Shhh, I’m Learning!

🎙 Final Episode: A Heartfelt Goodbye and New Beginnings In this unedited and deeply personal final episode, I reflect on the journey of the podcast—from its beginnings as a space for introverted language learners to its evolution into conversations on neurodivergence, mental health, and linguistic identity. I share the challenges that led to this hiatus, including burnout and an autism diagnosis, and explore the complexities of navigating language learning as an autistic, introverted American. I also speak candidly about linguistic discrimination, intersectionality, and the need for more inclusive, community-based language spaces. Though the podcast is ending, the conversation isn’t—I’ll still be active on Instagram and through my newsletter. Thank you for being part of this journey. If you're interested, I created several songs (with the help of AI) about things I've faced using languages (one in particular) as well as my love for languages and an ode to quieter language learners everywhere. I know not everyone's a big fan of AI, but if we're going to use it, I think this is a very good use of it. It's been a very cathartic, very healing process. Here's the link if you're interested in giving it a listen.

Today Martha is joined by Etai, an empowerment and communication coach, disability advocate, and passionate language enthusiast. Together, they dive deep into what it means to truly connect—with ourselves, with language, and with others. Etai shares his lived experience as a multilingual speaker born with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy, his journey from Israel to the U.S., and how language and communication have been central to his life. Topics We Cover: Etai’s story and how disability advocacy and language learning shaped his life Viewing communication as an intuitive, deeply personal process Why grammar and vocabulary are just tools—not the full picture Creating a shared language and “consensus reality” The power of defining terms and slowing down in conversations How intuitive coaching and deep listening foster authentic connection Language as play: how joy and curiosity fuel lifelong learning The importance of emotional resonance in language learning Understanding your own “bubble” before expecting others to How most communication is repair—and why that’s okay Etai’s #1 piece of advice for mental health and language learning Quotable Moments: “Communication is all about the repair.” “If it doesn’t excite you, why do it?” “The fact that people can communicate at all is a miracle.” “Every single person has their own language—the question is, how do we build a shared one?” Connect with Etai: 🌐 Website: etaiscorner.net 📺 YouTube: Etai’s Corner 📷 Instagram: @etaiscorner 💬 Threads, Facebook, LinkedIn: Etai’s Corner ☕ Support: Buy Me a Coffee & PayPal donations available via website

In this episode of Shhh! I'm Learning, we’re joined (again!) by Bront’e Singleton, also known as The Polyglot Fox. Bront’e shares her refreshing perspective on language learning, blending joy, creativity, and strategies tailored for all language learners, but with a special focus on neurodivergent (or "neurospicy") learners. From her playful experiences with German and Italian to rethinking the guilt many learners feel, Bront’e invites us to transform our approach to languages into one that’s guilt-free, flexible, and fun. We explore: Bront’e also shares how language learning intersects with mental health, social connection, and self-compassion, encouraging listeners to embrace their own unique journeys. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Resources Mentioned: Polyglot DelightsFluency Mastery Lab Lite Where to Find Bront’e Singleton: The Polyglot Fox@thepolyglotfoxhere Connect with the Podcast: @shhh_imlearningSign up here Love This Episode? If you enjoyed this conversation, please leave a review and share it with fellow language learners! Your support helps us bring more inspiring guests like Bront’e to the show. Let us know your favorite takeaway from the episode—we’d love to hear from you!

In this episode of Shhh! I’m Learning, we chat with Valeria Paolillo, a passionate language teacher and the founder of Vita Semplice in Italia. Valeria shares her journey to becoming a language teacher, her struggles and triumphs with learning English and Chinese and French, and how she’s embraced mindfulness and slow learning as essential parts of her teaching and personal growth. Discover how Valeria’s retreats offer participants a unique opportunity to connect with language, culture, and themselves—all at their own pace. Valeria also opens up about the importance of savoring the language learning journey, the value of self-awareness, and how to let go of perfectionism to truly enjoy the process. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Memorable Quotes: Resources Mentioned: Vita Semplice in Italia – WebsiteVita Semplice in Italia – InstagramItalian transcriptEnglish transcript Connect with Us: @ShhhImLearning@Vita_Semplice_in_Italia Support the Podcast: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow language enthusiasts.

In this episode, host we dive deep into the concept of failure with guest Kris Broholm. Together, we explore how failure can be a powerful tool for learning and growth, especially in language learning and personal development. Martha and Kris share their own experiences with setbacks and discuss practical ways to reframe failure as an essential part of success. Highlights: Redefining Failure: Martha and Kris discuss how society's perception of failure can limit growth and how changing that mindset can unlock potential. Personal Stories: Both share candid experiences of failure and the lessons they’ve drawn from them. Failure in Language Learning: Practical tips on handling setbacks, plateaus, and mistakes as opportunities for improvement. Embracing Vulnerability: A conversation on how opening up about failures fosters resilience and confidence. "Every mistake I’ve made has taught me more than my successes ever could." – Kris Broholm What has failure taught you? Share your story with us on social media using #FailureToSuccess and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Resources Mentioned in the Episode Kris's podcast (Actual Fluency)2025 New Year New Language (NYNL) conference

In this episode of Shhh! I’m Learning, we explore practical tips and strategies to support autistic language learners. Language learning is a unique journey for everyone, and for autistic individuals, certain approaches can make a big difference. Whether you’re autistic yourself, a teacher, a loved one, or simply curious, this episode is packed with insights to make language learning more inclusive and personalized. What’s in This Episode? Additional Resources Neurodivergent Content Creators: Learn from amazing autistic creators like Bront’e Singleton, Barbara Czusz, and others who share resources and personal insights on language learning. Season 1 Episode 3 - Interview with Bront'e SingletonSeason 2 Interview with Barbara CzuszSeason 4 Interview with Barbara CzuszUnmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of NeurodiversityHow to Find a Four-Leaf Clover: What Autism Can Teach Us About Difference, Connection, and BelongingBut You Don’t Look Autistic At AllAutistic and BlackYo? Autista?Neurodivergentes, las capacidades detrás del diagnósticoLa guía del juego Let’s Connect! We love hearing from our listeners. Did a tip resonate with you? Is there something you’d like to add or suggest? Send your feedback and ideas to help us continue improving and creating a more inclusive space for learning. Thank you for joining me on this journey. Remember, language learning is personal, and every step forward counts. Be kind to yourself and keep exploring!

(English description below the Portuguese) No episódio de hoje, conversamos com Rob, professor (incrível) de português, sobre como lidar com o estresse ao aprender idiomas, o impacto da introversão no aprendizado e os maiores mitos sobre o ensino de línguas. Entre os tópicos discutidos estão: Rob compartilha dicas valiosas para tornar o aprendizado mais leve e produtivo, desmistificando crenças prejudiciais e destacando como cada pessoa pode encontrar seu próprio ritmo. Destaques: Onde encontrar Rob: Encontre o Rob no Italki (aqui) para aulas de português em todos os níveis. 🎧 Aperte o play e descubra como transformar estresse em estímulo e deixar o aprendizado mais tranquilo! Recursos: Transcrição em portuguêsTranscrição em inglês ________________________________________________________________________________________ In today’s episode, we talk with Rob, a Portuguese teacher, about managing stress while learning languages, navigating language learning as an introvert, and debunking common myths about language teaching. Topics include: Rob offers insightful advice on making learning more enjoyable and productive, busting harmful myths, and finding your own pace. Highlights: Where to Find Rob: Find Rob on Italki (here) for Portuguese lessons at any level. 🎧 Hit play now to learn how to turn stress into motivation and make language learning more enjoyable! Resources: Transcript in PortugueseTranscript in English

Welcome to another episode of Shhh! I'm Learning! In this episode, our good friend Barbara Czusz helps us explore how neurodivergence shapes the experience of learning languages. Whether you're neurodivergent yourself or want to better understand how these unique traits impact language acquisition, this episode is packed with valuable insights. What We Discuss in This Episode Takeaways from Today’s Episode Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might benefit. Let us know your favorite takeaway from the episode on social media using #ShhhImLearning.

Welcome back to Shhh! I’m Learning! In this episode, I am joined by the inspiring Mollie Guidera, a trailblazer in Irish language education. Mollie’s approach intertwines storytelling, etymology, and creative teaching methods to connect learners with their heritage and identity. Through her engaging workshops and courses, she breaks down barriers to learning and brings the soulful, healing nature of the Irish language to life. Key Discussion Points: Mollie’s Passion for Irish: Discover why Mollie is captivated by the Irish language, recognized as “definitely endangered” by UNESCO. Emotional Aspects of Learning: Explore how learning a language influences our emotions and the unique ways Irish helps us express and understand them. Making Learning Relevant: Tips and insights on how to make a new language relevant to your life. Irish Language Quirks: Dive into the charming and unusual characteristics of the Irish language. Healing Through Language: Understand the therapeutic effects of learning a language, especially one connected to personal and cultural identity. Language Worth and Loss: Mollie shares a fresh perspective on the value of language and the impact of language loss. Connect with Mollie: Find Mollie on Instagram and her podcast under Irish with Mollie for more content, updates, and engaging resources. Don’t miss her upcoming Black Friday sale on her courses—sign up for the waiting list via the link in her Instagram bio. For those on a tighter budget, Mollie’s daily content and occasional free Irish taster classes are perfect opportunities to start learning. Enjoy Mollie’s contagious enthusiasm for the Irish language and learn how to embrace it in your own life. Resources: Mollie's websiteMollie's InstagramSpotifyApple PodcastsKneecap movie trailer

