The Speak Confident English Podcast

Episodet

• How to Interrupt Politely in English | In-Person & Online 20.05.2026 16min

  You're on a call. The conversation is moving, you only have 40 minutes, and you need to say so without sounding rude. Or someone is sharing a long story and you have a question that can't wait. Learning how to interrupt politely in English changes how comfortable you feel in those moments, at work, in meetings, and in everyday conversations. In this episode, you'll get: 5 tips for stepping into a conversation without sounding rude, including timing, tone, body language, and a cultural note that makes everything else easier 11 polite English phrases you can use right away, sorted by situation What changes when you're on Zoom or Teams You'll also learn the visual signs that tell you whether someone is finished talking or just thinking. Once you can read those, the words come easier. Listen on your next walk or commute, then try one or two of the phrases in a real conversation this week. Get my free training, Say What You Want in English: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ Full written lesson: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/interrupt-someone-politely-in-english/ Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Interrupt politely? How? 01:18 Cultural tips 02:17 Tip 1: Reasons 03:01 Tip 2: Politeness 03:41 Tip 3: Tone 04:39 Tip 4: The moment 07:08 Tip 5: Signals 08:40 11 Ways to Interrupt 13:25 Interrupting online   --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to non-native English speakers around the world.  
• Handle Interruptions in English — The Best Ways to Respond 13.05.2026 20min

  Have you ever been interrupted in English and frozen, lost your thought, or felt like you couldn't get your turn back? Knowing what to say when someone interrupts you in English depends entirely on what kind of interruption is happening. In this episode, you'll get five specific responses matched to five different situations. Some interruptions are collaborative and show active listening. Some are confused and need clarification. And some are blatant attempts to talk over you. Each one calls for a different response, and most advice on interruptions misses that completely. You'll learn: How to tell which kind of interruption you're dealing with What to say to acknowledge enthusiasm and still finish your thought How to clarify and continue when someone is confused How to hold your turn calmly when someone tries to talk over you How to address a persistent interrupter directly Two simple strategies to prevent being interrupted in the first place Plus you'll get specific phrases to practice, so the next time it happens — in a meeting, a presentation, or a conversation with a friend — you know exactly what to say. Episode Timestamps:  00:00 Interrupt? Not so fast. 01:58 Not always equal 04:23 Response 1 08:19 Response 2 10:57 Response 3 12:07 Response 4 14:18 Response 5 16:39 Prevent interruptions   Get my free training, Say What You Want in English: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ Full written lesson with all five responses and practice prompts: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/respond-to-interruptions-in-english/https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/respond-to-interruptions-in-english/     --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.  
• Polite English Phrases for Daily Life: Ask Someone to Move 06.05.2026 10min

  "Please move." It sounds polite. It isn't. Even "excuse me, please move" still comes across as a command in English. So what do native speakers actually say when someone is standing in your way at the grocery store, sitting too close on the bus, or blocking the hallway? In this episode, you'll learn the polite English phrases for daily life that turn a demand into a real request; the small words and phrases that most English courses never teach. You'll learn: ▪️ How to ask someone to scoot over or slide down when you need a little more space ▪️ How to politely squeeze past or slip past someone blocking your path ▪️ How to reach across or around someone without it feeling intrusive ▪️ When to use "sorry" and when to use "excuse me" Each phrase comes with real-life examples — on the subway, in a hallway, at a busy meeting — plus a chance to practice using them yourself. Episode Timestamps:  00:00 Why not "Please move"? 01:41 From rude to polite 03:18 Ask someone to move 05:42 Squeeze past someone 07:38 Reach across someone Full written lesson: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/polite-english-phrases-for-daily-life-ask-someone-to-move Get my free training, Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ These small phrases make a bigger difference than you'd expect and they're easier to use than you think.   --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.  
• Fear of Speaking English? Here's What to Do 29.04.2026 30min

