English Learning for Curious Minds
Leonardo English
Are you looking for a more interesting way to learn English?
English Learning for Curious Minds is a podcast for intermediate-advanced English learners.
Learn weird and wonderful things about the world at the same time as improving your English.
Every episode comes with an interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary and is spoken at a speed you can understand.
Join listeners from 189 countries and discover a more interesting way of improving your English.
Find the bonus episodes, interactive transcripts, subtitles, key vocabulary, and more at www.leonardoenglish.com
English Learning for Curious Minds is a podcast for intermediate-advanced English learners.
Learn weird and wonderful things about the world at the same time as improving your English.
Every episode comes with an interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary and is spoken at a speed you can understand.
Join listeners from 189 countries and discover a more interesting way of improving your English.
Find the bonus episodes, interactive transcripts, subtitles, key vocabulary, and more at www.leonardoenglish.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
Feb 1, 2024 • 19min
#442 | Shamima Begum | ISIS Bride
Shamima Begum, a young lady whose British citizenship was revoked after joining ISIS, discusses her departure to Syria, life in the organization, desire to return to the UK, media coverage, challenges of statelessness, and broader implications for citizenship policies.
Jan 25, 2024 • 23min
#440 | The Korean Wave: How K-Pop Conquered the World
BTS, global music sensations from a small, unexpected country, discuss the rise of K-Pop, the role of the Korean government, and the impact of K-Pop on pop culture, fashion, and language worldwide. They highlight their own success, the use of social media, and the influence and activism demonstrated by K-Pop fans. The podcast draws parallels between K-Pop and Beatlemania.
Jan 18, 2024 • 19min
#438 | Bad Science | When Scientists Got It Wrong
This podcast explores three instances of scientific breakthroughs that turned out to be mistakes: faster-than-light neutrinos, the cold fusion claim, and the chocolate weight loss hoax. It highlights the importance of research and the ease with which outrageous claims can be made.
Jan 11, 2024 • 23min
#436 | Transhumanism & The Rise of The Superhumans
This podcast explores the concept of transhumanism and its potential to enhance human abilities through technology. Topics discussed include the roots of transhumanism, medical advancements, radical life extension, cognitive enhancement, ethical considerations, transhumanism in popular culture, and real-life examples. The hosts also delve into the argument of price and inequality, the pursuit of superhumans, and the ethical and practical aspects of transhumanism.
Jan 4, 2024 • 22min
#434 | Edward Snowden | American Patriot or Traitor?
Edward Snowden, famous whistleblower who leaked sensitive US government information in 2013, talks about his disillusionment with the CIA, decision to leak classified information, escape to Hong Kong, and ongoing impact on privacy laws. The podcast explores the size of the leaked data, impact on global surveillance debate, and contrasts perspectives on Snowden as a hero or traitor. It also discusses changes and debates triggered by his revelations and unanswered questions about whistleblowers' role and protection.
Dec 28, 2023 • 16min
#432 | The Most Unusual New Year's Eve Traditions
Explore the most unusual New Year's Eve traditions from around the world, including wearing red underwear in Italy, first footing in Scotland, dangerous furniture throwing in Johannesburg, eating grapes in Spain, ringing temple bells in Japan, and plate smashing in Denmark.
Dec 21, 2023 • 24min
#430 | What Is Effective Altruism?
Exploring Effective Altruism and its core principles, this podcast discusses thought experiments, addresses funding disparities, and explores animal welfare. It highlights the journey of Sam Bankman-Fried, an effective altruist, and examines criticisms of the moral philosophy behind effective altruism.
4 snips
Dec 14, 2023 • 24min
#428 | Sanctions: Do They Even Work?
Explore the effectiveness of sanctions in achieving their intended goals, with a focus on different types of sanctions throughout history. Discuss the case of US sanctions on Cuba and the success of sanctions on South Africa. Examine contemporary examples like sanctions on Russia and the challenges in assessing their efficacy. Highlight the human impact through Siavash's wife's personal story, emphasizing the need to consider the human aspect in international relations.
Dec 7, 2023 • 23min
#426 | K-Pop, Zelensky & Cricket | 21st Century Soft Power
Explore the concept of soft power and its unusual displays in the 21st century. Discover the rise of K-Pop and its impact on South Korea's soft power. Learn how Volodymyr Zelensky uses soft power amid conflict in Ukraine. Uncover the role of cricket as a soft power tool for India and its influence in India-Pakistan relations.
Nov 30, 2023 • 18min
#424 | A Brief History of Salt
Explore the multifaceted historical significance of salt in this podcast. From its role in preserving food to its impact on trade, language, and culture, salt has shaped history in surprising ways. Discover how salt fueled revolutions, caused regional disparities, and influenced trade routes. Learn about the origins of words and expressions related to salt in English. Finally, dive into the meaning of the expression 'take it with a pinch of salt' and reflect on the enduring significance of salt throughout history.
