How I Learned Finnish (with Ohe)

Oheneba "Ohe" Poku-Marboah
  • 5.0 (2)
  • LANGUAGE LEARNING

An interview series where I interview people who have learned Finnish to a high level on how they did it. How to learn Finnish or any language. I pretended I didn't know English for an entire year so that I could become fluent in the Finnish language. I will tell you how I did it and interview others to share how they achieved fluency and on how to remove the friction from achieving your language learning goals and how to learn efficiently.

  1. 25 FEB

    013: Living Fully In Finland Not Just Surviving: Learning Beyond Textbooks

    In this episode, I sit down with Chloe Järvinen, a UK-born project manager in the social field who moved to Finland in 2015 after a music-inspired trip unexpectedly changed her life. What began as a fascination with Finnish rock led to marriage, relocation, and ultimately a deep commitment to learning the language.Chloe explains why mastering Finnish became non-negotiable for her independence and sense of belonging, especially during her first few years in Finland. She shares what genuinely helped her progress, what completely missed the mark, and why she believes some popular learning materials can actually demotivate learners without proper guidance, while offering practical alternatives that worked better for her.We dive into mindset shifts, rejecting the “Finnish is impossible” narrative, setting small tangible goals, leveraging passive exposure in daily life, and navigating serious setbacks, such as illness and pandemic, without giving up.This conversation isn’t just about learning a language. It’s about building a life. And how Finnish ultimately expanded Chloe’s confidence, career opportunities, and connection to the society around her.🎙️ Welcome to How I Learned Finnish – with OheHelping immigrants thrive (not just survive) by mastering one of the world’s toughest languages.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this inspired you or made you think differently about language learning.-- Table of contents --00:00 Mindset Over Negativity00:50 Meet Chloe Rapid Fire03:00 Music Led To Finland05:47 Love And Moving Fast08:35 Why Learn Finnish10:58 Early Study Methods13:40 What Worked And Failed17:24 Best Starter Resources21:32 Bad Tools And DIY Cards24:14 Stop Saying Finnish Hard29:40 Learning Through Music32:22 Progress YKI And Levels37:26 Grammar Struggles And Style39:24 Grammar Stress Trap40:45 Passive Finnish Everywhere42:23 Friends Kids and Muskari45:24 Small Steps Mindset46:40 Skip Suomen Mestari47:48 Active Study Routine50:33 Force Finnish Situations53:04 Integration and Community57:20 Why People Quit01:03:53 Do It Scared01:08:38 Rapid Fire Skills01:15:06 Setbacks and Recovery01:20:59 Tantrum Then Continue01:22:44 Life After Finnish01:24:19 Episode Wrap Up#LearnFinnish #LearningFinnish #FinnishLanguage #FinnishFluency #MoveToFinland #LivingInFinland #ExpatInFinland #ImmigrantLife #YKITest#Integration #LanguageLearning #LanguageLearningJourney #LanguageImmersion #FinnishCulture#WorkInFinland #StudyInFinland #SuomenMestari #Selkokieli #FinnishForForeigners#HowILearnedFinnish #AdultLanguageLearning #NoEnglish

    1h 25m

  2. 07/12/2025

    012: Stand-Up Comedy as a Finnish Language Hack - with Jamie McDonald AKA HappeningFish

