People who know a language are often referred to as ‘speakers’, yet speaking extends far beyond the production of oral language. When learners exchange opinions and share personal experiences, they draw not only on linguistic knowledge but also on a broader set of competencies. From this perspective, the language classroom provides a rich context for fostering a more holistic learner development through carefully designed speaking tasks. This presentation explores a range of speaking strategies aimed at promoting meaningful interaction when teaching adults and young adults, while supporting the development of competencies that reach way beyond the language proficiency alone.