

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

Dec 11, 2024 • 23min
How Long It Takes To Become Fluent in English, Understanding Guided Learning Hours and the CEFR Levels
In this episode, Thiago Alencar discusses the complexities of achieving fluency in English, emphasizing that the time it takes to become fluent varies based on individual circumstances. He provides insights into the CEFR levels and the number of guided learning hours required to progress through these levels. Thiago also highlights the importance of a lifelong learning mindset, encouraging learners to enjoy the process rather than fixating solely on goals.
Takeaways
- Your progress in English depends on various factors.
- It takes around 200 guided learning hours to move levels.
- Aiming for C1 from B2 requires about 200 hours of study.
- Three to five years is a realistic timeframe for fluency.
- The 10,000 hour rule emphasizes the time needed for mastery.
- Learning should be a lifelong endeavor, not just a phase.
- Enjoy the process of learning English, don't rush.
- Familiarity with exam structures is crucial for success.
- Practice conversation skills regularly to improve fluency.
- A learner mindset is more beneficial than a student mindset.
Chapters
00:00 Understanding English Fluency: The Big Question
09:53 The Journey to Proficiency: Time and Effort
20:11 Lifelong Learning: Beyond the Classroom
***FREE RESOURCES***
📖50 Phrasal Verbs & Idioms (FREE eBook):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/spice-up-ebook
📝FREE Study Plan (Template):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/study-plan
🔥Storytelling Challenge (FREE Version):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/storytelling-challenge
***PAID RESOURCES***
🎯Pronunciation Course:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/course-pre-sale
🔒Private community:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/community
💥Storytelling Challenge (FULL Version):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/offers/QYtXMcuw
📱Get 50% off of ELSA premium membership for one year: https://www.elsaspeak.com/inf/englishwiththiagopremium
******
💖Become a channel member:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChN7HW1AJ4GWtPiBMLD8Tsg/join
📱Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/
******
⭐Want to be featured in The Learner's Corner?
🎙️Send me a voice message:
https://www.speakpipe.com/englishwiththiago
✍️Write me an email at:
hello.teacherthiago@gmail.com
P.S. If you're interested in private or group classes, fill out this form:
https://forms.gle/qjJvdikjRzHXrFPe7

Nov 27, 2024 • 27min
Every Fluent English Speaker Should Be Able To Do THIS
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https://www.englishwiththiago.com/the-sounds-of-english-black-friday-2024
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Summary
In this episode, Thiago Alencar discusses the importance of paraphrasing as a key skill for achieving fluency in English. He emphasizes that fluency is not about knowing every word but about effectively communicating ideas. The episode covers practical examples of paraphrasing, advanced techniques, and tips for improving this skill. Additionally, a learner's corner features a message from a listener, highlighting the community aspect of language learning.
Takeaways
- Fluency is about clear communication, not vocabulary size.
- Paraphrasing allows for flexibility in conversation.
- Grammar knowledge enhances paraphrasing skills.
- Understanding synonyms expands vocabulary range.
- C1 level speakers can handle complex ideas.
- Reported speech is essential for effective communication.
- Adjectives can change meaning based on their form.
- Practice paraphrasing with random sentences.
- Using resources like The Saurus can aid learning.
- Engaging with language exams can improve skills.
Chapters
00:00 The Essence of English Fluency
02:54 Unlocking the Power of Paraphrasing
06:12 Practical Examples of Paraphrasing
11:55 Advanced Paraphrasing Techniques
18:06 Tips for Improving Paraphrasing Skills
22:12 Learner's Corner: A Message from Margaret

