PODCAST · education
How to Learn a Language
by Lindsay Dow
How to Learn a Language is the podcast with the very self-explanatory name!We’ll cover all aspects of language learning, especially focusing on learning how to learn languages better. From time to time guests might pop by to share how they learn languages, but mostly it’ll be me and you hanging out so hey, get comfy and let's learn how to learn a language.Follow for more at https://www.lindsaydoeslanguages.com/podcastGot a question? A topic you'd like covered or a guest you'd like to hear from? Email me at lindsay[at]doeslanguages[dot]com.
Episodes
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How to Celebrate Small Wins and Stay Motivated
Celebrating small wins is key to staying motivated in language learning. In this episode, I explain how setting clear milestones using the onion goals method helps break down big goals into manageable steps. I also cover the importance of weekly wins to recognize progress regularly. Plus, how...
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The Truth About Grammar: Why It’s Not Just Rules to Follow
Grammar sucks, right? Nope! This episode explores common myths about grammar and reframes it as an essential, enjoyable, and achievable part of language learning. I'll talk about what grammar is NOT and what it actually is. Prepare to finally be grammar curious! --- **GET STARTED FOR FREE** 🎁…
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How to Reframe “Failure” in Your Language Journey
Failure. The thought of it being a possibility can stop us from even starting to learn a language. So what we we reframe the idea of failure? How can we do that for language learning? That's what we'll talk about in this episode. --- **GET STARTED FOR FREE** 🎁 Free Video Training - How to…
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She's Learning a Language That Was Banned for Almost 100 Years - In Conversation with Malia Yoshioka
Malia Yoshioka shares her unique language journey from growing up in Hawaii as a forth generation Japanese American with its complex cultural and linguistic layers to living 10 years in Turkey, where she learned Turkish through her passion for food. She discusses the history and revitalization of...
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Try Language Life for the weekend (for free.)
Get a full inside peek at what it's really like inside Language Life. Totally free, for one weekend only. The Language Life Open Weekend is happening Thursday 10th - Sunday 13th September. If you've been curious about Language Life and wanted to join but also wanted to see what it's really like...
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Can You Really Balance & Maintain 15 Languages?
I've studied 15 languages to a decent level. But does that mean I SPEAK 15 languages?... In this episode, I explore the reality of balancing and maintaining 15 languages. --- **GET STARTED FOR FREE** 🎁 Free Video Training - How to Finally Learn That Language:...
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Don't Visit Taiwan Without Knowing These 10 Words!
Discover essential travel words for your first trip to Taiwan. This video covers key phrases, cultural insights like traditional characters, measure words, and unique local terms such as QQ, kuai kuai, and the Taiwanese Louis Vuitton. Learn how to order bubble tea with ease and get familiar with...
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Is HSK 1 Enough to Travel in China?
Can you travel China with only HSK1 level? In this episode, I share my month-long experience travelling China with basic Chinese skills. Discover how translation apps, digital payments, and visiting less touristy cities made the trip enjoyable and manageable. Learn why you don’t need fluency to...
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The Most Common Language Learning Obstacles People Face (& How We Beat Them)
This episode of How to Learn a Language explores the three most common obstacles language learners face: picking resources, speaking practice, and plateaus. I'll share practical strategies to overcome these challenges and what we do to move past them when we work together. --- **GET STARTED FOR...
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10 Must-Know Tagalog Words for Your First Trip to the Philippines
Discover 10 essential Tagalog words for your first trip to the Philippines. From the polite "po" to local food favourites like adobo and halo-halo, plus useful terms like CR (comfort room) and barangay, these Filipino words and phrases for tourists will help you understand the world around you…
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My Bare Minimum Language Routine (Spoiler: It's Zero.)
Today, I'm sharing my bare minimum language learning routine...it's zero! I explain why having a zero buffer day can actually boost long-term progress. You'll hear what my current Chinese study routine looks like, including morning writing, app practice, and audio lessons, and how I adapt it when...