Welcome to Season 4 of Shhh, I’m Learning! I’m back after a longer-than-expected break, dealing with burnout, a whirlwind of festivals, Hurricane Helene, and extensive election research. Although this season might be the last, I’m excited to share this journey with you all. This season, we’ll explore the social aspects of language learning, mental health, and the role of neurodiversity. As a neurodivergent language learner, I’m excited to dive into topics often overlooked, like the unique ways autistic and ADHD folks engage with languages. This season, I’ll encourage you to slow down, make language learning enjoyable, and take breaks when needed. Episodes: Please bear with some audio quirks in most of the interviews—I forgot to switch the input device on Zoom! Also, in case you missed it, catch last night's Instagram live with psychologist Johanna Ramírez for an open conversation about social anxiety in language learning. Thank you for being here, and enjoy Season 4! 🌻

We are at the end of season 3! Thank you for your invaluable support during these 30 episodes. Today we recap season 3 and I let you in on a few secrets regarding the future of this podcast. As always, reach out to me on Instagram @shhh_imlearning to let me know what you thought about the show, and consider buying me a coffee if you want to see me continuously improve my content and better serve YOU. A little goes a long way. :)

Welcome back to the penultimate episode for season 3 of Shhh, I’m Learning! Today’s guest is Renée Arinzé, a language teacher and coach who empowers language learners to be consistent, resilient and motivated using a holistic approach based on neuroscience and psychology. Renee has been learning languages since 2008 and can communicate in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian and French at varying levels. Since the start of her career she has helped hundreds of students to speak the languages they love with confidence and fluency, using the same tips that helped her to become a polyglot. In today’s episode, we go over practical things like how to respond to, “How many languages do you speak?” We take a look at Renee’s language journey and her work, focusing towards the end of our chat on what it means to have social anxiety and how that affects language learning. Having worked with Renee, I can say she is truly an expert in what she does and puts so much effort into creating quality resources for her students and clients. As always, reach out to me on Instagram @shhh_imlearning to let me know what you thought about the show, and consider buying me a coffee if you want to see me continuously improve my content and better serve YOU. A little goes a long way. :) Resources mentioned in the episode: Renee's InstagramRenee's websiteRenée's article on overcoming social anxiety in language learning

Welcome back to my podcast! I am very excited to share today’s episode with you. Today’s guest is Jessica Tefenkgi Ruelle, the founder of Bubbles of French, where she blends French language learning with self-exploration, mindfulness and authentic expression. She was raised in Brussels in an adoptive family from Italy, she learned several languages from a young age and has always been on a quest to reconnect languages with their most important purpose : connection, identity, belonging and expression. Journaling & meditation are amongst her favorite tools to foster that. She's also a mindset coach for sensitive and ambitious women who want to create their online business. In today’s episode, we continue the theme mentioned in Sr. Ojeda’s regarding issues in traditional language learning and what we can do to make things better. I found it very interesting when Jessica mentioned how many people have some sort of scars from language learning in schools and/or expectations set by their parents. It can be very difficult to move away from that mindset to one of growth and mindfulness, a mindset focused on the true purpose of language, that is, communication. As always, reach out to me on Instagram @shhh_imlearning to let me know what you thought about the show, and consider buying me a coffee if you want to see me continuously improve my content and better serve YOU. A little goes a long way. :) Resources mentioned in the episode: Jessica's InstagramBulle de Français on Substack (blog + podcast)Bulle de Français podcast on SpotifyBulle de Français podcast on Apple Podcasts

