

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 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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 13, 2025 • 31min
#337 11 Things I Learnt Teaching English
An English teacher shares valuable lessons learned over nearly a decade in the field. Discover insights gained from diverse students and the universal struggles in language learning. The importance of adaptability and understanding different communication styles in the classroom is highlighted. Reflecting on challenges, the speaker stresses maintaining professionalism and positive teacher attitudes. Tune in for a blend of personal anecdotes and thoughtful takeaways that resonate with both educators and learners alike.

Aug 6, 2025 • 31min
#336 Moving from UK to Thailand: The Good & The Bad
Join a cycling adventure through Bangkok as the host shares personal insights on urban life and local wildlife. Discover the joys of Thai hospitality, the vibrant cafe culture, and the challenges of blending work with exploration. Dive into life as an expat, with tales of language learning and the warmth of the people, all while comparing experiences with the UK. Enjoy anecdotes about the city's beloved cats, the exciting food scene, and tips for adapting to a new climate.

Jul 30, 2025 • 42min
#335 I Got Ghosted...
Delve into the intriguing world of modern relationship slang that shapes dating today. Explore the emotional ramifications of ghosting and catfishing, with insights on why people engage in such behaviors. Learn to navigate the red flags in dating, from love bombing to breadcrumbing, while uncovering the 'ick' factor that can change attraction in an instant. The discussion blends humor and personal anecdotes, encouraging more mindful communication in our connections.

Jul 23, 2025 • 49min
#334 From Employee to Entrepreneur: Business English with Rob
Join a captivating discussion about the journey from employee to entrepreneur! Discover insights on public speaking, cultural immersion, and the pros and cons of self-employment. Reflect on childhood dreams shaping career aspirations, while exploring the unique challenges faced by solopreneurs. Learn about digital organization in business and how companies adapt and innovate. Finally, delve into the importance of mastering business English for effective communication in today’s diverse work environment.

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!