The Fluent Mind ESL Podcast

Jack McBain
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Aug 1, 2023 • 25min

A to Z Listener Emails | Episode 01

In this episode of The A to Z English Podcast, Jack reads a listener email and does his best to answer the questions in the email. If you want me to read your email on the show, please send your message to atozenglishpodcast@gmail.com. I will do my best to read your email on the show.Podcast Website: https://atozenglishpodcast.com/a-to-z-listener-emails-episode-01/Check out the Free Online English Lessons YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCds7JR-5dbarBfas4Ve4h8ADonate to the show: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/9472af5c-8580-45e1-b0dd-ff211db08a90/donationsRobin and Jack started a new You Tube channel called English Word Master. You can check it out here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2aXaXaMY4P2VhVaEre5w7ABecome a member of Podchaser and leave a positive review!https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-a-to-z-english-podcast-4779670Learn English by listening to our podcast. Each lesson has an interesting topic that will help you improve your English listening skills. You can also comment on the episodes in our Whatsapp group or send emails to our email address atozenglishpodcast@gmail.com.Join our WhatsApp group here: https://forms.gle/zKCS8y1t9jwv2KTn7Check out Jack’s course books here:http://www.darakwon.co.kr/books/listProduct.asp?pc_id_2=7&pc_id_3=29Send questions and comments to: atozenglishpodcast@gmail.comIntro/Outro Music: Daybird by Broke for Freehttps://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Directionless_EP/Broke_For_Free_-_Directionless_EP_-_03_Day_Bird/https://freemusicarchive.org/music/eaters/simian-samba/audrey-horne/Tiktok: atozenglish1Instagram: atozenglish22Twitter: atozenglish22Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fluent-mind-esl-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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Jul 30, 2023 • 11min

A to Z Am I the Jerk? 15 | Wake me up, Honey!

In this episode of The A to Z English Podcast, Alyssa fills in for Xochitl as she and Jack decide whether or not the person who posted this message is a jerk. A huge thanks to Alyssa for stepping in this week. It was great having her on the show!Podcast Website: https://atozenglishpodcast.com/a-to-z-am-i-the-jerk-15-wake-me-up-honey/Check out the Free Online English Lessons YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCds7JR-5dbarBfas4Ve4h8ADonate to the show: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/9472af5c-8580-45e1-b0dd-ff211db08a90/donationsRobin and Jack started a new You Tube channel called English Word Master. You can check it out here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2aXaXaMY4P2VhVaEre5w7ABecome a member of Podchaser and leave a positive review!https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-a-to-z-english-podcast-4779670Learn English by listening to our podcast. Each lesson has an interesting topic that will help you improve your English listening skills. You can also comment on the episodes in our Whatsapp group or send emails to our email address atozenglishpodcast@gmail.com.Join our WhatsApp group here: https://forms.gle/zKCS8y1t9jwv2KTn7Check out Jack’s course books here:http://www.darakwon.co.kr/books/listProduct.asp?pc_id_2=7&pc_id_3=29Send questions and comments to: atozenglishpodcast@gmail.comIntro/Outro Music: Daybird by Broke for Freehttps://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Directionless_EP/Broke_For_Free_-_Directionless_EP_-_03_Day_Bird/https://freemusicarchive.org/music/eaters/simian-samba/audrey-horne/Tiktok: atozenglish1Instagram: atozenglish22Twitter: atozenglish22Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fluent-mind-esl-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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Jul 30, 2023 • 11min

