You Can Learn Chinese

Our special Chinese Christmas episode first aired Dec 16, 2019.

John and Jared have some sad news to share and want your feedback on the future of the podcast.

So you want to get back into learning Chinese after taking a break. John and Jared give you tips on how to get back into learning Chinese and make it an even better experience than before. Guest interview is with Martina Fuchs, who started her career as an Arabic-speaking spy for the Swiss government and later became a TV journalist for China’s state broadcaster CCTV. Links from the episode:This Modern Chinese Life | All Set Learning lesson packTaylor Swift speaking Chinese deepfake | The China ProjectMartina Fuchs on Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There is no shortage of advice on how to learn Chinese, but in this episode, hosts John and Jared not only talk about 10 common bad tips for learning Chinese, but also reframe them so you know what to do instead. Guest interview is with Dave Landis, a language enthusiast who shares his journey of learning Chinese, the role it played in his relationship with his Taiwanese wife, and how it benefits his teaching career.  Links from the episode:Chinese Grammar WikiSherlock Holmes and a Scandal in Shanghai | Level 2 graded readerCathoven Text Analyzer Dave Landis Blog Timestamps  Don't worry about tones [00:01:55] The misconception that tones are not important in speaking Chinese and that native speakers don't use tones naturally. Characters are too hard, just focus on speaking [00:04:21] The belief that learning characters is unnecessary and that focusing on speaking is enough to learn Chinese. Chinese has no grammar, don't worry about it [00:06:14] The misconception that Chinese language has no grammar and that learners don't need to study it. The capability of kids books [00:09:41] Kids books have a higher reading level than learners, and they contain special use vocabulary that may not be useful for learners. Reading novels as a beginner [00:11:09] Reading novels as a beginner is not an effective way to learn Chinese, as it is slow and challenging. Chinese poetry and idioms [00:13:17] Chinese poetry and idioms are not essential for beginners and should be appreciated at higher levels of language proficiency. All you need is Immersion [00:20:05] Discussion on the idea of immersing oneself in the language to learn it naturally and effortlessly. You need A well-rounded approach to learning Chinese [00:24:01] Emphasis on the importance of using multiple resources and methods to learn Chinese effectively. The lack of Chinese news sites for kids [00:30:21] Discussion about the limited availability of news sites in Chinese specifically designed for kids. Recommendation of a text analysis tool for Chinese [00:31:48] Introduction and recommendation of an online tool called "Cathoven" for teachers to analyze and level Chinese texts. Dave Landis' language learning journey [00:33:37] Interview with Dave Landis, a middle school teacher, about his language learning experiences, including his interest in German and Vietnamese before eventually learning Mandarin. Meeting and Marrying his Wife [00:41:36] Dave discusses how he met his wife and how learning Chinese helped him develop their relationship. Communicating with Bilingual Spouses [00:42:50] Dave  talks about how communication with his wife is mostly in English, but sometimes they switch to Chinese, especially when speaking to their children. Studying Mandarin in China [00:45:14] Dave  shares his experience of studying Mandarin in China, including his decision to attend the Chinese Language Institute in Guilin and his interactions with locals. Developing Listening Comprehension [00:52:14] Dave Landis discusses the importance of speaking to someone younger than him to improve his listening comprehension while learning Mandarin. Progress and Study Methods [00:52:48] Dave Landis talks about the progress he made during his time in China, including studying HSK 4, reading articles about China, and telling dad jokes in Chinese. Language Endurance and Filling in Gaps [00:56:38] Dave Landis and Jared Turner discuss the importance of language endurance and how participating in a language program helped fill in gaps in listening and speaking skills. The importance of reading graded books and getting a tutor [01:03:28] Dave recommends reading Mandarin Companion and Chinese Breeze books and getting a one-on-one tutor for rapid progress. The benefits of studying Mandarin overseas [01:04:12] Dave shares the example of a classmate who made rapid progress by studying Mandarin overseas and encourages others to do the same. Dave Landis' blog and his experience at CLI [01:04:38] Dave Landis talks about his blog, where he discusses the books he has read and his experience at CLI. A link to his blog will be provided in the show notes. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Stories about the impact of extensive reading on language fluency pulled from studies and research. Guest interview with Sarah Reinstein, a game developer.

You know a lot of Chinese, but can you actually use it? Listen to the stories of 10 years in Xinjiang from John Summers.

John and Jared discuss 5 principles to optimize your note-taking for language learning to maximize your learning gains. Guest interview is with Nick Anderson, a cross-cultural consultant and Chinese accent coach in Hollywood.

What if your perfectionism is holding you back from progressing in Chinese? Learn how perfectionism can both help and hinder you. Interview is with Rob Neal from Manchester, England.

What does a great tutor do differently and how do you find them? Tune in for the answer. Guest interview with Lucy Jak-Lax, an aspiring musician who fell in love with China.

This special episode features Jared Turner’s keynote address at the Swire Chinese Language conference in June of 2023 in Newcastle, England, along with 6 speed interviews at the conference.

Jared and John answer listener questions about learning Chinese and interview Shannon Kennedy, a polyglot who shares her experiences learning the language.

John and Jared discuss the benefits of dialogues in language learning. Guest interview is with Bohan Phoenix, a Chinese-American hip hop artist.

In this episode, Jared Turner and John Pasden delve into the topic of higher order thinking skills in language learning, with a focus on learning Chinese. They explore Bloom's Taxonomy and how it can be applied to language learning, and the challenges and rewards of creating in language learning. They emphasize the importance of seeking out programs that encourage learners to analyze, evaluate, and create in the language. Guest interview is with John Gordon, who shares his personal experience of learning Chinese and hosting TV shows in China.  If you're looking to go beyond memorization and develop higher order thinking skills in your language learning journey, this episode is a must-listen. Links from the episode:Great Expectations | 450 Character graded readerBlooms Taxonomy for language educationChina Doesn’t Appreciate Potatoes | Sinosplice Introduction [00:00:03] Introduction to the podcast episode and the hosts. Levels of Bloom's Taxonomy [00:03:03] Explanation of the six levels of Bloom's Taxonomy and how they apply to language learning. Creating in Language Learning [00:08:47] Jared and John discuss the challenges and rewards of creating in language learning, such as writing essays, delivering presentations, participating in debates, and writing jokes. Applying Bloom's Taxonomy in Language Learning [00:11:21] Jared and John explain how Bloom's Taxonomy can be applied in language learning, and how it can help learners evaluate their efforts and understand what level they want to achieve in the language. Gamifying Language Learning with Video Games [00:15:55] Jared and John discuss the benefits of gamifying language learning with video games and recommend Mandarin Companion graded readers as easy-to-read Chinese novels for language learners. Interview with John Gordon [00:28:26] Jared interviews John Gordon, a foreigner with impressive Chinese language skills who has worked as a professional host on Chinese TV and now helps Chinese people learn English. Starting to Learn Chinese [00:29:46] John Gordon shares how he randomly decided to study abroad in China during his senior year of high school, and his initial preparation for learning Chinese before arriving in China. Impact of studying abroad [00:33:15] The impact of studying abroad in China, including the experience of learning about Chinese culture and language, and the relationships formed with host families. Teaching English in China [00:39:20] Discussion of how the guest ended up in China and his early experiences teaching English and leading study abroad programs. Starting a Test Preparation Company [00:43:18] The guest discusses starting a company in China focused on test preparation and how it grew to over 100 centers around the country. Participating in Chinese TV Shows [00:44:56] The guest talks about his experiences participating in Chinese TV shows, including a singing competition, and his experience hosting a Chinese learning TV show for CCTV4, which was broadcasted internationally and targeted at Chinese people abroad. Being a Foreigner on TV [00:49:18] John Gordon discusses his complicated relationship with being a foreigner on TV in China and how he sees it as an opportunity for cultural communication. Jumping into learning Chinese [00:52:33] The importance of immersing oneself in the language and spending time in China to learn Chinese effectively. Regrets and Opportunities [00:53:26] The benefits of taking a gap year to learn Chinese and the importance of keeping up with language learning. Conclusion and Credits [00:55:51] The hosts thank their guest and encourage listeners to share the podcast and leave a review. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jared and John discuss the role of technology in language learning and whether it can replace the need to learn a foreign language. Guest interview is with Ben McMahon who shares his unique story of waking up from a coma speaking only Chinese and how he developed his language skills to pursue opportunities in the media and property industries. Links from the episode:In Search of Hua Ma | Breakthrough level Graded ReaderXu Bing (徐冰) | Artwork Ben McMahon | YouTube Channel Learning a Foreign Language in the Age of Technology [00:01:18] The hosts discuss the necessity of learning a foreign language and the limitations of relying solely on technology for communication. Real-Time Translation Apps [00:02:02] The hosts discuss the use of apps for real-time translation and the potential limitations of relying solely on technology for communication. Traveling as a Tourist [00:05:30] The hosts discuss the practicality of using real-time translation apps for tourists who are traveling for fun and do not have any need for the language in their daily life or any aspirations. Phrasebooks, apps, and real-time translation [00:07:36] The hosts discuss the different options for language learning, including phrase books, apps, and real-time translation, and their limitations. Learning Chinese for business trips [00:08:42] The hosts discuss the scenario of a business trip to China and the importance of learning some Chinese to show respect and build relationships. The importance of learning Chinese for working in China [00:11:26] The hosts discuss the scenario of working in China and the importance of learning Chinese to communicate with colleagues and understand the business better. Learning a language for human connection [00:16:27] The hosts discuss the importance of human connection in relationships and how relying solely on technology for communication can create a distance between people, especially in family situations. Reasons for learning a language [00:18:02] The hosts list various reasons why people might want to learn a language, including personal interest, cultural connection, and the challenge of learning something difficult. The potential of technology to inspire language learning [00:21:23] The hosts speculate that widespread use of language translation technology could inspire more people to learn a language after experiencing positive interactions with other cultures. Listener Question: Improving listening speed [00:27:04] The hosts discuss how to improve listening speed in Chinese, including the use of extensive reading, graded readers, and increasing exposure to spoken Chinese. Rave: Chinese artist Xu Bing[00:28:39] John raves about Chinese artist Xu Bing and his innovative use of Chinese characters in his art installations. Rave: Pleco[00:30:31] Jared raves about Pleco, a comprehensive Chinese language dictionary app with a robust live optical character reader. Ben's Chinese Journey [00:33:17] Guest interviewee Ben McMahon shares his experience of learning Chinese, including how he was forced to learn it in high school and how a car accident led him to wake up speaking Chinese fluently. The Traumatic Experience [00:38:38] Ben McMahon shares his experience of waking up from a coma after a serious car accident speaking only Chinese. He talks about how he had a solid base in the language before the accident and how the experience intensified his focus on learning Chinese. Chinese Bridge Competition [00:39:29] Ben McMahon talks about his participation in the Chinese Bridge competition, which is like the Iron Person contest of Chinese proficiency. He describes the intensity of the competition and how it helped him accelerate his journey of learning Chinese. Chinese TV Shows [00:44:41] Ben McMahon talks about his experience of appearing on Chinese TV shows, including the Chinese Bridge competition and a Chinese dating show. He shares how these shows were a challenge for his language skills and how they opened up opportunities for him in the media industry. Chinese Community [00:53:36] Ben shares his experience of being involved in the local Chinese community in Melbourne and how it can integrate into one's life and career. Learning Chinese Post-Accident [00:55:18] Guest Ben McMahon shares his experience of waking up from a coma speaking only Chinese and how he improved his language skills through immersion and passion. Importance of Knowing Chinese in Australia [01:00:50] Ben discusses the importance of knowing Chinese in Australia for personal and economic reasons. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Jared Turner and John Pasden discuss the affective filter hypothesis and its relevance to language learning. They explain the three key categories of the affective filter: motivation, self-confidence, and anxiety, and how teachers and learners can help lower the affective filter to improve language learning. Guest interview is with Elyse Ribbons, playwright, webmistress, radio host, Peking opera performer, entrepreneur, yoga teacher, actress in Chinese media, and runner-up for China’s top chef.  Links from the episode:This Modern Chinese Life (Intermediate) | Course from AllSet LearningElyse Ribbons | Wikipedia Red Star Over China | 1937 book by Edgar Snow Introduction [00:00:01] Affective Filter Hypothesis [00:02:25] Jared and John discuss Stephen Krashen's theory of the affective filter hypothesis and how it relates to language learning, including the impact of motivation, self-confidence, and anxiety. Finding the Right Teacher [00:17:06] Discussion on how finding the right teacher can affect language learning, and how having a bad fit can cause anxiety. Alcohol and Language Learning [00:18:37] Discussion on how alcohol affects language learning, including its impact on self-confidence and anxiety. Effective Filter and Language Learning [00:21:35] Discussion on how the affective filter hypothesis affects language learning, and how children acquire language better due to having less of an affective filter. Rant on Tones [00:26:11] Jared Turner discusses a comedic social media video about tones and emphasizes the importance of tones in advanced language learning. China Love Affair [00:29:32] Elyse Ribbons shares how she accidentally fell in love with China and how a bowl of instant noodles led her to study abroad in Beijing. Alternative philosophies regarding language study [00:36:27] Elyse shares her alternative approach to language learning, which includes immersing oneself in TV shows and having language partners to practice with. Importance of learning characters [00:41:45] Elyse emphasizes the importance of learning characters in Chinese language learning, as they are essential for understanding references and cultural context in everyday conversations. Acting in China [00:47:26] Elyse Ribbons talks about how she got into acting in China and the roles she played, including her own play in English. Playing a Chinese character [00:51:01] Elyse Ribbons talks about her experience playing a Chinese character in a linguistic farcical play and how learning a language can develop another personality. Being a radio host in China [00:52:20] Elyse Ribbons shares her experience as a guest host and later the main foreign host of a program called "International Perspectives" in China. Advice for learning Chinese [00:59:45] Elyse Ribbons gives advice to someone who is learning Chinese right now, including finding a hobby that isn't language-based and immersing oneself in Chinese culture to learn the language. Riding a Giant Duck [01:01:04] Elyse Ribbons' humorous response to a hypothetical question about fighting 100 duck-sized horses or one horse-sized duck. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Delver into the topic of comprehensible input in language learning with John & Jared who discuss various approaches and stress the importance of personalized learning, along with an interview with Mandarin teacher Emma Jamen.

