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Plain English
The best podcast for learning English if you like current events and trending topics. Improve your English listening, learn new words, and build your confidence with the #1 English-learning podcast focused on current events and trending topics.
Improve your English listening: Plain English episodes go a little slower than native speed so you can understand every word and improve your English listening little by little.
Your host is Jeff. He's a native English speaker from the United States and he's committed to helping you improve your English skills with real-life stories—not textbook exercises.
==> Want more? If you like listening to our episodes and want to do more with us, then join us at https://plainenglish.com/join/ (PlainEnglish.com), where you can take quizzes, do interactive exercises, watch step-by-step video lessons, get expert feedback on your writing, practice speaking in English on live Zoom calls…and much more!
👉 Visit https://plainenglish.com/join/ (PlainEnglish.com/join) to start for free
Latest episodes
Oct 18, 2021 • 28min
An unpredictable flu season is upon us | Learn the English expression ‘come to pass’
" Flu season was a breeze last year, largely because everyone stayed home and wore masks. But that is putting experts in a tricky and unpredictable situation this year. Some are warning that it could be a more severe flu season than usual. Time to get your flu shot! Plus, learn “come to pass.” -- At Plain English, we make English lessons for the modern world. -- Today’s full English lesson, including a free transcript, can be found at: https://plainenglish.com/408 -- Learning English should be fun! That’s why our lessons are about current events and trending topics you care about: business, travel, technology, health, science, politics, the environment, and so much more. Our free English lessons always include English expressions and phrasal verbs, too. -- Learn even more English at PlainEnglish.com, where we have fast and slow audio, translations, videos, online English courses, and a supportive community of English learners like you. Sign up free at PlainEnglish.com/Join -- Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso de inglés. Se habla a una velocidad lenta para que todos entiendan. ¡Aprende ingles con nosotros ahora! | Aprenda Inglês online grátis com o Plain English, a uma velocidade menor, para que todos possam entender. Contact: E-mail jeff@plainenglish.com | WhatsApp +1 312 967 8757 | Facebook PlainEnglishPod | Instagram PlainEnglishPod | Twitter @PlainEnglishPod "Mentioned in this episode:Practice what you learn (and get human feedback)Don't just listen to the expression: put it into practice!
Every time you learn an expression at Plain English, write your own example using that expression. And then an expert English speaker will read your example and give you personal feedback on how to improve.
Sign up for a free 14-day trial at PlainEnglish.com
Oct 14, 2021 • 28min
Updates on the Britney Spears conservatorship, Havana syndrome, and more | Learn the English expression ‘stack up’
" This lesson reviews the latest updates on previous Plain English topics: Britney Spears’ conservatorship legal battle with her father; Havana syndrome in American diplomats; progress on the Notre Dame cathedral restoration after the 2019 fire; the verdict on Impossible Foods and other meatless alternatives; cashless shops, and more. Plus, learn “stack up.” -- At Plain English, we make English lessons for the modern world. -- Today’s full English lesson, including a free transcript, can be found at: https://plainenglish.com/407 -- Learning English should be fun! That’s why our lessons are about current events and trending topics you care about: business, travel, technology, health, science, politics, the environment, and so much more. Our free English lessons always include English expressions and phrasal verbs, too. -- Learn even more English at PlainEnglish.com, where we have fast and slow audio, translations, videos, online English courses, and a supportive community of English learners like you. Sign up free at PlainEnglish.com/Join -- Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso de inglés. Se habla a una velocidad lenta para que todos entiendan. ¡Aprende ingles con nosotros ahora! | Aprenda Inglês online grátis com o Plain English, a uma velocidade menor, para que todos possam entender. Contact: E-mail jeff@plainenglish.com | WhatsApp +1 312 967 8757 | Facebook PlainEnglishPod | Instagram PlainEnglishPod | Twitter @PlainEnglishPod "Mentioned in this episode:Practice what you learn (and get human feedback)Don't just listen to the expression: put it into practice!
Every time you learn an expression at Plain English, write your own example using that expression. And then an expert English speaker will read your example and give you personal feedback on how to improve.
