In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of how The English Experiment podcast actually came to life.​

I talk about where the idea came from, the first test recordings I shared with a student, and the moment this stopped being “just a thought” and turned into a real project. There were plenty of rookie mistakes along the way: a microphone set too low, a teaser recorded while I was ill, and several website experiments that didn’t feel like home.​

I also share how I moved from fighting with WordPress templates to rebuilding the site using Replit and AI helpers, and what it’s like to learn audio, editing, and intro music while working and studying at the same time. This podcast is very much a work in progress — I’m starting from where I am, with what I have, making mistakes and learning as I go.​

If you’re curious about starting your own project or you just want some thoughtful English to listen to, you’re very welcome to join me for this episode. The audio is in English and friendly for learners who prefer real, unscripted content over textbook dialogues. Supporting materials for this episode are available on my website.​

Website: https://teewchantelle.com

Are you learning English and feeling tired of old‑school textbook stuff? This short intro episode is for you.​

I’m a South African living in Moscow, and I’m also learning Russian. My biggest challenge is finding speaking practice that actually feels interesting, not just grammar drills and exercises. That experience is what sparked The English Experiment – a podcast where you learn through English by exploring real topics and questions, not by doing tests.​

In this episode, I talk about:

• Why traditional speaking practice often feels flat for adults
• The idea of learning through English, not just “learning English”
• How your curiosity and questions can shape future episodes
• Optional extras like transcripts and study packs, if you want a bit more structure​

If any of this sounds like your journey, stick around. This is The English Experiment with Chantelle. Let’s see where this goes.​

Tools I use:​

• Perplexity – research, ideas, planning: https://plex.it/referrals/R5ALDFB7
• Replit – website experiments and development: https://replit.com/refer/chanterblanch

Some of these are referral links, which means I may receive a small benefit if you sign up using them, at no extra cost to you.