Inspired by research presented on the Hidden Brain podcast, specifically the work of psychologist Marc Berman, this episode takes a look at how time spent in nature can reduce our mental fatigue, improve our memory, and shift our attention in restorative ways, not burn us out even more.

I share what I’ve learned about something called attention restoration theory, the role of our senses, and why natural environments full of soft edges, fractals, and gentle stimuli calm the brain.

What if you don’t live near nature? Can indoor plants, soundscapes, or even your imagination offer similar benefits? You bet they can! I’ll offer a few practical ways to bring the benefits of nature into your daily life, no matter how far away nature is from your front door.

Have a listen today, maybe while you take a walk outdoors!

As always, I’ll highlight advanced English language (C1/C2) along the way. Hear You Go gives intermediate and advanced English learners a space to think, learn, and connect in English.

Get in touch:

⏰ To work with me 1:1, add your name to the waitlist.

📥 Do you get my newsletter? It’s really the best way to hear from me.

You can also follow me on Instagram.

🎶 Amos the Transparent provides my theme song. They're an awesome group of talented musicians. Give them some love and check out their music.

Please subscribe to and share the podcast, and spread the knowledge!

🎙️ Is Weak Language Powerful for Women” (E90)?

This episode has been brewing for quite some time. It's a vast topic, full of nuance, and in the end, I offer a summary of the subject with the help of two resources, attached in the show notes.

You'll hear:

• Examples of weak language
• The difference between aggressive and assertive language tones
• Why women generally benefit from the use of tentative language
• How we might move forward in the workplace by being both assertive and warm

There’s a lot to unpack, so have a listen, review and explore the additional links, and let me know what YOU think.

As always, I’ll highlight advanced English language (C1/C2) along the way. Hear You Go gives intermediate and advanced English learners a space to think, learn, and connect in English.

Links to go further:

1. Adam Grant article (behind a paywall):

Opinion | How Women’s ‘Weak Language’ Is a Source of Strength - The New York Times

1. Women at Work podcast: To Get What You Want, Be Both Assertive and Warm
2. Book Review of Likable Badass by Alison Fragale: The Art and Science of Becoming A ‘Likeable Badass’

Get in touch:

⏰ To work with me 1:1, add your name to the waitlist.

📥 Do you get my newsletter? It’s really the best way to hear from me.

You can also follow me on Instagram.

🎶 Amos the Transparent provides my theme song. They're an awesome group of talented musicians. Give them some love and check out their music.

Please share the podcast and spread the knowledge!

Art: it does the body and brain good!

In this Book Talk episode, I offer a summary of some mindblowing science I learned in a book titled: “Your Brain on Art”. I explore and try to explain how creativity shapes and reshapes the brain, and why art isn’t just enrichment, but essential for learning.

The episode addresses brain plasticity, saliency, attention, emotional regulation, and myriad art forms, and what all of this means for language learning. Curiosity, creative engagement, and embodied learning help ideas stick, deepen empathy, and build stronger communication skills, and so much more.

Art is not just some extracurricular activity: we all benefit when we support the arts and add the arts into our lives. Does art light up your heart and brain too? What artform ignites your passions?

As always, I’ll highlight advanced English language (C1/C2) along the way. Hear You Go gives intermediate and advanced English learners a space to think, learn, and connect in English.

Links to go further:

• Book and website: Your Brain on Art: How Art Transforms Us.
• SnowWorld melts away pain for burn patients, using virtual reality snowballs – GeekWire
• Snow World
• Playful Learning Landscapes

Susan and Ivy in conversation with Adam Grant on Re:Thinking podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rethinking/id1554567118?i=1000638235601

Get in touch:

⏰ To work with me 1:1, add your name to the waitlist.

📥 Do you get my newsletter? It’s really the best way to hear from me.

You can also follow me on Instagram.

🎶 Amos the Transparent provides my theme song. They're an awesome group of talented musicians. Give them some love and check out their music.

Please share the podcast and spread the knowledge!