What is it about the middle range of language proficiency that makes it so hard to advance further? Find out why and learn how you can move past that all-too-common plateau and get to higher ground. Guest: Dr. Natalie Mullen, Director of the Institute for Cross-Cultural Training, Wheaton College

Rather than being home alone, reap the language learning benefits of living with local residents in a country. Hear an insider’s unusual story. Guest: Clinical mental health therapist Sarah P. (M.A.)

Target a meaningful project to focus your language learning, increase motivation and boost fluency. Guest: Electrical engineer and chaplain Hannah P.

Take time off from language learning for renewal and better retention. With anecdotes, questions and research Mary Lynn challenges you to incorporate different kinds of rest into your language learning program. Host Mary Lynn Kindberg (M.A. Linguistics)

Get connected with others learning your target language. With collaborative activities you can share knowledge, gain confidence and make learning fun. Guest: Language and culture acquisition professor and coach Lauren Vitrano-Wilson (M.A. TES0L & Teaching of Spanish)

Ask crucial questions to create a long-term plan that helps you define daily tasks, achieve goals, and gain confidence. Guest: SLA trainer and coach Carol L. studied at Fuller Seminary and Wheaton’s Institute for Cross-Cultural Training.

Don’t let a tone language trip you up. As a leading expert on tone, today’s guest delves into the basic fundamentals of tone languages and explains how a focus on tone patterns can be a game-changer in language learning. Guest: Linguistics consultant and professor Keith Snider, Ph.D.

How do you learn a minority language when a majority language is common ground? A pre-immersion strategy can guide learning and open doors through relationship-building. Guest: SLA consultant and teacher Pam Echerd (M.A. Linguistics)

Are children a help or a hindrance in language learning? A mom of 3 leverages both pregnancy and motherhood to navigate gender roles and gain cultural insight and build solid relationships in a tribal setting.  Guest: Melissa S. (M.A. Linguistics)

Cooperate with your brain to activate dopamine and eliminate neurotoxins.  Whether you’re learning vocabulary, managing language helper sessions, or telling stories fun, rest and the shame game play significant roles.  Guest: SLA consultant and instructor Pam Echerd (M.A. Linguistics)