Épisodes

  • E78 The Best Foods to Try When Visiting Los Angeles: English in Context
    Jun 30 2025

    🌮Are you curious about the best food to try in Los Angeles? Los Angeles is one of the most diverse cities in the United States. And in this episode of the Learn English Podcast, we explore the unique food and culture in LA.

    🎙️This episode explains how different immigrant groups have shaped the city. You will learn about the many different communities that live there and how their cultures influence the food you can find. You will learn about popular neighborhoods like Koreatown, Little Tokyo, Thai Town, and many more. You will also hear about special dishes, street food, and local favorites that you should try when visiting LA.

    🎧The episode is spoken at a clear and natural speed to help you follow along easily. It is perfect for English learners who want to improve their vocabulary and listening skills while learning something interesting. You'll expand your English vocabulary with food-related terms and insights into Los Angeles' multicultural identity. Get ready to discover new words, exciting food, and the rich culture that makes LA such a special place!

    🔔 Follow us on social media @LearnEnglishPod and visit our website:

    Podcast website: https://learnenglishpod.com/

    Follow us on social Media: https://linktr.ee/learnenglishpod

    Take lessons with me: https://www.italki.com/en/teacher/8531387

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    Affiliate link for Lingq: https://www.lingq.com/?referral=msusc

    📝 Vocabulary list:

    1) Ethnically diverse: having many different ethnic or cultural groups.

    2) Minority-majority city: a city where the combined population of all minority groups forms a majority.

    3) Descent: the origin or background of a person in terms of family or nationality.

    4) Love letter: a message or expression of deep admiration and affection for something (not necessarily a person).

    5) Tamales: Mexican food made with corn dough and filling

    6) Menudo: a traditional Mexican soup with tripe - the stomach of a cow

    7) Elote: Corn on the cob, usually grilled and topped with mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime.

    8) Bibimbap: A rice bowl topped with vegetables, meat, egg, and spicy sauce.

    9) Fusion food: cuisine that combines elements of different culinary traditions.

    10) Adobo: Meat (usually chicken or pork) marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic.

    11) Halo-halo: A cold dessert with shaved ice, sweet beans, fruits, and ice cream.

    12) Pad Thai: Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp or chicken, eggs, peanuts, and bean sprouts.

    13) Pad See Ew: a stir-fried noodle dish made with wide rice noodles, soy sauce, vegetables, and a choice of meat or tofu.

    14) Dim sum: small Chinese dishes served in steamer baskets

    15) Boba: a sweet drink with chewy tapioca balls

    16) Pho: A soup with noodles, meat, herbs, and broth.

    17) Banh Mi: A sandwich on a French baguette with meat, vegetables, and sauces.

    18) Soul food: traditional African American food from the South

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    27 min
  • E77 Talking About Surgery and Recovery in English
    Jun 23 2025

    🏥Are you ready to learn real-life English while listening to a personal story? In this episode of the Learn English Podcast, I share the full story of my surgery and recovery. You’ll hear about what happened to my back, how I prepared for surgery, and what the first days after surgery were like.

    🎙️If you’ve ever wondered how to talk about medical problems or visiting the doctor in English, this episode will help. This episode also includes some personal details about how I felt, what I did to prepare, and what the recovery was like. You’ll hear me use these words while I tell my story, so you can understand how to use them in your own life. This is a great way to learn useful vocabulary and phrases about health, pain, and medical care in a natural, real context.

    🎧Listening to personal stories like this can help you improve your listening skills and build your vocabulary at the same time. Don’t forget to check the description for the full vocabulary list from this episode. You can follow along and learn these words as you listen. If you enjoy learning English through real-life stories and everyday situations, this episode is for you.

    🔔 Follow us on social media @LearnEnglishPod and visit our website:

    Podcast website: https://learnenglishpod.com/

    Follow us on social Media: https://linktr.ee/learnenglishpod

    Take lessons with me: https://www.italki.com/en/teacher/8531387

    📚Affiliate link for italki: https://www.italki.com/en/i/ref/GBBdbb

    Affiliate link for Lingq: https://www.lingq.com/?referral=msusc

    📝 Vocabulary list:

    1) Herniated disc - Spinal disc that bulges or ruptures

    2) Anesthesia - Medicine causing temporary loss of sensation

    3) Incision - Surgical cut in the body

    4) Rehabilitation - Process of restoring health after injury

    5) Copay - A payment made by an insured person toward the cost of medical treatment.

    6) Debilitating - Causing severe weakness or inability to function

    7) Limping - Walking with difficulty or uneven steps

    8) Consent - Permission for something to happen or agreement to do something.

    9) Pain medication - Drugs used to reduce physical pain

    10) Check-in time - Scheduled arrival time at medical facility

    11) Well wishes - Kind words that share a desire for a person to have good health

    12) Texting - Sending electronic text messages

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    25 min
  • E76 Trickiest City and State Names
    Jun 2 2025

    🎙️In this episode of the Learn English Podcast, we're talking about something that can be very confusing for English learners—pronunciation! English has many words that are not pronounced the way they are spelled, and this can make it difficult to speak clearly and confidently. In today's episode, you'll learn how to pronounce some tricky city and state names in the United States.

    ❓Have you ever looked at a word like “Arkansas” or “Connecticut” and had no idea how to say it? You’re not alone! These place names are known for their unusual pronunciation. Even native speakers sometimes get them wrong. In this episode, you’ll hear clear explanations and examples to help you remember the correct pronunciation.

    🗣️We also explore some cities that have French or Spanish origins, like “Des Moines” or “La Jolla.” These names follow different pronunciation rules, so they may surprise you! By listening to this episode, you’ll discover helpful tips on how to pronounce foreign-sounding names with an American accent, and you’ll also understand why they sound so different from their spelling.

    🎧This episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their English while learning about real-world topics. You'll explore new vocabulary and get to practice your listening comprehension. And don't forget to check the description of this episode for a list of the new words to help you study so you can improve your English!

    States covered in this episode: Arkansas, Illinois, Connecticut, Oregon, Nevada

    Cities covered in this episode: Birmingham, Mobile, Louisville, Des Moines, Boise, Kissimmee, Tucson, La Jolla

    Link to pronunciation playlist

    🔔 Follow us on social media @LearnEnglishPod and visit our website:

    Podcast website: https://learnenglishpod.com/

    Follow us on social Media: https://linktr.ee/learnenglishpod

    📚Affiliate link for italki: https://www.italki.com/en/i/ref/GBBdbb

    Affiliate link for Lingq: https://www.lingq.com/?referral=msusc

    📝 Vocabulary list:

    1) Silent letter – a letter in a word that is not pronounced

    2) Schwa – the most common vowel sound in English, an unstressed and soft sound (ə)

    3) Tricky – difficult in a way that needs special attentio

    4) Cringe – to feel a little embarrassed or uncomfortable because of something awkward

    5) Deceptive – something that seems one way but is actually different

    6) Unemphasized syllable – the part of a word that is not stressed

    7) Home state – the state someone is originally from

    8) That makes sense – that is logical or understandable

    9) Something to be aware of – something you should know or remember

    10) Right next to – very close or directly beside something

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    17 min
  • E75 The Injury That Changed My Life: Real Life English
    May 26 2025

    🎙️In this episode of the Learn English Podcast, I share a very personal story about a serious back injury I experienced last year. For many years, I have struggled with pain in my lower back, but last year, things got much worse. I talk about what happened, how I felt, and what I’ve done to get better.

    🗣️I share my journey with you honestly and clearly, so that you can also improve your English skills while listening to a real-life story. But this episode isn't just a personal account; it's also a fantastic opportunity to improve your English. As you listen to the story unfold, you'll encounter everyday vocabulary and natural English expressions used in context. You will learn vocabulary about the body, pain, doctors, and exercise. I explain words like sciatic nerve, seize up, urgent care, numbness, and many more. These words are useful for everyday conversations, especially when talking about health, fitness, or visiting the doctor.

    🎧This episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their English while learning about real-world topics. You'll explore new vocabulary and get to practice your listening comprehension. And don't forget to check the description of this episode for a list of the new words to help you study so you can improve your English!

    🔔 Follow us on social media @LearnEnglishPod and visit our website:

    Podcast website: https://learnenglishpod.com/

    Follow us on social Media: https://linktr.ee/learnenglishpod

    📚Affiliate link for italki: https://www.italki.com/en/i/ref/GBBdbb

    Affiliate link for Lingq: https://www.lingq.com/?referral=msusc

    📝 Vocabulary list:

    1) messed up (my back): (informal) injured my back. This implies a significant injury.

    2) burning pain: a type of pain that feels like something is hot or on fire.

    3) intense pain: very strong pain.

    4) sustained (an injury): experienced or suffered an injury.

    5) sciatic nerve: a large nerve that runs from the lower back down the back of each leg.

    6) limping: walking with difficulty because one leg is injured.

    7) in bad shape: in poor condition, often referring to health.

    8) seize up: (of a muscle) suddenly become tight and stiff, often causing pain.

    9) pain relievers: medication that reduces pain.

    10) urgent care: a medical facility for treating illnesses or injuries that are not life-threatening but require prompt attention.

    11) emergency room (ER): a hospital department that provides immediate treatment for serious illnesses or injuries.

    12) disc (in spine): a cushion-like structure between the vertebrae (bones) in the spine.

    13) herniated: when part of an organ or tissue pushes through an opening or weak spot in a surrounding muscle or membrane. In this case, referring to a spinal disc.

    14) hype myself up: encourage myself and build up my enthusiasm or energy.

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    23 min
  • E74 California’s Unusual Firefighting Program
    May 19 2025

    🔥Recently we did an episode on the wildfires in California. On today's episode, we continue our discussion on this topic by focusing on the firefighters who fight those fires. There is unique program in California that you might not have heard of before.

    🧑‍🚒 In this episode of the Learn English Podcast, we talk about a very unusual program in California, where some of the people fighting fires are actually inmates. This might sound strange or even shocking, but it is a real and important part of how California deals with its yearly wildfires. We talk about how this program began during World War Two, when many young men were sent overseas to fight in the war and the state needed firefighters. You will also learn about California, its wildfires, and how this program has changed over time.

    🚒The story is interesting and a little controversial, so it’s a great topic to practice understanding English in real-life situations. We'll break down the ethical debates surrounding the program, discussing the low wages, potential career opportunities, and the moral questions that come with using prisoners to fight life-threatening fires. Some people think this program is helpful, but others think it is unfair. You'll hear the arguments for and against this program so you can make your own opinion.

    🎧This episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their English while learning about real-world topics. You'll explore new vocabulary and get to practice your listening comprehension. And don't forget to check the description of this episode for a list of the new words to help you study so you can improve your English!

    🔔 Follow us on social media @LearnEnglishPod and visit our website:

    Podcast website: https://learnenglishpod.com/

    Follow us on social Media: https://linktr.ee/learnenglishpod

    📚Affiliate link for italki: https://www.italki.com/en/i/ref/GBBdbb

    Affiliate link for Lingq: https://www.lingq.com/?referral=msusc

    📝 Vocabulary list:

    1) Wildfire – A large fire that spreads quickly in natural areas like forests or grasslands.

    2) Brush – Dry grass and small plants that can catch fire easily.

    3) Fire risk – The possibility or danger of a fire starting.

    4) Inmate – A person who is in prison (synonym: prisoner).

    5) Incarcerated – Officially in prison

    6) Criminal record – A list of crimes someone has been officially punished for.

    7) Committed a crime – Did something illegal.

    8) Reform – To improve or change someone's behavior, especially after being in prison

    9) Reoffend – To commit another crime after being released from prison.

    10) Minimum wage – The lowest amount of money someone can be paid for a job.

    11) Leave prison / get released – Finish your prison sentence and be set free.

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    18 min
  • E73 Your Guide to American Prom Season: Building English Vocabulary
    May 12 2025

    🎉 It’s Prom Season! In this episode of the Learn English Podcast, we’re talking about a fun and exciting part of American school life — school dances! Have you ever seen those iconic prom scenes in movies and TV shows and wondered what they're really like? We'll explore this important part of American teenage culture, focusing on the biggest dance of them all: prom, which happens every spring – just like right now!

    💃 We'll be looking closely at the specific words and phrases people use when talking about these dances. From the different types of dances throughout the school year, like Homecoming and Winter Formal, to the traditions like asking someone to prom, you'll learn essential vocabulary in a real-life context. The episode is packed with authentic vocabulary and examples that will help you understand American teenage culture.

    📸 Plus, we'll have some fun discussing what Hollywood gets right – and wrong – about these memorable occasions. Do students really vote for a prom king and queen? Are the dances always in a school gym? Do teachers really come and watch the students? We'll also recommendations for movies and TV shows that depict school dances, giving you a visual reference to complement the podcast.

    🎧 This episode is full of useful vocabulary, cultural insights, and real-life examples to help you build your English naturally. Don’t forget to check the episode description for the full vocabulary list. If you want to understand American culture and speak more confidently, this episode is for you!

    🔔 Follow us on social media @LearnEnglishPod and visit our website:

    Podcast website: https://learnenglishpod.com/

    Follow us on social Media: https://linktr.ee/learnenglishpod

    📚Affiliate link for italki: https://www.italki.com/en/i/ref/GBBdbb

    Affiliate link for Lingq: https://www.lingq.com/?referral=msusc

    Episode on American Schools: https://youtu.be/zRGOPQXTXms

    📝 Vocabulary list:

    1) Prom season: The time of year when high school prom dances typically occur.

    2) Middle School: The school years between elementary and high school.

    3) Homecoming: A dance held in the fall, often for alumni to visit.

    4) Winter formal: A formal dance held in the winter.

    5) Boutonniere: A small floral decoration worn by men on their jacket.

    6) Corsage: A floral piece worn by women, often on the wrist.

    7) Going stag: Attending without a date.

    8) King or queen of the dance: Students elected as the most popular.

    9) Pep rally: A school gathering to build enthusiasm, often before a sports event.

    10) Promposal: a creative or elaborate way of asking someone to prom

    11) Sadie Hawkins: A dance where girls traditionally ask boys.

    12) Entire point: The main purpose

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    22 min
  • E72 How To Avoid the Worst Mistakes English Students Make
    May 5 2025

    🚫In this episode of the Learn English Podcast, we talk about the biggest mistakes that English students make and how you can avoid them. These aren't just small errors; they can actually slow down your progress and even annoy your teacher! If you're serious about improving your English and want to make the most of your time, money, and effort, this episode is for you.

    📝You will learn about common problems like canceling lessons too often, making goals that are too difficult, or speaking too little in class. These habits don’t help you improve and can even make you lose motivation. Understanding these common traps will help you make the most of your study time and your lessons with a teacher. We want to help you learn more effectively and not waste your valuable time and money.

    🗣️But it's not all negative! We also discuss the importance of having the right mindset. Many learners are too critical of themselves, especially when it comes to their accent. We'll explain why this self-doubt can be damaging and encourage you to embrace making mistakes as part of the learning process. Developing a positive attitude can truly unlock your potential and make your English journey more enjoyable.

    🎧Learn practical strategies to overcome these common pitfalls and boost your English skills. More importantly, this episode gives you helpful advice that you can use right away. You’ll hear why making small goals, staying consistent, and having a growth mindset will help you become a better English speaker. These tips come from real experience teaching students all over the world.

    🔔 Follow us on social media @LearnEnglishPod and visit our website:

    Podcast website: https://learnenglishpod.com/

    Follow us on social Media: https://linktr.ee/learnenglishpod

    📚Affiliate link for italki: https://www.italki.com/en/i/ref/GBBdbb

    Affiliate link for Lingq: https://www.lingq.com/?referral=msusc

    📝 Vocabulary list:

    1) Commitment – a promise or decision to do something.

    2) Show up – to arrive at a place where you are expected.

    3) Hinder – to make it harder to do something.

    4) Deal with – to handle or manage a situation.

    5) Stick with (something) – to continue doing something consistently.

    6) Flaky – not reliable, often missing plans or commitments.

    7) Demoralizing – making someone lose confidence or motivation.

    8) Get the most out of – to take full advantage of something.

    9) Push yourself – to challenge yourself to do more.

    10) Growth-oriented mindset – an attitude focused on learning and progress

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    19 min
  • E71 How To Use the Phrase "If I Were You" In English Conversations
    Apr 28 2025

    🎙️In this episode of the Learn English Podcast, we delve into the phrase "If I were" and its usage in English. We'll explore how this phrase helps express hypothetical situations and offer advice. Through real-life examples and engaging stories, you'll learn how to incorporate "If I were" into your conversations naturally.

    🗣️Discover the structure of sentences using "If I were" and understand the importance of pairing it with "would" to convey imagined scenarios or suggestions. We'll discuss how this phrase relates to the subjunctive mood, common in many languages, and how it functions in English grammar. We also explore how we use it to give advice to others, sharing what we would do in their situation.

    🎧To help you really understand, we share a real-life conversation between two friends. You'll hear natural examples of "if I were" being used in both of these ways. By listening to this chat, you'll get a better feel for when and how to use this phrase correctly. We break it all down in a simple way, so you can easily improve your understanding of English sentence structure.

    ▶️Don't miss out on this helpful episode! If you're looking to improve your understanding of conditional sentences and how to give advice in English, this episode is for you. Click play now and learn English naturally with us. And if you enjoy this lesson, remember to share it with your friends who are also learning English. Happy listening!

    🔔 Follow us on social media @LearnEnglishPod and visit our website:

    Podcast website: https://learnenglishpod.com/

    Follow us on social Media: https://linktr.ee/learnenglishpod

    📚Affiliate link for italki: https://www.italki.com/en/i/ref/GBBdbb

    Affiliate link for Lingq: https://www.lingq.com/?referral=msusc

    📝 Vocabulary list:

    1) If I were — used to introduce a hypothetical or imaginary situation.

    2) Hypothetical situation — an imagined situation, not real.

    3) Overcast — cloudy; no sun visible

    4) Dreary — dull, dark, and depressing weather.

    5) Drizzle — light rain.

    6) Stay-at-home mom — a mother who stays home to take care of her children instead of working outside.

    7) Meltdown — an emotional outburst, often by a child (crying, screaming).

    8) Lottery — a game where you can win money by chance

    9) Socialize — to spend time with other people to develop friendships or social skills.

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    17 min