In today's episode they'll talk about:

- Person-centered leadership

- Why great communication is “80% listening”

- How to measure leadership effectiveness

- Building trust on hybrid and remote teams

- “Constancy of purpose” — the leadership principle that guided Chris’s career

💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Fester, Purpose, Avoidance

👉 Test your vocab knowledge with our crossword puzzle made from this season’s vocab words: https://puzzel.org/en/crossword/play?p=-OeXOIfyMYvEzt0iyku2 

💛Thank you for joining us this season! Your presence means so much to us. We’ll see you next season! 

Looking for language courses? Let's talk about your language goals! ➡️ https://verbatum.ca/en/contact/ 

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearningTips #LeadershipCommunication #20MinutesADay

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💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Framework, Boils down to, Self-aware

👉 Here’s the link to our leadership style quiz: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aGmQ6aVtCl1p1RA-CHaGNOqSsOgN-wS-/view?usp=sharing

✨ Stay tuned for next week when we interview Dr. Christopher Mulrooney about communicating effectively as a leader!

Looking for language courses? Let's talk about your language goals! ➡️ https://verbatum.ca/en/contact/ 

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearningTips #EffectiveLeadership #20MinutesADay

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💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Legacy, Overwhelmed, Onboarding

👉 Here’s the link to our vision worksheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1EBi8UdqaXsjKmkEbcfooYObV3sETh9W2/view?usp=drive_link

✨ Come back next week as we discuss what leadership means to us!

Looking for language courses? Let's talk about your language goals! ➡️ https://verbatum.ca/en/contact/ 

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearningTips #BuildingABusiness #20MinutesADay

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From learning English in Australia to cruising through Alaska’s glaciers and Norway’s fjords, Annick shares her favorite destinations, best travel tips, and the biggest mistakes travelers should avoid. She also reveals her unique souvenir tradition—collecting Christmas ornaments from every country she visits—and how each decoration brings back a world of memories.

You’ll learn:

• Why Australia still holds a piece of Annick’s heart
• Smart planning tips (and why you should never overpack your itinerary)
• How to make the most of your first cruise

Grab your favorite snacks, sit back, and let’s travel the world—one story at a time.

💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Soak in, People watching, Pick your brain

👉 If you could cruise anywhere in the world, what would be your dream destination? Let us know in the comments! Or email us at 20minutesaday.verbatum@gmail.com 

✨ Get ready—next week we’ll launch into our business series!

Looking for language courses? Let's talk about your language goals! ➡️ https://verbatum.ca/en/contact/ 

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearningTips #CruiseHacks #20MinutesADay

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From peaceful solo retreats to unforgettable group trips, the hosts share personal stories and explore what they’ve learned on their own adventures. 

💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Camaraderie, Self-reliance, Budget-friendly

👉 Don’t forget to share your favorite travel story or style (solo, couple, or group) in the comments! Or email us at 20minutesaday.verbatum@gmail.com 

✨ Stay tuned—next week’s episode features Annick Bernier from the travel agency Laurier Du Vallon as she shares cruise travel hacks and dream destinations!

Looking for language courses? Let's talk about your language goals! ➡️ https://verbatum.ca/en/contact/ 

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearningTips #SoloTravel #GroupTravel #20MinutesADay

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They share their own stories from solo adventures to language learning abroad. Along the way, they explore how travel changes us, deepens empathy, and reminds us that every journey teaches something new.

 So grab your coffee (or a piña colada 😉) and join the conversation!

💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Wanderlust, Itinerary, Achievement.

👉 Don’t forget to let us know why YOU travel in the comments! Or email us at 20minutesaday.verbatum@gmail.com 

Looking for language courses? Let's talk about your language goals! ➡️ https://verbatum.ca/en/contact/

#LearnEnglish #ListeningPractice #WhyWeTravel #20MinutesADay

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Together, they discuss:

• Why motivation naturally goes up and down
• How energy, routines, and systems shape our progress
• The difference between procrastination and lack of motivation
• Practical strategies to keep moving forward—even on low-energy days
• The importance of celebrating small wins along the way

💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Procrastination, Willpower, Systemize

👉 Check out our Motivation Cheat Sheet here: https://twenty-minutes-melina-dufour.my.canva.site/

✨ Stay tuned—next week we’ll launch into our travel series!

