Australians Teach English

In this episode I interview Miguel, co-owner of Lima Cantina in Perth, and massive foodie. We talk about his journey in the hospitality industry and how food, drinks and music have helped him learn, teach and share culture over time. Miguel, a Peruvian who moved to Spain in 2001, fell in love with the industry and eventually opened a tapas bar in Barcelona. He met his wife, Mel, in Barcelona, and they moved to Melbourne before settling in Perth. We talk about the establishment of Lima Cantina, which focuses on authentic Peruvian cuisine and is the only Pisco bar in Western Australia. Miguel emphasizes the importance of passion in hospitality and the unique cultural fusion in Peruvian food, highlighting the significance of Pisco and the evolution of Peruvian cuisine.Finally, we use this as an excuse to talk about food related slang and expressions and different variations in both Spanish and English.If you would like a transcript for this episode, find all content and have a say in the creative process, think about becoming a patron:patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglishOr check out my other podcast - IELTS in the Sun - the podcast to help you prepare your English exam: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wVfUn2wKiQxlE47vLudmc?si=VWsuUzo-T4esfb1KnjW3aA

You might remember Ashley Kalagian Blunt from the previous episode, “Down Under”. In this episode, I talk to Ashley about her academic work on the Armenian Genocide and genocides in general. In her novella, ‘My Name is Revenge', she uses the tale of Simpson and His Donkey as a way of understanding different viewpoints of history.Given this week is ANZAC Day, I invited her on the show to talk about the links between the ANZAC invasion of Gallipoli and the links to the Armenian Genocide.Ashley highlights the parallels between the Armenian Genocide and the Holocaust. We also discuss the Armenian Diaspora, the influence of Armenian language and culture, and the importance of recognising historical atrocities to prevent future genocides.Genocide is a feature of human history and Australian history is not immune from that. We talk about the Tasmanian genocide, The Conquest of the Desert, The Armenian Genocide and the Holocaust, as well as genocides currently occurring. We discuss what they have in common and what are some of the features of these inhumane events.We leave with commentary about what we can possibly do to make this world a safer and more positive place, using Simpson and His Donkey as an example.If you would like a transcript for this episode, find all content and have a say in the creative process, think about becoming a patron:patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglishOr check out my other podcast - IELTS in the Sun - the podcast to help you prepare your English exam: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wVfUn2wKiQxlE47vLudmc?si=VWsuUzo-T4esfb1KnjW3aA

It might seem that coming “down under” from “up over” would seem an easy transition for a fellow English speaker. Especially if that person is from Canada. After all, it's just Australia with snow, right? But that's not the case.When I was browsing my local library, I came across a fascinating book – How to be Australian. It is the best book I've read on culture shock, and it happens to be explained by an English speaker in Australia.I decided to invite the author, Ashley Kalagian Blunt, to the show to talk about her experiences in Australia. In this episode, we talk about the similarities and differences between Australia and Canada, and some key aspects that might help you if you are trying to adjust to Australia.If you would like a transcript for this episode, find all content and have a say in the creative process, think about becoming a patron:patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglishOr check out my other podcast - IELTS in the Sun - the podcast to help you prepare your English exam: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wVfUn2wKiQxlE47vLudmc?si=VWsuUzo-T4esfb1KnjW3aA

When people go to a kid's party for the first time in Australia, they might be confronted with something called “fairy bread”. So, I thought I'd invite an expert on kids to the show, Erika Deery, to help explain some of these oddities.Erika is the author of several bilingual children's books featuring a character called Millie. While she is on the show to talk about this, we take the opportunity to discuss some different philosophies about bilingualism and raising bilingual kids.And of course, we talk about what to expect at a kid's party and explain the history of fairy bread.Erika's work can be found at: https://www.milliebooks.com/And on social media with the same name.If you would like a transcript for this episode, find all content and have a say in the creative process, think about becoming a patron:patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglishOr check out my other podcast - IELTS in the Sun - the podcast to help you prepare your English exam: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wVfUn2wKiQxlE47vLudmc?si=VWsuUzo-T4esfb1KnjW3aA

Did Punk and Grunge originate in Australia? I'll let you be the judge. But they certainly had their roots in Australia. Michael is my oldest friend, the creator of the music in my podcasts, and a muso. So, I invited him on the show to talk about one of our favourite themes – Australian music. We talk about the culture of Australian music and how sleepy towns like Perth and Brisbane have gone on to shape music history across the world. We talk about our favourite bands and give you some pointers as to where to go if you want to listen to music to improve your English. We also discuss what it is like to be so “un-Australian” and to be born on Australia Day, as Michael is. If you love music, then this is another episode for you! If you would like a transcript for this episode, find all content and have a say in the creative process, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish Or check out my other podcast - IELTS in the Sun - the podcast to help you prepare your English exam: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wVfUn2wKiQxlE47vLudmc?si=VWsuUzo-T4esfb1KnjW3aA