  You've studied English for years, and the fear of speaking is still there. The fear of freezing in the moment, of making a mistake, of not being understood. And the truth is, more studying isn't going to fix it. In this episode, you'll learn why the fear of speaking English is physiological, not a sign that your English isn't good enough. You'll find out what's actually happening in your brain when your mind goes blank, why perfectionism quietly keeps you stuck at a lower level than your real ability, and the difference between a skill gap and a trust gap (and how to know which one is yours). You'll also get a simple record, evaluate, and pivot practice you can do anywhere, even between meetings or on your commute. It only takes a few minutes and gives your brain real evidence that your English works. Episode Timestamps:  00:00 It's not your English level 03:08 The fear of freezing 07:05 2 steps to control fear 13:57 The fear of mistakes 18:23 What helps with mistakes 21:16 The fear of not being understood 27:20 Close your trust gap Get my free training, Say What You Want in English: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ Full written lesson: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/fear-of-speaking-english Fear isn't a sign that something is wrong with you. It's something you can work with, and it gets smaller every time you do.
• 4 Steps to Find Flow and Enjoy Your English Practice 22.04.2026 19min

  If you've lost motivation, then it's time to find flow and enjoy your English practice. To find flow means being so focused, so immersed in an activity that you begin to lose time, distractions, and self-doubt. And ultimately, you experience joy in what you're doing. You might be familiar with flow state learning and finding flow with hobbies such as painting, singing, playing piano, or running.  You can also find flow in your English language practice to spark motivation and renew your focus. The goal of this Confident English lesson is to share 4 steps to help you enjoy your English practice through flow state learning. Get the full lesson or watch the video at the Speak Confident English website: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/find-flow-english-practice   Episode Timestamps: 00:00 - The power of flow state 01:34 - Flow State & Your English Practice 03:09 - Examples of Being in Flow 04:30 - Benefits of Flow State 06:17 - Step 1 for Finding Flow in Your English Practice 07:47 - Step 2 for Finding Flow in Your English Practice 11:30 - Step 3 for Finding Flow in Your English Practice 15:14 - Step 4 for Finding Flow in Your English Practice 16:30 - 2 Strategies for Common Struggles to Find Flow   --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.  
• Sound More Expressive in English | Humor and Hyperbole 15.04.2026 13min

  Think about feeling tired after working 9 hours, answering 47 emails, and sitting in traffic for 1 hour after work. You could go home and say, "I'm really tired." But is that what you would say in your native language? Probably not. My guess is there would be a fun way to express yourself in a more intense way, showing your strong feelings at the moment. That's what this is about. How to be more expressive in English. English speakers exaggerate constantly, and it's one of the biggest reasons their conversations feel warm, even slightly funny. To do that, we use hyperbole. And once you understand how it works, you'll start hearing it everywhere. And you'll have the words to do it yourself. Practice these expressions with my free training — Say What You Want in English → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ Full lesson and transcript → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/sound-more-expressive-in-english-humor-hyperbole   Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Be funnier & more expressive in English 02:09 Why hyperbole? 04:00 Hyperbole for taking too long 08:23 Hyperbole for extremes 12:33 Practice   --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.  
• How to Talk About Aging in English | Vocabulary for Honest Conversations 08.04.2026 14min

  Getting older comes up in conversations all the time (at least for me!) with friends, with family, with colleagues.  So let's talk about the real English expressions for conversations about aging — what you're noticing, what you're not sure about, and how to be there for a friend going through the same thing. Not just "I feel old." Expressions covered include: the march of time, take a toll, keep your wits about you, gain some distance, come into your own, and more. Practice these expressions with my free training — Say What You Want in English → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ Full lesson and transcript → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/how-to-talk-about-aging-in-english/   Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Getting older... 😬 02:03 Noticing aging 05:27 Uncertainty about aging 08:05 Reflecting on aging 11:14 Supporting others in aging   --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.
• English Phrases for Building Trust at Work 01.04.2026 23min