Looking for language courses? Let's talk about your language goals! ➡️ https://verbatum.ca/en/contact/

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearningTips #FindYourMotivation #20MinutesADay

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Whether you’re a visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learner (take this quiz if you’re not sure yet ➡️ https://forms.gle/P1KMxk3TkaUiZUJy5), this episode is packed with practical tips and language learning tools that match your style. From flashcards to mobile apps to memory tricks, they’ll help you find what works for you.

💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Breakthrough, customizable, user-friendly

👉Grab our free Learning Style Cheat Sheet here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1FjLRwZyDHbrOW08gh8ANI2-n3-VIEr76/view?usp=sharing

✨ Next up: A special interview with learning expert Melina Dufour! Don’t miss Episode 3!

Looking for language courses? Let's talk about your language goals! ➡️ https://verbatum.ca/en/contact/

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearningTips #LearningStyles #20MinutesADay

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They share:

- The 3 most common learning styles

- Personal stories from their clients and their own language journeys

- Simple tips to help you identify your style

💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Struggle, Engage, Cue

👉 Here’s the link to the learning style quiz: https://forms.gle/P1KMxk3TkaUiZUJy5

✨ Stay tuned—next week’s episode will focus on tips and tricks to study based on your learning style, plus we’ll review a few of our favorite vocabulary tools to help you learn smarter, not harder.

Looking for language courses? Fill out this form and let's talk about your language goals! ➡️ https://verbatum.ca/en/contact/

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearningTips #LearningStyles #20MinutesADay

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👉 Subscribe now so you don’t miss the first episode when it drops!

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You’ll hear them chat about:

- How exploring new places—even convenience stores!—can spark joy and curiosity

- Why confidence, exposure, and routine are key to long-term success—especially for advanced learners and professionals

- What they enjoy most about being language coaches

It’s a thoughtful, engaging episode that blends language learning, cultural discovery, and personal growth.

🎧 That’s a wrap for our bonus episodes!

Season 2 of the podcast kicks off this fall—until then, keep listening and learning with us.

🎓 Want more help with grammar or conversation skills in the meantime? Check out our one-on-one coaching and group courses: https://verbatum.ca/en/nos-cours-individuel/

#LearnEnglish #EnglishListening #VerbatumCoaches #TravelAndLanguage #AdvancedEnglish

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You’ll get to know Sean as they discuss:

• The two songs that best describe his life (and why one might be played at his funeral!)
• Sean’s favorite travel destinations (spoiler: think Middle Earth!)
• Wild driving adventures from Portugal to the Philippines
• And how helping immigrant entrepreneurs led him to language coaching

Sean’s easygoing personality and passion for people and culture shine through in this warm and engaging conversation.

📍Part 2 of the interview drops next week—don’t miss it!

🎓 Want more help with grammar or conversation skills? Check out our one-on-one coaching and group courses: https://verbatum.ca/en/nos-cours-individuel/

#LearnEnglish #EnglishListening #VerbatumCoaches #FunEnglishPractice

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Sarah shares:

• A guilty pleasure song she secretly knows by heart
• A completely useless skill she’s mastered
• And a weird or unexpected hobby she enjoys outside of teaching

It’s a relaxed, entertaining episode that’s great for practicing your English listening and getting to know the real people behind your lessons.

🎧 Don’t forget—Season 2 of the podcast is coming this fall! Until then, enjoy these bonus coach interviews and keep learning with us.

🎓 Want more help with grammar or conversation skills? Check out our one-on-one coaching and group courses: https://verbatum.ca/en/nos-cours-individuel/

#LearnEnglish #EnglishListening #VerbatumCoaches #FunEnglishPractice

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Get to know Coach Sarah as she answers fun and thoughtful questions like:

• If you could instantly speak any language, which would it be?
• What do you love about being a language coach—and how do you share that passion?
• How would you explain your job to a 5-year-old?
• And what’s something about you that people would never guess just by looking at you?

It’s a fun and personal conversation that’s perfect for intermediate English learners who want to practice listening and learn more about our team!

📍Part 2 of the interview drops next week—don’t miss it!

🎓 Want more help with grammar or conversation skills? Check out our one-on-one coaching and group courses: https://verbatum.ca/en/nos-cours-individuel/

#LearnEnglish #EnglishListening #VerbatumCoaches #FunEnglishPractice

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In this episode, Niki shares:

• A place she visited that completely changed her perspective on life 🌍
• How working as a language coach has impacted her—both personally and professionally

It’s a great reminder of how learning and teaching languages can open doors and transform lives :)

🎧 Season 2 is coming this fall, but for now, enjoy getting to know our coaches through these special bonus episodes!

🎓 Want more help with grammar or conversation skills? Check out our one-on-one coaching and group courses: https://verbatum.ca/en/nos-cours-individuel/

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearning #EnglishListening #VerbatumCoaches

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While Season 2 is on the way, we’re introducing you to the incredible English coaches behind Verbatum. In this episode, Sarah sits down with Niki, a fun and thoughtful coach with a great sense of humor. Niki answers:

• What’s the funniest mistake you’ve ever made in another language? 😅
• If you could instantly speak any language in the world, which one would it be—and why?

This light and engaging conversation is perfect for practicing your listening skills and enjoying some laughs along the way.

📍Part 2 of the interview with Niki drops next week—don’t miss it!

🎓 Want more help with grammar or conversation skills? Check out our one-on-one coaching and group courses: https://verbatum.ca/en/nos-cours-individuel/

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearning #EnglishListening #VerbatumCoaches

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This episode takes a more reflective turn as they dive into a thoughtful discussion about travel and what it means to feel at home. In this episode, Paula shares:

• A place she visited that changed her perspective on life 🌎
• Her thoughts on what “home” has meant to her as an expat

It’s a beautiful conversation that’s perfect for practicing your listening comprehension while reflecting on your own experiences with language and culture.

🎧 Stay tuned for more bonus episodes with our Verbatum coaches—and Season 2 coming this fall!

🎓 Want more help with grammar or conversation skills? Check out our one-on-one coaching and group courses: https://verbatum.ca/en/nos-cours-individuel/

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearning #EnglishListening #VerbatumCoaches

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This week, Erin sits down with Paula, one of our passionate and engaging English coaches here at Verbatum. In this light and entertaining conversation, Paula shares:

• The English words or expressions that really get on her nerves 😬
• Where she’d love to live for a year—and why 🌍
• A surprising or unusual hobby she enjoys when she’s not coaching!

It’s a great chance to practice your listening and get to know Paula’s personality, interests, and sense of humor.

📍Part 2 of the interview with Paula is coming next week—don’t miss it!

🎓 Want more help with grammar or conversation skills? Check out our one-on-one coaching and group courses: https://verbatum.ca/en/nos-cours-individuel/

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearning #EnglishListening #VerbatumCoaches

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In this episode, Erin asks Jess some deeper, more thoughtful questions—perfect for practicing your listening skills and learning some great vocabulary along the way. Questions include:

• Would you rather have a perfect memory for grammar or be able to speak every language (but completely forget grammar)? 🤯
• What inspired you to start teaching a second language?
• And what do you find most rewarding about helping others learn English?

If you’re curious about language learning, teaching, or just love hearing stories from passionate coaches, this episode is for you. 🎧 Season 2 of the podcast is coming this fall—but until then, keep tuning in for more interviews with our English coaches!

