
Advertise on podcast: The CELPIP Success Podcast
This podcast has
160 episodes
Language
EnglishPublisher
Aaron NelsonExplicit
No
Date created
2023/04/21
Latest episode
2026/09/29
Average duration
21 min.
Release period
7 days
Description
Welcome to the podcast that helps newcomers to Canada prepare for the CELPIP exam. You will learn how to develop your listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in English. And of course, if you listen, you'll learn how to Speak English Fearlessly! Every Tuesday you'll get a new episode filled with tips, strategies and inspiring stories from other people just like you who are working to speak English fearlessly.
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Check latest episodes from The CELPIP Success Podcast podcast
10 years in Canada and still stuck at CLB 8
2026/09/29
This week I'm responding to another question from Reddit from someone who has been living in Canada for 10 years and is still stuck at a CLB 8 on their CELPIP exam — they need a CLB 10. In this episode, I break down why simply "studying harder" isn't the answer and share what's likely really holding them back.
Key Topics:
The "first-language bubble" problem — How living in a country for years without truly immersing yourself in the language creates an invisible barrier to building your language skills. I share my own experience of building an English bubble while living in Mexico City for 16 years.Audit your daily routines — How much of your day actually involves communicating in English? If the answer is "not much," that's the first and biggest reason why you're still stuck at CLB 8.Map out your practice process — Write down everything you're doing to prepare, along with the results you're getting for each. If the results aren't changing, something in the process needs to change.Focus on your weak areas — It's natural to spend time where you already feel strong, but real growth comes from leaning into the skills that scare you. What you avoid simply doesn't get any better, no matter how long you've lived in Canada.Get outside perspective — Sometimes you need someone outside your situation to spot what you can't see. I share how working with a business coach helped me identify blind spots in my own work — and how the same principle applies to your CELPIP prep. I can be that person to offer you a friendly but honest look at your CELPIP preparation process so you can see what you're doing well (to keep doing that!) and what isn't working for you, and what specifically you can do to start getting better results.
Resources mentioned in this episode:
Book a free strategy call with me — It's $75 and we'll spend an hour digging into your CELPIP prep process, identifying what's broken, and building a practical plan to move you toward CLB 10. (add booking link)
The Reddit post that inspired this episode My business coach Elena
10 CELPIP Attempts and Still Stuck at 8 — Here's What to Do About It
2026/09/22
Episode Summary: In this episode, I dive into a heartbreaking Reddit post from a CELPIP test-taker who has attempted the exam 10 times and remains stuck at a score of 8 — just one point shy of the CLB 9 they need for Express Entry. With a work permit expiring in a month, the stakes couldn't be higher. I break down what might be going wrong and share practical strategies to help break through that plateau.
Key Topics & Timestamps:
The Reddit post: 10 CELPIP attempts and still stuck at 8 — 1:00Empathy for the frustration of being one point away — 2:10Strategy 1: Focus your practice — review past attempts and target weak tasks — 3:09Strategy 2: Stop relying only on official CELPIP materials — use the English around you every day — 5:19Why templates aren't the answer — embrace natural speaking — 7:34The long-term play: merge daily life with CELPIP practice — 9:07Overcoming the fear of engaging in conversations (even as an introvert) — 10:00The importance of getting expert feedback — 11:33Free resource: 5-part mini audio course on top CELPIP speaking mistakes — 12:10
The Takeaways:
Pay attention to your past attempts — don't just reach for another exam! Identify which speaking or writing tasks consistently trip you up and focus 100% of your practice there.Use the English around you — Stop treating CELPIP prep as separate from daily life. Conversations, emails, news, and meetings are all practice opportunities.Ditch the templates — Natural speaking is the goal; templates are holding you back because they are artificial - not your words, and test raters can pick them out.Get feedback — If you have time on your side, work with a trainer to pinpoint exactly what needs improvement.
Links & Resources:
Join the 30 Day CELPIP Speaking Skills Bootcamp. In just 30 days we'll cover every single CELPIP speaking task, and you'll get dedicated one-on-one support and feedback from me all the way through.Grab your free Mini-Audio course: Top 5 CELPIP Speaking Mistakes and How To Avoid Them.
