Language Hacking
Fluent in 3 Months
Subscribe
Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy meet real-life language learners and discover smarter, faster ways to learn a language. Learn more at: https://www.fluentin3months.com/podcast/
Available episodes
Newest first
Oldest first
May 22, 2023
#139 Will Scott on Learning French Daily
“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.
* italki
* FrenchPod101
* Anki
* Memrise
* Deepl Translator
* Inner French
* Le Petit Prince
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to support what we do.
Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy
playlist_add
May 15, 2023
Ask Benny: How Did the Korean Mission Go?
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.
playlist_add
May 1, 2023
#138 Anika on How to Learn Telugu
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp
* italki
* Fiverr
* 7-Step Re-Reading
* TPRS Method
* Fingtam Languages
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.
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to support what we do.
Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy
playlist_add
Apr 24, 2023
Ask Benny: Can I Learn a Language With My Partner?
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.
playlist_add
Apr 17, 2023
#137 Victoria Galmarini on Mundo Lingo and Language Exchange Events
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
* Mundo Lingo
* Apply to be a Mundo Lingo Manager
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to support what we do!
Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy
playlist_add
Apr 10, 2023
Ask Benny: Why 3 Months?
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
playlist_add
Apr 3, 2023
#136 “Grammar Girl” Mignon Fogarty on How to Make Grammar Less Boring
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
* Grammar Girl Podcast
* Quick and Dirty Tips
* Mignon’s twitter
* Mignon’s TikTok
* Benny’s main TikTok
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy
playlist_add
Mar 27, 2023
#135 Azren on Going from Window Cleaner to Language Teacher
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
* Calgary Language Nerds
* Azren’s Instagram
* CEFR Companion Guide
* italki
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy
playlist_add
Mar 20, 2023
Ask Benny: How Do You Start Speaking From Day 1?
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
playlist_add
Mar 13, 2023
#134 Pierre on Beating Fear & Shyness
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy
playlist_add
Mar 6, 2023
#133 Zac on the Power of Music for Language Learners
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp
* italki
* Scott Young
* NET Concept
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy
playlist_add
Feb 27, 2023
Ask Benny: What Language Is Benny Learning Now?
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
playlist_add
Feb 20, 2023
#132 Emanuel on “Stage Fright” in Language Learning
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp
* Hispandom (Emanuel’s we…
playlist_add
Feb 13, 2023
#131 Deanna on Avoiding Language FOMO
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…
playlist_add
Feb 6, 2023
Ask Benny: How Do You Prepare For a 3 Month Mission?
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).
playlist_add
Jan 30, 2023
Benny's Fluent in 3 Months Projects History (+ a Big Announcement)
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.
playlist_add
Jan 23, 2023
#130 TY on Finding the Fun in French
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to support wha…
playlist_add
Jan 16, 2023
#129 Philippa Wentzel on Lingoda and Language Technology
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to support what we do!
Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy
playlist_add
Jan 9, 2023
#128 Greg on “To-Do” Lists to Learn Czech
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.
Patreon Support
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to support what we do.
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp
* italk…
playlist_add
Jan 2, 2023
New Year's Special: Reflections and Resolutions
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.
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp
* Benny's 2022 Webinars
* Fluent in 3 Months blog
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to support what we do.
Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy
playlist_add
Dec 26, 2022
#127 Honorée on Learning Languages Through Passion and Asking for Help
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
* Language Hacking French
* 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.
Mentioned in this Epi…
playlist_add
Dec 19, 2022
Ask Benny: What is Christmas like for a solo traveller?
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
playlist_add
Dec 12, 2022
#126 Miguel on Community and Connection in Language Learning
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?
Mentioned in this Episode
* The Multilingual Bronxite
* The Assimil Method
* Fluent in 3 Months Bl…
playlist_add
Dec 5, 2022
#125 Michael Campbell on the Power of “Reps” for Language Learners
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to support what we do!
Podcast theme: “A New Beginning” by Shannon Kennedy
playlist_add
Nov 28, 2022
Ask Benny: How do language exchange events work?
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
playlist_add
Nov 21, 2022
#124 Olly Richards on Creating the StoryLearning Method
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 f…
playlist_add
Nov 14, 2022
#123 Kelsey Lechner on Speaking 6 Very Different Languages
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!)
Mentioned in this Episode
* Anki
* Kelsey’s po…
playlist_add
Nov 7, 2022
#122 Brian Powell on How Learning a Dead Language Changed His Perspective
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
* Latinitiu…
playlist_add
Oct 31, 2022
Ask Benny: How Do I Create a Language Immersion Environment at Home?
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
playlist_add
Oct 17, 2022
#121 Nina on How to Break the Intermediate Plateau
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
Join Our Patreon
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
* italki
* LingQ
* Glossika
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 m…
playlist_add
Oct 10, 2022
#120 Melanie on Learning French With Her 7 Kids
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
Join Our Patreon
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 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 suppor…
playlist_add
Oct 6, 2022
Ask Benny: New Language Goals Plans! Focusing on 5 Languages From Now On
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
playlist_add
Sep 26, 2022
#118 Joaquin on the Bilingual-Trilingual Journey
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
Join Our Patreon
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
* italki
* Language Hacking French
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 th…
playlist_add
Sep 21, 2022
Ask Benny: How do you learn vocabulary while traveling?
