How do You Build Global Connections?

Before we get into the article, here's a quick note: I’m starting classes and courses where I mediate discussions with people across the ideological spectrum. We find common interests and goals to build bridges across divides. Send me a DM or respond to this email if this interests you.

Who do you share goals with? How many of those people differ in ideology or belief system? And how the hell do you make it work?

I work on a shared goal with several dozen people every week. They come from all over the world, and no matter their culture or opinions, we connect.

A shared goal is the first step to bridging divides, but you must find common interests to stick together. Fortunately, I’m interested in just about everything except the Kardashians, so creating connections is easy. That doesn’t mean there are no disagreements, though. They’re crucial to our shared goal of improving their English.

Contrasting ideas get people talking, and that’s exactly what I need my students to do. That’s what we all need to do. If we want a future where collaboration overcomes conflict, we need more people talking and listening, not just in English but in the universal language of curiosity and compassion.

Here’s Where You Come In

And where I plug in my website, englishforglobalcitizens.com.

Teaching English and cultural competency is not just how I make a living. It’s how I put into practice everything I write about. I help people from all walks of life—and they help me—gain tools to connect across cultures and borders.

When you’re in my class, the world’s not as divided as it seems on the news. It’s even less complicated than it looks in some of my articles. The truth is, above all, people want to be heard and listened to. If you can make that happen, a lot of the other cultural know-how can take a step back.

When you share my site with someone who needs classes—or who knows someone who does—you’re not just helping Born Without Borders; you’re helping build bridges across divides.

Building global connections isn’t always easy. There are language hiccups, cultural faux pas, and days when even I can’t remember how to explain the difference between "lie" and "lay." But it’s worth it because every connection and shared laugh creates a little less division in the world.

English for Global Citizens

Building bridges across borders.

📝 Cambridge exam prep✍️ Essay writing & storytelling🗣️ Public speaking & presentations🌍️ Cultural competence & business English🧠 Evidence-based study techniques & psychology💪 Fitness & health coaching (learn a language in a flow state)

My Teaching Style

We learn languages to communicate, and we communicate to connect, so why do so many people leave an academy unable to give presentations, send emails, and tell jokes?

Many teachers lack the cultural, psychological, and business expertise to prepare you beyond the exam world. While I use CEFR and Cambridge materials to gauge levels, my lessons adapt to your needs and how English evolves across cultures. I’ve helped nearly 100 students pass exams, but if your sole goal is a certificate, I’m not the teacher for you. I’m here to create connections and experiences.

Language learning isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some prefer rules first, while others learn naturally through conversation. A great teacher tailors methods to fit you. My approach draws from a degree in English and psychology (UBC), advanced TEFL certifications, and years of teaching students from 30+ countries.

Beyond teaching, my experience managing global marketing campaigns and researching cultural competence ensures your English works across cultural contexts. I don’t just teach language—I help you live it.

Materials

Cambridge Books: English for Life, Objective First, Ready for Advanced, and Objective Proficiency.Great Writing: Foundations, one, two, three, four, and five.Reading Explorer: SB1, SB2. SB3, SB4, and SB5.Are you looking for a specific book? Just let me know.

What My Students Say

Born Without Borders is a reader-supported guide to the craft of nonconformity, cultural psychology, travel writing and how to salir de las fronteras que impone tu mente. Both free and paid subscriptions are available. If you want to support my work and help me upgrade to more than one cabin bag, the best way is to take out a paid subscription or Buy Me a Coffee.

But today, sharing my teaching site is the best way to show support.

Further reading