  If building trust in an English-speaking workplace has ever felt harder than it should be, there's a reason for that — and it's not your language skills. It's culture. In this episode, you'll learn six specific ways to build trust and influence in English-speaking professional environments like the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia. These aren't generic communication tips. Each step comes with the exact English phrases you need and an explanation of why these behaviors matter culturally — so you can make informed choices about how you communicate. You'll walk away with phrases for showing genuine interest in your colleagues, listening in a way that builds real connection, owning mistakes with confidence, sharing credit specifically and effectively, setting honest expectations without disappointing people, and leading by example. This is a lesson worth listening to more than once — keep a notebook nearby the first time through. Get my free training, Say What You Want in English: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ Full written lesson: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/english-phrases-for-building-trust-at-work Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Trust — a superpower 01:28 Invest time in each person 06:55 Listen to understand 11:06 Own mistakes 15:20 Share credit 17:08 Keep promises 20:00 Lead by example 22:30 How to practice   --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.
• How to Best Group Words & Pause for Clear English 25.03.2026 14min

  Sounds natural, more fluent, and clearer when speaking English with this one technique. One of the biggest challenges in English fluency is knowing how to group words and pause for natural-sounding English. If your speech feels too slow, too fast, or choppy, learning thought groups will help you master English pronunciation, improve English rhythm, and develop connected speech. In this lesson, you'll learn: ✔️ What thought groups are and how they improve English speaking practice ✔️ How to group words together to avoid awkward pauses ✔️ Where to pause naturally to improve stress and intonation ✔️ How to use English prosody for smooth, natural English speech If you've been struggling with speaking clearly in English, this lesson will show you exactly how to group words for fluency and confidence. Watch now to start improving your English communication skills and speak English fluently today! 🚀 Get the full lesson at https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/group-words-for-natural-sounding-english  And then practice using my FAVORITE speaking technique. You get it here for free: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ Also mentioned in this video: How to Think in English ➡️ https://youtu.be/Qop4k6m8gF0 Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Too fast or too slow? 02:00 What are thought groups? 03:25 How to identify thought groups 03:40 Pattern 1: Don't pause here 05:09 Pattern 2: Keep these together 07:08 Pattern 3: Use these to start groups 08:16 Pattern 4: Separate here 09:13 Pattern 5: Set these apart 10:03 Pattern 6: Extra info 11:51 Practice   --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.
• Stop Making This Common Grammar Mistake Speaking English | Word Forms 18.03.2026 24min

  Have you ever said "I want to improve my confident" or "she's a very competition person"? This is one of the most common grammar mistakes in English — using the wrong word form — and it's more fixable than you think. In this episode, you'll learn why this mistake happens even at an intermediate or advanced level, how English suffixes and word endings signal whether you need a noun or adjective, and one simple question that helps you choose the right word form every time. You'll also get three practical strategies to make the right choice automatic before you need it in a real conversation. This is a skill worth practicing — and once you see the pattern, you'll start noticing it everywhere. Find the full written lesson with word family examples and practice strategies at https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/english-word-form-mistakes-noun-adjective-suffixes Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Should you care about mistakes? 01:57 Mixing word forms 03:24 Suffixes (the fix) 05:02 Noun suffixes 07:25 Adjective suffixes 08:54 Word families 10:42 Choose the right form 14:56 Clues for quick decisions 19:44 Extra practice   --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. Get the full episode show notes at: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/english-word-form-mistakes-noun-adjective-suffixes If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/english-conversation-practice-film-awards If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.
• English Conversation Practice on Film Awards | Oscars, Golden Globes & More 11.03.2026 21min

  Even if you never watch the Oscars or Golden Globes, you're going to hear about them — at work, on social media, in the news. And the language people use in those conversations is full of idioms, phrasal verbs, and phrases that can catch you off guard. In this episode, you'll get the vocabulary you need to join any conversation about film award ceremonies — before, during, and after the show. You'll learn how to talk about predictions and pre-awards buzz (frontrunner, dark horse, gaining momentum), discuss nominations and who deserves to win (up for an award, overdue, big break), react to ceremony moments, and join post-show debates about who was snubbed, robbed, or swept the awards. Every phrase comes with clear examples so you can hear how native speakers actually use them — at a coffee break, in a text to a friend, or scrolling through social media the morning after. Ready to feel confident joining these conversations in English? Press play. Get the full lesson and transcript at https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/english-conversation-practice-film-awards Episode Timestamps: 0:00 English conversations on films 1:20 Pre-awards buzz 6:13 Nominations 8:55 Predictions 10:31 Performances 12:20 The awards ceremony 14:55 Reactions 17:56 Post-awards 20:13 Practice   ---   --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. Get the full episode show notes at: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/english-conversation-practice-film-awards If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/english-conversation-practice-film-awards If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.
• 11 English Idioms for Work: Sports-Related Phrases You Need to Know 04.03.2026 30min