    In this episode of 'How I Learned Finnish with Ohe,' I interview Jamie McDonald, a 48-year-old standup comedian and artist, about his journey of learning Finnish. Jamie, who performs under the stage name 'Happening Fish,' discusses the challenges and motivations in learning a language spoken by only a few million people. He shares insights into his methods, from taking classes and integrating into Finnish society through family and social circles, to the unconventional approaches of performing standup and attending yoga classes. Jamie also reflects on the emotional hurdles, the importance of persistence, and the cultural immersion necessary for mastering Finnish.. He covers topics such as integrating into Finnish culture, overcoming language barriers in personal and professional settings, and the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone to truly master a new language. This episode is filled with humor, valuable insights, and encouragement for anyone looking to learn Finnish or navigate a new linguistic and cultural environment. 🎙️ Welcome to How I Learned Finnish – with OheHelping immigrants thrive (not just survive) by mastering one of the world’s toughest languages. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this inspired you or made you think differently about language learning. -- Table of Contents-- 00:00 Introduction: Why Learn Finnish? 00:42 Meet Jamie McDonald: Rapid Fire Questions 01:02 The Origin of 'Happening Fish' 01:41 Stand-Up Comedy and Name Confusion 02:25 Joining the Red Mic Stand-Up Circuit 04:23 Jamie's Finnish Connection: Family and Relocation 07:00 Learning Finnish: Challenges and Progress 08:41 Cultural Integration and Language Barriers 14:10 Effective Learning Methods and Resources 17:07 The Role of Media in Language Learning 25:31 The Struggle with Formal Language Education 28:55 Comparing Language Learning Experiences 37:08 Observations on Learning Finnish 38:00 Accent Challenges and Personal Experiences 39:08 The Importance of Speaking Finnish 41:36 Unconventional Methods for Learning Finnish 43:58 The Role of Finnish Media and Integration 51:09 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated 01:13:26 Encouragement and Benefits of Learning Finnish

    1h 16m

  3. 16/11/2025

    011: How Immersion, Emotions, and 3,000 Words Made Matthias Fluent - Finnish Language Journey

    Starting even before he moved to Finland, Mathias discusses how he memorized 3000 Finnish words from a vocabulary book and immersed himself in the language. He explains his methods, such as focusing on grammar, practicing speaking with native Finnish speakers, and integrating into Finnish culture through activities like joining choirs. Mathias also reveals unconventional approaches, including conducting psychotherapy in Finnish to deepen his emotional connection to the language. Despite many challenges and the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mathias achieved fluency within a relatively short period by dedicating significant time and effort, employing both systematic and creative learning strategies. His story highlights the importance of persistence, immersion, and making use of emotions in the language learning process.🎙️ Welcome to How I Learned Finnish – with OheHelping immigrants thrive (not just survive) by mastering one of the world’s toughest languages.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this inspired you or made you think differently about language learning. -- Table of Contents-- 00:00 Introduction to Language Learning and Emotions 00:46 Welcome to the Podcast 01:31 Rapid Fire Questions 04:19 Journey to Finland and Language Learning 09:38 Challenges and Reflections on Learning Finnish 24:47 The Role of Grammar and Vocabulary 42:24 Unique Learning Techniques and Resources 45:47 Introduction to Johannes and Resources 46:14 Meditation and Its Role in Learning 47:12 Writing as a Learning Resource 47:44 Living with a Finnish Family 49:18 Joining Choirs for Language Immersion 52:40 Using Technology and Tools for Learning 57:52 Challenges and Observations in Learning Finnish 01:04:52 Psychotherapy in Finnish 01:11:14 Active and Passive Learning Strategies 01:22:26 From B1 to C Level Proficiency 01:28:02 Encouragement and Final Thoughts #LearnFinnish #FinnishLanguage #SuomenKieli #LanguageLearning #HowILearnedFinnish#FinnishPodcast #FinnishLearners #FinlandLife #LivingInFinland #LearnLanguages #FinnishFluency #ImmersionLearning #LanguageImmersion #emotionallearningforkids #MusicAndLanguage #StudyMotivation #LanguageSuccess #PodcastEpisode#FinnishPodcastSeries #Finnishcontent

