In today’s English listening episode, we explore "third places"—what they are, why they’ve disappeared, and why we all need one. With modern life becoming more isolated and fast-paced, the absence of these social gathering spots, where we speak to each other, is contributing to an epidemic of loneliness. But what exactly is a third place? Join me as I dive into its history and meaning, inspired by a thoughtful discussion with Brazilian English language teacher Bruna Passos.

Boost your listening skills, test your ability to follow a narrative in intermediate English, pick out key vocabulary and expressions, and reflect on third places and consider how they’ve evolved over time—from cozy coffee shops and neighborhood pubs to bowling alleys and community gyms. As you practice your English listening skills, you’ll learn what third places are and their unique qualities. 

Hear You Go podcasts aim to give you, the intermediate English learner and advanced English learner, a space to practice your English listening so that you can think, learn, and connect in English. Join me and let’s explore how third places can help make life a little less lonely. 

I’m joined in today’s advanced English episode of Hear You Go, by Felicio Dias, a Brazilian English language teacher and language enthusiast, to explore the fascinating world of English as a global language. Fresh from leading a workshop on accents at the Relax Into Your English retreat, Felicio shares his passion for music, literature, and the diverse ways English is spoken worldwide. Together, we dive into a thought-provoking discussion on how accents shape identity, the evolving nature of language, and the importance of embracing diverse voices in English. Catherine checks her privilege and vows to approach more novels from outside her perspective.

We’re both avid readers and keen to explore literature as a means of deepening our understanding of the diverse English language, with Felicio recommending powerful books by diasporic writers that challenge traditional views of language and accent. Whether you’re an intermediate English or advanced English language learner, teacher, or book lover, this episode offers profound insights into the complexities of English, identity, and the stories that connect us all. Please tune in and get ready to broaden your perspective on the global nature of English and appreciate its many voices.

In this episode of Hear You Go, we’ll explore  "Come From Away," a musical that resonates deeply with me.

After seeing it again recently, I was inspired to revisit the topic of English accents.

Too often, we think of English has having only two accents: the UK accent or British accent (also called received pronunciation), and the American accent.

But so many people around the world speak English, and they speak English with different accents and a multitude of gorgeous dialects, all of which shape our identity.

I need to emphasize this: accents are not a measure of fluency or intelligence but a testament to the global diversity of the English language. 

Join me as I share:

• how "Come From Away" beautifully showcases this diversity,

• why embracing different accents is important, and

• how you can navigate and celebrate the richness of the world’s many English dialects.

Plus, I’ll introduce my upcoming courses that will help you appreciate and master the nuances of global English. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!

Ever wish you could redo an English conversation, say things differently, or finally remember that perfect word for your advanced English class? I know I do! 

 Life might not allow for a reset button, but what if it did? For years, I dismissed video games as a waste of time, until I read Tomorrow, And Tomorrow, And Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. This novel changed my perspective, showing me how video games can be rich stories, and offer do-overs when real life can’t.

 For your English listening practice this week, we’ll explore this novel and its themes of friendship, creativity, and the power of stories in books and video games. I’ll also touch on how English language learning is a form of play, where we should risk making mistakes in English. 

And if you want to practice writing in English, you can tune in for tips on how to write a book review.

Ready to rethink your ideas about video games and storytelling?