Shows
Thinking Out Loud in English127. Can You Ever Get Used to War?Hi Thinkers!It's good to be back! This week we are talking about the difference between getting used to and learning to cope with things. Can you ever get used to a war? Listen to another meaningful conversation in English, let us know your opinion in the comments!Don't forget about our Sunday's newsletter: https://tolpodcast.substack.com/Join the conversations and improve your speaking and thinking skills: https://studiomentals.comSupport this show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/toldHave a beautiful day!
2025-05-2844 min
Thinking Out Loud in English126. The Point of Watching 2nd League GamesHi Thinkers!Sign up for our weekly newsletter on Substack: https://tolpodcast.substack.comThis week, we're diving into a thought-provoking conversation about second-rate content. Why do we watch lower-tier sports leagues, read lesser-known literature, or listen to local rock bands? Do these experiences stir the same emotions as watching the Champions League or reading award-winning novels? Let's explore the value of these underrated gems together.Practice your English with us: https://studiomentals.comWant to be a guest on our show? Just write to us: tolpodcast@hotmail.com...
2025-05-1444 min
Thinking Out Loud in English125. Evidence vs. ProofHi Thinkers!Sign up to our newsletter: https://tolpodcast.substack.com/This week on our your favorite education and English learning podcast, we dive into a meaningful conversation about Masha's upcoming book, the challenges of single life, and—our main course—the essential difference between evidence and proof.We break it down step by step, using imagination and experience to tackle the question without cognitive offloading or AI shortcuts—until the very end, of course, when we compare our findings with Claude.AI'sJoin us for an engaging session where you sharpe...
2025-05-0746 min
Thinking Out Loud in English124. Guilty Pleasure vs. Forbidden FruitHi Thinkers!Two concepts: guilty pleasure and forbidden fruit overlap with each other, connected by one thing: you shouldn't. But what is the difference between them? Listen to our conversation to think along ;)Develop your abstract thinking with us: https://studiomentals.comSign up to our weekly newsletter: https://tolpodcast.substack.com/Join us on this show! tolpodcast@hotmail.comAnd if you like our work, support us with a cup of virtual coffee ;) https://www.buymeacoffee.com/toldHave a beautiful day!
2025-04-2339 min
Thinking Out Loud in English123. Peace of Mind vs. IndifferenceHi Thinkers!This week we're exploring the concept of peace of mind. Does having peace of mind mean feeling nothing at all? Or are they two opposite sensations? Listen to our conversation and compare it with what Claude AI has to say about it at the end.Don't forget to sing up to our weekly newsletter: https://tolpodcast.substack.com/Study speaking skills with us: https://studiomentals.comAnd if you appreciate our conversations buy us a virtual cup of coffee ;) https://www.buymeacoffee.com/told
2025-04-1639 min
Thinking Out Loud in English122. Revenge vs. JusticeHi Thinkers!Check out our weekly newsletter published at https://tolpodcast.substack.com/.This week on the show Masha wanted to know the difference between revenge and justice. Are they equivalent? Is justice about getting even?There's ton of thinking out loud with lots of natural language. Listen and think along with us!Join us on this show, let's set the recording date: tolpodcast@hotmail.comDevelop your speaking skills with us at https://studiomentals.comSupport us with a virtual coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/told
2025-04-0950 min
Thinking Out Loud in English121. Landing On The Moon: Milestone or Breakthrough?Hi Thinkers!This week, your favorite English teachers dive into a fascinating discussion: milestones vs. breakthroughs. What's the difference, and where does the historic moon landing fit in? 🌕Join Jedrek and Masha as they tackle this thought-provoking topic. Expect spirited debates, insightful perspectives, and even a playful comparison to Claude AI's neat bullet points! 😉 Who comes out on top? Tune in to find out!Keywords: English teachers podcast, milestones vs breakthroughs, moon landing debate, fun and educational podcastImprove your English with us: https://studiomentals.comSign up to our fr...
2025-04-0233 min
Thinking Out Loud in English120. Law of The Jungle vs. Law of NatureHi Thinkers!This week we're exploring the concept of nature. Are the "laws of the jungle" part of the fundamental laws of nature? Is the rat race a reflection of these primal instincts? What about the "dog-eat-dog" attitude? Can humanity alter the laws of nature? Join us as we wrestle with these thoughts and language complexities, only to discover that AI grasps everything quicker and clearer. But hey, you can't say we didn't try ;)And there's a lot of things you can do with us by the way:Study with us...
2025-03-0546 min
Thinking Out Loud in English119. Going Against The GrainHi Thinkers!Subscribe to our newsletter! Just like our podcast, it's not just about English, but about what can be achieved through English. https://tolpodcast.substack.com/This week, we're exploring the concept of going against the grain. Is it profitable to go against the grain? Does it always mean breaking the rules? We end up discussing various topics, and, as always, it takes us much longer than AI to reach any conclusions. But, like we always say, this sort of brain hygiene is very much needed these days. 😉And the...
2025-02-2642 min
Thinking Out Loud in English118. Private and Secret InformationHi Thinkers!We are always looking for new students - develop speaking and thinking skills with us, go to https://studiomentals.com and get in touch!This week we're separating what is private and what is secret information. It took us good 45 minutes to arrive at the conclusion, all thanks to the concept of a sex tape. AI did it in a couple of seconds without sextapes, but the fact we did it ourselves makes us proud! There's of course more to such exploration than just mere conclusion. I hope you will think along with...
2025-02-1956 min
Thinking Out Loud in English117. What's Beneath Our Silence?Hi Thinkers!Practice your critical thining skills with us! (+ English of course) - get in touch at https://studiomnentals.comThis week, we invite you to explore with us the complex issueof having little to say. What lies beneath this silence? Is it a lack of confidence, convictions, or worldview? Why do sensible individuals tend to grow quieter with age? How should you respond to a child who wants to drop out ofschool? How can you convey the importance of education? How to find easy answers to complex problems? And if you choose to remain...
2025-02-1252 min
Thinking Out Loud in English116. Exploring Common SenseHi Thinkers!
Join us as we take a closer look at the concept of common sense. How does it differ from science or wisdom? Does being down-to-earth mean being wise? What's the connection between low temperatures and falling sick? Is Warren Buffett wise or simply using common sense? Can common sense really help in the stock market? Find out all this and much more in the one and only podcast where you can think along and even outsmart your hosts! If you do, don’t forget to comment!
Get More from the TOL Podcast:
Practice Your Speaking Sk...
