Episódios
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Petra Kovacova, a Slovak national, is a traveller, passionate language learner, and teacher/mentor who helps others optimize and navigate their learning processes. She has lived in and explored several countries, which allowed her to enhance the quality of each experience; connect with local people; and appreciate the simple things in each place.
Being a slow and mindful traveller challenged her beliefs, helped her learn about herself, and embrace the unknown. She has lived in many countries, most extensively in Mexico, Canada, Costa Rica, and the United States of America (USA).
Teaching abroad became her new passion and a way of making discoveries, allowing her to combine her love for teaching and travelling into one enriching experience. Her broad background in human resources taught her a lot about people's behaviour and cultural and linguistic diversity.
She has learned 6 different languages in the past, which has greatly benefitted her. Speaking other languages has opened new horizons for her and helped her tremendously in understanding and appreciating other cultures.
She has worked as an Academic Director in Mexico and most recently as a Director for People and Culture in Costa Rica. She believes that an open mind and the right attitude help you to savour every moment and every encounter, and be in awe of everything that comes your way.
You can make contact with Petra directly on LinkedIn via the following link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petrakovacova963/
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
#teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #teacher #travel #southamerica #Spanish #USA #Mexico #CostaRica #SriLanka #Indonesia #teachingEnglish #HR #Headhunting #DigitalNomad #OpenMind #mindfulness
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In this episode I interview Italian national Marina Puviani a university student, aspiring journalist and writer of short, powerful poems about the human experience.
We talk about Marina's love of ballet, but then the disappointment as she came to the self-realisation that this was a career in which she could not excel, despite her passion and love of the discipline.
Following this - as a trigger warning - Marina talks openly about her experiences of bullying and of how she overcame the opinions and taunts of others to build her own positive self-worth, self-esteem and identity.
Marina's love of learning foreign languages has led her to study 3 languages at university: English, German and Spanish. She hopes to use these languages in her future career as a journalist.
Recently, Marina has turned to writing her own poems as a powerful means of self-expression and she shares 4 of these poems with us on the podcast.
The four poems are:
'Just Me':
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/marina-puviani-b1b119309_poetry-life-englishspeaking-activity-7205679484237164545-sRdV?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
'To All the Lonely Girls':
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/marina-puviani-b1b119309_english-literature-poetry-activity-7205858642204524545-IsDh?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
'Unrequited Love'
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/marina-puviani-b1b119309_poetry-english-literature-activity-7205809497859112960-Pz0_?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
'Life is a Tricky Game':
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/marina-puviani-b1b119309_poetry-literature-english-activity-7206010552500826112-HiF9?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
#teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #teacher #stories #fiction #audiobooks #storytelling #poems #poetry #Italy #Italia #bullying #therapy #TaylorSwift #unrequitedlove
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In this rather different series of podcast Episodes (Series 11), I want to share with you a short novel I have written, set in Florence, Italy and inspired by its history and people and a recent working visit there. This series of podcasts is in effect, therefore, an audiobook in a change from my usual host/guest interview format.
This episode therefore introduces you to the eighth part of my novel, 'Forever in Florence', which is formed of two parallel storylines; with the stories being presented as alternate chapters, set in two different time periods, 500 years apart.
The odd numbered chapters; in this episode Chapters 43, 45, and 47; are set in the modern day and introduce you to its lead character, Isabella, who applies for a job in Florence's Academia Galleria so that she can be closer to her muse and idol Michelangelo Buonarroti and his works.
We follow Isabella's life and her loves, including her love of her home city, its food, its people, the beauty of Tuscany and her friendships, particularly with her best friend, Mia. In this and later episodes, you will also hear about her lifelong love for one particular songwriter, artist and poet who Isabella adores.
Chapter 43 Extract
"David noted that they were still holding hands as they navigated the way slowly through the busy city streets. Cars had no place in this city and pedestrians knew it. Eventually they made their way to the drop-off point at the end of the small alleyway leading down towards Isabella’s home. No cars could make it down there, so Isabella had to gently and carefully guide David down the length of the passage and into her small courtyard garden."
In parallel with Isabella's life, the second storyline involves Francesca. This story is set in the High Renaissance and follows the life of Michelangelo as he struggles with his art, his stone craft, his relationships with the church and the city and with its controlling family, the Medici. Chapters 44, 46 and 48 in this episode tell Francesca's story.
Chapter 44 Extract
"The morning sun eased its way into the dense city streets as Francesca walked the dogs by the river. They were well-behaved and came to her when she called them to come to shake themselves dry at the water’s edge. Her mission today was very simple: to get her master Michelangelo Buonarroti out into the safety of the countryside with as little fuss as possible and to settle him into Antonio’s grandfather’s farm buildings for protection."
While based on some experiences described in the literature about Michelangelo's life, this is a story of fiction and is not meant to be wholly historically accurate, so please accept it as that; a story.
If you would like to receive a free copy of the draft of the story so far, perhaps to read as you listen to the audio version, please email me at [email protected]
Spotify and other podcast platforms also have the facility to follow a word by word transcript of the podcast, available via a tab next to the 'Description' tab on laptops or desktops, or at the bottom of the podcast description on mobiles and possibly tablets, headed, 'Episode Transcript'.