When people first arrive in Australia, one of the first locals they are likely to meet is the “Bin Chicken”. So, I invited the expert on ‘Bin Chickens' to the show. John Martin became fascinated with the Ibis whilst studying “pest” species in Australia. And they are an incredibly interesting bird in urban ecology. In this episode, learn about the ‘Bin Chicken', how they came to be known as such, and their adaptability to new environments and experiences – just like a language learner. It is also an excellent opportunity to get involved in citizen science, which is a great way to reduce culture shock, and to acclimatise to a new environment. If you would like a transcript for this episode, find all content and have a say in the creative process, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish Or check out my other podcast - IELTS in the Sun - the podcast to help you prepare your English exam: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wVfUn2wKiQxlE47vLudmc?si=VWsuUzo-T4esfb1KnjW3aA

Earlier this year, Francisco starred in a short video that went viral. In it, he used a couple of classic Australianisms to say good-bye. So, naturally, being the last episode of the year, I invited him on the show to talk about it. Francisco reflects on his shock when first arriving in Australia and gives some great advice for others when arriving. I hope you enjoy this episode and it is hooroo for another year from me, Glen. If you would like a transcript for this episode, find all content and have a say in the creative process, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

My brother Paul is fresh off competing in the green and gold, lifting stacks of weight and winning a world championship in powerlifting. You might remember him from a previous episode - heaps, so I thought it was an opportune time to talk about his recent achievement in lifting stacks. We talk about the different ways we can use the word stack or stacks and related terms. We also talk about his professional role in the health and safety industry and his previous role as a safety inspector for worksafe. I wanted to have him on my show for this reason, to give advice to any workers in Australia struggling to have difficult conversations about safety in the workplace. There are strategies for you in this episode if you are one of those people. Paul also shares his experience with a shoulder injury that required him to reassess his goals, leading to a more realistic approach to competing in the world championships, and how this approach is applicable to learning. I hope you enjoy this fun and practical episode! If you would like a transcript for this episode, find all content and have a say in the creative process, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

Diana Paez, a documentary filmmaker from Colombia, discusses her journey to Australia, where she studied filmmaking at Deakin University. She highlights her passion for docos and human stories, particularly around identity and migration. Diana's recent work, "Nuestras Voces," explores the lives of Spanish-speaking migrants in Australia from the 1960s to 1980s. Diana emphasizes the importance of embracing accents and using them as a strength. She is currently working on a new doco focusing on migrant women and their experiences with accents. We talk about how docos can be an extremely useful tool in learning language through being exposed to comprehensible input. If you would like a transcript for this episode, find all content and have a say in the creative process, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

Ella Sabljak is a two-time Paralympian, rose gold medal winner, educator, and proud representative of the green and gold amongst many other things. I invited her on the show to discuss her journey in wheelchair sports and to talk about her work to promote inclusivity in schools. Ella shares her experience transitioning from wheelchair basketball to wheelchair rugby, highlighting her bronze medal win at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. She explains the unique aspects of wheelchair rugby, including its classification system and the bonus points for female players. Ella also discusses her role in promoting disability awareness and inclusion through education and her involvement with the World Anti-Doping Agency. We also talk about how the "Green and Gold" came to be our national colours and what wearing these colours means to Ella. If you would like a transcript for this episode, find all content and have a say in the creative process, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

In this podcast I talk to Margo who is an expert at organising "dos". We talk about everything you need to know about the language for talking about and describing events in Australia. Margo shares her story about how she came to be living in Australia, and specifically Adelaide, and her project in organising dos. She offers great advice for people wanting to stay in Australia and pursuing the permanent residency pathway. We also talk about how the word "do" can be used, and why it is so tricky for English learners. We offer some tips and tricks about how English learners can sound more natural by using the word do more regularly. You can find Margo and her project at @mambo.adelaide and @scrts.au If you would like a transcript for this episode, find all content and have a say in the creative process, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

One of my close mates and beer connoisseur, Ben, is a fellow Bestern Australian. He is also a product of the wheatbelt, so I thought it was about time he came on the show to talk about his people's shame in losing the "Emu Wars" to the mighty bush chooks. Ben and I discuss the term "Bush Chook," which refers to an emu and the beer "Emu Export." We also explore the beer's history, its reputation, and its association with Western Australia. Ben and I also delve into the cultural and historical context of emus in the wheat belt, including the military's unsuccessful attempt to control them in the infamous "Emu Wars". We talk about our experience with eating different bush foods and bush tucker, including bush chooks. The conversation shifts to language learning, with Ben sharing his struggles to learn Estonian, his wife's language. We touch on the challenges of learning languages with unique sounds and the importance of cultural pride in preserving languages. The episode concludes with a light-hearted discussion about Australian slang and beer preferences. If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to exclusive content, get express releases, and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

