English Learning for Curious Minds | Learn English with Podcasts

 In this episode, we'll explore the complex world of minimum wage laws, from their surprising origins in Australia and New Zealand to modern debates around their effectiveness.   Do they protect the lowest-paid workers, or do they do more damage than good?  History of the minimum wage globally Early minimum wage laws in Australia and New Zealand Introduction of minimum wage in the UK and the US Arguments for and against minimum wage Impact of the minimum wage on businesses Regional variations in minimum wage Alternatives to the minimum wage Minimum wage and wage growth in the UK Comparison of minimum wage with skilled jobs Political perspectives on the minimum wage Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/minimum-wage ---You might like:

 In 2011, Egypt erupted in protest, toppling a 30-year regime.What began as a grassroots movement against an autocratic leader turned into a complex struggle for democracy and power.In this episode, we'll travel through the events that led from the hopeful dawn of revolution to the military's return to power, and see how social media and global events played pivotal roles in shaping modern Egypt.Egypt's conditions ripe for revolution in 2011 Hosni Mubarak's rule and use of emergency laws Impact of Tunisian Revolution on Egypt Rise of protests on Egyptian Police Day 2011 Role of social media in Egyptian protests Mubarak's resignation and military's interim government Muslim Brotherhood's rise and Morsi's presidency Morsi's overreach and public dissatisfaction Army's intervention and Sisi's rise to power Repression and return to authoritarian rule under Sisi Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/egyptian-revolution ---You might like:

 In this episode, we'll explore the eerie events of the Salem Witch Trials, a chilling tale of suspicion, fear, and injustice in 17th-century Massachusetts.  Discover how a village turned against itself, leading to the execution of innocent people amidst accusations of witchcraft, and consider the theories behind what really happened. The harsh winter of 1692 in Massachusetts Puritans' fear of the devil and witchcraft Witch accusations in Salem Village Tituba's confession and impact Spectral evidence in Salem court trials Tragic outcomes of the witch trials Ergot fungus and mass hysteria theories Social tensions and personal vendettas in Salem Aftermath and attempts to right wrongs Exoneration of Elizabeth Johnson Jr. in 2022 Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/salem-witch-trialsEpisode about The History of Witches: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/witches"Weird history" episodes: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcast-tags/weird-history"Horror" episodes: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcast-tags/horrorW ---You might like:

 In part one of this three-part mini-series, we'll explore the captivating life of T.E. Lawrence, the British archaeologist and army officer known as "Lawrence of Arabia."  Discover how he fought alongside Arabian tribesmen during World War I in their quest for independence, all while knowing an uncomfortable secret. The early life and interests of T.E. Lawrence Lawrence's work as an archaeologist in the Middle East The Ottoman Empire and World War I context Lawrence's role with Arab forces against Ottomans The strategy of guerrilla warfare and victory at Aqaba Lawrence's experience and trauma in Deraa The broken promises of the Sykes-Picot Agreement Lawrence's return to Britain and later life The lasting impact of Lawrence on the Middle East Varied perceptions of T.E. Lawrence's legacy Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/lawrence-arabia ---You might like:

 In this episode, we'll explore the fascinating history of perfume, tracing its journey from Ancient Mesopotamia to its artistic development in France.   We'll learn how scents have evolved from practical uses to luxury items, and discover the intriguing world of “grands nez,” the master perfumers who dedicate their lives to crafting these aromatic masterpieces.  Perfume origins: from Mesopotamia to Middle Eastern innovation Ancient perfume use: religious rituals and practical odour cover Egypt: Perfume as a status symbol in hot climates Cleopatra and the power of scent Roman perfume indulgence and imported fragrances French perfume evolution: From leather gloves to luxury Grasse: The perfume capital of the world Why perfume is expensive: ingredients and branding Becoming a "grand nez": the perfumer's journey Perfume's artistic and historical significance across cultures Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/perfume ---You might like:

 In this episode, we'll explore the life of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.   Discover how he turned a fragmented resistance into a national movement, established a secular republic from imperial ruins, and why he's still called "The Father of the Turks."  Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's famous 36-hour speech, Nutuk Decline and Fall of the Ottoman Empire Reasons for the Ottoman Empire's decline The Ottoman Empire's defeat in World War I Mustafa Kemal's rise as a military leader Turkish War of Independence overview Establishment of the Republic of Turkey Atatürk's radical reforms and modernisation Introduction of secularism and language reform Legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/mustafa-kemal-ataturk ---You might like:

In this episode of Thinking in English, host Tom Wilkinson explores the past perfect continuous tense, using the 2008 financial crisis as a case study. The episode covers the grammar rules and structures of the past perfect continuous tense, emphasising its usage to describe actions that started in the past, continued for some time, and were ongoing or just finished before another event. The lesson includes in-depth examples and concludes with a discussion on Michael Burry, who had been predicting the financial collapse for years.LinksWebsite - https://thinkinginenglish.blog/Study Pack - https://www.patreon.com/thinkinginenglish/shop/study-packs-past-present-and-future-807289TiE Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/c/thinkinginenglishFind Out More - https://linktr.ee/thinkinginenglishpod00:00 Introduction01:39 Grammar Lesson04:42 Financial Crisis and Past Perfect Continuous10:56 Final Thought

 In this episode, we'll explore the incredible story of Percy Fawcett, a daring British explorer who vanished in the Amazon rainforest while searching for the mythical city he called "Z."   Often compared to a real-life Indiana Jones, Fawcett's life was filled with adventure, mystery, and a relentless quest to prove the Amazon held secrets beyond our imagination.  Percy Fawcett: Real-life Indiana Jones Fawcett's early life and aristocratic background His fascination with exploration and adventure His expeditions in the Amazon rainforest Fawcett's quest for the lost city "Z" Impact of World War I on Fawcett's views 1925 expedition disappearance with son and friend Various theories on Fawcett's mysterious fate Legacy and influence of Percy Fawcett's explorations The possible existence of advanced Amazon civilisations Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/percy-fawcett ---You might like:

A woman has a loving husband and children, and she's great at her job. So why is she sad? One day, she opens the freezer door and sees the way into another world. If she goes, she will lose her husband and children. But could she be happy there?Go to EasyStoriesInEnglish.com/Door for the full transcript.Level: Beginner.Genre: Philosophical.Vocabulary: Freeze, Freezer, Cheek, Pick at, Kid, Nightmare, Gooseberry, Cliff, Sober, Weigh something up, Parallel universe.Setting: Modern.Word Count: 1517.Author: Ariel Goodbody.

⚡️ Register for "The Making Of A Dictator": https://bit.ly/dictator2025Registration closes 23:59 23/03/2025 || Special Offer Price €99--In this episode, we'll explore the fascinating history of mercenaries, taking you from the era of Italian condottieri to the modern day with groups like Blackwater and Wagner.   You'll learn how these soldiers for hire have evolved, the reasons nations use or avoid them, and their impact on 21st-century warfare.  What are mercenaries? Definition and historical context. Origins and role of freelance knights in Medieval Europe. Renaissance Italy: The rise of the condottieri. Impact and decline of the condottieri. Blackwater: A modern private military company. Private Military Contractors and international law issues. The Wagner Group and its ties to Russia. Wagner's global influence and alleged war crimes. Mercenaries in business and war: Ethical dilemmas. Future of warfare with mercenary involvement. Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/mercenaries ---You might like:⚡️ Join The Making Of A Dictator (closes 23:59 23/03/2025)

 Leap years help keep our calendars in sync with Earth's orbit, but have you ever wondered why we need them?   In this episode, we explore the history of leap years, covering early human calendars, Julius Caesar's reforms, and the adjustments introduced by Pope Gregory XIII.  Why do we need leap years? Earth's orbit and the solar year explained How the first calendars were created Egyptian and Roman calendar systems The Julian calendar's introduction of leap years Inaccuracies in Caesar's calendar calculations The Gregorian calendar and its leap-year rule Challenges in adopting the Gregorian calendar Alternative calendar systems proposed over time The impossibility of changing Earth's orbit for an exact year Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/science-leap-years ---You might like:

