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In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Suzanne teach you two useful expressions that describe when something is exactly what you need. These expressions are perfect for situations when you get something that suits you perfectly or brings you comfort. You will learn how to use “exactly what the doctor ordered” and “just the ticket” in real-life conversations, as well as understand how these expressions can help you sound more natural in English.
What you will learn:
New expressions: Learn how to say when something is the perfect solution or exactly what you need in a situation.
Usage and context: Understand how to use “exactly what the doctor ordered” and “just the ticket” in different situations through detailed explanations.
Practical examples: Listen to real-world examples of conversations that use these expressions, teaching you how to apply them in your own conversations.
Do's and don’ts: Learn when and where these expressions are most appropriate to use.
How this episode will improve your English:
Bigger vocabulary: Add expressions to your vocabulary that will help you express when something is just right for you.
Better communication: Use these expressions to sound more fluent and natural when talking about solutions or things that make you feel better.
Real-world application: Understand how to use these expressions in everyday conversations, making your English sound more native-like.
The best way to learn with this lesson:
Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, quiz, ad-free audio, and more for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member.
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Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here.
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In this week's bonus episode, Andrew tells a funny story about trying to stop wasting time on his phone and computer. He uses an app to block distracting websites so he can focus better. But instead of staying on track, he discovers a new distraction he didn't expect. Andrew talks about how his plan took an unexpected turn and what he learned from it. He also shares the meaning of the expression, "When God closes a door, he opens a window," and how it fits his experience. Join him to hear about his ironic adventure with technology and staying productive.
How this episode will improve your English:
Listening practice: Improve your listening skills by following Andrew's engaging story about battling digital distractions. Practice understanding natural, conversational English as he shares his personal experiences with technology.
Vocabulary building: Learn useful technology and productivity vocabulary like "distractions," "blocker," "addictive," "time suck," and "productivity." Expand your word bank with terms you'll encounter in everyday conversations about apps and staying focused.
Idioms and expressions: Pick up natural English expressions like "have a hunch," "down the rabbit hole," "rack your brain," "no going back," and "scratch that itch." Understand how these idioms are used in context and add them to your own speech.
Understanding sayings: Learn the meaning of the saying "When God closes a door, he opens a window," and see how Andrew applies it to his own situation. This will help you understand common proverbs used in English.
Pronunciation practice: Listen to the correct pronunciation of new words and phrases. Try mimicking Andrew's speech to improve your own pronunciation and fluency in English.
Cultural tips: Learn how people deal with technology and distractions in English-speaking cultures. Understand common challenges and solutions related to productivity.
Speaking skills: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.
Important links:
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Trying playing Connections
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Fehlende Folgen?
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In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew is joined by his longtime friend Luke, who recently took up scuba diving! Listen in as Luke shares stories about learning to scuba dive in Bali and the Philippines, including the different kinds of dives he experienced and all the training he went through. Andrew and Luke discuss Luke’s diving adventures and the different sights he saw in the ocean – such as a World War II shipwreck! If you're interested in scuba diving or just want to enjoy a natural conversation between two native speakers, then this episode is an excellent way to improve your English skills!
What you will learn:
Vocabulary related to scuba diving, like "buoyancy," "wetsuit," and "oxygen tank"
Information about scuba diving training and essential safety tips
How to talk about personal experiences and new hobbies in English
How this episode will improve your English:
Expand your vocabulary with common words used to talk about sports and adventure activities
Improve your listening skills by following a friendly conversation between native speakers
Learn how native speakers discuss experiences and hobbies, making it easier to talk about your own interests in the future
The best way to learn with this lesson:
Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, quiz, ad-free audio, and more for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member.
Sign up and become a Culips member now!
Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here.
Listen to Chatterbox 152: An interview with Luke from 2015!
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In this week's bonus episode, Andrew tells a funny yet unfortunate tale about some bad luck that he and his wife both experienced with their favorite gadgets at almost the same time! You'll hear about exactly what happened, the lessons they learned, and how they dealt with it all.
