Romanced By Language
193 episodes - English - Latest episode: almost 2 years ago - ★★★★★ - 5 ratingsRomanced By Language is for all you language lovers out there trying to navigate the infinite ways of learning a new language, but feeling lost in the process. Whether you’re just starting out or well on your way, I’ll discuss with you which direction to take. I’ll share with you my 10+ years of experience learning languages and teaching them so that you can achieve your goals of fluency. You will finally understand what it’s all about and overcome every obstacle preventing you from succeeding. So prepare to be romanced by language!
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Episodes
I'M TRAVELING TO SOUTH AMERICA!
August 09, 2022 16:00 - 1 minute - 1.25 MBI'm so happy to share with you guys that I'm finally going after my dream of traveling to South America and living down there! If you want to follow my adventures then check me out over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Exchanging Languages With A Language Partner
August 02, 2022 16:00 - 5 minutes - 3.94 MBExchanging your language for someone else's so that you can both better your skills is one of the best options for language learners. I met so many amazing people this way and got a lot of free practice without really having to do much more than talk. So if you're considering going this route here's a few things to help you find the right language exchange partner! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQv...
Is It Okay To Travel To Another Country Where You Don't Speak The Language?
July 12, 2022 16:00 - 7 minutes - 4.91 MBWe've all been tourists at some point in time, including myself, but at what point should we make more of an effort learning the language of the places we're going? Well if you've pondered this before then you at least have the right mindset. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Writing Vs. Typing In Your Target Language
July 05, 2022 16:00 - 4 minutes - 2.82 MBSometimes this comes down to preference, but whether you like writing with pen and paper or typing things into your computer, both of these activities can be beneficial. I share how I use each of them to get the most out of writing in the language I'm learning. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Humor And Jokes In Language Learning
June 26, 2022 16:00 - 4 minutes - 2.91 MBI'd say that humor exists in all languages to some extent, and so understanding it and how it's used in the language you're learning is pretty important. Plus, who doesn't like a good joke? :D Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
How Much Should Learning A Language Cost?
June 21, 2022 16:00 - 5 minutes - 3.9 MBWhen getting started with a new language you may wonder how much money you should really invest in it. After all you are investing your time and energy, so why wouldn't you consider what that's worth for your budget? Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Translators Vs. Interpreters
June 14, 2022 16:00 - 6 minutes - 4.41 MBOftentimes viewed as the same professions, translators and interpreters have many different roles in the services that they provide. For example, one may work with written text, the other with the spoken form. Do you know the difference? Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Is Punctuation Part Of Language Learning?
June 07, 2022 16:00 - 6 minutes - 4.44 MBOf all the ways to improve in the language you're learning, little energy is ever spent on punctuation. And why would you spend time on it? Well, whether now or later, there may be instances where it could come in handy, so knowing some fundamental things about it in a language can really help. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Grammar Talk: Nouns And Other Things
May 31, 2022 16:00 - 7 minutes - 4.84 MBIn this week's Grammar Talk, I get into nouns and things you may or may not know about them. Now even if you think you got this group of words down, they do vary quite a bit between languages and can go through a lot of changes. So put down your book, table, sky, bread, or any other noun you may be holding and TUNE IN! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Can You Learn A New Language Through One You've Already Learned?
May 24, 2022 16:00 - 5 minutes - 3.75 MBHave you ever thought about learning a new language through one you've already learned? Well since I get tired of using and seeing my native language (English) everywhere, I will sometimes learn about other languages in Spanish. It can be a real workout for the brain, but honestly have a lot of benefits. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Should The Teacher Only Speak In The Student's Target Language?
May 17, 2022 16:00 - 6 minutes - 4.37 MBIf you're a language teacher, or even the student taking lessons with a teacher, then you've probably been in this predicament of how much do you use and stay in the target language. Though it would seem like a simple all the time, it doesn't always work out that well for the student depending on a variety of factors. So let's put this argument to rest! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Su...
What Is Affectionate Language And When Do You Use It?
May 10, 2022 16:00 - 6 minutes - 4.16 MBIs it common in your language to end a conversation with a word like "kisses"? Well if it is then yours contains a lot of this type of language, which may not be the case in the one you're learning. So it's time to get all cutesy and lovey-dovey! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Understanding Time Expressions In Other Languages
May 03, 2022 16:00 - 4 minutes - 3.22 MBIf only it were as simple as translating a time expression like the word NOW in English to the equivalent in another language, which could be the word AHORITA in Spanish, and expecting them to be used exactly the same. Though many time expressions get used very differently between languages and it's important to understand why and how this happens. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support ...
Things I Dislike In The Language Communities
April 26, 2022 16:00 - 5 minutes - 4.15 MBThough I have many good things to say about the language communities, there are a few frequent ideas that I don't particularly like. Bringing attention to them may change some people's perspective and make for a better community in the future. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
How And When To Use Phrasebooks
April 19, 2022 16:00 - 4 minutes - 3.43 MBI've shared before my experience with trying to learn a language through phrasebooks, which DIDN'T work, but that's not to say that they can't be a helpful tool to language learners. So I want to share with you guys how and when to use phrasebooks so that you get the most out of them and feel like you're making progress. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Let's Talk About SLANG
April 12, 2022 16:00 - 6 minutes - 4.18 MBIf you're trying to come across as cool and in-the-know in a language then slang is oftentimes the way to do it. Though not necessary vocabulary, slang has its general uses, so having an awareness of it may help in whatever language you're learning. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Formal Vs. Informal Registers Of Speaking
April 05, 2022 16:00 - 5 minutes - 4.03 MBMost languages around the world make use of formal and informal registers of speaking when you're addressing someone directly. Modern day English doesn't, but it's important to know nonetheless if you're learning a language that has these registers. So today I explain general principles for going between these different forms and how to get a grip on them even if your native language doesn't require them. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https:/...
Is It Okay To Make Your Child Learn Another Language?
March 29, 2022 16:00 - 5 minutes - 3.46 MBMost parents want the best for their children and want them to have opportunities in life that require them to learn certain skills, such as acquiring another language. Though I think there's good intent behind this, I don't think forcing a child to learn another language is going to be met with much success. Encouraging your child to become bilingual is a very worthwhile endeavor though, so I want to share some ideas on how to do so. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Ch...
How To Build Speaking Stamina In A Language
March 22, 2022 16:00 - 6 minutes - 4.2 MBEven once you've reached fluency in a language it's important to work on your speaking stamina. Many a time have I sounded fluent for the first hour or so in a language before my skills really started wavering and I ran out of steam. So just like developing any language ability, working on how long you can speak for is fundamental. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Should You Correct A Language Student's Every Mistake?
March 15, 2022 16:00 - 8 minutes - 5.86 MBIf you're new to language learning and you're working with a language teacher you may think it's their job to fix any mistakes you make. And as the language teacher, you may do your best to do just that. But is this really helpful? Learn what mistakes you should correct and which ones to let slide. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Learning A Language Through Music
March 08, 2022 17:00 - 5 minutes - 3.76 MBIf you're a music lover, as well as a language lover, then you're going to like today's episode. I talk about how to use music as a tool to help you with the language you're learning. So put away all your books and study materials because today, we jammin'! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Grammar Talk: Getting Down With Phrasal Verbs
March 01, 2022 17:00 - 5 minutes - 3.79 MBIn this week's Grammar Talk, I speak again to verbs, but to a very specific category of them known as phrasal verbs. Do you know the difference between to go at and to go on? Well if you think they're used in the same way as the non-phrasal verb form to go, then listen closely to what I have to say in this episode. So let's get on with it already! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support t...
How Important Are Idioms In The Language You're Learning?
February 22, 2022 17:00 - 7 minutes - 4.89 MBIdioms are a really unique bunch of expressions that exist in every language. But should you learn them? Do you really need to kill two birds with one stone or bite the bullet when it comes down to it? Well if you're wondering what in the world I'm talking about then today I spill the tea. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Language Talk: Kate's Dutch Experience As A Native Russian Speaker
February 15, 2022 17:00 - 16 minutes - 11.2 MBI'm back with another Language Talk, this time with Kate, a Dutch language teacher originally from Russia but now living in Canada. Kate and I discuss her acquisition of the Dutch language in college and what led her to eventually teach it to other Russians like herself. We also speak on the topic of doing language instruction in a language that you didn't grow up speaking. Many thanks to Kate for sharing her language experience and showing us all that anything is possible! Check out Kate a...
Learning Words Vs. Learning Phrases
February 08, 2022 17:00 - 6 minutes - 4.21 MBIf you're trying to build your vocabulary then you're probably wondering whether you should spend more time with individual words or phrases. Now both these categories are important for language learning, but does one have more bang for its buck? Find out in today's episode! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Not Understanding Things About The Language You're Learning
February 01, 2022 17:00 - 7 minutes - 4.95 MBI used to get so frustrated with the things I didn't understand in the language I was learning, not realizing that I just didn't have enough information yet. Some things you won't be able to understand at the level you're currently at, and other things are completely new to you. So don't lose heart! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Doing Things You Don't Enjoy With A Language
January 25, 2022 17:00 - 4 minutes - 3.38 MBAs much as I wish language learning were nothing but fun, there are times when it's not, and most language learners don't want to hear this. But I think of all the things I had to learn by doing tedious exercises and following unpleasant study routines in order to get to the next level in the language I was learning. Are you avoiding these difficult language practices? Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxd...
What To Put In Your Study Routine
January 18, 2022 17:00 - 5 minutes - 4.11 MBOnce you've set up a study routine with the language you're learning, you may wonder what to focus on. And not that there aren't many different things that could help you reach your goals of fluency, there are certain things that I will ALWAYS concentrate on to reach mine. So maybe this is what's been missing from yours! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Setting Up A Study Routine
January 11, 2022 17:00 - 5 minutes - 3.84 MBHave you already made a plan for how you're going to learn a new language this year? If you haven't, but you'd like to, then I share my thoughts on setting up the best study routine for your language learning success. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
I'm Back! New Episodes And Content To Come...
January 04, 2022 17:00 - 4 minutes - 2.86 MBAfter a short hiatus at the end of last year, I'm back with many new ideas and much to tell! I've been thinking about a lot of language topics I want to get into with you guys, so if you're romanced by language, then this is the place to be. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
A Huge Thank You To Language Learners Everywhere
November 23, 2021 17:00 - 3 minutes - 2.19 MBI just want to say THANK YOU to everyone out there taking the time to learn someone else's language. It's not an easy task, but a rewarding one! I also want to share some upcoming news about the podcast and new content. See you in the new year! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Learning A Language For A Lifetime
November 16, 2021 17:00 - 7 minutes - 5.05 MBDid you ever think to yourself when you started learning a new language that you would ever finish? I sure did. But I've learned since then that I'll never really be done, and honestly, I look forward to all the learning to come. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
You Can't Rush Rest
November 09, 2021 17:00 - 6 minutes - 4.48 MBAs important as hard work is to language learning, rest goes right along with that. Though progress is thought to only occur when you are using and practicing the language, there's actually a lot going on in the time between your study sessions. So take a short break from the language you're learning and listen in! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
"I Went To This Country And Now I'm Going To Learn The Language" Phenomenon
November 02, 2021 15:00 - 7 minutes - 5.28 MBWe've all said to ourselves after traveling to another country that we're going to learn the language now. And maybe some of us have tried, but very few of us have actually succeeded. Why is this the case? Wouldn't being exposed to the language in this "perfect setting" give us the motivation to learn it? Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Grammar Talk: Should You Avoid Learning Grammar Like A Native Speaker
October 26, 2021 15:00 - 6 minutes - 4.44 MBIn this week's Grammar Talk, I discuss one of the biggest arguments I hear for not learning grammar in a language, which comes from native speakers not having to learn it. Though we all might agree that you will never be a native speaker in the language you're learning. That being the case, learning grammar can really improve your skills as a non-native speaker. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUG...
What Accent Should You Learn: Standard Or Regional?
October 19, 2021 16:00 - 6 minutes - 4.38 MBMost languages are said to have a "standard accent" that is taught to native speakers as well as non-native speakers. Though most of us don't speak our native language with the standard accent, but rather a regional one. So what accent should you try to acquire in the language you're learning? Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Is Exposure To A Language Just About Comprehensible Input?
October 12, 2021 16:00 - 6 minutes - 4.7 MBI recently started learning a language again that I am definitely a beginner in, and haven't really found a lot of content at my level. So should I not expose myself to it if isn't comprehensible input? Well let me share my thoughts with you! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Should You Learn To Curse In The Language You're Learning?
October 05, 2021 15:00 - 6 minutes - 4.64 MBWhether you curse in your own language or not, it is a topic that will come up in the language you're learning. And just like knowing what these words are and how they're used in your language, it's important to know them in the other. So it's time to learn about cursing culture in regard to language learning so that you understand the implications behind it. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfH...
