Maria Amador of Slow Portuguese with Maria

In this episode of Language Learning Insights, I speak with Maria Amador, creator of _Slow Portuguese with Maria_, about what it really takes to learn a language as an adult. Maria shares how learning Swedish transformed her perspective as a teacher, why she shifted to using almost entirely Portuguese with her students, and how her own struggles with language learning helped her better understand the challenges learners face. We discuss: • Why speaking is often the hardest part of language learning • How to overcome the fear of conversations with native speakers • The role of grammar, vocabulary, and flashcards in building a strong foundation • Why progress feels slower as an adult learner • The importance of patience and avoiding self-imposed pressure • What separates successful language learners from those who give up • Why culture and personal connection matter when learning a language Whether you're learning Portuguese, Spanish, Swedish, or any other language, Maria's insights offer practical advice and encouragement for every stage of the journey. Learn more about Maria and her resources for European Portuguese learners: https://slowportuguesewithmaria.com