How this episode will improve your English:
Listening practice: Follow a real-life story filled with natural speech. Practice understanding a longer, detailed narrative about everyday challenges.
Vocabulary building: Learn useful tech and household vocabulary like “frequency,” “static,” “routine,” and “vicinity.” Master words you might encounter in conversations about gadgets and home life.
Idioms and expressions: Pick up natural expressions like “pump up,” “crime of opportunity,” and “a baddie.” Learn how English speakers talk about responsibility, accidents, and routines in casual language.
Speaking skills: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.
Important links:
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Study with the interactive transcript
Simplified Speech 201 - Audiobooks
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In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew talks with Indiana about her recent trip to Germany. Indiana shares exciting stories about meeting her family in Germany for the first time, seeing amazing castles, and trying new foods. They also talk about the challenges of speaking another language and what it was like to see her family’s culture up close. This episode gives interesting insights into German culture and tips for feeling more comfortable in a foreign country.
What you will learn:
Vocabulary for discussing travel, family reunions, and cultural experiences.
Interesting aspects of German culture and history, including food, language, and traditions.
How this episode will improve your English:
Expand your travel and cultural vocabulary with real-life expressions.
Improve your listening comprehension through listening to a natural conversation between native speakers.
Build confidence using English to talk about travel, culture, and family experiences.
The best way to learn with this lesson:
Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, quiz, ad-free audio, and more for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member.
Sign up and become a Culips member now!
Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here.
Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. -
In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew tells the story of what happened after he hurt his knee during a marathon. He talks about his trip to the doctor, getting different treatments, and what it was like walking around with a leg brace.
How this episode will improve your English:
Listening practice: Follow a natural story about visiting the doctor and dealing with an injury. Practice understanding a longer narrative with real-life details.
Vocabulary building: Learn essential medical and health vocabulary like "orthopedic," "administering," "brace," and "treatment." Master words you might need at the doctor's office.
Idioms and expressions: Pick up natural expressions like "a godsend," "put weight on," and "eye-opening." Learn how English speakers talk about health and recovery.
Speaking skills: Learn how to explain symptoms, describe pain, and talk about medical experiences in natural English.
Real-life English: Get comfortable with doctor-patient conversations and medical situations in English.
Grammar in context: Notice how English speakers tell stories in the past tense and use sequence words to explain events.
English speaking: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.
Important links:
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Study with the interactive transcript
Join the Culips Discord server
Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) -
In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew is joined by Indiana to talk about her recent trip to Iceland. They discuss the stunning landscapes, the unique Icelandic culture, and how she decided to travel to Iceland to go on a nature expedition cruise. Indiana also shares interesting facts about Iceland's history, local traditions, and the memorable experiences she had while traveling to that special island. If you dream of visiting Iceland or just want to improve your English, this episode is for you! It features a natural conversation that will help you practice listening, build your vocabulary, and increase your fluency.
If you’d like to learn more about Indiana, click here to listen to her interview with Andrew from last year.
What you will learn:
Icelandic geography: Learn about the natural beauty of Iceland, from its famous waterfalls to its volcanic landscapes.
Cultural insights: Discover Icelandic traditions, such as the use of unique surnames and the importance of public pools.
Travel experiences: Hear about Indiana's firsthand experiences visiting Reykjavik, exploring the Arctic Circle, and spending ten nights on a tiny cruise ship.
How this episode will improve your English:
Listening skills: Improve your ability to follow natural conversations between native speakers.
Vocabulary expansion: Learn useful travel-related words and phrases that will build your English vocabulary.
Cultural understanding: Increase your knowledge of Icelandic culture and history, making it easier to discuss these topics in English.
Engaging storytelling: Listening to real-life stories will help you stay focused and learn English more effectively.
The best way to learn with this lesson:
Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, quiz, ad-free audio, and more for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member.
