

Fluent English Pro
Talking Silkworm
The Fluent English Pro Podcast, your definitive guide for professionals aiming to enhance their English proficiency. - New episodes every Tuesday
If you have an intermediate to advanced level of English and you're seeking improvement despite time constraints and limited practice chances, we're here to lend a hand.
Each Tuesday, a new episode will contribute to your precise English language requirements, providing you with valuable pointers and perspectives. These insights are tailored to elevate your performance in works settings and every-day-life situations. From corporate meetings, to delivering impactful presentations, to improving your communication with international colleagues.
Join us and unleash your potential as a Fluent English Speaker!
If you have an intermediate to advanced level of English and you're seeking improvement despite time constraints and limited practice chances, we're here to lend a hand.
Each Tuesday, a new episode will contribute to your precise English language requirements, providing you with valuable pointers and perspectives. These insights are tailored to elevate your performance in works settings and every-day-life situations. From corporate meetings, to delivering impactful presentations, to improving your communication with international colleagues.
Join us and unleash your potential as a Fluent English Speaker!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 19, 2023 • 28min
Learning about money and financial literacy. An interview with Marcy Grossman
In this enlightening podcast episode, financial expert Marcy Grossman engages in a conversation on the pivotal role of money in our lives. The discussion spans from the importance of financial literacy to practical tips for managing personal and professional finances. Marcy shares insights on key concepts such as earning versus spending, saving versus investing, and the significance of understanding financial decisions in our daily lives.Financial literacy, according to Marcy, involves comprehending the daily financial decisions that impact one's life. This understanding is crucial, extending from distinguishing between earning and spending to recognizing the disparities between saving and investing. The podcast underscores the significance of recognizing these distinctions to make informed decisions aligned with personal and professional goals.The central lesson from this conversation is the necessity of financial literacy for personal and professional success. Marcy emphasizes the importance of starting with the basics, such as budgeting, and highlights the correlation between personal and business finances. The episode underscores that being financially literate is not a luxury but a must-have skill for navigating the complexities of life.Key Takeaways:Financial literacy is about understanding daily financial decisions.Distinguishing between earning, spending, saving, and investing is crucial.Financial literacy is equally vital for personal and professional success.Starting small, setting goals, and seeking professional guidance are essential steps.The willingness to make changes and break through the fear of asking questions is key.Resources:Marcy Grossman's book: *Money Marcy's Guide to Financial Literacy*Website: https://moneymarcy.com/ Want to continue improving your professional English skills ? Join our Conversation Club for Professionals, where you'll practice work English, business English, and English for professional development with other professionals.Contacts us now:🌐 Text us: WhatsApp ✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form 📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.comDon't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!Instagram: @fluentenglish.pro https://www.instagram.com/fluentenglish.pro/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@fluentenglishpro Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

Dec 5, 2023 • 13min
Three Important Negotiation Tactics in a Business Environment
In this episode, David and Paula explore the intricacies of negotiation in a business environment. They discuss three types of negotiations: integrative, distributive, and mixed motives. Integrative negotiations focus on creating a win-win scenario, where both parties benefit. Distributive negotiations involve a competitive approach, aiming to secure the most significant share of the "cake." Mixed motive negotiations, a blend of the previous two, require balancing different elements to achieve mutual benefits. The hosts illustrate these concepts with real-life examples, emphasizing the importance of negotiation in various aspects of life.The conversation kicks off with an introduction to the Fluent English Pro podcast, positioning itself as the ultimate resource for professionals seeking English language improvement. The hosts, David and Paula, then delve into the heart of the episode by exploring the three key types of negotiation: integrative, distributive, and mixed motive. Integrative negotiations foster relationships where both parties win, distributive negotiations focus on getting as much as possible, and mixed motive negotiations involve a complex interplay of various elements. Real-world examples, such as negotiating a promotion or buying a car, illuminate these negotiation types.Key Takeaways:Negotiations are inherent in various aspects of life, from professional endeavors to personal choices.Integrative, distributive, and mixed motive negotiations offer different strategies for achieving desired outcomes.Skilled negotiators adapt their approach based on specific circumstances to maximize success.Resources: Want to continue improving your professional English skills ? Join our Conversation Club for Professionals, where you'll practice work English, business English, and English for professional development with other professionals.Contacts us now:🌐 Text us: WhatsApp ✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form 📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.comDon't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!Instagram: @fluentenglish.pro https://www.instagram.com/fluentenglish.pro/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@fluentenglishpro Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

