Have you ever said something in another language and thought: That didn’t sound like me?

This episode is for every language learner who’s felt like their personality disappears when they switch languages. Whether you freeze up, feel dull, or find that your humor, confidence, or expressiveness just doesn’t come through like it normally does — this one’s for you.

We’re talking about the invisible identity shift that happens when you learn a new language — and how to reclaim your voice without waiting for perfection.

You’ll hear:

• Why you might not feel like “yourself” in your target language
• The neuroscience behind language loss and identity blur
• Why performance-based fluency sets us up to feel small
• How to sound more like you—even with limited vocabulary
• Gentle reminders that your full self is still in there

It’s about inviting your voice back into the room.

~~~

🧠 Reflect With This:

• What parts of yourself feel hardest to express in your target language?
• What words, rhythms, or habits might help bring more of you into your speech?

🎧 Listen next:

• Episode 2: What Fluency Isn’t
• Episode 4: Relearning Portuguese, Again

Enjoying the show?

Follow, rate, and share Native To Me wherever you get your podcasts.

Your voice matters—no matter the language.