

Thinking in English
Thomas Wilkinson
Thinking in English is a podcast for intermediate and advanced English learners who want to do more than just study grammar and vocabulary.
I believe that thinking is one of the most important steps on the road to fluency. That’s why each episode explores fascinating topics, from politics, economics, and history to philosophy, science, and culture.
Instead of simply learning English, this podcast helps you learn in English. You’ll expand your knowledge, discover new ideas, and improve your language skills, all at the same time.
Bonus episodes and ad-free episodes, exclusive for Patreon subscribers: https://www.patreon.com/collection/869866
Join our Conversation Clubs and support the podcast: https://www.patreon.com/thinkinginenglish
Visit the website: https://thinkinginenglish.blog/
Thinking in English is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Contact advertising@airwavemedia.com to advertise on Thinking in English.
I believe that thinking is one of the most important steps on the road to fluency. That’s why each episode explores fascinating topics, from politics, economics, and history to philosophy, science, and culture.
Instead of simply learning English, this podcast helps you learn in English. You’ll expand your knowledge, discover new ideas, and improve your language skills, all at the same time.
Bonus episodes and ad-free episodes, exclusive for Patreon subscribers: https://www.patreon.com/collection/869866
Join our Conversation Clubs and support the podcast: https://www.patreon.com/thinkinginenglish
Visit the website: https://thinkinginenglish.blog/
Thinking in English is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Contact advertising@airwavemedia.com to advertise on Thinking in English.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 21, 2022 • 19min
What Is “Burnout”? And How Can You Avoid It While Studying English?
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CLICK HERE TO DONATE OR SUPPORT THE PODCAST!!!! - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/donate-and-support/
Have you ever felt exhausted, tired, unmotivated, and negative towards your work or language learning journey? If so, you may have experience “burnout.” Today, let’s learn about the different types of burnout, why they are bad for language learners, and how to avoid suffering from them while studying English!
TRANSCRIPT - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/2022/09/21/what-is-burnout-and-how-can-you-avoid-it-while-studying-english/
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How to Learn English from Podcasts!
Stop Being A Perfectionist!
How to Stay Motivated??
How to IMPROVE Your Small Talk Skills?
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Blog - thinkinginenglish.blog
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Sep 19, 2022 • 20min
173. What is the Human Development Index? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
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This year’s Human Development Index results have been published by the UN… and they are not good. For the first time in history, average human development around the world is in decline. Let’s take a look at the concept of human development and discuss this year’s results on today’s episode of Thinking in English!
TRANSCRIPT -- https://thinkinginenglish.blog/2022/09/19/what-is-the-human-development-index/
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172. What Happens When the Queen Dies? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
171. The Life of Queen Elizabeth II (English Vocabulary Lesson)
170. Who was Gorbachev? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
169. There Is No Such Thing As A Fish… (English Vocabulary Lesson)
INSTAGRAM - thinkinginenglishpodcast (https://www.instagram.com/thinkinginenglishpodcast/)
Blog - thinkinginenglish.blog
Vocabulary List
Development (n) – the process in which something grows or changes and becomes more advanced
The region needs more development
Indicator (n) – something that shows what a situation is like
House prices are an indicator of the country’s economic health
Well-being (n) – the state of feeling healthy and happy
Yoga can improve people’s feeling of well-being
Life expectancy (n) – the length of time that someone is likely to live
Life expectancy in Europe has greatly increased in the past 100 years
Goalpost (n) – the aim, goal, or conditions for success
In terms of minimum income, the HDI goalpost is $100
Decline (n) – when something becomes less in amount, importance, quality, or strength
Home cooking seems to be in decline
Crisis (n) - a time of great disagreement, confusion, or suffering
The country’s leadership is in crisis
Shock (n) – a sudden, unexpected, and usually unpleasant event or experience
It was a shock to see her looking so ill
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Sep 14, 2022 • 21min
172. What Happens When the Queen Dies? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
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CLICK HERE TO DONATE OR SUPPORT THE PODCAST!!!! - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/donate-and-support/
The UK is currently preparing for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away last week at the age of 96. While the death of the Queen came as a shock, the government and Royal Family have been preparing for this moment for decades. Today, let’s discuss what happens when a British monarch passes away!
