American English Podcast

➡️ Start improving your English today! Learn more about the Academy.

What’s on your bucket list? ✨

In this episode, I sit down with my mom, Mara, to talk about some of the things she’d still love to do, see, and experience in her lifetime.

We talk about her dream of spending a month somewhere in Europe, living in a fisherman’s shack in Cornwall, building tiny houses near a lake, visiting the places her ancestors came from, taking another big family vacation, and even writing a children’s book someday.

Along the way, we also talk about something I think is really important: our dreams can change.

This conversation is full of useful everyday English, including expressions like:

go with the flow
to wing something
from scratch
have something under your belt
be on board

It’s also a great episode for practicing conditionals and talking about dreams and hypothetical situations.

For example:

Where would you go if you could live anywhere for a month?

What would you do if money were no object?

What would you put on your bucket list?

As you listen, think about your own answers. What are three things you genuinely hope to do someday?

And more importantly, what would it take to make them happen?

Want to take your learning further?

⭐ Join us inside the American English Academy, where we’ll be talking about our own dreams, goals, and bucket lists this month.

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Small talk in the U.S. isn't always about exchanging real information. Sometimes, it's simply a small exchange that can make your day a little better—and over time, those interactions can help build real rapport.

In this episode, you'll learn how Americans use small talk, how to start and keep a conversation going, and how to tell whether someone actually wants to keep talking. You'll also learn simple strategies to speak naturally, build confidence, and communicate in real life.

#englishlearning #italki

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➡️ Start improving your English today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about the Academy.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Every month, I like to bring back one of my favorite episodes from the past, and this one is an oldie but a goodie. ❤️

Some longtime listeners might remember my dad, Joe. He first appeared on the podcast in Episode 43, when he talked about his experience living and working in Alaska, and again in Episode 44 to talk about driving in the U.S.

After those episodes came out, so many of you told me how much you enjoyed listening to him, so naturally, I had to bring him back!

In this conversation, my dad and I talk about some of the best, worst, biggest, smallest, and most memorable things in his life. It’s lighthearted, funny, and without us even trying, full of English idioms. That’s simply the way my dad talks!

Since he speaks clearly and uses lots of everyday expressions, this is also a great episode for practicing how to understand idiomatic English from context.

The main grammar focus is superlatives.

What is a superlative?

We use the superlative form to talk about the highest or lowest degree of something within a group.

For example:

Our tree in the front yard is the tallest in the neighborhood.

There is no tree in the neighborhood taller than ours. Ours is the tallest.

As you listen, pay attention to superlatives like the best, the worst, the biggest, the most beautiful, and the most difficult, and enjoy getting to know my dad a little better along the way.

Want to take your learning further?

⭐ Take part in our Free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠14-Day English Slang and Expression Challenge.⁠⁠⁠

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The other day, I was staring at my list of common Irregular Verbs, trying to think of a lesson I could create with 10 of them. Immediately, I saw some potential! Swing -> Swung, Fling -> Flung , Slide -> Slid. 

Somehow the clump of words I selected led me to one of the most bizarre stories I’ve ever heard about U.S. culture and history: Dance Marathons of the 1930s. Imagine people dancing for days on end, even sleeping while dancing, for the chance to win some cash. It’s a crazy story, and I hope you enjoy it!

In part one, you’ll learn how to use the common expression “to keep someone on their toes,” you’ll hear a joke, and you’ll work on your American English pronunciation! Check it out.

⭐ Start improving your English today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about the Academy.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⭐ Take part in our Free ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠14-Day English Slang and Expression Challenge.⁠⁠⁠

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The other day, I was staring at my list of common Irregular Verbs, trying to think of a lesson I could create with 10 of them. Immediately, I saw some potential! Swing -> Swung, Broadcast -> Broadcast, Sleep -> Slept. 

Somehow the clump of words I selected led me to one of the most bizarre stories I’ve ever heard about U.S. culture and history: Dance Marathons of the 1930s and 1940s. Imagine people dancing for days on end, even sleeping while dancing, for the chance to win some cash. It’s a crazy story, and from the discovery of this event, this two-part episode was born. 

Don’t miss part 2! It’s coming next week.

In part one, you’ll learn how to use the common expression “to keep someone on their toes,” you’ll hear a joke, and you’ll work on your American English pronunciation! Enjoy. :)

⭐ Start improving your English today! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more about the Academy.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Well, well, well. I never thought I’d make an entire episode about bugs and annoying things until Lucas was attacked by a swarm of yellow jackets this week! It got me thinking, why do we say something "bugs" us?

In this episode, Lucas joins me to talk about the everyday things that annoy us. You’ll learn natural ways to say that something bothers you, including to bug someone, get on someone’s nerves, and drive someone crazy.

We’ll also cover the names of common insects in English, explore the difference between bite and sting, and hear the epic tale of how Lucas ended up with 14 stings.

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Every year when I go to the beach, I have the same thought: Are there sharks out there in that dark water?