I had been following this galah for quite a while, due to our mutual love of Australian birds, and in particular, cockatoos. But it wasn't until I saw this galah making videos of crochet Olympic events that I knew what I would invite her on the show to talk about. In this epsiode, Adele, known as cro with the flow on social media, shares her passion for crochet and Australian birds, emphasising the uniqueness of Australian wildlife. We talk about the term "galah," which in Australia is used to describe someone acting foolishly, and Adele clarifies that she embraces the term positively. Adele explains her journey into crochet, starting from a corporate background in human resources, and how she developed her business. We also talk about the differences between crochet and knitting and the process of creating crochet patterns and how it relates to language learning. The etymology of the word crochet is discussed and how it relates to other terms in English. We also talk about how embracing your inner galah can help you learn language, and just about anything, really! If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to exclusive content, get express releases, and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

I see a lot of people who come to Australia and join groups, that seem to me, a little suss. So, I invited an expert on the show, someone who knows all about suss groups in Australia - Sarah Steele. Sarah Steele is the host of the "Let's Talk About Sects" podcast, where she does a deep dive into suss groups, cults and sects. We discuss our personal experiences with cults and suss groups in Australia, highlighting the importance of recognising red flags and avoiding potential risks. We explore the psychological dynamics of cults, their relationship with religion, and the prevalence of cults in specific regions. We also discuss common tactics employed by suspicious groups to isolate and control members, and the power and corrupting influence of religious groups in Australian politics. We talk about language usage related to cults and how manipulative behaviour can be present in any teacher-student relationship. Finally, we emphasise the importance of questioning language and behavior in religious and secular contexts to promote critical thinking and avoid manipulation. If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to exclusive content, get express releases, and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

I reckon it's always time for a cuppa - a nice warm drink and a bit of a chinwag. So, I invited my friend Lucas, from Materoo, on the show for a cuppa and a bit of a chat.  In this episode, we talk about the importance of drinking (non-alcoholic) culture in Australia and different places around the world. We talk about the cultural significance of tea, coffee and mate drinking in Australia and Argentina, respectively, as well as the niche market for Argentinean drinks in Australia. Lucas shares his experiences of introducing a mate related small business to Australia. We also discuss the cultural etiquette and traditions related to drinking mate in Argentina and Australia, and explore the idiomatic expression 'cuppa' in English, examining its cultural significance and challenges of explaining and learning it. We highlight the opportunities for cultural exchange and entrepreneurship and the possibilities of using a cuppa as a way to improve your language skills. Dependent propositions are also a difficult topic and we explain the use of "of" in this expression as well, which forms the "a" pronounciation in this expression. So, get yourself a cuppa, and enoy the listen! If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to exclusive content, get express releases, and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

Nearly 30 years ago, The Simpsons arrived in Australia, causing a bloody outrage. We were offended at how they portrayed our culture, but more importantly, how badly they tried to create Australian accents. As time has gone on, the Bart v Australia episode has become a source of national pride, especially amongst Simpsons fans in Australia. To talk about this phenomenon, I invited one of my favourite Australian linguists and co-host of Lingthusiasm, on the show, Lauren Gawne. Lauren and I discuss the portrayal of Australian accents in media, highlighting inaccuracies in The Simpsons and noting the informality and lack of respect for authority in Australian English. We talk about things that The Simpsons actually did get right and how this is part of how Australian English is viewed outside of Australia. We also discuss cross-cultural politeness in language and how tolerance for profanity (for example "bloody") can be a hurdle for learners of Australian English and for Australians when learning other languages. I emphasize the importance of understanding intersections between linguistics and other areas of study, while Lauren stresses the value of intrinsic motivation in language learning. There's all that and more and it's a bloody outrage I can't write it all here! If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

If there is one band from Australia that you'll recognise, it's Acca Dacca. But you might not know that Acca Dacca is what we say instead of AC/DC. So, I invited Johnny from rocklatino.com.au on the show to talk about this phenomenon and rock music in general. Johnny and I discuss the global popularity of AC/DC and its local significance in Australian rock music. I share my experience of discovering that people overseas associate AC/DC with Australian music more than Australians do themselves, while Johnny shared his passion for the band and their resonance with Argentinian rock enthusiasts. Later, Johny and I discuss their favorite Australian bands, with Glen recommending Midnight Oil, The Saints, and Crowded House, while Johnny recommending Powderfinger to help listeners engage more with language learning and Australian rock music. We also discuss our experiences with language barriers in Australia and how music can help people to learn about and navigate their new environment. Finally, we explore the similarities and differences between Australian and Argentinian rock music, highlighting historical context, political influences, and the growing interest in Latin rock music in Australia. If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

