Language Hacking

Benny Lewis

Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy meet real-life language learners and discover smarter, faster ways to learn a language.

  • 10 minutes 25 seconds
    Benny's travel update: 3 huge South American travel projects for 2024

    In this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, host Benny shares his travel plans and projects for the year, all centered around South America. He discusses three major travel projects: visiting all Brazilian states, traveling from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean entirely by bus, and navigating the entire Amazon River by boat.

    Benny explains his motivations for these journeys, emphasizing his desire to explore new places with minimal carbon footprint. Benny also mentions the linguistic challenges he faces, including adapting to different dialects of Portuguese and Spanish along the way. Despite the rough conditions of some of his travels, he expresses excitement for the adventure ahead. 

    Click here to check out Teacher AI as mentioned in this episode.

    Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

    To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email [email protected].

    11 March 2024, 11:00 am
  • 13 minutes 28 seconds
    Benny shares his optimism and enthusiasm about his favourite AI language tool

    In this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, Benny explores the game-changing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into language learning. Breaking away from his previous skepticism, Benny unveils a cutting-edge tool where users can engage with an AI teacher for unlimited language practice at a fraction of the cost of traditional lessons.

    Highlighting benefits such as affordability and personalized learning, Benny invites listeners to join the exciting journey into the future of language acquisition. Don't miss out on this transformative opportunity—tune in now and revolutionize your language learning experience!

    Click here to check out Teacher AI as mentioned in this episode.

    Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

    To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email [email protected].

    4 March 2024, 12:00 pm
  • 10 minutes 33 seconds
    Ask Benny: Benny Shares His Skepticism About AI's Role in Language Learning

    In this episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, Benny discusses the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in language learning. He acknowledges the potential of AI to revolutionize language education, including the possibility of replacing human teachers with AI-powered systems. However, Benny expresses skepticism about the current effectiveness of such systems, citing limitations in conversation depth and the tendency for some to exaggerate their AI capabilities.

    Despite recognizing the benefits of AI for providing affordable and comfortable speaking practice, Benny emphasizes the importance of human interaction in developing authentic communication skills. He warns against over-reliance on AI, which may hinder the development of interpersonal skills crucial for real-world conversations. Benny plans to explore both the advantages and drawbacks of AI in future episodes and invites listeners to join the conversation and share their experiences with language learning.

    Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.


    To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email [email protected].

    26 February 2024, 12:00 pm
  • 8 minutes
    Ask Benny: Other ways to avoid being an obvious foreigner

    Benny Lewis discusses strategies to avoid standing out as an obvious foreigner when speaking a new language, drawing from his experiences in Brazil. Academic choices of written words, like or simply saying things that are just illogical, can make you stand out more.

    Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.


    To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email [email protected].

    5 February 2024, 12:00 pm
  • 6 minutes 8 seconds
    Ask Benny: The interesting trick; teaching people other info so they´ll put up with my bad language skills

    Benny shares his insights on how to engage in conversations as a beginner or intermediate language learner. He emphasizes the importance of having interesting things to say, such as sharing personal skills, stories, or tricks, to keep the other person engaged and patient.

    Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.


    To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email [email protected].

    29 January 2024, 12:00 pm
  • 6 minutes 28 seconds
    Ask Benny: How to be the 1st ever

    Benny Lewis expresses his enthusiasm for the unique opportunity of being the first foreigner many Brazilians will ever meet during his travels off the beaten path. He encourages language learners to explore less touristy areas, underlining the special privilege of representing the world to those he encounters.

    Benny highlights the crucial role of language skills, specifically speaking the local language, in creating these one-of-a-kind connections. He reflects on the significance of leaving a lasting positive impression, mentioning how he brings souvenirs to make these encounters memorable.

    Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.


    To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email [email protected].

