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…
The Learn Languages with Steve Kaufmann podcast is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to teach themselves a new language. Steve Kaufmann, the host of the podcast, has spent a lifetime learning languages and his vast experience shines through in every episode. One of the greatest aspects of this podcast is that every technique or idea discussed by Steve is something he has personally tried or accomplished. This level of authenticity and firsthand knowledge makes his insights incredibly valuable.
Another great aspect of this podcast is its accessibility. No matter where you are in your language learning journey, Steve's ideas and tips can be applied to your own life. He has a unique ability to break down complex techniques inspired by renowned linguist Dr. Krashen, making them easy for anyone to understand and implement. Whether you're just starting out or have been on an immersion journey for years, there is something for everyone in this podcast.
One possible downside of this podcast is that it may not go into as much depth as some listeners would like. While Steve provides practical advice and cuts through all the theory and false claims surrounding language learning, some listeners might crave more detailed explanations or examples. However, it's important to note that this podcast serves as an introduction or supplemental resource rather than an exhaustive guide.
In conclusion, The Learn Languages with Steve Kaufmann podcast is a must-listen for anyone interested in learning a new language. Steve's expertise and ability to make language learning interesting, fun, and meaningful sets him apart from other language learning resources. Whether you're seeking motivation, practical tips, or inspiration on your language learning journey, this podcast will not disappoint.
In this video, I talk about key ideas from Jeff Haden's book The Motivation Myth and share my take on how motivation really works in language learning.
In this video I talk about why perfectionism has no place in language learning and how our brains actually use mistakes to learn.
In this video, I discuss the importance of acquiring low-frequency vocabulary and share my approach to learning less common words.
In this video, I talk about how comparison can either inspire or discourage you when learning a language — and how I approach it to make sure my motivation doesn't suffer.
In this video, I talk with Mike—a Japanese learner and LingQ user—about the challenges of learning Japanese and his personal journey.
In this video I talk about why we need both novelty and repetition in our language learning routine, and how to strike a balance between the two.
Repetition is a key part of language learning, but how can you make it truly effective?
Canada has a new Prime Minister—but how good is his French?
In this video, I answer questions about AI, explicit grammar study, and gamification in language learning.
In this video, I talk about how focusing on understanding first sets me up for better speaking skills down the road.
Is immersion-based learning effective for completely unfamiliar languages? I think so! Watch as I take on Punjabi with LingQ in my latest video.
10 things I never do when learning a language by Steve Kaufmann
Motivation, time, and the ability to notice are all key to language learning. In this video, I share how I use LingQ to make the most of all three.
In this video, I share how to start learning a language from scratch in a way that aligns with how our brains naturally learn.
Worried you've forgotten a language? Reviving it might be easier than you think! In this video, I share my step-by-step plan and discuss my experiences with Turkish, Arabic, and Persian over the years.
In this video, I discuss the concept of cultural weightlessness and share how Taoist philosophy has shaped my language learning journey.
In this video, I explore the advantages and disadvantages of using paper books for language learning.
In this video, I share 7 reasons why I prefer listening before reading when learning a new language.
New Year's resolution: goal or commitment? by Steve Kaufmann
As 2025 approaches, I wanted to explore how personal traits influence our plans and actions — and why it's important to consider them when making New Year's resolutions.
In this video, my friend @LucaLampariello and I explore how input, pronunciation, and mindset shape language learning success.
In this video, I share why I believe YouTube is the best platform for learning languages and how both teachers and students can make the most of it.
In this video, I share 7 things to stop doing right now to avoid hindering your language learning progress and start enjoying the process.
In this video, I share my personal experience with reading in different languages and explain why reading a book is an important milestone for a language learner.
In this video I share my experience with language textbooks and some tips on how to choose the right one.
5 ways to improve your pronunciation in any language by Steve Kaufmann
LingQ was recently recognized as the most effective language learning app by an independent research organization. In this video, I talk about what sets LingQ apart from other apps and methods.
Curious about the progress you can make in 7 months of intensive language study? In this video, I'm sharing my experience traveling to Turkey after seven months of Turkish study.
In this video, I'm sharing 10 tips to help you make the most of your time when learning a language.
I discovered my passion for French as a university student, and since then, I've learned not only French but also Spanish, Italian, Romanian, and Portuguese. In this video, I share my approach to learning Romance languages.
I've talked about the benefits of reading many times before—today, I'm sharing how to turn it into a lasting habit.
Struggling to speak fluently in a foreign language? In this video I share 7 practical tips that will help you communicate better without stressing over grammar or pronunciation.
Throughout my language-learning journey, I've had many good tutors. In this video, I'll highlight the 6 key qualities that make a tutor truly exceptional.
In this video, I discuss the pros and cons of learning many languages, from cultural connections to language interference.
In this video, I discuss the 80/20 rule and how it applies to language learning. I'll explain why I don't worry about high-frequency words and how balancing big-picture input with focused study has been helping me make progress in Turkish.
In today's video, I talk about how I'm using ChatGPT to learn languages with a focus on comprehensible input.
The entrepreneur's guide to learning languages by Steve Kaufmann
Have you heard of extensive reading? If not, in today's video you'll learn what it is and how I use this strategy to acquire vocabulary and grammar!
In today's video, I discuss the role of surprise in language learning: how our progress often follows an unpredictable path, why unexpected moments help our brains absorb new information, and much more.
In today's video, I discuss how many languages I really know and what it truly means to know a language.
Discover the benefits of language chunks in today's video. Learn what they are, how to use them, and what teachers often get wrong about chunking!
Today's video is all about learning a language as an immigrant! Learn why your language skills are crucial, how to break the language barrier, and why traditional classes are not the answer.
Can listening to books be as effective as reading them for learning? In this video, I'll explain why you don't have to choose just one.
Is vocabulary more important than grammar? In this video, I'll explain why I believe it is and share insights on how focusing on vocabulary can boost your progress.
In my last video, I shared my goal of learning 20,000 words before my trip to Turkey in September. Today, I'm going to show you exactly how I'm making that happen!
I reflect on my language-learning journey and discuss the importance of various types of connections: linguistic, emotional, neural, and more.
In today's video, I'm reflecting on what has and hasn't worked for boosting my language skills for travel and sharing my (quite ambitious!) Turkish learning plan.
In this video, I discuss the differences between comprehensible input and the output hypothesis and explain why speaking a foreign language isn't always the same as engaging in meaningful communication.
I often get asked whether it's better to focus on one language and become fluent in it or to explore many languages. In this video I talk about why I don't think there's one answer to this question.
Reading books has many benefits for our brain, and it's also a great way to learn a language. In this video I talk about my approach to reading in different languages and how I manage to enjoy the process despite the difficulties.
In this video I discuss some common misconceptions about language and vocabulary acquisition and share my strategy for learning vocabulary in a new language.