In the second episode of this two part series, Liz Tynan and discuss the controversies surrounding nuclear testing in Australia in the 1950s and 1960s, that still linger today. We also talk about the importance of media scrutiny and how that played a role in uncovering the disaster. We also talk about the growing movement and need for Australia to break free from its colonial past as a result. Liz works at James Cook University in Townsville, and helps students and academic improve their academic writing. We talk about the difficulties for english learners, and students in general, in writing, and give our best tips for how to improve your writing skills. If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

If you hear the word, "Maralinga", you may well be confused. You may see Australians reacting with a mixture of embarassment, shame and regret. It is one of the darkest chapters in Australian history. You may not know that Australia has some of the most radioactive and contaminated sites in the world. It was the result of extensive and destructive nuclear testing in the 1950s and early 190s. And "Maralinga" has become a catch-all term for this. None of this was widely known until the Mclelland Royal Commission in 1984 attempted to get to the bottom of the issue. Given it is the 40th anniversary of this Royal Commission, I decided to invite Professor Liz Tynan to the show. She is the leading historian on the subject and has written several books on the topic. In the first part of this two part episode, we talk about the background of nuclear testing in Australia, and how Australia came to be in this awful position. We talk about the wider issues, the likely killing of indigenous Australians due to the tests, and general warnings to visitors to Australia. If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

There is lots of advice out there when it comes to living, working and staying in Australia, and some times you might get a bum steer. A lot of the advice might not be accurate, and actually detrimental to your goals if you plan on moving to Australia permanently. Especially if you are a professional. I thought I'd do my part and make sure that you don't get a bum steer when it comes to advice. This week's guest is Caro Monroy, who I describe as a professional migrant. She is a psychologist who has lived and worked in different parts of the world, in different roles. She is now a career coach who specialises in helping professionals to build their careers and profiles in Australia. She gives some great advice for people interested in the Australian labour market and some differences between the spanish speaking world, and Australia. Listen for more. We hope that this episode gives you some helpful pointers without giving you a bum steer! If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

ANZAC Day is the most solemn and one of the most special days in the Australian and New Zealand calendar. And that's why I bring you this special episode. Our guest this week is carrying on the tradition of the ANZACs. But it's not someone you'd expect. I met Ronnie whilst playing cricket in Darwin. His brother, Rocky, is a gun cricketer, and asked if he could bring his brother down to play as well. And so, the story of how a group of cricketers became mates with a pair of Bangladeshis began. As we moved away, we've all kept in touch. But I think we were all surprised when Ronnie decided to join the Australian Defence Force. I don't think anyone had heard of a Bangladeshi doing so, but as it turns out, he's led the charge on many foreign born Australians joining the armed forces. This episode is the story of how Ronnie decided to carry on this tradition, and why it is so important for Australians. We talk about how learning a language can be a lot like being in trenches. We also talk about how we can use the ANZAC spirit to help guide our way and continue to make positive contributions to the country. If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

I came across this week's guest because she could do a grouse Australian accent. Which was unusual because it's not often a seppo can actually do an Australian accent correctly. After finding out a bit more about Paula, I realised why she had this talent - she is an accent coach for actors and voice actors in video games and animations, specialising in training US based actors in these roles. She is also a polyglot, which gives us lots of material to talk about when it comes to language learning and pronunciation. As with the word grouse, a lot of differences in accents comes down to the vowel sounds, and it is also what makes it difficult to learn pronunciation, depending on your first language. We debate the merits of learning the IPA chart, and in what circumstances it is most beneficial. We also explore the main differences between accents from the southern hemisphere and the vowel shifts that have taken place. Enoy this grouse episode and let us know what you think. Paula can be found on instagram @accentcolors . If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

After a long day of work, or if you are just feeling lazy, and you can't be f*d cooking dinner, you may head down to the shops to pick up one of these - a bachelor's handbag. The bachelor's handbag is a very recent addition to Australian slang, and was one of the most popular contenders for Australian word of the year in 2022. For a while I had noticed that our guest Emilia Terzon, was an afficionado and connoisseur of the bachy handbag. So I invited her on to the show to talk about her area of expertise. She is also a business and economics reporter for ABC News. So not only do we talk about the bachy handbag, but lots of vocabulary related to supermarkets and "Business English". Her work for the ABC has been extremely broad, but her most recent areas include the housing market, and the Coles and Woolies duopoly. If you are interested in improving your vocabulary related to business, or need to expand your general understanding of economics for english exams, then this is the episode for you. If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

One of the most common jobs people first get when they come to Australia is as a cleaner - or a job that involves cleaning. You may be asked to make things look schmick. In this episode, we talk with Sophia, who began her career as a cleaner when she came to Australia - and has now gone onto bigger and better things. We talk about expressions related to all things dirty and clean, and of course, schmick. If you are looking for work tips, vocabulary to help you in your job, or some help if you feel a bit deflated by your work opportunities, this is the episode for you. If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

Welcome back to the Australians Teach English Podcast for 2024. We're feeling a little bit cocky, which is funny, because that's the name of this episode. You might have noticed that the mascot is a white bird - he's actually a cockie or cocky. So, I thought it was about time to do an episode on cockies. And who better to talk about cockies than the true cockie lady herself, Suzy from @thealmondcafe ? Over the years, Suzy's balcony has become the second home to a flock of cockies, and we talk about her experiences with them. We talk about different cockatoos and the various conservation status that each has. We also talk about the origin of the word cockatoo, and how variations can be used differently. And of course, we talk about the language of cockatoos, and what we can learn from them. If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

On this week's episode, we talk to a top sheila. Actually, she plays the role of many sheilas. You might know her as "themommyroves" on social media. Rovie is making a name for herself, publishing funny videos about her life in Australia, funny slang and situations that might sound strange for new immigrants to Australia. We talk to her about why she started doing these videos, what she has learned whilst doing them and what you can take away from her experiences. We talk about different slang terms for women, whether they have a negative connotation or not, the differences between parties in Australia and the Phillipines and lots and lots of other Australian related vocabulary. I hope you enjoy this interview with a top sheila. Rovie can be found here: https://instagram.com/themommyroves?igshid=MzMyNGUyNmU2YQ== And everywhere else @themommyroves If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

In most episodes, we have a bit of a chinwag. But in this episode, it is the guest's specialty. Michellle is a proud first generation latina who excels at organising events for, and promoting the latin community. In this episode, we have a chinwag about her experiences growing up in Australia as first gen, and the challenges she has faced as being from "neither here nor there". We also look at a process, or grammar rule, called ablaut reduplication, of which chinwag is an example, as are many other australian expressions and items. We talk about the importance of having a chinwag when arriving in Australia to limit culture shock, and the things that, in particular, latin women find different when arriving in Australia. If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

I met Liah whilst spilling my guts in meme form about my life as a paraplegic. At the time, she was an intern on a spinal ward, and wanted to know what the experience was like, in order to gain a better perspective. Since then we have become good friends and the idea for this episode started. Liah has been able to spill her guts, and does so in this episode, about her life growing up in Australia as the daughter of a vietnamese "boat person". This episode is about those struggles and the interesting perspective Liah gained from growing up with her unique circumstances. We talk about how recovery from a spinal injury is a lot like learning a language. and how it can take a lot of guts. We get to talk about some medical slang and why the word, "guts"makes its way into our language. We talk about similar expressions that relate to revealing something and divulging information. We've taken this opportunity to spill our guts a little bit. I hope you appreciate it! If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

The Australian "no" is one of the first words that people notice as sounding different in Australian English. Demonstrating the Australian accent and the way we say, "no" has gone viral several times on social media. So, I decided to get the authority on Australian accents and voice coaching for the Australian accent, Amy Hume. Amy Hume works with performers, actors and others to improve the use of their voice and develop a range of pronunciation. This includes developing awareness of accents, especially the Australian accent. In this episode, we talk about the key sounds in Australian English - the "o" in no, long vowel sounds, non-rhoticity and intrusive r sounds. We also talk about many other debates related to accents - what should the goals be in pronunciation and potential changes in the Australian accent. But if you are interested in pronunciation, not just of Australian English, but English in general, then this episode is for you. Amy Hume's details can be found here: https://findanexpert.unimelb.edu.au/profile/865703-amy-hume If you would like a transcript for this episode, get access to all content and have a say in the creative process, or would just like to support the show, think about becoming a patron: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

The story of Harold Holt is one of the weirdest pieces of Australian history. He was Prime Minister of Australia at the time he went missing in the ocean, creating a crisis in Australian politics. To talk about this weird history are the team from Weird Crap in Australia Podcast, Holly and Matthew Soal. We talk about the history of Harold Holt, and how through rhyming slang, he has become enshrined in Australian English. We talk more broadly about rhyming slang in Australia and how we use it. We also talk about how Australian culture has enabled us to dedicate an aquatic centre to a politician who drowned. We also talk about how learning language through history is a very productive strategy for language learners. Holly and Mathew's podcast can be found here: https://open.spotify.com/show/4muiS0Gfcy6gMtCVgadAOj?si=3754523845cd48ac For access to all exclusive content, transcripts and to have input on the creative process go to: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

