Culips Everyday English Podcast

Have you ever seen someone who looks exactly like someone else? In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Kassy teach two fun English expressions: “A dead ringer” and “A spitting image.” You’ll hear clear examples, learn the difference between the two, and understand when and how to use each one.

This episode is great for learning real English expressions used by native speakers. Andrew and Kassy break everything down in a way that’s easy to follow, and they include example conversations that make the meaning of each expression clear. They also share personal stories, cultural tips, and bonus expressions like “two peas in a pod,” “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” and “doppelganger.”








How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary: Learn natural English phrases to talk about people and things that look very similar.
* Listening: Practice understanding clear and natural English through real conversation.
* Speaking: Use the expressions you learn to describe lookalikes and practice talking about your own family in Culips small-group English classes.
* Culture: Discover how these expressions are used in everyday life and where they come from.
* Fluency: Get more confident by hearing repeated examples and practicing with our study guide.

The Best Way to Learn with This Episode:

* 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.Become a Culips member now: Click here.
* 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 episode, Andrew recaps his experience running the 2025 Seoul Marathon. He shares the fun and challenges of race weekend, from eating lots of carbs before the race to jumping over a bike left on the road. He also talks about what it was like to run with thousands of people and even spot someone from a Korean TV show. This story is full of exciting moments, personal thoughts, and useful English.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening: Improve your listening by hearing a real story told in clear, natural English.
* New vocabulary: Learn useful words and phrases about running, eating, weather, and daily life.
* Idioms and expressions: Hear everyday English expressions like “recap,” “soak up the atmosphere,” “guilty pleasure,” “full send,” and “double take.”
* Pronunciation: When you listen to clear and natural English, your ears get used to the sounds. This helps you speak more clearly too. If you can hear how native speakers talk, it becomes easier to copy them and have a better accent.
* Speaking: Join our Culips Discord community and practice using new words and expressions in your own sentences!

Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group speaking class schedule

Have you ever wandered through a store for a long time and still couldn’t find what you needed? In this Real Talk episode, Andrew and Kassy teach you how to ask for help in English when you’re shopping. You’ll learn useful phrases and polite expressions that native English speakers use when they can’t find a product in a supermarket or department store. The episode includes example conversations and clear explanations to help you understand and use the language with confidence.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary: Learn common phrases like “I’m having trouble finding…” and “Do you know if you carry…?”
* Listening: Train your ears to understand natural, clear English conversations in retail settings like grocery stores or shopping malls.
* Speaking: Build confidence by joining small-group English classes and practicing how to use polite and useful phrases for real-world shopping situations.
* Culture: Understand how people ask for help in North American shopping culture.
* Fluency: Spending time with real English conversations will improve your ability to respond naturally and politely in everyday situations.

The Best Way to Learn with This Episode:

* 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. Become a Culips member now: Click here.
* 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 episode, Andrew tells the story of his recent trip to Japan, where he experienced both the best and worst parts of travel. From enjoying delicious local food and relaxing in traditional hot springs to unexpectedly getting sick in Tokyo, Andrew shares the real ups and downs of his adventure. Listening to natural English through personal stories like this is a great way to improve your fluency and build confidence. Tune in to hear about culture, food, travel tips, and an unforgettable ending to the trip.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening: Build your listening comprehension by hearing a native speaker tell a real story using clear and natural English.
* New vocabulary: Learn practical and useful expressions related to travel, food, feeling sick, and daily experiences.
* Idioms and expressions: Pick up common idioms and casual phrases that English speakers use in everyday conversations.
* Pronunciation: Improve your speaking and rhythm by shadowing or repeating after Andrew.
* Speaking: Join our Culips Discord community and practice using new words and expressions in your own sentences!

Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group speaking class schedule

In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Kassy talk all about vegetables \. They compare shopping at local markets with going to big grocery stores. Kassy shares her experience getting fresh produce from a local market near her house and tells us about a fun new vegetable subscription box she signed up for. Andrew talks about the kinds of vegetables he misses from back home and why he sometimes grows his own herbs and veggies. You’ll also hear about the benefits of shopping local, supporting small businesses, and trying farm-to-table food.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary: Learn useful words and expressions about food, markets, and money, like “produce,” “haul,” and “stretch your dollar.”
* Listening: Practice understanding real, natural English as Andrew and Kassy have a fun and friendly conversation.
* Speaking: Build confidence by joining small-group English classes by practicing how to talk about shopping and growing vegetables.
* Culture: Discover cultural differences in food shopping habits and learn about the farm-to-table movement.
* Fluency: Listening to real conversations will help you think in English and express yourself more easily.

The Best Way to Learn with This Episode:

* 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. Become a Culips member now: Click here.
* 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 episode, Andrew and Alina share updates from the Culips community and introduce the April challenge. They read a thoughtful comment from a listener, announce the February challenge winner, and talk about a helpful new feature that will make learning English with Culips even better for you.







How to Join the Culips Discord Server and Participate in the Challenge

* Create a Discord Account: Sign up for free at Discord.
* Download the App: Install Discord on your phone or computer for easy access.
* Join the Culips Server: Click this link to join the Culips English Podcast Discord server:
Join Here.
* Enable the Monthly Challenge Channel:

* From the menu, select Channels and Roles.
* Go to the Browse Channels tab.
* Under the English Learning category, select Monthly Challenge to add it to your menu.


* Access the April Challenge: Click the pin icon at the top of the Monthly Challenge channel to view the April Challenge (available from April 1st).

Join in and start improving your English with the community!

Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group speaking class schedule

In this episode of Chatterbox, Andrew and Anna talk about textures and the way things feel when we touch them. They share interesting and personal stories about their favorite and least favorite textures, from soft cashmere to slimy foods and scratchy sweaters. They also discuss how touch is important in human relationships and how it’s different in cultures around the world. You’ll learn useful English expressions and vocabulary to talk about touch, feelings, and personal preferences.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary: Learn everyday words and expressions like soft, firm, fluffy, scratchy, and touchy-feely that will help you talk about textures and feelings.
* Listening: Train your ears with real, natural English as Andrew and Anna share fun, friendly stories and opinions.
* Speaking: Boost your speaking skills by practicing how to describe your personal likes and dislikes with textures and materials.
* Culture: Discover how people from different countries think about touch in daily life and social situations.
* Fluency: Improve your overall English by listening to a full conversation with clear examples, real emotions, and natural grammar.

The Best Way to Learn with This Episode:

* 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. Become a Culips member now: Click here.
* 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 episode, Andrew shares a couple more stories from his recent trip to Hawaii and reflects on some unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences he and his wife had during their travels. Listening to authentic, natural English from a native speaker is one of the best ways to improve your English skills and become fluent faster. So tune in to hear about their everyday adventures, unexpected moments, and the interesting experiences they had along the way!








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening: Build your listening comprehension by following a native speaker share personal stories in authentic, everyday English.
* New vocabulary: Learn useful and natural expressions related to travel, daily life, and surprise experiences.
* Idioms and expressions: Pick up real-life idioms and phrasal verbs that native speakers use in casual conversations.
* Pronunciation: Improve your pronunciation, flow, and intonation through shadowing or listen-and-repeat practice.
* Speaking: Join our Culips Discord community and practice using new words and expressions in your own sentences!

Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group speaking class schedule

Have you ever felt like a kid again while doing something fun? In this episode, Andrew and Kassy talk about how we all have a child inside us. They share stories about playful moments in their lives and discuss why keeping a sense of fun and wonder is important, even as adults. Andrew and Kassy also talk about how staying connected to your inner child can reduce stress and improve mental health. They share fun ways to bring more playfulness into your daily life, including hobbies, sports, and creative activities.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary: Learn new words and expressions related to childhood, creativity, and fun activities.
* Listening: Practice understanding natural English conversations about memories, hobbies, and fun activities.
* Speaking: Build confidence by joining small-group English classes and practicing how to talk about your own childhood experiences in English.
* Culture: Discover how different cultures value play, creativity, and reconnecting with childhood joy.
* Fluency: Spending time with real English conversations will train your brain to think in English and help you speak more naturally.

The Best Way to Learn with This Episode:

* 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. Become a Culips member now: Click here.
* 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 episode, Andrew shares his plans for the upcoming Seoul Marathon. He discusses his preparation struggles due to recent illness, travel, and limited training time. You'll hear about his plans with his running buddy, Jimmy, his strategy to enjoy the marathon without stressing about his personal record, and his thoughts about dealing with challenging weather conditions on race day.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening: Practice your listening skills by hearing Andrew naturally discuss his marathon preparations and expectations.
* New vocabulary: Expand your vocabulary with useful words and phrases like "booked up," "bout," "ramping up," "stagger," and "smash a PR," to clearly express yourself about personal challenges or achievements.
* Idioms and expressions: Learn everyday expressions like "pump someone's tires," "the Goldilocks zone," and "it all boils down to," to sound more natural when speaking English.
* Pronunciation: Improve your pronunciation, rhythm, and intonation through shadowing or listen-and-repeat practice using Andrew's natural speech.
* Speaking: Join our Culips Discord community and practice using new words and expressions in your own sentences!

Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group speaking class schedule

Waiting is a part of everyday life. Whether you’re stuck in traffic, waiting for a job offer, or standing in line at the store, waiting can feel frustrating. In this episode, Andrew and Anna explore the psychology of waiting, discussing why some waiting feels harder than others and how cultural differences affect our patience. They also share personal stories about waiting, including long lines at government offices and waiting for language skills to improve.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary: Learn useful North American and UK English expressions such as "queuing," “standing in line,” "pushing in," and “cutting in line,” to talk about waiting and patience.
* Listening: Improve your understanding by hearing natural conversations about real-life situations.
* Speaking: Get ideas for how to express frustration, share opinions, and describe your experiences with waiting.
* Culture: Understand how different countries view waiting, from fast-paced city life to slow-moving rural areas.
* Fluency: Listening to real conversations between native speakers helps you think in English and express yourself more naturally.

The Best Way to Learn with This Episode:

* 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. Become a Culips member now: Click here.


* 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 episode, Andrew shares stories from his recent trip to Hawaii. He talks about visiting famous places like Waikiki Beach, snorkeling in Hanauma Bay, and hiking up Diamond Head. Along the way, he reflects on fun moments with his wife, the excitement of exploring new places, and even a few surprises. You’ll feel like you’re right there with him as he brings his Hawaiian adventure to life.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening: Improve your listening skills by hearing Andrew talk naturally about his travel experiences in Hawaii.
* New vocabulary: Build your vocabulary with useful words and phrases like whirlwind trip, propel, vital, and to be wiped out, so you can express yourself clearly when speaking about travel or daily life.
* Idioms and expressions: Understand and practice expressions such as hit the ground running, check the boxes, and get off the beaten path, helping you sound natural when talking with native speakers.
* Pronunciation: Use this episode for shadowing or listen-and-repeat practice to improve your pronunciation, rhythm, and intonation.
* Speaking: Join our Culips Discord community and practice using new words and expressions in your own sentences!

Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group speaking class schedule

In this episode, you’ll hear Andrew and Indiana talk about Indiana’s recent surgery and recovery. They use real-life English to discuss medical vocabulary, including words like “cartilage” and “labrum,” and explain how to describe pain and injuries. Indiana shares her experience of getting a diagnosis, deciding on surgery, and going through recovery. This is a great opportunity for you to learn medical terms in context, improve your listening skills, and hear how native speakers talk about health and personal experiences.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary: Learn useful medical terms like cartilage, anesthesia, and physical therapy to talk about injuries and treatments.
* Listening: Train your ears to understand natural English as Andrew and Indiana discuss healthcare, pain management, and exercise.
* Speaking: Build confidence by joining small-group English classes by practicing how to talk about personal experiences, ask about someone’s health, and describe medical issues.
* Culture: Compare different healthcare systems and understand how medical treatments work in different countries.
* Fluency: Exposure to real conversations will help you think in English and express yourself more easily.

The Best Way to Learn with This Episode:

* 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. Become a Culips member now: Click here.
* 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.
* Watch the video version of this episode on YouTube.

In this episode, Andrew shares the exciting conclusion of his hiking trip in South Korea with his best friend, Luke. After a chaotic morning rushing to catch a bus, they finally arrive in Taebaek, a small mountain town. Their adventure continues with beautiful snowy trails, a surprise trail closure, and an unexpected challenge at the top of the mountain. As always, you’ll hear natural English and pick up useful vocabulary, expressions, and cultural insights.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening: Get better at understanding natural English by following along with a fun and engaging real-life story.
* New vocabulary: Pick up useful words and phrases like spur of the moment, groggy, and to keep an eye on something.
* Idioms and expressions: Hear common expressions in action, such as a rude awakening, hoof it, and clued in, and learn how to use them naturally.
* Pronunciation: Listen to how Andrew changes his speed and tone to create suspense and keep the story interesting.
* Speaking: Join our Culips Discord community and practice using new words and expressions in your own sentences!

Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group speaking class schedule
* Learn more about Taebaeksan

In this episode of Catch Word, Andrew and Indiana teach you two useful English expressions: "knee jerk reaction" and "off the cuff." These expressions describe spontaneous reactions, one for quick emotional responses and the other for acting without preparation. Through fun conversations and clear examples, you'll learn how to use these expressions naturally in daily life!








How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary: Learn how to naturally and correctly use common everyday English expressions like "knee jerk reaction" " (a quick, emotional response without thinking) and "off the cuff” (speaking or acting without preparation).
* Listening: Improve your listening skills with a natural conversation between native speakers, featuring real-life examples and clear explanations of these phrases.
* Culture: Learn how English speakers use these phrases in daily life, from workplace discussions to casual chats.
* Fluency: Training your ear with real English will help you think and speak more confidently.

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 episode, Andrew and Alina share updates about the Culips community. They talk about the fun activities happening recently including small-group speaking classes and monthly challenges. They read a nice review from a listener named Coco, who joined the classes and loved them. They also spin a prize wheel to pick a winner from the January challenge. Alina introduces the new March challenge, which will help learners understand and use the tricky verb “get.” Finally, they talk about the schedule for upcoming speaking classes. Even though both Andrew and Alina are feeling a little sick, they power through the episode to bring all the latest news from Culips!

How to Join the Culips Discord Server and Participate in the Challenge

* Create a Discord Account: Sign up for free at Discord.
* Download the App: Install Discord on your phone or computer for easy access.
* Join the Culips Server: Click this link to join the Culips English Podcast Discord server: Join Here.
* Enable the Monthly Challenge Channel:

* From the menu, select Channels and Roles.
* Go to the Browse Channels
* Under the English Learning category, select Monthly Challenge to add it to your menu.


* Access the March Challenge: Click the pin icon at the top of the Monthly Challenge channel to view the March Challenge (available from March 1st).

Join in and start improving your English with the community!

Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group speaking class schedule

In this episode, Andrew and Anna explore the impact of sound on our daily lives. From the noises that wake us up in the morning to the background sounds that shape our work, relaxation, and social interactions, they discuss how these sounds affect our mood, focus, and overall well-being. Tune in to learn how sound impacts daily life and boost your English skills at the same time!








How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary: Learn useful expressions like "placebo effect," "to gab away," and "to make one's blood boil" to describe reactions, conversations, and strong emotions.
* Listening: Improve your listening skills with a natural conversation about how sounds affect our daily lives, sleep, and focus.
* Speaking: Gain confidence by discussing your own experiences with sound and how it influences your mood and routines.
* Culture: Discover how different cultures react to noise, from quiet train cars in Korea to lively restaurant terraces in Spain.
* Fluency: Improve your overall English skills by listening to real conversations that help train your ears and mind to think in English.

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 episode, Andrew shares a funny but stressful story about how a hiking trip almost went wrong before it even started. He talks about losing his wallet, missing a subway, and rushing to catch a bus just in time. This real-life story is easy to understand and will help you improve your English while enjoying an exciting adventure.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening: Hear natural English as Andrew describes a real-life story with excitement and detail. Pay attention to how he tells the story and expresses emotions.
* New vocabulary: Learn useful words and phrases related to travel, problem-solving, and making quick decisions, like get the wheels in motion and rifling through.
* Idioms and expressions: Discover expressions like go with the flow and in the midst of and see how they make storytelling more engaging.
* Pronunciation: Listen to how Andrew changes his speed and tone to create suspense and keep the story interesting.
* Speaking: Join our Culips Discord community and share a time when you had to deal with an unexpected situation. Practice using the new words and expressions in your own sentences!

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 of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Kassy share stories about their latest travels. Kassy talks about her trip to Thailand with her four-month-old son. She explains what it was like to ride a speedboat and go through airport security with a baby. Andrew describes his plan to visit Taebaek, the small Korean city where he first lived. He looks forward to hiking the local mountain and seeing how much the city has changed. Listen to learn useful English words and phrases about travel, family, and exploring new places!








How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary: Learn new words and expressions about traveling, flying with a baby, and planning a holiday trip.
* Listening: Practice understanding natural, easy-to-follow English conversations about everyday life and travel.
* Speaking: Gain confidence by discussing your own travel stories with friends or in Culips small-group English classes.
* Culture: Hear about what it’s like to visit Thailand with a baby and learn about local food and customs in Korea.
* Fluency: Improve your overall English skills by listening to real conversations that help train your ears and mind to think in English.

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.

Episode description:
In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Indiana talk about winter and how it can make people feel sad or tired. They share their own winter experiences from places like Korea and the United States. Andrew and Indiana explain why winter can be hard and give simple tips to feel better, such as getting enough sunlight, exercising, and staying warm. They also talk about fun winter activities and ways to stay happy during the cold months. Listen to improve your English and learn how to beat the winter blues and enjoy the season!








How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary: Learn useful expressions like "down in the dumps," "no pain, no gain," and "there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing."
* Listening: Practice understanding natural English conversations about dealing with the winter blues and staying motivated during cold months.
* Speaking: Build confidence by joining small-group English classes to discuss topics from this episode.
* Culture: Discover how different countries, like Canada and the United States, experience winter and the traditions they have during the season.
* Fluency: Listening to real English conversations will help you understand how the language works and train your brain to think in English.

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 episode, Andrew talks about going to his nephew’s elementary school graduation and realizing the power of celebrating small wins. He shares how a simple ceremony can bring families closer, boost confidence, and lead to bigger successes. He also explains why supporting each other’s achievements, even when they seem small, can make a big difference. This real-life story will help you improve your English skills and become a better communicator.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening: Hear natural, everyday English as Andrew describes his day at the graduation and how it changed his perspective on small victories.
* New Vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to school ceremonies, encouragement, and showing support to loved ones.
* Idioms and Expressions: Discover helpful English expressions like “no easy feat,” “to miss by just a hair,” and “in the whole scheme of things,” and see how they are used in real conversations.
* Pronunciation: Listen for how Andrew clearly pronounces words, stresses important syllables, and connects phrases. Then practice repeating short parts of the episode to develop your pronunciation skills and speak more clearly.
* Speaking: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server, share your own surprise stories, and practice using new vocabulary in casual conversations.