It's not an irrational fear. Years ago, a student at my university, Lucas Ransom, was surfing off the California coast when a great white shark attacked him. I didn't know him personally, but we went to the same school, and some of my closest friends were in his classes. I still remember walking into class the next morning and hearing the story from one of my professors.

You just don't forget something like that. And maybe that's why sharks have always felt so real to me, and not just like mysterious creatures from a documentary.

Is it safe to swim off the Pacific and Atlantic coast?

Let's talk about it. After all, the timing is right! It's summer, and Shark Week kicks off on July 26 in the U.S. — Discovery Channel's 38th annual deep-dive into all things sharks. For one week, it feels like the whole country is talking about these creatures: their behavior, their migration patterns, and the (very small) odds of ever encountering one. :)

Ready to keep building your English?

⭐ Try our Free 14-Day English Slang and Expression Challenge.
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While watching soccer matches in Brazil, I quickly realized I had no idea how to comment on a game in Portuguese. There were so many moments when I wanted to yell at the TV along with everyone else, but I needed an entire Portuguese lesson just to keep up!

I figured the same thing might be happening to you guys in English.

In Episode 216, you’ll learn how to comment on soccer matches in English using natural vocabulary, expressions, and phrases. You’ll also hear about one of the biggest and best upsets in U.S. World Cup history. :)

⭐ Start improving your English today! ⁠⁠⁠Learn more about the Academy.⁠⁠⁠

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How do you say the names of countries and nationalities in American English? Is it Swiss or Switzerlanders? Spaniard or Spanish? Dutch or Netherlanders?

In this episode, we'll practice the pronunciation of 48 World Cup countries that qualified this year, and along the way, you'll discover fun facts about each one.

After every country, you'll be tested: What are the people who live there called?

If you have an interesting fun fact about your country, tell me about it! :) I'd love to hear from you.

⭐ Start improving your English today! ⁠⁠Learn more about the Academy.⁠⁠

⭐ Take part in our Free ⁠⁠14-Day English Slang and Expression Challenge.⁠⁠

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⭐ Take part in our Free ⁠14-Day English Slang and Expression Challenge.⁠

Why do Americans call it soccer instead of football? Why isn't it the most popular sport in the country? And do Americans actually care about the World Cup?

In this episode, Shana explores the history of soccer in the United States, from youth leagues and soccer moms to Pelé, the 1994 World Cup, the rise of the U.S. Women's National Team, David Beckham, Lionel Messi, and the growing popularity of the sport today. Along the way, she shares personal stories from growing up playing soccer in California and compares American soccer culture with what she's experiencing in Brazil during the 2026 World Cup. 

• Why Americans say soccer instead of football
• How soccer grew in popularity in the United States
• The role of Pelé, Beckham, Messi, and the U.S. Women's National Team
• What a soccer mom is
• Why soccer became one of the most popular youth sports in America
• How soccer culture in the U.S. differs from countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Germany
• Whether Americans really care about the World Cup
• Interesting soccer superstitions from Brazil
• Useful English expressions related to sports and competition

⭐ Start improving your English today! ⁠Learn more about the Academy.⁠

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About this episode

Why do doughnuts have holes? Who invented them? And how did they become one of America's most beloved treats?

In this episode, we'll explore the fascinating history of the American doughnut, from its roots in ancient fried pastries and Dutch "olykoeks" to the rise of iconic brands like Krispy Kreme and Dunkin'.

You'll also expand your vocabulary with descriptive words for sweet treats, baking terms, and useful expressions like make a beeline for something and sweet tooth. By the end of the episode, you'll be able to describe the perfect doughnut in English—and you'll probably be craving one too.

This episode follows the Fluency Loop approach. It helps you hear, understand, and start using English naturally through stories, culture, and real-life context.

⭐ Sign up to ⁠⁠⁠the Academy⁠⁠⁠ to learn more with each lesson.

⭐ Want more real, everyday English? Join my ⁠14-Day Slang and Expression Challenge⁠. Each day, you’ll learn natural phrases through short dialogues, quizzes, and real-life context so you can start sounding more like a native speaker.

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What comes to mind when you think of South Carolina?

Maybe it's Charleston's cobblestone streets, beautiful beaches, or Spanish moss hanging from ancient oak trees. But South Carolina has much more to offer than its coastline.

In this episode, I sit down with Lora from The Mom's Guide to Hiking, an outdoor enthusiast and mom who loves exploring South Carolina's mountains, waterfalls, forests, and state parks with her family.

Together, we talk about hiking with kids, staying safe on the trails, the benefits of spending time outdoors, and some of South Carolina's unique cultural traditions. Along the way, you'll learn about the Lowcountry, oyster roasts, college football rivalries, and why South Carolina offers such a surprising variety of landscapes.

⭐ Start improving your English today! Learn more about the Academy.

⭐ Take part in our Free 14-Day English Slang and Expression Challenge.