If you feel like you have a different personality in Chinese, then you’re not alone. Jared & John talk about this fascinating phenomenon on how many act and feel differently when speaking a 2nd language. Guest interview is with Taha Shlibek from Libya, who left his stable job to learn Chinese and seek a new start.  Links from the episode:Cross-Cultural Marital Communication: Sacrifice, Identity, Choice | SinospliceThe Misadventures of Zhou Haisheng | Breakthrough Level Chinese Graded Reader See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

China has lifted COVID restrictions and is issuing visas. It’s time to visit China! Jared and John talk about what you need to know about visiting China that has opened back up. Guest interview is with Sophia Xavier from Portugal whose fascination with China led her to study in China and pursue career opportunities in South East Asia.  Links from the episode:China Online Visa Application (COVA) | China Consular AffairsChinese on Your Terms | AmazonSherlock Holmes and the Case of the Curly-Haired Company |  Level 1 Chinese Graded Reader See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, we explore the nuances of rate of speech in Chinese and how it impacts listening comprehension & speaking ability. Plus, we have an inspiring interview with Susan St. Dennis about her journey into learning Chinese!

Hosts Jared Turner and John Pasden provide a refreshing take on language learning, offering insightful tips and hilarious anecdotes to make the process more enjoyable and effective. They discuss everything from the 10,000-hour rule to improving flashcard practice, while also embracing the importance of creativity and mindfulness in language learning. Guest interview is with Marcus Murphy who after deciding to study Chinese in college, ended up spending years in China and today is a Chinese language instructor in Tennessee.  Links from the episode:The Prince and the Pauper | Level 1 Chinese Graded ReaderSummer Chinese Language Camp | University of the South See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do you keep learning new vocab but have trouble using it? Jared and John talk about the vocab dilemma in which many learners find themselves caught and discuss the balance between knowledge and proficiency. Guest interview is with Amy Celico, international political and economic consultant, former US senior trade representative, and a lifelong Chinese learner.  Links from the episode:Jekyll and Hyde | Mandarin CompanionUsing ChatGPT to Learn Chinese | SinospliceSteve Kaufmann Interview | Podcast 98Amy Celico | Albright Stonebridge Group See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

So you want to read Chinese literature? John and Jared talk about the unique aspects of Chinese literature that you should know before jumping in. Guest interview is with Christina Duffy, a PHD rowing champion from Ireland turned Chinese learner.  Links from the episode:The 6 Best Apps for Reading Chinese | Mandarin Companion Interview with Murray James Morrison Sherlock Holmes and a Scandal in Shanghai | Level 2 graded reader向歌友们拜年 | 988 DJs See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How did we get the set of Chinese words we have today? John and Jared talk about how the Chinese language has evolved, adapted, innovated, and borrowed to create the language it is today.

