A learner on Reddit expressed his frustration that he can speak, read, and write Chinese but can’t understand spoken Chinese. John and Jared discuss this learners situations, talk about reasons why some learners find themselves in a situation like this, and give practical advice on how to develop your listening skills.

Guest interview is with Liz Hanlon who started learning Chinese in high school and today works for a Chinese textbook publisher. Without having spent long periods of time in China, Liz has developed significant Chinese proficiency.

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Links referenced in this Episode.

Original Reddit Post of Podcast Topic

Emma – Level 1 Chinese Graded Reader

How Many Ways are there to Ask Where Are You From in Chinese? - SinoSplice

Reddit AMA thread of the author of “English is Stupid” – the topic of Jared’s rant

Gaolaoshis Dank Memes - Instagram

Mandarin Companion Memes - Instagram

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