I discuss the toxic impact of social media’s “improvement culture” on our self-worth. Language coach Bianca Gonzalez explores how centering each learner’s unique experience leads to real progress. Follow Mary Costello on LinkedIn to join Bianca’s weekly bilingual coffee chats. A safe, relaxed & FREE space to practice your English (& Spanish)!

Today I discuss why the Spanish accent is powerful and ! How school grammar trauma blocks real communication, and why English is a tool, not a test. I explain how I help people reconnect with confidence, use what they already know, and focus on real goals like leading meetings and giving presentations. It’s not about perfection. It’s about using English and feeling great doing it.

Hoy, me acompaña Nacho Fernández, coach de español. Hablamos sobre bloqueos mentales como el miedo y el perfeccionismo, y exploramos cómo el coaching, la escucha pasiva y hablar desde el primer día pueden ayudarte a ganar verdadera confianza, rápidamente. I speak Spanish on this one too!

I reflect on the 'Chicken Story' and how being laughed at by a shop full of strangers impacted me more than I realised. I then share another language mix-up with an Amazon delivery guy. Looking back, I’ve learned these moments are a key part of the learning process. Even if we upset a few Amazon guys along the way! Watch it HERE with subtitles

Here is a funny story from my early days in Spain when my basic Spanish skills led to a hilarious mix-up at the butcher's! It’s a lighthearted reminder that making mistakes is a natural part of learning and often leads to the best memories. Watch it with subtitles here on YouTube