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
playlist_add
Sep 19, 2022
#117 Dr. Barbara Oakley on Learning How to Learn
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:
* 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
* Learning How to Learn MOOC
* A Mind for Numbers
* Mindshift
* Benny’s Speak from Day 1 Method
Mentioned in this Episode
* Learning How to Learn MOOC
* A Mind for Numbers
* Mindshift
* Dr. O…
playlist_add
Sep 12, 2022
#116 Hez on What to Do When You Want to Learn Everything at Once
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
Join Our Patreon
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
* Pimsleur
* Duolingo
* Benny’s Fluent in 3 Months book
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 stressf…
playlist_add
Sep 7, 2022
Benny's Next Language Project - Next Stop: Another Continent
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.
playlist_add
Sep 5, 2022
#115 Gabby Wallace on How Language Teachers Learn a Language
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
* TuneIn Radio
* Go Natural English Website
* Go Natural English on Youtube
* Go Natural English on Twitter
* Go Natural English on Instagram
* Go Natural English on Facebook…
playlist_add
Aug 31, 2022
Benny's Language Project Update (+ Mini Discovery Related to Learning Vocabulary)
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.
playlist_add
Aug 29, 2022
#114 Luca Sadurny on Mosalingua and Ikigai
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
Mentioned in this Episode
* Mosalingua
* Luca’s website
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
playlist_add
Aug 22, 2022
#113 Elena Mutonono on Tutoring in Ukraine and Creating an Online Business
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
* Online Bound Podcast
* Elena’s Instagram
* Elena’s Facebook
* Elena’s website
* Language Lessons film
Episode Overview
Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:
* Going from in-person tutoring in Ukraine to teaching online
* Facing burnout…
playlist_add
Aug 15, 2022
#112 Damian on Surprising His Friend by Learning Bosnian
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
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus questions and loads more exclusive content.
Learn more and access this bonus content on Patreon.
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* uTalk
* italki
* Duolingo
* Memrise
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 mo…
playlist_add
Aug 10, 2022
Ask Benny: How Can My Tutor Help Me Make Flashcards?
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
playlist_add
Aug 8, 2022
#111 Steve Kaufmann on the Evolution of LingQ
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
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 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
* LingQ
* Comprehensible Input
* Steve’s YouTube
* Steve’s Instagram
* Stev…
playlist_add
Aug 1, 2022
#110 Kittichai Boonthong on Learning English and Japanese, and Cultural Differences
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Kittichai’s Youtube Channel
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…
playlist_add
Jul 27, 2022
Ask Benny: How Can I Use Social Media to Learn Languages?
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
playlist_add
Jul 25, 2022
#109 Ellen Jovin on “The Grammar Table”
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
* Rebel with a Clause
* Essential Grammar for Business
* Ellen’s Twitter
* Ellen’s Insta…
playlist_add
Jul 13, 2022
Ask Benny: How Do I Make A Personalised Phrasebook?
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
playlist_add
Jul 11, 2022
#107 Paul Jorgenson on How to Make Difficult Languages Easy
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…
playlist_add
Jul 4, 2022
#106 Zsuzsanna on Learning Languages as a Family
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 lan…
playlist_add
Jun 29, 2022
Ask Benny: What is the 80/20 Rule?
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
playlist_add
Jun 27, 2022
#105 Fiel Sahir on Learning a Language Without “Studying”
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
* Language Hacking Mandarin
* 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 without “studying”
* The influence music has on langua…
playlist_add
Jun 20, 2022
#104 Corentin on How to Reinvent Yourself as a Language Learner
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
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
* Paul Nation
* Microsoft To Do
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 learn…
playlist_add
Jun 15, 2022
Ask Benny: Why Learn Esperanto?
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
playlist_add
Jun 13, 2022
#103 Simon Ager on Creating an Encyclopedia of Languages
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
* Simon’s Website
* Simon’s Twitter
* Radio Omniglot
* Omniglot on Facebook
* Duolingo
* Memrise
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 b…
playlist_add
Jun 6, 2022
#102 Professor Argüelles on Learning a Language in 15 Minutes a Day
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
* Professor Argüelles‘ website
* Professor Argüelles‘ Q&A page
* Professor Argüelles‘ YouTube channel
* The Assimil Method
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 “…
playlist_add
Jun 1, 2022
Ask Benny: Two Big Announcements!