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In this episode, I’m taking you back to the 1990s and sharing what family movie nights were like growing up in suburban California. From browsing the aisles at Blockbuster with my family to ordering DVDs through Netflix for the very first time, we’ll explore how entertainment changed almost overnight and how Netflix completely transformed the movie industry.

Along the way, you’ll learn lots of natural American English related to:
- Movie nights and entertainment

- Film and television vocabulary

- Business and technology

- Internet culture and innovation

- Common expressions and idioms

You’ll also hear expressions and vocabulary like:
- My jam

- On the same page

- Come to an agreement

- Think outside the box

- Jump on the bandwagon

- Binge-watch

- Late fees

- Browse

- Streaming

- Subscription

By the end of this episode, you’ll not only understand the story behind Netflix and Blockbuster, but you’ll also have new vocabulary and expressions to talk naturally about movies, technology, and change in everyday English conversations.

This episode follows the Fluency Loop approach. It helps you hear, understand, and start using English naturally through stories, culture, and real-life context. Sign up to the Academy to learn more with each lesson.

⭐ Want more real, everyday English? Join my 14-Day Slang and Expression Challenge. Each day, you’ll learn natural phrases through short dialogues, quizzes, and real-life context so you can start sounding more like a native speaker.

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What does it really mean to think outside the box?

In this episode, you’ll learn one of the most common expressions in American English, used to describe creativity, innovation, and doing things differently. We’ll break down the meaning, explore where the phrase comes from, and connect it to real-life situations.

Then, we’ll dive into three fascinating stories of people who thought differently and changed the world:

• A coach who used a waffle iron to design a revolutionary running shoe
• A struggling cleaning product that became the toy Play-Doh
• A baker who invented the chocolate chip cookie

Along the way, you’ll hear related expressions like break the mold, push the envelope, and go off the beaten path—all useful for talking about creativity and problem-solving.

We’ll finish with a pronunciation exercise to help you sound more natural when speaking.

⭐ Get the full transcript, and all bonus material by signing up to Premium Content. Now available as part of  ⁠⁠the Academy⁠⁠. 

⭐ ⁠Join the Free Slang and Expression Challenge⁠

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Lucas and I are back for another Preposition Party! Today our conversation is going to based on common English collocations like famous for, similar to, suffer from, believe in, proud of, and recover from.

Along the way, you'll hear many personal stories, and many cultural fun facts about the U.S., like how Roswell became a hub for alien enthusiasts, and why so many people suffer from seasonal allergies in the U.S.

⭐ Get the full transcript, and all bonus material by signing up to Premium Content. Now available as part of  ⁠the Academy⁠. 

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Join my 14-Day Slang and Expression Challenge. It's free!

In this 5-Minute English episode, we’re diving into springtime in the United States. From blooming flowers and unpredictable April weather to outdoor activities, seasonal foods, and cultural traditions, this episode is packed with useful language.

You’ll hear a high concentration of vocabulary, expressions, and collocations related to:

• Weather and seasonal changes
• Plants, animals, and nature
• Outdoor activities and social life
• Spring foods like berries and stone fruits

By the end of this episode, you’ll have the language you need to confidently talk about spring in real conversations with native speakers.

This episode follows the Fluency Loop approach. It helps you hear, understand, and start using English naturally, one topic at a time.

💡 Tip: Listen actively. Grab a pen and write down new words, or follow along with the transcript inside the Academy for guided practice.

⭐ Want more real, everyday English? Join my 14-Day Slang and Expression Challenge. Each day, you’ll learn natural phrases through short dialogues, quizzes, and real-life context so you can start sounding more like a native speaker.

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Do you like this episode format?

I've been thinking about doing a series of these "quick fixes" for word confusion, pronunciation, and grammar.

That is, if you like the format. So please be honest!

In the meantime, check out the Academy!

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In this episode, we explore the fascinating world of ghost towns in the United States—places where thousands of people once lived, worked, and searched for fortune… and then suddenly left behind.

We begin in Coloma, California, where gold was discovered in 1848, sparking the famous Gold Rush. You’ll learn how towns like this quickly grew into busy communities filled with miners, shops, and saloons—and how just as quickly, they became completely empty when the gold ran out.

⭐ Speak about the topics we discuss in this podcast! Join the Academy.

Together with guest Aubrey Carter, we dive into what it’s actually like to visit ghost towns today. From Virginia City and Nevada City in Montana to Goldfield Ghost Town in Arizona and the famous Whaley House in California, we talk about real places you can explore—some of which are even said to be haunted.

You’ll also learn how Americans talk about these places in everyday English. We explain expressions like “this place is a ghost town” and “this place is dead,” and clarify commonly confused words like salon vs. saloon. We also cover idioms like bite the dust and kick the bucket, including when it’s appropriate (and not appropriate!) to use them.

Along the way, we explain vocabulary so you can build your English while learning about U.S. history and culture.

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In this episode, we go back to the fundamentals of language learning:listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

But here’s the key idea: You’ll learn faster when these skills overlap.

