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
28 snips
Dec 11, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2529: This Episode Is Spicy
Dive into the world of spicy language as hosts explore the lively connotation of 'spice.' They discuss how spice isn't just about food but also adds excitement to conversations. Learn the difference between literal spices and trendy slang, and hear examples of using 'it's a spice' to describe something unique. The hosts offer alternative expressions like pizzazz and flair, while role-playing generational slang in casual settings. Wrap up with tips to incorporate these expressions into your daily language!
16 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 25min
AEE 2528: Breaking News! Don't Speak Like a News Anchor in English
Discover the inside scoop on news anchors' speech and how it differs from everyday English. The hosts share where they get their news and delve into the reliability of social media. Learn the importance of cadence and accent in broadcasting, along with unique phrases like 'breaking news' used in casual conversation. Join in as they roleplay news anchors to illustrate their points. It's a fun mix of language tips and media insights!
62 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 15min
AEE 2527: You’ll Be Crazy About This Vocabulary
Dive into a fun exploration of vocabulary! The hosts discuss the phrase 'crazy about' and its enthusiastic connotations. Discover how 'drive someone crazy' can imply both annoyance and attraction, depending on the context. They also explain the expression 'taking crazy pills' to convey confusion. Enjoy role-playing scenarios filled with travel-related phrases and lively expressions. This lively discussion of language and its nuances will have you laughing while learning!
22 snips
Dec 8, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2526: Time Change Got You Down? How to Talk About It in English
Discover how daylight saving time affects our mood and body clocks. Hear personal anecdotes about regional differences in time changes. Explore the pros and cons of keeping the switch, from benefits like morning light to potential drawbacks. Learn useful phrases for discussing time changes in American English. The hosts provide helpful solutions, including tips on lamps, exercise, and morning sunlight. Plus, enjoy a role-play that illustrates common conversations about time changes!
40 snips
Dec 6, 2025 • 16min
AEE: Isn’t English Supposed to Make Sense?!
Dive into the intriguing quirks of English pronunciation! Discover why 'suppose' can sound like 'Z' or 'S' and learn its role in hypothetical conversations. Explore the distinction between 'supposed' as an adjective questioning assumptions and 'supposed to' indicating expectations. Join a lively role-play about planning a surprise party that highlights these nuances. Finally, pick up handy tips on elision and pronunciation to enhance your clarity in English!
42 snips
Dec 5, 2025 • 21min
AEE: Shocked by the Price? How to Cancel Your Order in English
Dive into the world of polite cancellations! One host shares a hilarious story about walking away from a $12 coffee, sparking a discussion on knowing when to cancel an order. Learn useful phrases to back out gracefully and the importance of tone when communicating. The hosts even role-play scenarios, like removing an expensive item at a big-box store. The key takeaway? Always be kind and friendly when navigating price shock!
25 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2525: What Are You Saving Up For?
Join the hosts as they tackle the intriguing question of what you're saving up for. Discover the difference between saving as a verb and savings as a noun, plus fun examples that clarify their uses. Delve into the casual phrase 'save up' and its motivational twist. They illustrate practical scenarios like saving for a house or trendy sneakers, and even role-play roommates discussing how to manage their funds. Wrap it up with insights on navigating social norms surrounding money, making this conversation both enlightening and entertaining.
20 snips
Dec 3, 2025 • 17min
AEE 2524: How Crazy Adds Color to Your English
Delve into the multifaceted word 'crazy'! The hosts explore its six unique meanings, from its historic links to mental health to its use as an intensifier in slang. Listen for fascinating trivia about its prevalence in movie titles and its evolution in everyday language. Enjoy role-play examples that illustrate how to express emotions more vividly. Plus, gather tips for using 'crazy' effectively in your conversations and even on IELTS speaking tests. Tune in for a colorful linguistic journey!
45 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 16min
AEE 2523: Your English Is Nothing to Sneeze At
The hosts explore the idiom "nothing to sneeze at," revealing its meaning and providing relatable examples. They discuss personal experiences and the importance of encouragement, even during self-criticism. Similar expressions like "not to be taken lightly" and "nothing to scoff at" are introduced, enhancing the language learning experience. Role-play scenarios demonstrate how to uplift friends after setbacks. The conversation emphasizes connection through language, reminding listeners to celebrate achievements and support one another.
41 snips
Dec 1, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2522: What to Say When You Lose Your Train of Thought
Lindsay and Aubrey dive into the common experience of losing your train of thought, emphasizing that it's totally normal in our busy lives. They share useful phrases like 'What was I saying?' and 'Where was I?' to effectively navigate these moments. Role-playing scenarios highlight the importance of humor and connection during forgetful lapses. The duo stresses collaboration and how a friendly rescue can save face and maintain communication. Tune in for practical tips to keep conversations flowing!
