

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

16 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 15min
AEE 2364: When Right is Especially Right in English
Discover the versatile uses of the word 'right' in everyday English. The hosts break down various expressions that incorporate 'right,' enhancing your conversational skills. Learn effective hiring strategies and the importance of specialized job platforms. Enjoy a practical role play showcasing customer service interactions. Delve into the nuances of politeness and professionalism in communication, with tips for mastering courteous exchanges in English.

28 snips
Feb 25, 2025 • 21min
AEE 2363: Call Dibs on This Playful Vocabulary
Explore the playful world of 'dibs' and its cultural significance in social interactions. Discover how kids claim ownership with expressions like 'shotgun' while contrasting this with adult perspectives. The hosts share humorous anecdotes about food dynamics and family interactions. Learn about the art of calling dibs, its impact on social hierarchy, and why moderation is key. This lively discussion is both entertaining and insightful, perfect for anyone looking to enhance their English vocabulary!

116 snips
Feb 24, 2025 • 14min
AEE 2362: Get it Done or Have it Done?
Discover the playful nuances between 'get it done' and 'have it done' as the hosts break down their usage in everyday conversations. Enjoy hilarious personal anecdotes about grooming habits and the quirky adventures of DIY haircuts. Delve into relatable tales of car troubles that highlight the unpredictable nature of vehicle maintenance. The discussion sheds light on the importance of language in expressing self-care needs and mastering everyday task-related phrases.

69 snips
Feb 22, 2025 • 17min
AEE: Describe Your Progress - In the Thick of It
Delve into the concept of being 'in the thick of it' and how language shapes our experiences and connections. Discover engaging insights on recent literary journeys and the significance of staying committed to personal growth. Navigate the urgency of effective hiring strategies while tackling life's transitions through relatable anecdotes. Join a playful exploration of phrases and share intense moments that foster deeper connections, illustrating how media can help us relate during challenges.

62 snips
Feb 20, 2025 • 22min
AEE 2361: Increase Your Lifespan and Listen Today
Dive into the intriguing concept of 'lifespan' as the hosts discuss its various meanings and the country with the highest life expectancy. Explore the sentimental connection to family cars and how different vehicle makes age over time. Discover the impact of food trends on health and longevity, alongside surprising insights into processed foods. Delve into global disparities in longevity, highlighted by fascinating analogies with clothing care. Finally, enjoy a humorous take on the lifespan of everyday objects like couches in our consumer culture.

25 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2360: Your Grammar Questions Answered: Past Simple or Past Progressive?
Explore the challenges of using past simple and past progressive tenses in English! The hosts dive into fun anecdotes about sledding and skiing while addressing common grammar questions. They highlight the importance of specificity in language, helping listeners understand how to clarify past events. Through practical examples and engaging discussions, they tackle misconceptions and encourage thoughtful grammar choices. Plus, listeners are invited to submit their own grammar inquiries for future chats!

66 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 19min
AEE 2359: How to Connect Ideas and People in English
Explore the art of meaningful connections in language and relationships. Discover how to use transitional phrases for clearer conversations, and learn the phrase 'in a similar vein' for effective idea sharing. The hosts reflect on the influence of heritage on communication styles, and they emphasize the importance of coherent expressions. Plus, gain insights into enhancing your professional visibility during job searches. Tune in for practical tips to improve your English fluency and foster better social interactions!

38 snips
Feb 17, 2025 • 16min
AEE 2358: English Vocabulary is Tricky? You’re Telling Me!
Explore the tricky landscape of English vocabulary, where connection trumps perfection. Discover the art of using intonation to shift meanings, especially with phrases like 'tell me about it.' Delve into the power of emphatic agreement in both casual and professional conversations. The speakers also reflect on the nostalgia and challenges of socializing at reunions, balancing feelings of unrecognizability with appreciation. Practical tips shine through, enhancing fluency and communication skills.

47 snips
Feb 15, 2025 • 18min
AEE: Should You Say I Don't Care?
The hosts dive into the phrase 'I don't care,' exploring its implications and the importance of context in communication. They discuss how expressing indifference can either harm or help relationships. With a humorous take on travel planning, they reveal how differing personalities affect decision-making. Alternatives to saying 'I don't care' are suggested to maintain connections while being honest. The episode highlights the balance between sharing preferences and apathy, ensuring conversations remain engaged and meaningful.

23 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2357: But What About Conjunctions? English Grammar for Contrasts
Dive into the playful world of English conjunctions as family reunion conversations bring humor to life. Discover the importance of using 'but' and 'though' to create contrasts and enhance your communication skills. Explore expressions like 'no ifs, ands, or buts' to emphasize commitment, while gaining insights into the flexibility of these conjunctions in different contexts. Enjoy lively discussions about seasonal favorites while clearing up common grammar misconceptions, making your English more engaging and effective!