Speak Up! How to Improve Your Confidence in English
Language learning
Do you feel embarrassed and shy when using English? It doesn’t need to be this way. Here’s how you can become a more confident speaker of English and take your English to the next level.
How To Learn A New Word Every Day With Google (for free)
Language learning
Did you know that there was a way to use Google to learn a new word in English every day? Google launched this feature at the end of October, and it is available for free to anyone with an Android or iPhone device. Here's how it works (and why you should use it).
Member profile: Nadia, from Russia
Members
Meet Nadia, a curious mind from Russia who is keen to improve her pronunciation in English. Learn about her English-learning routine, and how she uses podcasts to improve her speaking skills.
italki vs. Preply vs. Cambly vs. Verbling: The Battle Of The English Tutoring Websites
Reviews
What are the differences between the big four English tutoring platforms and how can you find out which is best for you? We asked English teacher Emile to review each website and report back with the good, the bad and the ugly.
Finding an English Teacher Online with Cambly: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Reviews
Cambly is one of the biggest tutoring websites, offering English lessons online since 2012. How it is different to all the other English-tutoring websites, and what are some smart ways to use Cambly to learn English?
Finding an English Teacher Online with Verbling: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Reviews
Verbling is one of the most popular tutoring websites, offering thousands of tutors for English and other languages. Can you use Verbling to learn English quickly and easily?
Finding an English Teacher Online with Preply: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Reviews
Preply claims to offer over 25,000 English tutors and private classes for as low as $2 an hour. How does it work, and is it actually any good? Read on for our detailed review of Preply.
Finding an English Teacher Online with italki: The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly
Language learning
italki is one of the biggest websites for English teachers, with almost 8,000 teachers to choose from. How does it work, and is it actually any good? Read on for our detailed review of italki.
What Are Graded Readers and How Can They Help You Learn English?
Language learning
If novels and news articles are too difficult to read, graded readers are a fantastic choice. You can enjoy a story and improve your English at the same time.
The Travel Adapter: A Review
Language learning
Matt Halsdorff and Christian Saunders recently teamed up to work on an amazing project about how native English speakers can adapt their language. Here’s what’s in it, and why it matters.
What Is Business English and Does It Really Matter?
Language learning
Tens of millions of people every year take Business English classes in the hope of getting a better job. But what actually is Business English, do you actually need it, and does it really matter?
What Is Global English and Does It Really Matter?
Language learning
There are 3 non-native speakers of English to every native English speaker. If you are learning English, what does this mean for you?
English Language Schools: Are They The Best Way To Improve Your English?
Language learning
Millions of learners enrol at English schools every year. Are they wasting their money, and what are the alternatives?
Member Profile: Jenneke, from The Netherlands
Leonardo English
Meet Jenneke, a curious mind from The Netherlands. Discover how she started speaking "International" English, and why she decided to focus on activating her "passive" vocabulary.
June Vocabulary Builder Challenge: A Review
Leonardo English
We just finished our first “Vocabulary Builder” challenge. Here’s how it went, all the words we covered, and everything we learned.
Can Translation Help Me Study English?
Language learning
Can classic language learning methods help me improve my English? Here is how using an old-school method in a new way can help you improve your English.
A Not-So-Secret Secret To Improve Your Speaking: Record Yourself in English Every Day
Language learning
Recording yourself speaking English is a powerful way to improve your fluency and see your progress over time. Here’s how to do it effectively.
What Is Chunking in English and Why Does it Matter?
Language learning
“Chunking” originated in psychology and it changed how we think about memory. Here’s how you can apply it to learn English more effectively.
Member Profile: Cassie, from China
Members
Meet Cassie, a Master's student in Translation and Interpreting with plans to become an interpreter. Discover why she decided English Learning for Curious Minds was the perfect tool to help her with real-time interpreting, and how she learned to have a fluent conversation in six months.
Am I Saying It Right? 9 Ways To Recognise Your Mistakes As An Independent English Learner
Language learning
Saying the wrong word can be really embarrassing, but it’s part of the process. Use these tips and tricks to notice your mistakes and make them less often.
