American English Podcast

On March 2, we celebrate Read Across America Day, a time when schools across the U.S. encourage kids to dive into the magical world of books. But why March 2? Well, it’s no coincidence—that’s the birthday of a man whose impact on children’s literature is nothing short of legendary: Dr. Seuss. Who’s that, you ask? Oh, just the wacky, wildly creative genius who shaped childhoods for generations. Some call him the father of children’s literature, and honestly, if you want to understand American culture, you need to know about this man. From whimsical rhymes to unforgettable characters, Dr. Seuss didn't just write books—he created a world where words dance, imagination reigns, and learning feels like play. So, grab your hat (preferably a tall red-and-white striped one), and let’s dive into the story of the one and only Dr. Seuss. Mentioned in this episode: Book Recommendations for Intermediate ESL Learners Premium Content for this episode can be found in Season 3 or in All Premium Content. It was posted originally as episode 140.2. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hello! As you may know, Chats with Shana episodes are casual and are intended for you to hear natural language. Today, we’ll be chatting about what makes us happy. I'll go first. Throughout the episode, you’ll hear 50 universal sources of happiness—from the smell of freshly baked bread and cookies to cuddling with a kitten or puppy. To break the ice, I will share 10 things that make me happy, and throughout my explanations, I’ll clarify challenging expressions and phrases. I hope you walk away from this lesson happier and ready to share what makes you happy. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Book Recommendations for Intermediate English Learners Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hello! Today, we have ESL teacher and language coach Tanja Jordening as our guest. She runs English Coach 3Ts and is from Nebraska. In this episode, she’ll share what it was like growing up in the state. You’ll hear about farming, the work ethic, Kool-Aid, and more. I hope you enjoy her story as much as I did! :) We recently had a conversation on her YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iqV0yI_A0EI Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about the guest: English Coach 3Ts on YouTube Tanya's Website: English Coach 3Ts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this lesson, we explore essential English vocabulary related to gardening and yard work, covering tools, tasks, and outdoor spaces. The lesson starts with an explanation of what a yard is—both as a unit of measurement and as a space around a home, such as the front yard and backyard. The teacher shares personal experiences with yard maintenance, offering practical examples of how these words are used in daily life. You’ll learn about common tools like shovels, rakes, wheelbarrows, pruning shears, hedge trimmers, and leaf blowers, as well as the parts of a yard such as lawns, flower beds, shrubs, mulch, and greenhouses. Through stories about seasonal yard work in North Carolina, listeners gain insight into the changing responsibilities that come with spring, summer, fall, and winter. Tasks like digging, planting, weeding, mowing, pruning, and shoveling are introduced in context, making it easier to understand and remember their meaning. We also share gardening challenges like bears visiting local orchards. Key words and expressions like "to have a green thumb" (being good at gardening) and "to prune" (cut unwanted branches) are explained in detail. Sign up for premium content to access definitions, a PDF transcript, pronunciation videos, and more. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we introduce the phrase "to pull some strings", explaining its meaning, origins, and real-life usage. The phrase refers to using one's influence or connections to achieve something, much like a puppeteer manipulating a marionette. We provide several relatable examples to help you understand how to use the expression. In the second part of this episode, you'll learn about the Iditarod, Alaska's famous dog sled race. We dive into its history, inspired by the 1925 Serum Run to Nome, and its modern-day significance as a grueling, nearly 1,000-mile challenge through harsh Arctic conditions. She describes the race’s logistics, the role of mushers and sled dogs, and the controversies surrounding it, including animal welfare debates. ⭐ Featured episodes are ones I’ve chosen from my back catalogue because they're a good fit for the time of year. The Great Iditarod takes place the first Saturday in March each year, which in 2025 will be on March 1! I hope you enjoy this episode. All Premium Content - Get Bonus Learning Material for 150+ podcast episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Have you ever heard of someone swimming 110 miles without a shark cage? That’s exactly what endurance swimmer Diana Nyad accomplished when she crossed the treacherous waters from Cuba to Florida at 64 years old. This week, we dive into her incredible story—a journey of resilience, determination, and grit. From battling jellyfish stings and strong currents to enduring 53 hours in open water, Diana’s achievement proves that "the impossible is possible." In this episode, you'll not only hear Diana’s inspiring tale but also get a fun and engaging lesson on irregular verbs. We’ve woven 10 key irregular verbs into the story, and you’ll practice identifying and using them in context. Plus, you’ll learn some fascinating facts about open-water swimming, including the iconic Triple Crown of marathon swimming. Stick around until the end for insights into Diana’s grueling preparation, her record-breaking swim, and why critics couldn’t believe her achievement. Whether you’re here to improve your English or draw inspiration from a story of human triumph, this episode has something for everyone. Don’t miss out! 