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
playlist_add
May 30, 2022
#101 Scott Brills on World Travel & Language Survival Basics
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
* Scott’s Website
* Scott’s Facebook
* Scott’s Twitter
* Scott’s Instagram
* Mongol Rally
* Rickshaw Run
* Pamoja Safaris
* Benny’s Mt. Kilimanjaro Story
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 maki…
playlist_add
May 23, 2022
#100 Celebrating 100 Episodes with Scott Young
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
* Ultralearning
* Rapid Learner
Mentioned in this Episode
* Ultralearning
* Rapid Learner
* Scott’s Website
* Scott’s Twitter
* Scott’s Facebook
* Scott’s Instagram
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…
playlist_add
May 16, 2022
#99 Shannon and Elizabeth on Self-Compassion in Language Learning
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Pimsleur
* Shannon’s Spotify
* French Sunnyside
* Language Conqueror: Mindfulness
* Power of Now
* When Good Things Happen to Bad People
* Alcoholics Anonymous
* Al-Anon
* Overeaters Anonymous
* Narcotics Anonymous
* Debtors Anonymous
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 learn…
playlist_add
May 11, 2022
Ask Benny: What are Language Islands?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
May 9, 2022
#98 Benny and Shannon on Language Learning When Life Happens
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Benny’s Instagram
* Benny’s Facebook
* Benny’s Twitter
* Shannon’s Instagram
* Shannon’s Website
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly…
playlist_add
May 2, 2022
#97 Louisa on Learning About Herself Through Italian
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Innovative Languages
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Innovative Languages
* Language Transfer
* Notion
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 t…
playlist_add
Apr 27, 2022
Ask Benny: What is the Pomodoro Technique?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Apr 25, 2022
#96 Fiona’s 90-Day Italian Challenge
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
* Benny’s Mt. Kilimanjaro Story
* Benny’s Instagram
* Benny’s Twitter
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
* Differe…
playlist_add
Apr 18, 2022
#95 Jeremy Ginsburg on "Beginner's Mind"
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
* Jeremy’s website
* Jeremy’s Facebook
* Jeremy’s Instagram
* Speak in a Week course
Jeremy’s Fluent in 3 Months articles
* Wim Hof and ice baths
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…
playlist_add
Apr 13, 2022
Ask Benny: What's Your Favourite Language App?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Apr 11, 2022
#94 Sam on Comedy and Humor in Language Learning
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* LingQ
* Glossika
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* LingQ
* Glossika
* Daily Show
* Quizlet
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 wor…
playlist_add
Apr 4, 2022
#93 Laetitia on How to Find a Great Language Tutor
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
* Duolingo
Mentioned in this Episode
* italki
* Duolingo
* Discord
* Learning with Texts
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
* Wh…
playlist_add
Mar 30, 2022
Ask Benny: Does Daily Duolingo Really Help?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Mar 28, 2022
#92 Tom O’Neill on Language Learning for Introverts
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
* Duolingo
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
* Duolingo
* Mel Robbins
* Todoist
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 vi…
playlist_add
Mar 21, 2022
#91 Manish on Juggling Multiple Languages
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Pimsleur
* italki
* Anki
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Goldlist Method
* Spanish Speaking Hacks
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…
playlist_add
Mar 16, 2022
Ask Benny: St Patrick's Day / Seachtain na Gaeilge Special
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
* Teanglann dictionary
* TG4
* Mol Scéal news site
* Gaeilge Amháin Facebook group
* Gaeilge Subreddit
* MemesAsGaeilge Subreddit
* Tuairisc news site
* Nós news site
* Learning with Texts
* GaelGram grammar checker
* Foclach - Irish Wordle
* Benny’s Irish Twitter
* Benny’s Irish Instagram
* Benny’s Irish Tiktok
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and…
playlist_add
Mar 14, 2022
#90 St. Patrick’s Day Special: Sadelle’s Irish Journey
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Clozemaster
* italki
* Benny’s top Irish resources
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Benny’s Irish Instagram
* Benny’s Irish TikTok
* Benny’s Irish Twitter
* Teanglann dictionary
* Focloir dictionary
* Tearma dictionary
* Potafocal dictionary
* Futurelearn Irish from Dublin City University
* Gaeilge Gan Stró beg…
playlist_add
Mar 7, 2022
#89 Elena Guillén on Going from Dabbler to Consistent Learner
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
Mentioned in this Episode
* Lingua Latina Per Se Illustrata
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
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 ancie…
playlist_add
Mar 2, 2022
Ask Benny: How Do You Gather the Courage to Speak?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Feb 28, 2022
#88 Cara Leopold on Fast-Talking Native Speakers
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
* Leo Listening
* ANV Cop 21
* Alternatiba
* L’Affaire du Siècle
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…
playlist_add
Feb 21, 2022
#87 John Fotheringham on “Anywhere Immersion”
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
* Master Japanese
* Master Chinese
Mentioned in this Episode
* Master Japanese
* Master Chinese
* Gretchen Rubin’s Four Tendencies
* Total Physical Response
* Is Japanese Hard to Learn?
* 5 Steps to Learn Japanese Anywhere in the World
* Gabriel Wyner
* The Power of When
* Atomic Habits
* Four Tendencies Book
* Better Than Before
* Goodreads
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…
playlist_add
Feb 16, 2022
Ask Benny: How Can I Find Content in a Less Common Language?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Feb 14, 2022
#86 Andrew Hamerlinck on What Sports Coaches Can Teach Language Learners
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Language Hacking Spanish
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…
playlist_add
Feb 7, 2022
#85 Alicya on Wine Tasting to Learn French
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Wine Tasting Course
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…
playlist_add
Feb 2, 2022
Ask Benny: New "Language Hacking Mandarin" Book Release
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusive…
playlist_add
Feb 1, 2022
#84 Dr. Gu on Co-Writing ‘Language Hacking Mandarin’
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
* Language Hacking Mandarin
* Chinese for Heritage Learners
* Picture Characters
* Chinese with Lulu and Maomao
* Integrated Chinese
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 Langua…
playlist_add
Jan 24, 2022
#83 Hugo Cotton on Learning Through Topics that Matter
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
* Inner French
* Real Polish podcast
* Inner French Apple Podcasts
* Inner French Spotify
* Inner French Youtube
* Language Hacking podcast episode with Anja Winter
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…
playlist_add
Jan 19, 2022
Ask Benny: How Can I Incorporate the 4 Pillars of Language Learning into My Routine?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Jan 17, 2022
#82 Liz of “Talk the Streets” on How to Get Started with Portuguese
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
* Liz’s YouTube
* Talk the Streets website
* Liz’s Instagram
* Liz’s Facebook
* Memrise
* Drops
* Lyrics Training
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 liv…
playlist_add
Jan 10, 2022
#81 Carine Lemaire on Fearless Language Practice
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
* italki
* LingQ
Mentioned in this Episode
* Carine’s website
* French Chatter podcast
* Carine’s italki profile
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”
* Watchi…
playlist_add
Jan 3, 2022
Ask Benny: Benny's 2022 Language Learning Plans
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Jan 1, 2022
Ask Benny: How to Get Started with a New Language in 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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Dec 31, 2021
Ask Benny: How to Make New Year's Resolutions that Actually Stick
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Dec 27, 2021
#80 Yawhann’s 90 Day Language Challenge
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Ramit Sethi
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 simil…
playlist_add
Dec 22, 2021
Ask Benny: Mental Health and Language Learning
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Dec 20, 2021
#79 Lina Vasquez on Holistic Language Coaching
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
* Lina’s Coaching
* Lina Vasquez
* Lina’s Facebook
* Lina’s Instagram
* Lina’s Youtube
* Lina’s Clubhouse
* Lina’s LinkedIn
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
*…
playlist_add
Dec 15, 2021
Ask Benny: Reactivating My Catalan After 15 Years
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Dec 13, 2021
#78 Christmas Special: Top Gifts for Language Learners
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Language Hacking books
* Preply
* The Bullet Journal Method
* Panda Planner
* Time Timer
* Dabble Spanish course
* Script Hacking books
* Olly Richards’ Short Stories
* Urbion Card Game
* Kindle Fire tablet
Mentioned in this Episode
* Christmas food traditions around the world
* Book Depository
Episode Overview
Some of the gift…
playlist_add
Dec 6, 2021
#77 Gabriel Silva on Learning Two Languages at the Same Time
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
* Gabriel’s Book “Terrible at Learning Languages: No More!”
