Chinwag Tuesdays

How THIS Ukrainian Keeps Her Identity in Australia | Ep 9 S3 Chinwag Tuesdays

Val grew up in Kyiv, and Australia is the fifth country she's called home, after Poland, Georgia and the US. She's also my very first Ukrainian guest on Chinwag Tuesdays, and she joins me from Melbourne to talk about what it's actually like to build a life in Australia when you've already started over four times. We chat about the small talk that felt so weird when she first left Eastern Europe, why Aussies can be really friendly and still hard to become friends with, and how Val (a self-confessed introvert) went from Facebook groups to "friend dating" to joining social clubs. She also shares how she got her job in the US after sending more than 300 resumes, and how the same company later brought her to Australia. We get into Australian workplace culture too, from flat hierarchies and work-life balance to the very different personalities of her teams in Victoria, New South Wales, Western Australia and Queensland. And of course there's slang, including the meeting where Val had to send her new manager a message explaining what arvo means. The part I loved most was how honestly Val talks about home. She shares how hard it is to be so far from Ukraine right now, what it feels like to end up somewhere in the middle of every country you've lived in, and the things she does in Melbourne to stay close to her Ukrainian roots, like painting eggs with her girlfriends for Orthodox Easter, while still making new memories in Australia. In this episode Meet Val, my first Ukrainian guest From Kyiv to five countries Small talk culture shock in the US and Australia Why Aussies are friendly but hard to become friends with Why migrants have to step out of their comfort zone The Ukrainian community in Melbourne A logistics career across three countries Advice if you're thinking of moving abroad Australian workplace culture vs the US Tipping and pricing in Australia How work culture changes from state to state Being far from Ukraine and what home means now Staying connected to Ukrainian roots in Australia Aussie slang at work: arvo and "how ya going" Regional slang: beer glasses and pokies Links Free Australian Small Talk Playbook Work with me Instagram How to contact Val Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valeri.diaries LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valeria-shnit

He Moved to Rural Rajasthan to Teach English | Ep 8 S3 Chinwag Tuesdays

In this episode of Chinwag Tuesdays, Amanda sits down with Joe, the Sydney-based creator behind Joe Speaks Hindi. Joe has been learning Hindi for 27 years, spent a year living in a remote village in Rajasthan teaching English, and recently went viral on Instagram after being interviewed by CNN News18. Joe and Amanda talk about what it actually feels like to learn a language for decades, why an accent is something to be proud of, and why there is no such thing as speaking "full English." They also cover the universal experience of making friends as a migrant, what makes someone genuinely good at learning something new, and the misconceptions people have about Australian culture and about going viral. What You'll Hear in This Episode ● What sparked Joe's interest in India and Hindi ● A year living in a remote village in Rajasthan ● Why an accent is something to be proud of ● Misconceptions about Australian culture and family ● Making friends as a migrant is universal ● What makes someone genuinely good at learning a language ● Going viral and the CNN News18 interview ● Joe's most memorable moments in India ● Rapid fire: Australia or India Connect with Joe ● www.instagram.com/joespeakshindi

What Really Improved Her English in Australia (NOT a Classroom) | Ep 7 S3 Chinwag Tuesdays

Belén is an English teacher and translator from Argentina who spent two years in Australia on a working holiday visa, living in Brisbane, Tasmania, and Adelaide. In this episode, she talks about what it was really like navigating life, work, and language in a country she'd dreamed of visiting for years. She was ready to go in 2020 — and then COVID happened. She waited three years, finally arrived in June 2023, and packed more experiences into two years than most people manage in a decade: au pair in Brisbane, strawberry picker in Tasmania, cherry packer near Hobart, cafe cook and barista in Adelaide, sandwich artist at Subway, hotel housekeeper, and eventually ESL teacher at a private English college. The conversation covers what actually helped Belén's English improve most (hint: it wasn't the classroom), the moment she realised she'd absorbed Australian politeness habits and was saying please at restaurants back home, the challenge of being locked out of conversations when her partner's friends spoke only French, and the heartbreak of having her visa expire knowing she desperately wants to go back. What You'll Hear in This Episode • Why Belén waited three years before finally making it to Australia • What the 88-day farm work requirement for a second-year visa actually looks like on the ground • Which jobs gave her the most natural English immersion • How Australian politeness norms felt completely foreign at first • What it felt like to be locked out of a conversation in a language you don't speak • The emotional reality of leaving Australia not knowing when you'll get back • Advice for teachers and migrants who want to move to Australia Connect with Belén Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mbelenbarberisLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mb-barberis

