

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

Apr 2, 2025 • 25min
Why You Can Learn English BETTER and FASTER With Music
📣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/zqSX4RuDUnlock English Fluency with Music: Practical Tips and BenefitsIn this episode, Thiago explores the advantages of using music to enhance your English learning experience. He delves into the engaging and immersive nature of music, its impact on different parts of the brain, and how it can improve pronunciation, vocabulary, and cultural understanding. Thiago provides practical tips on selecting the right music, active listening, lyric analysis, and creating targeted playlists. The episode also includes insights into combining music with other language skills and leveraging modern tools like online resources and apps. Additionally, Thiago invites listeners to join his private community for more interactive learning opportunities.00:00 Introduction to Learning English with Music01:07 Why Music is a Powerful Tool for Learning English05:26 Active vs. Passive Listening08:10 Practical Tips for Learning English with Music17:02 Using Technology and Resources to Enhance Learning19:55 Community and Personal Stories21:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts22:09 Learner's Corner: Kauan's Story24:28 Final Remarks and Farewell#englishpodcast #englishwiththiago #learnenglishwithmusic Books 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

Mar 27, 2025 • 17min
The DARK SIDE of Learning English on YouTube and The Importance of Structure When Learning English
📣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/zqSX4RuDThe Hidden Pitfalls of Learning English on YouTubeIn this episode, Thiago discusses the potential downsides of learning English solely through YouTube. While YouTube offers valuable resources, it may also hinder progress due to a lack of experienced teachers, individualized learning approaches, and structured, comprehensive content. Thiago explains ten specific problems, including the influencer vs. educator dilemma, the challenge of learning methods that may not suit everyone, and the pitfalls of relying on native language explanations. He also emphasizes the importance of critical content consumption and investing in structured learning programs for greater progress in English proficiency. Additionally, Thiago responds to an email from a listener struggling with fluency despite years of study, offering practical advice on overcoming shyness and finding effective practice opportunities.00:00 Introduction: The Dark Side of Learning English on YouTube00:33 Welcome and Podcast Overview01:31 The Experience Factor: Influencers vs. Real Teachers02:43 Personalized Learning: One Size Doesn't Fit All03:29 Language Immersion: The Importance of English-Only Instruction06:20 Scattered Information: The Challenge of Unorganized Content06:59 Tracking Progress: The Need for Structured Learning07:55 Clickbait and Sensational Titles: The Algorithm Trap09:01 How to Learn vs. Actual Teaching: The Content Dilemma09:36 Free Content vs. Paid Courses: The Value of Investment10:11 Production Quality vs. Substance: Don't Be Fooled10:46 Algorithm Priorities: Trending Topics vs. Effective Learning11:21 Conclusion: Be Selective and Proactive in Your Learning12:14 Listener's Corner: Addressing Personal Challenges15:54 Final Thoughts and ResourcesBooks 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

Mar 19, 2025 • 26min
How Being Creative Helps You Learn English FASTER
The first 500 people to use my link in the description will receive a one month free trial of Skillshare! Get started today: https://skl.sh/englishwiththiago03251#sponsored #skillshare #learnenglish #englishpodcast #englishwiththiago Unlocking Creativity: Accelerate Your English LearningIn this episode, Thiago discusses how creativity can enhance your English learning journey. He defines creativity using Cambridge's definition and ChatGPT's insights, identifies key components like imagination and resourcefulness, and explains practical steps to incorporate creativity into learning new vocabulary and practicing English. The episode also includes tips on fostering creativity and a learner's success story from Ramon in Cuba.00:00 Introduction to Creativity in Learning English00:36 Defining Creativity02:25 Using Creativity to Learn Vocabulary07:08 Skillshare Sponsorship09:06 Creating Example Sentences11:06 Innovative Ways to Practice English12:56 Tips to Unlock Your Creativity21:41 Learner's Corner: Ramon's Story24:39 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsMore Resources:📣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__________📖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/#englishpodcast #learnenglish #speakenglish #englishwiththiagoBooks 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

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