How To Practice With a Timer on the CELPIP Exam
2026/09/15
How To Practice With a Timer on the CELPIP ExamQuestion from TV on Reddit: "Please suggest some ways to practice with the timer. I didn't complete most of the tasks and got a seven in speaking."
Key TakeawaysStop seeing the CELPIP as separate from your daily life. The biggest mindset shift is treating exam prep as an integral part of your day-to-day routine, not something that is outside and disconnected from you.Engage in everyday English conversations. Real, spontaneous conversations force you to respond quickly to random topics — exactly the skill the CELPIP speaking tasks demand. Short, back-and-forth exchanges mimic the 30/60/90-second response windows on the exam.Don't avoid conversations out of fear. Avoiding English conversations because you're worried about making mistakes is your worst enemy on the CELPIP. The more you practice thinking on your feet, the easier those timed responses become.Use your phone's voice memo app. Open the voice recorder on your cell phone, hit record, and watch the built-in timer. Practice giving full responses and aim to wrap up cleanly in the last 10 seconds of your target time (usually 60 or 90 seconds).Repeat this practice over and over. It's not complicated — it just requires consistency. Record yourself, watch the clock, and get comfortable speaking against a time limit.
Mentioned in This Episode30-Day CELPIP Speaking Skills Bootcamp — Daily one-on-one practice covering every CELPIP speaking task. Click here to join.
Timestamps0:00 — Listener question from TV (Reddit)1:05 — Why daily English conversation is part one of the answer4:06 — The murder mystery coffee story: thinking on your feet8:15 — Short conversational turns = great timed speaking practice9:42 — Avoiding conversations hurts your CELPIP performance10:02 — 30-Day CELPIP Speaking Skills Bootcamp (first mention)10:24 — Practical timer practice: your phone's voice memo app12:58 — How to practice: record, watch the clock, finish in the last 10 seconds13:58 — Recap and final encouragement
Focus on your progress, not just your mistakes with your CELPIP Prep.
2026/09/08
Focus on your progress, not just your mistakes with your CELPIP prep.
This episode dives into the importance of purposefully taking the time to recognize your achievements as you prepare for the CELPIP exam. (Because it's super easy to fixate on what went wrong!)
I share my experiences over the past week with this podcast, where I made plenty of mistakes, but I also scored a few important wins.
You might feel overwhelmed by errors or setbacks, but you can shift your perspective by taking a moment to jot down your successes. Even small victories matter—like engaging in English conversations or deciding to join your English speaking coworkers at lunch.
But you have to purposefully notice what went well because we tend to easily pay more attention to what went wrong!
Takeaways:
To truly progress in your CELPIP preparation, consistently acknowledge and document your successes, no matter how small they appear.Don't let the fear of making mistakes hold you back; instead, embrace them as part of your learning journey.Engaging in conversations, even when it's challenging, is a significant step forward in your English skills.Take time each week to reflect on your achievements in English practice, as this boosts motivation and confidence. Practice writing them down!
Top 5
Mentioned in this episode:
Stop making these top 5 CELPIP Speaking task mistakes
Learn how to spot and avoid the top 5 most common CELPIP speaking task mistakes - this free course will show you how!
Top 5
Special Edition: Success Tips for CELPIP Speaking Tasks 7 and 8 - the bootcamp invitation
2026/09/05
Episode Summary: Welcome to a closer look at how to respond to CELPIP Speaking Tasks 7 and 8.
Today I'll be covering strategies, tips, and practice prompts to help you feel confident and prepared for this section of the exam.
In This EpisodeSpeaking Task 7 — Giving Your Opinion (starts ~1:20)
Why you're already an expert at this task — you've expressed opinions beforeA "Do you think…?" style question — more approachable than it seems
5 Key Tips for Task 7:
Read & understand the question — stay on topic, avoid bunny trails (~2:03)Speed — quickly decide your position; there are no right or wrong answers (~3:16)Three points — aim for 3 main ideas, each backed by a reason or example. Formula: (1 main point + 1 reason/example) × 3 = complete answer (~3:41)Be logical — make sure your ideas sound logical when presented (~4:30)Use transitions — phrases like "First of all," "Second," "Third," "And finally" help test raters follow your flow (~4:30)
Timing for Task 7 (~5:56)
30 seconds to brainstorm: jot down one-word triggers, aim to identify 3 big ideas90 seconds to record your responseDraw from real-life experience to strengthen your answer
Task 7 Practice Prompt (~7:52)
"Do you think your city is doing enough to provide affordable housing? Why or why not?"
