excelled at classroom learning
Learning in the age of distraction
Sticking to one method and system
Raising multilingual children
Studying music abroad and in another language
Creating sustainable language routines
Recommendations for the first few months of language learning
Common misconceptions and stereotypes about language learning
Parallels between learning languages and learning music
Using Instagram and social media to learn languages

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#25 Learn a Language in 5-Minute Bursts with Drops Nov 23, 2020

Benny Lewis chats with Shannon Kennedy and Caitlin Sacasas about how they use the language app Drops. Drops is a visual, vocabulary language learning game that helps you build your foundation in a new language in 5-minute sessions.

Shannon and Caitlin share why they love Drops, how they use the app, and how Drops teaches vocab without translation.

Featured Links

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

The history of Drops and its multinational background
Why Drops focuses on helping learners with just one thing
How Drops pays special attention to teaching a language through games
Learning a language without translation
Keeping up your language learning motivation and how Drops’ 2-Day Rule
How 5 minutes a day adds up to a language learning habit and lots of learned words
Why learning vocabulary is so important
The difference between the free version of Drops and Drops Premium
How Drops decides on what new content gets added
Learning travel essentials with Drops’ “Travel Talk” feature
Drops partnership with K-pop star and artist Amber Liu
Language laddering with Drops

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#24 Elizabeth Bruckner - from 10x Failure to Language Coach Nov 16, 2020

Elizabeth Bruckner failed ten times to learn French. It wasn’t until she began exploring the online language community that she finally learned French… in her 40s. She’s since gone on to successfully learn German and Spanish and is now one of the coaches of the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

In this episode, we chat with Elizabeth about her experiences learning a language in her 40s, the brain and language learning, how to overcome our inner gremlins and Elizabeth gives you a taste of what it’s like to get coached in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Learning languages later in life
Finding the desire to learn languages
Using neuroscience to help with learning
How to stop making emotional excuses and finally learn a language
The biggest language learning gremlins to overcome
The importance of community in language learning
Creating systems and paths to push you towards your language learning
An inside look at coaching in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Advice for the most common stumbling blocks for language learners
Finding language giants
Why there’s no one path to learning a language

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#23 Michele Frolla on Living and Working in Rome to Learn Italian Nov 09, 2020

Michele Frolla grew up hearing Italian, but didn’t learn to speak it until she was a bit older. After picking up her heritage language, she went on to live and work in Italy, fully immersing herself in the language. She then went on to create the Intrepid Guide where she shares her experience and tips for learning languages and living abroad.

In this episode, we chat with Michele about her experiences learning, living and working in another language and how this lead to her creating her own language business.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Michele’s experience with her heritage language and its impact on finally learning Italian
Moving to Rome and living the Italian life
The power of modal verbs
Learning with pen and paper
Her challenges with learning Norwegian
The origins of her blog, the Intrepid Guide
Leaning into the fear of language learning
Making friends with her languages
Tips on finding jobs in foreign countries
Learning a language to live in a country that speaks it

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#22 Steve Kaufmann - How to Learn a New Language from Any Online Article Nov 02, 2020

Famous polyglot Steve Kaufmann joins us in this inspiring episode of the language hacking podcast. In our chat with Steve, we discuss comprehensible input and compelling input, what LingQ is and why Steve created it, and the early disagreements between Benny and Steve.

Featured Resources

LingQ

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Steve’s background with his many languages and his “allergy” to his heritage languages
The story behind creating LingQ, one of the most popular language learning apps
Steve’s job experience with languages and why he believes languages can be tied into any job
Consuming massive amounts of input as a method to learn languages
Benny and Steve’s early disagreements on language learning
The importance of keeping a positive attitude when learning
Learning languages after age 60 and why you learn better the older you get
Comprehensible input versus compelling input
What language hacking is to Steve Kaufmann

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#21 Avital Spivak on Forgetting French then Falling Back in Love with Languages Oct 26, 2020

This episode features Avi, who learned conversational Chinese in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

In our chat with Avi, a Fluent in 3 Months Challenge participant and coach, she shares how rediscovered her love of languages and came to the realization that she is a polyglot while learning Chinese in the Challenge.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

“Forgetting” French as a child
What it was like learning English as a foreign language in Israel
Figuring out how to learn a language through self-study
What it’s like being Shannon’s language exchange partner
Using poetry, recipes, and martial arts to learn languages
Avi’s amazing progress with Mandarin in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Coming to the self-realization she is a polyglot and falling back in love with languages
Learning how to maintain multiple languages

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#20 Johan Tekfak on “Kaizen Power” in Language Learning Oct 19, 2020

Johan Tekfak, creator of Français Authentique, shares how he uses Kaizen and other productivity systems to build his language business and improve his language skills each and every day.