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
#teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #teacher #stories #fiction #audiobooks #storytelling #Michelangelo #Italy #Florence #shortstory #shortnovel #novella #Firenze #Medici #BobDylan #Bologna #Italia #history
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In this rather different series of podcast Episodes (Series 11), I want to share with you a short novel I have written, set in Florence, Italy and inspired by its history and people and a recent working visit there. This series of podcasts is in effect, therefore, an audiobook in a change from my usual host/guest interview format.
This episode therefore introduces you to the seventh part of my novel, 'Forever in Florence', which is formed of two parallel storylines; with the stories being presented as alternate chapters, set in two different time periods, 500 years apart.
The odd numbered chapters; in this episode Chapters 37, 39, and 41; are set in the modern day and introduce you to its lead character, Isabella, who applies for a job in Florence's Academia Galleria so that she can be closer to her muse and idol Michelangelo Buonarroti and his works.
We follow Isabella's life and her loves, including her love of her home city, its food, its people, the beauty of Tuscany and her friendships, particularly with her best friend, Mia. In this and later episodes, you will also hear about her lifelong love for one particular songwriter, artist and poet who Isabella adores.
Chapter 37 Extract
"The last comment took her rather by surprise. She didn’t know how to respond. Many questions were going through her mind. Was he another player, coming over to Italy for a few months, leaving his English wife and possibly kids at home while he had fun in the sun, aided and abetted by his sister? Or did he mean ex-wife and he had just not been very clear? He didn’t look old enough to have been married and divorced, although on reflection, she felt, there was a sadness to him that made him look old enough to have lived that experience."
In parallel with Isabella's life, the second storyline involves Francesca. This story is set in the High Renaissance and follows the life of Michelangelo as he struggles with his art, his stone craft, his relationships with the church and the city and with its controlling family, the Medici. Chapters 38, 40 and 42 in this episode tell Francesca's story.
Chapter 38 Extract
"Antonio stood by the side of the main route to Bologna, anxious to get back to the university campus to prepare for his final examinations and to complete his degree. He had worked hard thus far and he was determined to do well."
While based on some experiences described in the literature about Michelangelo's life, this is a story of fiction and is not meant to be wholly historically accurate, so please accept it as that; a story.
If you would like to receive a free copy of the draft of the story so far, perhaps to read as you listen to the audio version, please email me at [email protected]
Spotify and other podcast platforms also have the facility to follow a word by word transcript of the podcast, available via a tab next to the 'Description' tab on laptops or desktops, or at the bottom of the podcast description on mobiles and possibly tablets, headed, 'Episode Transcript'.
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
#teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #teacher #stories #fiction #audiobooks #storytelling #Michelangelo #Italy #Florence #shortstory #shortnovel #novella #Firenze #Medici #BobDylan #Bologna #Italia #history
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In this episode I return to my regular interview format as I talk with Slovak national Martin Salamon from the company, ejoin, about the improvements required in the infrastruture for a country wishing to significantly increase the use of electric vehicles.
ejoin is a Slovak manufacturer of charging stations for electric vehicles, charging stations, chargers, and electromobility.
The ejoin website is available at: https://ejoin.eu/
Martin and I discuss the benefits of electric vehicles versus diesel vehicles (such as my 19-year-old Landrover), not just in terms of environmental sustainability, but also in terms of the running costs of keeping a vehicle on the road over time.
We talk about some of the safety concerns that have been expressed about electric vehicles, particularly the fact that some people are worried that batteries in such vehicles can sometimes catch fire.
On a technical level, Martin references AC and DC charging stations for electric vehicles and these refer to AC (Alternating Current - which is generally slower) and Direct Current (which is considerably faster) when charging a vehicle.
We also discuss the economics of owning an electric vehicle versus a petrol or diesel alternative, where many factors have to be taken into account, not just the initial cost of purchasing the vehicle itself.
If you wish to contact Martin directly to discuss the challenges faced with building the capacity of electric vehicle charging stations in Slovakia, in particular, please follow him on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mar-sal/
Spotify and other podcast platforms have the facility to follow a word by word transcript of the podcast, available via a tab next to the 'Description' tab on laptops or desktops, or at the bottom of the podcast description on mobiles and possibly tablets, headed, 'Episode Transcript'.
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
#electricvehicles #electriccars #Košice #Slovak #Slovakia #Bratislava #Slovensko #capacitybuilding #English #Englishlanguage #listeningskills #TESOL #IELTS #listeningpractice #IELTSexam
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In this rather different series of podcast Episodes (Series 11), I want to share with you a short novel I have written, set in Florence, Italy and inspired by its history and people and a recent working visit there. This series of podcasts is in effect, therefore, an audiobook in a change from my usual host/guest interview format.
This episode therefore introduces you to the sixth part of my novel, 'Forever in Florence', which is formed of two parallel storylines; with the stories being presented as alternate chapters, set in two different time periods, 500 years apart.
The odd numbered chapters; in this episode Chapters 31, 33, and 35; are set in the modern day and introduce you to its lead character, Isabella, who applies for a job in Florence's Academia Galleria so that she can be closer to her muse and idol Michelangelo Buonarroti and his works.
