Rants, Ramblings, and Reflections from an ESL Teacher

Hey everyone, it’s Chris. In this episode, I want to talk about something I see all the time — students who study English really hard but still don’t feel like they’re improving. You review your notes, watch videos, use all the apps… but when it comes time to actually use English in real life, it’s hard to find the chance.So in this episode, I share a story about a student who’s going through exactly that — and how it reminded me of my own experience learning Japanese when I lived in Japan years ago. I talk about what I’d do differently if I were learning today, with all the technology we have now, and I ask you to think about one simple question: Why are you studying?We’ll talk about how to move from studying English to living in English — how to get out of the house, meet people, listen to conversations, volunteer, and make learning part of your daily life. I’ll also share some tips about taking notes, setting goals, and remembering that English isn’t just something to study — it’s something to use.If you’ve been studying a lot but still feel stuck, I think this episode will help you see your English practice in a different way. Let’s talk about how to make it real.Transcript and Summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_HdMChWtaj-cFW65UEe6Yj1uu1Nq64gr0wzfQtCaINE/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I talk about learned helplessness — that feeling of “I don’t know what to do” that shows up in language classes, and in life. Even though we have amazing tools like translation apps, Google, and ChatGPT, many learners still freeze when faced with confusion. I explore why that happens, how mindset plays a bigger role than grammar or vocabulary, and what it means to take ownership of your learning.Drawing from my experiences teaching English and learning Japanese, I share stories and examples that show how technology can help us become more independent learners — but only if we choose to use it. The main message: you’re not helpless. There’s always something you can do to move forward, whether that’s asking a question, writing something down, or using the tools around you.Summary and transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mB_yhr4DsftxTsH24UnRdwuiu2QP9B_3mUmdfFmb5Ho/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I step back from lesson planning and dive into what drives me as a teacher. I share my journey learning Japanese—both the boring textbook classes and the unforgettable real-world moments—and how those experiences shape the way I teach English today. From heritage language schools to life in Tokyo, from textbook drills to projects that actually felt real, I talk about what worked, what didn’t, and how I use those lessons to guide my own students.At the heart of it, my teaching philosophy comes down to three words: fun, interesting, and relevant. Whether you’re one of my current or former students, or just someone out there learning a new language, I hope this episode gives you some insight into how I think about language learning, why I focus on what really matters, and why I believe learning should connect directly to real life.Full transcript and summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vVTBhq9OAXKIlgrNtMFNSx4n25h0NGOhVuZyD6nnXsA/edit?usp=sharing

Do you ever feel frustrated when someone doesn’t understand your English? In this episode, I share why it’s not always your fault when communication breaks down. From cultural differences to distractions to unfamiliar accents, there are many reasons people may not respond the way you expect—and sometimes it has nothing to do with your language ability. At the same time, I’ll talk about being honest with yourself and working on clarity, so you can keep improving while also giving yourself grace.Full Transcript and Summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/12GY3pEWrbC_CPzbJDbvwWNWtrZ3YsJ6MOP-qsXqI7Qc/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I dive into one of the biggest frustrations language learners face: why doesn’t real English sound like the English in textbooks? I share examples of how natural speech reduces and links sounds, why people from different regions and subcultures speak differently, and why that variety actually makes language richer and more interesting. I’ll also talk about my own experiences learning Japanese, compare textbooks to driving manuals, and give you practical ways to open your ears to real English—through movies, conversations, reading, and just paying attention to the world around you.Summary and transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BllbZUmM4UlnKNFchAbtsZIk0LaKDhS3wOFo4aWeyL4/edit?usp=sharing

Do you ever freeze when speaking English because you’re searching for the “perfect” word? In this episode, I explain why fluency doesn’t come from inventing new sentences every time—but from recycling common phrases, making mistakes, and exposing yourself to real English in daily life. Learn how to stop overthinking, start collecting useful chunks, and use them with confidence.Transcript and Notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kHg74A4gu2j6ymOLH0JCjPpMmy9LEBwVD3gpLSxflx0/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I talk about the difference between performative learning—studying just to pass tests, finish worksheets, or check boxes—and actual learning, where skills stick and can be used in real communication. Drawing on my own experiences teaching in Japan, learning Japanese, and even struggling with Spanish in high school, I explore why we often confuse “looking like we’re learning” with real progress. I compare language study to exercise, martial arts, and even everyday life, showing how the same patterns of “performance versus reality” appear everywhere.Whether you’re my student, a former student, or just someone working on your English, this episode is about being honest with yourself: is your study time really helping you communicate better, or just making you feel accomplished?Summary and transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KkXTkZvDvkL7bhwlYTcdKVjWSSSxpCrc37NzemDoPYQ/edit?usp=sharing

After a short “digital detox,” I’m back with fresh thoughts on one of my favorite topics: taking responsibility for your own language learning. I share why stepping away from technology can improve focus, how your confidence in English might be lower than your actual ability, and a simple habit I used while learning Japanese—writing down what I wanted to say and finding out later how to express it naturally.We’ll talk about keeping conversations going even without the perfect word, why most conversations are about connection (not flawless grammar), and how to build independence as a learner. No class, textbook, or teacher can do it all—you are ultimately responsible, and that’s a powerful thing.Full transcript and notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YNAzIBMR9TtFD_egEZQGg4yBp_5EwOsqKYgsqncavME/edit?usp=sharing

(This is a video episode, so check out the original YouTube video: https://youtu.be/Tw9Mr7cYKoA) Tone matters — especially when you're writing something personal and emotionally sensitive, like a breakup message, a “let’s just be friends” note, or a difficult email to someone you care about. In this episode, I share a real-life experience that made me reflect deeply on how tone can make or break a message — even when the words are technically fine. Using ChatGPT, I walk through examples of breakup messages with different tones (gentle, direct, warm-but-firm), and show how to personalize and revise AI-generated responses so they actually sound like you. I also share what I’ve learned about: Why “perfect grammar” isn’t enough How messages can feel cold or distant if the tone doesn’t match the relationship Why softening language and real-life details matter How second-language learners can build tone awareness over time The importance of closure — and when it’s okay to say less Whether you’re writing to a romantic partner, a friend, a coworker, or someone you’re just getting to know, this episode is about clear, kind communication — especially when it’s hard. Transcript, Summary, and Chat History: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oFZZN6RTQ13dBcukPPyyEmGrO9ZYPQvggaAIIzbva4Q/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, we’re talking about something that doesn’t show up on your grammar test but definitely shows up in real life: tone. Yep, that invisible thing that makes your message sound friendly… or accidentally rude… or suspiciously like it was written by a robot. I share a personal story (featuring heartbreak and AI), and explain why tone matters just as much as vocabulary—especially when emotions are involved. Whether you’re writing to a teacher, a friend, or someone you almost dated, this one’s for you.Summary and transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13tvfn48pj-Dqlfdn_3QdT5ZLTsFqjEyxcRSGgtX9Gck/edit?usp=sharing

This is a special video episode originally made for my online class. Access the YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/7iZtynTN0nkFull transcript and summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13YNKPT_WfKF1cqgkwHhwqmb2T-SvCvbWSy_J5Dp0YF4/edit?usp=sharingChatGPT conversation history: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iglnw-Qb1UIHuw57k3S0AcjJQ4NQuscuXF1CiDbGdak/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I talk about money as it pertains to language learning. Basically, if you truly value learning, wouldn't you be willing to spend money on it? Also, I ramble about my views on money in areas such as taking care of your health, saving time and energy, and retirement.Full transcript and summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1p43nrv8zgLffPSx4Q7FPKlB5tUZAZZMMyJZdyhOV__I/edit?usp=sharing

Hey everyone—today I wanted to share some thoughts on a topic I bring up a lot in class but haven’t really explored on the podcast: honesty, especially being honest with yourself about your goals, time, and priorities when it comes to learning English—or really, anything in life. It’s a bit personal, a bit reflective, and hopefully helpful if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or unsure about what you should be doing.Transcript and Summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/16iV_z6_AFFTz8g_vaZNh6L_2VHPEO7nQoI85GV9sCvQ/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I talk about the benefits and shortcomings of using an LLM for not just language learning purposes but also general uses.Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Kh-WJMmVaaR6ComvsqsKGV1duITG83wUsZSGsEq02lI/edit?usp=sharingSummary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/17Qw5lU5gWnpxg2RrWEWQ7DbVei1uZJcJQBovPOIyrf8/edit?usp=sharing

