Hi Reader, In case you missed it: a new podcast episode dropped this week: Coffee, Routines, and CELPIP: Transforming daily life into study time. An insider take on this episode: I was so excited making this episode because I'm trying something new: recording without following a script, and breaking some of my self-imposed rules at the same time. Rules? Yep. I broke two of them. One on purpose, which was including sounds from around me. (You'll hear it if you listen. I loved how it turned...
9 days ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, Ever feel like you don't have time to really practice for your CELPIP exam? Like you keep telling yourself, tomorrow or on the weekend when I have more time - THAT'S when I'll practice. If that's the way you think about your practice, I bet you don't get many opportunities because it's just super hard to find lots of free time to devout to getting ready for your test. Here's a secret: start looking for and engaging in the opportunities that are happening all the time all around...
11 days ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, Before we get to AI, I want to tell you that it's been a long time since I have read a book for fun. My wife gave me "Out Of The Silent Planet" by C.S. Lewis for Christmas this year, and I've finally settled in to reading it. I love C.S. Lewis' writing, but I have to admit, I found the book hard to get into at first. Maybe it was the noise of my persistent sore back, or maybe it's just been so long since I read for long periods of time that I'm a little out of practice - not sure....
21 days ago • 2 min read
Hi Reader, I've been an English teacher for 17 years. A certified CELPIP trainer for 2+ years, and I see a lot of people struggling with: trying to find time to practice. Do this instead. **** Want to go a little deeper? Check out my latest YouTube video on How to find time to practice (My latest YouTube video!) My experiment with YouTube continues! What I'm learning? The more I do it, the less scary it gets. (It's still intimidating to talk to the camera, if I'm being totally honest.) And...
about 1 month ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, I'm experimenting on YouTube, and it's scary. I'm an introvert! Just recording audio podcasts took me a LONG time to feel comfortable with. Stepping into video podcast versions of my podcast...well friend, that's next level scary and way out of my comfort zone. And that's exactly why I'm doing it. I don't care about going viral or becoming a famous YouTuber. Not at all. But I talk with you a lot about taking more risks with your English, and pushing yourself to step out of your...
about 1 month ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, Being an introvert isn't doesn't have to be a weakness as you work towards the CELPIP speaking score you need. Lean into your natural strengths...small groups. One-on-one conversations. Like this. **** Hey, I need your help! Looking for work and need some help updating your LinkedIn? Make sure you're not making these common mistakes. (Via Daria Lysenko.) I need your questions! 👉 will be interviewing Daria for an upcoming podcast episode. Do you have any LinkedIn job hunting or...
about 1 month ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, If you are a shy introvert, using your English feels extra hard, doesn't it? So, I made this to help you. I am an introvert too. **** In case you missed it: Trying to use your LinkedIn to find work? Make sure you're not making these classic mistakes. (Via Daria Lysenko.) Daria works to help newcomers build new lives in Canada - and finding meaningful work is a huge part of that new life. I think her post will help you! I need your questions! 👉 will be interviewing Daria for an...
about 2 months ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, Happy Saturday to you! I am looking forward to making pancakes for breakfast with my youngest son - it's his favourite breakfast meal. (Oh...and I add a nice hot cup of coffee for me! My day doesn't start without it!) Do you have a favourite weekend ritual? Now...on with today's newsletter! Trying to use your LinkedIn to find work? Make sure you're not making these classic mistakes. (Via Daria Lysenko.) Daria works to help newcomers build new lives in Canada - and finding...
about 2 months ago • 1 min read
Hi Reader, I recently saw a post on Reddit from someone who has been stuck at the same score for the CELPIP for their past 7 attempts. That's a lot of CELPIP tests. And to be honest, I admire their hard work, dedication and their attitude: I'm not giving up! But here's the question this person, and you too if you are in the same situation, should be asking right now: What is going wrong with my CELPIP prep system? This is a huge question to ask, but few people actually do it. Instead, they...
about 2 months ago • 1 min read