Member Profile: Laura, from Spain
Leonardo English
Meet Laura, "The Hungry Learner", and learn about her recipe for successful language learning. She has also been kind enough to provide a 7 day planner for how to maximise your use of podcasts to learn English, and how to build your own daily habit.
Talking To Yourself: Is It An Effective Way To Improve Your English Speaking?
Language learning
Can talking to yourself help you learn English? See what the research says and the most effective ways to do it
How To Choose An English Teacher: 10 Tips From An English Teacher
Language learning
Here’s an English teacher’s best advice for finding truly effective English teachers to supplement your other English activities.
Shakespeare’s English: How The Playwright Influenced The English Language
Language learning
How many words did Shakespeare add to the English language? And how do we know if he actually invented them himself?
How Much Does It Cost To Learn English? Can You Learn English For Free?
Language learning
Learning English can be very expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. And, sometimes, even free resources are costly in another way: on your time.
Announcing The June Vocabulary Builder Challenge
Leonardo English
A 30-day challenge with community accountability to boost your confidence, vocabulary, and writing skills in English.
Reflections On The April 30 For 30 Challenge
Leonardo English
Our first 30 for 30 Challenge saw curious minds from 13 different countries commit to using English for 30 minutes every day for 30 days.
Here’s how it went, what they learned, and why this format is so powerful for independent learners.
Should I Use Songs And Music To Learn English?
Language learning
Will listening to Adele or Beyonce really teach me English? Here’s everything you need to know about learning English from music.
We Have A New Cover For The English Learning For Curious Minds Podcast
Leonardo English
Meet the new cover art for English Learning for Curious Minds, designed by the amazing Katie Mulligan from New York City.
Member Profile: Dawid, from Poland
Members
Meet Dawid, a software developer from Poland, and a new member of Leonardo English. Learn about his view on the Polish education system, and why he is such a big fan of Shadowing.
Bonus Episodes Now Available On Your Favourite Podcast App
Leonardo English
You can now listen to all of our bonus, member-only episodes on your favourite podcast app as well as on the website. Listen and learn wherever you want.
This Is Why You Understand English Better Than You Can Speak It—and What You Can Do About It
Language learning
It’s normal to understand English better than you can speak it, but it’s still frustrating. Here’s why that happens and how you can fix it.
American vs. British vs. Australian English—Which Should I Choose (And Does It Even Matter)?
Language learning
Yes, English accents and dialects can be confusing. Sorry. Here’s how to navigate American vs. British vs. Australian English and decide which one you should learn.
50, 10,000, 100,000 - Three Big Milestones
Leonardo English
Last week, Leonardo English passed three exciting milestones. Here’s what they were and what they mean for our mission of building a more interesting way of improving your English.
Members-only March Icebreaker Sessions
Leonardo English
After a successful 'test run' in February, we had our second set of Icebreaker sessions. They were a great success, and it's fantastic to see so many curious minds coming together to practise their English.
6 Lies Your English Teacher Told You
Language learning
Don’t be held back by the lies your English teacher might have told you. Here is the truth behind 6 lies you might have been told in English class.
The Future of Learning English
Language learning
The way we learn languages is shifting, and it looks promising. Here’s what could change… and what probably won’t.
Member Profile: Steven, from China
Members
Meet Steven, a Chinese native and a recent member of Leonardo English. Discover why pronunciation is particularly difficult for Chinese speakers, and why he doesn't believe in traditional English learning methods.
Choosing Wisely From the English Learning Buffet
Language learning
You have unlimited options for English learning resources, but that can make it harder to find what works. Here’s how to find the gems and not get overwhelmed with choice.
The Introvert’s Guide to Learning English
Language learning
To learn English you have to use it… but what if you’re shy? Don’t worry: introverts can master English, too—here’s how.