In this video I walk students in my online course through how to use ChatGPT (or other LLMs) to compose a message. Because it's a guide to using ChatGPT, I recommend checking out the video version: https://youtu.be/w0L3LtmzCL4Full Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Y1-NcmRN_L6YbtsbfSgz4HwPfZEGb_Dkt5rF5UTO2Vk/edit?usp=sharing Chat History: https://docs.google.com/document/d/17ztWOH2UmR0EsOFTuln9T3P3y7fjw-KU7AH-EQI3XLw/edit?usp=sharing

This is an update on a previous episode in which I talked about my experience using ChatGPT in Japan from a language learner's perspective. I recorded it for students in an online course as part of a lesson on using LLMs for language learning.Because this is a guide to using ChatGPT, I recommend watching the video version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69hP9Rw1nFc Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cXtFU-A5ng2-FTlmVdc7dPYfU7xf2nzkG-w8PLk_ay8/edit?usp=sharing Chat History: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13ol2V__D8qlhe8femLbCKayNuCGIu6AGvn4e7l4zBvo/edit?usp=sharing

I ramble a bit for some reason . . . I think I was hungry.But basically, try to ask yourself this question: "Why do I feel like my English isn't good enough?"Remember that when you are in challenging and uncomfortable situations, that's your opportunity to improve.At a certain point you have to take that (uncomfortable) next step and put yourself out there. And if you do that, you will (probably . . . hopefully!) find yourself improving out of necessity. Otherwise, you can always put it off until the future . . . and then that day may never come.Summary and transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1TVc5vz_AgKuAImxIE8EE4SCCBFm8N7VUy2nJyB3GS10/edit?usp=sharing

In this special video episode I talk about my experience using ChatGPT to help me communicate while on "vacation" in Japan. Full transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1QdKu4ElHDbpsazHoyXpnnfsvuYtNO7z3kwWyKdwElJg/edit?usp=sharing ChatGPT conversation history: https://docs.google.com/document/d/17UsT5sOFPmM1ha_MJcsGV2DaQ8nSQxo27b4YGE50TuA/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode I talk about the value of preparing before entering a situation. I use my upcoming trip to Japan as an example of how language learners can use AI to not only help them learn what to say but also use it as a learning opportunity.Full Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/19ChIaHEniimmNgIfeMki7kbXAM5FQZvkF7FZG7rByL8/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I (attempt to) give an overall impression of the history of the English language. Immigration, invasion, and trade all influence the development of English. I also talk about why spelling seems so chaotic and random and I give my thoughts on the issue of standardized grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.It's important to also look at the history of your own language and learn about how it has changed over time. I think you'll find that even one or two hundred years ago the language was quite different.Here is the full transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mhEXu57eNuDBer7OpqTlye4V8NoQ4ACqBtcTwRCdP9Y/edit?usp=sharingEpisode notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cfPKU49X26uqCVZPMqXFqm6Da2q4EL2grym0wNfJ4RA/edit?usp=sharingSome videos you might be interested in:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEaSxhcns7Yhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSSTv8-2358https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsvOWRlu7_shttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42D-upSioWE

This is a special video episode. Check out the YouTube version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p350cCpGb-8Full transcript and chat history: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Mwm1rQWzKa8xtlqW6jyNXw4BR_4RroCfFMbYmvSkY60/edit?usp=sharing

Just a quick, somewhat incoherent ramble about what it means to be "proficient" in a language.Somebody pay my rent and vent bills so I don't have to work so much, and then I can make longer podcasts :-DFull transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Sa46ivYg2BFH7l1vvcBhClTz0OEuKf3fRP9-FkK-o5g/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I talk about a couple things: note taking and audio in the background.Make sure to take notes, and don't forget to review them!Play podcasts or radio program in the background, even if you don't understand everything.Full transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1B05oc9nfZSID6fpY5pIdZV3QQWtGlS5dR6CYXiXMPLQ/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I try very hard to keep it under 30 minutes. The original goal was 15 minutes, but it went nearly 20 minutes, but . . . there you have it.My main message in this rant is to make sure you have an activity or goal that requires English. I use my experience playing Japanese-language video games as an example. The only way I could fully enjoy or progress in text-heavy role playing games like Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest was to improve my Japanese reading ability. Even when I was younger, at a time when I wasn't actively studying Japanese, I recognized that I need to learn a lot more vocabulary in order to play these video games.As always, make sure your language-learning efforts are based on real-life contexts. After all, language is a tool for communication, not just some subject you study and do worksheets about.Full transcript available: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bGHDiJbT-7bP8otWn5e1VqiAfqj7_Lv9pNcvK34kWx8/edit?usp=sharing

