Episodes
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What if you could finally crack your language goals this summerāin just 90 days? In this episode, Iām sharing why summer is the ultimate season for language learning, and how you can turn June through August into your most productive language sprint ever. Plus, to help you get started, Iāve launched the biggest site-wide sale I've ever done at Fluent in 3 Months: 50% off all courses and $100 off the Bootcamp. Whether you're aiming to escape intermediate hell, build confidence, or finally hold real conversations, this episode is your summer roadmap.
Whether you're a total beginner or stuck in intermediate limbo, this is your chance to level up without breaking the bank. Just use the code SUMMER at checkout!
See all courses and join the summer sale here
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In this episode of the Language and Travel Hacking Podcast, Iām checking in from deep in the jungles of Borneo ā or Kalimantan, as itās called here in Indonesia ā surrounded by orangutans, dense rainforest, and the kind of real-life language immersion Iāve been aiming for since the start of this journey. After nearly five months exploring the country, including a two-month trek across Java and a recent stay in Batam with $30 ocean views (just across the water from pricey Singapore), Iām finally seeing major progress in my Indonesian: Iāve begun having full, meaningful conversations and even making new friends entirely in the language ā no English safety net.
Of course, the road hasnāt been smooth the entire way. I share some honest moments of confusion, including why I still struggle to catch parking fees (yes, even numbers trip me up sometimes!) and how dialect differences can make even the basics a challenge. But Iām feeling more confident than ever, just in time for the next leg of the trip ā from East to West Borneo, then on to Sulawesi and Sumatra, where Iāll rarely come across other foreigners. If youāre starting your own language learning journey and want personalised advice, you can book a consultation with me here. Iād love to help you through any hurdles youāre facing ā and for a limited time, Iām offering these sessions at half the usual rate.
Click here to book a personalised one-on-one language coaching session with me
Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels:
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Missing episodes?
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In this episode, I finally say what Iāve tiptoed around for years: itās time to delete Duolingo. With their recent decision to replace 148 courses with 100% AI-generated content, I can no longer recommend itānot even as a ābetter than nothingā option. The app was already more about dopamine than meaningful learning, and now with zero human input, the quality has dropped even further.
Instead, I share better alternatives that actually help you make progressālike using Anki for tailored vocab, joining a community for accountability, or even switching your games into your target language. AI can still be useful to augment your learning, but it shouldnāt replace real, human input. If youāre serious about languages, itās time to move on.
If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat.
And donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
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In this episode, I dive into the myth of ālanguage talentā and why believing in it can seriously hold you back. Iāve struggled with comparing myself to othersāespecially those polished videos on YouTube or TikTok where someone speaks flawlessly and makes it all look effortless. But the truth is, you're only seeing a tiny, edited snapshot of their journey.
I donāt consider myself naturally talented at languages. I come from an engineering background, and every language Iāve learnt has taken hours of daily practice, trial and error, and plenty of setbacks. I still have an accent in all my languagesāand thatās perfectly fine. Languages are tools for connection, not trophies for perfection.
The only comparison that matters is you versus yesterdayās you. Improvement is about showing up consistently, not being flawless. So stop worrying about whether someone else is more āgiftedāāwhat counts is the effort you put in today.
If youād like more encouragement and honesty from fellow learners, check out my coaching programme here, where we share both the wins and the struggles.
Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
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In this episode, I talk about the āconfidence plateauā Iāve hit while learning Indonesian during my travels in Java. Even though I know the language fairly well, I often catch myself switching to English because of self-doubt. Itās not that I donāt understandāitās that I tell myself I donāt, and that hesitation stops me from properly engaging in the conversation. Most of my interactions are really brief, which makes it harder to build the momentum I need to feel confident.
To break through this, Iāve decided to get back into regular speaking lessonsāat least two a weekāso I can rebuild that flow and trust in myself. I compare it to trying to start a car on a hill: getting going takes effort, but once youāre moving, it becomes much easier. If you're also stuck at this stage, just know itās completely normal. With structure and consistent practice, we can push through. And if youād like a bit of support with that, check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.
If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat.
And donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
After two intense months of studying Indonesianādedicating up to eight hours a day, seven days a weekāIām excited to share my progress in this episode of the Language and Travel Hacking Podcast. Iāve reached a solid B1 level, able to hold conversations with patient speakers using formal Indonesian. Skipping Baliās beaches and parties to focus entirely on learning has paid off, and Iām now ready to take my skills beyond structured lessons and into real-world interactions. With a spontaneous, unscripted conversation video on the way, you can judge my progress for yourself.
