

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

50 snips
Aug 9, 2025 • 23min
AEE: Excellent English for Home Cleanup
Dive into the emotional rollercoaster of home cleanup and decluttering! The speakers share funny tales of aging appliances and offer relatable expressions to describe worn-out items. Explore the chaos of kitchen clutter and the family dynamics at play during cleanup sessions. They tackle the bittersweet feelings of letting go of belongings, emphasizing the importance of space for mental well-being. Listeners will appreciate the playful anecdotes and practical advice on navigating their own decluttering journeys!

56 snips
Aug 7, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2457: Can You Relate? How to Speak Up with Confidence in a Meeting
Discover effective strategies to boost your speaking confidence in meetings! Learn the art of piggybacking to support others' ideas and enhance your own contributions. Explore the significance of cohesive communication and collaborative discussions, especially in academic settings. The podcast also highlights the power of validating others to foster an engaging, respectful environment. Plus, get tips on how to participate in group discussions and connect with colleagues to elevate your conversational skills. Perfect for anyone eager to improve their meeting presence!

46 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 23min
AEE 2456: Connect Over Connecting Flights and Flying Habits in English
Travel experiences can lead to fascinating English conversations, especially during flights. The challenges of long-haul journeys and the unpredictability of layovers spark engaging stories and tips from the hosts. They reflect on the trials of red-eye flights, discussing costs versus fatigue. Personal anecdotes illuminate the joys and struggles of navigating airports. The dialog encourages listeners to consider their travel preferences, showcasing the communal aspect of flying and connecting with fellow travelers.

56 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 24min
AEE 2455: Should You Poke Fun at Someone's Niche Interests?
The hosts explore the delicate art of humor surrounding personal interests. They discuss when it's appropriate to tease friends with phrases like 'get a life,' highlighting the context needed for playful banter. Nostalgia shines through as they share memories tied to games and show references. The dynamics of sarcasm in friendships are examined, with light-hearted anecdotes about niche hobbies like wedding planning and Star Wars. Ultimately, they emphasize embracing quirks and the joy of shared passions in building deeper connections.

24 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 23min
AEE 2454: 3 Reasons Swedish People Speak Amazing English with Alastair Budge
Alastair Budge, host of English Learning for Curious Minds, shares insights on why Swedish people excel in English fluency. He highlights three key factors: strong media exposure, effective educational practices, and a culture that values global communication. The discussion emphasizes how entertainment, like Netflix, aids language skills from a young age. Alastair also encourages learners to choose suitable films and maintain a confident mindset, viewing mistakes as essential stepping stones in their language journey.

54 snips
Aug 2, 2025 • 20min
AEE: Hack Your Way Through the 11 Meanings of This Word
Discover the intriguing nuances of the word 'hack' and its many interpretations! From practical kitchen tips for peeling garlic to exploring its meanings in technology and gaming, the conversation is lively and relatable. Engage with stories that illustrate how context can completely change understanding. The speakers emphasize innovation and the importance of creativity in overcoming everyday challenges. Listeners are encouraged to interact with native speakers to further enhance their language skills. It's a fun dive into the richness of English!

32 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 21min
AEE 2453: Double Your Connection By Doing a Thing
Explore the art of effective communication in English to build stronger connections. Discover the trendy phrase 'I did a thing' and how it encapsulates excitement around personal achievements. Celebrate milestones as a way to foster intimacy in relationships. Learn inventive methods for sharing exciting news that enhance engagement. The hosts encourage listeners to share personal stories, emphasizing how these experiences can deepen bonds and resonate emotionally.

Jul 30, 2025 • 23min
AEE 2452: How to Let Others Relax With One Simple Phrase
Discover how a simple phrase can ease stress and foster connections. Explore the tension between urgency and patience in a competitive housing market. Unravel the art of saying 'take your time' and its cultural nuances. Delve into the importance of reassurance in communication and hiring. Learn to embrace mindfulness through leisure and personal stories, highlighting life's simple joys. This engaging discussion uncovers the transformative power of being present in everyday moments.

60 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 25min
AEE 2451: Emotion Versus Feeling - What's the Difference?
Dive into the intriguing differences between 'emotion' and 'feeling.' The hosts reveal how these concepts shape our interactions and enhance communication. They share personal anecdotes and relatable examples, likening emotions to instinctive reactions and feelings as their interpreted forms. Discover the highs and lows of emotional experiences, alongside practical advice for navigating them. With a blend of humor and insight, the discussion encourages deeper connections and understanding in our daily lives.

Jul 28, 2025 • 19min
AEE 2450: Grammar That Breaks the Rules Part 2: Noun Nonsense
Dive into grammar's quirks, especially adjectives that end in 'ly.' Personal stories reveal the link between cowardice and language, urging deeper reflections on communication. Discover how organization impacts hiring, and learn strategies for effective collaboration through a school project. The importance of precise language choices is highlighted, along with how mastering grammar can alleviate anxiety and enhance connections.