What do you like about learning Chinese? John and Jared talk about all of the reasons they love Chinese! Guest interview is with Jason Brooks, a former language teacher and founder of an AI startup. Links from the episode:Harkness AI | Conversational awareness toolJason Brooks | LinkedinJourney to the Center of the Earth | Level 2 Chinese graded reader See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Questions are a fundamental function of language. John and Jared talk about how to use asking and responding to questions to maximize your learning gain. Guest interview is with Jonathan Rechtman, a simultaneous interpreter, entrepreneur, and consultant.  Links from the episode:Mandarin Companion Merch Black Friday sale | Website See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We all come into language learning with different expectations. John and Jared talk about common expectations many learners have versus the reality of the language. Guest interview is with Dan Stephenson, consultant, China watcher, and a guy with his fingers in many pies.   Links from the episode:Sherlock Holmes and a Scandal in Shanghai | Mandarin Companion Level 2 graded readerMandarin Companion | Brand new website See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After nearly 4 years since the first episode, Jared and John celebrate their 100th podcast episode with two special interviews with two special guest interviewers. Even John gets to do the intro this time!  Links from the episode:Mandarin Companion | Chinese graded readersChinese learning memes on Instagram SinoSplice | John’s Blog AllSet Learning See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You’re learning Chinese, but are you getting better? Chances are you’re improving but it can be hard to notice the progress. John and Jared discuss 9 signs that your Chinese is getting better so you can start celebrating those wins! Interview is with Arthur Jones, documentary filmmaker and director of The Six, a new documentary about the six Chinese survivors of the Titanic.  Links from the episode:Small Personal Victories in Language Acquisition | SinospliceThe Six 《六人》Documentary | Website | Facebook | Twitter | Weibo How Jane Austen’s early Chinese translators were stumped by the oddities of 19th-century British cuisine | The ConversationThe Secret Garden | Mandarin Companion Level 1 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There are a lot of opinions about how to learn Chinese with some of it being just plain bad! John and Jared share some of the worst advice they’ve come across, why it’s bad, and what you can be doing instead to get your Chinese on track.  Interview is with Steve Kaufmann, legendary polyglot and speaker of 20 languages, including Chinese! Links from the episode:#84 How to progress from textbooks to conversation#70 Reading the News: Do’s and Dont's#87 The 6 Types of Chinese Learners#79 Why typing characters is better than handwriting#23 Pinyin Over Characters: the Crippling CrutchErhua | The Chinese Pronunciation WikiCountry of the Blind | Mandarin Companion Level 1 See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Many people study for the HSK exam but will focusing your language learning on your interests and needs be better and faster? Well, yes…maybe! In this episode John and Jared discuss how to bring better focus to your studies so you can beat the pants off the HSK. Guest interview is with Ben Whatley, avid Chinese learner and co-founder of Memrise. Links from the episode:Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi (HSK) | Wikipedia general infoHSK-Mod | Live, one-one-one online courses by AllSet LearningNo links for too much sugar in your Chinese food… no one needs thatSimply Chinese | Comprehensible input YouTube channelMemrise | Co-founded by guest Ben Whatley  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Does a musical background make you better at Chinese? Believe it or not, there is research on this very subject that John and I are going to delve into. Guest interview is with Murray James Morrison, jazz musician, composer, and professor at NYU Shanghai.  Links from the episode:Research Paper | Identification of Mandarin tones by English-speaking musicians and nonmusiciansSherlock Holmes and a Scandal in Shanghai | New Level 2, 450 Words, Mandarin Companion Graded Reader Sinica Podcast hosted by Kaiser KuoThe China Project | Rebranded name for SupChina See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Anyone can learn a language, but in this episode, John and I are going to talk about five qualities of good language learners. Call them qualities, call them attitudes — these adjustments will help maximize your learning results. Guest interview is with Zachary Gidwitz, who despite having a Chinese teacher tell him to give up, later progressed to a level that opened up job opportunities with one of China’s largest ecommerce giants.  Links from the episode:YCLC #7 The Myth of Learning Chinese Like a ChildTolerance of Ambiguity and Use of Second Language StrategiesSherlock Holmes and a Scandal in Shanghai (Mandarin Companion’s next book!)The Six | Documentary about 6 Chinese survivors of the Titanic See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Ultra-Traditional, the “Buddy”, the Know-it-All, and the “Too Nice” are all teacher types that John and Jared are going to break down and you should consider avoiding. That being said, they have some redeeming qualities too! Interview is with Brad Johnson whose interest and friendships were the driving force in improving his Chinese skills to the level where he now hosts a podcast in Chinese.   Links from the episode:#87 The 6 Types of Chinese Learners#79 Why typing characters is better than handwritingEmma 《安末》 (Mandarin Companion Level 1 graded reader)Brad Johnson’s Podcasts | MianBao.fmXiaoyuzhou podcast appTop 100 Podcasts on Xiaoyuzhou See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Special episode with Fred Poole, a language acquisition expert from Michigan State University who shares his experience with game-based learning and how he uses it to help others learn languages. Fred explains the difference between gamification and game-based learning, emphasizes the importance of learning in context, and discusses his research into trilingual immersion and the games he has developed for language learning.

Have you ever had comments in Chinese about your weight, asked how much money you make, or experienced just a general lack of “please” and “thank-you”? John and Jared talk about common usages of Chinese that at times can be perceived as “rude” by non-native speakers. Plus we’ll talk about how YOU can avoid being perceived as rude to Chinese speakers. Interview is with Randy Telfer who was first drawn to Chinese by martial arts and today has built a life and career around Chinese. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How long can you use Chinese before your “brain is full”? John and Jared talk about endurance in Chinese, how to build stamina, and what to expect as your Chinese progresses to the next level. Interview is with Tyler Christler, an American based in Dalian speaking Dongbei-flavored Mandarin who produces videos on Chinese social media.   Links from the episode:Chinese Vocabulary Wiki | AllSet Learning#30 Second Language or Foreign Language: What Type of Learner Are You?Tyler Christler is “铁蛋儿Tyler” on Douyin and Bili Bili See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What do you do when your dictionary says one thing but native speakers say it differently? John and Jared will talk about how to handle this and put it to use in your own studies. Interview is with Ryan Alexander Holmes, an actor, popular TikTocker, and black Afro Asian American, or Blasian.   Links from the episode:Prescriptivism vs. Descriptivism | YouTubePronunciation Variants | Chinese Pronunciation WikiThe Ransom of Red Chief | Level 1 Graded ReaderReading is the original SRS | SinospliceRyan Alexander Holmes | TikTok and Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jared and John discuss a research paper on learner engagement with vocabulary apps. Whether you’re an independent learner or a teacher, there are plenty of surprises and takeaways! Interview is with Jonathan Coveny, whose obsession with Chinese took him on a winding path of learning the language. Especially for all you study nerds out there, don’t miss this one.   Links from the episode:Research Paper: Stimulating learner engagement in app-based L2 vocabulary self-study: Goals and feedback for effective L2 pedagogy by Xuehong (Stella) He, Shawn LoewenEpisode 40 How to Set Goals for Learning ChineseXiao Ming, Boy Sherlock | Breakthrough Graded ReaderThe Chinese Nickname for “Love, Death & Robots” | SinospliceStories from our Readers: From Flash Cards to Martial Arts -Jonathan’s Story | Mandarin CompanionEpisode 61 interview with Jonathan Becker | You Can Learn Chinese See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learning a language is much more than learning vocabulary. This includes understanding and anticipating interactions within a cultural context. John and Jared discuss exactly what this means and what you should know to maximize your gains.  Interview is with Elisa Ferrero, a native of Italy who learned English to learn Chinese and today is a Chinese teacher to Spanish speakers in Argentina.   Links from the episode:AllSet Learning 1-on-1 Live LessonsYou Can Learn Chinese in Taiwan (even now!)HSK Level | vocab level assessmentElisa Ferrero website | ElisaLaoshi.com (Spanish) See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In 2021, Jared and John at Mandarin Companion surveyed over a thousand Chinese learners worldwide. Based on a statistical analysis, they found six main types of Chinese learners. Which one are you? Interview is with Dillon Jaghory who achieved a high level of Chinese proficiency while living in the U.S.   Links from the episode:Country of the Blind | Mandarin Companion Level 1Chinese Character Challenge | Ridiculously basic & somewhat nostalgic game for reviewing HSK characters天天跳绳 | Exercise app in Chinese See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Slang words in Chinese are always evolving, but is it worth it to learn? As always, it depends. Guest interview is with language enthusiast, author, academic, and polyglot Kyle Anderson.   Links from the episode:Kyle Anderson | New BooksSherlock Holmes and the Case of the Curly Haired Company | Mandarin Companion Graded ReaderSlow Chinese 每周漫闻 | Weekly Chinese slang newsletter See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Learning from native speakers is essential. In this episode, Jared and John will make you aware of ways they can also lead you astray. Guest interview is with Nicholas Hung who went the extra mile to reconnect with his roots.   Links from the episode:Never Trust a Native Speaker – SinosplicePronunciation Variants –  Chinese Pronunciation WikiThe Secret Garden －Mandarin Companion Level 1 Graded Reader See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do you ever feel like you’re trying to get conversational in Chinese but seem to be stuck in textbooks and classes? In this episode, John and Jared discuss the leap involved in moving beyond textbook Chinese to conversational Chinese Guest interview is with Andrew Methven, whose adventures backpacking through the mountains and villages of China inspired him to learn Chinese.  Links from the episode:Podcast #13 | The Four Keys to Learning Chinese You Need to KnowPaul Nation – The Four StrandsUpgrading Self-Introductions – SinospliceHSK-Mod Courses -  AllSet LearningSlow Chinese 每周漫闻 on Subststack See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

