How can I improve pronunciation of my grandmother's native language?

[FrankGM]

I’ve been trying to learn my grandmother’s native language to feel closer to my roots, but I’m really struggling with the pronunciation of certain sounds that just don’t exist in English. It makes me wonder if I’ll ever be able to speak it without immediately sounding like an outsider.

[Michael81]

I hear you. I spent months trying to copy a couple of the tough sounds and kept tripping over my tongue. It felt ridiculous in front of friends.

[EvelynTT]

I started recording practice on my phone and listening back. The difference was tiny, but I could hear where the voice breaks or lapses.

[MiaH]

Maybe the real hurdle isn't the sounds but the fear of being judged for not getting it right?

[Zoey90]

I keep small, casual listening sessions—clips from elders, songs, or conversations you hear in family gatherings—and I try to imitate the rhythm more than perfect phonemes.