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
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!
20 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 22min
AEE 2433: Communicate Your Boundaries in English
In this engaging discussion, the hosts emphasize the importance of setting personal boundaries to enhance communication. They explore the concept of 'only so much' while sharing personal stories and insights on productivity limits. The conversation dives into the diminishing returns of overindulgence, especially regarding dining experiences. Practical examples and role-plays highlight how to effectively communicate boundaries, with a humorous take on ice cream preferences adding to the fun. The episode wraps up with an invitation to enjoy life's little indulgences.
50 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 17min
AEE 2432: Don’t Get Washed out by Phrasal Verbs
Discover the multifaceted world of phrasal verbs, particularly the intriguing term 'washout.' Explore its meanings, from cleaning to a stigma of failure in various contexts like education and internships. The hosts lighten the mood with personal stories about lighting in photography, stress the importance of positive language, and discuss how context shapes the understanding of phrases. Listeners are encouraged to boost their vocabulary while enjoying a playful and insightful conversation about language nuances.
22 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 16min
AEE 2431: Can You Make It? RSVP Etiquette for Weddings and Parties in English
Dive into the fascinating world of RSVP etiquette for weddings and parties! Discover essential phrases and tips for effective communication about your attendance. Learn the nuances of managing guest responses and the importance of timely confirmations. The hosts explore polite follow-up strategies for non-responders, ensuring your inquiries feel friendly yet clear. With engaging personal anecdotes, they highlight the roles and responsibilities of being a guest, all while keeping it light and entertaining!
86 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 15min
AEE 2430: Study Up On This Impressive Vocabulary
Explore the art of expanding vocabulary to enhance communication skills. Discover the Let Them Theory, which emphasizes supporting others without losing your own happiness. Dive into the idiom 'hit the books' to understand the urgency of studying. Learn practical studying strategies and the differences between phrases like 'study up on' versus 'read up on.' Hear personal experiences with academic pressures and how to navigate procrastination during exam season. Finally, embrace a lifelong learning mindset to keep growing your vocabulary!
60 snips
Jun 21, 2025 • 19min
AEE: Making Jokes in English? I See What You Did There!
Explore the delightful world of humor in English! Discover how jokes and puns can help ease anxiety and foster connections. Delve into the phrase 'I see what you did there' and its playful significance in everyday interactions. Learn how to use intonation and context to deepen your relationships, whether in dating or casual conversations. The hosts share insights on the unintentional fun of puns and their emotional impact. Get ready to sharpen your communication skills while enjoying the lighter side of language!
63 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 20min
AEE 2429: Don't Be a Snob When it Comes to English
The discussion kicks off with the pitfalls of language snobbery, stressing the value of meaningful communication. Personal anecdotes reveal childhood encounters with snobbish friends and cultural insights into social attitudes. Wine appreciation is tackled, highlighting the balance between enjoyment and the challenges of wine snobs. The speakers explore how refined tastes in food, music, and travel can shape perceptions, urging listeners to embrace shared experiences over superficial judgments. This engaging dialogue promotes a more open mindset towards interests and social connections.
42 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 16min
AEE 2428: Why is English Spelling So Nerve-Racking?
English spelling can induce anxiety, but communication should take priority. The hosts tackle the term 'nerve-wracking' and its spelling variations, exploring their significance in writing. Personal anecdotes about driving fears lead to discussions on expressing genuine emotions and the difficulties of apologies. They also role-play navigating communication after conflicts, highlighting the importance of articulating feelings. Ultimately, the podcast encourages focusing on emotion rather than getting stuck on spelling intricacies.
61 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 20min
AEE 2427: Make Your English Magical
Discover how four magical phrases can enhance English conversations and tackle common learner challenges. The hosts bond over childhood magic and its impact on parenting, using humorous expressions to illustrate everyday language. Explore personal strengths that can enhance communication skills and learn to transform everyday tasks into delightful experiences. With playful role play, they highlight the charm in fixing small problems and finding joy in simple gestures, all while encouraging listeners to reflect on their unique talents.
46 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 17min
AEE 2426: Build Connection By Softening Commands in English
Discover the art of softening commands in English to foster deeper connections. Learn how phrasing impacts interpersonal dynamics and enhances collaboration. The hosts share practical examples and polite alternatives that can transform everyday communication. Delve into the significance of tone and respectful language, while exploring grammatical nuances that shift meaning. Plus, uncover tools that enhance vocabulary and support conversational skills, ensuring you communicate with confidence and politeness.
