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
34 snips
Jan 6, 2026 • 14min
AEE: The Best 3-Step Strategy for Socializing in English
Discover how socializing can elevate your career success, with strong English skills linked to higher salaries. Learn a three-step strategy for effective social interactions: mentally rehearse scenarios, plan engaging conversation starters, and master active listening to build real connections. The hosts emphasize that networking is crucial in today's business world, making these tips invaluable for anyone looking to enhance their professional relationships.
4 snips
Jan 5, 2026 • 20min
AEE 2542: Take in Phrasal Verbs to Connect in English
Explore the fascinating world of phrasal verbs with insights on the versatile phrase 'take in.' Discover how it can mean providing shelter, attending events, or even altering clothing. Learn about its older usage of deception and the modern implications of understanding or absorbing information. Through engaging role-plays, the hosts demonstrate these meanings in everyday conversations, showcasing how mastering phrasal verbs enhances natural speech and fosters deeper connections.
29 snips
Jan 3, 2026 • 20min
AEE: Learning English Is Not Like Pulling Teeth
Dive into a lively discussion about idioms, focusing on the phrase 'it's like pulling teeth.' Discover its origins and how it's used in everyday life, from kid conversations to challenging shopping experiences. The hosts share personal anecdotes, exploring the struggles behind common tasks. Learn related expressions like 'herding cats' and engage in fun role-plays to bring these idioms to life. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the importance of connection over perfection in language learning.
Jan 1, 2026 • 19min
AEE 2541: Real, Raw English for Connection
Join the hosts as they dive deep into the many meanings of the word 'raw.' From touching on raw emotions sparked by the movie *Wicked* to practical food discussions about uncooked sushi, they explore it all. Discover how 'raw' applies to everything from sensitive feelings to unrefined data. The hosts even role-play a scenario to showcase these various uses in context. Plus, get tips for gradually incorporating new meanings into your vocabulary!
27 snips
Dec 31, 2025 • 16min
AEE 2540: Grab or Get? English Vocabulary for Errands
The hosts dive into the nuances of English verbs like 'grab', 'pick up', and 'get' for errands. They explain 'grab' as a casual option for quick favors, while 'pick up' works best for grocery orders and easy tasks. The discussion highlights why some words feel awkward for everyday errands, focusing on natural language use. A fun role-play showcases how to ask for items seamlessly. Finally, they wrap up with tips to help listeners sound more fluent and confident in casual conversations.
23 snips
Dec 30, 2025 • 22min
AEE 2539: Make a Beeline for Better English
Discover the intriguing origins of the idiom 'make a beeline' and its meaning of moving directly toward a goal. The hosts share personal stories about bees and emphasize how to incorporate this phrase into everyday conversations. They explore synonyms like 'head straight for' and engage in a fun role-play at the airport, discussing travel quirks and missed flights. Tune in to learn how these expressions can enhance your storytelling and avoid drama!
22 snips
Dec 29, 2025 • 19min
AEE 2538: Are You Working Away at Learning Phrasal Verbs?
Delve into the nuances of phrasal verbs with a focus on the word 'away.' Discover how it adds a sense of duration and emphasis to actions like munching, studying, and chatting. Enjoy a role-play demonstration showcasing these phrases in natural conversation. Learn the distinction between expressions like 'reading away the afternoon' and how it can imply wasted time. Finally, gain insight into when to use 'up a storm' versus 'away' for different tones. Elevate your English with these practical tips!
17 snips
Dec 27, 2025 • 23min
AEE: 3 Ways to Create Language Immersion With Lionel From Impolyglot
Lionel Jr., the creator of the I'm Polyglot podcast, shares insightful tips on language immersion. He debunks common myths around immersion, highlighting the challenges many learners face. Discover how to create an immersive environment at home using internet resources. Lionel emphasizes practical methods like using sticky notes for vocabulary, choosing enjoyable content, and practicing your inner monologue in the target language. He also discusses overcoming plateaus, making consistency key in your language journey.
Dec 25, 2025 • 22min
AEE 2537: Cozy up With These Holiday Phrasal Verbs
Discover essential holiday phrasal verbs like 'cozy up' and 'bundle up' as hosts dive into festive traditions. They share tales of extravagant decorations and the quirks of winter layering with kids. You'll learn about the thrill of holiday shopping, encountering popular toy crazes that sell out in minutes. Get ready for some fun role-playing to practice these phrases in holiday contexts. Wrap it up with warm wishes for the season!
17 snips
Dec 24, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2536: How to Be Better Than Decent at English Vocabulary
Dive into the intriguing complexities of the word 'decent' and discover how its meaning shifts based on context. The hosts share everyday examples, like movie reviews, showing how 'decent' can express mild praise or indifference. Explore its various definitions, from acceptable to respectable, and learn about its usage in describing people or quantities. Through engaging roleplays, they highlight the importance of tone in communication, ensuring you choose words carefully to convey the right message.
