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 21, 2019 • 22min
Differences between living in Canada and the US | Learn English phrase 'every now and then'
" Life in Canada and the United States is similar in many ways, but there are differences. In today's episode, Jeff describes the ways in which life between the two countries can be different, touching on climate, health care, shopping, politics, and paying at a restaurant. JR guest hosts and describes the perils of flagging down an Uber driver in Quebec. Plus, learn the English expression ""every now and then."" Read the full transcript of this episode at https://www.plainenglish.com/200 Transcripts are always free and available now! ¿Hablas español? Você fala português? Parles-tu français? 你会说中文吗？日本語を話せますか？ The episode transcripts include instant translations from English to Spanish, Portuguese, French, Chinese, Italian and Japanese. Hover over or tap a highlighted word for the translation. Connect with Jeff on Twitter (@PlainEnglishPod) and Facebook (PlainEnglishPod). Or e-mail jeff@plainenglish.com **NEW** Connect with us on WhatsApp! Send a message to +1 312 967-8757 and add us to your contacts to receive messages from Jeff and JR! If you like the program, please leave a review or rating wherever you listen. It will help others discover the program. Never miss an episode! Sign up to receive updates from Plain English at http://www.plainenglish.com/mail Subscribers get exclusive links for further reading and additional practice with common English words and phrases. Learn English the fun way: with a podcast in English! Listen to an American English podcast that you enjoy and understand -- all at a slower speed than normal. | Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso. 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. "
Oct 17, 2019 • 24min
Trading stocks is now free* in the US | Learn English phrase 'follow suit'
" After years of intense competition, several discount stock brokers are now offering free stock trades in the United States. This will give smaller investors the ability to buy and sell without worrying about how trading costs will reduce their investments. However, it does come with some challenges for consumers--some of which may not be worth it. Plus, learn the English phrase ""follow suit."" Read the full transcript of this episode at https://www.plainenglish.com/199 Transcripts are always free and available now! ¿Hablas español? Você fala português? Parles-tu français? 你会说中文吗？日本語を話せますか？ The episode transcripts include instant translations from English to Spanish, Portuguese, French, Chinese, Italian and Japanese. Hover over or tap a highlighted word for the translation. Connect with Jeff on Twitter (@PlainEnglishPod) and Facebook (PlainEnglishPod). Or e-mail jeff@plainenglish.com **NEW** Connect with us on WhatsApp! Send a message to +1 312 967-8757 and add us to your contacts to receive messages from Jeff and JR! If you like the program, please leave a review or rating wherever you listen. It will help others discover the program. Never miss an episode! Sign up to receive updates from Plain English at http://www.plainenglish.com/mail Subscribers get exclusive links for further reading and additional practice with common English words and phrases. Learn English the fun way: with a podcast in English! Listen to an American English podcast that you enjoy and understand -- all at a slower speed than normal. | Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso. 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. "
Oct 14, 2019 • 24min
Porsche challenges Tesla with its all-electric Taycan | Learn English phrase 'live up to'
" Porsche is diving into the electric market with its new performance Taycan, a sports car that looks like the classic 911 and is expected to challenge Tesla's dominance in the luxury electric car market. The car boasts Porsche's traditional sporty look, a high-tech interior, and fast acceleration, but its range falls short of Tesla's Model S. Plus, learn the English phrase ""live up to."" Read the full transcript of this episode at https://www.plainenglish.com/198 Transcripts are always free and available now! ¿Hablas español? Você fala português? Parles-tu français? 你会说中文吗？日本語を話せますか？ The episode transcripts include instant translations from English to Spanish, Portuguese, French, Chinese, Italian and Japanese. Hover over or tap a highlighted word for the translation. Connect with Jeff on Twitter (@PlainEnglishPod) and Facebook (PlainEnglishPod). Or e-mail jeff@plainenglish.com **NEW** Connect with us on WhatsApp! Send a message to +1 312 967-8757 and add us to your contacts to receive messages from Jeff and JR! If you like the program, please leave a review or rating wherever you listen. It will help others discover the program. Never miss an episode! Sign up to receive updates from Plain English at http://www.plainenglish.com/mail Subscribers get exclusive links for further reading and additional practice with common English words and phrases. Learn English the fun way: with a podcast in English! Listen to an American English podcast that you enjoy and understand -- all at a slower speed than normal. | Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso. 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. "
Oct 10, 2019 • 21min
New spray aims to extend avocados' shelf life | Learn English phrase 'to go bad'