We follow Isabella's life and her loves, including her love of her home city, its food, its people, the beauty of Tuscany and her friendships, particularly with her best friend, Mia. In this and later episodes, you will also hear about her lifelong love for one particular songwriter, artist and poet who Isabella adores.
Chapter 31 Extract
"It was Isabella’s turn to kiss her friend now, which she did delicately to each cheek, accompanied by a tight hug to really communicate the warmth and closeness they felt for each other. Mia was a bit of an enigma. She could be the life and soul of the party; but then disappear for weeks at a time, not always coming up with an explanation for her absence when she re-emerged from wherever she’d been hiding herself."
In parallel with Isabella's life, the second storyline involves Francesca. This story is set in the High Renaissance and follows the life of Michelangelo as he struggles with his art, his stone craft, his relationships with the church and the city and with its controlling family, the Medici. Chapters 32, 34 and 36 in this episode tell Francesca's story.
Chapter 32 Extract
"The sheets on her bed were cold to the touch, but in an inviting way as she pulled her long nightdress over the length of her body. Rubbing her feet together quickly at the bottom of the bed to offer some initial warmth, Francesca began to think of her attitude to Antonio that evening and whether she had been too cruel in her response to him."
While based on some experiences described in the literature about Michelangelo's life, this is a story of fiction and is not meant to be wholly historically accurate, so please accept it as that; a story.
If you would like to receive a free copy of the draft of the story so far, perhaps to read as you listen to the audio version, please email me at [email protected]
Spotify and other podcast platforms also have the facility to follow a word by word transcript of the podcast, available via a tab next to the 'Description' tab on laptops or desktops, or at the bottom of the podcast description on mobiles and possibly tablets, headed, 'Episode Transcript'.
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
#teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #teacher #stories #fiction #audiobooks #storytelling #Michelangelo #Italy #Florence #shortstory #shortnovel #novella #Firenze #Medici #BobDylan #JohnMartyn #CatStevens #Yusuf
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In this rather different series of podcast Episodes (Series 11), I want to share with you a short novel I have written, set in Florence, Italy and inspired by its history and people and a recent working visit there. This series of podcasts is in effect, therefore, an audiobook in a change from my usual host/guest interview format.
This episode therefore introduces you to the fifth part of my novel, 'Forever in Florence', which is formed of two parallel storylines; with the stories being presented as alternate chapters, set in two different time periods, 500 years apart.
The odd numbered chapters; in this episode Chapters 25, 27, and 29; are set in the modern day and introduce you to its lead character, Isabella, who applies for a job in Florence's Academia Galleria so that she can be closer to her muse and idol Michelangelo Buonarroti and his works.
We follow Isabella's life and her loves, including her love of her home city, its food, its people, the beauty of Tuscany and her friendships, particularly with her best friend, Mia. In this and later episodes, you will also hear about her lifelong love for one particular songwriter, artist and poet who Isabella adores.
Chapter 25 Extract
"Isabella lay in bed the next morning, not quite sure what to make of the encounter with David. He had seemed just a little distant. She got that he was a bit pressured for time, they hadn’t got to the interesting stuff in the short conversations, like their mutual love of Dylan, and she wondered whether she had said something to offend him or he just wasn’t interested in her."
In parallel with Isabella's life, the second storyline involves Francesca. This story is set in the High Renaissance and follows the life of Michelangelo as he struggles with his art, his stone craft, his relationships with the church and the city and with its controlling family, the Medici. Chapters 26, 28 and 30 in this episode tell Francesca's story.
Chapter 26 Extract
"Francesca turned away from Maria, Antonio’s grandmother, to hide the tears that were now ebbing from her face. She had to pull up part of her upper garment at the waist to soak them up adequately. The poem had touched her deeply and she could feel Michelangelo’s pain and suffering in a very real sense, which made the simple poem all the more poignant."
While based on some experiences described in the literature about Michelangelo's life, this is a story of fiction and is not meant to be wholly historically accurate, so please accept it as that; a story.
If you would like to receive a free copy of the draft of the story so far, perhaps to read as you listen to the audio version, please email me at [email protected]
Spotify and other podcast platforms also have the facility to follow a word by word transcript of the podcast, available via a tab next to the 'Description' tab on laptops or desktops, or at the bottom of the podcast description on mobiles and possibly tablets, headed, 'Episode Transcript'.
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
#teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #teacher #stories #fiction #audiobooks #storytelling #Michelangelo #Italy #Florence #shortstory #shortnovel #novella #Firenze #Medici #BobDylan
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In this rather different series of podcast Episodes (Series 11), I want to share with you a short novel I have written, set in Florence, Italy and inspired by its history and people and a recent working visit there. This series of podcasts is in effect, therefore, an audiobook in a change from my usual host/guest interview format.
This episode therefore introduces you to the fourth part of my novel, 'Forever in Florence', which is formed of two parallel storylines; with the stories being presented as alternate chapters, set in two different time periods, 500 years apart.
The odd numbered chapters; in this episode Chapters 19, 21, and 23; are set in the modern day and introduce you to its lead character, Isabella, who applies for a job in Florence's Academia Galleria so that she can be closer to her muse and idol Michelangelo and his works.