From Scared PhD Student to TEDx Speaker: What It Actually Takes | Ep 6 S3 Chinwag Tuesdays

Jayanti arrived in Brisbane in 2017 to start her PhD, and her very first day in the research lab involved watching a fellow student struggle through a presentation in front of a room full of people asking tough questions. She thought: what have I signed up for? In this episode, Jayanti talks about the journey from that intimidating first day to delivering a TEDx talk in front of 200 people, in her Indian accent, on her own terms. She shares what it took to get there, including years of Toastmasters, deliberate exposure to different audiences, and a shift in how she thought about vulnerability and failure. She also gets into some of the cultural gaps that hit migrants in Australia harder than expected: the dry sarcastic humour you can't always tell is a joke, the discovery that Aussies have hobbies and actually talk about them, the word "arvo" almost ruining a social plan, and why saying "please" is not as universal as you'd assume. And she tells a story about a date that knocked her confidence right before her biggest speaking moment, and how she decided to show up to that TEDx stage as fully, visibly Indian as she could. Topics Covered • Arriving in Australia as a PhD student and the culture shock of the first research group meeting • How Australia's multicultural environment means learning not just Australian communication, but many cultures at once • What Toastmasters actually does for confidence and why the incremental exposure matters • Speaking to different types of audiences to build real communication range • Why sharing your failures in Australia is often a strength, not a weakness • The difference between Indian and Australian communication culture: politeness, humour, and identity • The word "arvo," the magic word, and the word "candy" (Amanda's husband was not impressed) • Why hobbies matter socially in Australia and how to build them into the life you already have • How a comment about her accent almost derailed her TEDx week, and why it didn't • What she would tell her younger migrant self about accent, identity, and self-esteem Guest LinksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayanti-mendhi/ TEDxtalk: https://cms.qut.edu.au/tedxqut/speakers/speakers-pages/2022/jayanti-mendhi Resources Mentioned • Toastmasters — toastmasters.org • Three-minute thesis competitions — check with your university • QUT Open Day — mentioned as an example of non-conference audience building

How Introverted Migrants Can Stop Playing Small and Start Being Heard | Ep 5 S3 Chinwag Tuesdays

In this episode of Chinwag Tuesdays, I'm chatting with Serena Low, a Singapore-born, Melbourne-based trauma-informed coach who helps introverts, high achievers, and quiet achievers do something that doesn't come naturally to a lot of them: let people see how good they really are. Serena spent 11 years as a lawyer before making a major career pivot. She's also the host of The Quiet Warrior Podcast and author of The Hero Within. In this conversation, we get into why introverts often get overlooked in meetings even when they have the best ideas in the room, how energy management is the real issue (not confidence), and what quiet achievers can do to make themselves heard without having to become someone they're not. We also talk about belonging, about what it actually takes to build a life in a new country from scratch, and about why Serena thinks migrants are already warriors by the very fact of being here. This one is for you if you've ever sat in a meeting with something valuable to say and talked yourself out of saying it. Topics Covered • Why extrovert-focused workplaces make things harder for introverts and migrants • The energy management piece that most advice for introverts completely ignores • How introverts can contribute in competitive group settings without jumping in • Common myths about introversion that hold people back • What it means to be a 'quiet warrior' as a migrant • Practical strategies for building belonging in a new city, from Meetup groups to board game clubs • Serena's story: from law to trauma-informed coaching, and why Nancy Drew had something to do with it ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻How to contact Serena LinkedIn Website The Quiet Warrior Podcast ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ Want to work on your own Australian English? Book an Accent Assessment with Amanda: https://www.aussieenglishwithamanda.com/accent-assessment

• Transcript

Moving from India to Australia: Work Culture Shocks & Communication Tips | Ep 4 S3 Chinwag Tuesdays

