The Level Up English Podcast (Natural British English) #363 The Hidden Differences in How We Think
Feb 11, 2026
They explore how people experience mental imagery differently, from vivid visualizers to those with aphantasia. Inner speech and its effects on thinking, reading and meditation get discussed. The contrast between thinking-to-talk and talking-to-think is examined with practical tips. Navigation and sense-of-direction differences round out the conversation.
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Visual Imagination Varies Greatly
- People vary in their ability to visualize: some see vivid mental images while others see nothing (aphantasia).
- Michael Lavers found this difference explained his dislike of reading and preference for audio learning.
Use Experience And Repetition To Learn
- If you struggle to visualize, favour audio, real-life experience and repeated examples over imagery-based learning.
- Use repetition and real situations to form word associations instead of relying on mental pictures.
Inner Monologue Is Not Universal
- Many people have an ongoing inner monologue while others have quiet minds; about 30–50% report an inner voice.
- Michael links the monologue to challenges with meditation, reading pace, and overthinking conversations.