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TEFL Unlocked Podcast
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Teaching in Spain: Mairead’s TEFL journey
Episode 92
Dive into the world of Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) with TEFL Unlocked, the ultimate podcast for aspiring and seasoned educators. Whether you're just starting your journey or looking to enhance your teaching skills, this podcast offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.
Interviewing Luan: A day in the life of an online TEFL teacher
Episode 91
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Mairead puts fellow host Luan in the hot seat. Together they explore what a typical day looks like for an online English teacher, from lesson planning and student interaction to technology and teaching routines
Choosing the right classroom rewards
Episode 90
Luan and Mairead discuss how rewards change with age, common mistakes teachers make, and simple ideas that keep learners motivated without distracting from the lesson.
Storytelling in the classroom
Episode 89
Join Luan and Mairead as they chat about the power of storytelling in the ESL classroom, sharing practical ideas, personal experiences, and simple ways to make language learning engaging and memorable.
Creating an introductory video that gets noticed
Episode 88
Not sure what to say in your teacher introduction video? Join us as we explore eight simple strategies to help you create a short, engaging and professional video that captures attention, builds trust and helps fill your classroom with eager learners.
What is the CEFR? Understanding A1-C2 language levels
Episode 87
Confused by CEFR levels? Join Luan and Mairead as they break down A1 to C2, explain learner abilities, and discuss why understanding language levels matters for teachers.
Classroom management: What would you do?
Episode 86
Inspired by discussions from our practical face-to-face TTA training sessions, this episode tackles real classroom management situations and practical responses that teachers can apply immediately.
Beating the mid-year slump
Episode 85
Feeling tired, unmotivated, or stuck in a teaching rut? Luan and Mairead share practical strategies to protect your energy, prevent burnout, and rediscover balance
Don't do that! - Part 2
Episode 84
In Part 2 of Don’t do that!, Luan and Mairead explore more common teaching habits that can unintentionally hold students back — from overplanning to missing signs of confusion in the classroom.
Don’t do that! - Part 1
Episode 83
This episode is a survival guide for new English teachers. Luan and Mairead unpack six common classroom mistakes that quietly damage student confidence, participation, and progress.
Managing behaviour in the EFL Classroom: What actually works
Episode 82
Luan and Mairead tackle one of the biggest challenges for EFL teachers—classroom management. They discuss routines, pace, instructions, and relationships, and explain why behaviour is often a symptom, not the root problem.
Dictionary activities that actually work in the classroom
Episode 81
Dictionaries are often overlooked in language teaching — but they can be one of the most useful classroom tools. Luan and Mairead share simple, effective dictionary activities alongside advice on choosing the right level of challenge for your learners.
Using the internet with purpose in the ESL classroom
Episode 80
How can you use the internet in your classroom without students going off-task? in this episode, we share tips to help you structure online activities, keep learners focused, and promote meaningful language use.
Practical ways to teach large classes: Part 2
Episode 79
In part two, Luan and Mairead further explore a range of classroom tasks designed for larger groups, showing how clear structure and peer interaction can support active communication across different activity types.
Practical ways to teach large classes
Episode 78
Big groups can feel overwhelming, especially at first. This episode shares simple ways to manage noise, structure your lessons, and keep students speaking without trying to control every moment.
Real TEFL questions from you, our listeners
Episode 77
In this special Q&A episode, we answer real questions from TEFL teachers worldwide—covering first jobs, post-certification uncertainty, and how to move forward with confidence in a changing industry.
Peer teaching in the classroom: Strategies that work
Episode 76
In this episode, Luan and Mairead explore the benefits of peer teaching and share practical strategies that boost engagement, encourage interaction, and bring more fun into the classroom.
Teaching every mind: Neurodiversity in the classroom
Episode 75
In this episode, we explore how to support neurodiverse learners in ESL classrooms. Discover practical strategies like structured lessons, multi-sensory activities, and flexible participation to create an inclusive environment where every student can thrive.
Peer observation: Learning from other teachers
Episode 74
Stuck in your teaching routine? This episode explores how observing fellow teachers can spark new ideas, improve classroom techniques, and help you grow through reflection, collaboration, and small, practical changes.
AI and English teaching: Using AI without losing the human touch
Episode 73
Curious about how AI can fit into your English lessons? Luan and Mairead explore how AI can save planning time, spark creativity, and personalise learning — without replacing the insight, care, and human connection that make teaching effective.
Engaging teen learners – Part 2
Episode 72
In this follow-up episode, Luan and Mairead share practical, low-prep speaking activities for teens at every level. Discover simple classroom tasks that build confidence, encourage interaction, and get students speaking naturally.
Engaging teen learners – Part 1
Episode 71
Struggling to keep teens motivated in your English lessons? Luan and Mairead reveal top strategies for making lessons relevant, interactive, and fun – helping teens communicate naturally and confidently.
The 5-stage reading lesson that actually works
Episode 70
In this practical episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead break down the 5 stages of an effective reading lesson — from warmer to follow-on speaking — and share what to do, what to avoid, and why staging matters.
Reading aloud in the classroom: Does it work?
Episode 69
Luan and Mairead break down why reading aloud often fails to develop comprehension, fluency, or natural pronunciation, and share strategies to make reading activities more meaningful and engaging for all learners.
Your questions answered — More of what new TEFL teachers want to know
Episode 68
Join Luan and Mairead as they tackle the most common questions and worries for new teachers — from accents and grammar fears to lesson planning, classroom management, and teaching online. Gain practical advice and confidence to thrive in the classroom
Using songs in the ESL classroom: Activities that work
Episode 67
Turn songs into learning tools! Luan and Mairead share practical ways to teach listening, vocabulary, grammar, and speaking — all through music, to make your English lessons more engaging, fun, and memorable.
Mistakes teachers make when teaching grammar
Episode 66
Grammar lessons can be tricky, even for experienced teachers. In this episode, Luan and Mairead explore common mistakes—over-explaining, correcting too much, relying on worksheets—and share practical strategies to teach grammar effectively, keeping lessons engaging while helping students use language naturally.
Discussing The Language Teaching Toolkit with Dr Andy Goldhawk
Episode 65
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan talks to Dr Andy Goldhawk about his new book, The Language Teaching Toolkit, and how it supports teachers at every stage of their career. Andy explains how thoughtful, adaptable activities can reduce planning time, build teacher confidence, and help learning really stick.
Recognising and overcoming your teaching saboteurs
Episode 64
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead explore the saboteurs that can hold teachers back. From the Critic to the Perfectionist, discover practical strategies to recognise these patterns, manage self-doubt, and step into the classroom with confidence, calm, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Pre-class nerves? 8 Strategies to teach calmly and confidently
Episode 63
First-class nerves are real — whether it’s your first lesson ever or a new class. In this episode, Luan and Mairead share eight practical strategies to help teachers feel calm, clear, and confident before stepping into the classroom. From comfort rituals to simple activities, these tips turn nerves into readiness.
Reflecting on TEFL in 2025: What shaped the year
Episode 62
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead reflect on TEFL in 2025. From the rise of online and hybrid teaching to microlearning, teacher upskilling, and sustainability, they explore the trends, innovations, and shifts that shaped classrooms, careers, and the global English-teaching community over the past year.
10 Reasons to do your TEFL straight after high school
Episode 61
Luan and Mairead explore ten reasons to start your TEFL journey straight after high school. As an internationally recognised teaching qualification that helps you enter the job market quickly, TEFL offers global experience, confidence-building opportunities, a stronger CV, and lifelong memories for young people shaping their futures.
8 Low-prep tasks for exam preparation students
Episode 60
Luan and Mairead share eight low-prep, classroom-ready tasks that work seamlessly for both Cambridge Main Suite and IELTS learners. From speaking stamina to paraphrasing, collocations, writing skills, and exam-day confidence, these practical activities help you build exam readiness without turning lessons into mock tests.
10 Simple ways to keep young learners engaged online
Episode 59
Luan and Mairead share 10 practical tips to keep young learners engaged in online English lessons. From games and songs to movement, puppets, and digital whiteboards, discover fun, easy strategies to make your classes lively, interactive, and full of energy.
Mastering classroom management techniques
Episode 58
Luan and Mairead delve classroom management, discussing various techniques and strategies that can enhance the teaching experience. They emphasise the importance of establishing clear rules, maintaining consistency, building rapport with students, and planning engaging lessons to prevent misbehaviour.
From general English to exam preparation
Episode 57
The conversation explores the journey of teaching English, focusing on the transition from general English classrooms to the specialized field of exam English. It highlights the motivations of students and the increasing demand for teachers with specific qualifications in exam preparation.
International TEFL Day: Discover what's possible
Episode 56
Join Luan and Mairead on as they explore the upcoming International TEFL Day 2025! Discover free CPD opportunities, expert panels, and interactive sessions designed to help aspiring and experienced TEFL teachers learn, and grow—while supporting global education initiatives. Don’t miss out, register now!
Lesson planning on a budget
Episode 55
Luan and Mairead discuss strategies for planning on a budget, emphasizing the use of everyday materials, DIY resources, and the importance of confidence. They highlight the value of building a TEFL community for sharing ideas, ultimately reinforcing that effective teaching is about creativity rather than financial expenditure.
From fast food to the classroom: Lucas's TEFL journey
Episode 54
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, host Luan sits down with Lucas — a TEFL-certified teacher who made an inspiring career shift from the restaurant industry to education. Lucas opens up about the challenges and unexpected lessons from his certification journey.
Go-To activities for 1-to-1 lessons
Episode 53
This conversation explores the effectiveness of process-based learning, emphasising the importance of engagement and the role of challenges in enhancing student learning experiences. Luan and Mairead share anecdotes about their methods and the surprising engagement levels achieved.
1-to-1 vs Group classes: Five key differences
Episode 52
From solo sessions to buzzing classrooms, Luan and Mairead explore five key ways 1-to-1 and group teaching really differ—and how teachers can adapt, connect, and make every lesson feel effortless and fun.
Is online teaching right for you?
Episode 51
Luan and Mairead explore the realities of online teaching, weighing flexibility, independence, technology challenges, and isolation. They share insights and key questions to help teachers decide if this career path suits their skills, lifestyle, and professional goals.
TEFL teacher types: Which one are you?
Episode 50
Luan and Mairead break down five TEFL teacher types — Adventurer, Couch Commando, Digital Nomad, Career Climber, and Volunteer Vibes. Discover where your style fits, reflect on your goals, and gain insight into the many ways a TEFL career can be lived!
Unlocking student potential: How to improve English skills
Episode 49
In this episode, hosts Luan and Mairead discuss practical strategies for English language teachers to help their students improve their language skills. The conversation highlights the importance of personalized recommendations and management of student expectations to create a supportive environment.
The silent key to language learning success
Episode 48
In this episode, the hosts discuss the critical concept of processing time in language learning. They explore how processing time allows students to think, formulate responses, and engage more effectively in the classroom. The conversation emphasizes that processing time is essential for all learners, regardless of their proficiency level, and provides practical strategies for teachers to incorporate processing time into their lessons.
Understanding student silence: A teacher's guide
Episode 47
In this episode, Luan and Mairead discuss the silent phase in language learning, a common experience for TEFL teachers, especially with beginners. They explore what the silent phase is, what it isn't, and provide practical tips for engaging students during this period.
Engaging adult learners through games
Episode 46
In this episode, host Luan discusses the significance of incorporating fun into adult learning environments. She shares eight engaging games designed to enhance language learning while keeping adult students comfortable and involved.
How getting TEFL certified changed my life In
Episode 45
Luan speaks with Nancy about her journey from being an accountant to becoming a TEFL teacher. They discuss the challenges and rewards of this career change, the flexibility that TEFL offers, and how it has positively impacted Nancy's family life.
The power of language: Transforming lives through TEFL
Episode 44
In this episode, Luan and Mairead discuss the various ways TEFL teachers can give back to their communities. They explore opportunities to support refugees and asylum seekers, provide literacy and English support for adults, volunteer with children in schools, intern through language schools, and run community English classes.
The complete guide: Nailing your TEFL job interview
Episode 43
Landing your dream TEFL job starts long before the first day in the classroom - it begins at the interview. In this episode, Luan and Mairead break down exactly how to prepare, from doing the right research to confidently handling those tricky common questions.
The TEFL Oscars: Celebrating teaching favourites
Episode 42
Luan and Mairead share their favourite aspects of teaching English as a foreign language in a fun and engaging format inspired by the Oscars. They discuss their preferred age groups, class types, activities for building rapport, grammar points, vocabulary topics, course books, teaching props, and post-class relaxation techniques.
Embracing change: TEFL for the mature teacher
Episode 41
In this uplifting episode, hosts Mairead and Luan explore the inspiring rise of individuals in their 40s, 50s, 60s — and beyond — who are embracing TEFL as a new chapter in life. Whether seeking a career change, post-retirement purpose, or the freedom of remote work, more mature adults are finding their place in the world.
Conquering interview nerves: Tips for success
Episode 40
In this episode, Luan and Mairead discuss essential tips for preparing for a TEFL job interview. They emphasize the importance of managing nerves, conducting thorough research about the school, knowing logistics, dressing appropriately, and employing techniques to conquer pre-interview anxiety.
Speak to your students: Writing a profile that resonates
Episode 39
How do you stand out in a sea of online English teachers? It all starts with your profile, and in this episode, we’re joined once again by the amazing Nancy Ambrose to show you exactly how to make yours shine. This is your go-to guide for making a great first impression—digitally.
Go with the flow: Flexibility in the TEFL classroom
Episode 38
Luan and Mairead take on one of the most essential (and nerve-wracking) classroom skills: flexibility. From latecomers to over-prepared lesson plans, from bored students to wildly enthusiastic detours—you'll hear real teachers talk, and practical tips on how to go with the flow without losing your footing.
Teaching business English: What you really need to know
Episode 37
Luan and Mairead are diving into the essentials of planning a solid Business English course - whether you’re teaching online, in-company, or stepping in to cover a colleague. Perfect for TEFL teachers looking to build confident, relevant, and flexible lesson plans.
Mastering feedback in the TEFL classroom
Episode 36
Luan and Mairead dive deep into one of the most essential—and delicate—aspects of teaching: giving effective feedback. From the right timing and tone to avoiding overwhelming learners, they share actionable tips for making feedback empowering instead of discouraging.
What you need to know before teaching abroad
Episode 35
Thinking about packing your bags and teaching in a new country? 🌍 Before you hop on that plane, our latest episode of TEFL Unlocked dives into the must-know factors every aspiring TEFL teacher should consider. Tune in for real talk, practical tips, and stories.
The TEFL journey: From student to teacher
Episode 34
Join hosts Luan and Mairead as they sit with Kirsten, a TEFL teacher whose journey from psychology graduate to globe-trotting educator is nothing short of inspiring. Kirsten opens up about her unforgettable teaching experiences, the highs and lows of life abroad, and how TEFL reshaped her worldview.
The rise of business English: What you need to know
Episode 33
In this episode, Luan and Mairead dive into the rising demand for Business English. From the dynamic nature of Business English classes to student motivations and real-world challenges, they share insights that will inspire TEFL teachers.
Engaging teens: Strategies for effective teaching
Episode 32
Luan and Mairead dive into the art of teaching teenagers in the EFL classroom. They share practical strategies to build authentic connections, make lessons relevant, and create a safe, engaging learning environment.
Unlocking coursebooks: Strategies for TEFL teachers
Episode 31
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead discuss the challenges and strategies for adapting coursebooks in TEFL teaching. They emphasize the importance of personalizing content to engage students and provide practical tips for making lessons more relevant and interesting.
Talk less, teach more: Mastering teacher talk time
Episode 30
Luan and Mairead discuss the critical importance of keeping teacher talk time (TTT) concise in the classroom. They explore the negative impacts of excessive TTT on student engagement and learning, emphasizing the need for teachers to provide ample opportunities for students to practice speaking.
Fluency first: How teaching functions boosts speaking skills
Episode 29
In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, Luan and Mairead delve into the importance of teaching functions in language learning. They discuss how functions are prefabricated chunks of language that enhance fluency and flexibility in communication.
Read the room: Teaching mistakes you don’t want to repeat
Episode 28
In this episode, Luan shares a personal experience of one of her worst English lessons, focusing on the challenges faced while teaching an A2-level adult class about ecosystems. Luan concludes by reassuring teachers that it's okay to have bad lessons, as they provide valuable learning opportunities.
Lessons beyond the classroom: Teaching, travel & living without regrets
Episode 27
In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead share valuable life lessons learned from their teaching experiences. They discuss the importance of understanding language, building rapport with students, and developing organizational skills.
Navigating interaction in online vs. face-to-face teaching
Episode 26
In this episode, Luan and Mairead discuss the evolution of online teaching and its growing prominence compared to face-to-face. They explore the key differences, including interaction styles, technology requirements, classroom environments, feedback mechanisms, and the flexibility on offer.
Teaching as a journey: How continuous learning transformed Nancy’s approach to ESL
Episode 25
In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead interview Nancy, an experienced online English teacher from Johannesburg, South Africa. Nancy shares her journey from accounting to teaching, detailing her daily routine, payment structures, and her challenges in the online teaching landscape.
Why do adults learn English? The answer will change your teaching!
Episode 24
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead delve into the complexities of adult learners' motivations for attending English classes. They discuss the differences between intrinsic and extrinsic motivations, highlighting how personal goals and external pressures shape students' experiences.
Insights from a TEFL recruitment expert
Episode 23
Hosts Luan and Mairead welcome Henry, an international recruitment consultant at The TEFL Academy, to discuss the landscape of teaching jobs. They explore the most in-demand countries, the importance of having an accredited TEFL certificate, and challenges faced by applicants when job hunting.
Engaging students through effective speaking tasks
Episode 22
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead discuss the intricacies of planning and executing speaking tasks in the classroom. They emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate topics, interaction patterns, and scaffolding to support students.
Overcoming writing challenges in the classroom
Episode 21
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead delve into the complexities of teaching writing in the classroom. They discuss common misconceptions about writing, the challenges students face, and effective strategies to make writing lessons more engaging and less intimidating.
Am I qualified to teach English? The truth about TEFL
Episode 20
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead address common concerns aspiring English teachers face when considering a TEFL certification. They explore the normalcy of self-doubt, the role of language skills, and the misconception that a degree in English or prior teaching experience is required.
How to make listening lessons fun & effective!
Episode 19
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead discuss effective strategies for teaching listening skills to students. They share personal experiences of their early teaching challenges and emphasize the importance of preparation, context, and vocabulary pre-teaching in creating successful listening lessons.
From confusion to comprehension: Teaching ESL listening skills
Episode 18
You're not alone if your students struggle to understand fast speech, accents, or connected words! In our latest podcast, Luan & Mairead break down why listening is so tricky for ESL learners—and share practical tips to help them improve.
Accuracy vs. fluency: Get the balance right in your lessons!
Episode 17
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead discuss the differences between controlled practice and freer practice. They explore how controlled practice focuses on accuracy and structured activities, while freer practice encourages students to use language more naturally and fluently.
The art of eliciting: Engaging students in learning
Episode 16
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead explore effective strategies for teaching vocabulary in the language classroom. They also discuss the importance of eliciting words from students rather than providing direct definitions
The power of words: Teaching vocabulary with impact
Episode 15
In this episode, Luan and Mairead delve into the significance of vocabulary in language learning. They discuss the concept of lexis, the importance of understanding word classes, and the benefits of teaching collocations and dependent prepositions.
