podcastsinenglish

Jackie and Richard remember the first films they saw at the cinema

Richard talks about an amazing volcano he visited

Discover the intriguing origins of the fruit and drink names we often take for granted. Explore how the word 'orange' traces back to Asia and its Arabic roots. Learn about the sweet orange's journey through Portuguese trade. The podcast delves into tea's evolution, highlighting the distinction between 'chai' and 'tea'. Journey along the Silk Road to find chai's impact on Eastern Europe while maritime routes reveal the Dutch influence on tea terminology. Historical trade patterns shape our modern language in fascinating ways!

Explore the staggering contrast between 1.3 billion tonnes of food wasted and 815 million people suffering from hunger. Discover India's No Food Waste initiative, which redistributes surplus food to those in need. Learn about the innovative Too Good To Go app that offers retailers a way to sell unsold food in surprise boxes at reduced prices. Delve into how the collection process works, and uncover the benefits and challenges for both grocers and customers. The discussion wraps up with reflections on savings and waste prevention efforts.

Richard shares his frustrating journey with ear problems after swimming, detailing how water buildup affects his hearing. He discusses daily challenges, from adjusting TV volume to conversing on the phone, and the importance of subtitles in navigating life with reduced hearing. The conversation takes a serious turn as they address balance issues linked to hearing loss, raising concerns about potential accidents. Richard also recounts a difficult visit to his GP and the referral to a specialist, adding a layer of urgency to his health saga.

How much does it truly cost to become an Olympian? The hosts unpack the affordability of various sports, highlighting that some require minimal gear and can be practiced in public spaces. They explore free team sports like football and volleyball, before diving into the surprisingly steep costs of swimming due to pool fees. Equestrian events turn out to be pricey with horse upkeep. Ultimately, modern pentathlon reigns as the most expensive Olympic sport, combining costs from multiple disciplines. Skateboarding is proposed as a fun, budget-friendly alternative.

The podcast explores how English words are impacting other languages and discusses the French Academy's efforts to prevent the anglicisation of French. They also talk about language usage and cultural influence, including the implications of language mixing and British and Americanisms.

Discover the fascinating roles that only humans can fulfill! From chefs relying on taste to ensure quality in the food industry, to fire lookouts who can decipher smoke from clouds, human senses prove irreplaceable. Dive into the world of tour guides, where personal interaction and local expertise keep them essential in tourism. As technology advances, the hosts express hope for the continued value of educators in a changing landscape. Tune in for a lively exploration of the human touch in various professions!

Richard shares a humorous and painful tale of cutting his finger with a sharp knife while discussing accidents at home. He reveals a history of kitchen mishaps, from oven burns to glass injuries, sparking memories of his clumsy childhood. The duo dives into the essential contents of a first aid kit, highlighting everything from plasters to painkillers. They even poke fun at gender stereotypes, noting that boys often have more accidents than girls. Tune in for a mix of laughs and cautionary tales!

National identity takes center stage as the hosts dive into how people from England, Scotland, and Wales see themselves. They explore the 2011 census choices that highlight a mix of identities, with Scotland's strong Scottish pride evident through cultural symbols like tartan. Wales showcases its unique character through the Welsh language and spirited anthem singing. In England, there's a rising prominence in English identity, as many now prefer the St George's Cross. Personal connections to Britishness reveal a deep appreciation for the diverse cultures across Britain.