A to Z Quick Chat 77 | The Most Scared I've Ever Been

In this episode of The A to Z English Podcast, Jack talks about two experiences in his life that were extremely scary. One of his stories is from childhood and the other occurred when he was an adult.Podcast Website: https://atozenglishpodcast.com/a-to-z-quick-chat-77-the-most-scared-ive-ever-been/Check out the Free Online English Lessons YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCds7JR-5dbarBfas4Ve4h8ADonate to the show: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/9472af5c-8580-45e1-b0dd-ff211db08a90/donationsRobin and Jack started a new You Tube channel called English Word Master. You can check it out here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2aXaXaMY4P2VhVaEre5w7ABecome a member of Podchaser and leave a positive review!https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-a-to-z-english-podcast-4779670Learn English by listening to our podcast. Each lesson has an interesting topic that will help you improve your English listening skills. You can also comment on the episodes in our Whatsapp group or send emails to our email address atozenglishpodcast@gmail.com.Join our WhatsApp group here: https://forms.gle/zKCS8y1t9jwv2KTn7Check out Jack’s course books here:http://www.darakwon.co.kr/books/listProduct.asp?pc_id_2=7&pc_id_3=29Send questions and comments to: atozenglishpodcast@gmail.comIntro/Outro Music: Daybird by Broke for Freehttps://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Directionless_EP/Broke_For_Free_-_Directionless_EP_-_03_Day_Bird/https://freemusicarchive.org/music/eaters/simian-samba/audrey-horne/Tiktok: atozenglish1Instagram: atozenglish22Twitter: atozenglish22Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fluent-mind-esl-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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Jul 29, 2023 • 6min

A to Z Quick Tok 10 | Break down and Break up

In this Quick Tok episode, Jack explains the differences between the phrasal verbs break down and break up."Break down" and "Break up":"Break down" means to stop working or functioning, usually referring to mechanical or organizational failures. For example: "My car broke down on the highway.""Break up" means to end a relationship or to disperse a group of people. For example: "They decided to break up after being together for five years."These two phrasal verbs are commonly interchanged, especially in emotional contexts, but they have distinct meanings related to malfunction and relationship endings, respectively. It's essential to use the correct one depending on the context in which they are being used.Podcast Website: https://atozenglishpodcast.com/a-to-z-quick-tok-10-break-down-and-break-up/Check out the Free Online English Lessons YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCds7JR-5dbarBfas4Ve4h8ADonate to the show: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/9472af5c-8580-45e1-b0dd-ff211db08a90/donationsRobin and Jack started a new You Tube channel called English Word Master. You can check it out here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2aXaXaMY4P2VhVaEre5w7ABecome a member of Podchaser and leave a positive review!https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-a-to-z-english-podcast-4779670Learn English by listening to our podcast. Each lesson has an interesting topic that will help you improve your English listening skills. You can also comment on the episodes in our Whatsapp group or send emails to our email address atozenglishpodcast@gmail.com.Join our WhatsApp group here: https://forms.gle/zKCS8y1t9jwv2KTn7Check out Jack’s course books here:http://www.darakwon.co.kr/books/listProduct.asp?pc_id_2=7&pc_id_3=29Send questions and comments to: atozenglishpodcast@gmail.comIntro/Outro Music: Daybird by Broke for Freehttps://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Directionless_EP/Broke_For_Free_-_Directionless_EP_-_03_Day_Bird/https://freemusicarchive.org/music/eaters/simian-samba/audrey-horne/Tiktok: atozenglish1Instagram: atozenglish22Twitter: atozenglish22Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fluent-mind-esl-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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Jul 28, 2023 • 11min