🌊 Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more: Young Woman and the Sea (Learn more about Gertrude Ederle) Swim from New York to New Jersey: Ederle-Burke Swim NYAD: The Netflix Film About Diana “Never, Ever Give Up” - Diana Nyad. Highly Recommended Ted Talk Find a Way: The Inspiring Story of One Woman's Pursuit of a Lifelong Dream (memoir) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, we’ll be diving into the expression "to keep one’s head above water." If you've ever felt like you're just barely managing to survive a tough situation, this idiom will resonate with you. As always, my goal is to teach you the English spoken in the U.S. through engaging stories, pronunciation tips, and cultural insights. By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how to use this phrase confidently in everyday conversations. Stay tuned, because in Part 2 next week, we’ll explore the incredible story of Diana Nyad, who swam from Cuba to Florida—a true example of resilience and determination! Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we explore hyperboles, dramatic and exaggerated figures of speech commonly used in American English. Shana and her mom, Mara, share everyday examples and discuss their meanings in a fun, relatable conversation. What's a hyperbole? Hyperboles are not meant to be taken literally. They emphasize a point or evoke strong feelings such as humor, drama, or enthusiasm. For example: "I'm so hungry I could eat a horse." Everyday Hyperboles “I’m melting”: Used when feeling extremely hot. This bag "weighs a ton”: Describes something very heavy. “As old as dirt”: Refers to someone or something extremely old. “My mouth was on fire”: Indicates eating very spicy food. Losing Body Parts (Metaphorically!) “Cry your eyes out”: Feeling extreme sadness. “Laugh your head off”: Laughing uncontrollably. “Dance your feet off”: Dancing with great energy. “Sing your heart out”: Singing with passion and volume. More Common Hyperboles “Bored to death”: Extremely bored, as Mara describes watching football. “Floating on air”: Feeling extremely happy, such as discovering you’re going to be a grandparent. “So angry you could explode”: Expressing intense frustration. “Tastes like heaven on earth”: Describing an exceptionally delicious dessert. “In your wildest dreams”: Imagining something extraordinary, like meeting Jane Austen. “Speechless”: Amazed or overwhelmed, often by a breathtaking experience. To be on top of the world: To be thrilled, or feel ecstatic / excited about life. “Everyone and their mom”: EVERYONE and more. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As we step into 2025, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our goals and aspirations—and for many, that means making (and hopefully keeping!) New Year’s resolutions. Today, we’re revisiting one of my favorite episodes: 157.2 - New Year’s Resolutions Statistics. While originally created with 2024 in mind, the insights and lessons are just as relevant as ever for 2025! In this episode, you’ll uncover fascinating statistics about popular resolutions in the United States, gain cultural insights, and—most importantly—learn how to set actionable goals for your language learning journey. 🎯 You'll also learn 10+ words related to Statistics, such as ratio, fraction, correlation, etc. 🌟 Let’s dive in and make 2025 your best year for learning English yet! 🚀 Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Mentioned in the episode How to Track Your Progress Stutz the Documentary (available on Netflix) CDC Study Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we explore the fascinating legacy of the Vanderbilt family and their iconic Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. Discover how Cornelius Vanderbilt, "The Commodore," built a fortune through steamboats and railroads during the Industrial Revolution, leaving a lasting impact on American infrastructure, culture, and philanthropy. Together we'll take a tour of the Biltmore Estate, the largest privately-owned home in the U.S., featuring 250 rooms, stunning gardens designed by Central Park's Frederick Law Olmsted, and modern innovations like indoor plumbing and electricity. You'll learn polite and casual ways to describe wealth in English, such as "affluent" or "filthy-stinkin' rich," while gaining insights into the Gilded Age—a term coined by Mark Twain to describe the era's wealth and inequality. What next? Plan a visit to experience the Blue Ridge Mountains, farm-to-table dining, and the country’s most-visited winery, especially during the magical holiday season. Access the full transcript, vocabulary list, and more by signing up to Season 4 Premium Content. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into the iconic idiom "Go Big or Go Home!" With a mix of humor, real-life examples, and a pronunciation exercise, you'll learn how to use this bold expression in everyday conversation. Whether you're making a big decision or simply going all-in, this idiom is perfect for describing those "go for it" moments. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll take you on a journey through the grand legacy of the Vanderbilts and explore the majestic Biltmore House—coming soon! Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, we’re diving into an exciting and educational pronunciation practice where you’ll learn the names of all 50 U.S. state capitals! But we’re not stopping there—this lesson will also include one fun fact about each state, so you’ll walk away with the correct pronunciation and with a few fun tidbits to impress your friends. For this episode, we recommend shadowing. Shadowing is when you listen carefully to a word or phrase and immediately repeat it out loud, mimicking the speaker as closely as possible. It’s an excellent way to improve pronunciation, rhythm, and intonation! As you follow along, listen to the pronunciation of each capital, repeat it after me, and pay attention to the flow of the word. Let’s practice together, state by state, and have some fun along the way. Ready? Let’s get started! Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Read the Transcript: https://americanenglishpodcast.com/177-pronunciation-50-us-state-capitals/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