In this video episode I'll share my thoughts on how to use ChatGPT for language learning.Check out the full video version here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d7M_9R3a__gFull transcript available: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uZJmZcgLqNcDiArXDX37Man8l6123oaeeBBMYdWMjTk/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode I share my thoughts on and experience with the concept of "one word at a time." First, I talk about author Stephen King's two answers to the question "How do you write your books?" Here's an interview where he talks about something similar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xR7XMkjDGw0Then, I get into how this relates to language learning, including my own experience learning Japanese while living in the US and in Japan.I also talk about how this principle of "one word at a time" guides my writing.Finally, I tell you that your smartphone is (probably) preventing you from reaching your language learning goals. Instead of taking your phone into the bathroom, bring your notebook from class!Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fH2ydsaNRI--6gnPIhex3OPPjiY68ak-IoC18Dd3WJk/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I talk about the concept of "reading" in a second language.First, I touch on the difference between intensive/close reading and extensive reading.Then I ask listeners to ask themselves why they read in the first place, whether that's in their native language or second language. Of course, I address the big question: "Why read in English when you can just use translation software or get information in your first language?"As usual, I share my experiences studying Japanese and living in Japan as they relate to reading. I even mention some of my favorite books or book series and authors.Finally, I close by talking a bit about using ChatGBT for reading. It's something new to me as well, so I report on my recent observations.Full transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Z5Iy0zJlGp-dBZajT972KlNWCHrPmNI06HhxZr8SP8s/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I touch on the following regarding fillers, gestures, non-verbal communication in general, body language, and intonation:Communication is more than just vocabulary and grammar.Why it's difficult to communicate on the phone, especially in a second language.Different ways to learn or observe these aspects of communication.My own experiences learning them and applying them in Japan.Full Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1f6BujcvgNpujr5vRD5euqMl1p9PH4QeSQyMxGk5b7hM/edit?usp=sharing

In this sixth episode, I go go a little off topic and focus on what I do as an ESL teacher. I cover the following topics: What is my role? Addressing students' various wants, interests, and needs. Personal views on learning and how they sometimes clash with other people's views. Continuously evolving as a teacher. Keeping students engaged. Expending, conserving, and restoring mental energy. The limitations and illusions of test scores. (What is actually being learned?) My general schedule for the day.Check out the transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1vz-bLFFfYjny3uirAYJdJKSV5f9vQClpGtVBWJor-fw/edit?usp=sharing

In this fifth episode of the podcast, I'll talk about using media, such as TV shows, audiobooks, and podcasts, for improving your listening proficiency. I'll cover these topics: Making sure you're interested in the subject matter or people involved. (It always helps if you have a crush on the actors!) Going over it three times: enjoy it, analyze it, then review it. Getting out of your comfort zone by listening to unscripted content. (Also, the difference between scripted, rehearsed, and unscripted content.) Acquiring cultural and topical information necessary for communication in social settings. I'll also talk about my own experience using TV shows, movies, and podcasts. In particular, I'll talk about my favorite Japanese comedians: バナナマン ("Banana Man")In the end, you have to just keep at it every day. Keep yourself immersed in English whenever possible: while cooking, cleaning, driving, exercising, etc. Little by little your listening proficiency will improve.You can view the transcript here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1i_dre-ZHAaERgtqFjW9IUmXCVbUSVrcehUucOFU_FHw/edit?usp=sharing