Camila Inostrozo, better known as CamienAustralia, is an exceptionally funny, intelligent and vibrant young lady. She's extremely good value. She has a knack for being able to explain complex and difficult concepts about living in Australia, in an honest, simple and clear way to the Latin community in Australia. As such, she has developed a loyal following on social media. Whereas others share endless photos of the glamorous lifestyle in Australia - white sandy beaches and famous landmarks - Cami, explains the everyday things that are vital for people to understand to be successful in Australia. I talk to Cami about her best tips for surviving in Australia, her recommendations on being good value, and of course, super useful and practical tips for learning English in Australia. I hope you find this episode good value, and that, like the rest of us, understand why Cami is really good value. For access to all exclusive content, transcripts and to have input on the creative process go to: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

In this episode, we talk to Daniela Castro about her life as a journo. Starting her career in Venezuela as a journalist was fraught with danger - as it often is in many parts of the world. She then began to look for options to pursue her career and other life options. It was almost by chance that she came to Australia and was able to apply for a protection visa - and despite her reluctance, became a refugee in Australia. Daniela explains how using her philosophy as a journo has helped her to learn English and prosper in Australia. What do you think of her story? For access to all exclusive content, transcripts and to have input on the creative process go to: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

The expression, "Kangaroo Court", sounds like it should be an Australian expression. But is it? We put it on trial to investigate the origins of this expression. And who better to do this with, than Kevin Stroud, host of The History of English Podcast - mandatory listening for anyone interested in knowing the origins of the English language. A former attorney, now linguistics and history enthusiast, his journey and English learning approach is a fascinating one. We look at the reasons why the K in Kangaroo and C in court have the same sound, and other novelties like this that confuse English learners. We also explain the concept of rhoticity and the resultant similarities and differences in Australian and North American English. Investigating the history of words, discovering cognates, and finding out the reasons for oddities are an increasingly important role in language acquisition as we expand our knowledge. I hope this interview provides you with the motivation to take this approach to further your language development. For access to all exclusive content, ttranscripts and to have input on the creative process go to: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

The Top End is a popular destination for everyone at this time of year. And with the demand for workers, it also attracts a lot of Working Holiday visa holders. But those looking to move to the top end at this time of year, are often disappointed to find that they can't find employment. One person who has done things right is my guest Maria. As soon as she arrived in Australia, Maria was prepared to live and work in remote and regional areas of Australia. She has identified where she wants to live and work ahead of time, and as a result of this, has ended up working in a place as close to paradise as can be. Myself, I lived in Darwin, in the top end for 4 years, did my post graduate study and travelled extensively in the top end and Northern Territory. It is a place close to my heart and I consider it one of my second homes. I hope that comes through in this episode. We take this opportunity to talk about the informal names given to some regions in Australia. We also talk about the strategies and tips for anyone wanting to work in the regions. What are your tips and strategies for living and working in remote and regional Australia? We'd love to hear them. For access to all exclusive content, ttranscripts and to have input on the creative process go to: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

In this episode, we talk to one of my mate's girlfriends (or fiance) who is now preggers, or up the duff. In Australian English there are some not so nice ways of saying pregnant. But, luckily Emilia is a good sport and friend. So, we can talk about these themes. Speaking of which, it's an opportune time to talk about false friends as well. And funnily enough, being pregnant seems to be false friend in various languages. We talk about some other examples of false friends and how to combat these in our language learning. We also talk about how having a community of language learning friends can help us. As well as some Australian related sporting terms like WAGs. Are there any funny false friends that you know of? We'd love to hear them! Get in touch. For access to all exclusive content, ttranscripts and to have input on the creative process go to: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

This episode is all about Australian food, and in particular, breakfast foods. And what better person to talk about this subject than a masterchef? In this episode we talk to Keyma Vasquez, who managed to reach the very final stages of Masterchef in 2022. Apart from that, her personal journey and her journey with food is fascinating in itself. We discuss how her experience in the Masterchef kitchen was like learning a language, and how being a contestant on Masterchef was a lot like moving to Australia as a whole. And let us know what you think. What some Australian foods that you know of? Or have you tried mixing Australian foods with other traditional foods? For access to all exclusive content, and to have input on the creative process go to: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

It's the 100th episode of the Australians Teach English podcast, and what better way to celebrate than with a shower beer? In this episode, we are joined by Abraham and Flo from Cachai Australia to help celebrate this milestone. We talk about how cultural oddities like drinking beer in the shower can help us to understand a culture and to integrate oneself. We discuss how the philosophy behind their podcast is similar to this one and why it is important to take on cultural components and factors when learning a language. We also talk about why we should take the pressure off ourselves and reduce the high expectations when learning a language and why this is prohibitive to learning a language and how Australians have an interesting perspective on this. Enjoy this light-hearted and informal 100th episode and let us know if there are any cultural oddities with Australia that you have found. For access to all exclusive content, and to have input on the creative process go to: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish

For access to all exclusive content, and to have input on the creative process go to: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish Taking the piss is a national Australian pastime. It speaks to the natural informality of Australian English. We do it to ourselves, and anyone with or displaying any authority, This has both advantages and disadvantages for learners of Australian English, and Australians looking to learn other languages. In this episode, we talk to Reka, a resident of Japan and learner of Japanese. What better way to talk about formal and informal language and its intracies through the eyes of an Australian in this position? We talk about the required mindset of learning languages when the level of formality is different between languages. Do you know of any equivalent expressions or activities in your language? We'd love to hear it. For a transcript of this episode and others, get in contact with us.