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Why Accent Doesn’t Define Your Language Ability
This episode explores why your accent does not define your language ability. I share a bit on my personal experiences with accent bias and explain a key mindset change that we should all remember. Plus, you'll learn a simple 2 step process for what actually matters. --- **GET STARTED FOR FREE**…
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How to Speak Korean Without Living in Korea
If you love BTS, K-Pop Demon Hunters or K-dramas and have started learning Korean, this is for you. You can learn Korean anywhere - you don't have to be in Korea! Whether you’re starting out or stuck on a plateau, these practical tips will help you improve your Korean from anywhere. --- **GET...
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Language Learning Prompts That Actually Build Fluency (Not ChatGPT!)
Language learning prompts can build real fluency when they are 3 key things. And ChatGPT? Your AI language prompts aren't likely to be these 3 things! Generic ChatGPT prompts often fail due to lack of structure and accountability. In this video, I also share a simple 3-step system to create...
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Is Writing Worth It? Shouldn't I Be Speaking?
Is writing worth it when speaking is your focus? Here's how writing supports speaking, listening, and reading by providing a slower, permanent way to practice and prepare language output. --- **GET STARTED FOR FREE** 🎁 Free Video Training - How to Finally Learn That Language:...
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How to Use Duolingo to Improve Your Writing (Most People Don't Do This)
Want to use Duolingo better to learn a language? Learn how to use Duolingo to improve your writing skills beyond simple recognition. Here's 3 practical methods to turn Duolingo lessons into real writing practice. --- **GET STARTED FOR FREE** 🎁 Free Video Training - How to Finally Learn That...
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The Simplest Writing Routine Ever (That Works)
Writing for language learning doesn't have to mean complicated new routines. Here's the simplest writing routine to boost your language learning. --- **GET STARTED FOR FREE** 🎁 Free Video Training - How to Finally Learn That Language: https://lindsaydoeslanguages.com/freevideo --- **WORK WITH...
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How to Write Better In Any Language
Learn how to write better in any language by embracing...mistakes. Yes, really. Here's some practical tips to change your attitude towards mistakes, set mistake goals, and use those mistakes to improve your writing. Discover how writing more and making mistakes can boost your language skills and...
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Writing Systems 101
Curious about languages with different writing systems but not sure where to begin? Oh, hello! This is your start point - Writing Systems 101! This episode offers a clear, jargon-free introduction to different scripts. --- **GET STARTED FOR FREE** 🎁 Free Video Training - How to Finally Learn…
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1 Easy Creative Way to Get Fluent Faster
Creative constraints can boost your language learning, especially as a beginner. Learn how working with limited resources, using prompts like Promptly, and setting personal challenges help overcome overwhelm and build confidence. --- **GET STARTED FOR FREE** 🎁 Free Video Training - How to…
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How Language Life Supports Different Learning Styles
We all have different preferences when it comes to language learning. When I created Language Life, I wanted it to be something that doesn't guilt-trip or shame you. So, I made sure it supports different learning preferences through varied support styles, consumption options, and flexible...
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How to Listen Better in Any Foreign Language (Without Tons of Extra Effort)
Active listening is key to improving your foreign language skills beyond passive background listening. Here's how to make it easy so you can listen better in any foreign language - develop an effective listening process, integrate other skills, and choose engaging content you love. --- **GET...
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Why Taking Breaks Can Help You Learn More Effectively
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, stressed with your languages? Taking a break may well be the answer. In this episode, I debunk the myth that pausing means failure and explains how breaks help the brain process and retain new information. We'll dig into a bit of research including the concept of...
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5 Easy Ways to Read More in a Foreign Language
Discover five easy ways to read more in a foreign language. You can read more in any language without needing to set aside hours each time. Here's how to fit it in! --- **GET STARTED FOR FREE** 🎁 Free Video Training - How to Finally Learn That Language: https://lindsaydoeslanguages.com/freevideo...
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Why I Love Learning Uncommon Languages (No, It's Not For Clout!)
"Woah! You speak that language I've never heard of tat only 10 people speak?!" 🙄 For me, learning uncommon languages is rewarding beyond clout or showing off. In this episode I explain why I love learning lesser studied languages & include personal stories from studying languages like Guarani…
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Why You're Not Improving in Korean (& How to Fix It)
Feel stuck and not improving with your Korean? I've got 3 key reasons why your progress may be slow and how to fix them using the 3 Fs of language learning. --- **GET STARTED FOR FREE** 🎁 Free Video Training - How to Finally Learn That Language: https://lindsaydoeslanguages.com/freevideo ---...
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What Is Fossilisation in Language Learning? (& How to Avoid It)
Ever wondered why you always make the same mistakes? The answer could be fossilisation. This episode explores fossilization in language learning, a phenomenon where certain language mistakes become fixed and difficult to correct over time. You'll learn how fossilization occurs, especially during...
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My Journey Learning German: From Beginner to Confident Speaker
I never really talk about German, but it's a language I know reasonably well! So I figured it was well overdue to share my journey learning German. How I started learning German, what's difficult about it, what's easy, and how I feel about German. If you'd like more videos like this for other...
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Language Life FAQ: How much time will Language Life take? 🤔
How much time will Language Life take? On average, 20-30 minutes a week. That's it! This has been designed to fit in seamlessly alongside your language learning. In this video, I explain more for you.Ready to get started? Join Language Life here: https://lindsaydoeslanguages.com/ll
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Language Life FAQ: How does Language Life work for any language? 🤔
How does Language Life work for any language? Short answer - because even though every language is unique, the core principles of language learning are the same. In this video, I explain more for you. Ready to get started? Join Language Life here: https://lindsaydoeslanguages.com/ll
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Language Life FAQ: What's included in Language Life? 🤔
What's included in Language Life? You get the full package of everything you need to learn how to learn languages better - self-study curriculum, human support and feedback, regular practice. In this video, I explain more for you. Ready to get started? Join Language Life here:...
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Language Life FAQ: Is Language Life for me if I'm advanced? 🤔
Is Language Life a good option for you if you're already advanced in the language you're learning? Possibly! There's a few scenarios where it's a great fit. In this video, I explain more for you.Ready to get started? Join Language Life here: https://lindsaydoeslanguages.com/ll
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Language Life FAQ: Is Language Life for me if I'm a beginner? 🤔
Is Language Life a good option for you if you're a beginner in the language you're learning? Absolutely! The earlier you start learning this the better. In this episode, I explain more for you. Ready to get started? Join Language Life here: https://lindsaydoeslanguages.com/ll
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Language Learning Burnout: Why Stopping is the Smartest Way Forward
If you're languages have you feeling burnt out, this episode is for you. It explores language learning burnout and the importance of intentional pauses. I share why stopping is not quitting but a strategic reset to regain motivation and clarity. You'll also get some practical questions to help...
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Language Reset: What to Do When You Hit Language Learning Burnout
Feeling stuck with your languages? Join me for Language Reset! A brand new (free!) video series happening 30th March to 3rd April 2026. Discover how a Language Reset can bring clarity, calm, and confidence to your language learning journey. Watch this video to learn who this free 5-day event is...
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Confidence in Speaking a Foreign Language: Why Knowing More Isn’t Enough
Perhaps you've told yourself that confidence speaking a foreign language will automatically come from knowing more vocabulary or grammar? You're not alone buuuut...it's also not quite the truth! In this episode, I explain the common misconception that confidence is a reward unlocked by…
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How to Reset Your Language Learning Goals (Because You've Probably Outgrown Them)
When your language goals feel awkward or no longer fit, it might be time to reset them. In this video, I share how to recognise when you've outgrown your goals and how to set new ones that truly suit you. We'll discuss the influence of others' expectations, the freedom in changing your goals, and...
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Language Learning Anxiety: When Self-Judgement Takes Over
When language learning anxiety turns into self-judgment, things start to feel personal and unsafe. In this episode, I share my own experiences and explore how curiosity can be lost when anxiety takes over. As always, I emphasise the importance of self-compassion, creating safe practice spaces…
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Stop Using Language Apps?! Who's REALLY in Charge of Your Language Learning.
Using Duolingo to learn Spanish? Busuu for French? There's a little potential side-effect of language learning apps - they can unintentionally undermine your confidence by taking away your decision-making power. In this video, I'm discussing the pros and cons of app streaks, the importance of...
