English as a Second Language

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5/24/2013

897 - Cooking a Meal

What’s for dinner? Find out in this episode about cooking (and don’t forget to invite me). Slow dialog: 1:07 Explanations: 3:01 Fast dialog: 15:46 Emeril: Can you hand me that pan? Rachel: This pot? Emeril: No, that pan over there. I need to pan-fry these vegetables. Rachel: Wouldn’t be healthier if we steamed the vegetables or grilled them? Emeril: Maybe, but for this meal, I’m frying them in this pan. Rachel: Okay, do you want me to heat this sauce in this saucepan? Emeril: No, I’m going...
5/22/2013

English Cafe #399

Topics: Famous Playwrights – David Henry Hwang; patent medicines; to get to versus to have got to; weird versus strange; to thumb a ride Words: preeminent trilogy fresh off the boat to branch out librettist misnomer cure panacea exotic swamp medicinal properties to reap the benefits to get to to have got to weird strange to thumb a ride
5/20/2013

896 - Preparing a Speech

Feeling nervous about giving a speech in English? Learn about how to prepare in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:11 Explanations: 3:10 Fast dialog: 14:56 Lourdes: I need help. Valery: Sure, what’s up? Lourdes: I’m supposed to give a speech at the start of the conference next month and I don’t know what to do. Valery: It’s not that hard to plan out a speech. You start with an attention getter using humor or telling a personal story. Lourdes: Okay, I guess I can do that. Valery: After that, in...
5/17/2013

895 - Government Reactions to Protests

We’re going to have a revolution. It will not be televised, but it might be tweeted. Find out how to talk about overthrowing your government in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:12 Explanations: 3:09 Fast dialog: 15:10 Tom: Have you seen the news? Marianne: No, what’s happening? Tom: People in McQuillanland are rising up against the dictator and rallying against his government. Marianne: Wow, this is big. I thought the dictator would order a media blackout and we wouldn’t hear any news out of...
5/15/2013

English Cafe #398

Topics: American Authors: Ayn Rand; Adirondack Park; to get versus to gain versus to obtain; to have (someone) do (something) versus to get (someone) to do (something); giving an apple to a teacher Words: screenplay fountainhead triumph collectivism magnum opus to be set in dystopia objectivism pursuit of happiness to merit logging to erode to get to gain to obtain to get (someone) to do (something) to have (someone) do (something)
5/13/2013

894 - Understanding Modern Art

If you can understand what you’re looking at in a modern art museum, you might be doing something wrong. Find out more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:27 Explanations: 3:06 Fast dialog: 15:56 Stephan: What’s that? Livia: It’s my latest artwork. It’s experimental. Stephan: It’s, um... Livia: Abstract. It’s part of a performance art piece I’m putting together. It’ll really challenge people’s perceptions of reality. Stephan: I don’t really understand contemporary art. Is it supposed to...
5/10/2013

893 - Sports-Related Injuries

Playing sports can be dangerous. That’s why I never do. Learn why you shouldn’t either in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:13 Explanations: 3:08 Fast dialog: 15:13 Grace: What happened to you?! Paul: I had a little accident at the game today. Grace: Little accident?! You’re limping and obviously in pain! Paul: I just pulled a muscle in my back and aggravated my runner’s knee, that’s all. It’s nothing to worry about. Grace: And you’re still recovering from the sprained ankle, concussion, and neck...
5/8/2013

English Cafe #397

Topics: American Presidents – Warren G. Harding; wet versus muggy versus humid; intense versus intensive; such a Words: to make a bid fence sitter isolationism normalcy campaign telemarketer corruption graft veteran to hold true to disarmament affable wet muggy humid such a
5/6/2013

892 - Preparing for a Busy Season

Hurry up! Everyone will be arriving soon for the new season and you’re not even ready. Get prepared by listening to this episode. Slow dialog: 1:20 Explanations: 3:18 Fast dialog: 15:54 Yuko: What’s all this? Reza: We’re gearing up for the busy season. We don’t want to get caught with our pants down like we did last season. Yuko: Last season, we had an usual number of visitors because of the unseasonably warm weather. We can’t expect lightening to strike twice. Reza: We have to prepare for...
5/3/2013

891 - Checking on the Status of an Application

Waiting to hear about whether you were successful in applying for a job or position can be stressful. Learn how to talk about it in English in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:16 Explanations: 3:09 Fast Dialog: 14:34 Leo: Here’s the mail. Denise: Did I get anything? Leo: No, sorry. Are you expecting something? Denise: Yeah, I’m waiting for a decision letter about my application to the McQ program. I should hear any day now. Leo: Have you thought about calling and checking on the status? Denise:...
5/1/2013

English Cafe #396

Topics: Ask an American – “Battle Hymn of the Republic"; to outweigh versus to be outweighed by; full versus whole versus entire; a lot of versus several Words: vision battle marching troops verse glory the coming of the Lord to trample out vintage grapes of wrath swift sword to march on hallelujah to outweigh to be outweighed by full whole entire a lot of several
4/29/2013

890 - Enjoying Nature

There’s nothing better than a walk through the forest or on the beach. Or is there? Find out in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:11 Explanations: 2:51 Fast Dialog: 13:48 Charles: This is what I call the great outdoors. Look at that stunning view! Rachel: This is truly jaw-dropping. We’re in the middle of one of the most pristine areas of the world where wildlife lives in its natural habitat. Charles: It’s almost like living in the middle of the wilderness, isn’t it? I bet those ponds and forests...
4/26/2013

889 – Taking Up a New Hobby

If you have a lot of free time, why not start a new hobby? Learn more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:13 Explanations: 3:34 Fast dialog: 15:08 Eric: Who were you talking to on the phone? Melissa: My mother. I was commiserating with her about Dad’s retirement. Eric: Your father retired two months ago. That was a good thing, right? Melissa: Well, it’s good that he doesn’t have to work anymore, but he’s driving my mother up the wall. He putters around the house and gets in her way. She retired...
4/24/2013

English Cafe #395

Topics: The Joy of Cooking by Irma Rombauer; Famous songs: Little Bunny Foo Foo; science of versus knowledge of; good versus not bad Words: cookbook recipe a wide spectrum of cuisine hand motion to scoop up to bop goon poof moral play on words hare science of knowledge of good not bad script transcript
4/22/2013

888 – Advertising in TV and Movies

How do you force people to see your advertisement? Put it into a movie or TV show. Find out how in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:13 Explanations: 3:42 Fast dialog: 16:09 Victoria: [clears her throat] Congratulations are in order. I just scored a product placement for our brand in the latest McQuillanator movie. Thank you, thank you very much. Gerard: Really? That’s great! Will it have a prominent place in the movie? Victoria: Well, you know how these things are. Our logo goes by in the blink...
4/19/2013

887 – A Destructive Storm

Everyone talks about the weather, but no one does anything about it. Hear more talk in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:12 Explanations: 2:58 Fast dialog: 16:06 Allen: Are you all right? Monica: Yes, we’re fine, but that blizzard really caught us off guard, especially this time of year. Have you seen the news? Allen: I just watched it. Overnight, the storm felled over 30 trees in and around the town and toppled utility lines. City officials are saying that some residents may not get their...
4/17/2013

English Cafe #394

Topics: The rise of home shopping; Mammoth Cave National Park; quick versus fast; tremendous versus enormous; basic needs Words: catalog to take off to showcase line allure customer base bricks-and-mortar store cave mammoth extinct lantern to mine to spelunk quick fast tremendous enormous basic needs
4/15/2013

886 – Driving Through a Speed Trap

If you drive too fast, you may get into trouble. Learn how to avoid that in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:10 Explanations: 2:42 Fast dialog: 15:39 Angel: Why are you driving at a snail’s pace? Georgina: This is an infamous speed trap. I don’t want to get a ticket – again. Angel: I don’t see any squad cars along the road. Are you sure this is the right stretch of road? Georgina: I’m sure. Those cops are crafty. They hide out behind big rocks or a bend in the road, and as soon as you let your...
4/12/2013

885 – Talking to a Bank Teller

Rich man, poor man – everyone goes to the bank at some point. Learn how to talk to someone at your bank in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:08 Explanations: 3:22 Fast dialog: 15:44 Bank Teller: Can I help you? Antonio: Yes, I’d like to deposit this check. Bank Teller: Please fill out a deposit slip and be sure to endorse the check on the back. Antonio: Here you are. I’ve already filled out a slip and signed the check. I’d also like to cash this other check. Bank Teller: Sure, I can help you with...
4/10/2013

English Cafe #393

Topics: American Movies – The Manchurian Candidate; blue laws; expression versus term versus idiom; What name do you go by?; en masse Words: thriller prominent to brainwash assassin to incriminate sleeper agent nightmare to commission blue law Sabbath to reserve to repeal car dealership expression term idiom What name do you go by? en masse
4/8/2013

884 – Types of Meetings

What could be more fun than going to a lot of meetings? Learn how to talk about different kinds of business meetings in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:08 Explanations: 2:58 Fast dialog: 14:31 Susanna: All right, then. This meeting is over. We’ll meet again next week for a status update. Juan: Hey, do you have a few minutes to talk about tomorrow’s teleconference? Susanna: Sorry, I’ve got to run. I’m late for my department’s weekly brainstorming session. Can it wait? Juan: Sure, how about a...
4/5/2013

883 – Taking Care of a Willful Child

Modern parenting can be a real disaster. Learn why in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:19 Explanations: 3:50 Fast dialog: 15:53 Mrs. Mason: So, how did things go? Carl: Well... Mrs. Mason: What’s the matter? Didn’t you and Jason have a good time while I was away? Carl: It was interesting. He was a little willful. Mrs. Mason: Yes, he can be a little strong-willed at times, but if you just do what he wants or give him what he wants, he’s just fine. Carl: He wanted to eat all of the cookies and I...
4/3/2013

English Cafe #392

Topics: American Presidents – Dwight D. Eisenhower; path versus route versus track; stuff; anon Words: combat invasion affable D-day to set the stage to fit in in a landslide down-to-earth to balance the budget desegregation Eisenhower doctrine military-industrial complex path route track stuff anon
4/1/2013