WeChat is the most popular instant messaging platform in China. In this episode, John and I are going to tell you tips and tricks on how to use Wechat to learn Chinese. Interview is with Matt McGill, star actor on the popular YouTube China expat comedy channel “Mamahuhu”.   Links from the episode:Where to get WeChat 微信Mamahuhu | YouTube Channel See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you’re into music, this episode is for you! John and Jared talk about how Chinese songs can help you learn Chinese. Interview is with Bohan Phoenix, a Chinese American hip-hop artist straddling two cultures. If you’ve not yet heard of him, then don’t miss this one!  Links from the episode:我的朋友在哪里 | Chinese kids songStinky Tofu Song (臭豆腐之歌) | Chinese BuddyThe Moon Represents My Heart | 月亮代表我的心好想好想 | Zhao Wei 赵薇Christmas Music in Chinese | SinospliceNetease Music | Chinese music appJekyll and Hyde | Mandarin Companion Level 2 Bohan Phoenix | All links See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Do native speakers know the tones? How well do you need to know tones to listen or speak? Jared and John delve into these and other questions with answers that might surprise you! You’ll come away with a longer-term strategy for learning tones, even if you’re as tone-deaf as John once was.  Interview is with Daniel Nalesnik, who, due to a fluke scheduling error, took a Chinese class, fell in love with the language, quit his job, and ended up in China studying full time.  Links from the episode:Chinese Pronunciation Wiki by AllSet Learning Hack Chinese flashcard platform See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sometimes we forget how easy it can be to practice Chinese. In this episode, Jared and John talk about everyday games, like Uno and charades, you can use to practice Chinese. Suitable for all ages and learning levels, these are guaranteed to inject some fun into your Chinese learning!  Interview is with Martina Fuchs who started her career as an Arabic-speaking spy for the Swiss government and later became a TV journalist for CCTV, China’s huge state broadcaster.  Links from the episode:Liars Dice – Classic Chinese game of diceCard Games for Language Learning – SinoSpliceMartina Fuchs on InstagramInterview with translator William WhiteEmma 《安末》 – Mandarin Companion Level 1 graded reader See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jared and John talk about why typing characters leads to better learning outcomes than handwriting. They dispel conventional wisdom backed by science from an academic research study by Dr. Phyllis Zhang (张霓). You may have an opinion on the matter, but now it’s time to find out what the actual research tells us. Our interview is with Eileen Wu, a heritage learner who decided to get serious about learning Chinese and did a head-first career dive into China.  Links from the episode:"Typing to Replace Handwriting: Effectiveness of the Typing-Primary Approach for L2 Chinese Beginners" by Phyllis Zhang#05 Writing Characters: Is It Worth Your Time?#64 Tips and tricks for typing Chinese#66 Guest: Matt Coss (8 Tips for Using Your Dictionary)#68 Why Is Chinese So Damn Hard#08 Guest: Dr. David Moser (Tones, Music, and Confidence)In Search of Hua Ma (Mandarin Companion Breakthrough Level book)Dr. Tim Xie (谢天蔚), California State University, Long BeachThe 5 Best Apps for Reading Chinese See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John and Jared have pulled the best stories out of all of the guest interviews of 2021. Get ready to laugh, reflect, and be inspired as we look back on the year.  Links from the episode:#70 Reading the News: Do’s and Don'ts#60 How Chinese Food Can Help Your Chinese#59 Bridging to Breakthrough and Abigail Washburn#55 Flashcards, spaced repetition software, and building proficiency#56 When Should You Start Learning Characters?#69 The rivalry: Beijing vs. Shanghai#74 Improving your listening skills (Part 2 of 2)#73 Improving your listening skills (Part 1 of 2)#65 Going all the way: Graduate studies in Chinese#68 Why is Chinese so damn hard?#72 The Truth about Chinese subtitles See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, John and Jared talk about something close to their hearts: reading in Chinese. They discuss the different types of reading, different techniques for advanced learners, and specifically how you can harness the power of extensive reading to accelerate your Chinese.  Guest interview is with Sebastian Mueller from Germany, who moved to China and, in addition to his day job, is a growing personality on Chinese social media.  Links from the episode:Science of Reading: Simple View (Wikipedia)Winter Cheer Chinese Courses (AllSet Learning)Andrew Methven’s Slow Chinese 每周漫闻Radio.Garden - live radio stations worldwideSebastian Mueller on 小红书Sebastian Mueller on LinkedIn See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, John and Jared respond to a listener question about Cantonese, which leads to a discussion around China’s numerous dialects/languages, which are in fact “topolects.” Guest interview is with Daniel Pang, who grew up speaking Cantonese at home, became a doctor, then quit his job to learn Chinese. Links from the episode:Varieties of Chinese (Wikipedia)"A language is a dialect with an army and navy" (Wikipedia)Just Friends? / 我们是朋友吗？ (Mandarin Companion graded reader)Wu Chinese WikipediaDaniel Pang YouTube channel See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode John and Jared share the proper way to compare similar words, characters, sounds, and grammar points.

