Explore every episode of the podcast Real English Conversations Podcast | English Fluency For Newcomers And International Professionals

What would your life look like 90 days from now if you finally took a risk on yourself?

What if the biggest thing standing between you and the career, confidence, or life you want isn't a lack of ability—but the beliefs you've developed about what you can and cannot do?

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis Davies sits down with Chonsten Jennings, speaker, entrepreneur, and co-founder of The Purpose Engine, for a powerful conversation about confidence, personal growth, purpose, and overcoming the mental barriers that hold us back.

After years of coaching basketball players from college to the NBA, Chonsten walked away from a successful career when he realized it no longer fulfilled him. He faced significant personal and professional challenges before beginning a journey of rediscovering his identity, strengthening his faith, and finding a new direction through entrepreneurship, coaching, and helping others.

Today, he helps coaches and consultants build businesses that allow them to focus on the work they do best. His message is especially relevant to anyone who feels stuck, questions their abilities, or knows they have more potential than they're currently expressing.

For international professionals and English learners, this conversation also explores how confidence, authenticity, and the way we speak to ourselves can influence our communication, professional opportunities, and willingness to step outside our comfort zones.

🎯 In This Episode, You'll Learn:

💪 How to build confidence and overcome limiting beliefs that make you doubt your abilities or hold back from opportunities.

🧠 How to stop letting the fear of judgment control your decisions and focus on what you believe about yourself instead.

🎯 How to recognize your purpose and why it may be closer than you think.

🔄 Why a successful career can still leave you feeling unfulfilled and how to recognize when it's time for a change.

🌱 How difficult experiences can become valuable lessons that help you grow, develop resilience, and help others.

🗣️ How to use positive self-talk to challenge negative thinking and begin changing the way you approach your goals.

🤝 How to connect with people more naturally by finding common ground, being authentic, and focusing on what you share rather than what separates you.

💼 How to build a career or business around your strengths and values instead of pursuing success that doesn't feel meaningful.

⏳ How to approach personal growth over 90 days by breaking old habits, developing new ones, and working toward making those habits second nature.

🌎 How to build confidence in English communication and stop allowing fear of mistakes or other people's opinions to prevent you from speaking up.

🙏 How faith and perspective can help you navigate difficult seasons when you cannot yet see what comes next.

💪 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and the Fear of Being Judged

Have you ever wanted to speak up in a meeting, apply for a better job, share an idea, or start something new—but stopped yourself because you worried about what other people might think?

You're not alone.

Curtis and Chonsten discuss how easily our own thoughts can become obstacles. We may tell ourselves that we're not good enough, that we'll make mistakes, or that other people will judge us.

But what if we challenged those beliefs instead of automatically accepting them as facts?

Chonsten encourages listeners to imagine what they could achieve if they stopped making excuses, gave themselves permission to try, and began speaking to themselves in a more constructive way.

One of the most powerful reminders from the conversation is that even when you try your best, someone may still have something to say about you. The more important question is: What are you saying about yourself?

For English learners and international professionals, this lesson can be especially important. Your accent, mistakes, or fear of saying the wrong thing don't have to define your potential. You can keep developing your skills while also building the confidence to use them.

🎯 Finding Your Purpose: Why It May Be Closer Than You Think

Chonsten shares how coaching basketball players—even at the highest levels—eventually stopped feeling fulfilling. Although it was an opportunity many people would dream of, he realized that a prestigious career doesn't automatically mean you're doing the work that's right for you.

That realization led him to ask deeper questions about his identity, strengths, values, and what he wanted to contribute to other people.

He also explains why difficult experiences can provide valuable insight into what matters to us. The challenges we overcome can help us develop the understanding and abilities that allow us to support others.

Purpose isn't necessarily about reaching a particular income, title, or professional milestone. It's also about how you use your strengths to make a meaningful difference in other people's lives.

🗣️ How to Communicate with More Confidence at Work

Confidence isn't only important when you're changing careers or starting a business. It also affects how you communicate every day.

If you're an international professional, you might understand English well but hesitate to contribute during meetings. You may have the vocabulary to express your ideas but worry that your colleagues will judge your accent or notice your mistakes.

Chonsten emphasizes authenticity, common ground, and genuine human connection. Rather than trying to impress everyone or present a perfect version of yourself, focus on connecting with the person in front of you.

Curtis and Chonsten explore how communication, confidence, and personal growth can reinforce one another—and why continuing to practice is more valuable than allowing fear to keep you silent.

⏳ The 90-Day Challenge: What Could Change If You Took a Risk on Yourself?

One of the standout moments in this episode is Chonsten's challenge to imagine what could happen if you committed to improving something important over the next 90 days.

He describes a three-stage approach to building habits:

• Days 1–30: Work on breaking an old habit.

• Days 31–60: Begin building a new habit.

• Days 61–90: Continue practicing until the new behavior starts to feel more natural.

The process won't always be comfortable, and progress may not happen exactly as you expect. But trying gives you experience, reveals where you can improve, and helps you build the confidence to continue.

Ask yourself: If you committed to improving your communication, confidence, or career over the next 90 days, what might become possible?

You don't need to have every answer today. You need to be willing to take the next step.

👤 About Chonsten Jennings

Chonsten Jennings is a speaker, entrepreneur, and co-founder of The Purpose Engine, which helps coaches and consultants manage their businesses so they can focus on their core work.

After coaching basketball players from the college level to the NBA, Chonsten made the difficult decision to leave a career that no longer fulfilled him. His subsequent journey of personal growth, faith, entrepreneurship, and rediscovering purpose now informs the work he does to help others grow.

He shares insights on leadership, accountability, personal development, confidence, and finding purpose through life's challenges. He is also working on his book, The Proximity of Purpose: Closer Than You Think.

🔗 Connect with Chonsten Jennings

🌐 The Purpose Engine: https://thepurposeengine.co/

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/Chonstenjennings/

🎙️ Learn English with Real English Conversations

The Real English Conversations Podcast helps intermediate and advanced English learners, immigrants, and international professionals develop the communication skills they need to succeed in English-speaking countries and international workplaces.

Hosted by Curtis Davies, an English teacher, fluency coach, and pronunciation specialist with over 12 years of experience, the podcast focuses on real-world English, listening comprehension, vocabulary, pronunciation, confidence, fluency, and professional communication.

🚀 Ready to Build Your English Confidence?

If you're ready to move beyond simply listening to English and want structured, personalized support, explore the 90-Day Next Level English Challenge.

Work one-on-one with Curtis to improve your fluency, listening, pronunciation, confidence, and professional communication. The program also incorporates an AI feedback coach designed to support your learning and progress between lessons.

🎁 Podcast listeners can get 50% OFF with code: 90DAY50

👉 Explore the 90-Day Next Level English Challenge:
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

🎯 Book a Trial Lesson:
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🎧 Listen & Follow the Podcast

▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

🌐 Website: https://realenglishconversations.com/

⭐ If You Enjoyed This Episode

Subscribe to the Real English Conversations Podcast, share this episode with someone who needs a reminder of their potential, and leave a review to help more English learners and international professionals discover the show.

Remember: Your current circumstances, your mistakes, and the doubts you have today don't have to determine what you're capable of achieving tomorrow.

What would your life look like 90 days from now if you took a risk on yourself?

🎙️ Learn English with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

If you're serious about becoming more fluent, confident, and natural in English, I can help you take the next step.

⭐ Book a Trial English Lesson

Start with a personalized lesson focused on your specific English goals:

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🚀 90-Day Next Level English Challenge — 50% OFF

If you're ready for serious one-on-one support, you can join my 90-Day Next Level English Challenge.

Use coupon code:

90DAY50

for 50% OFF.

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

📚 Explore My English Courses

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🎧 Podcast + Phrasal Verb Audio Course Bundle

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🌐 Real English Conversations

https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Listen to the Podcast

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Apple Podcasts:
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📱 Follow Real English Conversations

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LinkedIn:
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Patreon:
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⭐ If You Enjoyed This Episode...

Don't just listen—use the episode to improve your English.

Listen again, write down 5 new expressions, repeat some of the sentences out loud, and try using the new vocabulary in your own conversations.

And if you enjoyed the episode, please follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with another English learner who could benefit from authentic English listening practice.

Thanks for listening to the Real English Conversations Podcast!

— Teacher Curtis

What if becoming a better communicator isn't about talking more?

What if it's about asking better questions, listening more carefully, and creating an environment where people actually want to share?

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis Davies sits down with Andres Lares, CEO and Managing Partner of Shapiro Negotiations Institute, to explore the communication skills that can change the outcome of a negotiation, job interview, business meeting, presentation, or difficult workplace conversation.

Andrés brings a unique perspective to this conversation because English is his second language. Originally from Venezuela, he understands many of the challenges international professionals face when communicating in English — while also having extensive experience in negotiation, influence, deal coaching, and working with organizations across industries and cultures.

And one of the biggest lessons from this conversation?

You don't necessarily become more influential by talking more.

Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is ask a great question — and genuinely listen to the answer.

🎯 In This Episode, You'll Learn:

🌎 Why pressure can backfire — and why making someone feel comfortable and in control can lead to better conversations and more information.

🔥 The "Grill vs. Barbecue" approach — Andrés explains why slowing down, building rapport, and developing genuine curiosity can produce better results than trying to get everything immediately.

🪓 Why sharpening the axe matters — how preparation before a conversation can make the actual conversation much more effective.

💬 How to ask better questions at work — including why broad, open-ended questions can encourage people to reveal more useful information.

👂 How to listen without judgment — and why acknowledging what someone says doesn't mean you have to agree with them.

🧠 How to stay composed under pressure — instead of immediately becoming defensive, ask questions such as "Tell me more about that" or "Why is that important to you?"

🎭 How to get beyond rehearsed answers — by asking questions differently and changing the environment or setting.

🕵️ What negotiators and investigators have in common — preparation, questioning, listening, empathy, and emotional intelligence.

💼 How these skills apply to job interviews, negotiations, meetings, and presentations.

🌎 Why these communication principles work across cultures — and which skills are valuable almost anywhere in the world.

💪 How preparation and confidence work together — and why confidence without preparation isn't enough.

👔 What makes a great leader — including trust, integrity, capacity, and the ability to make people believe in you.

🔥 The "Grill vs. Barbecue" Communication Lesson

One of the most memorable concepts in this episode is Andrés' "grill vs. barbecue" analogy.

When we're trying to get information, negotiate, interview someone, or have an important conversation, our instinct can be to turn up the heat.

Ask the question.

Get the answer.

Move on.

But Andrés explains why taking the "barbecue" approach can be much more effective.

Instead of immediately turning up the pressure, you take the time to build rapport, develop genuine curiosity, and understand what the other person actually wants.

The result?

People often become more comfortable, more willing to share, and more open during the conversation.

💬 One of the Most Powerful Communication Techniques

Andrés gives a remarkably simple strategy for moments when someone says something unexpected during a negotiation or important conversation:

Ask another question instead of immediately defending yourself.

Rather than reacting, you can say:

"Tell me a little bit more about that."

or

"Why is that important to you?"

This gives you more information, creates space for empathy and emotional intelligence, and can prevent you from saying something defensive that you later regret.

🎯 How to Ask Better Questions

Andrés recommends starting with broad questions and allowing the other person to decide where they want to take the conversation.

For example, instead of asking:

"What's more important to you — price or payment timing?"

you might simply ask:

"What's important to you in this negotiation?"

Then listen.

If they say "price," don't immediately start negotiating price.

Ask:

"What else is important to you?"

This allows you to discover more of the other person's priorities before you start responding to them.

👂 Acknowledge Without Accepting

Another powerful lesson is the difference between acknowledging someone's perspective and agreeing with it.

You can say:

"I understand what you're saying."

"Thank you for sharing that."

"That's an interesting perspective."

without necessarily saying:

"I agree with you."

Andrés explains that listening without immediately judging or reacting can keep the "information spigot" open. If people feel that everything they say will immediately be judged, they have less reason to continue sharing.

🎭 Getting Beyond Rehearsed Answers

This is especially relevant for job interviews.

Andrés explains that candidates are often prepared for predictable questions about their strengths, weaknesses, experience, and motivations.

The result can be highly rehearsed answers.

One way to get beyond this is to ask the question differently.

Another is to change the environment.

A formal office interview can create a very different communication dynamic from a more informal conversation over coffee.

Changing the context can change the tone — and potentially lead to more authentic answers.

🌎 Communication Across Cultures

For international professionals, this conversation contains an especially important message:

While communication styles can differ between cultures, Andrés believes that some fundamental skills are valuable almost everywhere:

Preparation.
Great questions.
Genuine curiosity.
Listening.
Empathy.
Emotional intelligence.

The cultural differences can then be layered on top of these fundamentals.

Whether you're communicating with colleagues in the United States, China, Germany, Brazil, or somewhere else, these core skills can improve your effectiveness.

💪 Confidence, English & Professional Communication

Curtis and Andrés also discuss something many international professionals struggle with:

The fear of saying the wrong thing in English.

Andrés makes an important distinction: confidence matters, but it needs to be supported by preparation and actual skill.

For international professionals, your accent or vocabulary doesn't necessarily determine how influential you can be.

Preparation, passion, good ideas, and the ability to communicate with the other person in mind can have a much greater impact.

👔 What Makes a Great Leader?

Andrés explains that leadership isn't necessarily about having the highest title or being the person who gives everyone orders.

People follow leaders because they believe in them.

That requires capacity, confidence, and integrity — the sense that the person leading them is capable and also has their best interests in mind.

For international professionals looking to advance their careers, this is a powerful reminder:

Communication isn't simply about speaking perfect English.

It's about demonstrating that you're prepared, capable, thoughtful, trustworthy, and able to engage other people effectively.

👤 About Andres Lares

Andres Lares is the CEO and Managing Partner of Shapiro Negotiations Institute, a company focused on negotiation, communication, influence, persuasion, presentations, and professional development.

Andrés brings an international perspective to his work and is himself a second-language English speaker, making this conversation particularly relevant for global professionals working across languages and cultures.

Shapiro Negotiations Institute has expanded globally and now works across multiple languages and international markets.

🔗 Connect with Andrés & Shapiro Negotiations Institute

🌐 Website: https://www.shapironegotiations.com/

🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shapiro-negotiations-institute/home/

🎙️ Learn English with Real English Conversations

The Real English Conversations Podcast helps intermediate and advanced English learners, immigrants, and international professionals develop the English communication skills they need to succeed in English-speaking countries and international workplaces.

Hosted by Curtis Davies, the podcast focuses on real-world English, listening comprehension, vocabulary, pronunciation, confidence, fluency, and professional communication.

🚀 Want Personalized Help With Your English?

If you're ready to move beyond simply listening to English and want structured, personalized coaching, check out the 90-Day Next Level English Challenge.

You'll work one-on-one with Curtis to improve your fluency, listening, pronunciation, confidence, and professional communication — with the added support of an AI feedback coach designed to help track your progress and provide additional feedback between lessons.

🎁 Podcast listeners can get 50% OFF with code: 90DAY50

👉 Learn more:
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

🎯 Book a Trial Lesson:
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🎧 Listen & Follow the Podcast

▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

🌐 Website: https://realenglishconversations.com

⭐ If You Enjoyed This Episode

Subscribe to Real English Conversations, share this episode with another international professional, and leave a review.

And remember:

You don't always become a better communicator by talking more. Sometimes you become a better communicator by asking better questions — and genuinely listening to the answers.

What if the English you've been listening to could actually become the English you speak?

What if you stopped treating podcasts as something you simply listen to…

…and started using them as a complete English-learning system?

That is exactly what Diego Nieto did.

Diego grew up in Cabimas, Zulia, Venezuela, and became fascinated by English as a child. Years later, when he was searching for a way to improve his listening, he discovered the Real English Conversations Podcast.

At first, he couldn't understand everything he heard.

So he created his own system.

He would listen to an episode without looking at the transcription, write down everything he could understand, leave blanks where he couldn't understand the words, and then compare his version with the actual Real English Conversations transcription.

He highlighted what he understood, identified what he missed, learned the vocabulary, listened again, and then used shadowing to imitate the way Curtis and the guests actually spoke.

