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Published by Fluent in 3 Months
International best-selling author and nomadic polyglot Benny Lewis shares his real experiences and advice while on-the-road about travel and language learning. Learn more at: https://www.fluentin3months.com/podcast/
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I've been saying for years that I wish Irish was among my fluent languages, and I've finally stopped delaying. In this episode I announce my next big project: sitting the official TEG B2 Irish exam in December. There's just one small problem. I'm in Italy for the next three months and won't be back in Ireland until a week before the test, and I haven't sat a Common European Framework exam in sixteen years. So how do you prepare for an Irish exam in entirely the wrong country? My answer is to make every single Wednesday a 100% Irish day, from newspapers and podcasts to vocabulary drills and hours of live speaking practice online. I explain exactly how it works, why one fixed block in your week beats waiting for spare time, and what happens if I pass. If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here or by typing in the link languagehacking.com/bc . Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Follow my Irish Instagram Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
In this episode, I share my plans for spending the next three months in Italy and my mission to reactivate my Italian. After years away from the country, I’m rusty—but recent conversations in Dublin have reminded me that you can start bringing a language back wherever you are. I’ll be exploring new regions across eastern Italy, using Italian every day, meeting fellow language enthusiasts, and speaking at the Polyglot Conference in Bologna. My biggest reminder from this journey: it’s never too late to reconnect with a language you care about. Start using it, be patient, and see how much comes back. If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Check out my Italian Instagram at @irlandesiano ! My personal Instagram: @irishpolyglot Language Hacking Instagram @languagehacking Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
In this episode, I share how I’ve built a completely free digital immersion setup for Irish without adding another paid subscription. My goal isn’t to find one perfect resource, but to make my target language easier to encounter throughout my everyday life, wherever I am. I walk through how I use IPTV and free TV websites and YouTube channels to access news and other content in different languages, with Irish TV as my current example. I also talk about getting free reading and listening material through library cards and apps like BorrowBox and Libby, which can give you access to newspapers, books, and audiobooks. Finally, I explain why I recommend creating a separate social media account for each language you’re learning, so the algorithm fills your feed with useful content in that language. With TV, libraries, and social media, there are plenty of ways to create meaningful digital immersion completely free. Normal price "$249, but chat one-on-one directly with me for just $99 if you book in August! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
For four years, I worked toward becoming a conference interpreter. I learned languages, passed exams, took translation training, and even accepted a difficult, poorly paid job to strengthen my application. Then, just before I could apply for the master's degree I had been working toward, the university changed its admissions rules and made me ineligible. It felt like four years of effort had gone to waste. But I still had everything I had built along the way. My translation training led to freelance work, which became my first location-independent job and eventually helped me build a life as a digital nomad and create Fluent in 3 Months. In this episode, I share why a failed plan doesn't erase your progress, and how the skills you gain along the way can open doors you never expected. Normal price "$249, but chat one-on-one directly to Benny for just $99 if you book in August! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
I’ve just returned from an Irish immersion course that I first attended 20 years ago, and it gave me a fresh perspective on where my Irish stands today. I was surprised to find myself in the highest-level class, not as the weakest student as I had expected, but comfortably in the middle. The experience reminded me that structured courses are invaluable for building vocabulary, confidence, and speaking skills, but they can only take you so far. While I had plenty of enjoyable conversations in Irish throughout the week, I realized what I’m missing now isn’t more classroom knowledge. It’s longer, deeper, and more natural conversations. In this episode, I reflect on why language learning eventually has to move beyond lessons and into real life. I share how cultural immersion, from learning sean-nós singing to exploring the Ulster dialect, boosted my confidence, and why I’m dedicating the next month to living Irish rather than just studying it. From social events and Irish-language media to meeting native speakers for coffee, I’m challenging myself to use the language every day. If you’ve reached a point where lessons no longer seem to move you forward, this episode will encourage you to trust how much you already know and focus on creating more opportunities to truly live your language. If you haven't already, sign up for our free email list here . If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Follow my Irish Instagram Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
I’m heading to one of Ireland’s Gaeltacht regions for an Irish immersion week, and this time I’m deliberately putting myself in the most challenging class available. Even though I know I’ll probably be the weakest speaker in the room, and despite having almost no time to prepare, I explain why choosing discomfort over confidence has always been the fastest way for me to make real progress in a language. In this episode, I encourage you to think about your own next step beyond your comfort zone, whether that’s joining a more advanced class, attending a language meetup, or finally booking that conversation exchange. I also share where you can follow my Irish immersion journey on Instagram throughout the week, and why embracing those awkward, intimidating moments is often the key to becoming the language learner you want to be. If you haven't already, sign up for our free email list here . If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Follow my Irish Instagram Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
After spending years helping others learn languages, I've decided it's finally time to give my own native language the attention it deserves. In this episode, I share why Irish has become my main focus this summer, how I'm using intensive study bursts to make real progress, and why I believe concentrated effort beats feeling guilty about a neglected language every time. I also talk about my upcoming immersion in the Gaeltacht, my plans to keep practising Irish throughout the summer, and how I'll be sharing the journey with anyone else learning the language. Whether you're studying Irish or something completely different, I hope this episode inspires you to carve out focused time for your own language goals and reminds you that fluency is built one determined push at a time. If you haven't already, sign up for our free email list here . If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Follow my Irish Instagram Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
This week marks 23 years since I first began speaking from day one, and as I celebrate my 44th birthday, I'm reflecting on just how far that simple idea has taken me. Today I can communicate confidently in eight languages, have explored many more, and have travelled to 51 countries, but none of that seemed remotely possible when I was 21. Back then, I spoke only English, struggled through Spanish classes, and convinced myself I simply wasn't someone who could learn languages. Everything changed when I stopped worrying about sounding perfect and started speaking anyway. Looking back, I realise the difference wasn't talent or a hidden language gene. It was the willingness to make mistakes, connect with people, and keep showing up. In this birthday episode, I share why that lesson still shapes everything I do and why I believe anyone can experience the same breakthrough. Whether you're just beginning or feeling stuck, I hope my story reminds you that progress comes from using the language, not waiting until you feel ready. I also talk about the next chapter of my weekly emails, which will now include much more language-specific advice alongside my free Speak in a Week course. If you'd like practical tips tailored to the language you're learning, I'd love to see you on the mailing list and hopefully in your inbox every Friday. If you haven't already, you can sign up for Speak in a Week here . If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Follow my Spanish Instagram Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
In this episode, I explore the surprising benefits of learning languages in tourist hotspots. While I usually encourage travelers to get off the beaten track, I explain why busy destinations can be great places to find language exchanges, meet fellow language enthusiasts, and practice multiple languages with people from around the world. I also share how events like the World Cup create unique opportunities for real-life language practice. Despite the higher prices and abundance of English speakers, tourist hubs can offer valuable social and linguistic experiences if you know where to look. If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Check out my newest YouTube video: Forget Every Country. I'm Visiting Every State on Earth (3,000+) Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Follow my Spanish Instagram Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
In this episode, I share why having a terrible memory has never stopped me from learning languages. In fact, I believe it's one of the reasons I've become successful at it. I explain why natural memory isn't the key to fluency and how building the right systems can make all the difference. I talk about the two techniques I rely on most: mnemonics and spaced repetition. I share examples of how I create memorable associations for new words, why AI can help with this process, and how tools like Anki help me review vocabulary at the right time. I also give an update on two new YouTube videos covering language learning and my latest travel adventures. If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Check out my newest YouTube video: Forget Every Country. I'm Visiting Every State on Earth (3,000+) Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Follow my Spanish Instagram Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
In this episode, I reflect on conversations at a language exchange event in Guadalajara, where I met learners who were communicating successfully in their target languages but still apologised for their mistakes. One German learner in particular reminded me how often we judge our own abilities far more harshly than others do. I discuss why self-doubt, not mistakes, is usually the biggest barrier to speaking a language. Drawing on my own experience of struggling for words at times, I explain why effective communication matters more than perfection and encourage learners to trust the people who are happily talking with them rather than their inner critic. If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Follow my Spanish Instagram Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
In this episode, I share how learning a language can instantly connect you with people wherever you travel. While staying in San Luis Potosí, Mexico, a simple breakfast at a small local café turned into meaningful friendships and conversations that would never have happened without Spanish. I also explain why language is about much more than practical travel skills. Even a basic attempt to speak the local language can open doors, create genuine connections, and transform a trip from sightseeing into a memorable human experience. The places may be beautiful, but it's the people you meet that stay with you for life. If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Follow my Spanish Instagram Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
In this episode, I explain why worrying about learning the “right” dialect is one of the least important problems for language learners. Whether it’s Mexican Spanish, Castilian Spanish, or another regional variation, I argue that beginners should focus far more on building confidence, learning the basics, and actually speaking to people. Drawing on my own experiences with English accents and Spanish dialects, I show how native speakers naturally adapt to different variations without communication breaking down. I also share stories from my recent travels around Mexico, where I encountered several local sub-dialects simply through conversation and exposure. I explain why dialect differences become more relevant only at an advanced level, and why spending months researching the “perfect” version of a language is often just procrastination in disguise. If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Follow my Spanish Instagram Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
