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

Jul 27, 2022 • 8min
Listening & Reading Comprehension, YES - Comprehension Questions, NO
I don’t think comprehension questions are helpful in language learning. They destroy the pleasure of reading or listening. Brazilian educator Rubem Alves agrees with me. I listened to and read his thoughts while learning Portuguese. I didn’t always fully understand but I thoroughly enjoyed the process and my Portuguese improved.

Jul 22, 2022 • 8min
The Most Important Thing In Language Learning
What is important in language learning is whatever is important to you. You learn best from content that is important to you. You notice things that are important to you. You remember things that are important to you.

Jul 20, 2022 • 13min
How To Review Vocabulary
As you know, I learn languages on LingQ. Mostly I listen and read. But I also review vocabulary. Here’s how I do it using LingQ’s vocabulary review activities.

Jul 14, 2022 • 16min
Learn English Like A Native With @English Like A Native
In this video, I discuss learning English with Anna Tyrie of the YouTube channel English Like a Native: phrasal verbs, spelling, pronunciation and more!

Jul 12, 2022 • 11min
Don't Make Long Term Goals In Language Learning
The podcast discusses the importance of short-term language learning goals over long-term ones to stay engaged and track progress effectively.

Jul 7, 2022 • 10min
The Power Of Reading
Reading is powerful. When I have read a whole paper book from cover to cover, without a dictionary or the iPad, I consider that to be a major milestone.

Jul 5, 2022 • 8min
The Power Of Listening
Listening comprehension is the core skill that leads us to speaking and reading better. It leads us to a better sense of the language.

Jun 28, 2022 • 7min
Speed LingQing - My Language Learning Plateau Technique
Hitting a plateau in language learning can be frustrating, but there are ways to revitalize your progress. Discover innovative techniques to break through barriers, particularly the method of speed LingQing. This approach uses engaging resources like podcasts and transcripts to enhance vocabulary and comprehension, ensuring that the learning journey remains exciting. It's all about mixing things up to push past that stage and continue advancing!

19 snips
Jun 23, 2022 • 6min
Don't Try To Memorize Vocabulary
Some people say you should try to learn 10 words a day and make sure you can use them, really nail them down. I've never found that effective. Here is how I learn vocabulary.

Jun 21, 2022 • 8min
Get The Best From Your Online Language Tutor
Make sure you have a tutor who has the imagination, the wherewithal and the resourcefulness to keep the conversation going when there’s a lull. A tutor who comes up with a new subject, a new question, something to keep the conversation going. This is key.


