Real English Conversations Podcast | Confident English for International Professionals

Do you ever feel like you're capable of more, but something is holding you back?
Many English learners struggle with confidence. They know more English than they think they do, but fear, self-doubt, overthinking, and the fear of making mistakes stop them from speaking naturally and expressing themselves fully.
In this inspiring episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, Curtis sits down with educator, TEDx speaker, author, professional speaker, engineer, and corporate executive John Kundly to discuss confidence, communication, personal growth, purpose, and how to move forward even when you don't feel ready.
John shares his remarkable journey from a small town in Ohio to becoming a successful corporate executive, TEDx speaker, and author—including a period when he was homeless and living in his car after moving to Los Angeles.
Together, Curtis and John explore why confidence isn't something you wait for—it's something you build through action.
If you've ever struggled with speaking English confidently, experienced imposter syndrome, felt stuck in your career, or wondered how to create better opportunities for yourself, this conversation is packed with practical insights and inspiration.
In This Episode You'll Learn:
✅ Why action comes before confidence
✅ How English learners can overcome fear when speaking
✅ Why confidence and fluency are not the same thing
✅ The "Evidence & Exposure" formula for building confidence
✅ How to overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome
✅ Why successful people still struggle with confidence
✅ How setbacks and detours can become life-changing opportunities
✅ The difference between goals and purpose
✅ Communication skills that separate average professionals from exceptional professionals
✅ How to build a strong professional network and find mentors
✅ Why comparison destroys confidence and what to focus on instead
✅ Practical advice for English learners who want to create better opportunities in life and work
💡 Memorable Quote From John
"Don't wait until you feel ready to use your voice. Use your voice to get ready."
🎙️ Connect with John Kundly
🌐 Website https://reachwithjohn.com
📖 Book: Within Reach https://withinreachbook.net
🎤 TEDx Talk: The Internal GPS (IGPS) https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=John+Kundly+TEDx
📸 Instagram @ReachWithJohn
🎵 TikTok @ReachWithJohn
💼 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnkundly/

🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations
💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?
Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.
👉 Book your Trial Session https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/
🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge (50% OFF with code: 90DAY50) https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/
🌐 Website https://realenglishconversations.com
🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q
🎧 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837
📺 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations
📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/
📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline
💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/
💖 Support the Podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast

What happens when three completely different life journeys collide around the same global challenge?
In the final episode of our 6-part Plot Pattern series, Curtis Davies is joined once again by co-host Matt Gardner (Mod Hob Matt) — along with special guest Maryam Shoja, co-founder of the Mod Hob Cooperative — to explore one of the most advanced storytelling frameworks yet: the Parallel Plot Pattern.
This episode goes far beyond storytelling.
Together, Curtis, Matt, and Maryam trace their individual experiences from the turn of the millennium (Y2K) through the evolution of technology, communication, media, education, and AI — showing how seemingly separate lives can converge around shared challenges and common purpose.
From encyclopedias and VHS tapes… to smartphones, social media, and artificial intelligence… this conversation explores how technology has transformed the way we learn, teach, connect, and think.
But the deeper question remains:
👉 As AI makes everything faster and easier… are we losing the friction that helps us truly learn?
✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn
🎭 What the Parallel Plot Pattern is — and why it's one of the most powerful storytelling structures
🌍 How three different life journeys across Canada, Iran, Malaysia, and Mexico intersect through shared global change
📱 The evolution from analog to digital culture — from flip phones and VHS to AI and smartphones
🧠 Why "friction" and discomfort are essential for deep learning and memory retention
🤖 The opportunities and dangers of AI in education and communication
💬 Why human connection still matters in language learning
📚 How technology changed the way we study, teach, consume media, and build relationships
⚖️ The importance of balancing digital tools with real-world human interaction
🔄 How systems thinking helps us understand how everything is connected
💡 Key Insight from This Episode
"If learning becomes too easy, we risk losing the depth, challenge, and reflection that create real growth."
— Real English Conversations Podcast
🌍 Why This Episode Matters
The Parallel Plot Pattern helps us understand that no one exists in isolation.
Every person experiences the world differently…
but our stories still intersect through shared systems, technologies, conflicts, and cultural shifts.