Speaking Task 8 — Describing an Unusual Image (starts ~9:19)
Describe a strange/unfamiliar object as if you're on a phone call with a friendThe strategies you used in Speaking Task 3 can also help you here!
5 Key Tips for Task 8:
Talk to a friend — use their name, keep it personal (~10:13)Set the scene — start with "I'm looking at a…" blanket statement (~10:34)Divide and conquer — mentally split the image into 4 quadrants; describe one section at a time (~10:47)Use strong descriptive language — vary your descriptors across color, shape, size, and similes; don't over-rely on one category (~12:11)Conclude — leave ~10 seconds at the end to wrap up, e.g., "So Johnny, what do you think of this?" (~12:54)
Task 8 Practice Prompt (~13:41)
"You are at a local artisan market, and you see this unusual custom-crafted piece of home decoration that your friend would likely love. Call them and describe the object in detail so that they can visualize it and decide if they want you to buy it for them." (Image available here!)Resources & Call to ActionFree 5-Part Mini Audio Course — Avoid the top 5 most common CELPIP Speaking Test mistakes. 30-Day CELPIP Speaking Task Bootcamp — Now open! You can join here.
Special Edition: Success Strategies for CELPIP Speaking Task 5 and 6 Bootcamp Invite
2026/09/04
This episode breaks down CELPIP Speaking Tasks 5 and 6.
Task 5 covers comparing and persuading — picking an option, defending it against a new option, and recording your response.
Task 6 focuses on dealing with a difficult situation — being firm, kind, and clear.
Links mentioned this episode:
Free 5-Part Mini Audio Course — Avoid the top 5 most common CELPIP Speaking Test mistakes. 30-Day CELPIP Speaking Task Bootcamp — Now open! You can join here.
Key Segments0:00 — Welcome & Introductions1:22 — Speaking Task 5: Comparing & Persuading What the task is, why it feels complex, and how it mirrors everyday conversations (defending a restaurant pick, a movie choice, etc.).1:50 — Task 5 Timing Breakdown Three rounds of 60 seconds: (1) read two options and choose quickly, (2) review a new third option and prepare your defense, (3) record your answer.5:23 — Task 5 Success Tips
Be quick at reading and understanding the options.Choose early (first 10–15 seconds) and jot down 1–2 word notes on why.Use the second 60-second block to prepare arguments defending your original choice against the new option.Personalize your answer — pretend you're talking to someone.
7:21 — Task 5 Practice Example: Winter Gloves I reference a practice question about choosing between pairs of winter gloves, including wool knit convertible gloves.9:06 — Speaking Task 6: Dealing with a Difficult Situation Why this task is tough — especially for introverts — and why it's an essential real-life skill. The goal: state your decision firmly, kindly, and with clear reasoning.11:03 — Task 6 Success Tips
Speak to a person — use their name or invent one.Be firm, not rude.Convey kindness — stick to your decision but do it nicely.Give a clear explanation — offer 2–3 reasons for your decision.
12:27 — Task 6 Practice Assignment You ordered an expensive meal at a restaurant, waited 45+ minutes, and it arrived cold. Talk to the waiter, explain the issue, and request a refund.
13:22 — 30-Day Speaking Skills Bootcamp Starts September 7th. Two speaking tasks per week. Submit voice messages and get personalized audio feedback from me.13:45 — How to Get Your Bootcamp Invitation Download the free 5-part mini audio course: "The Top Five CELPIP Speaking Task Mistakes and How to Avoid Them."
