

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

15 snips
Sep 19, 2024 • 20min
AEE 2273: Wacky English Vocabulary for Fun Conversations
Discover the playful side of language with a vibrant discussion on the words 'wacky' and 'weird.' Dive into pop culture references that bring these terms to life while learning how to use them in conversations. Enjoy a look at alliteration and its creative impact on communication. Delve into quirky vocabulary as a fun way to spark memorable interactions. Plus, hear tales from theatrical experiences that highlight the joy of language, making every conversation an adventure!

14 snips
Sep 18, 2024 • 21min
AEE 2272: Don't Be an English Outlier
The journey to becoming fluent in English involves overcoming feelings of being an 'outlier.' Cultural differences in rules, like jaywalking, reveal personal backgrounds. Exploring language nuances, they discuss exceptions and effective communication. Punctuality and vocabulary expansion are highlighted as key factors in understanding social dynamics. Finally, the importance of recognizing societal trends, like food waste, encourages deeper conversations in everyday life.

6 snips
Sep 17, 2024 • 19min
AEE 2271: Happen To or Happen With? How to Know the Difference
Discover the intriguing nuances of 'happen to' versus 'happen with' and how they can change the meaning of your conversations. The hosts share a relatable personal story about curfews that highlights these distinctions. Listen closely as they unravel the emotional weight these phrases carry, especially for Spanish speakers. They also emphasize the importance of clarity in communication and delve into questions about personal agency versus victimhood through engaging role-plays. It's a captivating exploration of language and context!

Sep 17, 2024 • 18min
AEE: Stress Your Words and Join Our Student Community
Proper word stress is crucial for clear communication in English. The hosts share how emotion enhances spoken language, making it engaging. They discuss the negative impact of monotone speech and offer tips for effective word emphasis. A humorous role play illustrates the joy of conversation, while a new language course focuses on interactive speaking opportunities. Intonation is key for understanding, especially in everyday situations. They also emphasize community learning for improving speaking skills among learners.

Sep 16, 2024 • 22min
AEE 2270: Are You Book Smart or Street Smart?
The hosts dive into the intriguing differences between book smarts and street smarts, sparked by a listener's question. They share personal reading habits and discuss the impact of first impressions. A mini-series on popular expressions highlights the importance of deeper understanding in relationships. Through anecdotes, they emphasize adaptability and interpersonal skills for success. Listeners are invited to engage with a Spotify poll about their perspectives, showcasing how language shapes connections and personal beliefs.

6 snips
Sep 14, 2024 • 21min
AEE: Second-Hand Vocabulary That is First-Rate!
Explore the fascinating world of second-hand shopping and its cultural significance. Discover how 'seconds' in outlet stores offer both bargains and unique finds. Dive into personal styles, hand-me-downs, and their deeper meanings in relationships. Learn about the environmental benefits of choosing second-hand over fast fashion. Delight in the joy of thrift shopping and vintage treasures, all while enhancing your English skills through relatable topics!

Sep 12, 2024 • 23min
AEE 2269: Learn ALL the English with this Language Trend
Exploring a trendy language trend, the hosts connect fluency with authenticity, likening it to ice cream. They dive into favorite French fry varieties while discussing sibling relationships, cultural nuances, and playful anecdotes. The conversation shifts to metaphorical expressions of enthusiasm, emphasizing their effective yet cautious use. They also touch on expressing personal preferences through food and media, highlighting language subtleties in conveying emotions. Finally, they engage in role-play to show how exaggeration spices up casual conversation.

Sep 11, 2024 • 20min
AEE 2268: Put Out Dumpster Fires With these Trendy English Phrases
Dive into the world of trendy English phrases that help tackle chaotic situations likened to 'dumpster fires.' Discover the humor behind this idiom and its relatable examples, alongside fun vocabulary quizzes. The discussion also touches on slang like 'garbage' and 'trash,' emphasizing the importance of mindful language. Engage with the rise of British slang in American English, featuring playful role-plays. Finally, learn empathetic phrases essential for navigating tough conversations and supporting friends in need.

11 snips
Sep 10, 2024 • 20min
AEE 2267: How to Be Graceful in English
The hosts explore the rich meanings of 'grace' and its role in communication. They discuss the importance of patience and self-acceptance in learning English. Historical and modern perspectives on grace highlight its charm in social interactions. Practical applications are examined, including grace periods in personal and professional contexts. A light-hearted family reunion role-play illustrates grace in action, while cultural significance adds depth to the conversation.

7 snips
Sep 9, 2024 • 18min
AEE 2266: We Made It or We Did It? How to Know the Difference
Dive into the fascinating differences between 'we made it' and 'we did it.' The discussion highlights how these phrases capture varying emotional weights and cultural nuances in celebrating achievements. Through playful banter in a pickleball tournament, the hosts illustrate the importance of context in language. You’ll also learn about the roles of 'make' and 'do' in English, focusing on their significance in describing successes. Plus, the conversation encourages connecting with others through shared milestones.