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Language Input vs Output: Why Speaking Doesn’t Catch Up Automatically
Ever feel like you're getting loads of exposure to a language but your speaking isn't improving? Let's talk about language input vs output. Because the truth is that speaking doesn't just catch up automatically. I'll share some ideas in this episode to help if you can relate to this. --- **GET...
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You Aren't Failing: Why Your Language Learning Progress Has Stalled
Feeling stuck with language progress? In this episode, Lindsay is sharing a motivating pep talk for language learners feeling stuck or plateaued. She explains why progress is not linear, encourages curiosity over critique, and emphasizes taking control of your learning journey. Lindsay also...
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Want to Quit Learning a Language? Do This First
This episode addresses the common feeling of wanting to give up on language learning, especially around the time New Year’s resolutions fade. Lindsay shares practical strategies to manage frustration and boredom by pausing with or without a set restart date, conducting a Language Learning Audit...
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Beyond Courses and Streaks: How We Do Things Differently in Language Life
This episode introduces Language Life, Lindsay’s comprehensive language coaching program designed to help learners speak fearlessly and intuitively. Lindsay explains how the program combines one-on-one coaching, group features, and self-study to provide a full package tailored to any language and...
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Why I Quit Duolingo, Like, All The Time (& Why I Restart Again and Again)
Lindsay shares her honest experience with Duolingo in 2026, exploring why she repeatedly quits and restarts the app. She discusses the pros and cons, including the shift from hearts to energy, the app’s role in building habits rather than fluency, and how it fits different learning stages.…
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Why Korean is Hard to Learn for Every English Speaker
Lindsay breaks down five key differences between Korean and English that often confuse learners and offers practical tips to overcome them. From particles and word order to honorifics, numbers, and vocabulary, she provides clear strategies to make Korean more approachable and less intimidating.…
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What Is Code-Switching? Why Do We Do It? (& How Is It Helpful for Language Learning?)
In this episode, I explore code-switching. I break down types of code switching like insertional and intra-sentential, share personal stories about ordering food in Italian & spotting code-switching examples in the Philippines, and explain why we switch languages. You'll also learn to embrace…
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The Essentials Every New Korean Learner Should Know
If you want to start learning Korean, here are the essentials I wish I knew from day one. I cover learning Hangeul, the Korean alphabet, and explain five key beginner words with insights into Korean grammar and honorifics. Plus, I introduce Music Maestro, a course for learning Korean through…
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How to Be Consistent For Language Learning
Consistency in language learning can be tough. In this video, I share three practical strategies to help you stay on track: setting three-tier goals, finding your preferred accountability method, and reducing friction by making language practice easier to access and integrate into your daily...
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Why Most Language Learners Fail: 4 Essential Questions
Whether you expect a language to be easy, difficult, or somewhere in between, there are four essential questions you should ask yourself before starting a new language. I’m Lindsay, a language learning expert, and in this video, I share these questions to help you make the right choice and set…
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Why Some Languages are Harder to Learn (and How to Make it Easier)
The US Foreign Service Institute ranks languages by difficulty for English speakers, but what really makes a language hard to learn? I’m Lindsay, a language learning expert, and in this video, I explore why some languages take longer to master. We’ll look beyond the FSI categories and break down...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
How to Learn a Language is the podcast with the very self-explanatory name!We’ll cover all aspects of language learning, especially focusing on learning how to learn languages better. From time to time guests might pop by to share how they learn languages, but mostly it’ll be me and you hanging out so hey, get comfy and let's learn how to learn a language.Follow for more at https://www.lindsaydoeslanguages.com/podcastGot a question? A topic you'd like covered or a guest you'd like to hear from? Email me at lindsay[at]doeslanguages[dot]com.
HOSTED BY
Lindsay Dow
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does How to Learn a Language have?
How to Learn a Language currently has 120 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is How to Learn a Language about?
How to Learn a Language is the podcast with the very self-explanatory name!We’ll cover all aspects of language learning, especially focusing on learning how to learn languages better. From time to time guests might pop by to share how they learn languages, but mostly it’ll be me and you hanging out...
How often does How to Learn a Language release new episodes?
How to Learn a Language publishes regularly with 120 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to How to Learn a Language?
You can listen to How to Learn a Language on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts How to Learn a Language?
How to Learn a Language is created and hosted by Lindsay Dow.
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