In this episode of the Language and Travel Hacking Podcast, I share a discussion from my language Bootcamp about using AI for language learning while travelling through Mexico. I praise creative uses of AI, such as generating personalised listening exercises and practising vocabulary, but explain why AI chatbots should not replace real conversations with people. While chatbots make speaking feel easy and pressure-free, they remove the awkwardness, speed, and unpredictability that make genuine communication challenging and rewarding. I also explain why real fluency comes from speaking with humans, not machines. AI can be a useful warm-up tool, and I personally use tools like Anthropic’s Claude and Google’s Gemini in my own learning, but true progress happens when you deal with real social pressure, cultural nuance, and natural conversation. Ultimately, language learning is about connecting with people, not perfecting conversations with a chatbot. If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Follow my Spanish Instagram Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
In this episode, I share a moment I had during a dinner in Monterrey where I suddenly realised I’d stopped consciously thinking about speaking Spanish. Instead of translating or checking my words, I was simply part of the conversation, joking, listening, and reacting naturally. It reminded me that true fluency isn’t about perfection, but about the language becoming an effortless part of you. I also reflect on the difficult stages of language learning, drawing from my recent struggles with Mandarin and Malay. Even when speaking feels exhausting and unnatural, those moments are part of the journey. If you keep going long enough, one day you may suddenly realise you’ve forgotten you’re even speaking your target language at all. If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Follow my Spanish Instagram Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
In this episode, I talk about my next big travel project as I prepare to head to Mexico for over two months. After recent language missions in Malaysia and Taiwan, I am now focusing on deep travel using Spanish, one of my strongest languages. Rather than chasing new countries, I am continuing my goal of exploring places more thoroughly, aiming to visit around 20 Mexican states by travelling from the north downwards. I also reflect on why meaningful, in-depth travel matters, especially when working remotely. I plan to stay mindful of safety while exploring lesser-known regions and improving my Mexican Spanish through real conversations with locals. Although the World Cup will be happening during my trip, I intend to enjoy the atmosphere without the chaos, and I will be sharing updates through my podcast and Spanish-language social media accounts. If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Follow my Spanish Instagram Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
In this episode, I explore whether it is better to stay in major cities or travel more deeply into lesser-visited places. From my recent time in Taiwan, I reflect on how cities like Taipei make life easier, especially when I do not speak the language fluently, and offer plenty of social events and opportunities to meet people. By contrast, smaller towns can feel more isolating and require much more effort to connect with others. At the same time, I explain why I increasingly favour travelling beyond the capital. It is far more affordable, and it pushes me to use the local language and engage more deeply with the culture. While both approaches have their advantages, I find the best balance is to split my time between big cities and smaller places to get the most out of my travels. If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
In this episode, I give an update on my Mandarin progress after spending a month in Taiwan. I explain how I quickly regained enough confidence to handle everyday conversations, although my first social speaking attempt was difficult. After adjusting the situation and speaking with the right people, I began having full evenings of conversation in Mandarin and even made new friends through the language, including at Asia Glot. With upcoming travel to Kaohsiung, I now feel much more ready to rely on Mandarin beyond Taipei. I also describe the routine that has helped me improve: two hours each morning studying grammar in a café, several weekly Zoom lessons with a teacher, frequent social events for real life speaking practice, and daily vocabulary review using Anki. These habits have helped me return to my previous level and made travelling through Taiwan feel far more rewarding. If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
I shared how reactivating my Mandarin has put me in an unusual stage of language learning: I am far beyond beginner level, but still rusty enough that real social situations can feel overwhelming. At one language exchange in Taiwan, I quickly realized the setting itself was working against me. A fast-speaking native speaker with a difficult accent and a highly specific conversation about surfing left me completely lost, and I ended up switching tables without getting the Mandarin practice I had hoped for. That experience could easily have convinced me that I was not ready, but I have learned that one difficult situation does not define my actual ability. Instead of retreating into more study, I chose to test a different environment, and the next language exchange went far better. The conversation topics were more familiar, the native speaker adjusted their speech more clearly, and I was able to participate with much more confidence. For me, the lesson is that when something goes badly in language learning, it is worth asking whether the situation was the wrong fit rather than assuming I failed. Progress often means accepting awkward moments, trying again, and understanding that discomfort is part of eventually reaching more natural fluency If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
In this episode, I look back at my first Mandarin project in 2012, which became the most stressful language challenge I had ever faced. I set a public goal of reaching fluency in three months, but the growing attention brought heavy criticism, pressure, and emotional exhaustion. Arriving in Taiwan with no Mandarin also left me isolated, because I could neither rely on English-speaking circles nor easily connect with locals. That experience changed how I learn languages today: I treat goals as motivation rather than guarantees, protect my energy, and build a foundation before traveling. Even though the project was difficult, I still reached a spoken B1 level and gained lessons that shaped every language project since then. If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with me at languagehacking.com/chat . And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here ! Or you can follow me on all Social Media channels: Instagram: @irishpolyglot Thread: @irishpolyglot TikTok: @irishpolyglot
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Observed September 12, 2026. Cached outside the daily freshness window; the positions keep the date they were taken on.
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