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
14 snips
Aug 18, 2025 • 22min
AEE 2462: Intonation Is Connection
Discover the crucial role intonation plays in effective communication. Explore personal stories that highlight its impact on language learning. Learn techniques like shadowing and using AI tools to refine your speaking tone. Find out how variations in vocal tone can convey emotions and deepen connections. Engage in practical exercises to enhance your intonation skills and boost your fluency. Empower your communication by mastering the rhythm and delivery of American English.
47 snips
Aug 16, 2025 • 20min
AEE: How to Dance Around Tricky Past Participles
Explore the intricacies of past participles, like the tricky forms of 'drink' and 'grind.' Learn why native speakers often choose simpler language for smooth communication. The hosts share strategies to tackle grammatical challenges with confidence. Discover the significance of the present perfect tense and how to avoid common mistakes, encouraging flexibility in verb tense usage. This lively discussion demystifies complex grammar to enhance your conversational skills!
51 snips
Aug 14, 2025 • 23min
AEE 2461: Leftovers, Culture, and Class
Explore the intriguing world of restaurant leftovers and how cultural perceptions shape their use. Discover light-hearted etiquette tips for asking for a doggy bag, alongside personal stories about reheating food. Delve into the significance of meal prep and its role in daily life. The conversation highlights how dining habits reflect societal class dynamics and changing norms, with a keen eye on how different cultures view food waste. It's an engaging look at the intersection of food, culture, and etiquette today.
16 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 25min
AEE 2460: 3 Phrases to Compare Cultures with Michael from Happy English
Michael from Happy English, a seasoned English instructor with over 30 years of experience, dives into fascinating cultural comparisons. He discusses the stark differences between dining customs in Japan and the U.S., sharing personal anecdotes that showcase the joy of communal eating. Michael also highlights Japan's structured recycling practices versus the casual approach in the U.S. Furthermore, he emphasizes the freshness of Japanese cuisine and how cultural norms shape culinary experiences, reminding us of our shared humanity.
23 snips
Aug 12, 2025 • 17min
AEE 2459: Grammar That Breaks the Rules Part 3: Hardly Fair or Fairly Hard?
Explore the fascinating world of English grammar, diving into the meanings of 'fair' and 'fairly.' Discover the gap between language expectations and reality, especially with tricky adverb usage. Enjoy a camping story in Utah that cleverly illustrates the nuances of the word 'hardly.' Learn how to navigate sensitive topics like lateness among friends, and unravel common grammar misconceptions involving adverbs that end in 'ly.' Get ready to enhance your English skills with practical insights and engaging discussions!
24 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 19min
AEE 2458: Do You Have the Capacity to Start Using this Word?
The hosts introduce a new word aimed at enhancing vocabulary for effective communication. They discuss the phrase 'in any capacity,' exploring its significance in both formal and casual settings. Personal anecdotes reveal how the word 'capacity' can shape relationships and emotional connections. The conversation dives into the complexities of language, emphasizing nuanced expressions and their impact on discussions. Through relatable scenarios, they examine mental and physical capacities, highlighting the challenges of navigating crowded spaces.
42 snips
Aug 9, 2025 • 23min
AEE: Excellent English for Home Cleanup
Dive into the emotional rollercoaster of home cleanup and decluttering! The speakers share funny tales of aging appliances and offer relatable expressions to describe worn-out items. Explore the chaos of kitchen clutter and the family dynamics at play during cleanup sessions. They tackle the bittersweet feelings of letting go of belongings, emphasizing the importance of space for mental well-being. Listeners will appreciate the playful anecdotes and practical advice on navigating their own decluttering journeys!
48 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2457: Can You Relate? How to Speak Up with Confidence in a Meeting
Discover effective strategies to boost your speaking confidence in meetings! Learn the art of piggybacking to support others' ideas and enhance your own contributions. Explore the significance of cohesive communication and collaborative discussions, especially in academic settings. The podcast also highlights the power of validating others to foster an engaging, respectful environment. Plus, get tips on how to participate in group discussions and connect with colleagues to elevate your conversational skills. Perfect for anyone eager to improve their meeting presence!
36 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 23min
AEE 2456: Connect Over Connecting Flights and Flying Habits in English
Travel experiences can lead to fascinating English conversations, especially during flights. The challenges of long-haul journeys and the unpredictability of layovers spark engaging stories and tips from the hosts. They reflect on the trials of red-eye flights, discussing costs versus fatigue. Personal anecdotes illuminate the joys and struggles of navigating airports. The dialog encourages listeners to consider their travel preferences, showcasing the communal aspect of flying and connecting with fellow travelers.
56 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 24min
AEE 2455: Should You Poke Fun at Someone's Niche Interests?
The hosts explore the delicate art of humor surrounding personal interests. They discuss when it's appropriate to tease friends with phrases like 'get a life,' highlighting the context needed for playful banter. Nostalgia shines through as they share memories tied to games and show references. The dynamics of sarcasm in friendships are examined, with light-hearted anecdotes about niche hobbies like wedding planning and Star Wars. Ultimately, they emphasize embracing quirks and the joy of shared passions in building deeper connections.