⭐ My annual BLACK FRIDAY SALE IS HAPPENING NOW! Sign up for Premium Content for a HUGE savings: ➡️ https://bit.ly/44822TQ In this episode, we’re taking a ride through the fascinating history of the Ferris wheel while learning some tricky irregular verbs along the way! Together, we’ll explore how this iconic amusement ride came to life as a bold attempt to rival the Eiffel Tower at the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Practice the terms, hear them in a variety of contexts and then take a quiz to test what you've learned! At the very end, we'll go through fun facts about the Ferris Wheel. Did you know the original Ferris wheel was dynamited? Or that Ain Dubai is the tallest Ferris wheel in the world, standing at a jaw-dropping 820 feet? So, let’s ride through history, learn some grammar, and have a little fun together. Let’s do it! 🎡 // TOP-RATED ENGLISH RESOURCES ○ Season 4 ➡️ https://bit.ly/3rF36k4 (at a discount when you purchase Season 1, 2 and 3 as a bundle) ○ Premium Content (Seasons 1, 2 and 3) ➡️ https://bit.ly/44822TQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hello and welcome to today’s episode! 🌟 Today, we’re diving into a popular expression in English: What goes around comes around. It’s a phrase you’ve probably heard in movies, TV shows, or even in real life, but what does it really mean? And how can you use it in your everyday conversations? We’ve got a fun-packed lesson for you! First, we’ll break down the meaning of this expression, and to get us laughing, I’ll share a little joke. Then, we’ll explore some real-life examples so you can see how it fits into different situations, from friendships to the workplace. At the end, we’ll do a pronunciation exercise and a tongue twister about Ferris Wheels! Stay tuned for next week’s episode when we learn all about the origin of the Ferris Wheel. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Some of you have been listening to this podcast since episode number one, and so you might remember my dad, Joe. He was a guest on episode 44 to talk about driving in the US, and in episode 43 when he talked about his experience living and working in Alaska. After I posted those episodes, some of you sent me messages on how much you enjoyed listening to my dad. so I dragged him back today! The conversation you'll hear in this episode is lighthearted, funny, and it's full of English idioms. That wasn't the goal for this episode, it just happens to have a lot of idiomatic language because that's the way my dad speaks. Since he speaks clearly, I bet you'll understand a lot of the idioms he used from context. The goal of this episode is for you to hear superlatives in context. What's a superlative form? The superlative form is used to express the highest or lowest degree of an adjective or adverb within a group. For example: Our tree in our front yard is the tallest in the neighborhood. There is no tree taller than ours; ours is the tallest. "The tallest" is the superlative form. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, we’re diving into the topic of swimming. Whether you’re someone who loves the water or maybe you're a bit nervous around it, swimming is a great activity to talk about because it evokes very specific memories. The more memories we can recall, the easier it is to chat! Just thinking about this topic reminds me of so many wonderful times at the pool. Today, I’ll share these stories; they’ll be used as a canvas to introduce words, expressions and collocations related to the topic of swimming. My goal is for you to walk away from this lesson feeling ready to talk to a native speaker about your experiences in the pool! Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Trail of Tears is one of the darkest chapters in U.S. history, and it's a story that can only be understood by evaluating how the relationship between Native Americans and white settlers evolved over time. What happened? What caused so much tension between the groups? What led to the forced removal of thousands of Native Americans from their homeland? Listen to today's episode and find out. By understanding historical context, you'll better understand modern political discussions between native tribes and the United States. Disclaimer: I'm not Native American, so creating this episode made me anxious. It's very important to me that everything I say is culturally sensitive and accurate. If you are a native, please know that I would love to talk to you! Write to me on Instagram @americanenglishpodcast, and don't hesitate to tell me your thoughts. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. ⁠PBS Documentary: Unspoken: America's Native American Boarding Schools⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today's episode, we'll start by answering the question: Who are Native Americans? Then we're going to dive into the fascinating culture of the Cherokee people, who are one of the largest Native American tribes in the U.S.. We'll discuss their traditions, their language, and deep connection to the land. We'll also cover how their society was structured historically. Personally, I find the clans very interesting, so we have to cover that. Be sure to stay tuned until next week, we're going to be talking about the Trail of Tears. Disclaimer: I'm not Native American, so creating this episode worried me. It's very important to me that everything I say is culturally sensitive and accurate. If you are a native, please know that I would love to talk to you! Write to me on Instagram @americanenglishpodcast, and don't hesitate to tell me your thoughts. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Wealthiest Tribe of Appalachia - Cherokee ⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you've ever been so emotional that you cried uncontrollably, Episode 173 is for you! In Part 1 (this episode), you will hear a joke, learn the English expression "to cry one's eyes out," and you'll practice your pronunciation (specifically cases where d+y = j). Stay tuned for next week when we’ll talk about the Cherokees and The Trail of Tears. If you would like to support this podcast, you can leave me a review on Spotify or your favorite podcast player, buy me a coffee, or sign up to Premium Content to learn more with each episode. Thank you once again to all supporters! Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Southern cuisine is more than just food—it's a reflection of history, traditions, and the diverse cultural influences. From Native Americans bringing corn to the table, to the fisherman of the Carolinas and Georgia introducing shrimp to grits, there's a story behind all of the classic must-try Southern dishes. Learn vocabulary, hear stories, and learn what you should order for breakfast, lunch and dinner when you're here! :) Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/AMERICANENGLISH and get on your way to being your best self. Welcome to today’s episode of the American English Podcast, where we dive into the life of one of aviation's most iconic figures—Amelia Earhart. You may know her for her groundbreaking flights, but beyond her celebrated achievements, her mysterious disappearance remains one of the greatest unsolved mysteries of the 20th century. Join us as we explore her incredible journey. In it, you will learn 10 Irregular Verbs in English. Had you ever heard of Amelia Earhart before this episode? Who is an inspiring female from your country? Let me know on Instagram @americanenglishpodcast. Verbs Heard in Lesson To dream - dreamt / dreamed To do - did To throw - threw To teach - taught To fly - flew To mistake - mistook To quit - quit To fight - fought To feel - felt To fall - fell Premium Content: Season 4 (Episodes 150 - 200) = Each episode includes a quiz, the PDF transcript (the text of the audio) with definitions of challenging words and the mp3 file. All Premium Content for Seasons 1, 2 and 3 (Episodes 001 - 150) - and get Season 4 at a discount. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, we’re diving into a phrase that’s all about the impossible, the absurd, and the downright ridiculous. Ever seen a pig soar through the sky? Of course not! And that’s why we say, "When pigs fly!" 🐷✈️ In today’s lesson, you’ll hear a joke, practice your pronunciation and we’ll explore where this quirky expression comes from. Most importantly, you’ll learn how to use it in multiple everyday contexts. Pigs might not have wings, but Amelia Earhart sure did. She was the first woman to fly across the Atlantic, and the first female to attempt a flight around the globe. Amelia was a pioneer in aviation and her story is fiercely inspiring! Be sure to stay tuned until part 2 to hear it! It’ll be posted shortly. ❤️ Premium Content: Season 4 (Episodes 150 - 200) = Each episode includes a quiz, the PDF transcript (the text of the audio) with definitions of challenging words and the mp3 file. All Premium Content for Seasons 1, 2 and 3 (Episodes 001 - 150) - and get Season 4 at a discount. My Favorite English Resources Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

By now, you probably know how much I love connecting language and culture. To me, they go hand in hand! And that's why in today's episode, I've invited Charlie Baxter from The British English Podcast on the show to talk about Harry Potter. Together, we'll dive into the magical world of Harry Potter, but not simply the fictional side of it. Harry Potter, in many ways, was inspired by real places in the United Kingdom and aspects of British culture, from the school system to social structure and class. If I'm honest with you, even if you're not a Harry Potter fan, this episode might be eye opening. We not only compare British English with American English, we compare life! Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The theater is packed. Anticipation electrifying the air. It's the early 1900s, and you're about to witness the legendary Harry Houdini, whose name has become synonymous with death-defying escape acts. Can he truly break free from the police? Is it really possible for him to escape from water-filled tanks while upside down and locked up? Let's find out! In today's lesson, we'll be talking about Harry Houdini, who is one of the most iconic magicians and escape artists of all time. Houdini's story is one of perseverance, showmanship, and the pursuit of the extraordinary. Today, we can relive his life, especially those moments he spent on stage doing the work he loved best. This is an English lesson, so as I go along, I'll explain words and phrases that may be challenging. My goal is to help you understand the story without knowing all of the vocabulary! If you want the script, the quiz and other bonus material for this podcast, be sure to sign up to the Academy. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Hi everyone. Welcome back! I am curious, have you ever heard a story about a magician making a rabbit disappear? Have you ever seen it? Maybe you've read a novel, perhaps a mystery, where a character disappears and nobody knows what happened to them. These scenarios perfectly illustrate our expression of the day, which is to vanish into thin air. To vanish into thin air conjures images of something or someone disappearing suddenly and completely, almost like magic. But where did this phrase come from, and why do we use it to describe such mysterious disappearances? Join me today as we explore the origins, usage, and intriguing examples of how to use this idiom in real life contexts. Anyway, be sure to stay tuned for next week's episode, which is about the world-famous magician Harry Houdini. I've been wanting to tell his story and talk about his magic for a long time now. I promise you, it'll be an exciting episode full of descriptions and explanations of challenging words. And of course, it'll have you on the edge of your seat. Be sure to stay tuned for part two, it'll be posted shortly. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Imagine you are on a ferry slowly approaching Liberty Island in New York Harbor. The sky is a brilliant blue with just a few clouds drifting overhead. There's a cool breeze; it's hitting your face, and the smell of salt from the ocean water is around you. To your right is the New York City skyline. Lower Manhattan is magical with all of its high rises, but nothing compares to the Statue of Liberty ahead of you. She's massive! In fact, if she were a building, she'd be about 20 stories high. Being in front of her, Lady Liberty is surreal because she's so well-known and such a powerful symbol of hope, freedom, and democracy. She's also a symbol of the United States, but what's her story? In today's lesson, you're going to hear a short story about the Statue of Liberty. In it, you'll hear ten irregular past tense verbs. Here they are: 1. to be 2. to take 3. to break 4. to bring 5. to build 6. to stand 7. to make 8. to flee 9. to see 10. to lead Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome back to this week's episode! It'll begin with a joke. Then, we move into the expression of the day, "to spread one's wings," breaking down its meaning and providing vivid examples to help you understand how to use it in everyday life. Finally, we'll practice pronouncing this phrase and its various conjugations, ensuring you're ready to use it confidently. Stay tuned for the upcoming cultural episode (part 2) about the Statue of Liberty—it's also packed with American English insights and language tips! Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The whole world has bad drivers. No country or city in the world is immune. What’s funny is that most of us don’t consider ourselves bad drivers! We tend to judge others. In this 5-Minute English lesson, I’m going to tell a fictional story about the worst driver in the world. You’ll hear: Vocabulary related to bad driving Actions that people take against bad driving How bad drivers are punished This lesson will be intense in terms of vocabulary, it’s a more advanced listening exercise. If you regularly learn with this podcast, I highly recommend signing up to the Academy (Premium Content). Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Welcome back to the second part of episode 166. In today’s episode, we’re going to talk about Irregular Verbs and McDonald’s. You guys know McDonald’s, right.? Big Macs, Filet-o-Fish, Happy Meals? In this lesson, you'll hear a short story about the founding and expansion of the world-famous fast food restaurant. In it, you'll hear 10 Irregular Verbs in the Simple Past Tense. Here they are: 1. To begin (began) 2. To make (made) 3. To speed (sped) 4. To eat (ate) 5. To leave (left) 6. To see (saw) 7. To buy (bought) 8. To take (took) 9. To rise (rose) 10. To grow (grew) The story is shorter than my typical cultural lesson and that’s because the real focus here is mastering verbs. For those of you who have a high intermediate level or higher, you may already know most of these; this lesson will help reinforce the correct past tense forms (they'll be presented in many new contexts!). Watch the corresponding video here. Premium Content: Season 4 (Episodes 150 - 200) = Each episode includes a quiz, the PDF transcript (the text of the audio) with definitions of challenging words and the mp3 file. All Premium Content for Seasons 1, 2 and 3 (Episodes 001 - 150) My Favorite English Resources Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In today's episode, we'll begin by going through the commentary you guys made on Culture Shock in the United States. Afterwards, I'll tell you a joke, we'll go over the expression "to take it with a grain of salt," and we'll do a pronunciation exercise. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this Chats with Shana episode, I'm going to reflect on various aspects of US culture. Although I talk about culture all the time on here, it's not often we talk about some basic things, like everyday life things that can cause culture shock. The truth is, I don't often think about the topics I'm going to discuss today; they're pretty random! We'll cover eggs, air conditioning, driving, beauty, flags, portion sizes and the one thing nobody can stand: U.S. bathroom stalls. We all form our own opinions based off of our own experiences in life. This episode is full of opinions and thoughts, but I'd love if it weren't a one-sided conversation. Did you experience culture shock in the U.S.? Please share your thoughts on what you find strange or different in the United States! I'd love to hear from you. :) Disclaimer: My third point in the audio WILL make some of you angry, I can feel it already. Please don't hate me, though! I like you soo much. Just think of the points I made here as conversation starters for your next English class; sometimes more controversial ideas lead to more in-depth language practice! :) Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