This week on Chinwag Tuesdays, I'm sitting down with Aastha, who made the big move from New Delhi to Sydney five years ago after meeting her Australian husband. Aastha has an eight-year background in media and communications, a Master's in Business Administration, and she's now working as a Customer Success Manager, connecting with clients all across Australia and New Zealand. We talk about everything from the culture shocks that caught her off guard (shops closing at 5pm, anyone?), to navigating a complete career pivot in a brand new country, to the very real challenge of communicating confidently when your accent is different to everyone around you. One moment in this episode really stuck with me. Aastha shared that when she first arrived in Sydney, she was nervous ordering a coffee because she wasn't sure she'd be understood. She'd ask for her coffee in full, complete sentences, and sometimes the barista would still say 'pardon?' — and that one moment would shake her confidence for the rest of the day. If that sounds familiar to you, this episode is absolutely one to listen to. Aastha is honest, warm, and genuinely funny, and her story is one that so many migrants in Australia will recognise. We also chat about how she's adapted her communication style for work, what she wishes she'd known before arriving, and the advice she'd give to anyone just starting out in Australia. IN THIS EPISODE • What brought Aastha from New Delhi to Sydney (and how she and her husband met) • The work culture differences between India and Australia that surprised her the most • How Australians treat time, boundaries, and work hours very differently • Aastha's honest reflection on ordering a coffee and being asked to repeat herself • Why communication barriers aren't always about English level • How Aastha pivoted from an 8-year media career to Customer Success in Australia • Why asking for help is one of the most important skills a migrant can develop • Practical time management tips for working parents in a new country • Advice for new migrants building careers and confidence in Australia CONNECT WITH AASTHA Find Aastha on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/aastha-yadav-98102962Short term courses through TAFE: https://www.tafensw.edu.au/short-courses Interested to hear what other migrants in Australia are getting up to? Check out these episodes: Nohely Dawa Leticia Carol Rovie Daniela Tom Daksh Mohit Anish Jo Aditya Karen Julia Shak Jeanne ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ Want to work on your own Australian English? Book an Accent Assessment with Amanda: ⁠https://www.aussieenglishwithamanda.com/accent-assessment⁠

• Transcript

Teaching Aussie Kids as a Migrant Primary School Teacher | Ep 3 S3 Chinwag Tuesdays

This week on Chinwag Tuesdays, I’m joined by Jeane, an Indonesian-born primary school teacher who packed up a decade-long teaching career in Indonesia and moved to Melbourne to start fresh, on a completely different continent, in a completely different classroom. We talk about what it’s really like to teach Australian kids when you’re still learning the culture yourself, the hilarious moments when her students became her teachers, and why she says her accent has become her strength, not her weakness. Jeane shares the moment a student corrected her pronunciation of “giraffe,” how she learned what Shapes chips are the hard way, and what happened when she tried to explain what a “rubber” is. We also get into the deeper stuff: what it actually takes to build confidence as a migrant professional, how she found her footing as the only Asian teacher at her school, and the advice she’d give anyone starting over in a new country. This episode is warm, funny, honest, and genuinely motivating. If you’re a migrant professional navigating a new workplace and a new culture, Jeane’s story will feel like a conversation with someone who really gets it. • Why Jeane left a 10-year teaching career in Indonesia to start over in Melbourne • The biggest cultural differences between Indonesian and Australian classrooms • What it’s like to teach phonics and literacy in your second language • Vocabulary surprises: rubber, Shapes, tuck shop, bubbler, grey lead, mark the roll • Building confidence as the only Asian teacher at her school • Why her background became an asset, not a barrier • Practical advice for migrants starting work in Australia • Why saying yes to the coffee invite matters more than you think ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ 📲How to Contact Jeane 1. Instagram : www.instagram.com/jeaneclint_ 2. ⁠LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeane-clinton-1ba3a0233/ 3. ⁠TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@doryfishteacher ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ Want to work on your own Australian English? Book an Accent Assessment with Amanda: https://www.aussieenglishwithamanda.com/accent-assessment

