Language & Travel Hacking

In this episode, I finally say what I’ve tiptoed around for years: it’s time to delete Duolingo. With their recent decision to replace 148 courses with 100% AI-generated content, I can no longer recommend it—not even as a “better than nothing” option. The app was already more about dopamine than meaningful learning, and now with zero human input, the quality has dropped even further.Instead, I share better alternatives that actually help you make progress—like using Anki for tailored vocab, joining a community for accountability, or even switching your games into your target language. AI can still be useful to augment your learning, but it shouldn’t replace real, human input. If you’re serious about languages, it’s time to move on.If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat.And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:Instagram: @irishpolyglotThread: @irishpolyglotTikTok: @irishpolyglot

In this episode, I dive into the myth of “language talent” and why believing in it can seriously hold you back. I’ve struggled with comparing myself to others—especially those polished videos on YouTube or TikTok where someone speaks flawlessly and makes it all look effortless. But the truth is, you're only seeing a tiny, edited snapshot of their journey.I don’t consider myself naturally talented at languages. I come from an engineering background, and every language I’ve learnt has taken hours of daily practice, trial and error, and plenty of setbacks. I still have an accent in all my languages—and that’s perfectly fine. Languages are tools for connection, not trophies for perfection.The only comparison that matters is you versus yesterday’s you. Improvement is about showing up consistently, not being flawless. So stop worrying about whether someone else is more “gifted”—what counts is the effort you put in today.If you’d like more encouragement and honesty from fellow learners, check out my coaching programme here, where we share both the wins and the struggles.Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:Instagram: @irishpolyglotThread: @irishpolyglotTikTok: @irishpolyglot

In this episode, I talk about the “confidence plateau” I’ve hit while learning Indonesian during my travels in Java. Even though I know the language fairly well, I often catch myself switching to English because of self-doubt. It’s not that I don’t understand—it’s that I tell myself I don’t, and that hesitation stops me from properly engaging in the conversation. Most of my interactions are really brief, which makes it harder to build the momentum I need to feel confident.To break through this, I’ve decided to get back into regular speaking lessons—at least two a week—so I can rebuild that flow and trust in myself. I compare it to trying to start a car on a hill: getting going takes effort, but once you’re moving, it becomes much easier. If you're also stuck at this stage, just know it’s completely normal. With structure and consistent practice, we can push through. And if you’d like a bit of support with that, check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat.And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:Instagram: @irishpolyglotThread: @irishpolyglotTikTok: @irishpolyglot

After two intense months of studying Indonesian—dedicating up to eight hours a day, seven days a week—I’m excited to share my progress in this episode of the Language and Travel Hacking Podcast. I’ve reached a solid B1 level, able to hold conversations with patient speakers using formal Indonesian. Skipping Bali’s beaches and parties to focus entirely on learning has paid off, and I’m now ready to take my skills beyond structured lessons and into real-world interactions. With a spontaneous, unscripted conversation video on the way, you can judge my progress for yourself.Now, as I prepare to travel through Indonesia—starting in Jakarta before spending a month in Jogja—I face a new challenge: shifting from formal textbook Indonesian to the casual, everyday language spoken by locals. Adapting to natural speech won’t be easy, but I’m eager to fully immerse myself and explore more of Indonesia beyond Bali. Tune in to hear about my language journey so far and what’s next as I continue my adventure!If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat.And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:Instagram: @irishpolyglotThread: @irishpolyglotTikTok: @irishpolyglot

In this episode, I share a simple but effective language learning tip that has helped me stay focused throughout my travels: creating a dedicated study space. Whether it’s a specific table at home, a quiet café, or a co-working space, having a designated environment for language learning helps eliminate distractions and puts my brain in "study mode." I make a point to stay away from my laptop, as it tends to pull me into work or entertainment, and I’ve even set up my phone to block distracting apps automatically when I enter certain spaces.I also talk about how routine and environmental cues can make a big difference in staying on track with language learning. Using an e-reader or tablet instead of a laptop, listening to podcasts, or studying with Anki in a distraction-free zone helps me focus better. Even if I don’t leave the house, I set up a specific corner just for language learning. If you’ve been struggling to concentrate, try setting up your own dedicated space—it might just give your learning a boost!If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat.And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:Instagram: @irishpolyglotThread: @irishpolyglotTikTok: @irishpolyglot

In this episode of Language and Travel Hacking, I share how AI has supercharged my language learning. While it won’t replace real practice, it’s a game-changer for mnemonics. Before AI, coming up with memory aids was slow—now I drop words into ChatGPT or Gemini and get instant, creative mnemonics across multiple languages. One gem? The Indonesian pemerintah (government) sounds like “pay my rent”—and now I’ll never forget it!AI also helps me break down words into roots and patterns, making vocab stick faster. I’ve tested different models, and even free versions work wonders. Want my exact prompt? Grab it at here! If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat.And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:Instagram: @irishpolyglotThread: @irishpolyglotTikTok: @irishpolyglot

