20 Minutes a Day - Presented by Verbatum

In this episode, Erin and Sarah sit down with Annick, a seasoned travel agent with nearly two decades of experience exploring the world! 🌎

From learning English in Australia to cruising through Alaska’s glaciers and Norway’s fjords, Annick shares her favorite destinations, best travel tips, and the biggest mistakes travelers should avoid. She also reveals her unique souvenir tradition—collecting Christmas ornaments from every country she visits—and how each decoration brings back a world of memories.

You’ll learn:

Grab your favorite travel mug (or magnet!) and join Erin and Sarah as they dive into the pros and cons of solo travel and group adventures in this episode of 20 Minutes a Day 🌍✨

From peaceful solo retreats to unforgettable group trips, the hosts share personal stories and explore what they’ve learned on their own adventures. 

💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Camaraderie, Self-reliance, Budget-friendly

👉 Don’t forget to share your favorite travel story or style (solo, couple, or group) in the comments! Or email us at 20minutesaday.verbatum@gmail.com 

✨...

In this episode, Erin and Sarah kick off the Travel Series of Season 2 with a lively conversation about why we travel — from self-discovery and curiosity to wellness, connection, and personal achievement. 🌍✈️

They share their own stories from solo adventures to language learning abroad. Along the way, they explore how travel changes us, deepens empathy, and reminds us that every journey teaches something new.

 So grab your coffee (or a piña colada 😉) and join the conversation!

💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Wanderlust, Itinerary, Achievement.

👉 Don’t forget to let us know...

How do you stay motivated when learning a language—or when working toward any big goal? 🎯 In this episode, Erin and Sarah sit down with special guest Mélina Dufour, consultant, entrepreneur, and host of the Boost Pod, to explore the ups and downs of motivation.

Together, they discuss:

💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Procra...

In this episode, Erin and Sarah bring tools, tips, and tricks for each style so you can know how to study in a way that actually sticks!

Whether you’re a visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learner (take this quiz if you’re not sure yet ➡️ https://forms.gle/P1KMxk3TkaUiZUJy5), this episode is packed with practical tips and language learning tools that match your style. From flashcards to mobile apps to memory tricks, they’ll help you find what works for you.

💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Breakthrough, customizable, user-friendly

👉Grab o...

Do you learn better by seeing, hearing, or doing? In this episode, Sarah and Erin explore different learning styles and why understanding your own can help you make faster progress in when learning a language.

They share:

- The 3 most common learning styles

- Personal stories from their clients and their own language journeys

- Simple tips to help you identify your style

💬 Vocabulary to listen for:

Struggle, Engage, Cue

👉 Here’s the link to the learning style quiz: https://forms.gle/P1KMxk3T...

Season 2 is almost here! 🎉 We’re bringing you fresh conversations, new guest voices, and even more opportunities to practice your English listening skills. Get ready for inspiring stories from around the world, useful vocabulary, and real-life expressions you can use right away.

👉 Subscribe now so you don’t miss the first episode when it drops!

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In this final bonus episode before Season 2, Erin continues her conversation with Sean as they dive into their shared love of travel, culture, and global connection.

You’ll hear them chat about:

- How exploring new places—even convenience stores!—can spark joy and curiosity

- Why confidence, exposure, and routine are key to long-term success—especially for advanced learners and professionals

- What they enjoy most about being language coaches

It’s a thoughtful, engaging episode that blends language learning, cultural discovery, and personal growth.

🎧 Th...

In this fun and thoughtful episode, Erin sits down with Sean—one of our incredible Verbatum English coaches—for the first part of a two-part interview!

You’ll get to know Sean as they discuss:

Sean’s easygoing personality and passion for people and culture shine through in this warm...

We’re back with part two of our host Sarah’s interview with—yes— Sarah! 😄In this lighthearted episode, you’ll get to hear some fun and surprising facts about one of our Verbatum English coaches.

Sarah shares:

It’s a relaxed, entertaining episode that’s great for practicing your English listening and getting to know the real people behind your lessons.

🎧 Don’t forget—Season 2 of the...

 In this episode, Sarah (the host) sits down with her longtime friend and fellow Verbatum coach—Sarah! Yes, it’s a double Sarah situation 😄

Get to know Coach Sarah as she answers fun and thoughtful questions like:

It’s a fun and pers...