• Transcript

Life as an Aussie English Teacher in Czech Republic | Ep 2 S3 Chinwag Tuesdays

G'day! Welcome back to Chinwag Tuesdays, the podcast from Aussie English with Amanda where we chat about language, culture, and life as an Aussie abroad or a migrant finding their feet in Australia. This week I'm chatting with Tara, a fellow Aussie originally from Newcastle who packed up her life after graduating from uni and moved to Prague, Czech Republic, to teach English. And she's built an entire teaching business there, working with kindergarteners, marketing teams, airport staff, and even C1-level students who genuinely know more grammar than she does (her words, not mine!). In this episode we chat about: • What it was like moving to Czech Republic knowing absolutely no one • The cultural shock of a country where small talk just isn't a thing • How Czech education works, including high school until age 21 • The challenges of teaching English when immersion is almost impossible • What the phrase 'silly sausage' apparently translates to in Czech (we'll let you use your imagination) • How living and working abroad builds confidence, business skills, and a whole new pace of speaking Whether you're a migrant learning English in Australia, a teacher thinking about moving abroad, or just someone who loves a good Aussie chin-wag, this one's for you. ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ 📲How to Contact Tara Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1C9XbqGjXp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Instagram: www.instagram.com/@tarainprague Email: tarzzanna09@gmail.com ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ Looking to improve your own Aussie English? I offer 1:1 coaching and online courses designed to help you sound more natural, build confidence, and feel at home in Australian conversations. To see what other Aussies are doing around the world, check out these episodes: Adriana Matt Amanda Emma Tom Pam Ozzie Macguire Max Anna Jem Ben Andy Michele Josie Clifton Mike Chris

• Transcript

Networking Workplace Confidence for Migrants | Soft Skills Aussies Expect | Ep 1 S3 Chinwag Tuesdays

Welcome to Season 3 of Chinwag Tuesdays 🎙️ In this episode, I’m chatting with Christopher Kong, founder of Crouching Tiger Network, about the real soft skills migrants need to succeed in Australian workplaces. Chris was born in Melbourne, spent 17 years working across Asia (including China and Singapore), and has landed every role in his career through networking. In this honest and practical conversation, we unpack why so many skilled migrants struggle at work in Australia, even when their English and technical skills are strong. We talk about why clear, simple communication often works better than “advanced” English, how cultural habits around silence, hierarchy, and feedback can create misunderstandings, and why working hard alone is not always enough in Australian workplace culture. If you’re an international student, professional migrant, or anyone trying to understand how Aussies really communicate at work, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and a few lightbulb moments. In this episode, we cover: Why clarity matters more than perfect English The biggest workplace mistakes migrants make in Australia Why networking feels awkward (and how to make it easier) How to speak up in meetings without feeling rude or uncomfortable A simple framework to build professional relationships naturally What reverse culture shock actually feels like This episode is especially helpful if you’re trying to: ✔ fit into Australian workplace culture ✔ communicate more confidently at work ✔ handle tricky conversations without avoiding them ✔ understand how Aussies approach networking and visibility Looking to improve your own Aussie English? I offer 1:1 coaching and online courses designed to help you sound more natural, build confidence, and feel at home in Australian conversations. 📲How to Contact Chris 💼 LinkedIn: https://linktr.ee/crouchingtigernetwork 🌏 Quiz (discover your strengths & weaknesses as a networker): https://ctn-sign.scoreapp.com/ 🌏 Quiz (discover your strengths & weaknesses to navigate difficult situations at work): https://ctn-leap.scoreapp.com To see what other Aussies are doing around the world, check out these episodes: Adriana Matt Amanda Emma Tom Pam Ozzie Macguire Max Anna Jem Ben Andy Michele Josie Clifton Mike

• Transcript

5 Secrets to Amazing English and German Pronunciation | Ep 22 S2 Chinwag Tuesday

In this Chinwag Tuesdays episode, I sit down with Mike Budden—an Aussie English teacher living in Berlin—who is also fluent in German! We dive deep into accent training, pronunciation, language immersion, and the real reason why many learners struggle with listening. If you're learning English (or teaching it!), this episode is packed with insights and relatable stories to help you improve your Aussie accent and make your language learning more effective. Mike Budden shares practical strategies to improve your English listening skills, understand Aussie pronunciation, and avoid common accent mistakes—especially for German speakers. We explore why “reading aloud” is so powerful, what learners misunderstand about “correct pronunciation,” and how to shift your mindset from fear to fluency. Whether you're a migrant, international student, or language teacher, this episode gives you the tools to speak English with confidence—and feel proud of your unique voice. ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ Key Highlights: Meet Mike: Aussie English teacher living in Berlin Learning German through travel, music and community Teaching during COVID and returning to Australia Amanda's Hindi learning journey and immersion struggles Why pronunciation is essential for language learners Devoicing in German: What it is and why it matters German accent issues: real-world examples and fixes The power of reading aloud to improve pronunciation Final thoughts: evolving accents and student advice ⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ Looking to improve your own Aussie English? I offer 1:1 coaching, group classes, and online courses designed to help you sound more natural, build confidence, and feel at home in Australian conversations. 📲How to Contact Mike Budden 🌏 Website: https://www.mikeblanguages.com 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-budden-4553a4b2/ To see what other Aussies are doing around the world, check out these episodes: Adriana Matt Amanda Emma Tom Pam Ozzie Macguire Max Anna Jem Ben Andy Michele Josie Clifton