2025-02-0554 min
Thinking Out Loud in English115. Is Elon Musk A Politician?Hi Thinkers!
Practice speaking and debating in English at studiomentals.com
This week we're two English teachers who love stationary. Or do we?
And later, in the Thinking Out Loud Proper we discuss the difference between a politician and a bureaucrat. Is Dalai Lama a politician? Surely not a bureaucrat, right? Are billionaires like Bill Gates or Elon Musk politicians? They have certain political power after all... is Joe Rogan one? Join us for a one-of-a-kind podcast experience, where the hosts are just like you, not a bit smarter ;)
Sign up...
2025-01-2947 min
Thinking Out Loud in English114. When Does a Writer Become an Author?Hello, Thinkers!
Have you ever wondered when a writer officially becomes an author? In this episode, Masha and I delve into this intriguing question inspired by K.M. Weiland from HelpingWritersBecome Authors.com . Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that will challenge your mind and expand your perspective.
We discuss renowned authors like J.K. Rowling (and her alter-ego Robert Galbraith), Stephen King, and even touch on the fascinating topic of AI-generated music, including AI singing Nirvana's songs. Is AI truly creating something new, or just remixing existing content? Are we on the brink of...
2025-01-2259 min
Thinking Out Loud in English113. Toys, Gadgets and ToolsHi Thinkers!
Study with us in 2025! We're eagerly waiting for new students. If you need top-notch conversation classes, get in touch with us: https://studiomentals.com
This year we kick off with a fascinating conversation about toys! From kinder surprise toys, stupid toys, sex toys, to gadgets and tools. Where do lawnmowers fit in all this? Listen to find out 😉
We also discuss "Ender's Game" by Orson Scott Card.
Check out our website: https://tolpodcast.com (It's getting a fresh coat of paint soon!)
Interested in fast conversations? Explore our new cou...
2025-01-1543 min
Thinking Out Loud in English111. The Most Beautiful Language School On EarthHi Thinkers!
This week we're contemplating the best language school on earth: how would a school like this looke like? Would it be online or offline? And since we haven't come across many interesting projects, we launching our own - check out this special website dedicated to freelance teachers: http://languageschool.best
Find out more about us on https://tolpodcast.com
Check out the upcoming course on fast conversations: https://fastconversation.com
Subscribe to our newsletter: https://tolpodcast.substack.com/
Support this show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/told
2024-11-2740 min
Thinking Out Loud in English110. The Hardest Thing In EnglishHi Thinkers!
Join the waiting list for our NEW COURSE to overcome one of the hardest things in any foreign language.
And what is it by the way? It's not tenses, not phrasal verbs not even slang. It's the informal table coversation with several people in a noisy place. Listen to this episode of the ToL podcast to find out more about fast conversations: what are they? how do they differ from 1-on-1s and why practicing one-on-one doesn't prepare you for a fast coversation.
Visit out website to find out more about our offer: https://fastconversation.com
This...
2024-11-2047 min
Thinking Out Loud in English109. Anonymous Feedback: Is It More Honest?Hi Thinkers!
This week we're talking about feedback and how does its quality correlate with anonymity. Are we giving more honest feedback when we're anonymous? We use the example of video games like the lastest DragonAge Veilguard from EA and the upcoming Kingdom Come Deliverance II from the WarHorse Studios to make our point. Other than that we talk about buying contact lenses, and the phrase "have a nice day". Why does it sound so natural in France and why is it strange in CEE? Listen to find out!
Our website: https://tolpodcast.com
2024-11-131h 00
Thinking Out Loud in English108. Happy vs. Excited
Hi Thinkers!
Every now and then our conversation leads us into the world of emotions, and this week is a proof of it. Inspired a little by Harari we dive into the difference between happiness and excitement. Both concepts overlap significantly and it took us some effort to try and separate them. Listen also if you want to find out who Jedrek wanted to be as a teenager; during the conversation we mention the Beast Quest by Adam Blade and - as almost always - the Interstellar by Christopher Nolan ;)
Our website: https://tolpodcast.com
2024-11-061h 01
Thinking Out Loud in English107. Harris or Trump? Whom to trust?
Hi Thinkers!
One week before the most important elections of the year which are going to decide about the fate of our planet 🤪: Kamala Harris or Donald Trump? Can we trust any of the candidates in the American elections? Who is our shoe-in? Listen to find out also about the difference between trust and blind faith!
Our website: https://tolpodcast.com
Study with us: https://studiomentals.com
Support this show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/told
Have a beautiful day!
2024-10-301h 07
Thinking Out Loud in English106. We want to change the world
Hi Thinkers!
This week we are two English teachers who... want to change the world! Masha opened a real pandora box with her comment and so we went talking about the state of the world, capitalism, how everything is business today, about the need of moderation without degrowth, about selling yourself and so on. We mention Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand. What a rant in short ;)
Our website is https://tolpodcast.com
Book conversation courses with us at: https://studiomentals.com
Support this show here: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/told
...
2024-10-231h 05
Thinking Out Loud in English105. Judge vs. EvaluateHi Thinkers!
Students choose AI tutors because AI does not judge. This week we're looking closer into the concept of judging and we're contrasting it with estimating. Jedrek refers to Yuval Harrari's latest interview in Your Undivided Attention podcast (Harari published a new book 'Nexus' btw.) in which the historian claims we're about to be invaded by a wave of migrants from... the Silicon Valley. AI bots are going to dominate the online world by posting, commenting and engaging with us. Why or what does it matter? We're trying to explore that.
Get in touch...
2024-10-1649 min
Thinking Out Loud in English104. Talent vs. PredispositionsHi Thinkers!
This week we're trying to separate two concepts that seem to overlap a lot: talent and predispositions. If being tall is a predisposition allowing you to play hoops or volleyball, what about Tina Turner's voice: talent or predisposition? In the episode we mention Jonathan Franzen's Freedom, Carol Dweck's Mindset, Taylor Swift, Rihanna and J.D. Salinger. Please share with us your comments, opinions and illustrative examples of talent and predispositions ;)
Contact us via our website: https://tolpodcast.com
Study with us: https://studiomentals.com
Support our show: https://www...
2024-10-0946 min
Thinking Out Loud in English103. Eternal vs. EndlessHi Thinkers!
This week we invite you to a highly intellectual conversation about two abstract concepts: eternity and endlessness ;) Check out what it did to our unsophisticated brains!
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Book us: https://studiomentals.com
Support this show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/told
Have a beautiful day!