We follow Isabella's life and her loves, including her love of her home city, its food, its people, the beauty of Tuscany and her friendships, particularly with her best friend, Mia. In this and later episodes, you will also hear about her lifelong love for one particular songwriter, artist and poet who Isabella adores.
Chapter 19 Extract
"Isabella was addicted to Bob. His words, his music, his fine art and his poetry were the soundtrack, recitation and film score of her life. At every turn, he had been there for her, in sound and in virtual form. She had seen him live countless times; well, not really countless, she could remember every gig, every event, every opportunity to be near him. Now she was going to be with him; in the same room, in touching distance. In breathing distance."
In parallel with Isabella's life, the second storyline involves Francesca. This story is set in the High Renaissance and follows the life of Michelangelo as he struggles with his art, his stone craft, his relationships with the church and the city and with its controlling family, the Medici. Chapters 20, 22 and 24 in this episode tell Francesca's story.
Chapter 20 Extract
"The stress of caring for Michelangelo in his hideaway and the need to behave secretively at work and in her social affairs were beginning to weigh heavily on Francesca’s soul, mind and body. She needed to rest and went into her inner room away from the glare of the bright afternoon sun and lay on a soft cushioned couch against a cool wall that didn’t receive the sun’s attentions."
While based on some experiences described in the literature about Michelangelo's life, this is a story of fiction and is not meant to be wholly historically accurate, so please accept it as that; a story.
If you would like to receive a free copy of the draft of the story so far, perhaps to read as you listen to the audio version, please email me at [email protected]
Spotify also has the facility to follow a word by word transcript of the podcast, available via a tab next to the 'Description' tab on laptops or desktops, or at the bottom of the podcast description on mobiles and possibly tablets, headed, 'Episode Transcript'.
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
#teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #teacher #stories #fiction #audiobooks #storytelling #Michelangelo #Italy #Florence #shortstory #shortnovel #novella #Firenze #Medici #BobDylan
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In this special edition launched to celebrate International Women's Day 2024, I again interview popular guest, Michaela Smith, a Slovak national working as a conscious leadership coach, focusing on supporting people to overcome Imposter Syndrome.
Michaela goes back to basics, defining Imposter Syndrome, formerly known as Imposter Phenomenon, and briefly references the controversial research which was carried out on a group of only women as research subjects in the 1970's.
We discuss whether this is a topic of relevance only to women and share personal experiences which illustrate the damage that Imposter Syndrome can do to our sense of self; our self-confidence; and our identity.
Michaela shares her recent experiences of going through Imposter Syndrome herself and how she identified the patterns that led her to experience it again for herself.
We consider whether it is ever possible, necessary or practical to try to separate the professional and the personal in our lives. As a possible trigger warning, we discuss the need for Inner Child wounds to be identified to heal childhood traumas or experiences which may be getting in the way of us coping with some situations we might experience in our adult lives.
Michaela and I consider the effects Imposter Syndrome has on the human body as a physiological response to the dysregulation of our nervous system.
Finally, Michaela shares her plans for the future and how she is getting her business back on track in 2024, despite the personal and professional challenges she has recently faced. These include plans for a Masterclass in 'How to Get the Pay Rise or Promotion You Deserve' which is coming up online in May 2024.
Please subscribe to Michaela's Newsletter below to get first notice of these upcoming events and to read her latest news:
https://bit.ly/44Z5Abk
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
My audiobook, 'Forever in Florence' is available in Series 11 of my podcasts.
#teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #teacher #audiobooks #ImposterSyndrome #authenticity #validation #somaticwork #transformationalcoach #masterclass #InternationalWomensDay #InternationalWomensWeek
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In a return to my more regular format of Interviewer/Guest I would like to introduce Isabelle Cottenet, a French language speaker who works as a translator and French language pronunciation coach.
We talk about the challenges of developing a confident and proficient accent in French and make comparisons with the issues in developing an English Language accent that learners are proud of.
We compare the two languages, French and English, and consider the fact that at least a third of 'English' words are derived from French, going back to the Norman Conquest of 1066.
The following webpage gives just 135 examples of these words which are used on a daily basis in English but are 'clearly' French!
https://www.berlitz.com/blog/french-words-phrases-used-english
Isabelle discusses the techniques and methods she uses to develop a proficient or good French accent and gives useful tips and hints which are applicable to the English language, too.
Our discussion includes topics such as self-motivational strategies, confidence-building and ways in which to expose yourself to the various accents which exist in all languages.
We consider the importance of rhythm or prosody and stress (or emphasis) in language and how a detailed technical awareness of how sounds are formed in each language can help us to be more sensitive and accurate when reproducing certain sounds; some of which we do not have in our own first language.
Isabelle can be contacted on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabellecottenet/
or via her company website at:
secureyourpronunciation.com
For translation work from English or German to French, please contact Isabelle via her translation website at:
secureyourtranslations.com
or by email at: [email protected]
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
My audiobook, 'Forever in Florence' is available in Series 11 of my podcasts.
#teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #teacher #stories #fiction #audiobooks #storytelling #pronunciation #French #Frenchlanguage #pronunciationtips
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In this rather different series of podcast Episodes (Series 11), I want to share with you a short novel I have written, set in Florence, Italy and inspired by its history and people and a recent working visit there. This series of podcasts is in effect, therefore, an audiobook in a change from my usual host/guest interview format.