Sign up for a free 14-day trial at PlainEnglish.com
Oct 11, 2021 • 27min
El Salvador bets big on Bitcoin | Learn the English expression ‘stretched thin’
" Earlier this summer, El Salvador’s president, Nayib Bukele, announced that El Salvador would be the first country to adopt Bitcoin as a legal currency – without consulting the country’s key business leaders. Some think that the move might help the cash-based economy, but many others think he is placing a risky bet on El Salvador’s already fragile economy. Plus, learn “stretched thin.” -- At Plain English, we make English lessons for the modern world. -- Today’s full English lesson, including a free transcript, can be found at: https://plainenglish.com/406 -- Learning English should be fun! That’s why our lessons are about current events and trending topics you care about: business, travel, technology, health, science, politics, the environment, and so much more. Our free English lessons always include English expressions and phrasal verbs, too. -- Learn even more English at PlainEnglish.com, where we have fast and slow audio, translations, videos, online English courses, and a supportive community of English learners like you. Sign up free at PlainEnglish.com/Join -- Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso de inglés. Se habla a una velocidad lenta para que todos entiendan. ¡Aprende ingles con nosotros ahora! | Aprenda Inglês online grátis com o Plain English, a uma velocidade menor, para que todos possam entender. Contact: E-mail jeff@plainenglish.com | WhatsApp +1 312 967 8757 | Facebook PlainEnglishPod | Instagram PlainEnglishPod | Twitter @PlainEnglishPod "Mentioned in this episode:Practice what you learn (and get human feedback)Don't just listen to the expression: put it into practice!
Every time you learn an expression at Plain English, write your own example using that expression. And then an expert English speaker will read your example and give you personal feedback on how to improve.
Sign up for a free 14-day trial at PlainEnglish.com
Oct 7, 2021 • 23min
COVID travel: how I traveled to five countries | Learn the English expression ‘in order’
" Are you thinking about taking an international trip? I just got back from a vacation to five European countries. Each country had different and constantly changing COVID-related rules to follow, which added an extra layer of complication to international travel. I almost messed a couple of things up. Plus, learn “in order.” -- At Plain English, we make English lessons for the modern world. -- Today’s full English lesson, including a free transcript, can be found at: https://plainenglish.com/405 -- Learning English should be fun! That’s why our lessons are about current events and trending topics you care about: business, travel, technology, health, science, politics, the environment, and so much more. Our free English lessons always include English expressions and phrasal verbs, too. -- Learn even more English at PlainEnglish.com, where we have fast and slow audio, translations, videos, online English courses, and a supportive community of English learners like you. Sign up free at PlainEnglish.com/Join -- Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso de inglés. Se habla a una velocidad lenta para que todos entiendan. ¡Aprende ingles con nosotros ahora! | Aprenda Inglês online grátis com o Plain English, a uma velocidade menor, para que todos possam entender. Contact: E-mail jeff@plainenglish.com | WhatsApp +1 312 967 8757 | Facebook PlainEnglishPod | Instagram PlainEnglishPod | Twitter @PlainEnglishPod "Mentioned in this episode:Practice what you learn (and get human feedback)Don't just listen to the expression: put it into practice!
Every time you learn an expression at Plain English, write your own example using that expression. And then an expert English speaker will read your example and give you personal feedback on how to improve.
Sign up for a free 14-day trial at PlainEnglish.com
Oct 4, 2021 • 25min
International travel in the COVID era | Learn the English expression ‘to get back on your feet’
" Do you need to be vaccinated, get tested, or quarantine to travel internationally? Short answer: it depends. Each country has its own set of rules that are subject to change at any time. This can make international travel even more stressful than it already is. This lesson covers what you need to know before packing your bags. Plus, learn “to get back on your feet.” -- At Plain English, we make English lessons for the modern world. -- Today’s full English lesson, including a free transcript, can be found at: https://plainenglish.com/404 -- Learning English should be fun! That’s why our lessons are about current events and trending topics you care about: business, travel, technology, health, science, politics, the environment, and so much more. Our free English lessons always include English expressions and phrasal verbs, too. -- Learn even more English at PlainEnglish.com, where we have fast and slow audio, translations, videos, online English courses, and a supportive community of English learners like you. Sign up free at PlainEnglish.com/Join -- Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso de inglés. Se habla a una velocidad lenta para que todos entiendan. ¡Aprende ingles con nosotros ahora! | Aprenda Inglês online grátis com o Plain English, a uma velocidade menor, para que todos possam entender. Contact: E-mail jeff@plainenglish.com | WhatsApp +1 312 967 8757 | Facebook PlainEnglishPod | Instagram PlainEnglishPod | Twitter @PlainEnglishPod "Mentioned in this episode:Practice what you learn (and get human feedback)Don't just listen to the expression: put it into practice!