2024-10-0246 min
Thinking Out Loud in English102. Mood, Emotions and AtmosphereHi Thinkers!
This week we're in the realm of emotions, discussing the difference between mood and atmosphere. Does music have the power to change our mood? This and many more questions are brought up in this episode.
Visit our website at https://tolpodcast.com
Study with us at: https://studiomentals.com
Support our work: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/told
Have a beautiful day!
2024-09-2550 min
Thinking Out Loud in English101. Tired vs. Exhausted (Byung-Chul Han's Burnout Society)Hi Thinkers!
Jedrek is asking Masha this week about the difference between being tired and being exhausted based on the essay 'Burnout Society' by Byung-Chul Han.
Our website: https://tolpodcast.com
See what we can do for you and your company at: https://studiomentals.com
Support our show: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/told
Have a fantastic day!
2024-09-1843 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 100: School Grades and Career with Kasia and ElaHelllooo Thinkers!
We're back with a bang for our long-awaited 100th episode! Joining us are two very special guests: Ela and Kasia. Kasia is returning to the show after a year and a half, while Ela, who we've mentioned so many times, is finally making her debut. Both are insightful speakers and sharp thinkers, and since it's the start of a new school year, we're diving into an important topic: What's the connection between school grades and career success? Do high grades really lead to a successful career?
Visit our website: https://tolpodcast.com
Work on your...
2024-09-1152 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud - Summer BreakHi Thinkers!
We're heading for summer break and we'll be back in September with the episode number 100 😄
Have a beautiful summer!
2024-06-1901 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 099: Do Cities Have Souls?Hi Thinkers!
This week we're considering whether cities have souls and what does that actually mean? What makes up the soul of a place? Why excessive migration and tourism kill the character of a city? Aside from that there is a small talk about the secrets of cycling and the age-old question about the difference between teaching online and offline. Thanks for listening!
Our website: https://tolpodcast.com
Get in touch with us: tolpodcast@hotmail.com
Our newsletter: https//tolpodcast.substack.com
Support us financially: https...
2024-06-1251 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 098: More Post Conference ReflectionsHi Thinkers!
This week we're revisiting Barcelona and the Innovate ELT conference, reflecting a bit on what happened there. We don't forget to mention the heat wave in India and the upcoming elections to the European Parliment, so it gives you the scope of this conversation ;)
We publish a weekly newsletter each Sunday, check it out here: https://tolpodcast.substack.com/
The podcast's website is: https://tolpodcast.com
To develop your language with us, please visit: https://studiomentals.com
Support us financially at https://www.buymeacoffee...
2024-06-0552 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 097: Sexy Barcelona GirlsHi Thinkers!
Hi Thinkers!
This week Jedrek and Masha dive into a deep analysis of the sexy girls strolling the streets of Barcelona. All this in the context of another Innovate ELT conference where Jedrek gave a plenary speech titled "ELT and the epidemic of solitude". Don't get fooled by the title, this is another MEANINGFUL conversation (we hope) 😅
A highly entertaining conversation that is for sure.
Our website: https://tolpodcast.com
Our school: https://studiomentals.com
Support us financially, please 🙏 https://www.buymeacoffee.com/told
Have a terrific
2024-05-2951 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 096: Everybody Like AmericansHi Thinkers!
This week it's just the two of us, your hosts, and our conversation revolves around education. We are talking about the future of education, which is also the theme of our newsletter this week. With linguistic barriers largely destroyed by technology, there will be only intrinsic motivation left for learning languages. How will this impact education? We mention the lastest book by Ethan Mollic "Co-Intelligence" We mention the reform of the French education system about to take place in France, where students are going to be segregated into good and bad groups. Will this be...
2024-05-221h 00
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 095: Ask The Psychologist with AlonaHi Thinkers!
This week we have an enormous pleasure hosting Alona, a psychologist who is joining us from Greece. We're not wasting any minute of this meeting bombarding her with questions: does language hijack our soul? How does it feel like leaving your beloved city? Why do professional athletes seem so mature even if they are barely over 20? What is burnout doing with us? What is the difference between a stickler and a perfectionist? How much does childhood shape us? What are the chances of taking self-confidence shaped in a classroom outside of it?
2024-05-1557 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 094: Teaching English vs. Teaching JujitsuHi Thinkers!
We're back with another spontaneous conversation between Masha and Jedrek. What is the difference between teaching Ju-Jitsu and English? Is there an equivalent of a native speaker in martial arts? How to find courage to teach your way without looking at others? In the subject of courgage we mention two French journalists Dora Moutot i Marguerite Stern (start at 33:17), the authors of Transmania, who were not afraid to speak their mind.
Our website: https://tolpodcast.com
You can practice your English with us: https://studiomentals.com
Check out our newsletter with...
2024-05-0849 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 093: People, Systems and Rules with AgataHi Thinkers!
This Labor Day we have the honor of hosting Agata, the very same Agata who you may know from out newsletter and her column "The Bright Side of Life?"
We start in the middle of nowhere, inspired by the PC game Classified France '44 and the potential issues with localization of such a title in Germany. We try to tread carefully not to be politically incorrect.
Agata is a former Taekwondo instructor and a buddying kickboxer, and we discuss the difference. She had also spent some time working at the airport...
2024-05-011h 02
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 092: Masha And Jedrek Are Going To Japan! With Martyna!Hi Thinkers!
Masha and Jedrek are going to Japan, just like the Simpsons, except our stay there is purely virtual and so less prone to disasters. we are joined by Martyna who is based in Nagano (or nearby) and who is living her Japanese dream. We interview her about life in Japan. She's telling us a lot of interesting things, but most surprising and paradoxicall of all is how she found herself at the other end of the world, feeling completely free in this otherwise hermetic society.
Our website remains the same: https://tolpodcast.com
2024-04-241h 02
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 091: Can Technology Solve Loneliness?Hi Thinkers!
Each Sunday we're sending out our newsletter called "In The Same Boat" because we're really in the same boat when it comes to learning English. Subscribe here: https://tolpodcast.substack.com/
And now: loneliness is quietly becoming an epidemic with Japan and UK appointing ministers to deal with the problem. There are economic, technological and metaphysical reasons behind this trend but we are looking at it through our teachers' eyes, trying to find out whether it's possibile to communicate with a machine and build a community with it. One of the lastest episodes...
2024-04-1755 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 090: Who Would Like To Voluntarily Quit A Paradise? On Motivation Deep and Shallow
Hi thinkers!
