

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

26 snips
Dec 7, 2024 • 19min
AEE: Why You Should NOT Say “For Your Information”
Explore the fine line between 'FYI' and 'for your information'—one casual, the other potentially confrontational. Discover how tone and intonation can drastically alter perceptions of your words. Learn the art of tactful communication and the importance of softer expressions to avoid misunderstandings. Delve into the hidden meanings behind common phrases and how word choice enhances interpersonal connections. Plus, find out about new tools and courses to elevate your English skills while making meaningful connections.

29 snips
Dec 5, 2024 • 16min
AEE 2317: How to Acknowledge Wins in Life
Discover the power of encouragement and how celebrating personal victories can strengthen relationships. The hosts dive into the saying 'third time's a charm,' emphasizing resilience in the face of setbacks. They discuss the charm of persistence and share relatable anecdotes about everyday challenges. Learn alternative phrases to foster positivity and motivation. With a focus on uplifting language, the conversation highlights how recognizing achievements enhances well-being and connection in both personal and professional contexts.

29 snips
Dec 4, 2024 • 15min
AEE 2316: Learn This English Vocabulary to the Nth Degree
Explore the phrase 'nth time' and its playful implications in everyday conversation. Discover how exaggeration adds flair to American English while the hosts share amusing anecdotes. Dive into the cultural nostalgia of car customization and the extremes people go to, from subwoofers to wild modifications. Learn how to express ideas 'to the nth degree' and embrace different perspectives to enhance your language skills. It's a dynamic blend of humor, language tips, and cultural insights!

45 snips
Dec 3, 2024 • 18min
AEE 2315: Who Asked You? Rude Phrases to Avoid in English
Explore the fine line between politeness and rudeness in English communication. Discover phrases like 'who asked you?' that can damage relationships and how tone can change perceptions. Delve into cultural differences in politeness, drawing on experiences from Japan. Learn about the empathetic approach in problem-solving dialogues and how sarcasm can be misinterpreted. The discussion emphasizes the importance of mindful language choices for fostering respect in conversations.

24 snips
Dec 2, 2024 • 23min
AEE 2314: Mock Versus Mimic - What's the Difference?
Dive into the entertaining differences between 'mock' and 'mimic' with humorous personal anecdotes. Discover how childhood performances shape language skills and the importance of listener feedback. Explore the nuances of these terms and their social implications, using examples from classic media. Enjoy laughs over impersonations and insights into high school culture's mockery and mimicry. Finally, broaden your vocabulary while considering the impact of imitation in daily life.

54 snips
Nov 30, 2024 • 19min
AEE: Pack Your English With Idioms!
Explore how idioms can elevate your English conversation skills and foster cultural connections. Discover the meaning behind 'packed like sardines' and 'bring home the bacon.' The hosts share personal stories about navigating crowded spaces and cultural insights into financial roles. Engage in a lively role play set in a coffee shop, and get practical tips for incorporating idioms into daily discussions. Embrace the art of meaningful conversation by appreciating diverse experiences and shifting cultural landscapes.

57 snips
Nov 28, 2024 • 15min
AEE 2313: How to Learn English Slang at Warp Speed
Dive into the vibrant world of English slang, where phrases like 'warp speed' and 'we are toast' come alive! Discover the fun origins of expressions inspired by popular culture and the importance of context in mastering these terms. The hosts emphasize engaging with native speakers for deeper understanding, making learning both entertaining and effective. A playful role play adds humor while demonstrating how slang can enrich everyday conversations. Tune in for tips to elevate your English proficiency with idioms and lively expressions!

26 snips
Nov 27, 2024 • 18min
AEE 2312: Them’s the Breaks! When to Throw Out Grammar Rules
Discover the humorous irony of procrastination through a playful role-play scenario. Dive into informal grammar as the phrase 'them's the breaks' is explored, revealing its cultural significance. Hear anecdotes celebrating regional dialects and idioms that enrich conversation. The charm of breaking standard grammar rules is discussed, emphasizing how flexibility adds richness to the language. Enjoy a lively debate about accepting life's mishaps through casual expressions that resonate with everyday vernacular.

18 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 27min
AEE 2311: How to Quote Famous Animated Movies in English
Discover how quoting famous animated movies can spice up your English conversations. The hosts share nostalgic tales from beloved Disney and Pixar films, spotlighting iconic phrases that inspire and resonate. From 'just keep swimming' to 'Hakuna Matata,' the significance of these quotes in daily life shines through. Personal stories about favorites from Frozen reveal the emotional depth of animated classics. Engage with diverse tastes in films as listeners reminisce and participate in polls about cherished memories.

21 snips
Nov 25, 2024 • 17min
AEE 2310: Do NOT Miss These English Grammar Tips!
Explore essential grammar tips focusing on negation and the placement of 'not' in sentences. Discover the nuances between phrases like 'in order to not miss' and 'in order not to miss.' Learn about subordinating conjunctions for clearer communication. Enjoy amusing anecdotes about childhood state fairs and role plays about amusement park visits that highlight grammar concepts. The discussion wraps up with insights into negative infinitives, promoting the importance of grammatical integrity in English.