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In This Episode

Feeling stuck or second-guessing your language learning journey? In this first full episode of Fluent•ish, we’re tackling the fear that many learners carry: “What if I picked the wrong language?” Whether you’re just starting out, considering switching, or parenting a bilingual kid, this episode is for you. We explore why that fear might not be so scary after all, and how to shift your mindset to see every step - even the missteps - as valuable.

Key insights in this episode

• The emotional and practical fears behind choosing a language
• Cultural, family, and identity-based pressures in language learning
• The science of neuroplasticity and how your brain benefits from any language learning
• Why it’s OK (and even helpful) to try multiple languages before settling on one
• The real truth about “wasted time” and how to reframe your thinking
• Rebecca’s personal and professional insight into learning, switching, and persevering through struggle

Your Joy Builder: the takeaway

The Joy Builder of this episode is your resilience builder. Even if you switch languages, feel stuck, or face doubt, know this: learning any language benefits your brain, your resilience, and your worldview. You haven't wasted time—you’ve been building fluency in persistence and self-discovery.

Links

• Episode 2 is brought to you by Flodesk
• Theme music is provided by Milk Fangs
• Share your thoughts and language-learning journey with us on social media: continue the conversation by connecting on LinkedIn, BlueSky, Instagram, or Pinterest
• Watch the vlog on YouTube
• Sign up for materials and resources we've created just for you!

Reminders and acknowledgements

If you're found value in this episode and you haven't already subscribed make sure you tap that button to keep on breaking new ground in your language learning. Please take a moment to review the show on your podcast app, or to send this episode to someone you think could use it: It all helps us continue to build a safe-space for the fluent and Fluent•ish that is free of snobbery and filled with joy!

Fluent•ish the Podcast is brought to you by Little Crab Educational Press. Thank you to the language learning communities on BlueSky, Reddit, and Instagram for sharing openly about the struggles that people have to overcome to persevere in the pursuit of becoming fluent (or fluentish) in an additional language. Remember to Subscribe, Rate, Review, and Share from wherever you get this podcast.

Fluent•ish the Podcast is recorded remotely (most of the time) between Victoria and Vancouver which sit in the unceded traditional territories of several Coast Salish nations, across which we are grateful to live and work.