We’re back with Part 2 of Sarah’s conversation with Niki, one of our inspiring English coaches at Verbatum. 🌟 This episode goes a little deeper, with thoughtful questions and meaningful reflections—perfect for intermediate English learners who want to practice listening and pick up new vocabulary.

In this episode, Niki shares:

It’s a great reminder of how learning and teaching languages can open doors and transform lives :)

Welcome to another episode of our bonus interview series! 🎉

While Season 2 is on the way, we’re introducing you to the incredible English coaches behind Verbatum. In this episode, Sarah sits down with Niki, a fun and thoughtful coach with a great sense of humor. Niki answers:

This light and engaging conversation is perfect for practicing your listening skills and enjoying some laughs along t...

We’re back with Part 2 of Erin’s conversation with Paula, one of our wonderful English coaches at Verbatum. 💬

This episode takes a more reflective turn as they dive into a thoughtful discussion about travel and what it means to feel at home. In this episode, Paula shares:

It’s a beautiful conversation that’s perfect for practicing your listening comprehension while reflecting on your own experiences with language and culture.

Time for another fun bonus episode! 🎉

This week, Erin sits down with Paula, one of our passionate and engaging English coaches here at Verbatum. In this light and entertaining conversation, Paula shares:

It’s a great chance to practice your listening and get to know Paula’s personality, interests, and sense of humor.

📍Part 2 of the interview with Pau...

We’re back with Part 2 of our interview with Jess, one of our wonderful English coaches here at Verbatum! 🌟

In this episode, Erin asks Jess some deeper, more thoughtful questions—perfect for practicing your listening skills and learning some great vocabulary along the way. Questions include:

If you’re curious about langua...

Welcome to the first episode of our bonus interview series! 🎉

While Season 2 is on the way, Erin and Sarah are sitting down with our amazing English coaches so you can get to know the people behind the lessons. In this episode, Erin chats with Jess, one of our fun and creative coaches at Verbatum. Jess answers questions like:

Tune in to practice your listening, learn ne...

We're back with something special! While you wait for Season 2 of our podcast (coming this fall!), we're launching a mini-series of bonus episodes just for you. 🎉

Starting next Sunday, tune in to meet 5 of our amazing English coaches from all over North America! This is the perfect way to keep learning and stay motivated between seasons. Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss an episode!

👉 First bonus episode drops next Sunday!

🎙️ Designed for intermediate English learners

🌍 Real conversations with native speakers

🧠 Listening practice + learning tips

Hosted on Aca...

In this season finale, Sarah and Erin are joined by Emily Plante, founder of Excellent Speakers Academy, to explore the secrets of impactful public speaking. Whether you're addressing a large audience, recording a podcast, or leading a small meeting, Emily shares actionable tips to boost your confidence, refine your delivery, and make your message unforgettable. You can find Emily on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilie-plante/

Come discover how these skills can transform your professional and personal communication. Don’t miss this insightful and entertaining wrap-up to season one and stay tuned for more ex...

Bored of long, unproductive meetings? So are we! In this episode of 20 Minutes a Day, Sarah and Erin tackle the art of leading and participating in successful meetings.

Learn how to prepare effectively, stay present, and create actionable plans—all while keeping things fun and engaging. With practical tips like making agendas work for you, using second language skills confidently, and fostering participation from everyone, this episode is your key to mastering the meeting game.

Plus, hear some hilarious stories about meetings gone wrong and access a free cheatsheet and exercise to supercharge yo...

In this episode of 20 Minutes a Day, Sarah and Erin tackle the art of the sales pitch, breaking down how to craft a compelling pitch that’s natural, engaging, and—most importantly—authentic.

Whether you’re pitching a business idea, trying to connect with potential clients, or simply sharing an idea, this episode will walk you through three simple steps: identifying the problem, presenting your solution, and wrapping up with a clear call to action.

With real-life examples, relatable tips, and practical exercises, this episode is a must for anyone wanting to refine their sa...

In this episode of 20 Minutes a Day, we kick off a new series focused on business language skills, starting with networking!