One of the most popular films of 1997 was by far “ Titanic.” It won 11 Academy Awards! If you saw the film, or even just previews of it, you know the plot. There’s a love story between Rose (Kate Winslet) and Jack (Leonardo DiCaprio) that develops while aboard a huge ship called Titanic. The Titanic was a real ship that set off on its first transatlantic trip from England to the United States in 1912. I know you know what happens; the ship hits an iceberg and sinks. I thought about retelling this story and I know English speakers would tell me: Oh no, Shana, really? That ship has sailed, literally. That ship has sailed is an expression that means that the opportunity has passed; this topic is no longer new or very exciting. It’s been talked about way too many times! That ship has sailed. So instead of doing my long, cultural lesson, I’ve decided to change it up! I’ll tell you a brief summary of the Titanic and in the story, you’ll hear 10 irregular verbs in the simple past tense. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠Transcript and Video⁠ ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Life can't possibly get worse! You've lost your job, you have no money, and then to top it off, your dog dies. You've hit rock bottom; you've reached the lowest possible point in your life. To hit rock bottom is a common expression in American English, and in today's lesson you'll learn exactly how to use it. In addition to learning how to use this idiom, you'll hear a joke, we'll hear comments from the audience, and we'll go through a pronunciation exercise! Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode and all of Season 4. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

My grandma permanently moved to the United States from Spain in the 1950s and the only way she could afford to keep in contact with friends and family was through writing letters; flying and international calls back then were not in her family’s budget. Email didn’t exist yet. She sent postcards and letters, pictures of her kids and eventually her grandkids. In her lifetime, the United States Postal Service (USPS) was her lifeline to the people she’d left overseas. Today, I'll tell you a bittersweet and very informative story about my grandma and her relationship with the post office and mail. Through it, you'll learn over 20+ words in context! Can you relate to this story? Let me know what you think. You can write to me on Instagram @americanenglishpodcast, or on Spotify in the comments. If you would like to help me decorate my office, please send me a real postcard! Shana Thompson P.O. Box 9074 Asheville, NC 28815 I create this podcast because of YOU. You have no idea how excited I would be to see you're not just a figment of my imagination (haha). Plus, your card will end up on my wall! :) Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Illinois is situated in the heart of the American Midwest, and it's known as the "Prairie State" because over 60% of it is covered in farmland. Despite the number of natural wonders found in Illinois, what attracts most visitors is the vibrant city of Chicago ("The Windy City").Situated on the scenic shore of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a hot spot for music lovers and art enthusiasts. It's not only home to world-class museums and iconic architecture, it's where today's guest, Jackie Katsis, is from! Jackie is an ESL teacher and a well-known YouTuber from the channel "Ask Jackie."We'll begin today's episode by getting to know this wonderful Chicagoan, and then we'll discover her state with her. You'll hear about Jackie's experience with tornadoes, learn the nuances of the Chicago accent and we'll take a deep dive into the culture she grew up in (we cover mouth-watering food, music, lifestyle and more). Let's get a local's perspective on how to make the most out of our next trip to the beautiful state of Illinois! :) Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Jackie's Chicago Recommendations Portillo's - Italian Beefs + Chicago-Style Hot Dogs Kingston Mines - Listen to Jazz / Blues Do an architecture tour on the Chicago River Take a walk in Millenium Park and see "The Bean" (Cloud Gate) Go shopping on Michigan Avenue Walk a lot and enjoy the art and architecture! Learn with JackieJackie Katsis is a well-known ESL teacher from Chicago. You can find her content here! Website - https://www.askjackie.com.br/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/AskJackie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/askjackiebr/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

I know, I know, 99% of you are saying what in the world is that? What in the world is a reduplication? Well I just told you one: Handy-dandy. Handy by itself means useful or practical, in American English you can add dandy for emphasis, intensification and to give it a playful and poetic effect. Handy-dandy is a reduplication. In English, you’ll hear reduplications in songs and casual conversation! Many times it just involves repeating the first word and changing one consonant or one vowel, like handy dandy, flip flop or chit chat. Sometimes you’ll actually hear the exact same word repeated, like boo-boo or yo-yo. Sometimes reduplications rhyme, but not always. Yet, there is always a certain rhythmic nature to them.And let’s be honest, who doesn’t like rhythm!? If you want to add some spice and flavor to the way you talk in English, keep listening! Today, we’ll go through 10 Common Reduplications and how to use them in everyday contexts. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You've seen it, right? The long cereal aisles in a U.S. supermarket? Crammed from top to bottom with colorful boxes? I bet you have. Cereal arouses a sense of nostalgia in a lot of the Americans that I know; it brings about memories of childhood, simpler times, family breakfasts. It's a wonderful topic of conversation that you can have with native speakers. Ask them: What was your favorite cereal when you were a child? You'll see their eyes light up. Then maybe you can share something that you learned in today's lesson!Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Raisin Bran Muffins: 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or canola) 2 cups buttermilk (I use low-fat) 2 eggs 2 cups flour 4 cups Raisin Bran cereal 1 cup sugar 1.5 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup raisins 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon all spice Optional Topping: 1/2 cup chopped pecans (small) Heat oven to 400 degrees. Mix all of the muffin ingredients in order. Let mixture sit for 10 minutes, so that the cereal softens. Bake in a muffin tin at 400 degrees for 14-18 minutes (depending on the color and size of your muffin tin.) I like the pecans to develop a very toasty flavor, so I generally cook them closer to 18 minutes. Let cool at least 10 minutes. Top with butter and/or honey. Each batch makes about 18 muffins. My family doubles it and it makes 36 at a time! We freeze them. Then, in the morning, we microwave each muffin for 40 seconds, slice in half and spread a bit of butter on each side. :) Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You're sitting on the couch and your significant other is too far from you. Want them to cuddle up next to you? Say: "Gimme some sugar!" "Gimme some sugar" is a common American English expression used to express desire for physical affection, whether that be some cuddles, a hug, a kiss or even a fist pump! It's a playful idiom, and today, you'll learn its origin and hear a number of examples so that you can hear how native speakers would use it in various contexts. The second part of this lesson will answer the questions: "How cereal became a popular breakfast food in the U.S." Stay tuned, the story is short, sweet, and relevant!Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Last month, my family and I moved into a new home. In English, it's what we'd call a fixer upper; it's a home that needs updates, it needs renovation, it needs to be remodeled in various ways. We are in the process of fixing our house up, and today you'll hear a true story about the process. In this 5-minute English episode, you'll learn how to talk about home renovations and repairs in English. This is a topic-specific lesson, so it's jam-packed with vocabulary you will need if this topic arises in conversation.If you sign up to premium content, or just the 5-minute English courses, you will receive an image sheet with pictures of all of the key vocabulary discussed, you'll see a video with those images and shadowing exercises to work on your pronunciation, as well as many exercises and quizzes to help you retain the words you hear. You also have an annotated transcript! Believe me, as a language learner myself, this is incredibly helpful for understanding a text. For the full list, quiz and other bonus content, be sure to sign up to ⁠the Academy⁠ to access Season 4. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Mentioned in Episode Magnolia Table by Joanna Gaines (this book is fantastic if you want to give someone a gift!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Moving across the United States is a significant event that brings with it a mix of excitement and challenges. Just last month, Lucas made the cross-country road trip from California to North Carolina, and today he's here to talk about the experience. This is a casual and fun conversation with lots to take away, even if you're not relocating! We talk about the change of scenery from the West to East Coast, the vast and diverse landscape of the U.S., and how the culture differs as you travel. Learn how to make the most of a cross-country roadtrip from the careful planning to the unique cuisine. Hopefully at some point you also get the chance to take a roadtrip! :)Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Every January, as the clock strikes midnight and the New Year unfolds, millions of people around the globe start a familiar ritual: they start their New Year’s Resolution. A resolution is a firm decision or commitment to oneself to achieve some sort of goal. Usually one is made with hope for self-improvement. In today’s lesson, we’ll talk about a few different studies and surveys about the top New Year’s resolutions in the United States! My hope is to uncover cultural insights - not only about our aspirations and priorities for 2024, but how we can be more successful at achieving our goals. Because this is an English lesson, we’ll cover more than just culture. I’ll explain new vocabulary and phrases as we progress through this lesson, specifically words related to statistics in English. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Mentioned in the Audio "Stutz" (the documentary) CDC Study + Analysis by Lancet How to Track Your Progress: Downloadable Log to Monitor Your Language Progress Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This lesson has two parts. In part one, you'll learn the common English expression "to get the ball rolling" you'll hear a joke and you'll do some pronunciation exercises. In part two (which will be posted shortly), you'll learn about New Year's Resolution Statistics for the United States! What are our priorities in 2024? How convinced are we that we'll succeed at keeping our resolutions? Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today you’ll learn 10-Must Know Oxymorons to avoid confusion in conversation and the canvas for introducing these words will be a story about my Christmas Memories. An oxymoron is a literary device that has two contradicting terms, such as "pretty ugly," or "awfully good." This lesson will have two parts: First you will hear the story which contains all of the oxymorons in context. As a challenge, I want you to listen closely and find 10 of the 15 oxymorons mentioned. At the end, I'll tell you all of the oxymorons and provide further explanation on how to use them! Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Earlier this year, I asked some friends and family members if they could write a short story about their favorite decade. A decade is a ten-year time frame. For example, 1970-1979 is a decade. 1980 -1989 is another decade. I asked some friends and family members if they could write a short story about their favorite decade.My thought was that it would be interesting to step out of the 2020s and relive a decade in the life of someone else.What would their world look like? Culturally? Politically? What were they doing? What is it that made that decade so memorable? Today, my uncle Alex will paint his 1980s world for you in his own words. Get ready for college, fun on the beach, Silicon Valley in its infancy and a big earthquake. Oh! And of course a lot of decade-specific vocab! Do you know what a walkman is? By the end of this episode you will. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Boston is situated in present-day Massachusetts, right on the northern Atlantic coastline. It’s picturesque, it’s lively and it’s steeped in stories of how the United States gained its independence from Britain. Today you’ll hear those tales of organization, patriotism and madness: This is the Boston Tea Party. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This lesson has two parts. In part one, you'll learn the common English expression "my cup of tea" you'll hear a joke and you'll do some pronunciation exercises. In part two (which will be posted shortly), you'll learn about one of the most iconic events in U.S. history, the Boston Tea Party. It's one of the major events that fueled our fight for independence from Britain, and the story is just nuts. It's not your average tea party! If you're interested in learning about the beginning of the U.S., or you're taking the U.S. Citizenship test soon, listen to this episode! I've also put together a page to Prepare for the U.S. Citizenship test. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Every year, more and more people buy clothes online, but today, you are heading to the mall with your stylish friend, Katrina. Your mission is to buy a new wardrobe (a whole new set of clothes). Listen and learn the vocabulary, phrases and collocations we use when talking about clothing in English! You'll learn adjectives to describe the good, the bad and the ugly, expressions to comment on style and so much more. If you ever intend to buy clothes in the United States, you can't miss this episode. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠⁠Visit the website⁠⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sleepy Hollow is a quaint village nestled in the Hudson Valley, in New York. There, many many years ago a peculiar schoolteacher named Ichabod Crane gets wrapped up in the spooky legend of the Headless Horseman. Today you’ll hear “the Legend of Sleepy Hollow” and learn about the heart-pounding events that took place on one fateful Halloween night. It’s a story of love, rivalry, and the supernatural and I’ve simplified it for intermediate and advanced English learners. Get ready for some excitement and some suspense, you're about to hear a story that has been passed down from generation to generation for over 200 years. Cheat Sheeteerie = unsettling; hauntingvengeful = eager to take revengepeculiar = strangestout = plump; robustjovial = happylanky = skinnysmitten = infatuatedbrawny = muscularspine-chilling = frighteningFor the full list, quiz and other bonus content, be sure to sign up to the Academy to access Season 4.Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠Visit the website⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Moose are majestic creatures and an iconic symbol of wilderness in North America. They inhabit many northern states in the U.S.; the state with the biggest population is Alaska. In this episode, you'll learn many English words related to nature and animals, but it's much more than a National Geographic style lesson. You're about to step into the funny, wild and sometimes tragic tales that emerge as humans and moose try to live harmoniously.In this lesson, we'll answer questions like: What is it like to live near moose? Will I be attacked by a moose in the Northeast? Do Americans hunt moose? Do they eat moose? Take time to appreciate moose! :) (yes, moose is the plural form)Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠Visit the website⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode (formerly “The Classroom”). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This lesson has two parts. In part one, you'll learn the common English expression "to steer clear," you'll hear a joke and you'll do some pronunciation exercises. In part two (which will be posted shortly), we'll be talking about moose in the US. You know what a moose is, right? It's a large mammal in the deer family. It has big antlers — these sort of long, pokey branch-like things that stick out of their heads — and they live in many northern states in the United States. Often these massive creatures and humans interact with each other, which can be funny, scary and very real. So I want to share some of those stories with you, as well as a lot of information about these incredible creatures! Be sure to stay tuned for part two in order to hear that. This lesson has a FREE PDF with the transcript and a listening comprehension quiz. Want to take your learning further? ⭐ ⁠Visit the website⁠ for more learning materials. You’ll also find the Academy there, where you can access bonus content for this episode (formerly “The Classroom”). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices