Have you ever stayed silent in a conversation—not because you didn’t know the words, but because you were afraid of saying them wrong?
If so, you’re not alone. In fact, you’re part of the majority of English learners who overthink every sentence before they speak.
The problem isn’t your grammar. It’s the thinking trap. And the only way out is to break it — one word, one sentence, one mistake at a time.
In this blog, we’ll show you how.

Blog Category: Podcast

Hosts: Ruby & Tim

Genre: Improvement / Education

Title: Stop Thinking, Start Talking | Learn English with Podcast

INTRODUCE

Ruby:

Hey hey! Welcome back to English Podcast with Ruby — the show that helps you not just learn English, but think in English and speak it confidently every day.

Tim:

Hi everyone! I’m Tim, and we’re so happy to have you here today. Whether you’re on your way to work, relaxing at home, or taking a study break — this episode is something you don’t want to miss.

Ruby:

Yeah, because today we’re diving into a super real and relatable problem — the one most English learners face:

You can think in English… but somehow, you just can’t say it.

Your mind understands the sentence, you even know the words, but when it comes to speaking — silence. Or panic. Sound familiar?

Tim:

Mhm, this “silent struggle” is more common than you think. And the worst part? So many learners stay stuck there for years…

But why is that? Why do we keep studying and still feel frozen when it’s time to speak?

Ruby:

In this episode, we’re going to break it down. We’ll explore why this happens — and more importantly, what you can actually do about it.

So stay with us ‘til the end, because we truly believe this will give you a breakthrough moment. After today, you’ll know exactly what to change, and how to finally make speaking English feel natural and easy.

Tim:

If you’d like to review today’s lesson or go over the vocabulary again, just check out the link in the description — it’s all free, just for you.

Ruby:

And hey, if this podcast helps you, give us a like to support the channel. Drop a comment about what you’re struggling with in English right now — we’re reading them all! And don’t forget to hit that subscribe button so you won’t miss our upcoming episodes.

THE REAL STRUGGLE FOR ENGLISH LEARNERS

Tim:

Alright Ruby, let’s get honest. A lot of people listening right now might understand English really well… but when it’s time to speak — they freeze.

So what’s really going on?

Ruby:

You know Tim, there are a few reasons why this happens — and the first one, honestly, is fear of making mistakes.

Tim:

Oh yeah. Like worrying too much about grammar, or if your pronunciation sounds weird, or whether you’re using the “right” word…

Ruby:

Exactly. And when you start comparing yourself to others — maybe that one friend who speaks fluently — you start thinking, “I’m not good enough.” That destroys confidence.

Tim:

Mhm. But here’s the truth: nobody speaks perfectly all the time — not even native speakers.

The goal is communication, not perfection.

Ruby:

Totally. Another big issue? Translating from your native language word by word.

Tim:

Right! Like when someone wants to say something simple, but they start thinking in their native language, then try to translate it into English — and by the time they’re ready, the moment has passed.

Ruby:

Haha, I’ve totally done that before! It slows you down and makes conversations stressful.

Tim:

And that leads to another problem: lack of confidence and practice.

People don’t speak much because they’re afraid, and because they don’t speak… they never get better. It’s a vicious cycle.

Ruby:

The more you avoid speaking, the harder it becomes. It’s like not going to the gym but expecting your muscles to grow.

Tim:

Haha, I love that example. And you know what else makes it worse?

That feeling that you have to speak perfectly. Like if you make even one tiny mistake, people will judge you.

Ruby:

Yes! But the truth is — even native speakers mess up. They mix grammar, forget words, or say “uhh” all the time. And it’s totally fine!

Tim:

Can I share something personal here?

Ruby:

Of course! Go ahead.

Tim:

So… when I first started speaking English — this was back when I was learning — I remember one time I tried to order coffee in English. I said “I want a coffer” instead of “coffee,” and the guy at the counter literally laughed.