Every time you learn an expression at Plain English, write your own example using that expression. And then an expert English speaker will read your example and give you personal feedback on how to improve.
Sign up for a free 14-day trial at PlainEnglish.com
Sep 30, 2021 • 19min
Disney World celebrates its golden anniversary | Learn the expression ‘come to fruition’
" Walt Disney World, the most-visited theme park in the world, is turning 50 years old. To celebrate, the park has planned the “World’s Most Magical Celebration,” which is expected to last for 18 months. Disney is planning new attractions, specialty food items, merchandise, and more that is still being kept a secret. Plus, learn “come to fruition.” -- At Plain English, we make English lessons for the modern world. -- Today’s full English lesson, including a free transcript, can be found at: https://plainenglish.com/403 -- Learning English should be fun! That’s why our lessons are about current events and trending topics you care about: business, travel, technology, health, science, politics, the environment, and so much more. Our free English lessons always include English expressions and phrasal verbs, too. -- Learn even more English at PlainEnglish.com, where we have fast and slow audio, translations, videos, online English courses, and a supportive community of English learners like you. Sign up free at PlainEnglish.com/Join -- Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso de inglés. Se habla a una velocidad lenta para que todos entiendan. ¡Aprende ingles con nosotros ahora! | Aprenda Inglês online grátis com o Plain English, a uma velocidade menor, para que todos possam entender. Contact: E-mail jeff@plainenglish.com | WhatsApp +1 312 967 8757 | Facebook PlainEnglishPod | Instagram PlainEnglishPod | Twitter @PlainEnglishPod "Mentioned in this episode:Practice what you learn (and get human feedback)Don't just listen to the expression: put it into practice!
Every time you learn an expression at Plain English, write your own example using that expression. And then an expert English speaker will read your example and give you personal feedback on how to improve.
Sign up for a free 14-day trial at PlainEnglish.com
Sep 27, 2021 • 21min
6 key ingredients to a good apology | Learn the expression ‘put your money where your mouth is’
" We all know what a bad apology sounds and feels like, the non-apologetic apologies. It’s easy for apologies to miss the mark, so how do we craft sincere ones? Turns out, psychologists have identified six key elements of a good apology. That’s coming up today on Plain English. Plus, learn “put your money where your mouth is.” -- At Plain English, we make English lessons for the modern world. -- Today’s full English lesson, including a free transcript, can be found at: https://plainenglish.com/402 -- Learning English should be fun! That’s why our lessons are about current events and trending topics you care about: business, travel, technology, health, science, politics, the environment, and so much more. Our free English lessons always include English expressions and phrasal verbs, too. -- Learn even more English at PlainEnglish.com, where we have fast and slow audio, translations, videos, online English courses, and a supportive community of English learners like you. Sign up free at PlainEnglish.com/Join -- Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso de inglés. Se habla a una velocidad lenta para que todos entiendan. ¡Aprende ingles con nosotros ahora! | Aprenda Inglês online grátis com o Plain English, a uma velocidade menor, para que todos possam entender. Contact: E-mail jeff@plainenglish.com | WhatsApp +1 312 967 8757 | Facebook PlainEnglishPod | Instagram PlainEnglishPod | Twitter @PlainEnglishPod "Mentioned in this episode:Practice what you learn (and get human feedback)Don't just listen to the expression: put it into practice!
Every time you learn an expression at Plain English, write your own example using that expression. And then an expert English speaker will read your example and give you personal feedback on how to improve.
