Plain English

The U.S. Mint minted its last penny on November 12, 2025, ending a 232-year tradition. Rising production costs and declining demand made pennies costly to produce. Despite this, they will remain legal tender. The final penny struck was commemorated, with some kept for historical purposes. Banks and retailers will need to adapt to the penny's exit from circulation, leading to rounded transactions, similar to practices in Canada and Australia. The podcast also explores the penny's rich history and cultural significance.

Zippers are ubiquitous, but their design has remained unchanged for a century. The world's largest zipper manufacturer, YKK, is now introducing a revolutionary design that eliminates the tape next to the teeth. This innovation makes zippers lighter, more flexible, and visually appealing. It enhances the overall aesthetic of garments while offering environmental benefits. Tune in to hear a humorous personal mishap with zippers and discover where you might spot these upgraded designs in stores.

We're opening up the archives to repeat episode 223 from January 2020, just before COVID-19 halted air travel. Enjoy!--In between economy class (in the back) and business class (in the front), airlines have created a new class of service called "premium economy." This is aimed at travelers who will pay a little more for some extra space, but can't pay the sky-high prices of a full business class seat. In this episode, Jeff reviews his experience in premium economy: he finds that it's more "economy" than "premium."Full lesson: https://plainenglish.com/lessons/airlines-try-to-split-the-difference-with-premium-economy --Upgrade all your skills in English: Plain English is the best current-events podcast for learning English.You might be learning English to improve your career, enjoy music and movies, connect with family abroad, or even prepare for an international move. Whatever your reason, we'll help you achieve your goals in English.How it works: Listen to a new story every Monday and Thursday. They're all about current events, trending topics, and what's going on in the world. Get exposure to new words and ideas that you otherwise might not have heard in English.The audio moves at a speed that's right for intermediate English learners: just a little slower than full native speed. You'll improve your English listening, learn new words, and have fun thinking in English.--Did you like this episode? You'll love the full Plain English experience. Join today and unlock the fast (native-speed) version of this episode, translations in the transcripts, how-to video lessons, live conversation calls, and more. Tap/click: PlainEnglish.com/joinHere's where else you can find us: Instagram | YouTube | WhatsApp | EmailMentioned in this episode:Ready to improve your listening?Ready to listen fast? Improve your listening with the fast version of this and every episode. The full-speed version is a fresh recording and it sounds just like someone speaking to a native speaker (with no AI or computer manipulation!) You can even listen on a podcast app Sign up for a free 14-day trial at PlainEnglish.com

Cold plunges are all the rage, sought after by both high-flyers and everyday folks. Immerse yourself in water at 15 degrees Celsius or colder to relieve muscle soreness and reduce stress. The mental toughness gained from enduring the cold is just as intriguing—can it help you manage daily pressures? Beyond the chill, there are claims about mood improvements and immune boosts. Jeff offers practical tips for starting safely, from gradual entry to ideal durations, while cautioning against extreme practices. Explore the growing trend and consider the benefits!

Discover the joy of Parkrun, a free, community-focused 5K that brings people together every Saturday. Originating in London with just 13 participants, it now spans over 23 countries. Learn about its unique volunteer-run model that fosters inclusivity and camaraderie. Hear fascinating stories of travelers embracing various events and the spirit of friendly competition. Plus, explore the health benefits recognized by institutions and how Parkrun is carving its niche worldwide, especially amid America’s bustling charity runs.

Snake bites claim over 100,000 lives annually, but the treatment, antivenom, has remained largely unchanged. Researchers are now pursuing universal antivenoms that could protect against various venoms. One team is using llama nanobodies, while another harnessed a man’s antibodies from repeat bites. Current antivenoms face issues like allergic reactions and short shelf lives. If successful, these advancements could revolutionize snake bite treatment, enabling mass production and saving lives worldwide.

Seniors are increasingly becoming screen addicts, using phones and tablets alongside traditional TV. These devices help them connect with loved ones, stay mentally stimulated, and enjoy entertainment. However, they face risks like scams and isolation compared to younger generations. The podcast highlights the cognitive benefits of screen use and encourages seniors to engage with technology wisely. Family anecdotes illustrate how screen time has woven into everyday interactions, making tech a part of family life.

Discover the journey of Publishers Clearing House, from its 1950s beginnings with magazine subscriptions to the thrill of massive sweepstakes. Learn about the iconic Prize Patrol and how eye-catching marketing tactics captivated audiences. Explore the decline triggered by internet trends and lawsuits leading to bankruptcy, leaving winners without promised payouts. Hear emotional stories from former winners grappling with unexpected financial hardships, alongside reflections on the company's lasting cultural legacy.

The podcast dives into the fascinating intersection of luxury resorts and pop culture. It reveals how Four Seasons hotels gained fame from the HBO series 'The White Lotus,' which was filmed at their properties during a risky pandemic filming venture. The conversation explores how viewer interest surged, leading to a significant spike in travel inquiries. Additionally, Four Seasons is now creatively leveraging this newfound fame with themed events and premium experiences, including an extravagant travel package for fans.

In a daring Sunday heist, four thieves disguised as construction workers infiltrated the Louvre, using tools to smash display cases and escape with priceless crown jewels in just seven minutes. The stolen items included emeralds, sapphires, and pearls, leading experts to speculate on their fate—either finding a private buyer or being dismantled for individual sales. This brazen theft sparked discussions about national identity and security concerns, revealing the museum's symbolic role in France's heritage and its vulnerability to crime.