I felt so embarrassed, like I wanted to disappear.

Ruby:

Oh no, Tim…

Tim:

Yeah. For a week after that, I avoided speaking English. I just nodded and smiled.

But eventually, I realized — if I keep avoiding it, I’ll never get better.

So I went back, and every day I ordered again. Eventually, it became normal.

And you know what? That same guy later smiled and said, “Your English’s improving.” That made my whole week.

Ruby:

That’s so real. And I’m sure someone listening right now feels the exact same way.

So hey, if you’ve ever felt embarrassed, frozen, or judged — you are not alone.

Tim:

What matters is that you keep trying. The mistakes? They’re part of the journey.

Ruby:

Exactly. And that’s why we’re here — to help you break through that fear, one small step at a time.

SOLUTIONS – WHY YOU NEED TO STOP OVERTHINKING AND START SPEAKING

Ruby:

So Tim, now that we’ve talked about all the reasons people feel stuck — let’s get into how to actually break free from that.

Tim:

Mm, yes. Let’s say this loud and clear: fluency comes from practice, not from being perfect.

Ruby:

Right! Think about how kids learn to speak — they just talk.

They copy adults, make tons of mistakes, say the wrong word, mess up grammar… and no one says, “Hey! That’s incorrect past perfect progressive!” hahaha.

Tim:

Hahaha, exactly! They repeat, they try again, and slowly they improve.

That’s how real fluency is built — not from overthinking, but from doing.

Ruby:

So here’s a big mindset shift: speak first — fix later.

Tim:

Yes! Just say it. Don’t wait until the sentence is perfect in your head. If you mess up, that’s fine — actually, it’s necessary.

Ruby:

Mhm. Because the goal is communication, not accuracy 100% of the time.

Tim:

And honestly? Most native speakers don’t even care about small grammar mistakes. What they care about is: Can I understand you? Are you confident? Are you trying to connect?

Ruby:

Exactly. So stop judging yourself so harshly. That judgment is the real block, not your English.

Tim:

You know what really helps? Building what we call a “safe English speaking circle.”

Ruby:

Oooh yes. That’s a game-changer.

Tim:

Find just one friend — someone who’s also learning English — and make a deal:

Every day, you talk for 5 to 10 minutes in English. No corrections, no judgment, just practice.

Ruby:

It could be in person, over Zoom, even just audio messages. What matters is consistency.

Tim:

When you know you’re not being judged, it becomes so much easier to speak. You laugh, you mess up together, and you grow faster than you ever could alone.

Ruby:

Mm-hmm. Because the pressure disappears. And when there’s less pressure, there’s more freedom to actually express yourself.

Tim:

So if you’re listening to this and thinking, “I don’t have anyone to speak with” — try asking in a Facebook group, a language exchange app, or even in the comments below this episode.

Ruby:

Yes, let’s build a community where we help each other speak — not just study.

Tim:

Because real improvement starts when you stop hiding behind books… and start using your voice.

PRACTICAL TIPS TO STOP OVERTHINKING AND START SPEAKING

Ruby:

Alright, so now let’s make it super practical.

We’ve talked about why it’s important to speak first and fix later — now let’s talk about how to actually do that.

Tim:

Yeah, we need real tools, not just motivation, right?

Ruby:

Exactly. So here’s the first one — think in English.

I know it sounds simple, but it’s a game-changer.

Tim:

Mm, yeah. Instead of translating every thought from your native language, start describing your day in English.

Like, “I’m making coffee now,” or “It’s sunny outside,” or “I feel tired today.”

Ruby:

Yes! Even if you’re just walking around your room, talk in your head — in English.

The more you do this, the more natural English becomes in your brain.

Tim:

Okay, second tip — and this is big — don’t worry too much about grammar when you’re speaking.

Ruby:

Totally. When you’re speaking, your job is to communicate, not to sound like a textbook.

Tim:

Right. Grammar is important, but not during the moment of speaking. Fixing grammar is something you can do later, during review or study time.