Nov 28, 2023 • 21min
Dealing With Fer and Anxiety When Learning English
Have you ever felt anxious or fearful while learning or speaking English? What if I told you there are strategies to overcome these challenges and thrive in your language learning journey?In this podcast episode we cover the challenges individuals face when learning a new language, particularly English. We discuss four main causes of language learning fears: psychological, methodological, cognitive, and social. These causes touch upon issues such as anxiety, lack of interest, educational environments, and fear of public embarrassment. Strategies to tackle these fears are also explored, emphasizing the importance of shifting learning methods, focusing on communication, seeking feedback, and embracing mistakes as part of the learning process.We emphasize the importance of adapting learning methods to personal preferences, such as one-on-one conversations, selecting topics of interest, and utilizing learning approaches that align with individual personalities. Additionally, focusing on effective communication over perfection, seeking feedback from experienced tutors, and embracing mistakes as part of the learning process are highlighted as crucial aspects to overcome language learning fears.From this discussion, three key takeaways emerge. Firstly, shifting learning methods and embracing discomfort leads to progress. Secondly, prioritizing effective communication over perfection fosters language development. Lastly, seeking feedback and accepting mistakes as part of the learning journey enhances language acquisition.Key Takeaways:Shifting learning methods and embracing discomfort promotes progress.Prioritizing effective communication over perfection enhances language development.Seeking feedback and accepting mistakes as part of the learning journey accelerates language acquisition.Resources: Want to continue improving your professional English skills ? Join our Conversation Club for Professionals, where you'll practice work English, business English, and English for professional development with other professionals.Contacts us now:🌐 Text us: WhatsApp ✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form 📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.com Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!Instagram: @fluentenglish.pro https://www.instagram.com/fluentenglish.pro/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@fluentenglishpro Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

Nov 21, 2023 • 16min
The Importance of Media Literacy
Information is abundant but often biased. In this episode we discuss the significance of being a critical consumer of news, unraveling the complexities of media bias, and how it intersects with one's understanding of different cultures and perspectives. We stress the need for individuals to cultivate media literacy skills to form well-rounded opinions and avoid falling prey to misinformation.English is a lingua franca and it plays a big role in connecting individuals from diverse cultures and thus, there’s a link between language proficiency, media literacy, and being a global citizen. The conversation shifts to the impact of bias in news reporting, illustrating how media outlets often present information through specific ideological lenses. It is important to not only be informed but also to be critical consumers of news to avoid creating skewed perspectives.Biases often stem from emotional perspectives rather than factual evidence. And when it comes to media literacy, it impacts everyday life, as well as scenarios where critical analysis becomes crucial, particularly in the business world.We provide practical tips for fact-checking and verification and we invite you to check multiple sources, consider historical context, and listen to different perspectives to form well-informed opinions.Key Takeaways:English proficiency extends beyond language skills, making individuals global citizens.Media literacy is crucial for distinguishing between reliable information and biased narratives.Critical analysis helps in understanding the context, distinguishing between information and misinformation.Resources: Want to continue improving your professional English skills ? Join our Conversation Club for Professionals, where you'll practice work English, business English, and English for professional development with other professionals.Contacts us now:🌐 Text us: WhatsApp ✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form 📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.comDon't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!Instagram: @fluentenglish.pro https://www.instagram.com/fluentenglish.pro/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@fluentenglishpro Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

