

All Ears English Podcast
Lindsay McMahon and Michelle Kaplan
Are you looking for a new and fun way to learn American English? Come hang out with Lindsay and Michelle from Boston and New York City and have fun while you improve your English listening skills! We are an English as a Second Language (ESL) podcast for intermediate to advanced English learners around the world. We will show you how to use everyday English vocabulary and natural idioms, expressions, and phrasal verbs and how to make small talk in American English. We will also give you special tips on American culture, customs, etiquette, and how to speak with Americans as well as conversation and commentary on study tips, business English, life in America and Boston and New York, how to apply to university in the US, dating, travel, food and more. You'll get TOEFL, IELTS, and TOEIC help also from The Examiner of Excellence, Jessica Beck. This podcast is for adult students who are professionals and university students as well as ESL teachers. Join the community to learn to speak American English like a native! Connection NOT Perfection!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 2, 2019 • 20min
AEE 1218: I Take Issue with That! How to Challenge Someone When You Disagree in English
Discover practical strategies for expressing disagreement while maintaining professionalism. Explore life on the East vs. West Coast through personal anecdotes and language nuances. Delve into the cultural implications of phrases like 'I beg your pardon.' Learn how tone and intonation can make all the difference in communication. The hosts also discuss the phrase 'let's agree to disagree' in a lively debate about dietary choices, showcasing the art of respectful disagreement and enhancing conversational skills.

Aug 29, 2019 • 18min
AEE 1217: Don't Dwell On it! How to Respond Appropriately When Someone Is Stressed in English
Discover how to effectively support someone stressed while promoting empathy and connection. Explore cultural differences in stress management between New Yorkers and Angelenos. Enjoy humorous stories about minor annoyances, like losing a cell phone, and learn to keep perspective. Uncover strategies like breathing techniques and journaling to break negative cycles. Emphasize the importance of physical activity and effective communication in managing stress and fostering a positive mindset.

Aug 28, 2019 • 20min
AEE 1216: How Does Culture Influence Work Ethic?
Discover how work ethic varies by culture, from office norms to working hours. Explore personal stories from Japan and Argentina that highlight differing views on dedication. Dive into critiques of Japan's intense work culture and the challenges of time off. Learn about initiatives like 'premium Fridays' aimed at improving work-life balance. The discussion also contrasts productivity perceptions across industries and addresses effects of technology on burnout, making for a thought-provoking conversation on modern work environments.

Aug 27, 2019 • 18min
AEE 1215: A Deeper Way to Compliment Someone in English
Dive into the art of giving meaningful compliments and discover their power in building deeper connections. The hosts share personal stories linked to the trend of adopting rescue dogs, highlighting empathy and respect. Learn effective ways to compliment effort and achievements rather than just appearances. The discussion also touches on useful phrases for English learners, emphasizing informal and networking contexts. With practical tips and playful role play, this conversation redefines how we acknowledge and appreciate one another.

Aug 26, 2019 • 17min
AEE 1214: Satisfy, Refresh, and Connect in English
Discover the joy of food with delightful conversations about sweet cravings, especially brownies! The hosts share personal anecdotes that highlight how food connects us culturally and emotionally. Learn about a unique app that enhances English speaking skills with real-time transcripts and personalized vocabulary tools. Enjoy engaging discussions on expressive language for savoring meals and drinks, and get inspired to elevate your food descriptions. It's all about satisfying cravings and enriching your culinary vocabulary!

Aug 22, 2019 • 19min
AEE 1213: West Coast Best Coast! Lindsay's Big Move
A host shares the thrilling decision to move to the West Coast, highlighting the joys and challenges of embracing change. Cultural differences between the East and West Coasts create an exciting backdrop for personal growth. The conversation revolves around unexpected life choices and how they lead to new adventures. Emphasis is placed on taking risks and stepping outside comfort zones, fostering self-discovery. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own transformative experiences and engage in the journey of personal reinvention.

Aug 21, 2019 • 16min
AEE 1212: Not to Sound Bossy, But You Should Think Twice Before Using This Phrase
Explore how preemptive phrases like 'not to get political' can escalate discomfort in discussions. Dive into the nuances of softening criticism with common phrases and their often negative implications. Discover the cultural significance of phrases like 'having said that,' and the impact of context on communication. The episode highlights the importance of careful language when addressing sensitive topics, urging listeners to refine their vocabulary for better understanding.

Aug 20, 2019 • 18min
AEE 1211: The Lottery Conditional
Dive into the intriguing world of the second conditional, where hypothetical scenarios like winning the lottery take center stage. The hosts share personal stories of change, including a big move to California. Enjoy advice on enhancing listening skills for better comprehension in real-life conversations. They encourage creative thinking through imaginative situations and practical grammar tips to enrich daily communication. Plus, get a sneak peek at their upcoming learning app focused on personalized language practice.

Aug 19, 2019 • 21min
AEE 1210: How to Ask for Something Back and Avoid Sounding Mean in English
Learn how to navigate the tricky waters of asking for your belongings back without sounding rude. Discover effective communication strategies, particularly in sensitive situations like children's toy-sharing conflicts. The hosts share personal anecdotes and role-play scenarios to illustrate their points. They emphasize maintaining positive relationships while addressing delicate topics, making your requests friendly and approachable. Plus, explore how voice assistants can help you stay connected hands-free in your busy life.

Aug 15, 2019 • 17min
AEE 1209: What a Steal! How to Say You Got a Bargain in English
Discover the thrill of snagging a bargain and the expressions that capture that excitement, like 'it was a steal.' The hosts share personal shopping anecdotes and explore how fitness trackers can impact mental health. They dive into the cultural nuances of discussing prices, emphasizing the importance of vocabulary while navigating social dynamics around deals. Tune in for lively discussions on balancing great finds with the convenience of paying more!


