
The Level Up English Podcast
🇬🇧 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 answer your questions about learning and help you achieve your goals in British English. Once a month I talk to a teacher or expert on topics related to language.
Latest episodes

Jul 16, 2025 • 44min
#333 How Adverts Use English to Catch Your Attention
Dive into the clever world of advertising language and discover what makes slogans stick in our minds. Explore how wordplay, oxymorons, and alliteration create excitement around brands. Learn how British and American English shape advertising strategies differently. Uncover how memorable phrases challenge our expectations and leave a lasting impact. The conversation also touches on the evolution of advertising in today's digital landscape and the importance of engaging communication in maintaining audience interest.

Jul 9, 2025 • 41min
#332 I Hate Mondays...
Mondays often spark dread, but there are ways to turn that frown upside down! Discover uplifting expressions to combat the Monday blues and hear tips for starting your week on a high note. A personal story reveals how a seemingly dismal job can provide unexpected purpose. Embrace mindfulness in your work to unlock productivity and flow. Listener feedback highlights how these insights resonate, transforming Mondays into opportunities for growth. It's time to conquer those Monday feelings and redefine your week!

Jul 2, 2025 • 57min
#331 How to Make Better Decisions
Struggling with indecision? This discussion tackles the psychological barriers that hinder effective decision-making. Explore the concept of 'analysis paralysis' and discover practical strategies to overcome decision fatigue. Learn how automating choices and verbalizing thoughts can boost clarity. The speaker also shares personal experiences from living in Thailand, reflecting on the importance of making decisions. Plus, find out how establishing a flexible routine can enhance language learning and build confidence!

Jun 25, 2025 • 44min
#330 How to Prioritise Your Life
Dive into the transformative power of prioritization! Discover how aligning your goals, especially in learning English, can streamline decision-making and reduce stress. Learn to navigate the challenges of balancing work, health, and personal passions. Explore the influence of personal values on meaningful living and strategies to overcome decision fatigue. Plus, gain insights into organizing daily goals and aligning them with your priorities for greater focus and progress. Get ready to embrace intentional living!

Jun 18, 2025 • 1h 10min
#329 Training Your English Accent with Jesús Flórez
Jesús Florez, a skilled English teacher from Colombia, shares his journey to mastering an American accent. He emphasizes the importance of interactive dialogue in language learning and reflects on the balance between accent and fluency. They discuss how accent training can enhance communication and delve into the evolving perceptions of pronunciation in academic settings. Listeners gain insights on navigating differences between American and British English, while also learning about the perseverance required for language mastery.

10 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 46min
#328 The Fascinating Origins of 8 English Words
Discover the intriguing backgrounds of eight English words, revealing their journeys from other languages and cultures. Delve into the fascinating stories behind terms like 'mare' and 'salary,' while exploring how words like 'priority' enhance our understanding of life. Uncover the eerie origins of 'clue' and 'quarantine,' linked to historical events like the Black Death. Finally, explore the transition from 'muscle' to 'robot,' reflecting on human experiences and the future of AI. Engaging trivia and personal insights make this a journey worth joining!

12 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 39min
#327 Fewer or Less? (Confusing English Quantifiers!)
Discover the differences between 'so' and 'such' while exploring simple recipes like macaroni and cheese and chia seed pudding. Dive into the nuances of English quantifiers, including 'much' vs. 'many' and 'fewer' vs. 'less,' using relatable anecdotes and engaging questions. Enjoy a reflection on listener feedback, emphasizing community and authenticity in language learning. This fun and informative discussion will not only improve your English skills but also inspire your culinary adventures!

6 snips
May 28, 2025 • 46min
#326 Is Your Screen Time Too High?
The host reveals their struggle with excessive screen time and its negative effects on health. They share personal anecdotes, highlighting issues like eye strain. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own habits and consider healthier alternatives. A structured plan to reduce screen time is introduced, along with practical tips for maintaining balance. The discussion is enriched by listener reviews, emphasizing the podcast's positive impact on personal growth and mindfulness, culminating in a thought-provoking quote about technology's role in our lives.

11 snips
May 21, 2025 • 56min
#325 The Secrets Behind English Word Origins (Gideon - LetThemTalkTV)
Join Gideon as he dives into the fascinating origins of English words, uncovering the surprising history behind phrases like 'scot free.' The discussion explores the evolution of American and British dialects, and how cultural influences shape language. Discover the intriguing etymology of 'sycophant' and why it's essential for vocabulary building. The hosts also share personal growth stories tied to language learning, tackling common frustrations and emphasizing the importance of persistence. Enjoy a lively conversation filled with insights for English learners!

13 snips
May 14, 2025 • 47min
#324 How to Learn 2 Languages at the Same Time
Explore the fascinating world of learning two languages simultaneously! Discover strategic approaches, including achieving conversational proficiency first, and effective techniques to keep languages distinct. Hear personal anecdotes that highlight the psychological challenges and joys of bilingualism. Get practical tips on study routines and managing expectations. It's a journey of motivation, sacrifices, and, ultimately, fun in navigating the complexities of dual language acquisition!