TRANSCRIPT - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/2022/09/14/what-happens-when-the-queen-dies/
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171. The Life of Queen Elizabeth II (English Vocabulary Lesson)
Every Royal Word You Need to Know! (English Vocabulary Lesson)
120. Why Did Barbados Become a Republic? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
67. Who was Prince Philip? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
INSTAGRAM - thinkinginenglishpodcast (https://www.instagram.com/thinkinginenglishpodcast/)
Blog - thinkinginenglish.blog
Vocabulary List
Accession (n) – the time when someone starts a position of authority, especially a king or a queen
1952 was the year of Queen Elizabeth’s accession to the throne
Half-mast (n) – a flag that is at half mast has been brought down to a point halfway down the pole as an expression of sadness at someone’s death
The flags at Buckingham Palace were all flying at half-mast
Sombre (adj) – serious, sad, and without humour or entertainment
The funeral was a sombre occasion
Oath (n) – a promise that you will tell the truth or that you will do what you have said
Presidents take an oath to uphold the constitution
Proclamation (n) – an official announcement
The proclamation of the new king was announced around the UK
To pay (one’s) respects (idiom) – to offer or express one’s condolences or sympathy, particuarly to someone’s family following their death
Thousands of people are expected to pay their respects to the Queen
Procession (n) – a line of people who are all walking or travelling in the same direction, especially in a formal way
The funeral procession will start at 10am
To line a street (idiom) – if people or things line a road, they are present in large in numbers along its edges or sides
Millions of people will line the streets of London
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Sep 12, 2022 • 21min
171. The Life of Queen Elizabeth II (English Vocabulary Lesson)
Support the Podcast and Join my Patreon HERE -- https://www.patreon.com/thinkinginenglish
CLICK HERE TO DONATE OR SUPPORT THE PODCAST!!!! - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/donate-and-support/
Queen Elizabeth II has passed away. Today I want to introduce the story of her life – from unexpectedly becoming Queen, to the breakup of the British Empire, to her later years of popularity.
TRANSCRIPT - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/2022/09/12/171-the-life-of-queen-elizabeth-ii-english-vocabulary-lesson/
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Every Royal Word You Need to Know! (English Vocabulary Lesson)
120. Why Did Barbados Become a Republic? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
67. Who was Prince Philip? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
INSTAGRAM - thinkinginenglishpodcast (https://www.instagram.com/thinkinginenglishpodcast/)
Blog - thinkinginenglish.blog
Vocabulary List
Reign (n) -the period of time when a king or queen rules a country
Queen Elizabeth’s reign lasted 70 years
Monarch (n) – a king or queen
Britain’s head of state is a constitutional monarch
Duty (n) – work you have to do for your job or because you feel it is right
Queen Elizabeth felt it was her duty to serve the UK
To succeed (v) – to take an official job or position after someone else
King Charles III has succeeded his mother Queen Elizabeth II
Heir (n) – a person who will legally receive money, property, or a title from another person when that person dies
Prince William is now the heir to throne
Coronation (n) – a ceremony at which a person is made king or queen
Queen Elizabeth’s coronation took place in 1953
Scandal (n) – an action or event that causes shock or disapproval
Despite scandals, the Queen remained popular in the UK
Condolence (n) – sympathy or sadness for the family or friends of a person who has died
World leaders have sent their condolences to King Charles and the Royal Family
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thinking-english/support Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 7, 2022 • 22min
170. Who was Gorbachev? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
Support the Podcast and Join my Patreon HERE -- https://www.patreon.com/thinkinginenglish
CLICK HERE TO DONATE OR SUPPORT THE PODCAST!!!! - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/donate-and-support/
Mikhail Gorbachev, the last leader of the Soviet Union, has passed away. News reports around the world described him as one of the most influential political figures of all time. Today, let’s discuss how Gorbachev rose to such a powerful position, his influence as a leader, and his legacy today!
TRANSCRIPT - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/2022/09/07/who-was-gorbachev/
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169. There Is No Such Thing As A Fish… (English Vocabulary Lesson)
168. Should Kids Have Homework? (English Vocabulary Lesson
167. What is a Recession? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
166. Afghanistan: One Year Later! (English Vocabulary Lesson)
INSTAGRAM - thinkinginenglishpodcast (https://www.instagram.com/thinkinginenglishpodcast/)
Blog - thinkinginenglish.blog
Vocabulary List
Breakup (n) – the division of something into smaller parts
The breakup of the oil tanker caused severe damage to the environment
Legacy (n) – something that is a part of your history or that remains from an earlier time
The war has left a legacy of hatred
To eclipse (v) – to make another person or thing seem much less important, good, or famous
The economy has eclipsed all other issues during this election
Innovation (n) – a new idea or method
What is the next innovation in computer technology?
Repression (n) – the use of force or violence to control a group of people
The political repression in this country is enforced by terror
To crush (v) – to defeat someone completely
The president used the army to crush the rebellion
Catastrophe (n) – a sudden event that causes very great trouble or destruction
The war has been a catastrophe
To restructure (v) – to organize a company, business, or system in a new way to make it operate more effectively
The department is currently undergoing a restructure
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thinking-english/support Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 5, 2022 • 18min
169. There Is No Such Thing As A Fish... (English Vocabulary Lesson)
Support the Podcast and Join my Patreon HERE -- https://www.patreon.com/thinkinginenglish
CLICK HERE TO DONATE OR SUPPORT THE PODCAST!!!! - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/donate-and-support/
There is no such thing as a fish. You might not believe me right now, but by the end of the episode I’m confident you will understand, and maybe even agree, with my opinion. Let’s learn some biological English vocabulary while trying to answer the question… Do fish actually exist?
TRANSCRIPT -- https://thinkinginenglish.blog/2022/09/05/169-there-is-no-such-thing-as-a-fish-english-vocabulary-lesson/
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168. Should Kids Have Homework? (English Vocabulary Lesson
167. What is a Recession? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
166. Afghanistan: One Year Later! (English Vocabulary Lesson)
165. Why is Ireland Divided? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
INSTAGRAM - thinkinginenglishpodcast (https://www.instagram.com/thinkinginenglishpodcast/)
Blog - thinkinginenglish.blog
Vocabulary List
Vertebrate (n) – an animal that has a spine
Cows, frogs, and ostriches are all vertebrates
cold-blooded (adj) – cold-blooded animals can only control their body heat by taking in heat from the outside or by being very active
Snakes and lizards are cold-blooded animals
Limbless (adj) – having no limbs (no arms, legs, or wings)
Snakes are limbless reptiles
Common ancestor (n) – one species which is the ancestor of two or more species later in time
Humans and gorillas share a common ancestor
To evolve (v) – to develop gradually
Dogs evolved from wolves
Descendant (n) – an animal that lives after and is related to another animal that lived in the past
Lemurs are descendants of early primates
To distinguish (v) – to notice or understand the difference between two things
It is difficult to distinguish between these two species
Characteristic (n) – a typical or noticeable quality of someone or something
A squashed face is an unfortunate characteristic of pugs
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thinking-english/support Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 31, 2022 • 20min
168. Should Kids Have Homework? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
Support the Podcast and Join my Patreon HERE -- https://www.patreon.com/thinkinginenglish
CLICK HERE TO DONATE OR SUPPORT THE PODCAST!!!! - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/donate-and-support/
Is homework beneficial? Should kids have homework? Or is homework a waste of time? Today, we are going to look at this debate, practice thinking in English, and learn some useful vocabulary at the same time!
TRANSCRIPT - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/2022/08/31/168-should-kids-have-homework-english-vocabulary-lesson/
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167. What is a Recession? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
166. Afghanistan: One Year Later! (English Vocabulary Lesson)
165. Why is Ireland Divided? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
164. What is Happening in Taiwan? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
INSTAGRAM - thinkinginenglishpodcast (https://www.instagram.com/thinkinginenglishpodcast/)
Blog - thinkinginenglish.blog
Vocabulary List
Assignment (n) – a piece of work given to someone, typically as part of their studies or job
I have a lot of assignments to complete this week
To cater for someone/something (phrasal v) – to provide what is wanted or needed by someone or something
The club caters for children below the age of 10
To memorize (v) – to learn something so that you will remember it exactly
When I was at school, we were required to memorize vocabulary every week
Perspective (n) – a particular way of considering something
He writes from a Marxist perspective
Achievement (n) – the act of achieving something (finishing something successfully) or of achieving things generally
This school has a history of outstanding achievement
Detrimental (adj) – causing harm or damage
These chemicals have a detrimental impact on the environment
Prevalent (adj) – existing very commonly or happening often
That disease is more prevalent among children
Social inequality (n) – the condition of unequal access to the benefits of society
Universities have been accused of increasing social inequality
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thinking-english/support Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 29, 2022 • 22min
167. What is a Recession? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
Support the Podcast and Join my Patreon HERE -- https://www.patreon.com/thinkinginenglish
CLICK HERE TO DONATE OR SUPPORT THE PODCAST!!!! - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/donate-and-support/
Across the world, our economies are struggling with inflation, soaring energy prices, and the impact of Russia’s war in Ukraine! It is likely the many countries will enter a recession. But… what exactly is a recession? What causes recession? And how can we reverse a shrinking economy? Let’s answer these questions today, while learning some useful economic vocabulary!