A to Z Quick Tok 09 | 3 Chinese Proverbs

In this Quick Tok episode, Jack describes the meanings of 3 Chinese proverbs which are commonly used in English."A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."Chinese: 千里之行,始於足下 (Qiān lǐ zhī xíng, shǐ yú zú xià)Meaning: Every big accomplishment starts with a small effort or a first step. It emphasizes the importance of taking the initiative and starting, no matter how daunting the task may seem."Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime."Chinese:授人以魚,不如授人以漁 (Shòu rén yǐ yú, bùrú shòu rén yǐ yú)Meaning: Instead of providing someone with temporary help, it's more beneficial to teach them the skills they need to be self-sufficient in the long run. This proverb stresses the value of education and self-reliance."When the winds of change blow, some people build walls, others build windmills."Chinese: 風吹草動,有人築牆,有人蓋風車 (Fēng chuī cǎo dòng, yǒu rén zhú qiáng, yǒu rén gài fēng chē)Meaning: In the face of change or adversity, some people react defensively and try to resist it, while others adapt and find opportunities within the challenges. This proverb encourages flexibility, adaptability, and open-mindedness.Podcast Website: https://atozenglishpodcast.com/a-to-z-quick-tok-09-3-chinese-proverbs/Check out the Free Online English Lessons YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCds7JR-5dbarBfas4Ve4h8ADonate to the show: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/9472af5c-8580-45e1-b0dd-ff211db08a90/donationsRobin and Jack started a new You Tube channel called English Word Master. You can check it out here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2aXaXaMY4P2VhVaEre5w7ABecome a member of Podchaser and leave a positive review!https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-a-to-z-english-podcast-4779670Learn English by listening to our podcast. Each lesson has an interesting topic that will help you improve your English listening skills. You can also comment on the episodes in our Whatsapp group or send emails to our email address atozenglishpodcast@gmail.com.Join our WhatsApp group here: https://forms.gle/zKCS8y1t9jwv2KTn7Check out Jack’s course books here:http://www.darakwon.co.kr/books/listProduct.asp?pc_id_2=7&pc_id_3=29Send questions and comments to: atozenglishpodcast@gmail.comIntro/Outro Music: Daybird by Broke for Freehttps://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Directionless_EP/Broke_For_Free_-_Directionless_EP_-_03_Day_Bird/https://freemusicarchive.org/music/eaters/simian-samba/audrey-horne/Tiktok: atozenglish1Instagram: atozenglish22Twitter: atozenglish22Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fluent-mind-esl-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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Jul 28, 2023 • 5min

A to Z Quick Tok 08 | Chew the Fat

In this Quick Tok episode, Jack explains the meaning behind the idiom "chew the fat."Meaning: To have a casual and friendly conversation, often while passing the time or relaxing. It implies engaging in idle or leisurely chitchat.Example: "Whenever they meet up, they like to sit on the porch and chew the fat over a cup of coffee."The origin of the idiom "chew the fat" is not entirely clear, but there are a few theories about its origins.One theory suggests that the phrase comes from the practice of sailors or soldiers sharing a piece of fat or tough meat and chewing on it while they conversed. Since it took time to chew the tough food, they would have extended conversations during their mealtime.Another possible origin comes from the 16th and 17th centuries when "fat" was used to describe information or gossip. People would gather around and discuss the latest news or rumors while "chewing the fat."Overall, while the exact origin remains uncertain, it is believed to have originated from informal gatherings where people engaged in leisurely conversation and shared news, gossip, or stories while taking their time chewing on food or fat. Over time, the phrase "chew the fat" has evolved into a common idiom used to describe friendly and relaxed conversations.Podcast Website: https://atozenglishpodcast.com/a-to-z-quick-tips-08-chew-the-fat/Check out the Free Online English Lessons YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCds7JR-5dbarBfas4Ve4h8ADonate to the show: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/9472af5c-8580-45e1-b0dd-ff211db08a90/donationsRobin and Jack started a new You Tube channel called English Word Master. You can check it out here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2aXaXaMY4P2VhVaEre5w7ABecome a member of Podchaser and leave a positive review!https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-a-to-z-english-podcast-4779670Learn English by listening to our podcast. Each lesson has an interesting topic that will help you improve your English listening skills. You can also comment on the episodes in our Whatsapp group or send emails to our email address atozenglishpodcast@gmail.com.Join our WhatsApp group here: https://forms.gle/zKCS8y1t9jwv2KTn7Check out Jack’s course books here:http://www.darakwon.co.kr/books/listProduct.asp?pc_id_2=7&pc_id_3=29Send questions and comments to: atozenglishpodcast@gmail.comIntro/Outro Music: Daybird by Broke for Freehttps://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Directionless_EP/Broke_For_Free_-_Directionless_EP_-_03_Day_Bird/https://freemusicarchive.org/music/eaters/simian-samba/audrey-horne/Tiktok: atozenglish1Instagram: atozenglish22Twitter: atozenglish22Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fluent-mind-esl-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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Jul 27, 2023 • 3min

