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Brain exhaustion and building stamina
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…
4 years, 1 month ago
When the dictionary is wrong
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 …
4 years, 2 months ago
Vocab apps and learner engagement
Jared and John discuss a research paper on learner engagement with vocabulary apps. Whether you’re an independent learner or a teacher, there are ple…
4 years, 2 months ago
The importance of anticipation in learning
Learning a language is much more than learning vocabulary. This includes understanding and anticipating interactions within a cultural context. John …
4 years, 3 months ago
The six types of Chinese learners
In 2021, Jared and John at Mandarin Companion surveyed over a thousand Chinese learners worldwide. Based on a statistical analysis, they found six ma…
4 years, 3 months ago
Learning Chinese slang
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, …
4 years, 4 months ago
When native speakers lead you astray
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 intervie…
4 years, 4 months ago
#84 How to progress from textbooks to conversation
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 d…
4 years, 5 months ago
#83 Using WeChat to Learn Chinese
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 Wecha…
4 years, 5 months ago
#82 Music, learning Chinese, and Bohan Phoenix
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 Phoeni…
4 years, 6 months ago