tpgames3546-san, cloa513ch2629-san, videovillain-san,
I understand "speaking too fast" thing
I've made several comments to J-Pod listeners who wish to learn with TV programmes, and
I usually recommend kids shows. If ever possible, getting transcription would help you a lot.
Kids shows are meant for native speakers (kids), but characters (human or mapets) usually
enunciate and speak slowly to the level not sounding weird.
Like I wrote in earlier comment, using dramas and other TV programmes with subtiles help
in understanding "what we'd say in Japanese/English in this situation".
Speaking of Hurry Potter, I actually used the volume 1 with casette tape (yeah, I know, it'd indicate
I'm "old" ) to practice my pronunciation.
It's also true that I'm kinda lazy person, so I prefer listening than reading
(One of the main reasons why I like better "transcription" than "translation" when I do such jobs...)
On a very separate note, it'd be always the best, if and when you're ready, to use only one (target) language
without interruption of other language (especially mother tongue).
This is due to the scientific fact about brain functioning called "code switching". Once your brain gets its mode
in your mother tongue, it's difficult to "switch" to foreign language, although it's very easy to switch from
foreign language to mother tongue. For this change/switch, vistual aid/approach is better than audio
because if you hear mother tongue, your brain immediately adjust the mode back to your most comfortable language.
Natsuko(奈津子),
Team JapanesePod101.com