* Pimsleur
Mentioned in this Episode
* Gabriel’s Book “Terrible at Learning Languages: No More!”
* Gabriel’s YouTube
* Gabriel’s Instagram
* Pimsleur
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
*…
playlist_add
Dec 1, 2021
Ask Benny: What if I Can't Prepare Before a Lesson?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Nov 29, 2021
#76 Ben Phillips on How to Live and Study Abroad for Free
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
* Anki
* italki
* LingQ
Mentioned in this Episode
* Ben’s article on the Fluent in 3 Months blog
* Anki
* italki
* LingQ
* Memrise
* Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX)
* Workaway
* Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF)
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 t…
playlist_add
Nov 15, 2021
#75 Doree Huneven on Worldwide Travel, Reward Systems and Sleeping Languages
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Linguaphone
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…
playlist_add
Nov 8, 2021
Ask Benny: What's the Best Way to Prep for a Language Class?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Nov 1, 2021
#74 Stephen Krashen on the Comprehensible Input Method
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
* Stephen Krashen’s Website
* Stephen Krashen on Twitter
* Steve Kaufmann
* Noam Chomsky
* Tracy Terrell
* Biological Foundations of Language
* TPRS
* Beniko Mason
* Bill VanPatten
* Flow by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
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 compr…
playlist_add
Oct 25, 2021
#73 Juliana Russell on “Do Kids Learn Languages Better than Adults?”
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
* italki
* Gus on the Go
* Duolingo
* The Language Mindset
* Juliana’s Instagram
* Juliana’s Facebook
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…
playlist_add
Oct 20, 2021
Ask Benny: What Should I Do Differently in Speaking Lessons at Different Levels?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Oct 18, 2021
#72 Jeremy Bardo on Going Viral in Another Language
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
* Speak from Day 1
* Language Hacking Spanish
Mentioned in this Episode
* Speak from Day 1
* Language Hacking Spanish
* Memrise
* Stop Making Excuses
* Jeremy Bardo’s Youtube
* Las Flores Se Abrirán
* Jeremy’s Website
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 s…
playlist_add
Oct 11, 2021
#71 Brittany Williams’ 90 Day Japanese Challenge
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
* JapanesePod101
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
* JapanesePod101
* Memrise
* Pimsleur
* Wanikani
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 E…
playlist_add
Oct 6, 2021
Ask Benny: How Can I Speak Zero English in a Language Lesson?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Oct 4, 2021
#70 Herr Professor on How Engineers Approach Language Learning
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
* Tiny Habits
* Stephen Krashen’s Comprehensible Input
* Herr Professor
* Herr Professor Courses
* Herr Professor Podcast
* James Asher’s Total Physical Response
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…
playlist_add
Sep 27, 2021
#69 Sara Maria Hasbun on the Psychology of Language Learning
Sara Maria Hasbun, founder of Meridian Linguistics, shares about psycholinguistics, working in the language industry, and “extreme” language learning.