This week we're launching our Patreon. So why don't you go and have a stickybeak over there? You'll find ad free and exclusive content and have a say in what you want from the show. We want you to be a stickybeak when it comes to us. Find our Patreon here: patreon.com/AustraliansTeachEnglish Or, you can access transcripts for our shows, here: https://australiansteachenglish.com/subscription-plan/ In this episode, we talk about this classic Australian expression - to be overly inquisitive. We're sure you have many names for this type of person or action in your own language and we'd love to hear it. Related to this, we talk about the importance of noticing in language learning, and how we can actively use this in our language learning journey. Let us know what you noticed in this episode!

In this episode, we talk to Reka, an Australian teacher in Japan who is a chip off the old block. She is the daughter of Hungarian parents and is now a world traveller in her own right - a real chip off the old block. In her journeys, she recalls relearning her heritage language, a generation out of step and the challenges that it brought. She shares her experiences learning a new character language and tips and tricks for doing so. We also talk about visualisation and how this can help learners coming from a different alphabet, or any learners in general. And one thing that is difficult for English learners (and all English speakers) to understand is the many ways we use chips. We talk about the various meanings of these and other useful expressions with chips. So put all your chips on the table, the chips are not down, to come and learn why you might or might not be a chip off the old block. For transcripts and access to paid content, go to https://australiansteachenglish.com/subscription-plan/

G'day youse guys out there in listener land. English is an unusual language in many ways. And one of those features is the fact that English doesn't use a second person plural in its formal language. That means there is no plural for "you". However, Australians have found an ingenious solution to this in informal settings and spoken language, hence the word for this week - youse. Youse is an informal pronoun and we talk about pronouns in general and controversies related to this topic recently. We talk about gendered language and the positives and negatives of using gender neutral, or incorporating inclusivity in our languages. Enjoy this episode and don't forget there are transcripts available for youse. For transcripts and access to exclusive content, go to https://australiansteachenglish.com/subscription-plan/

Have you considered, or are you considering migrating to Australia? Are you looking for residence or Australian citizenship? Perhaps you want to become a dinky di aussie. Then this episode is for you. I get a lot of requests about the best way to go about pursuing residency and citizenship in Australia, but I can't offer any advice apart from very generic advice. So, I thought it would be beneficial to talk to a dinky di aussie who does know what they are talking about. We talk to Nicolas from Miranda Migration about the best ways to go about residency and pursuing your options when it comes to Australia. Is anyone you know thinking about becoming a dinky di aussie? Then share it with them because this episode will be invaluable. For transcripts and access to paid content, go to https://australiansteachenglish.com/subscription-plan/

In this episode we explain a classic Australian expression about being thirsty. For much of my time in hospital I was not allowed to drink and unable to talk, so how was it that we can still communicate with fundamental components of language missing? We discuss plosives and how they are made, and why they can pose some challenges. We explore why non-verbal communication is so important and how we might actually use this in our daily lives without realising. And of course, we speak about what the dingo is most famous for in Australia.

Legends can be animals, fictional characters, famous people, or even your friends. Join us this week in the Australians Teach English podcast and explore with us some urban legends and more! In this episode we talk to Katherine and Irma, from Colombia and Mexico about some of the stereotypes and misconceptions that can arise from this. We compare it to the stories of Australia, and how reality can differ from legend. Katherine and Irma have projects that relate to story telling based on their culture. We talk about how sharing knowledge can be advantageous as a learning process. We also talk about the word legend and how it is used differently in Australia. So come with us and learn about some aussie legends.

One of the most common requests by students is that they want to become more, "fluent". But on a day to day basis, what does this actually mean and how can we set goals to achieve this mythical fluency? That's what this episode is about. And when we achieve a little step along the way, we might say "onya". In this episode I relate some of the time I spent in the spinal ward and my recovery to learning a language. There is a lot of toxic positivity and false optimism in both settings which is likely to lead to frustration and disappointment. So how do we overcome this? We discuss the importance of setting measurable, achievable goals as a way to working towards bigger goals, such as fluency. In that way, you might be able to say onya, more often.

