Note about the episode:

This was a hard episode to do. As much as there are many things I love about Brazil, when it comes to English learning, things could definitely get better. I tried to be as fair as possible in my analysis while remaining true to my beliefs. If we are to have any productive discussion about a sensitive topic such as education, we need to be able to tell the truth as we see it without sugarcoating it. While my extensive experience as an English teacher in Brazil certainly has a lot to add to this discussion, I also recognize that I don’t own the truth. Feel free to share your thoughts below, especially if I missed something in my analysis or if you disagree with something I said. Just be nice and polite about it. Enjoy the episode!

🎯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📣Conversation Club (Registrations Open):https://www.englishwiththiago.com/a25📧For collaborations, send an email to:[email protected]🖥️For private classes, fill out this form:https://forms.gle/UpQKkkheuwhhZHtx7📖50 Phrasal Verbs & Idioms (FREE eBook):https://www.englishwiththiago.com/spice-up-ebook📝FREE Study Plan (Template):https://www.englishwiththiago.com/study-planWhy Most Brazilians Struggle to Speak Fluent English | Three Key PerspectivesIn this episode, Thiago, a Brazilian English teacher with over 25 years of experience as a learner and teacher, discusses why a large majority of Brazilians are not fluent in English despite the numerous English schools and free content available online. Thiago breaks down the issue into three main areas: Basic Education, Societal Behaviors and Cultural Implications, and Individual Attitudes. He highlights systemic barriers in Brazil's educational system, cultural attitudes towards English, and common individual obstacles like passive learning and fear of making mistakes. Thiago also offers practical advice for learners to take ownership of their language studies, surround themselves with English, and invest in quality educational resources. He ends on a hopeful note, believing that future generations of Brazilians will become more proficient in English due to the internet's democratization of quality learning resources.00:00 Introduction: The English Fluency Challenge in Brazil00:11 Meet Thiago: A Journey of Teaching English02:04 Podcast Welcome and Purpose02:42 The Core Issue: Why Brazilians Struggle with English03:15 Basic Education: Systemic Barriers08:48 Societal Behaviors and Cultural Implications19:43 Individual Attitudes: Obstacles to English Fluency33:16 Solutions and Tips for Better English Learning36:29 Learner's Corner: Nivaldo's Journey38:03 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsBooks 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

🎯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📣Conversation Club (Registrations Open):https://www.englishwiththiago.com/a25📧For collaborations, send an email to:[email protected]🖥️For private classes, fill out this form:https://forms.gle/UpQKkkheuwhhZHtx7📖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/Tired of struggling to understand fast-talking native English speakers? In this video, Thiago from English with Thiago shares his ultimate guide on how to improve your listening skills and understand 100% of what most natives say! 🚀What You'll Learn:1) Overcome the Barriers: Discover the common obstacles that prevent English learners from understanding native speakers, including vocabulary gaps, slow processing speed, and connected speech.2) Vocabulary Secrets: Learn essential colloquial language, idioms, and phrasal verbs that natives use every day. Examples like "pulling an all-nighter" and "that's outta line" will become crystal clear! 💡3) Boost Your Processing Speed: Simple exercises to train your ear and think faster in English.4) Master Connected Speech: Understand how native speakers link words together, turning "What do you want to do tonight?" into "What do you wanna do tonight?" 🤯5) The Lingua Franca Caveat: Why it's also important to listen to non-native speakers and different accents in our globalized world. 🌍Actionable Tips: Practical strategies to improve your English listening skills, including:- Listening to English every day.- Focusing on a specific variation of English (American or British).- Eliminating media in your native language (at least for a while!).- Consuming a variety of media and topics.- Practicing listening for gist and specific information.- Advanced practice: Writing verbatim to improve accuracy.00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey00:47 Podcast Welcome and Purpose01:20 Understanding Native Speakers03:44 Importance of Vocabulary04:25 Colloquial Language and Collocations09:40 Phrasal Verbs and Idioms13:19 Improving Processing Speed17:03 Connected Speech18:44 Common Reductions in English Speech20:09 Understanding Connected Speech21:17 The Importance of Listening to Non-Native Speakers23:58 English as a Lingua Franca26:50 Tips to Improve Listening Skills37:12 Learner's Corner: Roland's Journey39:10 Final Thoughts and FarewellBooks 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

