Real English Conversations Podcast | English Fluency For Newcomers And International Professionals

Why do so many intelligent professionals still struggle with confidence—even when their English is already good?
In this inspiring episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis Davies sits down with TEDx speaker, comedian, communication coach, and entrepreneur Sam Ghanem to explore one of the biggest challenges facing international professionals today: believing in yourself when it matters most.
Sam shares her powerful journey from chasing external validation to discovering authentic confidence, explaining why confidence isn't about perfection—it's about presence, self-awareness, and showing up as your true self.
Whether you're preparing for job interviews, giving presentations, leading meetings, networking, or simply trying to express yourself more naturally in English, this conversation will help you develop the mindset and communication habits of truly confident professionals.
You'll also discover why your voice matters, how to overcome imposter syndrome, and why "the room gets better when you're in it."
🎯 In This Episode You'll Learn:
✅ Why high-achieving professionals still experience self-doubt
✅ The difference between confidence and authenticity
✅ How to overcome imposter syndrome and negative self-talk
✅ Why perfection is hurting your communication
✅ How to become a more natural public speaker
✅ The mindset shift that transforms networking
✅ Practical strategies to improve confidence in English conversations
✅ Why your presence matters more than perfect English
💬 Memorable Quote
"The room gets better when you're in it. Your only job is to show up and take up space." — Sam Ghanem
👤 About Sam Ghanem
Sam Ghanem is a TEDx speaker, comedian, communication coach, entrepreneur, and keynote speaker who helps professionals communicate with authenticity, confidence, and impact.
Combining years of experience in public speaking, business leadership, comedy, and personal development, Sam teaches people how to overcome self-doubt, become better communicators, and build genuine confidence that lasts.
🔗 Connect with Sam Ghanem
Watch Sam Ghanem's TEDx Talk: It's Contagious | The Way You Treat Yourself Spreads Here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tVSfKUcWFe8
Follow Sam Ghanem Online
🌐 Website https://iamsamghanem.com
🎥 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@iamsamghanem
💼 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/samghanemmiba
📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/iamsamghanem
🎙️Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations
💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?
Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.
👉 Book your trial session https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/
🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge (50% OFF with code: 90DAY50) https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/
PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 
https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/ 
🌐 Website https://realenglishconversations.com
🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q
🎧 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837
📺 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations
📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/
📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline
💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/
💖 Support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast
If you enjoyed this episode...
⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.
⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.
⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

Do you feel embarrassed by your English accent?
Many English learners believe they must sound like a native speaker before they can succeed professionally. But is that really true?
In this special re-release from the Real English Conversations archives, Curtis Davies and former co-host Amy Whitney explore one of the biggest misconceptions in English learning: that eliminating your accent is the key to confidence.
You'll discover why clear communication is far more important than sounding native, how confidence and pronunciation work together, and practical strategies to become easier to understand without losing your identity.
Whether you're preparing for meetings, presentations, job interviews, or everyday conversations, this episode will help you focus on the communication skills that truly matter.
In this episode you'll learn:
✅ Why sounding like a native speaker isn't the real goal
✅ The connection between confidence and pronunciation
✅ When your accent actually needs improvement—and when it doesn't
✅ Why your accent is part of your identity
✅ Curtis' STIR framework for improving pronunciation naturally
✅ How tone, rhythm and intonation make your English sound more natural
✅ Practical ways to become easier to understand at work and in everyday conversations
About Real English Conversations
The Real English Conversations Podcast helps intermediate and advanced English learners communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in professional and everyday situations.
Hosted by English Confidence Coach Curtis Davies, each episode provides practical communication strategies, expert interviews, and real-world English to help you succeed in international careers and English-speaking environments.
🎙️Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations
💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?
Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.
👉 Book your trial session https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/
🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge (50% OFF with code: 90DAY50) https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/
PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 
https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/ 
🌐 Website https://realenglishconversations.com
🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q
🎧 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837
📺 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations
📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/
📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline
💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/
💖 Support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast
If you enjoyed this episode...
⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.
⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.
⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

What does it really take to become a great teacher, and what can English learners learn from the classroom?
In this inspiring episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis Davies sits down with long-time friend Mike Foster, a Canadian high school Physical & Health Education teacher from British Columbia.
Mike's journey wasn't straightforward. After graduating with degrees in Kinesiology and Education, A strike and government negotiations delayed his teaching opportunities, forcing him to gain experience in unexpected places, from lifeguarding and outdoor education to coaching young people with autism, before finally becoming the teacher he had always dreamed of being.
Together, Curtis and Mike explore confidence, perseverance, resilience, learning styles, neurodiversity, motivation, and why some of life's biggest setbacks often become our greatest opportunities.
Whether you're learning English, changing careers, or simply trying to become more confident, this episode will remind you that success isn't about taking the perfect path—it's about continuing to move forward.
In this episode, you'll learn:
✅ Why perseverance often matters more than talent
✅ How setbacks prepare us for future success
✅ What teaching students with autism taught Mike about empathy and communication
✅ Why teenagers today struggle with confidence more than previous generations
✅ The hidden impact of smartphones and social media on learning
✅ The biggest mistake almost every learner makes
✅ How successful learners develop resilience
✅ Why it's okay to change careers—and why happiness should define success
Key Takeaways
• Confidence grows through experience—not perfection.
• Every setback can become valuable preparation for the future.
• Great teachers first build trust before they teach.
• Every learner is different, and understanding how you learn changes everything.
• Don't quit on a bad day.
• Success isn't measured by money—it's measured by purpose and happiness.
🎙️Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations
💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?
Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.
👉 Book your trial session https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/
🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge (50% OFF with code: 90DAY50) https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/
PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 
https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/ 
🌐 Website https://realenglishconversations.com
🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q
🎧 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837
📺 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations
📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/
📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline
💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/
💖 Support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast
If you enjoyed this episode...
⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.
⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.
⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

In this latest episode of The Real English Conversations podcast, Curtis welcomes special guest James Murgatroyd from Holler Digital, reminiscing about their high school days and James's recent trip to London to see his favorite band, Galliano. James shares his experience of walking around London, enjoying classic British foods, and doing radio shows together.
 
The conversation turns to their shared passion for music and DJing, with a look back at their high school DJ sessions and radio show takeovers.
 
Overall, the conversation highlights the enduring love for music and the evolution of technology in DJing and music consumption.
 
Tune in for engaging discussions and valuable lessons for real-world English use!
 
Connect With James Murgatroyd Here:
 
https://hollerdigital.com/
 
🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations
💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?
We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.
🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/
👉 Book your trial session https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/
PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 
https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/ 
🌐 Website https://realenglishconversations.com
🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q
🎧 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837
📺 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations
📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/
📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline
💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/
💖 Support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast
If you enjoyed this episode...
⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.
⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.
⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.

What does it mean to truly find your voice?
In this powerful and inspiring episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis sits down with his longtime high school friend Lance Cardinal, an internationally recognized Indigenous artist, television host, entrepreneur, actor, comedian, cultural ambassador, and member of the Bigstone Cree Nation.
For English learners, language is about much more than grammar and vocabulary. It's about identity, confidence, self-expression, and connecting with the world around you.
Lance shares his remarkable journey from growing up in Calling Lake, Alberta, to becoming one of Canada's most recognized Indigenous artists and cultural educators. Together, Curtis and Lance explore confidence, creativity, language learning, Indigenous culture, reconciliation, storytelling, and the importance of embracing who you are.
Whether you're learning English, building confidence, pursuing a dream, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation will leave you with a new perspective on finding your voice and sharing it with the world.
In This Episode You'll Learn:
✅ Why confidence comes from embracing who you are
✅ How creativity can help you overcome self-doubt
✅ The connection between language, identity, and culture
✅ Why preserving Indigenous languages matters
✅ What learning Cree taught Lance about communication
✅ The story behind the Edmonton Oilers Indigenous Turtle Island logo
✅ How Indigenous art helps create understanding and reconciliation
✅ The mindset habits that helped Lance overcome adversity
✅ Why celebrating your small wins builds long-term confidence
✅ Practical advice for English learners who are afraid to speak
Memorable Topics From This Conversation
🎨 Creativity Builds Confidence
Lance explains how creativity helped him overcome insecurity and find his place in the world. He shares why confidence isn't something you're born with—it's something you build through action, self-reflection, and celebrating your progress.
🪶 Preserving Indigenous Languages
Lance discusses his journey learning Cree as an adult, why many Indigenous languages are at risk of disappearing, and why preserving language means preserving culture, identity, and history.
🏒 The Edmonton Oilers Indigenous Logo
Learn the fascinating story behind Lance's iconic Turtle Island logo created for the Edmonton Oilers Indigenous Celebration Night and what it represents for Indigenous communities across Canada.
🌎 The Guinness World Record Solar Panel Mural
Lance shares the story behind "The Land We Share," the Guinness World Record-winning solar panel mural in downtown Edmonton that brings together Indigenous and Chinese cultural symbolism through art.
🤝 Reconciliation Through Understanding
Lance offers a thoughtful perspective on reconciliation, cultural understanding, and how Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities can move forward together through learning, healing, and meaningful conversations.
🗣️ A Message for English Learners
One of the most powerful messages in this episode is that your voice matters—even if your English isn't perfect. Communication is about connection, not perfection.
Connect with Lance Cardinal
🌐 Website https://www.soulflamecreativeservices.com
📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lancecardinalofficial
📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lance.cardinal.90
🎵 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@lancecardinalofficial
💼 LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lance-cardinal-3a66b6109/
📺 Indigenous Art Adventures Available on APTN and online platforms
🎙️Learn with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations
💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?
Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.
👉 Book your trial session https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/
🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge (50% OFF with code: 90DAY50) https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/
PODCAST AND PHRASAL VERB AUDIO COURSE BUNDLE 
https://courses.realenglishconversations.com/rec-course-bundle
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/
 
🌐 Website https://realenglishconversations.com
🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q
🎧 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837
📺 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations
📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/
📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline
💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/
💖 Support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast
If you enjoyed this episode...
⭐ Follow the podcast on your favorite platform.
⭐ Leave a review—it helps more English learners discover the show.
⭐ Share this episode with someone who needs a little more confidence today.