Our newsletter is being read by over 150 people weekly and the number keeps rising; check out why!
As for this episode, we're two English teachers who rise and grind! 🤣This week we're talking about motivation at large: the shallow one and the deep one. Why the video "Rise and Grind" or the Holstee posters seem shallow to Jedrek? What is the difference between a platitude and a deep thought? We analyze several words of wisdom. Next we're mentioning the latest book by WIll Storr "The Status Game" and Jedrek has some doubts whether sta...
2024-04-101h 09
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 089: Being Yourself Or Pretending: When Do You Make A Better Impression?Hi Thinkers!
Subscribe to our newsletter "In The Same Boat" for a weekly dose of motivation, inspiration and education + a bunch of fresh recomendations on what to read, watch and listen to in English.
And now: episode 89: Unfrotunately the rumor about Elon musk joining our show was April Fool's prank. This week Masha comes back to Jedrek's text in the 9th issue of our newsletter and asks about the details of Jedrek's linguistic transformation after taking part in his first international conference (innovate ELT in Barcelona btw.) She asks Jedrek about clarifications, and what exactly had changed in his...
2024-04-0359 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 088: Cold Heart and Cold BloodHi Thinkers!
We have a newsletter for all of you who would like to keep in touch with English in between classes. Original texts (no AI generated content!), phrases of the week, stories from our subscribers, a carefully selected song of the week (with lyrics), some jokes and a bunch of recommendations on what to read, watch and listen to in English. Visit now: https://tolpodcast.substack.com/
And now for the episode number 88! We are two English teachers who... have never met in person (offline), that is true. This episode starts with the reflection on meeting people from the...
2024-03-2758 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 087: Good Taste in the FilterworldHi thinkers!
First things first: you don't want to miss out newsletter. Each Sunday morning our team of teachers and learners prepare a set of original texts and recommendations (including really cool music!) sign up!
And now, this week's episode is finally about taste. The concept has been haunting us ever since Ezra Klein talked about it on his show, and later Jedrek read the lastest book by Kyle Chayka "Filterworld" which mentions taste, curators and tastemakers - all relevant to our discussion. How does taste develop? Do we have good taste? What is the...
2024-03-2050 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 086: High Self-Esteem And Big EgoHi Thinkers!
Check out our newsletter full of motivation, inspiration and education!
And now for this week's episode: Jedrek and Masha discuss in the introduction how painful writing really is, and what is good writing anyway; and in the main part (aka Thinking Out Loud Proper) Masha is facing the difference and the relationship between high self-esteem and big ego. What is the best way to build your self-esteem without inflating at the same time our ego?
our website stays the same: it's tolpodcast.com
Get in touch with us, if...
2024-03-1352 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 085: The Toxicity of Twitter and Instagram with MaciekHi Thinkers!
Each Sunday we're curating a special newsletter to make sure the English you consume is meaningful! Sign up, we're on substack.
But this week on ToL we sat down with Maciek, who is revisiting our podcast one year later (check out his linguistic progress!), to talk about the technical aspects of listening to podcasts (why does he stick to Pocket Casts, what it's like to listen at a pace higher than 1.0 etc), and since Maciek is a heavy user of various Iphone apps (well over 200 on his devices) we're asking him about social...
2024-03-0656 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 084: Heart or Brain with JuliaHi Thinkers!
Did you know we have moved with our newsletter to Substack? It's a weekly dose of motivation, inspiration and education in English, you simply can't miss it.
And now to this week's episode which announces itself really great because we're hosting Julia, a teenager from Poland, who is telling us about her experience with homeschooling, dissipating by the way a lot of myths surrounding it: what is her workload? How's her social life? What does it take to succeed etc. And in the second part of our show, a.k...
2024-02-2856 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 083: Soldier and Warrior with AniaHi Thinkers!
Did you know we have launched our newsletter? Each Sunday morning you get a dose of motivation, inspiration and education straight to your mailbox! Sign up if you haven't yet!
And now let's talk about the current episode of ToL: we are hosting a fantastic interlocutor, Ania, who we take into a crossfire of questions: about her English and going from bad to great, about Australia - its weather and fauna, and last but not least about being a soldier and being a warrior: what is the difference?
...
2024-02-211h 03
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 082: Hard Work with MashaHi thinkers!
Sign up to our newsletter at tolpodcast.com before we grow and become impersonal and indifferent. But till it happens we're small and we care!
Now, this week it's just the two of us and we talk about the concept of hard work: is hard work linked with high salary? Does it lead to a job well done? How does it differ from difficult work? Masha is kicking this concept down the road sparking a lot of reflections.
Also on the show: we're talking about the lastest gizmo...
2024-02-1454 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 081: Wasting Time with MaciekHi thinkers!
Subscribe to our newsletter "In The Same Boat" for motivation and inspiration for learning! https://tolpodcast.com/#subscribe
And now, let's talk about the current episode: Maciek Olszowy, our very special guest this week, is an entrepreneur, a podcaster (yay!), a father and an occasional practitioner of the Vipassana meditation technique. We start out asking about what it's like not to speak to anybody for 10 days, what is meditation for, is an ancient India's meditation suitable for Westerners and their monkey brain (Jedrek especially!), and ultimatelly what does it mean to waste time...
2024-02-071h 04
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 080: Can You Hurry Love?Hi Thinkers!
We have launched our newsletter! Sign up if you haven't yet at tolpodcast.com! And as for this week, Masha selected question number 105 from The Compleat Thunks Book by Ian Gilbert, which goes like this: "Can you hurry love?". We know Phil Collins said You Can't but we still enjoyed our conversation about the concept of the 5 languages of love by Gary Chapman, about poliamorous relationships (now getting more and more trendy, check out Molly Roden Winter: More a Memoir of Open Marriage), about swingers, sex-life and what not!
You know our website (link above) but you may...
2024-01-3153 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 079: Are We Citizens Or Just Population?Hi Thinkers!
Is Thinking Out Loud more on the fun side of the podcast scene or is it more serious? You'll find the answer in the intro before we jump straight to round 2 (that's right!) to discuss the difference between citizens and mere population. What seems like a pretty straightforward question for Jedrek, turns out to be a gateway to a much more serious conversation about the rights and duties of citizens. Anyway, we hope that despite the caliber of the topic it's still fun listening to us! ;)
The link to The...
2024-01-2453 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 078: Books vs The InternetHi Thinkers!
