Permission to Speak, Power in Accents - Looks Like Work, Season 1, Ep 11
What does it mean to really speak—on your terms, in your voice, accent and all?
In this expansive and soul-stirring conversation, Chedva sits down with Hadar Shemesh, English communication coach and founder of The Accent’s Way, to unpack the layers of language, identity, and visibility. From calling herself “Julia” in NYC to coaching thousands of non-native English speakers to own their voices, Hadar’s journey is one of reclamation, purpose, and real power—the kind that doesn’t require perfect pronunciation.
Together, they explore how we shrink and shape-shift to be accepted, the messy relationship between confidence and performance, and what it takes to build a business that truly reflects your values. This isn’t just about accents—it’s about the stories we tell ourselves about who gets to take up space.
Inside the Episode:
Why your accent isn’t the problem—it’s a story you’ve been told
The Hadar in English vs. the Hadar in Hebrew
Letting go of “native-like” perfection and choosing clarity + confidence
Teaching others while still being on your own journey
From 1:1 sessions in her living room to global impact
Burnout as a sign to shift, not a failure
Sharing “mediocre” work, and why that might be your superpower
Voice as both tool and identity
Favorite Takeaways:
“Confidence is more important than pronunciation. But they’re connected.”
“People don’t want charity. They want work.”
“We are sold this idea that there’s one standard English—and it’s a lie.”
“Your full self is what the world needs. Not just the part that gets applause.”
If you’ve ever hesitated to speak up, post that thing, launch that idea—or if you’ve wondered whether your voice really belongs in the room—this one is for you.
A Question to Hold:
“What’s holding me back from saying this the way I want to?”
A question for every overthinker, multilingual soul, and recovering perfectionist. Voice, mindset, identity—whatever’s in the way, name it. Then speak anyway.
“Purpose is giving people the tools to be seen and heard.”
Listen to this episode on Spotify | Apple | Wherever you get your podcasts
Resources & Mentions:
Catch up on previous seasons of Looks Like Work wherever you get your podcasts: Spotify | Apple | Podbean
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