How to start speaking immediately: The "Active Listener" technique Many students wait for a conversation partner to start practicing, but you can actually begin training your speaking skills alone using podcasts or series. Here is a simple, effective method: • Choose a topic you love: Select a podcast about something that genuinely interests you. In my case, it would be philosophy or psychology. When you are interested in the subject, the language becomes a tool, not a chore. • Leverage subtitles: We are fortunate to live in an era where subtitles are easily accessible. Use them as a visual guide to connect sounds with written words. • Interact with the speakers: Instead of just listening, try to reply to the speakers as if you were part of the conversation. Agree, disagree, or rephrase their concepts in your own words. The advantages of this approach: • You control the pace: You can pause, rewind, or slow down the audio according to your level. • Contextual learning: The vocabulary is already there. Your only job is to reformulate the phrases and make them yours. This method helps you build muscle memory and confidence without the pressure of a real-time interaction. What topics are you passionate about? Whether it is science, history, or art, I would love to hear your recommendations in the comments. If you are looking for a structured way to improve your speaking skills, feel free to check my calendar for a trial lesson.