This episode therefore introduces you to the third part of my novel, 'Forever in Florence', which is formed in two parts; with the stories being presented as alternate chapters, set in two different time periods, 500 years apart.
The odd numbered chapters; in this episode Chapters 13, 15, and 17; are set in the modern day and introduce you to its lead character, Isabella, who applies for a job in Florence's Academia Galleria so that she can be closer to her muse and idol Michelangelo and his works.
We follow Isabella's life and her loves, including her love of her home city, its food, its people, the beauty of Tuscany and her friendships, particularly with her best friend, Mia. In later episodes, you will also hear about her lifelong love for one particular songwriter, artist and poet who Isabella adores.
Chapter 13 Extract
"The pair skipped through the narrow streets and wide piazzas to bring themselves in front of the newest spa in town. It was already acquiring a solid reputation for some excellent treatments. Isabella was apprehensive about this and wasn’t sure she wanted to go ahead with it. She was sure she had already imagined getting naked in front of David, but not like this, not for just a massage, at least. She had something far more sensual, sexual indeed, in mind."
In parallel with Isabella's life, the second storyline involves Francesca. This story is set in the High Renaissance and follows the life of Michelangelo as he struggles with his art, his stone craft, his relationships with the church and the city and with its controlling family, the Medici. Chapters 8, 10 and 12 in this episode tell Francesca's story.
Chapter 14 Extract
"Francesca slumped across the hard wooden surface of the table and sobbed uncontrollably. She had been barely able to finish the note from Michelangelo before her heart nearly burst in her chest. Her arms stretched out over the table then she pulled them back to cradle her head. She felt immense emotional and physical pain throughout her whole body. Her legs began to shake and her dogs rushed to comfort her as they heard her now audible sobs throughout the house."
While based on some experiences described in the literature about Michelangelo's life, this is a story of fiction and is not meant to be wholly historically accurate, so please accept it as that; a story.
If you would like to receive a free copy of the draft of the story so far, perhaps to read as you listen to the audio version, please email me at [email protected]
Spotify also has the facility to follow a word by word transcript of the podcast, available via a tab next to the 'Description' tab on laptops or desktops, or at the bottom of the podcast description on mobiles and possibly tablets, headed, 'Episode Transcript'.
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
#teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #teacher #stories #fiction #audiobooks #storytelling #Michelangelo #Italy #Florence #shortstory #shortnovel #novella #Firenze #Medici
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In this rather different series of podcast Episodes (Series 11), I want to share with you a short novel I have written, set in Florence, Italy and inspired by its history and people and a recent working visit there. This series of podcasts is in effect, therefore, an audiobook in a change from my usual host/guest interview format.
This episode therefore introduces you to the second part of my novel, 'Forever in Florence', which is formed in two parts; with the stories being presented as alternate chapters, set in two different time periods, 500 years apart.
The odd numbered chapters; in this episode Chapters 7, 9, and 11; are set in the modern day and introduce you to its lead character, Isabella, who applies for a job in Florence's Academia Galleria so that she can be closer to her muse and idol Michelangelo and his works.
We follow Isabella's life and her loves, including her love of her home city, its food, its people, the beauty of Tuscany and her friendships, particularly with her best friend, Mia. In later episodes, you will also hear about her lifelong love for one particular songwriter, artist and poet who Isabella adores.
Chapter 7 Extract
"Isabella found herself enjoying things the more the lesson continued. They mingled around the room using a structured questionnaire to find out more about each other. Each participant had to share something secret about themselves that no one could tell at first glance. She had so many delights to choose from. Which one should it be? She settled on the time she had climbed in the Himalayas, getting to base camp. This was safe to share with strangers. Some of her other stories were certainly not for this group of novices."
In parallel with Isabella's life, the second storyline involves Francesca. This story is set in the High Renaissance and follows the life of Michelangelo as he struggles with his art, his stone craft, his relationships with the church and the city and with its controlling family, the Medici. Chapters 8, 10 and 12 in this episode tell Francesca's story.
Chapter 8 Extract
"Rushing through the busy morning streets as best she could, Francesca arrived at the Medici Palace to be greeted by guards and soldiers of the Court. They knew her, of course, and beckoned her to enter without delay. The noise and chatter of the outside world quietened as she entered the dark corridors and turns which led to her office, a substantial room on the ground floor which overlooked an internal courtyard, providing her with some indirect sunlight for much of the day."
While based on some experiences described in the literature about Michelangelo's life, this is a story of fiction and is not meant to be wholly historically accurate, so please accept it as that; a story.
If you would like to receive a free copy of the draft of the story so far, perhaps to read as you listen to the audio version, please email me at [email protected]
Spotify also has the facility to follow a word by word transcript of the podcast, available via a tab next to the 'Description' tab on laptops or desktops, or at the bottom of the podcast description on mobiles and possibly tablets, headed, 'Episode Transcript'.
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
#teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #teacher #stories #fiction #audiobooks #storytelling #Michelangelo #Italy #Florence #shortstory #shortnovel #novella #Firenze #Medici
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In this rather different series of podcast Episodes (Series 11), I want to share with you a short novel I have written, set in Florence, Italy and inspired by its history and people and a recent working visit there. This series of podcasts is in effect, therefore, an audio book in a change from my usual host/guest interview format.