" A new product from the startup Apeel Sciences aims to extend the shelf-life of avocados and other fruits and vegetables. The product is a natural spray that strengthens the existing skin on produce, helping to keep moisture in and oxygen out. Other food tech is designed to help reduce food waste, much of which comes before grown food even makes it to the marketplace. Plus, learn the English phrase ""to go bad."" Read the full transcript of this episode at https://www.plainenglish.com/197 Transcripts are always free and available now! ¿Hablas español? Você fala português? Parles-tu français? 你会说中文吗？日本語を話せますか？ The episode transcripts include instant translations from English to Spanish, Portuguese, French, Chinese, Italian and Japanese. Hover over or tap a highlighted word for the translation. Connect with Jeff on Twitter (@PlainEnglishPod) and Facebook (PlainEnglishPod). Or e-mail jeff@plainenglish.com **NEW** Connect with us on WhatsApp! Send a message to +1 312 967-8757 and add us to your contacts to receive messages from Jeff and JR! If you like the program, please leave a review or rating wherever you listen. It will help others discover the program. Never miss an episode! Sign up to receive updates from Plain English at http://www.plainenglish.com/mail Subscribers get exclusive links for further reading and additional practice with common English words and phrases. Learn English the fun way: with a podcast in English! Listen to an American English podcast that you enjoy and understand -- all at a slower speed than normal. | Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso. 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. "
Oct 7, 2019 • 25min
Is there a future for traditional travel agents? | Learn English phrasal verb 'come around'
" Do travel agents have a future? It's tempting to say that they do not due to budget online booking tools and the wealth of information on the internet. However, a lot of travelers still book package vacations. Though the in-person agencies like Thomas Cook are less popular, new travel agencies focus on authenticity and more exotic destinations. Plus, learn the English phrasal verb ""come around."" Read the full transcript of this episode at https://www.plainenglish.com/196 Transcripts are always free and available now! ¿Hablas español? Você fala português? Parles-tu français? 你会说中文吗？日本語を話せますか？ The episode transcripts include instant translations from English to Spanish, Portuguese, French, Chinese, Italian and Japanese. Hover over or tap a highlighted word for the translation. Connect with Jeff on Twitter (@PlainEnglishPod) and Facebook (PlainEnglishPod). Or e-mail jeff@plainenglish.com **NEW** Connect with us on WhatsApp! Send a message to +1 312 967-8757 and add us to your contacts to receive messages from Jeff and JR! If you like the program, please leave a review or rating wherever you listen. It will help others discover the program. Never miss an episode! Sign up to receive updates from Plain English at http://www.plainenglish.com/mail Subscribers get exclusive links for further reading and additional practice with common English words and phrases. Learn English the fun way: with a podcast in English! Listen to an American English podcast that you enjoy and understand -- all at a slower speed than normal. | Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso. 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. "
Oct 3, 2019 • 27min
Collapse of British travel agency leaves travelers stranded | Learn English phrasal verb 'come through'
" British travel agent Thomas Cook, which traces its history back to 1841, collapsed suddenly last week, stranding 150,000 on foreign vacations. The British government is scrambling to bring everyone home on special flights. Though the travelers' hotel costs are covered by insurance, some hotels are demanding payment before they let travelers leave. Plus, learn the English phrasal verb ""come through."" Read the full transcript of this episode at https://www.plainenglish.com/195 Transcripts are always free and available now! ¿Hablas español? Você fala português? Parles-tu français? 你会说中文吗？日本語を話せますか？ The episode transcripts include instant translations from English to Spanish, Portuguese, French, Chinese, Italian and Japanese. Hover over or tap a highlighted word for the translation. Connect with Jeff on Twitter (@PlainEnglishPod) and Facebook (PlainEnglishPod). Or e-mail jeff@plainenglish.com **NEW** Connect with us on WhatsApp! Send a message to +1 312 967-8757 and add us to your contacts to receive messages from Jeff and JR! If you like the program, please leave a review or rating wherever you listen. It will help others discover the program. Never miss an episode! Sign up to receive updates from Plain English at http://www.plainenglish.com/mail Subscribers get exclusive links for further reading and additional practice with common English words and phrases. Learn English the fun way: with a podcast in English! Listen to an American English podcast that you enjoy and understand -- all at a slower speed than normal. | Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso. 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. "
Sep 30, 2019 • 19min
Japanese workers wake up to a nap's benefits | Learn English phrasal verb 'kick in'
" A new trend in Japan's hard-charging, competitive office culture: reserving the nap room for a 30-minute break. Sleep cafes are opening in Tokyo and some companies are installing nap rooms in their offices, encouraging workers to get a short break during the day. But not all office workers like napping in a dedicated space. Many prefer to just nod off at their desks. Plus, learn the English phrasal verb ""kick in."" Read the full transcript of this episode at https://www.plainenglish.com/194 Transcripts are always free and available now! ¿Hablas español? Você fala português? Parles-tu français? 你会说中文吗？日本語を話せますか？ The episode transcripts include instant translations from English to Spanish, Portuguese, French, Chinese, Italian and Japanese. Hover over or tap a highlighted word for the translation. Connect with Jeff on Twitter (@PlainEnglishPod) and Facebook (PlainEnglishPod). Or e-mail jeff@plainenglish.com **NEW** Connect with us on WhatsApp! Send a message to +1 312 967-8757 and add us to your contacts to receive messages from Jeff and JR! If you like the program, please leave a review or rating wherever you listen. It will help others discover the program. Never miss an episode! Sign up to receive updates from Plain English at http://www.plainenglish.com/mail Subscribers get exclusive links for further reading and additional practice with common English words and phrases. Learn English the fun way: with a podcast in English! Listen to an American English podcast that you enjoy and understand -- all at a slower speed than normal. | Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso. 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. "
Sep 26, 2019 • 20min
'Downton Abbey' film picks up where series left off | Learn English phrasal verb 'shy away from'
" The British hit show Downton Abbey, which traces the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and the crew that serves them, has moved to the big screen--and the movie picks up where the series leaves off. The series and film trace the changes to British high society in the early twentieth century; but the best part is the fully developed characters, all of whom return for the film. Plus, learn the English phrasal verb ""shy away from."" Read the full transcript of this episode at https://www.plainenglish.com/193 Transcripts are always free and available now! ¿Hablas español? Você fala português? Parles-tu français? 你会说中文吗？日本語を話せますか？ The episode transcripts include instant translations from English to Spanish, Portuguese, French, Chinese, Italian and Japanese. Hover over or tap a highlighted word for the translation. Connect with Jeff on Twitter (@PlainEnglishPod) and Facebook (PlainEnglishPod). Or e-mail jeff@plainenglish.com **NEW** Connect with us on WhatsApp! Send a message to +1 312 967-8757 and add us to your contacts to receive messages from Jeff and JR! If you like the program, please leave a review or rating wherever you listen. It will help others discover the program. Never miss an episode! Sign up to receive updates from Plain English at http://www.plainenglish.com/mail Subscribers get exclusive links for further reading and additional practice with common English words and phrases. Learn English the fun way: with a podcast in English! Listen to an American English podcast that you enjoy and understand -- all at a slower speed than normal. | Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso. 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. "
Sep 23, 2019 • 21min
Subscriptions are coming to a movie theater near you | Learn English phrase 'in the sweet spot'
" A company offering unlimited movies in theaters for just $10 a month has gone out of business, but the subscription model is here to stay, as large theater chains begin offering their own subscription services. While they're not unlimited, they are generous and are becoming popular with moviegoers. The model works well for theater chains, too: they like the consistent revenue and the added popcorn sales. Plus, learn the English phrase ""in the sweet spot."" Read the full transcript of this episode at https://www.plainenglish.com/192 Transcripts are always free and available now! ¿Hablas español? Você fala português? Parles-tu français? 你会说中文吗？日本語を話せますか？ The episode transcripts include instant translations from English to Spanish, Portuguese, French, Chinese, Italian and Japanese. Hover over or tap a highlighted word for the translation. Connect with Jeff on Twitter (@PlainEnglishPod) and Facebook (PlainEnglishPod). Or e-mail jeff@plainenglish.com **NEW** Connect with us on WhatsApp! Send a message to +1 312 967-8757 and add us to your contacts to receive messages from Jeff and JR! If you like the program, please leave a review or rating wherever you listen. It will help others discover the program. Never miss an episode! Sign up to receive updates from Plain English at http://www.plainenglish.com/mail Subscribers get exclusive links for further reading and additional practice with common English words and phrases. Learn English the fun way: with a podcast in English! Listen to an American English podcast that you enjoy and understand -- all at a slower speed than normal. | Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso. 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. "
Sep 19, 2019 • 19min
Confronting the opioid crisis in America | Learn English phrase 'root out'
" Abuse of legal and illegal opioids has become a public health crisis in the United States; overdoses of opioids now kill more people than car crashes or guns. After years of seeing prescriptions--and then overdoses--increase at an alarming rate, local and national governments are finally holding drug companies and illegal pain clinics responsible for their role in the crisis. Plus, learn the phrasal verb ""root out."" Read the full transcript of this episode at https://www.plainenglish.com/191 Transcripts are always free and available now! ¿Hablas español? Você fala português? Parles-tu français? 你会说中文吗？日本語を話せますか？ The episode transcripts include instant translations from English to Spanish, Portuguese, French, Chinese, Italian and Japanese. Hover over or tap a highlighted word for the translation. Connect with Jeff on Twitter (@PlainEnglishPod) and Facebook (PlainEnglishPod). Or e-mail jeff@plainenglish.com **NEW** Connect with us on WhatsApp! Send a message to +1 312 967-8757 and add us to your contacts to receive messages from Jeff and JR! If you like the program, please leave a review or rating wherever you listen. It will help others discover the program. Never miss an episode! Sign up to receive updates from Plain English at http://www.plainenglish.com/mail Subscribers get exclusive links for further reading and additional practice with common English words and phrases. Learn English the fun way: with a podcast in English! Listen to an American English podcast that you enjoy and understand -- all at a slower speed than normal. | Aprende inglés gratis en línea con nuestro curso. 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. "