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 Catch Word episode, Andrew and Indiana teach you two useful English idioms: "can't stomach something" and "makes my skin crawl." These expressions are perfect for describing strong negative reactions, like disgust or fear. Together, Andrew and Indiana break down the meanings of these idioms, share real-life examples, and discuss how to use these expressions in a wide variety of situations.









How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary: Learn useful expressions like "gory," "to scurry," and "creeped out" to use in everyday English.
* Listening: Understand common English idioms that you will hear in everyday situations.
* Speaking: Build confidence by joining small-group English classes to discuss topics from this episode and practice these idioms.
* Culture: Discover which situations these expressions are appropriate for and when they might sound too strong or rude.
* Fluency: Spending time with real English will help you understand how the language works and train your brain to think in English.

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 episode, Andrew and Alina share exciting news about February's free grammar challenge on countable and uncountable nouns. Learn how to join the challenge by signing up for the Culips Discord server, participating in fun, easy tasks every second day, and earning a completion certificate. Plus, discover other ways to connect with the Culips community and improve your English. Don’t miss it!







How to Join the Culips Discord Server and Participate in the Challenge

* Create a Discord Account: Sign up for free at Discord.
* Download the App: Install Discord on your phone or computer for easy access.
* Join the Culips Server: Click this link to join the Culips English Podcast Discord server: Join Here.
* Enable the Monthly Challenge Channel:

* From the menu, select Channels and Roles.
* Go to the Browse Channels
* Under the English Learning category, select Monthly Challenge to add it to your menu.


* Access the February Challenge: Click the pin icon at the top of the Monthly Challenge channel to view the February Challenge (available from February 1st).

Join in and start improving your English with the community!

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 of Simplified Speech, Andrew talks with Mikael about Norway, a country with beautiful fjords, long winters, and tasty seafood. Mikael shares fun facts about life in Norway, like their famous brown cheese, exciting holidays, and how they stay cozy during dark winters. They also talk about Norwegian traditions, popular foods, and the best places to visit. It’s a fun way to learn about Norway and improve your English skills at the same time!








How this episode will improve your English:


* Vocabulary: Learn useful expressions like "pitch black," "take it in stride"," and "rite of passage" to use in everyday English.
* Listening: Practice understanding natural English conversations with this discussion about Norway.
* Speaking: Build confidence by joining small-group English classes to discuss topics from this episode.
* Culture: Discover interesting facts about Norway’s traditions, foods, and daily life.
* Fluency: Spending time with real English will help you understand how the language works and train your brain to think in English.

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.

Speaking classes with this episode:

We’ll be discussing this episode in the following small-group conversation classes. To join the classes, you must be a Culips member.

* March 1st, 2025 with Alina at 11:00 AM Ireland time (GMT +0)
* March 4th, 2025 with Andrew at 8:00 PM Korea time (GMT +9)
* March 11th, 2025 with Indiana at 7:00 PM Eastern Standard time (GMT-5)

All classes happen on Zoom and last for one hour. To see the schedule in your time zone and learn how to join the classes, click here: https://esl.culips.com/online-classes-schedule/

Links mentioned in this episode:

* More About Mikael - Listen to our previous episode featuring Mikael’s interview.
* Alina’s Trip to Norway - Learn about Alina’s experience and her favorite Norwegian foods.
* Flåklypa Movie Trailer - Watch the trailer for the stop-motion movie Mikael mentioned.

In this episode, Andrew tells the story of how he surprised his parents at Christmas. He shares the big reveal, their shocked reactions, and how they spent the holiday. He also talks about what he did during the rest of his visit and how he felt about surprising them. This real-life story will help you improve your English skills and become a better communicator.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening: Hear natural, everyday English as Andrew shares a real-life story about surprising his parents at Christmas.
* New Vocabulary: Learn words and phrases about family gatherings, holiday traditions, and making last-minute arrangements during the festive season.
* Idioms and Expressions: Learn useful English expressions like “to be taken aback,” “the more the merrier,” and “to break the ice,” and see how they’re used in real conversations.
* Pronunciation: Listen to Andrew’s intonation and rhythm, then practice repeating short clips of the episode to build your fluency and sound more natural.
* Speaking: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server, share your own surprise stories, and practice using new vocabulary in casual conversations.

Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Join Andrew as he talks with Mikael, a special guest from Norway. Mikael shares how he learned English and got interested in programming and making video games. He also tells the story of how he met Culips team member Alina through a pen pal app years ago. If you want to know Mikael’s tips for learning English and learn some cool video game vocabulary, this episode is perfect for you!








How this episode will improve your English:

* Build your vocabulary: Learn useful gaming and tech words like “roguelike” and everyday phrases like “head bashing against the wall.”
* Improve your pronunciation: Listen to clear and natural English from native and non-native speakers to sound more fluent.
* Learn about culture: Discover how Norwegians learn English and how gaming connects people worldwide.
* Sharpen your listening skills: Understand real-life English by listening to a fun, engaging conversation.
* Practice speaking: Join the speaking classes about this episode (schedule below) to build confidence and improve your conversation skills.

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.

Speaking classes with this episode:

We’ll be discussing this episode in the following small-group conversation classes. To join the classes, you must be a Culips member.

* February 22nd, 2025 with Alina at 11:00 AM Ireland time (GMT +0)
* February 27th, 2025 with Andrew at 8:00 PM Korea time (GMT +9)
* March 4th, 2025 with Indiana at 7:00 PM Eastern Standard time (GMT-5)

All classes happen on Zoom and last for one hour. To see the schedule in your time zone and learn how to join the classes, click here:

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew shares a story about his quick trip to Vancouver before heading to his hometown for Christmas. He talks about flying in from Seoul, meeting his best friend Luke, and enjoying Canadian treats like poutine. Andrew also faced some challenges, like rainy weather and lost luggage, but still found time to watch a hockey game and explore the city. As you listen, you’ll learn useful English expressions such as “we go way back” and “caught up with me,” and improve your fluency while having fun with Andrew’s adventure.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening: Hear natural, everyday English as Andrew shares a real-life story about traveling to Vancouver, meeting his best friend, and exploring the city.
* New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases about traveling, winter activities, and spending time with friends.
* Idioms and expressions: Understand common English expressions like “mission accomplished,” “to fend off,” and “to be wiped.”
* Pronunciation: Listen to Andrew’s rhythm and intonation, then practice speaking along to improve your fluency and confidence.
* Speaking: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server to practice conversational English and share your own stories.

Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)
* Listen to Simplified Speech 205 - Learning to Scuba with Luke

Andrew and Anna talk about modern identity labels that people use in their daily lives. They look at labels for work, relationships, finances, and more. Some examples include WFH (work from home), solopreneur (running a business alone), and dink (double income, no kids). They also discuss terms for different generations, like millennial and zoomer, and relationship labels like situationship. Andrew and Anna explain what these words mean, how people use them, and why these labels have become popular. This episode will help you understand new English vocabulary and learn more about Western culture.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Build Vocabulary and Learn Idioms: Expand your English vocabulary with terms like "DINK(Y)" and "situationship," and understand idioms such as "out of touch" to improve your conversational English.
* Practice Listening Skills: Improve your listening skills by following native English speakers' natural speech patterns, tone, and rhythm in real-life discussions.
* Improve English Pronunciation: Hear and mimic correct pronunciation of challenging words like "Achilles heel" and "mollycoddled" to sound more fluent in English.
* Speak English with Confidence: Use new expressions from this episode in your conversations to improve fluency and natural speech. Join our Discord server and participate in our speaking classes to practice these expressions in real-life discussions with other English learners and our teachers.
* Learn English Culture Through Language: Explore how cultural trends influence vocabulary and understand phrases related to modern lifestyles, like "empty nester" or "slashie."

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.

Speaking classes with this episode:

We’ll be discussing this episode in the following small-group conversation classes. To join the classes, you must be a Culips member.

* February 15th, 2025 with Alina at 11:00 AM Ireland time (GMT +0)
* February 20th, 2025 with Andrew at 8:00 PM Korea time (GMT +9)
* February 25th, 2025 with Indiana at 7:00 PM Eastern Standard time (GMT-5)

All classes happen on Zoom and last for one hour. To see the schedule in your time zone and learn how to join the classes, click here: https://esl.culips.com/online-classes-schedule/

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew shares a story about how his New Year’s plans took an unexpected turn. After a fun trip to Canada, he returned to South Korea feeling under the weather. Despite his plans to start the year with a bang, he spent the first few days battling jet lag and coming down with something. Andrew also talks about celebrating New Year’s Eve with his wife and gives us a glimpse of his gift exchange. As you listen, you’ll learn useful English expressions like “coming down with something” and “start with a bang,” while improving your vocabulary, fluency, and listening skills.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening: Hear natural, everyday English as Andrew shares a personal story about his New Year’s experience in a clear, easy-to-understand way.
* New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases about winter, feeling sick, and celebrating holidays.
* Idioms and expressions: Understand common expressions like "rest up," "work up an appetite," and "sometimes life throws you a curveball.”
* Pronunciation: Listen to Andrew’s rhythm and intonation, then practice speaking along to improve your fluency and confidence.
* Speaking: 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 of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Indiana discuss her recent move to a new house. They talk about the exciting but exhausting process of buying and moving into a home, the challenges of unpacking, and the traditions surrounding moving day. Indiana shares her experience of house hunting for months and finally settling into her new space, while Andrew reflects on his own moving experiences.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Learn new vocabulary and expressions: The episode includes everyday expressions like "every waking hour" and "go to town," which you can use in conversations to sound more natural.
* Improve listening skills: Listening to real conversations helps you understand how native speakers talk, including their speed, tone, and pronunciation.
* Practice pronunciation: By listening carefully, you can hear how words are pronounced and try saying them yourself to match.
* Understand everyday topics: The discussion about moving houses teaches useful vocabulary related to daily life, like "house hunting" and "moving truck."
* Gain confidence in speaking: Hearing casual conversations can help you feel more confident in using English for similar discussions in your life.

