
The InFluency Podcast
The InFluency podcast is your go-to resource for learning, speaking and teaching English.
Hadar Shemesh is a pronunciation expert and fluency coach with thousands of students around the world, though she herself was an intermediate speaker of English once.
In this podcast she will share her best strategies for learning English, speaking English with confidence and mastering the American accent.
Discover how becoming fluent has everything to do with acquiring the right mindset, setting goals and learning how to overcome challenges.
Hadar will also share her teaching philosophy and techniques to support English teachers looking to help their students become fluent.
Latest episodes

Jan 2, 2025 • 43min
446. Concluding 1 year of Relocation | My Relocation Diaries
Discover the highs and lows of relocating to Barcelona in just one year. Embrace the emotional and logistical challenges that come with such a big move. Hear about the importance of vulnerability, community, and personal growth along the journey. Reflect on the impact of language learning and mindfulness in adapting to a new life. The speaker shares aspirations for the future, encouraging listeners to set their own intentions for growth and innovation in the coming year.

Dec 17, 2024 • 9min
445. New English vocabulary? Learn Gen Alpha Slang with an 8-year-old expert!
Delve into the captivating world of Gen Alpha slang with an 8-year-old expert! Learn about trendy phrases like 'skibidi toilet rizz' and 'mewing.' Discover how language evolves and reflects youth culture today. This fun session offers a unique perspective on what the younger generation is saying and why it matters.

Dec 10, 2024 • 16min
444. Practice English with ‘Popular’ from Wicked | Shadowing practice
Dive into the rhythm of language with an engaging approach to shadowing! This session explores how music, particularly Ariana Grande's 'Popular' from Wicked, can enhance your English pronunciation and vocabulary. Learn valuable techniques for mastering connected speech, schwa sounds, and syllable stress. Interactively practice your skills as you break down the song’s lyrics. This entertaining method will have you singing along while transforming your English proficiency!

14 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 6min
443. 5-minute daily English warm up [Follow along with me]
Discover effective daily exercises designed to boost American English pronunciation. Engage in a dynamic pronunciation sprint focusing on clarity and fluency. The quick drills cover essential vowel sounds and common phrases, making it fun and interactive. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their phonetic skills and gain confidence in speaking!

Nov 19, 2024 • 18min
442. Act in English: Practice a scene with me
Dive into the world of acting in English with a scene from a powerful play! Explore the complexities of grief and healing as characters tackle heavy emotions after loss. Enjoy a humorous debate about a pregnant woman in a bar, highlighting personal choices versus societal norms. The discussion also touches on historical smoking regulations, making it an engaging way to learn terminology. Plus, practical exercises focus on enhancing fluency through emotion and intonation, making language learning interactive and fun!

Nov 15, 2024 • 20min
441. How can I build confidence in English? You ask, I answer.
Discover tips on finding your voice in English and leading meetings with confidence. The discussion delves into effective strategies to manage communication anxiety and the transformative power of positive thinking. Explore the distinction between experience-based confidence and a self-confidence that thrives in uncertainty. Listeners are encouraged to take action and trust their abilities, gaining insights from real-life role models for effective communication. This engaging Q&A session is packed with valuable advice for anyone looking to boost their English-speaking confidence!

Nov 12, 2024 • 11min
440. Why you CAN’T understand people on Zoom (and what to do about it)
Navigating virtual meetings can be tricky, especially without visual cues. Discover strategies to enhance your understanding and communication in online settings. Learn how to ask for what you need and improve your listening skills in English. Explore whether different accents can impact your pronunciation. Get ready to set yourself up for success in the digital communication landscape!

Nov 5, 2024 • 11min
439. AI for English: Can it replace your teacher?
Dive into the intriguing world of AI in English learning! Discover the perks of using AI tutors, such as affordability and accessibility. But can they truly replace human interaction? Explore the essential role that real conversations play in mastering a language. This discussion might just change your perspective on the future of language education!

Oct 22, 2024 • 7min
438. English Pronunciation Plan | Improve your pronunciation in 14 days
Discover how daily practice can transform your English pronunciation skills. A structured 14-day plan is introduced, featuring targeted exercises and audio resources. Learn which sounds to prioritize for maximum results. Enhance your speaking clarity and boost your confidence as you embark on this linguistic journey!

Oct 11, 2024 • 59min
437. How to Reach a Breakthrough in English Without Learning Anything New [Revisiting favorite episodes]
Explore how your mindset shapes your English learning experience. Discover that overcoming barriers often starts with self-perception rather than acquiring more vocabulary. Dive into the psychological hurdles like self-doubt and limiting beliefs that can stall progress. Embrace self-compassion and reframe negative thoughts to boost your confidence. Learn the power of affirmations, like 'I am enough,' in enhancing your fluency. It's all about thinking positively to unlock your full potential!