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What if the secret to bridging cultural divides, securing meaningful employment, and developing empathy isn't found in what we learn - but in how we communicate? 

Charles Byrne, Director General of the English Speaking Union, brings a fascinating perspective to this conversation, drawing from his uniquely diverse career spanning philosophy, retail management, and non-profit leadership. His journey to becoming a champion for oracy - the ability to express oneself fluently - began with poetry and travel loving parents and an inspiring teacher who recognized potential beyond his science-focused curriculum.

We explore the recent Oracy Commission's proposal that speaking and listening should join reading, writing, and arithmetic as essential educational pillars. Rather than adding to overloaded schedules, Charles shares practical ways these skills can be woven into existing subjects, addressing the growing disconnect between education and workplace needs. As noted,  employers increasingly value ‘agility over ability,’ yet many graduates possess impressive grades but struggle to communicate effectively.

The conversation takes a powerful turn when Charles shares a deeply moving encounter with a World War II veteran who helped liberate a concentration camp. Through careful listening, Charles discovered the man's lingering trauma and guilt, demonstrating how communication can bridge not just cultural gaps but temporal ones, connecting past suffering with present understanding. The story takes a gentle twist when the veteran hears another side of the story through Charles.

English itself emerges as a fascinating case study in communication evolution. Once a colonial imposition, it has transformed into what Charles describes as ‘a shared tool that people use’  while maintaining their local languages and cultural identities. The International Public Speaking Competition exemplifies this balance, bringing together young people who form cross-cultural friendships while preserving their unique backgrounds.

Whether you're a parent concerned about your child's future prospects, an educator seeking fresh approaches, or simply someone fascinated by human connection, this conversation offers valuable insights into how speaking and listening shape not just our careers, but our very humanity.