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: Click here.
* Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.

Happy 2025! In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew gets the new year off to an exciting start by sharing some big plans for the months ahead. As you listen, you’ll pick up practical English expressions, discover useful fluency tips, and hear about a special membership sale you won’t want to miss. Let’s make this a fantastic year of learning and growth together!

In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Kassy reflect on their most memorable moments from 2024, sharing stories about their personal highlights of the year. From family visits and exciting travel experiences to special moments of growth and achievement, they discuss what made this year truly unforgettable.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Improved vocabulary: Learn new words and expressions related to personal experiences, milestones, and emotions.
* Better listening skills: Understand how native speakers use casual language to share stories and reflect on the past.
* Practical English: Learn how native speakers talk about their experiences and feelings and learn how to discuss important moments in your own life.

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 shares a story about trying to celebrate his mother-in-law’s birthday. At first, they planned a hike, but heavy snow forced them to change their plans over and over again. In the end, he and his family enjoyed a cozy, indoor party instead. You’ll also hear about a funny surprise about his father-in-law’s new look! As you listen, you will learn useful English expressions and build your fluency.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening: Hear natural, everyday English as Andrew tells a personal story in a clear, understandable way.
* New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to family gatherings, food, and cultural traditions.
* Idioms and expressions: Learn common English expressions used in real-life situations and understand how to include them in your own conversations.
* Pronunciation: Listen carefully to Andrew’s rhythm and intonation, then practice speaking along to sound more confident and fluent.
* Speaking: 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 of Simplified Speech, Andrew talks with new-mom, Kassy! She recently gave birth to a healthy baby boy, and she tells us all about her pregnancy, childbirth, and the early days of caring for a newborn. Listen to hear about her daily routine, the unexpected challenges she faced, and the cultural differences that shape her new life as a parent.








What you will learn:

* Cultural Insights: Discover how birth and parenting practices differ in Korea, especially in terms of hospital policies and traditions like the "100th day" celebration.
* Parenting Vocabulary: Learn helpful English terms related to pregnancy, childbirth, and baby care.
* Family Life Challenges: Understand the common struggles of new parents, including diapering, breastfeeding, and adjusting to a new routine.
* Personal Stories: Hear Kassy's unique experiences and lessons from her journey into motherhood.

How this episode will improve your English:

Vocabulary Expansion: Learn useful expressions and terms related to parenting, family life, and cultural traditions.

Listening Skills: Improve your ability to follow natural conversations and personal stories between native speakers.

Cultural Understanding: Gain insight into family dynamics and cultural differences, enhancing your ability to understand real-life situations.

Practical Expressions: Pick up everyday phrases that can help you discuss family life and personal experiences in English.

The Best Way to Learn with This Episode:

* 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.
* Become a Culips member now: Click here.
* 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 talks about the Oxford Dictionary’s top English words for 2024. Follow along as he breaks down each word, explains how to use it naturally, and shares why these words capture our changing culture. As a special treat, he even introduces a brand-new word he created himself!








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening: Get better at understanding spoken English as Andrew clearly explains each word’s meaning and usage.
* New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases tied to modern life and culture.
* Idioms and expressions: Pick up new expressions and learn how to use them into your own sentences.
* Cultural knowledge: Discover how language reflects what people care about today.
* Pronunciation: Listen closely to Andrew’s natural speech and copy him to practice sounding more fluent and confident.
* Speaking: 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)

What’s the best concert you’ve ever been to? In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Indiana talk about some of the best live music shows they’ve ever seen. They share what made these concerts special, from the wild energy of mosh pits to the excitement of finding new bands. This episode is perfect for English learners who love music and want to improve their listening skills and learn about the cultural side of English. And who knows, you might even discover a new band you really like!








How this episode will improve your English:

* Grow your English listening skills: Hear a real, everyday English conversation between native speakers about concerts and music.
* Learn new music vocabulary: Discover words like “psych rock,” “crowdsurfing,” “moshing,” and “opener” and understand how to use them.
* Get cultural insights: Understand concert culture in English-speaking countries and learn about well-known bands, like Talking Heads and Weezer.
* Stay motivated with fun topics: Enjoy learning English by listening to stories and experiences about live music shows you’ll find interesting.

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.
* Click here to listen to a playlist of the bands mentioned in this episode!

In this bonus episode, Andrew shares the rollercoaster of events he experienced this week, from staying glued to the news during a major political moment in South Korea to tackling an important health check-up. With humor and honesty, he reflects on how these moments shaped his week.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening practice: Practice following real-life stories told in clear, natural English.
* New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases about health, news, and everyday life, such as “in flux,” “flush my system,” and “the nitty gritty.”
* Idioms and expressions: Learn common expressions like “stick your head in the sand,” “doom and gloom,” and “hold up.” Try using them in your own sentences.
* Cultural knowledge: Get a look at South Korean culture, healthcare, and how major events impact daily life.
* Pronunciation practice: Hear Andrew’s natural intonation and pacing to improve your own English fluency.
* Speaking skills: 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)
* Listen to bonus episode 33

In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew is joined by Alina to discuss her recent spontaneous trip to Norway. Alina shares how she made a last-minute decision to visit the country, motivated by her love for Scandinavian coffee and her desire to experience the famous Norwegian sauna. Throughout the episode, Alina also talks about her first impressions of Norway, the challenges of traveling spontaneously, and some cultural surprises she encountered. Join the conversation to hear about Alina’s quick getaway and how sometimes the best travel experiences are the ones you don’t plan!








How this episode will improve your English:


* Vocabulary building: Learn expressions related to spontaneous decisions, travel, and cultural experiences.
* New expressions: Understand and use useful expressions like "to sleep on it," "a far cry," and "to follow suit" in everyday conversations.
* Listening skills: Improve your ability to follow a natural, real-life conversation between two fluent speakers.
* Cultural context: Gain a better understanding of how travel experiences and cultural norms can differ between countries, helping you in international discussions.

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 takes you on a fun Sunday trip through Jegidong, a neighborhood in Seoul. Follow along as he and his wife find a small, hidden Chinese restaurant and visit a lively local market, buying fresh fruit and enjoying the busy, bustling atmosphere. To top it all off, they relax at a café with a fascinating history as an old movie theater.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening Practice: Get better at understanding English by following Andrew’s interesting and easy-to-follow stories. Hear how native speakers talk in everyday conversations.
* New Vocabulary: Learn words about food, markets, and exploring cities. Discover phrases like “hole-in-the-wall,” “bustling,” and “medicinal ingredients.”
* Idioms and Expressions: Pick up fun sayings like “chow down,” “go to town,” and “pat yourself on the back.” See how they’re used and try them in your own sentences.
* Cultural Knowledge: Learn about life in Korea, the food people love, and what makes local neighborhoods special.
* Pronunciation Practice: Listen to Andrew’s clear and natural speech. Copy his way of speaking to sound more fluent and confident in English.
* Speaking skills: 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 of Chatterbox, Andrew and Anna discuss the important topic of office etiquette. They share tips and opinions on workplace culture, including dress codes, handling awkward situations, and maintaining a harmonious office environment. You'll also hear about how cultural differences influence workplace behavior and why certain habits, like strong perfumes or noisy eating, might cause friction in shared spaces.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary building: Learn key expressions related to workplaces, office culture, and clothing styles.
* Listening skills: Improve your ability to follow natural conversations between native speakers.
* Cultural context: Learn about workplace expectations and cultural differences, making it easier to connect in international professional settings.

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 shares his experience receiving a surprise care package from San Francisco. While unpacking delicious American treats with his wife, he reflects on his own journey with homesickness in South Korea and how care packages helped him adjust to life abroad. Listen as Andrew humorously describes his weakness for peanut butter cups and why his wife had to become the official "snack manager" in their house.








How this episode will improve your English:

* Listening practice: Get better at understanding English by following Andrew's story. Practice understanding natural, conversational English as he shares personal experiences and memories.
* Vocabulary building: Learn useful vocabulary related to living abroad like "care package," "homesickness," "non-perishable," "expat," and "self-control." Expand your word bank with terms commonly used when discussing cultural differences and international living.
* Idioms and expressions: Pick up natural English expressions like "the odds are," "work up an appetite," "pig out," and "leave someone in the lurch." Understand how these idioms are used in context and add them to your own speech.
* Cultural understanding: Learn about care packages, a common practice in Western cultures for showing care to loved ones living far away.
* Pronunciation practice: Listen to the correct pronunciation of new words and phrases. Practice copying Andrew's natural speech patterns to improve your own pronunciation and fluency.
* Speaking skills: 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 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.
* 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 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:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Trying playing Connections
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

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!
* 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 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:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Simplified Speech 201 - Audiobooks
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

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:

* Become a Culips member
* 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.
* 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 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:

* 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 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:

* 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 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
* Study with the interactive transcript
* 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
* Study with the interactive transcript
* 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:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

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
* Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

In this Culips episode, Andrew and Kassy talk about audiobooks. They discuss how audiobooks have become more popular in recent years. Andrew shares his experience of listening to audiobooks while running, and Kassy talks about why she has limited experience with them. They also talk about the good and bad points of audiobooks compared to reading regular books.








