Why do they speakso fast?!
You’ve been learning French for years.
Now you are able to understand the innerFrench podcast and videos without too much trouble.
But whenever you watch a French movie or hear a conversation between French people, you feel like a beginner again.
It almost seems like they speak a completely different language from the one you’re trying to learn.
They merge random words together, they use idioms you’ve never heard, and they invent new slang everyday.
But the biggest obstacle, of course, is that they speak way too fast!
Did you spend all this time learning French for nothing?
How can you have a pleasant conversation if you’re constantly afraid of not understanding what French people are saying?
The real problem
Trust me: it has nothing to do with French.
Anyone who’s ever learned a foreign language has been through this.
I’ve experienced all these mental blocks myself hundreds of times in English, Spanish and Polish!
I know how frustrating and demotivating they can be.
Luckily for us, the solution is quite simple: you just need (a lot) more practice!
But here comes the real problem: there is very little content that can provide you with this type of training.
Most French courses are either a long list of grammar lessons, or awkward scripted dialogues that you would never hear in France.
And even if your French-speaking friends are very patient, you probably don’t want to stop them every 10 seconds to ask them to explain a phrase you didn’t get.
In this course, you can!
How this course will help you
1
Get Exposed to Real-Life Conversations in a Stress-Free Atmosphere
2
Learn Informal French and Useful Daily Phrases in Context
3
Master Past Tenses, Conditional and Hypothesis
Your teachers
Hugo
I started teaching French in 2015 at the French Institute in Warsaw, Poland, and then online through the innerFrench Podcast and YouTube channel.
To help learners overcome the intermediate plateau, I then created the ‘Build a Strong Core‘ and ‘Raconte ton histoire‘ courses.
By working with thousands of students from all over the world, I have discovered which methods work best. I am constantly improving my courses to provide the best lessons possible!
Ingrid
After my studies, I started my career as a journalist in Paris. But in 2017, I got bitten by the travel bug so I decided to move to South America.
I settled in Peru, where I became a teacher of French as a foreign language while still writing articles for French medias.
At the end of 2020, I joined the innerFrench team to create content for the podcast and YouTube channel while also helping students from the ‘Raconte ton histoire‘ course!
😄 Real-life conversations with a smile
In ‘Raconte ton histoire‘, I’ll introduce you to four of my best friends. They agreed to share some personal experiences and important moments from their lives.
You’ll learn to understand them thanks to a step-by-step method:
- Watch the conversation a first time to get discover the topic
- Watch it again while answering a comprehension quiz to understand the tricky parts
- Watch it another time while doing a vocabulary quiz to learn new words in context
- Watch a behind-the-scenes video where I dissect the conversation to show the differences between formal and informal French, and explain cultural references.
By following this method, you’ll get an amazing training for your ear without getting bored!
Niels, United States
“The interviews were a lot of fun to watch! Hugo’s friends seemed like very interesting people with lots to talk about, I was genuinely excited each time I got to another lesson and could watch another interview.
I listen to a lot of podcasts and YouTube videos in French but almost never more than once, so having to do so with the quizzes really helped impress on me how useful that can be. If only all the French media I consume came with quizzes like Hugo’s…”
Ruth, Canada
“I’ve tried several methods to learn French online. In my opinion, there is no better course than InnerFrench. There’s a lot of variety in the lessons and they’re never boring. Plus, I can go back and redo the content several times. I have a very bad memory, so for me it’s very useful.”
🌱Acquire vocabulary
naturally
You won’t understand French people until you know enough words.
The most efficient way to increase your vocabulary is by learning phrases in context.
In the interviews, we’ll focus on informal French and daily phrases.
But the course also contains fascinating stories about France and French society to enrich your general vocabulary and learn some captivating anecdotes.
You don’t even need to have une mémoire d’éléphant [a good memory] to remember these phrases! We’ve done the hard work for you by designing the course around repetition.
You’ll discover a new important word in a lesson, and magically, it’ll come back a few lessons later, and probably a 3rd and 4th time to make sure you never forget it!
Some of the stories we'll cover
Jill, United Kingdom
“I enjoyed the mix of content which is always interesting, but especially the interviews with Hugo’s friends speaking as they do naturally. This was like listening in to real conversations but with friendly support and explanations. It was the perfect way to bridge the gap between artificially constructed dialogues and the pressure of being in a real-life interaction.”
Actionable grammar lessons
You won’t learn French by memorizing a set of grammar rules and their (endless) list of exceptions.
That’s why in this course, we’ll focus on actionable grammar topics that can actually help you better express yourself:
• French learners’ most dreaded question: passé composé or imparfait?
• The different types of hypothesis and how to stop making mistakes with “si”
• How to use the passive form to make your sentences more elegant
+ a lot more!
If you’re struggling with these topics, you’ll find plenty of interactive exercises to practice and build your confidence.
