Ep 38 Adventures in improving your language through hosting a podcast with Daniel Goodson

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Today’s guest is Daniel Goodson from My Fluent Podcast, a show about language learning which Daniel set up to improve his English. He’s definitely achieved that aim, and he’s learned much, much more along the way.

Daniel Goodson started My Fluent Podcast in 2016 as an English learner looking to improve his speaking fluency. After hitting a plateau in his language skills, he decided to start a podcast to force himself to speak more. As an introvert, it was challenging for Daniel to put himself out there.

Daniel began by scripting episodes focused on language learning tips. Over two years, he built up the courage to start interviewing guests. He reached out to inspirational polyglots and language podcasters he admired. Interviewing idols gave Daniel confidence, though he was still nervous. He used interview transcripts to study new vocabulary and expressions.

Daniel also started an accompanying podcast called The Vocab Man to teach practical English phrases. He focused on idioms and slang not found in textbooks. Daniel admitted his consistency with this second podcast lapsed over time.

When starting out, Daniel used free tools like Audacity. He has now upgraded to paid services like Descript for transcripts. While Daniel enjoyed tinkering with editing at first, he now prioritizes storytelling over technical details. As a listener, Daniel uses the app Snipd, where he “snips” out key moments in podcasts he listens to. Here are some of his selections.

To learn podcasting, Daniel listened to shows like The Audacity to Podcast and Podcast Answer Man. He improved through practice and learning from other podcasters. Over time he has become more comfortable speaking up and sharing opinions. Podcasting has helped his confidence tremendously.

Daniel prepares for guests by researching their work and listening to prior interviews to avoid repetitive questions. With language learners, preparation is less extensive. His priority is making all guests comfortable.

Besides English skills, podcasting taught Daniel perseverance pays off long-term. He focuses less on perfectionism now. Daniel is proud he pushes himself with projects like starting an Italian learning podcast despite fear.

Daniel enjoys being a podcast guest himself, as he can follow the host’s lead. However, he always researches the show format out of respect. He stressed guesting is easier than the prep work required to host and produce episodes. (You can check out some of Daniel’s other guest appearances here.)

Pilar noted the value of having role models or heroes to emulate. She applauded Daniel for pioneering language learning podcasts in Italian and other tongues, helping diversify voices.

Host and guest discuss the double-edged sword of monetizing podcasts – while it enables full-time creative focus, dependence on income can corrupt passion. Daniel intends to keep podcasting a hobby.

In summary, Daniel exemplifies how podcasting can build confidence and skills incrementally if you start small and persevere. He improved English fluency while honing interviewing and technical abilities. Podcasting expanded Daniel’s comfort pushing limits and connecting with others.

Get in touch if you would like some coaching and advice yourself or connect on Twitter @Inpodcasting

If you want to support this show and are looking for a media host: I recommend Buzzsprout.