Ruby:

Okay, next one — talk to yourself. Out loud. In English.

Tim:

Mmhm! Stand in front of a mirror and just speak. Describe your day, talk about how you feel, pretend you’re explaining something to a friend.

Ruby:

It might feel silly at first — but honestly, it builds confidence like nothing else.

Tim:

It trains your mouth to move in English.

And it helps you get over the fear of hearing your own voice.

Ruby:

Alright, tip number four — one of my favorites — the shadowing method.

Tim:

Ah yes. This is where you listen to a native speaker — in a podcast, a movie, a YouTube video — and repeat immediately after them. Shadow their speech, rhythm, tone, everything.

Ruby:

Yeah! Don’t pause the audio. Just jump in and speak over it, like you’re echoing them.

It feels weird at first, but you’ll start to pick up the natural flow of English super fast.

Tim:

And last one — keep it simple. Seriously.

Use short, clear sentences when you speak.

Ruby:

You don’t need to use complicated grammar or big words. Just get your message across.

Tim:

Yeah. Something like, “I went to the store” is much better than spending 30 seconds trying to say, “Yesterday afternoon I was attempting to purchase several grocery items…”

Ruby:

Hahaha, exactly! Clarity over complexity. Every time.

Tim:

So remember — think in English, don’t worry too much about grammar, talk to yourself, try shadowing, and keep it simple.

Ruby:

Mm. These tips work. You just have to actually use them.

Tim:

And the more you speak, the easier it becomes. That’s the truth.

Ruby:

Alright, let’s keep going. Tip number six — and honestly, this one is huge.

Accept that you’re going to make mistakes.

Tim:

Mm. That’s not just okay — that’s necessary.

Every mistake you make is a sign that you’re learning, that you’re trying.

Ruby:

Yes! You don’t grow in silence. You grow by trying, failing a bit, and trying again.

Tim:

You know what helped me? I started to see my mistakes as badges of honor. Like, “Yep — I’m learning. I’m in the game.”

Not sitting on the sidelines, just thinking about grammar.

Ruby:

That’s such a good mindset. Mistakes aren’t failure — they’re progress.

Tim:

Alright, tip seven — one of the most powerful things you can do:

Surround yourself with English. Every. Single. Day.

Ruby:

Yes! We call it “language immersion,” or “language bathing.” Just like how you absorb a language as a kid — you have to live with it.

Tim:

So listen to English podcasts while you walk. Watch YouTube videos while cooking. Put subtitles on your favorite shows.

Ruby:

Even if you’re not actively studying — your brain is still picking up rhythm, intonation, and new words naturally.

Tim:

The goal is to make English feel like part of your everyday life — not just a school subject.

Ruby:

Alright, last tip — and this one’s a little challenge:

Set a daily speaking challenge for yourself.

Tim:

Mm! For example, talk about one topic for five minutes non-stop — without stopping to translate or overthink.

Ruby:

Pick something simple like “my weekend,” “my favorite food,” or “what I want to do this year.”

Hit record on your phone, or just talk in front of a mirror.

Tim:

And don’t worry if it’s messy. That’s the point. You’re training your brain to stay in English — without fear.

Honestly, if you do this for 7 days straight, you’ll feel the change. You’ll feel braver.

Ruby:

So let’s recap real quick:

✔ Think in English – Start describing your day in English instead of translating.

✔ Don’t worry too much about grammar – Focus on communication, not perfection.

✔ Talk to yourself – Speak out loud in front of a mirror or when you’re alone to build confidence.

✔ Shadowing method – Listen to native speakers and repeat immediately after them.

✔ Keep it simple – Use short, clear sentences to get your message across.

✔ Accept mistakes – Every mistake is proof that you’re learning and growing.

✔ Surround yourself with English daily – Listen to podcasts, watch movies, and keep English in your environment.

✔ Challenge yourself to speak daily – Try talking non-stop for five minutes on a topic.

Tim:

Mmhm. These small habits can lead to huge breakthroughs. You don’t have to wait to be fluent — you just have to start moving.

SPONTANEOUS SPEAKING CHALLENGE

Ruby:

Alright, now for the fun part. Are you ready for a challenge?

Tim:

Oh, I love this part! So, we’re going to give you a Spontaneous Speaking Challenge.

Ruby:

It’s simple. You have to speak non-stop for one minute about a topic we give you.

No stopping, no overthinking, and definitely no translation.

Tim:

Yeah, just let your thoughts flow. It doesn’t matter if you make mistakes. The goal is to get comfortable speaking.

Ruby:

Exactly! And don’t worry about being perfect. Just keep talking. You’ve got this!

Tim:

Alright, here are your topics:

1. Your favorite food.

2. Your daily routine.

3. A place you want to visit.

Ruby:

Pick one, and talk about it for one whole minute. Try to stay in English, don’t pause to think too much, and just express yourself!

Tim:

Ready? Go for it!

Ruby:

Let’s do something a little different now — mm, kind of like a mini challenge to help you reflect and take action.

Tim:

Yeah — something to help you connect with your own experience as an English learner.

Ruby:

Here’s the question:

“When was the last time you felt shy or nervous about speaking English?”

What was going through your mind at that moment?

Tim:

Was it fear of making a mistake? Worrying about your accent? Or maybe thinking others would judge you?

Ruby:

Mmhm. Take a second, think about it… and if you feel comfortable, drop your answer in the comments.

We really want to hear your story.

Tim:

Yeah, because when you share, someone else might read it and think,

“Oh… I’m not the only one who feels this way.”

Ruby:

Okay, and here comes your second challenge:

Try recording yourself speaking English for just one minute — every day.

Tim:

Use your phone, pick any topic, and just talk. Then, listen to it the next day.

And the next. And the next.

Ruby:

When you do that consistently, you’ll hear your own progress.

You’ll start to notice, “Hey… I’m speaking more fluently than before.”

Tim:

So — two mini challenges:

 Reflect and share: When was your last “I’m too nervous to speak” moment?

 Record a 1-minute talk every day, and track your growth.

Ruby:

Too hard? Haha, maybe! But that’s why we call it a challenge.

Let us know in the comments how it goes for you!

Tim:

And remember — the more you practice, the less scary it becomes

MINDSET SHIFT

Ruby:

Let’s pause for a second, because honestly, none of the techniques we’ve shared will truly work… if your mindset is stuck in fear or perfection.

Tim:

Yeah, mm, mindset is everything. You can memorize thousands of words, know all the grammar rules — but if you’re still afraid to open your mouth, none of that knowledge will come out.

Ruby:

Exactly. And the first thing we want to shift is this idea that you have to feel ready before you start speaking. You don’t. Confidence doesn’t come first — action does.

Tim:

Mmhm. It’s like jumping into a cold pool — you’ll never feel totally ready, but once you’re in, your body adjusts. Same with English. Speak first. The confidence follows.

Ruby:

Second, we’ve got to let go of this obsession with speaking perfectly. I mean, think about it — are you trying to pass a test, or are you trying to connect with people?

Tim:

Right? Connection is way more important than perfection. Native speakers make mistakes all the time — we interrupt, we forget words, we mix grammar — but we keep going.

Ruby:

Because the goal is to be understood, not flawless. And that ties into the next point: mistakes aren’t failures — they’re proof that you’re learning.

Tim:

Yes! Every mistake means you’re showing up, you’re stretching your brain, you’re building a skill. If you’re not making mistakes, you’re probably not challenging yourself enough.

Ruby:

And let’s be real — so many learners feel discouraged when they compare themselves to others. But the only person you should compare yourself to is… your past self.

Tim:

Exactly. Were you too scared to speak a full sentence last month, but now you can talk for 30 seconds without stopping? That’s massive. Celebrate that.

Ruby:

Progress is personal. And the last mindset shift is maybe the hardest — but the most powerful: be okay with being uncomfortable. Growth lives in discomfort.

Tim:

Mm, yeah. If it feels a little awkward, a little scary — that’s not a sign to stop. That’s a sign you’re on the edge of something great.

Ruby:

So the next time you feel nervous, or your voice shakes, or your grammar’s all over the place — keep speaking anyway. That’s your breakthrough moment.

Tim:

You’re not waiting to become fluent. You’re becoming fluent right now — every time you choose courage over comfort.

Ruby:

And we’re right here cheering for you.

Vocabulary from Today’s Podcast

Ruby

And now, as always, Let’s break down a few of the most useful phrases we covered, so you can use them with confidence

Vocabulary	Meaning	For example
Confidence	Meaning: A feeling of trust in one’s abilities	For example: Confidence grows through action, not waiting.
Mindset	Meaning: A set of beliefs that shape how you think and act	For example: Change your mindset, change your results.
Perfection	Meaning: The state of being flawless	For example: Don’t wait for perfection before you speak.
Communication	Meaning: The act of sharing information effectively	For example: The goal is clear communication, not perfect grammar.
Fluency	Meaning: The ability to speak a language smoothly and easily	For example: Fluency comes from practice, not memorizing rules.
Shadowing	Meaning: A technique of repeating after a native speaker instantly	For example: Shadowing helps you sound more natural.
Spontaneous	Meaning: Happening naturally, without pre-planning	For example: Try spontaneous speaking to boost confidence.
Progress	Meaning: Forward movement toward a goal	For example: Every small step is progress.
Discomfort	Meaning: A feeling of unease or awkwardness	For example: Growth lives in discomfort.
Mistake	Meaning: An error or fault in speaking or behavior	For example: Each mistake is a lesson.
Motivation	Meaning: The desire or willingness to do something	For example: Motivation increases when you see progress.
Habit	Meaning: A regular practice or routine	For example: Make speaking English a daily habit.
Clarity	Meaning: The quality of being easy to understand	For example: Focus on clarity, not complexity.
Practice	Meaning: Repeated exercise to improve skill	For example: You can’t grow without consistent practice.
Mind block	Meaning: A mental state where you can’t think or respond easily	For example: Don’t fear the mind block — speak through it.

Conclusion – Words of Encouragement

Ruby:

And now, let’s get back to today’s episode. Mm… you know, Tim, I just want to remind everyone — every single time you speak English, even if it’s just a few words, you’re making progress. You’re moving forward, step by step.

Tim:

Yeah, absolutely. You’re not stuck. You’re growing, rewiring your brain, building confidence. And guess what? You don’t need to wait until you feel ready. That moment might never come — and that’s okay.

Ruby:

Exactly. The best time to start? It’s not tomorrow, not next week — it’s today. Even if your voice shakes, even if you mess up — just start.

Tim:

And please remember this: You are already enough. Smart enough, strong enough, and brave enough to do this. You have what it takes.

Ruby:

So don’t hold back. Speak with courage. Speak imperfectly. Speak from the heart.

Tim:

Because fluency doesn’t come from being perfect — it comes from doing. From showing up again and again.

Ruby:

That’s why our final message to you is simple:

Stop thinking. Start talking.

Tim:

Oof. That still hits me every time.

Ruby:

Same here. And before we go, we want to leave you with one last reminder:

Tim:

“Fluency isn’t about speaking fast — it’s about speaking freely.”

Ruby:

And You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great. – Zig Ziglar

Tim:

Great, Thanks so much for spending this time with us. And hey  — keep going, even on the tough days.

Ruby:

You’ve got this. We believe in you. We really do.

Tim

See you next time — and until then, keep speaking, keep growing.

Learn English Podcast: English Podcast With Ruby

Learn English Conversation: Master English Conversation

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