In this episode, I share my biggest challenge in learning Indonesian—listening comprehension. While I can read well and converse with teachers, real-life conversations at natural speed remain a struggle. With my upcoming travels in Java, improving my listening skills has become my top priority.A common mistake is jumping straight into native content like TV or radio, which can be overwhelming. Instead, I use a structured approach with a language learning podcast by Innovative Language. Each lesson starts with a natural conversation, then breaks it down before replaying it. This method has helped me in many languages by gradually training my ear to recognise fast speech.I’ll be using this daily to prepare for speaking with locals. If listening comprehension is a challenge for you, check out the link in the show notes. I’ll update you soon on my progress. Happy language learning and happy travels!Mentioned in this episode:If you’re looking to improve your listening comprehension, I highly recommend the Innovative Language Podcast. It offers structured, level-based lessons in nearly 40 languages, breaking down real conversations to help you train your ear for natural speech.Find your language and start learning today: Check out Innovative Podcasts here!Other useful links:If you need one-on-one language guidance, schedule a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat.And don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:Instagram: @irishpolyglotThread: @irishpolyglotTikTok: @irishpolyglot

I’m sharing my one-month update on my intensive Indonesian learning project. My goal has been to reach at least a B1 level before starting four months of full immersion in Indonesia, and I’m happy to say that I’m well on track. Right now, I’m at a strong A2 (upper beginner) level, making very fast progress. Over the past month, I’ve been following a dedicated study routine, which includes 1–2 hours of Anki flashcards, coursebook study (Teach Yourself Indonesian and others), and language lessons 4–5 times per week, entirely in Indonesian. The biggest challenge has been memorising large amounts of vocabulary, since Indonesian isn’t related to any of my strongest languages. To tackle this, I’ve been using AI-generated mnemonics and building custom Anki decks, which has been incredibly helpful. I’ve also found that Indonesian’s logical structure and root-word system make it easier to expand my vocabulary quickly.Looking ahead to the second month, I’m shifting my focus to listening comprehension, as I still struggle to understand fast, natural speech. To improve, I’ll be watching more Indonesian content on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram Reels, while also creating my own Indonesian-language videos. I’ll continue my intensive Anki routine (2 hours/day), now focusing on a new deck with over 1,000 words, as well as some light grammar review. Since I’ll be entering my immersion phase in just a month, I need to be fully prepared to interact with native speakers in natural conversations, especially in areas where people may never have spoken to a foreigner before.Check out Language Hacking Instagram at @languagehackingBook a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chatDon’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:Instagram: @irishpolyglotThread: @irishpolyglotTikTok: @irishpolyglot

In this episode, Benny shares his fascinating journey through the complex world of US visas, from his early days on a J-1 visa working summer jobs in New York to securing the infamous O-1 visa – better known as the ‘Alien of Extraordinary Ability’ visa. He reflects on how his blogging success and language-learning mission helped him qualify for this unique status, as well as the challenges of maintaining US residency while travelling the world.Benny also dives into the realities of the green card process, how a special travel permit has allowed him to keep his US residency despite years of globetrotting, and why he eventually plans to move back to Europe. Whether you’re curious about long-term travel, visa logistics, or just want a behind-the-scenes look at the bureaucracy of being a digital nomad, this episode is packed with insights and entertaining stories.Book a consultation session with Benny at bennylewis.comDon’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:Instagram: @irishpolyglotThread: @irishpolyglotTikTok: @irishpolyglot

Hello and welcome to The Language and Travel Hacking Podcast! In this episode, I’m tackling a big question: How can you make the most of iconic travel destinations before they become impossible to enjoy?While I’ve talked about exploring off-the-beaten-track gems in the past, this time I’m focusing on the classics—Rome, Paris, Bali—those famous spots everyone dreams of visiting. But here’s the catch: these places are getting busier, pricier, and harder to navigate every year.I’ll share tips on why you should visit these hotspots sooner rather than later, the best ways to enjoy them without the crowds (yes, it involves early mornings), and how off-peak travel can save your sanity and your wallet. Plus, you’ll hear how learning a bit of the local language can open doors to unforgettable, authentic experiences.If you’re planning your next adventure or just dreaming about that bucket list trip, don’t miss this episode! Tune in now and take the first step toward making your travel plans a reality. Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chatDon’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp here!Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:Instagram: @irishpolyglotThread: @irishpolyglotTikTok: @irishpolyglot