John and Jared talk about three types of research-backed strategies and tips you can employ to improve your listening skills, specifically in the areas where you struggle.  Guest interview is with Gabrielle Barnett from Jamaica, whose quest to learn Chinese has opened doors and taken her around the world, far beyond anything she could have imagined.  Links from the episode:Intelligibility of normal speech I: Global and fine-grained acoustic-phonetic talker characteristics (research paper, PDF format)Chinese Pronunciation Wiki: Pinyin Chart, Pinyin “Gotchas”When a Window is a Door (Sinosplice) Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Listening is one of the biggest challenges for Chinese learners. In this two part series, John and Jared talk about the most complicating factors to understanding spoken Chinese. You’ll become aware of these and be able to pinpoint where you may be struggling. Guest interview is with Marc Dupont, a lobbyist from Canada whose personal quest has kept him learning Chinese for over 20 years.   Links from the episode:Chris Max interview episode: #28 A Method to Remember Thousands of CharactersRobin MacPherson interview episode: #62 Make your language learning learner-centricRobin MacPherson: Learning One Foreign Language Completely Changed My LifeThe Prince and the Pauper - Mandarin Companion level 1 graded readerMandarin Companion Memes Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcastsand they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John and Jared use research to address issues related to watching movies in Chinese, with and without Chinese subtitles. Find out what the academics say and stick around for the practical advice! Guest interview is with Jeremy Bai, a translator, author, and ENNIE-winning game designer who turned his fascination with Chinese martial arts into a career of translating Chinese novels for a living.  Links from the episode: Factors Influencing the Use of Captions by Foreign Language Learners: An Eye‐Tracking Study, Paula Winke, Susan Gass, Tetyana Sydorenko (​​2013, The Modern Language Journal)To Live / 活着 (IMDb)Mandarin Companion Memes on InstagramMandarin Companion Meme on FacebookMandarin Companion Memes on TwitterThe Garlic Hangover (Sinosplice)Jeremy Bai websiteDeathblade/Jeremy Bai YouTube channel Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcastsand they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebookand catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How do Chinese people feel about a foreigner with a potty mouth in Chinese? Are curse words worth learning? John and Jared talk about swearing in Chinese and what you should be aware of. Guest interview is with Ashleigh Au, who combined her language skills and life experiences to create career opportunities that otherwise would have been unobtainable.   Links from the episode:Swearing in a foreign language is the first step to fluency… [Note: Clickbait title]Profanity: Types by Purpose (Wikipedia)Mandarin Chinese Profanity (Wikipedia) -- WARNING: this includes graphic stuff!Ashleigh Au at Ou & CompanyEducating Girls of Rural China Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcastsand they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebookand catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Reading a Chinese newspaper is a common goal for many learners, but is it the right goal for you? John and Jared talk about what you need to know about the news in Chinese, how to get started, and the options available to you. Guest interview is with Michael Berry, a professor at UCLA who specializes in Chinese literature, cinema, and pop culture. Links from the episode:The Chairman’s Bao (simplified news stories)ARC: Advanced Readings in Chinese (free Substack newsletter)Michael Berry professor at UCLAWuhan Diary: Dispatches from a Quarantined City - translated by Michael BerryKey Word of the Month: 减负 (jiǎn fù) Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcastsand they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebookand catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John and Jared answer a listener’s question about the rivalry between China’s two most famous cities: Shanghai and Beijing. They discuss culture, history, and language, and even provide one additional view from a mystery correspondent! The guest interview is with William White, a professional simultaneous interpreter in Chinese with decades of experience and stories. Links from the episode:“What are the differences between Shanghai and Beijing?” (Quora.com)“Shanghai vs. Beijing” (Sinosplice.com)“Beijing vs. Shanghai” (Versus.com)Heaven is high and the emperor is far away (Wikipedia)ARC: Advanced Readings in Chinese (Substack)Yangshuo County (Wikipedia)The China in Africa PodcastBio of interpreter William White Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John and Jared are going to revisit and unpack this classic question posed by Dr. David Moser three decades ago and identify what is hard about Chinese, what is easier now, and whether Chinese really is harder than other languages. The guest interview is with Sarah Kutulakos, a lifetime Chinese learner and the executive director at the Canada China Business Council. Links from the episode:Why Chinese Is So Damn Hard, by Dr. David MoserWhy Learning Chinese Is Hard (Sinosplice)The Princess Bride: "Life is pain, highness. Anyone who says differently is selling something." (YouTube)YCLC Episode #8: Tones, Music, and Confidence, with Dr. David MoserYCLC Episode #39: The Future of Learning Chinese, with Terry Waltz   The Monkey’s Paw (Mandarin Companion Level 1 Graded Reader)The Simpsons: The Monkey's Paw (YouTube) Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Electronic pop-up dictionaries are all the rage! But are they really helping you improve your Chinese? John and Jared take a research-based look at the impact of pop-up dictionaries and answer the question “Can you really click your way to fluency?” The guest interview is with Chris Max, a famous YouTuber you’ve likely never heard of because his videos are in Chinese and made for Chinese audiences. This is a rerun interview from January 2020.  Links from the episode:Research paper: Reading strategies and reading comprehension retention with and without a pop-up dictionary by beginning learners of ChineseResearch paper: The use of e-dictionary to read e-text by intermediate and advanced learners of Chinese Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A dictionary is frequently one of the first things you buy when learning a language. In this episode, John and Jared will give you tips and tricks and do’s and don’ts on Chinese dictionaries, so you can get the most out of them for your learning gain.  The guest interview is with Matt Coss, a Chinese-language educator and Ph.D. candidate who is helping to craft the future of Chinese education.  Links from the episode:Interagency Language Roundtable Language Skill Level DescriptionsPleco Chinese dictionary MDBG Chinese dictionaryYellowBridge Chinese dictionary“Searching Pleco Dictionary Entries with Wildcards” (Sinosplice blog post)“Where We Come From,” by Emily Kwong (an episode in the NPR video and audio series) Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram.  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What does it take to pursue a graduate-level degree in Chinese in China? With our resident expert, John Pasden, we’ll pull back the curtain to show you what it takes for a non-Chinese person to get admitted into an all-Chinese university program and what studying in China at a graduate level is like. This guest interview is with Tom Connelly, a multilingual worldwide adventurer who is channeling his passion into teaching others the Chinese language. He’s currently working on a master’s degree at Nanjing University. Links from the episode:Why China for Grad School? (Sinosplice blog post)Classes in Brief (Sinosplice blog post)Chinese Grammar Wiki (Mandarin Companion grammar point reference page) Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You’ve got the basics down. Sounds like you’re ready to type Chinese! John and Jared talk about how Chinese input methods work and, for the more advanced learners, teach you tips and tricks to make Chinese input less painful and time-consuming.  Interview is with Suzy Williams who learned Chinese fully immersed in Taiwan while serving as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  Links from the episode:Chinese Input Methods (Hacking Chinese)Mandarin Companion graded readers are now available as addons in PlecoZhihu (知乎), Chinese Q&A site (best to find articles via Google searches)Hack Chinese Flashcard platform Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Language is words, so learn enough words and you’ll be fluent, right? As a sophisticated learner, you know it’s not that simple. In this episode, we discuss the subtleties of vocabulary learning, how it is (and isn’t) like Legos, what “high-frequency” means, and how to apply all of this to your studies. The guest interview is with Mischa Wilmers from England. For all of you who wanted to learn Chinese during lockdown, Mischa did it and shares how he achieved proficiency with little interaction with others.  Links from the episode:YCLC Episode #13: The four keys to learning Chinese you need to knowVocabulary as puzzle pieces (Sinosplice article)Great Expectations: Part 1 (Chinese graded reader)SUBTLEX-CH (movie subtitle corpus project)Scientists find 'missing link' behind first human languagesWhy I’m a fan of Chinese graded readers, by Mischa Wilmers Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John and Jared discuss what it means to be “learner-centric” and how you can adapt your learning methods to fit your own goals. You’ll get insights into the new HSK and other standardized tests, ACTFL’s “Can-Do” statements, and Mandarin Companion standards. These are all things you can use right away! The guest interview is with Robin MacPherson, a highly enthusiastic polyglot who speaks eight languages and documents his language learning on YouTube.  Links from the episode:Why I’m a Fan of Chinese Graded Readers (Micha’s blog post)你好 Compilation YouTube Video (omitted from last week’s show notes)NCSSFL-ACTFL Can-Do StatementsNovice Can-Do Statements (PDF)Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Curly-Haired Company (Mandarin Companion Graded Reader)How To Develop Spoken Fluency Through Reading (four-part YouTube series)Robin MacPherson YouTube ChannelJournaly (An online journal used to improve language learning)Subtitle Hero (An interactive subtitle service for Chinese-language shows)Shanghai Russians (The story behind the Russian diaspora in Shanghai) Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Recently, Mandarin Companion participated in the 2021 National Chinese Language Conference (NCLC), and the topics discussed provided quite a bit of insight into what is in store for the future of Chinese learning, since methods applied in schools trickles down to affect all learners. Spoiler alert: the future is bright! Guest interview with Jonathan Becker, a college student who was placed into his Universities intermediate Chinese level after just 4 months of learning all due to, yep, you guessed it, extensive reading.  Links from the episode:NCLC: Breakout SessionsNCSSFL-ACTFL Can-Do StatementsCC-CEDict (free Chinese dictionary) on MDBG.netAllSet Learning Chinese Grammar Wiki Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Everyone loves Chinese food, but if only there were a way to tie your love for the cuisine into progress learning the language. Well, there is! ...sort of. Tune in to learn what to do and what not to do so that your stomach stays full as your Mandarin levels up. Guest interview with James Wong who, despite a severe hearing disability, worked hard to overcome the odds and made impressive progress towards learning Chinese. Prepare to be inspired by James’ journey. Links from the episode:You Can Learn Chinese Episode 43How to Learn to Order Food in Chinese (Sinosplice)10 Vegetables China Taught Me to Love (Sinosplice -- John’s rave)Chinese Cooking Demystified (YouTube Channel -- Jared’s rave)The Misadventures of Zhou Haisheng (Mandarin Companion Graded Reader) Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if you are still struggling to get to the point where you can read the lowest level graded readers? What techniques can get you there? John and Jared will discuss steps you can take to bridge the gap to real reading and also begin to experience the snowball effect of reading in Chinese. Guest interview is with Abigail Washburn, a Grammy Award winning bluegrass musician, whose plans to attend law school in Beijing were derailed by a record deal.  Links from the episode:How to Learn to Read Chinese: Baby Steps to Real Reading (Part 2 of 4)Xiao Ming, Boy Sherlock (Mandarin Companion Breakthrough Level book)Mandarin CornerAbigail Washburn - Official siteAbigail Washburn & Wu Fei - Banjo and Guzheng collaboration Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Will Chinese one day unseat English to become the dominant language around the world? Jared and John discuss a paper by professor Jeffery Gil who predicts that one day it will. Guest interview is with Amani Core who provides a philosophical perspective on how Chinese shapes our view of humanity. Links from the episode:“Chinese to Rise as a Global Language” by Jeffery GilThese Violent Delights by Chloe Gong (Amazon) Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

