

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

53 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2441: Here We Go Again! Learn How to Articulate a Repetitive Situation
The hosts dive into the art of articulating repetitive situations like waiting in line or chaotic mornings. They explore the phrase 'here we go again,' revealing its dual meanings of frustration and excitement. With humor and personal stories, they highlight emotional nuances tied to daily frustrations. The conversation also touches on mastering intonation and the challenges of organizing summer parties, emphasizing clear communication to avoid misunderstandings. Tune in for relatable insights and lively discussions that brighten the mundane!

66 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 20min
AEE 2440: Ups and Downs in English Part 2: How to Bounce Back
Explore how resilience plays a crucial role in learning English and overcoming personal challenges. Discover the importance of meditation in forging a positive mindset and hear relatable stories about bouncing back from setbacks. The conversation dives into public figures’ comeback strategies, emotional journeys, and effective damage control. With personal anecdotes about conquering fears, the hosts emphasize the power of open dialogue and connection skills. Learn how sharing experiences can inspire and help others navigate their own challenges.

43 snips
Jul 8, 2025 • 22min
AEE 2439: English for Touchy, Testy Situations
Discover strategies for navigating socially tricky situations, like asserting yourself when norms are disrupted. Explore the playful use of the phrase 'excuse you' and its impact. Gain insights into cultural etiquette and how politeness varies worldwide. Learn effective communication strategies for sensitive situations and the dynamics of close friendships, balancing humor and honesty. Tune in for anecdotes and practical tips in handling discomfort in conversations!

80 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 17min
AEE 2438: Get Outta Dodge With This American Culture Vocabulary
Explore the intriguing origin of the phrase 'get out of Dodge' and its cultural significance in American history. Discover how iconic movie lines like 'I'm your Huckleberry' reflect broader societal themes. Hear personal anecdotes about job seeking in Jackson and the role of idioms in daily life. Enjoy a humorous take on the discomfort that follows thrilling amusement park rides, emphasizing the importance of communication. This discussion weaves together language, culture, and the quirks of social interactions.

109 snips
Jul 5, 2025 • 19min
AEE: Find Your Happy Place in This Episode
Discover the essence of finding your 'happy place' in this lively discussion! The hosts share personal anecdotes about joyful locations and how these spaces enhance mental well-being. They explore the role of shared experiences in strengthening relationships and highlight the importance of social connections in achieving happiness. With tips on relaxation techniques and fostering deeper interactions, listeners are encouraged to express their feelings and embrace moments of joy, both in personal spaces and social settings.

50 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2437: Are You Good Cop or Bad Cop?
Dive into the playful dynamics of the 'good cop, bad cop' approach in parenting and relationships. The hosts share their personal stories about navigating parenting roles as children grow up. They explore humorous strategies used in parent-child negotiations, like creative bribes and empty threats. Learn how this negotiation tactic also plays out in business settings, highlighting both its effectiveness and risk of misunderstanding. Each discussion is filled with reflections that resonate well beyond the realm of parenting.

34 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2436: The Audacity! Have the Nerve to Connect in English
The hosts tackle the challenges introverts face when speaking English, emphasizing connection over perfection. They explore the dual nature of 'audacity,' showcasing its positive and negative implications through humor and real-life examples. Delving into the meanings of 'nerve,' they discuss courage and bravery with nuanced insights. A lively role play illustrates the boldness required to pursue dreams, while personal anecdotes clarify the complexities of asserting oneself and the courage it takes to address mistakes.

52 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2435: This is an Awesome Episode! Take Our Word for It
Discover essential strategies to enhance your English conversation skills, focusing on bridging gaps between varying interests. Enjoy playful takes on the phrase 'I'll take your word for it' as hosts share humorous travel stories. Dive into the dynamics of trust in conversations, especially for younger generations navigating trends and opinions. Learn how to express appreciation for different experiences and engage effectively with others, regardless of their interests, through supportive language techniques.

89 snips
Jun 30, 2025 • 17min
AEE 2434: Vocabulary to Help With Your English Grind
Dive into the intriguing world of the word 'grind.' Learn about its various meanings, from coffee-making to the grind of hard work. The hosts share humorous insights about language nuances, like the differences between 'ground' and 'grinded.' Enjoy relatable role-plays that contrast casual chats with formal language, enhancing your understanding of contextual communication. And discover ways to 'stay grounded' in your daily life, especially through the comforting ritual of coffee. Engage with language while embracing the learning journey!

28 snips
Jun 28, 2025 • 16min
AEE: Avoid This Mistake With Stacked Adjectives
Discover how stacked adjectives can transform your English conversations. Learn the common pitfalls when using intensifiers and get tips on how to master words like 'really' and 'extremely.' The hosts also dive into the art of expressive communication and the importance of intonation. Plus, enjoy a fun role play set in Fiji, where vacation experiences come to life through vivid language. And if you're interested in enhancing your fluency, don’t miss out on their B2 English fluency course!