Nov 13, 2024 • 32min
Why Some People Learn English Faster Than Others, The Importance of Being Realistic & Tips To Determine The Best Learning Pace for You
💥Get my pronunciation course at the LOWEST price ever:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/the-sounds-of-english-black-friday-2024
Summary
In this episode, Thiago explores the reasons why some people learn English faster than others. He categorizes learners into three types: hardcore, average, and casual, emphasizing the importance of aligning learning approaches with personal goals and life circumstances. Thiago stresses the need for realistic expectations and consistent practice, while also sharing personal anecdotes and practical tips for effective language learning. The episode concludes with a reminder to assess one's situation and adjust learning strategies accordingly.
Chapters
00:00 Intro + Special Deal
03:22 Types of English Learners
07:12 Aligning Goals with Learning Approaches
12:07 Realistic Expectations in Language Learning
16:23 Personal Reflections on Learning Goals
20:01 The Importance of Honesty in Learning
23:56 Practical Tips for English Learners
27:16 The Learner's Corner & Outro
Follow me on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@teacher.thiagoalencar
Follow me on Instagram:
https://instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar

Oct 31, 2024 • 33min
How To Be More Productive with Your English Studies, Understanding Slow Productivity & 3 Principle To Be More Effective
In this episode, Thiago Alencar introduces the concept of slow productivity and its application to English learning. He discusses the common issue of pseudo-productivity, where learners feel busy but make little progress. The episode outlines three key principles of slow productivity: doing fewer things, working at a natural pace, and obsessing over quality. Thiago emphasizes the importance of sustainable study habits and the need to focus on quality over quantity when learning English.
0:00 Intro
01:41 Pseudo-productivity
03:46 Cal Newport & Slow Productivity
04:50 Principle 1: Do Fewer Things
10:06 Principle 2: Work at a Natural Pace
16:42 Principle 3: Obsess Over Quality
20:16 The Quality Framework
26:11 The Learner's Corner
30:44 Take your learning further!
***FREE RESOURCES***
📖50 Phrasal Verbs & Idioms (FREE eBook):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/spice-up-ebook
📝FREE Study Plan (Template):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/study-plan
🔥Storytelling Challenge (FREE Version):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/storytelling-challenge
***PAID RESOURCES***
🎯Pronunciation Course:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/course-pre-sale
🔒Private community:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/community
💥Storytelling Challenge (FULL Version):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/offers/QYtXMcuw
📱Get 50% off of ELSA premium membership for one year: https://www.elsaspeak.com/inf/englishwiththiagopremium
******
💖Become a channel member:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChN7HW1AJ4GWtPiBMLD8Tsg/join
📱Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/
******
⭐Want to be featured in The Learner's Corner?
🎙️Send me a voice message:
https://www.speakpipe.com/englishwiththiago
✍️Write me an email at:
hello.teacherthiago@gmail.com
P.S. If you're interested in private or group classes, fill out this form:
https://forms.gle/qjJvdikjRzHXrFPe7
P.S.S. Follow my YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/@teacher.thiagoalencar?sub_confirmation=1

Oct 24, 2024 • 35min
Improve Your English Speaking Skills in 7 Days With This Fun Challenge (7 Stories in English for Fluency Practice)
🔥Storytelling Challenge (FREE Version):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/storytelling-challenge
💥Storytelling Challenge (FULL Version):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/offers/QYtXMcuw
🎯Get my pronunciation course:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/course-pre-sale
🔒Join my 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
💖Become a channel member:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChN7HW1AJ4GWtPiBMLD8Tsg/join
⭐Want to be featured in The Learner's Corner?
🎙️Send me a voice message:
https://www.speakpipe.com/englishwiththiago
✍️Write me an email at:
hello.teacherthiago@gmail.com
📱Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/
📱Get 50% off of ELSA premium membership for one year: https://www.elsaspeak.com/inf/englishwiththiagopremium
📱Download ELSA and get 7 days membership for free: https://bit.ly/ENGLISHWITHTHIAGOXELSA
Summary
In this episode, Thiago Alencar introduces a 7-day speaking challenge designed to enhance English speaking and storytelling skills. Each day focuses on a different fictional story genre, encouraging learners to read aloud and inject emotion into their delivery. The challenge includes a free PDF with stories and vocabulary lists, promoting a fun and engaging way to practice English. The episode also features vocabulary explanations and concludes with Thiago addressing a listener's question about reading in English.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the 7-Day Speaking Challenge
04:40 Day 1: Mystery Monday - The Case of the Vanishing Vocabulary
07:52 Day 2: Fantasy Tuesday - The Enchanted English Dictionary
11:31 Day 3: Sci-Fi Wednesday - The Language Chip
15:29 Day 4: Romance Thursday - Love in Translation
18:16 Day 5: Action Friday - The English Escape Room
21:21 Day 6: Historical Fiction Saturday - The Time Traveling Tutor
24:20 Day 7: Freestyle Sunday - The Language of Dreams
27:56 Conclusion and The Learner's Corner
Follow me on YouTube:
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Follow me on Instagram:
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Oct 16, 2024 • 31min
7 Exercises To Improve Your English Speaking ALONE, Build More Confidence & Speak With More Fluency
📱Get 50% off of ELSA premium membership for one year: https://www.elsaspeak.com/inf/englishwiththiagopremium
📱Download ELSA and get 7 days membership for free: https://bit.ly/ENGLISHWITHTHIAGOXELSA
Summary
In this episode, Thiago Alencar shares seven solo exercises designed to help English learners practice speaking alone. These exercises aim to improve fluency, confidence, and pronunciation, allowing learners to engage with the language anytime and anywhere. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-practice and provides practical tips for effective language learning.
Chapters
0:00 Intro
1:24 The Fluency Compass
2:20 Exercise 1
3:37 Exercise 2
6:33 Exercise 3
10:09 Exercise 4
13:28 Exercise 5
14:52 Exercise 6
18:41 Exercise 7
20:52 Recap & Final Words
23:18 The Learner's Corner
29:18 Outro
Follow me on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@teacher.thiagoalencar