Sign up for a free 14-day trial at PlainEnglish.com
Sep 23, 2021 • 18min
4 chocolate pairings to satisfy your sweet tooth | Learn the English expression ‘hear me out’
" If you walk down the candy aisle in a grocery store, there are endless chocolate bar options: dark, milk, white, salted, fruity, you name it. Today’s lesson reveals four professional chocolate pairings that enhance chocolate’s natural flavor, so you’ll know exactly what to look for the next time you need to satisfy your sweet tooth. Some of the combinations might surprise you. Plus, learn “hear me out.” -- At Plain English, we make English lessons for the modern world. -- Today’s full English lesson, including a free transcript, can be found at: https://plainenglish.com/401 -- Learning English should be fun! That’s why our lessons are about current events and trending topics you care about: business, travel, technology, health, science, politics, the environment, and so much more. Our free English lessons always include English expressions and phrasal verbs, too. -- Learn even more English at PlainEnglish.com, where we have fast and slow audio, translations, videos, online English courses, and a supportive community of English learners like you. Sign up free at PlainEnglish.com/Join -- Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso de inglés. Se habla a una velocidad lenta para que todos entiendan. ¡Aprende ingles con nosotros ahora! | Aprenda Inglês online grátis com o Plain English, a uma velocidade menor, para que todos possam entender. Contact: E-mail jeff@plainenglish.com | WhatsApp +1 312 967 8757 | Facebook PlainEnglishPod | Instagram PlainEnglishPod | Twitter @PlainEnglishPod "Mentioned in this episode:Practice what you learn (and get human feedback)Don't just listen to the expression: put it into practice!
Every time you learn an expression at Plain English, write your own example using that expression. And then an expert English speaker will read your example and give you personal feedback on how to improve.
Sign up for a free 14-day trial at PlainEnglish.com
Sep 20, 2021 • 22min
Flip or flop? Samsung releases modern flip phone | Learn the English expression ‘hold up’
" Flip phones were popular in the early 2000s, but Samsung wants to bring them back. They just released the Galaxy Z Flip 3, a modern flip phone with paper-thin folding glass. The glass is rated for 200,000 folds, but the jury is out on the durability of this phone. Plus, learn what it means for something to “hold up.” -- At Plain English, we make English lessons for the modern world. -- Today’s full English lesson, including a free transcript, can be found at: https://plainenglish.com/400 -- Learning English should be fun! That’s why our lessons are about current events and trending topics you care about: business, travel, technology, health, science, politics, the environment, and so much more. Our free English lessons always include English expressions and phrasal verbs, too. -- Learn even more English at PlainEnglish.com, where we have fast and slow audio, translations, videos, online English courses, and a supportive community of English learners like you. Sign up free at PlainEnglish.com/Join -- Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso de inglés. Se habla a una velocidad lenta para que todos entiendan. ¡Aprende ingles con nosotros ahora! | Aprenda Inglês online grátis com o Plain English, a uma velocidade menor, para que todos possam entender. Contact: E-mail jeff@plainenglish.com | WhatsApp +1 312 967 8757 | Facebook PlainEnglishPod | Instagram PlainEnglishPod | Twitter @PlainEnglishPod "Mentioned in this episode:Practice what you learn (and get human feedback)Don't just listen to the expression: put it into practice!
Every time you learn an expression at Plain English, write your own example using that expression. And then an expert English speaker will read your example and give you personal feedback on how to improve.
Sign up for a free 14-day trial at PlainEnglish.com
Sep 16, 2021 • 21min
Part 2: Inside the 9-11 Museum's extensive collection | Learn the expression ‘go to great lengths’
" The September 11 Museum has a wide-ranging collection of artifacts, including architectural remnants, recovered artifacts, and electronic media. The collection on display is powerful yet heavy, but it is a worthwhile spot to visit when in New York. Today’s lesson is the second part of the two-part lesson on the museum. Plus, learn what it means to “go to great lengths.” -- At Plain English, we make English lessons for the modern world. -- Today’s full English lesson, including a free transcript, can be found at: https://plainenglish.com/399 -- Learning English should be fun! That’s why our lessons are about current events and trending topics you care about: business, travel, technology, health, science, politics, the environment, and so much more. Our free English lessons always include English expressions and phrasal verbs, too. -- Learn even more English at PlainEnglish.com, where we have fast and slow audio, translations, videos, online English courses, and a supportive community of English learners like you. Sign up free at PlainEnglish.com/Join -- Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso de inglés. Se habla a una velocidad lenta para que todos entiendan. ¡Aprende ingles con nosotros ahora! | Aprenda Inglês online grátis com o Plain English, a uma velocidade menor, para que todos possam entender. Contact: E-mail jeff@plainenglish.com | WhatsApp +1 312 967 8757 | Facebook PlainEnglishPod | Instagram PlainEnglishPod | Twitter @PlainEnglishPod "Mentioned in this episode:Practice what you learn (and get human feedback)Don't just listen to the expression: put it into practice!
Every time you learn an expression at Plain English, write your own example using that expression. And then an expert English speaker will read your example and give you personal feedback on how to improve.
Sign up for a free 14-day trial at PlainEnglish.com
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