Member Profile: Olga, from Latvia
Members
Meet Olga, a curious minds originally from Latvia, but now living in St Petersburg, Russia. Discover her English learning journey, and why she decided to become a member of Leonardo English.
Our First Members-only "Icebreaker" Session
Leonardo English
What happens when you put curious minds from 10 different countries together for an "Icebreaker" session? A lot of fun, it turns out.
Member Profile: Sidi, from Mauritania
Members
Meet Sidi, a new addition to the Leonardo English family. Discover how his English journey started, how it has changed over time, and how he overcame various difficulties to become a successful independent English learner.
We're Now Part of Stripe Climate
Leonardo English
Now, 1% of all Leonardo English memberships go towards carbon removal projects. It's a small step, but an important one.
How To Learn English On Your Own | Guide for Independent Learners
Language learning
You don’t need to take classes to master English, but there are challenges to learning English independently. Here are some strategies to overcome them and learn English successfully on your own.
When (And Why) To Use Subtitles for Learning English
Language learning
Does using subtitles when you watch a movie in English help you learn more effectively? Or is it cheating? It depends. Here’s when you should use subtitles to help your learning, and when you shouldn’t.
Input vs. Output—What Is the Right Mix for English Learners?
Language learning
Can you learn English entirely by reading? Or just by chatting with native speakers? Neither—you need a mix of input and output activities. Here’s why.
Lessons From Sun Tzu’s "The Art of War" For English Learners
Language learning
It’s a 2,500-year-old book about military strategy written by a Chinese general. Is there anything that English learners can take from it?
“Pay attention!”—Why It Will Help You Learn English Faster
Language learning
Paying attention might sound simple, but few English learners do it properly. Here’s why it matters, and how you can teach yourself to pay more attention and be a better English learner.
Members-only Session: “Strategies for Independent English Learners”
Leonardo English
In our first members-only session of the year, curious minds from 9 different countries gathered to share strategies on how to learn English independently. There were some brilliant ideas, and it was a great chance to discuss tactics and help each other.
You’ve Made It To the Intermediate Plateau in English… Now What?
Language learning
Learning English goes quickly at the beginning, and then all of a sudden it can feel like you’re not making any progress. Here’s how to continue to make progress when you’re stuck on the intermediate plateau.
Member Profile: Francisco, from Spain [VIDEO]
Members
Meet Francisco, a member of English and a curious mind with a fantastic sense of humour. Join him in his home in the south-east of Spain, and learn about his English learning journey.
Imposter Syndrome When Learning English
Language learning
Do you sometimes feel like a fraud when you speak English? Here’s how you can get rid of those feelings of inadequacy.
How to Improve your English When You Don't Have Any Time
Language learning
Feel like you don’t have enough time to learn English? Here are some strategies to fit English into your schedule without giving too much up.
9 Strategies to Make Sure You Stick to Your English Learning Goals in 2021
Language learning
Making language resolutions does help, even if it feels like you can’t keep them. But here’s how you can make sure you do stick to them.
Members-only Session: "The Future of The European Union"
Leonardo English
Just 9 days before Christmas, an intimate group of curious minds gathered to discuss Brexit, The European Union, and what happens next.
What Does “Fluent” Really Mean?
Leonardo English
At what point can you say that you’re fluent in English? In this article, we consider various ways of thinking about fluency and how that can help inform a language learning programme.
Happy 1st Birthday to English Learning for Curious Minds 🎂
Leonardo English
On December 5th 2019, the first episode of the English Learning for Curious Minds podcast was released. Here’s how the first year has gone, and some fun facts about who was listening, from where, and to what.
Native vs. Non-Native English Teachers—Which Should You Choose?
Language learning
Many English learners express a preference for native-speaking English teachers—but are they actually better? No, and here’s why.
Just Launched: Gift Memberships
Leonardo English
We’ve just launched gift memberships. Give the gift of a Leonardo English membership to a loved one, or leave a subtle hint that you’d be very happy to receive a gift membership in your stocking this year.