Sign up and become a Culips member now!
Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here.
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In this week's bonus episode, Andrew talks about his trip to Gyeongju, South Korea where he participated in the 2024 Gyeongju Marathon. From his pre-race planning and road trip with his friend Jimmy, to the excitement of race day morning, you'll hear all the details of his marathon experience. Andrew shares what it's like to be one of the few international runners at the event, introduces us to the traditional Korean music that welcomed runners at the start line, and opens up about dealing with an unexpected knee injury during the race. Despite the challenges, Andrew stays positive and already has his sights set on his next marathon.
How this episode will improve your English:
Listening practice: Improve your English by following along as Andrew tells a personal story about preparing for and running a marathon in Korea.
Vocabulary building: Learn useful sports and fitness terms like "carb loading," "dialed in" "hit your pace," and "acting up."
Idioms and expressions: Learn everyday idioms like "wasn't in the cards," "to be iffy," "TMI," and "empty the tank." See how these common expressions are used naturally in conversation.
English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.
Important links:
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Study with the interactive transcript
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Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) -
In this episode, Andrew and Anna continue their chat about the challenges and joys of using humor in different languages. They share stories of failed jokes, moments when humor brought people together, and discuss how different cultures approach comedy. They also share their favorite types of comedy and talk about why some people seem naturally funny while others aren’t.
What you will learn:
Vocabulary and expressions related to humor and comedy.
Why some people might be naturally funnier than others.
How language learners can become more comfortable using humor, even when it's difficult.
How you will improve your English with this episode
Grow your understanding of cultural and linguistic differences in humor.
Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between two native speakers.
Learn to recognize different types of humor, such as deadpan and self-deprecating.
Important links:
Become a Culips member
Study with the interactive transcript
Join the Culips Discord server
Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) -
In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about the highs and lows of preparing for his next race in Gyeongju, South Korea. Along the way, he reflects on how running has impacted his life, and he discusses trying to overcome challenges like injuries and tough weather conditions.
What you'll learn:
Listening practice: Improve your English by following along as Andrew talks about his passion for running.
Vocabulary building: Learn useful terms related to fitness and running, like "training block," "runner’s knee," and "PR" (personal record).
Idioms and expressions: Learn new idioms such as “hit a wall” and “tough it out,” and see how they’re used in real-life situations.
English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.
Important links:
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Join the Culips Discord server
Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) -
In this episode, Andrew and Anna talk about comedy and what makes them laugh. They share stories about the types of humor they enjoy and discuss the differences in comedy across cultures, from British and American sitcoms to well-known comedians. Tune in to hear their thoughts and add some fun to your English learning!
What You'll Learn:
Vocabulary related to comedy and humour, such as “deadpan,” “roast,” and “sitcom.”
The differences between British and American humour.
Recommendations for popular TV shows and comedians to check out.
How This Episode Will Improve Your English:
Expand your vocabulary with words and expressions related to comedy and entertainment.
Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between native English speakers.
Learn how to talk about cultural differences in humour and personal experiences.
Important links:
Become a Culips member
Study with the interactive transcript
Join the Culips Discord server
Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) -
Do you love the fall season as much as Andrew does? In this bonus episode, Andrew lists his top six favorite things about autumn. He talks about everything from the freshness of the crisp air to delicious fall desserts. He also talks about how fall is uniquely celebrated in Korea compared to Canada.
What you'll learn:
Listening practice: Improve your English listening skills by following along with a native speaker's discussion about the fall season.
Vocabulary expansion: Learn specific autumn-related vocabulary like "layered look," "crisp air," and "ablaze with color."
Idioms and expressions: Learn idioms such as “ungodly amount of [something]” “double down on [something]” and “knock on wood” and how they are used in everyday conversation.
Cultural tips: Discover the differences in autumn celebrations in Canada and Korea, deepening your global cultural awareness.
