Welcome to Nova Nihongo, a podcast for adults who refuse to believe they’re “bad at languages.”
Here we talk about what really matters in language learning:
How grammar actually functions, Why motivation fades (and how to rebuild it), The psychology of adult learners, How to study consistently without burning out
Hosted by Tanner, this show blends thoughtful analysis with practical guidance — helping you build confidence, clarity, and long-term progress in any language you choose. Because you’re not behind. You’re just building.
The Truth About AI Language Learning Apps | Nova After Dark w/ Lena
Welcome to a new series called Nova After Dark! This is where we rant about language learning.Tired of every language influencer promoting the same AI apps? In this episode, we rant about the flood of AI language learning app sponsorships, why so much language content feels repetitive, and what actually helps people learn a language. From authenticity in the language community to the problem with “quick fluency” marketing, this discussion breaks down the current state of online language learning culture.#languagelearning #aiapps #polyglot #learnlanguages #languagecommunity #edutalk #japaneselearning #languagepodcast
23 Apr 2026
How to Face Burnout in Language Learning | w/ Michelle
Feeling stuck, unmotivated, or exhausted with language learning? You might be experiencing language learning burnout. This podcast explores why burnout happens, how to recognize it early, and simple ways to get back on track without quitting your language goals.
Podcast Topics:Studying when you don’t feel like it
The myth of studying every day
Why progress feels invisibleHow to restart after a break
Comparing yourself to polyglots
Feeling “not good enough” in your target language
Connect with Michelle! https://www.instagram.com/michelle.languages?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
8 Apr 2026
How to Learn a New Language Effectively (7 Proven Tips That Actually Work)
Want to learn a new language but don’t know where to start? In this episode, I break down 7 practical, realistic tips that will help you make consistent progress—without burnout.
Whether you're a beginner or restarting your language journey, these strategies will help you build confidence, stay motivated, and actually use your target language in real life.
🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn: • How to stay consistent (even with a busy schedule) • The most effective way to build vocabulary • Why speaking early changes everything • How to avoid common language learning mistakes • And more…
If you’ve ever felt stuck or overwhelmed, this is your roadmap to finally making progress.
👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with a fellow language learner!
Join our Japanese Community: https://www.skool.com/language-galaxy-1079/about (https://www.skool.com/language-galaxy-1079/about)
Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tannerlanguages/?hl=en (https://www.instagram.com/tannerlanguages/?hl=en)
Book a Japanese Lesson: https://preply.in/GRACELYN6EN3005361710?ts=17756882 (https://preply.in/GRACELYN6EN3005361710?ts=17756882)
#LanguageLearning #LearnALanguage #PolyglotTips #LanguageTips #StudyMotivation #SelfStudy #LanguagePodcast
31 Mar 2026
Endangered Languages: Why They Matter and How We Can Save Them | w/ Daisy
Welcome back to Nova! Today's episode is about Endangered Languages featuring my friend Daisy! Daisy is a linguistics and language lover who focuses on Chinese!
Connect with Daisy!: @hanziharmony
Connect on Instagram: @tannerlanguages
Join our beginner Japanese community: https://www.skool.com/language-galaxy-1079/about
Episode Notes:
Why languages disappear — and why they matter.
How many languages are at risk globally & Why language death is accelerating
Difference between endangered, extinct, and vulnerable
Unique ways of seeing the world, Linguistic diversity
Language suppression, Language bans, Generational gaps
Revitalization: Hawaiʻi Hawaiian language, New Zealand Māori language revival
Technology: Language apps, AI preservation, Online communities
Support native creators, Learn about the culture, not just vocabulary
Resource Links Mentioned:
Potiki: https://share.google/Nm4Yw2cWLdUrSVCg5
Ethnologue: https://www.ethnologue.com/
Endangered Language Project: https://www.endangeredlanguages.com
How to Kill a Language: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0FV7R8P7L/ref=ox_sc_saved_title_5?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
23 Mar 2026
How I Would Start Japanese Over (after 6+ years of learning)
Welcome back to Nova! Today's episode is about what I would do if I started Japanese over after 6+ years of experience!
Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tannerlanguages/?hl=en
Join our beginner Japanese community: https://www.skool.com/language-galaxy-1079/about
Episode Notes:
Learn Hiragana first - Base writing systemBasic Vocabulary: Nouns, Verbs, Greetings; don't overwhelm yourself at first!
Starting with grammar: Basic Conjugations of polite verbs; should I post a tutorial video?
Watch your favorite shows in Japanese
Kanji Radicals: https://jisho.org/#radical
Online tutors on Preply or Italki
Book Recs: Genki I & II, Minna No Nihongo, Japanese for Busy People, Try JLPT Series, Shin Kanzen Master (JLPT Prep), Children's books!
Music Recs: BabyMetal, Phantom Siita, Stray Kids (they are K-pop but have Japanese comebacks)
App Recs: Shirabe Jisho, Quizlet, Busuu
Toku Recs: Kamen Rider Ex-Aid, Kaizoku Sentai Gokaiger, Uchuu Sentai Kyuranger
20 Mar 2026
How Language Shapes Identity | Episode 2 w/ Lena
Welcome back to the Nova Nihongo Podcast! This is Episode 2 and Lena is my special guest! Today we're talking about how language shapes your identity. When you learn another language, something interesting happens. You might start expressing yourself differently. You might notice that your humor changes. Your personality might feel slightly different depending on which language you’re speaking. Topics: Does Your Personality Change in Another Language?Code-switchingDialects vs standard languageHeritage learnersLanguage and belongingConnect with Lena Here:Instagram: @lena_poliglotaYouTube: @lenapoliglotaSubstack: @mercurybloomTiktok: @lena_polyglotaThanks again to Lena for joining me!
10 Mar 2026
My Language Learning Story + 5 Practical Tips to Learn Any Language Faster | Nova Nihongo Podcast Ep. 1
Welcome to the very first episode of the Nova Nihongo Podcast! 🚀
In this episode, I introduce myself, share my personal language learning background, and talk about how I got into studying languages. If you're a multilingual learner, language nerd, or someone just starting your first language, this episode will give you insight into the mindset and habits that help language learners succeed.
I also share 5 practical tips that can help you learn any language more effectively, whether you're studying Japanese, Spanish, French, or anything else.
If you love languages, culture, and learning strategies, this podcast is for you.
Nova Nihongo is a podcast for curious multilingual learners who want thoughtful conversations about language learning, culture, and communication.
New episodes coming regularly.
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