882 - Playing a Practical Joke

Be the guy people hate by playing practical jokes on everyone you meet today. Learn more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:13 Explanations: 2:51 Fast dialog: 14:32 Patricia: What are you doing? Luis: I’m setting up a practical joke for Bobby. I can’t wait to see the look on his face when he walks outside and finds his bike in pieces. It’ll be the best prank ever! Patricia: You’re not really going to take apart his bike, are you? Luis: I’ll let you in on the joke. He’ll just be looking at spare...
3/29/2013

881 – Eating Genetically Modified Foods

Will eating genetically modified foods improve your English? Find out the answer in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:15 Explanations: 3:04 Fast dialog: 14:10 Ralph: What’s that? Nicky: It’s a bigger and better tomato. It’s been genetically modified. Ralph: You’re not going to eat that, are you? Nicky: Of course I am. I’m making a salad. Want one? Ralph: No way. I don’t want to eat something that’s been genetically engineered in a laboratory. Who knows what kind of strange DNA it has. Nicky: It’s...
3/27/2013

English Cafe #391

Topics: Ask an American: Inventing Frozen Foods; prize versus accomplishment versus award versus reward; what the heck?; wholesale Words: canned food disaster freezing point block to rot to thaw out mushy to bar freezer infrastructure distribution notion prize accomplishment award reward what the heck? wholesale
3/25/2013

880 - Forming a Union

We’re going on strike here at ESL Podcast very soon. Listen to this episode to find out why. Slow dialog: 1:08 Explanations: 2:55 Fast dialog: 15:29 Norma: What is this? Jimmy: It’s a flyer for a meeting I’ve called to talk about forming a labor union here. Norma: Here? Do you think the management will let us? Jimmy: They can’t stop us. We’re working longer and longer hours and we need to demand higher pay. We also need better work conditions and a say in hiring and firing procedures. All of...
3/22/2013

879 - Saying No

Are you a great cook? If you’re not, then this episode will sound very familiar to you. Slow dialog: 1:14 Explanations: 3:09 Fast dialog: 17:01 Liang: I have a favor to ask. Christian: Uh oh, what is it? Liang: I’m doing a project for my class in culinary school and I need a volunteer to taste some of my creations. Christian: Not on your life. Liang: But, why? Christian: You don’t remember the last time I was your guinea pig? I was sick for two days. Liang: That was a stroke of bad luck....
3/20/2013

English Cafe #390

Topics: American Authors: Emily Post; American Cities: Branson, Missouri; either versus both; to do a special on (someone/something) versus to do a segment on (someone/something); to towel off Words: finishing school / charm school debutante ball boarding school etiquette considerate common sense syndicated column to get (someone's) attention outlet store has-been either both to do a special on (someone/something) to do a segment on (someone/something) to towel off
3/18/2013

878 - Recovering From an Illness or Injury

You need to relax if you have been sick. Learn how to do it in English in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:10 Explanations: 2:51 Fast dialog: 17:19 Julio: Hi, Aunt Louisa, it’s Julio. Paula: ...And Paula. I’m on the extension in the kitchen. Julio: Anyway, we just wanted to call and wish you a speedy recovery. Get plenty of bed rest and take it easy. Avoid greasy or spicy foods and drink lots of liquids. You don’t want to become dehydrated. Paula: Don’t listen to him. You need to stay active and...
3/15/2013

877 - Cheering Someone Up

Forget you troubles, come on! Get happy! Listen to this episode to find out how. Slow dialog: 1:07 Explanations: 2:44 Fast dialog: 14:50 Eleanor: Isn’t it a beautiful day? The sun is shinning; the birds are singing. It’s good to be alive! Porter: Okay, Pollyanna, go spread good cheer somewhere else. Eleanor: What’s wrong with you? You must have woken up on the wrong side of the bed. Porter: I’m just having a bad day – no, make that a bad month. Nothing is going my way. Eleanor: Cheer up!...
3/13/2013

English Cafe #389

Topics: Famous Songs: Red River Valley; how recall elections work; to reduce versus to lessen versus to decrease versus to decline; sort/to sort; to intervene versus to interfere Words: to trace (something’s) origins to hasten to bid (someone) adieu so true catchy recall election to remove (someone) from office Populist Movement malfeasance governor to resign collective bargaining to reduce to lessen to decrease to decline sort to sort to intervene to interfere
3/11/2013

876 - Preparing a Professional Portfolio

If you want a better job, or better clients, get your portfolio ready by listening to this episode. Slow dialog: 1:11 Explanations: 3:04 Fast dialog: 14:50 Melinda: Ta da! I’m finally done with my portfolio. Do you want to see it? Chad: Sure. This portfolio has samples of your work, right? Melinda: It does, but it’s much more than that. It’s a presentation of the highlights of my career, with examples of my groundbreaking work. Chad: Uh, okay, if you say so. Melinda: Let me show you. The...
3/8/2013

875 - Shopping at the Supermarket

Do you ever go to the supermarket without finding what you’re looking for? Learn more about it in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:11 Explanations: 3:17 Fast dialog: 16:18 Stocker: Can I help you find something? Meg: Yes, I’m looking for coffee. Stocker: That’s on aisle 3. Let me show you where it is. Meg: Thanks. Hmm, I don’t see the Jitters brand that I normally buy. Stocker: It looks like we’re out of stock. We should get another shipment next week. Meg: Okay, I’ll check back. I’m also...
3/6/2013

English Cafe #388

Topics: Famous Americans: Sandra Day O'Connor; understanding American football; the meanings of “to draw”; out for lunch versus out to lunch; for crying out loud Words: attorney general appointed court of appeals justice swing vote abortion successor civics dominant offense defense end zone goal posts to tackle contact sport to draw out for lunch out to lunch for crying out loud
3/4/2013

874 - Poor Road Conditions

I never use my bicycle when the roads are not in good condition. (I never use them when they are, either.) Learn how to talk about all this on this episode. Slow dialog: 1:21 Explanations: 3:15 Fast dialog: 16:39 Alice: I’m really glad I let you talk me into going for a bike ride. It’s been years since I’ve been on a bicycle. Sam: This is the only way to travel. You get to really see the scenery and enjoy the fresh air. Alice: Hey, watch out! You almost dropped into that huge pothole. This...
3/1/2013

873 - Avoid Giving an Opinion

I can’t really tell you what I think of this episode. You’ll have to decide for yourself whether it helps you avoid giving opinions in English. Slow dialog: 1:08 Explanations: 2:39 Fast dialog: 13:52 Ariel: I know you’ll give me the inside scoop. What’s going on between Sam and Matt? Paolo: You’re asking the wrong person. Ariel: Don’t be like that. You know both of them really well, and I know that Sam confides in you. Don’t you think Matt is being unreasonable? Paolo: I really couldn’t say....
2/27/2013

English Cafe #387

Topics: Movies: The Maltese Falcon; Napa Valley, California and wine country; usage of “bit”; abuse versus assault; to put (someone) in the picture Words: falcon private detective unscrupulous antihero hardboiled fiction cynical femme fatale suspenseful soil vineyard winery to sample wine culture bit abuse assault to put (someone) in the picture
2/25/2013

872 - A Publicity Stunt

If you want attention for your business, this episode will give you all you need to be famous (giant banana costume not included). Slow dialog:1:14 Explanations: 2:48 Fast dialog: 15:21 Hank: What’s that for? Svetlana: This costume? I’m planning a publicity stunt to get our store more business. Hank: You think that dressing up as a giant banana will get our store more business? Svetlana: We need to get media coverage for the grand opening of our store and attract as much attention as...
2/22/2013

871 - Listening to Club Music

Get on up off the floor and dance, dance, dance in this episode. Plus, you will learn how to yell really loud in English. Slow dialog: 1:15 Explanations: 3:24 Fast dialog: 15:03 Anastasia: This is the best club in the city. Grace brought me here last month. You’re going to love it. Joshua: What?! Anastasia: You’re going to love this club. It has the best DJ in town. She spins the best mixes. Joshua: Did you say you’re going to get us some mixed drinks? Anastasia: No, I said that this DJ is...
2/20/2013

English Cafe #386

Topics: Ask an American – Undocumented students and college tuition; stop thinking negatively; very; smoking hot Words: tough deserving to play by the rules in-state law-breaking fundamentally unfair incentive tuition to get a return on (one’s) investment illegal alien eligible permanently to think negatively smoking hot
2/18/2013

870 - Using Caffeine as a Stimulant

Wake up and smell the coffee as you learn how to stay awake in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:14 Explanations: 32:59 Fast dialog:15:21 Joan: Hi, how are you? What are you doing? What is this? Roberto: Whoa! You’re very high-strung this morning. Joan: Am I? I am a little wired. I’ve been up all night trying to finish an assignment for one of my classes. Roberto: You don’t seem tired at all for having been up all night. In fact, you seem to be bouncing off the walls. Joan: What are trying to...
2/15/2013

869 - Touring Celebrity Homes and Filming Locations

Come to Los Angeles and meet famous people! Or, if you can’t meet any of them, see where they live. Slow Dialog: 1:20 Explanations: 3:20 Fast Dialog: 15:27 Tour guide: Welcome to Hollywood Tours, everybody. I’m your tour guide for today, and I’ll be showing you some of the most memorable locations in Hollywood history. Every seat in this double-decker bus is a good one, and you’ll be able to see every landmark we drive by. Uh, do you have a question? Elvira: Yes, I do. When do we see the...
2/13/2013

English Cafe #385

Topics: Famous Playwrights – August Wilson; low-income housing; to keep in mind versus to bear in mind; goose down blanket and other bedding; beauty is only skin deep Words: firsthand experience African American experience aspiring public housing residential property affordable housing to have a bad reputation to deteriorate dilapidated Section 8 housing voucher eligibility requirement to keep in mind to bear in mind goose down blanket beauty is only skin deep
2/11/2013

868 - Mergers and Aquisitions

When one company buys another one, the result is rarely fair for both organizations. Learn how to talk about mergers and acquisitions in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:08 Explanations: 2:38 Fast Dialog: 15:43 Marisol: What do you think of the big announcement this morning? Lamar: That our company is going to merge with McQ Corp.? From what I’ve heard through the grapevine, this isn’t a merger but a hostile takeover. Marisol: But the CEO said this morning said that our company and McQ Corp. are...
2/8/2013