Now, as I prepare to travel through Indonesiaāstarting in Jakarta before spending a month in JogjaāI face a new challenge: shifting from formal textbook Indonesian to the casual, everyday language spoken by locals. Adapting to natural speech wonāt be easy, but Iām eager to fully immerse myself and explore more of Indonesia beyond Bali. Tune in to hear about my language journey so far and whatās next as I continue my adventure!
If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat.
And donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
In this episode, I share a simple but effective language learning tip that has helped me stay focused throughout my travels: creating a dedicated study space. Whether itās a specific table at home, a quiet cafĆ©, or a co-working space, having a designated environment for language learning helps eliminate distractions and puts my brain in "study mode." I make a point to stay away from my laptop, as it tends to pull me into work or entertainment, and Iāve even set up my phone to block distracting apps automatically when I enter certain spaces.
I also talk about how routine and environmental cues can make a big difference in staying on track with language learning. Using an e-reader or tablet instead of a laptop, listening to podcasts, or studying with Anki in a distraction-free zone helps me focus better. Even if I donāt leave the house, I set up a specific corner just for language learning. If youāve been struggling to concentrate, try setting up your own dedicated spaceāit might just give your learning a boost!
If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat.
And donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
In this episode of Language and Travel Hacking, I share how AI has supercharged my language learning. While it wonāt replace real practice, itās a game-changer for mnemonics. Before AI, coming up with memory aids was slowānow I drop words into ChatGPT or Gemini and get instant, creative mnemonics across multiple languages. One gem? The Indonesian pemerintah (government) sounds like āpay my rentāāand now Iāll never forget it!
AI also helps me break down words into roots and patterns, making vocab stick faster. Iāve tested different models, and even free versions work wonders. Want my exact prompt? Grab it at here!
If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat.
And donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
In this episode, I share my biggest challenge in learning Indonesianālistening comprehension. While I can read well and converse with teachers, real-life conversations at natural speed remain a struggle. With my upcoming travels in Java, improving my listening skills has become my top priority.
A common mistake is jumping straight into native content like TV or radio, which can be overwhelming. Instead, I use a structured approach with a language learning podcast by Innovative Language. Each lesson starts with a natural conversation, then breaks it down before replaying it. This method has helped me in many languages by gradually training my ear to recognise fast speech.
Iāll be using this daily to prepare for speaking with locals. If listening comprehension is a challenge for you, check out the link in the show notes. Iāll update you soon on my progress. Happy language learning and happy travels!
Mentioned in this episode:
If youāre looking to improve your listening comprehension, I highly recommend the Innovative Language Podcast. It offers structured, level-based lessons in nearly 40 languages, breaking down real conversations to help you train your ear for natural speech.Find your language and start learning today: Check out Innovative Podcasts here!
Other useful links:
If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat.
And donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
Iām sharing my one-month update on my intensive Indonesian learning project. My goal has been to reach at least a B1 level before starting four months of full immersion in Indonesia, and Iām happy to say that Iām well on track. Right now, Iām at a strong A2 (upper beginner) level, making very fast progress. Over the past month, Iāve been following a dedicated study routine, which includes 1ā2 hours of Anki flashcards, coursebook study (Teach Yourself Indonesian and others), and language lessons 4ā5 times per week, entirely in Indonesian. The biggest challenge has been memorising large amounts of vocabulary, since Indonesian isnāt related to any of my strongest languages. To tackle this, Iāve been using AI-generated mnemonics and building custom Anki decks, which has been incredibly helpful. Iāve also found that Indonesianās logical structure and root-word system make it easier to expand my vocabulary quickly.
Looking ahead to the second month, Iām shifting my focus to listening comprehension, as I still struggle to understand fast, natural speech. To improve, Iāll be watching more Indonesian content on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram Reels, while also creating my own Indonesian-language videos. Iāll continue my intensive Anki routine (2 hours/day), now focusing on a new deck with over 1,000 words, as well as some light grammar review. Since Iāll be entering my immersion phase in just a month, I need to be fully prepared to interact with native speakers in natural conversations, especially in areas where people may never have spoken to a foreigner before.
Check out Language Hacking Instagram at @languagehacking
Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat
Donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!
Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
In this episode, Benny shares his fascinating journey through the complex world of US visas, from his early days on a J-1 visa working summer jobs in New York to securing the infamous O-1 visa ā better known as the āAlien of Extraordinary Abilityā visa. He reflects on how his blogging success and language-learning mission helped him qualify for this unique status, as well as the challenges of maintaining US residency while travelling the world.
Benny also dives into the realities of the green card process, how a special travel permit has allowed him to keep his US residency despite years of globetrotting, and why he eventually plans to move back to Europe. Whether youāre curious about long-term travel, visa logistics, or just want a behind-the-scenes look at the bureaucracy of being a digital nomad, this episode is packed with insights and entertaining stories.
Book a consultation session with Benny at bennylewis.com
Donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!
Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
Hello and welcome to The Language and Travel Hacking Podcast! In this episode, Iām tackling a big question: How can you make the most of iconic travel destinations before they become impossible to enjoy?
While Iāve talked about exploring off-the-beaten-track gems in the past, this time Iām focusing on the classicsāRome, Paris, Baliāthose famous spots everyone dreams of visiting. But hereās the catch: these places are getting busier, pricier, and harder to navigate every year.
Iāll share tips on why you should visit these hotspots sooner rather than later, the best ways to enjoy them without the crowds (yes, it involves early mornings), and how off-peak travel can save your sanity and your wallet. Plus, youāll hear how learning a bit of the local language can open doors to unforgettable, authentic experiences.
If youāre planning your next adventure or just dreaming about that bucket list trip, donāt miss this episode! Tune in now and take the first step toward making your travel plans a reality.
Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat
Donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!
Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
Are you tired of crowded hotspots and skyrocketing travel costs? On this episode of The Language and Travel Hacking Podcast, Iām diving into the future of travel and tackling the āhotspot problem.ā Recorded from bustling Bali, Iāll share my firsthand experience of how even off-peak seasons feel like peak seasonāand why this trend is happening globally.
But hereās the good news: the world is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Iāll explore how getting off the beaten track can lead to richer, more authentic travel experiencesāespecially when paired with learning the local language. Plus, a sneak peek into my adventures finding the āother Balisā and āother Riosā around the globe.
Whether youāre planning your next trip or dreaming of an escape, this episode is packed with tips to inspire a different kind of journey. Tune in now and start thinking beyond the guidebooks!
Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chatDonāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!
Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
As part of my Indonesian project ahead of travelling through the country, Iāve been testing out different tutors to find one who truly suits my learning style. From filtering by dialect, availability, and budget on platforms like italki to booking trial lessons with multiple tutors in one week, Iāve refined a method that ensures I get the best fit for my needs. Iāll walk you through the steps, share my experiences, and explain why investing time in this process can make all the difference.
Whether youāre after a conversational approach or a tutor with structured lesson plans, these tips will help you connect with someone who complements your goals. Let me know your thoughts and share your experiences on Threads, BlueSky, or Instagram.
Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat
Indonesian Instagram: @LanguageHacking
Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.
Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
Iām kicking off 2025 with a new language project: learning Bahasa Indonesia. Iāll be studying intensively in Bali for two months before exploring Java, Sumatra, Borneo, and beyond. Indonesianās simplicityāno conjugations or noun gendersāmakes it one of the easiest languages Iāve started, but my focus isnāt on mastery. My goal is to reach a B1 conversational level, enabling independent travel and meaningful one-on-one interactions. Speaking is central to my strategy, and after just a few days of study, Iāll dive into daily practice with teachers and locals to build momentum and confidence.
This episode shares how Iāve tailored my learning approach by prioritizing practical vocabulary, using resources like Anki and e-readers, and leveraging conversational practice through italki. I also discuss overcoming challenges like formal vs. informal language differences and the limitations of Google Translate. Whether youāre taking on your own language project or just starting out, I hope my journey inspires you to make speaking a consistent priority. Follow my progress on YouTube (Fluent in 3 Months) and Instagram (@LanguageHacking) for updates and tips, and let me know how youāre tackling your goals for 2025. Letās dive ināhappy language learning and travels!
Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat
Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.
Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
In this episode, Benny shares his frugal travel plans for the upcoming New Year, featuring the Junulara Esperanto RenkontiÄo (Youth Esperanto Week) in Belgium. He explains how Esperanto events provide a unique mix of cultural immersion, affordable travel, and socializing with open-minded, language-loving individuals. From low-cost accommodation to vegan-friendly meals, Benny highlights the financial benefits of participating in such events, including how they transform school facilities into welcoming, budget-friendly venues during holiday closures. He also reflects on why Esperanto, despite being a niche language, has enriched his travels and helped him connect with like-minded adventurers around the globe.
Benny also takes listeners through his broader travel itinerary, including stops in Luxembourg and Portugal, before embarking on an extended Indonesian adventure. As he looks ahead to a year of conscious spending, he shares his approach to combining language learning with frugality. Wrapping up the episode, Benny invites listeners to join his New Year Language Hacking Bootcamp, a supportive program designed to kickstart their 2025 language learning journey. Whether youāre curious about Esperanto, budget travel, or language learning tips, this episode is packed with inspiration to enrich your year-end plans.