Oct 9, 2024 • 50min
Master English in 7 Days: How To Make A Study Plan For Learning English and Study Alone At Home
📝FREE Study Plan (Template):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/study-plan
🎯Get my pronunciation course:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/course-pre-sale
🔒Join my private community:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/community
📖50 Phrasal Verbs & Idioms (FREE eBook):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/spice-up-ebook
💖Become a channel member:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChN7HW1AJ4GWtPiBMLD8Tsg/join
⭐Want to be featured in The Learner's Corner?
🎙️Send me a voice message:
https://www.speakpipe.com/englishwiththiago
✍️Write me an email at:
hello.teacherthiago@gmail.com
📱Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/
📱Get 50% off of ELSA premium membership for one year: https://www.elsaspeak.com/inf/englishwiththiagopremium
📱Download ELSA and get 7 days membership for free: https://bit.ly/ENGLISHWITHTHIAGOXELSA
Summary
In this episode, Thiago Alencar discusses a structured study plan for learning English, emphasizing the importance of deliberate practice alongside content consumption. He outlines a week-long plan that includes listening, reading, grammar study, and self-reflection, while also incorporating rest days to enhance learning retention. The conversation highlights key principles of effective language learning, such as balancing all four skills and being proactive in one's study approach.
Takeaways
Studying English requires a structured approach.
Deliberate practice is essential for language learning.
Listening, reading, writing, and speaking should be balanced.
Rest days are important for processing information.
Grammar study should be a regular part of learning.
Weekly reviews help reinforce learning and self-reflection.
Quality over quantity in vocabulary acquisition is crucial.
Using media in various ways enhances understanding.
Self-monitoring aids in identifying areas for improvement.
There is no one-size-fits-all study plan; adapt to your needs.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Effective English Study Plans
02:49 The Importance of Deliberate Practice
06:14 Day 1: Listening and Note-Taking Techniques
12:04 Day 2: Reading for Understanding and Vocabulary
17:48 Day 3: The Value of Rest and Reflection
18:47 Day 4: Focusing on Grammar
23:50 Day 5: Weekly Review and Presentation
27:14 Day 6: Taking a Break
30:10 Day 7: Weekly Reflection and Planning Ahead
33:02 Key Principles of Language Learning
39:03 Addressing Listener Questions and Concerns
Follow me on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@teacher.thiagoalencar

Sep 30, 2024 • 33min
5 Things You ABSOLUTELY Must Know About Phrasal Verbs, Concepts, Tips & Strategies
🎯Get my pronunciation course:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/course-pre-sale
🔒Join my private community:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/community
📖50 Phrasal Verbs & Idioms (FREE eBook):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/spice-up-ebook
💖Become a channel member:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChN7HW1AJ4GWtPiBMLD8Tsg/join
⭐Want to be featured in The Learner's Corner?
🎙️Send me a voice message:
https://www.speakpipe.com/englishwiththiago
✍️Write me an email at:
hello.teacherthiago@gmail.com
📱Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/
📱Get 50% off of ELSA premium membership for one year: https://www.elsaspeak.com/inf/englishwiththiagopremium
📱Download ELSA and get 7 days membership for free: https://bit.ly/ENGLISHWITHTHIAGOXELSA
Summary
In this episode, Thiago Alencar discusses the complexities of phrasal verbs in English, providing listeners with essential insights into their meanings, usage, and the importance of context. He outlines five key points that learners must understand: the distinction between literal and figurative meanings, the difference between separable and inseparable phrasal verbs, the common patterns associated with certain particles, the significance of context in understanding usage, and the necessity of practice and exposure to master phrasal verbs. The episode also features success stories from learners, emphasizing the journey of language acquisition.
Takeaways
Phrasal verbs can be challenging to learn.
Understanding the meaning of phrasal verbs is crucial.
Literal phrasal verbs are easier to grasp than figurative ones.
Context is key in understanding phrasal verbs.
Separable phrasal verbs can be split, while inseparable ones cannot.
Common patterns exist among phrasal verbs and their particles.
Practice and exposure are essential for mastering phrasal verbs.
Listening to native speakers helps in learning phrasal verbs.
Don't be afraid to make mistakes while learning.
Start with common phrasal verbs and gradually expand your knowledge.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Phrasal Verbs
01:55 Understanding Literal vs. Figurative Phrasal Verbs
09:51 Separable vs. Inseparable Phrasal Verbs
17:39 Common Patterns in Phrasal Verbs
21:00 The Importance of Context
22:46 Practice and Exposure to Phrasal Verbs
25:23 Learner's Corner: Success Stories
Follow me on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@teacher.thiagoalencar

Sep 25, 2024 • 29min
Why You CAN'T Understand TV and Movies in English WITHOUT Subtitles (and how to fix that)
Discover the common challenges English learners face when watching movies and TV shows. The disconnect between classroom language and casual, slang-filled dialogue is a major hurdle. Pronunciation and connected speech often complicate understanding. Gain practical strategies like shadowing to boost listening skills. Learn the importance of grasping vocabulary in context to improve retention. Community feedback highlights the benefits of targeted pronunciation practice, reinforcing the shared journey of language learning.

Sep 23, 2024 • 41min
The NUMBER ONE Thing Every English Learner Needs To Succeed & Tips To Increase Your Self-Awareness
🔒Join my private community:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/community
🎯Get my pronunciation course:
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/course-pre-sale
📖50 Phrasal Verbs & Idioms (FREE eBook):
https://www.englishwiththiago.com/spice-up-ebook
💖Become a channel member:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChN7HW1AJ4GWtPiBMLD8Tsg/join
⭐Want to be featured in The Learner's Corner?
🎙️Send me a voice message:
https://www.speakpipe.com/englishwiththiago
✍️Write me an email at:
hello.teacherthiago@gmail.com
📱Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/
📱Get 50% off of ELSA premium membership for one year: https://www.elsaspeak.com/inf/englishwiththiagopremium
📱Download ELSA and get 7 days membership for free: https://bit.ly/ENGLISHWITHTHIAGOXELSA
Summary
In this episode, Thiago Alencar shares the one thing he believes to be the number one thing for every English learner to succeed: Awareness. He breaks down the concept of awareness into 5 main components and how they directly relate to successful English learning.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Awareness in Language Learning
03:07 Defining Awareness and Its Components
03:43 Conscious vs. Unconscious Awareness
07:37 Knowledge and Understanding in Language Learning
09:56 Internal and External Awareness
15:54 Perception in Learning
19:32 Attention in Learning
24:30 Practical Tips for Enhancing Awareness
35:59 The Learner's Corner & Outro
Follow me on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/@teacher.thiagoalencar
Follow me on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/teacher.thiagoalencar/