You probably know a bit about Chinese surnames, but in this episode you’ll learn how they relate to both Chinese culture and language acquisition plus how they can even help you forge new relationships in Chinese. Guest interview is with Chris Marquis (of the China Corner Office podcast), business professor from Cornell University specializing in China, who has been using Chinese all across China for years as part of his research. Links from the episode:The Top 100 Chinese Surnames (Sinosplice)Chinese surname (Wikipedia)Mapping China's Surnames 制图 "老百姓"Just Friends? / 我们是朋友吗？ (Mandarin Companion graded reader)China Corner Office (SupChina podcast)Chris Marquis  Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John and Jared unpack when you should start learning Chinese characters so you can find your own answer that might be later or earlier than you might think. Guest interview is with Adam DiFrisco who found the courage to make huge life changing decisions that brought him to China. Links from the episode:Chinese Grammar Wiki Book: Upper IntermediateMandarin Companion grammar points on the Chinese Grammar WikiCharacter-based Sign LanguageLearning Chinese via Twitch - Wired Speak Chinese With Me T-Shirt  Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John and Jared talk about flashcards and spaced repetition software, how they can help, their limits, and how to use them to build your Chinese skills. This guest interview is with Mandarin Blueprint cofounder Luke Neale, who felt the call of Chinese pulling him back to China, changing his life forever. Links from the episode: SRS flashcards: Pros and cons – Sinosplice Jekyll and Hyde – level 2 graded reader uNoGS.com – Netflix movie finder for other languages Mandarin Companion T-shirts Thanks for listening to the podcast! Please write John and Jared a review on Apple Podcasts and they’ll give you a shout-out! They are also taking questions from listeners. If you have a question, reach them at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow them on Facebook and catch their latest Chinese-learning memes on Instagram. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Review of a paper written by a professor who incorporated graded readers and theater into a Chinese class. Interview with Denis Suslov from Russia.

