

The Level Up English Podcast
Michael Lavers
🇬🇧 I'm Michael Lavers and this podcast will help you improve your English. I'm an online English teacher for students learning as a second language. In this podcast, I look at a variety of different fun topics and teach you British English at the same time. Each week, I cover topics related to language motivation, vocabulary and grammar, or something totally random! Once a month, we have a guest episode where I talk to a teacher or expert on topics related to language. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 14, 2026 • 52min
#359 What is the Best Way to Learn English?
Curious about the best way to learn English? Discover essential self-reflection questions to personalize your study plan. Learn how to identify your goals and focus on improving your weaknesses. Michael stresses the importance of creating a non-negotiable daily routine and integrating English into everyday life. He also discusses effective study methods and the significance of enjoying the process. Plus, find out why tackling difficult tasks can accelerate your progress and the value of strong, consistent habits.

Jan 7, 2026 • 28min
#358 How to Make Your Trip a Disaster
Broadcasting from Okinawa, the host delivers sizzling travel hot takes that are sure to provoke debate. He reveals his purpose-driven approach to trips, sharing a love for walking to uncover hidden gems. Dismissing tourist traps, he champions more authentic experiences with locals. The pros and cons of staying in hotels versus Airbnbs are discussed, alongside his non-foodie stance on avoiding long restaurant waits. Plus, he advocates for playful travel challenges over typical checklist tourism. Early mornings lead to richer experiences, he concludes.

Dec 31, 2025 • 1h 9min
#357 How to Reinvent Yourself in 2026
Explore how to reshape your life for 2026 with insightful tips on reflection and goal-setting. Discover the power of monthly goals instead of overwhelming year-long resolutions. Learn a two-part review strategy focusing on both successes and setbacks. Gain inspiration from personal anecdotes—including lessons from failures such as social media distractions. Plus, find actionable habits to enhance personal wellness, digital mindfulness, and financial health. Start small, embrace experimentation, and reflect on your journey!

Dec 24, 2025 • 40min
#356 I Tracked My Language Learning for 2 Years
Dive into the fascinating world of language tracking as insights reveal the gap between perception and actual study habits. Discover how visuals like cumulative graphs trace progress and shifting focuses, especially in languages like Japanese and Chinese. The analysis of resource use uncovers trends in flashcards versus podcasts. Michael shares his plans for deeper speaking practice and predictions for language study distribution in upcoming years. Get inspired to assess your own goals and progress!

Dec 17, 2025 • 36min
#355 What Would You Do? (Self Reflecting...)
This discussion dives into the power of self-reflection with second conditional questions. Michael shares personal insights, like choosing to replace late-night YouTube with reading. He emphasizes the importance of establishing a cleaning routine to declutter life. Michael also tackles stress relief by considering delegating lesson planning. He advises younger learners to focus on speaking earlier in their language journey and reflects on the value of building confidence by worrying less about judgment. Finally, he dreams up bold decisions free from fear.

4 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 36min
#354 I’m Devastated… (Ways to say 'sad' in English)
Exploring the depths of sadness, the conversation highlights various expressions for feeling down, like "blue" and "low spirits." Tips for lifting your mood, such as enjoying nature and engaging in hobbies, are shared. The intense emotion of being "distraught" is discussed, alongside personal anecdotes. The podcast delves into the significance of crying and emotional release, while also emphasizing the importance of focusing on positivity to escape negative spirals. Listeners are encouraged to embrace the little joys in life.

Dec 3, 2025 • 44min
#353 Improve Your English Listening & Pass IELTS
Get ready to ace your IELTS listening section! Discover the exam's structure and critical question types, such as multiple choice and map tasks. Learn how to predict answers, understand keywords, and focus on main ideas rather than every word. Michael provides valuable tips on practicing with different accents, recognizing keywords, and building listening stamina. Plus, dive into general listening skills, like active listening and handling various speeds. Celebrate your small wins and stay motivated as you improve!

Nov 26, 2025 • 52min
#352 What Can We Learn from Cats?
Explore the delightful world of cat-related expressions that can enrich your English skills! Learn the meanings behind phrases like "Curiosity Killed the Cat" and "Let the Cat Out of the Bag," accompanied by personal anecdotes. Discover insights on overcoming fear with "Scaredy Cat" and the creativity in appraising life's challenges. Finally, uncover valuable life lessons inspired by our feline friends, such as the importance of relaxation and curiosity.

Nov 19, 2025 • 1h 11min
#351 British vs American Phrasal Verbs with Jesús Flórez
In this lively discussion, Jesús Flórez, a Colombia-born accent coach, dives into the quirky world of phrasal verbs. They challenge each other with British and American phrases, revealing fascinating differences like 'done in' versus 'pooped' for exhaustion. Jesús explains 'dish out' for criticism and compares it to British slang. They explore terms like 'skive off' and 'tough it out', highlighting the nuances in dialects. Join them for an entertaining and educational look at how language varies across the pond!

Nov 12, 2025 • 49min
#350 British English Expressions Chat with Lewis
Join a lively conversation exploring quirky British English idioms and expressions. Discover the meaning behind 'donkey's years' and 'turning over a new leaf.' Hear hilarious stories about jet lag and the challenges of moving countries. Delve into what it means to meet 'dodgy' people and the art of queuing in Britain. Laugh along as they share tales of things going pear-shaped and reminisce about unexpected chats with strangers. This engaging dialogue promises to elevate your English while entertaining you!