Welcome back (finally)! Today's episode is with Diego Ojeda, a passionate Spanish teacher, a comprehensible poetry author, a blogger and an accomplished world language teacher trainer and presenter. He has been recognized and awarded for his outstanding teaching style that he brings to the class and enjoys sharing this style and what he's learned from it with his colleagues. A native of Bogotá, Colombia, he has many years of experience teaching in both his native country and in the United States. Diego brings a refreshing, cultural awareness and innovative perspective to the teaching of the Spanish language. His instructional strategies can be easily adapted to any Spanish language proficiency level. Diego is co-founder of #langchat, an X/Twitter chat that has supported many world language educators in the US since 2011. Having lived and taught in Wisconsin, he now teaches Spanish language at Louisville Collegiate School in Louisville, KY. In today’s episode we chat about who Sr. Ojeda is, where he comes from, his experiences living and teaching in the United States, and the problems with world language education in the US. As always, reach out to me on Instagram @shhh_imlearning to let me know what you thought about the show, and consider buying me a coffee if you want to see me continuously improve my content and better serve YOU. A little goes a long way. :) Resource mentioned in the episode: Transcripción en españolTranscript in EnglishSr. Ojeda's website#langchat on XSr. Ojeda's presentation (in English) at the World Language Teacher SummitWorld Language Teacher Summit website

Hello and welcome back! Today’s episode is with Jacqueline Sadberry. Jacqueline is a Texas native and author with a passion for languages, faith, K-Pop, and turtles. She currently works to provide a space for those looking for consistent speaking practice in English, Spanish, and Japanese, or who have a desire to become conversational. You can find her on YouTube, Facebook, and Pinterest as Jacqueline Simone Media. If you would like to book some sessions with her, you can email her at langhelp22@gmail.com. I found Jacqueline after completing a language challenge on Instagram – part of the prize for my time was 5 sessions with Jacqueline to learn how to introduce myself in Japanese. And, to be honest, I went into this thinking, I’m curious about Japanese, but I’ll just do these 5 sessions and then stop. Nope. Yes, it’s something about the magic of Japanese, but it’s also Jacqueline’s style – how much energy she pours into helping her clients succeed and her passion for languages. Jacqueline has a natural talent for providing that safe space I just mentioned and for helping her clients’ confidence grow. I highly suggest seeking her out even if you’re interested in just dabbling with one of the languages she helps with. In today’s conversation we chat about Jacqueline’s language journey, how she got started with her current work, finding language partners with positive energy, and why culture matters in learning and teaching languages. I’m so excited for you to hear today’s interview, and so without further ado, let’s get into it! As always, reach out to me on Instagram @shhh_imlearning to let me know what you thought about the show, and consider buying me a coffee if you want to see me continuously improve my content and better serve YOU. A little goes a long way. :)

It's time to talk about more books! Today I recommend four books to you. I also go into not waiting too long to read in other languages, the benefits of a Spotify Premium account (15 hours of audiobook listening time per month!), and rethinking how books come into our lives. Three Notes/Corrections: 1) The name of Terrance Lee's podcast changed from "Quiet Voice Fearless Mind" to "The Introvert Experience." and 2) Terrance Lee has a new book coming out this month called The Calm Effect - be on the lookout! 3) Spotify Premium gives you 15 hours of audiobook listening time per month, not 10 as I mistakenly said in the episode, but you can "refill" in 10-hour increments (that apparently roll over each month if unused). Resources Mentioned in the Episode: speakingspadesTorto Arado (Portuguese)Soy introvertido ¿Y qué? Sono introverso, e allora?Quiet Girls Can Run the WorldThe Introvert AdvantagetheintrovertleaderThe Introvert Experience podcastQuiet Voice Fearless Leader booktales_n_teabookclubMindful Retreats in Sicily website

In today’s episode, we have a special guest: Dr. Devina Krishna, Assistant Professor at the Department of English, Patna Women's College, India, and a reputed scholar in linguistics. In this riveting conversation, Dr. Krishna provides us with deep insights into the realm of language preservation and the criticality of communicating effectively. As an introvert, she provides her unique perspective as both student and teacher. She stresses the need for creating an inclusive classroom environment that caters to the needs of both introverts and extroverts. Dr. Krishna's fervor for language preservation is inspiring as she highlights the integral role language plays in preserving cultural identities. In her daily life, she actively participates in discussions on language attrition and the crucial steps required for effective language preservation, particularly by championing one's native language. Beyond academic discourse, Dr. Devina shares practical advice on how to navigate the teaching process for students of varying dispositions, utilizing digital tools for efficient learning, and promoting group discussions as a way of boosting interaction. As always, reach out to me on Instagram @shhh_imlearning to let me know what you thought about the show, and consider buying me a coffee if you want to see me continuously improve my content and better serve YOU. A little goes a long way. :) Resource mentioned in the episode: Email Dr. DevinaInstagramLinkedIn Papers by Dr. Devina: Importance of Language Laboratory in Developing Language SkillsSyllable Structure and Word Stress in DogriThe Place and Significance of English in Business Communication in IndiaDecoding C's in Effective Communication Related Resources: "How to Save a Dying Language"Dr. Devina's talk on a Linguist Investigation of Lexical Tones in Dogri