  English idioms for work are full of sports language — and if you've ever nodded along in a meeting without fully understanding what someone meant, this episode is for you. In this lesson, you'll learn 11 of the most common sports-related phrases used in professional English conversations — including "knock it out of the park," "the ball is in your court," "down to the wire," and more. You'll discover not just what each idiom means, but when to use it, when to avoid it, and how power dynamics can change the meaning entirely. You'll also get practical guidance on which three idioms to start with and a simple approach for moving from understanding these phrases to using them naturally and confidently yourself. Find the full written lesson at https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/english-idioms-for-work-sports-phrases This is the kind of vocabulary that makes real conversations click — and easier to build than you might think. Episode Timestamps: 00:00 The power of idioms 02:28 Idiom: Game plan 04:45 Idiom: Kick things off 06:44 Idiom: Be on the same team 09:01 Idiom: Level the playing field 11:45 Idiom: Ball is in your court 13:44 Idiom: Step up to the plate 15:40 Idiom: Take eyes off the ball 17:15 Idiom: Play hardball 18:56 Idiom: Move the goalposts 20:29 Idiom: Down to the wire 22:36 Idiom: Knock it out of the park 24:00 How to learn & use     --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. Get the full episode show notes at: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/english-idioms-for-work-sports-phrases If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → ⁠https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.
• You Understand English But Can't Speak Fluently — Here's Why 18.02.2026 25min

  You understand English, but speaking still doesn't feel fluent? If you've studied for years and still can't speak English fluently when it matters, this episode will help you understand why, and how to start changing it. A lot of English learners can follow meetings, podcasts, and videos, but speaking feels different. Speaking is real-time. You have to find words fast, build sentences, and keep going even when you're nervous. That skill doesn't grow from understanding alone. It grows from the right kind of practice. In this episode, I explain 4 reasons you can understand English but can't speak fluently: You believe you need to study more before you can speak You believe confidence should come first You believe you're too busy to practice You believe you need a native speaker to practice with As you listen, you'll get simple practice steps you can use this week to start building your English fluency. Also, if Fluency School is the right next step for you, get the details here: speakconfidentenglish.com/fluencyschool   Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Is your English speaking level stuck? 01:37 Reason 1 06:46 Reason 2 11:10 Reason 3 15:55 Reason 4 21:48 What if you're highly shy in English? 23:44 Your next steps   --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. Get the full episode show notes at: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/you-understand-english-but-cant-speak-fluently-heres-why If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → ⁠https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.
• Making Plans in English Conversation: Essential Phrases 11.02.2026 24min

  Making plans in English conversation can feel awkward, especially when someone says, "We should get together sometime," and then nothing happens. In this episode, you'll learn how to make plans in English with a simple 6-stage process, so you can invite people naturally, read the signals, and follow through with confidence. You'll learn how to: start casually: "Are you free this weekend?" / "What are you up to this weekend?" use natural invitations (inviting in English): "How about we…?" and "I was thinking we could…" understand we should get together meaning (warm politeness vs real interest) understand let me check my calendar meaning (often not rejection) get specific with time + place so plans actually happen decline politely in English and how to reschedule in English send a simple follow up text in English before you meet   Related lesson: https://speakconfidentenglish.com/yes-no-maybe-in-english   Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Missed opportunities? 02:44 Initiating plans 04:40 Suggesting plans 07:43 Reading unspoken signals 13:53 Determining time/place 16:15 Responding to invitations 19:45 Finalizing plans 20:29 Following up 22:20 Recap   Want to learn with me? My next Fluency School program is coming soon. Get all the details here: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/fluencyschool/ --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. Get the full episode show notes at: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/making-plans-in-english-conversation If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → ⁠https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.
• Use "Just" in English: 6 Meanings and Tone Changes 04.02.2026 17min

