Speaking Tongues Podcast: Celebrating Voices, Stories, and Flavors From Around the Globe

Elle Charisse

Speaking Tongues is a podcast celebrating language, culture, and identity through in-depth conversations with multilingual guests from around the world. From endangered and Indigenous languages to Creoles and diaspora stories, each episode explores how language connects us to memory, history, community, migration, and meaning. Host Elle Charisse talks with artists, educators, and storytellers working to preserve cultural heritage through words, food, music, research, and lived experience.

  1. 3 gg fa

    184. Speaking Flemish & French with Dani James

    Hello Language Lovers! In this episode of Speaking Tongues, we are speaking with Dani James, a native New Yorker with a rich multilingual background, having grown up in Belgium speaking French, Flemish, and various other languages. Dani is the translator of the award-winning memoir "Return to the Place I Never Left" by Tobias Schiff, a powerful narrative that recounts the experiences of a Holocaust survivor. We discuss Dani's journey of translation, exploring how her diverse linguistic upbringing has shaped her understanding of language and its intricate nuances. We discuss the significance of Dani's translation work, the challenges of conveying emotion and meaning across languages, and the responsibility that comes with translating such a profound story. Dani shares her insights on the creative aspects of translation, the importance of preserving voices from history, and the dynamic interplay between language and identity. In this episode, we cover: 🌍 Dani's multilingual upbringing and its impact on her life and career. 🌍 The journey of translating "Return to the Place I Never Left" and the unique challenges she faced. 🌍 The significance of language in shaping our understanding of experiences and emotions. 🌍 Examples of neighborhood slang from Dani's childhood in Antwerp and its cultural implications. 🌍 The role of translation in preserving Holocaust narratives and the importance of storytelling. A big thank you to Dani for sharing her experiences and insights with us. If you enjoyed this episode of Speaking Tongues, please subscribe, rate, and review the Speaking Tongues Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and like and subscribe on YouTube so that other language lovers can find the show! You can now pledge ongoing support for the show on Buy Me a Coffee dot com or on Patreon dot com. And don't forget to check out my food 'zine of international language and cuisine, Taste Buds Vol 1., available for purchase now! Links to all platforms are below! To Connect with Dani: Website: danijames.co Instagram: @dani______j  YouTube: @ByDaniJames Book: Return to the Place I Never Left https://bookshop.org/a/104518/9780814351628 Connect with Speaking Tongues: Follow on IG: @speakingtonguespod Follow on Twitter: @stpodcasthost Like our Facebook Page: @speakingtonguespod Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJFOPq3j7wGteY-PjcZaMxg Did you enjoy this episode? Support Speaking Tongues on Buy Me a Coffee:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/speakingtongues Pledge ongoing monthly support. Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/speakingtonguespodcast Subscribe to my Substack: https://speakingtonguespod.substack.com/ Buy my Food Zine, Taste Buds Vol. 1 here: https://www.lulu.com/en/us/shop/elle-charisse/taste-buds-vol-1/paperback/product-wn2n46.html?page=1&pageSize=4 #speakingtonguespodcast #speakingtongues #languagepodcast #Translation #HolocaustLiterature

