The Making Of A Dictator, a new story-based course for English learners

The Great Speeches Challenge

In this challenge, we'll learn English by studying some of the most iconic speeches in English.

From Charlie Chaplin to Winston Churchill, Elizabeth I to Ronald Reagan, you'll learn from some of the finest speechwriters in history.

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Monday, January 19, 2026

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By popular demand, we are re-opening the doors to our "Great Speeches" challenge.

In this challenge, you can learn English through some of the most iconic speeches in English history.

Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday for three weeks, you'll receive a new video-lesson all themed around an iconic speech.

We'll listen to each speech together, then I (Alastair) will go through it line by line and explain vocabulary, cultural importance, and certain uses of rhetoric.

Your "task" will then be to write a short piece of writing related to the speech using this advanced vocabulary you'll learn in the lesson.

Here’s a taste of what’s waiting for you:

  • Master English rhetoric: Learn powerful expressions and natural phrases used by legendary speakers.
  • Sharpen your listening: Break down real-world English with authentic recordings (no “learner” versions).
  • Write with impact: Practise with short, practical tasks based on real vocabulary.
  • Get instant feedback: Use FixMyEnglish.ai, our AI-powered tutor, plus personal support from me every step of the way.
  • Enrich your (English) world: End with a richer vocabulary, better listening skills, and knowledge of iconic speeches.

Look inside the challenge

cHALLENGE content

Who will enjoy this challenge?

  • You love learning English through stories, history, or powerful ideas
  • You enjoy listening to English but want help understanding it more deeply
  • You’re tired of textbook-style learning and want something more inspiring
  • [BONUS] Unlimited Q&A access to a teacher to ask all the grammar and language questions you want
  • Lifetime access to all challenge content
  • 30-day guarantee - We're sure you'll love it, but if you don't, email us any time within 30 days and we'll give you a 100% refund (on challenge cost or new membership).

You might be wondering...

Frequently asked questions

Why should I do this?

Most English courses (or challenges!) are pretty boring.

You'll learn vocabulary terms or grammar out of context, or if it is "in context", it will be through some tedious (probably AI-generated) scenarios like "giving a presentation at work" or "ordering a coffee".

This is completely the opposite.

It's a hands-on, practical challenge that will:

  • Help you build your vocabulary using real, powerful English spoken by some of history’s most iconic figures.
  • Train your listening skills with authentic English—not slowed down or simplified “learner audio.”
  • Give you guided writing practice based on natural, meaningful language from each speech.
  • Show you how to notice and actually use expressions, phrases, and grammar patterns in your own English.
  • Connect you with a community of motivated learners—and with English that actually matters

And most importantly… it will be fun.

Who will enjoy this challenge?

  • You love learning English through stories, history, or powerful ideas
  • You’re tired of textbook-style learning and want something more inspiring
  • You want to practise writing in a way that feels meaningful, not mechanical
  • You want to learn vocabulary and expressions that real speakers actually use
  • You’re curious about how English is used to persuade, inspire, and move people
  • You’d like to connect with thoughtful learners from different backgrounds
  • You know that detailed feedback is essential to help improve your writing and vocabulary

How long do I need to spend doing this?

Three lessons per week, each with short, practical tasks.

💡 We recommend 20 minutes a day, but you can adjust based on your schedule.

The challenge is designed for busy people—even if you don’t have much time, you’ll still get a tonne of value.

Who can take part in this challenge?

There are two ways to participate in this challenge:

I’m not on the “Pro” membership. Where can I get it?

You just need to upgrade to a Pro membership to access the challenge.

📌 Pro membership includes:

Full access to the challenge (and all future challenges)

Downloadable PDF study packs for every episode

Bonus episodes & exclusive content

Instant transcripts & translations in 12 languages

To upgrade, simply click here, grab a Pro membership, and your challenge registration will be automatically approved.

Note: if you became a member before March 2023, you are automatically entitled to take part for free.

I'm shy and would rather not share in public

Totally understandable! But… the magic of this challenge is in sharing.

✔️ Everyone is learning together, so there’s no judgment.

✔️ It’s not public—only other challenge participants can see it.

✔️ Seeing other people’s work will help you improve faster.

💡 That said, you can still follow along with the lessons without sharing anything.

I'm busy at the moment. Will there be another chance to take this challenge?

Yes, but not until 2027. If you register for the challenge today, you'll receive lifetime access to it, so you can participate in it when your schedule allows.

I have another question

Please email challenges@leonardoenglish.com