Fluent English Pro

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Embracing Your Accent In English: How It Shapes Your Communication - With Anne Maki

Fluent English Pro

09/12/23 • 50 min

Is it OK to speak English with an accent? Is having an accent a good thing or does it limit my communication in English? But what exactly is an accent, and why does it matter? To explore everything related to having an accent when speaking English as a foreign language, we’ve invited Anne Maki, an expert in a topic that often concerns English learners: accents. Anne has a background in speech language pathology and sheds light on the significance of a clear and comprehensible accent. We will discuss what an accent is, how an accent can benefit you and affect you, and how native Spanish speakers can improve their accent when speaking in English. Stay tuned as we explore the challenges faced by Spanish speakers when speaking English, with a focus on common accented Spanish sounds and how word length and consonants influence pronunciation in both languages. Plus, we'll dive into the intricacies of vowel pronunciation and much more. It's a conversation you won't want to miss!

· What is an accent and why is it important? 1:55

· Maki explains his background in speech language pathology. 3:10

· The importance of a clearly understood accent. 4:40

· If someone begins avoiding you, they are not disliking you. 6:25

· There are some accents that are hard to understand for native speakers. 8:35

· Difficulties of accented Spanish speakers speaking English. 10:30

· Examples of common accented Spanish sounds. 13:00

· Pronunciation of vowels. 17:05

· We get ourselves into some sticky situations in Spanish. 19:30

· Pronouncing Cop, Cup, Bald Cap, and Body Buddy. 22:25

· What is a standard American accent? 25:15

· The core of what makes us human is being able to understand messages. 27:15

· Any movie is a pretty good sampling of the neutral accent. 28:55

· The importance of casual English, reducing words, simplifying words. 31:15

· Fluency and accuracy of speech. 32:55

· Prioritizing Pronunciation Precision in Speaking. 34:55

· The proof is in the actor, and the proof is always in the voice. 37:30

· What is an accent reduction class? 39:50

· Benefits of speaking with ease and confidence. 42:40

· How to get feedback on pronunciation. 44:05

Resources:

Want to continue improving your professional English skills ? Join our Conversation Club for Professionals, where you'll practice work English, business English, and English for professional development with other professionals.

Contacts us now:

🌐 Text us: WhatsApp
✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form
📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.com

Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!

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Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h

Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

Mastering Technical English: Interview With Olivia Augustin

Fluent English Pro

07/23/24 • 46 min

Struggling to explain technical ideas clearly? Olivia Augustin shares tips on simplifying technical English and bridging communication gaps across cultures.

In this episode, I chatted with Olivia Augustin, a technical English trainer who’s all about helping engineers communicate better. Olivia shares some of her teaching techniques, like breaking down complex documents and writing clear, concise reports. She even has some tips for improving technical English, like watching certain TV shows.

Olivia also talked about the challenges of communicating across different departments and cultures within a company. She stressed the importance of tailoring messages for different audiences—what works for an engineering colleague might not be right for someone in finance or HR.

Key Takeaways:

You can make learning fun by watching TV shows that feature clear explanations of technical concepts.
Effective communication ensures your message is understood.
Adapt your communication style to suit different audiences.

Resources:

Olivia Augustin is a technical English trainer specializing in helping engineers and technical professionals improve their communication skills. With a focus on making complex concepts accessible and clear, Olivia uses innovative teaching methods and practical exercises to enhance her clients' ability to write and speak effectively.

Website https://www.marcode.org/
Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-d-augustin/
"English for Engineers" by Olivia Augustin https://open.spotify.com/show/2pc2jnLWtfCVG8blfXpHZi

Book recommended by Olivia:

"The Culture Map" by Erin Meyer https://a.co/d/3yI1bvQ

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Writing in English: Common Errors and How To Fix Them, Interview with Jon Clemence

Fluent English Pro

07/16/24 • 37 min

Irregular verbs got you down? Confused about the right adjective order? This episode unpacks the unique challenges of mastering English as a second language, from grammar intricacies to cultural awareness.

In this episode, I chat with Jon Clemence, a professional editor and proofreader, about the unique challenges of learning and using English as a second language. We dive into peculiarities like irregular plurals, the specific order of adjectives, and the importance of cultural awareness in professional settings.

Jon advises against using profanity and taboo language in business communications. We also touch on the significance of understanding different communication styles, using examples from Latin American and Spanish cultures. He shares practical tips for improving your English writing skills and emphasizes the value of seeking help from native speakers or professional editors.

Key Takeaways:

English has many irregular plurals and specific rules for adjective order.
Continuously seek ways to improve your English writing, whether through practice, native speakers, or professional editing services.
Understanding different communication styles can prevent misunderstandings.