🎯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📣Conversation Club (Registrations Open):https://www.englishwiththiago.com/a25📧For collaborations, send an email to:[email protected]🖥️For private classes, fill out this form:https://forms.gle/UpQKkkheuwhhZHtx7📖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/Are you trying to learn English but don't know where to start? In this video, Thiago Alencar from English with Thiago shares his incredible journey of how he became fluent in English without a teacher! Thiago, a certified C2-level English teacher, reveals his secrets to mastering the English language, even after starting with zero knowledge at 15 years old.Watch this video if you want to learn:How to become fluent in English on your own.The best self-study techniques for English learners.Whether you really need an English teacher to achieve fluency.Tips for improving your English pronunciation and speaking skills.How to balance self-study with professional guidance.Thiago breaks down his personal story, from struggling with basic spelling to achieving the highest level of English proficiency (C2) with a Cambridge certificate. He discusses the importance of self-discipline, consistent practice, and leveraging available resources like books and online content.This video is perfect for intermediate to advanced English learners who want to improve their communication skills with confidence, accuracy, clarity, and awareness. Thiago emphasizes that while it's possible to learn English without a teacher, having professional guidance can significantly accelerate the learning process.Key topics covered:Self-Study Strategies: Learn how Thiago used course books, grammar books, and consistent daily practice to build his English foundation.Overcoming Challenges: Discover how he managed without speaking practice in the beginning and how he eventually mastered connected speech through extensive listening and repetition.The Value of Time: Understand the importance of time management and how to balance English learning with other life commitments.The Role of a Teacher: Explore the benefits of having a teacher, including personalized feedback, structured learning, accountability, and targeted practice.Real-Life Opportunities: See how Thiago's early jobs, such as working at a drugstore and a call center, provided valuable English-speaking practice.Thiago also shares his current perspective as an adult with family and work responsibilities, explaining why he would consider getting a teacher if he were starting his English journey today. He stresses the importance of balancing self-study with professional guidance and investing in good teaching to save time, your most precious resource.Watch now and discover how you can achieve English fluency, whether with or without a teacher!#englishpodcast #englishwiththiago #englishfluency #learnenglish 00:00 Introduction: From Zero to C200:57 Welcome to the Podcast02:17 The Importance of English in Brazil04:05 Self-Study Journey Begins07:11 Challenges and Realizations09:48 Achieving Proficiency and Teaching18:09 The Value of a Teacher20:06 Balancing Self-Study and Professional Guidance27:15 Learner's Corner: Listener's Message32:55 Closing Remarks and 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:[email protected]🖥️For private classes, fill out this form:https://forms.gle/UpQKkkheuwhhZHtx7📖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/Master English Speaking: Improve Fluency with This One Simple Tip!In this episode, Thiago shares a crucial tip to enhance your English speaking skills by focusing on the organization of ideas. He explains the importance of logically organizing thoughts and using clear transitions and cohesive devices like linking words. By implementing these techniques, you can speak more naturally, confidently, and effectively.00:00 Introduction to Improving English Speaking Skills00:17 Podcast Welcome and Course Promotion01:34 The Importance of Organization in Speech02:08 Using Transitions for Logical Flow04:26 Linking Words for Smooth Connections06:13 Examples of Effective Transitions08:29 Advanced Transition Techniques19:58 Learner's Corner: Lorenzo's Message24:18 Conclusion and Community Invitation#englishwiththiago #englishpodcast #learnenglish #languagelearning 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

📣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:[email protected]🖥️For private classes, fill out this form:https://forms.gle/UpQKkkheuwhhZHtx7📖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 this episode, we dive deep into the topic of perfectionism and its impact on our lives. Join Thiago Alencar from English with Thiago as we explore what perfectionism is, where it comes from, and how it can affect your English learning journey and overall well-being.Thiago shares his personal thoughts and opinions on perfectionism, emphasizing that he's not a mental health expert but rather an English teacher offering insights for intermediate and advanced English learners. This conversation is designed to help you practice English by reflecting on the topic and expressing your own opinions.Key questions we address in this episode:- What is perfectionism? How would you define it in your own words?- What's the line between perfectionism and a healthy amount of inspiration and motivation?- Where does perfectionism stem from?- How can perfectionism negatively impact an individual (wreak havoc)?Vocabulary and expressions covered in this episode include:PerfectionismSelf-compassionUnattainable goalsUnrealistic standardsStrive forWreak havocStepping stoneAcknowledgeArisePronunciationConnected speech patternsIf you're an English learner looking to improve your communication skills, pronunciation, and overall fluency, this episode is for you! Don't forget to subscribe to English with Thiago for more valuable English lessons and conversations.Email: [email protected]: speakpipe.com/englishwiththiago#EnglishWithThiago #EnglishLearning #LearnEnglish #Perfectionism #EnglishVocabulary #EnglishPronunciation #CommunicationSkills #EnglishTips #SelfCompassion #Motivation #Inspiration #Podcast #YouTube #ThiagoAlencar #TheSoundsOfEnglish #ConversationClub00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:47 Understanding Perfectionism02:57 Reflecting on Perfectionism06:49 Impact of Perfectionism08:21 Characteristics of Perfectionists15:27 Types of Perfectionists19:12 Tips to Overcome Perfectionism25:06 Learner's Corner: Building Sentences in English30:42 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsBooks 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

📣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:[email protected]💰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

📣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:[email protected]💰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

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:[email protected]💰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

📣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:[email protected]💰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

📱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