Member Profile: Andra from Romania
Members
Meet Andra, a new member of Leonardo English from Romania. Learn about how she uses English in her professional life, and how she uses the podcasts to learn new words and phrases.
Member Profile: Silvana, from Italy/Spain
Members
Be inspired by an amazing story of a grandmother from Turin, Italian by birth but Spanish by 'adoption'. Learn about how she listens to the podcasts, what she is planning on doing on January 1st, and the two things she still does in Italian.
New Feature | Definitions in Transcript
Leonardo English
You can now see the definitions of harder words directly in the podcast transcript, making it easier than ever to learn new words and phrases as you listen.
Members-only Session: "The US Election"
Leonardo English
In our 7th Members-only session, we covered a veritable 'hot potato' of a topic: The US Election.
Here's what happened, what we discussed, and why we needed a lot more than 60 minutes.
How to Create Your Own System for Learning English [GUIDE FOR INDEPENDENT LEARNERS]
Language learning
It can feel overwhelming to learn English on your own. But creating a language learning system can help. Here’s how to do it and the tools you can use to make it work.
Immersion English: What Is It and Does It Really Work?
Language learning
Immersive travel or work experiences can be a great way to learn English, but they’re not accessible to everyone. And you don’t need them. Here’s how you can take the advantages of immersion and apply them to your own language learning, without ever getting on a plane.
What Is the Best Way To Learn a Language? 3 Theoretical Perspectives (and What They Mean for English Learners)
Language learning
How do we learn language? Theorists have spent a lot of time trying to figure that out. Here are the three most popular perspectives and what they mean for people learning English.
11 Ways To Overcome Your Fear Of Speaking English
Language learning
Don’t let your fear of speaking English keep you from becoming fluent. Use these tips to overcome the discomfort and learn to speak confidently.
Google Translate Superpowers for English Learning: 9 Ways to Use This Powerful Translation Tool
Language learning
Google Translate is one of the most powerful learning tools out there. Here are 9 impressive features you should be using if you’re not already.
What Is Comprehensible Input and Why Does It Matter for Language Learning?
Language learning
Stephen Krashen’s input hypothesis is one of the most influential theories of second language acquisition. He argues that Comprehensible Input is the most important factor in learning another language. Here’s why it matters.
The Power of Compounding in Language Learning
Language learning
You might think that compounding just applies to investing. Here’s how you can apply some of its magic to your approach to learning English.
Members-only Session: "Learning A Second Language Should Be Required At School"
Leonardo English
We just had our 6th ever members-only session, where we debated whether learning a second language should be required at school. Here’s what happened, and which side was declared the winner.
Reading In English: Why (And How) To Do It Everyday
Language learning
Reading is one of the best activities you can do every day to improve your English. Here’s why it works, and how to build it into your English learning routine.
Reflections on 100 Episodes
Leonardo English
I just released the 100th episode of English Learning for Curious Minds. Here's the 'behind the scenes' story of everything it has taken to get this far.
6 English Grammar Rules You Can (and Maybe Should) Break
Language learning
Some grammar rules are really important... but others aren’t. Here are 6 English grammar rules that English native speakers don’t even follow—feel free to break them.
How to Find a Conversation Partner in English
Language learning
Looking for someone to practise speaking English with? Here’s where to look for a conversation partner and my top tips for how to make the most of your experience.
How to Use Spaced Repetition to Remember English Vocabulary
Language learning
Unless you have a photographic memory, you need to be exposed to new words multiple times to remember them. In this guide, we’ll look at how to use Spaced Repetition to learn vocabulary in the most effective way.
11 Reasons That Listening to Podcasts with Transcripts (and Subtitles) Will Help You Improve Your English
Language learning
Listening to podcasts to learn English is great, but when combined with transcripts and subtitles your learning goes to a new level. Here are 11 reasons why you should try it today.
Members-only Session: "To Keep or Abolish The British Monarchy"
Leonardo English
Discover what happened when we got together for our fifth members-only session to debate the future of The British Monarchy.