Instead of practicing each skill separately, you’ll discover how to combine them so new vocabulary moves from something you recognize… to something you can actually use.

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What the episode covers:

- Why comprehensible input (at your level) is essential

- How many times you really need to see a word to remember it

- Why simply listening or reading is not enough

- The science behind retrieval practice (and why it works)

- How to improve your speaking—even if you don’t live abroad

- Why extensive reading builds vocabulary naturally

- How writing helps you notice and fix your mistakes

⭐ ⁠⁠Want to take your learning further?

Inside the Academy, you’ll find the full transcript and bonus learning materials designed to help you understand and use the English from this episode.

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In this 5-Minute English episode, you'll learn useful vocabulary, phrasal verbs, and collocations related to cleaning your home.

Through a short story, we follow someone tackling a messy apartment—from dirty dishes and clutter to sparkling floors. Along the way, you'll hear natural English used to describe common chores and household tasks.

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.

⚠️ This episode is a more advanced listening exercise, so don't worry if you don't understand every word the first time.

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In this episode, we explore the Great Molasses Flood of 1919, one of the strangest and most tragic disasters in U.S. history. On a cold January afternoon in Boston’s North End, a massive steel tank holding 2.3 million gallons of molasses burst, sending a deadly wave of syrup through the streets.

You’ll learn what molasses was being used for, why shipments kept arriving after World War I, and how Prohibition played a surprising role in the story. We’ll walk step by step through what caused the tank to fail, and how this disaster helped shape modern building inspections and safety codes.

Along the way, I explain key vocabulary like seep, debris, dense, rivets, bootleg, and up to code — so you’ll build your English while learning about U.S. history and culture.

⭐ Get the full transcript, vocabulary list, quiz, and bonus lesson on the third conditional inside the Academy.

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In this engaging (and slightly sticky) episode, we explore the common American English idiom “to be in a sticky situation.” After a real-life kitchen disaster involving spilled honey, we break down what the expression means, where it comes from (it dates back over 200 years!), and how Americans actually use it in everyday conversation.

You’ll hear relatable examples—from accidentally hitting “Reply All” at work to public mix-ups at the Academy Awards and even the New Coke decision by Coca-Cola. We’ll also compare similar expressions and practice pronunciation so you can say it naturally and confidently.

And don’t miss Part Two, where we cover the unforgettable Great Molasses Flood.

⭐ Get the full transcript, vocabulary list, quizzes, and more by signing up for Premium Content— available inside ⁠the Academy⁠. 

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In this playful and spontaneous episode, Liz and I play a fast-paced guessing game using common English portmanteaus—words created by blending two others together. From hangry and bromance to Spam and chillax, we break down their meanings, origins, and how Americans actually use them in conversation. Along the way, you’ll hear natural dialogue, cultural references, and plenty of examples to help these words stick. If you want to sound more natural in everyday American English, this one’s for you.

⭐ Get the full list, as well as the full episode by signing up to Premium Content. Now available as part of the Academy.

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In this cozy winter episode, Shana is snowed in with her daughters on the East Coast after a big snowstorm. While it looks like a magical winter wonderland outside, things feel a little chaotic inside the house. Then Julia, who's seven, decides she wants to be a guest on the podcast.

Julia chooses a fun and unexpected topic: hair and hairstyles. Together, they talk about different types of hair, popular hairstyles, and even facial hair vocabulary — all in a relaxed, natural conversation.

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Useful Vocabulary

To be snowed in – when so much snow falls that you can’t leave your home
Straight hair – hair with no curl or wave
Curly hair – hair that forms curls
Wavy hair – hair that forms loose waves
Silky smooth – very soft and smooth
Bangs – short hair cut to fall over the forehead
Fringe – the British English word for bangs
Ponytail – hair tied back in one section
Pigtails – two ponytails, one on each side
Braid – three sections of hair crossed over each other
French braid – a braid that begins at the top of the head and continues downward
Bun – hair twisted and tied into a round shape
Mohawk – short on the sides, long in the middle
Mullet – short in the front, long in the back
Afro – a full, rounded hairstyle worn with natural curly or coily hair
Hair down – wearing your hair loose
Lice – tiny insects that live in hair and cause itching
Hair tie / elastic band – used to hold hair back
Salon – a place where people get their hair cut or styled
Highlights – lighter streaks added to hair
Lowlights – darker streaks added to hair
Dye – to change the color of your hair
Peach fuzz – very soft, light facial hair
Mustache – hair above the upper lip
Beard – hair on the chin and jaw
Goatee – hair on the chin only
Cowlick – a section of hair that grows in a different direction

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In this episode, Shana is joined by her husband Lucas for another fun Preposition Party. Together, they play a guessing game with common English prepositions while sharing personal stories about food, fears, parenting, moving, and unexpected passions.

You’ll hear natural, real-life examples of expressions like look forward to, get used to, care about, to fall in love with and more. It’s a relaxed, conversational episode designed to help you build confidence and sound more natural in American English.

Sign up to the Academy to learn more!

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What if you woke up one day and couldn’t see or hear the world around you?

In this episode of the American English Podcast, you’ll discover the incredible true story of Helen Keller — one of the most inspiring figures of the 20th century — and the teacher who changed her life, Anne Sullivan.

As you follow Helen’s journey from silence to self-expression, you’ll learn 10 essential irregular verbs in the simple past tense, hear them used naturally in a powerful story, and reinforce them with clear examples. Along the way, we’ll explore how Helen learned to communicate, speak, read, and eventually address audiences around the world.

🎧 Listen closely — and see how many irregular verbs you can catch!

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Cheat sheet:

hear - heard - heard

sit - sat - sat

bend - bent - bent

send - sent - sent

have - had - had

read - read - read

write - wrote - written

go - went - gone

speak - spoke - spoken

say - said - said

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In this episode of the American English Podcast, we explore the meaning and usage of the common English expression to see eye to eye. Along the way, you’ll learn vocabulary related to sight, wordplay, disagreement, and perspective—plus hear a classic (and slightly corny) dad joke.

• A quick heads up about the next episode on Helen Keller

• A dad joke featuring eyeballs, puns, and eye-rolling

• Common actions eyes can do: blink, wink, stare, roll

• A clear breakdown of the expression to see eye to eye

• How to use this expression correctly in positive and negative sentences

• Cultural examples from U.S. history, pop culture, politics, and music

• Pronunciation practice and sentence stress tips

Want to learn more with the AE Podcast? Join the Academy.

• https://americanenglishpodcast.com/the-academy/

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You know Starbucks, right? The coffee company? Born in Seattle, Washington and brewed around the world? I bet you do; they have over 40 thousand stores in over 80 countries. 

In today's episode, we're going to talk about how it came to be.

• Why is it called Starbucks?
• Who's that woman on their cups?
• What's the story?

There are a lot of Starbucks haters and a lot of lovers out there, but all of you will find this episode fascinating because 1. it’s an absurdly successful business—how did they do it?! 2. it’s about coffee (who doesn’t love coffee!?) and 3. you’ll learn a bucketload of new vocabulary as we go. 

Thanks again to my amazing supporters who have contributed to this podcast either by purchasing Premium Content or ⁠buying me coffee⁠!

• Check out the Academy

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In this episode, I’m joined by my husband, Lucas, for another Preposition Party—a casual, conversation-based way to learn common verb + preposition combinations in American English.

You’ll hear natural examples of everyday phrases like look forward to, be good at, prefer … over, listen to, and get rid of, along with gentle corrections and explanations that help these patterns stick.

This episode focuses on how Americans actually use prepositions in real life, so you can stop guessing and start sounding more natural when you speak.

Perfect for intermediate learners who want to build confidence with small words that make a big difference.

Learn more with The American English Podcast

• The Academy

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Who doesn’t love a good crime story from the 1930s?

Add romance, fast cars, and a nation in chaos… and you’ve got Bonnie and Clyde.

In this episode, I share a simplified, learner-friendly version of their true story—set during the Great Depression—and pack it with irregular verbs.

You’ll hear how newspapers turned two criminals into legends, why the public sympathized with them, and how their story became one of the most famous love-and-crime tales in U.S. history.

You’ll Learn:

• The meaning of infamous
• Why crime increased during the 1930s
• How newspapers turned Bonnie and Clyde into legends
• 10 essential irregular verbs in context (+ TONS of others we already learned in other irregular verb episodes)

Focus Verbs:

steal (stole) · meet (met) · have (had) · drive (drove) · shoot (shot) ·
hurt (hurt) · catch (caught) · give (gave) · hide (hid) · forget (forgot)

Mentioned in the Episode

• Get the full transcript, quizzes, worksheets, and videos inside ⁠The Academy

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In today’s episode, we break down the common English expression “a shot in the dark,” which describes taking a guess or making an attempt with little to no information. You’ll hear where the idiom comes from, how people from the U.S. use it, and three real-life examples—from kids guessing ages, to ordering pintxos in Spain, to recreating Banana Kahlúa French toast (with no instructions!).

We’ll also go over the joke of the day (“Why did the man take a ladder to the bar?”), cover some advanced terms and phrases, and finish with a pronunciation exercise focused on flap Ts. I highly recommend practicing them to sound more natural when speaking.

At the end, I’ll challenge you to think of a moment when you took a shot in the dark.

For the full transcript, glossary, and quiz, check out the Academy. Enjoy!

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.

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When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. 🍋
In other words, turn a bad situation into a good one!

That’s my new motto, and in this episode you’ll hear how we turned a full hour of tears at the Orlando Airport into one of the most magical experiences of our lives.

This is a casual catch-up about what’s been going on since the last episode — and more importantly, a ridiculous story packed with 10 common English expressions used naturally in context.

Listen, learn, and please don’t judge me. I love you. 😂

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

• The Academy

• Lucas on guitar (wait for his entrance — totally worth it!)

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Can you believe it? We’ve made it to Episode 200! 🥳

In this milestone episode, I look back on everything we’ve done together in Season 4 (Episodes 151–200). From expressions that made you laugh to cultural stories that made you think, this season has been packed with lessons designed to improve your English and your connection to American culture.

Tune in to hear the your favorite episodes this season, stats and what's coming next! :)

Thank you so much to everyone who's tuned in this season; it's been a fun ride!

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.

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In this Five Minute English feature, we dive into one of America’s most beloved seasons: fall (also known as autumn). From pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters to apple orchards and football games, fall in the U.S. isn’t just a season—it’s a whole feeling.

You’ll learn:

Along the way, you’ll hear rich vocabulary, expressions, and phrasal verbs to boost your English while connecting with American culture.

This episode is part of the Five Minute English series, which means it’s packed with advanced vocabulary and collocations. Listen several times, pause, and replay to strengthen your comprehension.

If you’d like definitions, transcripts, and a vocabulary guide for this episode, check out the ⭐  5-Minute English Courses.

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Ever get confused between “apply to” and “apply for”? Or wonder whether to say “argue about” or “argue over”? In today’s episode, we break down these common English combinations with quick, simple explanations and memorable examples. You’ll also learn the difference between “belong to” and “belong in.” By the end, you’ll feel more confident choosing the right phrase in everyday conversations.

👉 Perfect for English learners who want short, practical grammar tips they can use right away.

to apply to vs. apply for

to argue about vs. argue over

to belong to vs. belong in

to decide ______

to insist ______

Plus a few bonus ones mentioned in conversation (to have a reputation ____, to stick _____, etc.).

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.

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What happens when you’re attacked by a grizzly bear, left for dead, and forced to crawl nearly 200 miles to survive? That’s the true story, or perhaps just the legend, of Hugh Glass, a 19th-century frontiersman whose incredible survival story inspired books and Hollywood films like The Revenant.

In this episode, you’ll:

• Hear the dramatic survival story of Hugh Glass.

• Learn and review 10+ irregular past tense verbs in context (ran, tore, bit, beat, lay, wore, told, dealt, stole, and more).

• Discover how legends grow through “embellishment” — when details get added to make a story more dramatic.

• Reflect on the moral of the story: true strength isn’t just physical, it’s determination and endurance.

👉 This is the second part of Episode #198 (Against All Odds), so if you haven’t yet, go back and listen to that one first!

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.

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Have you ever succeeded when no one thought you could? That’s what it means to do something against all odds. In today’s episode, Shana begins with a bear story from her front yard in Asheville (yes, one even climbed into her car!), then moves into a lighthearted pun about “bare feet.”

From there, you’ll dive deep into the expression against all odds. You’ll learn its meaning, history, and how to use it naturally in daily conversation. Shana shares incredible real-life examples: the Donner Party pioneers who survived a brutal winter, Eminem rising to the top of rap, the “Miracle on Ice” U.S. hockey victory, and more inspiring stories including Walt Disney, Elvis Presley, Diana Nyad, and Aron Ralston.

By the end, you’ll not only understand the phrase against all odds, but you’ll also feel motivated by stories of triumph in the face of impossible challenges. Stick around for the pronunciation practice to make sure the phrase rolls off your tongue like a native speaker’s—and get ready for next week’s tale of Hugh Glass, the legendary frontiersman who inspired The Revenant.

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.

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Think you’ve mastered English prepositions? Think again. In this episode, I sit down with my husband Lucas (an advanced English speaker) to tackle 5 prepositions even fluent speakers still get wrong.

We’ll cover:
✅ Invest ____
✅ Be interested ____
✅ Participate ____ / Take part ____
✅ Spend money ____
✅ Depend ____ / Rely ____

And a few more that came UP naturally in conversation. Can you find them?

You’ll hear real-life examples, fun U.S. culture facts, and some entertaining stories. This is just the tip of the iceberg, but the goal is to have you stop second-guessing yourself and start sounding more natural when you speak. What do you think?

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more lessons on American English, culture, and expressions!

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.

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In today's episode, you’ll hear the incredible story of a man named Larry Walters, or "Lawn Chair" Larry, who bought over 40 weather balloons, attached them to a lawn chair in his backyard and flew 16,000 feet up in the air.

The story is weird and funny, and it gives way to a larger discussion about “Cluster Ballooning.” I’ll explain challenging words and phrases as I go along!
*****
Premium Content: This episode is part of  By purchasing Season 3 transcripts, you'll be able to access the full episodes, the full PDF transcripts for episodes 101 - 150, an Mp3 download  and the premium podcast player to work on your pronunciation.  

• All Premium Content Seasons 1-3⁠ (+ discount on Season 4)
• Season 3
  

This episode was sponsored by NordVPN. To get the best discount off your NordVPN plan - go to ⁠⁠https://nordvpn.com/americanenglish⁠⁠ - Our link will also give you 4 extra months on the 2-year plan! Plus, there's no risk with their 30-day money-back guarantee.

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In this wild episode, we dive deep into the Burmese python invasion in Florida’s Everglades, which is one of the most unexpected and dramatic ecological crises in U.S. history. It all started with exotic pet owners, relaxed laws in the '80s and '90s, and one catastrophic storm: Hurricane Andrew. From there, things spiraled. Thousands of snakes were released, some intentionally, others by accident, and they found paradise in the Everglades. Warm weather, endless food, no predators? That’s a snake's dream vacation... permanently. We’ll talk about:

00:58 - Introduction: Bears, Neighbors & the Python Cowboy

03:23 - The Everglades: An important ecosystem for Florida

05:53 - How Burmese Pythons got to South Florida

06:00 - The rise of python ownership as a trendy, edgy status symbol; Exotic Pets & Loose Laws

09:09 - From Pet to Predator: The Rise of the Python Population

11:17 - Hurricane Andrew & the Reptile Escape

18:25 - How Many Are Out There? Estimating the Python Population

19:59 - Are Pythons Dangerous to Humans?

22:01 - The Python Elimination Program (Paid Hunting)

24:17 - The Florida Python Challenge Explained

25:46 - What Happens to the Snakes After They’re Caught

28:11 - Can We Ever Win? An Uphill Battle

29:44 - Shana’s Creative Snake Solutions

30:22 - High-Tech Tools: Judas Snakes & eDNA

30:58 - Robo-Bunnies and Future Innovations By the end, you’ll see just how complex, challenging, and Florida this whole saga is.
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 topic:

• Local Legends Video by Brad Leone (as heard in intro)
• Cowboy Python Interview with Joe Rogan (most popular segment)
• All Creatures: A Giant, The Burmese Python (learn more about the snake)

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Ever heard someone say, “Don’t have a hissy fit”? In this episode, we break down this funny, very Southern expression that describes a dramatic overreaction (think tantrum, or an overreaction). You’ll hear real-life examples—from picky eaters at restaurants to Wi‑Fi meltdowns—and find out how “hissy fit” made its way into American 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 and all of Season 4.

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Yesterday at the library with my girls, a lightbulb went off in my head 💡—fables aren’t just great for kids... they’re perfect for English learners too!

This week on the podcast, we’re diving into one of Aesop’s most famous tales: The Goose & The Golden Egg (or The Goose That Laid the Golden Eggs). 🪿✨ It’s short, memorable, and it teaches a timeless lesson about greed—a perfect jumping-off point to learn advanced adjectives like:

- Greedy

- Selfish

- Inconsiderate

- Ungrateful

- Spoiled

- Entitled

- Gluttonous

- Materialistic

- Impatient

- Insatiable

Whether you want to describe people more accurately, express opinions more clearly, or just sound more natural when speaking English, this episode is packed with real-life vocabulary and pop culture examples (yes, Veruca Salt and Augustus Gloop make an appearance).

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.

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Ever wondered what life is like in the middle of the U.S.? Tune in to this week’s episode with Bethany Anderson and discover tornado drills, taco pizza, sweet corn, Amish visits, and small towns bursting with culture. You’ll get fun expressions, new vocab, and a fresh view of Iowa you won’t find on any map! 🌟

About Our Guest

Bethany Anderson grew up in Iowa and she currently lives in the town of West Liberty. She owns Anderson Language Center where she teaches English to Spanish speakers living in the U.S. You can contact her through her website, andersonlanguage.com or follow her on Facebook or Instagram.

Improve your English with the AE Podcast

⭐ ⁠⁠⁠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.

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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.

In this immersive summer episode, you'll escape to the sun-drenched shores of an American beach and soak up advanced vocabulary, phrasal verbs, and collocations—all beach-themed and delivered in under 10 minutes (ish 😉).

You'll need to use your imagination for this one. You'll look back on your childhood memories and teenage beach days, from building sandcastles and kite flying to sunbathing and snorkeling. Along the way, you'll learn natural U.S. beach expressions and many beach rules in the U.S.! At the end, I'll give a hot tip on where to go if you're between the ages of 18-24 and want to meet lots of locals!

👙 Vocabulary highlights: bathing suit vs. swimsuit, board shorts, Speedo, skimpy
🔥 Cultural insights: U.S. beach rules, bonfires, beach snacks, and more.
🎧 Perfect for: High Intermediate and Advanced English learners.

👉 For full vocabulary support, exercises, quizzes, and pronunciation practice, check out the Premium Content: All Premium Content Seasons 1-3⁠ (+ discount on Season 4).

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In this casual Chats with Shana episode, I’m taking you along on our sweaty summer trip to Charleston, South Carolina. 🌴

You’ll hear about:

• Milo’s first vacation (spoiler: he’s a sand-digging pro)

• Dining outside in 95° heat… while swatting a swarm of flies

• Why Folly Beach is a top spot for shark attacks—and why we still went

• A surprise encounter with a horseshoe crab under the pier

• The iconic rowboat scene from The Notebook—yep, we went!

• Tasting frog legs and learning about frog gigging

• The Southern tradition of painting porch ceilings "haint blue" to keep away spirits

• Plus, fun facts about pineapples, sweet tea, ghost tours, and more!

You'll also learn natural expressions like “sweating bullets,” “the cherry on top,” “food for thought,” and “to keep something at bay,” all explained as we go.

So grab an iced tea (sweet, of course) and join me for a fun and language-packed adventure through the Palmetto State. 🐊🦈🍍

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.

10 Must-Know Southern Foods

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You may be wondering: What’s the difference between a buffalo and a bison? That was the first question I had when researching this topic. And the answer is—well, a lot. Despite being from the same family (Bovidae), bison and buffalo have different hair, different horn shapes, and different temperaments. Bison are known to be a little bit moody!

So, which one lives in the United States? Technically, bison, but most native English speakers from the U.S. call the bison that roam here “buffalo.”

In today’s episode, you’ll learn about these incredible creatures, the mass slaughter of them on behalf of the U.S. government, and their comeback after being nearly extinct.

I learned so much while making this episode. I hope you do too!

Mentioned in this Episode

• Documentary: https://www.pbs.org/kenburns/the-american-buffalo/
• ⁠Season 4 Premium Content⁠
• ⁠All Premium Content Seasons 1-3⁠ (+ discount on Season 4)

Sponsors for this Episode

• NordVPN: This episode was sponsored by NordVPN. To get the best discount off your NordVPN plan go to ⁠⁠⁠https://nordvpn.com/americanenglish⁠⁠⁠ - Our link will also give you 4 extra months on the 2-year plan! Plus, there's no risk with their 30-day money-back guarantee.⁠
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In this episode, learn the meaning, origin, and everyday use of the expression “to stand one’s ground.”

As usual, the lesson will begin with a joke (this one's a pun!). Then we'll dive into the expression. Shana will explain how to use the phrase in real-life situations, and guides you through a quick pronunciation practice.

Stay tuned for next week’s follow-up episode on bison—majestic animals that quite literally stand their ground.

This episode was sponsored by NordVPN. To get the best discount off your NordVPN plan - go to ⁠⁠https://nordvpn.com/americanenglish⁠⁠ - Our link will also give you 4 extra months on the 2-year plan! Plus, there's no risk with their 30-day money-back guarantee.

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.

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It helps you make your oatmeal in 90 seconds and reheat your pizza in 30. Some of you love it; others are skeptical, with concerns it might cause brain damage. What am I talking about? Microwaves, of course!

The story of how the microwave was discovered (or invented!) is weird and very funny—and it all went down in Massachusetts.

To make this story extra valuable, I've added 20 irregular verbs to it. How many did you catch?

If you'd like the full list, the supplementary video, and all of the bonus material to master the irregular verbs you heard in Season 4, sign up for Premium Content!

Mentioned in the Episode

• This episode was sponsored by NordVPN. To get the best discount off your NordVPN plan - go to ⁠https://nordvpn.com/americanenglish⁠ - Our link will also give you 4 extra months on the 2-year plan! Plus, there's no risk with their 30-day money-back guarantee.

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.

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In this episode, you'll learn how to use the common English expression “the coast is clear,” which means it’s safe to proceed because no one is watching or in the way. After breaking down the literal and figurative meanings, as well as the origin, you'll hear three vivid examples—one featuring a mama bird, a cheating girlfriend, and shoplifting teens.

The cultural spotlight of this episode is on Alcatraz, the infamous island prison off the coast of San Francisco. Once home to criminals like Al Capone, Alcatraz was considered escape-proof—until 1962, when Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers vanished in a daring and ingenious escape involving handmade dummies, a raft made of raincoats, and months of careful planning. Despite debris being found and decades of investigation, the trio was never seen again, making it the longest-running manhunt in U.S. history. In this episode, you'll learn about the prison, and how these three men got out!

Mentioned in this Episode

• ⁠All Premium Content Seasons 1-3⁠ (+ discount on Season 4)

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The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most popular national park in the entire United States. Every year close to 14 million people go to check out the nature, the wildlife, and to see what life was like back in the 1800s (90 structures have been preserved!).

What's really exciting about the Smokies, at least to me, is that they're the birthplace of Appalachian culture.

In today's episode, we'll begin with some geography, a little bit of history, and then we'll do a deep dive into folklore, bluegrass, and moonshine (homemade corn whisky), which is very much the reason why NASCAR exists today. It's truly mind-blowing.

At the very end of the episode I'll share tips on visiting! Hope you enjoy it! :)

Mentioned in this Episode

• ⁠Season 4 Premium Content⁠
• ⁠All Premium Content Seasons 1-3⁠ (+ discount on Season 4)

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