    22 January 2024, 12:00 pm
  • 12 minutes 24 seconds
    Ask Benny: Mental health struggles and being a language learner

    Benny Lewis shares his experience with a recent intensive Korean language project after a 10-year gap. He reflects on personal challenges, emphasizing the importance of considering mental health during language learning. Benny encourages listeners to go easy on themselves, focus on progress, and find a balance between ambition and self-care.

    Watch the full uncut video of Benny speaking Korean after his language mission here: Benny's Korean: Final conversation to demonstrate basic conversational level

    Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.


    To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email [email protected].

    15 January 2024, 12:00 pm
  • 15 minutes 11 seconds
    How to dive deep into dialects (Benny's 2024 language plan)

    In this podcast episode, Benny shares his language learning plans for the year, focusing on Portuguese and exploring the diverse dialects in Brazil. He offers practical advice, suggesting starting with the standard version of the language before delving into specific dialects. Benny shares tips on finding resources, emphasizing the importance of searching in the language itself for better results.

    Drawing from his own experiences, Benny discusses reaching out to native speakers through platforms like YouTube and Instagram to gain exposure to authentic language use. Benny also talks about incorporating cultural elements, such as music and intonation, into the learning process.

    Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.


    To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email [email protected].

    8 January 2024, 12:00 pm
  • 10 minutes 46 seconds
    Ask Benny: How to learn a language in 2024: Taking a resolution and turning it into a true project

    In the first Language Hacking Podcast episode of 2024, Benny discusses effective language learning strategies for New Year's resolutions.

    Instead of vague goals, Benny advocates for SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. Drawing from his Fluent in 3 Months philosophy, Benny emphasizes public accountability, community involvement, and aligning methods with language goals.

    Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.


    To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email [email protected].

    1 January 2024, 12:00 pm
  • 11 minutes 48 seconds
    Ask Benny: Geoguessr, Geography, country studies (How Benny relaxes)


    In this festive episode of the Language Hacking Podcast, Benny Lewis brings a unique twist, stepping away from traditional language learning to share an exhilarating passion – geography. As the world celebrates Christmas, Benny takes you on an exciting journey into his downtime adventures, fueled by a fascination with countries, capitals, and flags. Forget stamp collecting or video games – Benny introduces you to the thrill of Geoguesser, a game that transports you to random locations worldwide through Google Street View, challenging you to guess your whereabouts.


    Join Benny on his live-streamed Geoguesser sessions on Twitch, where he not only unravels the mysteries of diverse locations but also showcases his knack for identifying language signs and cultural nuances. Dive into Benny's world of virtual travel, where every street sign, script, and cultural cue becomes a clue to unravel the geographical puzzle. Feel the excitement as Benny shares how he enhances his global awareness through Anki decks and various online resources.


    Resource Mentioned in this Episode:
    - Anki

    Join Benny's live stream on Twitch at @polyglot Twitch channel

    Follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.


    To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email [email protected].

    25 December 2023, 12:00 pm
  • 10 minutes 28 seconds
    Ask Benny: When should I move on to the next language, if I want to be a polyglot?

    In this episode of the Language Hacking podcast, Benny Lewis tackles a question that language enthusiasts often ponder: When is the right time to move on to the next language in your polyglot journey? Benny dismisses the common notion that polyglots must juggle multiple languages simultaneously and introduces a compelling alternative—focusing on one language until achieving a solid B2 proficiency level.

    Benny delves into the pitfalls of trying to learn several languages at once, including interference and lack of focus. Benny's advice is laced with personal anecdotes, emphasizing the importance of building a mental fortress around a language to prevent interference from others. He shares insights into the benefits of taking breaks from languages once they've reached a higher proficiency level, likening it to fortifying your linguistic skills.

    Follow Benny’s progress on his Korean mission on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.


    To ask Benny a question, leave a comment on Instagram (@‌languagehacking), X (@‌fi3m), Tiktok (@irishpolyglot), or you can email [email protected].

    18 December 2023, 12:00 pm
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