In this fourth episode I focus on the idea of separating spoken English from written English. My main point is that as adult learners we often learn a target language through the written form, which is not inherently bad, but then sometimes get stuck in that way of approaching the language.Even when we watch TV, movies, listen to music, etc., those are still largely scripted or rehearsed forms of the language. English, and all languages, are really just tools for communication, and so it's vital to "listen" to conversations, interviews, free-form podcasts or radio programs where people don't stick to a script. I also talk about my experiences with this in my Japanese learning journey and living in Japan.The key is to stop worrying about trying to understand everything and instead just enjoy or at least be interested in the subject matter. I talk about how I listened to my favorite Japanese comedians' radio show for several years, and little by little I understood more and more of what they were saying.For a few minutes I also (struggle to) explain why English spelling and writing in particular is problematic, and for this reason it's important to use audiobooks (or a speech reader for articles) in tandem with reading. If you're looking for audiobooks, you can get them for free through your library, YouTube, etc. Personally, I use Audible because it's synched with my Kindle digital library of books.Check out the transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/12PcrVk372eFPv0K0d4NvlNnwAo_DgikiRaAZeo8TcAc/edit?usp=sharingAs always, leave a comment, question, or a suggestion for a topic!

In this third episode I’ll talk about my thoughts about and experience of dating people using a second language.Of course, I’ll share stories of my own language learning experience by talking about dating Japanese-speakers in the U.S. as well as during my time working in Japan. It’s definitely fun and exciting to date someone who speaks the language you are trying to learn and practice. Language is a tool for communication, so any situation in which you must use English is interesting.However, there are some things to be cautious about as well, and there are inherent limitations to using dating or relationships as your “English practice.” In the end, as I always say, you have to be honest with yourself about your language learning. Ask yourself this question: “Am I interested in this person because they speak the language I’m studying? Or is there more?”And if someone is interested in you and is learning your first language, you may want to be mindful of that as well.Be safe!Check out the transcript.

To those of you who don't know me, I'm an ESL teacher based in Southern California. I've been teaching English since 2007. My career started in Japan, where I lived for about 6 years, and then continued in the U.S. I'm also half-Japanese, spent every summer as a child in Japan with family, and studied the language and eventually go to the point where I could conduct my daily affairs with nearly zero difficulty. I use this experience of learning a language and living in a foreign culture when teaching students. This podcast is intended primarily for English learners who know me personally, whether as former or current students, but all are welcome to join in. I started this as a way to add some variety in my English teaching career. Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode. First of all, just keep in mind everyone has an accent. An accent just means the way a person or group of people (such as an entire country) pronounces words. And there is nothing necessarily wrong with having an accent that is different from the majority of those speakers so long as we can understand each other. But then you get into the situation where each Anglophone country is speaking correctly, as they are native speakers, but many people still have difficulty understanding each other. I go into my experiences with this while working in Tokyo with English-speakers from the U.K., Australia, New Zealands, etc. I also touch upon the difference between accent and dialect. Keep in mind that standard pronunciation and dialect change over time. I ramble on about these aspects of how accents change: center of power, “broadcast” English, natural evolution, and flattening of accents and language overall due to mass media and increased contact. Again, comprehensibility is key. I give examples of three French actors to illustrate my points. Although English learners sometimes complain about having to speak with classmates who have “foreign” accents, remember it’s still speaking practice for you and you need to understand foreign accents depending on where you live. Accent (and dialect) are also tied up with identity. Consider these factors: socio-economic status, ethnic background, subculture, geographical location. I also explain how native-speakers of English frequently switch between accents and dialects. As always, I ask you to reflect critically on your English learning practices and goals. If you’re anxious about your pronunciation or are working hard to improve it, ask yourself why it’s important to you. At the end of the video I spend some time giving my response to a student's question about the differences between how Americans and Japanese think.Transcript

In this inaugural episode I talk about creating opportunities for conversation for English Learners. As usual, I use my personal experience of learning Japanese and living in Japan as well as my observations from an ESL teacher's point of view.My three main suggestions for creating opportunities are volunteer work, group activities, and public spaces. The beauty of these suggestions is that the focus is not on learning or practicing English; rather, English conversation (or even just listening) is a necessary part of the actual goal or environment. One major advantage of living in the U.S. versus living in Japan is that, in general, people here are more willing to make small talk with strangers, customers, etc., which provides ample opportunity for short conversations which may sometimes extend into longer ones.As always, I encourage English Learners to be honest with themselves about their goals, priorities, and to not make excuses. At the end of the day, you are the one responsible for your progress as an English Learner. And perhaps more importantly, get off your phone, take out the earbuds, and use the world as your classroom!Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UDh0MsT2P1TI9qcmDLpK0WlSYtpot4XY52mmo_yxZi4/edit?usp=sharingVolunteermatch: https://www.volunteermatch.org/Meetup: https://www.meetup.com/