Wenjie, China
“The course is very useful for learners like me who already have a B2 level in French. I really appreciated its well-structured lessons and easy-to-use interface. The format and content of the conversations are interesting. The practical exercises are varied and stimulating, making learning French more engaging and dynamic. What’s more, interactive features such as the discussion forum let you get in touch with the whole innerFrench team and other learners.“
Cat, United Kingdom
“The mix of different formats (interviews, quizzes, etc.) makes the course always interesting and never tedious.
At first I thought it would be impossible for me to understand Hugo’s friends because they speak so fast, but it has become easier and easier. Now I understand French podcasts and movies better.“
Who this course is for
If you’re an intermediate or advanced learner (B1-B2 level on the CEFR scale).
If you can understand Hugo without too much trouble, but you find his interviews with other speakers challenging.
If you’ve already completed Build a Strong Core, then this course will be the perfect next step. If you haven’t, it’s not mandatory but we highly recommend it.
Who this course is NOT for
If you’re a beginner (A1-A2 level on the CEFR scale).
If you recently started listening to the innerFrench podcast or watching our YouTube videos and you find them challenging, we recommend doing the ‘Build a Strong Core‘ course before this one.
If you’re a very advanced learner (C1 or above on the CEFR scale) who can already follow French TV/radio.
Enroll now
€199 one-time payment
Tara, Australia
“I’m happy to find real, unscripted conversations and no boring stand alone grammar explanations.
Using Hugo’s course has helped me enormously. My understanding of natural spoken French has improved and I often find myself using the language I heard in the course in my own French conversations.
Using the conversations in context and breaking down the expressions and grammar has been the most engaging way to learn.”
Lifetime Access
Use the course for ever + get all the future updates for free
30 Lessons
Fascinating stories and interviews with a sprinkle of grammar
10 Hours
of Video
+ downloadable MP3 files and detailed transcripts
100+ Exercises
From listening comprehension quizzes to phonetic tests
1000+ Vocabulary flashcards
All the course vocabulary in one place (Quizlet) with a Spaced Repetition System and activities to practice.
Alice, Australia
“Like a lot of students, I had been feeling frustrated that despite years of study, I was still floundering when I tried to converse with a French-speaking person or engage with content created for the Francophone world. I’d describe this course as the perfect stepping stone between a classroom and a confident chat.
For me, there are two factors that distinguish it from others: the immersion element and the relevance of content. It’s been so valuable to immerse myself in casual, real French conversation, and be able to listen over and over with Hugo’s insights and guidance.”
Bonus Cheat Sheets
I thought the whole course was very good and well-balanced. If I had to choose, I would say that my favorite lessons were the videos presented by Hugo on French history and society. For example, I found the one on the Trente Glorieuses entertaining, interesting and educational. But really, everything was excellent! I thank Hugo and the InnerFrench team for their work. Your teaching has really made a difference for me.
This is the first time I've ever taken a course like this. I was stunned when I heard the first interview, but realized that I could follow it. That boosted my motivation. I like that I can re-listen to the course over and over. The topics were varied and I learned a lot. This course was a good investment for me. Hugo is a natural teacher and have a solid grasp of pedagogy. I always felt I was in good hands throughout the course.
This course introduced me to the vocabulary and pronunciation
heard in the streets of Paris. The explanations on grammar points are crystal clear. When a student points out a difficulty, the instructors' answers are very helpful. I enjoyed my progress from the beginning to the end of the course.
Even though I am a French teacher, I can say that I learned a lot! I found the course to be well thought out and well organized. The interviews or discussions between Hugo and his friends, really the heart of this course, are excellent and perfect for a course at this level.
"Raconte ton histoire" is a perfect fit for intermediate level learners, people seeking to improve their listening comprehension, and even speaking skills, and for those who want to build up their vocabulary. Hugo’s videos are creative. It is not a classic teacher-student sorta material, but rather very engaging, not tedious or exhausting. I had lots of courses in the past, but nothing was so unique, diversified, comprehensive, and had real-life topics like this course."
Hugo's course and teaching methods are great! The organization of the lessons is coherent, complete and easy to follow. I especially liked the richness of the topics and the human warmth conveyed in the interviews with his friends.
I've been teaching Chemistry and English for seven years and I've seen hundreds courses in my career, so I'm pretty well versed in the art of teaching. I found Hugo's course brilliant!"
I enjoyed all the lessons, especially the ones on culture, current events and literature. I will be doing the course again. Thank you!
'Raconte ton histoire' is an amazing course. I can't believe how much progress I've made in such a short time. Listening to people talking in a natural way and having a detailed transcript of the conversation is the the best way to learn. If I had to pick one word to describe this course, I'd say: sensational!
