In the latest episode of the Warsaw Confidential podcast, we had the privilege of hosting Daniel Lalewicz, a dynamic influencer who made a substantial impact by teaching English to a global audience. Moving from London to Krakow in 2020, Daniel has since garnered an impressive following of 1.5 million across social media. His story is one of resilience, adaptation, and impactful teaching. Let’s dive into some of the key points from this compelling conversation.
The Journey to Poland
Daniel began by clarifying a common misconception. He didn’t “come back” to Poland; he moved to Poland for the first time. Born in Detroit, Michigan to Polish parents, Daniel later moved to the UK, where he spent most of his childhood and early adulthood. In 2020, amidst the pandemic, Daniel moved to Poland with his family, providing him with a fresh start.
“As soon as the pandemic hit, my parents had enough of the UK and decided to move to Poland,” Daniel shared. “I accompanied them, although I didn’t have a concrete plan.”
Building His Brand
Daniel’s transition to online fame was not overnight. Though many perceive his rise as meteoric, it was the culmination of years of creating content. From recording videos at 11 to trying his hand at podcasting, comedy, and even rap music, each experience contributed to his eventual specialization in teaching English.
“I’ve always been drawn to content creation,” Daniel said. “And teaching English became natural. In Poland, where good English teachers are scarce, I saw a massive information gap I could fill.”
Cultural Adaptation and Language Challenges
The cultural shift from the UK to Poland was significant but not overwhelming for Daniel. Growing up with Polish roots made the language barrier less daunting, although he admitted the intricacies of Polish grammar were tricky.
“People often couldn’t spot that I didn’t grow up in Poland. However, I still mess up the grammar sometimes,” Daniel confessed.
Despite the challenges, he emphasized a positive mindset and the willingness to embrace new opportunities. This attitude not only facilitated his adaptation but also helped him thrive in his new environment.
Tackling English Education Challenges
Daniel is passionate about changing the Polish perception of the English language. He believes the root of many issues lies in the traditional educational approach.
“Polish people often focus too much on theory and fear making mistakes. However, mistakes are essential for progress,” Daniel emphasized.
He advocates for practical approaches to learning English, combining theory with active speaking and listening. His online grammar course, which focuses on the seven most crucial tenses, is designed to offer a manageable yet comprehensive entry into mastering the language.
Handling Criticism and Keeping Mental Health in Check
Despite his success, Daniel hasn’t been immune to criticism. From accusations of faking his accent to unfair comparisons, he has faced his share of online negativity.
“When you decide to put yourself out there, hate is inevitable. It’s important to remember it’s more about them than you,” Daniel advised.
He also highlighted the importance of resilience, something he attributes to his background in combat sports, which taught him to push through challenges. Additionally, focusing on real-life connections rather than online opinions has been crucial in maintaining his mental health.
Looking to the Future
As Daniel anticipates the birth of his son, he reflects on how his experiences in three countries will shape his approach to parenting.
“Traveling and exposing my child to different cultures and environments will provide invaluable lessons,” Daniel shared.
While he currently enjoys his life in Poland, Daniel remains open to the idea of moving again, perhaps even returning to the United States to create his own stories.
Final Thoughts
Daniel Lalevicz’s journey is an inspiring tale of persistence, adaptation, and thoughtful innovation in teaching. His ability to turn cultural challenges into opportunities has not only shaped his career but also enriched the lives of millions of his followers. As he continues his journey, both personally and professionally, one can only anticipate the further positive impact he will have on the world of English education.
For anyone looking to improve their English skills, Daniel’s advice is simple yet profound: Embrace mistakes, focus on progress, and start speaking.