

podcastsinenglish
The pie team
The top esl/efl listening resource for those learning English and teaching English. We provide real conversations recorded for all levels of English learners. In addition, the supporting worksheets and transcripts can be used for self access or in the classroom to provide valuable English language lessons for learners of English at Beginner, Elementary, Intermediate and Advanced levels.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 14, 2020 • 4min
Level 1.159 Bands of gold
The hosts dive into their personal jewellery choices, revealing meaningful pieces they cherish. Richard shares the story behind his handmade Celtic gold wedding ring and his favorite cufflinks. Jackie offers insights into her matching wedding ring and a family heirloom band. She also discusses her beloved silver earrings from Thailand and memorable dolphin bracelets gifted by her parents. A fascinating ruby ring discovery from Richard's grandfather adds intrigue, as they humorously reflect on their 'cheap and cheerful' approach to treasures.

May 7, 2020 • 4min
Level 2.159 Facebook fun
Jackie and Richard dive into their recent adventures on Facebook, highlighting two creative groups. One group challenges members to recreate famous artworks using household items, often with hilarious twists. They share fun projects like pets posing as 'The Girl with the Pearl Earring.' Meanwhile, the Self-Isolating Bird Club celebrates wildlife, where members post stunning photos and videos. Richard shares a shocking predator sighting while also showcasing his own blue tit fledging. Tune in for a chuckle and discover great online communities!

Apr 30, 2020 • 4min
Level B.86 The company
Dive into the intricacies of starting a company, focusing on public limited companies. Discover how shares represent ownership and how shareholders aim for profits and dividends. The discussion also tackles the concept of limited liability, ensuring owners only risk their initial investment. Intriguingly, even high-profile figures like Richard Branson aren't personally liable for their companies' debts, raising questions about accountability. A thought-provoking conversation that balances finance with real-world implications!

Apr 16, 2020 • 4min
Level 3.159 No gym? No problem!
Discover the perks of working out at home versus group classes. Explore the motivation issues that come with solo exercise and the social benefits of group workouts. Hear personal anecdotes about a boring rowing machine and the lure of owning an exercise bike. Learn about the high-tech Peloton, complete with live classes and scenic rides. The discussion wraps up with a thought-provoking question on the future of fitness technology.

Apr 2, 2020 • 3min
Level 1.158 Take a seat
Jackie and Richard explore diverse dining customs from around the world. They highlight typical British habits like eating at the kitchen table and seasonal outdoor meals. Surprising statistics reveal many UK families skip the table altogether. They humorously discuss the practical downsides of breakfast in bed. Cultural nuances shine through as they talk about eating on the floor in Asia and the Middle East. Picnics are mentioned for their digestive benefits, and they also touch on the casual European culture of standing meals at bars.

Mar 26, 2020 • 4min
Level 2.158 the long arm of the law
Jackie shares a surprising incident where a brick smashed her window, highlighting how police responded with kindness. Richard recounts a roadblock experience in Portugal, shedding light on the differences between UK and Portuguese police forces. The duo discusses the unique structure of Portugal's civilian police versus the UK's single police force, revealing intriguing contrasts. They also touch on how recent times have seen an increase in police presence, prompting reflections on the evolving role of law enforcement.

Mar 12, 2020 • 4min
Level 3.158 Techno car
Jackie and Richard dive into their experiences with a high-tech Renault SUV. They navigate keyless entry systems and the complexities of electronic brakes. With a dashboard featuring 25 controls, they find humor in adapting to digital navigation and GPS, leaving paper maps behind. Assisted parking and safety sensors earn Jackie’s praise, while Richard grapples with eco-driving advice. They reflect on the steep learning curve of modern technology, questioning if younger drivers will adapt more easily to the flood of features.

Mar 5, 2020 • 4min
Level B.85 Product Placement
Product placement is a growing trend in film and TV, providing brands with unique visibility. Iconic examples include Ray-Ban's 40% sales boost from Top Gun and FedEx's global recognition surge from Cast Away. Even brief placements can yield impressive results, like the 150% spike attributed to a quick snack scene in Parasite. The hosts humorously reflect on the impact of these placements, especially in relation to Korean audiences.

Feb 27, 2020 • 3min
Level 1.157 Belly up
This week, the hosts dive into a series of unfortunate events, starting with their dog Yussi falling ill and the vet visits that followed. Medications caused some old issues to resurface, but thankfully, Yussi shows signs of recovery. Jackie shares her struggles with a nasty bug that left her needing bed rest. Adding to the chaos, Richard lost his wallet packed with important documents, sparking a whirlwind of paperwork. Despite the challenges, they're all slowly bouncing back!

Feb 13, 2020 • 4min
Level 2.157 The big top
Step right up to a thrilling discussion about the magic of the circus! Feel the unique atmosphere that only a live performance can provide. Dive into childhood memories of awe and fear, from trapeze artists to clowns. Explore the heart-pounding acts of acrobats and tightrope walkers and their wild balancing feats. Discover the difference between witnessing these acts live versus on screen. It's a blend of nostalgia, excitement, and a bit of fear that makes the circus truly special!