Mentioned in this Episode

Français Authentique
Getting Things Done by David Allen

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How Johan learned German for his job as an engineer
Creating systems to learn languages
Making use of “dead time” in language learning
Focusing on interesting and compelling content in your target language - not just material that’s available
The 7 rules of Français Authentique
What is “Kaizen” and how does it apply to language learning?
How Johann built his own language company a little bit at a time
Simplifying and de-stressing the language learning process
Common roadblocks faced by language learners
How to attach rewards to language learning to boost motivation

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#19 Turia Pope - from False Beginner to Spanish Homeschooler Oct 12, 2020

This episode features Turia, who learned Spanish to the conversational level in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

Turia shares her experience going from an on-again-off-again Spanish learner to a confident Spanish speaker with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge. She also shares how she travels alone with her children in Spanish-speaking countries, developing a homeschooling curriculum for Spanish for her children, and how she responded to emergency situations in Spanish.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge helped Turia become a confident learner after 20 years of learning on and off again
How Turia is teaching her three kids to speak fluent Spanish
Moving to Spain for immersion and learning about the culture
Incorporating Spanish into a homeschooling curriculum
Navigating tricky or nightmare situations in another language
What it’s like traveling alone with kids
Turia’s favorite rituals and resources for learning Spanish
Making friends and building relationships in Spanish
Letting kids’ language studies be child-led

More Resources

After we recorded this episode, Turia was kind enough to share more specific resources with us.

Spanish champs - a program that includes a script and is song/activity based. It also includes a dvd with clips incorporating the songs taught.
Talkbox Mom - a subscription service that offers resources to help you switch your day to day interactions into your new language.
Whistlefritz - a foreign language show for kids by kids available on Amazon prime.

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#18 Kerstin Cable on Slow Learning Oct 05, 2020

Kerstin Cable from the Fluent Language Blog shares her experience learning English to full fluency as a native German speaker, her method for acquiring new vocabulary and her long-term, slow approach to learning new languages.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How the bigness of our world inspired Kerstin to learn languages
Learning English using 90s Brit-pop
Kerstin’s curiosity and excitement for learning Welsh
Kerstin’s biggest challenges learning Mandarin
Using mnemonics and visual images to learn new vocabulary
How to find your language learning personality so you can find the right approaches and resources for you
How Kerstin takes language learning slow, studying only 2-3 hours a week
Kerstin’s top tips for language learners from her experience as a one-to-one language coach
How to choose the best language learning resources for you
Using handwriting in vocab notebooks as a memory strategy
How teaching German helps Kerstin feel like she knows the language better than ever
Kerstin’s German student immersion retreats
“Your solid vocab memory” - Kerstin’s method of acquiring, memorizing, and reviewing vocabulary

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#17 Jane T - The Motorhome Language Learner Sep 28, 2020

This episode features Jane T, who learned several languages to the conversational level in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

Jane quit her job after her husband retired to start traveling around Europe in a motorhome, learning languages along the way. Shannon and Benny talk with Jane about her motorhome journeys and how she learns languages while she travels. Jane also shares how community helps with overcoming limiting self beliefs in language learning.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Jane’s blog

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How Jane quit her job after her husband retired to start traveling around Europe, learning languages along the way
How traveling in a motorhome gives Jane and her husband the freedom to travel affordably while always having their home with them
How the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge helped Jane get through the false starter phase of language learning
The power of accountability and community
How to learn languages with an unpredictable schedule and unreliable Internet
The Comprehensible Input approach to language learning
Talking to yourself in a language to get both practice and build your confidence
How to overcome self-limiting beliefs
Common language learning roadblocks and tips for getting through them
How to filter what you’re learning to what’s relevant to you

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#16 Will John on Mixing Football and Language Skills Sep 21, 2020

Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy talk to Will John, a professional soccer player from the US who has played for teams in many different countries, including Denmark, Serbia, Azerbaijan, Morocco and Georgia. Will shares his top tips from his experience learning languages as he travels the world…

Featured Resources

Muzzy in Gondoland

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Will’s first foreign language: learning Spanish as a kid by watching Spanish-language TV shows.
The strategies Will used to learn Danish when he moved to Denmark
Tips for learning a language with immersion and with immersion.
The power of rehearsal in language learning
How to avoid the “English bubble” when living abroad
Job opportunities that open up when you’ve got language skills
How Will mixes his languages and football skills, and applies his football training methods to language learning
Facing fears and creating online videos in other languages
Why reading matters in language learning
Feeling “ok” in the danger zone - and why that matters for language learners

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#15 The Power of Friendship in Language Acquisition with Debs Bensaul Sep 14, 2020

This episode features Deb Bensauls, an enthusiastic language learner who learned conversational French AND Italian in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

Debs shares about travelling on her own using her French skills, using the language at work to create a better experience for her clients. She also discusses the power of friendship in language learning, and how being in a learning community changed her approach to French and gave her the confidence to learn Italian.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

The power of learning a language with friends and community.
Why being the quiet one in the back makes the language classroom ineffective.
How to build confidence in your languages and speaking.
How the online language community helped Debs become the polyglot she was always meant to be.
Why it’s important to share both the ups and downs of language learning.
The dangers of comparison and how to overcome them.
Strategies for overcoming overwhelm when it comes to learning resources.
How learning your second language is different than your first.
How Debs has been able to use her language skills at work in the medical field.
What happens when a giant spider interrupts your language exchange.
Debs favorite language learning rituals including mindmaps and sticky notes.

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#14 Women in Language: Championing Female Voices in Language Learning Sep 07, 2020

Shannon joins the co-founders of the Women in Language conference, Lindsay Williams and Kerstin Cable. Together with Elizabeth Bruckner they share the story behind the Women in Language online event and what’s in store for this year’s conference.

Register for the Women in Language conference at: https://fluentin3months.com/women-in-language

Featured Resources

Women in Language

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

The story behind Women in Language
Past events and stories from attendees
Elizabeth’s Women in Language workshop about language exchanges
Why it’s important to amplify and champion lesser heard voices
How Women in Language’s speaker selection process brings new speakers to the conversation
How you can attend the 2020 Women in Language event

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#13 How to Learn a Language “By Ear” with Idahosa Ness Aug 31, 2020

Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy have a conversation with Idahosa Ness, founder of the Mimic Method. In this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, Idahosa details his language learning strategies, employing music, rapping, mimicry and deliberate practice.

Featured Resources

The Mimic Method

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How Idahosa developed the Mimic Method by learning multiple languages

Freestyle rapping as a language tool
Mouth and tongue training to form sounds in a new language
Learning to tune your ear to a new language
How to sound like a native and integrate into other cultures
How to overcome perfectionism by getting into the flow

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#12 Suzanne - "I go to the Tapas Bar and talk in Spanish for hours" Aug 24, 2020

This episode features Suzanne, who learned several languages to the conversational level in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

In this episode, Shannon and Benny chat with Suzanne about how learning in community built confidence in her language skills and provided her with the support she needed to “lean in” on the parts of language learning that made her uncomfortable. She also talks about how the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge provided her with the support and nurturing environment to make doing those things possible.

Featured Resources

The Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

What it was like being in Madrid after years of Spanish study, unable to speak Spanish.
Why it’s important to find the right tutor and not use English in your lessons.
The difference between learning languages at university and learning in community with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.
Learning languages as a shy person and why it’s important to lean into your discomfort.
How to choose your first words in a new language.
Overcoming obstacles in language learning and building confidence.
Combining language learning with other activities, including self-care.
Suzanne’s favorite language learning rituals and how she incorporates language learning into her day.
Learning multiple languages and managing notes with different colored notebooks.

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#11 Nomadic Matt on Travelling the World for $50 a Day Aug 17, 2020

Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy chat with Matt Kepnes, also known as Nomadic Matt. Matt shares his experiences learning languages as he travels the world on a budget as well as his best budget travel tips in this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast.