    1h 7m

  2. 8 giu

    183. Speaking Guaraní & Paraguayan Spanish with Iliana Franco Alvarenga

    Hello Language Lovers! In this episode of Speaking Tongues, we are talking with Iliana Franco Alvarenga, a passionate Guaraní translator and linguistic activist. Iliana shares her journey of growing up in Paraguay, embracing her heritage language Guaraní, and the complexities of translating it in a world often dominated by hegemonic languages. We’re exploring the linguistic features of Guaraní, its agglutinative nature and the unique ways it expresses meaning through verb forms, suffixes, and cultural nuances. Iliana explains how translation serves as a powerful tool for advocacy, making Guaraní audible and visible in spaces like schools, courts, and literature, thus asserting the rights of its speakers to understand and be addressed in their own language. In this episode, we discuss: 🇵🇾The significance of Guaraní as an official language in Paraguay and its role in daily life. 🇵🇾The innovative ways Guaraní structures meaning, including directionality and evidence in verb forms. 🇵🇾The challenges and responsibilities of translating indigenous languages and the importance of cultural permission. 🇵🇾The impact of translating children's literature in Guaraní on community identity and pride. 🇵🇾The dynamic interplay between Guaraní and Spanish in Paraguayan society, known as Jopará. A big thank you to Iliana for sharing your insights and experiences with us. If you enjoyed this episode of Speaking Tongues, please subscribe, rate, and review the Speaking Tongues Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and like and subscribe on YouTube so that other language lovers can find the show! You can now pledge ongoing support for the show on Buy Me a Coffee dot com or on Patreon dot com. And don’t forget to check out my food ‘zine of international language and cuisine, Taste Buds Vol 1., available for purchase now! Links to all platforms are below! To Connect with Iliana: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iliana-franco-alvarenga/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambue.translations/ Connect with Speaking Tongues: Follow on IG: @speakingtonguespod Follow on Twitter: @stpodcasthost Like our Facebook Page: @speakingtonguespod Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJFOPq3j7wGteY-PjcZaMxg Did you enjoy this episode? Support Speaking Tongues on Buy Me a Coffee:  https://www.buymeacoffee.com/speakingtongues Pledge ongoing monthly support. Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/speakingtonguespodcast Buy my Food Zine, Taste Bude Vol. 1 here: https://www.lulu.com/en/us/shop/elle-charisse/taste-buds-vol-1/paperback/product-wn2n46.html?page=1&pageSize=4 #speakingtonguespodcast #speakingtongues #languagepodcast #Guaraní #IndigenousLanguages

    1h 5m

  3. 1 giu

    182. Speaking Multilingualism In Global Tourism with Ambra Attus of Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence

    Hello Language Lovers!  In this episode of Speaking Tongues, we are speaking about the power of multilingualism in the global tourism industry with Ambra Attus, a seasoned tourism professional with over 25 years of experience. Originally from Italy and now based in the Dominican Republic, Ambra is a passionate advocate for sustainable tourism practices that foster positive change for both travelers and local communities. She shares her journey through the tourism industry, highlighting the multilingual nature of her work and how language is an integral part of connecting with culture and with her teams around the world. . Ambra opens up about her multilingual background, discussing how her travels have shaped her understanding of communication and cultural nuances. She reflects on her early experiences in Egypt, where she navigated the complexities of gender and cultural differences, and how these experiences have influenced her approach to fostering relationships within the tourism sector. In this episode, we discuss: 🛳️ The importance of language and communication in creating meaningful travel experiences. 🛳️ The role of cultural awareness in the cruise tourism industry and how it impacts service delivery. 🛳️Ambra's work with the Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence and the significance of training in different languages. 🛳️ Emerging trends in cruise tourism and the importance of sustainable practices within the industry. 🛳️Personal anecdotes about navigating cultural differences and the power of gestures in communication. 🛳️ Words of wisdom from Ambra about stepping out of comfort zones and embracing cultural diversity. Big thank you to Ambra for sharing your insights and experiences with us. Thank you to Natalia from Marketplace Excellence for facilitating this conversation.  If you enjoyed this episode of Speaking Tongues, please subscribe, rate, and review the Speaking Tongues Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and like and subscribe on YouTube so that other language lovers can find the show! You can now pledge ongoing support for the show on Buy Me a Coffee dot com or on Patreon dot com. And don’t forget to check out my food ‘zine of international language and cuisine, Taste Buds Vol 1., available for purchase now! Links to all platforms are below! To Connect with Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence: Website: CruiseExcellence.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aquila-center-for-cruise-excellence/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aquilatours/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnq1QlfuePBaLCkY9M5_1-Q Connect with Speaking Tongues: Follow on IG: @speakingtonguespod Follow on Twitter: @stpodcasthost Like our Facebook Page: @speakingtonguespod Subscribe on YouTube: YouTube Channel Did you enjoy this episode? Support Speaking Tongues on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee Pledge ongoing monthly support. Join my Patreon: Patreon Buy my book here: Taste Buds Vol 1. #speakingtonguespodcast #speakingtongues #languagepodcast #SustainableTourism #CruiseIndustry