This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways:


* Listening practice: You'll hear two native English speakers have a natural conversation about audiobooks. This will help you get better at understanding spoken English.
* New vocabulary: Learn words and expressions related to books and technology.
* Everyday expressions: Hear common English idioms and expressions used in context, such as "Cringeworthy" and "Make it or break it."
* Cultural knowledge: Learn about how people in English-speaking countries enjoy books in different ways.
* Pronunciation: Listen to clear English pronunciation, which you can practice repeating.
* Conversation skills: 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 his recent trip to Canada, focusing on his visit to Victoria, British Columbia. He describes his journey from Vancouver to Victoria by ferry, a whale-watching adventure with his wife and an old friend, and a barbecue party with his former bandmates. Andrew shares details about seeing orca and humpback whales, visiting Race Rocks to observe sea lions and seals, and an unexpected change of plans due to COVID-19.








This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways:

* Listening practice: You'll get to hear a native English speaker tell a detailed story about his travel experiences and reunions with friends. This helps improve your understanding of spoken English, especially in story form.
* New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to travel, marine life, and social gatherings.
* Useful expressions: Understand common English idioms and colloquialisms such as "hightail it," "spitting fire," "give someone their flowers," and "call it a night" in context.
* Canadian culture: Learn about popular tourist activities in British Columbia, Canadian wildlife, and social customs like summer barbecues.
* Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of everyday English words, place names, and wildlife-related vocabulary, 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 episode of Catch Word, Andrew and Suzanne explore two strong English expressions that you can use when you want to say, "absolutely not!" or when something is completely impossible. They are "Over my dead body" and "When hell freezes over." These expressions are used to show firm refusal or to say that something will never happen.








What you will learn in this episode:

* Understanding idioms: Learn how to use the expressions "Over my dead body" and "When hell freezes over" to show strong disagreement or to describe something that is impossible.
* Vocabulary in context: Learn the different contexts in which these expressions can be used, including both serious and playful situations.
* Cultural tips: Learn how these expressions are used in everyday conversations and when it is appropriate to use them.

How you will improve your English with this episode:

* Expand your vocabulary: Learn and practice using new expressions that will help you sound more natural and fluent in English.
* Improve your listening: Build your skills so you can understand and follow native speakers discussing real-life situations.
* Boost your confidence: Feel more confident using strong language in English to express your opinions or stand your ground in conversations.
* 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 tells a story about camping in British Columbia, Canada. He went with his brother and talks about their journey on logging roads, setting up camp in the rain, and enjoying a natural hot spring. Andrew also talks about an incident with his stolen sandals, describes the beautiful Kalamalka Lake, and explains why this trip was so special to him.








This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways:

* Listening practice: You'll get to hear a native English speaker tell a detailed story about his outdoor experience. This helps improve your understanding of spoken English.
* New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to camping, nature, and travel, like "logging road," "raging river," and "hot spring."
* Useful expressions: Understand common English idioms such as "better safe than sorry," "stone's throw away," and "slept like a baby" in context.
* Canadian culture: Learn about outdoor activities in Canada, small-town experiences, and popular natural attractions.
* Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of everyday English words and nature-related vocabulary, 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 Real Talk episode, Andrew and Kassy help you learn how to talk about being unemployed in an optimistic way. They teach you how to discuss your job status in a way that’s both positive and professional. You’ll learn how to have conversations about finding a new job or changing career with their helpful explanations!








What you will learn in this episode:

* Positive talk: Learn how to talk about being unemployed in a positive way.
* Useful expressions: Discover useful expressions like “I’m in between jobs” and “I’m at a career crossroads.”
* Real-Life examples: Hear simple conversations that show how to use these phrases in everyday situations.

How you will improve your English with this episode:

* New vocabulary: Build your English vocabulary with useful words and expressions for discussing unemployment.
* Better communication: Gain confidence in talking about your job status without feeling awkward or negative.
* Fluency in context: Practice using these expressions to make your English sound more fluent and natural in real-life conversations.
* 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)

Episode description:
In this episode, Andrew recaps his recent 48-hour trip to Osaka, Japan. He shares his experiences from the first-ever Culips meetup, his shopping adventures for running shoes and vinyl records, and his nighttime run around Osaka Castle. Andrew also describes his encounters with local cuisine, an exceptional coffee shop, and the challenges of exercising in Japan's summer heat.








This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways:

* Listening comprehension: Practice understanding a native English speaker as he gives a detailed account of his travel experiences.
* Vocabulary building: Learn new words and expressions related to travel, shopping, and running, such as "layover," "hustle and bustle," "tax-free plan," and "running crews."
* Idioms: Understand and learn useful English idioms like "put some faces to the community," "all set for," and "it is what it is" used in context.
* Pronunciation: Hear the correct pronunciation of everyday English, which you can then practice on your own.
* 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 episode of Chatterbox, Andrew and Anna explore the topics of overtourism and tourist shaming. They share their thoughts on a recent protest in Barcelona where demonstrators used water guns to express their frustration with the high number of tourists. Andrew and Anna also compare different cities’ approaches to managing tourism and discuss the impact of tourism on local communities.








What you will learn about in this episode:

* Overtourism: Find out what overtourism is and how it causes problems in cities like Barcelona, impacting the lives of local residents.
* Tourist shaming: Learn about tourist shaming and its effects on both visitors and locals.

How you will improve your English with this episode

* Build your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to tourism and social issues.
* Strengthen your listening skills: Strengthen your ability to follow and understand natural conversations between native speakers.
* Refine your pronunciation: Listen to and mimic native speaker pronunciation to sound more natural.
* Increase your cultural knowledge: Learn about cultural and social issues that will help you communicate more effectively 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 of Catch Word, Andrew and Kassy teach you two useful expressions for describing situations where you are left alone without support: "Left to your own devices" and "High and dry." With several helpful example conversations, they discuss the meaning and nuance of these expressions and provide easy-to-understand explanations to help you know how to use them in different real-life situations.








What You Will Learn

* Key expressions: Learn the meaning of "Left to your own devices" and "High and dry."
* How to speak like a native: Learn about different situations where these expressions are commonly used.
* Cultural tips: Hear about popular songs that use these expressions and the maritime origins of “High and dry.”
* Practical examples: Listen to conversations that show you how to use these expressions naturally.

How This Episode Will Help You

* Expand Vocabulary: Add new idiomatic expressions to your English vocabulary.
* Improve Comprehension: Understand how and when to use these expressions in real-life situations.
* Cultural Knowledge: Learn about cultural references and popular music that feature these expressions.
* Listening Practice: Upgrade your listening skills with clear and easy-to-understand examples.

The best way to learn with this lesson

* 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. Become a Culips Member now!
* Members can access the ad-free version here.
* Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice.

Andrew is away this week visiting family and friends in Canada, so we thought it would be the perfect time to revisit a classic bonus episode from 2022, titled ‘A Sweet Mystery.’ This episode quickly became a Culips fan favorite for its interesting story. In the episode, Andrew talks about a mystery he has discovered in his neighborhood and about visiting a Christmas market in Seoul. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you the expression to not hold water. Enjoy!








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 of Real Talk, Andrew and Kassy teach you how to handle misunderstandings in English conversations. They focus on common situations where people might get confused, such as unclear pronunciation or vague statements. Through practical examples, you'll learn how to ask for clarification and how to correct yourself politely when you've been misunderstood.








What you will learn in this episode:

* Clarification expressions: Learn useful expressions to help you handle misunderstandings easily.
* Practical examples: Listen to two real-life conversations that show how to use these expressions in different situations.
* Pronunciation tips: Understand the difference between similar-sounding numbers, like 15 and 50, to avoid confusion.

How you will improve your English with this episode:

* Better vocabulary: Build your English vocabulary with new expressions for handling misunderstandings.
* Improved understanding: Improve your listening skills so you can understand and solve unclear statements or pronunciation issues.
* Fluency and confidence: Practice using these expressions in real-life situations to sound more fluent and confident in English.
* English speaking practice: 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 shares a story about crossing an item off his bucket list. He talks about his long-standing goal to cook a dish that would genuinely impress his wife. Andrew describes his experience preparing miyeokguk, a traditional Korean seaweed soup, for his wife's birthday. He talks about searching for a great recipe, cooking the dish, and his wife's reaction to the meal.








This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways:

* Listening comprehension: Practice understanding a native English speaker as he shares a personal story and explains cultural customs.
* Vocabulary building: Learn new words and expressions related to cooking, cultural practices, and personal goals, such as "bucket list," "reconstituting," and "customary food."
* Idioms: Understand and learn useful English idioms like "kick the bucket," "whip up," and "blow you out of the water" used in a natural context.
* Pronunciation: Hear the correct pronunciation of everyday English, which you can then practice on your own.
* 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 Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Indiana talk about the topic of “decluttering” – in other words, removing and tidying up disorganized objects in your home. They discuss different methods of decluttering, including the concept of Swedish death cleaning, and share their own experiences with organizing their homes and lives. On a scale of 1 to 10, how organized do you think Andrew and Indiana’s workspaces are? Listen and find out!








What you will learn

* Decluttering techniques: Discover different methods of decluttering, including the unique concept of Swedish death cleaning.
* Personal experiences: Hear Andrew and Indiana share their personal stories and challenges with decluttering.
* Practical tips: Learn practical tips and strategies to help you organize your own space and minimize clutter.

How this episode will improve your English

* Vocabulary building: Learn key words and expressions related to decluttering and organization.
* Listening skills: Improve your listening by hearing native English speakers talk in a natural, conversational setting.
* Real-life learning: Understand how to use the new vocabulary and expressions in real-life situations and conversations.
* Cultural Insights: Learn about what Canadians and Americans think about decluttering and organization.

English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking and communication 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 upcoming trip to Osaka, Japan. He discusses the top three things he's looking forward to: the first-ever Culips meetup, shopping, and exploring Osaka through running. Andrew also looks back on his previous visits to Osaka and his travel style, focusing on personal interests rather than typical tourist activities.








This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways:

* Listening comprehension: Practice understanding a native English speaker as he talks about real-life experiences and plans.
* Vocabulary building: Learn new words and expressions related to travel, shopping, and running, such as "layover," "dire need," "abusing," and "want list."
* Idioms: Understand and learn useful English idioms like "been there, done that," "talking into the void," and "hit up" used in context.
* Pronunciation: Hear the correct pronunciation of everyday English, which you can then practice on your own.
* English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.

Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Participate in the Osaka meetup on July 30th!
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Have you ever thought about how different cultures and generations handle child discipline at home? In this episode, Andrew and Alina discuss the kinds of punishments they experienced as children and explore how these methods have changed over time. They share personal stories and reflect on what worked, what didn't, and the impact these punishments had on their lives.








What you will learn about in this episode:

* Types of punishments: Learn about the different kinds of punishments children receive at home across various cultures, particularly in Canada and Russia.
* Effectiveness and impact: Understand how the hosts reflect on the long-term impact of different kinds of punishments they received growing up.
* Personal stories: Hear personal stories about childhood punishments and their effects.
* Current trends: Learn about current trends in child discipline and how they differ from past generations.

How you will improve your English with this episode

* Build your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to child discipline and punishment.
* Better understanding: Improve your understanding of English by using the context and usage of new vocabulary through real-life examples.
* Natural conversation skills: Listen to a natural conversation, which will help you speak more like a native.
* Cultural insight: Learn about cultural differences in child-rearing practices, improving your skills to communicate with people from different cultures.
* 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 episode, Andrew shares his excitement about an upcoming trip to his home country, Canada. He discusses three main things he's looking forward to: reuniting with old friends in Victoria, enjoying lake swimming in his hometown of Kelowna, and visiting Banff in the Rocky Mountains. He also shares personal stories about Canadian summer activities and the beauty of the country.








This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways:

* Listening comprehension: Practice understanding a native English speaker discussing personal experiences and future plans in detail.
* Vocabulary expansion: Learn new words and expressions related to travel, outdoor activities, and Canadian geography, such as "swimmable," "high dive," and "scenic spot."
* Idioms and expressions: Learn helpful English expressions like "crack my list," "don't get me wrong," and "I'm all over that" used in context.
* Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of spoken English, including place names and casual speech patterns, which you can then practice on your own.
* Cultural insights: Improve your understanding of Canadian geography, summer activities, and cultural events, providing context for future conversations about travel and leisure.
* English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.

Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Participate in the Osaka meetup on July 30th!
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Special Offer: Save 20% on Culips Memberships!

For one week only, until July 22nd, we're offering a 20% discount on yearly Culips memberships! Get access to helpful study guides, interactive transcripts, ad-free episodes, member-only series, weekly speaking classes, and more. Sign up now and reach your English goals with Culips!

If you’re a current member, you can take advantage of the sale by renewing your membership at the discounted price.

Sign up now and save 20% until July 22nd.

Have you ever wondered about the pros and cons of bike lanes in cities? In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Suzanne discuss the topic of bike lanes, sharing their personal experiences and opinions on cycling infrastructure. They talk about the pros and cons of bike lanes, how different cities approach cycling, and the impact on pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.








What you will learn in this episode:

* Bike lane basics: Understand what bike lanes are and their purpose in city infrastructure.
* Different perspectives: Hear from both a casual cyclist and a more experienced cycling hobbyist about their views on bike lanes.
* City comparisons: Discover how bike infrastructure varies between cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Seoul.
* Cycling culture: Learn about cycling culture and how it influences city planning and transportation.

How you will improve your English with this episode:

* Grow your vocabulary: Learn new words and expressions related to cycling and city infrastructure.
* Listening practice: Improve your listening skills with natural, engaging conversations.
* Fluent conversation skills: Practice understanding and using English in discussions about everyday topics like transportation and safety
* English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.

Important links:

* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Expressions included in the study guide

* You gotta do what you gotta do
* Don’t get me started
* To push one’s luck
* Not all [noun] are created equal
* To hog
* A me thing

In this episode, Andrew talks about the pros and cons of running’s growing popularity. He highlights the challenges runners face, especially the difficulty of finding good running shoes due to high demand. Andrew shares a personal story about trying to save money by purchasing discounted shoes online, only to discover they were counterfeits. Listen to hear about his experience with these fake shoes, the frustrations of marathon sign-ups, and other downsides of the running boom.








This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways:

* Listening comprehension: Practice understanding a native English speaker discussing real-life situations in detail.
* Vocabulary expansion: Learn new words and expressions related to running and fitness, such as "endurance," "training cycle," "counterfeit," and "foam cushioning."
* Idioms: Learn helpful English idioms like "a grain of salt," "touch grass," and "missed the boat" used in context.
* Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of spoken English, which you can then practice on your own.
* Cultural insights: Improve your understanding of the running culture and fitness trends in different parts of the world, especially in Seoul.
* English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.

Important links:

* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)
* Osaka meet-up registration

Do you sometimes feel anxious without knowing why? In this Chatterbox English learning podcast, Andrew and Anna dive deep into the topic of anxiety. They explain what anxiety means, how it affects people, and share their personal experiences. From nervous feelings before a presentation to intense panic attacks, this episode covers it all. If you want to improve your English while learning about mental health, this episode is perfect for you!
What you will learn:

* Understanding Anxiety: Learn what anxiety is and its different forms.
* Personal Experiences: Hear Andrew and Anna share their own anxiety stories.
* Practical Tips: Discover effective ways to manage and reduce anxiety in daily life.

How you will improve your English with this episode:

* New Vocabulary: Learn words and phrases about emotions and mental health.
* Listening Practice: Improve your skills by following a natural English conversation.
* Contextual Learning: Understand how to use new words in real situations.
* Speaking Practice: Discuss the episode with other learners on the Culips Discord Server.

What’s included in the study guide:

* Interactive transcript
* In-depth explanations and examples of the key expressions
* Vocabulary quiz
* Comprehension quiz
* Speaking and writing practice questions









The best way to learn with this lesson:

* 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. Become a Culips member now.
* Members can access the ad-free version here.
* Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice.

In this episode, Andrew discusses the recent lovebug outbreak in Seoul. He describes these insects, explains their unusual name, and talks about his experience dealing with them this summer. Andrew also explores the bigger topic of how people approach killing insects, and shares his own opinion about this issue.

This episode will help improve your English in the following ways:

* Listening comprehension: Practice understanding a native English speaker discussing a real-life situation in detail.
* Vocabulary expansion: Learn new words and expressions related to insects and pest control, such as "proliferating," "symbiotic relationship," "keep in check,” and "creepy crawly."
* Idioms: Learn helpful English idioms like "out of the blue," "attached at the hip," and "it's on" used in context.
* Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of spoken English, which you can then practice on your own.
* Cultural insights: Improve your understanding of how people in different cultures deal with household pests.
* 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)

Episode notes:

* The scientific name of the lovebug is plecia nearctica.
* Contrary to what Andrew mentions, a centipede can have between 15 pairs to 191 pairs of legs and a millipede can have between 40 and 1,306 pairs of legs.

Curious about the growing popularity of Stoicism but not sure what it's all about? In this engaging episode of Chatterbox, hosts Andrew and Anna dive into the philosophy of Stoicism. They unpack its principles, discuss why it has gained traction in recent years, and share practical ways to apply Stoic ideas in everyday life. Key topics include managing emotions, embracing challenges, and learning from renowned Stoics like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca.

What you'll learn in this episode:

* Key principles: Discover the main ideas of Stoicism, including controlling your emotions, choosing to let go of anger and stress, and embracing challenges.
* Practical applications: Hear about real-life examples of how to use Stoic principles to reduce stress and improve your daily life.
* Popular figures: Learn about the origins of Stoicism and its founding fathers, Marcus Aurelius and Seneca, as well as popular YouTubers and podcasters that discuss this philosophy.

How this episode will improve your English:

* Vocabulary Building: Learn new words and phrases related to philosophy and self-improvement.
* Listening Skills: Improve your listening comprehension with a clear and interesting discussion between two native speakers.
* Cultural knowledge: Understand the modern popularity of Stoicism and its influence on today's self-help trends.
* Improve your speaking and communication skills: Use the study guide and connect with the member community to practice speaking about Stoicism in English.









The best way to learn with this lesson:

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.

Become a Culips member now.

Members can access the ad-free version here.

Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice.

Episode references:

* An introduction to Stoicism by Ryan Holiday: https://youtu.be/s27_2jlQq8U

In this episode, Andrew shares a story about trying to clean out his junk drawer and exchange some of the coins he's been saving up for the past few years at the bank. What seemed like a simple task turns out to be surprisingly complicated. Tune in to hear all the details of this everyday adventure and improve your English at the same time!

This episode will help you improve your English in several ways:

* Listening Skills: Practice understanding naturally spoken English through Andrew's engaging story about cleaning his junk drawer and exchanging coins at the bank.
* Vocabulary Building: Expand your vocabulary with new words and expressions related to household tasks and banking, such as "odds and ends," "spare change," "cash out," and "paid off."
* Pronunciation Practice: Improve your pronunciation by shadowing Andrew's speech throughout the episode, helping you become a clearer and more confident speaker.
* English Speaking Practice: Enhance your speaking skills by joining discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server.









Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Small-group discussion class schedule
* Simplified Speech 189 - Company’s coming

In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Kassy discuss the big changes in Kassy's life as she prepares to move from Thailand back to Korea. They talk about her experiences living and working in Thailand, her future plans, and the cultural differences she has encountered along the way. Listening to this fun and easy-to-understand conversation is a great way to work on your English and learn some useful vocabulary!

What You Will Learn:

* Vocabulary and expressions related to life changes, international moves, and daily routines.
* Cultural insights into living and working abroad, especially in Thailand and Korea.
* Personal stories about adjusting to new environments and making life decisions.

How This Episode Will Improve Your English:

* Expand your vocabulary with words and expressions used in everyday conversation about moving and living abroad.
* Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between two native English speakers.
* Learn about cultural differences and similarities between Thailand and Korea, improving your cultural knowledge.
* Build confidence in discussing your own experiences and future plans in English.
* Practice your English speaking and communication skills by sharing your own experiences on our Discord server.









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 episode, Andrew talks about his day exploring Seoul with his wife. He shares their experiences of finding something fun to do on a free Sunday. Andrew describes visiting a crowded restaurant, enjoying Korean rice cakes at a special cafe, and checking out outdoor reading spaces in the city. He talks about spontaneous plans, dealing with the summer heat, and the awesome surprises of big-city life. Enjoy the episode and happy English learning!

This episode will help you improve your English in several ways:

* Listening skills: Practice understanding naturally spoken English through Andrew's storytelling about his day in Seoul.
* Vocabulary building: Learn new words and phrases related to city exploration and Korean culture. You will learn useful idioms like "jam-packed," "flash forward," and "something clicked."
* Pronunciation practice: Use the episode to shadow Andrew's pronunciation to become a clearer speaker.
* 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
* Chatterbox 318 - Digital modesty

In this Simplified Speech episode, hosts Andrew and Kassy talk about the "rat race." They discuss what it means, whether their jobs feel like a rat race, and how people might escape it. Kassy chose this topic because of a book she recently read called "Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop." The conversation turns into an interesting discussion about modern life, competition, goals, dreams, and personal happiness.

What You Will Learn:

* What "rat race" means and how it relates to a busy life.
* How pressure from society makes people feel stuck in competition.
* Personal stories about being in or escaping the rat race.
* New words and expressions related to the topic.

How This Episode Will Improve Your English:

* Learn vocabulary, expressions, and idioms about work-life balance and social pressure.
* Improve your listening skills with a natural conversation.
* Understand expressions like "to be in the thick of something" and "to be cut out for.”
* Practice your English speaking and communication skills by sharing your own experiences on our Discord server.









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 episode, Andrew talks about his recent train journey from Boryeong to Seoul. He shares his experiences of traveling on a crowded train, where he came across a mother and her young children who brought unexpected chaos to the trip. Andrew describes how the children’s behavior affected the other passengers and the surprising reactions from everyone on board. He reflects on the importance of being polite in public places and the challenges of handling difficult situations while traveling. Enjoy the episode and happy learning!

This episode will help you improve your English in several ways:

* Listening skills: Practice understanding spoken English through Andrew's storytelling about his train ride.
* Vocabulary building: Learn new words and phrases related to travel and public behavior. You will learn useful idioms like "stuffed/packed to the gills," "paint someone in a bad light," and "within earshot."
* Pronunciation practice: Use the episode to shadow Andrew's pronunciation to become a clearer speaker.
* 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

In this special episode, Andrew is joined by Australian wildlife expert Joey Clarke, Senior Science Communicator at the Australian Wildlife Conservancy. They talk about Australia's unique animals, conservation efforts, and fire management. Listen to hear fascinating stories about the wildlife of Australia and how it is being protected while improving your English skills!
What You Will Learn in This Episode:

* The unique features of various Australian wildlife species, including tree kangaroos and numbats.
* The differences between marsupials and placental mammals and why marsupials are common in Australia.
* The major threats to Australian wildlife, such as habitat loss, feral animals, and invasive plants.
* The role of fire in the Australian ecosystem and traditional Indigenous fire management practices.
* Success stories of conservation efforts by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy.
* Tips for being a responsible tourist in Australia and supporting conservation efforts.









How This Episode Will Improve Your English:

* Learn new vocabulary related to wildlife, conservation, and ecosystems.
* Hear both Australian and Canadian accents, helping you understand different ways of speaking English.
* Understand and discuss complex topics like conservation strategies and the impact of invasive species.
* Discuss the episode with other English learners on the Culips Discord Server.

Timestamps:

* 00:00 – Introduction
* 04:05 – Chapter 1: Introduction to Joey Clarke
* 07:19 – Chapter 2: The Australian bush
* 10:23 – Chapter 3: Unique Australian wildlife
* 15:33 – Chapter 4: Marsupials and Placental Mammals
* 20:28 – Chapter 5: Threats to wildlife
* 25:44 – Chapter 6: Fires in Australia
* 32:20 – Chapter 7: Conservation Success Stories
* 38:38 – Chapter 8: Responsible tourism
* 40:51 – Chapter 9: Learning more about the Australian Wildlife Conservancy
* 43:04 – Conclusion

Links:

* Australian Wildlife Conservancy
* Australian Wildlife Conservancy on Instagram
* Australian Wildlife Conservancy on YouTube
* Donate to the Australian Wildlife Conservancy
* Culips Discord Server

Become a Culips member:
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.

Become a Culips member now!

Members can access the ad-free version here.

Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice.

In this episode, Andrew talks about his weekend trip to Boryeong, a small city on the west coast of South Korea. He shares his experiences of traveling by train, staying with friends, and participating in the Boryeong Half Marathon. Andrew describes the city's famous mud festival and the enjoyable moments he had running and spending time with his friends. He also discusses the challenges of the race and the satisfaction of achieving personal goals.

This episode will help you improve your English in several ways:

* Listening skills: Practice understanding spoken English through Andrew's storytelling about his trip and race.
* Vocabulary building: Learn new words related to travel and cultural and sporting events. You will learn some useful idioms like "stand corrected," "infamous," "have your hands full," and "draw the shortest straw."
* Pronunciation practice: Use the episode to shadow Andrew's pronunciation to become a clearer speaker.
* English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.

Enjoy the episode and happy learning!








Timestamps:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:01:28 - Announcement of the Culips small-group discussion classes

00:04:30 - Announcement of a meet-up in Japan

00:06:17 - Introduction to the "Weekend Away" story

00:13:48 - Arriving in Boryeong

00:16:36 - Nightmare train ride

00:18:54 - The night before the race

00:21:01 - The morning of the race

00:23:10 - Race report

00:32:15 - Conclusion

Important links:

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript
* Join the Culips Discord server

Episode Description:

In this episode, Andrew talks about following his favorite hockey team, the Vancouver Canucks, during the NHL playoffs. He shares his passion for the team and the highs and lows he felt throughout the season. Andrew also discusses the thrill of watching last-minute victories and the disappointment of their eventual elimination.

This episode will help you improve your English in several ways:

* Vocabulary building: You'll expand your vocabulary with terms related to sports and everyday life.
* Idioms and expressions: You'll understand idiomatic expressions like "come full circle" and "live up to your potential" in context, making them easier to remember and use.
* Listening comprehension: You'll hear natural English conversation, helping you improve your listening skills and comprehension.
* Cultural insight: Gain a deeper understanding of personal celebrations and traditions.
* Pronunciation and intonation: Improve your pronunciation by listening to Andrew's natural speech patterns.
* English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.









The best way to learn with this lesson:

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.

Become a Culips member now: Click here.

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 Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Kassy talk about dealing with extreme weather, such as heat waves and cold snaps. They discuss their favorite methods for staying cool during heat waves. Then, they share experiences about staying warm during cold snaps, including the use of heating gadgets.

By listening to this episode, you will learn how to talk about weather and temperature. You’ll also pick up new vocabulary and learn about cultural differences in a fun and easy-to-follow discussion. Join Andrew and Kassy as they share stories and tips about coping with extreme temperatures, helping you improve your English skills along the way!

What You Will Learn:

* Vocabulary related to weather and temperature, such as "heat wave," "cold snap," and more!
* Cultural differences in dealing with extreme weather conditions in countries like Canada, the USA, South Korea, Australia, and Thailand.
* Comparisons between Eastern and Western approaches to dealing with extreme temperatures.









How You Will Improve Your English with This Episode:

* Expand your vocabulary with weather-related terms and expressions used in everyday conversations.
* Learn to describe personal experiences related to different weather conditions.
* Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between two native English speakers.
* Enhance your communication skills by sharing your own experiences with extreme weather on our Discord server.

The best way to learn with this lesson:

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.

Become a Culips member now: Click here.

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 episode, Andrew reflects on the busy month of May, and talks about personal celebrations like his birthday and anniversary, and describes how he and his wife celebrated these special occasions. Andrew also talks about buying a new espresso machine and the joys (and challenges) of perfecting his coffee-making skills. As you listen to Andrew's stories, you'll learn practical vocabulary and expressions that you can use in your daily English conversations.








This episode will help you improve your English in several ways:

Vocabulary building: Learn new words and phrases related to celebrations, coffee making, and daily activities.

Listening comprehension: Enhance your ability to understand natural, conversational English.

Cultural insight: Gain a deeper understanding of personal celebrations and traditions.

Pronunciation and intonation: Improve your pronunciation by listening to Andrew's natural speech patterns.

English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice.

* Become a Culips member
* Study with the interactive transcript:
* Join the Culips Discord server
* Simplified Speech #194 – Double birthday bash

In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Suzanne introduce two expressions to help you describe challenging situations in English: "To hit the fan" and "Everything's gone south." These phrases are helpful for expressing when things aren't going well. By listening to this episode, you’ll learn what they mean, how to use them, and where they come from. Join Andrew and Suzanne to master these expressions and boost your English skills!

What You Will Learn

* What "To hit the fan" and "Everything's gone south" mean.
* How these expressions are used in everyday conversations, especially at work or in personal situations.
* Discover why English speakers use these expressions and how they reflect everyday experiences.
* Get advice on using these expressions correctly in your own English conversations.









How This Episode Will Help You

* Add useful expressions to your English vocabulary.
* Practice using these idioms naturally, making your English sound more fluent.
* Understand the cultural context behind these expressions, helping you connect better with English speakers.
* Practice talking about these topics with our community on Discord.
* Use the study guide to learn even more related expressions, test your knowledge with a quiz, and practice using the new vocabulary in various contexts.

The best way to learn with this lesson:

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.

Become a Culips member now: Click here.

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 episode, Andrew is interviewed about his life in South Korea by Alastair Budge, host of the English for Curious Minds podcast. Andrew discusses his journey from Canada to Korea, his initial experiences teaching English in a small mountain city, and how he handled cultural differences and embraced the unpredictability of life abroad. As you listen to Andrew's interview, you'll gain insights into South Korean culture and the challenges and rewards of living in a foreign country.








This episode will help you improve your English in several ways:

Vocabulary building: Learn new words and expressions related to interviews, cultural experiences, and teaching abroad.

Listening comprehension: Practice understanding spoken English in a natural, conversational setting.

Cultural insight: Gain a deeper understanding of South Korean culture and the life of a foreigner who lives there.

Pronunciation and intonation: Improve your pronunciation by listening to Andrew's natural speech patterns.

Interactive learning: Discuss the episode with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for speaking practice.

* Study with the interactive transcript:
* Join the Culips Discord server:
* Become a Culips member:
* Bonus episode 54: Click here.
* Listen to the full interview on Alastair’s Youtube channel:

In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna are trying out something new – they’re playing a conversation game! The goal of the game is to make deeper conversations, moving beyond small talk. The hosts go through a range of questions, from light-hearted to deep and thought-provoking, and then discuss each other’s responses. As they answer these questions, they share their personal experiences, memories, and take time to reflect on their lives. Make sure to give this episode a listen to find out more and improve your communication skills!

What You Will Learn:

* How to discuss hypothetical situations using conditional sentences.
* How to effectively participate in a conversation, ask follow-up questions, and express your opinions respectfully.
* How to make your speech more engaging by using descriptive adjectives, adverbs, and figurative language.









How This Episode Will Help You:

* Grow your vocabulary with vocabulary related to conversation, communication, and relationships.
* Build your listening skills by following a natural conversation between native English speakers.
* Learn idiomatic expressions like "think on your feet" and "Goldilocks."
* Gain a deeper understanding of British and Canadian cultures.
* Use the study guide and join the member community on Discord to practice asking and answering similar open-ended questions.

The best way to learn with this lesson:

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.

Become a Culips member now: Click here.

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 episode, Andrew shares a story about going on a picnic with his wife to the Han River Park in Seoul, South Korea. He describes their preparation process, the convenient amenities available at the park, and the awesome time they shared together. As you listen to Andrew's story, you'll learn new vocabulary related to picnics, outdoor activities, and more. Plus, you’ll also improve your listening skills and ability to follow a long-form story in English.








This episode will help you improve your English in several ways:

Vocabulary: You'll learn new words and phrases about picnics, adventures, and outdoor experiences. This will help you discuss these topics more effectively in English.

Listening: By focusing on Andrew's story, you'll practice understanding spoken English and following the main points of a narrative.

Speaking: Andrew's picnic experience might inspire you to share your own stories about enjoying outdoor activities with friends and family. You can also practice your English by discussing this episode with other Culips listeners on our Discord server.

Pronunciation: Listening to Andrew's natural English will help you improve your own pronunciation and intonation, as you become more familiar with the rhythm and flow of the language.

* Study with the interactive transcript:
* Join the Culips Discord server:
* Become a Culips member:

In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Kassy will teach you two fun expressions to make your English even better: "spruce up" and "deck out." You will learn how English speakers use these expressions to talk about making something look or work better. For example, you might spruce up your clothes for spring or deck out a game room with cool new gadgets. Get ready to "spruce up" your English and "deck out" your vocabulary with this fun and informative episode!

What You Will Learn:

* The meaning of "spruce up" and "deck out"
* How to use these expressions in real life
* Where these expressions come from and why we use them
* Tips for using "spruce up" and "deck out" in your own English conversations









How This Episode Will Help You:

* Learn two new expressions to make your English more natural
* Become more fluent by using expressions English speakers use every day
* Discover how people in the U.S. and Canada "deck out" their houses with lots of lights and decorations for holidays like Halloween and Christmas
* Practice talking about these topics with our community on Discord
* Use the study guide to learn even more related expressions, test your knowledge with a quiz, and practice using the new vocabulary in various contexts

The best way to learn with this lesson:

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.

Become a Culips member now: Click here.

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.

Episode description:
In this episode, Andrew interviews Jesús Florez, a Culips listener originally from Colombia. Jesús talks about his journey of becoming a highly proficient English speaker with an American-like accent. He discusses his background story of meeting his wife online and moving from Colombia to the United States. He tells Andrew all about the intensive work he did to improve his pronunciation and the resources he used to achieve fluency, plus he shares some valuable tips with English learners! If you want to know how to become a fluent English speaker and perfect your pronunciation, this episode is for you!

What you'll learn in this episode:

* Effective strategies for mastering an American-like accent.
* The importance of input (listening) in working on pronunciation.
* Helpful tips for improving pronunciation in a foreign language.
* Benefits of learning from both native and non-native English teachers.
* The importance of the visual aspect of pronunciation.









How this episode will help improve your English:

* Expand your vocabulary related to language learning
* Improve listening skills by following a natural unscripted conversation.
* Learn useful expressions like "get [something] off the ground" and "take precedence".
* Improve speaking by discussing your own language learning journey using the study guide questions.

The best way to learn with this lesson:

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.

Become a Culips member now: Click here.

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.

Episode description

In this very special episode, we celebrate hitting the 100-episode milestone of the bonus series. And we do so by flipping the script. Instead of hearing Andrew share a story with you, you'll get to listen to stories sent in by Culips listeners from around the world. Tune in to hear them share funny moments, discuss their English study routines, and talk about how they've leveled up their language skills with Culips.

A huge thank you to everyone who participated in the creation of this episode. Without our amazing community, Culips wouldn't exist. We hope you enjoy this special edition of the bonus series, and here's to many more episodes to come!

* Study with the interactive transcript: Click here.
* Join the Culips Discord server:
* Become a Culips member:

Chapters:

* [00:00:00] Introduction - Andrew explains the special 100th bonus episode
* [00:05:51] Story from Sodam about moving to the U.S.
* [00:06:51] Story from Sandra about an extraordinary experience at the Musée d'Orsay
* [00:08:09] Story from Ray about learning English through Pokémon and practicing shadowing
* [00:10:04] Story from Jin about discovering Culips and using the interactive transcript
* [00:12:54] Story from Shun about the power of shadowing
* [00:17:16] Story from Mery about a trip to London with her boyfriend
* [00:20:44] Story from Edit about sleep talking
* [00:25:23] Story from Pijon about why pronunciation is important
* [00:27:41] Story from Navid about improving his English after immigrating to Canada
* [00:30:44] Story from Suhavi about being forced to listen to Culips by her mom
* [00:35:07] Story from WangJae about becoming a father
* [00:37:58] Story from Grimes about learning English with Culips
* [00:39:29] Story from Kalléu about improving English skills through Culips
* [00:39:29] Story from Dominika about a Czech tradition
* [00:42:53] Story from Jiwoo and Chloe about their mom's passion for Culips
* [00:44:33] Story from Sarah comparing school life in two different countries
* [00:46:50] Story from Usako about decluttering and playing table tennis
* [00:48:52] Story from Kelvin about his English learning journey
* [00:50:24] Story from Mina about returning to work after maternity leave
* [00:52:33] Story from Sergey about Culips in his daily routine
* [00:53:38] Story from Muhammed about learning with Culips
* [00:54:32] Story from Anthony about improving his English for business
* [00:58:04] Story from Zahra about finding Culips during the pandemic
* [00:58:56] Story from Diana about mistaking chrysanthemum tubers for ginger
* [01:02:51] Story from Darkhan about a blessing in disguise
* [01:04:19] Story from Thea Yang about learning languages every day

 

Episode description:


In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Kassy share their experiences attending live sporting events in various countries, including Canada, the USA, Korea, Thailand, and Taiwan. They discuss the exciting atmosphere, food options, ticket prices, and cultural differences between watching sports in different parts of the world.

By listening to this episode, you will gain a better understanding of how to talk about sports and live events in English. You'll also pick up new vocabulary words and learn about cultural differences in an engaging and easy-to-follow discussion. Join Andrew and Kassy as they share their passion for sports and help you improve your English skills along the way!

What you will learn

* Vocabulary related to sports and live events, such as "seeded," "concession," and "jumbotron"
* Insights into the sports culture and fan experiences in different countries
* Comparisons between the cost and availability of food and drinks at stadiums around the world
* Opinions on watching sports on TV versus attending live events









How you will improve your English with this episode

* Expand your vocabulary with sports-related terms and expressions
* Learn to discuss and compare cultural experiences using clear language
* Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between two native English speakers
* Improve your communication skills by discussing this episode with other Culips listeners on our Discord server

The best way to learn with this lesson:

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.

Become a Culips member now: Click here.

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.