Mentioned in this episode:
15a Junulara E-Semajno Event: https://verdajskoltoj.net/es/jes-24-25/Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat
Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.
Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
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Benny Lewis shares his ambitious plans for 2025, which revolve around learning Indonesian and traveling across Indonesia. Following his 2024 adventure exploring every state in Brazil, Benny plans to spend the first two months of the new year in Bali. While Bali is a tourist hub, he intends to use it as a comfortable base for intensive language study, focusing on achieving a B1 conversational level within two months. His goal is not fluency but functional communication to explore Indonesia's lesser-traveled islands like Sumatra and Java, engaging with locals and deepening his cultural experiences. Benny emphasizes that Indonesian is relatively easy to learn due to its simple grammar, Latin script, and familiar vocabulary influenced by Dutch and English.
In addition to his language-learning project, Benny will dedicate part of his time in Bali to writing his next book, balancing four hours of daily language study with writing. While he acknowledges the challenges of working with limited time, he is confident that Indonesian's simplicity and his prior exposure to the language will help him succeed. Benny encourages listeners to follow his journey, join Bootcamp to learn alongside him. His ultimate goal is to replicate the immersive travel experiences he enjoyed in Brazil by diving deep into Indonesia's culture and connecting with its people beyond the tourist trail.
Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chatAlso, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.
Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
In this episode, Benny Lewis shares his journey of completing a long-time travel goal: visiting all 26 states of Brazil plus the federal district. Over the course of nine months, Benny explored the country deeply, opting for buses and boats whenever possible to immerse himself in authentic local experiences. He recounts highlights such as the breathtaking LenĆ§Ć³is Maranhenses, socializing with locals in every state, and navigating logistical challenges, especially in remote regions like Acre and Amazonas. Speaking Portuguese proved invaluable, enabling meaningful interactions and making him often the first foreigner many Brazilians had met.
Benny emphasizes the importance of going beyond typical tourist destinations to truly understand a country's culture. He reflects on how this experience enriched his appreciation for Brazil, solidifying it as his favorite country. By prioritizing connections with locals over sightseeing, Benny created lasting memories and stories for every state. This project also strengthened his ties to Brazilian culture, which he cherishes deeply. Benny closes by encouraging listeners to embrace similar deep travel experiences and to explore the richness of less-visited parts of the world.
Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat
Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.
Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
In this episode of the Language and Travel Hacking Podcast, host Benny Lewis dives into part two of his guide to preparing for a potential move abroad. Building on the previous episode's core tips, Benny emphasizes the importance of considering how to financially sustain oneself while living in a new country. He discusses the challenges of finding local employment due to high competition and language barriers, recommending remote work as an alternative. Benny suggests securing online work from a U.S. or EU-based employer to take advantage of the favorable currency rates. Although remote jobs may sometimes come with a pay cut, he explains how this can still be feasible in countries with lower living costs. He also highlights the flexibility that part-time or freelance remote work can offer, which can ease the transition without the need for full-time local employment.
Benny continues by addressing the logistical steps to smooth the move, from mail forwarding and health insurance adjustments to storing belongings and planning initial accommodations. He suggests leveraging online communities and social media to gain insight into the culture and daily life of the destination, and even starting a separate social media account to immerse in the local language and trends. Benny also advises gradual time-zone adjustments for easier acclimation upon arrival. With almost 25 years of experience moving between countries, he shares his expert advice on building routines and adapting to cultural differences to hit the ground running. Benny plans to delve deeper into each of these tips in future YouTube videos and invites you to reach out for more personalized insights.
Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chatAlso, follow Benny on our YouTube channel and donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.
Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot -
In this episode of the Language and Travel Hacking podcast, Benny Lewis dives into the essentials of planning a move abroad. Inspired by recent conversations with listeners and current events, Benny shares his insights on creating a solid foundation before relocating. He emphasizes the importance of careful planning, listing pros and cons of potential destinations, and considering personal connections or cultural ties to a place. His approach encourages listeners to plan not only where but also when and why to go, setting the groundwork for a successful transition abroad.
Benny also touches on practical aspects of preparation, like decluttering and selling belongings well ahead of time, canceling non-essential subscriptions, and boosting savings for a smooth start in a new country. And if youāre aiming for a culturally immersive experience, Benny stresses the value of language preparation. He suggests dedicating a few months to active study before departure, a tip he has learned from his own travels. As always, Benny invites listeners to reach out with questions or reflections and shares how his language coaching program can support them in taking on their language and travel goals.
Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chatAlso, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and donāt forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.
Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot - Show more
