Plain English
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
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
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 17, 2019 • 25min
I.M. Pei, designer of Louvre pyramid, dies at 102 | Learn English phrase "to cause a stir"
" I.M. Pei, the Chinese-American architect who designed the Louvre museum's iconic glass pyramid and whose work spanned museums, skyscrapers, hotels, and symphonies around the world, died at the age of 102. His designs were often minimalist and were sometimes controversial. Plus, learn the English expression, ""to cause a stir."" Read the full transcript of this episode at http://www.plainenglish.com/164 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. "Mentioned 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
Jun 13, 2019 • 24min
China battling a deadly pig virus | Learn English phrasal verb "to spell out"
" The African Swine Fever, a deadly virus that affects pigs but is harmless to humans, is sweeping through China's pig population. The virus is difficult to contain, as it spreads quickly and often invisibly. Despite culling millions of pigs, China is struggling to contain the virus. Plus, learn English phrasal verb ""to spell out."" Read the full transcript of this episode at http://www.plainenglish.com/163 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. "Mentioned 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
Jun 10, 2019 • 23min
Would you see a 'hologram' concert? | Learn English phrasal verb 'turn down'
" The estate of Whitney Houston, the pop singer who died in 2012, announced a hologram tour. Holograms reproduce the singer's image in what looks like a three-dimensional image on a stage. Whitney's hologram would be accompanied by her original band and backup singers. Plus, learn the English phrasal verb ""turn down."" Read the full transcript of this episode at http://www.plainenglish.com/162 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. "Mentioned 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
Jun 6, 2019 • 22min
Hiking Mt. Everest? Get in line | Learn English phrase 'think straight'
" A combination of weather, overcrowding and inexperienced climbers led to chaotic conditions atop the world's tallest mountain, Mt. Everest, as the 2019 climbing season came to a close. The weather only allowed climbers to pass on a few days this year, leading people to pack tightly together on the treacherous final ascent. Veteran climbers also cite low-cost tour operators, who accept people with little climbing experience. Plus, learn the English phrase ""think straight."" Read the full transcript of this episode at http://www.plainenglish.com/161 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. "Mentioned 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
Jun 3, 2019 • 24min
Nothing to wear? Rent something from Urban Outfitters | Learn English phrase, 'to have your work cut out for you'
" Urban Outfitters announced a new clothing-rental service, Nuuly. For $88 per month, you can rent up to four items and return them when you're done. Companies like Rent the Runway in the US and Girl Meet Dress in the UK have expanded the sharing economy into your closet. Plus, learn the English phrase ""to have your work cut out for you."" Read the full transcript of this episode at http://www.plainenglish.com/160 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. "Mentioned 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
May 30, 2019 • 24min
Google cuts ties with Huawei amid US, China tensions | Learn English phrasal verb 'to flare up'
" US President Donald Trump signed an executive order placing Huawei, the Chinese cell phone manufacturer, on a trade blacklist. The move comes as part of the intensifying trade negotiations between the US and China, and Huawei phone users are caught in the middle. Plus, learn English phrasal verb ""flare up."" Read the full transcript of this episode at http://www.plainenglish.com/159 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. "Mentioned 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
May 27, 2019 • 25min
What ridesharing is like around the world | Learn English idiom 'talk someone's ear off'
" Do you think ridesharing is just for cars? Then you might be surprised to know you can ride on the back of a motorcycle, or even ride in a speedboat. In this episode, we talk about how ridesharing is different around the world. Plus, learn the English idiom ""talk someone's ear off."" Read the full transcript of this episode at http://www.plainenglish.com/158 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. "Mentioned 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
May 23, 2019 • 25min
How to follow a zero-waste lifestyle | Learn phrasal verb 'brush off'
" What does it take to follow a zero-waste lifestyle? Some enthusiasts have cut their family trash to just a single bag (or less) per year by following a few simple principles. And businesses large and small are catching onto the trend. Plus, learn the English phrasal verb ""brush off."" Read the full transcript of this episode at http://www.plainenglish.com/157 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. "Mentioned 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
May 20, 2019 • 23min
Kentucky Derby 'winner' dropped to 17th place | Learn English phrase 'long shot'
" For the first time in the Kentucky Derby's 145-year history, the horse that crossed the finish line first was not the winner. Although Maximum Security clearly finished first, he was disqualified for interfering with other horses in the race. Country House, the horse that finished second, was crowned the winner, beating 65-to-1 odds. Plus, learn the English phrase ""long shot."" Read the full transcript of this episode at http://www.plainenglish.com/156 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. "Mentioned 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
May 16, 2019 • 23min
Latest effort to topple Maduro falls short | Learn English phrase 'in the works'
" Juan Guaidó, the recognized interim president of Venezuela, attempted to wrest control of the Venezuelan government from strongman Nicolás Maduro, but the effort ultimately fell short as military leaders stood by Maduro. The US, Europe and Latin American countries are exploring a negotiated solution with Cuba and Russia. Read the full transcript of this episode at http://www.plainenglish.com/155 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. "Mentioned 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