Links & Resources MentionedFree 5-Part Mini Audio Course — Avoid the top 5 most common CELPIP Speaking Test mistakes. 30-Day CELPIP Speaking Task Bootcamp — Now open! You can join here.Task 5 Practice Material — Winter gloves comparison exercise
Special Edition: CELPIP Speaking Task 3 and 4
2026/09/03
Today, we’re tackling speaking task three of the CELPIP exam, which is all about describing an image.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the details in a picture, I've got some solid strategies to help you focus and shine in your response. I’ll be guiding you through the essential steps, like how to brainstorm effectively in those crucial 30 seconds before you start speaking.
We’ll talk about picking just a few sections of the image to describe in detail rather than trying to cover everything, which can lead to a rushed and unfocused answer.
Plus, I’ll share tips on using specific language to improve your descriptions and make your response stand out.
--> Join my 30 day CELPIP speaking skills bootcamp! The doors are now open.
Takeaways:
In speaking task three, you'll have 30 seconds to brainstorm what you'll talk about before you start recording your answer. Use your time wisely - I'll show you how!Select specific areas of the image to discuss rather than trying to cover everything for better clarity and depth in your descriptions.Use detailed descriptions, including colors and emotions, to strengthen your image description.In speaking task four, predict what you think will logically happen next! Make sure you're using verbs like going to, will, may, might for example to talk about your predictions.
Join the 30-day CELPIP speaking skills boot camp for personalized feedback and to sharpen your speaking abilities. To get your invitation to join, you first need to download and listen to The Top 5 CELPIP Speaking Task Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
Today's Speaking Task Assignment:
Grab your cellphone and go for a walk! Look for a busy scene happening around you and use your phone to take a picture of it.
When you get back home, open your picture and use it to practice speaking task 3 and 4. Good luck! (And if you join the 30 day CELPIP Speaking skills bootcamp, you'll be able to share your response with me for feedback!
Special Edition: CELPIP Speaking Tasks 1 and 2: The boot camp invitation
2026/09/02
Welcome to a special edition of the CELPIP Success Podcast.
Today I'm diving into the importance of recognizing and fixing mistakes in the speaking section of the CELPIP - AND why you just might need someone to help you find them!
I kick things off by sharing a couple of my own quirky mishaps from just today that involved some Krazy Glue and a broken shoe, as well as some broken website links that I ALMOST didn't notice - both experiences underscore how often we overlook our own errors until they're pointed out.
Many of the slip-ups we make in speaking tasks can go unnoticed, and that’s where my upcoming 30-day CELPIP speaking skills boot camp comes in. I'll be working closely together with everyone who joins, giving you unlimited feedback to help you catch those sneaky mistakes before they can pull your score down on exam day!
Grab my Free 5-Part Mini Audio Course — Avoid the top 5 most common CELPIP Speaking Test mistakes.
Takeaways:
When it comes to building your speaking skills in English, you sometimes need someone else to point out your mistakes. (Or you simply don't notice them!)Consistent practice combined with feedback will help you build your speaking skills faster.Speaking Task 1: Be sure to use real-life examples when giving advice.In Speaking Task 2: Use the past tense consistently in your responses to meet the expectations of the CELPIP exam.
Resources & Call to ActionFree 5-Part Mini Audio Course — Avoid the top 5 most common CELPIP Speaking Test mistakes. 30-Day CELPIP Speaking Task Bootcamp — Now open! You can join here.
About Speaking Task 1- Giving Advice
Think about what to say for 30 seconds.
Record your answer for as close to 90 seconds as you can get.
Points to remember:
Talk to a person. (Use their name!)
Offer 2 or 3 suggestions. (3 is better if you can!)
For each suggestion provide a reason or example
Your Assignment:
Prompt 1: A close friend is considering moving to a new city for a job offer, but they are worried about leaving their friends and family behind. They have come to you to ask for advice on if they should turn down the offer to stay with friends and family, or should they make the move?
About Task 2: Talking About a Past Experience
Think about what to say for 30 seconds.Record your answer for 60
Remember: 1. Use your own experience whenever possible. (Or make it up.) 2. A must: use the past tense! 3. Remember to include details and feelings!
Prompt 1: Talk about what your first day in Canada was like.