Featured Resources
* Meridian Languages
* Glossika
Mentioned in this Episode
* Meridian Languages
* Glossika
* Tempo App on iOS
* Tempo App on Android
* Sara’s Website
* Sara on Instagram
* Sara on Twitter
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…
playlist_add
Sep 22, 2021
Ask Benny: How Can I Start Reading in My Target Language?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Sep 20, 2021
#68 Anthony Metivier on Building a Magnetic Memory
“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
* Brain Exercise Bootcamp
* Language Death by David Crystal
* Anthony Metivier
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and…
playlist_add
Sep 13, 2021
#67 Mari Silvestrini on Energy and Momentum in Language Learning
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
* Memrise
* Mari’s website
* Mari on Twitter
* Mari on Youtube
* Mari on Instagram
* Mari on Facebook
* Mari’s Podcast
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…
playlist_add
Sep 8, 2021
Ask Benny: Should I Learn Verb Conjugations Before Trying to Speak?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Sep 6, 2021
#66 Anja Spilker on Creating a Language School in Mexico
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
* ZALOA Languages
* Anja on Instagram
* Anja on Facebook
* Anja on Twitter
* ZALOA Languages on Instagram
* ZALOA Languages on Facebook
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
* T…
playlist_add
Aug 30, 2021
#65 Alice Cimino on Learning With Downton Abbey
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Articles
* Alice Cimino’s Medium Articles
* Alice’s Instagram
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjo…
playlist_add
Aug 25, 2021
Ask Benny: How Can I Find the Right Teacher?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Aug 23, 2021
#64 Shahidah Foster on Starting Black Girls Learn Languages
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
* Sisters Only Language Summit
* Black Girls Learn Languages
* Black Girls Learn Languages Merch
* Black Girls Learn Languages Facebook
* Black Girls Learn Languages Twitter
* Black Girls Learn Languages Instagram
* Black Girls Learn Languages YouTube
* Get Featured on Black Girls Learn Languages
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
* Find…
playlist_add
Aug 16, 2021
#63 How to Become a Fearless Language Learner with Halima Salim
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
* Blackboard English
* Fearless English Podcast
* Fearless English Course
* Blackboard English Facebook
* Blackboard English Youtube
* Blackboard English Instagram
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
* Creati…
playlist_add
Aug 11, 2021
Ask Benny: How Can I Speak from Day One When I Don't Know a Single Word?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Aug 9, 2021
#62 Relearn a Language with Marissa Blaszko
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
* Relearn A Language YouTube Channel
* Who are Language Learners - 2021 study of dabblers, polyglots, hyperglots
Mentioned in this Episode
* Relearn A Language YouTube Channel
* Who are Language Learners - 2021 study of dabblers, polyglots, hyperglots
* Marissa’s Instagram
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…
playlist_add
Aug 2, 2021
#61 Svenja on Language Islands, Daily Habits and Finding Breakthroughs
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
* Mimic Method
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 languag…
playlist_add
Jul 28, 2021
Ask Benny: How to Learn a Different Writing System
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Jul 26, 2021
#60 Katie Pascoe on Virtual Reality Language Learning
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
* Dynamic Spanish
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Mentioned in this Episode
* Dynamic Spanish
* Dynamic Spanish Instagram
* Dynamic Spanish Facebook
* VR Languages Youtube
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Episode Overview
Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:
* Getting an ear for languages by eavesdropping on family conversations i…
playlist_add
Jul 19, 2021
#59 Maria Ortega on the Poetry of Learning Languages
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
* Maria Ortega Garcia
* Maria’s Instagram
* Maria’s Facebook
* Maria’s Youtube
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Jul 12, 2021
#58 Janina Klimas on Using Acting Techniques to Improve Your Languages
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Real Life Language
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Netflix
* Yabla
* Real Life Language
* Real Life Language Podcast
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, raci…
playlist_add
Jul 5, 2021
#57 Géraldine Lepère on Cultural Clues to Sound More French
Benny and Elizabeth speak with French YouTube superstar Géraldine Lepère about the importance of understanding culture when learning a language.
Featured Resources
* Comme une Française
* MY STORY: How Culture Shock Inspired Me To Create Comme une Française
Mentioned in this Episode
* Comme une Française
* MY STORY: How Culture Shock Inspired Me To Create Comme une Française
* Géraldine Lepère Facebook
* Géraldine Lepère Instagram
* Géraldine Lepère YouTube
* Géraldine Lepère Twitter
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Jun 28, 2021
#56 Jo Franco on Being a Netflix Travel Chick
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
* JoClub
* The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals
Mentioned in this Episode
* JoClub
* The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals
* The Circle
* Shut Up and Go Travel Show
* Jo Franco Twitter
* Jo Franco Instagram
* Jo Franco YouTube
* How Jo Franco Bought a House in Cash
* Jo Franco Reveals She Was Shot in Brazil
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 travelin…
playlist_add
Jun 21, 2021
#55 Elfin Waters on Falling in Lust with Languages
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
* Women in Language
* All About Italian
Mentioned in this Episode
* Women in Language
* All About Italian
* All About Italian Retreats
* All About Italian Instagram
* Con Parole Noste - Italian Conversations
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 dialec…
playlist_add
Jun 14, 2021
#54 Jim and May on Spanish and Go
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
* italki
* Spanish and Go
Mentioned in this Episode
* italki
* Spanish and Go
* Spanish and Go Podcast
* How to Order Food in Spanish (Ordering a Meal at a Restaurant)