867 - Talking About Attractive Men and Women

Take a look in the mirror and see if you recognize yourself in these descriptions of the beautiful people. Slow dialog: 1:30 Explanations: 3:18 Fast dialog: 17:55 Pamela: You know that your tongue is hanging out of your mouth, right? David: That’s because I’ve never seen so many beautiful women in one place before. Why have I never been to this beach before? Look at her! She’s a hottie! Pamela: Isn’t that what you said about that woman over there? David: No, I said she’s a babe. Look at the...
2/6/2013

English Cafe #384

Topics: The Hatfields and the McCoys; serving in the military to obtain U.S. citizenship; consistent with, in agreement with, coincide with, and identical to; software versus application versus app; to run out of versus to be out of Words: feud presumably to escalate massacre militia across state lines to be hung vengeance fast track naturalization to expedite to be stretched thin consistent with in agreement with coincide with identical to software applications apps to be out of to run out...
2/4/2013

866 - Using Renewable Energy

Being smart about energy use doesn’t mean smelling up your house. Learn more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:14 Explanations: 3:03 Fast dialog: 15:42 Carl: Uh! What’s that smell? Jody: I’m working on my latest invention. I’m turning our old food into an energy source for our car and our house. Carl: Why? There are already lots of types of renewable energy that power cars and homes, and none of them smell like this! Jody: Well, I think I’m onto a better alternative. Imagine being able to...
2/1/2013

865 - Believing in Predictions

I predict that if you like astrology, you will listen to this episode. I also predict that if you don’t like astrology, you will listen to this episode. Slow dialog: 1:20 Explanations: 3:13 Fast dialog: 15:18 Armond: I hope that this new year will bring me better luck. Patricia: You can find that out easily enough. My astrologer says... Armond: Hold on. You consult an astrologer? You really believe in that nonsense? Patricia: It’s not nonsense and, yes, I believe in it. I like getting...
1/30/2013

English Cafe #383

Topics: Famous Americans: Bobby Fischer; Kiss; barely versus scarcely; polite phrases used to refer to death; situation versus circumstance Words: chess match grandmaster child prodigy rivalry collusion seclusion to defend (one’s) title to revoke heavy metal outrageous to levitate barely scarcely passed away situation circumstance
1/28/2013

864 - Going to Business School

Sometimes if you want a better job, you need to get more education. Learn about getting into business school in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:12 Explanations: 3:31 Fast dialog 17:09 Karla: I just heard that you’re taking a leave of absence to go to business school. Is that right? Joaquin: Yeah, I’ve been thinking about it for a long time, and have finally taken the plunge. I need an MBA to get ahead in my career. Karla: That’s great, but why don’t you go part-time? Joaquin: I had considered...
1/25/2013

863 - Limiting Free Speech

I may not like what you have to say, but I’ll defend you’re right to say it. Learn about freedom of speech in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:07 Explanations: 2:58 Fast Dialog: 14:30 Toshi: You can’t go outside looking like that! What are you thinking? Celeste: I’m exercising my right of free speech. I’ve put on these clothes and painted my body this way to protest the treatment of women. I want to send a message. Toshi: You’re crazy if you think people are going to take you seriously. What...
1/23/2013

English Cafe #382

Topics: Famous Songs: "Chicken Fat"; Hells Angels; other versus another; through; it’s a given versus it figures Words: surprise hit calisthenics orchestral accompaniment push-up flabby nuts to (something) angel helmet tattoo patch gang biker to let loose other another through it’s a given it figures
1/21/2013

862 - Getting a Massage

Relax your back and shoulders. It’s time for a message. Learn more on this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:12 Explanations: 3:17 Fast Dialog: 15:31 Robert: Why are you twisting your back like that? Staci: I’m in pain. My back and shoulders really hurt. I think it’s from sitting at this computer all the time. Robert: What you need is a good massage. It can get rid of the knots in your muscles and get you some pain relief. Staci: I don’t know. I don’t like the idea of getting naked in front of a...
1/18/2013

861 - Planning a Children's Party

Get ready for your child’s birthday by planning a birthday party only you can actually enjoy. Learn more in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:15 Explanations: 3:17 Fast Dialog: 15:50 Sara: Come on! We need to buy all of the things we need for Gabriel’s party before the store closes. Paul: Are you sure we need a party? Maybe we can just have a cake and some party hats. Sara: Are you kidding?! We are going to pull out all the stops. We’ll have streamers, balloons, noisemakers, and party favors....
1/16/2013

English Cafe #381

Topics: Ask an American: Participatory Science; to attend versus to take part in versus to participate in versus to join; standalone versus to stand alone; hair of the dog that bit me Words: limited taxa citizens science project sample to involve the public mobile technology latitude longitude to attend to take part in to participate in to join standalone to stand alone hair of the dog that bit me
1/14/2013

860 - Insider Trading

Psst! Want some valuable information on stocks? Listen to this episode to find out how to make money and go to jail at the same time. Slow Dialog: 1:12 Explanations: 3:04 Fast Dialog: 15:18 Rita: I just got a hot tip from my brother to buy stock in McQ Corp. Rick: Your brother works for McQ Corp., doesn’t he? Rita: Yeah, he’s a director in the company, so he should know if something big is brewing. Rick: If he’s a director and he knows something that isn’t publicly disclosed about the...
1/11/2013

859 - Attending an Ex's Wedding

Forgive and forget as you go to your ex-boyfriend or ex-girlfriend’s wedding in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:25 Explanations: 3:03 Fast Dialog: 14:19 Andy: What did you do last weekend? Yuka: I went to Jamal’s wedding. Andy: Jamal?! Your ex Jamal? Yuka: Yes, that Jamal. Andy: He had the nerve to invite you to his wedding? Yuka: I actually thought it was nice of him to invite me. Whatever happened between us years ago is water under the bridge. There are no hard feelings on either side. Andy:...
1/9/2013

English Cafe #380

Topics: American Presidents: Andrew Jackson; Redwood National Park; safe versus save versus to save; to be implicated in versus to be involved in; one and only Words: prisoner of war duel to cede ugly bigamy forced relocation to dismantle in full to nullify logger ancient to suppress safe save to save to be implicated in to be involved in one and only
1/7/2013

858 - Donating an Organ

Some people give part of their bodies to others. Learn more about organ donation in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:18 Explanations: 3:00 Fast Dialog: 15:41 Christine: What is this sticker on your driver’s license? Saul: This sticker? It indicates that I’ve signed up for the organ donation program. If anything bad happens to me, I want my organs to go to recipients who need them. Christine: You mean you want somebody else to have your heart, liver... Saul: ...eyes, kidneys, or anything else...
1/4/2013

857 - Being Arrested by the Police

You have a right to remain silent, but at least listen to this episode to find out what to do the next time you’re arrested. Slow Dialog: 1:10 Explanations: 3:29 Fast Dialog: 14:37 I was walking down the street minding my own business one evening when I was stopped by a police officer. After asking me a couple of questions about where I’d been, he told me to put my hands behind my back. He was going to arrest me! He handcuffed me and gave me the Miranda warning. When I asked him why he was...
1/2/2013

English Cafe #379

Topics: Famous Authors: Ray Bradbury; foreign languages taught in U.S. schools; to repair versus to fix versus to mend; to the north versus north of; food versus meal versus repast Words: to emulate Fahrenheit to spontaneously ignite science fiction fantasy to embrace hesitant asteroid a move in the right direction immersion by far American Sign Language to repair to fix to mend to the north north of food meal repast
12/31/2012

856 - Training Salespeople

Buyers need to beware of bad salespeople, as we learn in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:04 Explanations: 3:03 Fast Dialog: 15:33 Our company brought in a consultant to do sales training for our store. For some reason, we’d been getting some complaints from customers. Consultant: My job in this training is to help your store improve its customer satisfaction, so that it can attract and retain more customers. When you interact with customers, you represent this store. It is very important that,...
12/28/2012

855 - Learning Fire Safety

Better safe than sorry when it comes to a fire. Learn something about basic fire safety in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:17 Explanations: 3:19 Fast Dialog: 16:22 The apartment manager asked all of the tenants to come to a short meeting to learn about fire safety. I didn’t want to go, but the manager said that there would be free food, and who am I to turn down free pizza? ... Apartment manager: Thank you all for coming to this meeting about fire safety. With the rash of fires in this...
12/26/2012

English Cafe #378

Topics: Redshirting; Mesa Verde National Park; to wrap up; to bother versus to interrupt versus to disturb; blind spot Words: to redshirt to count toward kindergarten cutoff to hold back peer prevalence cliff dwelling outcropping cave artifact to wrap up to bother to interrupt to disturb blind spot
12/24/2012

854 - Singing Christmas Carols

Who doesn’t like a good Christmas carol? Learn to sing along in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:03 Explanations: 2:53 Fast Dialog: 13:18 Andrea: What are you doing? Stephanie: I’m coming up with a list of Christmas carols to sing when we go caroling. Andrea: Can I come? Stephanie: Uh, I don’t think... Andrea: What? You don’t think I can sing in tune? Stephanie: No, it’s not that... Andrea: You think I’m going to forget the lyrics? Stephanie: No, it’s not that either... Andrea: I know what it...
12/21/2012

853 - Reading an Obituary

Who died? Find out by reading the obituaries in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:13 Explanations: 3:17 Fast Dialog: 16:50 Ivy: This is so sad! Stephan: What is? Ivy: I’m reading the obituary for one of my favorite actors as a child, Mr. McBoo. He had quite a life. Stephan: Oh, yeah? Ivy: Yeah, and this article has really done him justice. It’s a nice tribute to a man who touched so many lives. It says here that he’s survived by his wife and five children. Stephan: Did he live to a ripe old...
12/19/2012

English Cafe #377

Topics: The Sam Sheppard Trial; Plymouth Rock; to counsel versus to consult; to hit (one/someone) head on; to scare the crap out of (one/someone); a bee in (one’s/someone’s) bonnet Words: intruder to lose consciousness to come to jury to be convicted appeal sequestered to be acquitted to clear (someone’s) reputation Pilgrims to disembark souvenir to counsel to consult to hit (one/someone) head on to scare the crap out of a bee in (one’s) bonnet
12/17/2012