He wasn't just studying English.

He was training his brain to hear real English, understand real English, reproduce real English, and eventually communicate naturally in English.

Diego says that by doing this consistently—sometimes spending two to three hours a day with the podcast—he built the foundation that eventually allowed him to communicate with international people, work in English, and develop the confidence to use the language in the real world.

And today?

Diego is an English teacher himself.

🌎 From a Young English Learner in Venezuela to an English Teacher

Diego's story began long before he discovered the podcast.

As a child, he became fascinated by English through movies, music, and video games. Without having easy access to formal English courses or even reliable internet at home, he used whatever resources were available—including an English-Spanish dictionary—to figure out words and build his vocabulary.

Eventually, that curiosity became something much bigger.

When Diego finally gained regular internet access, he started searching for ways to improve his listening.

That's when he discovered Real English Conversations.

And something clicked.

He realized that understanding English on paper wasn't enough.

He wanted to understand people when they actually spoke.

🎧 The Real English Conversations Method Diego Used

This is the part of Diego's story every English learner should pay attention to.

He didn't simply press play.

He turned each episode into a learning lesson.

His process looked like this:

1. Listen BEFORE reading the transcription

Diego wanted to train himself to understand English the first time he heard it.

So he deliberately avoided reading the transcript beforehand.

He listened and wrote down what he could actually understand.

Anything he couldn't understand became a blank.

2. Compare his understanding with the real transcript

After listening, Diego opened the transcription and compared it with what he had written.

He could immediately see:

✅ What he understood

❌ What he missed

🧠 Which vocabulary he didn't know

👂 Which sounds he couldn't recognize

That gave him immediate feedback about his listening ability.

3. Learn the missing vocabulary

Instead of simply moving on when he didn't understand something, Diego investigated it.

He looked up words and expressions and began understanding how they were actually being used in natural conversation.

One example was the word "guys."

He learned that although it can have a literal meaning associated with "chicos" or "men," native speakers frequently use it naturally when addressing a group of people.

He wasn't just memorizing vocabulary.

He was learning how English actually works in real communication.

4. Shadow the speakers

Diego then took pieces of the conversations and repeated them.

He tried to reproduce the way Curtis and the other speakers communicated—including pronunciation, rhythm and intonation.

He even developed the idea that:

If I can learn to speak like the people in these conversations, I can learn to communicate confidently too.

He practiced until he started hearing and feeling the difference in his own English.

5. Repeat until it becomes a pattern

This wasn't a one-time exercise.

Diego made it part of his routine.

At one point, he was spending two to three hours a day listening, studying, and working with the podcast.

That consistency became one of the biggest factors in his transformation.

🧠 He Was Secretly Training ALL FOUR English Skills

One of the fascinating discoveries Diego made was that this process wasn't only improving his listening.

He realized he was training:

Listening → hearing authentic English

Writing → writing what he could understand

Reading → studying the transcription

Speaking → shadowing and reproducing the conversations

In other words, one authentic conversation became a multi-skill English lesson.

And this is exactly why authentic English input can become much more powerful when you know how to work with it.

🔥 The Moment English Became REAL

For years, Diego knew English.

But there is a huge difference between:

knowing English

and

being able to use English.

He eventually began interacting with English speakers in real life.

At first, he was nervous.

He describes feeling his heart race when he thought about speaking with foreigners.

But he pushed himself into those uncomfortable situations anyway.

Those real interactions became another important part of building his confidence.

Then something changed.

People started asking him:

"How did you learn English?"

They were surprised by his ability to communicate.

And Diego realized that the years of listening, transcribing, studying, shadowing, and practicing were actually producing something real.

💼 English Changed His Professional Life

Eventually, English became much more than a personal goal.

It became a professional skill.

Diego began working in English, including appointment setting and real estate-related work with international clients.

He was able to communicate with people over the phone, schedule calls, and provide value professionally.

That work became a stepping stone toward a completely different future.

Today, Diego teaches English at a language institute in Venezuela, working with children, teenagers and adults.

He now gives his own students many of the same strategies that helped him learn. 👨‍🏫 From Student to Teacher

This may be the most powerful part of Diego's transformation.

He started as a young Venezuelan who simply wanted to understand English.

He became a learner.

Then a communicator.

Then a bilingual professional.

And now…

He is teaching English to other people.

He understands the frustration of struggling with structures.

He understands the fear of speaking.

He understands what it feels like to know something intellectually but not be able to use it automatically.

And now he can use those experiences to help other learners.

💡 Diego's English-Learning Secrets

Beyond the podcast, Diego shares several habits that helped him continue developing:

🎧 Listening to English consistently

🎵 Learning song lyrics and singing along

🪞 Speaking to himself in the mirror

🧠 Thinking and speaking to himself in English

🗣️ Repeating authentic English

🌎 Talking with foreigners whenever possible

📱 Using language-learning technology

🔁 Creating consistent patterns of practice

And perhaps most importantly:

He didn't stop when he became afraid.

He kept going.

💥 The Biggest Lesson: Confidence Comes From Evidence

One of the biggest misconceptions about English confidence is that you need to feel confident before you start speaking.

Diego's story suggests almost the opposite.

He became confident because he repeatedly gave himself evidence that he could do it.

He listened.

He practiced.

He made mistakes.

He spoke to people.

He survived uncomfortable conversations.

He improved.

Then he did it again.

And again.

Eventually, the person who once worried about speaking English became the person other people were asking:

"How did you learn English so well?"

That is a completely different identity.

🎯 What You'll Learn in This Episode

By listening to Diego's story, you'll discover:

✅ How to turn an English podcast into a structured learning lesson

✅ Why you should listen BEFORE looking at the transcription

✅ How Diego used transcriptions to identify exactly what he wasn't hearing

✅ How to use shadowing to improve pronunciation, rhythm and intonation

✅ How one conversation can train listening, writing, reading and speaking

✅ How to learn vocabulary from real English instead of isolated word lists

✅ How Diego went from understanding English on paper to understanding spoken English

✅ How he overcame his fear of speaking with foreigners

✅ How English became a professional skill that opened new career opportunities

✅ How he went from English learner to English teacher

✅ Why repetition and consistency matter so much

✅ How to build confidence through real-world evidence

✅ What Diego would tell the younger version of himself

🚀 What If You Didn't Have to Do This Alone?

There is something important about Diego's story.

He did an incredible amount of this work by himself.

He found the podcast.

He built his own study system.

He transcribed conversations.

He researched vocabulary.

He shadowed the speakers.

He practiced for hours.

He pushed himself into uncomfortable situations.

And he succeeded.

But Diego also recognizes something important:

Having a coach would have accelerated the process.

When Curtis asked whether working one-on-one with a teacher could have helped him reach his goal faster, Diego immediately answered:

"Faster, way faster."

And that is exactly why the 90-Day Next Level English Challenge exists.

You don't have to spend years trying to figure everything out by yourself.

Instead, you can have:

👨‍🏫 Personal 1-on-1 Coaching with Curtis

Work directly with Curtis Davies, the teacher and confidence coach behind the Real English Conversations Podcast, and get personalized guidance based on YOUR English, YOUR goals, and YOUR communication challenges.

🤖 Your New AI Feedback Coach

The 90-Day Challenge now includes an AI assistant coach designed to provide additional feedback after your lessons and help track strengths and weaknesses as you progress.

🎯 A 90-Day Structure

Instead of randomly consuming more English content and hoping your English improves, you have a structured period of focused practice and coaching.

🗣️ Build the English You Actually Need

The goal isn't simply to know more English.

It's to help you communicate more naturally, clearly, and confidently in real conversations and professional situations.

🔥 PODCAST LISTENER SPECIAL — 50% OFF

If Diego's story made you think:

"I want to finally take my English seriously."

This is your opportunity.

For a limited time, Real English Conversations podcast listeners can get:

50% OFF THE 90-DAY NEXT LEVEL ENGLISH CHALLENGE

Use coupon code:

90DAY50

The discount applies to the available 90-Day Challenge packages.

👉 Join the 90-Day Next Level English Challenge:
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

👉 Not sure if the program is right for you? Start with a Trial Lesson:
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

Don't struggle alone.

If you've been listening to the podcast for months or even years but still feel like your English isn't matching your intelligence, career ambitions, or potential, the next step may not be another podcast episode.

It may be personalized coaching and consistent accountability.

Diego built an extraordinary level of English by taking authentic English input and turning it into deliberate practice.

Now you can take that same philosophy and add a real teacher, structured coaching and AI-supported feedback to your learning process.

Your next 90 days can be different.

🎙️ About Diego Nieto

Diego Nieto is an English teacher and digital professional from Cabimas, Zulia, Venezuela.

After beginning his English journey as a child, Diego spent years developing his skills independently through movies, music, video games, dictionaries, online content, authentic English conversations, and extensive listening practice.

He discovered the Real English Conversations Podcast and used its conversations and transcriptions as a major part of his English-learning routine.

Today, Diego works as an English teacher and has experience across sales, real estate, video editing, filmmaking and digital work.

His story is a powerful example of how consistent language learning can become much more than learning another language—it can become a pathway to new confidence, professional opportunities, and the ability to help others.

🎙️ Learn English With Curtis Davies

Real English Conversations helps global professionals and English learners communicate clearly, confidently and naturally in workplace, professional, and everyday situations.

🌎 Website:
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎯 90-Day Next Level English Challenge — 50% OFF with code 90DAY50:
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

🎓 Book a Trial Lesson:
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🎧 Podcast + Phrasal Verb Audio Course Bundle:
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⭐ If Diego's Story Inspired You...

Don't just listen to this episode and say:

"I wish my English were that good."

Ask yourself:

"What could happen if I actually started practicing differently for the next 90 days?"

Listen.

Study.

Repeat.

Speak.

Get feedback.

Build the habits.

And keep going.

Diego's journey started with curiosity.

It became a commitment.

And eventually, that commitment changed his professional life.

Your starting point doesn't have to determine where your English can take you.

👉 Start your 90-Day Next Level English Challenge:
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Use code 90DAY50 for 50% OFF.

 

What does it really take to become a trusted and valuable professional on a global team?

In today's workplace, having strong technical skills isn't always enough. If you work remotely for an international company, especially a U.S.-based organization, your ability to communicate proactively, take ownership, solve problems, build trust, and adapt to AI can have a major impact on your professional success.

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis talks with Marc Snegg, founder and CEO of Ground Game, about what it really takes to succeed as an international professional on a high-performing global team.

Marc has more than 25 years of experience building businesses and organizations and has participated in more than $200 million in commercial real estate transactions. His work with Ground Game focuses on helping U.S. companies build high-performing global teams across sales, revenue operations, marketing, operations, HR, IT, and customer success.

But Marc's approach isn't simply about outsourcing work to people in other countries.

He believes companies can build fully integrated global teams by combining exceptional talent with strong management, clear systems, shared culture, and meaningful opportunities for professional growth.

In this conversation, Marc shares practical advice about communication across cultures, building trust with managers, being proactive at work, using AI to become more valuable, developing a service mindset, and finding ways to improve the organization around you.

And for international professionals who sometimes hesitate to speak up in meetings or worry about making mistakes, Marc gives a very practical set of actions you can begin using tomorrow.

This is an especially valuable episode for anyone who wants to improve their Business English, workplace communication, confidence, leadership skills, and career opportunities in an international environment.

🌎 What Does It Take to Succeed on a Global Team?

Many international professionals have excellent technical skills, but working successfully with an international company requires more than simply completing your assigned tasks.

Marc explains that communication, ownership, and responsibility are what begin to separate a good employee from someone who becomes highly valuable to an organization.

That includes communicating proactively, asking questions when you're stuck, raising problems early, offering thoughtful recommendations, and trying to understand the bigger context of the organization.

Trust is also built through small, repeated actions: doing what you say you're going to do, consistently showing up and keeping your commitments.

💬 The Communication Mistakes International Professionals Can Make

One of the most valuable sections of this episode focuses on cross-cultural communication.

Marc explains that some professionals may come from cultures where communication with managers is more hierarchical or where people are more reserved about raising problems or asking questions.

In a U.S. workplace, however, Marc says proactive communication can be highly valued.

Instead of waiting until the last minute to tell your manager there's a problem, he recommends communicating early and explaining:

What happened → What you've tried → What the problem is → What you recommend → What you need

This demonstrates that you've already thought about the problem rather than simply handing it to your manager to solve.

💡 An important Business English lesson:

Instead of saying:

"I don't know how to do this. What should I do?"

You can communicate more professionally by saying something like:

"I've been working on this, and I've run into a problem. Here's what I've tried, here's what I think we could do next, and here's what I need to move forward."

That difference can dramatically change how your communication is perceived.

🤝 How Do You Become a Trusted Professional?

Marc explains that trust isn't usually created through one huge achievement.

It's built through small, repetitive actions.

Do what you say you'll do.

Show up.

Communicate.

Raise problems early.

Ask for feedback.

Be coachable.

And don't wait for someone else to tell you how you can improve.

Marc encourages professionals to proactively ask:

"Tell me something I can improve."

That willingness to receive feedback and put it into practice can help build stronger relationships with managers, colleagues, and the organization.

🤖 How AI Can Make You More Valuable at Work

AI is one of the most important themes in this conversation.

Marc's advice isn't simply to be afraid of AI replacing your job.

Instead, he encourages professionals to learn how to work with AI and build with it.

He describes tools such as ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini as potential thought partners and intelligent tutors that can help professionals think through problems, learn new information, explore solutions, and improve the way they work.

But Marc takes this one step further.

He believes professionals should not only learn how to use AI — they should learn how to build with AI.

For example, if you're repeatedly doing a manual task at work, you can use AI to explore whether a tool or workflow could automate or simplify part of that process.

The more capable you become at interacting with and building with AI, Marc argues, the more value you can potentially bring to your organization.

🧠 AI + Human Coaching

Ground Game is already using AI as part of its coaching and development systems.

Marc describes a sales coaching system that listens to calls and provides feedback on what someone did well and what they could improve.

That feedback can then become a starting point for live coaching conversations.

Marc explains that combining AI feedback with human coaching has helped people develop their skills more quickly.

This creates an interesting model for the future of professional development:

AI can provide information, analysis, and feedback — while humans provide context, judgment, relationships, and coaching.

💎 The Four Ground Game Core Values

Marc also explains the four principles that guide Ground Game:

Dignity

Every person has inherent value regardless of their country, position or title.

For Marc, dignity means treating people with respect while also being honest and willing to provide direct feedback when something needs to improve.

Service

Leadership is about serving others.

Marc describes service as looking for ways to solve problems, share information, document what you learn, take on new challenges, and make the organization stronger.

Creativity

Don't simply accept:

"That's the way we've always done it."

Creativity means looking for better ways to solve problems, testing new ideas, experimenting with new tools and empowering the people closest to the work to improve it.

Client Focus

The purpose of a business is to solve problems for its clients.

That means listening carefully, understanding the client's needs, communicating clearly, and taking responsibility when something goes wrong.

For Marc, it's not simply about being busy or completing activities — it's about delivering results and creating value.

📈 The Power of Definiteness of Purpose

Ground Game's leadership and mindset curriculum is inspired by the 13 principles from Napoleon Hill's Think and Grow Rich.

Marc focuses particularly on the idea of having a definite purpose.

He explains that rather than having a vague desire for something, you can become much more focused by defining exactly what you want, when you want it, what you're willing to give in exchange for it, and what your plan of action will be.

He also describes the practice of repeatedly reading your goal and visualizing what achieving it would look and feel like.

For Marc, this isn't simply a historical business philosophy — it's something he incorporates into Ground Game's culture and revisits with his team.

🚀 Marc's 3 Practical Actions for International Professionals

Near the end of the conversation, Marc gives listeners a very practical challenge.

If you're an international professional who has strong skills and good English but still hesitates in meetings or doesn't feel completely confident on a global team, Marc recommends several simple actions.

1️⃣ Turn Your Camera On

When you're working remotely, make your presence visible.

Marc believes keeping your camera on demonstrates engagement and helps recreate some of the connection that naturally happens when people work together in person.

2️⃣ Speak at Least Once in Every Meeting

You don't need to dominate the meeting.

