The Language Lab Podcast

• Episode 6. Lara Callow and David Binns - Engagement, Uptake and Policy

  In our final episode of Season 1, we’re looking at what actually makes students engage with language learning – beyond the data points, initiatives, and well-meaning gimmicks.First, we hear from Lara Callow, an associate tutor in a pupil referral unit, who shares how one teacher changed her view of Spanish entirely. Then we’re joined by David Binns, Director of UK Operations at Sanako and long-time advocate for language education, who brings four decades of no-nonsense wisdom on tech, oracy, SLT, and what needs to change if languages are going to survive – let alone thrive.👋 As this is our season finale, a huge thank you to all our listeners, guests, and supporters. We’ll be back with Season 2 on June 12th, kicking things off with the one and only Crista Hazell.🎧 For more episodes, resources and extras, visit: www.languagelabpodcast.co.uk💬 Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/TheLanguageLabPodcast📲 Follow us on Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, and Bluesky: @TheLanguageLabPod 🎵 Music: "Jump and Jive" by All Good Folks via Uppbeat – Copyright free music for creators.

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• Episode 5. Isla McIntosh and Alasdair Harris Ai, Engagement and LingoTeach.ai

  Guests: Isla McIntosh & Alasdair HarrisIn this episode of The Language Lab, we speak to two people at very different ends of their teaching journeys — and both with powerful perspectives on what the future of language education might look like.First, Will catches up with Isla McIntosh, a former student turned trainee teacher and music graduate. Isla shares honest reflections on student engagement, the role of wellbeing in education, and how technology is shifting what it means to be an inspiring teacher in today's classroom.Then we dive into the world of AI with Alasdair Harris, founder of LingoTeach.ai, a platform built by teachers, for teachers. Alasdair shares how LingoTeach uses AI to dramatically reduce teacher workload, streamline lesson creation, and keep classroom content dynamic and personalized. But the conversation goes further—into digital ethics, the human side of teaching, and how to reclaim energy, creativity, and balance in a high-pressure profession.From green screen weather forecasts to AI-generated rap battles, from mental health advocacy to the rise of classroom bots—this episode explores how teachers can stay grounded while innovating with purpose.Links & Resources:Our Website: www.languagelabpodcast.co.ukTry LingoTeach: https://lingoteach.ai/Music Credit:“Jump and Jive” by All Good Folks via Uppbeat – Copyright Free Music for Creators uppbeat.io

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• Episode 4 – Pancakes, Playlists & AI with Jérôme Noguès

  In this episode of the Language Lab Podcast, I’m joined by Jérôme Noguès – a teacher, AI advocate, and all-round creative force in the MFL world. We talk about what actually gets students engaged, from using tools like Suno to write original French songs, to building lessons around student voice, gamification, and the EPI approach. There’s also a healthy dose of honesty about phones in classrooms, AI ethics, and why mini whiteboards are still undefeated.If you’re looking for ways to make your language classroom more dynamic, tech-savvy, and just plain fun (without losing the grammar), this one’s for you.You can also check out Jérôme’s own podcast, The AI Language Lab, for bite-sized insights on how technology is reshaping MFL:The AI Language Lab on SpotifyFind more from us at: www.languagelabpodcast.co.ukSupport the podcast and access bonus content over on Patreon:The Language Lab on Patreon

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• Episode 3. Kate Clifton KateLanguages Crossover Episode

  In this episode of The Language Lab, I engage with Kate Clifton, founder of Kate Languages, as she shares her transition from traditional classroom teaching to becoming a resource creator and trainer for Modern Foreign Language (MFL) educators. We explore her journey through burnout in the high-stakes education system and the importance of mental well-being for teachers. Kate reflects on the current challenges facing MFL teachers in the UK, including the pressures of grading and societal attitudes towards language learning. She also discusses the integration of AI tools in the classroom and how they can enhance lesson planning. Throughout our conversation, Kate emphasizes the significance of community and support among educators, offering practical advice to help them advocate for language teaching and nurture a love for languages in their students.The Language Lab Websitehttps://www.katelanguages.co.uk/The KateLanguages Podcast

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• Episode 2. Gianfranco Conti EPI and MARS EARS

  In this episode of The Language Lab, I discuss Extensive Processing Instruction (EPI) with Dr. Gianfranco Conti, a prominent figure in language education. We examine how EPI, using the Mars Ears framework, enhances language learning by establishing a structured approach that prepares students with essential vocabulary and grammar before engaging in communicative tasks. Dr. Conti highlights the method's effectiveness in mixed-ability classrooms, focusing on systematic recycling and practice to build linguistic capacity. Our conversation covers practical implementation strategies for educators, the importance of contextualizing instruction, and fostering engagement through meaningful activities. We conclude by underscoring the need for collaboration among teachers and ongoing professional development to inspire a passion for language and communication among students.www.languagelabpodcast.co.ukhttps://uk.language-gym.com/https://gianfrancoconti.com/

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