When I first heard the interviews I had to work hard to decipher words and phrases, but then after completing the comprehension and vocabulary exercises that accompany them, I was astonished to find that I could understand practically everything.
I loved Hugo's method, using personal stories and stories related to the history of France. It kept me interested through the course. Hugo's explanations after each module were concise, clear and to the point. I also thought that the use of tests after each module was very helpful, and I enjoyed doing them.
I've tried many courses and it's the best I've found. I loved the interviews with Hugo's friends. It was nice to improve my listening skills with real-life conversations.
I loved how the grammar was painlessly integrated into each step. It allows you to review it in every lesson without even realizing it!
I discovered Hugo's podcast last summer after becoming quite discouraged with classes at the Alliance Française. I've thoroughly enjoyed this course, with its clear explanations and interesting content. I'm going to do it again!
The course itself is excellent and not just the content, the guidance and encouragement you receive from Hugo and the team throughout is second to none. I have done several French courses over the years and InnerFrench has been the best by far, I feel more motivated now than ever!
My favorite part of the course is the interviews. At the beginning, it was very difficult, but now I understand well Laure, Marie, Timothée and Jean (a big thank you to them too, by the way).
I also really liked the lessons on great historical figures, like Simone Veil or Gérard Depardieu.
I really enjoyed the videos. I made progress with the comprehension and grammar quizzes. I also enjoyed the comment area.
I would like to thank you for this well thought out course!
"Raconte ton histoire hones in on comprehension of spoken French, using natural conversations between real French people. This has been invaluable in hearing different accents and the everyday language/expressions that are used nowadays.
Hugo's course has definitely improved my grasp of the French language.... and given me the confidence to speak it!"
Précédent
Suivant
€199
FAQ
Most frequent questions & answers
What’s the difference between this program and the innerFrench free Podcast/videos?
Our courses go a lot more in depth than our free content. They are designed to get one big step closer to the advanced level so the lessons are organized with a clear progression, targeted grammar sections and lots of exercises to practice.
What level of French do you need for this program?
The program is designed for upper-intermediate students (between upper B1 and B2 on the CEFR scale). As a rule of thumb, if the innerFrench Videos are at the right level for you or if you’ve already finished the ‘Build a Strong Core‘ course, then this program will be the right level, too.
Do I have to do the 'Build a Strong Core' course before this one?
It’s not mandatory but I highly recommend it, especially if you still find the innerFrench Podcast challenging.
When does the program start and finish?
You’ll get access to your first lesson as soon as you sign up. Then you can go through the lessons at your own pace and take as long as you need to complete the program.
If I don't join the course now, when is the next enrollment period?
Enrollment typically re-opens every 4 months.
Does the program include explanations in English?
The program is entirely in French, just like my podcast and videos. Translations are provided in the transcription for tricky words and expressions, but the lessons and the grammar explanations are in French. I break things down into digestible pieces to make sure you get everything.
What if I am unhappy with the course?
As a teacher, my goal is to see my students make actual progress. So if you don’t get results after joining the program, I offer a 30-day money back guarantee.
What equipment do I need?
You can access the course on your laptop, smartphone or tablet, as long as you have an internet connection.
Does the program include live classes with Hugo?
No, the lessons are recorded and we don’t offer conversation classes. But you can ask us questions under each lesson and quiz of the course or by email.
Leila, Brazil
“When we find ourselves halfway between intermediate and advanced levels, Raconte ton histoire can be a stairway.
I like the way Hugo puts all the information together in a simple and interesting way, not boring at all.
As I was preparing to DELF B2 I found it pretty convenient, because it brings a lot of useful content that can be used in the exam.“
Course Curriculum
Contenu Cours
1ère partie – Les parcours
2ème partie – Les périodes
3ème partie – Les évènements
4ème partie – Les rêves, regrets et alternatives
Conclusion
"Simply put, the format of this course works: its content is interesting and its explanations are clear. Hugo’s contagious enthusiasm and unwavering encouragement are most effective: I’ve not only successfully resurrected my French (I hadn’t touched it in 30 years!), but reignited my love for languages in general."
Francesca
Italy
"The interviews gave me a sense of real French. With the comprehension tests, comments and related grammar, the work certainly helped me improve my knowledge of the French language."
Gene
United States
"The course was fantastic, and I highly recommend it to everyone! I don't think there's anything like it on the internet. It offers an excellent combination of tools to help you improve your French."
Jennifer
United States
"As a teacher of foreign languages, I understand very well the importance of the human element in learning, and that's what I particularly like about the course. Hugo's friends are so interesting and passionate, and of course the exercises and explanations are really clear."
Carlos
Argentina
"I found the course very useful. The content was interesting and I was able to improve my listening comprehension. I will repeat the course to better memorize the grammar. Thank you so much!"