Featured Resources

How to Travel the World on $50 a Day

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Traveling on a budget
Matt’s experience learning French in Paris
The importance of getting private tutors for your language
Matt’s experience learning Thai
Using hand signals to aid your communication in a new language
Advice on traveling after the pandemic
Top tips for budget travel and local travel

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#10 Nikki Prša on Little Moments of Language Practice Aug 10, 2020

Polish-American language learner and educator Nikki Prsa shares what it was like growing up as a native Polish speaker in the US and what inspired her to go on to study languages abroad. Benny and Shannon also chat with her about her linguistics studies at university, what it’s like teaching languages online, and her experience teaching her son new languages.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Nikki’s experience speaking Polish at home while growing up in the US
Nikki’s experience moving to Germany with a host family at 15 years old
How travel has helped Nikki become better at immersing herself in a language even when not abroad
How important it is to have a teacher you can trust
What inspired Nikki to start Speak at Home Tonight
Learning Croatian and traveling in the Balkans
Why it’s important to even do just a little bit each day
Teaching your child multiple languages
Focusing on accent and pronunciation
How to keep from mixing up languages when studying multiple languages at the same time
Learning languages with prayer
Finding the best approach in language learning

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#09 Peter Galante on Creating Podcasts in 34 Languages Aug 03, 2020

Peter Galante, the founder of Innovative Languages, shares how he went from creating a Japanese podcast to running a company that teaches more than 30 languages. He also discusses running a language learning business and his personal tips for learning a new language.

Featured Resources

Innovative Languages

Mentioned in this Episode

JapanesePod101
Innovative Languages
Fluent in 3 Months
Bringing back a dead language - Benny’s Hungarian project
Eurolinguiste

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

The story behind how Peter Galante started Innovative Languages
How to find the best people for your team
How to start a language learning business
Tips for creating a language learning system
How to find a job where you can use your language skills
Developing a language learning business
How Peter got started with Japanese
3 ways to think about learning languages - language profile, routine, anchor points
The future of Innovative Languages
How to be self-motivated and goal-oriented
How a teacher or advisor can help you stay on or get back on track

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#08 Louisa on the Goldlist Method & Learning Chinese in 90 Days Jul 27, 2020

This episode features Louisa, who learned conversational Chinese in just 90 days with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge.

We actually guarantee that anyone who completes the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge will have a 15-minute conversation in their new language after 90 days of learning. You can find out more here.

In this episode, Shannon and Benny talk to Louisa about how creating a system for self-learning Chinese helped her find success in her language learning after failing to make significant progress in a night class. She also shares the role community and the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge have played in her methods for learning Chinese.

Featured Resources

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Why language learning in night classes isn’t right for everyone
The best thing about the Fluent in 3 Month Challenge
Strategies for incorporating language studies into your family life
Building a system to learn Chinese
The Goldlist Method
Overcoming challenges with language learning
Louisa’s progress made during the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Louisa’s favorite resources for learning languages
Lessons learned from participating in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Louisa’s biggest surprise from learning a new language
Is learning Chinese difficult?

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#07 Caitlin Sacasas on Meditating & Binge-Watching Netflix to Learn Japanese Jul 20, 2020

This episode features Fluent in 3 Months team member Caitlin Sacasas sharing her story of when she took part in the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge. The Fi3M Challenge is a 90-day language learning challenge where participants aim to have a 15-minute conversation in their new language as a part of a supportive community. It can help you start conversing a new language while providing you with accountability and guidelines to make huge strides in your language in just three months. Learn more and get notified when the next Challenge opens for enrollment by signing up here.

Caitlin shares how she’s made drinking coffee part of her routine for learning Japanese and how meditation helps her be more productive in her studies. She also shares tips for learning Japanese and the importance of making learning fun.

Featured Resources

Fluent in 3 Months Challenge

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

Sharing a language with your children
The importance of finding a long-term language exchange partner
How watching TV helps you pick up more natural language patterns
How important it is to study during your peak times during the day
Tips for pairing your language learning with another activity like drinking coffee
How meditating to clear your mind before your learning benefits your memory
Why you should start small when starting a new habit
Why you should learn Japanese kana early on
Fitting in your language studies by breaking up your learning throughout the day
Why you should enjoy your language and not get bogged down with the technical aspects
Prioritizing your time with languages

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#06 Benny & Shannon Answer Your Language Learning Questions Jul 13, 2020

Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy answer listener questions about language learning as a part of a special live episode of the Language Hacking Podcast.

