Kicking off my 2025 language learning project

Kicking off my 2025 language learning project

Author: Fluent in 3 Months January 17, 2025 Duration: 10:17

I’m kicking off 2025 with a new language project: learning Bahasa Indonesia. I’ll be studying intensively in Bali for two months before exploring Java, Sumatra, Borneo, and beyond. Indonesian’s simplicity—no conjugations or noun genders—makes it one of the easiest languages I’ve started, but my focus isn’t on mastery. My goal is to reach a B1 conversational level, enabling independent travel and meaningful one-on-one interactions. Speaking is central to my strategy, and after just a few days of study, I’ll dive into daily practice with teachers and locals to build momentum and confidence.

This episode shares how I’ve tailored my learning approach by prioritizing practical vocabulary, using resources like Anki and e-readers, and leveraging conversational practice through italki. I also discuss overcoming challenges like formal vs. informal language differences and the limitations of Google Translate. Whether you’re taking on your own language project or just starting out, I hope my journey inspires you to make speaking a consistent priority. Follow my progress on YouTube (Fluent in 3 Months) and Instagram (@LanguageHacking) for updates and tips, and let me know how you’re tackling your goals for 2025. Let’s dive in—happy language learning and travels!

Book a consultation session with Benny at languagehacking.com/chat

Also, follow Benny on our YouTube channel, and don’t forget to check out the Fluent in 3 Months Bootcamp.

Or you can follow Benny on all Social Media channels:
Instagram: @irishpolyglot
Thread: @irishpolyglot
TikTok: @irishpolyglot


There’s a certain magic that happens when you step off a plane and try to order a meal in a language you’re still fumbling through, or when a simple conversation with a stranger on a train opens up an entirely new perspective. Language & Travel Hacking, from the team behind Fluent in 3 Months, lives in those messy, authentic, and profoundly rewarding moments. Host Benny Lewis, a nomadic polyglot and best-selling author, doesn’t just theorize from a studio; he records from the road, sharing raw, real-time experiences and the practical strategies that actually work when you’re navigating a foreign market or building confidence in a new tongue. Each episode feels like a candid chat with a well-traveled friend who’s made all the mistakes so you don’t have to. You’ll hear the sounds of street markets and train stations in the background as Benny breaks down the psychology of language learning, offers actionable tips for picking up phrases quickly, and discusses how travel itself can be the ultimate classroom. This podcast is built on the idea that fluency and cultural connection aren’t distant goals reserved for the gifted, but accessible skills you can hack through smart, intentional practice. It’s for anyone who believes that the deepest way to explore a place is through its language, and that every journey is an opportunity to reshape how you see the world-and yourself. Tune in for honest stories and tangible advice that will change how you approach your next adventure, whether it’s across the globe or right in your own neighborhood.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 271

Language & Travel Hacking
Podcast Episodes
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Benny shares the reasons he learned Esperanto and why it's so useful, despite it not being an officially recognized language. The international Esperanto community is one that Benny loves being a part of, not least becau…
#103 Simon Ager on Creating an Encyclopedia of Languages [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

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#102 Professor Argüelles on Learning a Language in 15 Minutes a Day [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:03
Professor, polyglot and all-round language expert, Alexander Argüelles, talks with Benny and Elizabeth about his routines, methods, favourite activities and language learning interests.Professor Argüelles employs his vas…
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This week Benny shares some exciting news in a special Ask Benny episode. Benny is heading back out on the road, to live the nomadic life he loves. This means new language challenges and lots of interesting updates from…
#101 Scott Brills on World Travel & Language Survival Basics [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:38
World traveler, tour coordinator, and language learner, Scott Brills, joins Benny Lewis and Shannon Kennedy to chat about “faking” comprehension, deep-diving into cultural experiences, and cross-country adventures around…
#100 Celebrating 100 Episodes with Scott Young [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 52:04
Our first ever Language Hacking Podcast guest, author, and course creator, Scott Young, revisits the show to catch up with Benny and Shannon and share what’s changed for him over the last two years with his language lear…
#99 Shannon and Elizabeth on Self-Compassion in Language Learning [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 56:03
Language Hacking Podcast co-hosts, Shannon Kennedy and Elizabeth Bruckner catch up and talk about how this last year has been a time of learning, and building self-compassion and resilience in both language learning and…