* Day of Dead Children’s Book
* Day of Dead video
* Spanish and Go Youtube
* Spanish and Go Instagram
* Spanish and Go Facebook
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 imm…
playlist_add
Jun 7, 2021
#53 Anja Winter on How Engaging Language Content Keeps you Coming Back
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
* italki
* LingQ
* Language Hacking books
Mentioned in this Episode
* italki
* LingQ
* Anja’s Academy
* Language Hacking books
* Anja’s Instagram
* Anja’s Youtube
* Learn German with Anja
* Learn German with Anja on Instagram
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…
playlist_add
Jun 2, 2021
Ask Benny: Update on Benny's Language Projects
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
May 31, 2021
#52 Mark Pentleton on Creating Coffee Break Podcasts
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
May 24, 2021
#51 Dustin and Ruben Share Accent Tips to Sound Like a Native Speaker in Spanish
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
* English Speaking Hacks
* Spanish Speaking Hacks
Mentioned in this Episode
* Cosas Que Dicen Los Argentinos Hecho Por Un Yanqui
* English Speaking Hacks
* Spanish Speaking Hacks
* Spanish Speaking Hacks Instagram
* English Speaking Hacks Instagram
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…
playlist_add
May 19, 2021
Ask Benny: How to Stop Getting Tempted by Shiny New Languages
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
May 17, 2021
#50 Dayna Brockbank on Budget Language Learning with Cartoons, Anki, and italki
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
* italki
* Atomic Habits
* Anki
Mentioned in this Episode
* italki
* Atomic Habits
* Anki
* Fluent in 3 Months blog
* Duolingo
* Happily Ever Travels
* VIP Kid
* Universe of Memory
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…
playlist_add
May 10, 2021
#49 Alex Rawlings on Speaking 11 Languages Fluently
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
* How to Speak Any Language Fluently
* Assimil
* Teach Yourself
* Routledge
Mentioned in this Episode
* Third Year Abroad, now Global Graduates
* How to Speak Any Language Fluently
* Assimil
* Teach Yourself
* Routledge
* Alex Rawlings
* Alex’s Twitter
* Alex’s Instagram
* More Than Words Podcast
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…
playlist_add
May 5, 2021
Ask Benny: Is it Better to Learn Phrases Rather Than Words?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
May 3, 2021
#48 Sarah Gillespie on the Treasure Hunt of Learning a Rare Language
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
* Sarah’s Website
* Sarah’s Article on Fluent in 3 Months
* Toggl
* Audacity
* Paul Soderquist
* Illonggo Boyz
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 l…
playlist_add
Apr 26, 2021
#47 Luca Lampariello on Questioning Everything When Learning Languages
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
* Luca’s Coaching
* Communities of Practice
* Atomic Habits
Mentioned in this Episode
* Luca’s Coaching
* Communities of Practice
* Atomic Habits
* Luca’s Twitter
* Luca’s Facebook
* Luca’s Instagram
* Luca’s Youtube
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…
playlist_add
Apr 21, 2021
Ask Benny: How to Watch Movies in My Target Language?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Apr 19, 2021
#46 How Ashton Went from B1 to C1 Spanish in 48 Days
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Genki
* Tandem
* Benny’s Ted Talk
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 a…
playlist_add
Apr 12, 2021
#45 Damon Dominique on Being a Travel & Language YouTuber
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* FluentCity
* Damon and Jo
* Shut up and go
* Damon’s Youtube
* Damon’s Instagram
* Damon’s Twitter
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 onli…
playlist_add
Apr 7, 2021
Ask Benny: Should I Learn Two Languages at Once?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Apr 5, 2021
#44 Lizzy Rimington Shares Insider French Secrets from 30 Years Living in France
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 lang…
playlist_add
Mar 29, 2021
#43 Eliza Simpson on Accent Training with Hollywood Stars
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
* Dialects Now
* Accent Gym
Mentioned in this Episode
* Knight-Thompson Speechworks
* Dialects Now
* Accent Gym
* Eliza’s Twitter
* Eliza’s YouTube
* Eliza’s Instagram
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 Kenne…
playlist_add
Mar 24, 2021
Ask Benny: When Do I Learn Grammar?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Mar 22, 2021
#42 Jessie and Kike on Lockdown Language Success
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Anki
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Anki
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
* Wh…
playlist_add
Mar 15, 2021
#41 Benny Lewis on How Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro is Like Learning Languages
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Mar 10, 2021
Ask Benny: How Do You Remember Vocabulary in Another Language?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Mar 8, 2021
#40 Kris Broholm on Anti-Goals in Language Learning
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
* Lost Connections
* Actual Fluency Podcast
Mentioned in this Episode
* Lost Connections
* Polyglot Gathering
* Actual Fluency Podcast
* Actual Fluency
* Kris’s Email
* Cortisol relief in nature
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
* A…
playlist_add
Mar 1, 2021
#39 Julie Ferguson on Speaking 5 Languages as a Deafblind Polyglot
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
* Julie’s articles on Fluent in 3 Months
* Satori Reader
* Transcript for 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 l…
playlist_add
Feb 24, 2021
Ask Benny: What’s the Simplest Thing I Can Do to Learn a Language?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Feb 22, 2021
#38 Chuck Smith on Why You Should Learn Esperanto
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
* Amikumu
* Innovative Languages
Mentioned in this Episode
* Polyglot Gathering
* Amikumu
* Innovative Languages
* Chuck Smith
* Chuck’s Twitter
* Chuck’s Instagram
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
Join Our P…
playlist_add
Feb 15, 2021
#37 Bryce and Michele on Falling in Love while Learning Each Other's Language
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
* Havi…
playlist_add
Feb 10, 2021
Ask Benny: What's Your Current Language Project?