Pronunciation practice: Focus on the pronunciation of new vocabulary and expressions within a natural speaking context, improving your speaking and listening accuracy.
English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.
Important links:
Become a Culips member
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Join the Culips Discord server
Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) -
In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna talk about the "Kidult" trend and how strong nostalgia can be. They talk about their favorite childhood toys, like Barbies, Beanie Babies, Legos, and video games. They also discuss how many adults today are returning to these toys by collecting or playing with them again. Plus, they chat about how the toy industry has changed to focus on adults and whether there’s any stigma around adults buying toys for themselves.
What You'll Learn:
Vocabulary related to childhood toys, nostalgia, and collecting.
What the "Kidult" trend is and what Andrew and Anna think about it.
Andrew and Anna’s favorite childhood toys and how they feel about them now.
How This Episode Will Improve Your English:
Learn useful vocabulary and expressions to talk about toys, nostalgia, and childhood memories.
Improve your listening skills by following a fun, easy conversation between two native speakers.
Build confidence in talking about your own childhood experiences and hobbies in English.
Practice speaking English: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.
Important links:
Become a Culips member
Study with the interactive transcript
Join the Culips Discord server
Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) -
In this episode, Andrew talks about saying goodbye to an expat friend who is leaving Korea after many years. He shares his opinion about the differences between expats and immigrants, and discusses the challenges of maintaining friendships as a long-term foreign resident in South Korea. Andrew also talks about ever-changing social circles for immigrants and the sad but true reality of friends returning to their home countries.
This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways:
Listening practice: You'll hear a native English speaker discuss social dynamics and personal relationships, improving your understanding of spoken English in a cultural and relationship context.
New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to immigration, expat life, cultural adaptation, and social relationships.
Useful expressions: Understand common English idioms such as "chew the fat," "down with that," "plant some roots," and "ghettoize" in real-life contexts.
Cultural insights: Learn about the experiences of long-term foreign residents in South Korea, giving you vocabulary to discuss immigration, cultural adaptation, and international friendships in English.
Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of expressions and vocabulary related to immigration, cultural differences, and everyday social situations, which you can practice yourself.
English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.
Important links:
Become a Culips member
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Join the Culips Discord server
Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) -
In this episode, Andrew and Suzanne teach you the meanings and uses of three frequently used adverbs: "typically," "literally," and "practically." The hosts also provide practical examples and tips on effectively using these common but confusing adverbs. Learn how to start using these words in your daily English conversations to improve your fluency and sound more natural.
What You Will Learn:
About adverbs: Understand how and when to use "typically," "literally," and "practically" in English.
Common expressions: Learn common phrases that include these adverbs and how they can improve your communication.
Context and nuance: Discover how the meaning of "literally" changes based on context, and when to use it for emphasis.
How This Episode Will Improve Your English:
Vocabulary building: Expand your vocabulary with three essential adverbs and learn their meanings and uses.
Listening skills: Improve your listening comprehension by following along with a natural English conversation.
Practice speaking English: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.
Important links:
Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member.
Join the Culips Discord server
Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) -
In this episode, Andrew talks about his experience trying out cutting-edge virtual reality technology, the Apple Vision Pro. He describes his first-hand encounter with immersive 3D environments, watching videos, and playing games in virtual reality. Andrew also talks about the current limitations and future applications of this technology.
This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways:
Listening practice: You'll hear a native English speaker describe a complex technological experience in detail, improving your understanding of spoken English in a tech-focused context.
New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to virtual reality, 3D technology, and futuristic concepts.
Useful expressions: Understand common English idioms such as "down the pike," "blow your socks off," "rough around the edges," and "cost prohibitive" in real-life contexts.
Technology trends: Learn about current developments in virtual reality and augmented reality technology, giving you vocabulary to discuss these topics in English.
Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of tech-related terms, brand names, and colloquial expressions, which you can practice yourself.
English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.