    56 min

  4. 18 mag

    181. Speaking Yiddish with Mikhl Yashinsky

    Hello Language Lovers! In this episode of Speaking Tongues, we are thrilled to welcome Mikhl Yashinsky, a Yiddish playwright, performer, translator, and teacher currently based in New York City. Born in Detroit, Mikhl's connection to the Yiddish language runs deep, rooted in the heritage passed down from his grandparents. Mikhl shares his experiences as a Yiddishist and how this shaped his passion for the language and its artistic expression. We explore the nuances of Yiddish, its historical significance, and its evolution over time, particularly in the context of the modern world. Mikhll sheds light on his work in Yiddish theater, including his involvement in the acclaimed Yiddish production of Fiddler on the Roof, and the unique challenges and joys of performing in a language that many consider a relic of the past. In this episode, we discuss: The impact of growing up with Yiddish-speaking grandparents and how it influenced Mikhl's identity. The importance of language activism in preserving Yiddish as a living language. The cultural significance of Yiddish theater in New York City and its role in the Jewish experience.   Insights into Mikhl’s recent translations, including the "Adventures of Max Spitzkopf: The Yiddish Sherlock Holmes." and "The Mother of Yiddish Theatre: Memoirs of Ester-Rokhl Kaminska" The modern adaptations of Yiddish stories and the potential for new Yiddish works in contemporary media. Words you hear every day in English that you never knew came from Yiddish! A big thank you to Mikhl for sharing your insights, stories, and passion for Yiddish language and arts. If you enjoyed this episode of Speaking Tongues, please subscribe, rate, and review the Speaking Tongues Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and like and subscribe on YouTube so that other language lovers can find the show! You can now pledge ongoing support for the show on Buy Me a Coffee dot com or on Patreon dot com. And don’t forget to check out my food ‘zine of international language and cuisine, Taste Buds Vol 1., available for purchase now! Links to all platforms are below! To Connect with Mikhl: Website: yashinsky.com Instagram: @mikhldarling Connect with Speaking Tongues: Follow on IG: @speakingtonguespod Follow on Twitter: @stpodcasthost Like our Facebook Page: @speakingtonguespod Subscribe on YouTube: YouTube Channel Did you enjoy this episode? Support Speaking Tongues on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee Pledge ongoing monthly support. Join my Patreon: Patreon Buy my book here: Taste Buds Vol 1. #speakingtonguespodcast #speakingtongues #languagepodcast #YiddishTheater #YiddishCulture

    1h 11m

  5. 11 mag

    180. Speaking the Neapolitan language with Massimiliano Canzanella

    Hello Language Lovers! In this episode of Speaking Tongues, we sit down with Massimiliano Canzanella, a passionate advocate for the Neapolitan language and its speakers. Since 2001, he has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at the desegregation of Neapolitan and the recognition of its cultural significance within Italy. From proposing a bill for minority language inclusion to publishing literature in Neapolitan, Massimiliano's work is a testament to the resilience and richness of his heritage. Massimiliano shares his personal journey with language, reflecting on his early experiences growing up in Naples, where Neapolitan was the primary language until he was introduced to Italian in school. He dives deep into the challenges faced by Neapolitan speakers, including the stigma and internalized shame associated with their language, and how these experiences have fueled his mission to restore dignity to his community. In this episode, we discuss:  🇮🇹 The historical context of the Neapolitan language and its struggle for recognition in Italy.  🇮🇹 The impact of language oppression and internalized racism on Neapolitan speakers.  🇮🇹 Massimiliano's literary contributions, including two novels and a play written in Neapolitan, and their reception.  🇮🇹 The importance of cultural identity and community empowerment through language revitalization.  🇮🇹 Insights into the current state of Neapolitan language advocacy and the future of its recognition. A heartfelt thank you to Massimiliano for sharing your powerful story and insights into the Neapolitan language and culture. If you enjoyed this episode of Speaking Tongues, please subscribe, rate, and review the Speaking Tongues Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and like and subscribe on YouTube so that other language lovers can find the show! You can now pledge ongoing support for the show on Buy Me a Coffee dot com or on Patreon dot com. And don’t forget to check out my food ‘zine of international language and cuisine, Taste Buds Vol 1., available for purchase now! Links to all platforms are below! To Connect with Massimiliano: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/massimiliano-canzanella-87093b257/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/massimiliano.canzanella.3 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/massimiliano_canzanella1/ X: https://x.com/m_canzanella YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MCanzanella Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/mcanzanella.bsky.social Website: https://www.canzanella.net/ Connect with Speaking Tongues: Follow on IG: @speakingtonguespod Follow on Twitter: @stpodcasthost Like our Facebook Page: @speakingtonguespod Subscribe on YouTube: YouTube Channel Did you enjoy this episode? Support Speaking Tongues on Buy Me a Coffee: Buy Me a Coffee Pledge ongoing monthly support. Join my Patreon: Patreon Buy my book here: Taste Buds Vol 1. #speakingtonguespodcast #speakingtongues #languagepodcast #NeapolitanLanguage #NeapolitanNovels #NeapolitanNovelist

    1h 2m

  6. 4 mag

    179. Speaking New Zealand Sign Language & Te Reo Māori

    Hello Language Lovers! In this episode of Speaking Tongues, we are joined by Grace Brown, a passionate Maori wahine and 2025 Winston Churchill Fellow, who is dedicated to bridging cultures through innovation and media. Currently situated in Aotearoa, Grace explores how New Zealand Sign Language, emerging technologies, and cultural insights can enhance communication and accessibility in her homeland. Grace takes us on a journey through her experiences with language learning, from her roots in Gisborne to her adventures in Auckland. We discuss her early encounters with Te Reo Māori and New Zealand Sign Language, as well as her passion for Spanish. Grace shares the importance of cultural connection and the revitalization of languages, reflecting on her personal and educational experiences. In this episode, we discuss:  🇳🇿 The significance of language in connecting with cultural heritage and identity.  🇳🇿 Grace's experiences with learning Te Reo Māori and New Zealand Sign Language, including the challenges and joys of language acquisition.  🇳🇿 The role of emerging technologies in supporting language learning and bridging communication gaps.  🇳🇿 Insights from Grace's Winston Churchill Fellowship and her research on digital media innovation.  🇳🇿 The vibrant cultural celebrations in New Zealand and their impact on language visibility.  🇳🇿 A powerful Māori proverb that emphasizes the importance of people in our lives and communities. A big thank you to Grace for sharing your journey, insights, and passion for language and culture with us. If you enjoyed this episode of Speaking Tongues, please subscribe, rate, and review the Speaking Tongues Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and like and subscribe on YouTube so that other language lovers can find the show! You can now pledge ongoing support for the show on Buy Me a Coffee dot com or on Patreon dot com. And don’t forget to check out my food ‘zine of international language and cuisine, Taste Buds Vol 1., available for purchase now! Links to all platforms are below! To Connect with Grace: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neurogengirl/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracebrownwcf25/  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@grace.brown.wcf.25 (TikTok) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Grace-Brown-Winston-Churchill-Fellow-25/61572985422050/  Biosite: https://bio.site/Gracebrownwcf25?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnIMRJkmaNwqmmhDpmDGMVLYVR47pIKI3Wana0eyo9fxTs3VB79m5TR9NCWEI_aem_iOWomB9TSgdBdiUL8OuQHw  Connect with Speaking Tongues: Follow on IG: @speakingtonguespod Follow on Twitter: @stpodcasthost Like our Facebook Page: @speakingtonguespod Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJFOPq3j7wGteY-PjcZaMxg Did you enjoy this episode? Support Speaking Tongues on Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/speakingtongues Pledge ongoing monthly support. Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/speakingtonguespodcast Buy my book here: https://www.lulu.com/en/us/shop/elle-charisse/taste-buds-vol-1/paperback/product-wn2n46.html?page=1&pageSize=4 #speakingtonguespodcast #speakingtongues #languagepodcast #MaoriCulture #LanguageRevitalization

    47 min

  7. 27 apr

    178. Speaking Lao Language & Cuisine with Saeng Douangdara

    Hello Language Lovers! On this episode of Speaking Tongues, I’m thrilled to chat with Saeng Douangdara, a passionate content creator and personal chef dedicated to sharing the rich flavors and stories of Lao cuisine through his platform, Saeng's Kitchen. As a first-generation Lao American, Sang’s culinary journey is deeply intertwined with his cultural heritage, and he aims to inspire others to explore the delicious tastes of Laos. In this episode, Saeng shares his personal experiences growing up in Wisconsin, while connecting to family and community through food.  We discuss the flavorful and vibrant world of Lao food, discussing beloved dishes, the significance of communal dining, and the memories tied to family gatherings filled with delicious homemade meals. And, we’re putting a spotlight on Saeng’s new cookbook "The Lao Kitchen: Lao Flavors & Stories Told Through Family Recipes". This is, of course, a very food forward conversation!  In this episode, we discuss:  🇱🇦 The importance of food as a cultural connector and a means of storytelling.  🇱🇦 Saeng's favorite childhood dishes and the communal experience of Lao potlucks.  🇱🇦 The unique process of making sticky rice and its significance in Lao cuisine.  🇱🇦 The transformative experience of Saeng's first trip to Laos and its impact on his culinary career.  🇱🇦 The process of creating his upcoming cookbook, "The Lao Kitchen: Lao Flavors & Stories Told Through Family Recipes," and the journey of recipe testing with friends and community.  🇱🇦 The vibrant flavors of Lao dishes and the importance of preserving cultural heritage through food. Big big thank you to Saeng for sharing your language, culinary passion, and the deliciousness of Lao flavors with us. If you enjoyed this episode of Speaking Tongues, please subscribe, rate, and review the Speaking Tongues Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and like and subscribe on YouTube so that other language lovers can find the show! You can now pledge ongoing support for the show on Buy Me a Coffee dot com or on Patreon dot com. And don’t forget to check out my food ‘zine of international language and cuisine, Taste Buds Vol 1., available for purchase now! Links to all platforms are below! To Connect with Saeng & buy the book: Website: https://www.saengskitchen.com/ Connect with Speaking Tongues: Follow on IG: @speakingtonguespod Follow on Twitter: @stpodcasthost Like our Facebook Page: @speakingtonguespod Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJFOPq3j7wGteY-PjcZaMxg Did you enjoy this episode? Support Speaking Tongues on Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/speakingtongues Pledge ongoing monthly support. Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/speakingtonguespodcast Buy my book here: https://www.lulu.com/en/us/shop/elle-charisse/taste-buds-vol-1/paperback/product-wn2n46.html?page=1&pageSize=4 #speakingtonguespodcast #speakingtongues #languagepodcast #LaoCuisine #CulturalHeritage

    1h 5m

  8. 15/09/2025

    177. Speaking Igbo With Tochi Precious of Igbo Wikimedians User Group

    Hello Language Lovers! In this episode of Speaking Tongues, we have the pleasure of speaking with Tochi Precious, a dedicated program manager and language advocate with a wealth of experience in the Wikimedia movement. She is the co-founder of the Igbo Wikimedians User Group and currently serves as a Wikimedian in Residence at Wikitongues, where she works at the intersection of open knowledge, indigenous languages, and community empowerment. Her work amplifies under-represented voices and supports grassroots language preservation through inclusive, community-led approaches. Tochi shares her journey with language learning, including her first language, Igbo, and her experiences with English, German, and her current endeavor of learning Finnish. We explore the fascinating aspects of Igbo grammar, tonality, and the significance of cultural greetings, alongside the vibrant dialectal diversity within the Igbo-speaking community. In this episode, we discuss:  🇳🇬 The tonal nature of Igbo and how pitch affects meaning in the language.  🇳🇬 The importance of community and respect in Igbo culture, including traditional greetings and practices.  🇳🇬 The challenges of language endangerment and the efforts being made to preserve and promote Igbo.  🇳🇬 The unique experiences of encountering different Igbo dialects and their implications for communication.  🇳🇬 The role of proverbs and traditional knowledge in Igbo culture, including their relevance to sustainability.  🇳🇬 Delicious Igbo cuisine, including the cultural significance of yam and related festivals. A heartfelt thank you to Tochi for sharing her insights and passion for the Igbo language and culture with us. If you enjoyed this episode of Speaking Tongues, please subscribe, rate, and review the Speaking Tongues Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, and like and subscribe on YouTube so that other language lovers can find the show! You can now pledge ongoing support for the show on Buy Me a Coffee dot com or on Patreon dot com. And don’t forget to check out my food ‘zine of international language and cuisine, Taste Buds Vol 1., available for purchase now! Links to all platforms are below! To Connect with Tochi: Instagram: @adaugo_tochi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tochiprecious/ Wikitongues: https://www.wikitongues.org/ Connect with Speaking Tongues: Follow on IG: @speakingtonguespod Follow on Twitter: @stpodcasthost Like our Facebook Page: @speakingtonguespod Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJFOPq3j7wGteY-PjcZaMxg Did you enjoy this episode? Support Speaking Tongues on Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/speakingtongues Pledge ongoing monthly support. Join my Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/speakingtonguespodcast Buy my book here: https://www.lulu.com/en/us/shop/elle-charisse/taste-buds-vol-1/paperback/product-wn2n46.html?page=1&pageSize=4 #speakingtonguespodcast #speakingtongues #languagepodcast #IgboCulture #LanguagePreservation

    1h 8m
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Speaking Tongues is a podcast celebrating language, culture, and identity through in-depth conversations with multilingual guests from around the world. From endangered and Indigenous languages to Creoles and diaspora stories, each episode explores how language connects us to memory, history, community, migration, and meaning. Host Elle Charisse talks with artists, educators, and storytellers working to preserve cultural heritage through words, food, music, research, and lived experience.

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