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Feb 8, 2021
#36 Lýdia Machová on Learning a New Language Every 2 Years
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
* Goldlist Method
* Anki
Mentioned in this Episode
* Polyglot Gathering
* Goldlist Method
* Anki
* SRS
* Lýdia Machová
* Lýdia’s Facebook
* Lýdia’s Instagram
* Lýdia’s YouTube
* Lýdia’s Ted Talk
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 l…
playlist_add
Feb 1, 2021
#35 Richard Simcott on Being a World Famous Polyglot
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
* Assimil
* italki
Mentioned in this Episode
* Polyglot Conference
* Richard’s Polyglot Video
* Korean Script Hacking
* Assimil
* Teach Yourself Complete Korean
* Michel Thomas
* Go Billy Korean
* TTMIK
* italki
* Richard Simcott
* Richard’s Youtube
* Richard’s Twitter
* Richard’s Instagram
* Richard’s Facebook
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 origin…
playlist_add
Jan 25, 2021
#34 Lindie Botes on Being a Third Culture Kid
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
* italki
* Anki
Mentioned in this Episode
* italki
* Anki
* Notion
* Lindie’s viral Korean video
* Women in Language
* Lindie Botes
* Lindie’s Instagram
* Lindie’s YouTube
* Lindie’s Twitter
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 lan…
playlist_add
Jan 18, 2021
#33 Katie Harris on the Joy of Languages
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
* italki
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Mentioned in this Episode
* italki
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Joy of Languages
* Five Minute Italian Podcast
* Easy Languages
* Katie’s Instagram
* Katie’s YouTube
* Jessica’s Facebook
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 l…
playlist_add
Jan 11, 2021
#32 Evelyn on Learning Korean During Lockdown
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
* Fluent in 3 Months book
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months book
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* LingQ
* Anki
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 cha…
playlist_add
Jan 4, 2021
#31 Nelson Dellis on Building Memory Superpowers
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
* Preply
* Drops
* Memory Superpowers
Mentioned in this Episode
* Preply
* Drops
* Memory Superpowers
* Nelson’s Dutch Words Video
* Nelson Dellis
* Nelson’s Instagram
* Nelson’s YouTube
* Nelson’s Facebook
* Nelson’s Twitter
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 st…
playlist_add
Dec 28, 2020
#30 Nissa on learning Bengali in 3 Months
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 processe…
playlist_add
Dec 21, 2020
#29 Judith Meyer on Opening Up Opportunity with Languages
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
* Complete Esperanto
* Script Hacking Series
Mentioned in this Episode
* Learnyu
* Complete Esperanto
* Script Hacking Series
* Learnlangs
* Judith’s YouTube
* Judith’s Twitter
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…
playlist_add
Dec 14, 2020
#28 Lindsay Williams the Language Dabbler
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
* Not a Year Off
* Language Planner
* 100 Creative Ideas for Solo Language Learners
* Successful Self Study
* Online Teachers Starter Kit
Mentioned in this Episode
* Lanugage Stories
* LiveLingua
* Essential Vocabulary
* Not a Year Off
* Language Planner
* 100 Creative Ideas for Solo Language Learners
* Successful Self Study
* Online Teachers Starter Kit
* Lindsay’s Instagram
* Lindsay’s YouTube
* Lindsay’s Facebook
Episode Overview
Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:
* Moving to Costa Rica for three months at 18 years old
* Her expe…
playlist_add
Dec 7, 2020
#27 Jessica Tefenkgi Ruelle on Mindfulness in Language Learning
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
* French Sunnyside Membership
* French Sunnyside Journaling Program
Mentioned in this Episode
* French Sunnyside Membership
* French Sunnyside Journaling Program
* French Sunnyside
* Jessica’s Instagram
* Jessica’s YouTube
* Jessica’s Facebook
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…
playlist_add
Nov 30, 2020
#26 Jonathan Huggins on the “One Method” Strategy
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* 30 Day Speaking Challenge
Mentioned in this Episode
* French in Action
* Pimsleur
* Toefl
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* 30 Day Speaking Challenge
* Jonathan’s site
* Jonathan’s Instagram
* Jonathan’s YouTube
* Jonathan’s Facebook
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…
playlist_add
Nov 23, 2020
#25 Learn a Language in 5-Minute Bursts with Drops
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Black Friday Deals
* Drops
Mentioned in this Episode
* Drops
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Terrace House
* Shannon’s Italian Refresh
* Holly’s Mosalingua Review
* Shannon’s Instagram
* Language Hacking Interview with Will John
* Gus on the Go
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 lan…
playlist_add
Nov 16, 2020
#24 Elizabeth Bruckner - from 10x Failure to Language Coach
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
* Speak in a Week
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
Mentioned in this Episode
* Elizabeth’s failed attempts at learning languages
* Benny’s Rosetta Stone review
* Speak in a Week
* Fluent in 3 M…
playlist_add
Nov 9, 2020
#23 Michele Frolla on Living and Working in Rome to Learn Italian
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
* Mondly
* Intrepid Spanish
* Intrepid Italian
* Intrepid French
Mentioned in this Episode
* Mondly
* Michel Thomas
* UTalk
* Michele’s site
* Michele’s Instagram
* Michele’s YouTube
* Michele’s Facebook
* Michele’s Twitter
* Netflix
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 Ro…
playlist_add
Nov 2, 2020
#22 Steve Kaufmann - How to Learn a New Language from Any Online Article
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
* LingQ
* Comprehensible Input
* Steve’s YouTube
* Steve’s Instagram
* Steve’s Twitter
* Steve’s website
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…
playlist_add
Oct 26, 2020
#21 Avital Spivak on Forgetting French then Falling Back in Love with Languages
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* LingQ
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 mart…
playlist_add
Oct 19, 2020
#20 Johan Tekfak on “Kaizen Power” in Language Learning
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: “…
playlist_add
Oct 12, 2020
#19 Turia Pope - from False Beginner to Spanish Homeschooler
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* LingQ
* French Uncovered
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* LingQ
* French Uncovered
* Workaway
* Fabulingua
* Fable Cottage
* The Spanish Experiment
* Radio Ambulante
* Scott Young’s Year Without English
E…