Welcome back! In today's episode, we introduce you to Urmi Hossain, a polyglot mentor with a rich cultural heritage, vibrant professional paths, and a deep-seated passion for language learning. Urmi opens up about her unique life experiences and how she evolved into an adept language mentor, tuning her teaching strategies to suit her students' individual needs and goals. Sharing her perspective on the digital evolution of the language learning industry, Urmi emphasizes an inclusive teaching approach focussed on conversation practice, comfort, and encouragement for every learner. Despite being an extrovert, she innovatively connects with her introverted students and shares her key strategies for dealing with various personality types. Urmi showcases the importance of personalized learning, creating engaging and interactive lessons curated around students' interests. Listen to this episode and get inspired by Urmi's innovative teaching methods and devotion to her students. As the episode unfolds, you'll glean valuable advice on maintaining language skills and preserving cultural identity. This episode proves to be an essential listen for language learners, educators, and enthusiasts by providing a nuanced approach to language learning and teaching. A deeper discussion ensues as Urmi unravels her unique methods to encourage quiet language learners and the fine balance between tutor-student speaking time for a more dynamic learning environment. She ends on a powerful note by sharing crucial advice on transitioning from a protected learning space to the real world of language interaction. As always, reach out to me on Instagram @shhh_imlearning to let me know what you thought about the show, and consider buying me a coffee if you want to see me continuously improve my content and better serve YOU. A little goes a long way. :) Resource mentioned in the episode: Urmi's books on AmazonUrmi's iTalki profileUrmi's websiteUrmi on InstagramUrmi on LinkedInUrmi on the Italian Time Zone podcast - practice your Italian listening!

In this impactful episode of "I'm Learning", I dialogue with Marty Green, a renowned education maven. Our esteemed guest throws light on her inspiring endeavor of breaking language barriers, embracing diverse cultures and transforming experiences into coaching tools for global learners. Discover how a positive mindset, resilience, and self-assuredness are quintessential in learning a new language. Unravel Marty's incredible insights into accent acquisition and the pivotal role self-drive plays in grasping languages. Power up your language learning journey with this episode. Dive deeper into the intriguing aspects of language learning, accent acquisition, and psychological hurdles encountered by learners. This episode draws attention to society's profound impact on language learners, especially those aspiring to develop a new accent. It critically addresses biases against non-native speakers, external pressure for constant improvement and unrealistic expectations. Join us as we dissect the voyage to mastering a new language, underscoring the need to revisit the basics. This episode is a thought-provoking discussion on countering the disparity between societal pressures and the real-world complexity of language learning. It stresses the significance of self-acceptance, informing others about the intricacies of language learning and validating every dialect and linguistic background. Whether you're an educator, immigrant, or someone grappling with bilingualism or multilingualism, this episode resonates with your experiences and struggles. As always, reach out to me on Instagram @shhh_imlearning to let me know what you thought about the show, and consider buying me a coffee if you want to see me continuously improve my content and better serve YOU. A little goes a long way. :) Resource mentioned in the episode: Marty's "Your Forever Pronunciation Course" - 20% offMarty Green podcast on YouTubeMy episode on Marty’s podcastLink to Marty's socials and/or to book a session with her

Welcome to season three of “I'm Learning,” a space for introverts, multilingual individuals, and language enthusiasts around the world. As a reminder, this podcast is a haven for those struggling to express their naturally socially selective selves in the languages they speak. Season three kicks off with a recap of my winter rest period and the introduction of my monthly newsletter (sign up for it here!). I emphasize the importance of rest and genuine communication with you all. There's also a person announcement and that update affects my life as an introvert and a language learner, adding another layer to the diversity of this podcast. In this introductory episode I also introduce the focus of this season: language educators who share the common belief that traditional language instruction is not always the most effective. These educators aim to humanize their students and provide resources for their individualized learning journeys. They stress the importance of expressing oneself authentically rather than striving for fluency or perfect syntax and grammar. You'll hear from educators like Marty Green, Dr. Devina Krishna, and many more, who all bring unique insights into the world of language instruction. Whether you’re a language learner or educator, this season promises enriching content and fresh perspectives on language learning from numerous experts in the field. Explore new ways of learning languages, understand the perspective of language educators, and connect with like-minded individuals! As always, reach out to me on Instagram @shhh_imlearning to let me know what you thought about the show, and consider buying me a coffee if you want to see me continuously improve my content and better serve YOU. A little goes a long way. :) Sign up for my newsletter here! :)