

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

17 snips
May 29, 2023 • 20min
AEE 1998: Missed the Joke? What to Say in English
Explore the nuances of humor in English conversations. Discover techniques to decode jokes and engage more confidently with others. Learn how non-native speakers can navigate feelings of exclusion and awkwardness in social settings. The hosts share personal anecdotes and practical language tips for responding after missing a punchline. They emphasize the need for clarity in humor and the role of cultural references in conversations. Overall, it's about fostering connections and enhancing your conversational skills in light-hearted contexts.

14 snips
May 25, 2023 • 18min
AEE 1997: How Songkran Inspires Water Fights and Connection in English
Dive into the lively celebration of Songkran in Thailand, famous for its playful water fights! Listen to personal stories that spark nostalgia for childhood fun and inspire reflections on cultural differences in water play. Discover tips for choosing stylish summer shorts perfect for family adventures. Engage with fun conversation starters that bring back memories of carefree days, while learning how Songkran fosters connections through shared experiences. It's a joyful reminder of playfulness and cultural bonds!

14 snips
May 24, 2023 • 19min
AEE 1996: Make, Have or Get? How to Use Causative Verbs in English
Explore the intriguing world of causative verbs like 'make,' 'have,' and 'get.' Discover how these verbs differ in meaning and context, influencing communication styles. Engage with relatable examples from everyday life that highlight their uses in parenting and social interactions. Delve into the emotional power of asserting influence through word choice, and learn how to navigate potential misunderstandings for clearer conversations. It’s a fun and insightful guide to mastering English nuances!

18 snips
May 23, 2023 • 18min
AEE 1995: I've Got Bigger Fish to Fry! How to Say Something Is Less Important in English
Discover how to communicate what truly matters in both work and life. The hosts share relatable stories about juggling priorities and navigating chaos. Dive into the idiom 'bigger fish to fry,' exploring its importance in prioritizing tasks. Learn how clear communication can strengthen connections, highlighting the difference between urgent and significant matters. With a playful twist on personal preferences, this discussion emphasizes flexible strategies for managing life's demands.

9 snips
May 22, 2023 • 23min
AEE 1994: Don't Drop Your Raspberries! Michelle's Grocery Store Adventures
A humorous grocery store incident kicks off a discussion about confidently handling mishaps in English. The chaos of spilled raspberries and parenting antics brings laughter and relatable stories to the forefront. Practical language tips for addressing grocery accidents are shared, reinforcing kindness and politeness. The concept of 'you break it, you buy it' is explored through personal anecdotes, reminding listeners of the importance of grace in everyday interactions. Ultimately, embracing kindness and enjoying simple pleasures is emphasized.

21 snips
May 18, 2023 • 19min
AEE 1993: Think Of or Think About? What Do You Think?
Explore the intriguing differences between 'think of' and 'think about.' Discover how these phrases shape our communication and decision-making. Engaging examples and role-play scenarios bring their meanings to life. The discussion encourages active participation, inviting listeners to reflect on their own usage. Plus, there's a fun nod to staying active in stylish athletic wear while learning. It's a fresh perspective on vocabulary that enhances both language skills and confidence.

8 snips
May 17, 2023 • 23min
AEE 1992: New Heights for your English Vocabulary
Explore the metaphor of height in achieving goals, with personal anecdotes that resonate. Discover the impact of self-perception on language, along with common mistakes in discussing height. Uncover the importance of recognizing love languages in relationships and the benefits of spring fitness. Navigate the significance of specific language in professional contexts and enjoy a playful look at graduation and prom traditions. Lastly, learn how informal expressions can strengthen conversational connections and create a friendlier atmosphere.

9 snips
May 16, 2023 • 20min
AEE 1991: It Just So Happens You Can Use this Phrase to Mark Surprise and Connect
Discover how to express surprise and connection in English using the phrase 'it just so happens.' The hosts explore the politeness of 'happen to,' showing its role in easing conversations. They share personal stories about joy in physical activities while recommending versatile outdoor apparel. Gain insights into how language choice can enhance everyday interactions and create bonds through shared experiences. Embrace the art of surprise and enjoy the delightful moments that come with it!

11 snips
May 15, 2023 • 24min
AEE 1990: What Should I Call You? Names in American Culture
Dive into the fascinating world of names and their cultural significance in America. Explore how we address friends' parents and the informal titles that can shape social connections. Nostalgia kicks in with reflections on childhood TV shows, while Hawaiian practices highlight the warmth of terms like 'auntie.' Discover the importance of respecting naming preferences across cultures and environments. This lively discussion invites listeners to ponder their own naming habits and the evolving meanings of titles like 'Ms' and 'Mrs.'

27 snips
May 11, 2023 • 16min
AEE 1989: Need an Easy Way to Show Agreement in English? Same!
Dive into the art of casual agreement with the power of the word 'same'. Discover how this simple expression can deepen connections in everyday conversations. The hosts share fun personal anecdotes, including their boy band nostalgia and coffee love. They also explore how parenting experiences are enriched by shared phrases. Plus, there's a light-hearted discussion on self-care and grooming, wrapping up with a friendly thank you to listeners. Embrace comfort and confidence while enhancing your language skills!