Nov 14, 2023 • 12min
Five Key Phrasal Verbs for Business Meetings
Phrasal verbs are not just a combination of words; they are unique expressions with meanings that often defy direct translation. Understanding them as inseparable units is crucial for effective communication. The key to mastering phrasal verbs is to immerse yourself in their usage rather than relying on literal translations.In the context of business meetings, we discussed five essential phrasal verbs. "Follow up" is all about checking the status of a process or communication, ensuring that nothing falls through the cracks. "Look into" involves thorough examination, often used when problem-solving is necessary. "Set up" encompasses arranging, planning, or establishing the foundation for various endeavors. "Back up" means providing support, evidence, or reinforcement for proposals and arguments. "Wrap up" signifies bringing a meeting to a close, summarizing the discussion and its outcomes.Key Takeaways:Phrasal verbs are not to be taken apart; they should be understood as single units.Literal translations of phrasal verbs can lead to confusion.In business meetings, key phrasal verbs like "follow up," "look into," "set up," "back up," and "wrap up" are invaluable for clear and concise communication.Resources: Want to continue improving your professional English skills ? Join our Conversation Club for Professionals, where you'll practice work English, business English, and English for professional development with other professionals.Contacts us now:🌐 Text us: WhatsApp ✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form 📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.com Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!Instagram: @fluentenglish.pro https://www.instagram.com/fluentenglish.pro/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@fluentenglishpro Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

Nov 7, 2023 • 16min
The Role of Culture in Learning English
Have you ever wondered why cultural understanding is essential in language learning? Cultural nuances affect communication and the ways in which people perceive the world, which includes behaviors, values, customs, and even expressions. Culture shapes the way people interact, whether they maintain close physical proximity or respect personal space.We emphasize the significance of embracing cultural diversity while learning a new language, respecting local customs, and adapting to societal norms without losing one's own identity.Key Takeaways:Cultural understanding is vital for effective communication.Respect for local customs and norms is necessary while learning a new language.Embracing cultural diversity enhances language learning and fosters better connections with people from various backgrounds.Resources: Want to continue improving your professional English skills ? Join our Conversation Club for Professionals, where you'll practice work English, business English, and English for professional development with other professionals.Contacts us now:🌐 Text us: WhatsApp ✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form 📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.com Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!Instagram: @fluentenglish.pro https://www.instagram.com/fluentenglish.pro/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@fluentenglishpro Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

Oct 31, 2023 • 16min
Laugh and Learn English: Three recommended comedians
In this podcast episode, we explored the idea of using comedy as a means to enhance your English language proficiency. The conversation revolved around two non-native English-speaking comedians, Ismo and Raffi Comedy, who cleverly incorporate English language-related humor into their routines. Additionally, we discussed the work of Dave Chappelle, a native English speaker whose exceptional storytelling abilities captivate audiences. The episode emphasized that while comedy can be a fantastic way to learn English, it should primarily be seen as a source of enjoyment and relaxation.We began by introducing Ismo, a Finnish comedian who delves into the structure and peculiarities of the English language, offering a unique perspective on the challenges English learners face. Ismo's humor revolves around his experiences with English, creating a connection for those who are navigating the same linguistic obstacles.Next, we discussed Raffi Comedy, a Brazilian comedian living in the United States, who shares his journey of learning English as a second language. Raffi's comedy revolves around his English-learning experiences and the idiosyncrasies of the language, making it relatable for language learners.We also introduced Dave Chappelle, a renowned American comedian known for his exceptional storytelling abilities. Chappelle's comedy can range from the trivial to deep, existential topics, creating a unique blend of humor and introspection.Key Takeaways:Ismo and Raffi Comedy, non-native English-speaking comedians, offer a fresh perspective on English language-related humor, making it relatable for learners.Dave Chappelle's exceptional storytelling abilities can captivate audiences and provide moments of humor mixed with deep introspection.Approach comedy as a source of enjoyment and relaxation to make the learning process more engaging.Resources:Ismo's comedy can be found on YouTube.Raffi Comedy's content is accessible on various online platforms.Dave Chappelle's specials are available on Netflix and YouTube.Want to continue improving your professional English skills ? Join our Conversation Club for Professionals, where you'll practice work English, business English, and English for professional development with other professionals.Contacts us now:🌐 Text us: WhatsApp ✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form 📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.comDon't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!Instagram: @fluentenglish.pro https://www.instagram.com/fluentenglish.pro/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@fluentenglishpro Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

