In this video, I share some unforgettable moments highlighting the power of language learning and integration. Join me as I recount stories that showcase the impact of passion and dedication in the world of languages. Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chiara_languagefreak/ Check out my website: https://chiaralanguagefreak.com/ Register for my accountability programme: https://chiaralanguagefreak.com/accountability/ Chapters: 0:00 - Introduction 1:31 - Becoming an Ambassador in Middle School 4:45 - Humbling the Teacher Who Hated Me 9:00 - Speaking Greek and Getting a Free Dessert #LanguageLearning #Integration #TravelStories #LanguageNerd #GloriousMoments

http://chiaralanguagefreak.com/2023/11/20/no-homework-no-class/

📚 Some months ago, a girl decided to buy a 4-week package with me, including weekly classes and homework. She did everything autonomously through my website, without a discovery call or trial. Cool!

🤓 We had our first class, and I emphasized the importance of doing homework between sessions to see results. It’s all clearly stated on my page above the “BUY” button. She reassured me she’d do everything, and I was optimistic.

⏳ Days passed, and I reached out, asking for her work. She promised, but nothing came. I had to cancel the next lesson until she sent me something, explaining it’s useless otherwise.

✉️ After more waiting, she finally sent written work, but no voice messages, which are crucial to my method. She struggles with speaking, even after 8 years in Italy, affecting her job prospects.

💸 I’m losing money but billing anyway felt wrong.

📈 I’ve raised my prices, still figuring out how to balance effectiveness and not losing out.

Tune in to hear how I navigate this challenge!

https://chiaralanguagefreak.com/2023/11/16/feeling-part-of-a-community-the-podcast-festival-of-de-standaard/

On November 11, I attended the podcast festival by De Standaard in Oostende. Living on a tight budget, this trip was a real investment, but my curiosity about Belgium made it worth every penny.

Growing up in Italy, Belgium was a mystery. Apart from hearing about Brussels due to EU affairs and the tragic Marcinelle coal mine accident, I knew little about this country. Since moving to Belgium, I’ve wanted to immerse myself in its culture, starting with learning Dutch and keeping up with Belgian news.

Integration through shared experiences

When I quit my job, I decided it was time to truly "Belgify" myself. Watching Belgian news became a daily ritual, and I gradually expanded this to include Dutch-language podcasts, with De Standaard’s "Vandaag" becoming a favorite.

Taking the leap

Attending a full Flemish event was my next step. I wanted to challenge myself to interact with locals, especially Flemish speakers, in their own environment. Despite initial nerves, I succeeded, engaging in conversations and understanding most of the discussions, even if some podcast references eluded me.

The highlight of the day was meeting Alexander Lippeveld, the voice behind my favorite podcast. Being able to connect and share my appreciation for his work was a significant moment of integration for me.

Small talk and connections

My efforts to engage in small talk paid off when I found myself at the new smokers' corner – the power socket station. A fellow attendee struck up a conversation in Dutch, making my day and marking a milestone in my journey to feel at home in Belgium.

Reflecting on the day’s achievements, I watched the stormy sea and felt a deep sense of fulfillment. As I boarded the train back to Brussels, exhaustion set in, but it was the sweet kind that comes from stepping out of one’s comfort zone and making meaningful connections.