    1h 33m

  4. 27/10/2025

    010: The Moment I Stopped Resisting: Learning by lifestyle - Hamed

    In this engaging discussion, Hamed, a 43-year-old software engineer originally from Iran, recounts his experiences adapting to life in Finland. Hamed shares his journey of learning Finnish, which was initially challenging due to his temporary mindset and resistance to the language. Eventually, his perspective shifted as he accepted Finland as his new home. Hamed highlights the role of making Finnish friends, listening to music, and immersing himself in Finnish culture as crucial to his language acquisition. He recounts specific experiences, such as working in a multicultural center, participating in language courses, and navigating daily interactions. Notably, he discusses how expressing emotions in Finnish significantly improved his fluency. Hamed emphasizes the importance of mindset, cultural immersion, and having fun in the process of learning a new language. His story provides valuable insights for anyone struggling to learn Finnish or integrate into a new culture. 🎙️ Welcome to How I Learned Finnish – with OheHelping immigrants thrive (not just survive) by mastering one of the world’s toughest languages. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this inspired you or made you think differently about language learning. -- Table of Contents-- 00:00 Mindset Shift: Accepting Finland 00:28 Introducing Hamed 03:27 Journey to Finland: A Twist of Fate 09:14 Settling in Finland: Early Struggles and Acceptance 13:18 Learning Finnish: The Turning Point 14:35 Language Learning Journey: Courses and Immersion 30:12 Practical Experiences: Internships and Jobs 34:16 Customer Service and Learning Finnish 35:31 Navigating Finnish Formalities 37:29 Overcoming Language Barriers in Sales 41:13 Embracing Finnish Culture 42:00 Effective Language Learning Strategies 42:49 Mindset and Integration 46:39 Practical Tips for Language Learning 01:03:56 Challenges and Encouragement 01:08:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts #GrowthMindset #NeverStopLearning #MindsetShift #LearningJourney #CulturalAdaptation #EmbraceTheProcess #ImmigrantStories #FromStruggleToSuccess #KeepLearning #resilienceinaction #LifeInFinland #FinnishCulture #LivingInFinland#FinnishLanguage #SuomiLife #FinlandExperience #FinlandStories #FinnishMindset#IntegrationJourney

    1h 10m

  5. 14/10/2025

    009: "This One Shift Made Me Fluent in Finnish"

    In this episode of 'How I Learned Finnish with Ohe,' we sit down with a special guest, Kseniia, a 27-year-old musician and singer originally from St. Petersburg. Kseniia shares her raw and inspiring journey of moving to Finland at 18 and the challenges she faced in learning Finnish. From her initial struggle with speaking Finnish and the discomfort in everyday interactions to her persistence and the unconventional methods she used to integrate and learn the language, this episode is filled with valuable insights. Kseniia opens up about her approach to overcoming fears, the importance of routine, the impact of integrating into Finnish society, and the personal milestones that have made her language learning journey unique. Join us for an honest conversation about the ups and downs of learning a new language and the strategies that led Kseniia to where she is today. 🎙️ Welcome to How I Learned Finnish – with OheHelping immigrants thrive (not just survive) by mastering one of the world’s toughest languages. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this inspired you or made you think differently about language learning. -- Table of Contents-- 00:00 Overcoming Language Barriers: My Finnish Journey 00:38 Introduction to the Episode and Guest 01:19 Kseniia's Background and Arrival in Finland 02:53 Settling in Finland and Initial Challenges 05:55 Academic Pursuits and Early Language Learning 10:22 Cultural Integration and Personal Growth 14:13 The Turning Point: Deciding to Learn Finnish 20:39 Practical Language Learning Experiences 31:37 Effective Learning Strategies and Resources 42:49 Reflections on Language Learning and Cultural Adaptation 46:42 Unconventional Learning Methods 46:59 Translating Hip Hop Lyrics 50:59 Passive Learning Techniques 56:01 Active Learning Strategies 01:02:32 Integrating into Finnish Society 01:08:52 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Motivated 01:18:19 Rapid Fire Language Learning Tips 01:32:53 Encouragement and Final Thoughts#HowILearnedFinnish #LearnFinnish #FinnishLanguage #FinnishPodcast #LifeInFinland #MovingToFinland #LivingInFinland #ExpatInFinland #IntegrationJourney #FinnishCulture #FinlandLife #FinlandExperience #FinnishSociety #LanguageLearningJourney #LanguageMotivation #FinnishLearner #FinnishLessons #StudyFinnish #FinnishFluency #FinnishMusic #MusicianInFinland #SingerLife #ArtistJourney #CreativeJourney #InspiringStories ##LanguageMotivation #GrowthMindset #KeepLearning #StayConsistent #LanguageTips #FluencyGoals #MotivationalPodcast #LearnLanguages