In this episode recorded pre-accident, we talk to Gaby, a sports nutritionist and owner of Intense Eat Fit. She is as tough as old boots - as hard as nails. She came to Perth, Australia, to complete a master's degree in nutrition science and to continue her love of triathlons. As it turned out, she stayed for longer than this and decided to begin her own business based out of Australia. Gaby tells us about how learning another language is actually similar to training for triathlons and how focussing on nutrition is an undervalued part of the learning process. This episode is for anyone who takes their learning and training seriously and we hope you get as much out of it as we did!

It has been a long time since I've uploaded an episode, and there is a very good reason why. Half way through last year I had a very serious accident which has left me paralysed from the chest down. I spent a total of nearly 5 months in hospital - of which 6 weeks were in intensive care. It could be said that I had Buckley's chance of getting back to doing an episode, but here we are. In this episode Oriana and I talk about how language learning has helped us through different crises in our lives, and how the philosophy of learning a new language can be applied to different situations to help us in any recovery we might experience. We are extremely grateful to the messages of support we have had and it has been a big goal for my personal recovery to get back to the podcasts and teaching English.

A few weeks ago, we were meant to interview Isha and her partner, but she bailed. So this week were talk to Isha about her time and experiences in Australia. She had previously bailed from Canada and the United States, but not Australia. See why she now calls Australia home. We talk to her about why she decided on Australia, and the differences between Australia and other English speaking countries. In fact, she has an unusual reason as to why she wanted to come to Australia in the first place. Can you find out what it was? Isha explains to us what it is like to run her own business in Australia. She is one half of BrazilianShop.com.au, which we have previously spoken about on our episode, Maccas. We also speak about some of the common features and differences between Australian and Latin American culture and how this can be difficult for some newcomers to Australia. Pronounciation and listening also get a run in this episode, and Isha and I talk about how we can use our interests to improve our language skills. Enjoy this light hearted episode and gain some motivation in the process. What do you think of her advice? Let us know!

G'day and welcome to this week's episode of the Australians Teach English podcast. Recently, I've been a little crook, which has made it a lot harder to upload and record episodes. So, Oriana and I thought it would be a good opportunity to talk about healthcare in Australia and what it means for you as a visitor to Australia. We will talk about health related slang and how to use this correctly. We also talk about what to do if you get sick and or injured in Australia, and the processes you'll need to follow. Enjoy this informative episode about Australia's healthcare system. And if you are travelling to Australia, it's a timely reminder to review your health insurance and potential costs, depending on where you are applying from. Any questions? Don't hesitate to contact us!

G'Day and welcome to another episode of the Australian's Teach English Podcast. Strangely enough, that's the topic for this week's episode! It's also very similar to an expression used in Frisian. And that's who we're speaking to in this episode - Jaring. Jaring is an exceptionally talented young man from the north of the Netherlands. Modest and hardworking, he has been able to get permanent residency and citizenship thanks to his experience on farms. We talk to Jaring about how and why he was easily able to adapt to regional life in Australia, and what keeps him motivated. We talk to him about his knowledge of the cattle and dairy industries and some interesting oddities associated with working in such a tough business. Jaring also explains how he likes to approach learning languages and culture by immersing himself in various activities and volunteer opportunities. We hope you enjoy this episode. It might even give you some ideas about you can use flexibility and motivations to make alternative pathways if your goal is to stay in Australia, long term.

Do you know how to pronounce tough, though, night and through? Do you know why we pronounce these differently? It's difficult isn't it? Well, tough titties. And that brings us to our episode for this week, where we bring you this now quintessential Australian expression. At the same time we're going to help you pronounce some words with the "gh" spelling. Most people are familiar with "Osho" and his movement and followers. It has received renewed attention since the documentary Wild Wild Country was released. What is less well known, is the influence they had in Australia and in particular, Western Australia. The Sanyassins, Rajneeshees or "Orange People", as they were known thanks to their largely orange coloured clothes began to make their mark in the late 70s and early 80s. Although their main base was in the United States, their "spiritual home" was rumoured to be planned for a small town in South West, Western Australia, called Pemberton. It was this, and the resultant influx of Orange People into Freo, that led to a series of combative interviews with Osho's personal secretary, Ma Anand Sheela (Sheela Birnstiel). Her unsympathetic tone led to the airing of the now infamous, "tough titties" during one such interview. The rest is history. Although the movement faded from view, its impact on Australia has been profound. Australia had a particularly conservative culture and this allowed various movements to flourish. Freo and Byron Bay for example, are havens for alternative lifestyles and attractive to travellers for various reasons. They were once upon a time centres for the Rajneesh. We hope you enjoy this episode. Give us your feedback on your knowledge of Osho and the pronounciation of the letters gh! Become a Paid Subscriber: https://anchor.fm/glen-speering/subscribe For transcripts and access to paid content, go to https://australiansteachenglish.com/subscription-plan/