Today we have some news in English from our friends over at SEND7 - Simple English News Daily in 7 minutes. World News in 7 minutes. Friday 21st February, 2025.To listen to SEND7 every morning, search in your podcast app for Simple English News Daily, or go to send7.org

 In this episode, we will explore Vladimir Putin's unlikely journey from a rat-catching streetfighter to the modern-day tsar of Russia.   We'll look at his rise to power, some of the accusations about what it took to get there, the key decisions that have defined his 25-year rule, and question how history will remember his legacy.  Vladimir Putin's early life and rise to power Siege of Leningrad during World War Two Putin's upbringing in poverty and street life Putin's early interest in the KGB Putin's political career and rise in St Petersburg Connections and corruption allegations in early political life Putin becomes Russia's Prime Minister in 1999 Controversy surrounding the 1999 apartment bombings Consolidation of power and suppression of opposition Putin's use of poison to eliminate opponents Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/putin-modern-tsar ---You might like:

 In this episode, we'll learn about the notorious Stanford Prison Experiment, known for revealing human behaviour's dark side in simulated prison conditions.   We'll discuss its purpose, dramatic events, the ethical concerns it raised, and question what it truly tells us about human nature.  Purpose of the Stanford Prison Experiment Recruitment and setup of the experiment Guards' roles and behaviour Prisoners' arrest and treatment Escalating conflict and rebellion Psychological impact on participants Christina Maslach's intervention Ethical criticisms and flaws Impact on psychology and debates Lessons on human behaviour and power dynamics Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/stanford-prison-experiment ---You might like:

 Space mining sounds like something out of science fiction, but could it soon become reality?In this episode, we'll explore how the idea of mining asteroids for valuable minerals might work, the challenges it faces, and whether it truly could be a better alternative to mining on Earth.   Discovery of asteroid 16 Psyche and its immense value Asteroids as sources of precious metals Challenges of travelling and mining in space Difference between asteroids, planets, and the asteroid belt Decline in space travel costs and impact on mining Technical hurdles of mining on asteroids Legal and ethical concerns of asteroid ownership Potential impact on Earth's economy and environment Possibility of using space resources in space Future of asteroid mining and recent NASA missions Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/space-mining ---You might like:

 In this episode, we will explore the evolving role of the Vice President of the United States.  We will examine the unique pathway this role offers to the presidency and discuss why the current Vice President may be one of the most influential in history. Role of the Vice President in U.S. politics Historical pathway from Vice President to President Kamala Harris's attempt to go from Vice President to PresidentEvolution of the Vice Presidency over time Impacts of the 12th and 25th Amendments Vice Presidents' influence on American governance JD Vance as Donald Trump's Vice President Prospects for JD Vance in the next presidential election  Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/us-vice-presidents ---You might like:

Save up to 85% on ELSA (the world's #1 pronunciation app): https://bit.ly/CuriousMindsxELSA[ends 23:59 on Dec 15th]--In part one of our mini-series on nuclear energy, we'll explore the origins of nuclear power as it emerged alongside nuclear weapons.   Learn how President Eisenhower envisioned "Atoms for Peace" and how political events like the 1973 oil crisis propelled nuclear energy into the spotlight.  Development of nuclear power and weapons together Eisenhower's "Atoms for Peace" speech How nuclear energy is created Global cooperation in nuclear technology 1973 oil crisis and nuclear energy rise France's Messmer Plan for nuclear independence Protests against nuclear energy in West Germany Three Mile Island incident raises nuclear safety concerns Nuclear reactors' efficiency improvements in the 1980s Preview of next episode: Chernobyl Disaster Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/early-nuclear ---You might like:

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 The UK is home to some of the best universities in the world, but there is a growing crisis happening at British universities  In this episode, we'll explain what this crisis is, why British universities are in this unusual position, and learn about the key challenges facing the British university sector.  UK university funding crisis explained Role of tuition fees in university income Impact of Brexit on EU student numbers Importance of international students in university finances Risks of relying on limited countries for students Universities running at a financial deficit Impact of financial strain on less prestigious universities Debate on course offerings based on economic value Long-term sustainability of the UK university system Role of universities in the 21st century education debate Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/uk-university-crisis ---You might like:

 In August 1997, a tragic car crash in Paris claimed the life of Princess Diana, a beloved figure known for her compassion and humanitarian work.  In this episode, we'll explore the events leading up to the accident, the role of the paparazzi, and the lasting impact on the world. Death of Princess DianaCar crash in ParisChase by paparazziImmediate aftermath and public griefDiana's early life and marriagesDiana's humanitarian workBritish Royal Family's reactionDiana's funeral and public responseTheories and official inquest on her deathLegacy and lessons from her tragedy Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/princess-diana ---You might like:

 In part one of a three-part mini-series, we'll explore the fascinating history of crime and punishment in Britain, from medieval justice to the infamous Bloody Code.   In this episode, you'll learn how the harsh consequences for even minor crimes evolved over the centuries, leading to the modern justice system.  Jean Valjean's punishment in Les Miserables vs. Britain. The Bloody Code and its severe punishments. Justice system in early medieval Britain. William the Conqueror's legal reforms in 1066. Development of trial by jury in Britain. Punishments in the late medieval and Tudor periods. Rise and fall of the Bloody Code. Enlightenment thinkers' impact on justice. Shift towards imprisonment and rehabilitation. Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/crime-punishment-britain ---You might like:

 What happens when your country refuses to grant you citizenship?  This is the reality for the Bidoon, a group of nomadic people in Kuwait who claim to be Kuwaiti but remain stateless and are forced to live on the margins of society.  Who are the Bidoon of Kuwait? Why the Bidoon are stateless Kuwait's history and its impact on Bidoon The Bidoon's nomadic lifestyle Kuwaiti citizenship laws The plight of the Bidoon today Challenges faced by Bidoon families Kuwait's reasons for marginalising the Bidoon International pressure on Kuwait Possible future for the Bidoon Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/bidoon ---You might like:

 Discover the incredible story of The Great Canadian Maple Syrup Robbery, where cunning criminals stole $18 million worth of maple syrup. In this episode, we'll learn about the surprising details of this sticky crime and the unusual fight between the free market and government regulation in the world of Canadian maple syrup.Maple syrup: liquid gold from maple treesQuebec's maple syrup market dominanceFPAQ's role in regulating syrup productionQuotas and the strategic maple syrup reserveThe emergence of a maple syrup black marketConvicted fraudster Avik Caron and his planCoordination among thieves to steal maple syrupThe execution of the year-long theft operationDiscovery and investigation of the $18 million theft Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/maple-syrup ---You might like:

 George Best is seen as one of the most naturally talented footballers ever, but off the pitch, he battled demons.  From his glittering career at Manchester United to his struggles with alcoholism, in this episode, we'll learn about the wild life of one of football's greats.  Life and career of George Best Comparison with modern footballers George Best's early career His rise to fame in the 1960s Best's off-pitch controversies and lifestyle Struggles with alcoholism Decline in football career and final years Financial issues and generosity Legacy and what went wrong Final reflections on his life Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/george-best ---You might like:

 In this milestone episode, we will deviate from the usual style of weird and wonderful stories.  Instead, I'll take you behind the scenes of the podcast, share some never-before-revealed information, and tell you about an update to our programming schedule.  Introduction & Milestone Celebration Starting the Podcast Journey Behind the Scenes: Research & Production Listener Demographics & Podcast Growth Expanding Beyond the Podcast Changes to the Production Schedule Reasons for the New Schedule Conclusion & Community Engagement Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/500 ---You might like:

 Some call it a miracle drug, others warn of its potentially damaging long-term effects on people and society.   In this episode, we'll look at the history of this drug, how it works, why it's popular, and what it reveals about American food and healthcare systems.  Introduction to Ozempic American obesity and food issues How Ozempic works History and approval of Ozempic Ozempic's impact on weight loss Popularity among celebrities Criticisms and side effects FDA approval concerns Long-term dependency on Ozempic Ultra-processed American food impact Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/ozempic ---You might like:

 The UK has a new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, and Labour is back in power.   We discuss what this means for Britain, including Starmer's background, his proposed policies, and the challenges that lie ahead.  Results of the UK general election New Prime Minister: Keir Starmer Labour Party's winning manifesto Background on Keir Starmer Proposed policies of the Labour Party Challenges facing the new government Housing crisis and proposed solutions Explanation of NIMBY Public spending and potential tax changes UK's future relationship with the EU Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/labour-election ---You might like:

 The Haitian Revolution is a story of extreme violence, hope, and human rights.   Learn how slaves in Saint-Domingue fought against brutal conditions and multiple European powers to establish the first free black-led nation in the world.  Overview of the Haitian Revolution Toussaint L'Ouverture's early life and significance Colonisation of Saint-Domingue by the French Brutal conditions for slaves in Saint-Domingue Different social groups in Saint-Domingue Impact of the French Revolution Initial uprisings led by Vincent Ogé 1791 slave uprising initiated by Dutty Boukman Toussaint L'Ouverture's rise to power Haitian independence declared in 1804 Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/haitian-revolution ---You might like:

 In this episode, we'll travel back to the 1990s and uncover the story of "Cool Britannia," a time when Britain experienced a cultural renaissance.  From Oasis to Tony Blair, The Spice Girls to Damien Hirst, we'll learn how politics, music, fashion, and art intertwined to create one of the most vibrant eras in recent British history.  Cool Britannia: A 1990s British cultural renaissance Vanity Fair's iconic 1997 cover: Liam Gallagher, Patsy Kensit Tony Blair's "New Labour" and political change in 1990s Blair's 1997 Downing Street party with cultural icons Britpop bands: Oasis, Blur, Pulp The Spice Girls' impact and Union Jack symbolism Young British Artists: Tracy Emin, Damian Hirst London as the creative and affordable cultural hub Economic influence of Britain's creative industries Criticisms and nostalgia for the Cool Britannia period Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/cool-britannia ---You might like:

 JK Rowling, famous for Harry Potter, is now at the centre of a controversial debate on transgender rights.   We'll explore her views, why they've sparked so much outrage and support, and the impact on free speech laws in the UK.  JK Rowling and her views on transgenderism Tweet supporting Maya Forstater's views on sex and gender Public reaction: support and death threats Her article explaining her five reasons for speaking out Impact on education and safeguarding Freedom of speech concerns Personal experiences influencing her opinion Criticism from Harry Potter actors Scottish Hate Crime and Public Order Act of 2024 Ongoing role in the public debate on transgender issues Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/rowling-transgenderism ---You might like:

 John Stonehouse, a promising British politician, disappeared off the Miami coast.   Had he drowned in a swimming accident? Had he been eaten by sharks?  To everyone's surprise, he turned up in Australia a few weeks later with a new identity...  John Stonehouse: Charismatic British politician Disappeared from a Miami beach in 1974 Mysterious reappearance in Australia Stonehouse's financial and personal troubles Speculation about Stonehouse being a Czech spy John Stonehouse's affair with his secretary Impersonation and multiple fake identities Legal trial and prison sentence Impact on British politics and the Labour party Stonehouse's final years and death Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/john-stonehouse ---You might like:

 What's the difference between the North and the South of England?   And when does the "North" end and the "South" start?  In this episode, we'll explore these questions, and touch on differences in accents, lifestyles, and even what people call their evening meal.  The origins of the north-south divide in England The fuzzy line dividing north and south Common stereotypes of northerners and southerners The impact of the Industrial Revolution on the north The decline of northern industries in the 20th century Margaret Thatcher's role in closing northern coal mines Economic and educational disparities between North and South Regional differences in life expectancy and health Variation in vocabulary and accents across regions Institutional prejudice against Northern accents Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/north-vs-south ---You might like:

Register for "The Mules": https://bit.ly/MulesJun24Registration closes 23:59 03/09/2023 || Summer Offer €99 only (€30 off)--Robert Fortune, a Scottish botanist, pulled off one of history's greatest acts of corporate espionage: stealing the secrets of tea production from China.   In this episode we'll explore his daring adventure, the fascinating world of 19th-century tea trade, and how his actions forever changed the global tea industry.  Robert Fortune's theft of tea from China Importance of tea to Britain Opium trade with China Impact of Opium Wars Restrictions on foreign travel in China Fortune's disguise and exploration Discovery of tea production methods Transportation of tea plants to India Success of the Indian tea industry Robert Fortune's legacy Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/robert-fortune ---You might like:

Register for "The Mules": https://bit.ly/MulesJun24Registration closes 23:59 03/09/2023 || Summer Offer €99 only (€30 off)--Ayn Rand is one of the most controversial thinkers of the 20th century.  In this episode, we'll explore her philosophy of Objectivism, which champions rational self-interest and free-market capitalism, and discuss why her ideas remain divisive today.  Ayn Rand's life and background Philosophy of Objectivism "The Fountainhead" and its themes Success and controversy of "Atlas Shrugged" Core beliefs of Objectivism Role of government in Objectivism Rational self-interest explained Controversies and criticisms of Objectivism Ayn Rand's impact and legacy Rand's personal life contradictions Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/ayn-rand ---You might like:

 Meet Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor who combined power with philosophy.   In this episode, we'll learn about his famous work, "Meditations", and explore five key ideas that still resonate today.  Introduction to Marcus Aurelius Importance of his book "Meditations" Control what you can, ignore what you can't Live according to nature and rationality Continuous self-reflection and self-examination Embrace and welcome fate Awareness of impermanence and mortality Authenticity and practical advice Aurelius' personal struggles and resilience Modern resurgence of Stoicism and its relevance today Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/marcus-aurelius ---You might like:

 The British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called an early general election in the UK, surprising many.  We'll explore why he made this decision, the main themes of the election, and who could be the next Prime Minister. Rishi Sunak calls an early election for July 4th.History of Conservative leadership since 2010.British Prime Ministers' unpopularity and challenges.Reasons behind Rishi Sunak's early election call.Overview of the UK's “first past the post” system.Key candidates: Rishi Sunak vs. Keir Starmer.Keir Starmer's political strategy and criticisms.Conservative Party's campaign focus on trust and economy.Labour's campaign focus on change and social issues.Embarrassing moments during Sunak's election announcement. Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/uk-general-election ---You might like:

 Ice cream vans can be a sweet memory for many, but for Glasgow in the 1980s, they were anything but.   From selling drugs to inciting gang wars and even murder, we'll uncover the dark and shocking tale of the Glasgow Ice Cream Wars.  Background to The Glasgow Ice Cream Wars Ice cream vans in Glasgow Living conditions in Glasgow schemes Ice cream van territory fights Criminals entering the ice cream trade Organised crime and drug dealing Andrew Doyle's resistance to intimidation Doyle family fire and deaths Wrongful conviction of Campbell and Steele Campbell and Steele's exoneration after 20 years Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/glasgow-ice-cream-wars ---You might like:

 Nayib Bukele is the self-proclaimed "world's coolest dictator", and he has managed to do what many people thought was impossible in El Salvador. In this episode, we'll learn about his rise to power, his controversial treatment of gang members, and explore what comes next for the small Central American nation. President Nayib Bukele of El SalvadorBukele legalises Bitcoin as currencyHigh crime rates in El SalvadorBukele's controversial policies on gangsBukele's rise to power and strategiesInternational vs domestic opinions on BukeleCriticisms of Bukele's authoritarian tendenciesBukele's landslide victory in re-electionBukele's popularity and domestic supportChallenges ahead for Bukele in El Salvador Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/nayib-bukele ---You might like:

 In this episode, we'll explore how the country with the largest oil reserves in the world managed to implode, plunging its citizens into extreme poverty. We'll discover how a mixture of economic decisions, political ideologies, and external pressures contributed to the country's current situation. Rise and collapse of VenezuelaChavez's presidency and socialist policiesControl over currency and economyThe impact on inflation and poverty ratesMaduro's presidency and worsening conditionsMass exodus and economic devastationVarious viewpoints on causes of collapseLegacy of hope turned into despairVenezuelan citizens' anger and sadnessReflection on the future of Venezuela Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/venezuela-collapse ---You might like:

 I lived in Malta from 2017-2024. In part one of this two-part series, I'll talk about some of my experiences living there, and try to answer a question I'm asked multiple times a week: "Should I come to Malta to study English?" We'll talk about what types of people come to Malta to study English, how this changes over the year, and what life is really like on a Mediterranean rock. Why I moved to Malta in 2017Brief introduction to MaltaIntroduction to learning English in MaltaThe three different categories of English learner in MaltaWhy you should come to Malta to learn EnglishWhy you shouldn't come to Malta to learn EnglishHow Malta has changed in the past 15 yearsLife in Malta for foreignersWhy so many foreigners are coming to MaltaHow much does life cost in Malta Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/malta-pt1 ---You might like:

 He became known as “The Great Gatsby of The Middle East”, and once claimed to be the richest man on Earth. From facilitating lucrative business deals between the West and Saudi Arabia to his lavish lifestyle and controversial ventures, in this episode, we'll explore the intriguing life of Adnan Khashoggi. Adnan Khashoggi: businessman, arms dealer, "The Great Gatsby of The Middle East"Wealth exaggerated: $10bn fortune, luxurious lifestyle, major debtsBackground: born in Saudi Arabia, privileged upbringing, early business venturesConnection: broker between West and Saudi Arabia, arms dealsLockheed ties: agent for arms sales, earned $150 millionLifestyle: opulent spending, pleasure wives, extravagant yachtFinancial downfall: bad investments, debts, legal issuesDeath: in 2017, controversial figure in Saudi and US politicsLegacy: related to Jamal Khashoggi, starkly different pathsConclusion: contrasting lives, implications of wealth and power Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/adnan-khashoggi ---You might like:

 In part one of a four-part mini-series on Scotland, we'll explore some unusual Scottish traditions.  From the mythical haggis "creature" to the Highland Games, the deep-fried Mars bar to the mysterious taste of Irn-Bru's, and finish up with five intriguing facts about Scotland's national instrument the bagpipes.  Unusual Scottish traditions and factsHaggis: a Scottish dish, not an animal Burns Night: reading "Address to a Haggis"Highland Games: sports, music, celebrationsTossing the caber, hammer throw, haggis hurlingDeep-fried Mars bar: calorific treatIrn-Bru: Scotland's iconic fizzy drinkBagpipes: national Scottish instrumentBagpipe facts: ancient origins, global presence, Nero's bagpipingGlenmorangie whisky: aged to bagpipe music Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/scottish-traditions ---You might like:

 Today, we uncover the controversial story of Prince Andrew, the black sheep of the British royal family.   From his ties to Jeffrey Epstein to his car crash interview, we explore the life of Queen Elizabeth's second son, Prince Andrew, The Duke Of York.  Prince Andrew's controversial involvement with Jeffrey Epstein The infamous BBC interview with Emily Maitlis The questionable alibi involving Pizza Express in Woking Being stripped of his military titles and royal patronages His scandalous post-Falklands War public image His role as Special Representative for International Trade Lavish spending and nickname "Airmiles Andy" his association with Epstein and subsequent fallout Potential legal implications for Prince Andrew following Epstein's crimes Unlikely prospects of Prince Andrew facing criminal charges Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/prince-andrew ---You might like: