So you’ve taken up learning Italian, now what?
One of the best things about today’s technology is that there are tons of tools you can use to start or brush-up on a new language. While apps and dictionaries are great for learning, there's no substitute for listening to Italian conversation.
We've compiled 10 helpful podcasts that aim to jumpstart your learning of the Italian language.
via Google Play Store
News in Slow Italian draws in on Italian expressions and news at a much slower pace for listeners to be able to keep up with the conversation. This podcast is regularly updated with relevant topics and new exercises. If you are looking for informed content and thought-provoking discussions in Italian, this podcast is definitely for you.
What we like about it: News in Slow Italian is comprehensive in terms of all aspects of language learning. It covers pronunciation, listening, vocabulary and grammar. Another great feature is the interactive transcript that may be accessed on their website.
Level: This podcast has Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced course material.
Duration: Each episode lasts around 10 minutes
Price: Free to an extent, but various subscription rates are available if you would like to upgrade
Where to find it: App store, Google Play and on the Linguistica 360 website.
via iTunes
30 Minute Italian is a podcast hosted by the lovely Cher Hale and is ideal for a nice long stroll or for the regular commute. Easily pass 30 minutes of your time while being productive and learning a few more Italian expressions.
What we like about it: The episodes are by no means boring, covering a variety of topics from authentic Italian cooking to writing Italian birthday cards.
Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Duration: 30 minutes
Price: Free
Where to find it: App store, Google Play store Podcast Player app, Learn Out Loud website
Radio Lingua Network, creator of CoffeeBreak Italian, is an established network in language learning. The idea is to use your coffee break to learn a new language. Hosts Katie, Mark and Francesca facilitate the episodes and have a way of breaking down the discussion so they are fun and easy to grasp.
What we like about it:CoffeeBreak Italian is a perfect blend (so to speak) of grammar and natural conversation. The hosts are excellent at encouraging an atmosphere that is conducive to learning.
Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Duration: 20-30 minutes
Price: Free
Where to find it: App store, Google Play store Podcast Player app, Radio Lingua Network website
via iTunes
Here's another Italian podcast by Radio Lingua, this time for those who find themselves with less time to spare. MyDailyPhrase Italian breaks lessons down into 5-minute sessions, starting with basic phrases.
What we like about it:MyDailyPhrase Italian is designed as a crash course for those who are looking to go on holiday to Italy, but have little time to learn the language. The 5-minute sessions are very manageable for those with a busy schedule or a short attention span, but who still want to learn as much as they can.
Level: Beginner
Duration: 5 minutes
Price: Free to an extent, $67 US to access the full upgrade
Where to find it: App store, Google Play store Podcast Player app, Radio Lingua website
via iTunes
On a more serious note, SBS in Italiano is a news and politics podcast that features community narratives and personal interviews, primarily from Australia but also from all around the world.
What we like about it: SBS in Italiano gives you a proper feel for the pace at which Italian is spoken and challenges you in terms of vocabulary.
Level: Advanced
Duration: 5-15 minutes
Price: Free
Where to find it: App store, Google Play store Podcast Player app, SBS website
via Podbay
If 10- or even 5-minute sessions are still a struggle to juggle with everything else, don’t panic! OneMinute Italian can help you get by on that looming trip to Italy with just the right amount of basic phrases and expressions.
What we like about it:OneMinute Italian is for the the absolute beginner. This is perfect for someone who is interested in learning the language, but not quite willing to invest as much time as the lengthier podcasts.
Level: Beginner
Duration: 1-3 minutes
Price: Free to an extent, premium pack available for purchase on the Radio Lingua website
Where to find it: App store, Google Play store Podcast Player app, Podbay website
via iTunes
LearnItalianPod is another major league-player in terms of language learning. The lessons are all about everyday Italian and the goal is to help you understand how they speak, live and think. Apart from exploring the rich Italian culture, LearnItalianPod will also educate you on the technical bases of the language.
What we like about it: You'll receive a couple of freebies as well as regular learning resource recommendations by signing up to their newsletter.
Level: Beginner, Intermediate, Upper Intermediate, Advanced
Duration: 10-15 minutes on the mobile app, 5-minute sessions available on the website
Price: Free, VIP membership available
Where to find it: App store, Google Play store Podcast Player app, LearnItalianPod website
via iTunes
This podcast is part of a course that the Open University is currently holding but they are free for anyone who wants to try them out. There are 12 lessons in total, covering simple Italian topics such as greetings, ordering drinks and food, and booking accomodation.
What we like about it: The approach to the podcast is structural and targets both listening and speaking skills.
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Duration: 30 minutes
Price: Free
Where to find it: App store, Google Play store Podcast Player app
via SoundCloud
Lucrezia Oddona is a language major who is passionate about teaching Italian. Her podcast is aimed at promoting listening skills, while learning about Italy and its culture.
What we like about it: Lucrezia's casual but helpful approach does not intimidate at all. Her enthusiasm in teaching is highly contagious.
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Duration: 5-10 minutes
Price: Free
Where to find it: App store, Google Play store Podcast Player app, SoundCloud
10. Citalia
via Citalia
Citalia is a straightforward Italian podcast that has 2 sessions – one for basic Italian phrases, the other for intermediate. If you are preparing for a trip to Italy or just want to learn the language in a more interactive sense, Citalia is the the way to go.
What we like about it: Finishing both episodes gives you that instant feeling of accomplishment and boosts your confidence. You can then move on to another podcast knowing that you’re not starting at square 1.
Level: Beginner and Intermediate
Duration: 10 minutes
Price: Free
Where to find it: App store, Google Play store Podcast Player app, Citalia website
Podcasts are a great way to learn Italian while on the go. Whether you’re on your way home from work or waiting for your laundry to dry, all you need to do is tune-in to your podcast of choice, crank up the volume, and soak up as much Italian as you possibly can.
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