Can I Get Unstuck From A 7 on the CELPIP In A Week?
2026/09/01
Feeling stuck at a score of 8 on the CELPIP exam can be frustrating, especially as you gear up for your next attempt. It’s vital to understand that using templates isn’t the golden ticket you might think it is. In fact, templates can often backfire and pull your score down instead of boosting it. Instead of relying on memorized responses, I share practical strategies that can help you engage more naturally in conversations and build your speaking confidence.
Resources Free 5-Part Mini Audio Course — Avoid the top 5 most common CELPIP Speaking Test mistakes. 30-Day CELPIP Speaking Task Bootcamp — Now open! You can join here.
Takeaways:
Using templates for the CELPIP exam can lower your speaking score significantly, so avoid them.Engage in daily conversations to practice speaking English naturally without relying on memorized phrases.To improve your CELPIP score, build your English skills over time rather than cramming before the exam.Surrounding yourself with English speakers is crucial; but you have to seek them out!
You Versus the Clock: CELPIP Strategy, Confidence, and Why Studying Harder Isn't Enough
2026/08/25
What I Cover in This Episode
I took a month off and went to Mexico City to visit family after 10 years away. Coming back to recording felt surprisingly hard — I made mistakes, got frustrated, and questioned whether I should even publish. That experience got me thinking about what happens when you step away from something and lose your rhythm, and what it takes to get it back.
I also started working with a business coach, and the very first session was eye-opening. I had been feeling stuck — like I was driving in first gear and didn't know how to shift up. Getting an outside perspective showed me things I was too close to see, like the fact that I had removed my podcast introduction and my show had become generic. I put it back, and I'm already working on making it better.
I'm also switching to weekly episodes for the next six months to get my reps in and rebuild my comfort and confidence behind the microphone.
Then I sit down with my business coach for an interview about what I do and how I help people prepare for the CELPIP exam.
Let's work together to get ready for your CELPIP exam.
What You'll Learn From the Interview
What CELPIP is and why it matters. It's a language proficiency exam used in the Canadian immigration process. The higher you score, the stronger your application for permanent residency or citizenship. Even native English speakers from the US have had to take it.
How CELPIP differs from IELTS. You don't talk to a human examiner — you record your speaking responses into a computer, which makes it less intimidating, especially if you're an introvert. It's also 100% focused on Canadian English, so if you've been living in Canada, your ear is already tuned to the accents you'll hear on the test.
The biggest misconception about the exam. You can't just study harder and expect your score to go up. The CELPIP measures your actual level of English. If you're stuck at a seven, the exam is telling you that you have an intermediate level. To score higher, you need to build your general English skills — and that might take a year of focused work. Stop throwing $300 at retakes and start investing in your language foundation.
Strategy matters as much as language. The exam is you versus the clock. Every task is timed. You need to learn what to do and what not to do so you don't run out of time before you finish.
Why voice chats work for practice. In a group class, you spend most of your time listening and waiting — not speaking. With voice chats, there's no hiding. You record short, timed responses on your phone whenever you have time — even at 2 AM on a night shift break. You can listen back, spot your mistakes (like switching from past to present tense mid-response), and get precise, focused feedback. Nobody has time to re-listen to a full hour-long Zoom class, but you can review a one-minute clip easily.
Confidence is half the battle. A lot of introverts carry a negative narrative about their English. That self-doubt drags you down on exam day. When you practice in a low-pressure way and start to see improvement, that attitude shifts — and your score follows.
Real student results. One student went from an 8 to an 11 and a 12 across his exam after two to three months of daily practice — despite a speech impediment. Another went from a 5 to an 8 once she learned the right strategies for reading and writing. In both cases, the language ability was already there. They just needed to learn how to show it under pressure.
Takeaways for You
1.Check your current level of English before you retake the exam. If you're stuck at a seven, ask yourself honestly: is my English at an upper-intermediate level? If not, no amount of CELPIP studying will bump your score. Build your language skills first.
2. Be ready to receive constructive feedback. When someone points out what you're doing wrong, it can sting — especially if you've been at it for a while. But that outside perspective is exactly what helps you break through.