Did you know we're about to launch our newsletter: https://tolpodcast.com/#newsletter ? Sign up for a weekly dose of motivation, inspiration and education from Masha and Jedrek.
Aprat from the said newsletter, this week we're discussing the power of the internet over the books and longer texts in general. What makes the screens so irresistible? Check out our thinking out lound on this subject and its vicinities.
We're mentioning The Ezra Klein Show, Masha's number one podcast, here's the link to the episode that made us reflect on the old...
2024-01-1759 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 077: Back To The Roots in 2024Hi Thinkers!
Entering the brand new 2024, Jedrek and Masha discuss this very podcast, the idea behind its creation, the reason and advantages of listening to it for English language learners and the plans for the future.
2024 will also see a new project, a free weekly newsletter (you can subscribe to it at https://tolpodcast.com) which will provide a weekly does of reading in English. Stay tuned for the details and don't forget to subscribe!
For all of you who want to improve their speaking skills, we recommand our school: https://studiomentals.com
2024-01-101h 01
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 617: Trends In Education For 2024Hi Thinkers!
This is the end! The end of our podcasting in 2023 but fear not, we are coming back in 2024 :)
In this end-of-the-year episode we are looking into the future and discuss top trends in education previewed for the next year (found on some random website).
We are doing this, as always, with a pinch of salt, smelling a rat in everything we find on the interent.
We didn't need a separate school subject to develop this skill and we're advocating schools don't need it either as long as they do...
2023-12-271h 06
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 616: X-mas Special 2023Hi Thinkers!
This week on the show we're worndering what's good about the world we live in. Given we have been either whining, ranting or cursing lately, this time around (for once!) we're trying to be grateful and see the good sides of modern life and modern technology. We're hosting Kasia, our absolutely special guest who is live in Jedrek's studio. Listen to learn how the two got to know each other, and what it's like to have English classes inside Jedrek's famous, ex-bathroom, office. Together with Masha we're discussing life before disposable Pamers diapers, being 7 and...
2023-12-2055 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 615: Minimalism vs. AscetismHi thinkers!
This week Jedrek and Masha dive into the intriguing realms of asceticism and minimalism. The duo navigates through diverse topics, drawing connections between Mark Zuckerberg's wardrobe choices, the allure of a capsule wardrobe, Apple's iconic minimalistic design, and the striking minimalism found in Tyrell Corporation's interiors from Blade Runner 2049.
Adding a personal touch, Masha shares her experiences from a newly embarked writing course, unveiling how it contributes to her growth as both a writer and reader. The hosts also take a moment to reflect on the relevance of historical knowledge and art history...
2023-12-131h 10
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 614: Technofeudalism and the Illusion of InstagramHi Thinkers!
This week we delve into the murky waters of social media, with a particular focus on Instagram. Labeling it as one of the most polluted platforms, Jedrek dissects the rampant scams and deceptive offers that mimic the tactics of TV shopping networks. The conversation takes a philosophical turn as Jedrek draws parallels with Yanis Varoufakis's latest book, "Technofeudalism." He eloquently discusses the book's premise that we are entering a new era where traditional profit models are obsolete, and the majority are unwittingly serving a new class of capitalists, enriching them in their slumber.
There's also the good old...
2023-12-0659 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 613: Redefining Education and The Good LifeHi Thinkers!
Jedrek and Masha commemorate a remarkable milestone - their second anniversary! As the podcast steps into its third year, it continues to thrive as a unique, 'local' platform, where 'local' signifies the special bond and direct interaction they maintain with their listeners. In this celebratory episode the duo delves into thought-provoking discussions that resonate with English learners and educators alike.
As seasoned teachers, Jedrek and Masha spark an engaging debate: Can an internet-famous 'superstar' teacher ever replace the personalized touch of a local school teacher? They extend this intriguing comparison to the medical...
2023-11-2959 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 612: The Critical Role of General EnglishHi Thinkers!
This episode offers a refreshing and thought-provoking perspective on education, catering to learners and everyone interested in the broader scope of educational systems, not just linguistic education. Jedrek and Masha, two English teachers who position themselves outside the traditional education industry, delve into the shortcomings of the current educational paradigm. They argue that the narrow view of education prevalent today fails to harness humanity's greatest strength – the ability to integrate knowledge broadly.
A highlight of the podcast is Jedrek's insightful review of the latest book by Rob Howard and Andrzej Stęsik, "One to...
2023-11-221h 02
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 611: Human vs. AI in EducationHi Thinkers!
Welcome to Thinkin Out Loud, your go-to podcast for engaging and spontaneous English conversations! Join Jedrek and Masha as they delve into the heart of English language teaching and learning. In this episode, they reflect on Jedrek's upcoming presentation at the prestigious 42nd Annual International TESOL France Colloquium. Fresh from his inspiring experience at iELT 2023 in Barcelona, Jedrek takes us on a journey through his Paris talk, passionately advocating for the irreplaceable role of human educators in our tech-driven world. This episode is more than just theoretical musings; it's a timely discussion on the impact of AI...
2023-11-151h 05
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 610: Unlocking Language Learning SecretsHi Thinkers!
Welcome to a new episode of our English language learning podcast! Join Jedrek and Masha, two non-native English speakers, as they delve into the fascinating world of language acquisition.
In this week's episode, we shift our focus from Halloween to the upcoming Black Friday and bring you an ordinary yet extraordinary discussion on language learning. Masha and Jedrek share their insights and experiences in a spontaneous conversation that promises to inspire and motivate English language learners.
Discover the keys to finally mastering a new language as the duo explores the concept...
2023-11-081h 07
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishScreaming Out Loud 609: Scary vs. CreepyGreetings, Screamers!
This week, we're conjuring up a spine-chilling Halloween special that's bound to send shivers down your spine. Join us as we delve into the world of all things eerie and unsettling.
In this episode, your hosts, Masha and Jedrek, are your ghoulish guides on a terrifying trip down memory lane. Masha shares her blood-curdling tale of her first experience as a young teacher, a story that's sure to make your skin crawl.
But that's not all! Our duo bravely attempts to dissect, if not outright butcher, the fine line between "scary"...
2023-11-0148 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 608: Exploring Justice and Revenge in Post-WWII GermanyHi Thinkers!
In this week's engaging episode, Jedrek and Masha return for another insightful conversation. As the autumn season descends upon us, our perspectives may lean towards the pessimistic and gloomy side. However, it's no surprise, considering both hosts reside in regions facing conflict or high terrorist alerts, all while grappling with the ever-present fear of artificial intelligence. Nevertheless, we aim to illuminate a glimmer of hope in our hearts, and we believe it shines through in this episode.