    1h 38m

  6. 03/09/2025

    008: From Hallway Listener to Fluent Finnish Speaker - Jojo's Story

    In this episode, we dive into the life story of Jojo Pratt, a 37-year-old nurse originally from Ghana. Jojo shares his unique experiences and challenges of learning Finnish, from his early days in a Finnish refugee camp to becoming fluent and integrated into Finnish society. Join us as Jojo recounts the creative and relentless methods he used, the cultural and societal barriers he overcame, and the crucial mindset needed to master a new language. Discover valuable insights and tips for anyone striving to learn Finnish or any new language. This is an episode filled with inspiring anecdotes, humorous moments, and practical advice you won't want to miss! 🎙️ Welcome to How I Learned Finnish – with Ohe Helping immigrants thrive (not just survive) by mastering one of the world’s toughest languages.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this inspired you or made you think differently about language learning. -- Table of Contents-- 00:00 Intro & Jojo’s background 02:05 High School memories in Ghana 04:58 The secret flight to Europe 08:40 Arrival: Red Cross & first winter 12:10 Refugee camp classes & the doorway story 16:45 Mindset over comfort (why courses aren’t enough) 21:30 Bar reps, churches & real-life practice 26:10 Dictionaries, kids’ shows & Pimsleur 31:00 Accents: Imatra → Turku → Salo → Helsinki 35:35 From student to nurse: workplace Finnish 41:00 Swedish twist: Tammisaari army hack 46:10 Integration, jobs & quality of life 51:40 Rules for learning Finnish as an adult 57:20 Closing thoughts & takeaways #LearnFinnish #FinnishLanguage #HowToLearnFinnish #SuomenKieli #Suomi #HowILearnedFinnish #OhePodcast #GhanaToFinland #ImmigrantStoryFinland #RefugeeToNurse #IntegrationFinland #ExpatFinland #LifeInFinland #AdultLanguageLearning #MindsetOverComfort #SpeakFinnish #FinnishVocabulary #FinnishGrammar #FinnishPronunciation #SpeakingFinnish #WorkingAsANurseInFinland #RedCrossFinland #RefugeeCampFinland #Helsinki #Turku #YKITest

