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The Learner Journals is a podcast for anyone learning a language and wondering why it sometimes feels impossible.
In each episode, Tom speaks to real language learners about how they study, practise, stay motivated, make mistakes, build confidence, and slowly turn confusing sounds into actual human communication.
These are honest conversations about what works, what doesn’t, and what people wish they knew earlier.
Expect practical language learning tips, personal stories, study routines, motivation, speaking advice, and plenty of reminders that struggling is not a sign you’re bad at languages. It’s basically the entry fee.
Perfect for learners of Mandarin, Spanish, French, Japanese, English, and anyone trying to learn a second language without losing the will to live.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
| Episode | Date |
|---|---|
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How Shanley learns Mandarin: Taiwan, grammar, dramas, and finding her way back
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Jun 03, 2026 |
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How Brandon learns Mandarin: Clubhouse, DuChinese, music, and building immersion from Georgia
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Jun 03, 2026 |
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How Ija learns Mandarin: Passive listening, Anki, aphantasia, and the art of acquiring Chinese
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Jun 01, 2026 |
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How Manuel learns Mandarin: Anki, Taiwan, Bavarian German, and the slow art of getting 1% better
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May 24, 2026 |
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How Emma learns Mandarin: grief, anxiety, journals, and finding a way round
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May 21, 2026 |
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How Ragnar learns Mandarin: passive input, personal mnemonics, and treating language like training
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May 19, 2026 |
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How Jane learns Mandarin: grammar, Chinglish, flashcards, and doing it for fun
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May 18, 2026 |
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How Alex learned Mandarin: factories, French, characters, and getting comfortable with being wrong
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May 12, 2026 |
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How Dan learned Mandarin: from a unicycle dream to 20 hours a week of Chinese
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May 07, 2026 |
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How Stephen learned Mandarin: from divorce, distraction and running away to Taiwan
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May 06, 2026 |
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How Fiona Learned Mandarin: Factories, Fear and a Bowl of Intestines
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May 01, 2026 |
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How Charlie Learned Mandarin: Flashcards, Anime and Moving to Taiwan
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Apr 30, 2026 |
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How Jemima Learned Mandarin: Taiwanese Dramas, Reading and Chinglish Confidence
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Apr 27, 2026 |
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How Darian Learned Mandarin: Apps, Bopomofo and Breaking Through Plateaus
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Apr 27, 2026 |
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How Ashley Learned Mandarin: Confidence, Speaking Practice and Making Mistakes
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Apr 27, 2026 |