• Transcript

Her Life-Changing Experience Teaching English in a Foreign Country | EP 21 S2 Chinwag Tuesdays

In this week’s Chinwag Tuesdays, I chat with Frankie — an English teacher from a small-town in Georgia in the US who has called Colombia home for the past eight years. Frankie’s story takes us from a life-changing trip to Nicaragua, to falling in love, selling everything she owned, and starting fresh in a new country. We talk about the highs and lows of living abroad — visa challenges, learning a new language, and adjusting to everyday life in a completely different culture. Frankie shares how she’s stayed connected to home through music, food, and traditions, while building a life she loves in South America. This is a conversation for anyone thinking about moving overseas, learning Australian English, or finding their feet in a new country. It’s honest, relatable, and full of moments that will make you nod along in recognition. You’ll hear us chat about: Moving abroad for love and adventure Settling into a new culture and community Dealing with visa and work challenges The little things that help you feel at home Learning and teaching English in a foreign country Key Highlights: From Small-Town Georgia to Colombian Cities Falling in Love and Changing Life Plans COVID Lockdowns Across Cultures Navigating Work Visas and Teaching in Colombia Dealing with Cultural Isolation and Staying Connected Finding Comfort Through Food, Music and Media Vegemite Scrolls, Aussie Humour and Cultural Nostalgia Looking to improve your own Aussie English? I offer 1:1 coaching, group classes, and online courses designed to help you sound more natural, build confidence, and feel at home in Australian conversations. 📲How to Contact Frankie 🌏 Website: https://Peachteachenglish.com▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PeachTeachEnglish📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peachteachenglish💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frances-mesmer-english-tutor/🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@peachteachenglish If you’re interested in watching more interviews with American English teachers, you can check out these interviews: Josh Sam Hanna Chris Ellie Jesús

• Transcript

THIS Magic Word Changed EVERYTHING | Aussie English Culture Shock | Ep 20 S2 Chinwag Tuesdays

In this heartfelt Chinwag Tuesdays episode, I sit down with Shak — a photographer and restaurant owner originally from India, now living on the Sunshine Coast. With 18 years of experience navigating life in Australia, Shak shares his raw and relatable journey from student migrant to successful business owner, father, and proud Aussie resident. From ordering coffee without saying “please” to the power of joining hobby groups, Shak opens up about the real-life language and cultural shocks many international students and migrants face when learning Australian English and adjusting to Aussie life. We explore the power of community, why “the magic word” matters, and how Aussies use casual English and subtle communication to build connection. Whether you're learning the Australian accent, improving your English, or just trying to feel at home — this episode is for you. This conversation is filled with real-life examples, Aussie English expressions, and mindset shifts to help you: Understand Australian politeness and social cues Use the “magic word” (please!) naturally Build your confidence in Aussie conversations Navigate cultural differences between India and Australia Settle into life as a migrant or international student Key Highlights: Shak's 18-year migration story: From India to Australia Starting out in Sydney and the fast-paced city life From hospitality job to launching a Sunshine Coast restaurant Adjusting to Aussie culture: Language, manners and surprises Migrant reflections on city life, resilience and growth Raising a multicultural family and navigating identity The role of language, dialects and staying connected to roots Looking to improve your own Aussie English?I offer 1:1 coaching, group classes, and online courses designed to help you sound more natural, build confidence, and feel at home in Australian conversations. 📲 How to Contact Shak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/capturedbymota/ Interested to hear what other migrants in Australia are getting up to? Check out these episodes: Nohely Dawa Leticia Carol Rovie Daniela Tom Daksh Mohit Anish Jo Aditya Karen Julia

• Transcript

The SECRET to Sounding Confident in ACADEMIC ENGLISH | Ep 19 S2 Chinwag Tuesdays

🔊 Audio Disclaimer: So sorry about the sound quality this week! I had some unexpected mic issues. This is the best balance I could manage between cleaning it up and avoiding distortion. If I left it untouched, there was too much echo — so this version is the best of both worlds (even if not perfect). Thanks for understanding! 💛 In this inspiring Chinwag Tuesdays episode, I sit down with Julia from Germany, a language coach and academic support specialist now living in Sydney. We chat about her journey through Germany, the UK, the US and finally to Australia — all in the name of love and learning. Julia shares brilliant advice on how migrants and international students can boost confidence in English, build lasting language habits, and overcome the self-doubt that comes with communicating in a second (or third!) language. 🎧 We also dive into cultural differences between Germany, Australia and the US — from “coconut” vs “peach” communication styles to why Australians think we’re relaxed… but maybe aren’t 😉 Whether you're a migrant professional, international student, or academic navigating English in Australia, this episode is full of tips and warm encouragement just for you. This episode includes real-life examples, personal experiences, and practical mindset shifts to help you: Feel more confident speaking English in public Create language habits that actually last Deal with burnout (and give yourself grace) Key Highlights: Why Julia moved to Australia How her international education shaped her path Comparing friendship and culture in Germany, the US and Australia Aussie small talk, rules and beach culture Supporting academics with English confidence Finding clients and building her business in Sydney Advice for migrants: Overcoming fear of mistakes Recording yourself to improve fluency and confidence Looking to improve your own Aussie English? I offer 1:1 coaching, group classes, and online courses designed to help you sound more natural, build confidence, and feel at home in Australian conversations. 📲 How to Contact Julia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-klann-english/ Website: http://www.juliaklannlanguagestudio.com/ Interested to hear what other migrants in Australia are getting up to? Check out these episodes: Nohely Dawa Leticia Carol Rovie Daniela Tom Daksh Mohit Anish Jo Aditya Karen

• Transcript

The Emotional Journey of Migrating to Australia | Ep 18 S2 Chinwag Tuesdays

Moving countries isn’t just paperwork – it’s personal. In this powerful Chinwag Tuesdays episode, I’m joined by Katrina James, a Sydney-based counsellor who helps skilled migrants navigate the emotional challenges of moving to Australia. From homesickness and cultural confusion to late-night dinners and job market pressure, Katrina shares what really happens after the visa is approved. Learn how Aussie culture differs, why feeling lost is normal, and how to rebuild confidence when you're far from home. Whether you've just arrived or have lived here for years, this one’s for every migrant who’s ever felt a little stuck or misunderstood. If you're a skilled migrant in Australia struggling with confidence, culture shock or belonging, this episode is for you. Learn Australian English, improve your Aussie accent, and understand how emotions play a role in settling into your new life. Key Highlights: Meet Katrina: Sydney roots & migrant mental health Migration is emotional: What most people miss Family, culture & feeling “out of place” in Australia Australian work culture & self-doubt for migrants The hidden cost of job rejection & local experience bias What confidence really looks like after moving Little things that rebuild identity & belonging Redefining success: What migrants often forget Looking to improve your own Aussie English? I offer 1:1 coaching, group classes, and online courses designed to help you sound more natural, build confidence, and feel at home in Australian conversations. 📲 How to Contact Katrina Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reframe_counselling_/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrina-james-reframe/ Website: https://www.reframecounselling.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/reframecounsellingaus To see what other Aussies are doing around the world, check out these episodes: Adriana Matt Amanda Emma Tom Pam Ozzie Macguire Max Anna Jem Ben Andy Michele Josie Clifton

• Transcript

From Mexico to Perth | Culture Shocks & Work-Life Balance in Australia | S2 E17 Chinwag Tuesdays

What’s it like moving from bustling Mexico City to the calm and quiet of Perth, Western Australia? In this warm and insightful episode of Chinwag Tuesdays, I chat with Karen—my very first guest from Mexico—about her journey as a skilled migrant, her career in the IT industry, and the cultural surprises she faced along the way. Karen opens up about everything from converting pesos to dollars at the supermarket, to adjusting to Aussie work culture, to embracing Australia’s slower pace of life. We also talk about the challenges of making new friends, how she’s giving back to the community by tutoring new migrants in English, and what she’s learned about finding purpose in a new country. If you're thinking about migrating to Australia, or you're already here and looking for connection, this episode is for you. Learn Australian English through real migrant stories! This episode gives insight into the Aussie work environment, lifestyle differences between Mexico and Australia, and how to build a fulfilling life abroad. Great for international students, skilled migrants, and professionals aiming to improve their Aussie English and settle into life in Australia. Interested in volunteering as an ESL teacher and giving back to the migrant community? Check out this link: https://www.northmetrotafe.wa.edu.au/amep-volunteer-tutor-scheme Key Highlights: Karen’s background: from Mexico City to Perth Early surprises adjusting to quiet Perth and cost of living Work culture contrast: hierarchy, autonomy & work‑life balance Volunteering as an English tutor through AMEP Building friendships and embracing multicultural life Advice for migrants: clear goals, adaptability & tailored migration paths Looking to improve your own Aussie English? I offer 1:1 coaching, group classes, and online courses designed to help you sound more natural, build confidence, and feel at home in Australian conversations. 📲 How to Contact Karen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/magpie.27 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenayalapadilla/ Interested to hear what other migrants in Australia are getting up to? Check out these episodes: Nohely Dawa Leticia Carol Rovie Daniela Tom Daksh Mohit Anish Jo Aditya

• Transcript

Why Migrants REALLY Struggle in Australia | Ep 16 S2 Chinwag Tuesdays

Why is it so hard to make friends in Australia? What do Aussies really think of migrants in the workplace? This week on Chinwag Tuesdays, I’m joined by Aditya — a tech leader, career coach, and migrant who has lived across India, the US, and now Melbourne. We chat through his fascinating journey from Amazon and Salesforce to helping new migrants settle in and thrive professionally in Australia. From cultural differences to communication gaps, Aditya shares powerful insights that every international student or skilled migrant needs to hear. Australian English learners, skilled migrants and international students will love this chat. We break down real experiences and give practical tips for settling in, improving your Aussie accent, and feeling more confident at work and in social life. Learn Australian English in context and grow your career with cultural insight. Key Highlights: ​Career journey across three continents ​Launching Kindle, Alexa & Prime at Amazon ​Reflecting on meaningful work and coaching ​Work culture: US vs Australia ​Making friends as a migrant in Australia ​Assimilation tips and common challenges ​Why many migrants struggle to grow professionally ​How to build connection, tell your story & stand out ​Final advice for migrants navigating Australian life Looking to improve your own Aussie English?I offer 1:1 coaching, group classes, and online courses designed to help you sound more natural, build confidence, and feel at home in Australian conversation 📲 How to Contact Aditya: ​LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aditya-rajagopalan/ ​ Interested to hear what other migrants in Australia are getting up to? Check out these episodes: ◦Nohely ◦Dawa ◦Leticia ◦Carol ◦Rovie ◦Daniela ◦Tom ◦Daksh ◦Mohit ◦Anish ◦Jo

• Transcript

Polyglot Secrets REVEALED | How Jo Learnt 6 Languages Quickly | Ep 15 S2 Chinwag Tuesdays

From Portugal to Melbourne — Jo’s life is a masterclass in language, culture, and courage. In this Chinwag Tuesdays episode, I chat with Jo: a hyperpolyglot actress, drama teacher, language teacher, and translator who now calls Australia home. Jo speaks six languages, has worked in international theatre and education across Europe, and shares what it’s really like performing, teaching, and living in multiple languages. We discuss identity, how language influences your personality, the challenge of switching tongues daily — and her journey learning to understand Aussie English after moving Down Under! Jo shares what it’s like navigating accent training as a Portuguese speaker, how performing in six languages shapes her voice, and why switching between European and Antipodean English can be so tricky. We dive into speech habits, pronunciation challenges, and how learning Aussie English differs from the British and American varieties. I’m also proud to be Jo’s Aussie accent coach, helping her embrace the unique sounds and rhythms of Australian English. If you’re a migrant, international student, language lover or professional working on fluency, this episode is packed with relatable insights you won’t want to miss. Key Highlights: Meet Jo, the multilingual migrant from Portugal Growing up near Spain & early exposure to multiple languages Life in Belgium, France & Luxembourg: Learning through living Speaking Spanish & Catalan, and language overlap at the border French differences across Europe & discovering Australian English Accent confusion: Aussie vs Kiwi vs global English varieties Jo’s acting journey across languages & the Festival of Mother Tongue Teaching English and Portuguese in multicultural Melbourne Language identity, cultural empathy & thoughts on returning home Looking to improve your own Aussie English? I offer 1:1 coaching, group classes, and online courses designed to help you sound more natural, build confidence, and feel at home in Australian conversations. 📲 How to Contact Jo: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jo.malta_ and https://instagram.com/@jo.littletheatre_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-malta-translator/

• Transcript

Is THIS the SECRET to Landing Your DREAM Job in 2025 | EP 6 S2 Chinwag Tuesdays

In this episode of Chinwag Tuesdays, I chat with Carol, a civil engineer from Brazil living in Sydney. Carol shares her journey of moving to Australia, transitioning from construction to project management, and launching a mentoring business to help other migrants land jobs in their fields. If you're an international student or professional looking to break into the Aussie job market, this episode is packed with insights, strategies, and motivation! 🎙️✨ 🔑 Key Highlights: 🏗️ From Brazil to Australia – How Carol’s English skills shaped her career path 💼 Breaking Into the Aussie Job Market – Challenges & strategies for migrant professionals 📄 Resumes & Cover Letters – Common mistakes migrants make & how to fix them 🔍 The Power of Networking – How a BBQ conversation led to a full-time job 🎯 Confidence & Mindset – Overcoming self-doubt to land a job in your field 👉 Enjoyed this episode? Like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated with Chinwag Tuesdays! 👍✨ How to contact Carol: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carol.duarte/

Jesús' Journey to PERFECT English Fluency in 2025 | Ep 14 S2 Chinwag Tuesdays

Want to master an accent that opens doors? This week on Chinwag Tuesdays, I sits down with Jesús Flores, an inspiring Colombian accent coach living in Michigan who helps learners transform their English pronunciation into a confident American accent. From sci-fi movies and teenage language schools to moonlighting as a pronunciation coach—this episode is full of golden insights for international students, teachers, and migrants alike. ⌛Chapters / Key Highlights Meet Jesús: Colombian roots & American life Why Jesús started teaching English How he discovered accent coaching The decision to specialise in American pronunciation Common issues for Spanish speakers learning English Thoughts on Aussie English & exposure differences One pronunciation tip every learner should try Warm-ups, anchor phrases & breathing for better speech Learn about accent training from a Colombian perspective, how to sound more American in English, and why Spanish speakers face specific challenges in pronunciation. Jesús shares unique teaching strategies, insights into speech placement and pitch, and compares American, Australian, and British English for learners and teachers alike. Perfect for international students, ESL teachers, and professionals working on their English fluency. 📲 How to Contact Jesús Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_american_accent_playbook YouTube: https://youtube.com/@arknto15?si=S0FYbpcXJMna28PD LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesus-florez-villa-141265298

• Transcript

Aussie Rebuilds Life After China | 18 Years Teaching English Abroad | Ep 13 S2 Chinwag Tuesdays

From Townsville to Shanghai and back again — Maree shares her 18-year expat journey teaching English in China. We go deep into the reality of reverse culture shock, expat identity, starting an education business back in Australia, and how living abroad transforms your perspective forever. If you're an ESL teacher, migrant, or international student navigating life between cultures, this episode is for you. ⌛Chapters / Key Highlights ​Maree’s unexpected leap from Townsville to teaching in China ​Falling into ESL and realising “I didn’t know how to teach English!” ​Starting over: From managing a language school to TESOL certification ​Launching a curriculum company from scratch back in Australia ​The invisible struggles of returning home after 18 years abroad ​Relearning Aussie life: supermarkets, slang, and social “rules” ​Professional rejection: Why global experience isn’t always valued in Australia ​What reverse culture shock really feels like after living overseas Looking to improve your Aussie accent or understand real Australian English? This episode is packed with real talk on reverse culture shock, teaching English abroad, and reintegrating into Australian society. Maree's story is perfect for migrants returning to Australia, international English teachers, and anyone who's ever felt caught between two cultures. If you're aiming to learn Australian English, improve your Aussie accent, or want inspiration for navigating life transitions — you'll love this chinwag. 📲 How to Contact Maree Email: maree@internationaltesolcollege.co Website:www.internationaltesolcollege.com.au LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/maree-donaldson-ab452713/

• Transcript