
American English Podcast
The American English Podcast teaches the language and culture of the United States. Through common expressions, pronunciation tips and interesting cultural snippets or stories, I hope to keep this fun, useful and interesting! All bonus material can be accessed at http://americanenglishpodcast.com/
Latest episodes

Apr 23, 2025 • 31min
⭐ Feature: The Kentucky Derby
Big hats, and the most exciting two minutes in sports—yep, we're headed to Kentucky! 🏇In this episode, we take a deep dive into the Kentucky Derby, an iconic horse racing event that’s been captivating crowds since 1875. From fancy fashion and mint juleps to cigar traditions and million-dollar thoroughbreds, you’ll get the full Derby experience.We’ll explore the history and highlights of the event, learn key vocabulary related to horse racing, and talk honestly about the controversies that surround the sport. You'll hear how much it costs to attend, what people wear, what they eat, and what it’s really like to spend a day at Churchill Downs. Have you been? Let me know on Instagram @americanenglishpodcast. 🎧 Mentioned in the Episode
This episode is part of Season 3.
Get ALL PREMIUM CONTENT FOR SEASONS 1 - 3 (with 5 in-depth courses to improve your English; includes all transcripts + mp3s)
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Apr 17, 2025 • 36min
187 - 5 Essential Speaking Tips for English Learners
Ever freeze mid-sentence? Forget a word you just learned? Or feel like your voice disappears the moment someone asks you a question in English?You’re not alone—and you’re not doomed! 😅 In this episode, I share 5 game-changing speaking tips that have helped my students (and myself!) speak with more confidence, clarity, and joy. We’ll dig into real strategies to get English out of your head and into your mouth—whether you're shy, stuck on vocabulary, or just plain overwhelmed.✨ This episode is for you if:
You struggle to remember the words you’ve learned
You don’t have anyone to practice with
You feel nervous, shy, or judged when speaking
✨ Click here to start your language-learning journey today on italki. Buy $10 get $5 for free for your first lesson using my exclusive Promo Code: shana2504 The discounts are only available for the first 50 users.Mentioned in the Episode
Season 4
Premium Content
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Apr 9, 2025 • 24min
186.2 - The Violinist in the Metro: Art, Context, and the Power of Place
Imagine a world-class violinist performing in a subway, and few stop to listen. This real-life experiment highlights how context shapes our perception of art and talent. Unexpected stories, like Banksy's art stunt in Central Park and Ed Sheeran’s disguised appearance, reveal the hidden beauty we often overlook in our hurried lives. The discussion encourages listeners to appreciate extraordinary moments and challenges them to consider: what remarkable experiences are we missing every day?

Apr 3, 2025 • 19min
186 - Expression: To Play It By Ear
Discover the phrase 'to play it by ear,' which means improvising without a plan. Uncover its musical origins and how it became a metaphor for flexibility. Enjoy humorous anecdotes and practical examples that make the idiom come alive. Plus, participate in a fun pronunciation exercise! This is a fantastic resource for English learners aiming to sound more natural and confident in their conversations.

Mar 27, 2025 • 32min
⭐ Feature: To Pull Someone's Leg / The Greatest April Fool's Day Jokes of All Time
Dive into the playful world of April Fool's Day! Discover the origins of classic pranks, like the infamous UFO landing that caused a stir in England. Hear about the legendary Loch Ness Monster hoax and a volcanic eruption simulation that had everyone talking. With engaging anecdotes and the meaning behind 'to pull someone's leg,' this discussion emphasizes the joy of harmless tricks. Grab your prank cupcakes and enjoy a lighthearted exploration of creativity in deception!

Mar 21, 2025 • 38min
185 - 5-Minute English: Cats and Dogs
Discover the fascinating world of American pets, where over 65 million homes share their space with dogs and nearly 46 million with cats. Learn essential vocabulary for discussing their behaviors and looks. The hosts reflect on childhood pet memories, sharing delightful anecdotes about unique quirks of cats and dogs. Explore the joys and challenges of pet ownership, from adorable moments to financial realities, and hear audience stories that add a relatable twist to the conversation!

Mar 14, 2025 • 43min
184.2 - Wine Regions in the United States: A Virtual Tour with Key Vocabulary 🍇
Join a virtual tour through America's iconic wine regions, from Napa Valley's glitz to Texas's rising reputation. Discover how Thomas Jefferson's wine dreams fizzled and celebrate the historic showdown where California took on French legends. Learn how Prohibition nearly derailed the wine industry and find out key vocabulary to wine like a pro. With vivid descriptions of hidden gems like Virginia and the Finger Lakes, this journey is sure to inspire your next adventure—or your next glass!

Mar 5, 2025 • 25min
184 - Expression: Three Sheets To The Wind
The idiom "to be three sheets to the wind" means to be very drunk. If you don't like hearing content related to alcohol, or you're underage, skip this episode! :) Terms you will hear:
to slur
to stumble
to giggle
to black out
to have a hangover
to be as drunk as a skunk
Next week, we'll be talking about Wine Regions in the United States. Stay tuned! Mentioned in this Episode
Season 4
All Premium Content (Episodes 001-150)
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Feb 27, 2025 • 41min
⭐ Feature: The Story of Dr. Seuss ("The Father of Children's Literature")
Delve into the enchanting life of Dr. Seuss, the mastermind behind modern children's literature. Discover how his family influenced his creativity and turned childhood loneliness into a treasure of whimsical tales. Learn about his transformation from a rejected writer during World War II to a beloved author who inspired curiosity in young readers. Explore the interplay of his personal struggles with creativity and triumph, and celebrate his enduring legacy that continues to spark joy in reading for generations.

Feb 22, 2025 • 43min
183 - Chats with Shana: What Makes You Happy? I'll go first.
Discover the 50 universal sources of happiness, from the warmth of freshly baked bread to the joy of cuddling pets. Hear personal anecdotes about the simple pleasures of baking and the nostalgia tied to cherished items like coffee mugs. Reflect on how nature, music, and travel adventures boost well-being, and explore the significance of social connections. Dive into the idea of 'six-second hugs' to strengthen bonds. Walk away inspired to identify and share what brings you joy!
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