Ask a thoughtful question.

Offer an observation.

Summarize something you've heard.

Volunteer for a next step.

Or simply share an idea.

The important thing is to participate.

3️⃣ Send Proactive Updates & Bring One Improvement Idea

Keep your manager informed about:

• What you've completed
• What you're working on
• What's blocking you
• What you recommend doing next

And then look for one small thing you can improve.

Maybe the team is losing time, repeating manual work, or making the same mistake.

Use AI to explore a possible solution and bring the idea forward.

You don't need to reinvent the entire company.

Just demonstrate that you're engaged, proactive, and thinking about how to make things better.

🎯 What You'll Learn in This Episode

By listening to this conversation, you'll learn:

✅ What separates a task-completing employee from a highly trusted global professional

✅ Why proactive communication is so important when working remotely

✅ How to communicate problems to your manager without simply handing them the problem

✅ How cultural differences can influence workplace communication

✅ Why honesty and transparency can build professional trust

✅ How to become more coachable and actively seek feedback

✅ How to use ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini as workplace thought partners

✅ Why learning to build with AI could increase your professional value

✅ How human coaching and AI feedback can work together

✅ What Dignity, Service, Creativity and Client Focus look like in practice

✅ How a service mindset can improve leadership and career development

✅ How to apply the principle of definiteness of purpose to your professional goals

✅ Three practical actions you can start using immediately to become more engaged on a global team

💬 Memorable Communication Lesson

One of the clearest lessons from Marc's conversation is:

Don't disappear when there's a problem. Communicate early.

If you don't know something, be honest.

If you're stuck, explain what you've tried.

If you need help, ask.

If you have an idea, share it.

If you make a mistake, take responsibility.

And if you see something that could be improved, raise your hand.

These behaviors don't require perfect English.

They require clarity, courage, preparation, and proactive communication.

👤 About Marc Snegg

Marc Snegg is the founder and CEO of Ground Game, where he helps U.S. companies build high-performing global teams across sales, revenue operations, marketing, operations, HR, IT, and customer success.

Marc is a serial entrepreneur and organization builder with more than 25 years of experience and has participated in more than $200 million in commercial real estate transactions.

His work combines global talent, management systems, culture, professional development, and increasingly AI-powered workflows.

Marc's approach is centered on creating integrated teams where talented international professionals can contribute meaningfully, develop their skills, and create measurable value.

🔗 Connect with Marc Snegg

🌐 Ground Game:
https://www.groundgamesales.com/

🌎 Ground Game Global:
https://www.groundgameglobal.com/

💼 Marc Snegg on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcsnegg/

Marc also mentioned the Ground Game Global Playbook and additional resources for professionals interested in global teams and sales development.

🎙️ Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

Are you working for an international company or living in an English-speaking country?

Do you understand English but still hesitate in meetings, struggle to express your ideas or wish you could communicate more naturally and confidently?

That's exactly what I help professionals work on.

⭐ Book a Trial English Lesson

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This program is designed to help you speak more clearly, confidently, and naturally, reduce hesitation, improve pronunciation and speaking flow, and develop stronger communication habits for professional situations.

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⭐ If You Enjoyed This Episode...

Don't just listen to this episode — practice what you learned.

The next time you're in an English meeting, try speaking at least once.

The next time you're stuck on a problem, communicate it early instead of waiting.

The next time you complete a task, ask yourself:

"How could I improve this?"

And the next time you use AI, don't just ask it for an answer. Try using it as a thought partner, tutor or builder.

If you enjoyed this conversation with Marc Snegg, follow the Real English Conversations Podcast, leave a review and share this episode with another international professional or English learner who could benefit from it.

Thanks for listening!

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to experience another country as a local rather than as a tourist?

In this special episode from the archives, Curtis and Former co-host Amy talk about their incredible three-month experience in Colombia.

They traveled to Barranquilla on Colombia's Caribbean coast to experience Carnival, but instead of simply staying in hotels and visiting tourist attractions, they stayed with friends and their families.

That allowed them to experience Colombian culture from the inside—from everyday social activities and local food to music, dancing, street parties, and Carnival celebrations.

They even had the opportunity to learn cumbia with a group preparing for the Carnival parades and were invited to participate in the festivities.

But this episode isn't only about travel.

It's also a fantastic English listening lesson.

You'll hear Curtis and Former co-host Amy naturally describing experiences, telling stories, asking questions, expressing opinions, comparing cultures, and explaining things to each other—all without the scripted language you normally find in English textbooks.

And near the end of the conversation, they discuss one of the most interesting questions for language learners:

Does living in another country automatically make you fluent in the language?

Former Co-host Amy shares her honest experience of spending time in full Spanish immersion and explains why simply being surrounded by a language wasn't enough to produce the level of improvement she expected. She realized that additional input—such as reading, studying, and getting more exposure to the language—was necessary to maximize the benefits of immersion.

That's an important lesson for anyone learning English today.

🎯 In This Episode You'll Learn:

✅ How to improve your English listening through real travel conversations
✅ How native speakers describe travel experiences and tell stories naturally
✅ Vocabulary and expressions connected to travel, culture and everyday life
✅ How to talk about cultural differences and experiences
✅ Why staying with local people can create a very different travel experience
✅ How to describe festivals, music, dancing and local traditions in English
✅ How to use English to explain personal experiences and memorable moments
✅ What happens when you spend extended time immersed in another language
✅ Why language immersion alone may not be enough to achieve fluency
✅ Why reading, studying, and additional exposure can make immersion much more effective 

Colombia, Carnival & Cultural Immersion

Curtis and Former Co-host Amy traveled to Barranquilla because they wanted to experience its famous Carnival, described in the conversation as the world's second-largest carnival after Rio de Janeiro.

But arriving early and staying with local friends allowed them to experience much more than the Carnival itself.

They talk about:

🎵 The incredible amount of music throughout Barranquilla
🍕 Going out with local friends for movies, pizza, and drinks
🍳 Trying traditional Colombian arepas
💃 Learning cumbia with a Carnival group
🥁 Experiencing local music and dance
🎉 Street parties and Carnival celebrations
🔊 Massive sound systems and DJs playing in the streets
🏖️ Spending time in Santa Marta
🌅 Enjoying the beaches and sunsets
🏛️ Their short visit to Cartagena

One of the biggest lessons from the trip was that some of their most memorable experiences came from living like locals rather than simply visiting tourist attractions.

💬 English Learning Lesson: Immersion Doesn't Automatically Create Fluency

One of the most valuable parts of this conversation for language learners comes near the end.

Curtis asks Former Co-Host Amy what effect three months in a Spanish-speaking environment had on her language learning.

Her answer is surprisingly honest.

She explains that during the periods when she was staying with Spanish-speaking families, she was communicating in Spanish throughout the day. This helped her become much more comfortable using the grammar and vocabulary she already knew.

However, she realized afterward that she needed additional input—such as reading, studying, and getting more exposure—to continue learning and expanding her language skills.

The lesson for English learners:
Don't rely on conversation alone.

A powerful learning routine combines:

Listening + Speaking + Reading + Vocabulary + Study + Real-world Practice

That's how you turn the English you recognize into English you can actually use.

📚 English Vocabulary & Expressions From the Conversation

Listen carefully for natural expressions and vocabulary related to:

• get to know a city
• hang out
• language exchange
• day-to-day living
• typical food
• shenanigans
• part of the culture
• participate in
• turn something down
• full commitment
• in the spirit of
• get revenge
• block party
• street vendors
• spectator
• full immersion
• language barrier
• input
• exposure
• fluency

These are the kinds of words and expressions that help you move beyond textbook English and understand how English is actually used in everyday conversation.

💡 A Powerful English Learning Lesson

Don't just study English. Experience it.

Real conversations give you something textbooks often can't: context.

When you hear vocabulary inside a story, you can understand not only what a word means, but also how, when, and why native speakers use it.

Curtis explains that these conversations are designed to help listeners improve their listening skills and learn the vocabulary and phrases native speakers use in real everyday life.

So don't worry if you don't understand every single word the first time.

Listen once for the overall story.

Then listen again and focus on:

👉 vocabulary
👉 pronunciation
👉 expressions
👉 sentence structure
👉 how the speakers connect their ideas

That's how you can turn a podcast episode into an actual English lesson.

🎙️ Learn English with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

If you're serious about becoming more fluent, confident, and natural in English, I can help you take the next step.

⭐ Book a Trial English Lesson

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🚀 90-Day Next Level English Challenge — 50% OFF

If you're ready for serious one-on-one support, you can join my 90-Day Next Level English Challenge.

Use coupon code:

90DAY50

for 50% OFF.

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⭐ If You Enjoyed This Episode...

Don't just listen—use the episode to improve your English.

Listen again, write down 5 new expressions, repeat some of the sentences out loud, and try using the new vocabulary in your own conversations.

And if you enjoyed the episode, please follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with another English learner who could benefit from authentic English listening practice.

Thanks for listening to the Real English Conversations Podcast!

— Teacher Curtis

Why are some professionals able to communicate an idea and immediately make people listen, connect, and remember it—while others struggle to get their message across?

In this powerful episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis Davies sits down with Emmy-nominated filmmaker, author, keynote speaker, story strategy consultant, and Chief Storytelling Officer Rain Bennett to explore one of the most important skills for today's global professionals: storytelling.

Rain has conducted more than 1,000 interviews and spent more than 20 years working with stories, filmmaking, communication, and human connection. Through those experiences, he has discovered a powerful truth: stories have incredible power to connect and influence people—but only when we understand how to deliver the right story to the right audience.

This is especially important for international professionals communicating in English.

Whether you're giving a presentation, participating in a business meeting, interviewing for a job, networking, leading a team, selling an idea, or simply trying to communicate more naturally in English, storytelling can help you move beyond simply "speaking English" and start creating genuine connections with the people you're communicating with.

Rain explains why effective communication isn't just about what YOU want to say. It's about understanding the person receiving your message, finding common ground, and creating alignment.

You'll also discover how storytelling goes far beyond marketing. Rain explains his concept of a "narrative operating system" and how organizations can create a consistent story that influences everything from hiring and sales to leadership, partnerships, products, and company culture.

🎯 In This Episode You'll Learn:

✅ Why storytelling is one of the most powerful communication skills for professionals

✅ How storytelling can help international professionals communicate more naturally in English

✅ Why knowing what to say isn't enough—you also need to know how to deliver it

✅ How to find powerful stories hidden inside your everyday experiences

✅ The simple practice that can help you build a personal "bank" of stories

✅ Why the best stories focus on transformation rather than simply describing what happened

✅ How to find "connective tissue" with people who have completely different experiences from you

✅ Why curiosity is one of the most important skills in communication

✅ How storytelling can help you stand out during job interviews and professional conversations

✅ Why businesses need a consistent narrative across departments and communication channels

✅ How storytelling builds trust with employees, customers, partners, and other stakeholders

✅ Why trying to say too much can actually make your communication less effective

💡 A Powerful Communication Lesson

One of Rain's key messages throughout the conversation is that effective communication begins with the listener.

Instead of simply telling people how great you, your company, your product, or your skills are, look for the point of connection. What matters to the person you're speaking with? What experiences, interests, goals, or challenges can create alignment?

This approach can completely change the way you communicate in English—especially in professional situations such as interviews, networking, presentations, and meetings.

📖 About Rain Bennett

Rain Bennett is an Emmy-nominated filmmaker, author, keynote speaker, story strategy consultant, and Chief Storytelling Officer at Elemmir.

He hosts The Storytelling Lab, a weekly podcast featuring tips, insights, and success stories from some of the world's top storytellers.

After conducting more than 1,000 interviews and spending more than two decades working with stories, Rain has developed a deep understanding of how stories influence human connection and communication.

His latest book, The Chief Storytelling Officer, explores how organizations can build a narrative operating system that weaves storytelling throughout every department of a business—not just marketing and communications.

As Rain explains, every interaction inside and outside an organization contributes to the overall story a company is telling.

📚 Get Rain's New Book

The Chief Storytelling Officer

Learn how storytelling can become an essential part of your organization's culture, communication, leadership, and business strategy.

🌐 Rain Bennett
https://www.rainbennett.com

🎙️ The Storytelling Lab Podcast
https://thestorytellinglabpodcast.com

💼 LinkedIn
https://linkedin.com/feed/in/rainbennett

📸 Instagram
https://instagram.com/rainbennett

🎥 TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@chiefstorytellingofficer

🎙️ Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.

👉 Book your trial session
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(50% OFF with code: 90DAY50)
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⭐ If You Enjoyed This Episode...

Follow the Real English Conversations Podcast on your favorite podcast platform.

Leave a review—it helps more international professionals and English learners discover the show.

And share this episode with someone who wants to become a more confident, natural, and effective communicator in English.

Remember: You don't just need better English.

You need a better way to connect.

Why do so many intelligent, ambitious professionals know exactly what they should be doing—but still struggle to take action?

In this powerful episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis Davies sits down with decorated Army veteran, award-winning international speaker, executive coach, and author Mark Reynolds to explore the connection between confidence, competence, mindset, and taking action.

Mark explains why high achievers can become trapped between constantly trying to "fix their mindset" and searching for the perfect strategy, tactic, or productivity hack—and why lasting change requires both.

Drawing from his military leadership experience, corporate career, coaching work, and book How to Make Every Day GREAT!, Mark shares practical frameworks for overcoming limiting beliefs, developing confidence, performing under pressure, and creating meaningful progress in both your professional and personal life.

The conversation also has a strong connection to English learners and global professionals. Mark and Curtis discuss why real-time feedback, practice, competency, and actually using your skills are essential for building confidence—whether you're learning English, preparing for a presentation, leading a team, interviewing for a job, or stepping into a bigger professional role.

If you've ever felt like you're capable of more but something is holding you back, this episode will give you a practical framework for identifying what's missing and taking your next step.

🎯 In This Episode You'll Learn:

✅ Why high achievers get stuck between mindset work and tactics

✅ The connection between confidence and competence

✅ How limiting beliefs can quietly control your professional decisions

✅ Why you shouldn't confuse your thoughts with facts

✅ How to recognize whether you're facing a clarity, skill, or courage problem

✅ Why real-time feedback is essential for building confidence

✅ How to become more confident by taking smaller, achievable actions

✅ How military leadership principles can be applied to professional life

✅ How to stay calm and effective when you're under pressure

✅ Why you should stop measuring yourself against other people's success

✅ How to turn setbacks and rejection into opportunities

✅ Why rest and energy are essential to high performance

✅ The GREAT framework from Mark's book How to Make Every Day GREAT!

✅ Why your calendar reveals what you truly prioritize

✅ How to create more clarity around the life and career you actually want

💡 The GREAT Framework

One of the key ideas Mark shares from his book is his GREAT framework for creating a better day and a better life:

G — Goals
Know what you want to accomplish.

R — Rest
Give yourself the recovery necessary to perform at your best.

E — Energy
Make sure you have the physical and mental energy to take action.

A — Action
Stop waiting for everything to be perfect and do something.

T — Time
Make time for the people, priorities, and experiences that matter most.

As Mark explains, if something genuinely matters to you, it should be reflected in how you spend your time.

💬 Memorable Quotes

"Confidence really builds when you have a belief like this is what I want. I know how to do it. And I can figure it out." — Mark Reynolds

"At some point you also still just have to speak it. No amount of reading is going to replace taking action." — Mark Reynolds

And one of the biggest takeaways from the conversation:

If you're not getting the results you want, first figure out whether you lack clarity, competency, or courage.

👤 About Mark Reynolds

Mark Reynolds is a decorated Army veteran, award-winning international speaker, executive coach, and Certified High Performance Coach who helps high achievers build confidence, overcome limiting beliefs, and perform at a higher level.

His approach combines mindset, practical action, leadership, and high-performance principles to help ambitious professionals stop getting stuck and start creating meaningful results.

Mark is also the author of How to Make Every Day GREAT!, a practical framework for creating greater clarity, energy, productivity, and fulfillment in everyday life.

During the conversation, Mark shares how lessons from his military career—including leadership, mentorship, feedback, discipline, and performing under pressure—continue to influence his coaching philosophy today.

