

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

7 snips
Jul 23, 2024 • 14min
AEE 2239: Love Learning English Expressions? That’s What We’re Here For!
Discover the magic of trendy English expressions that help build social connections! The hosts dive into the phrase 'here for it,' illustrating how it conveys approval and engagement. They explore the supportive language of 'I'm here for whatever' versus the boundary-setting 'I'm not here for it,' revealing their cultural significance. Plus, they discuss how acts of generosity can strengthen relationships, making effective communication a key to connection.

6 snips
Jul 22, 2024 • 21min
AEE 2238: Michelle's Topsy-Turvy Summer
Dive into travel frustrations as speakers recount chaotic airline experiences and lost baggage. Discover the importance of maintaining relationships amid life's unpredictability, especially during transitions like parenthood. Embrace the topsy-turvy nature of summer plans while balancing practicality with excitement. Learn expressive phrases to capture feelings of disorder and chaos. Finally, reflect on the significance of prioritizing safety over profit in the airline industry, encouraging clear communication in all aspects of life.

17 snips
Jul 20, 2024 • 19min
AEE: Do You Love a Good All Ears English Episode?
Explore how an interactive app enhances language learning with transcripts and vocabulary lists. Discover the joy of expressing passions in conversation and effective hiring practices. Indulge in a fun debate about favorite burgers while learning natural English expressions. Delve into the nuances of love for activities and the present tense. Uncover tips for IELTS preparation and how slang evolves. Enjoy a humorous account of snorkeling in Maui, highlighting fears and bonding through shared adventures.

8 snips
Jul 18, 2024 • 21min
AEE 2237: 4 Ways to Use 'Ya Know' in English
Dive into the fascinating world of the phrase 'you know' and its many uses in everyday conversation. Discover how this seemingly simple filler can enhance dialogue and build connections between speakers. Personal anecdotes about sassiness in family dynamics add a playful twist, as hosts reflect on their teenage years. Overall, explore how intonation and context can transform the meaning of 'you know,' providing listeners with practical insights to elevate their English fluency.

7 snips
Jul 17, 2024 • 22min
AEE 2236: Lighten Up! How to De-escalate in English
Discover how to navigate tense conversations with grace and empathy. Key phrases like 'lighten up' can diffuse emotional situations, but timing and tone are crucial. Learn techniques to validate feelings while offering support, ensuring your words don't come off as dismissive. The speakers share personal insights and practical strategies for effective communication. Plus, a dash of humor keeps the discussion light-hearted, making it easier to lighten up in challenging moments.

Jul 16, 2024 • 19min
AEE 2235: This Episode is the Best Thing Since Sliced Bread
The hosts dive into the power of sharing excitement over life-enhancing products. They share favorite tech that simplifies life, from GPS to air fryers. The conversation shifts to dating in the digital age, recounting personal tales from a time before apps ruled romance. An exploration of the expression 'the best thing since sliced bread' traces its roots and reflects on its relevance today. Lively discussions highlight how modern conveniences change lives, inviting listeners to engage and share their thoughts.

8 snips
Jul 15, 2024 • 18min
AEE 2234: Look At You! Phrases to Compliment in English
Discover unique phrases for complimenting others in English that enhance your communication skills! Enjoy a light-hearted exchange filled with gardening mishaps and friendly banter. Learn how to use playful compliments effectively among friends in casual settings, highlighting the role of tone and intonation. Dive into playful teasing that fosters affection and laughter, and enjoy personal stories that showcase how compliments can strengthen social connections at gatherings. Get ready to boost your compliment game!

Jul 13, 2024 • 18min
AEE: Idioms that are Worth their Weight in Gold
Dive into the world of idioms as the hosts explore expressions like 'worth its weight in gold' and share personal anecdotes that bring these phrases to life. They discuss the power of positivity in conversations, especially around cultural differences in communication. Enjoy a light-hearted take on negotiating at garage sales compared to traditional shopping, revealing the nostalgia and joy of treasure hunting. The episode emphasizes how personal experiences shape our understanding of worth and the motivational impact of language.

5 snips
Jul 10, 2024 • 23min
AEE 2233: Ugh! Oops! Oh No! Put Everything in English
The hosts explore the everyday frustrations of learning English, emphasizing communication over perfection. They share funny personal stories about clumsiness that resonate with listeners. In a light-hearted segment, they discuss the emotional nuances of breakups and how language reflects those feelings. The importance of using expressive words and playful phrases is highlighted, enhancing relatability in conversations. Finally, they embrace the joys and failures of language learning, advocating for a fun and imperfect approach.

Jul 10, 2024 • 21min
AEE 2232: It’s Worth the Effort to Learn This Vocabulary
This discussion emphasizes the importance of discerning what truly deserves our time and effort. The hosts dive into the concept of 'worth,' sharing personal stories that illustrate its multifaceted nature. They explore practical language use with expressions like 'worth it' in everyday conversations, along with the value of mastering vocabulary. Role-playing scenarios and idiomatic expressions further enrich the conversation, prompting listeners to reflect on their own values and what makes their experiences worthwhile.