  Learn to use just in English correctly, because it changes meaning and tone. In this Confident English lesson, you'll learn the real just meaning in 6 common situations—so you can sound natural in conversation and clear in emails at work. You hear "just" everywhere: "I just finished the report," "I just need five minutes." "That's just perfect." But the meaning of just depends on context. In this episode, you'll learn: how to use just for time (just recently) just in time and just missed (close calls) just vs only (limits and expectations) how to soften requests in polite English (especially email English) how hedging language can affect tone in professional English and workplace English how "just" can add emphasis in conversational English Perfect if you want practical English vocabulary you can use right away.   Episode Timestamps: 00:00 What makes 'just' tricky 01:40 The foundation 03:27 #1 for time 05:15 #2 for close calls 07:26 #3 for 'only this' 11:14 #4 for perfect fits 12:53 #5 for soft requests 14:53 #6 for strong feelings 16:23 Next steps   Want to learn with me? My next Fluency School program is coming soon. Get all the details here: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/fluencyschool/ --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. Get the full episode show notes at: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/use-just-in-english If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → ⁠https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.
• Speak English with Power: Tips on How Stop Sounding Nervous 21.01.2026 21min

  You can speak English with power and credibility, even if you feel nervous inside. This lesson shows you how to keep nerves from showing in your voice, so you sound confident and in control. If you want to speak English with authority and inspire trust but notice your voice shaking, speeding up, or rising at the end of sentences, this video will help. You'll learn how to adjust your breathing, pace, posture, and intonation so your voice sounds calm and confident, even when you don't feel perfectly calm. This doesn't mean you never feel nervous. Nervousness is normal, especially in high-stakes conversations like job interviews or presentations. Instead, this is about changing the habits that make nervousness audible, so your voice supports what you're saying instead of working against you. This lesson will help you: Stop the shakiness that makes you sound uncertain Use pauses that make you sound thoughtful (not lost) Sound calm and in control (even when your heart is racing) Stop sounding like you're asking a question when you're making a statement Practice in a way that actually shows you're improving Next step: To practice this even more, watch How to Group Words and Pause for Natural-Sounding English. It will help you slow down, breathe, and sound more confident when you speak. If you're listening and thinking, "This makes sense, but I know these habits will be hard to change on my own," that's exactly what we work on inside Fluency School. It's my in-depth speaking program where you practice voice control, pacing, and confidence in real conversations—with feedback and support. You can learn more here: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/fluencyschool Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Why Your Voice Betrays You When Nervous 01:22 Control Breathing 05:14 Slow Down & Pause 08:07 Open Your Posture 11:35 End Statements with Certainty 14:52 How to Practice     --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. Get the full episode show notes at: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/speak-english-with-authority If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → ⁠https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.
• American English Intonation | Reduce Interruptions & Send Clear Messages 14.01.2026 19min

  American English intonation helps your listener understand what you mean in real time. It signals things like: "I'm asking a question," "I'm not finished," "I'm building to a point," or "I'm open to your input." So if you've ever been interrupted mid-sentence, asked a question and gotten silence, or felt like your message didn't land even when your grammar was correct, this episode will help. We're focusing on rising intonation — one of the clearest parts of English intonation for turn taking, clarity, and connection. In this lesson, you'll learn: what prosody is (stress and rhythm + pitch in English + intonation) what rising intonation is and what it signals how to hold the floor and stop interruptions when you're explaining or listing ideas how to ask yes/no questions with question intonation that invites a response how to clarify in English naturally (repeat, confirm, check understanding) how rising intonation can soften polite requests and open dialogue when rising intonation becomes upspeak, and how to avoid upspeak so you sound confident and credible This is one of the most useful pronunciation tips for American pronunciation because it helps you speak clearly, sound natural, and reduce misunderstandings. Listen next: How to Group Words and Pause for Natural-Sounding English https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/group-words-for-natural-sounding-english/   Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Why are you getting interrupted? 02:19 Why grammar isn't enough. 04:21 What is rising intonation? 06:16 Rise to hold attention. 08:39 Rise to ask & clarify. 10:30 Rise to express emotion. 11:43 Rise to soften. 13:49 A note of caution. 17:31 How to practice.   --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. Get the full episode show notes at: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/american-english-rising-intonation If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → ⁠https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.
• Formal vs Informal English: When to Switch and How to Know 07.01.2026 31min

  Choosing between formal vs informal English can feel uncomfortable — especially when you don't want to sound unprofessional, too casual, or distant. In this episode, you'll learn how to recognize formal and informal English in real conversations and how to adjust your tone so it fits the situation. We'll focus on formal vs informal tone in English, why context matters more than rules, and how small language choices affect how your message is received. This episode helps you understand when to use formal English, when to use informal English, and how English tone and register guide those decisions — particularly in professional and social situations where the "right" tone isn't always obvious. If you've ever replayed conversations in your head or worried about sending the wrong signal, this episode will help you build stronger English communication skills and more natural English speaking confidence. Listen now and learn how to read the situation, trust your instincts, and choose words that feel right for the moment. And if you're looking for real-world speaking practice in a supportive, friendly community, join us inside the Confident Women Community. Details here → https://speakconfidentenglish.com/community Episode Timestamps: 00:00 What's the Difference 03:04 Tip: Read the Room 05:31 Formal vs Informal 07:59 When to Switch 14:19 Examples of Formal vs Informal 17:26 Semi-Formal 20:58 Quiz 21:53 Real-World Practice 26:41 Quiz 2   --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. Get the full episode show notes at: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/formal-vs-informal-english If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → ⁠https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.
• How to Talk About Your Priorities in English | Real-Life Conversations 17.12.2025 19min

  When someone asks why you made a change, said no, or chose a different direction, it can be hard to explain yourself clearly in English. In this episode, we talk about how to talk about priorities in English in real-life conversations — at work, with friends, and with family — without sounding vague, defensive, or unsure. You'll learn practical phrases to help you: explain what matters to you talk about values and priorities naturally set boundaries without over-explaining say no and explain decisions with confidence talk about changes in direction when your priorities shift This episode is especially helpful if you know what matters to you, but struggle to find the right words in the moment — especially when people ask questions or expect an explanation. By the end, you'll have clear, natural language you can use right away in everyday and professional conversations.   Episode Timestamps: 00:00 Which Priority Is Right? 02:27 Name Your Priorities 05:56 Explain Your Values 09:59 Set Boundaries 15:25 Explain When Priorities Shift   --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. Get the full episode show notes at: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/talk-about-your-priorities-in-english If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → ⁠https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.
• English Phrases for When Things Go Wrong | Everyday English 10.12.2025 21min

  Talking about disappointment in English can feel overwhelming, especially when things don't go as planned. In this episode, you'll learn natural English phrases for when things go wrong — so you can express your feelings clearly and confidently. We'll explore language for mild, moderate, and intense disappointment, plus phrases for difficult moments, emotional clarity, asking for support, and talking about setbacks in a calm and honest way. You'll also learn how to name what's happening inside when someone asks, "How are you holding up?" and how to stay authentic without oversharing. This lesson is perfect for everyday English conversations, challenging moments at work, or personal situations where you want to feel understood. If you've struggled to find the right words in English when things didn't work out, this episode will give you language you can use right away. If you want more support and real speaking practice, you're welcome to join the Confident Women Community: speakconfidentenglish.com/community   Episode Timestamps: 00:00 A Bummer But... 01:56 Levels of Disappointment 07:49 Dealing with Conversations & Emotions 12:05 Phrases to Recover (When You're Not Ready to Talk) 13:51 Asking for Support 17:01 Bouncing Back     --- Thank you for listening! I share new episodes every Wednesday. Make sure you click the follow button to get notified. Get the full episode show notes at: https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/english-phrases-for-when-things-go-wrong If you prefer video or want closed captions, you can watch all my episodes on YouTube → ⁠https://www.youtube.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/speakconfidentenglish/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/speakconfidentenglish⁠   MORE RESOURCES FOR YOU: How to Get the Confidence to Say What You Want in English (Free Fluency Training) → ⁠https://www.speakconfidentenglish.com/say-what-you-want-in-english/⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review! It really helps get encouragement and actionable advice to nonnative English speakers around the world.