

The British English Podcast
Charlie Baxter
Learn British English as well as British culture, history, news and current affairs, and much more with weekly episodes from your host Charlie on The British English Podcast! Visit the website for learning resources:thebritishenglishpodcast.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 25, 2025 • 34min
Bitesize Episode 103 - What Brits Think of You When You Say 'Apartment'
Delve into the quirky world of British housing vocabulary, where the word 'apartment' reveals cultural nuances. Discover the charm of UK cottages, evolving from simple homes to popular holiday spots. Unpack the unique traits of terrace houses and bungalows, while laughing at their lifestyle implications. Learn how the terms 'flat' and 'apartment' reflect deeper meanings in British culture. This exploration of language and homes is both educational and entertaining, perfect for boosting your English confidence!

Jul 19, 2025 • 29min
IELTS Ep 4 - IELTS Speaking Band 5 vs 7 vs 9 (With Real Examples & Tips!)
Unlock the secrets to IELTS Speaking success with clear insights into band scores 5, 7, and 9. Discover model answers that demonstrate key differences in fluency, vocabulary, and structure. Learn practical strategies to reduce filler words and expand your vocabulary for better communication. Delve into tips to master natural speech patterns, enhancing your expressiveness. The episode is packed with resources to help elevate your speaking skills and boost your confidence, ensuring you're well-prepared for the exam.

Jul 11, 2025 • 15min
From the Archives: Fancy a cuppa?
Delve into the cultural significance of being offered a cup of tea in British homes. Discover the nuances of hospitality, including shoe removal and the unspoken rules of etiquette. Explore how generational differences impact communication styles and the art of small talk. Learn what it truly means to navigate these social customs, and why accepting or declining a tea offer can be more complex than it seems. Join for an insightful journey through British social norms and the heartfelt connections they create.

Jul 3, 2025 • 29min
Short Story Ep #1 - Learn English with a Funny Story
In a humorous tale, Emma fabricates a posh life to impress her cousin, leading to hilariously chaotic situations. The story serves as a unique way to learn advanced British English phrases. Humorous English expressions like 'to baffle' are also explored, sparking playful confusion. Listeners are encouraged to engage and share their thoughts. It's a fun mix of storytelling and language learning that will leave you chuckling while enhancing your English skills!

Jun 26, 2025 • 26min
S5/E1 Travel Today vs. the Good Old Days – Has It Got Worse?
Charlie and Don explore whether travel has really worsened over the decades. They share hilarious family stories and reflect on the glamour of 70s air travel compared to today's experience. Nostalgic tales of budget adventures highlight the thrill of backpacking through Europe. The conversation also dives into the evolution of travel gear and planning, showcasing a fun contrast between old-school methods and modern technology. Listen in for insights on how personal connections shaped travel memories!

Jun 19, 2025 • 27min
Pronunciation Ep 002 - British Shadowing Practice with The Office UK – Funny & Real Pronunciation!
Dive into the world of British pronunciation with a hilarious scene from The Office (UK). Learn how to master connected speech, word stress, and intonation while enjoying witty banter. The exploration of pronunciation nuances makes it fun and engaging. Analyze emotional inflections as characters navigate comedic situations, and discover the playful side of language learning. This approach aims for a smooth, natural sound without the pressure of perfecting an accent. Get ready to laugh while improving your spoken English!

Jun 12, 2025 • 32min
Bitesize Episode 102 - 10 Million Brits Believe in This Monster—Here’s Why
Dive into the murky depths of Loch Ness and explore the legendary Loch Ness Monster! Discover how beliefs in Nessie date back to 565 A.D., shaped by children's literature and sensational newspaper reports. Uncover the truth behind famous hoaxes, including a prank involving a plastic model. Learn about the fascinating history of the Loch Ness Investigation Bureau and what modern science says—spoiler alert: it’s mostly eels! This captivating exploration questions our love for myths and why they endure.

7 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 21min
IELTS Ep 3 - Sound Fluent When Talking About Hobbies – Part 1 Practice
Discover how to talk about your hobbies with ease and confidence! Tips on relaxing during conversations and sharing personal stories can make a big difference. Learn useful phrases that enhance your fluency and make everyday chats feel more natural. Get insights into typical questions from the IELTS speaking exam and model answers that will help you shine. Plus, explore the flexibility of pursuing hobbies alone or with others, and find out how to express yourself effectively!

9 snips
May 29, 2025 • 30min
Bonus Ep 81 - Emma’s 5 Brilliant Things | Ft. Pronunciation with Emma
In this lively discussion, Emma from Pronunciation with Emma, a YouTube educator on English pronunciation, shares her five 'brilliant things' that add joy to life. They chat about moving from Yorkshire to the summer heat of Barcelona and the value of human connections. The conversation delves into the beauty of nature, the perfect temperature of 23 degrees Celsius, and the nuances of 'golden hour' for photography. With a touch of humor, they navigate personal experiences, including eczema relief and everyday comforts.

8 snips
May 22, 2025 • 30min
From the Archives: British University Lifestyle
Curious about university life in the UK? The conversation dives into the exciting nightlife and chaotic adventures within campus bars, revealing bittersweet memories of youth. You’ll hear anecdotes about navigating living arrangements and the independence that comes with moving away for studies. Unique experiences contrast UK accommodations with those in Australia and America. Plus, listen for practical English phrases that enhance everyday conversations, making this a mix of humor and learning!