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
78 snips
Jun 9, 2025 • 19min
AEE 2422: Don’t Be Loath to Speak English
Discover effective strategies to enhance your English speaking skills, focusing on connection over perfection. Learn about the emotional weight of the word 'loathe,' and how it compares to lighter terms like 'hate.' Engage in amusing discussions about culinary dislikes, particularly eel and masago, revealing personal food aversions. Explore how language shapes our feelings towards food, and how shared sentiments can create social bonds, even in the context of politics. This entertaining mix of language and humor makes for a delightful listen!
90 snips
Jun 7, 2025 • 18min
AEE: This is Not Just a Run-of-the-Mill Episode
Dive into techniques for expressing feelings and enhancing communication skills in English. Explore the excitement of breaking from routine through travel, and the history of 'run-of-the-mill.' Discover vocabulary tools that enrich your listening experience. Hear reflections on uninspiring teachers contrasted with the emotional depth of 1990s films. Finally, embrace variety in daily life and the importance of practicing gratitude.
37 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 22min
AEE 2421: You Are Actually Going to Love This Episode
Discover the power of the word 'actually' and how it can transform conversations! The hosts discuss its versatile use, from expressing surprise to softening requests. They also dive into societal perceptions, including fat shaming, and reflect on the relevance of classic films. Personal anecdotes and playful dialogues illustrate how this word can enhance communication skills. Get ready to improve your English and connect more deeply with others!
76 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2420: Grateful to or Grateful For? What’s the Difference?
Dive into the intriguing nuances of gratitude as hosts explore the difference between 'grateful to' and 'grateful for'. They share personal reflections on appreciation and its impact on happiness, revealing the emotional power behind these terms. Discover how effective expressions of gratitude can deepen relationships and enhance well-being. The conversation also touches on neuroscience, illustrating the benefits of expressing gratitude in everyday communication, especially during gatherings like Thanksgiving.
65 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 20min
AEE 2419: How to Connect Over Mutual Interests
Discover how mutual interests can elevate English conversations and foster deeper connections. The hosts share personal anecdotes and practical tips for building relationships through shared passions. They delve into the dynamics of friendships formed via mutual acquaintances and the balance between speed and quality in hiring. Engaging role-plays illustrate the challenges of finding common ground, emphasizing music and poetry as powerful tools for connection. Tune in to learn how to enhance your social skills and make meaningful connections!
35 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 20min
AEE 2418: Don’t Dance Around This English Vocabulary
Dive into the art of navigating sensitive conversations! The hosts tackle the challenge of discussing topics like politics and religion, sharing personal stories and insights. They explore the phrasal verb 'dance around' and its casual charm among native speakers. With humor, they illustrate how avoiding direct discussions can lead to awkward moments. Discover cultural nuances in communication styles, from Japan to Belgium, emphasizing the need for cultural intelligence. Learn tips for being more direct while keeping things light-hearted!
55 snips
May 31, 2025 • 16min
AEE: 4 English Phrases to Start a Meal
Dive into the art of starting a meal with four essential phrases that foster connection among diners. Explore cultural differences as the hosts compare English meal starters to those in other languages, revealing their informal charm. Learn about dining etiquette and vocabulary, from the casual 'chow down' to polite invitations like 'shall we?'. Plus, discover a C1 fluency course aimed at enhancing natural speech for English learners. Engaging anecdotes and tips make for a delightful discussion on dining interactions!
11 snips
May 29, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2417: Are Your Feet Cold? How to Talk About Nerves in English
Discover how to articulate your nerves during life's big changes! The hosts delve into the meaning of 'cold feet,' especially in wedding scenarios, sharing personal stories. They explore preferences like wearing socks to bed versus going bare for comfort. From navigating anxiety to overcoming uncertainty, the conversation emphasizes the significance of mindset and support. Engage with relatable anecdotes and metaphors that make expressing these feelings in English easier and more nuanced.
26 snips
May 28, 2025 • 21min
AEE 2416: Long Story Short! Make Sure You Don't Bore Your Friends in English
Discover the art of concise storytelling and eliminate boring details to keep your friends engaged. Learn the power of the phrase 'long story short' for effective communication. Dive into techniques for sharing personal experiences that captivate your audience. Master the balance of brevity and engagement with practical tips like using follow-up questions. Plus, explore valuable expressions to cut to the chase and enhance your English storytelling skills.
18 snips
May 27, 2025 • 18min
AEE 2415: 5 Phrasal Verbs to Wash Away English Stress
Discover five phrasal verbs that can help ease your English-speaking anxiety! The hosts delve into childhood memories tied to the phrase 'wash up,' showcasing its diverse meanings. Learn how context and intonation shape communication, from effective hiring strategies to making polite requests. Personal anecdotes highlight how language reflects social interactions and emotions. Tune in for a fun exploration of phrasal verbs that can transform your communication style!
