What are "voiced" and "voiceless" sounds, and what do they mean for our accent? Accent coach Steven Nelson breaks down this topic for us today, and we learn the secret behind making the final -s sound, such as why it sounds different in words like "cats" and "news."

This week's practice passage: “She works with international clients and manages several projects. She believes clear communication matters and takes time to explain details. Her coworkers respect her ideas, ask questions, and trust her decisions because she speaks clearly and confidently.”

The Accent Journey Podcast is brought to you by AccentFirst Speech Communication Services. Find us online at accentfirst.com.

We'd love to hear your feedback. Visit us and leave a message at accentfirst.com/contact

Music: Vendredi - Hypnosis ( Free Download & Free Copyright ) by Vendredi is licensed under a Creative Commons License.

Host Steven Nelson discusses the "schwa" sound in American English, and why it's so important to everyday, natural speech. Listen and practice this sound with example words and sentences.

This week's practice passage: “When I speak English, I want to sound clear and confident. I know I don’t need to sound like a native speaker, but I do want people to understand me easily. Accent change takes time, and that’s okay.”

The Accent Journey Podcast is brought to you by AccentFirst Speech Communication Services. Find us online at accentfirst.com.

We'd love to hear your feedback. Visit us and leave a message at accentfirst.com/contact

Music: Vendredi - Hypnosis ( Free Download & Free Copyright ) by Vendredi is licensed under a Creative Commons License.