There will be other podcasts coming shortly in the more regular format, don't worry!
This episode therefore introduces you to my novel, 'Forever in Florence', which is formed in two parts; with the stories being presented as alternate chapters, set in two different time periods.
The odd numbered chapters; in this episode Chapters 1, 3, and 5; are set in the modern day and introduce you to its lead character, Isabella, who applies for a job in Florence's Academia Galleria so that she can be closer to her muse and idol Michelangelo and his works.
We follow Isabella's life and her loves, including her love of her home city, its food, its people, the beauty of Tuscany and her friendships, particularly with her best friend, Mia. In later episodes, you will also hear about her lifelong love for one particular songwriter, artist and poet who Isabella adores.
Chapter 1 (Extract)
"Isabella shivered with excitement as she felt her phone ping in her pocket. Maybe it was them? She daren’t look. She’d go for a coffee to calm her nerves, but it was a little late in the day for that, so it would have to be a glass of her favourite Chianti. But not now.
Florence was still buzzing with the throngs of people who flooded its narrow, stone flagged streets and wide piazzas at this time of year. Didn’t they know that she needed calm to get her thoughts in order so that she could think straight? Her whole body was throbbing with energy, vibration and warmth. It was not just the afternoon sun. This is the moment which could change her life, for the better or worse."
In parallel with Isabella's life, the second story line involves Francesca. This story is set in the High Renaissance and follows the life of Michelangelo as he struggles with his art, his stone craft, his relationships with the church and the city and with its controlling family, the Medici.
While based on some experiences described in the literature about Michelangelo's life, this is a story of fiction and is not meant to be wholly historically accurate, so please accept it as that; a story.
Chapter 2 (Extract)"Francesca hurried as best she could across the Ponte Vecchio, trying to lift her long skirts above the mud and filth on the ground. The pungent smell of raw meat and decaying fish filled the air and she held her breath for as long as she could, before freeing her lungs with a half-cry, half-sigh of exasperation as she turned towards his secret hideaway. Tears filled her beautiful blue eyes as she struggled to see in the evening twilight. Her hands clasped the few provisions she could carry under her top garment as she struggled to move away from some drunks who moved towards her menacingly."
If you would like to receive a free copy of the draft of the story so far, perhaps to read as you listen to the audio version, please email me at [email protected]
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
#teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #teacher #stories #fiction #audiobooks #storytelling #Michelangelo #Italy #Florence #shortstory #shortnovel #novella
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Natasha Bechtholdt is an English and Spanish teacher, coach and facilitator from Buenos Aires, Argentina, and has been teaching languages for more than 13 years now.
She has several certifications and diplomas in language teaching, life coaching, #neuropsychoeducation, innovation and technology in education and translation, apart from being a passionate language learner.
She delivers 1-1 English and Spanish lessons as well as group courses and teacher training workshops.
In this episode we talk about new approaches to language learning which are more brain-friendly, especially for adult learners. These are defined as those that offer a more comfortable, motivating and enjoyable learning experience, which acknowledge the challenges learners face in learning, speaking and using a foreign language.
We consider older and more recent methods of teaching and learning, including the concept of the 'flipped classroom' or 'flipped learning', which actually has its roots back in the 1990's.
Natasha and I go into detail about the challenges adult students face as they try to juggle the sometimes conflicting priorities of work, study, home-life and varying energy and motivation levels and identify one of the key enemies of successful learning, procrastination.
We consider the future and the impact that Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools will have on language learning, considering the pros and the cons.
You can contact Natasha:
By email: [email protected]
On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/powerup.ingles/ (English and Spanish Lessons) or
https://www.instagram.com/tea.chable/ (Teacher training and Workshops)
On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natasha-bechtholdt-25b85185/
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
I run Virtual Dinner Parties and a Virtual Book Club for Upper Intermediate and Advanced learners of English who want to improve their conversational skills. If you want to find out more about these online discussion opportunities which usually take place in the evenings (Central European Time), please email me directly at [email protected]. Thank you.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
To join the Poetry Club - International, please visit the LinkedIn Group page at: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12492972/
#emotionalintelligence #teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #resilience #selflove #selfconfidence #curiosity #trust #motivation #resilience #Argentina #languages #determination #selfawareness #selfregulation #AI #flippedlearning #procrastination #enemiesoflearning #nanolearning #antiscreenrevolution #coach #facilitator #teacher
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In this episode I interview educator Silvina Andrea Fernandes from Buenos Aires, Argentina about the role emotional intelligence plays in the language learning process.
Silvina describes two key components of Emotional Intelligence, being 'intrapersonal emotional intelligence' and 'interpersonal emotional intelligence'.
She defines these and gives practical examples of how she trains young people and teachers to develop the necessary attributes of curiosity, trust, surprise, resilience, determination, patience, courage, risk-taking and critically self-love in order to become successful learners, teachers or managers.
Silvina is a trained teacher of English as a Foreign Language and she describes her own journey into a career in neuropsychoeducation as it is applied to teaching and learning.
We feel the podcast will be of interest to teachers and learners alike and we hope it will stimulate discussion and thinking about the teaching and learning experience and why we sometimes feel so challenged when learning a foreign language.
Silvina is launching an online course, 'A Specialism in Emotional Intelligence' on 2 March 2024, initially in Spanish, but, at a later date, the course will also be delivered in English.
If you are interested in attending the course online, please contact Silvina directly via the following means:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/silfernandes_edu
Email: [email protected] for any mentoring on Emotional Intelligence.
Web page to find out more about the course 'Specialization in Emotional Intelligence:
https://silvinafernandes.com/coaching-educativo/cursos-y-talleres/especializacion-en-inteligencia-emocional/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/silvinafernandes/
You can ask for the English version of the course directly on WhatsApp +54 9 11 4026 2917.For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
I run Virtual Dinner Parties and a Virtual Book Club for Upper Intermediate and Advanced learners of English who want to improve their conversational skills. If you want to find out more about these online discussion opportunities which usually take place in the evenings (Central European Time), please email me directly at [email protected]. Thank you.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
To join the Poetry Club - International, please visit the LinkedIn Group page at: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12492972/
#emotionalintelligence #teaching #learning #learningenglish #TEFL #TESOL #IELTS #listeningskills #listening #resilience #selflove #selfconfidence #curiosity #trust #motivation #resilience #Argentina #languages #determination #selfawareness #selfregulation
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In this episode I interview Ian Viner of the company CV Writing Services which was set up and is managed by CV Writing Consultant Ian Viner who has over 30 years' management experience gained in a variety of small to medium sized companies covering a wide range of industries.
Ian also has a broad range of leadership, coaching and mentoring skills. In recent years Ian has used these CV Writing Consultant skills both within companies and independently to assist a wide range of people in their job search as well as to cope with redundancy.
With experience of Professional Outplacement Training, Ian has expertise in and understanding of how to successfully negotiate the job market, using an empathic and supportive approach to achieve results. He has also worked for a Professional CV Writing company as well as written CV’s for the UK’s leading Career Consultancy. He differs from most other CV Writing companies as he meets all of his clients in person and spends most of the day drawing out their measurable achievements from his base in Watford, North London, England.
We discuss the challenges of writing a CV which can 'stand out from the crowd', especially when Artificial Intelligence software is being used to screen digital CVs before they are even seen by a human being.
Here we point to the significance of identifying and using the Keywords which might feature in a job advert or in the job description and person specification associated with the role for which you are applying.
Additionally, Ian highlights the need to include Measurable Achievements as a key feature of any well-written CV.
Ian Viner can be contacted on:
Mobile Tel: (++) 44 (0)7855 514921
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.cvservices.uk.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cvreview/
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
I run Virtual Dinner Parties and a Virtual Book Club for Upper Intermediate and Advanced learners of English who want to improve their conversational skills. If you want to find out more about these online discussion opportunities which usually take place in the evenings (Central European Time), please email me directly at [email protected]. Thank you.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
To join the Poetry Club - International, please visit the LinkedIn Group page at: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12492972/
#CV #curriculumvitae #CVwriting #employment #jobsearch #jobs #redundancy #recruitment #recruiting #HR #personnel
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In this episode I interview Slovak entrepreneur Edita Angyalová from the Terzos company about the Productized Services Model. This is where companies develop and package their existing and sometimes new services into sellable products which they then promote in the Business to Business (B2B) marketplace.
Edita emphasises the importance of high quality services which are effective and efficient being selected to be further developed into marketable products. We also discuss the process of packaging these products; price banding; the opportunities for selling products at scale; and the benefits of transparency and clarity which come from developing packaged products from a company's services.
We discuss the origins of this business model and identify the key business segments or sectors which have adopted this model most effectively, namely: marketing agencies, IT software companies; consulting agencies; and some specific sectors such as architectural firms. We also briefly discuss my experience of and aspiration to develop packaged products in the B2C or Business to Customer/Consumer sector.
After a 20-year career in IT management, with over 8 years' experience as Chief Executive Officer, Edita also continues to produce a podcast in Slovak where she supports Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), particularly their owners and founders, to share their business expertise; their transformation strategies; and to facilitate knowledge transfer.
Edita's podcast can be found at:
https://open.spotify.com/show/70aWyPI5cxMawAS1se8TG8?si=c6a06268a1314507
Edita Angyalová's podcast with her guests - who are all Slovak SME entrepreneurs about how to start a business and how to become a successful entrepreneur. In each episode one business topic is explored in depth, with a full of hands-on experience, sharing proven tips and tricks.
We talk about the differences between traditional leadership and management models and for the continuing need for human interventions, even in the Productized Services Model.
Edita Angyalová can be contact on LinkedIn at: linkedin.com/in/edita-angyalova
or by email at: [email protected]
or visit her company website at: www.terzos.sk
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
I run Virtual Dinner Parties and a Virtual Book Club for Upper Intermediate and Advanced learners of English who want to improve their conversational skills. If you want to find out more about these online discussion opportunities which usually take place in the evenings (Central European Time), please email me directly at [email protected]. Thank you.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
To join the Poetry Club - International, please visit the LinkedIn Group page at: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12492972/
#Productized #Services #Model #ProductizedServicesModel #entrepreneur #entrepreneurs #entrepreneurial #entrepreneurship #leaders #leadership #manager #womeninmanagement #womenleaders #managers #proofofconcept
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Sonya Ross is a voice, speech and pronunciation coach.