🔗 Connect with Mark Reynolds

🌐 Website
https://markreynolds.tv/

💼 LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/successauditor/

📚 Mark's Book — How to Make Every Day GREAT!
Available on Amazon and wherever books are sold.

🎙️ Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
50% OFF with code: 90DAY50
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

🎧 Podcast & Phrasal Verb Audio Course Bundle
https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

📚 More English Courses
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/

🌐 Connect with Real English Conversations

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

⭐ If You Enjoyed This Episode...

⭐ Follow the Real English Conversations Podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more global professionals and English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who knows they're capable of more but needs the confidence and courage to take the next step.

Your English doesn't have to be perfect before you take action. Your confidence grows when you use your skills, get feedback, and keep moving forward.

Have you ever wondered what your English teacher did before becoming a teacher?

In this special re-released episode from the Real English Conversations Podcast archives, Curtis Davies and former co-host Amy share the story of their entrepreneurial journey long before they began helping English learners around the world.

Before teaching English full-time, they owned and operated their own delivery business in Canada. Running a small business taught them valuable lessons in communication, customer service, problem-solving, leadership, and calculated risk-taking, skills that continue to shape how they teach English today.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, business professional, immigrant, or someone considering a career change, you'll discover that many of the communication skills needed for business success are the same as those needed to communicate confidently in English.

Although this episode originally aired in 2021, the lessons are just as relevant today.

🎯 In This Episode You'll Learn:

✅ How Curtis and Amy became entrepreneurs before becoming English teachers

✅ The realities of owning and operating a delivery business in Canada

✅ Why entrepreneurship teaches communication better than many classrooms

✅ Customer service lessons that improve your English communication

✅ How to place a delivery order over the phone like a Native speaker

✅ Why career changes can open unexpected opportunities

✅ The importance of adaptability and resilience

✅ Practical communication habits every professional can develop

💬 Memorable Quote

"Every career teaches you something valuable—and the skills you develop today may become the foundation for your next opportunity."

👤 About Curtis Davies

Curtis Davies is the founder of Real English Conversations and has helped English learners from more than 100 countries communicate naturally and confidently for over 12 years.

His podcast has surpassed 15 million downloads worldwide, helping immigrants, international professionals, and business English learners improve their fluency through authentic conversations with world-class guests and practical communication strategies.

🎙️ Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
(50% OFF with code: 90DAY50)
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

🎧 Podcast + Phrasal Verb Audio Course Bundle
https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

📚 All Courses
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

⭐ If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who's thinking about changing careers, starting a business, or improving their professional English communication.

Have you ever felt nervous speaking English in meetings, presentations, or job interviews—even though you know what you want to say?

In this practical and inspiring episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis Davies sits down with executive communication coach, speaker, actor, and presentation expert Andrew Hurteau to explore what separates average communicators from truly memorable ones.

Drawing on more than 25 years of coaching business leaders, performers, and professionals around the world, including executives from Meta, Dolby, Gartner, The North Face, Kaiser Permanente, and many others, Andrew shares powerful strategies for becoming a more confident, authentic, and engaging communicator.

Whether English is your first language or your second, you'll discover why effective communication isn't about sounding perfect; it's about connecting with your audience, owning your message, and allowing your personality to shine through.

If you want to communicate with greater confidence at work, deliver stronger presentations, lead meetings more effectively, or simply become a more natural English speaker, this episode is packed with practical advice you can apply immediately.

🎯 In This Episode You'll Learn:

✅ Why authenticity is more powerful than perfection

✅ How to overcome fear and anxiety when speaking English

✅ The biggest mistake professionals make during presentations

✅ Why storytelling creates stronger communication than memorized scripts

✅ Practical techniques to become a more engaging speaker

✅ How body language and vocal delivery influence your message

✅ Why confidence is a skill anyone can develop

✅ Communication habits that help professionals stand out in today's workplace

💬 Memorable Quote

"Your audience doesn't need perfection—they need you." — Andrew Hurteau

👤 About Andrew Hurteau

Andrew Hurteau is an executive communication coach, presentation specialist, speaker, actor, and associate of Butterfield Speaks. For more than 25 years, he has helped professionals, executives, and business leaders become more confident, authentic, and impactful communicators.

His clients include leaders and teams from organizations such as Meta, Dolby, Gartner, The North Face, Kaiser Permanente, Samsara, and many others. Andrew combines his background in professional theatre, storytelling, and executive coaching to help people communicate with clarity, confidence, and genuine human connection.

🔗 Connect with Andrew Hurteau

🌐 Website
https://www.butterfieldspeaks.com/

https://www.butterfieldspeaks.com/andrew

💼 LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-hurteau-2a812061/

 

🎙️ Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
(50% OFF with code: 90DAY50)
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

🎧 Podcast + Phrasal Verb Audio Course Bundle
https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

📚 All Courses
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with a friend, colleague, or English learner who wants to communicate with more confidence and make a lasting impression.

Why do so many intelligent professionals still struggle with confidence—even when their English is already good?

In this inspiring episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis Davies sits down with TEDx speaker, comedian, communication coach, and entrepreneur Sam Ghanem to explore one of the biggest challenges facing international professionals today: believing in yourself when it matters most.

Sam shares her powerful journey from chasing external validation to discovering authentic confidence, explaining why confidence isn't about perfection—it's about presence, self-awareness, and showing up as your true self.

Whether you're preparing for job interviews, giving presentations, leading meetings, networking, or simply trying to express yourself more naturally in English, this conversation will help you develop the mindset and communication habits of truly confident professionals.

You'll also discover why your voice matters, how to overcome imposter syndrome, and why "the room gets better when you're in it."

🎯 In This Episode You'll Learn:

✅ Why high-achieving professionals still experience self-doubt

✅ The difference between confidence and authenticity

✅ How to overcome imposter syndrome and negative self-talk

✅ Why perfection is hurting your communication

✅ How to become a more natural public speaker

✅ The mindset shift that transforms networking

✅ Practical strategies to improve confidence in English conversations

✅ Why your presence matters more than perfect English

💬 Memorable Quote

"The room gets better when you're in it. Your only job is to show up and take up space." — Sam Ghanem

👤 About Sam Ghanem

Sam Ghanem is a TEDx speaker, comedian, communication coach, entrepreneur, and keynote speaker who helps professionals communicate with authenticity, confidence, and impact.

Combining years of experience in public speaking, business leadership, comedy, and personal development, Sam teaches people how to overcome self-doubt, become better communicators, and build genuine confidence that lasts.

🔗 Connect with Sam Ghanem

Watch Sam Ghanem's TEDx Talk: It's Contagious | The Way You Treat Yourself Spreads Here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVSfKUcWFe8

Follow Sam Ghanem Online

🌐 Website
https://iamsamghanem.com

🎥 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@iamsamghanem

💼 LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/samghanemmiba

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/iamsamghanem

🎙️Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
(50% OFF with code: 90DAY50)
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 

https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/ 

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

Do you feel embarrassed by your English accent?

Many English learners believe they must sound like a native speaker before they can succeed professionally. But is that really true?

In this special re-release from the Real English Conversations archives, Curtis Davies and former co-host Amy Whitney explore one of the biggest misconceptions in English learning: that eliminating your accent is the key to confidence.

You'll discover why clear communication is far more important than sounding native, how confidence and pronunciation work together, and practical strategies to become easier to understand without losing your identity.

Whether you're preparing for meetings, presentations, job interviews, or everyday conversations, this episode will help you focus on the communication skills that truly matter.

In this episode you'll learn:

✅ Why sounding like a native speaker isn't the real goal

✅ The connection between confidence and pronunciation

✅ When your accent actually needs improvement—and when it doesn't

✅ Why your accent is part of your identity

✅ Curtis' STIR framework for improving pronunciation naturally

✅ How tone, rhythm and intonation make your English sound more natural

✅ Practical ways to become easier to understand at work and in everyday conversations

About Real English Conversations

The Real English Conversations Podcast helps intermediate and advanced English learners communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in professional and everyday situations.

Hosted by English Confidence Coach Curtis Davies, each episode provides practical communication strategies, expert interviews, and real-world English to help you succeed in international careers and English-speaking environments.

🎙️Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
(50% OFF with code: 90DAY50)
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 

https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/ 

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

What does it really take to become a great teacher, and what can English learners learn from the classroom?

In this inspiring episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis Davies sits down with long-time friend Mike Foster, a Canadian high school Physical & Health Education teacher from British Columbia.

Mike's journey wasn't straightforward. After graduating with degrees in Kinesiology and Education, A strike and government negotiations delayed his teaching opportunities, forcing him to gain experience in unexpected places, from lifeguarding and outdoor education to coaching young people with autism, before finally becoming the teacher he had always dreamed of being.

Together, Curtis and Mike explore confidence, perseverance, resilience, learning styles, neurodiversity, motivation, and why some of life's biggest setbacks often become our greatest opportunities.

Whether you're learning English, changing careers, or simply trying to become more confident, this episode will remind you that success isn't about taking the perfect path—it's about continuing to move forward.

In this episode, you'll learn:

✅ Why perseverance often matters more than talent

✅ How setbacks prepare us for future success

✅ What teaching students with autism taught Mike about empathy and communication

✅ Why teenagers today struggle with confidence more than previous generations

✅ The hidden impact of smartphones and social media on learning

✅ The biggest mistake almost every learner makes

✅ How successful learners develop resilience

✅ Why it's okay to change careers—and why happiness should define success

Key Takeaways

• Confidence grows through experience—not perfection.

• Every setback can become valuable preparation for the future.

• Great teachers first build trust before they teach.

• Every learner is different, and understanding how you learn changes everything.

• Don't quit on a bad day.

• Success isn't measured by money—it's measured by purpose and happiness.

🎙️Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
(50% OFF with code: 90DAY50)
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 

https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/ 

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

In this latest episode of The Real English Conversations podcast, Curtis welcomes special guest James Murgatroyd from Holler Digital, reminiscing about their high school days and James's recent trip to London to see his favorite band, Galliano. James shares his experience of walking around London, enjoying classic British foods, and doing radio shows together.   The conversation turns to their shared passion for music and DJing, with a look back at their high school DJ sessions and radio show takeovers.   Overall, the conversation highlights the enduring love for music and the evolution of technology in DJing and music consumption.   Tune in for engaging discussions and valuable lessons for real-world English use!   Connect With James Murgatroyd Here:   https://hollerdigital.com/   🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 

https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/ 

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

What does it mean to truly find your voice?

In this powerful and inspiring episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis sits down with his longtime high school friend Lance Cardinal, an internationally recognized Indigenous artist, television host, entrepreneur, actor, comedian, cultural ambassador, and member of the Bigstone Cree Nation.

For English learners, language is about much more than grammar and vocabulary. It's about identity, confidence, self-expression, and connecting with the world around you.

Lance shares his remarkable journey from growing up in Calling Lake, Alberta, to becoming one of Canada's most recognized Indigenous artists and cultural educators. Together, Curtis and Lance explore confidence, creativity, language learning, Indigenous culture, reconciliation, storytelling, and the importance of embracing who you are.

Whether you're learning English, building confidence, pursuing a dream, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation will leave you with a new perspective on finding your voice and sharing it with the world.

In This Episode You'll Learn:

✅ Why confidence comes from embracing who you are

✅ How creativity can help you overcome self-doubt

✅ The connection between language, identity, and culture

✅ Why preserving Indigenous languages matters

✅ What learning Cree taught Lance about communication

✅ The story behind the Edmonton Oilers Indigenous Turtle Island logo

✅ How Indigenous art helps create understanding and reconciliation

✅ The mindset habits that helped Lance overcome adversity

✅ Why celebrating your small wins builds long-term confidence

✅ Practical advice for English learners who are afraid to speak

Memorable Topics From This Conversation 🎨 Creativity Builds Confidence

Lance explains how creativity helped him overcome insecurity and find his place in the world. He shares why confidence isn't something you're born with—it's something you build through action, self-reflection, and celebrating your progress.

🪶 Preserving Indigenous Languages

Lance discusses his journey learning Cree as an adult, why many Indigenous languages are at risk of disappearing, and why preserving language means preserving culture, identity, and history.

🏒 The Edmonton Oilers Indigenous Logo

Learn the fascinating story behind Lance's iconic Turtle Island logo created for the Edmonton Oilers Indigenous Celebration Night and what it represents for Indigenous communities across Canada.

🌎 The Guinness World Record Solar Panel Mural

Lance shares the story behind "The Land We Share," the Guinness World Record-winning solar panel mural in downtown Edmonton that brings together Indigenous and Chinese cultural symbolism through art.

🤝 Reconciliation Through Understanding

Lance offers a thoughtful perspective on reconciliation, cultural understanding, and how Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities can move forward together through learning, healing, and meaningful conversations.

🗣️ A Message for English Learners

One of the most powerful messages in this episode is that your voice matters—even if your English isn't perfect. Communication is about connection, not perfection.

Connect with Lance Cardinal

🌐 Website
https://www.soulflamecreativeservices.com

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/lancecardinalofficial

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/lance.cardinal.90

🎵 TikTok
https://www.tiktok.com/@lancecardinalofficial

💼 LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lance-cardinal-3a66b6109/

📺 Indigenous Art Adventures
Available on APTN and online platforms

🎙️Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
(50% OFF with code: 90DAY50)
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 

https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/

 

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

Do you ever freeze when speaking English?

Maybe you know exactly what you want to say, but the words won't come out. Maybe you overthink every sentence, worry about making mistakes, or feel nervous speaking in meetings, presentations, or everyday conversations.

In this inspiring episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis Davies sits down with Edit B. Kiss—holistic mentor, trauma healing specialist, international speaker, best-selling author, and former petroleum engineer—to explore the deeper reasons why confidence can disappear when we need it most.

Edit shares her incredible journey from working as a petroleum engineer around the world to becoming a successful holistic therapist and mindset coach in London, helping hundreds of people overcome anxiety, panic attacks, trauma, and self-limiting beliefs.

Together, they discuss the surprising connection between confidence, communication, unresolved emotional experiences, and language learning.

Whether you're learning English, building your career, or simply trying to express yourself more confidently, this episode will give you powerful insights and practical strategies you can start using immediately.

🔑 In This Episode You'll Learn:

✅ Why confidence is often an emotional issue—not a language issue

✅ The hidden reasons people freeze during conversations and presentations

✅ How childhood experiences can affect communication skills later in life

✅ Why practice alone isn't always enough to build speaking confidence

✅ How Edit overcame her fear of public speaking and improvisation

✅ The importance of discovering your "why" when learning English

✅ Why immersion and real-world communication accelerate fluency

✅ How to stop overthinking and start speaking more naturally

✅ Practical confidence-building techniques for English learners

📚 Connect With Edit B. Kiss Here 🌐 Edit B. Kiss

Website:
https://editbkiss.com

YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@MagicalKarmaPriestess

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/editbkiss

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/editbkiss/

Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/bkissedit

📖 Books by Edit B. Kiss

Stop Panic Now
https://a.co/d/05jxw4RH

The Healer's Journey
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Healers-Journey-Coaching-Book-Seekers

The Gap Filler Success Book
https://a.co/d/bkJWUTL

🎙️Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations Here

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
(50% OFF with code: 90DAY50)
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE

 https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

Do confident professionals communicate differently?

The answer is yes — and the good news is that confidence isn't something you're born with. It's something you build.

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis sits down with communication expert, voice actor, broadcaster, speaker, and author David Tyler, creator of the book Connect: A Field Guide for Master Communicators.

With more than 40 years of experience helping people communicate effectively, David shares the 10 communication habits of confident communicators and explains how anyone can develop them — including English learners, business professionals, managers, entrepreneurs, and leaders.

If you've ever struggled with speaking confidently in meetings, presentations, interviews, networking events, or everyday conversations, this episode will give you practical tools you can start using immediately.

You'll also learn why connection is more important than perfection, how to make people feel heard and valued, and why the world's best communicators focus on serving their audience instead of impressing them.