Astrid
Germany
"I enjoyed the course so much that I took all the lessons twice in a row! 😊 Thanks to the whole team for a well-prepared and enjoyable course."
Denise
Canada
"I think there's a good balance between interviews and grammar (this course filled in a lot of the gaps I had left in grammar)! But on top of that, I really enjoyed the videos in which Hugo talks about interesting topics like collapse and uchrony."
Stephen
United Kingdom
"All the lessons and exercises are excellent. I enrolled in this course to improve my listening and speaking skills. But as a bonus, I improved my grammar! Hugo is a wonderful teacher and storyteller who can teach difficult topics in a simple way. I also love his humor and in-depth analysis of each topic."
Aileen
United States
"The course is well laid out and very varied. The grammar is clearly explained, the interviews are interesting and fun, and the exercises are instructive."
Arianne
Netherlands
"I recommend the ‘Raconte ton histoire’ course. It's a challenge, like any good course, but also a great way to learn French."
Cristina
Brazil
"Returning to learn the language many years after leaving school, I found this course perfect for its focus on how the French speak naturally and informally about their country, their work and day-to-day lives and recent experiences. My progress has seemed effortless because it’s been so enjoyable!"
Allan
United Kingdom
"I enjoyed trying to understand the interviews. Excellent ear training."
Christine
Canada
"It's the first course I've taken that I've enjoyed so much! Not too much grammar, mostly living French. Clear explanations, easy to follow, done with enthusiasm."
Henk
Netherlands
"I've been learning French for a few years but I still have trouble understanding French conversations sometimes. But this course has helped me to revise grammar that I had forgotten and by listening to interviews several times I'm more comfortable speaking with French people now!"
Yihong
China
"I really like Hugo's approach to learning. The explanations are clear and practical, and he brings a calm, philosophical demeanor that really encourages thought. I finished half the course before having to take a long break, but I picked it up again and completed it. The course is well-designed with a variety of videos and quizzes that provide a lot of support and make the course feel very personal. I look forward to reviewing it and to taking other courses from InnerFrench."
Lisa
United States
"I loved it all! The exercises, the interviews, the commentaries... I liked the speed with which Ingrid or Hugo answered my questions in the commentaries. The choice of interview subjects was also very interesting."
Dorota
Poland
« 'Raconte ton histoire' était à la fois fascinant et efficace. Combiné avec le tutorat en ligne, j'ai pu élever mon niveau à intermédiaire avancé après avoir été bloqué pendant des années au niveau débutant avancé. Merci Hugo et son équipe ! »
Nancy
United States
"The course provides new vocabulary and expressions. It helps you learn how to speak in everyday situations. The grammar explanations are clear and understandable. I've made enormous progress - it's amazing!"
Parwes
Germany
"I’m usually such a procrastinator, but this is a course I didn’t have to force myself to do! That’s because the lessons, topics, challenge level and especially how personal it feels made it a real pleasure. I moved to France with extremely basic French and this course (after also many podcasts!!) have given not only my French level, but my motivation and confidence, the boost it needed."
Rebecca
New Zealand
"The interviews gave me a sense of real French. With the comprehension tests, comments and related grammar, the work certainly helped me improve my knowledge of the French language."
John
United States
"Hugo's way of explaining grammar is very easy to understand, and the quizzes, videos and documentaries, always with beautiful images, are carefully arranged and always very informative in many areas. As a result, everything is entertaining and fun, and his very personal way of telling a story, creating connexions and explaining it well, makes it a pleasure to improve and be able to resurrect the grammar you learned at school a long time ago!"
Damaris
Germany
"For those of you who think you're too old to learn a new language, think again. I am 76 years old and didn't begin my voyage of discovery until I was in my late 50s when I moved to France. In these last few years I have learned to speak French and have many French friends but I was never *really* confident. I joked that " je parle anglais comme un natif mais français comme un anglais". As Hugo says, it is very difficult to move beyond that "intermediate level" but innerFrench with its unique mixture of articles, interviews, insights into grammar and exercises, has allowed me to feel that I am moving on to the next exciting phase in my relationship with the French Language and culture."
Kevin
United Kingdom
"The conversations were very interesting and excellent training for understanding spoken French. I learned a lot of French vocabulary, grammar, culture and history."
Kristine
United States
"The course has a good mix of videos on interesting topics, as well as easy-to-understand explanations of vocabulary usage and grammar. I would choose to do it again any time."
Annika
Switzerland
"I especially appreciated the good balance between lessons devoted to grammar and those based on listening comprehension and vocabulary learning. I thought it was great that the language spoken in the videos was authentic. I watched them forgetting that I was learning something, and it was far from unpleasant!"
Jan
Czech Republic
Learning French is a Fantastic Adventure!
But it’s also a long journey that can feel overwhelming sometimes.
This course will give you the skills to understand French people and the confidence to share your story with them.
