In this episode, I talk about the difference between performative learning—studying just to pass tests, finish worksheets, or check boxes—and actual learning, where skills stick and can be used in real communication. Drawing on my own experiences teaching in Japan, learning Japanese, and even struggling with Spanish in high school, I explore why we often confuse “looking like we’re learning” with real progress. I compare language study to exercise, martial arts, and even everyday life, showing how the same patterns of “performance versus reality” appear everywhere.

Whether you’re my student, a former student, or just someone working on your English, this episode is about being honest with yourself: is your study time really helping you communicate better, or just making you feel accomplished?

Summary and transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KkXTkZvDvkL7bhwlYTcdKVjWSSSxpCrc37NzemDoPYQ/edit?usp=sharing

After a short “digital detox,” I’m back with fresh thoughts on one of my favorite topics: taking responsibility for your own language learning. I share why stepping away from technology can improve focus, how your confidence in English might be lower than your actual ability, and a simple habit I used while learning Japanese—writing down what I wanted to say and finding out later how to express it naturally.

We’ll talk about keeping conversations going even without the perfect word, why most conversations are about connection (not flawless grammar), and how to build independence as a learner. No class, textbook, or teacher can do it all—you are ultimately responsible, and that’s a powerful thing.

Full transcript and notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YNAzIBMR9TtFD_egEZQGg4yBp_5EwOsqKYgsqncavME/edit?usp=sharing

(This is a video episode, so check out the original YouTube video: https://youtu.be/Tw9Mr7cYKoA)

Tone matters — especially when you're writing something personal and emotionally sensitive, like a breakup message, a “let’s just be friends” note, or a difficult email to someone you care about. In this episode, I share a real-life experience that made me reflect deeply on how tone can make or break a message — even when the words are technically fine. Using ChatGPT, I walk through examples of breakup messages with different tones (gentle, direct, warm-but-firm), and show how to personalize and revise AI-generated responses so they actually sound like you. I also share what I’ve learned about: Why “perfect grammar” isn’t enough How messages can feel cold or distant if the tone doesn’t match the relationship Why softening language and real-life details matter How second-language learners can build tone awareness over time The importance of closure — and when it’s okay to say less Whether you’re writing to a romantic partner, a friend, a coworker, or someone you’re just getting to know, this episode is about clear, kind communication — especially when it’s hard.

Transcript, Summary, and Chat History: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1oFZZN6RTQ13dBcukPPyyEmGrO9ZYPQvggaAIIzbva4Q/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, we’re talking about something that doesn’t show up on your grammar test but definitely shows up in real life: tone. Yep, that invisible thing that makes your message sound friendly… or accidentally rude… or suspiciously like it was written by a robot. I share a personal story (featuring heartbreak and AI), and explain why tone matters just as much as vocabulary—especially when emotions are involved. Whether you’re writing to a teacher, a friend, or someone you almost dated, this one’s for you.

Summary and transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13tvfn48pj-Dqlfdn_3QdT5ZLTsFqjEyxcRSGgtX9Gck/edit?usp=sharing

This is a special video episode originally made for my online class. Access the YouTube video here: https://youtu.be/7iZtynTN0nk

Full transcript and summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13YNKPT_WfKF1cqgkwHhwqmb2T-SvCvbWSy_J5Dp0YF4/edit?usp=sharing

ChatGPT conversation history: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iglnw-Qb1UIHuw57k3S0AcjJQ4NQuscuXF1CiDbGdak/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I talk about money as it pertains to language learning. Basically, if you truly value learning, wouldn't you be willing to spend money on it? Also, I ramble about my views on money in areas such as taking care of your health, saving time and energy, and retirement.

Full transcript and summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1p43nrv8zgLffPSx4Q7FPKlB5tUZAZZMMyJZdyhOV__I/edit?usp=sharing

Hey everyone—today I wanted to share some thoughts on a topic I bring up a lot in class but haven’t really explored on the podcast: honesty, especially being honest with yourself about your goals, time, and priorities when it comes to learning English—or really, anything in life. It’s a bit personal, a bit reflective, and hopefully helpful if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or unsure about what you should be doing.

Transcript and Summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/16iV_z6_AFFTz8g_vaZNh6L_2VHPEO7nQoI85GV9sCvQ/edit?usp=sharing

In this episode, I talk about the benefits and shortcomings of using an LLM for not just language learning purposes but also general uses.

Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Kh-WJMmVaaR6ComvsqsKGV1duITG83wUsZSGsEq02lI/edit?usp=sharing

Summary: https://docs.google.com/document/d/17Qw5lU5gWnpxg2RrWEWQ7DbVei1uZJcJQBovPOIyrf8/edit?usp=sharing

In this video I walk students in my online course through how to use ChatGPT (or other LLMs) to compose a message. Because it's a guide to using ChatGPT, I recommend checking out the video version: https://youtu.be/w0L3LtmzCL4

Full Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Y1-NcmRN_L6YbtsbfSgz4HwPfZEGb_Dkt5rF5UTO2Vk/edit?usp=sharing

Chat History: https://docs.google.com/document/d/17ztWOH2UmR0EsOFTuln9T3P3y7fjw-KU7AH-EQI3XLw/edit?usp=sharing

This is an update on a previous episode in which I talked about my experience using ChatGPT in Japan from a language learner's perspective. I recorded it for students in an online course as part of a lesson on using LLMs for language learning.

Because this is a guide to using ChatGPT, I recommend watching the video version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69hP9Rw1nFc

Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cXtFU-A5ng2-FTlmVdc7dPYfU7xf2nzkG-w8PLk_ay8/edit?usp=sharing

Chat History: https://docs.google.com/document/d/13ol2V__D8qlhe8femLbCKayNuCGIu6AGvn4e7l4zBvo/edit?usp=sharing