

podcastsinenglish
The pie team
The top esl/efl listening resource for those learning English and teaching English. We provide real conversations recorded for all levels of English learners. In addition, the supporting worksheets and transcripts can be used for self access or in the classroom to provide valuable English language lessons for learners of English at Beginner, Elementary, Intermediate and Advanced levels.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 25, 2019 • 4min
Level B.79 Riding in a driverless taxi
What would it be like to ride in a driverless taxi? A fascinating journey through Las Vegas showcases a retrofitted Prius equipped with cutting-edge sensors. With safety engineers on board, it maneuvers through real traffic smoothly, operated in a predetermined loop. Spectators react with curiosity, and even the local police find the spectacle amusing. The discussion dives into the intricacies of real-time data visualization and sparks optimism about the future of self-driving technology.

Apr 7, 2019 • 3min
Level 2.150 Big Machines
Construction chaos reigns as a village transforms into a building site. Huge trenches are dug to replace aging water and sewage pipes from the 1930s. The hosts dig into the noisy world of excavators and breakers, explaining how these machines tackle rock removal. They also discuss the surprising lack of safety measures on site. Discover the distinctions between heavy-duty excavators and smaller diggers, and learn how pivoting machines like bobcats help manage materials. It's a riveting look at the machinery behind urban transformation!

Mar 28, 2019 • 4min
Level 3.150 Playing pranks
Get ready for some light-hearted fun as the hosts dive into the world of pranks just before April 1st. They explore what makes a good prank, emphasizing the importance of keeping it friendly. Richard shares a hilarious childhood story about fooling his dad with glasses and a clever backpack prank during a mountain trek. The conversation highlights the art of prankster ethics, reminding everyone to treat others how they'd like to be treated. It's a delightful mix of nostalgia and humor, perfect for pranking enthusiasts!

Mar 21, 2019 • 5min
Level B.78 The best restaurant in London
In a wild twist, a garden shed became London's top-rated restaurant! A journalist created the hoax to test if fake reviews could elevate an entirely fictitious eatery. With a clever website and stylized photos, he climbed the ranks on TripAdvisor using his contacts and bogus feedback. The stunt shocked everyone when The Shed claimed the top spot. Ultimately, he revealed the trick to showcase the ease of manipulating online ratings and left listeners pondering the power of perception in business.

Mar 7, 2019 • 4min
Level 1.149 New arrivals
The hosts explore the arrival of baby animals in the countryside this spring. They share sightings of chirping chicks and nests in trees. Those mysterious barn owls make their nocturnal calls, while blue tits successfully raise chicks in a nest box. Wrens are nesting by the door, and foxes cleverly hide their cubs in dens. Wild boar are heard foraging at night, accompanied by their playful piglets. The discussion also highlights how baby birds help gardens thrive and invites listeners to share their own wildlife observations.

Feb 28, 2019 • 4min
Level 2.149 Green is the fashion
Can you be fashionable without harming the Earth? The hosts dive into the environmental impact of cotton and polyester, highlighting their issues with water use and waste. Alternatives like hemp and bamboo offers greener choices. They discuss the dilemma of cheap, disposable fashion and its role in landfill overflow. Clothing swaps and secondhand markets provide sustainable shopping options. Plus, a conversation on sewing and repair skills encourages wardrobe longevity. It’s all about mindful buying to look stylish while being eco-friendly!

Feb 21, 2019 • 6min
Level 3.149 The good drone
Discover how drones are revolutionizing shark spotting and ocean safety! The journey of a builder turned drone entrepreneur illustrates the inventive spirit behind this cutting-edge technology. Learn how a new app leverages drone footage for real-time shark detection, making surfers safer. The bird's-eye view provides unparalleled clarity of water conditions, showcasing its effectiveness over traditional methods. Hear about actual shark sightings and how this innovation helps coordinate warnings with lifeguards, blending surfing and safety like never before!

Feb 6, 2019 • 4min
Level 1.148 Local beauty spots
Discover Portugal's hidden natural gems! From the stunning coastal flora at Cabo de Roca to the breathtaking heights of Serra da Estrela, there's beauty at every turn. Explore the tranquil cork oak countryside of Eastern Alentejo, where picturesque landscapes invite you to walk and unwind. The hosts encourage sharing your own favorite spots, reminding us that beauty doesn't always have to be famous. Tune in for a journey through these enchanting locations!

Jan 31, 2019 • 5min
Level B.77 Customer loyalty
Dive into the debate of whether companies should favor loyal customers or newcomers. The hosts uncover the shocking reality of higher renewal prices for loyal clients and discuss the complaint regarding loyalty penalties in key markets. They explore the implications of competition and privatization, revealing how special offers often hurt existing customers. The conversation turns to the challenges of switching brands and the idea that some may choose to pay more for stability. Tune in for a candid take on loyalty in the service industry!

Jan 17, 2019 • 5min
Level 3.148 Just say no
Discover practical tips to combat plastic pollution and live a more sustainable life. Refuse flimsy supermarket bags and switch to reusable alternatives. Learn why coffee pods and plastic tea bags are harmful, and explore the benefits of loose tea. Ditch disposable razors for durable safety razors, and replace cling film with recyclable foil. Embrace shampoo bars as eco-friendly hair care. Opt for plastic-free options at local markets, and invest in stainless steel water bottles. Every small change drives supermarkets to rethink their plastic use!


