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 25, 2024 • 12min
Essential language tips for immigrants
Discover the importance of language skills for immigrants, learn tips on breaking language barriers and why traditional classes may not be the best approach. Explore the benefits of consistent language practice, utilizing resources like audiobooks, apps, and online platforms for effective language acquisition. Embrace a holistic approach to language learning, step out of comfort zones, and stay motivated to maintain heritage languages.
Jul 18, 2024 • 8min
Reading or listening: what’s the best way to learn?
Exploring the advantages of reading over listening for learning, balanced with the convenience of audiobooks. Emphasis on how combining listening and reading enhances learning and retention.
Jul 11, 2024 • 11min
Stop obsessing over grammar: focus on this instead
Discover why vocabulary takes precedence over grammar in language learning. Uncover effective strategies for expanding your word bank through reading. Enjoy the thrill of finding new words and see how it enhances your understanding. This approach not only accelerates progress but also makes learning more enjoyable.
Jul 4, 2024 • 13min
Challenging myself to learn 100 WORDS EVERY DAY
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!
Jun 27, 2024 • 11min
I’ve learned 20 languages: what keeps me going?
Exploring the role of language input in learning, the speaker reflects on their multilingual journey, from French and Spanish to Slavic and neighboring Asian languages. They discuss historical and cultural ties among languages like Russian, Czech, and Ukrainian, emphasizing the importance of forming connections in language acquisition.
Jun 21, 2024 • 9min
Challenging myself to learn 20,000 words before my trip to Turkey
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.
Jun 14, 2024 • 10min
Speaking or comprehension: which comes first?
Exploring language learning theories like input and output hypothesis, challenges in French immersion programs, prioritizing meaningful communication over perfect grammar, and the joy of gradual language enhancement.
Apr 25, 2024 • 11min
Fluent in one language or good in many?
Debate on focusing on one language vs. exploring many. Personal anecdotes on learning French and Mandarin. Challenges and rewards of learning diverse languages. Speaker's journey with multiple languages to various levels of fluency.
11 snips
Apr 19, 2024 • 17min
I’ve read books in 12 languages. Here’s how I do it
Exploring the neurological connections of reading and listening for language learning. Benefits of reading on paper vs. digital devices. Using audio to learn languages effectively. Embracing the joy of reading in a foreign language for language acquisition.
6 snips
Mar 28, 2024 • 16min
Don’t memorize vocabulary. Do this instead
Exploring the importance of vocabulary acquisition in language learning, dispelling myths about reading ability in children, and debunking language acquisition myths through exposure and probabilistic learning. Also, delving into brain functions in vocabulary learning, pattern recognition, and maximizing vocabulary acquisition through effective methods.
