ELL HubRachel Greenwald

Rachel Greenwald

Episode 331October 12, 2026

Vocabulary

Definition:: Definition: to make something stronger, larger, or more serious, like a feeling or a relationship
Example from the episode:: “Example from the episode: “People tend to avoid taboo topics because they're fearful of controversy or having awkward moments, but I would invite people as they move away from small talk and start to grow and deepen a relationship with somebody to reframe taboo topics as really a gateway to deepen connections.””
Example sentence:: “Example sentence: “Honest conversations can deepen relationships at work and at home.””

Definition:: Definition: a place or area where people do activities, talk, or compete
Example from the episode:: “Example from the episode: “Rachel is an expert on communication and relationship building, not only in the dating arena, but also in the workplace.””
Example sentence:: “Example sentence: “Technology has changed the business arena significantly.””

Definition:: Definition: trying to control or influence others in a clever or unfair way
Example from the episode:: “Example from the episode: “I mean, I think the first thing to say about personal branding is that it gets a bad reputation as being manipulative or like you're bragging or showing off if you talk about something that makes you unique or special or memorable.””
Example sentence:: “Example sentence: “His manipulative behavior made his friends question his true intentions.””

Definition:: Definition: to take action first to reach a goal instead of only defending or reacting
Example from the episode:: “Example from the episode: “But playing offense is more about being strategic with your small talk game to help your conversation partner learn something about you that might lead to a desired goal that you have.””
Example sentence:: “Example sentence: “To grow their small business, the owners decided to play offense by calling new customers and offering a special deal.””