Masha introduces a thought-provoking discussion on justice and revenge, while Jedrek delves into the...
2023-10-2545 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 607: Luxury with SolangeHi Thinkers!
Listen to our interview with Solange, who claims to speak "petrolium English" but, as you will soon find out, she's much more competent than that ;) Ultimately, we are going to discuss the concept of luxury with her, and we'll ask her who has (or had) a more comfortable life - a medieval king or us today. But before we get there, we are going to spend some time in South Africa, Solange's favorite tourist destination ;)
Check out our website: https://tolpodcast.com
Visit our school...
2023-10-181h 05
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 606: The Past and the Future of Language Teaching with JulieHi Thinkers!
This week Jedrek and Masha are finally hosting someone from Romania! :) Julie is a former English teacher, now a teacher-trainer based in Bucharest, Romania. Having spend a good deal of time in the UK, she's back and she has only good things to say about her country and the Eastern Europe in general. Julie is not afraid of AI and it disruptive potential, saying that people will forever need their Julies and Mashas to interact with. A comforting point of view! ;) The fear of AI results also from a very westernized view of education and...
2023-10-111h 03
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 605: Courage in the Age of AI with Olha
Hi thinkers!The two English teachers, who dread AI, Jedrek and Masha, are coming back to you this week with a fresh dose of their fears od AI and some excellent conversation as well. Olha, their guest, is an English teacher and a freshly baked, certified life-coach. Listen in if you're interested in how to become a life coach, is this profession endangered by AI, when to seek help of a coach and when of a therapist? Should teachers upkeep students' motivation or not? What is strong and what is weak motivation? And last but ertainly not least, listen...
2023-10-041h 13
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 604: History and the Past with KrzysiekHi Thinkers!
This week Jedrek and Masha are in conversation with another non-native English user, Krzysiek, an owner of a software house in Poland and a big enthusiast of history.
Listen in if you're interested in how he manages to combine these two areas, and also if you are curious:
1) what good came out of the slow trains in the 90's Poland?
2) how could history be used to combat the present wave of fake news?
3) what is the difference between history and the past?
4) what's the universal...
2023-09-271h 02
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThiking Out Loud 603: Easy Money with MashaHi Thinkers!
This week it's just the two of us, Jedrek and Masha, but we hope you are going to enjoy the conversation that starts with some stats about our podcast and how international it has become, next we're discussing the legendary efficiency of the Scandinavial system of education (English in particilar), the potential of commercializing our show by advertising to you some big apps like Busuu, Duolingo, Memrise or Quizlet. And last but certainly not least, in the thinking out loud proper, Jedrek is asking Masha whether it's easier to get rich or to get wise...
2023-09-2048 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 602: Popular and Famous with Jacek
Hi Thinkers! Rare is the pleasure to host teachers of languages other than English on our show, but today is the day. Jacek is a very popular teacher of French who is running a small language attelier in the very heart of Paris (https://parolerie.paris/en/home-page/). We are asking him about the transition from Warsaw to Paris, about the impostor sundrome and what's left of it, and last but certainly not least we're asking him about the difference between popularity and fame, since the number of followers he's got on instagram easily tops 150k. Thanks for being...
2023-09-131h 10
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 601: Catching Up After SummerHi Thinkers!
Have you been missing us? Because we were missing you a lot! Your 2 favorite English teachers are back with a new season of Thinking Out Loud. In the first episode of the season we're catching up after summer, explaining what this show is about to the new listeners and hoping AI will not replace us anytime soon ;)
2023-09-0650 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 509: Quality and Condition with BorisHi Thinkers!
This week we're hosting Boris to discuss the difference between good quality and good condition. What happens to a car when it hits a tree? Does it lose its quality or does just its condtion change? What about a yoghurt long after its best-before date? This and much more in this week's conversation with our special guest whose English is impeccable but retains the charming French character.
Check out our website: tolpodcast.com
And have a great day!
PS. We're...
2023-07-261h 07
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 508: Raising and Taming Children with JuliaHi Thinkers!
This week we're discussing parenting with a brave Ukrainian mother, Julia, who is currently living in Warsaw, Poland. What is the difference between raising and training (or taming) children or animals? The end result seems to be the same - obedience, but the way to it is radically different.
Check out our website: https://tolpodcast.com
Leave us a sample of your English by leaving us a voice mail: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mentals/message
Take 1 on 1 classes with us at https://studiomentals.com
2023-07-191h 06
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 507: Culture and Civilization with MichałHi Thinkers!
We're always on the lookout for some interesting non-native English speakers and if we find them at an airport, so be it ;) That is the case of Michał who is joining us from the CDG Airport in Paris, to answer our burning question about the difference between Culture and Civilization: which comes first? Do we all belong to one, global civilization today or are there still more civilizations on our planet? France has just witnessed several nights of violence after the tragic death of young Nahel. Are the rioters dangerous for the culture or civilization? This and s...
2023-07-121h 09
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 506: Being A Pro with YzojaHi Thinkers!
This week on the show we're exploring the concept of professionalism - is it only about skills? Or does character count too? Can an a**hole be a pro? This and much more with our special invitee, Yzoja, a Polish-born, Irish-based designer-coder, a CSS princess, a blogger, a video-gamer not to mention a mother. Listen to what she has to say about professionalism, time-management and learning English ;)
Don't forget to visit our website, it's https://tolpodcast.com
Sign up for the upcoming ToL Unplugged, a series of conversations based on the famous French high school final exam in...
2023-07-051h 00
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 505: Pace of Life with DawidHi thinkers!
This week on the show we're hosting Dawid, a non-native English speaker from Elbląg in Poland, who is helping us to dissect the concept of the pace of life. What makes up the pace of life? Is it the size of the city, the numer of activities, GDP per capita, work-life balance, the flow of information, or yet something else? What is the relation between being busy and living a fast life? Is staying with your new-born baby at home a hectic time? Come think along with us and don't forget to visit our website to l...
2023-06-2853 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 504: Destiny vs. Fate with MateuszHi Thinkers!
This week on the show we are hosting Fr. Mateusz, a Polish catholic priest based in France, and one of our fans from Twitter, and we're discussing absolutely fascinating subjects concering plans, agency, destiny, fate, courage, virtues, and the line between ritual and routine. Expect sound criticism of consumptionism in an otherwise very friendly atmosphere. We had enormous pleasre recording this conversation, we hope you are going to enjoy listening to it. Don't forget about important places to visit:
Our brand new website: https://tolpodcast.com/
Our summer project ToL Unplugged: https://tolpodcast...