This framework teaches us to:
• See multiple perspectives at once
• Understand how systems influence people
• Think critically about technology and communication
• Recognize the value of human connection in a digital world
As AI and automation continue to reshape society, this episode reminds us that meaningful learning still requires:
✨ curiosity
✨ challenge
✨ reflection
✨ human connection
📌 Connect With Mod Hob Matt & Maryam Shoja & The Mod Hob Cooperative
🌐 PlotWeaver Substack (Articles + Story Examples) https://plotweaver.substack.com
🎲 PlotWeaver Cards of Creation & Demo https://www.plotweavergame.com/
🏢 Mod Hob Cooperative https://www.modhob.ca/
🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations
💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?
Work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you communicate clearly, confidently, and naturally in real-world professional situations.
👉 Book your trial session https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/
🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge (50% OFF with code: 90DAY50) https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/
🌐 Website https://realenglishconversations.com
🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q
🎧 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837
📺 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations
📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/
📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline
💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/
💖 Support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast
🎧 Follow the Series
This episode is part #5 of a 6-part Plot Patterns series designed to help you speak English more naturally, confidently, and effectively in real-life situations.
Make sure to listen to the previous episodes here :
Pt. #1 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/32ZUr4A3gjJao5B9fYwtY7?si=c6d80914e72b4e12
Pt. #1 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-1-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-inverted/id977345837?i=1000758633315
Pt. #2 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Wr0JvE86Z0es46GNhHI3t?si=44418cfa4d1c4328
Pt. #2 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-2-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver/id977345837?i=1000761512525
Pt. #3 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ISJwN6i7mWGS3omRxnrkq?si=daf286c066814c24
Pt. #3 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-3-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-non-linear/id977345837?i=1000763047501
Pt. #4 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/35BJrefXZYAwVxIThD1hGY?si=c212395822574664
Pt. #4 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-4-of-6-how-to-master-the/id977345837?i=1000766428137
Pt. #5 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6VxWCvn7PTJhKbpOD86yW2?si=b944bd28a7404f9e
Pt # 5 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-5-of-6-how-to-master-the/id977345837?i=1000767564190

Why do so many English learners struggle with perfectionism, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome — even when they're improving?
In Part 5 of our 6-part Plot Pattern series, Curtis Davies is joined again by co-host Matt Gardner (Mod Hob Matt) to explore one of the most powerful storytelling and personal growth frameworks ever created:
The Monomyth Plot Pattern — also known as The Hero's Journey.
This episode goes far beyond storytelling.
Curtis and Matt break down how the Hero's Journey mirrors the real-life experience of learning English, building confidence, overcoming fear, and pushing through the uncomfortable stages of growth.
If you've ever:
• felt embarrassed making mistakes
• doubted your English abilities
• struggled with perfectionism
• or felt stuck in your progress…
This episode will completely change how you view the learning process.
✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn
🎯 The 5 major stages of the Monomyth / Hero's Journey 🧠 Why perfectionism is one of the biggest barriers to fluency 💬 How imposter syndrome affects language learners 📉 The connection between ADHD, confidence, and communication struggles 🔥 Why growth only happens outside your comfort zone 🎵 How mistakes in music, storytelling, and creativity often lead to breakthroughs 📚 The connection between the Dunning-Kruger Effect and language learning 💡 Why "mistakes" are actually part of the mastery process 🚀 How to build resilience and confidence through real communication practice
💡 Key Insight from This Episode
"Your mistakes are not proof that you're failing — they are proof that you're growing."
— Real English Conversations Podcast
🌍 Why This Episode Matters
The Monomyth teaches us that every learner goes through the same cycle:
Comfort → Challenge → Self-Doubt → Breakthrough → Transformation
This applies directly to:
• Learning English confidently
• Public speaking
• Professional communication
• ADHD learning challenges
• Building resilience
• Overcoming perfectionism
• Becoming a stronger communicator
The goal is not perfection.
The goal is transformation.
And sometimes the biggest breakthrough happens right after the moment you feel like giving up.
