
Learning English from the News
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Latest episodes

Nov 8, 2023 • 6min
Israel-Gaza War: One month on
The podcast discusses the ongoing Israel-Gaza war, including the reasons for Israel's bombings and the death toll. It explores the concepts of ceasefires and humanitarian corridors, and the closure of the humanitarian corridor by Israel. It also explains the verb 'escalate' and its meaning in the context of war.

Nov 1, 2023 • 6min
Friends say goodbye to Matthew Perry
Matthew Perry, most famous for playing Chandler Bing in 'Friends', has died. Reactions to his death and appreciation of his career. Exploring the phrase 'sparring partner' in relation to Matthew Perry as an actor. Quiz on the same topic.

Oct 25, 2023 • 6min
Nature destroying nature
This podcast discusses the destructive impact of non-native animals and plants on biodiversity. It explores the concept of repelling in insect repellents and people, and analyzes the high-stakes fight against invasive species. Additionally, it delves into the meanings of 'high stakes' and 'running rife'.

Oct 18, 2023 • 6min
Amazon water emergency
The podcast discusses the causes of record low water levels in the Amazon, including El Nino and climate change. They also talk about drought, wildfires, and the impact on sports. Additionally, they explore the different uses of 'overwhelm' and 'taint'.

Oct 11, 2023 • 6min
Junk food addiction
Scientists propose warning labels on ultra-processed foods due to their addictive nature. Discussion on labeling foods as addictive to tackle obesity. Exploring the metaphorical use of 'tackle' and 'slap' in addressing obesity and junk food.

Oct 4, 2023 • 6min
Covid vaccine scientists win Nobel
Scientists behind mRNA Covid vaccines win Nobel Prize for Medicine. The podcast explores their research, the foundations of mRNA vaccines, and how maverick scientists spurred vaccine development.

Sep 27, 2023 • 6min
Lego gives up on recycled bricks
Lego has abandoned plans for recycled plastic in their toys. 'Shelf' metaphorically refers to leaving something for now. 'Axes' symbolize Lego's decision to backtrack on recycled bricks.

Sep 20, 2023 • 6min
Improving maths with music
A recent study shows that music can enhance math skills by making it more enjoyable and reducing anxiety. The hosts discuss the positive effects of music on math test scores, improving performance in various areas, and how music can help children learn maths.

Sep 13, 2023 • 5min
Rubiales quits: Kiss scandal
Luis Rubiales resigns from Spanish Football Federation after scandal of inappropriately touching a footballer without consent sparks anger and discussion on sexism. Fallout from scandal highlighted, with resignation seen as a win for Spain's women's team. Resignation described as a win against sexism, analyzing language used in headline from Financial Times.

5 snips
Sep 6, 2023 • 7min
Banning 'steak'
France's ban on vegetarian products using meaty language is discussed, exploring the meanings of 'meaty', 'salvo', and 're-ignite'.