Why You Can't Always Learn A Second Language Like You Did Your First
September 28, 2021 16:00 - 7 minutes - 5.28 MBThough it may seem like learning another language like you did your first would be the best way to go about it, there are just ways you can't. If you are an adult language learner then you should try learning like one, and not compare yourself to your child language learning self. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Getting Through Those Awkward Stages Of Language Learning
September 21, 2021 16:00 - 5 minutes - 4.01 MBWho doesn't love an awkward and uncomfortable situation when learning something new? Well no one! I experienced quite a few of these moments with language learning and I want to share some of them with you as well as how I've come to deal with them. So if this is you, then I feel your discomfort! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
How To Have Fun With The Language You're Learning
September 14, 2021 16:00 - 6 minutes - 4.21 MBAll work and no play makes Jack a dull boy as well as a dull language learner. You have to find ways that you enjoy learning a language otherwise what's the point? With time the difficult parts get easier, but you can still have fun while getting through them. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Grammar Talk: Don't Mix Up Your Verb Conjugations
September 07, 2021 16:00 - 7 minutes - 5.44 MBIn this week's Grammar Talk, I get into verb conjugations. Did you know that in English the forms "am" and "was" both come from the verb "to be"? Well if you didn't, then definitely make sure to listen in to find out why. Is you ready? (Improper verb conjugation purposely used) Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
What Makes A Bad Language Learner
August 31, 2021 17:00 - 5 minutes - 4.05 MBNo one is inherently bad at language learning just like no one is inherently good at it. Though what makes someone a bad language learner is that they don't consider certain things when trying to learn a new language. If you're doing any of the things I mention in today's podcast then it's time to move past them! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Why Progression Slows Down Over Time
August 24, 2021 16:00 - 6 minutes - 4.39 MBIt may seem like with time your rate of progression would exponentially grow considering you're bettering your skills as a learner. The reality though is that this isn't the case. If you're wondering as to why, then make sure to listen in! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
How To Progressively Overload Your Language Learning Routine
August 17, 2021 15:00 - 7 minutes - 5.18 MBI don't think this is a new concept by any means, but I don't really hear it talked about a lot in the language communities. So today I want to share with you guys how you can progressively overload your language learning routine so that you will see improvements and not feel like you're not getting anywhere. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Stop Comparing Yourself To Other Language Learners
August 10, 2021 16:00 - 5 minutes - 3.5 MBDon't say you haven't done this because we all have, including myself. Though it may seem like a good way of gauging your level it really doesn't help a growth mindset. I'll share with you the common or maybe not-so-common ideas behind why comparing yourself to other language learners is not beneficial and the real person you should be comparing yourself to. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHq...
Grammar Talk: Those Silly Little Words Called Prepositions
August 04, 2021 01:00 - 6 minutes - 4.49 MBIn this week's Grammar Talk, I discuss one of my least favorite groups in the Parts of Speech, Prepositions. How is it that such tiny words can cause so much frustration? This time I discuss everything from basic preposition usage to phrasal verbs. So get ready to get in, get on, and get at it! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
How Good Does Your Spelling Have To Be?
July 27, 2021 17:00 - 5 minutes - 3.6 MBAfter I spoke on how good your pronunciation has to be, I thought I'd talk about spelling. What seem like two different areas of language study, you might be surprised how much they actually have in common. Listen in to find out more! Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
How Good Does Your Pronunciation Have To Be?
July 20, 2021 17:00 - 7 minutes - 5.14 MBWhen it comes to pronunciation in language learning, I feel that it's often overlooked until it really does become a problem. Then going back and having to fix all the mistakes is a very difficult task. So today I share what things you should be focusing on in this area so that your pronunciation is as good as it needs to be. Follow me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RomancedBL Check me out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZIkEymKxdweYQvNUGVfHqQ Support the show
Language Talk: Norbert's Story
July 13, 2021 17:00 - 14 minutes - 10.2 MBI'm back with another Language Talk, this time with Norbert, an English language learner from Hungary. Norbert has been studying English for awhile now, but it wasn't until the last few years that he cracked the code to really boost his language skills. He has a lot to say about the language learning process and what has motivated him to always better his abilities. Check Norbert out and some of his other projects: Twitter: https://twitter.com/_nboros_ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in...