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Smart English Coach

Clare

Smart English Coach helps advanced English learners communicate clearly, confidently and naturally at work.

Each episode shares practical strategies to help you express complex ideas, choose the right words, and speak with authority.

Hosted by Clare Whitmell, English teacher and coach with 30+ years’ experience helping professionals reach advanced fluency.

Explore the Advanced English Academy for deeper training and coaching.

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23 episodes
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Avg 9 min
English

Episodes 23

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S1 · E147
September 30 · 11 min
Vocabulary Upgrade: Wheel
How much can you do with one ordinary English word? In this episode of Vocabulary Upgrade, we look at the word wheel and some of the less obvious ways English speakers use it. You'll also discover why looking for patterns can be such a useful way to learn and remember vocabulary. Listen to the episode and see how many expressions you already know. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E146
September 17 · 6 min
Why You Need Somewhere To Experiment With Your English
If you already have a good level of English, you probably know a lot of language that you don't always use. In this episode, I talk about why advanced learners need opportunities to experiment with English: trying new vocabulary and expressions, getting feedback and trying again. A supportive environment makes this much easier. When you know it's OK to make mistakes, you're more willing to try using English in new ways. If you'd like somewhere to practise, get feedback and keep developing your English, take a look at the Advanced English Academy. The Academy is currently available at the $25/month price until 23 September. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E145
September 2 · 16 min
10 Words You Know But Don't Use
You probably know much more English vocabulary than you actually use. In this episode, we look at why some ordinary words stay in your passive vocabulary - and how bringing them into your active English can help you express yourself more precisely, naturally and confidently. Advanced English isn't necessarily about learning more complicated words. Sometimes it's about finding the one right word instead of explaining the idea in five. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E144
August 19 · 8 min
Vocabulary Upgrade: Fresh
What do fresh ideas, fresh air, a fresh pair of eyes, refresh your memory and freshen up have in common? In this Vocabulary Upgrade episode, I explore the different meanings and patterns behind the word fresh - from something new or recently arrived to something clean, renewed, or full of energy. You’ll discover why we talk about fresh talent, fresh out of university, a fresh perspective, refreshing a room and even telling someone not to get fresh with you. Understanding the connections between these different uses can help you remember vocabulary more easily - and, more importantly, help you use everyday English. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E143
July 29 · 10 min
5 Lessons From 40 Years Teaching English
My summer sale is now on. Get 50% off my five advanced English courses here: smartenglishcoachcom/offer After nearly 40 years of teaching English, I've noticed something interesting... The biggest challenges English learners face are often not what they think they are. You might think you need more grammar, more vocabulary, or more time studying. But I've learned that becoming fluent is about something much more important: knowing how to use the English you already know. In this episode, I share five lessons I've learned over the years - including why some people make faster progress than others, why confidence comes after action (not before), and the one quality that makes all the difference. I'll also share a simple phrase that perfectly sums up what it takes to improve: "I just keep trying." And if you'd like some support with your own English journey, my five advanced English courses are currently 50% off. Whether you want to speak more fluently, build your vocabulary, improve your pronunciation, or become more accurate, you'll find the courses here: smartenglishcoach.com/offer Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E142
July 15 · 7 min
Vocabulary Upgrade: Bolt
What do sit bolt upright, a horse bolts, bolt-on and a bolt from the blue have in common? In this episode, I explore how understanding the patterns behind English vocabulary can help you remember new expressions more easily. You'll discover the many meanings of the word bolt and why recognising these connections is one of the keys to sounding more natural in English. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E141
July 1 · 10 min
A 30-minute English workout
You don’t need hours of study to improve your English. In this episode, I explore why learning more vocabulary isn’t enough - and how to turn the words you know into language you can use. You’ll discover: Why recognising a word is different from being able to use it The vocabulary trap that keeps many learners stuck Simple ways to practise speaking when you don’t have much time Fluency doesn’t come from collecting more English. It comes from activating the English you already have. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E140
June 17 · 6 min
When English Words Come Too Late
Have you ever finished an English conversation and thought: "I could have said much more than that." Why does this happen - and how can you get better at responding in the moment? In this episode, I explore why knowing English isn't always the same as being able to use it in real conversations. You'll learn how to practise speaking so you can organise your thoughts, respond more naturally, and hesitate less. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E139
June 3 · 9 min
How It Feels To Be A Beginner
After two weeks travelling around Japan, I was reminded what it feels like to operate in a language you don't understand - and how uncomfortable that can be. In this episode, I share a few stories from my trip, including getting lost on the Kyoto tram system, chatting with strangers in a traditional onsen, and using a tiny piece of Japanese that went a surprisingly long way. I talk about why language learning is about much more than grammar and vocabulary, and why confidence often comes from trying to communicate before you feel completely ready. If you've ever felt frustrated that you can't express yourself as clearly, naturally, or confidently in English as you can in your first language, this episode is for you. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E138
May 6 · 7 min
3 Ways To Improve Your English
If your English is already good, but it still doesn’t feel as clear or as confident as you’d like, this episode is for you. At this stage, progress doesn’t come from learning more. It comes from using what you already know more effectively. In this episode, I share 3 simple ways to do that: – how to improve what you say in real time (without repeating yourself) – how to build a set of phrases you can use again and again – why slowing down can make you more fluent These are small changes, but they can make a big difference to how your English sounds and feels in real situations. Mentioned in this episode: The Advanced English Academy - focused on helping you speak more clearly, precisely and confidently in real-life situations. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E137
April 15 · 7 min
Why Your English Doesn't Sound Like You
You can communicate in English - but it doesn’t always come out the way you want. If you hesitate in English, or sometimes say things in a simpler way than you want, this episode is for you! In this episode, you’ll learn: why this happens at higher levels the gap between thinking and speaking 3 strategies to help you sound clearer and more confident If you want to know exactly what to focus on next for clear, precise English, come to the live session next week. I'll show you six things which make a real difference: 👉 How to get to advanced English level Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E136
April 1 · 5 min
Is Your English Better Than You Think?
Many people underestimate their level in English - and this can slow down their progress more than they realise. In this episode, I talk about: why it’s so common to misjudge your level how this leads to focusing on the wrong things the signs you may already be beyond intermediate If your English feels “not quite good enough”, this episode will help you see your level more clearly - and show you what to do next. Link in this episode Come to a free live session where I show you exactly what to do to make faster progress in English How to get to advanced English level Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E135
March 18 · 9 min
How To Get A Precise English Vocabulary
Many English learners believe they need more vocabulary. But at advanced level, progress comes from something different: precision. In this episode, I explore how stronger English comes from choosing better words - and not just learning more of them. You’ll learn five ways to get a more precise and professional vocabulary without memorising vocabulary lists. If you’re aiming for advanced or professional English, this episode will help you move from “good vocabulary” to precise communication. To get a more precise vocabulary - without 'learning' long lists of words - check out the Advanced English Academy. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E134
March 4 · 13 min
What Really Changes At Advanced English Level
In this episode, I explore what really changes between intermediate and advanced English - and how to move beyond the “intermediate plateau.” You’ll learn: • Why advanced English is about refining what you know - not learning more • How grammar helps you express ideas with precision and emphasis • Why advanced vocabulary and speaking is about accuracy and nuance • The mindset change at advanced level - and how to handle performance pressure If you’re preparing for CAE or aiming for professional-level English, this episode will show you how to train for advanced level English. Learn more about the Advanced English Academy here. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E133
February 19 · 6 min
Why It Feels Harder To Get To Advanced English Level
In this episode, find out why getting to advanced English feels so different from getting to intermediate level - and why so many people feel stuck at this stage. I talk about: Why advanced English isn’t just “more vocabulary and fewer mistakes” The shift from fluency to precision and reliability The hidden psychological pressure of performing in professional situations Why intermediate learning strategies stop working at advanced level If you’ve ever felt frustrated about slower progress in English, this episode will help you understand what's really happening - and how to feel more in control of your English. For your next step, check out the Advanced English Academy, where we work on precision, nuance, and building English that you can trust, even under pressure. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E132
February 4 · 17 min
4 Myths About Giving Presentations In English
Why do presentations feel so scary, especially in English? Jill Cannon-Jones, who specialises in helping professionals deliver clearer, more confident presentations, talks about: Why presentation anxiety is so common How body language affects your confidence How your slides can weaken your message Four common presentation myths This episode is full of practical advice for sounding confident, clear, and professional - without needing perfect English. Find out more about Jill! Her website: Say It Like A Leader Her LinkedIn Profile: Jill Cannon-Jones Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E131
January 21 · 8 min
How To Sound More Professional In English
Your English can be correct and fluent - and still not sound fully professional. In this episode, I share the small language choices that change how professional your English sounds at work. You’ll hear: why vague language weakens otherwise good English how choosing the right words (not more words) improves clarity practical examples you can use immediately in emails, meetings, and discussions If your English is already good, this episode will make it sound more professional. For more structured practice on professional and confident English, join us in the Advanced English Academy Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E130
January 7 · 8 min
The English 'Wins' To Aim For In 2026
What does a real win in English actually look like? In this episode, I explain why success isn’t about more grammar or vocabulary. It's about English that works for you. You’ll learn - how to focus strategically, - how to choose the right areas to improve, and - how to connect your English to real professional situations. I also explain why advanced English is the key to clarity, confidence, and authority at work, and how the Advanced English Academy is designed for professionals who want precise, credible English that supports their career. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E129
Dec 23, 2025 · 7 min
3 Areas Where You've Made Progress In English This Year
In this final episode of the year, I explain why progress isn’t only about fluency or perfect English, and how you’ve probably improved more than you realise. You’ll discover: Three areas where people often make “invisible” progress Why confidence can grow even without big milestones How small wins build fluency and motivation over time A simple reflection exercise to help you feel more confident about your English This episode will help you recognise your progress and feel proud of how far you’ve come. Link in this episode The Advanced English Academy gives you structured support to build confidence and fluency step by step. Join now and move into the New Year with a concrete plan for precise, clear and advanced English. Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy
S1 · E128
Dec 10, 2025 · 8 min
How to do 'uncomfortable' things in English
In this episode, I share advice from a psychologist on how to deal with things that make us feel anxious - either because they're difficult or because they make us feel uncomfortable. I also share some practical strategies on how to make progress in your English without stress. Links in this episode Meditations for Mortals (Oliver Burkeman) Advanced English Academy Send us Fan Mail Subscribe to the podcast Never miss an episode! Get regular tips for more natural, confident English here. Get the transcript Follow me on LinkedIn and subscribe to my newsletter for the transcript of each new episode. Advanced English confidence training Develop the English you need to communicate with more confidence and precision. Find out more about the Advanced English Academy

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