Hello Reader, If I could tell you anything about learning how to speak English, it would be this: Fear never really goes away. Fear of making a mistake. Fear of forgetting what to say in English right in the middle of big presentation, or an important conversation. Fear of grammar flops. Fear of looking and feeling like a fool in front of someone else. Yep. It never really goes away. This is especially true if you're an introvert like me. Even in English, my first language, I am usually in a...
4 days ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, Are you preparing for the CELPIP exam and feeling the pressure of the ticking clock or the noise around you? This week a brand new podcast drops that will take a deep dive on this very topic. (If you're already subscribed to the show, you already have it in your podcast app! Hint, hint! ) Not subscribed to the show yet? No problem. 👉 You can get set up right here. Here are two quick ideas that I go way deeper in on the podcast that will help you stay focused and confident: Clock...
8 days ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, I watched a video on YouTube today that had nothing to do with speaking skills for the CELPIP. BUT At the same time, it has a few ideas inside it that DO have a lot to do with stronger speaking performances on the CELPIP, and actually with your English speaking skills in general. Speak on YouTube like this to get views and sales arrived on my YouTube feed, likely because I've watched and enjoyed several videos from Deya's channel before. (I bet you'd like her content. Give it a...
11 days ago • 3 min read
Hello Reader, If you're an outgoing person, you have natural and obvious advantages to learning English. You love talking to people - most of the time. And that love of talking to lots of people, a lot of the time, can be a massive boost for your English skills. And if you've been a reader of this newsletter or a podcast listener for any length of time, you'll no why! The more you use your English skills with others, the faster they will improve. Want another reason talking more is good?...
15 days ago • 2 min read
Hello Reader, I'm curious. Like SUPER curious. So I'm asking you. Yes you! Do you use ChatGPT to help you with your English skills? To help you study for the CELPIP? As a conversation buddy? Have you used chatGPT to practice your English? Yes, as a conversation and writing buddy Yes, but I didn't find it helpful. Yes, and I love it. chatGPT?? What is that? No, and I don't want to. Human to Human for me! I'm asking because I've met listeners to my podcast who have tried using AI for their...
18 days ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, I don't think there are top secret hacks to learning English. Sorry to disappoint you. But there is something that comes MIGHTY CLOSE to being one, but it's the least attractive thing you can do. At the same time, it's the most powerful thing you can do. Here is a hint: this 'hack' has nothing to do with studying grammar books or spending a gazillion hours in a classroom. More hints: It's scary. There's high potential for making a mistake. You will make mistakes. Other people...
22 days ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, Heres how to have a great conversation without doing all the talking. Using this simple strategy will make your next conversation a breeze! Happy Cat GIF **** In case you missed it: my previous podcast will help you figure out what to do when all you seem to get are 6s and 7s on the CELPIP - no matter how hard you try. This episode can literally save you buckets of $$. Stay tuned! My next podcast episode drops on Tuesday. You'll find out what a group of university photography...
25 days ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, Getting started in any speaking task can feel tough. But 9 times out of 10, getting straight to the point is your best option. Here's how that applies to talking about a past experience on CELPIP speaking task 2. Forrest Gump GIF by GrayDuckDent **** Immigration News: Just submitting your PR application doesn't give or protect your status in Canada. Here's what will. (LinkedIn post by Barbara Kolvenkova, RCIC.) Remember: I don't get anything from sharing these or other posts...
29 days ago • 1 min read
Hello Reader, I'm running several experiments in my business. One of them is pushing me HARD out of my comfort zone. When I say it's pushing me hard, I mean the experiments usually leave me feeling breathless with fear and nervousness. And in case you don't know: Hi. I'm Aaron, and I'm an introvert. (Most of the time.) Doing things in front of other people, talking to people I don't know, and just public things in general, often feel very difficult for me to do. Making video content? That's...
about 1 month ago • 2 min read