Oct 24, 2023 • 17min
How to Showcase Your Skills in Job Interviews
Have you ever wondered how to ace a job interview, even when you might not have all the required skills? In this podcast episode, we discussed strategies to highlight your skills and experiences effectively during a job interview. The conversation covered various aspects, starting with the importance of being honest about your skills and not pretending to have abilities you lack. Instead, focus on what you can bring to the table and your willingness to learn. Additionally, we emphasized the value of transferable skills, showing how experiences from different areas of life can be relevant to the job you're applying for. We also explored the significance of sharing stories about your goals and skills. Sharing concise stories about your accomplishments can make you a more compelling candidate. Moreover, we emphasized the importance of emphasizing the benefit the company will gain by hiring you. Highlight how your skills will directly contribute to the organization's success. We also acknowledged the need to be selective in the skills you highlight, focusing on those directly relevant to the job. Finally, we touched on the challenges posed by some companies' unrealistic hiring requirements, and how these might not accurately reflect your abilities. Key Takeaways:Honesty and a willingness to learn are more valuable than pretending to have skills you lack.Transferable skills from various life experiences can be beneficial in the job market.Compelling stories about your accomplishments can set you apart.Focus on the benefits you bring to the company.Tailor the skills you highlight to the specific job position.Be aware that some companies have unrealistic hiring requirements, which may not accurately reflect your capabilities.Resources: Want to continue improving your professional English skills ? Join our Conversation Club for Professionals, where you'll practice work English, business English, and English for professional development with other professionals.Contacts us now:🌐 Text us: WhatsApp ✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form 📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.comDon't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!Instagram: @fluentenglish.pro https://www.instagram.com/fluentenglish.pro/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@fluentenglishpro Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

Oct 17, 2023 • 12min
Grammar Do's and Don'ts: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
In this episode, we discussed common grammar mistakes in English that native Spanish speakers make, and how to avoid them. Both native and non-native English speakers make mistakes due to various reasons, such as differences in native language grammar rules transferring into English. We explore the importance of reducing mistakes in communication, particularly in a professional setting where credibility is on the line. We emphasized the value of grammar exercises, repetition, and pronunciation practice, along with the benefits of taking writing lessons and completing online interactive exercises. Consistent practice and making mistakes is the path to improvement.In summary, grammar errors in English are common but manageable. Embrace mistakes as part of the learning process, and remember that improvement is a progressive journey. Consistent practice and diverse exposure to grammar forms are key to enhancing English skills.Key takeaways:Common grammar mistakes affect both native and non-native English speakers.To reduce errors, engage in grammar exercises, repetition, and pronunciation practice.Take writing lessons, complete online interactive exercises, and study punctuation and capitalization rules.Reading extensively in English, particularly in areas of interest, is an effective way to improve grammar.Embrace mistakes as part of the learning process and focus on consistent practice for ongoing improvement.Resources: Want to continue improving your professional English skills ? Join our Conversation Club for Professionals, where you'll practice work English, business English, and English for professional development with other professionals.Contacts us now:🌐 Text us: WhatsApp ✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form 📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.com Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!Instagram: @fluentenglish.pro https://www.instagram.com/fluentenglish.pro/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@fluentenglishpro Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460

Oct 10, 2023 • 13min
Use It or Lose It: the Importance of Practicing English Skills
Have you ever wondered how to balance speaking fast and speaking correctly in English? In this episode, we discuss the four essential elements of English skills: writing, reading, listening, and speaking. Emphasizing that these skills are interconnected and equally vital, so you should work on developing all of them. They also explored the challenge of pronunciation and fluency while being grammatically correct, pointing out the importance of coaching, self-recording, and imitation. We emphasize the benefits of making English an integral part of daily life, whether through music, hobbies, or interests.Key Takeaways:English language skills encompass writing, reading, listening, and speaking.Pronunciation improvement requires coaching, self-recording, and imitation.Integrating English into daily activities can be a fun and effective way to enhance language skills.Resources: Want to continue improving your professional English skills ? Join our Conversation Club for Professionals, where you'll practice work English, business English, and English for professional development with other professionals.Contacts us now:🌐 Text us: WhatsApp ✉️ Contact us: Website Contact Form 📧 Email: info [at] fluentenglishpro.com Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your language proficiency and networking skills. Join the conversation today!Instagram: @fluentenglish.pro https://www.instagram.com/fluentenglish.pro/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@fluentenglishpro Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/2YQdd1hmEHDp9yGV/?mibextid=LQQJ4d Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/4svKh6w8nUtdFwV9CzVG6h Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fluent-english-pro/id1706003460