Podcasts about english podcast

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

~~~~~~~~901 - Phrasal Verb Frida - Crank OutHey there! It's Michael here — and welcome back to another Happy English, Phrasal Verb Friday.I'm here every Friday with a quick, one-point English lesson to help you learn a new phrasal verb and sound more natural when you speak.Today's phrasal verb is crank out. When you crank something out, it means you produce it quickly, often in large amounts. This phrase is often used for things like writing, work, or manufacturing — anything that can be produced at a fast pace, sometimes with a focus on quantity over quality.The factory in the next town cranks out thousands of sneakers every week.My friend Amanda writes for a travel blog, and last week she cranked out five articles in just two days!And I remember when I was in college — we all cranked out our final papers right before the deadline. Typical, right?And hey, here's a little pronunciation tip: crank out… crank-out. The K at the end of crank links smoothly into the O of out. Crank-out.So how about you? What's something you've cranked out lately — work, content, projects, maybe a bunch of emails? Leave a comment, and don't forget to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the nextHappy English Podcast and next week's Phrasal Verb Friday. Thanks for listening — and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Hey, can you believe it? This is Episode 900 of the Happy English Podcast. Nine. Hundred. Episodes. I can hardly believe it myself. Here's what I've learned along the way!I just want to take a moment today to say how grateful I am to YOU. Whether this is your first time listening, your 50th time, or you've been here since Episode 1, thank you. The fact that you listen, learn, and grow with me is what keeps me showing up here week after week. So today, I want to share a little bit of my story, what I've learned from doing 900 episodes, and some advice for you on your English journey.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Here's a question. Have you ever heard someone say ain't in a song or a movie? Like, or “I ain't got no time for that”? Maybe you wondered… is ain't actually English? Well, it sure ain't in the textbooks, but it is in real life! And I ain't kidding. Today we're diving into a word that confuses a lot of English learners - ain't. It's not considered “standard” grammar, but that doesn't mean it's wrong. In fact, native speakers use ain't all the time in casual, spoken English, and especially in music, movies, and everyday conversation. So, if you've ever asked yourself, “What does ain't even mean?” - today's episode is for you.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE

In this episode, I break down common everyday British workplace expressions that you have told me often confuse you. From casual phrases to more formal ones. You'll learn their real meanings and when to expect them so you can respond confidently and follow work conversations with second guessing. Enjoy! AnnaTime Notes:00:00 – Why understanding boosts confidence02:00 – Informal phrases at work04:30 – Formal email language06:00 – Tricky linking words08:00 – Subtle agreement expressions09:45 – Casual workplace slang10:30 – Ways to say “get in touch”12:00 – Describing problems informally13:00 – Signalling agreement14:00 – Scheduling phrases15:00 – Recap and listening tips GET MY FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER - Become a free member and get my weekly round up of tips in the newsletter and extra bonus content INTERESTED IN 1-to-1 COACHING? Register for future places on my programme WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST? Donate a coffee TRANSCRIPTS - do an in-depth review of the episode content LinkedIn @AnnaConnellyInstagram @annabusinessenglishYouTube @annabusinessenglish

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Learning English uses a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

You know, I started this podcast in 2014 so I can help people speak English better. And now, there are so many podcast episodes, It's almost near a thousand. So, check this one out. Today, we're talking about so. Just two letters - S-O. But this little word works overtime in English. We use so to show a result, to give a reason, to add emphasis, and yeah, we even use it when we're not sure what to say next. So let's break it down. I'll show you four ways we use so, with lots of examples to help you sound more natural when you speak English. Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Hey there! It's Michael here — and welcome back to another Happy English Sunday Speak. I'm here every Sunday with a quick one-point tip to help you speak English more naturally.Sometimes, you need to ask someone to wait. In situations like this, you could say “Please wait a moment.” And sure, that's correct English — but it sounds a bit formal and not something we usually say to friends or coworkers. In everyday conversation, we have a more natural and friendly way to ask someone to wait: “Hang on.”Like, when you're on the phone and need to check something. You can say, “Hang on, let me grab my notes.”Or, if you're in the middle of doing something, and your friend says, “Hey, can you look at this?” You can say, “Hang on a second.”Even if someone's talking too fast, you can say, “Whoa, hang on! Say that again?”It's short, casual, and super natural. So next time instead of “Please wait a moment,” just say “Hang on.”And remember to like, follow, and subscribe so you won't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Sunday Speak. Thanks for listening — and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

"Grammar Rules Are Ruining Your English" tackles the counterintuitive truth that obsessing over perfect grammar actually prevents fluency. In this eye-opening episode, I break down 9 ways grammar fixation sabotages your English speaking abilities - from creating conversation anxiety to making you sound robotic instead of natural.You'll discover why focusing too much on rules leads to overthinking, fear of speaking, and missing the cultural nuances that make English sound authentic. Instead of more grammar drills, I'll share practical, immediately usable solutions for each problem - like specific speaking exercises, listening strategies, and mindset shifts that will transform your English.Whether you freeze up during conversations, sound too formal, or avoid speaking altogether, this episode provides the missing piece in your language journey. Learn to break free from the grammar trap and develop the natural, confident English speaking skills you've always wanted.Part of my 365-day English Mastery Course, this episode is perfect for intermediate to advanced learners who feel stuck despite years of traditional study.If you want to sign up for the free English email newsletter, go to https://speakenglishwithtiffani.com/newsletter

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Hey there! It's Michael here — and welcome back to another Happy English Saturday Short, your quick tip for speaking English better.Today, let's look at three really natural phrases: kind of, sort of, and a bit. We use these to soften what we're saying. They make a statement sound less strong, less direct — and that makes your English sound more natural in everyday conversation.For example, let's say you're tired after work. Instead of just saying, “I'm tired,” you can soften it by saying: “I'm kind of tired today.”  Or: “I'm a bit tired after work.” Here's another one. Imagine you saw a movie, but you didn't really love a it, but you don't want to sound too negative. You could say:  “That movie was sort of boring.”  It's not as harsh as, “That movie was boring.”So remember — kind of, sort of, and a bit are like little cushions for your sentences. They soften your opinion and make it sound friendlier and more natural. So, are you kind of ready to try these out in your own conversations? I bet you are! Oh, and don't forget to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Saturday Short. Thanks for listening — and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Hey there! It's Michael here — and welcome back to another Happy English, Phrasal Verb Friday. I'm here every Friday, with a quick, one-point English lesson to help you learn one new phrasal verb and sound more natural when you speak. Today's phrasal verb is jazz up.When you jazz something up, it means you make it more interesting, exciting, or attractive. It's like giving something a little extra style or energy. Like, my friend Lisa was hosting a party last weekend. She jazzed up her living room with some cool lights and a new playlist. At work, Tony jazzed up his presentation by adding some funny memes. And me? Well, I jazzed up my dinner the other night by adding some hot chili sauce.So how about you? Do you like to jazz up your cooking, your house, or maybe even your social media posts? Leave a comment below, and remember to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Phrasal Verb Friday. Thanks for listening — and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

They didn't even say thank you.  Not “they didn't say thank you.” They didn't even say thank you. So… what's the deal with even in negative sentences?In Episode 880, we looked at how to use even in general - like for comparisons and emphasis. But today, we're going to zoom in on something more specific… and honestly, something really common - using even in negative sentences.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

It was very cool this morning. Like around 11 degrees celsius. When I took Max for a walk I was actually surprised it was so cool. Like, there's a nip in the air kinda cool. Boy, I'm hoping this coming winter isn't too cold. Let's see how it goes.These three little words - too, very, and so - all come before adjectives, and they all talk about how much of something there is. Like, how hot, how tall, how tired… but the feeling and intention behind each word is a little different. So today, we're going to break it all down with real examples, and I'll show you exactly how to use them naturally. Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

In this episode of Confident Business English, I provide you with strategies to help you feel more confident when unexpectedly asked to speak in English during meetings. I share 3 practical frameworks to effectively structure responses. I also emphasize the importance of buying time, using simple structures, and shifting your mindset to handle being put on the spot. This forms part of a new Help! series on the podcast. Episodes focused the actual challenges senior managers like you face every day. 00:42 Understanding the Challenge of Being Put on the Spot01:50 Reframing Your Mindset03:37 Practical Tips to Buy Time05:15 The Importance of Structure06:54 Framework 1: 08:46 Framework 2: 11:37 Framework 3: 13:43 Putting It All Together14:53 Conclusion and Final Tips GET MY FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER - Become a free member and get my weekly round up of tips in the newsletter and extra bonus content INTERESTED IN 1-to-1 COACHING? Register for future places on my programme WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST? Donate a coffee TRANSCRIPTS - do an in-depth review of the episode content LinkedIn @AnnaConnellyInstagram @annabusinessenglishYouTube @annabusinessenglish

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Learning English uses a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

I'm so hungry. No time for lunch today. No wonder my stomach is grumbling. That's why i decided to order a double cheeseburger and some fries...at the diner. Because is a great word - and it's totally correct. But when it comes to speaking naturally, we often don't use because directly. Instead, we give the reason in a more casual, fluent way. So today, I'll show you how native English speakers give reasons in conversation - without actually saying because. Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Now, when you want to ask why in English, sure, you can just say “why.” But in everyday conversation, native speakers often use a more casual phrase: “How come?” “How come” means the same as “why,” but it sounds softer, friendlier, and very conversational. And, it's easy to use. You can use it by itself!  Like, your friend says, “I'm skipping lunch today.” You can ask, “How come?” Or your coworker says, “I can't make it to the meeting.” You can ask, “Oh really? How come?”You can also put how come in front of any sentence to make a casual question. Like, if your friend never comes to the karaoke party, you can ask, How come you don't like karaoke? Or if a coworker comes to the office late, you can ask, How come you came late this morning. How come. It's short, casual, and super natural. So next time, instead of just “why,” try saying “How come?”Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

In this episode, we dive into nine powerful strategies to overcome the fear of speaking English and develop authentic confidence when communicating with anyone. Whether you're an intermediate learner struggling with perfectionism or an advanced speaker facing specific social anxiety, these practical techniques will transform your approach to English conversations.We'll explore why prioritizing effective communication over perfect grammar creates immediate breakthrough moments, and how techniques like strategic self-interruption and mastering time-buying phrases can dramatically improve your fluency. You'll discover the "Clarification Safety Net" that prevents misunderstandings, paraphrasing skills that eliminate vocabulary panic, and cultural bridge phrases that transform differences into advantages.The episode also covers the psychology of language confidence through the "Expert in Training" identity shift, conversation recovery techniques that make mistakes irrelevant, and the powerful "Contribution Over Perfection" mindset that fundamentally changes how you approach speaking opportunities.If fear has been holding back your English speaking abilities, this episode provides the concrete tools you need to break through those barriers and speak with genuine confidence in any situation.If you want to sign up for the free English email newsletter, go to https://speakenglishwithtiffani.com/newsletter

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

We often use a negative question like “Isn't this…?” or “Aren't you…?” in conversation. Technically, these are not questions for asking something. They are a casual and friendly way to confirm something or make a suggestion.For example, if you and your friend are at the peir on a sunny day, you might say:   “Isn't this a perfect day for fishing?”  You're not really asking for information — you're confirming what you already think. OR "Aren't these donuts delicious!”Or if you're making a suggestion, you can use the same pattern. Like:  “It's almost 5pm. Isn't it better to take the subway?”  Here, you're giving your suggestion in the form of a question. Here's another one. “The exam is a week away. Shouldn't you start studying?”So remember, negative questions like “Isn't it…?” and “Aren't you…?” are great for confirming ideas or suggesting something in a very natural, conversational way. “Isn't that interesting!” So, aren't you gonna try to use this kind of English in your conversations?Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Today's phrasal verb is slack off.  When you slack off, it means you become lazy about your work, your studies, or your responsibilities. You don't try as hard as you should.Like, my friend Eddie started going to the gym in in July, but by the middle of this month, he really started to slack off. And in the office, Jenny was slacking off all week, so now she has to stay late to finish her project.  And me? Honestly speaking, I've been slacking off on studying Japanese reading and writing. But now that I have Sayaka-sensei's new book, Japanese Kanji from scratch, I'm a lot more motivated. By the way, notice the pronunciation: slack off…slack-koff (2x). We connect the K at the end of slack with off: slack-koff.So how about you? Do you ever slack off — maybe at work, school, or even with your hobbies? Leave a comment below, and remember to follow or subscribe so you don't miss the next Happy English Podcast and next week's Friday Phrasal Verb. Thanks for listening — and until next time, keep learning and keep it cool.Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Hey, let me ask you a question - You've studied English grammar, haven't you?  And you've probably heard tag questions or negative questions before, right? Well, isn't this going to be an interesting lesson for you!It's a nice day, isn't it? That's a Tag Question, and today, I'll show you how these work - and how you can use them to sound more like a native speaker. Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Unless you have something else to do right now, You should listen to this whole podcast episode. And as long as you're listening, why not take notes...In case you want to use the phrases from this lesson in your daily English. These three little phrases - unless, as long as, and in case - all help us talk about situations that might happen. But they each have a different nuance, and getting them right can make your English sound much more natural. Let's dive in!Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Do you ever feel it's hard to convince people of your ideas in English? You feel you are not as persuasive and your sentences are flat. I actually come across this problem frequently with clients. That's why I'd like to help you explain why things matter. I will show you 3 effective English structures you can use to hopefully sound more convincing and help your colleagues understand the importance behind your ideas. Enjoy! Anna GET MY FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER - Become a free member and get my weekly round up of tips in the newsletter and extra bonus content INTERESTED IN 1-to-1 COACHING? Register for future places on my programme WANT TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST? Donate a coffee TRANSCRIPTS - do an in depth review of the episode content LinkedIn @AnnaConnellyInstagram @annabusinessenglishYouTube @annabusinessenglish

