Learn Languages with Steve Kaufmann
Steve Kaufmann
I speak 20 languages. I've been learning languages for over 50 years and I've tried all kinds of approaches. I talk about my experiences, my approach to language learning, what I enjoy about learning languages and all manner of other topics related to language.
If you love languages, or think you would if you hadn't been discouraged by past experiences, this is the podcast for you. Anyone can learn a language. You just need the right attitude and the right approach!
If you love languages, or think you would if you hadn't been discouraged by past experiences, this is the podcast for you. Anyone can learn a language. You just need the right attitude and the right approach!
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 9, 2023 • 5min
How To Deal With The Language Learning Plateau
The plateau is a concept that comes up often in language learning. We have some initial success in acquiring new words and gaining a sense of this new language, then we come to that period where there are lots of low frequency words that we need to learn.
Feb 7, 2023 • 6min
The Key To Improved Listening Comprehension
I spend most of my time listening. Listening comprehension is where the action is, in my opinion. If you can understand movies, podcasts, conversations, the other end of the conversation, you can eventually get to where you can hold up your end of the conversation.
11 snips
Feb 3, 2023 • 17min
Tips To Improve Your Pronunciation From Expert @hadar.shemesh
Improving in a language, especially in pronunciation, is a matter of technique, practice and attitude. Hadar knows this from her experience learning English, and becoming an actress in New York, as a non-native speaker.
Jan 31, 2023 • 14min
The Most Effective Way To Increase Your Vocabulary
Reading is a vital activity in language acquisition. It’s how to build vocabulary. In today’s video I talk about my experience with both intensive and extensive reading and why I like to do a mix of both.
4 snips
Jan 26, 2023 • 8min
The 5 Stages Of Enjoyment In Language Learning
I enjoy every stage of my language learning; when I start to explore a new language; when I go back again to something familiar that I don’t understand; when I start to understand more; when I understand most of it; and when I no longer feel I need to learn it.
7 snips
Jan 24, 2023 • 12min
Atomic Habits & Language Learning
Throughout his book, Atomic Habits, James Clear makes the point that small actions can, over time, have a major impact on outcomes. Developing good habits is more important than focusing on long term goals.
Jan 20, 2023 • 9min
When Learning A Language DON'T Study The "Basics"
Some people say we need to “focus on the basics” when learning a language. However, we acquire various aspects of a language naturally, in an order that we don’t control. It is futile to try to master the basics, some of which will elude us for a long time.
Jan 17, 2023 • 16min
Should English Be The Lingua Franca?
YouTuber Veronika Mark speaks excellent English and now she is studying Spanish in Mexico City. I caught up with her and discussed her studies and how her English has improved since we last spoke.
Jan 12, 2023 • 6min
Can Learning Languages Help Prevent Dementia?
There may be many reasons why language learning, or bilingualism, is associated with a delay in the onset of dementia. Obviously, it is a form of exercise for the brain, creating new neural networks, but it also gives older people a strong sense of purpose.
Jan 10, 2023 • 7min
One Thing I AVOID When Learning A Language
Do you enjoy answering comprehension questions about content in your target language? Many teachers and writers of language learning textbooks seem to think these questions are vital. I couldn’t disagree more.