TRANSCRIPT - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/2022/08/29/what-is-a-recession-english-vocabulary-lesson/
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166. Afghanistan: One Year Later! (English Vocabulary Lesson)
165. Why is Ireland Divided? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
164. What is Happening in Taiwan? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
163. Are Dress Codes a Good Thing? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
INSTAGRAM - thinkinginenglishpodcast (https://www.instagram.com/thinkinginenglishpodcast/)
Blog - thinkinginenglish.blog
Vocabulary List
Market (n) – is the business or trade in a particular type of goods or services
The job market is strong right now
To shrink (v) – to become smaller, or to make something smaller
The company’s profits have shrunk from $10 million dollars last year, to just $2 million this year
Decline (n) – when something becomes less in amount, importance, quality, or strength
There is a decline in the number of unemployed people this month
Quarter (n) – one of four periods of time into which a year is divided for financial calculations
I pay my rent every quarter
Holistic (adj) – dealing with or treating the whole of something or someone and not just a part
My doctor takes a holistic approach to disease
Bubble (n) – a temporary period of very successful economic performance in a particular country or sector, often followed by sudden failure
There are worries that the current housing bubble may soon burst
Inflation (n) – a general, continuous increase in prices
Inflation in the UK has now reached 10%
Deficit (n) – the total amount by which money spent is more than money received
The country’s deficit is around $500 million
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5 snips
Aug 24, 2022 • 22min
How to Learn English from Podcasts!
Podcasts can be a powerful resource for mastering English. Learn how to implement active listening and use transcripts to improve comprehension. Engaging with the content through note-taking boosts retention. Community interaction enhances the learning experience, turning listeners into active participants. Discover practical tips to transform your podcast sessions into effective study opportunities.

Aug 22, 2022 • 18min
166. Afghanistan: One Year Later! (English Vocabulary Lesson)
Support the Podcast and Join my Patreon HERE -- https://www.patreon.com/thinkinginenglish
CLICK HERE TO DONATE OR SUPPORT THE PODCAST!!!! - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/donate-and-support/
One year ago, the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan. At the time, people were unsure what the future held for central Asian country – would the Taliban reintroduce their strict and severe policies? What would happen to the Afghan economy? How about women’s rights? Let’s discuss what has happened during the Taliban’s first year in control of Afghanistan!
TRANSCRIPT - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/2022/08/22/afghanistan-one-year-later-english-vocabulary-lesson/
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165. Why is Ireland Divided? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
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INSTAGRAM - thinkinginenglishpodcast (https://www.instagram.com/thinkinginenglishpodcast/)
Blog - thinkinginenglish.blog
Vocabulary List
To fall (v) – if a place falls in a war or an election, an enemy army or a different political party gets control of it
Rome fell in the year 455 AD
Repercussion (n) – the effect that an action, event, or decision has on something, especially a bad effect
He never thinks about the repercussions of his actions
Reliant (adj) – needing a particular thing or person in order to continue, to work correctly, or to succeed
The project is heavily reliant on volunteers
To freeze (v) – to officially and legally prevent money or property from being used or moved
The government froze the criminals’ assets
Violation (n) – an action that breaks or acts against something, especially a law, agreement, principle, or something that should be treated with respect
The invasion is a clear violation of international law
To diminish (v) -to reduce or be reduced in size of importance
Our house has diminished in value over the last six months
Malnutrition (n) -physical weakness and bad health caused by having too little food, or too little of the types of food necessary for good health
Many refugees are suffering from severe malnutrition
Insurgency (n) – an occasion when a group of people attempt to take control of their country by force
The government is reported to be concerned about the growing insurgency in the South
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Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thinking-english/support Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