In This Episode You'll Learn:

✅ The 10 communication habits confident communicators use every day

✅ Why listening is often more powerful than speaking

✅ How asking better questions creates stronger connections

✅ Why silence is one of the most underrated communication tools

✅ How to overcome the fear of making mistakes

✅ Why confidence is built through practice, not talent

✅ The importance of making others feel seen, heard, and understood

✅ David's "Seven Colors of the Voice" framework for becoming a more engaging speaker

✅ How communication skills can improve your career, relationships, and personal growth

Key Takeaway

"Most people think confidence is something you are born with or find. In reality, confidence is something you create — one conversation at a time." — David Tyler

Whether you're learning English, building your career, leading a team, or simply wanting to communicate more effectively, these habits can help you become a more confident and impactful communicator.

Connect With & Follow David Tyler Here

📖 Connect: A Field Guide for Master Communicators
https://www.amazon.com/Connect-Field-Guide-Master-Communicators/dp/B0DNRSP2BV

The Master Communicator Podcast

https://open.spotify.com/show/41GUGOiYuYSbJXRWfrv5t4?si=06e30bdd567243bb

🌐 David Tyler Website
https://davidtyler.com

🎙️ David Tyler Coaching & Speaking
https://davidtylerspeaks.com

📄 The Speaker's Playbook (47 Communication Tips)
https://buymeacoffee.com/davidtyler

🐦 X (Twitter)
https://x.com/DavidTylerVO

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
(50% OFF with code: 90DAY50)
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 

https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the Podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

Do you ever feel like you're capable of more, but something is holding you back?

Many English learners struggle with confidence. They know more English than they think they do, but fear, self-doubt, overthinking, and the fear of making mistakes stop them from speaking naturally and expressing themselves fully.

In this inspiring episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis sits down with educator, TEDx speaker, author, professional speaker, engineer, and corporate executive John Kundly to discuss confidence, communication, personal growth, purpose, and how to move forward even when you don't feel ready.

John shares his remarkable journey from a small town in Ohio to becoming a successful corporate executive, TEDx speaker, and author—including a period when he was homeless and living in his car after moving to Los Angeles.

Together, Curtis and John explore why confidence isn't something you wait for—it's something you build through action.

If you've ever struggled with speaking English confidently, experienced imposter syndrome, felt stuck in your career, or wondered how to create better opportunities for yourself, this conversation is packed with practical insights and inspiration.

In This Episode You'll Learn:

✅ Why action comes before confidence

✅ How English learners can overcome fear when speaking

✅ Why confidence and fluency are not the same thing

✅ The "Evidence & Exposure" formula for building confidence

✅ How to overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome

✅ Why successful people still struggle with confidence

✅ How setbacks and detours can become life-changing opportunities

✅ The difference between goals and purpose

✅ Communication skills that separate average professionals from exceptional professionals

✅ How to build a strong professional network and find mentors

✅ Why comparison destroys confidence and what to focus on instead

✅ Practical advice for English learners who want to create better opportunities in life and work

💡 Memorable Quote From John

"Don't wait until you feel ready to use your voice. Use your voice to get ready."

🎙️ Connect with John Kundly

🌐 Website
https://reachwithjohn.com

📖 Book: Within Reach
https://withinreachbook.net

🎤 TEDx Talk: The Internal GPS (IGPS)
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=John+Kundly+TEDx

📸 Instagram
@ReachWithJohn

🎵 TikTok
@ReachWithJohn

💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnkundly/

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.

👉 Book your Trial Session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
(50% OFF with code: 90DAY50)
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 

https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the Podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

What happens when three completely different life journeys collide around the same global challenge?

In the final episode of our 6-part Plot Pattern series, Curtis Davies is joined once again by co-host Matt Gardner (Mod Hob Matt) — along with special guest Maryam Shoja, co-founder of the Mod Hob Cooperative — to explore one of the most advanced storytelling frameworks yet: the Parallel Plot Pattern.

This episode goes far beyond storytelling.

Together, Curtis, Matt, and Maryam trace their individual experiences from the turn of the millennium (Y2K) through the evolution of technology, communication, media, education, and AI — showing how seemingly separate lives can converge around shared challenges and common purpose.

From encyclopedias and VHS tapes… to smartphones, social media, and artificial intelligence… this conversation explores how technology has transformed the way we learn, teach, connect, and think.

But the deeper question remains:

👉 As AI makes everything faster and easier… are we losing the friction that helps us truly learn?

✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn

🎭 What the Parallel Plot Pattern is — and why it's one of the most powerful storytelling structures
🌍 How three different life journeys across Canada, Iran, Malaysia, and Mexico intersect through shared global change
📱 The evolution from analog to digital culture — from flip phones and VHS to AI and smartphones
🧠 Why "friction" and discomfort are essential for deep learning and memory retention
🤖 The opportunities and dangers of AI in education and communication
💬 Why human connection still matters in language learning
📚 How technology changed the way we study, teach, consume media, and build relationships
⚖️ The importance of balancing digital tools with real-world human interaction
🔄 How systems thinking helps us understand how everything is connected

💡 Key Insight from This Episode

"If learning becomes too easy, we risk losing the depth, challenge, and reflection that create real growth."

— Real English Conversations Podcast

🌍 Why This Episode Matters

The Parallel Plot Pattern helps us understand that no one exists in isolation.

Every person experiences the world differently…
but our stories still intersect through shared systems, technologies, conflicts, and cultural shifts.

This framework teaches us to:
• See multiple perspectives at once
• Understand how systems influence people
• Think critically about technology and communication
• Recognize the value of human connection in a digital world

As AI and automation continue to reshape society, this episode reminds us that meaningful learning still requires:
✨ curiosity
✨ challenge
✨ reflection
✨ human connection

📌 Connect With Mod Hob Matt & Maryam Shoja & The Mod Hob Cooperative

🌐 PlotWeaver Substack (Articles + Story Examples)
https://plotweaver.substack.com

🎲 PlotWeaver Cards of Creation & Demo
https://www.plotweavergame.com/

🏢 Mod Hob Cooperative
https://www.modhob.ca/

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
(50% OFF with code: 90DAY50)
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 

https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

🎧 Follow the Series

This episode is part #5 of a 6-part Plot Patterns series designed to help you speak English more naturally, confidently, and effectively in real-life situations.

Make sure to listen to the previous episodes here :

Pt. #1 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/32ZUr4A3gjJao5B9fYwtY7?si=c6d80914e72b4e12

Pt. #1 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-1-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-inverted/id977345837?i=1000758633315

Pt. #2 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Wr0JvE86Z0es46GNhHI3t?si=44418cfa4d1c4328

Pt. #2 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-2-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver/id977345837?i=1000761512525

Pt. #3 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ISJwN6i7mWGS3omRxnrkq?si=daf286c066814c24

Pt. #3 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-3-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-non-linear/id977345837?i=1000763047501

Pt. #4 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/35BJrefXZYAwVxIThD1hGY?si=c212395822574664

Pt. #4 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-4-of-6-how-to-master-the/id977345837?i=1000766428137

Pt. #5 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6VxWCvn7PTJhKbpOD86yW2?si=b944bd28a7404f9e

Pt # 5 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-5-of-6-how-to-master-the/id977345837?i=1000767564190

If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

 

Why do so many English learners struggle with perfectionism, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome — even when they're improving?

In Part 5 of our 6-part Plot Pattern series, Curtis Davies is joined again by co-host Matt Gardner (Mod Hob Matt) to explore one of the most powerful storytelling and personal growth frameworks ever created:

The Monomyth Plot Pattern — also known as The Hero's Journey.

This episode goes far beyond storytelling.

Curtis and Matt break down how the Hero's Journey mirrors the real-life experience of learning English, building confidence, overcoming fear, and pushing through the uncomfortable stages of growth.

If you've ever:
• felt embarrassed making mistakes
• doubted your English abilities
• struggled with perfectionism
• or felt stuck in your progress…

This episode will completely change how you view the learning process.

✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn

🎯 The 5 major stages of the Monomyth / Hero's Journey
🧠 Why perfectionism is one of the biggest barriers to fluency
💬 How imposter syndrome affects language learners
📉 The connection between ADHD, confidence, and communication struggles
🔥 Why growth only happens outside your comfort zone
🎵 How mistakes in music, storytelling, and creativity often lead to breakthroughs
📚 The connection between the Dunning-Kruger Effect and language learning
💡 Why "mistakes" are actually part of the mastery process
🚀 How to build resilience and confidence through real communication practice

💡 Key Insight from This Episode

"Your mistakes are not proof that you're failing — they are proof that you're growing."

— Real English Conversations Podcast

🌍 Why This Episode Matters

The Monomyth teaches us that every learner goes through the same cycle:

Comfort → Challenge → Self-Doubt → Breakthrough → Transformation

This applies directly to:
• Learning English confidently
• Public speaking
• Professional communication
• ADHD learning challenges
• Building resilience
• Overcoming perfectionism
• Becoming a stronger communicator

The goal is not perfection.

The goal is transformation.

And sometimes the biggest breakthrough happens right after the moment you feel like giving up.

📌 Connect With Mod Hob Matt Here

🌐 PlotWeaver Substack (Articles + Story Examples)
https://plotweaver.substack.com

🎲 PlotWeaver Demo (Storytelling Practice Tool)
https://www.plotweavergame.com/

🏢 Mod Hob Cooperative
https://www.modhob.ca/

🎙️ Connect with Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

Email - curtis@realenglishconversations.com OR contact@realenglishconversations.com 

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge (50% OFF with code 90DAY50)
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 

https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

🎧 Follow the Series

This episode is part #5 of a 6-part Plot Patterns series designed to help you speak English more naturally, confidently, and effectively in real-life situations.

Make sure to listen to the previous episodes here :

Pt. #1 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/32ZUr4A3gjJao5B9fYwtY7?si=c6d80914e72b4e12

Pt. #1 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-1-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-inverted/id977345837?i=1000758633315

Pt. #2 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Wr0JvE86Z0es46GNhHI3t?si=44418cfa4d1c4328

Pt. #2 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-2-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver/id977345837?i=1000761512525

Pt. #3 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ISJwN6i7mWGS3omRxnrkq?si=daf286c066814c24

Pt. #3 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-3-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-non-linear/id977345837?i=1000763047501

Pt. #4 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/35BJrefXZYAwVxIThD1hGY?si=c212395822574664

Pt. #4 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-4-of-6-how-to-master-the/id977345837?i=1000766428137

If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

 

Why do so many professionals feel stuck in their English progress, even when they're practicing consistently every day?

In Part 4 of our 6-part Plot Pattern series, Curtis Davies is joined by co-host Matt Gardner (Mod Hob Matt) to explore one of the most practical and powerful frameworks yet: the Circular Plot Pattern.

This episode reveals why progress in English (and in life) isn't about pushing harder — it's about creating balance, adapting to disruption, and building confidence through consistent routines.

If you've ever felt like you're doing "everything right" but still not improving… this episode will show you what's missing.

Together, Curtis and Matt break down how routines, setbacks, and mindset shifts all work together in a cycle, and how mastering this pattern can help you communicate more clearly, stay calm under pressure, and continue improving without burnout.

✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn

🎯 The 4 key stages of the Circular Plot Pattern (and how they apply to language learning)
🔄 Why consistency alone isn't enough — and what actually drives progress
🧠 How to handle disruptions like mistakes, anxiety, or unexpected situations
💬 The role of active listening and confidence in real communication
📉 Why "working harder" can actually slow your progress
📈 How to build habits that improve your English step by step
🧘 Practical strategies (like meditation & mindset shifts) to stay calm and focused
💡 How to create backup plans (Plan B / contingency plans) in real conversations

💡 Key Insight from This Episode

"Progress doesn't come from doing more — it comes from adapting, reflecting, and returning stronger."

— Real English Conversations Podcast

🌍 Why This Episode Matters

The Circular Plot Pattern teaches us that growth is not linear.

It's a cycle:
You build a routine → face disruption → adapt → return stronger.

This applies directly to:
• Speaking English in real-life situations
• Handling mistakes and pressure
• Building confidence over time
• Staying consistent without burnout

If you want to stop feeling stuck and start feeling in control of your English… this framework is a game changer.

📌 Resources Mentioned

🌐 PlotWeaver Substack (Articles + Story Examples)
https://plotweaver.substack.com

🎲 PlotWeaver Demo (Storytelling Practice Tool)
https://www.plotweavergame.com/

🏢 Mod Hob Cooperative
https://www.modhob.ca/

🎙️ Connect with Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge (50% OFF with code 90DAY50)
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 

https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

🎧 Follow the Series

This episode is part #4 of a 6-part Plot Patterns series designed to help you speak English more naturally, confidently, and effectively in real-life situations.

Make sure to listen to the previous episodes here :

Pt. #1 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/32ZUr4A3gjJao5B9fYwtY7?si=c6d80914e72b4e12

Pt. #1 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-1-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-inverted/id977345837?i=1000758633315

Pt. #2 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Wr0JvE86Z0es46GNhHI3t?si=44418cfa4d1c4328

Pt. #2 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-2-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver/id977345837?i=1000761512525

Pt. #3 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ISJwN6i7mWGS3omRxnrkq?si=daf286c066814c24

Pt. #3 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-3-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-non-linear/id977345837?i=1000763047501

If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

Why do smart professionals struggle to explain complex ideas clearly in English?

It's not because the ideas are too complicated…
It's because they don't know how to connect them.

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, the show that helps global professionals speak clearly and confidently at work, host Curtis Davies is joined once again by co-host Matt Gardner (Mod Hob Matt) to break down Plot Pattern #3: The Non-Linear Method.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed trying to explain data, trends, or multiple ideas in English — or worried that your message feels scattered or unclear — this episode is for you.

Together, Curtis and Matt explore how real-world communication is often non-linear — especially in business, strategy, and problem-solving situations.

Building on the previous episodes (The Inverted Plot Pattern and The Frame Tale Method), you'll learn how to take disconnected ideas and turn them into a clear, powerful message that makes sense to your audience.

At the core of this episode is a powerful mindset shift:
Great communicators don't just share information — they connect the dots.

✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn

🎯 What the Non-Linear Plot Pattern is and why it's essential in real-world communication
🧠 How to connect multiple ideas, trends, or data points into one clear message
💬 How to explain complex topics in meetings, presentations, and interviews
📊 How professionals use this in strategy, marketing, and data analysis
🧩 Why communication isn't always a straight line — and how to manage that
🔥 How to turn confusion into clarity by finding "the intersection"

💡 Key Insight from This Episode

"Truth isn't always a straight line — it's a pattern waiting to be connected."

— Mod Hob Matt Gardner

This episode is perfect for professionals who need to communicate complex ideas clearly — especially in fast-paced, high-level environments where clarity and confidence matter most.

📌 Resources Mentioned

🌐 PlotWeaver Demo (Storytelling Practice Tool)
https://www.plotweavergame.com/

🌐 Mod Hob Cooperative
https://www.modhob.ca/

Substack - https://plotweaver.substack.com/p/d40d9265-2e0a-4dac-a46b-e4cde3f73fda

🎙️ Connect with Mod Hob Matt

🌐 Website
https://www.modhob.ca/

🌐 PlotWeaver Game
https://www.plotweavergame.com/

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

🎧 Follow the Series

This episode is part #3 of a 6-part Plot Patterns series designed to help you speak English more naturally, confidently, and effectively in real-life situations.

Make sure to listen to the previous episodes here :

Pt. #1 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/32ZUr4A3gjJao5B9fYwtY7?si=c6d80914e72b4e12

Pt. #1 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-1-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-inverted/id977345837?i=1000758633315

Pt. #2 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Wr0JvE86Z0es46GNhHI3t?si=44418cfa4d1c4328

Pt. #2 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-2-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver/id977345837?i=1000761512525

 

Why do smart professionals struggle to explain their experience clearly in English… even when they know exactly what they want to say?

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, the show that helps global professionals speak clearly and confidently at work, host Curtis Davies is joined once again by co-host Matt Gardner (Mod Hob Matt) to break down PlotWeaver plot pattern #2 of a 6 part series using a powerful storytelling strategy: The Frame Tale Plot Pattern.

If you've ever felt stuck in a job interview, unsure how to structure your answer, or struggled to make your ideas land in a presentation… this episode is for you.

