In this episode, Jared Turner and John Pasden discuss the affective filter hypothesis and its relevance to language learning. They explain the three key categories of the affective filter: motivation, self-confidence, and anxiety, and how teachers and learners can help lower the affective filter to improve language learning. Guest interview is with Elyse Ribbons, playwright, webmistress, radio host, Peking opera performer, entrepreneur, yoga teacher, actress in Chinese media, and runner-up for China’s top chef.  Links from the episode:This Modern Chinese Life (Intermediate) | Course from AllSet LearningElyse Ribbons | Wikipedia Red Star Over China | 1937 book by Edgar Snow Introduction [00:00:01] Affective Filter Hypothesis [00:02:25] Jared and John discuss Stephen Krashen's theory of the affective filter hypothesis and how it relates to language learning, including the impact of motivation, self-confidence, and anxiety. Finding the Right Teacher [00:17:06] Discussion on how finding the right teacher can affect language learning, and how having a bad fit can cause anxiety. Alcohol and Language Learning [00:18:37] Discussion on how alcohol affects language learning, including its impact on self-confidence and anxiety. Effective Filter and Language Learning [00:21:35] Discussion on how the affective filter hypothesis affects language learning, and how children acquire language better due to having less of an affective filter. Rant on Tones [00:26:11] Jared Turner discusses a comedic social media video about tones and emphasizes the importance of tones in advanced language learning. China Love Affair [00:29:32] Elyse Ribbons shares how she accidentally fell in love with China and how a bowl of instant noodles led her to study abroad in Beijing. Alternative philosophies regarding language study [00:36:27] Elyse shares her alternative approach to language learning, which includes immersing oneself in TV shows and having language partners to practice with. Importance of learning characters [00:41:45] Elyse emphasizes the importance of learning characters in Chinese language learning, as they are essential for understanding references and cultural context in everyday conversations. Acting in China [00:47:26] Elyse Ribbons talks about how she got into acting in China and the roles she played, including her own play in English. Playing a Chinese character [00:51:01] Elyse Ribbons talks about her experience playing a Chinese character in a linguistic farcical play and how learning a language can develop another personality. Being a radio host in China [00:52:20] Elyse Ribbons shares her experience as a guest host and later the main foreign host of a program called "International Perspectives" in China. Advice for learning Chinese [00:59:45] Elyse Ribbons gives advice to someone who is learning Chinese right now, including finding a hobby that isn't language-based and immersing oneself in Chinese culture to learn the language. Riding a Giant Duck [01:01:04] Elyse Ribbons' humorous response to a hypothetical question about fighting 100 duck-sized horses or one horse-sized duck. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Delver into the topic of comprehensible input in language learning with John & Jared who discuss various approaches and stress the importance of personalized learning, along with an interview with Mandarin teacher Emma Jamen.

If you feel like you have a different personality in Chinese, then you’re not alone. Jared & John talk about this fascinating phenomenon on how many act and feel differently when speaking a 2nd language. Guest interview is with Taha Shlibek from Libya, who left his stable job to learn Chinese and seek a new start.  Links from the episode:Cross-Cultural Marital Communication: Sacrifice, Identity, Choice | SinospliceThe Misadventures of Zhou Haisheng | Breakthrough Level Chinese Graded Reader See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

China has lifted COVID restrictions and is issuing visas. It’s time to visit China! Jared and John talk about what you need to know about visiting China that has opened back up. Guest interview is with Sophia Xavier from Portugal whose fascination with China led her to study in China and pursue career opportunities in South East Asia.  Links from the episode:China Online Visa Application (COVA) | China Consular AffairsChinese on Your Terms | AmazonSherlock Holmes and the Case of the Curly-Haired Company |  Level 1 Chinese Graded Reader See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we explore the nuances of rate of speech in Chinese and how it impacts listening comprehension & speaking ability. Plus, we have an inspiring interview with Susan St. Dennis about her journey into learning Chinese!

Hosts Jared Turner and John Pasden provide a refreshing take on language learning, offering insightful tips and hilarious anecdotes to make the process more enjoyable and effective. They discuss everything from the 10,000-hour rule to improving flashcard practice, while also embracing the importance of creativity and mindfulness in language learning. Guest interview is with Marcus Murphy who after deciding to study Chinese in college, ended up spending years in China and today is a Chinese language instructor in Tennessee.  Links from the episode:The Prince and the Pauper | Level 1 Chinese Graded ReaderSummer Chinese Language Camp | University of the South See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do you keep learning new vocab but have trouble using it? Jared and John talk about the vocab dilemma in which many learners find themselves caught and discuss the balance between knowledge and proficiency. Guest interview is with Amy Celico, international political and economic consultant, former US senior trade representative, and a lifelong Chinese learner.  Links from the episode:Jekyll and Hyde | Mandarin CompanionUsing ChatGPT to Learn Chinese | SinospliceSteve Kaufmann Interview | Podcast 98Amy Celico | Albright Stonebridge Group See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

So you want to read Chinese literature? John and Jared talk about the unique aspects of Chinese literature that you should know before jumping in. Guest interview is with Christina Duffy, a PHD rowing champion from Ireland turned Chinese learner.  Links from the episode:The 6 Best Apps for Reading Chinese | Mandarin Companion Interview with Murray James Morrison Sherlock Holmes and a Scandal in Shanghai | Level 2 graded reader向歌友们拜年 | 988 DJs See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How did we get the set of Chinese words we have today? John and Jared talk about how the Chinese language has evolved, adapted, innovated, and borrowed to create the language it is today.

What do you like about learning Chinese? John and Jared talk about all of the reasons they love Chinese! Guest interview is with Jason Brooks, a former language teacher and founder of an AI startup. Links from the episode:Harkness AI | Conversational awareness toolJason Brooks | LinkedinJourney to the Center of the Earth | Level 2 Chinese graded reader See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.