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Learning English uses a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

You know what? I've got a question for you. Or… should I say, I have a question for you? Hmm. Which one sounds better? Or… are they both OK?  For many English learners, “have got” can be a little confusing. I mean, we've got “I have a dog,” and “I've got a dog”… and both are correct? What's going on here? Well today, we're going to break it all down — grammar, style, and real-world usage — so you'll know exactly how and when to use “have” and “have got.” Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Hey there! It's Michael here — and welcome back to another Happy English Sunday Speak. Every Sunday, I'll be here with a quick one-point tip to help you speak English more naturally.One thing you need to know how to do in English is to communicate that you understood what someone said. Like if someone gives you directions on the street. You could say, Oh ok, I understand. And sure, that's correct English — but it can sound a little formal or stiff in everyday conversation. In everyday, English conversation, we use the compact form of I understand, gotcha. Gotcha is the short and quick version of “I got what you said.” “I gah-twa-cha-said” “gotcha!Like, your friend says, “Let's meet at 7 instead of 6.” You can just reply, “Gotcha.”Or your coworker says, “Don't forget to send that email before lunch.” You can answer, “Gotcha.”Or if someone gives you directions — “Turn left at the bank and then right at the station.” — you can simply say, “turn left, and then right. Gotcha.”It's short, it's casual, and it sounds super natural. So next time instead of “I understand,” try saying “Gotcha.”So what do you think of these Sunday Speak podcasts? Leave a comment below!Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE 

In this episode of "Speak English With Tiffani," we dive deep into a powerful language learning strategy: how to stop translating and start thinking directly in English. This comprehensive guide breaks down the four critical steps to rewiring your brain for fluent English thought.We'll explore:Step 1: Perception - How to train your brain to receive and process English sounds naturally, creating neural pathways specifically for English without relying on your native language.Step 2: Comprehension - Techniques for understanding English concepts directly, connecting ideas within English itself rather than constantly switching back to your native language.Step 3: Decision-Making - Learning to respond using English communication patterns and cultural norms, helping you develop your unique "English personality."Step 4: Language Formulation - Building English sentences from scratch using authentic patterns rather than translating from your native language structure.Each section includes practical, actionable strategies you can implement immediately to accelerate your progress toward English fluency. Whether you're an intermediate learner struggling with mental translation or an advanced speaker looking to refine your thinking process, this episode provides the blueprint for training your brain to operate naturally in English.Join Tiffani for this transformative lesson on developing authentic English thinking patterns that will dramatically improve your fluency, confidence, and communication effectiveness.If you want to sign up for the free English email newsletter, go to https://speakenglishwithtiffani.com/newsletter

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Hey there! It's Michael here — and welcome back to another Happy English Saturday Short, your quick tip for speaking English better. Today, let's look at a commonly used conversational phrase is “by the way.”We use by the way when we want to add something to the conversation, kind of like when we need to change the topic, or bringing up an extra point. It's casual, friendly, and super common in everyday English.Like of you're at a party, catching up with a friend. You can say something like, “It's great seeing you tonight. Oh, and by the way, how's your brother doing?” OR if you're talking to a coworker about something and you want to bring up another point. The conversation can go like this. “Yea, I finally finished that coding project this morning. Oh, by the way, did you get a chance to check your email?”Using by the way is like saying, “Oh, there's one more thing…” but in a natural, conversational way.Oh, and by the way? What do you think of these Saturday short podcasts? Leave a comment belowJoin my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Hey there! It's Michael here — and welcome back to another Happy English, Friday Phrasal Verb. Every Friday, I'll be here with a quick, one-point English lesson to help you learn one new phrasal verb and sound more natural when you speak.Last week we looked at toy with, which means to consider something not so seriously. Today's phrasal verb is the opposite of that:  mull over. When you mull something over, it means you think about it carefully before making a decision. You're not rushing. You're taking your time to consider the options. Like, my buddy David got a job offer in another city. He said he needs to mull it over before he gives them his  answer. Last week, Emily was thinking about buying a new car, but she told me she wanted to mull it over for a few days first.  And me? I've been mulling over the idea of starting a new project for my students — but I want to be sure it's the right time. By the way, notice the pronunciation: mull over...muh-lover. We link the L at the end of mull with over: muh-lover. Join my Podcast Learner's Study Group here: https://learn.myhappyenglish.com/plsgVisit my website for over 3,000 free English lessons: https://www.myhappyenglish.com/My AI English Tutor is HERE

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.

Learning English use a limited vocabulary and are read at a slower pace than VOA's other English broadcasts. Previously known as Special English.