Since 2006, when she completed her MA in Voice Studies, she’s helped thousands of international professionals express their valuable ideas clearly, smoothly, confidently and authentically in business and in life. She’s based between London and Hastings, UK – and globally available online.
Sonya and I discuss her Top 10 Tips for Clear Pronunciation in English, a PDF of which is available via the links below. Sonya will shortly be producing a video of these tips in action. When that video is available, I will provide a direct link to it here.
Sonya's website can be accessed at:
https://vocalchoice.co.uk/The Free PDF with 10 Expert Tips for Clear Pronunciation in English is available here:
https://vocalchoice.co.uk/free-resources/
Connect with Sonya Ross on LinkedIn at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonya-ross-voice-speech-pronunciation-coach/
Follow Sonya Ross on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/vocalchoicelondon/
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
I run Virtual Dinner Parties and a Virtual Book Club for Upper Intermediate and Advanced learners of English who want to improve their conversational skills. If you want to find out more about these online discussion opportunities which usually take place in the evenings (Central European Time), please email me directly at [email protected]. Thank you.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
To join the Poetry Club - International, please visit the LinkedIn Group page at: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12492972/
#voice #voicecoach #vocalcoach #pronunciation #English #Englishlanguage #clarity #speech #speakingskills #publicspeaking #speakinginpublic #breathing #breathwork
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Eva Lelkes is an internationally active mentor & coach empowering women.
As a former top executive and a devoted change maker she supports professional women to harness their masculine drive and step into their feminine power, so they can chill with no guilt while creating a life which feels light and true.
As the author of her 'Femme Fatale' mentoring program she empowers women to CHOOSE their destiny.
We talk about her executive work as a senior manager and how experiences of burnout and anxiety led her to choose and follow her true calling.
In the podcast, we examine emotions and concepts of the Divine Feminine and the Divine Masculine; as well as the Wounded Feminine and the Wounded Masculine and how balancing this polarity within us can give us our power back and bring lightness into our lives.
Follow Eva on Instagram where she posts daily at https://www.instagram.com/evalelkes_empowering_women/
Her LinkedIn profile can be found at https://www.linkedin.com/in/evalelkesova/Eva is fluent in 3 languages; besides English she serves her clients both in Hungarian and Slovak.
To contact Eva Lelkes by email [email protected]
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
I run Virtual Dinner Parties and a Virtual Book Club for Upper Intermediate and Advanced learners of English who want to improve their conversational skills. If you want to find out more about these online discussion opportunities which usually take place in the evenings (Central European Time), please email me directly at [email protected]. Thank you.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
To join the Poetry Club - International, please visit the LinkedIn Group page at: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12492972/
#mindfulness #wellbeing #coaching #female #burnout #anxiety #emotions #FemmeFatale #women #connection #energies #spirituality #somatic #consciousness #femininepower #Tantra #Tantric #intention #DivineEnergies
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Cara Leopold is the creator of the Leo Listening Movie Club, a community where she helps film-loving non-native English speakers understand and discuss movies together so they can master conversational English.
Find out more about the Movie Club at: https://leo-listening.com/movie-club/
Many people enjoy watching films (British English) or movies (American English), but find following the dialogues challenging. With Cara's support and with fellow members of the Movie Club, you work through guided activities to help you get the most out of your film/movie watching experience.
In this podcast, I ask Cara what motivated her to set up the Movie Club and where she first got the idea from. We discuss the feedback she has had from members of the Club as to how useful they have found their participation in the online and offline sessions and activities.
I ask Cara to detail some of the 30+ movies her members have watched to date and which ones have been the most popular and most controversial.
So, if you are interested in movies, explore this podcast and then follow the links through to Cara's webpages and find out more about the Club. If you sign up to the Club, please be sure to let Cara know that you found out about it via this podcast!
To book a free Discovery Call with Cara and to find out more about the Christmas Special Movie Club in December 2023, please contact Cara by filling in the form available here: https://caraleopold.as.me/makeprogresswithmovies
Cara Leoplod's LinkedIn page can be found at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraleopold/
Cara's YouTube Channel can be found at: Subscribe to my YouTube Channel
I run Virtual Dinner Parties and a Virtual Book Club for Upper Intermediate and Advanced learners of English. If you want to find out more about these online discussion opportunities which usually take place in the evenings (Central European Time), please email me directly at [email protected]. Thank you.
For more information on this podcast series, 'John Scott Lawton's English, you know', or to make any comments or to ask any questions relating to English Language learning, please contact me at [email protected] or leave a sound bite comment on Spotify.
Please visit my LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-scott-lawton/ to view Recommendations regarding my English Language teaching and Executive Coaching Services (towards the bottom of my profile page).
To join the Poetry Club - International, please visit the LinkedIn Group page at: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12492972/
#English #films #movies #MovieClub #confidence #confidencebuilding #relationalcommunication #international #presentationskills #networking #culturalconnections #inspire #inspiration #storytelling #coach #coaching #selfdiscovery #poems #poetry #poet #IELTS
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