John and Jared discuss the difference between how you think your Chinese sounds vs how it really sounds. Surprise surprise, there is a difference! John takes us through an academic paper to tell you which tones you should prioritize to make yourself understood more clearly. Guest interview is with Linda Yi, creator of Panda Cub stories and a heritage speaker who spent years trying to fit in before fully embracing her cultural identity. Although they have an advantage in learning Chinese, heritage speakers have unique challenges when compared to the average Chinese learner, something you’ll hear in Linda’s story. Thanks for listening to our podcast! Please write us a review on Apple Podcasts and we’ll give you a shout out on the podcast! We are also taking questions from our listeners. If you have a question, reach us at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow us on Facebook and catch our latest Chinese learning memes on Instagram Links referenced in this EpisodePanda Cub StoriesToward Better Tones in Natural SpeechThe Four Tones: Updated Tone DiagramLaowai Delusions of FluencyChinese Film ClassicsModern Chinese Cultural Studies YouTube channelMandarin Companion ShirtsMandarin Companion Memes - Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special episode, John and Jared went back through all of the interviews of 2020 and pulled out the ten best stories. Get ready to laugh, reflect, and possibly shed a tear as we take a trip down memory lane. These stories show how learning Chinese can open doors in all aspects of your life, bringing unexpected and cherished connections… ...except the story about pooping in a bag. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Thanks for listening to our podcast! Please write us a review on Apple Podcasts and we’ll give you a shout out on the podcast! We are also taking questions from our listeners. If you have a question, reach us at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow us on Facebook and catch our latest Chinese learning memes on Instagram Links referenced in this EpisodeJekyll and Hyde: Mandarin Companion Graded Readers Level 2"Speak Chinese With Me" T-ShirtMandarin Companion ShirtsMandarin Companion Memes - Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

John and Jared give you a behind the scenes look at how they choose and adapt stories for Chinese learners like you. It’s a look into how the sausage is made! If you’ve read any of the books, or do any sort of creative work, you may quite enjoy this segment. Guest interview is with Peter Braden, a Chinese History PhD researcher with some serious Chinese chops. He’s performed Chinese poems in front of crowds of Taiwanese monks, loves a good Saturday morning Chinese karaoke session and he’s writing a dissertation about Chinese cows in the 20th century! Thanks for listening to our podcast! Please write us a review on Apple Podcasts and we’ll give you a shout out on the podcast! We are also taking questions from our listeners. If you have a question, reach us at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow us on Facebook and catch our latest Chinese learning memes on Instagram Links referenced in this Episode“Elementary My Dear Watson”: How We Adapted a Classic to ChineseVisualizing China – Historical Photographs of ChinaChinglish T-Shirts in ChinaMamahuhu Chinglish T-shirt sketchMandarin Companion ShirtsMegan Ammirati on TwitterMandarin Companion Memes - Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What are you afraid of? John and Jared discuss the most common things that could be holding you back from learning Chinese. They offer tips on how to overcome them to achieve your dreams. Guest interview is with Megan Ammirati, a 2nd generation Chinese learner and Fulbright scholar. Her story illustrates that your potential will lie fallow in the field unless you apply yourself and find your own reason to learn. Thanks for listening to our podcast! Please write us a review on Apple Podcasts and we’ll give you a shout out on the podcast! We are also taking questions from our listeners. If you have a question, reach us at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow us on Facebook and catch our latest Chinese learning memes on Instagram Links referenced in this EpisodeJohn's story of Chinese PronunciationMandarin Companion ShirtsMegan Ammirati on TwitterMandarin Companion Memes - Instagram See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to part 4 of 4 about learning how to read Chinese. This is the situation: you’ve read all the graded readers and learner content out there, and you're wondering….now what? John and Jared offer tips on how to bridge the gap to native level content.Guest interview is with Matt Sheehan, an intrepid American who landed in China to learn journalism and Chinese and then combined the two! You’re going to like his story, even the part about two workers who carried the toilet out of his apartment.Thanks for listening to our podcast! Please write us a review on Apple Podcasts and we’ll give you a shout out on the podcast! We are also taking questions from our listeners. If you have a question, reach us at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow us on Facebook and catch our latest Chinese learning memes on InstagramLinks referenced in this EpisodeBoring Bangongshi by AllSet LearningSinosplice: Bite-sized WeChat Material for Advanced Learners: Luoji SiweiSinosplice: The Value of Reading Marvel Comics in ChineseSinosplice: Pleco’s Hidden Gem: the Clipboard ReaderAllSet Learning: Why It’s So Difficult to Find Intermediate Reading MaterialA Madman’s Diary 狂人日記 (Kuángrén Rìjì) by Lu Xun, 1918Diary of a Wimpy Kid (Chinese) 小屁孩日记非常小子马鸣加 Fēicháng Xiǎozi Mǎ MíngjiāWord Wall GamesMandarin Companion Memes - InstagramFunny Chinese Shirts See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to part 3 of 4 about learning how to read Chinese. In this episode, John and Jared discuss the concept of fluency now as opposed to some distant time in the future and how reading will get you there. Guest interview is with Olle Linge of Hacking Chinese and Chinese language enthusiast extraordinaire. He offers the Chinese learning tips that he wishes someone had told him back when he started Chinese. Thanks for listening to our podcast! Please write us a review on Apple Podcasts and we’ll give you a shout out on the podcast! We are also taking questions from our listeners. If you have a question, reach us at feedback@mandarincompanion.com. Follow us on Facebook and catch our latest Chinese learning memes on Instagram Links referenced in this EpisodeMandarin Companion Memes - InstagramFunny Chinese ShirtsHacking ChineseEscape – Chinese language text game#46 How to Learn to Read Chinese: Pinyin, Characters, Vocabulary#47 How to Learn to Read Chinese: Baby Steps to Real Reading See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.