    1h 14m

  7. 04/08/2025

    007: I Didn't Wait To Be Included, I Learned The Language To Belong - Magdalene

    Join us for an inspiring conversation with Magdalene Awahnde, a nursing manager in Finland. In this episode, Magdalene shares her journey from Cameroon to Finland, her challenges and triumphs in learning the Finnish language, and her rise in the healthcare sector. Discover her key strategies for overcoming language barriers, her motivational tips for aspiring immigrants, and how her determination and positive attitude opened doors to remarkable opportunities. Magdalene's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of embracing opportunities. Don't miss this insightful and motivational episode! 🎙️ Welcome to How I Learned Finnish – with Ohe. Helping immigrants thrive (not just survive) by mastering one of the world’s toughest languages. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this inspired you or made you think differently about language learning. 00:00 Intro 00:48 Meet Magdalene 01:57 Journey to Finland: Love and Education 02:41 Nicknames and Cultural Connections 03:13 Learning Finnish: Challenges and Motivations 07:25 First Steps in Finland: Education and Early Career 12:52 Navigating the Finnish Job Market 19:51 Overcoming Language Barriers in Nursing 32:20 A Brief Move to the US and Return to Finland 35:34 Resources and Methods for Learning Finnish 41:09 Multidisciplinary Team Meetings 41:21 Observations on Learning Finnish 42:29 Challenges in the Job Market 43:37 Adapting to Life in Finland 45:24 Importance of Learning Finnish 47:10 Active and Passive Learning Strategies 47:43 Role of Family in Language Learning 53:33 Integration and Cultural Adaptation 01:14:16 Motivation and Overcoming Challenges 01:20:04 Encouragement and Final Thoughts #FinnishLanguage #ImmigrantSuccess #LanguageLearningJourney #LifeInFinland #CameroonToFinland #NursingInFinland #HealthcareLeadership #WomenInHealthcare #FinnishHealthcare #InspiringStories #MotivationalPodcast #FromStruggleToSuccess #PerseverancePaysOff #LearnFinnish #ImmigrantVoices #AfricanDiaspora#NursingManager #FinnishIntegration #FinlandPodcast #RealTalkFinland

    1h 24m

  8. 28/07/2025

    006: "Stop Saying It's Too Hard, That's Why You're Stuck" - Emily

    Meet Emily, an entrepreneur and hairdresser who shares her unique strategies, challenges, and experiences that shaped her language-learning process. In this episode, we dive deep into Emily's journey of learning Finnish. From studying abroad to integrating into Finnish society, Emily covers essential topics like vocabulary building, speaking, listening, grammar, reading, and writing. She also discusses the importance of mindset, staying motivated, and leveraging resources like podcasts, books, and online platforms to master Finnish. Learn how Emily overcame the hurdles of learning a new language and how you can apply her insights to your language-learning journey. 🎙️ Welcome to How I Learned Finnish – with OheHelping immigrants thrive (not just survive) by mastering one of the world’s toughest languages. 👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this inspired you or made you think differently about language learning. 00:00 Introduction 00:51 Meet Emily 02:59 Life in Finland 04:04 Learning Finnish: Challenges and Strategies 08:16 Work and Language Integration 09:27 Effective Learning Resources 13:46 The Role of Technology in Learning 15:38 Reaching Proficiency Levels 18:11 Test Preparation and Strategies 30:58 Observations on Language Learning 33:55 Understanding the Challenges of Learning Finnish 35:03 Overcoming the Fear of Making Mistakes 36:47 Unconventional Learning Strategies 38:43 The Importance of Practice and Immersion 39:50 Balancing Active and Passive Learning 43:15 Integrating into Finnish Society 46:43 The Role of Personal Relationships in Language Learning 50:44 Common Obstacles and Encouragement 56:12 Effective Language Learning Techniques 01:06:12 The Benefits of Speaking the Local Language #LearnFinnish #FinnishLanguage #LanguageLearningJourney #LanguageMotivation #LanguageTips #FinnishGrammar #VocabularyBuilding #SpeakFinnish #ListenAndLearn#StudyAbroadFinland #LifeInFinland #ImmigrantExperience #ExpatInFinland#FinnishForBeginners #LanguageMindset #PodcastEpisode #LanguageLearningPodcast #HairdresserInFinland #EntrepreneurInFinland #MasterFinnish #LanguageLearningTips #FinnishVocabulary #ReadingInFinnish #WritingInFinnish #OnlineLanguageLearning

    1h 11m
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
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About

An interview series where I interview people who have learned Finnish to a high level on how they did it. How to learn Finnish or any language. I pretended I didn't know English for an entire year so that I could become fluent in the Finnish language. I will tell you how I did it and interview others to share how they achieved fluency and on how to remove the friction from achieving your language learning goals and how to learn efficiently.

Information

  • Creator
    Oheneba "Ohe" Poku-Marboah
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Oheneba "Ohe" Poku-Marboah
  • Show Website
    How I Learned Finnish (with Ohe)