A to Z Quick Tips 18 | Tie the Knot

In this A to Z Quick Tips episode, Xochitl and Jack describe the meaning of the idiom "Tie the Knot."Podcast Website: https://atozenglishpodcast.com/a-to-z-quick-tips-18-tie-the-knot/Check out the Free Online English Lessons YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCds7JR-5dbarBfas4Ve4h8ADonate to the show: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/9472af5c-8580-45e1-b0dd-ff211db08a90/donationsRobin and Jack started a new You Tube channel called English Word Master. You can check it out here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2aXaXaMY4P2VhVaEre5w7ABecome a member of Podchaser and leave a positive review!https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-a-to-z-english-podcast-4779670Learn English by listening to our podcast. Each lesson has an interesting topic that will help you improve your English listening skills. You can also comment on the episodes in our Whatsapp group or send emails to our email address atozenglishpodcast@gmail.com.Join our WhatsApp group here: https://forms.gle/zKCS8y1t9jwv2KTn7Check out Jack’s course books here:http://www.darakwon.co.kr/books/listProduct.asp?pc_id_2=7&pc_id_3=29Send questions and comments to: atozenglishpodcast@gmail.comIntro/Outro Music: Daybird by Broke for Freehttps://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Directionless_EP/Broke_For_Free_-_Directionless_EP_-_03_Day_Bird/https://freemusicarchive.org/music/eaters/simian-samba/audrey-horne/Tiktok: atozenglish1Instagram: atozenglish22Twitter: atozenglish22Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fluent-mind-esl-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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Jul 26, 2023 • 4min

A to Z Quick Tok 07 | Suck It Up

In this Quick Tok episode, Jack describes the meaning of the idiomatic expression "Suck it up.""Suck it up" is an idiomatic expression used in informal language to encourage someone to endure a difficult or unpleasant situation without complaining or showing weakness. It is often used when someone is facing a challenge, discomfort, or hardship and needs to persevere through it without giving in to their emotions.When someone tells another person to "suck it up," they are essentially saying that they should toughen up, be resilient, and deal with the situation bravely or stoically. It implies that complaining or showing vulnerability may not be productive and that the best course of action is to accept the situation and move forward.Example:"I know the hike is tough, but we're almost at the top of the mountain. Just suck it up, and we'll be rewarded with an amazing view.""You didn't get the promotion you wanted, but don't dwell on it. Suck it up, work harder, and prove yourself next time.""The exam is challenging for everyone, so you're not alone in feeling stressed. Take a deep breath, suck it up, and do your best."It's essential to be mindful when using this phrase, as it can sometimes come across as insensitive or dismissive of someone's feelings. In certain situations, offering support, empathy, or solutions might be more appropriate than telling someone to "suck it up."Podcast Website: https://atozenglishpodcast.com/a-to-z-quick-tok-07-suck-it-up/Check out the Free Online English Lessons YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCds7JR-5dbarBfas4Ve4h8ADonate to the show: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/9472af5c-8580-45e1-b0dd-ff211db08a90/donationsRobin and Jack started a new You Tube channel called English Word Master. You can check it out here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2aXaXaMY4P2VhVaEre5w7ABecome a member of Podchaser and leave a positive review!https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-a-to-z-english-podcast-4779670Learn English by listening to our podcast. Each lesson has an interesting topic that will help you improve your English listening skills. You can also comment on the episodes in our Whatsapp group or send emails to our email address atozenglishpodcast@gmail.com.Join our WhatsApp group here: https://forms.gle/zKCS8y1t9jwv2KTn7Check out Jack’s course books here:http://www.darakwon.co.kr/books/listProduct.asp?pc_id_2=7&pc_id_3=29Send questions and comments to: atozenglishpodcast@gmail.comIntro/Outro Music: Daybird by Broke for Freehttps://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Directionless_EP/Broke_For_Free_-_Directionless_EP_-_03_Day_Bird/https://freemusicarchive.org/music/eaters/simian-samba/audrey-horne/Tiktok: atozenglish1Instagram: atozenglish22Twitter: atozenglish22Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fluent-mind-esl-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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Jul 25, 2023 • 10min

A to Z Quick Chat 76 | Jack's Proposal Story

In this episode of The A to Z English Podcast, Jack tells Xochitl the story about how he proposed to his wife.Podcast Website: https://atozenglishpodcast.com/a-to-z-quick-chat-76-jacks-proposal-story/Check out the Free Online English Lessons YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCds7JR-5dbarBfas4Ve4h8ADonate to the show: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/9472af5c-8580-45e1-b0dd-ff211db08a90/donationsRobin and Jack started a new You Tube channel called English Word Master. You can check it out here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2aXaXaMY4P2VhVaEre5w7ABecome a member of Podchaser and leave a positive review!https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-a-to-z-english-podcast-4779670Learn English by listening to our podcast. Each lesson has an interesting topic that will help you improve your English listening skills. You can also comment on the episodes in our Whatsapp group or send emails to our email address atozenglishpodcast@gmail.com.Join our WhatsApp group here: https://forms.gle/zKCS8y1t9jwv2KTn7Check out Jack’s course books here:http://www.darakwon.co.kr/books/listProduct.asp?pc_id_2=7&pc_id_3=29Send questions and comments to: atozenglishpodcast@gmail.comIntro/Outro Music: Daybird by Broke for Freehttps://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Directionless_EP/Broke_For_Free_-_Directionless_EP_-_03_Day_Bird/https://freemusicarchive.org/music/eaters/simian-samba/audrey-horne/Tiktok: atozenglish1Instagram: atozenglish22Twitter: atozenglish22Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fluent-mind-esl-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
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Jul 24, 2023 • 4min

A to Z Quick Tok 06 | That's the way the cookie crumbles

In this Quick Tok episode, Jack explains the meaning of the expression "That's the way the cookie crumbles.""That's the way the cookie crumbles" is a colloquial expression used to convey the idea that unfortunate or unpredictable events happen, and there's often nothing one can do about it. It is often said to express acceptance or resignation in the face of an outcome that may be disappointing, but is considered an inevitable part of life or a situation.In essence, the phrase implies that sometimes things don't go as planned or desired, and it's just a natural part of life's ups and downs. It's a way of acknowledging that unexpected or disappointing outcomes are a normal part of the human experience, and it's best to accept them and move forward rather than dwelling on them excessively.Podcast Website: https://atozenglishpodcast.com/a-to-z-quick-tok-06-thats-the-way-the-cookie-crumbles/Check out the Free Online English Lessons YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCds7JR-5dbarBfas4Ve4h8ADonate to the show: https://app.redcircle.com/shows/9472af5c-8580-45e1-b0dd-ff211db08a90/donationsRobin and Jack started a new You Tube channel called English Word Master. You can check it out here:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2aXaXaMY4P2VhVaEre5w7ABecome a member of Podchaser and leave a positive review!https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/the-a-to-z-english-podcast-4779670Learn English by listening to our podcast. Each lesson has an interesting topic that will help you improve your English listening skills. You can also comment on the episodes in our Whatsapp group or send emails to our email address atozenglishpodcast@gmail.com.Join our WhatsApp group here: https://forms.gle/zKCS8y1t9jwv2KTn7Check out Jack’s course books here:http://www.darakwon.co.kr/books/listProduct.asp?pc_id_2=7&pc_id_3=29Send questions and comments to: atozenglishpodcast@gmail.comIntro/Outro Music: Daybird by Broke for Freehttps://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Directionless_EP/Broke_For_Free_-_Directionless_EP_-_03_Day_Bird/https://freemusicarchive.org/music/eaters/simian-samba/audrey-horne/Tiktok: atozenglish1Instagram: atozenglish22Twitter: atozenglish22Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-fluent-mind-esl-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

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