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Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How often should I review what I’ve already learned in my target language? - Danni
Am I alone in thinking: I can’t learn Past , Present and Future? - Brian
What’s the best routine to learn a new target language? - Tony
What’s the best way to get full immersion in a new language? - Dennis
How can you pick up a language even if you can’t practice speaking it very often? - KT
Is it possible to learn a new language fluently in three months? - Maya
I took a three-year break from learning Spanish. Do you have any tips for getting back into studying a language after a long break? - Jean
What do you recommend to maintain languages you have previously worked on? - Ledys
Can someone learn a second language for the first time in their mid-40s and be fluent? - Caroline
Do you have any suggestions about study methods for a stay at home parent with three young children, as well as ADHD? - Andy

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#05 Olly Richards on Living Abroad and Story Learning Jul 06, 2020

Language educator and author Olly Richards joins Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy in this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast. He shares about his “Story Learning” method and how his experience learning languages led him to develop this approach.

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Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:

How motivation is the most important ingredient in language learning
Music and language learning
Advice for new language learners
Comprehensible Input - Listening and Reading above your current level
How Olly chose “Story Learning” as his method of teaching
How to use comprehensible input and reading materials when learning a language
How Olly studies languages, from beginner to advanced - Directness
How Olly stays motivated when learning languages
Olly's language challenges and how he overcame them
Olly's latest language teaching projects

Quote: “Do what makes you happy.” - Olly Richards

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#04 Shannon Kennedy on Musicianship, Shyness and Scripting in Language Learning Jun 29, 2020

In this episode of The Language Hacking Podcast, Benny Lewis interviews his co-host, Shannon Kennedy about how she made the transition from music to languages, raising multilingual children, and what it’s like speaking another language when you identify as a shy introvert.

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Episode Overview

How Shannon went from music to languages and how she connects them
What skills in learning music she has been able to transfer over to language learning
Language journalling
How foreign languages help you become a better musician
How to get comfortable speaking languages as a shy introvert
Scripting
How to use language islands to steer conversations into topics you’re comfortable with
How to pick up language learning after a break
Time management and energy management strategies
Tips for raising multilingual kids

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#03 Paulette on Inventing Your Own Language Path Jun 18, 2020

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

Learning languages at university
How to overcome language learning failures and keep learning
How to build confidence in your language skills
Finding accountability with the Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Having fun while learning languages
How to best use your time when learning a language
Learning French while battling cancer
Staying motivated using emotional connections
Peaks and valleys of motivation
Self-awareness and self-compassion when studying languages
Being a renaissance woman
Coming to peace with the space-time continuum

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#02 Benny Lewis on Ignoring Destiny and Embracing "Failure" Jun 18, 2020

Meet Benny Lewis, the creator of Fluent in 3 Months and the Language Hacking Method. In this episode, Benny shares how he got started in languages, why “fluent” in 3 months, and he offers some universal language hacks.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

What does “fluent” mean to Benny?
What are Benny’s goals for a 3-month mission?
How many languages does Benny Lewis speak?
Benny’s take on the evolution of the Fi3M challenge.
What is “language hacking”?
What are some universal language hacks?
Advice on “not having time” to learn a language

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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#01 Scott Young on Learning Four Languages in One Year Jun 16, 2020

Scott Young shares his experience going a year without English and why immersion is the path to least resistance in language learning in this episode of The Language Hacking Podcast. Benny and Shannon also ask Scott about ultralearning and how it relates to language learning.

Mentioned in this Episode

Episode Overview

What is ultralearning?
The effectiveness of total immersion
How to gain language proficiency quickly
Learning through social interaction
How did you approach languages with different writing systems and more distance from your native language?
How do you get to a level where you can give presentations in a language?
Why other people switching to English doesn’t happen as often as you worry it will and how to keep the conversation in the language you’re learning if it does
The importance of immersion and why it removes anxiety around speaking a language
How to maintain your motivation for language learning
How to prioritize what you work on
How to approach language learning for an exam

Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy

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