All Ears English Podcast
Lindsay McMahon and Michelle Kaplan
Are you looking for a new and fun way to learn American English? Come hang out with Lindsay and Michelle from Boston and New York City and have fun while you improve your English listening skills! We are an English as a Second Language (ESL) podcast for intermediate to advanced English learners around the world. We will show you how to use everyday English vocabulary and natural idioms, expressions, and phrasal verbs and how to make small talk in American English. We will also give you special tips on American culture, customs, etiquette, and how to speak with Americans as well as conversation and commentary on study tips, business English, life in America and Boston and New York, how to apply to university in the US, dating, travel, food and more. You'll get TOEFL, IELTS, and TOEIC help also from The Examiner of Excellence, Jessica Beck. This podcast is for adult students who are professionals and university students as well as ESL teachers. Join the community to learn to speak American English like a native! Connection NOT Perfection!
Episodes
Mentioned books
30 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 19min
AEE 2497: Grip or Grasp? Tips For This Tricky English Vocabulary
The hosts tackle the tricky words 'grip' and 'grasp' by exploring their literal and figurative meanings. They discuss idioms like 'white knuckling' and clarify how these terms relate to control and understanding. A fun rock-climbing role play illustrates their usage in context. The episode emphasizes the importance of knowing when to use each term confidently, whether in everyday conversation or more complex expressions. It finishes with study tips to help listeners master these tricky vocabulary words.
29 snips
Oct 15, 2025 • 20min
AEE 2496: 3 Winning Frameworks to Speak Up in a Meeting with Anna Connelly
Anna Connolly, an accredited neuro language coach and host of the Confident Business English podcast, shares her expertise on effective communication in high-stakes meetings. She highlights the importance of frameworks in organizing thoughts under pressure. Connolly introduces strategies like PRES for clear opinions and the Believe, Benefit, Backup method for persuasion. She also discusses the BLUF approach for concise executive updates and emphasizes that practicing these frameworks can boost confidence in speaking up.
34 snips
Oct 14, 2025 • 20min
AEE 2495: Is Being a Trooper Praised in Your Culture?
The hosts explore the phrase 'you're a trooper' and its cultural significance. They discuss how this term is used in everyday life, especially with kids showing resilience. Insights into its etymology reveal its theatrical roots tied to perseverance. Real-life scenarios highlight moments of bravery, from finishing challenging tasks to parenting triumphs. They compare 'trooper' with phrases like 'rock star' and 'you're a fighter'. Listeners are encouraged to share their experiences, creating a rich tapestry of cultural connections.
31 snips
Oct 13, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2494: Avoid Making Rash Decisions With Your English Vocabulary
Dive into the dilemma of impulsive decision-making! The hosts explore the difference between snap decisions and rash choices, highlighting their consequences. Examples like spur-of-the-moment road trips and hasty purchases add humor and relatability. They also introduce phrases like 'I didn't think that through' for casual reflection. A role-play about a kayaking choice brings vocabulary to life. Ultimately, they emphasize that sharing rash decisions can foster connection and lead to engaging stories.
63 snips
Oct 11, 2025 • 23min
AEE: How to Share What You've Been Through in English
The hosts delve into the art of sharing personal traumas without seeking pity. They discuss the importance of context, audience, and timing in revealing hardships. Listeners learn to maintain a neutral tone to avoid excessive sympathy while contextualizing experiences. Emphasis is placed on balancing conversations by inviting others to share. Tips on using reassuring phrases and gracefully closing discussions are shared. Personal stories illustrate how to share effectively and signal personal growth.
12 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 16min
AEE 2493: Listen to This Episode, Already!
Explore the intriguing use of 'already' in casual conversations to express urgency. Discover the difference between traditional and slangy uses of the word. The hosts share everyday examples and caution against using it with bosses or strangers, as it might come off as rude. Learn alternative phrases to convey urgency and enjoy a fun role play showcasing its use among friends. The takeaway? Use 'already' wisely, as it sounds best with those you're close to.
20 snips
Oct 8, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2492: 4 English Idioms to Fight Fire With Fire
Explore four intriguing idioms that help you navigate conflict and assert yourself. Discover what it means when 'two can play at that game' and why 'turnabout's fair play' can lighten the mood. Learn how to 'fight fire with fire' in high-stakes situations and when to give someone a 'taste of their own medicine.' The hosts role-play these idioms in a humorous skit about pizza disputes, showcasing practical applications in everyday life. Plus, tips on addressing frustrations early to keep communication smooth!
28 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 17min
AEE 2491: Why Should You Not Call Someone Yellow in English?
The hosts dive into the quirky origins of the term 'yellow' as a signal of cowardice, tracing its history through outdated language. They discuss the phrase 'do not turn yellow on me' and why it's considered inappropriate today. Playful alternatives like 'scaredy cat' and 'chicken' offer lighter options for describing fear. The conversation includes practical usage tips and a humorous role play about planning a haunted house visit. They wrap up with insights on how vulnerability can foster connections in conversations.
58 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 20min
AEE: It's Not What You Say, It's How You Say It
Discover how intonation can make or break professional communication. Learn why the right words aren't enough without the right delivery. Explore the differences between yes/no and WH questions, and see how intonation enhances listener engagement. Practice through workplace role-plays to master rising and falling intonation. Plus, find out how to turn data into compelling stories for executive presentations. Perfect your business English skills and elevate your career with these exciting insights!
29 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 14min
AEE 2490: Don’t Miss Out on These English Grammar Tips
Dive into the nuances of the verb 'miss'! Discover how its meaning shifts with different tenses. Learn about four common interpretations in the present simple, from failing to attend to feeling sadness. The hosts also showcase present continuous usage for lost items, highlighting the emotional and practical aspects. Enjoy a lively role-play that brings these concepts to life in everyday conversations. Perfect for enhancing your executive-level English skills!