3. Do things differently if you want different results. If you keep doing the same thing, you'll keep getting the same score. If you've been working alone, using ChatGPT, and hoping for a better outcome — it's time to ask for help.
4. Get your reps in. Use your English as frequently as you can. Record yourself speaking for set amounts of time. Practice finishing within the last 10 seconds of your time limit. Put yourself in high-pressure situations at home so the real thing doesn't throw you off.
5. Don't avoid your weak spots. We all tend to skip the things we're not good at. Face them directly — that's where the biggest improvements happen.
---
Want to Work Together?
I have over 17 years of experience teaching English and I'm a certified CELPIP trainer. I can help you build your confidence, figure out what you're already doing well, and pinpoint where you're getting stuck. Click here to get started.
Mentioned in this episode:
Stop making these top 5 CELPIP Speaking task mistakes
Learn how to spot and avoid the top 5 most common CELPIP speaking task mistakes - this free course will show you how!
Top 5
CELPIP Score Stuck at 7? Here's why and what you can do about it.
2026/08/18
Have you been stuck at 7 after multiple attempts at the CELPIP exam?
You're not alone. Many test takers find themselves in the same boat, struggling to boost their scores in listening, reading, speaking, or writing—even after several tries.
It's frustrating to see inconsistent results, and it’s tempting to blame yourself or compare your journey to others who seem to be breezing through.
But let’s talk about this a little: if your scores aren’t matching your goals, it might not be about studying harder; it could be that your current English level isn’t strong enough yet to hit those higher scores.
Takeaways:
Understand that consistently low scores on the CELPIP may indicate your English level is not where it needs to be to get the score you want.If you find yourself stuck scoring the same low results, assess your general English skills before retaking the exam.Focus on practicing your weakest areas instead of avoiding them; this can significantly change your scores.Realize that moving from a 7 to a 9 on the CELPIP requires more than just studying harder; it needs dedicated practice sometimes over a year or more.
Get your totally free 5 part mini audio course:
The Top 5 Mistakes Test Takers Make on the Speaking Section of the CELPIP (And what you can do to avoid them!)
(https://celpipsuccess.com/mistakes/)
Mentioned in this episode:
Stop making these top 5 CELPIP Speaking task mistakes
Learn how to spot and avoid the top 5 most common CELPIP speaking task mistakes - this free course will show you how!
Top 5
Don't Confuse Movement With Progress: An Immigration Reality Check feat. Ana Canseco RCIC
2026/08/04
Navigating the maze of immigration can feel like you're stuck on a never-ending treadmill, especially when you find yourself applying for the 11th time without a clear path forward.
The key takeaway from this podcast episode is to shift your mindset from merely surviving to actively planning for your future in Canada. It’s crucial to understand that while temporary permits can give you a breather, they shouldn't be your ultimate strategy; you need to have a long-term goal in sight.
From assessing your qualifications to improving your language skills, each step should be aimed at building eligibility for permanent residency. Remember, it’s all about being proactive and informed—don't just rely on the next temporary fix, but strategically position yourself for success in the Canadian immigration landscape.
Takeaways:
Recognize that applying for temporary fixes can complicate your path to permanent residency, so always plan ahead.It's crucial to shift your mindset from mere survival to building a long-term strategy for your immigration goals.Seek professional advice to understand your options, as immigration laws can be complex and subject to change.Make sure to maintain compliance with immigration regulations, as this protects your future opportunities.When transitioning back to your home country, reflect on your growth and leverage your international experience for future opportunities.Keep your professional connections alive, as networking can significantly aid in your return to Canada or other opportunities.
Links referenced in this episode:
Visit Ana's LinkedIn profile - a great place to get to know how she works and what she can do for you.
Ana's website: Merhouse Immigration
Build your skills for the CELPIP in the most introvert friendly spot on the planet - join the CELPIP Success School and let's work together on your CELPIP goals.
Mentioned in this episode:
Stop making these top 5 CELPIP Speaking task mistakes
Learn how to spot and avoid the top 5 most common CELPIP speaking task mistakes - this free course will show you how!
Top 5
Feeling Muted? Here’s How to Find Your Voice in English
2026/07/21
Feeling stuck in conversations when using English? You’re definitely not alone! Many people experience that frustrating moment when your brain hits pause just when it's your turn to speak.
This episode dives into that common struggle, unpacking the reasons behind feeling muted in a second language and sharing practical strategies to overcome it.
I’ll walk you through some real-life tips, like the importance of staying mentally engaged in discussions and the importance of putting yourself in situations where you can practice your speaking skills, as awful as that can sometimes feel!
Plus, we’ll explore techniques like pre-thinking your responses to common questions, which can help you build confidence and fluency in your second language before you have them.
So, let’s get into it and find out how you can transform those awkward pauses into smooth conversations!
Takeaways:
If you've ever felt like your brain stalls during a conversation in English, know you're not alone; it's a common struggle.Building fluency in a second language takes time, so be patient and keep practicing consistently to improve your speaking skills.Don't let your fears of making mistakes hold you back; actively engage in conversations to enhance your response time and confidence.Pre-thinking about common conversational topics can significantly help you prepare and respond more quickly during actual conversations.Listening actively to how others express ideas can provide you with useful phrases to incorporate into your own speech, this will build your fluency.Remember that avoiding speaking opportunities will only slow down your progress, so dive into conversations whenever you can.
Links referenced in this episode:
allthingslinguistic.com - Pre-thinking. Think about conversations you know are going to come your way before they do.Join the CELPIP Success school - the most introvert friendly spot on the internet to get ready for your CELPIP exam.
Mentioned in this episode:
Stop making these top 5 CELPIP Speaking task mistakes
Learn how to spot and avoid the top 5 most common CELPIP speaking task mistakes - this free course will show you how!
Top 5
The Secret to Speaking Task 3 & 4: Everyday Vocabulary Practice
2026/07/07
Mastering vocabulary for CELPIP speaking task 3 or 4 can be tough especially because you have no way to know BEFORE your exam what you will need to talk about.
So how do you prepare?
You can prepare yourself by digging into your everyday situations!
Just by paying attention to your surroundings, whether you're at a grocery store, a coffee shop, or even filling up your gas tank, you can practice describing what you see.
This means actively thinking about the details around you and using precise vocabulary to describe what you see.
If you stumble upon words or phrases you can’t quite recall, don’t sweat it—take mental notes and look them up later to strengthen your vocabulary for those unexpected moments on test day.
Takeaways:
-- When preparing for speaking tasks, especially task 3, focus on building precise vocabulary.
-- Practice describing your surroundings in everyday scenarios to improve your vocabulary skills.
-- Take mental notes of unfamiliar words (words you might only know in your first language, for example) and look them up in English later to improve your vocabulary.
Let's work together to get your speaking skills ready for the CELPIP.
Join the CELPIP Success School - the most introvert friendly spot on the internet to get ready for your CELPIP exam.
Mentioned in this episode:
Stop making these top 5 CELPIP Speaking task mistakes
Learn how to spot and avoid the top 5 most common CELPIP speaking task mistakes - this free course will show you how!
Top 5
The Art Of Staying Focused in Busy Times
2026/06/23
Life has a sneaky and sometimes in your face way of derailing your focus! Recognizing that this is true and that it happens is vital!
Today, I take a look at how these distractions, whether gradual or abrupt, can throw you off course, especially when prepping for something important like the CELPIP exam, and more importantly, what to do about it when you do realize you're not on track anymore.
I share my own struggles with maintaining consistency so that hopefully you see that you're not the only one!
Check out today's episode for actionable ways to refocus, make adjustments, and say no to distractions so you can get back to what truly matters.
Takeaways:
Recognize when distractions creep in and adjust without self-judgment.Continuous refocusing on your priorities is necessary to remain on track with your goals.Saying no to unimportant distractions allows you to dedicate more time to what truly matters.Understand that everyone faces challenges in staying focused, and it's okay to seek support when needed.
Mentioned in this episode:
Stop making these top 5 CELPIP Speaking task mistakes
Learn how to spot and avoid the top 5 most common CELPIP speaking task mistakes - this free course will show you how!
Top 5
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