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
Aug 14, 2019 • 15min
AEE 1208: Twist in the Story? How to Talk About Unexpected Endings in English
Discover the thrill of storytelling with unexpected twists! The hosts dive into how narrative surprises can elevate stories in books, movies, and conversations. Learn engaging phrases and intonation techniques to express surprise effectively. The discussion emphasizes the importance of connection in storytelling, making conversations more vibrant. Plus, listeners are encouraged to share their own twisty tales on social media, tying it all back to the art of engaging dialogue.
Aug 13, 2019 • 16min
AEE 1207: Why These Sports Idioms Are Not Out of Left Field
Dive into the rich world of sports idioms and discover how they enhance everyday communication. Hear personal anecdotes from Fenway Park that highlight baseball's cultural significance in America. Explore idioms like 'low blow' and 'slam dunk' to understand their usage beyond sports. The hosts engage in lighthearted discussions that show how these phrases connect people and enrich language learning. Plus, learn about a helpful app for boosting your vocabulary while tackling listener questions about sports-derived expressions.
Aug 12, 2019 • 19min
AEE 1206: Would You Rent a Dress? The Cultural Shift in American Millenial Values
Delve into the changing values of American millennials, highlighting their shift from ownership to renting. Discover the rise of clothing rental services that reflect their evolving relationship with fashion. Explore how the 2008 financial crisis has influenced these views and the growing preference for minimalism and experiences over materialism. Learn about the cultural phrases that signify this trend and how subscription models are reshaping consumer habits in a renting culture.
Aug 8, 2019 • 18min
AEE 1205: What Do Boats and Sarcasm Have in Common?
Dive into the humorous world of travel mishaps, like the struggles of red-eye flights and sleep deprivation. Discover the playful exploration of the phrase 'whatever floats your boat,' and how it highlights personal preferences. Reflect on individuality and the importance of self-acceptance amidst diverse opinions. Engage with the amusing banter about breakfast choices and playful sarcasm, while enjoying anecdotes from road trips and regional language quirks. Get ready to embrace the joy and nuances of language!
Aug 7, 2019 • 15min
AEE 1204: That's Too Bad! How to Show Your Sympathy Depending on the Situation in English
Dive into the art of expressing sympathy in English! Discover the nuances behind phrases like 'that's too bad' and how context can change their meaning. Learn how tone can enhance emotional connections, making your sympathy sound genuine. The discussion includes personal anecdotes and practical tips for choosing the right expressions depending on the situation. Plus, get insights on enhancing your language skills through engaging speaking opportunities.
Aug 6, 2019 • 15min
AEE 1203: Flying? How to Ask for a Seat Swap in English
Discover the art of politely asking to swap seats on airplanes with practical tips and personal anecdotes. Explore the social dynamics at play when requesting a seat change, and learn why aisle seats often reign supreme over window seats. Enjoy humorous insights about the discomfort of middle seats while mastering polite language for these scenarios. Engage with fellow listeners by sharing your own travel experiences and preferences, making flying a little more pleasant for everyone.
Aug 5, 2019 • 21min
AEE 1202: Surprising New Insight on How to Build Your Social Circle
Explore the art of building a vibrant social circle, balancing close friendships with casual acquaintances. Discover the often-overlooked power of 'weak ties' and how they enrich both personal and professional networks. Hear personal stories that reveal how friendships evolve over time. Learn the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships, even with service providers, and how to engage with new individuals in busy settings. Ultimately, this journey emphasizes the vital role of connections and community for a fulfilling social life.
Aug 1, 2019 • 17min
AEE 1201: What a Nightmare! How to Support Someone When They Complain
Discover practical techniques for supporting friends when they vent their frustrations, focusing on active listening and empathetic responses. The hosts share amusing traffic nightmare stories that highlight everyday annoyances. They explore the value of storytelling in fostering connections, emphasizing the difference between constructive sharing and mere complaining. Personal anecdotes reveal the deeper significance of nightmares and how expressions of empathy can illuminate communication. The conversation blends humor and helpful language tips, ensuring a positive vibe!
Jul 31, 2019 • 21min
AEE 1200: How to Not Get Bogged Down with Conditionals
Explore the challenges of using conditionals in English, especially during tense moments like work meetings. Discover personal travel recommendations for experiencing July 4th in Boston, complete with must-try coffee and fireworks. Dive into a listener's question about mastering conditional sentences with practical definitions and examples. Uncover the power of conditionals in everyday conversations and the new app features designed to enhance vocabulary learning. Join the discussion on making grammar functional and relatable for daily use.
Jul 30, 2019 • 18min
AEE 1199: What Gives?! How to Express Frustration and Confusion at the Same Time
The hosts tackle the tricky emotions of frustration and confusion, especially in everyday situations. They share humorous stories about faulty technology and celebrate a listener's IELTS success. The phrase 'what gives' is examined, highlighting its role in expressing bewilderment in casual conversations. They also introduce a new app aimed at improving language skills. Relatable travel anecdotes illustrate how to effectively communicate mixed feelings while enhancing personal connections.
