The Read Well Podcast - Episode 82: How I'm Using Books to Learn a Foreign Language

Host: Eddy Hood
Release Date: December 30, 2024
Book Recommendation: Deep Work by Cal Newport

1. Introduction & Motivation for Learning French

Eddy Hood opens the episode with a warm greeting in French, saying, "Bonjour, amais amis. Je m'appelle Eddy" (00:00), immediately setting the stage for his journey into language learning. He candidly shares his decision to learn French despite already having a busy schedule, piquing the curiosity of his listeners about his motivations and methods.

Quote:
"I know I'm crazy and that I already have a lot going on, so why on earth would I want to learn a second language?" (00:00) – Eddy Hood

2. Challenges with Traditional Language Learning

Eddy reflects on his past attempts to learn languages like Spanish and French using apps like Duolingo. He acknowledges the initial ease and engagement these platforms offer but highlights their limitations in fostering meaningful language proficiency.

Quote:
"I've done this for a few months now on the French language, and I know a couple words and I can say hello, but if you ask me anything outside of that, I start to sweat and panic and freak out." (01:30) – Eddy Hood

He identifies his struggle with maintaining progress and the superficial nature of short, gamified learning sessions.

3. The Impact of Deep Work by Cal Newport

A turning point in Eddy's approach came after reading Deep Work by Cal Newport. He introduces the core concept of the book, emphasizing the importance of sustained, focused effort to achieve significant progress in any endeavor.

Quote:
"If you're going to do work that matters and you're going to make significant progress in that work, you need to set up your life and your environment to foster deep concentration for extended periods of time." (03:20) – Eddy Hood

Eddy credits Deep Work with transforming his approach to podcasting and, subsequently, his method for learning French.

4. Implementing Deep Work Principles in Language Learning

Eddy outlines his structured, four-hour daily regimen designed to immerse himself in the French language over a span of 20 days. This intensive schedule is a direct application of the deep work principles he advocates.

a. Speaking Practice with Native Speakers

He dedicates one hour each day to speaking French with native speakers through Lingoda, an online platform that enforces the use of French exclusively during conversations.

Quote:
"I'm doing this through an online course. It's pretty great, actually. It's a company called Lingoda... they only speak French, which is so frustrating and embarrassing." (07:45) – Eddy Hood

b. Intensive Reading

Another hour is allocated to reading French literature. Eddy has chosen familiar books like Harry Potter and Roald Dahl's Matilda to bridge his existing knowledge with new vocabulary.

Quote:
"These words are completely beyond my grasp. But as I learn, I keep reading the same pages and more and more words are starting to make sense." (09:10) – Eddy Hood

c. Flashcards Preparation and Review

The third hour focuses on creating and reviewing flashcards derived from daily lessons, enhancing his vocabulary retention and comprehension.

d. Storytelling and Self-Recording

Eddy spends the fourth hour recording himself narrating daily stories in French. This exercise helps him identify gaps in his language skills and reinforces learning through repetition and correction.

Quote:
"I'm actually recording myself using my computer camera... and then I try and retell the story again and again until I can tell the whole thing in French." (12:00) – Eddy Hood

5. Personal Anecdotes and Inspiration from Paris

Eddy shares heartfelt memories from his trip to Paris with his wife, detailing experiences that fueled his passion for learning French. From leisurely afternoons by the Seine River to the vibrant street dancing, these moments illustrate his deep connection to French culture.

Quote:
"To the point now that one of my goals in life eventually is to own a little home somewhere in France and go there for a couple months out of the year each year and live and do my work and just enjoy the life that's there." (16:30) – Eddy Hood

His admiration for the Parisian way of life and French philosophers further motivates his language acquisition journey.

6. The Role of Books in Learning and Personal Development

Eddy emphasizes that books are not merely for entertainment but are powerful tools for learning and personal growth. Reflecting on his childhood, he illustrates how books served as companions and sources of knowledge.

Quote:
"Books are tools for learning and we use them on purpose to sort of get further along in our lives with whatever our goals might be." (20:45) – Eddy Hood

He advocates for intentional reading, note-taking, and application of ideas to truly benefit from literature.

7. Conclusion and Encouragement to Embrace Deep Work

In his closing remarks, Eddy encourages listeners to adopt the deep work methodology in their pursuits, whether it's learning a language, reading, or other personal goals. He reiterates the transformative impact of Deep Work on his life and invites his audience to explore the book.

Quote:
"Deep Work is the book recommendation this week... It has changed my life. And now reading it a second time, I'm applying it again." (24:15) – Eddy Hood

Eddy also promotes his bookstore, Edgewater Bookstore, where listeners can access detailed book notes and resources to enhance their reading strategies.

Final Quote:
"Don't forget to read slowly, take notes and apply the ideas." (26:00) – Eddy Hood

Key Takeaways

• Deep Work Principles: Sustained, focused effort is essential for mastering complex skills like language learning.

• Structured Learning: A dedicated, multi-hour daily schedule can significantly accelerate language acquisition.

• Practical Application: Engaging with native speakers, intensive reading, and active storytelling are effective strategies.

• Cultural Inspiration: Personal experiences and cultural immersion play a crucial role in motivating and contextualizing learning.

• Books as Tools: Intentional reading and note-taking can transform books from passive entertainment to active learning resources.

Recommendations

• Book of the Week: Deep Work by Cal Newport. Available at edgewaterbookstore.com.

• Podcast Resources: Daily posts, book notes, and reading tools can be accessed at thereadwellpodcast.com.

Eddy Hood wraps up the episode by wishing his listeners a joyful and opportunity-filled year, encouraging them to set and pursue meaningful goals with dedication and deep focus.

Connect with the Read Well Podcast:
Visit thereadwellpodcast.com for more insights on building strong reading habits, effective research strategies, and intellectual growth through books.