Together, Curtis and Matt explore why many English learners overthink their communication — and how using a simple structure can help you speak with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

Building on the previous episode (The Inverted Plot Pattern / Bottom Line Up Front), you'll learn how to combine storytelling with structure to create stronger, more engaging communication in both your professional and personal life.

At the core of this episode is a simple 3-part storytelling framework that helps you organize your thoughts and communicate like a confident professional — even under pressure.

✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn

🎯 The 3-part Frame Tale structure (Context → Story → Lesson)
🧠 Why structure — not vocabulary — is the real key to confident communication
💬 How to answer interview questions using real examples and case studies
📝 Why you should avoid memorizing scripts (and what to do instead)
📊 How to make your presentations more engaging and memorable
🌍 Why storytelling is universal across cultures and communication styles
🔥 How to stop freezing and start speaking naturally in English

💡 Key Insight from This Episode

"Don't make the story lead to nothing — always bring it back to why it matters."

— Mod Hob Matt Gardner

This episode is practical, easy to apply, and designed to help you improve your communication immediately — especially if you're preparing for job interviews, presentations, or high-stakes conversations in English.

📌 Resources Mentioned

🌐 PlotWeaver Demo (Storytelling Practice Tool)
https://www.plotweavergame.com/

🌐 Mod Hob Cooperative
https://www.modhob.ca/

Substack - https://plotweaver.substack.com/p/d40d9265-2e0a-4dac-a46b-e4cde3f73fda

🎙️ Connect with Mod Hob Matt

🌐 Website
https://www.modhob.ca/

🌐 PlotWeaver Game
https://www.plotweavergame.com/

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

🎧 Follow the Series

This episode is part of a 6-part Plot Patterns series designed to help you speak English more naturally, confidently, and effectively in real-life situations.

Make sure to listen to the previous episode and follow along as we build these skills step-by-step

🎧 Follow the Series

Listen to Episode #1 HERE:

SPOTIFY:  https://open.spotify.com/episode/32ZUr4A3gjJao5B9fYwtY7?si=0957172425a4457e

APPLE: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-how-to-master-business-english-presentations/id977345837?i=1000758633315 

 

Why do smart professionals struggle in business presentations, even when they know their subject inside out?

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, the show that helps global professionals to speak clearly and confidently at work, host Curtis Davies is joined by new co-host Matt Gardner, also known as Mod Hob Matt, to break down a simple but powerful strategy to master business presentations in English.

If you've ever felt nervous, lost your words mid-presentation, or worried that your ideas aren't landing clearly… this episode is for you.

Together, Curtis and Matt explore the real reason professionals struggle in English presentations — and why it's not just about vocabulary.

You'll learn how to structure your ideas, stay calm under pressure, and communicate with confidence — even if English isn't your first language.

At the core of this episode is a simple 3-step presentation framework that you've actually been using your whole life… but probably forgot.

✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn

🎯 The 3-part structure behind every effective business presentation
🧠 Why language isn't the real problem — and what actually causes communication breakdowns
💬 How to avoid freezing or losing your words during presentations
📝 Why you should never script your presentation word-for-word
📊 How visuals (charts, graphs, notes) can support your communication
🌍 A powerful translation technique to improve your Business English quickly
💡 How to handle interruptions, questions, and pressure with confidence
🔥 The #1 mindset shift to help you communicate clearly and professionally in English

💡 Key Insight from This Episode

"Most presentations fail not because of the information — but because the speaker seems unsure."

— Mod Hob Matt Gardner

This episode is practical, easy to follow, and immediately applicable — especially for global professionals who want to succeed in meetings, job interviews, and high-stakes business environments.

📌 Resources Mentioned

🌐 PlotWeaver Demo (Storytelling Practice Tool)
https://www.plotweavergame.com/

Mod Hob Cooperative https://www.modhob.ca/

 

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

What does it take to stay mentally strong when your job exposes you to the worst moments of human life?

In this week's episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, the show that helps global professionals speak clearly and confidently at work, host Curtis Davies sits down with Craig Semple, a former homicide detective turned mental health educator and resilience expert.

Craig spent 25 years with the New South Wales Police Force, investigating serious crimes including homicides and organized crime. After being medically retired due to psychological injury, he was forced to confront the realities of mental health, not as an observer, but personally.

Today, Craig is the founding director of Mentality Plus, where he delivers mental health, wellbeing, and resilience education to individuals and organizations across Australia. He is also an ambassador for the Black Dog Institute and has helped tens of thousands of people better understand mental health and how to recover from adversity.

He is also the author of two powerful books:
The Cop Who Fell to Earth and
Getting Back Up Again – A Plan to Get Your Head Back in the Game

In this conversation, Curtis and Craig explore resilience, mental health, leadership under pressure, and what it really takes to rebuild your mindset after life knocks you down.

This episode is especially valuable for global professionals dealing with stress, pressure, or major life challenges — and for anyone who wants to build stronger communication and mental resilience in their personal and professional life.

✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn

🧠 What years of working as a homicide detective taught Craig about human behavior
💬 How mental health was viewed in high-pressure professional environments
⚠️ The turning point that led to Craig's psychological injury and career transition
💪 What real resilience looks like, beyond motivation and "staying strong."
📘 Key lessons from his book Getting Back Up Again
🌍 Common misconceptions about mental health and recovery
🤝 How leaders can better support mental health in their teams
🔥 A practical mindset shift to help you stay mentally strong and communicate with more confidence

💡 Guest Insight

"Resilience isn't about avoiding adversity — it's about learning how to get back up again."

— Craig Semple

This episode is powerful, honest, and deeply practical — a reminder that mental strength is something we build, not something we're born with.

📌 Connect with Craig Semple

BUY CRAIGS BOOKS HERE ->>> https://mentalityplus.com.au/buy-book/

🌐 Website
http://www.mentalityplus.com.au/

💼 LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-semple-b216b115a/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/mentalityplus

📧 Email
craig@mentalityplus.com.au

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, FLUENTLY, confidently, and effectively at work.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English FLUENCY Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

Sometimes the best collaborations start long before you even realize it.

In this special episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast — the show that helps global professionals to speak clearly and confidently at work — host Curtis Davies welcomes a new guest co-host, Matt Gardner, also known as Mod Hob Matt to the show. Listeners will get to hear him when there is no other guest on the show, for example.

But this isn't just a professional introduction — it's a full-circle moment.

Curtis and Matt actually went to the same high school, and years later, their paths have crossed again — this time through podcasting, creativity, and a shared passion for communication, storytelling, and helping people think and connect more effectively.

Matt is a product design strategist, UX researcher, and systems thinker with over 20 years of experience building digital products and leading cross-functional teams. He is also a co-creator of Mod Hob Cooperative, a creator-led collective focused on building tools and systems that help people collaborate, learn, and communicate in more meaningful ways.

In this conversation, Curtis and Matt talk about:

• their shared background and unexpected reconnection

• How communication and storytelling shape both personal and professional growth

• Why collaboration and creativity are essential in today's world

• and what listeners can expect from Matt as a new guest co-host on the podcast

This episode marks the beginning of a new chapter for the show — bringing in deeper conversations, fresh perspectives, and more collaborative discussions to help you improve your English communication skills in real-world situations.

✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn

🎙️ The story behind Curtis and Matt's long-standing connection
🧠 How communication evolves over time — both personally and professionally
🤝 Why collaboration leads to better thinking and better conversations
🌍 How diverse perspectives improve communication in global environments
💬 What makes conversations more natural, engaging, and meaningful in English
🚀 What to expect from future episodes with a guest co-host

Plotweaver Story Breakdown -> https://plotweaver.substack.com/p/at-municipal-value-chapter-3-the?utm_campaign=post-expanded-share&utm_medium=web&fbclid=IwY2xjawQpCRdleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFUTmZiSnptdkhQRDNybFUxc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHs8zxQYmG2TRJCq_Vypd6DenOUN5BxwA3hYOJKJwZooX6W_JuyjZyUr5dGI5_aem_EKRuCi-vWFiwREVKCxvPsw&triedRedirect=true

This episode is personal, insightful, and a great introduction to a new voice on the Real English Conversations Podcast.

📌 Connect with Matt Gardner (Mod Hob Matt)

🌐 Mod Hob Cooperative
https://www.modhob.ca

🎲 PlotWeaver
https://www.plotweavergame.com/

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

What separates good communicators from unforgettable leaders? The ability to tell powerful stories in Business English.

In this week's episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast — the show that helps global professionals to speak clearly and confidently at work — host Curtis Davies has a Real English Conversation with Gabrielle Dolan, one of the world's leading experts in business storytelling and authentic communication.

Gabrielle is an international keynote speaker, educator, and the bestselling author of eight books. Her newest release, Story Intelligence: The Craft of Authentic Storytelling Made Smarter with AI, debuted as Australia's #1 Business Book and quickly climbed Amazon's Hot New Releases charts across multiple communication and leadership categories.

For more than 20 years, Gabrielle has helped leaders and professionals around the world communicate more effectively, influence their teams, and build trust through authentic storytelling.

In today's workplace — where AI-generated content, corporate jargon, and scripted messaging are everywhere — the ability to communicate in Real English through authentic human stories has never been more valuable.

In this conversation, Curtis and Gabrielle explore how storytelling strengthens professional communication in English, how global professionals can improve their storytelling skills, and how humans and AI can work together to communicate in more meaningful and authentic ways.

This episode is especially valuable for professionals who use English in international workplaces and want to communicate ideas with greater clarity, confidence, and impact.

✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn

📖 Why storytelling is one of the most powerful communication skills in business
🧠 What "Story Intelligence" means and why it matters in the age of AI
💬 The difference between scripted communication and authentic storytelling
🌍 Common storytelling mistakes professionals make when communicating at work
🎯 Practical ways to become a better storyteller — even if you think you're "not creative."
🤖 How AI can support storytelling without replacing the human element
🤝 How storytelling strengthens leadership, influence, and trust
🔥 One simple storytelling technique you can start using today to communicate more clearly and confidently

This episode is insightful, practical, and inspiring — especially for global professionals who want to speak English with more clarity, confidence, and authenticity in the workplace.

📌 Connect with Gabrielle Dolan

🌐 Website
https://gabrielledolan.com/

🎁 Free Storytelling Starter Kit
https://gabrielledolan.com/starterkit/

📚 Books
https://gabrielledolan.com/books/

💼 LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabrielledolan/

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/gabrielledolan.1/

🎧 Podcast
https://podfollow.com/keeping-it-real-with-jac-and-ral

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this week's episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, the show that helps global professionals speak clearly and confidently at work, host Curtis Davies welcomes two innovative creators who are transforming how we think about learning, collaboration, and communication.

Joining the show are Maryam Shoja and old high school buddy Matt Gardner, the founding partners behind Mod Hob Cooperative & PlotWeaver: Cards of Creation — a creator-led producers' cooperative building practical, regenerative systems for learning, collaboration, and community resilience.

Mod Hob (short for Modern Hobbies) brings together educators, designers, technologists, and artists to design systems that replace extractive work with cooperative intelligence — treating people as co-creators rather than users, customers, or resources.

In this conversation, we explore their philosophy, their design process, and how their collaborative storytelling system helps individuals and teams think more clearly, communicate with empathy, and create shared meaning.

Maryam is a Learning Systems Designer, educator, strategist, and English Language coach with 16+ years of experience designing inclusive and neurodivergent-friendly learning environments. Matt went to high school with Curtis & is a user-centered product design strategist, UX researcher, and systems thinker with 20+ years of experience helping cross-functional teams turn complexity into clarity.

Together, they are building tools that make systems thinking, emotional intelligence, and creative collaboration accessible to everyday people — from classrooms to corporate teams.

This episode is especially powerful for educators, leaders, language learners, and global professionals who rely on English to collaborate, present ideas, and build strong relationships at work.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:

🎨 What a "creator-led producers cooperative" really means — and why it matters in today's world
🧠 How systems thinking can improve communication and collaboration
🌱 Why inclusivity and neurodivergent-friendly design are essential in modern learning environments
🤝 How structured storytelling strengthens empathy and team alignment
🏫 How educators and trainers can integrate collaborative storytelling into their classrooms
💬 How storytelling helps global professionals build clarity and confidence in English
💫 A transformational moment that demonstrates the real power of creative collaboration
🔥 One simple practice you can start using today to communicate more meaningfully and confidently in your personal and professional life

This episode is reflective, creative, and deeply practical — a reminder that effective communication isn't just about vocabulary or grammar. It's about connection, shared understanding, and intentional collaboration.

If you're a global professional working in English…
If you lead teams or design learning experiences…
If you want to communicate with greater empathy, clarity, and creativity…

This conversation will expand the way you think about language and leadership.

📌 Connect with Mod Hob Cooperative

🌐 Website:
https://www.modhob.ca

📖 About Mod Hob:
https://www.modhob.ca/about-modhob

🎲 Learn more about their storytelling system:
https://www.plotweavergame.com/

📘 About the storytelling project:
https://www.modhob.ca/about-plotweaver

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this week's episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, the show that helps global professionals speak clearly and confidently at work, host Curtis Davies sits down with Robert Siciliano, one of the world's leading Cybersecurity Awareness experts and a trusted voice on how AI is reshaping communication, trust, and leadership.

Robert is a "good guy" hacker, international speaker, and the creator of The Strategic Human Firewall™. As CEO of ProtectNowLLC.com, he trains organizations to treat personal and digital security like preventative medicine, not damage control. His work has been featured on CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, The Today Show, and in Entrepreneur Magazine, where he's known for breaking down complex cyber threats into clear, practical actions anyone can understand.

In this powerful conversation, Robert explains why the biggest communication risk today isn't language — it's Digital Deception.

As AI-powered deepfakes, voice cloning, and social engineering attacks become more sophisticated, global professionals are being targeted not because of weak technology — but because of human psychology. Our natural instinct to trust familiar voices, emails, and authority signals is now being exploited at scale.

This episode is essential listening for professionals who work across borders, manage teams, handle sensitive information, or want to communicate with confidence, authority, and security in a digital-first world.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:

🧠 Why Digital Deception is now a bigger risk than language barriers
🤖 How AI-driven deepfakes and voice cloning exploit our natural instinct to trust
🎯 What Robert calls "The Human Blindspot™" — and why smart leaders fall for scams
💬 The communication mistakes that make professionals vulnerable to social engineering
🛡️ How to communicate authority while verifying identity without damaging rapport
🌍 Why cybersecurity is now a leadership skill, not just an IT responsibility
💊 How to treat digital security like preventative medicine with simple daily habits
🚨 The newest AI-powered threats global professionals should be aware of right now
🔑 The most important mindset shift professionals must make to protect themselves and their teams

This episode is eye-opening, practical, and highly relevant — especially for professionals who rely on English to lead, negotiate, and make decisions in high-stakes digital environments.

📌 Connect with Robert Siciliano

🌐 Website & Training Resources:
https://www.protectnowllc.com

📺 YouTube Channel (Cybersecurity Awareness):
https://www.youtube.com/user/stungundotcom

💼 LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertsiciliano/

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis Davies sits down with Tennylle Carnes, a mindset coach, breathwork practitioner, and founder of multiple wellness and travel-based businesses. With more than 20 years of experience in the travel industry, Tennylle has transformed her life through mindset, embodiment, and aligned action, all while raising two boys as a single mother and building her businesses from the ground up.

Tennylle teaches a simple but powerful truth:

✨ A strong body supports a powerful mind — and a powerful mind creates a powerful life.

She integrates fitness, breathwork, mindset training, and Law of Attraction principles to help women shift emotional patterns, regulate their nervous system, and reconnect with their personal power. Through her luxury travel work and her transformational retreats, she designs experiences that restore clarity, elevate confidence, and expand what people believe is possible — personally, professionally, and financially.

This episode is packed with wisdom about identity, breaking subconscious patterns, emotional regulation, and creating alignment through intentional action.

✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn:

🌬️ How breathwork and nervous system regulation reshape your confidence
🧠 Why mindset isn't enough — and the role the body plays in true transformation
💎 How women (and professionals in general) can shift from survival mode to alignment
📦 The hidden patterns that block success and how to break them
🌍 How Tennylle designs luxury travel experiences that support emotional healing and possibility
🔥 The habits, rituals, and mindset tools that helped her rebuild her life
🌱 Why alignment + action = transformation

Whether you're reinventing yourself, stepping into leadership, or trying to communicate with more clarity and confidence — Tennylle's story and strategies will deeply inspire you.