Sarah and Erin discuss how to navigate networking events with confidence, from finding the right people to practicing a solid introduction. Learn the essentials of making professional connections in a second language, whether at formal events or casual coffee meetups.

Tune in to explore practical tips on how to prepare, approach, and follow up with new contacts—all while building your language skills. Don’t miss out on this episode if you’re loo...

Join us for an inspiring episode as Verbatum’s language coaches, Paul and Sarah, share their unforgettable travel experiences.

Paul, a seasoned globetrotter, recounts heartwarming encounters in places like Croatia, where kindness transcended language barriers.

Sarah, meanwhile, takes us on her solo journey to the Philippines and Japan with her two young children, offering tips on embracing flexibility and making lasting memories abroad.

Tune in for stories of adventure, resilience, and the deep connections that language can foster.

For FREE resources to help you on your learning adventure, cl...

In this lively episode, Sarah and Erin dive into personal travel adventures, sharing memorable souvenirs and amusing mishaps along the way. They provide practical advice for navigating transportation, focusing on key steps like checking in at airports, handling security protocols, catching taxis, and making smooth connections between flights. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or preparing for your first trip abroad, this episode offers essential language tips for mastering travel conversations.

Listen closely for three useful vocabulary words: conveyor belt, chit chat, and hail a taxi—and jot them down to practice later. Plus, learn how to a...

In this playful and informative episode, Sarah and Erin role-play a hotel check-in and dining scenario, teaching key travel vocabulary along the way.

They focus on terms such as continental breakfast, rare steak, a popular dinner choice; and double room. Through their role-play, they cover typical questions travelers might ask, from directions to dining recommendations, ensuring listeners are well-equipped for their next adventure.

Don't forget to check out this cheat sheet for even more useful phrases! https://verbatum.ca/en/aides-memoire-et-exercices/

Credits:

Kitchen Timer by maphill -- https...

In this first in a series of 4 episodes covering traveling skills, Sarah and Erin delve into essential restaurant vocabulary for ordering food in a second language.

They discuss useful phrases like asking about menu items, substitutions, and handling food allergies.

Keep your ears open to hear three key terms: shellfish, surf and turf, and house dressing. Be sure to jot them down with their meanings.

From appetizers to dessert, your hosts walk through the dining experience, sharing personal stories and tips for making your restaurant visit smoother, no matter what...

In this fourth episode, Sarah and Erin interview each other, exploring such topics as their favorite guilty pleasure songs, their language learning experiences, and the importance of trust in language coaching.

The three vocabulary words listeners should focus on are:

As they interview each other, Sarah and Erin explore topics ranging from adapting to a new culture to deep personal reflections on confidence, balance, and their passion for language coaching.

Now it's YOUR turn! Share with us your language learning story! 20minutesaday.verbatum@gmail...

In this third episode of their engaging podcast, Erin and Sarah dive into the world of low-cost language learning resources. From speaking with native speakers on Tandem and HelloTalk to discovering podcasts and apps that cater to your interests, this episode is packed with practical tools to help you excel in your language journey.

They also share their personal experiences, recommend excellent reading materials, and discuss how AI tools like ChatGPT can enhance your writing and pronunciation. Get ready to supercharge your language learning without spending a dime!

Don't forget to listen for...

In Episode 2 of "20 Minutes a Day," Sarah and Erin reveal some of their favorite tips and tricks for making language learning more effective—and fun! They share personal stories about overcoming the trap of perfectionism while encouraging listeners to engage with their target language in ways that appeal to them (watching shows and movies, listening to music, reading a great book).

This episode is packed with practical advice to help you stay engaged and make progress every day. Plus, Sarah and Erin introduce three new vocabulary words to add to your growing list: make a mistake, we...

In this enjoyable and informative debut episode, co-hosts Sarah and Erin from Verbatum share the WHY of the show. They dive into what "20 Minutes a Day" is all about and their language learning approach: consistency and fun.

Tune in to discover why dedicating just 20 minutes a day to language practice can transform your skills and keep you motivated on your journey. From habit-building to boosting confidence, Erin and Sarah highlight the benefits of consistent practice, sprinkle in some personal stories, and kick off the first of many vocabulary challenges for listeners. Get ready to learn with...

Bring us along on your language-learning journey with tips, trips and resources to help you travel with ease and do business with finesse.

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