playlist_add
Oct 5, 2020
#18 Kerstin Cable on Slow Learning
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
* Your Solid Vocab Memory
* German Uncovered
Mentioned in this Episode
* The Fluent Show
* The Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin
* German Uncovered
* Duolingo
* Fluentlanguage.co.uk
* Kerstin’s Instagram
* Kerstin’s Youtube channel
* Kerstin’s Twitter account
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 fo…
playlist_add
Sep 28, 2020
#17 Jane T - The Motorhome Language Learner
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
* LingQ
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…
playlist_add
Sep 21, 2020
#16 Will John on Mixing Football and Language Skills
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
* Muzzy in Gondoland
* Goluremi
* Goluremi on Youtube
* Goluremi on Youtube in Spanish
* The Way of Will John
* Will John’s Instagram
* 11th Commandment YouTube
* Foreign footballers speaking Finnish video
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” w…
playlist_add
Sep 14, 2020
#15 The Power of Friendship in Language Acquisition with Debs Bensaul
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* The Courage to Speak
Mentioned in this Episode
* Duolingo
* Fluent in 3 Months, the book
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* The Courage to Speak
* Drops
Episode Overview
Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:
* The power of learning a…
playlist_add
Sep 7, 2020
#14 Women in Language: Championing Female Voices in Language Learning
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
* Women in Language
* Women in Language Instagram
* Women in Language Facebook
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 Shanno…
playlist_add
Aug 31, 2020
#13 How to Learn a Language “By Ear” with Idahosa Ness
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Aug 24, 2020
#12 Suzanne - "I go to the Tapas Bar and talk in Spanish for hours"
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
* Meet Up
* Radio Ambulante
* El Washington Post Podcast
* El Pais
* News in Slow German
* Coffee Break
* Inner French
* Francais Authentique
* El Ministeri…
playlist_add
Aug 17, 2020
#11 Nomadic Matt on Travelling the World for $50 a Day
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
* Nomadic Matt
* Coffee Break French
Coffee Break Spanish
* Matt’s Patreon
* The Nomadic Network
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to b…
playlist_add
Aug 10, 2020
#10 Nikki Prša on Little Moments of Language Practice
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
* Speak at Home Tonight
* Master Chef
* Top Model
* Nikki’s Instagram
* Nikki’s Facebook
* Nikki’s Twitter
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 t…
playlist_add
Aug 3, 2020
#09 Peter Galante on Creating Podcasts in 34 Languages
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, anch…
playlist_add
Jul 27, 2020
#08 Louisa on the Goldlist Method & Learning Chinese in 90 Days
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* italki
Mentioned in this Episode
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Goldlisting
* italki
* Lydia Machova’s Goldlisting explanation
* Google Translate
Episode Overview
Some of the topics brought up during the interview are:
* Why language learning in night classes isn’t rig…
playlist_add
Jul 20, 2020
#07 Caitlin Sacasas on Meditating & Binge-Watching Netflix to Learn Japanese
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
* JLPT
* Caitlin’s Makeup Tutorial in Japanese
* Terrace House
* How Caitlin found her lang…
playlist_add
Jul 13, 2020
#06 Benny & Shannon Answer Your Language Learning Questions
Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy answer listener questions about language learning as a part of a special live episode of the Language Hacking Podcast.
Featured Resources
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Speak in a Week
* Drops
* Anki
Mentioned in this Episode
* Livestream on Youtube
* Memrise
* Spaced repetition
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Speaking without Conversing
* HelloTalk
* Speechling
* All Benny’s Language Missions
* Defense Institute of Languages Categories
* Language learning in hours and not years
* Shannon’s post on picking up a language after a break
* Fi3M’s post on picking up a language after a break
* Shannon’s Italian refresh project
* Dark - German TV Series
* Pomodoro Technique
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? - B…
playlist_add
Jul 6, 2020
#05 Olly Richards on Living Abroad and Story Learning
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.
Featured Resources
* Spanish Uncovered
* German Uncovered
* French Uncovered
* Italian Uncovered
* Japanese Uncovered
* Language Hacking Books
* Olly’s Uncovered Courses
Mentioned in this Episode
* I Will Teach You a Language
* I Will Teach You a Language Podcast
* Language Hacking Books
* Olly’s Italian Mission
* Olly’s Thai Mission
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 com…
playlist_add
Jun 29, 2020
#04 Shannon Kennedy on Musicianship, Shyness and Scripting in Language Learning
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.
Featured Resources
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Speak in a Week
* LingQ
Mentioned in this Episode
* Eurolinguiste
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Speak in a Week
* Drops
* Pimsleur
* LingQ
* Women in Language
* Shannon’s music
* Shannon on Twitter
* Shannon on Facebook
* Shannon on Instagram
* Shannon on Youtube
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 i…
playlist_add
Jun 18, 2020
#03 Paulette on Inventing Your Own Language Path
Mentioned in this Episode
* italki
* Fluent in 3 Months Blog
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* LingQ
* Fathers and Sons
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe to our Patreon to get access to bonus content and monthly exclusives.
playlist_add
Jun 18, 2020
#02 Benny Lewis on Ignoring Destiny and Embracing "Failure"
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
* Fluent in 3 Months Blog
* Benny’s Language Missions
* Fluent in 3 Months Challenge
* Innovative Products
* Speak in a Week
* Benny on Twitter
* Fi3M on Twitter
* Benny on Facebook
* Fi3M on Facebook
* Benny on Instagram
* Fi3M on Instagram
* Benny on YouTube
* Fi3M on Youtube
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
Join Our Patreon
Enjoy the p…
playlist_add
Jun 16, 2020
#01 Scott Young on Learning Four Languages in One Year
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
* Scott's Rapid Learner course
* Scott’s book “Ultralearning”
* The Year Without English
* Pimsleur
* Scott’s Macedonian project
* MIT Challenge
* HSK Exam
* Scott’s blog
* Scott’s podcast
* Scott on Twitter
* Scott on Youtube
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 y…
playlist_add