Resources:

Jon Clemence is a seasoned professional in the realm of language editing and proofreading, specializing in assisting non-native English speakers. With a passion for bridging linguistic gaps and enhancing written communication, Jon brings a wealth of experience and insights to help individuals refine their English language skills effectively.

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-clemence-300b31187/
Website https://cedarpressproofreading.com

dictionary recommended by Jon:

American Heritage Dictionary https://www.ahdictionary.com/

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Learning about money and financial literacy. An interview with Marcy Grossman

Fluent English Pro

12/19/23 • 28 min

In this enlightening podcast episode, financial expert Marcy Grossman engages in a conversation on the pivotal role of money in our lives. The discussion spans from the importance of financial literacy to practical tips for managing personal and professional finances. Marcy shares insights on key concepts such as earning versus spending, saving versus investing, and the significance of understanding financial decisions in our daily lives.

Financial literacy, according to Marcy, involves comprehending the daily financial decisions that impact one's life. This understanding is crucial, extending from distinguishing between earning and spending to recognizing the disparities between saving and investing. The podcast underscores the significance of recognizing these distinctions to make informed decisions aligned with personal and professional goals.

The central lesson from this conversation is the necessity of financial literacy for personal and professional success. Marcy emphasizes the importance of starting with the basics, such as budgeting, and highlights the correlation between personal and business finances. The episode underscores that being financially literate is not a luxury but a must-have skill for navigating the complexities of life.

Key Takeaways:

Financial literacy is about understanding daily financial decisions.
Distinguishing between earning, spending, saving, and investing is crucial.
Financial literacy is equally vital for personal and professional success.
Starting small, setting goals, and seeking professional guidance are essential steps.
The willingness to make changes and break through the fear of asking questions is key.

Resources:

Marcy Grossman's book: *Money Marcy's Guide to Financial Literacy*
Website: https://moneymarcy.com/

Contacts us now:

🌐 Text us: WhatsApp
✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form
📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.com

Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!

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Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h

Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

Three Important Negotiation Tactics in a Business Environment

Fluent English Pro

12/05/23 • 13 min

In this episode, David and Paula explore the intricacies of negotiation in a business environment. They discuss three types of negotiations: integrative, distributive, and mixed motives. Integrative negotiations focus on creating a win-win scenario, where both parties benefit. Distributive negotiations involve a competitive approach, aiming to secure the most significant share of the "cake." Mixed motive negotiations, a blend of the previous two, require balancing different elements to achieve mutual benefits. The hosts illustrate these concepts with real-life examples, emphasizing the importance of negotiation in various aspects of life.

The conversation kicks off with an introduction to the Fluent English Pro podcast, positioning itself as the ultimate resource for professionals seeking English language improvement. The hosts, David and Paula, then delve into the heart of the episode by exploring the three key types of negotiation: integrative, distributive, and mixed motive. Integrative negotiations foster relationships where both parties win, distributive negotiations focus on getting as much as possible, and mixed motive negotiations involve a complex interplay of various elements. Real-world examples, such as negotiating a promotion or buying a car, illuminate these negotiation types.

Key Takeaways:

Negotiations are inherent in various aspects of life, from professional endeavors to personal choices.
Integrative, distributive, and mixed motive negotiations offer different strategies for achieving desired outcomes.
Skilled negotiators adapt their approach based on specific circumstances to maximize success.

Resources:

Contacts us now:

🌐 Text us: WhatsApp
✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form
📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.com

Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!

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Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h

Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

Dealing With Fer and Anxiety When Learning English

Fluent English Pro

11/28/23 • 21 min

Have you ever felt anxious or fearful while learning or speaking English? What if I told you there are strategies to overcome these challenges and thrive in your language learning journey?

In this podcast episode we cover the challenges individuals face when learning a new language, particularly English. We discuss four main causes of language learning fears: psychological, methodological, cognitive, and social. These causes touch upon issues such as anxiety, lack of interest, educational environments, and fear of public embarrassment. Strategies to tackle these fears are also explored, emphasizing the importance of shifting learning methods, focusing on communication, seeking feedback, and embracing mistakes as part of the learning process.

We emphasize the importance of adapting learning methods to personal preferences, such as one-on-one conversations, selecting topics of interest, and utilizing learning approaches that align with individual personalities. Additionally, focusing on effective communication over perfection, seeking feedback from experienced tutors, and embracing mistakes as part of the learning process are highlighted as crucial aspects to overcome language learning fears.

From this discussion, three key takeaways emerge. Firstly, shifting learning methods and embracing discomfort leads to progress. Secondly, prioritizing effective communication over perfection fosters language development. Lastly, seeking feedback and accepting mistakes as part of the learning journey enhances language acquisition.

Key Takeaways:

Shifting learning methods and embracing discomfort promotes progress.
Prioritizing effective communication over perfection enhances language development.
Seeking feedback and accepting mistakes as part of the learning journey accelerates language acquisition.

Resources:

Contacts us now:

🌐 Text us: WhatsApp
✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form
📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.com

Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!

Instagram: @fluentenglish.pro

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h

Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

The Importance of Media Literacy

Fluent English Pro

11/21/23 • 16 min

Information is abundant but often biased. In this episode we discuss the significance of being a critical consumer of news, unraveling the complexities of media bias, and how it intersects with one's understanding of different cultures and perspectives. We stress the need for individuals to cultivate media literacy skills to form well-rounded opinions and avoid falling prey to misinformation.

English is a lingua franca and it plays a big role in connecting individuals from diverse cultures and thus, there’s a link between language proficiency, media literacy, and being a global citizen. The conversation shifts to the impact of bias in news reporting, illustrating how media outlets often present information through specific ideological lenses. It is important to not only be informed but also to be critical consumers of news to avoid creating skewed perspectives.

Biases often stem from emotional perspectives rather than factual evidence. And when it comes to media literacy, it impacts everyday life, as well as scenarios where critical analysis becomes crucial, particularly in the business world.We provide practical tips for fact-checking and verification and we invite you to check multiple sources, consider historical context, and listen to different perspectives to form well-informed opinions.

Key Takeaways:

English proficiency extends beyond language skills, making individuals global citizens.
Media literacy is crucial for distinguishing between reliable information and biased narratives.
Critical analysis helps in understanding the context, distinguishing between information and misinformation.

Resources:

Contacts us now:

🌐 Text us: WhatsApp
✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form
📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.com

Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!

Instagram: @fluentenglish.pro

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h

Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

Five Key Phrasal Verbs for Business Meetings

Fluent English Pro

11/14/23 • 12 min

Phrasal verbs are not just a combination of words; they are unique expressions with meanings that often defy direct translation. Understanding them as inseparable units is crucial for effective communication. The key to mastering phrasal verbs is to immerse yourself in their usage rather than relying on literal translations.

In the context of business meetings, we discussed five essential phrasal verbs. "Follow up" is all about checking the status of a process or communication, ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks. "Look into" involves thorough examination, often used when problem-solving is necessary. "Set up" encompasses arranging, planning, or establishing the foundation for various endeavors. "Back up" means providing support, evidence, or reinforcement for proposals and arguments. "Wrap up" signifies bringing a meeting to a close, summarizing the discussion and its outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

Phrasal verbs are not to be taken apart; they should be understood as single units.
Literal translations of phrasal verbs can lead to confusion.
In business meetings, key phrasal verbs like "follow up," "look into," "set up," "back up," and "wrap up" are invaluable for clear and concise communication.

Resources:

Contacts us now:

🌐 Text us: WhatsApp
✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form
📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.com

Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!

Instagram: @fluentenglish.pro

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h

Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

How to Write Persuasive Copy in English for Ads, Emails, and Social Media. Interview With Jon Clemence

Fluent English Pro

04/22/25 • 32 min

Have you ever felt a little insecure about your writing in English? Maybe you’re worried it won’t sound natural, or that people won’t get your message. Well, you're not alone! In this episode, I sit down with Jon Clemence, and we talk about how to make your writing better and more effective, no matter your level.

Jon shares a super simple but powerful writing framework that he uses to make his content really hit home. It all starts with a hook to grab attention, then keeping sentences short and sweet, and wrapping things up with one clear call to action. He also talks about how to connect with audiences from different cultures, especially when you're writing for a global audience.

We also talk about using AI as a tool in the writing process. Jon explains how he uses AI to organize ideas and brainstorm, but he stresses that it’s important not to let AI take over your thinking or your creativity. The key is using it to support your writing, not replace it.

Key Takeaways:

Progress in writing often means being okay with imperfect first drafts
Use short paragraphs and simple sentences to improve readability on screens.
One strong message is more powerful than five scattered ones

Resources:

Jon Clemence is a professional writer and content specialist who offers insights on writing for diverse audiences. He also runs Cedar Press Proofreading, where he helps individuals improve their English writing skills, especially for non-native speakers.

Website

https://cedarpressproofreading.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-clemence-300b31187/

..........................................................

Become a Member! This is the place for you to boost your English skills and career growth with a supportive community — without the limitations of a packed schedule.

Join our membership community here:

@fluentenglish.pro (IG)