
Can “Lowbrow” Anime Actually Help You Learn Japanese?
From Like My Anime by Tom Scullin
June 27, 2025 · 35 min · Season 1 · Episode 5
About this episode
Tom explores the overlooked benefits of 'lowbrow' media like anime and kids' shows in learning Japanese.
Send us Fan Mail Are Kids’ Shows the Secret to Learning Japanese? In this off-the-cuff episode, Tom explores why language learners often overlook the power of “lowbrow” media like anime, kids’ shows, and mass-produced manga—and why that’s a mistake. From the academic polish of the Read Japanese Literature podcast to the underrated artistry of Anpanman and My Hero Academia, we unpack the tension between high art and pop culture in your study routine. Plus: Why you might need to grind Mickey Mo...
People in this episode
Host: Tom
Topics covered
- learning Japanese
- anime
- lowbrow media
- pop culture
- language learning
Keywords
- Anpanman
- My Hero Academia
- Read Japanese Literature podcast
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: Read Japanese Literature
More episodes of Like My Anime
- How Is This Show So Popular And No One Talks About It (in English)? · April 21, 2026 · 14 min
- The Most Wholesome 'Fan Service' Anime: My Dress-Up Darling · March 23, 2026 · 22 min
- Podcast Trailer · March 18, 2026 · 1 min
- Why Adults Learn Languages Faster Than Kids · February 24, 2026 · 25 min
- How to Build a Daily Japanese Study Habit (Without Burnout) · January 30, 2026 · 48 min
- Why These Winter 2025 Anime Are Perfect for Studying! · May 21, 2025 · 23 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Like My Anime podcast page.