Important links:
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In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Kassy share some exciting personal news as Kassy prepares to welcome her first baby. They talk about how she told her family, the prepa-rations she's making, and her experiences during pregnancy. They also discuss how different cultures announce baby news and the use of social media to share family moments. Join An-drew and Kassy as they celebrate this special time in Kassy’s life and help you improve your English skills along the way!
What you will learn:
Vocabulary related to pregnancy, such as "gestational diabetes," "cloth diapering," and "gender reveal party."
Insights into how different cultures celebrate and announce pregnancies.
The pros and cons of using social media to share family news.
This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways:
Grow your vocabulary with common expressions about parenting and family life.
Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between two native English speakers.
Talk about this episode with other Culips listeners on our Discord server and speaking classes.
The best way to learn with this lesson:
Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, quiz, ad-free audio, and more for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member.
Sign up and become a Culips member now!
Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. -
In this episode, Andrew talks about exciting adventures from the final leg of his summer vacation in Banff, Alberta. He recounts the challenges of planning a trip to the Rocky Mountains, his awesome visits to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, and a super-cool jazz concert. Plus, he shares a cute story about an impromptu photo session at Lake Louise!
This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways:
Listening practice: You'll hear a native English speaker tell a detailed story about travel planning, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. This will improve your understanding of spoken English in a real-life context.
New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to travel, natural landscapes, and musical performances.
Useful expressions: Understand common English idioms such as "smooth sailing," "go with the flow," "up another notch," and "compare notes" in real-life contexts.
Canadian culture: Learn about famous Canadian natural attractions, the Banff Center for the Arts and Creativity, and the concept of garage sales in North America.
Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of place names, geographical features, and music-related terminology, which you can practice yourself.
English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.
Important links:
Become a Culips member
Study with the interactive transcript
Join the Culips Discord server
Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) -
In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna discuss teen employment. They share their personal experiences and explore the reasons behind the increasing number of teen jobs in various countries. They talk about their first jobs, the wages they earned, and how these early work experiences influenced their lives. They also compare teen employment in different cultures and discuss how rising living costs affect young workers.
What You'll Learn:
Vocabulary related to teen employment and part-time jobs, such as "stock shelves," "wage," "spare,”, and "paper route/round."
The reasons why teens start working, including gaining financial independence and helping with increasing living expenses.
Personal stories about balancing school and work, and how early jobs can impact academic performance and personal growth.
Cultural differences in teen employment between North America, Europe, and Asia.
How This Episode Will Improve Your English:
Expand your vocabulary with words and expressions used when discussing part-time work and employment.
Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between two native English speakers.
Increase your cultural knowledge about teen jobs in different countries and how these experiences can shape a person's future.
Build confidence in discussing your own experiences and job-related topics in English, including how to describe various entry-level positions and their impact on personal development.
Practice speaking English: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.
Important links:
Become a Culips member
Study with the interactive transcript
Join the Culips Discord server
Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) -
In this episode, Andrew talks about his summer vacation to Kelowna, British Columbia, his hometown. He describes his adventurous flight on a small plane through stormy weather, his experiences staying at his brother's place near the beach, and family activities like mini-golfing. Plus he shares a story about a fun linguistic surprise at a sushi restaurant!
This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways:
Listening practice: You'll hear a native English speaker tell a detailed story about his travel experiences and family reunions. This improves your understanding of spoken English.
New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to air travel, weather conditions, recreational activities, and family gatherings.
Useful expressions: Understand common English idioms such as "par for the course," "white knuckling it," "show someone a thing or two," and "hit the spot" in a real-life context.
Canadian culture: Learn about popular summer activities in a Canadian town, family recreation spots, and the issue of forest fires in Western Canada.
Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of everyday English words, place names, and activity-related vocabulary, which you can practice yourself.
Travel English: Learn vocabulary and expressions useful for describing travel experiences, weather conditions, and leisure activities.
English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.
Important links:
Become a Culips member
Study with the interactive transcript
Join the Culips Discord server
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