English Extras

Send me a message!Transcript HEREThe Journey to Understanding Fast English - Slow and Steady Wins the RaceHave you ever felt proud of your English progress, only to feel completely lost when trying to follow a quick conversation? That sudden drop in confidence - that feeling that maybe you'll never get there - I understand it deeply. We've all been there, and it's completely normal.But here's the truth: understanding native speakers, even at their natural rapid pace, isn't just a dream. It's a real destination, and you can reach it. The path might be challenging, but you're already on your way.In this guide, I'm sharing 10 techniques that have helped many learners break through that barrier of fast speech. These aren't magical solutions or overnight fixes - they're practical tools for your learning journey. Some might click with you immediately, while others might not suit your style at all. And that's okay.Think of these techniques as different paths up the same mountain. Try them all - you might be surprised by which ones feel right for you. The key isn't in finding the perfect method; it's in taking small, consistent steps forward. A few minutes of practice each day, a little patience with yourself, and a willingness to keep going even when it feels tough.Perfect for: Anyone who's ever felt discouraged by fast English but isn't ready to give up on their dream of effortless comprehension. This is your reminder that you can do this.Want to learn connected speech patterns to understand fast English?➡️ Patterns of Connected Speech (Part 1) ➡️ Patterns of Connected Speech (Part 2)Support the show

Send me a message!Let's talk about how Americans ring in the New Year! While Christmas is all about cozy family time, New Year's has its own special magic - it's party time! Picture this: friends gathering for parties, watching the famous Times Square ball drop (a dazzling tradition since 1907), and counting down together as midnight approaches. Then comes the fun part - sharing kisses at midnight (an old English and German tradition), singing "Auld Lang Syne," and celebrating fresh beginnings. And let's not forget those New Year's resolutions... Fun fact: only 8% of people actually keep them (but hey, we've been failing at resolutions since the 1800s, so you're in good company! 😅)👉 Find the transcript for this episode HERESupport the show

Send me a message!Ever wondered how Americans celebrate Christmas? Join me as I share my personal Christmas journey, from childhood memories of decorating the family tree and waiting anxiously for Santa, to my current holiday traditions in Florida. From attic adventures and cookie baking to capybara-themed presents, discover how Christmas evolves but stays magical as we grow up. A warm, nostalgic look at both past and present celebrations of this special holiday. 🎄💬 Need extra help? Access the full episode transcript with: • Definitions for key words and phrases • Real-life example sentences • Bonus practice resources 📥 Transcript & Extra Resources can be found HERESupport the show

Celebrating Christmas in America is a dazzling cultural affair. From its historical roots in Native American and European traditions to the impact of immigrant customs, the holiday has evolved uniquely. The commercialization of Christmas, highlighted by iconic figures like Santa from Sinterklaas and the Coca-Cola ads, reshaped the season. Modern celebrations blend family gatherings with inclusivity. Delicious seasonal treats, distinctive meals, and festive music and movies add to the charm, creating a rich tapestry of traditions for everyone.

Explore empowering idioms like "take the bull by the horns" and "stick to your guns" to boost your confidence and courage. Discover how to tackle New Year's resolutions and embrace risks, such as taking an art class or facing challenging tasks. Stay committed with phrases like "hold your ground" and "bite the bullet". Learn to manage nerves and keep control over your decisions with insights like "fear has no vote". Finally, get motivated with the Mandarin expression 加油, meaning "keep going!".

Send me a message!In this episode, we dive into the world of movies and TV shows to help you improve your English while having fun! I’ll share my top recommendations, including classics, modern hits, and binge-worthy series that are perfect for intermediate to advanced learners. From sharp comedies to gripping dramas, these picks are packed with everyday phrases, idioms, and cultural references to supercharge your language skills.Plus, I’ll give you tips on how to actively learn while watching—whether it’s using subtitles wisely or focusing on pronunciation and slang. Grab your popcorn and let’s make English learning an adventure on the big (and small) screen!Want the transcript for this episode? Click here!Support the show

It's tricky to tell someone to be quiet without sounding rude! Discover formal, casual, and fun ways to politely ask others to lower their volume. Learn the difference between phrases like 'would you mind' and 'could you,' and explore alternatives like 'hold your tongue' or 'zip it.' The importance of tone is highlighted as it can shift a request from polite to playful or severe. This insightful conversation will help you master the art of sound discretion in various situations.

Dive into the rich history of Thanksgiving, from its 1600s origins to its establishment as a national holiday by Lincoln. Discover the heart of Thanksgiving traditions, including the iconic Macy's Parade and the beloved football games that have become staples. Explore delicious dishes like turkey and pumpkin pie, with insights into family potluck gatherings. Delve into the evolving nature of the holiday, including the rise of Friendsgiving and cultural variations that reflect America's diversity. Celebrate the spirit of gratitude and togetherness!

Discover the art of politely asking someone to wait with a variety of English phrases. From casual terms like 'hang on' to formal requests such as 'just a moment, please', the conversation explores versatile ways to pause interactions. Jean highlights the nuances between 'give me a second' and 'give me a moment', as well as the less common 'hang tight'. Learn how to phrase commands as polite questions and request patience with 'bear with me'. Enhance your communication skills with these practical tips!

Dive into the common English pitfalls that many learners stumble upon! Discover when to use 'too' versus 'either' depending on sentence structure. Unravel the mystery behind 'make' and 'do' with practical examples. Plus, learn about transitive and intransitive verbs and why some need objects while others don’t. With helpful tips and reassurances, you’ll soon feel more confident using these tricky terms in conversation!