

English with Thiago
Thiago Alencar
This is a podcast designed to help intermediate and advanced English learners communicate with more confidence, accuracy, clarity and awareness.
Hosted by Thiago Alencar, a Brazilian English Teacher with over 15 years of experience, this podcast deals with topics such as English pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, exam preparation, writing, listening, mindset and everything else related to English learning.
If you feel forever stuck at the intermediate level, this podcast is for you!
Follow the show so you don't miss a single new episode!
Hosted by Thiago Alencar, a Brazilian English Teacher with over 15 years of experience, this podcast deals with topics such as English pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, exam preparation, writing, listening, mindset and everything else related to English learning.
If you feel forever stuck at the intermediate level, this podcast is for you!
Follow the show so you don't miss a single new episode!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 5, 2025 • 24min
How I OVERCAME My Fear of Speaking English, Building Confidence To Speak English & Tips
📣Conversation Club (Registrations Open):https://www.englishwiththiago.com/a25🎯Pronunciation Course (International Students):https://www.englishwiththiago.com/course-pre-sale🇧🇷 Pronunciation Course (Brazilian Students):https://bit.ly/pronunciation-brazilians🔒Private community:https://www.englishwiththiago.com/community📧For collaborations, send an email to:thiagoalencarcopy@gmail.com💰The platform I use to run my online business:https://app.kajabi.com/r/zqSX4RuD#englishpodcast #learnenglish #speakenglish #englishwiththiago In this episode, Thiago Alencar shares five key strategies to help English learners build confidence in speaking. He emphasizes the importance of mastering pronunciation, seeking work opportunities that require English, and practicing speaking whenever possible. Additionally, he discusses mindset shifts that can alleviate the fear of public speaking.Chapters0:00 Intro2:10 1. Improving Pronunciation8:54 2. Working in English12:24 3. Finding Speaking Opportunities15:00 4. Mindset Shift #117:09 5. Mindset Shift #218:50 The Learner's Corner & Outro

Feb 27, 2025 • 44min
I Tried Pronouncing Difficult Words in English, Pronunciation Practice & Tips
📱Try ELSA PREMIUM FREE for 7 Days:https://bit.ly/ENGLISHWITHTHIAGOXELSA📱Get 50% off of ELSA PREMIUM https://elsaspeak.com/inf/englishwiththiagopremium/SummaryIn this episode, Thiago Alencar discusses the challenges of English pronunciation, focusing on 20 difficult words for learners. He provides tips for mastering these words, emphasizes the importance of practice, and introduces technology and apps that can aid in pronunciation improvement. The episode also highlights the significance of understanding phonetics and offers encouragement for continuous learning and practice.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Pronunciation Challenges03:14 Difficult Words and Their Pronunciation05:56 Tips for Mastering Pronunciation08:52 The Role of Technology in Learning11:59 Engaging with Language Learning Apps15:12 Understanding Phonetics and IPA18:10 Common Mispronunciations and Their Solutions21:08 Final Tips for Improving Pronunciation24:05 Learner's Corner and Feedback27:05 Conclusion and Encouragement#englishwiththiago #englishpodcast #learnenglish #englishpronunciation

Feb 19, 2025 • 23min
Understanding The Difference Between Standard English vs Colloquial English
🎯Pronunciation Course (International Students):https://www.englishwiththiago.com/course-pre-sale🇧🇷 Pronunciation Course (Brazilian Students):https://bit.ly/pronunciation-brazilians🔒Private community:https://www.englishwiththiago.com/community📧For collaborations, send an email to:thiagoalencarcopy@gmail.com💰The platform I use to run my online business:https://app.kajabi.com/r/zqSX4RuD__________📖50 Phrasal Verbs & Idioms (FREE eBook):https://www.englishwiththiago.com/spice-up-ebook📝FREE Study Plan (Template):https://www.englishwiththiago.com/study-plan📱Follow me on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/SummaryIn this episode, Thiago Alencar discusses the differences between standard and colloquial English, emphasizing the importance of both in effective communication. He introduces various colloquial expressions used in everyday conversations, covering greetings, chit chat, expressions of agreement and disagreement, surprise, annoyance, and making requests. The episode includes practical examples and dialogues to help listeners practice these expressions, ultimately aiming to enhance their fluency and confidence in speaking English.Chapters00:00 Understanding Standard vs. Colloquial English03:05 Colloquial Expressions for Greetings and Farewells06:07 Engaging in Everyday Chit Chat09:01 Expressions of Agreement and Disagreement11:59 Expressing Surprise and Disbelief15:05 Communicating Annoyance and Frustration17:54 Making Requests and Offers21:04 Practical Application of Colloquial ExpressionsBooks I Recommend:Basic Grammar:https://amzn.to/3VXyg2uIntermediate Grammar:https://amzn.to/4aJvySDAdvanced Grammar:https://amzn.to/4askkC9B2 Prep Coursebook:https://amzn.to/49t4ndxC1 Prep Coursebook:https://amzn.to/3U9AH0KC2 Prep Coursebook:https://amzn.to/4askqtvEnglish Pronunciation for Brazilians:https://amzn.to/4cNAFTCPhrasal Verbs Dictionary:https://amzn.to/3U7n42eIdioms Dictionary:https://amzn.to/4aLmqwDIELTS Prep:https://amzn.to/3xDvZPSTOEFL Prep:https://amzn.to/3JbTvWY

Feb 12, 2025 • 33min
How To STAY MOTIVATED When Learning English, How You Should View Motivation and Tips To Stay Motivated
🎯Pronunciation Course (International Students):https://www.englishwiththiago.com/course-pre-sale🇧🇷 Pronunciation Course (Brazilian Students):https://bit.ly/pronunciation-brazilians🔒Private community:https://www.englishwiththiago.com/community📧For collaborations, send an email to:thiagoalencarcopy@gmail.com💰The platform I use to run my online business:https://app.kajabi.com/r/zqSX4RuD__________📖50 Phrasal Verbs & Idioms (FREE eBook):https://www.englishwiththiago.com/spice-up-ebook📝FREE Study Plan (Template):https://www.englishwiththiago.com/study-plan📱Follow me on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/SummaryIn this episode, Thiago Alencar discusses the critical role of motivation in learning English, particularly how intrinsic motivation can lead to more sustainable learning habits compared to extrinsic motivation. He emphasizes the importance of consistency and offers practical tips to help learners stay motivated, such as overriding limbic friction, finding personal reasons for learning, and making the process enjoyable. The conversation also touches on the balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivators and how to effectively use them in the learning journey.Chapters00:00 The Challenge of Motivation in New Year's Resolutions02:50 Understanding Motivation: Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic05:49 The Importance of Consistency Over Motivation09:12 Tips to Stay Motivated in English Learning12:13 Overcoming Limbic Friction and Delayed Gratification15:11 Finding Your 'Why' and Staying Engaged17:47 Making Learning Enjoyable and Fun20:59 Using Extrinsic Motivation Effectively23:52 Final Thoughts on Self-Motivation and EngagementBooks I Recommend:Basic Grammar:https://amzn.to/3VXyg2uIntermediate Grammar:https://amzn.to/4aJvySDAdvanced Grammar:https://amzn.to/4askkC9B2 Prep Coursebook:https://amzn.to/49t4ndxC1 Prep Coursebook:https://amzn.to/3U9AH0KC2 Prep Coursebook:https://amzn.to/4askqtvEnglish Pronunciation for Brazilians:https://amzn.to/4cNAFTCPhrasal Verbs Dictionary:https://amzn.to/3U7n42eIdioms Dictionary:https://amzn.to/4aLmqwDIELTS Prep:https://amzn.to/3xDvZPSTOEFL Prep:https://amzn.to/3JbTvWY

Feb 5, 2025 • 25min
Improve Your ENGLISH FLUENCY With 50 Phrases for Everyday Conversations (Listen & Repeat Exercise)
🎯Pronunciation Course (International Students):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/course-pre-sale
🇧🇷 Pronunciation Course (Brazilian Students):
https://bit.ly/pronunciation-brazilians
🔒Private community:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/community
📧For collaborations, send an email to:
thiagoalencarcopy@gmail.com
💰The platform I use to run my online business:
https://app.kajabi.com/r/zqSX4RuD
__________
📖50 Phrasal Verbs & Idioms (FREE eBook):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/spice-up-ebook
📝FREE Study Plan (Template):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/study-plan
📱Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/
In today's episode, you will improve your English fluency with 50 everyday phrases for conversation. And all you need to do is listen and repeat. Make the most of this English speaking lesson and let's practice!
Books I Recommend:
Basic Grammar:
https://amzn.to/3VXyg2u
Intermediate Grammar:
https://amzn.to/4aJvySD
Advanced Grammar:
https://amzn.to/4askkC9
B2 Prep Coursebook:
https://amzn.to/49t4ndx
C1 Prep Coursebook:
https://amzn.to/3U9AH0K
C2 Prep Coursebook:
https://amzn.to/4askqtv
English Pronunciation for Brazilians:
https://amzn.to/4cNAFTC
Phrasal Verbs Dictionary:
https://amzn.to/3U7n42e
Idioms Dictionary:
https://amzn.to/4aLmqwD
IELTS Prep:
https://amzn.to/3xDvZPS
TOEFL Prep:
https://amzn.to/3JbTvWY

Jan 29, 2025 • 50min
Understanding the Difference Between Accent vs Pronunciation, If You Should Speak English Like a Native and Tips to Improve Pronunciation
🎯Pronunciation Course (International Students):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/course-pre-sale
🇧🇷 Pronunciation Course (Brazilian Students):
https://bit.ly/pronunciation-brazilians
🔒Private community:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/community
💰The platform I use to run my online business:
https://app.kajabi.com/r/zqSX4RuD
__________
📖50 Phrasal Verbs & Idioms (FREE eBook):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/spice-up-ebook
📝FREE Study Plan (Template):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/study-plan
📱Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/
Summary
In this episode, Thiago Alencar discusses the complexities surrounding English pronunciation and accents for non-native speakers. He explores the dichotomy between the pressure to sound like a native speaker and the notion that accents should be disregarded. Thiago emphasizes the importance of understanding the nuances of pronunciation and accent, defining both terms, and categorizing different types of non-native accents. He also highlights the impact of heavy accents on communication and offers practical tips for improving pronunciation while maintaining one's identity.
00:00 Navigating the Accent Debate
02:53 The Speak Like a Native Narrative
05:49 The Don't Worry About Your Accent Narrative
12:06 Defining Accent and Pronunciation
14:59 Types of Non-Native Accents
21:55 Analyzing Celebrities' Accents
31:05 The Problem with Heavy Accents
35:10 Tips To Improve Pronunciation
46:13 The Learner's Corner & Outro
Books I Recommend:
Basic Grammar:
https://amzn.to/3VXyg2u
Intermediate Grammar:
https://amzn.to/4aJvySD
Advanced Grammar:
https://amzn.to/4askkC9
B2 Prep Coursebook:
https://amzn.to/49t4ndx
C1 Prep Coursebook:
https://amzn.to/3U9AH0K
C2 Prep Coursebook:
https://amzn.to/4askqtv
English Pronunciation for Brazilians:
https://amzn.to/4cNAFTC
Phrasal Verbs Dictionary:
https://amzn.to/3U7n42e
Idioms Dictionary:
https://amzn.to/4aLmqwD
IELTS Prep:
https://amzn.to/3xDvZPS
TOEFL Prep:
https://amzn.to/3JbTvWY

Jan 22, 2025 • 47min
How To Use AI To Learn English in 2025 (ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude)
🎯Pronunciation Course (International Students):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/course-pre-sale
🇧🇷 Pronunciation Course (Brazilian Students):
https://bit.ly/pronunciation-brazilians
🔒Private community:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/community
💰The platform I use to run my online business:
https://app.kajabi.com/r/zqSX4RuD
__________
📖50 Phrasal Verbs & Idioms (FREE eBook):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/spice-up-ebook
📝FREE Study Plan (Template):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/study-plan
📱Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/
Summary
In this episode, Thiago Alencar discusses how to use AI to learn English, particularly focusing on generative AI. He explains the differences between predictive and generative AI, emphasizing the benefits of using AI tools for personalized learning experiences. The conversation covers practical tips for leveraging AI in language acquisition, including searching for resources, understanding principles, and interacting with content. Thiago also highlights the importance of verification and experimentation when using AI models, concluding with a call to engage with the community and share experiences.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to AI in English Learning
05:48 Understanding Generative AI
11:50 The Importance of AI in Language Learning
18:02 Practical Tips for Using AI in English Learning
30:03 Advanced Techniques: Interacting with AI Models
38:54 Final Thoughts
Books I Recommend:
Basic Grammar:
https://amzn.to/3VXyg2u
Intermediate Grammar:
https://amzn.to/4aJvySD
Advanced Grammar:
https://amzn.to/4askkC9
B2 Prep Coursebook:
https://amzn.to/49t4ndx
C1 Prep Coursebook:
https://amzn.to/3U9AH0K
C2 Prep Coursebook:
https://amzn.to/4askqtv
English Pronunciation for Brazilians:
https://amzn.to/4cNAFTC
Phrasal Verbs Dictionary:
https://amzn.to/3U7n42e
Idioms Dictionary:
https://amzn.to/4aLmqwD
IELTS Prep:
https://amzn.to/3xDvZPS
TOEFL Prep:
https://amzn.to/3JbTvWY

Jan 15, 2025 • 45min
How I Would Learn English AGAIN in 2025 (Principles, Strategies & Tips To Learn English Alone at Home)
🎯Pronunciation Course (International Students):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/course-pre-sale
🇧🇷 Pronunciation Course (Brazilian Students):
https://bit.ly/pronunciation-brazilians
🔒Private community:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/community
__________
📖50 Phrasal Verbs & Idioms (FREE eBook):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/spice-up-ebook
📝FREE Study Plan (Template):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/study-plan
📱Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/
__________
In this episode, Thiago Alencar shares his insights on learning English in today's world, reflecting on his personal journey and the changes in language learning strategies over the years. He emphasizes the importance of assessing one's time commitment, focusing on input before output, and building knowledge progressively. Thiago also discusses the role of technology, including language learning apps and AI, in enhancing the learning experience. He provides practical tips for overcoming the intermediate plateau and achieving fluency in English.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:27 Assessing Time and Commitment for Learning
06:55 The Importance of Input in Language Learning
10:54 Transitioning from Input to Output
13:51 Building Knowledge on Top of Knowledge
22:45 Utilizing Technology and Apps for Learning
26:40 Leveraging AI for Language Practice
31:02 Overcoming the Intermediate Plateau
36:18 Final Thoughts and Recap

Dec 28, 2024 • 19min
How Word Stress Can Help You Improve Your Pronunciation in English
📱Try ELSA FREE for 7 Days:
https://bit.ly/ENGLISHWITHTHIAGOXELSA
📱Get 50% off of ELSA PREMIUM https://elsaspeak.com/inf/englishwiththiagopremium/
Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/
In this episode, Thiago Alencar delves into the importance of word stress in English pronunciation, explaining how it can significantly enhance communication skills. He discusses common patterns of word stress, offers practical tips for mastering it, and highlights resources such as dictionaries and pronunciation apps.

Dec 18, 2024 • 33min
Why You Shouldn't Learn English JUST For Work, Understanding Intrinsic Motivation and Extrinsic Motivation and Tips To Be More Motivated
💥Pronunciation Course (BLACK FRIDAY EXTENDED!!!):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/the-sounds-of-english-black-friday-2024
📖50 Phrasal Verbs & Idioms (FREE eBook):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/spice-up-ebook
In this episode, Thiago Alencar discusses the drawbacks of learning English just for work purposes. He emphasizes the importance of intrinsic motivation over extrinsic factors, arguing that a passion for the language and personal growth should be the primary drivers for learning. Thiago provides practical tips to enhance intrinsic motivation, such as identifying the big picture, starting with easy tasks, and reframing tedious activities.
Takeaways
- Learning English for work can hinder overall progress.
- Associating English with work can lead to viewing it as an obligation.
- Intrinsic motivation is crucial for sustainable language learning.
- Extrinsic motivators may lead to burnout and giving up.
- Finding personal passion in learning English is essential.
- Setting small, achievable goals can boost motivation.
- Avoiding repetitive tasks can keep learning engaging.
- Self-reflection helps in understanding personal learning goals.
- Helping others can enhance your own learning experience.
- Reframing tasks can make them more enjoyable and rewarding.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Learning English Beyond Work
07:26 The Risks of Associating English with Work
15:58 Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation in Language Learning
27:00 Tips for Enhancing Intrinsic Motivation
31:59 Listener Interaction and Closing Thoughts
***Books I Recommend***
Basic Grammar:
https://amzn.to/3VXyg2u
Intermediate Grammar:
https://amzn.to/4aJvySD
Advanced Grammar:
https://amzn.to/4askkC9
B2 Prep Coursebook:
https://amzn.to/49t4ndx
C1 Prep Coursebook:
https://amzn.to/3U9AH0K
C2 Prep Coursebook:
https://amzn.to/4askqtv
English Pronunciation for Brazilians:
https://amzn.to/4cNAFTC
Phrasal Verbs Dictionary:
https://amzn.to/3U7n42e
Idioms Dictionary:
https://amzn.to/4aLmqwD
IELTS Prep:
https://amzn.to/3xDvZPS
TOEFL Prep:
https://amzn.to/3JbTvWY
Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/