🌐 Connect with Tennylle Carnes

Instagram (Mindset & Coaching):
https://www.instagram.com/tennyllec

Instagram (Luxury Travel & Retreats):
https://www.instagram.com/tcktravelliaison/

Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/TCKtravelliaison/

LinkedIn:
http://linkedin.com/in/tennylle-c

Website — Luxury Travel & Retreats:
https://www.tcktravel.net

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this special solo episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, the show that helps global professionals to speak clearly and confidently at work, Curtis shares a rare, limited-time opportunity for listeners who are ready to finally transform their English communication skills.

For the first time ever, podcast listeners can get 50% OFF any package of the 90-Day Next Level English Challenge, using the exclusive coupon code:

👉 90DAY50

This is the biggest discount Curtis has ever offered, designed specifically for listeners who want to take their English — and their confidence — to the next level.

If you've been listening to the podcast, learning from the guests, and wanting to make real progress… this episode is for you.

The 90-Day Challenge has helped hundreds of motivated professionals:

✨ Speak naturally without translating
✨ Feel confident in meetings, presentations, and interviews
✨ Improve pronunciation, fluency, and clarity
✨ Build strong speaking habits that last
✨ Finally break through the "intermediate level."

Today's episode explains:

💥 Why most learners stay stuck — and how to break through
🎯 What makes the 90-Day Challenge different from every other program
🧠 How daily speaking repetition creates fluency
📈 What results students typically achieve in their first few weeks
🔥 How you can join at half the normal price

Whether you're preparing for work, leadership roles, global communication, or just want to finally sound natural and confident in English, this is your chance to commit to your growth with support, structure, and a proven system.

🔥 PODCAST-ONLY OFFER — 50% OFF

Go to:
👉 https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

Use coupon code:
🎟️ 90DAY50

This offer applies to all 90-Day Challenge packages, but only for podcast listeners and only for a limited time.

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this week's episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, the show that helps global professionals to speak clearly and confidently at work, host Curtis Davies talks with one of the most unconventional and high-energy business strategists in the world:

Nathan Baws.

Nathan has built and scaled more than 19 businesses, including multiple 7-figure companies — and he openly shares the stories behind the wins and the failures. He's been featured on Shark Tank Australia, holds a Guinness World Record for ice baths, and recently co-authored an international best-selling book with Tony Robbins and Brian Tracy.

Nathan calls himself a Business Athlete, and his frameworks combine psychology, performance science, and bold strategic thinking:

🔥 Opportunity Alchemy™ — spot opportunities others created for you
🔥 Zero-Budget Dominance™ — outperform competitors even with no budget
🔥 Resilience Engine™ — turn setbacks into momentum
🔥 Flowstate Activation Protocol™ — activate peak performance on command

This episode is powerful, tactical, hilarious, and full of strategies you can use immediately, whether you're building a business, growing your career, or trying to communicate with more confidence under pressure.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:

💡 The mindset difference Nathan found between his business wins and failures
🧩 How to see opportunities others completely miss
📈 How to dominate an industry with no money, no audience, and no connections
🧬 How to activate flow state during high-stakes communication moments
🔥 Nathan's most brutal business crash — and how he turned it into a breakthrough
🏆 Daily habits and routines that fuel the "Business Athlete" mindset
🎥 The communication lessons he learned from Shark Tank Australia
🎯 The one mindset shift global professionals should adopt today to create more opportunities

If you want to think bigger, move faster, and communicate with more confidence in your career or business, this episode will fire you up.

📌 Connect with Nathan Baws

🌐 Website:

https://nathanbaws.com/

🔗 LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-baws-64b69166/?originalSubdomain=au

📘 Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/nathan.baws/

 

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this week's episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, the show that helps global professionals to speak clearly and confidently at work, host Curtis Davies speaks with Craig Sotkovsky, a 9/11 World Trade Center lung cancer survivor, entrepreneur, international speaker, and resilience advocate.

Craig's story is extraordinary. After being exposed to toxic dust near Ground Zero during the attacks on September 11, 2001, he was diagnosed with early-stage lung cancer nearly twenty years later, a moment that changed everything. Instead of breaking him, that diagnosis awakened a powerful mission.

Today, Craig helps people find strength through adversity, advocate for their health, and build meaningful lives even in the aftermath of trauma. His work has been featured in TIME Magazine, FOX 5 New York, Bold Journey, Voyage ATL, and other major media outlets.

He is a voice of resilience, courage, and purpose — and this conversation will leave you inspired to look at your life in a whole new way.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:

💥 The moment Craig received his cancer diagnosis — and the mindset shift that saved his life
🌫️ The long-term health impact of 9/11 and what Craig wishes more people understood
🧠 How mindset became one of his strongest survival tools
💼 How entrepreneurship gave him purpose and strength during his recovery
❤️ A powerful story of someone he helped that changed him forever
💪 The top 3 skills every person needs to build resilience
🔥 Craig's best advice for anyone facing fear, uncertainty, or a difficult life transition

This episode is emotional, practical, and empowering — a reminder that resilience is built through the battles we never expected to face.

📌 Connect with Craig Sotkovsky

🌐 Website:

https://www.craigsotkovsky.com/
https://www.craigsotkovsky.com/about

Get Craig's Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com.mx/Everybody-Pays-Vig-Entrepreneurial-Journey/dp/1732232415

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-sotkovsky-001/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myyucatan

 

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this week's episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, the show that helps global professionals to speak clearly and confidently at work, host Curtis Davies talks with Michelle Ferguson, author, speaker, coach, and the voice behind the heartfelt memoir A Love Like Ours.

Michelle's story is one of extraordinary love, deep loss, and the courage to keep moving forward. After walking beside her husband Jerry during his battle with Stage IV cancer, navigating her own health challenges, and rebuilding her life through gratitude and connection, Michelle now uses her experience to help others heal, grow, and "carry love forward."

Through her books, coaching program, and community, Michelle teaches people how to embrace resilience, find meaning in difficult seasons, and stay connected to what matters most, even when life feels overwhelming.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:
💛 How Michelle transformed grief into purpose and deep gratitude
📖 The story behind A Love Like Ours and why it resonates so deeply with readers
🧡 How to stay grounded and hopeful through uncertainty
🌱 What healing looks like in real life — not just on paper
💬 How love, vulnerability, and resilience shape how we communicate
🔥 Practical advice for anyone navigating loss, change, or emotional difficulty
🤝 How Michelle's Carrying Love Forward program supports people through grief

This episode is emotional, inspiring, and beautifully human, a reminder that even through loss, love continues, and resilience can grow in the most unexpected ways.

📌 Connect with Michelle Ferguson

🌐 Website:
https://cestmoimichelleferguson.com/

📖 About the Author:
https://cestmoimichelleferguson.com/about-the-author/

📚 Books — including A Love Like Ours:
https://cestmoimichelleferguson.com/the-books/

🤝 Carrying Love Forward Coaching Program:
https://cestmoimichelleferguson.com/coaching/

🎓 Course:
https://cestmoimichelleferguson.com/course/

📸 Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/cestmoimichelleferguson/

📘 Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/cestmoimichelleferguson/

💼 LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/michelle-ferguson-author-speaker/

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast — the show that helps global professionals to speak clearly and confidently at work — host Curtis Davies talks with Urnell Greaves, the founder of FIRM Communication Coaching, a communication expert who helps professionals build real confidence, elevate their delivery, and communicate powerfully in high-stakes situations.

Urnell has supported professionals to overcome fear, strengthen their presence, and speak with clarity and authority. He's now formalizing his proven coaching process into a programme that will be available soon.

Today's conversation dives into how to develop confidence, manage public speaking anxiety, refine delivery skills, and communicate with presence and impact — especially relevant for professionals who speak English as a second language or work in international environments.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:
🗣️ What inspired Urnell Greaves to create FIRM Communication Coaching
💡 How confidence really works — and why many professionals struggle with it
🔥 The most common blocks that cause fear in public speaking
📣 Delivery techniques that make your communication more powerful
🌟 A real breakthrough story showing dramatic transformation
📈 What professionals can do today to speak with more confidence
📌 Who Urnell's upcoming coaching programme is for and what it will help you achieve

This episode is essential listening for leaders, communicators, presenters, and anyone who wants to improve the way they speak and lead with confidence at work.

📌 Connect with Urnell Greaves

🌐 FIRM Communication Coaching:
https://firmcommunicationcoaching.com

📍 Programme Info (Coming Soon):
https://firmcommunicationcoaching.com/programme

🎙️Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.

👉 Book your trial session
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
(50% OFF with code: 90DAY50)
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 

https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/ 

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

If you enjoyed this episode...

⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.

⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.

⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, host Curtis Davies sits down with Kira Shishkin — Founder & CEO of informed.now, the SMS-based news service trusted by leading professionals who want fact-based, bias-free information without overwhelm.

Kira is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, a 4-time serial entrepreneur, a former co-founder of a $100M+ FinTech marketplace at Intuit, and a 2018 World Public Speaking Champion. His work spans investment banking, private equity, venture capital, crypto, publishing, and media innovation. He holds honors degrees in Economics, Philosophy, and Abstract Mathematics, plus accelerated executive programs at Stanford.

Today's conversation is packed with insights on truth, clarity, thinking skills, and communication in a world full of noise.

In this episode, you'll learn:

🧠 How to reduce information overload and think more clearly
📰 Why the modern news ecosystem is broken — and how to fix your relationship with information
🎯 How informed.now removes bias, clickbait, and ads while delivering only the signal
🗣️ What Kira learned from becoming the World Public Speaking Champion
🚀 Patterns he sees across successful founders, leaders, and innovators
🌍 How global professionals can stay informed without burnout
💡 A powerful mindset shift to filter truth from noise in daily life

This is an eye-opening episode for anyone who struggles with misinformation, distraction, or staying informed while working in English.

🔗 Connect with Kira Shishkin & informed.now

🌐 Website / Product:
https://informed.now 

🔗 LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirashishkin/

Facebook -> https://www.facebook.com/Kira.Shishkin

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast — the show that helps global professionals to speak clearly and confidently at work — host Curtis Davies talks with Deepak Chari, MS, an Engineer, Certified Biofeedback Specialist, and co-founder of the Chari Center of Health.

Deepak is the creator of the Life Transformation Technology™ Program, which uses Advanced Voice Biofeedback to help people release hidden emotional blocks from stress, anxiety, past emotional experiences, and even ancestral patterns. His work helps clients feel calm, confident, empowered, and emotionally free, often creating rapid and unexpected breakthroughs in communication, confidence, and mental clarity.

With a background in engineering, Deepak brings a powerful blend of scientific insight and emotional intelligence, helping people uncover the subconscious patterns affecting their performance, relationships, and self-expression.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:
🧠 What hidden emotional blocks are — and how they impact communication
🎙️ How your voice reveals stress patterns you don't even know you carry
🔬 How Advanced Voice Biofeedback works (explained simply for listeners)
🔥 The kinds of subconscious and ancestral patterns people hold
💡 A client story that shows the real power of emotional release
🌱 What people notice first when those emotional patterns are released
🏆 Deepak's most important advice for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or afraid to change

This episode is especially powerful for international professionals, English learners, and anyone struggling with anxiety, confidence issues, or emotional blocks that affect their communication at work or in life.

📌 Connect with Deepak Chari

🌐 Website:
https://www.fastanxietyhelp.com

💼 LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/deepakcharifastanxietyhelp/

👉 Book a Complimentary 15-Minute Consultation:
https://www.fastanxietyhelp.com

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, host Curtis Davies sits down with Aaron Ryan, an award-winning and bestselling author of nearly 40 books, including the fan-favorite Dissonance alien invasion saga, the Christian dystopian series The End, multiple sci-fi thrillers, children's books, and business books — including his guide on self-publishing.

Aaron's creative journey began in second grade with a story called The Electric Boy. Since then, he has spent his life creating — not only as an author but also as a musician, producer, videographer, stage performer, voiceover artist, and more. His diverse background gives him a powerful and unique perspective on creativity, discipline, communication, and storytelling.

In this conversation, Aaron shares his philosophy on writing, the mindset required to produce work consistently, the themes behind his most popular series, and how storytelling helps people — including English learners — become more confident communicators.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:
🔥 How Aaron writes consistently and stays inspired while producing dozens of books
🌍 How he builds complex, immersive sci-fi and dystopian worlds
💬 What storytelling teaches us about clear, confident communication
📚 What most authors misunderstand about self-publishing
🎨 How life experience, faith, creativity, and discipline shape his work
⭐ The #1 piece of advice he gives to anyone feeling stuck creatively or personally

This is an inspiring and motivating conversation for global professionals, writers, English learners, creatives, and anyone who wants to build confidence and express themselves more clearly — in writing and in life.

📌 Connect with Aaron Ryan

🌐 Author Website:
https://authoraaronryan.com/

🎤 Speaking Website:
https://speakeraaronryan.com/

📱 All Social Links (dot.cards):
https://dot.cards/authoraaronryan

🎬 IMDb:
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm5976186/

YOUTUBE:

https://www.youtube.com/@authoraaronryan

FACEBOOK COMMUNITY:

https://authoraaronryangroup.com

https://www.facebook.com/authoraaronryan

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, host Curtis Davies sits down with Todd Hancock, one of Vancouver's Canada's most recognized radio personalities, a former longtime afternoon host on CFOX 99.3 The Fox (2002–2014), and creator of the hugely successful Toddcast Podcast, which continues to grow across Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and beyond.

Todd began his radio career in 1996 and spent nearly two decades in one of Canada's most competitive markets, where he interviewed major artists, navigated unpredictable live broadcasts, and developed the confidence, speed, and storytelling skills necessary to thrive under the pressure of live radio.

Todd also worked alongside previous Real English Conversations guest Darren "Danger" Grieve, giving listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the chemistry, teamwork, and quick decision-making required when everything is happening live, in real time, in front of an audience.

🎧 Listen to the episode with Darren Grieve aka Danger Here ->

Spotify

 https://open.spotify.com/episode/6WSDJhExWEzIPh1NzeEW78?si=620f47033fd747f1

Apple Podcasts

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-history-of-vancouver-radio-rock-music-reinvention/id977345837?i=1000738510176

In this episode, Todd opens up about his journey, the most intense moments of his broadcasting career, the art of staying cool when everything goes sideways, and how he reinvented himself through podcasting after leaving traditional radio.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:
🎙️ What decades in live radio teach you about confidence and quick thinking
🔥 The toughest on-air moments Todd faced — and how he saved them
🧠 How to stay calm when everything goes wrong (live or at work)
💬 How to speak with presence, authenticity & personality
🔄 Why Todd left radio and built the Toddcast Podcast
🎧 What interviewing big artists taught him about communication
💪 Todd's best advice for anyone struggling with speaking confidence

This is a fun, honest, high-energy conversation full of stories, lessons, and behind-the-scenes insights from nearly 30 years in broadcasting — perfect for global professionals, creatives, broadcasters, and anyone who wants to communicate with more confidence under pressure.

📌 Connect with Todd Hancock

🌐 Website:
https://toddhancock.ca/

🎧 Toddcast Podcast:
Spotify: https://ecs.page.link/yPdTQ
Apple Podcasts: https://ecs.page.link/tsfcy
YouTube: https://ecs.page.link/abUvz
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/tcpc/id964382481
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/toddcastpodcast

📱 Social Media:
Instagram: https://ecs.page.link/aTwKR
Facebook: https://ecs.page.link/DDgC2
Twitter: https://ecs.page.link/td8qD

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, host Curtis Davies speaks with Sam Murray, founder of The Breath Connection, a former British Royal Marine Commando, and an expert in breath retraining, nervous system regulation, trauma recovery, and stress resilience.

After years of struggling with alcohol & drug addiction, chronic fatigue, anxiety, panic symptoms, poor sleep, and energy crashes, Sam discovered that dysfunctional breathing was at the core of his entire health cycle. By retraining his breath, he transformed his body, his mind, and his life — and now he teaches others to do the same.