🎓 Want more help with grammar or conversation skills? Check out our one-on-one coaching and group courses: https://verbatum.ca/en/nos-cours-individuel/

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearning #EnglishListening #VerbatumCoaches

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While Season 2 is on the way, Erin and Sarah are sitting down with our amazing English coaches so you can get to know the people behind the lessons. In this episode, Erin chats with Jess, one of our fun and creative coaches at Verbatum. Jess answers questions like:

• How would you describe yourself?
• What English words or expressions get on your nerves?
• And… would you rather only speak in rhymes or communicate using hand gestures? 🤔

Tune in to practice your listening, learn new expressions, and get to know Jess in this light, easy-to-follow conversation.

📍Part 2 of the interview drops next week—don’t miss it!

#LearnEnglish #LanguageLearning #EnglishListening #VerbatumCoaches

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Starting next Sunday, tune in to meet 5 of our amazing English coaches from all over North America! This is the perfect way to keep learning and stay motivated between seasons. Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss an episode!

👉 First bonus episode drops next Sunday!

🎙️ Designed for intermediate English learners

🌍 Real conversations with native speakers

🧠 Listening practice + learning tips

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Come discover how these skills can transform your professional and personal communication. Don’t miss this insightful and entertaining wrap-up to season one and stay tuned for more exciting content in season two.

In the meantime, check out our free resources and sign up for an oral language evaluation to learn how to up your public speaking game! To access both resources, contact us at 20minutesaday.verbatum@gmail.com.

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Learn how to prepare effectively, stay present, and create actionable plans—all while keeping things fun and engaging. With practical tips like making agendas work for you, using second language skills confidently, and fostering participation from everyone, this episode is your key to mastering the meeting game.

Plus, hear some hilarious stories about meetings gone wrong and access a free cheatsheet and exercise to supercharge your productivity. Check them out here: https://verbatum.ca/en/aides-memoire-et-exercices/

Tune in to turn your meetings from mundane to meaningful!

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Whether you’re pitching a business idea, trying to connect with potential clients, or simply sharing an idea, this episode will walk you through three simple steps: identifying the problem, presenting your solution, and wrapping up with a clear call to action.

With real-life examples, relatable tips, and practical exercises, this episode is a must for anyone wanting to refine their sales approach. Plus, we introduce our new self-guided course "The Art of the Sales Pitch"—the perfect tool to gain confidence and polish your delivery. Check it out here: https://verbatum.ca/en/cours-auto-guides/

Credits:

Sunny Serenity by ViraMiller -- https://freesound.org/s/746546/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

Kitchen Timer by maphill -- https://freesound.org/s/204103/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

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Sarah and Erin discuss how to navigate networking events with confidence, from finding the right people to practicing a solid introduction. Learn the essentials of making professional connections in a second language, whether at formal events or casual coffee meetups.

Tune in to explore practical tips on how to prepare, approach, and follow up with new contacts—all while building your language skills. Don’t miss out on this episode if you’re looking to boost your confidence in business settings. For the self-guided course, check out this link: https://verbatum.ca/en/cours-auto-guides/

Credits:

Kitchen Timer by maphill -- https://freesound.org/s/204103/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

Sunny Serenity by ViraMiller -- https://freesound.org/s/746546/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

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Paul, a seasoned globetrotter, recounts heartwarming encounters in places like Croatia, where kindness transcended language barriers.

Sarah, meanwhile, takes us on her solo journey to the Philippines and Japan with her two young children, offering tips on embracing flexibility and making lasting memories abroad.

Tune in for stories of adventure, resilience, and the deep connections that language can foster.

For FREE resources to help you on your learning adventure, click here: https://verbatum.ca/en/aides-memoire-et-exercices/

Credits:

Kitchen Timer by maphill -- https://freesound.org/s/204103/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

Sunny Serenity by ViraMiller -- https://freesound.org/s/746546/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

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Listen closely for three useful vocabulary words: conveyor belt, chit chat, and hail a taxi—and jot them down to practice later. Plus, learn how to ask important questions, make polite requests, and respond confidently in everyday travel scenarios.