2023-06-211h 08
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 503: Compliments and Self-Esteem with AgaHi thinkers!
What is the relation between compliments and self-esteem? Why is it sometimes hard to accept them, and what makes the Central and Eastern Europe a particular place on Earth where compliments are often seen as unnecessary or fishy? This and much more in this week's episode of ToL with Aga, our very special guest, who provides some serious insights into the concept of self-esteem, and a lot of laughter and good vibes to the show.
Check out our website https://tolpodcast.com
Sigh up for the ToL Unplugged this summer at...
2023-06-141h 06
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 502: Computing vs. Thinking with SamHi Thinkers!
Can computers think? This questions has been on our minds for a long time, and this week, finally, we found a perfect guest for it: Sam Gravell. Sam is an English teacher based in Germany who's keen on AI in education, but apart from that he's a great person to talk and to listen to. Expect a deeper philosophical insights into what is thinking and what is computing, as well as what is the difference between making sense and meaning something. Last but not least, we are talking about language certificates and their value.
2023-06-0748 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 501: Charisma vs. Charm with AmbraHi Thinkers!
This week on the show, we are joined by Ambra Pacchioni a.k.a. Busybee, a great English teacher from Italy (and not only as you will quickly learn;) who is helping us to draw the line between two human superpowers: charisma and charm. The conversation goes fast and wide, as we manage to mention Hitler, Mussolini, Dracula and Barbie, among other things ;)
Find Ambra at https://www.busybeelanguage.academy/ and check out her instagram as wearebusybee
Check out our new website at http://tolpodcast.com
Show your support...
2023-05-3158 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 420: Education in The Era of TechnologyHi thinkers!
This week Masha interviews Jedrek Stepien who has just came back from Barcelona where he delivered a plenary speech at the Innovate ELT 2023 conference. Jedrek develops some of his thoughts from his speech and dives into the future of education. This episode is our 50th and it marks also the end of season 4. Thank you for staying with us, and we hope you are ready for more in season 5 ;)
You can watch Jedrek's speech at Innovate ELT 2023 here: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNLlt3bZV7o)
2023-05-241h 09
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 419: Enemy vs. Competitor with KrisHi thinkers!
Kris Amerikos is a popular English teacher, a YouTuber and an entrepreneur but above all he's a great person with a mind sharp as a razor which is why the conversation with him turned out to be so refreshing and... multi-thread ;) Check out the main part about the difference between an enemy and a competitor but also the hidden part about AI and modern language teaching right after we say goodbye ;)
As always:
Visit our website if you want to study with us: https://studiomentals.com/
...
2023-05-171h 08
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 418: Crazy vs. Stupid with DimaHi Thinkers!
You know English but you're afraid to use it? Then this podcasts is telling you - stop worrying and check out this week's episode with Dima (one of our students) who was afraid before but is no longer and for a good reason: he explores the border between craziness and stupidity (not an easy task at all even in your native language!) with great results!
If you want to study with us check out our website: (https://studiomentals.com/)
Leave us a voice message here: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show...
2023-05-101h 02
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 417: War and Education with HughHi Thinkers!
Hugh Dellar, a world-class teacher and author of many English coursebooks, joins the show to talk about his vocal and unwavering support of Ukraine disregarding his financial interest and life threats. In the second part of the podcast, Hugh tries to draw the line between memorizing and learning. Check out his clever answer!
As always you can join our classes (and the podcast) by visiting our website: https://studiomentals.com/
You can leave us a voicemail: https://speak-to.us/TOL
And support this show by buying us a virtual coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/told
Have a beautiful...
2023-05-0359 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 416: Satisfaction and Happiness with MagdaHi Thinkers! This week Masha and Jedrek - your two favorite English teachers - stay away from education and talk about happiness and satisfaction instead. They are joined by Magda, one of their students, who's doing a stellar job separating these two concepts and reflecting on the first-world problems in the 21 century. Expect - as always - a lot of spontaneous English as well as natural and unscripted conversation.
If you're interested in studying with us (like Magda) - check out our website (https://studiomentals.com/)
Don't hesitate to leave us a voicemail (like Maciek) - https://podcasters.spotify.com...
2023-04-2646 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 202: Invulnerable vs. Strong; Lies or FactsStill a bit shaken by te ongoing war in Ukraine, Jedrek and Masha come back with the second episode of this slightly irregular season. After a brief report on Masha's situation, your favorite teachers start cracking open another pairs of concepts. First, Masha tries to distinguish strong from invulnerable (and whether a weak person can be invulnerable?), and in the second part, Jedrek decides whether facts or lies are more convincing. Thank you for being with us and listening to our conversations. If you'd like to study with us, please, visit our website at studiomentals.com; otherwise feel free...
2022-03-3158 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 201: War and Peace: an interview with Masha about the situation in UkraineMasha and Jedrek are back with their podcast recorded between France and Ukraine. Their first episode of the new season is an interview with Masha who lives in Kiev and who was a witness of the Russian agression on Ukraine. Masha shares her point of view and talks about the atmosphere in Kiev and outside the city, about national unity of Ukrainians and much more. Thanks for being with us and lets get going with season 2!
2022-03-1048 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 013: Behind the scenes: how are our questions born?Have you ever wondered how our questions are born? Of course you have ;) So this week we are letting you behind the scenes of how we design them :) It's a somewhat different episode than the previous ones but there is still a lot of exploration of everyday concepts including 'oven' and a lot of fun. Don't hesitate to leave us your feedback, or get in touch with us if you'd like to improve your speaking skills (go to our website or drop us an email at studiomentals@gmail.com). Thanks for listening, we hope you are having just as...
2022-02-231h 03
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 012: Prisoner vs. Slave; New vs. FreshHi! Two people struggling with freedom: a prisoner and a slave - how much different are they? This is what Jedrek explores in round one, and in round two, Masha is trying to separate New from Fresh and see what is the connection between cold temperature and freshness. Thanks for listening to our exchanges, they may not lead to clever conclusions but they surely offer a large dose of solid Global English ;) If you haven't tried yet - don't forget to try our classes, simply go to www.studiomentals.com and fill in the contact form (the first meeting...