Sam has worked with law enforcement teams, firefighters, military personnel, NHS staff, high-performance athletes, and people in high-pressure roles who need to stay calm, focused, and emotionally steady under stress. His program, Back to Balance, helps people reset their breathing, quiet their mind, and regain control over their nervous system.

This conversation will fundamentally change how you think about stress, confidence, and your breathing.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:
🫁 The hidden signs of dysfunctional breathing
🔥 Why anxiety, overwhelm, and burnout often start with the breath
🧠 How to reset your nervous system through breath retraining
🎤 How breathing impacts confidence, communication, and speaking under pressure
🌙 The link between breath and sleep, focus, performance, and emotional control
🌬️ Techniques you can use instantly before meetings, presentations, and interviews
💪 How breathwork supports trauma recovery and long-term resilience

This episode is ideal for international professionals, leaders, speakers, or anyone seeking to manage stress, enhance communication, or boost confidence in high-pressure situations.

📌 Connect with Sam Murray — The Breath Connection

🌐 Website:
https://www.thebreathconnection.org/

📘 Back to Balance Program:
https://www.thebreathconnection.org/back-to-balance-online-course

🧭 Work With Sam:
https://www.thebreathconnection.org/registration

LinkED In:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-breath-connection-org/

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, host Curtis Davies sits down with Darren "Danger" Grieve, a 35-year, multi-award-winning broadcasting professional and one of Vancouver's most recognizable radio personalities.

Darren built a long and successful career across some of Canada's biggest stations — Sonic Radio 104.9 FM, 96.9 Jack FM, City News 1130, 99.3 The Fox & XFM among others— He became a name known for his voice, Music knoweldge, his on-air presence, and his unforgettable interviews with some of the biggest names in Rock music and entertainment.

Winner of Best Evening DJ in Vancouver for seven consecutive years, Darren has voiced countless commercials, promos, and PSA's across Canada. Now, after three decades behind the mic, he's stepping into a new chapter: voiceover, voice acting, and commercial on-camera work, bringing a lifetime of communication experience into a fresh creative path.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:
🎤 How to build a long, successful communication career
🧠 What really happens behind the scenes in radio and broadcasting
🔥 How to stay confident during high-pressure, public-facing work
💬 How to master your voice, presence, and storytelling
🔄 What it takes to reinvent yourself after decades in one career
🎧 Darren's biggest lessons from 35 years behind the mic

This is a powerful, honest conversation about communication, resilience, creativity, and staying true to yourself while the world — and your career — evolves.

📌 Connect with Darren Grieve AKA DANGER Here -> 

On Instagram -> Danger_on_air

Facebook -> https://www.facebook.com/darren.grieve.3

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this powerful episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, host Curtis Davies sits down with Bob Phibbs — The Retail Doctor®, one of the world's most recognized retail strategists, communication experts, and global keynote speakers.

Bob has trained more than 250,000 sales professionals worldwide, helped global brands like LEGO, Brother, and Seiko, and is the creator of SalesRX, the leading online sales training platform. His work has been featured in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, PBS, ABC, FOX, and he hosts Tell Me Something Good About Retail, the top podcast for retail and customer experience leaders.

But this conversation goes far beyond retail.

Bob and Curtis dive deep into human psychology, communication, confidence, influence, and the power of genuine connection—skills every international professional needs in 2025 and beyond.

From real stories with Tom Clancy to hard-hitting insights about AI, leadership, and emotional selling, Bob shares decades of wisdom that will transform the way you communicate at work, build trust, and create meaningful connections—no matter your English level.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:
🧠 Why emotional impact—not information—creates influence
🤝 What world-class communicators do differently (and how you can model it)
🔊 The biggest mistakes people make with communication in English
🛠️ How AI is changing connection—and what humans still do better
🌍 How to build trust and confidence even if your English isn't perfect
🧭 The psychology behind great selling, leadership, and customer experience
🔥 The exact habits that help professionals stand out in any global workplace

This episode is packed with stories, insights, and practical tools for international professionals, salespeople, leaders, and anyone who wants to communicate with more confidence and impact.

📌 Connect with Bob Phibbs

🌐 Website:
https://retaildoc.com

💼 LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobphibbs/

🎙️ Podcast — Tell Me Something Good About Retail
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tell-me-something-good-about-retail/id1247137950

📺 YouTube — The Retail Doctor
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheRetailDoctor

🛍️ Online Retail Sales Training — SalesRX
https://salesrx.com

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this week's episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, host Curtis Davies reveals a powerful secret that even many loyal listeners don't know: there's another Real English Conversations podcast, what we call A Sister Podcast, that's been quietly helping learners around the world for over 10 years:

👉 The English Phrasal Verb Podcast.

If you've been studying English for years but still struggle to sound natural, this is the episode you've been waiting for. Curtis breaks down why most professionals can read and write English perfectly but freeze under pressure when speaking, and how mastering phrasal verbs unlocks your confidence, clarity, and fluency.

You'll hear why expressions like "follow up," "wrap up," "look into," "come up with," and "pull together" are the secret to sounding clear, confident, and professional in real conversations.

🎧 In this episode, Curtis shares:

✅ Why textbook English doesn't prepare you for real communication
✅ The secret to sounding natural and professional in business English
✅ How to practice and internalize phrasal verbs quickly
✅ The story behind The English Phrasal Verb Podcast — and how it's changed lives for over a decade

If you're ready to sound confident, fluent, and relaxed in English, this is your sign to start listening to the podcast that started it all.

🎙️Listen to The English Phrasal Verb Podcast HERE ->

Spotify -> https://open.spotify.com/show/5vUcD9kmWCvZud6PBC0Qn8?si=1990e03e773a48b9

Apple Podcasts -> https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/english-phrasal-verb-podcast-lessons-by-real-english/id1024006119

🌐 Learn more → realenglishconversations.com/phrasal-verb-podcast

📘 Take the Next Step

Want to train your English like a professional athlete trains for peak performance?
Join the English Phrasal Verb Course, a practical, structured system that helps you use phrasal verbs confidently in business conversations.

💼 realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/phrasal-verb-course

🎙️ Connect and Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for business success?
We currently have space for 5 professionals to join Teacher Curtis for 1-to-1 coaching. Book your trial session now and start speaking clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.  https://realenglishconversations.com/contact-us/

👉 Book your trial session here:
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/

OR join the 90-Day English Challenge — now with 15% OFF using coupon code 90DAY15

🔗 Join the 90-Day English Challenge:
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

🌐 Website — realenglishconversations.com
🎧 Podcast — Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Spotify ->  https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q?si=456b982c2dcd489a

Apple Podcasts ->  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

Patreon -> https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

📘 Facebook — Real English Conversations

https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

📸 Instagram — @realenglishconversations

https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies

https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, host Curtis Davies talks with Nick Shelton, bestselling author, TEDx international speaker, and creator of The Reset Button, a six-phase reinvention framework for people navigating life transitions and rediscovering purpose.

Nick's journey is one of transformation, courage, and quiet strength. After serving in the U.S. Air Force and building a successful career in the oil and gas industry, he retired at 49, only to discover that freedom without purpose can feel like a slow collapse.

That realization sparked a personal reset that led to new meaning, confidence, and contribution. Today, Nick helps others do the same, teaching professionals, retirees, and introverts how to rebuild identity, reconnect with themselves, and create a life that actually fits.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:
🧭 What happens after success, and how to find direction again
⚙️ The 6 phases of personal reinvention from The Reset Button
💬 How introverts can connect, network, and build confidence in social settings
🔥 Why freedom without clarity often leads to burnout
🌍 How to build new relationships and community, even when you move abroad

This is an honest and powerful conversation about identity, purpose, and the courage to start over, perfect for anyone ready to reinvent their life or career.

📌 Connect with Nick Shelton

🌐 Websites:

• www.connectedintrovert.com

• www.resettheman.com

📘 Book:

• An Introvert's Guide to World Domination → Get it on Amazon

• https://www.amazon.com.mx/dp/B08GDV7B4B?tag=mxtagdefault-20&keywords=Nick%20Shelton%20an%20introverts%20guide%20to%20world%20domination&geniuslink=true

🎥 TEDx Talk:

• Watch Nick's TEDx Talk

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAXFC2w-WiA

💼 LinkedIn:

• Nick Shelton

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasleonshelton/

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, host Curtis Davies sits down with Arias WebsterBerry, founder of WebsterBerry Marketing, Launch Ignition AI, and author, coach, and speaker who has helped entrepreneurs and teams generate over $112 million in revenue by mastering one skill: clear, human-centered communication.

Arias teaches professionals and business leaders how to craft powerful stories, convey their message effectively, and utilize AI without compromising authenticity. His frameworks have helped international teams turn confusion into clarity and fear into confidence.

But his story goes far beyond marketing success, Arias overcame early hardship, including periods of homelessness, and turned his journey into a message of resilience, leadership, and self-belief.

✨ In this episode, you'll learn:
🔥 How to use simple storytelling to connect with your audience and colleagues
🧠 Why clarity always wins — even in complex global conversations
💬 How to use AI tools to support (not replace) your human voice
💪 The mindset shift from imposter syndrome to authentic confidence
🌍 Why communication is the #1 skill for leadership, persuasion, and impact

This episode is packed with practical frameworks and inspiring insight — perfect for global professionals who want to communicate clearly, confidently, and authentically in English.

📌 Connect with Arias WebsterBerry

🌐 Website: www.AriasWebsterBerry.com
💼 WebsterBerry Marketing: www.WebsterBerryMarketing.com
🤖 Launch Ignition AI: www.LaunchIgnition.ai
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ariasweb
📸 Instagram: instagram.com/ariasweb

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this week's episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, host Curtis Davies sits down with Jason Johnson, Emotional Freedom & Transformation Coach and author of Detrimental Kindness: How Not to Lose Yourself While Helping Others.

Jason helps people break free from over-giving, people-pleasing, and self-abandonment disguised as kindness. His work is about reclaiming boundaries, rediscovering your voice, and learning to live with confidence and emotional truth, not guilt or fear.

Through his powerful message and lived experience, Jason shares how to stop betraying yourself in the name of being "nice" and start living a life rooted in authenticity, clarity, and freedom.

✨ In this episode, Jason shares:

💬 What "detrimental kindness" really means — and why it's so common for high achievers
🧠 How fear of judgment leads to self-silencing in relationships and workplaces
💪 Practical tools to build boundaries and emotional resilience
🌍 How to reconnect with your authentic self and communicate with confidence
💡 Why breaking free from over-helping leads to stronger, healthier connections

Whether you're a professional who struggles to say "no," or someone who constantly puts others first, this episode will help you recognize your worth and start setting boundaries that protect your energy and peace.

🌐 Connect with Jason Johnson

📘 Get the Book — Detrimental Kindness: How Not To Lose Yourself While Helping Others
👉 Buy on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FFZ2KFT2?psc=1&ref=cm_sw_r_apin_ct_EK81P86VFN698K0PVCRQ&ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_ct_EK81P86VFN698K0PVCRQ&social_share=cm_sw_r_apin_ct_EK81P86VFN698K0PVCRQ&language=en-US&csmig=1

📸 Instagram: @coachjasonjohnson

https://www.instagram.com/coachjasonjohnson

📘 Facebook: Jason Johnson

https://www.facebook.com/jason.johnson.7946

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this week's episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, host Curtis Davies sits down with Jessica Rector, MBA, keynote speaker, author, and co-founder of The Say Yes Experience, to explore how self-awareness, boundaries, and authentic communication can transform your personal and professional life.

Jessica has empowered thousands of leaders and teams to reconnect with their confidence, purpose, and communication power. Through her dynamic speaking and coaching, she helps people lead with intention, protect their energy, and create positive momentum at work and beyond.

✨ In this episode, Jessica shares:
💬 How learning to say "yes" to yourself helps you communicate with more clarity and confidence
🧠 Why emotional honesty and boundary-setting are essential for great leadership
🚀 Simple mindset shifts that create more meaningful connections at work
💡 How to realign your purpose and rediscover motivation when you've lost direction
🌍 The link between self-belief and authentic, effective communication across cultures

Jessica's message is both powerful and practical, a reminder that the way we speak to ourselves is the foundation for how we lead, inspire, and connect with others.

🌐 Connect with Jessica Rector

💼 Website: JessicaRector.com
💬 The Say Yes Experience: SayYesExperience.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Jessica Rector on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicarector/

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this special solo episode, host Curtis Davies, the founder of The Real English Conversations Podcast, opens up about the next chapter for the show and how you can be part of it.

For years, this podcast has helped global professionals find their voice in English — not through grammar drills, but through real communication, mindset, and confidence. Now, Curtis is taking that mission one step further by launching the Real English Conversations Patreon community.

If this podcast has ever helped you — inspired you to speak up, improved your fluency, or made you feel more confident in your professional English — this episode is your invitation to become part of something bigger.

✨ In this episode, Curtis shares:
💬 Why he created the Patreon community
🎧 What exclusive content and learning tools members receive
💪 How to join and start growing faster in your English journey
🌍 Why this community will change the way you learn, speak, and connect

💖 Join the Real English Conversations Community on Patreon

🎧 Become a Patron today:
👉 https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

or view all membership options:
👉 https://www.patreon.com/c/realenglishconversationspodcast/membership

Inside Patreon you'll find:
✅ Exclusive podcast episodes
✅ Full transcripts & study notes
✅ Fluency-building tools and mindset training
✅ Early access & behind-the-scenes content
✅ Discounts for the 90-Day English Challenge

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, host Curtis Davies speaks with Tom LeNoble, executive leader, international speaker, resilience coach, and philanthropist.

Tom's career spans Fortune 500 giants, including MCI (VZ), Walmart.com (WMT), Palm (HP), and Facebook (META), as well as high-growth startups. Today, he serves as CEO of the Academy for Coaching Excellence and A Leadership Coach with the Miller Center at Santa Clara University, mentoring leaders and entrepreneurs worldwide.

A two-time survivor of life-threatening illnesses and the forthcoming author of My Life in Business Suits, Hospital Gowns & High Heels, Tom shares his conviction — "I'm Still Here." His story is one of courage, reinvention, and the power to lead with purpose in the face of adversity.

✨ In this episode, Tom reveals:
💼 Leadership lessons from Fortune 500 boardrooms and startups
💪 How resilience redefines success after life-changing moments
🧠 Mindset shifts that help professionals stay strong under pressure
🌍 Why servant leadership and philanthropy matter now more than ever
💬 His mission is to inspire others through his book and coaching

📌 Connect with Tom LeNoble

🌐 Website — www.tomlenoble.com

Podcast - https://www.tomlenoble.com/podcast

LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/tomlenoble

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/tomlenoble

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, host Curtis Davies speaks with Sam Malone, The lead spoken voice lecturer in Musical Theatre at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and teacher at RADA.

Sam has trained performers who've gone on to lead roles in West End hits like Hadestown, Mean Girls, Les Misérables, Phantom of the Opera, and more. But his expertise isn't limited to the stage. Sam also works with executives and global organizations such as Wagamama, Accenture, and Skadden, helping leaders communicate with clarity, impact, and presence.

By combining spoken voice training, executive presence, and nervous system-informed practice, Sam equips professionals to speak with confidence and authenticity in even the toughest rooms.

✨ In this episode, Sam shares:

🎭 Lessons from his training that business leaders can apply immediately
🧠 The role of the nervous system in confident, under-pressure communication
💼 Common mistakes executives make when presenting to teams and clients
🌍 Advice for global professionals speaking English as a second language
🎙️ Why authenticity and authority can (and should) go hand in hand

📌 Connect with Sam Malone

Get Sam's Book Why They Can't Hear You -> https://www.elevatevoice.co.uk/book

🌐 Website: Elevate Voice — https://www.elevatevoice.co.uk/actor
💼 LinkedIn: Sam Malone — https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-malone-voice/

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations

💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?

We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.

🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge
Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50

https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/

PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle

🌐 Website
https://realenglishconversations.com

🎧 Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q

🎧 Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837

📺 YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations

📸 Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/

📘 Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline

💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies
https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/

💖 Support the podcast on Patreon
https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast