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
86 snips
Jun 23, 2025 • 15min
AEE 2430: Study Up On This Impressive Vocabulary
Explore the art of expanding vocabulary to enhance communication skills. Discover the Let Them Theory, which emphasizes supporting others without losing your own happiness. Dive into the idiom 'hit the books' to understand the urgency of studying. Learn practical studying strategies and the differences between phrases like 'study up on' versus 'read up on.' Hear personal experiences with academic pressures and how to navigate procrastination during exam season. Finally, embrace a lifelong learning mindset to keep growing your vocabulary!
60 snips
Jun 21, 2025 • 19min
AEE: Making Jokes in English? I See What You Did There!
Explore the delightful world of humor in English! Discover how jokes and puns can help ease anxiety and foster connections. Delve into the phrase 'I see what you did there' and its playful significance in everyday interactions. Learn how to use intonation and context to deepen your relationships, whether in dating or casual conversations. The hosts share insights on the unintentional fun of puns and their emotional impact. Get ready to sharpen your communication skills while enjoying the lighter side of language!
54 snips
Jun 19, 2025 • 20min
AEE 2429: Don't Be a Snob When it Comes to English
The discussion kicks off with the pitfalls of language snobbery, stressing the value of meaningful communication. Personal anecdotes reveal childhood encounters with snobbish friends and cultural insights into social attitudes. Wine appreciation is tackled, highlighting the balance between enjoyment and the challenges of wine snobs. The speakers explore how refined tastes in food, music, and travel can shape perceptions, urging listeners to embrace shared experiences over superficial judgments. This engaging dialogue promotes a more open mindset towards interests and social connections.
42 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 16min
AEE 2428: Why is English Spelling So Nerve-Racking?
English spelling can induce anxiety, but communication should take priority. The hosts tackle the term 'nerve-wracking' and its spelling variations, exploring their significance in writing. Personal anecdotes about driving fears lead to discussions on expressing genuine emotions and the difficulties of apologies. They also role-play navigating communication after conflicts, highlighting the importance of articulating feelings. Ultimately, the podcast encourages focusing on emotion rather than getting stuck on spelling intricacies.
61 snips
Jun 17, 2025 • 20min
AEE 2427: Make Your English Magical
Discover how four magical phrases can enhance English conversations and tackle common learner challenges. The hosts bond over childhood magic and its impact on parenting, using humorous expressions to illustrate everyday language. Explore personal strengths that can enhance communication skills and learn to transform everyday tasks into delightful experiences. With playful role play, they highlight the charm in fixing small problems and finding joy in simple gestures, all while encouraging listeners to reflect on their unique talents.
46 snips
Jun 16, 2025 • 17min
AEE 2426: Build Connection By Softening Commands in English
Discover the art of softening commands in English to foster deeper connections. Learn how phrasing impacts interpersonal dynamics and enhances collaboration. The hosts share practical examples and polite alternatives that can transform everyday communication. Delve into the significance of tone and respectful language, while exploring grammatical nuances that shift meaning. Plus, uncover tools that enhance vocabulary and support conversational skills, ensuring you communicate with confidence and politeness.
68 snips
Jun 14, 2025 • 17min
AEE: Travel, Trip, Journey: What’s the Difference?
Delve into the fascinating distinctions between 'travel,' 'trip,' and 'journey.' Explore the scenic Hiawatha Bike Trail and share in the excitement of cycling through beautiful landscapes. Discover how personal experiences and connections enrich our understanding of these terms. Hear stories that reflect heritage and personal growth through travel. Tune in for insights on evolving travel vocabulary and the deeper meanings behind our adventures!
39 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 20min
AEE 2425: Your English Will Take Off with this Phrasal Verb
Discover the versatile phrasal verb 'take off' and its various meanings in everyday communication. The hosts emphasize the importance of human connection over perfection in language. Personal travel stories add flair to discussions about flight challenges, including winter delays. The episode not only shares practical usage of 'take off' but also provides hiring insights, stressing efficiency in recruitment. Delight in engaging anecdotes that illustrate how integrating phrasal verbs can elevate your conversational skills!
61 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 17min
AEE 2424: You Strike Me As Someone Who Will Love This Episode
Discover engaging strategies for authentic communication in English, with anecdotes that highlight the importance of connection over perfection. Dive into humorous mishaps and the nuances of expressions like 'strike you as odd' and 'it strikes me as.' Learn how to express personal impressions while navigating societal norms. Explore the complexities of conveying fear and enhancing hiring through effective job postings. Gain insights into observing social dynamics at parties and tackling relationship concerns, all while steering clear of gossip.
33 snips
Jun 10, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2423: Why You Should Take This Episode to Heart
Dive into the art of communication, where expressing yourself matters more than perfection. Discover the meaning behind 'take it with a grain of salt' and learn how to incorporate it into your conversations. Explore the intricate balance of hiring speeds and personal growth while managing feedback effectively. Enjoy a role-play on meal planning that highlights the importance of giving advice softly, enhancing connections with those around you. This lively discussion is filled with relatable humor and practical insights!
