Chinwag Tuesdays

Aussie English with Amanda
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Welcome to Chinwag Tuesdays – your passport to a world of language and culture, with me - Amanda, your Aussie English expert. Join me every week, as I sit down with ESL teachers from around the globe, fellow Australian native speakers, and inspiring English learners. Get ready for a dose of cultural insights, language tips, and good vibes to boost your Tuesday.

  1. 9 SEPT

    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

    47 min

  2. 19 AUG

    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

    53 min

  3. 5 AUG

    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

    46 min

  4. 22 JUL

    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

    46 min

  5. 8 JUL

    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

    1 hr

  6. 24 JUN

    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

    37 min

  7. 10 JUN

    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

    42 min

  8. 27 MAY

    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/

    56 min
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About

Welcome to Chinwag Tuesdays – your passport to a world of language and culture, with me - Amanda, your Aussie English expert. Join me every week, as I sit down with ESL teachers from around the globe, fellow Australian native speakers, and inspiring English learners. Get ready for a dose of cultural insights, language tips, and good vibes to boost your Tuesday.

Information

  • Creator
    Aussie English with Amanda
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    55
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Aussie English with Amanda
  • Show Website
    Chinwag Tuesdays

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