Welcome to another episode of Shhh! I'm Learning! In this episode, our good friend Barbara Czusz helps us explore how neurodivergence shapes the experience of learning languages. Whether you're neurodivergent yourself or want to better understand how these unique traits impact language acquisition, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

• The Strengths of Neurodivergent Learners: How hyperfocus, creativity, and passion can accelerate language learning.
• Navigating Challenges: Tips for managing energy, breaking through executive functioning barriers, and maintaining consistency on tough days.
• Routines That Work: Practical strategies for building sustainable language-learning habits that respect your needs.
• Sensory Sensitivities in Language Learning: Adapting your environment to reduce overwhelm and maximize focus.
• Emotional Connections to Language: How deep feelings can influence language-learning motivation and retention.

• Embrace your neurodivergent traits as unique tools for language success.
• Build flexible routines that account for unpredictability.
• Find creative ways to spark joy and curiosity in your learning process.
• Allow yourself grace during low-energy or difficult days.

Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might benefit. Let us know your favorite takeaway from the episode on social media using #ShhhImLearning.

Welcome back to Shhh! I’m Learning! In this episode, I am joined by the inspiring Mollie Guidera, a trailblazer in Irish language education. Mollie’s approach intertwines storytelling, etymology, and creative teaching methods to connect learners with their heritage and identity. Through her engaging workshops and courses, she breaks down barriers to learning and brings the soulful, healing nature of the Irish language to life.

• Mollie’s Passion for Irish: Discover why Mollie is captivated by the Irish language, recognized as “definitely endangered” by UNESCO.

• Emotional Aspects of Learning: Explore how learning a language influences our emotions and the unique ways Irish helps us express and understand them.

• Making Learning Relevant: Tips and insights on how to make a new language relevant to your life.

• Irish Language Quirks: Dive into the charming and unusual characteristics of the Irish language.

• Healing Through Language: Understand the therapeutic effects of learning a language, especially one connected to personal and cultural identity.

• Language Worth and Loss: Mollie shares a fresh perspective on the value of language and the impact of language loss.

Find Mollie on Instagram and her podcast under Irish with Mollie for more content, updates, and engaging resources. Don’t miss her upcoming Black Friday sale on her courses—sign up for the waiting list via the link in her Instagram bio. For those on a tighter budget, Mollie’s daily content and occasional free Irish taster classes are perfect opportunities to start learning.

Enjoy Mollie’s contagious enthusiasm for the Irish language and learn how to embrace it in your own life.

Resources:

• Mollie's website
• Mollie's Instagram
• Mollie's podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts
• Kneecap movie trailer

Welcome to Season 4 of Shhh, I’m Learning! I’m back after a longer-than-expected break, dealing with burnout, a whirlwind of festivals, Hurricane Helene, and extensive election research. Although this season might be the last, I’m excited to share this journey with you all.

This season, we’ll explore the social aspects of language learning, mental health, and the role of neurodiversity. As a neurodivergent language learner, I’m excited to dive into topics often overlooked, like the unique ways autistic and ADHD folks engage with languages. This season, I’ll encourage you to slow down, make language learning enjoyable, and take breaks when needed.

Episodes:

• Episode 2: Interview with Mollie Guidera – Reviving the Irish language; mental health support through language.
• Episode 3: Chat with Barbara Czusz – Autism, ADHD, and adapting study routines.
• Episode 4: Interview with my iTalki teacher Rob (in Portuguese) – Managing stress; “good” vs. “bad” stress.
• Episode 5: Solo Episode – Neurodivergent-friendly language tips.
• Episode 6: Kris Broholm Interview – Embracing "failure" and tackling high expectations.
• Episode 7: Interview with Valeria Paolillo (in Italian) – Mindfulness, learning slowly, and her retreats in Sicily.
• Episode 8: Chat with Bront’e Singleton – Resources for neurodivergent learners and “quiet souls.”
• Episode 9: Interview with Etai from Etai’s Corner – Growth mindsets in language learning.
• Episode 10: Season Finale – Thank you and wrap-up episode.

Please bear with some audio quirks in most of the interviews—I forgot to switch the input device on Zoom!

Also, in case you missed it, catch last night's Instagram live with psychologist Johanna Ramírez for an open conversation about social anxiety in language learning.

Thank you for being here, and enjoy Season 4! 🌻