For even more practical tips and exercises to enhance your travel experience, check out their curated YouTube playlist on navigating transportation with ease: Watch here.

Sound Attribution:

Sunny Serenity by ViraMiller -- https://freesound.org/s/746546/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

Kitchen Timer by maphill -- https://freesound.org/s/204103/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

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They focus on terms such as continental breakfast, rare steak, a popular dinner choice; and double room. Through their role-play, they cover typical questions travelers might ask, from directions to dining recommendations, ensuring listeners are well-equipped for their next adventure.

Don't forget to check out this cheat sheet for even more useful phrases! https://verbatum.ca/en/aides-memoire-et-exercices/

Credits:

Kitchen Timer by maphill -- https://freesound.org/s/204103/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

Sunny Serenity by ViraMiller -- https://freesound.org/s/746546/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

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They discuss useful phrases like asking about menu items, substitutions, and handling food allergies.

Keep your ears open to hear three key terms: shellfish, surf and turf, and house dressing. Be sure to jot them down with their meanings.

From appetizers to dessert, your hosts walk through the dining experience, sharing personal stories and tips for making your restaurant visit smoother, no matter what language you’re using.

Get your free Restaurant Cheat Sheet and Exercise here: https://verbatum.ca/en/aides-memoire-et-exercices/

Credits:

Kitchen Timer by maphill -- https://freesound.org/s/204103/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

Sunny Serenity by ViraMiller -- https://freesound.org/s/746546/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

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The three vocabulary words listeners should focus on are:

1. Fair game
2. Softball question
3. Guilty pleasure

As they interview each other, Sarah and Erin explore topics ranging from adapting to a new culture to deep personal reflections on confidence, balance, and their passion for language coaching.

Now it's YOUR turn! Share with us your language learning story! 20minutesaday.verbatum@gmail.com

For more language learning resources: www.verbatum.ca/resources

Credits:

Kitchen Timer by maphill -- https://freesound.org/s/204103/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

Sunny Serenity by ViraMiller -- https://freesound.org/s/746546/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

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They also share their personal experiences, recommend excellent reading materials, and discuss how AI tools like ChatGPT can enhance your writing and pronunciation. Get ready to supercharge your language learning without spending a dime!

Don't forget to listen for the expressions "get the best of both worlds," "the other side of the coin," and "boiled down to the essentials" to improve your language understanding! Be sure to write them down in your vocabulary notebook.

Get your own Vocabulary Notebook and the "20 Minutes a Day: Tips and Resources" PDF here: https://verbatum.ca/en/aides-memoire-et-exercices/

Credits:

Kitchen Timer by maphill -- https://freesound.org/s/204103/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

Sunny Serenity by ViraMiller -- https://freesound.org/s/746546/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

4o

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This episode is packed with practical advice to help you stay engaged and make progress every day. Plus, Sarah and Erin introduce three new vocabulary words to add to your growing list: make a mistake, wean off, and figure out. Don't forget to jot them down for the season's big vocabulary challenge!

Join Sarah and Erin as they guide you through the world of language learning, offering encouragement, humor, and actionable tips to keep you motivated on your journey.

For the Vocabulary Notebook and other great resources, click here: https://verbatum.ca/resources/

Credits:

Kitchen Timer by maphill -- https://freesound.org/s/204103/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

Sunny Serenity by ViraMiller -- https://freesound.org/s/746546/ -- License: Creative Commons 0

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Tune in to discover why dedicating just 20 minutes a day to language practice can transform your skills and keep you motivated on your journey. From habit-building to boosting confidence, Erin and Sarah highlight the benefits of consistent practice, sprinkle in some personal stories, and kick off the first of many vocabulary challenges for listeners. Get ready to learn with a smile on your face!

Here are the 3 expressions to keep your ear out for: nitty-gritty, rely on and housework.

Find your English level here: https://verbatum.ca/en/quiz/

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