2022-02-161h 13
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 011: Dreams vs. Goals; Imagination vs. FantasyThis week on the show Masha and Jedrek use their Global English to discuss the difference between dreams and goals and try to find the border between imagination and fantasy. Keep in mind that before being podcasters we are teachers of English and you can develop your English with us! Visit our website for more details. If you like (or hate) our show, you can share your point of view, and if you'd like to take part in the show and pump some sense into this world with us, drop us an email: studiomentals@live.com. Thanks for listening!
2022-02-0958 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 010: Is High-Brow Stuff Boring?; Getting Up at 5:30 AMWe almost can't believe we made it to our double-digit episode, number 10, but here we are! Thanks! In the intro you will learn a little bit about our story and how we got to know each other. Shortly after that Masha sets off to investigte the link between high-brow art and boredom, and Jedrek assesses if it's difficult to get up at 5:30 in the morning, an hour which for many people doesn't even exist. Thanks for being with us and listening to our exchanges! You can leave us feedback here, enroll for excellent conversation classes here, or drop us...
2022-02-0257 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 009: Shy vs. Cowardly; Is Bicycle a Machine with SophieThis week on the show, we're pleased to host our first (ever) guest: Sophie Bailey. Sophie is the author of the famous Edtech podcast, and - most importantly - a really clever thinker. Masha lets her muse on the concepts of cowardice and shyness, and knowing that Sophie is an avid cyclist, Jedrek asks her whether a bicycle is a machine. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you, if you never look at your fridge the same way again :) By the way, during the show, Sophie reveals her cool idea for a new start-up! Also, don't forget that we a...
2022-01-2645 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 008: Beautiful vs. Sexy; Health and BeautyJedrek and Masha start out by reflecting on reflection - is our world being gradually deprived of it? Only to dive later into the subject of beauty, exploring the difference between the concepts of 'sexy' and 'beautiful' (Is Jeff Bezos sexy?), and what is the link between health and beauty (Is Wayne Rooney beautiful?) Thanks for listening and following our line of thinking. You can leave us a voice message right now to tell us what you think about our show - click here, also don't forget that we are TEACHERS of English, and if you'd like to develop...
2022-01-191h 01
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 007: Pace of Life; Can you have a language with only one speaker?What do being busy, milking cows, Elon Musk, Kate Winslet and the concept of standing reserve have in common? Well, they all feature in this episode of Thinking Out Loud, where Masha tries to explain the concept of the pace of life, and Jedrek ponders whether you can use language if there is nobody to talk to. Don't forget that alonside being podcasters we are also teachers of English. If you'd like to develop your speaking with us, please visit www.studiomentals.com and fill out the contact form! Also, we don't want to be alone in this podcast forever...
2022-01-121h 01
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 006: Popular vs. Famous; Friendship vs. FraternityKings (and Queens) of English conversations are back in 2022 with the discussion about the differences between 2 pairs of concepts. First, Jedrek tries to separate 'popularity' from 'fame', and next, Masha is trying to decouple 'friendship' from 'fraternity'. Expect a mix of fun and seriousness, hard thinking in an easy going atmosphere, and a lot of references to pop-culture ;) Thanks for listening, don't forget that if you'd like to confront similar questions (they're good for your language and good for your brain) feel invited to visit our website studiomentals.com and fill out the contact form. And if you'd like...
2022-01-0554 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 005: Tourist vs. Traveler; Average vs. Happy MediumMasha and Jedrek sum up 2021 (what a horrible year! :) and move on to discuss first the difference between a tourist and a traveler, and later, whether happy medium and the average are one and the same. Thanks for listening, don't forget that if you'd like to confront similar questions (they're good for your language and good for your brain) feel invited to visit our website studiomentals.com and fill out the contact form. And if you'd like to be our guest on this show - please drop us a an email at studiomentals@live.com. We wish you a happy...
2021-12-2948 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 004: Order or Chaos; Is Santa a lie?In our X-mas special, Masha tries to figure out what's in the jungle: order or chaos? And Jedrek deals with the thin border between a lie and fiction discussing Santa! Thanks for listening! If you'd like us to teach you how to think (joke!) or at least how to build a few sentences that make sense in English, please visit our website studiomentals.com and fill out the contact form. If you'd like to send us feedback about this episode or take part in the future ones, don't hesitate to contact us at studiomentals@live.com. Cheers!
2021-12-2243 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 003: Manipulation vs. Persuasion; Win vs. SuccessIn this episode Jedrek is trying to separate manipulation from persuasion and Masha talks about the difference between victory and success. Could finishing 28th be called a success? If you'd like to face similar questions on your own and become our student, please visit our website studiomentals.com. If you'd like to send us feedback about this episode or take part in the future ones, don't hesitate to contact us at studiomentals@live.com. Thanks!
2021-12-1550 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 002: Teacher vs. Trainer; When does a photo become a lie?In the second episode of our show, Masha tries to find the difference between a teacher and a trainer, and Jedrek explores the limits of enhancing a photo before it becomes a lie. If you'd like to learn more about us, or become our student, please visit our website studiomentals.com. If you'd like to send us feedback about this episode or take part in the future ones, don't hesitate to contact us at studiomentals@live.com. Thanks!
2021-12-0845 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishThinking Out Loud 001: IQ -- Open Mind; CozinessIn the first episode of our podcast Masha and Jedrek make a quick introduction and discuss the first pair of concepts: in round one, Masha deals with the relation between intelligence (IQ) and open-mindedness, and in round two, Jedrek explores the concept of coziness. Would you like to take part in one of the future episodes? Contact us at studiomentals@live.com, and if you'd like to study with us, please contact us via the contact form on our website at studiomentals.com.
2021-12-0135 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishEnglish Language Life Episode Two - MindsetIn this episode I'm exploring the second prerequisite of learning - the mindset - based on the book by dr Carol S. Dweck. Your success or your failure may be decided long before choosing strategies, methods or team members - so much depends on the mindset!
Find out more about me and what I do at http://mentals.online
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2020-07-3113 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishEnglish Language Life - Episode One: WillpowerIn my first full-fledged episode, I'm confronting my reflections about second language learning with the concept of willpower from the book by Roy Baumeister and John Tierney.
Find out more about me at http://mentals.online
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2020-07-1717 min
Thinking Out Loud in EnglishEnglish Language Life - episode zeroAre languages the future of education? Can they be more useful than search engines? Welcome to English Language Life podcast. In this very episode zero I'm reflecting on the potential of learning (and teaching) foreign languages.
You can find me on Twitter as @mentalspl or at http://mentals.online
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2020-06-2307 min