Mastering classroom control: Tips for every TEFL teacher
Episode 14
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luann and Mairead discuss common classroom management challenges English teachers face. They explore issues such as students who talk excessively, those who are silent during speaking tasks, distractions from mobile phones, overly eager and argumentative students.
Demonstrate, simplify, confirm: the keys to better teaching
Episode 13
In this episode, Luan and Mairead discuss the importance of giving clear instructions in teaching. They explore strategies for simplifying language, the timing and delivery of instructions, the significance of demonstrating tasks, and the necessity of checking understanding through targeted questions.
Reflecting on 2024 and looking forward to 2025
Episode 12
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead reflect on the significant changes in the TEFL landscape throughout 2024, discussing key trends such as the shift towards student-centered learning, the rise of online teaching, and the importance of teacher well-being.
Unlocking pronunciation: Helping ESL students speak with confidence
Episode 11
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, Luan and Mairead delve into the common pronunciation challenges ESL students face and effective strategies for teachers to address these issues. The conversation emphasizes the need for teachers to maintain a natural speaking style and to help students feel comfortable.
Engaging young learners: The Importance of fun
Episode 10
In this episode of Tefl Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead discuss effective strategies for engaging young learners in the classroom. They emphasize the importance of fun, establishing boundaries, using visuals, and incorporating movement and play into lessons.
Mastering grammar teaching: The PPP approach
Episode 09
In this episode, Luan and Mairead explore the intricacies of teaching grammar, focusing on the PPP lesson plan structure. They discuss the importance of the presentation stage, including the MFP (meaning, form, phonology) approach, and the use of concept checking questions and timelines to enhance understanding.
Beyond vocabulary: Why grammar is your best friend in learning
Episode 08
In this episode, the hosts discuss the complexities and importance of grammar in teaching English as a second language (ESL). They explore the fears that new teachers face when teaching grammar, the significance of understanding word classes, and the intricacies of verbs and tenses.
Common TEFL questions and concerns: Luan and Mairead tackle them
Episode 07
Curious about TEFL but have some burning concerns holding you back? In this episode, Luan and Mairead address those questions. They cover topics such as the requirements for teaching English abroad, who can take a TEFL course, speaking another language, and the prospects with a TEFL certificate.
7 benefits of being an EFL teacher & some not-so-obvious perks
Episode 06
In this episode, we dive into the exciting world of TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and explore why it’s more than just a job - it’s a gateway to global adventures, personal growth, and life-changing experiences!
Classroom chaos: delightful disasters that make teaching unforgettable
Episode 05
In this episode, we dive into the unpredictable and laugh-out-loud moments that every teacher knows too well. From surprise questions to tech breakdowns and lesson plans gone haywire, these classroom “oops” stories remind us of the humor and resilience that come with the teaching life.
Educate, engage, empower: Mastering classroom communication
Episode 04
In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most essential aspects of effective teaching—communication. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, mastering the art of fostering open dialogue in the class.
How to navigate your first lesson: What do to before, during & after
Episode 03
In this episode, we break down the entire experience of teaching your very first lesson! From the nerves and excitement before you step into the classroom, to navigating the lesson in real time, and reflecting on what went well (or didn’t) afterward.
How to create a positive learning environment & build rapport with your students
Episode 02
In this episode of TEFL Unlocked, hosts Luan and Mairead discuss the essential elements of creating a positive learning environment for students. They share personal experiences from their first classes, emphasising the importance of focusing on students rather than the teacher.
Career paths in TEFL: Luan and Mairead share their experiences
Episode 01
Luan and Mairead have a combined 35 years of experience in the world of TEFL. They discuss their backgrounds and the various career options available in TEFL. They talk about their own experiences as teachers, teacher trainers, examiners, and materials developers.
Accreditation & Quality Assurance
The TEFL Academy was the world’s first TEFL course provider to receive official recognition from government regulated awarding bodies in both the USA and UK. This means when you graduate you’ll hold a globally recognised Level 3 (120hr) Certificate or Level 5 (168hr) Diploma, meaning you can find work anywhere and apply for jobs immediately.
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