The Ultimate Guide To Improving Your English Listening: A Step-by-Step Guide + 9 Listening Activities
Language learning
Being able to understand English is the key to speaking it. So prioritise your listening skills. Here’s everything you need to know about learning to understand spoken English, and 9 activities you can start doing today.
A Worldwide Language Learning Journey
Language learning
Larissa's language learning journey takes her from Brazil to the United States, then from Germany to Sweden. Discover the lessons she has learned about learning languages, and what it's like growing up as a half-Italian, half-Japanese girl in Brazil.
How To Measure Your Progress When Learning English?
Language learning
Learning English happens slowly. Here are some 9 actionable strategies for tracking your progress to see how far you’ve come, and one thing you shouldn’t do.
Online Courses vs. English Classes vs. Tutoring: What Kind of English Lessons Should I Take?
Language learning
You don’t need English lessons to learn English… but if you’re getting them, make sure that they will suit your needs. Here’s what you should consider.
When (And Why) To Take English Lessons
Language learning
You’d love to take English lessons with a professional teacher, but they can be expensive. Here’s when it’s worth it.
How Bloom’s Two Sigma Problem Applies to Learning English--and Teaching It.
Language learning
Bloom found that one-on-one tutoring leads to significantly better learning than traditional teaching methods. Here’s what that means for learning English.
Student Memberships Are Here
Leonardo English
Are you a current high school or university student? You can get 50% off your Leonardo English membership.
Members-only Session: Trying to Make Sense of Brexit
Leonardo English
Curious about what goes on at our members-only sessions? Here's a roundup of what happened at the last one.
Why Leonardo English Isn’t For Everyone
Leonardo English
Wondering if Leonardo English is the right choice for you? It might not be. It’s not for everyone, and there might be something that suits you better.
How To Improve Your Writing in English - George Orwell's Six Rules
Language learning
Learn six simple rules from one of the most famous writers in English that will help you improve your writing and communicate more effectively.
The Best Free Tools To Improve Your Writing In English
Language learning
Writing is hard, especially in English. These 8 fantastic free English writing tools will help you write more clearly, make fewer mistakes, and unlock your inner Shakespeare.
You’re Never Too Old To Learn English
Language learning
Many people think they have to be young in order to learn a new language. Well, they’re wrong. In fact, in some ways older learners are better learners. Here are the reasons why you can start learning English at any age.
Superpowers of Effective English Learners
Language learning
What do the most successful language learners have in common? Discover the common traits of top English learners and how you can develop them.
Members-Only Session: What British People Say (And What They Really Mean)
Leonardo English
On Wednesday 29th July, we had our third Members-only Q&A session, where we discussed what British people really mean when they say certain things. Here's an update from the session, and answers to some common questions about what goes on in these sessions.
5 Ways to Remember English Vocabulary That Are Actually Effective
Language learning
With hundreds of thousands of English words, how are you supposed to remember everything? Here are 5 ways that actually work.
How To Improve Your English Pronunciation
Language learning
Pronunciation is key to being understood by native English speakers. Here’s some advice on how to practise it.
Member Profile: Kristian, from The Netherlands
Members
Meet Kristian, a lifelong learner, and a proud member of Leonardo English. Learn about how he uses the podcasts, and see a recording of how he uses the subtitles and transcript to improve his speaking.
What is Shadowing And Why Should You Use It To Improve Your English Speaking Skills?
Language learning
Speaking English is hard, and it can be difficult to practice. Check out this groundbreaking technique for improving your English speaking. You can do it on your own with just 15 minutes a day.
Why Teaching Just Might Be The Best Tool For Learning
Language learning
Here's our guide on how to apply some of the principles of teaching to help you improve your learning approach. Using the principles of teaching can take your retention from 5% to 90%. It's every smart language learner's secret weapon.
How to Improve Your English Listening (When You Don't Have Anyone to Practise With)
Language learning
You know that you need to practise your listening skills to become fluent in English… but what if you don’t have a native English-speaking friend to listen to? Here’s what you can do instead.