📌 Connect With Mod Hob Matt Here
🌐 PlotWeaver Substack (Articles + Story Examples) https://plotweaver.substack.com
🎲 PlotWeaver Demo (Storytelling Practice Tool) https://www.plotweavergame.com/
🏢 Mod Hob Cooperative https://www.modhob.ca/
🎙️ Connect with Curtis & Real English Conversations
💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?
We currently have space for new students to work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.
Email - [email protected] OR [email protected] 
👉 Book your trial session https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/
🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge (50% OFF with code 90DAY50) https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/
🌐 Website https://realenglishconversations.com
🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q
🎧 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837
📺 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations
📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/
📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline
💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/
💖 Support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast
🎧 Follow the Series
This episode is part #5 of a 6-part Plot Patterns series designed to help you speak English more naturally, confidently, and effectively in real-life situations.
Make sure to listen to the previous episodes here :
Pt. #1 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/32ZUr4A3gjJao5B9fYwtY7?si=c6d80914e72b4e12
Pt. #1 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-1-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-inverted/id977345837?i=1000758633315
Pt. #2 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Wr0JvE86Z0es46GNhHI3t?si=44418cfa4d1c4328
Pt. #2 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-2-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver/id977345837?i=1000761512525
Pt. #3 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ISJwN6i7mWGS3omRxnrkq?si=daf286c066814c24
Pt. #3 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-3-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-non-linear/id977345837?i=1000763047501
Pt. #4 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/35BJrefXZYAwVxIThD1hGY?si=c212395822574664
Pt. #4 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-4-of-6-how-to-master-the/id977345837?i=1000766428137

Why do so many professionals feel stuck in their English progress, even when they're practicing consistently every day?
In Part 4 of our 6-part Plot Pattern series, Curtis Davies is joined by co-host Matt Gardner (Mod Hob Matt) to explore one of the most practical and powerful frameworks yet: the Circular Plot Pattern.
This episode reveals why progress in English (and in life) isn't about pushing harder — it's about creating balance, adapting to disruption, and building confidence through consistent routines.
If you've ever felt like you're doing "everything right" but still not improving… this episode will show you what's missing.
Together, Curtis and Matt break down how routines, setbacks, and mindset shifts all work together in a cycle, and how mastering this pattern can help you communicate more clearly, stay calm under pressure, and continue improving without burnout.
✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn
🎯 The 4 key stages of the Circular Plot Pattern (and how they apply to language learning) 🔄 Why consistency alone isn't enough — and what actually drives progress 🧠 How to handle disruptions like mistakes, anxiety, or unexpected situations 💬 The role of active listening and confidence in real communication 📉 Why "working harder" can actually slow your progress 📈 How to build habits that improve your English step by step 🧘 Practical strategies (like meditation & mindset shifts) to stay calm and focused 💡 How to create backup plans (Plan B / contingency plans) in real conversations
💡 Key Insight from This Episode
"Progress doesn't come from doing more — it comes from adapting, reflecting, and returning stronger."
— Real English Conversations Podcast
🌍 Why This Episode Matters
The Circular Plot Pattern teaches us that growth is not linear.
It's a cycle: You build a routine → face disruption → adapt → return stronger.
This applies directly to: • Speaking English in real-life situations • Handling mistakes and pressure • Building confidence over time • Staying consistent without burnout
If you want to stop feeling stuck and start feeling in control of your English… this framework is a game changer.
📌 Resources Mentioned
🌐 PlotWeaver Substack (Articles + Story Examples) https://plotweaver.substack.com
🎲 PlotWeaver Demo (Storytelling Practice Tool) https://www.plotweavergame.com/
🏢 Mod Hob Cooperative https://www.modhob.ca/
🎙️ Connect with Curtis & Real English Conversations
💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?
We currently have space for new students to work directly with Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.
👉 Book your trial session https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/
🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge (50% OFF with code 90DAY50) https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/
🌐 Website https://realenglishconversations.com
🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q
🎧 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837
📺 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations
📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/
📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline
💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/
💖 Support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast
🎧 Follow the Series
This episode is part #4 of a 6-part Plot Patterns series designed to help you speak English more naturally, confidently, and effectively in real-life situations.
Make sure to listen to the previous episodes here :
Pt. #1 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/32ZUr4A3gjJao5B9fYwtY7?si=c6d80914e72b4e12
Pt. #1 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-1-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-inverted/id977345837?i=1000758633315
Pt. #2 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Wr0JvE86Z0es46GNhHI3t?si=44418cfa4d1c4328
Pt. #2 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-2-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver/id977345837?i=1000761512525
Pt. #3 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ISJwN6i7mWGS3omRxnrkq?si=daf286c066814c24
Pt. #3 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-3-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-non-linear/id977345837?i=1000763047501

Why do smart professionals struggle to explain complex ideas clearly in English?
It's not because the ideas are too complicated… It's because they don't know how to connect them.
In this episode of the Real English Conversations Podcast, the show that helps global professionals speak clearly and confidently at work, host Curtis Davies is joined once again by co-host Matt Gardner (Mod Hob Matt) to break down Plot Pattern #3: The Non-Linear Method.
If you've ever felt overwhelmed trying to explain data, trends, or multiple ideas in English — or worried that your message feels scattered or unclear — this episode is for you.
Together, Curtis and Matt explore how real-world communication is often non-linear — especially in business, strategy, and problem-solving situations.
Building on the previous episodes (The Inverted Plot Pattern and The Frame Tale Method), you'll learn how to take disconnected ideas and turn them into a clear, powerful message that makes sense to your audience.
At the core of this episode is a powerful mindset shift: Great communicators don't just share information — they connect the dots.
✨ In This Episode, You'll Learn
🎯 What the Non-Linear Plot Pattern is and why it's essential in real-world communication 🧠 How to connect multiple ideas, trends, or data points into one clear message 💬 How to explain complex topics in meetings, presentations, and interviews 📊 How professionals use this in strategy, marketing, and data analysis 🧩 Why communication isn't always a straight line — and how to manage that 🔥 How to turn confusion into clarity by finding "the intersection"
💡 Key Insight from This Episode
"Truth isn't always a straight line — it's a pattern waiting to be connected."
— Mod Hob Matt Gardner
This episode is perfect for professionals who need to communicate complex ideas clearly — especially in fast-paced, high-level environments where clarity and confidence matter most.
📌 Resources Mentioned
🌐 PlotWeaver Demo (Storytelling Practice Tool) https://www.plotweavergame.com/
🌐 Mod Hob Cooperative https://www.modhob.ca/
Substack - https://plotweaver.substack.com/p/d40d9265-2e0a-4dac-a46b-e4cde3f73fda
🎙️ Connect with Mod Hob Matt
🌐 Website https://www.modhob.ca/
🌐 PlotWeaver Game https://www.plotweavergame.com/
🎙️ Connect with Teacher Curtis & Real English Conversations
💬 Want to improve your English for professional success?
We currently have space for new students to work directly with Teacher Curtis through personalized coaching designed to help you speak clearly, confidently, and effectively at work.
👉 Book your trial session https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/member-plans/fluency-programs/trial-lesson/
🔥 Join the 90-Day English Challenge Now 50% OFF with coupon code 90DAY50
https://realenglishconversations.com/memberships/our-courses/90-day-next-level-english/
🌐 Website https://realenglishconversations.com
🎧 Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/76ihNoEcjms6485Vt1ng5q
🎧 Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-english-conversations-podcast-real-english-for/id977345837
📺 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@realenglishconversations
📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rec.real.english/
📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/RealEnglishConversationsOnline
💼 LinkedIn — Curtis Davies https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-davies-07928646/
💖 Support the podcast on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/RealEnglishConversationsPodcast
🎧 Follow the Series
This episode is part #3 of a 6-part Plot Patterns series designed to help you speak English more naturally, confidently, and effectively in real-life situations.
Make sure to listen to the previous episodes here :
Pt. #1 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/32ZUr4A3gjJao5B9fYwtY7?si=c6d80914e72b4e12
Pt. #1 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/pt-1-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver-inverted/id977345837?i=1000758633315
Pt. #2 On Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Wr0JvE86Z0es46GNhHI3t?si=44418cfa4d1c4328
Pt. #2 On Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-episode-pt-2-of-6-how-to-master-the-plotweaver/id977345837?i=1000761512525