852 - Working in a Factory

Working in a factory can be dangerous. Learn how to keep safe in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:12 Explanations: 3:02 Fast Dialog: 14:26 Tony: The plant manager says that you’re the new kid. Amber: Yes, it’s my first day. Tony: All right, you’ll be a line worker like the rest of us. Here’s your workstation. What you have to remember is that output and productivity are the most important things around here. Amber: I understand, but... Tony: Watch out for that forklift! You have to watch where...
12/14/2012

851 - Finding a House to Buy

Looking for a new house can be pretty stressful. Learn all about it in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:16 Explanations: 2:54 Fast Dialog: 15:16 I’m looking to buy a house and I want a single-family home. I have been living in a townhouse for two years and I am tired of having common walls and very small yards. My new house will have to have a lot more square footage, a large lot size, an open floor plan, great curb appeal, and lots of upgrades. My agent has been showing me fixer-uppers, while...
12/12/2012

English Cafe #376

Topics: Ask an American: The Appeal of Superheroes; property versus propriety versus proprietary; trust versus believe; little does he know; suffocated; to relish Words: emotional connection wish fulfillment fantasy primordial balance to seek justice transcendent ancient grim gritty realistic hyper- psychological property proprietary propriety to trust to believe little does (one) know suffocated to relish
12/10/2012

850 - Betting on Sports

How much you want to bet that you will learn something new about betting in this episode? Slow Dialog: 1:15 Explanations: 2:58 Fast Dialog: 15:53 Peter: Look at this! I just won 2,000 smackaroos! Angela: Where did you get all that money? Peter: I won it betting on the game last night. I placed a small wager with high odds and won big. Angela: Wow, I always put money in the pools at work, but I’ve never won anything like $2,000. Peter: I’ll introduce you to my bookie if you want to do some...
12/7/2012

849 - Bargaining with Store Owners

How much is that doggy in the window? If you want it for a good price for him, listen to this episode on how to bargain. Slow Dialog: 1:06 Explanations: 2:58 Fast Dialog: 14:05 Connie: You speak McQuillanese. Ask the store owner the price of this vase. Ivan: All right. He says it’s $60. Connie: That’s actually a great price, but let’s see if I can talk him down a little. You should never accept the starting price and the prices in these stores are all negotiable. Ask him what his rock bottom...
12/5/2012

English Cafe #375

Topics: The Lone Ranger; the Liberty Bell; uprising versus revolution versus rebellion; given; revenge versus vengeance Words: ranger mask lone sidekick strict moral code bell liberty to ring crack inscribed to proclaim inhabitant uprising revolution rebellion given vengeance revenge
12/3/2012

848 - An Unscrupulous Partner

When doing business, it’s always good to have things in writing. Learn what happens when you don’t in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:12 Explanations: 3:29 Fast Dialog: 15:28 My friend Charles convinced me to go into business with him about a year ago. I wish I had had the benefit of hindsight to say “no.” I was too trusting and that was my downfall. At first, everything was fine. We worked our butts off to get the business off the ground. But as soon as it looked like the business was going...
11/30/2012

847 - Experiencing a Blackout

Are you in the dark about blackouts? Learn how to talk about them in English in this episode. Slow Dialog: 1:08 Explanations: 2:39 Fast Dialog: 13:37 George: Whoa, what happened? Inga: The lights went out. Did we blow a fuse, or is this a blackout? George: Well, I don’t see any lights on in any of the houses down the street. It’s pitch black out there. Inga: So it’s another power outage. Somehow the circuits got overloaded again. I wonder how long we’ll have to do without electricity this...
11/28/2012

English Cafe #374

Topics: Famous Americans: Jimi Hendrix; the melting pot metaphor; U.S. state numbers and nicknames; by any stretch of the imagination; to play it fast and loose Words: habit broom ukulele by ear gig stage presence virtuosic to smash suspicious circumstances metaphor melting pot to assimilate mosaic by any stretch of the imagination to play it fast and loose
11/26/2012

846 - Donating Blood

Donating your blood to help others is a good thing, even if you do it for the wrong reason. Find out more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:15 Explanations: 2:49 Fast dialog: 13:26 Michelle: Did you hurt yourself? Gabriel: No, why? Michelle: You have a Band-Aid on your arm. Gabriel: Oh, that. I donated blood today. Michelle: You did? That’s great. I’d like to donate blood, but every time I get close to a needle, I feel light-headed. I’m afraid if I go through with it, and they actually draw...
11/23/2012

845 - Dropping Out of College

A mind is a terrible thing to waste. Learn how not to stop your schooling in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:21 Explanations: 3:41 Fast dialog: 16:05 Aaron: Mom, I have something to tell you and you’re not going to like it. Margo: What is it? Aaron: I’m dropping out of college. I want to get out into the real world and get a job. I’m wasting time in school. Margo: You’ll get a better job if you stay in school and graduate with a degree. You’ll have more earning power and better long-term...
11/21/2012

English Cafe #373

Topics: The Chicago Seven; American Authors: Horatio Alger; murderer versus killer versus assassin; ...and all; so forth and so on Words: defendant convention radical rally to incite a riot verdict intent rags-to-riches American Dream entrepreneurial perseverance to deteriorate murderer killer assassin ...and all so forth / so on / so forth and so on
11/19/2012

844 - Dealing with Corrupt Officials

Who can you trust in government today? Find out in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:25 Explanations: 3:04 Fast dialog: 15:49 Vera: I can’t believe that Stan has been arrested. I know that he wasn’t always on the up-and-up, but he’s being accused of influence pedaling and taking bribes. Keigo: Stan has been getting kickbacks for years. Everybody knew that if you wanted to get what you wanted from this department, you had to grease Stan’s palms. There isn’t a more corrupt official than Stan. Vera:...
11/16/2012

843 - Passing Through Airport Security

If you’re leaving on a jet plane, you need to be prepared for American airport security. Learn more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:16 Explanations: 3:49 Fast dialog: 18:49 Roland: Why are you so nervous about flying? Natalie: I’m not nervous about being in the air. It’s going through security. I hear it’s a hassle and I don’t want to end up being strip-searched. Roland: You won’t be strip-searched. All you need to do is to follow a few simple rules. When you get to security screening, put...
11/14/2012

English Cafe #372

Topics: Famous Americans: Aimee Semple McPherson; Famous songs: "Turkey in the Straw"; marriage versus wedding versus wedlock; otherwise; pronouncing contractions Words: evangelist to convert tent revival Pentecostal to speak in tongues divine healing to follow in (someone’s) footsteps following blackface turkey nonsensical tune marriage wedding wedlock otherwise
11/12/2012

842 - Taking a Standardized Test

True or false: Standardized tests are really fun to study for and take. Find out the answer in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:18 Explanations: 3:47 Fast dialog: 16:17 Dad: It’s time you start preparing for the MCFL Test. Maria: Dad, that’s 12 months away! I don’t need to start looking at test prep materials right now. Dad: Yes, you do. Like all high-stakes testing, familiarity with the types of questions you’ll be asked will help you. You need to score well on it if you want to be admitted to...
11/9/2012

841 - Adopting a Child

Learn about the joy of adopting a new child into your family on this episode. Slow dialog: 1:03 Explanations: 3:58 Fast dialog: 18:07 Scott: Hi, I thought I’d stop by to pick up those chairs I wanted to borrow. Roberta: Oh, sure. Here they are. Scott: What are you doing? Roberta: I’m looking through the material we got on adoption. Scott: Are you and Robert thinking about adopting a child? Roberta: Yeah, we are. We’ve been thinking about it for a long time, and we think we might be ready...
11/7/2012

English Cafe #371

Ask an American: Asian Immigrants; to note versus to notice versus to notify; assessment versus appraisal; to be full of (oneself) Words: professionalized immigration brain drain working class folks pre-collegiate multiplicity national origin demographics culturally competent to raise socio-economic Fortune 500 company to note to notice to notify assessment appraisal
11/5/2012

840 - Translating a Document

Don’t get lost in translation. Listen to this episode to learn how to talk about going from one language to another. Slow dialog: 1:08 Explanations: 3:14 Fast dialog: 17:39 Francine: Do you know the word in Mcquish for “partnership”? Aziz: No, I don’t speak Mcquish. What are you doing? Francine: Jim gave me this letter and this document to translate into Mcquish because I speak a little of it, but even with a dictionary and thesaurus, it’s slow going. Aziz: Didn’t you tell Jim that?...
11/2/2012

839 - Getting a Divorce

Getting a divorce can be a difficult thing for everyone involved. Learn more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:12 Explanations: 3:04 Fast dialog: 15:15 Nicole: I’m really sorry to hear about you and Catherine getting a divorce. Tom: I appreciate it, but it was a long time coming. We’ve been heading toward divorce for years. I just hope it doesn’t get too messy. Nicole: I don’t mean to pry, but didn’t the two of you have a prenup? Tom: Yeah, but Catherine wants it set aside because our...
10/31/2012

English Cafe #370

Movies: Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid; Mount Rushmore; threat versus menace versus peril; using “should” with “have to”; role reversal Words: loosely based on outlaw to flee sculpture – to carve granite to draw to depict from the waist up to commemorate quarter spoof threat menace peril role reversal
10/29/2012

838 - Talking About Immigration

America is the land of immigrants, but not everyone is happy to keep the door open. Learn more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:08 Explanations: 3:29 Fast dialog: 18:53 Ann: The immigration policy in this country is ridiculous. Why are there so many illegal immigrants here? They cross the border and take American jobs! They all need to be deported. Chris: A lot of immigrants have lived here nearly all their lives. Do you mean to tell me that you want to do some of the jobs that undocumented...
10/26/2012

837 - Driving While Calling and Texting

Why risk your life drinking and driving when you can text and drive instead? Learn the fastest way to kill yourself in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:17 Explanations: 3:26 Fast dialog: 15:45 Pamela: [laughs] Did you see this tweet from Sarah? She’s so funny. Josh: Hold on. I’m texting Lance. I want to make sure he knows where we’re meeting up. Pamela: [cell phone rings] Hello. Oh, hi Lance. Did you get Josh’s text? You didn’t? Let me IM you, bye. Josh: I wonder why Lance didn’t get my text. I...
10/24/2012

English Cafe #369

Ghost towns of the Wild West; dime novels and pulp magazines; kidding versus joking versus teasing; television show versus television series; phrase Words: Wild West boomtown bustling ghost town to seek (one’s) fortune saloon prostitution dime pulp to look down on (something) frontier to fall out of popularity kidding joking teasing television/TV show television/TV series phrase
10/22/2012

836 - Working Shifts

Working at night can be tough, but some people are willing to do it. Find out more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:10 Explanations: 2:48 Fast dialog: 16:22 Lisette: You’re the new kid on the block, aren’t you? Danny: Yeah, it’s my first day. Lisette: I’m Lisette. Danny: I’m Danny. Nice to meet you. Lisette: You’re lucky to be starting on the day shift. When I started working here umpteen years ago, I had to work the graveyard shift for two years before I got the day shift. Danny: I guess I...
10/19/2012

835 - Getting Shocking News

Did you hear the news? If you didn’t, you may be surprised after listening to this episode. Slow dialog: 1:06 Explanations: 3:18 Fast dialog: 17:39 Karla: You look like you’ve had a shock. Chris: Yeah, that phone call threw me for a loop. My ex-girlfriend is pregnant and she wants me to take a paternity test. Karla: Wow, that’s quite a bombshell. Are you going to do it? Chris: Of course. If the baby is biologically mine, I want to take responsibility for it. I wanted to start a family with...
10/17/2012

English Cafe #368

Topics: American Presidents: Ronald Reagan; using suffixes; to persuade versus to convince; to bring around/round Words: to come to fame welfare incumbent whopping assassination supply-side economics laissez-faire trickle-down economics trickle-down economics dtente to denounce warmongering to persuade to convince to bring around/round
10/15/2012

834 - Breaching Computer Security

Security alert! Be careful to protect your computer from hackers. Learn what not to do in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:14 Explanations: 3:20 Fast dialog: 17:19 Jin: Did you hear what happened to McQ Corp? Dina: No, what? Jin: Hackers were able to get unauthorized access to its computer systems and cause a lot of problems over the weekend. They destroyed data and rendered the system unusable. In fact, the entire system crashed. Dina: I hadn’t heard that. Why McQ Corp? Jin: Well, the company...
10/12/2012

833 - Shooting Travel Videos

Ready for your big chance at an Academy Award for Best Picture? Well, that isn’t happening, but you can learn about making a travel video in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:12 Explanations: 2:47 Fast dialog: 15:27 Cesar: Hurry up! We’ll miss the tour bus if we don’t leave right now. Matilda: I’m just getting some footage of this area before we leave. “This area is known for its…” Cesar: Now what are you doing? Matilda: I’m doing a voice-over for this segment. Voice-overs are very important in...
10/10/2012

English Cafe #367

Topics: American Authors – Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein and All the President's Men; Famous Songs – “Over There"; to borrow versus to debit versus to lend versus to loan; using ago with since; ambivalence versus conflict Words: to cover implicated informant true identity film rights height on the run lad sweetheart to pine to send the word to say a prayer to borrow to debit to lend to loan ambivalence conflict
10/8/2012

832 - Creating an Online Store

Make lots of money fast! Start your own Internet money machine after listening to this episode. Slow dialog: 1:08 Explanations: 2:58 Fast dialog: 15:43 Kay: I’d say we’re well on our way to establishing our new online store. Greg: I can’t wait for this to get off the ground. Orders will pour in and we’ll make money hand over fist. Kay: Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Let’s see where we are in our preparations. Greg: All right. We’ve created a marketing plan that includes several ways to...
10/5/2012

831 - Not the Marrying Kind

Some men don’t like the idea of getting married. Find out how to avoid dating one in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:17 Explanations: 2:55 Fast dialog: 15:57 Stacey: I have a date with George this Saturday. I can’t wait! Brad: Have a good time, but you know what the word on the street is about George, don’t you? Stacey: What? Brad: He’s not the marrying kind. Stacey: Oh, he just hasn’t met the right girl yet. When he does, he’ll be ready to settle down. Brad: I don’t think so. Women who have...
10/3/2012

English Cafe #366

Topics: Ask an American: Saving the space program; point versus period versus dot; using “no” with a verb; all the same Words: vehicle astronaut orbit to hitch a ride to imply to stoke innovation golden era space exploration driven by to shift outlook point period dot all the same
10/1/2012

830 - Donating to a Thrift Store

Give away what you don’t need to help others. Find out more on this episode. Slow dialog: 1:19 Explanations: 3:45 Fast dialog: 16:48 Scott: That’s the last bag. Help me put these into the truck. I want to get these to the thrift store before they stop taking donations for the day. Nancy: Hold on! That bag has curtains in it. Scott: I know they do. Those old curtains have been sitting around in the closet for 10 years. It’s time to let them go. Nancy: But what about this bag? These are the...
9/28/2012

829 - Having a Barbecue

Enjoy some good times and good cooking at a barbecue in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:16 Explanations: 3:02 Fast dialog: 14:02 George: Step aside! The king of the cookout is here. I’m ready to work my magic on this barbecue. Sophia: Here are the burgers and hot dogs. The kids are pretty hungry. George: Hold on. I need to put on the charcoal. Now I’m ready to fire up this barbecue. Where’s the lighter fluid? Sophia: It’s right here. George: Good. Oh, I almost forgot. I’ll need to gather some...
9/26/2012

English Cafe #365

Topics: Movies: King Kong; Famous Americans: Lance Armstrong; its sounds versus it sounds as if; acting versus pretending; gobbledygook Words: remake offering jungle shackles to gross cyclist triathlon consecutive testicular prognosis bracelet allegation doping it sounds as if acting pretending gobbledygook
9/24/2012

828 - Important Business Contacts

Are you connected to the powerful and influential people in your industry? If not, listen to this episode to find out how important it is. Slow dialog: 1:05 Explanations: 2:40 Fast dialog: 14:50 Kelly: What we need are a few people in the industry to talk up our new company. John: I’m on top of that. I’m really well connected, as you know, and I’ve already put in a few calls to a few of the movers and shakers in our business. Kelly: I didn’t know you had such a vast network of contacts....
9/21/2012

827 - Fad Dieting

Have you heard of the newest, most popular diet in the world? Find out what it is by listening to this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:18 Explanations: 3:40 Fast dialogue: 17:51 Joel: You don’t look so hot. Are you okay? Beatrice: I’m perfectly fine. Joel: Oh, and you’re grouchy, too. Don’t tell me. You’re dieting again. Beatrice: Just leave me alone. I’m not popping pills or anything like that. I’m just trying to shed a few pounds the natural way. Joel: The natural way? You mean like that diet...
9/19/2012

English Cafe #364

Topics: The O.J. Simpson Trial; to major versus to graduate; to pry; technically versus practically Words: notoriety key suspect domestic violence to turn (oneself) in to surrender to plead not guilty dream team DNA to goad damning to acquit divided along race lines to major to graduate to pry technically practically
9/17/2012

826 - Shopping for a Used Car

Question: What can be more fun than buying a used car? Answer: Almost anything. Find out why in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:15 Explanations: 3:46 Fast dialogue: 19:09 Mario: Do you want to go with me to test drive a car I’m thinking of buying? Danica: Sure. Which dealership are we going to? Mario: I’m not buying a used car from a dealership. I’m buying it from a private party. Dealerships rip you off. Danica: Are you sure about that? My sister bought a certified used car from a dealership...
9/14/2012

825 - Political Advertising

American elections have lots of political advertising. Learn why that’s not always a good thing in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:15 Explanations: 2:32 Fast dialogue: 15:07 Hilary: The election is still two months away and I’m already sick of the political ads. Look at these flyers we got in the mail just today, not to mention the canvassers ringing our doorbell nonstop! Bill: It’s worse if you watch TV, with attack ad after attack ad. It’s gotten completely out of hand. Hilary: What...
9/12/2012

English Cafe #363

Topics: Cigarette advertising and cigarette icons; how local government works; to assist in versus to assist with; calf versus cub; to hold forth Words: cigarette to sponsor slogan catchy icon rugged detrimental explicit county mayor city council jurisdiction to assist in to assist with calf cub to hold forth
9/10/2012

824 - Grooming a Successor

Looking for someone to take over your job? Listen to this episode to find out how to talk about it in English. Slow dialogue: 1:09 Explanations: 3:06 Fast dialogue: 16:39 Aisha: It’s only a matter of time before I retire and hand over the reins to someone else. Javier: That won’t happen for years. Aisha: It’ll happen sooner than you think. I’ve given a lot of thought to the person I want to fill my shoes. After long consideration, I think that person should be you. Javier: Me? But there are...
9/7/2012

823 - Dealing with a Bothersome Person

Jean-Paul Sartre once said that Hell is other people. Learn how to talk about them in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:23 Explanations: 3:21 Fast dialogue: 17:16 Melissa: I hate that guy Reuben. He’s always getting in my face. Conan: Ooh, I sense some serious sexual tension between the two of you. Melissa: Sexual tension? Are you out of your mind? He does nothing but give me a hard time. Conan: That’s because he’s trying to get your attention. Melissa: If he likes me, why doesn’t he try to get...
9/5/2012

English Cafe #362

Topics: American Presidents: Harry S. Truman; to handle versus to address versus to deal with versus to cope with; naysayer; hold that thought Words: to enlist leadership qualities haberdashery atomic bomb to surrender to flourish public approval rating to defeat to integrate memoir folksy to portray to handle to address to deal with to cope with naysayer hold that thought
9/3/2012

822 - Having a Frightening Experience

Don’t be afraid of today’s episode. You’ll learn how to talk about frightening experiences in English, but without getting scared yourself. Slow dialogue: 1:08 Explanations: 4:05 Fast dialogue: 17:47 Oliver: I had the most hair-raising experience of my life this past weekend. Alena: What happened? Oliver: You know that George bought an old house, right? Well, he’s been telling us that it’s haunted, so for a lark, a few of us decided to spend the weekend there to see if we would have any...
8/31/2012

821 - Eating Contaminated Food

Avoid getting sick by being careful what you eat. Learn how to talk food safety in English in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:17 Explanations: 2:51 Fast dialog: 14:30 Rachel: This tastes funny. Sergey: It’s fine. There’s nothing wrong with it. Rachel: It tastes like it’s tainted or something. Don’t you detect a funny metallic taste? Sergey: No, it’s perfectly fine. Just eat it. Rachel: I swear there’s something off about this food. I’m not eating adulterated food. There’s probably poison in...
8/29/2012

English Cafe #361

Topics: Ask an American – The global economy; insidious versus vile versus despicable; lock and load; fancy versus fanciful Words: index relative quarter close industrialized world structural monetary fiscal to run (one’s) limits to connect the dots holistic systematic to frame (an issue/problem) insidious vile despicable lock and load fancy fanciful
8/27/2012

820 - Performing Poorly at Work

Understand better what your boss may be saying about you in English with this episode. Slow dialog: 1:03 Explanations: 3:11 Fast dialog: 16:45 Cora: What’s up with Rob? He hasn’t been himself lately. Doug: You’ve noticed, too, huh? Cora: Yeah, he’s been missing work and letting things slip through the cracks. I’ve been cutting him some slack and filling in for him, but things haven’t improved. Doug: I know what you mean. I’d never known Rob to drop the ball on anything until recently. I...
8/24/2012

819 - Athletes Behaving Badly

Professional athletes sometimes get into trouble. Learn what happens when they do in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:12 Explanations: 2:34 Fast dialog: 15:00 Connie: I just got a call from Ron’s agent. He’s in hot water again. Walt: Not again! What did he get up to now? Connie: He got into another fight outside of a bar, and he’s in police custody right now cooling his heels. I don’t know what he was thinking. Walt: It’s the off-season, so I can understand him wanting to blow off some steam....
8/22/2012

English Cafe #360

Topics: Famous Americans – Ralph Nader; how to become an astronaut; with reference to versus with regard to versus according to; to confront versus to encounter; “In God We Trust” Words: critique to discredit traffic fatality inspiring social cause to lobby consumer advocate write-in candidate astronaut aspiring crew remote with reference with regard to according to to confront to encounter “In God We Trust”
8/20/2012

818 - Placing a Drink Order

Learn how to get something to drink in a restaurant in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:11 Explanations: 3:07 Fast dialog: 16:29 Server: Hello, I’m Allie and I’ll be your server today. Here’s a menu. Can I take your drink order? Joel: I’d like a glass of water with no ice. Server: Sure. Will that be sparkling or still? Joel: Uh, tap. Server: Okay, one glass of tap water. Would you like anything else? We have soda, iced tea, lemonade... Joel: I’d like a Diet Coke. Server: Sure, I’ll be right back...
8/17/2012

817 - Getting a School Class Schedule

Time to go to school, and oh, what fun algebra will be this year! Learn your class schedule in English on this episode. Slow dialog: 1:17 Explanations: 3:18 Fast dialog: 16:08 Carlos: Did you get your class schedule? Marianne: Yeah. You? Carlos: Yeah. Let’s see if we have any classes together. I have PE with Mr. Lopez and social studies with Ms. Walters. How about you? Marianne: I have PE with Ms. Schwartz and social studies with Ms. Eng. Who do you have for geography? I’m taking it with Mr....
8/15/2012

English Cafe #359

Topics: Leopold and Loeb Trial; Famous Songs: "The Itsy Bitsy Spider"; tunnel versus channel versus canal; right versus privilege; binge Words: perfect crime to lure chisel ransom capital punishment on parole toddler itsy bitsy spout gutter washed out index finger tunnel channel canal privilege right binge
8/13/2012

816 - Running a Pilot Program

Getting ready to start a new project or program? Learn how to talk about in English on this episode. Slow dialog: 1:19 Explanations: 2:40 Fast dialog: 14:25 Rosalind: How is the pilot program coming along? Jimmy: We’ll be ready to launch it in another month, but I have some serious reservations. Rosalind: Like what? Jimmy: We haven’t worked out all of the bugs yet and we might come up against some resistance from the community. Rosalind: Isn’t that the nature of a pilot program? When you’re...
8/10/2012

815 - Buying Dinnerware

Not all Americans eat every meal at McDonalds. Learn how to talk about dishes for dinner in English in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:21 Explanations: 3:23 Fast dialog: 16:16 Wendy: We need some new dinnerware. Nearly all of our plates and bowls are cracked or chipped. Jason: All right, you do that. Wendy: Aren’t you going to help? Jason: I trust your judgment. Whatever you like, I’ll like, too. Wendy: But I need your input. For instance, this set has eight place settings: eight dinner plates,...
8/8/2012

English Cafe #358

Topics: Movies – Guess Who's Coming to Dinner; Famous songs – The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald; to go on versus to keep on versus to move on; the suffix “ship”; to blow a strawberry to guess interracial miscegenation head-on liberal to object to wreck freighter to sink tribute legend gale to go on to keep on to move on to blow a raspberry
8/6/2012

814 - Getting Rid of Bugs and Rodents

Kill bugs dead with this episode. Learn how to talk about rodents and insects in English. Slow dialog: 1:14 Explanations: 3:00 Fast dialog: 15:07 Apartment Manager: This is the one-bedroom apartment we have for rent. Let me show you around. Sherin: Wait! Did you see that? It looked like a mouse or a rat. Apartment Manager: There aren’t any rodents or any other vermin in this apartment complex. I make sure of that. Sherin: Are you sure? Apartment Manager: Sure, I’m sure. Only last month, I...
8/3/2012

813 - Doing Basic Exercises

Live longer by doing a little exercise today. Find out how to tell all your friends about it in English in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:10 Explanations: 2:52 Fast dialog: 15:23 Jane: I’ve just had the best workout at the gym! Arnold: You don’t need to go to a gym to exercise. I exercise right here in my apartment. Jane: Oh, yeah? What can you do in this small space? Arnold: Nearly everything I need to do. Before I do my calisthenics, I stretch. And every morning I do sit-ups, push-ups, and...
8/1/2012

English Cafe #357

Topics: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band; the Dust Bowl; suggestion versus hint versus tip versus pointer; increase versus raise; How do you like them apples? songwriting prolific talent scout title track patriotic nuke American dream dust drought to flee migrant farmer destitution suggestion hint tip pointer increase raise How do you like them apples?
7/30/2012

812 - Losing Employees to Other Companies

Even in difficult economic times, some people leave their jobs for better offers. Learn more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:26 Explanations: 3:45 Fast dialog: 17:10 Diego: That’s three in six months! Natalie: What’s three in six months? Diego: That’s three of this company’s employees who have been hired away by other companies. First, there was Lamar. I wasn’t surprised that headhunters were interested in Lamar, since he was clearly a rising star. Natalie: Yeah, Lamar was a tough loss. His...
7/27/2012

811 - A Heckler at a Sports Game

Sometimes the most interesting part of a sports game is watching the fans. Learn more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:19 Explanations: 2:43 Fast dialog: 14:31 Lew: Boo!! Boo!! Your team sucks! Alexa: Sit down and stop heckling the visiting team. You’re making a fool of yourself. Lew: I’m supporting our team. If I keep taunting the players on the other team, they may lose their concentration and we’ll gain an advantage. Alexa: If you keep this up, we’ll get kicked out of this stadium. Lew: We...
7/25/2012

English Cafe #356

Ask an American – The humanities; another versus the other; however versus conversely; to call it/them like/how (one) sees it/them well funded fundamental to pertain domain humanities integrative urgent in the absence of partnership to tap into remotely essential budget realities another other however conversely to call it/them like/how (one) sees it/them
7/23/2012

810 - Switching Cell Phone Plans

Paying too much for your cell or mobile phone bill? Well, stop talking so much, dude. Learn more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:24 Explanations: 3:36 Fast dialog: 15:20 Paul: I need a new cell phone plan. These roaming and overage charges are killing me! Shauna: I thought you had a good calling, messaging, and data plan. Paul: I do, but I’m still going over each month. Shauna: Have you thought about a prepaid plan? You’ll never be charged extra. Paul: That’s not an option. I think I need an...
7/20/2012

809 - A Weather Forecast

Here in Los Angeles, the weather tomorrow will be sunny and 72 degrees. How about where you live? Find out how to understand weather forecasts in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:34 Explanations: 3:07 Fast dialog: 14:13 Colleen: Shh! I want to hear the weather forecast for this week. Jerry: What’s so important about this week? Colleen: Shh! Radio Announcer: Tomorrow, this warm front will move out and a cold front will move in, bringing with it windy conditions with a chance of thunderstorms....
7/18/2012

English Cafe #355

Topic: American Presidents: Martin Van Buren; show business secrets; revenue versus profit versus turnover; limerick; how to address in-laws to be admitted to the intention woe to play on (one’s) name to surrender third-party eventful show business merchandising residual next of kin guild revenue profit turnover limerick in-law
7/16/2012

808 - Asking for Time Off

Isn’t it time for a little vacation? Learn about asking your boss for some free time on this episode. Slow dialog: 1:15 Explanations: 2:50 Fast dialog: 16:25 Johnny: I just found out that the manager is letting Neal take Friday off. I asked him two days ago for Friday off and he turned me down! Francesca: Neal’s wife is pregnant, so maybe he needs time off to go with her to a doctor’s visit, or something. Johnny: That’s so messed up! I asked first, so I should have been given permission...
7/13/2012

807 - Getting an Unexpected Marriage Proposal

First comes love, then comes marriage – but right away? Learn about how not to ask someone to marry you on this episode. Slow dialog: 1:20 Explanations: 3:24 Fast dialog: 13:51 Sean: By now, I think you know how I feel about you. I’m madly in love with you and I believe in my heart of hearts that you’re my soul mate. Ayako: That’s really sweet of you to say. Sean: And because I feel the way I do, I would like to ask you a very important question. Ayako: Okay, but why are you getting down on...
7/11/2012

English Cafe #354

Topics: American Authors: Ernest Hemingway; the United Nations; you lost versus you’re lost; expert in versus expert on versus expert at; geez Words: foreign correspondent to shape expat to toll pithy concise emasculation filth to emulate to commit suicide sovereign body to lose expert geez
7/9/2012

806 - Essential and Optional Things

What do you really need in life, and what can you do without? Learn how to decide in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:10 Explanations: 3:19 Fast dialog: 14:25 Ella: It’s so exciting that you’ll be spending a month studying in McQuillanland this summer. When do you start packing? Marty: I’ve already started. The organizers of the program gave me a list of things I need to bring. Ella: That’s really helpful. Marty: Yeah. They say that it’s essential that I bring both warm-weather and cold-weather...
7/6/2012

805 - Listening to Shock Jocks

People can say some pretty strange things, especially on morning radio shows. Learn more about it on this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:19 Explanations: 2:58 Fast dialogue: 16:15 I like listening to the radio on my morning commute each day. This morning, though, my favorite DJs weren’t on the air. .......... Howard: Do you know what happened to the Kelvin and Ben show this morning? Robin: Kelvin and Ben are both on suspension. The FCC fined the radio station. Apparently, Kelvin and Ben said some...
7/4/2012

English Cafe #353

Topics: The Dred Scott Decision; the zodiac; to snag versus to hitch; in the moment versus at the moment; I’ll tell you something Words: slave free state to sue trigger to overrule lighter topic zodiac astrology trait horoscope broad pick-up line to snag to hitch in the moment at the moment I’ll tell you something
7/2/2012

804 - Dealing with Time Changes in Scheduling

Time keeps on ticking into the future, but what time is it, exactly? Learn all about changing schedules in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:10 Explanations: 3:39 Fast dialogue: 17:20 Danny: Don’t bother looking for next year’s meeting calendar. I’m still working on it. Tessa: What’s taking so long? Danny: This is my first time scheduling all of the major meetings for this company and I’m getting thrown off by all of the things I have to keep in mind. For instance, our bylaws say that we have...
6/29/2012

803 - Negotiating a Peace Treaty

Some say there can be no peace between nations without peace in our homes. Find out if that’s true in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:17 Explanations: 3:00 Fast dialogue: 16:32 Ahmed: Have you heard the news? Menna: The nations of Palicia and Isram have signed a peace treaty. This means that there will be an immediate ceasefire and an end to hostilities. This is a historic day! Ahmed: I never thought I’d live to see this day. Has everything been settled? Menna: Only the most important things....
6/27/2012

English Cafe #352

Topics: Movies: E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial; The MacArthur Fellows Program; important versus significant versus critical; tough; navel-gazing Words: extra-terrestrial alien to be stranded to lure psychic highest-grossing foundation genius merit no strings attached percussionist silversmith important significant critical tough navel-gazing
6/25/2012

802 - Talking About Movies

Lights! Camera! Action! We’re off to the movies. Learn how to talk about seeing a good film in this episode. Slow dialogue: 0:57 Explanations: 2:37 Fast dialogue: 15:35 Martin: What did you think of that movie? Joanna: It was okay, but I’m not really into big-budget movies with a lot of special effects and big-name stars. Martin: Oh, you’re a film snob. I bet you only watch indie films made on a shoestring budget with low production values. Joanna: No, that’s not true. I just don’t like...
6/22/2012

801 - Reading Online Reviews

I give this episode five out of five stars for explaining about online reviews. Listen and decide for yourself. Slow dialogue: 1:19 Explanations: 3:26 Fast dialogue: 16:00 Marisa: When we go to our favorite vacation spot in two months, let’s stay at a different hotel. Oscar: I like the hotel we always stay at. It’s in a convenient location and we’re already familiar with it. Marisa: That’s just it. It’s tried and true, but there’s no novelty and excitement in staying in the same place year...
6/20/2012

English Cafe #351

Topics: Ask an American: Rural doctors; let’s start versus let’s get started; continuously versus continually; chaos Words: intention rural soul mate to be captured to train prospective lifelong interactive monitor lecturer slides continuously continually chaos
6/18/2012

800 - Advertising Jobs on the Internet

Wanted: A dialogue that explains all about advertising a new job on the Internet. Apply yourself here by listening to this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:29 Explanations: 3:12 Fast dialogue: 17:02 Wendy: I just heard that you’re not going to use a recruitment agency to fill the new position. Pedro: No, I’m not. There are so many Internet job boards out there that I think we can find good candidates without using headhunters. Wendy: But headhunters do a good job of weeding out people who don’t...
6/15/2012

799 - Dealing With the Heat

If you’re a hot child in the city, running wild and looking pretty, then you need to cool down by listening to this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:09 Explanations: 2:43 Fast dialogue: 14:15 Jolene: I’m sweating like a pig. When is this heat wave going to end? Eric: I’ve no idea, but I’m not moving a muscle until it does. Hand me that pitcher of iced tea, would you? Jolene: Get it yourself. I’m not moving until it drops below 80 degrees. Eric: It’s not the temperature. It’s the humidity. It’s not...
6/13/2012

English Cafe #350

Topics: Famous Americans: Thelonious Monk; the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (food stamps); pen name; tingling versus stabbing versus burning; gringo Words: giant self-taught to compose to get credit unorthodox record company nutritious food stamp strict abuse poverty line to trickle down pen name tingling stabbing burning gringo
6/11/2012

798 - Being Cautious or Thrill-Seeking

Do you like taking risks, or playing it safe? Learn how to find your opposite in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:15 Explanations: 2:57 Fast dialogue: 16:50 Paula: Did you get an invitation to Kip and Sheri’s wedding? Robert: Yeah, I did. I’m still trying to wrap my head around the two of them getting married. Never in my wildest dreams would I put those two together. It boggles my mind that they’re in the least compatible. Paula: What do you mean? Robert: Sheri is really adventurous and...
6/8/2012

797 - Managing a Classroom

No more teachers, no more books! School’s out for summer, but not forever. Learn about the difficult job of managing a classroom in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:04 Explanations: 2:57 Fast dialogue: 14:07 After three months of summer vacation, I was looking forward to the start of a new school year. ... Okay, everybody, settle down. Take your seats and get out your textbook. Charlie, eyes on your own book. And Kathy, do you have something to share with the rest of the class? No? Then put...
6/6/2012

English Cafe #349

Topics: Migrant Farming in the U.S.; American Cities: Palm Springs, CA; patronizing versus condescending; to right every wrong; to belong to versus to belong with Words: migrant worker manual labor slave plantation to deport tactic boycott toxic playground Hollywood types high-end boutique patronizing condescending to right every wrong to belong
6/4/2012

796 - Setting Up Conference Calls and Videoconferences

Why travel to a meeting when you can have a videoconference? Find out how to do it in English on this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:13 Explanations: 3:44 Fast dialogue: 16:46 Ewan: Who’s running the videoconference next week? Petra: I am. Desmond put me in charge of it last week. Ewan: Oh, somebody’s moving up in the world. It’s nice that he’s giving you more responsibility. Petra: Yeah, but I’m not sure I’m ready. Ewan: I’ve set up conference calls and videoconferences before. Maybe you can...
6/1/2012

795 - Ordering Coffee and Tea

Learn how to order a cup of coffee or tea in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:27 Explanations: 2:53 Fast dialogue: 16:00 Jermaine: I’d like a decaf drip, to go. Drew: Would you like our light or dark roast? Jermaine: I'll just have whatever's freshly brewed. Drew: Are you sure you don’t want to try an espresso, an Americano, or a latte? Jermaine: No, just a decaf coffee. Drew: Sure, no problem. Would you like it hot or cold? Jermaine: Hot, please. Drew: Would you like any room for...
5/30/2012

English Cafe #348

Topics: American Presidents: Ulysses S. Grant; James Beard and the James Beard Foundation Awards; limit versus border versus confine; sound; life-affirming Words: particularly civilian to surrender Reconstruction amnesty to mar to annex destitute memoir catering company cuisine foundation limit border confine sound life-affirming
5/28/2012

794 - Getting Over a Fight

It’s better to forgive and forget after you’ve had a fight or argument with someone. Learn how to do it in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:08 Explanations: 2:44 Fast dialogue: 15:30 Alisa: Don’t be mad. Sabir: I’m not mad. Alisa: Yes, you are. I’m sorry. I admit it was my fault. Will you stop moping now? Sabir: I’m not moping. I’m giving you the silent treatment. Alisa: I knew it! You’re still peeved at me. What can I do to make it up to you? Sabir: You can leave me alone. Alisa: If I leave...
5/25/2012

793 - Signing Professional Athletes

Professional athletes make a lot of money. Find out how to get one on your team in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:24 Explanations: 2:51 Fast dialogue: 16:11 Nick: I don’t care what it takes. I want Robinson on my team next year. Jamie: He’ll be a free agent and he’ll be fielding a lot of offers. I don’t know if we can make him an attractive enough deal. Nick: We’ll offer him a signing bonus. That should sweeten the deal. Jamie: I’m afraid that may not be enough. Don’t forget that he was a...
5/23/2012

English Cafe #347

Topics: American Authors: Erle Stanley Gardner and the Perry Mason TV Series; Boys & Girls Clubs of America; who versus which versus that; It ain’t over till the fat lady sings; to go/be all in Words: detective self-taught pseudonym pulp magazine case retainer adaptation last resort verdict to enable full potential affordable who which that It ain’t over till the fat lady sings to go/be all in
5/21/2012

792 - Business Zoning

Trying to start a new business but don’t know where to put your store or office? Learn all about zoning laws in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:03 Explanations: 3:21 Fast dialogue: 17:47 Sybil: Oh, this is it! This is the perfect location for our new store! Leo: Sorry, but this space isn’t zoned for retail. It’s zoned for offices. Sybil: But couldn’t we get the zoning commission to re-zone it? Leo: That’s not an easy process. The city’s urban planners decided that this space would be best...
5/18/2012

791 - Taking Photographs

Learn how to take your pictures in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:03 Explanations: 2:47 Fast dialogue: 13:49 Ryan: Stop mugging for the camera and stand still! Katrina: I’ve been standing still for 10 minutes, while you’ve been setting up the shot. I have to do something. This is boring! Ryan: I almost have the settings right. Okay, let’s try a shot. Say “cheese.” Katrina: Cheese. Ryan: Oh, you look washed out in that shot and it’s blurry. I think the flash came on when I didn’t...
5/16/2012

English Cafe #346

Topics: Ask an American: Innovation; pain versus sorrow versus woe; manhood; to be over someone versus to be all over someone Words: show and tell to stumble across to trigger association unpredictable to kill creativity to undermine to stimulate autonomy mindset mechanism inevitable pain sorrow woe manhood to be over (someone) to be all over (someone)
5/14/2012

790 - Giving Birth to Twins

It’s a boy! And a girl!! And another boy! And…well, you get the idea. Have lots of babies in this episode. Slow dialogue: 0:54 Explanations: 2:19 Fast dialogue: 13:30 Jerome: Congratulations! I just heard that you’re pregnant with twins. Paula: Thanks. We’re very excited, although I’m a little worried about a multiple birth. Jerome: I come from a long line of multiple births. My father is an identical twin and he had cousins who are fraternal twins. Paula: I see what you mean. Jerome: That’s...
5/11/2012

789 - Talking Care of Pets

Teach your pet English with this episode, or at least learn how to talk about him. Slow dialogue: 1:26 Explanations: 3:02 Fast dialogue: 15:40 Magda: Oooh, he’s so cute. When did you get him? Tony: Yesterday. I’m training him to do tricks. Magda: Really? Are you having any luck? Tony: No, not yet. So far, he just lies there, but maybe he’s hungry and doesn’t have any energy to play. I’m going to feed him a few treats and give him some water in his bowl. Magda: Uh, okay. Tony: And then later,...
5/9/2012

English Cafe #345

Topics: Famous Americans: Magic Johnson; the role of ham radio operators in the U.S.; understanding versus knowledge versus acquaintance; below the waist and below the belt; earth to (someone) Words: drafted stats abruptly MVP safe sex commentator to keep (something) in check ham radio to suspend licensed to rise to prominence to wipe out understanding knowledge acquaintance below the waist below the belt earth to (someone)
5/7/2012

788 - Being Conservative and Daring

Sometimes you have to take a risk to get what you want. Find out how in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:11 Explanations: 3:00 Fast dialogue: 15:33 Wendy: I really don’t think Monty is the right person for this project. He’s too conservative in his thinking. We need someone who’s a risk taker. Burt: Monty will get the job done. That’s the most important thing. Wendy: Not if the finished product is staid and boring. Our client won’t be happy with that. Burt: Okay, who do you have in mind?...
5/4/2012

787 - Speaking to a Baby or Young Child

If you want to speak to your baby in English, here are some phrases you might want to use. Slow dialogue: 1:11 Explanations: 2:46 Fast dialogue: 15:07 My sister had to go out of town for a couple of days and I offered to look after her 18-month-old twins. It wasn’t long before I realized that I was over my head! ... Colleen: Okay, you two, it’s time to go beddy-bye. Baby: No! Colleen: Yes, let’s get your jammies on. You can keep your binkie for now. Your blankie is already in your bed and...
5/2/2012

English Cafe #344

Topics: American Playwrights: Tennessee Williams; how to become a real estate agent; thief versus burglar versus robber versus mugger; to sell someone a bill of goods; to hold up one’s end of a bargain; momentum Words: hit menagerie dysfunctional family by far adapted for the screen most accomplished to account for real estate agent to afford real estate broker background check thief burglar robber mugger to sell someone a bill of goods to hold up one’s end of a bargain momentum
4/30/2012

786 - Going to a Bar

Party on, people! Learn how to talk about going to a bar in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:02 Explanations: 2:53 Fast dialogue: 14:20 I’d been complaining to a coworker, Amy, about having to move to the burbs for my job. She said that there were plenty of things to do outside of the city and invited me to a bar she likes. ... Amy: Hey, there you are. Mykhailo: Hey, so this is the famous McQ’s you’ve been talking about. Amy: This is it. What would you like to drink? They have several beers on...
4/27/2012

785 - Consulting a Pharmacist

Learn how to ask for drugs at a pharmacy in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:12 Explanations: 3:33 Fast dialogue: 17:18 Pharmacist: Can I help you? Sanaz: Yes, I had some questions for the pharmacist. Pharmacist: I’m the pharmacist. How can I help you? Sanaz: Can I fill these prescriptions here? Pharmacist: Yes, you can. Just give those to the pharmacy technician and she’ll take care of you. Sanaz: The reason I ask is that I’m hoping there’s a home remedy for my problems so I don’t...
4/25/2012

English Cafe #343

Topics: Famous Americans: Mary Tyler Moore; Famous Songs: "Dem Bones"; to straighten up versus to straighten out; (you’re) tripping; to get/fall into the groove Words: big break to be cast sitcom eponymous newsroom opening sequence encouraging awfully diabetes spiritual prophet to rise straighten up straighten out tripping to get/fall into the groove
4/23/2012

784 - Socializing With Clients

Sometimes doing business can be fun, like when your company pays for your food and drinks. Learn more in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:18 Explanations: 2:38 Fast dialogue: 15:51 Georgia: Do you know what the best part is of my new promotion? The expense account! I can’t wait to wine and dine our clients. Dan: The purpose of the expense account is to win over new clients and to keep our current clients happy. It’s not a personal slush fund, you know. Georgia: I know. The point is to network...
4/20/2012

783 - Different Political Philosophies

Whether you’re a capitalist, a socialist, or a communist, you will love this episode about political philosophies. Slow dialogue: 1:20 Explanations: 3:26 Fast dialogue: 15:03 Carla: Our government should do more to help people who can’t find jobs. Adam: Be careful. You’re starting to sound like a socialist. Haven’t you always said that you’re a staunch capitalist? Carla: Of course, I’m a capitalist, but that doesn’t mean I think the government should be completely hands-off. We pay taxes and...
4/18/2012

English Cafe #342

Topics: Movie: Apocalypse Now; getting your child into a private school, K-12; relating to versus related to; down with (the king); to qualify Words: apocalypse to be set in renegade to command mission horror napalm triumphant ambitious transcript prestigious reference relating to related to down with to qualify
4/16/2012

782 - Expressing Bitter Feelings

Sometimes the person you love is the person you hate. Learn how things get that way in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:10 Explanations: 3:01 Fast dialogue: 13:03 Laurent: I’m done with women! They’re liars and manipulators. Julie: Let me guess. You’ve had a bad breakup? Laurent: It wasn’t just bad. It was monumentally awful. I’m never going to date again. Julie: You’re just feeling bitter right now, but you’ll get over it. You won’t always feel so jaded. Wait a second. Did you break up with...
4/13/2012

781 - Filming a TV Show or Movie

Making movies, like making sausages, isn’t always a pretty sight. Learn how we do it in Hollywood in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:03 Explanations: 2:35 Fast dialogue: 15:25 Martin: Okay, quiet on the set! What are the extras doing over there? They’re not in the scene. Stephanie: Sorry, I’ll get them off the set. Is this the lighting you wanted for this scene? If not, I can tell the lighting crew. Martin: The lighting is fine, but this staging is all wrong. And can somebody turn off those...
4/11/2012

English Cafe #341

Topics: Ask an American: Historic court case on gender equal rights; incident versus accident; to throw good money after bad; adding shm- before another word Words: just to have faith in to right the wrong trial court appeals court Supreme Court pernicious prediction in the wake of provision code overt gender incident accident to throw good money after bad shm-
4/9/2012

780 - Being Sued

The world is full of lawyers, and they need something to do with their time. Learn what happens when they sue you in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:21 Explanations: 3:33 Fast dialogue: 16:15 Ally: Hello, Ally McNeal. Jerry: Ally, this is Jerry Mason. I need to talk to you right away. We’re being sued and we’ve just been served. This is one of those times I wish we had in-house counsel. Ally: Jerry, you know that our firm will do its best to represent you, as we’ve done in the past. You can...
4/6/2012

779 - Giving CPR

It’s good to know what do in in case of a medical emergency, like when someone has a heart attack or stops breathing. Learn more about it in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:13 Explanations: 2:39 Fast dialogue: 14:48 Joyce: Lie down on the floor. Steve: Why? Joyce: I have to practice for my CPR exam tomorrow. I’m taking it so I can get my CPR certification. Lie down please. Steve: Okay, okay. Now what do I do? Joyce: You just lie there and pretend to be unresponsive, like you’re in cardiac...
4/4/2012

English Cafe #340

Topics: Rodney King Trial and the 1992 Riots; Dick Tracy detective stories; third world; from versus out of; to pull (oneself) together versus to get a hold of (oneself) Words: to beat bystander excessive force baton outraged to acquit riot mob curfew detective villain cartoon third world from out of to pull (oneself) together/to get a hold of (oneself)
4/2/2012

778 - Getting Your Pocket Picked

Be careful of thieves and robbers when you are in a busy place. Learn more in this episode about how not to get your wallet stolen. Slow dialogue: 1:18 Explanations: 2:45 Fast dialogue: 15:00 Lenny: Wait a second. Where's my wallet? Anita: It’s not in your back pocket? Lenny: No, it’s in none of my pockets. My pocket’s been picked! Anita: It must have happened when our attention was diverted by those boys fighting over there. Lenny: I should have been paying more attention in a busy market...
3/30/2012

777 - Supplies for Outdoor Recreation

Going for a long hike? Be sure to bring the right things with you. Learn how to talk about them in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:20 Explanations: 3:05 Fast dialogue: 14:04 Jim: I shouldn't have let my brother pack my supplies for this trip. I was running late and he offered to do it. Fumiko: What's the problem? Jim: He doesn't know the first thing about hiking or camping. Look at this! My backpack is filled with bottles of water! Fumiko: What's wrong with that? Jim: He should...
3/28/2012

English Cafe #339

Topics: American Presidents: Herbert Hoover; knock-knock jokes; awful versus terrible versus terrific; initials in nicknames; that ship has sailed Words: starvation Great Depression to backfire tariff relief effort to memorialize dam lighthearted knock punch line pun to bear with (someone) awful terrible terrific that ship has sailed
3/26/2012

776 - Getting Praise and Recognition

I have not come to praise this episode, but to tell you about it. Learn all about recognitions and honors, then tell everyone how great it is! Slow dialogue: 1:10 Explanations: 2:28 Fast dialogue: 13:26 Rene: Hey, look who's here. It's the company's golden boy. Bruno: Very funny. Rene: I'm not joking. First, you're recognized at the annual meeting for your work in the company, and then you get a commendation from the city for your volunteer work. I'm basking in your reflected glory. Bruno: I...
3/23/2012

775 - Making Repairs on the Outside of a House

Things fall apart, especially on an old house. Learn how to fix them on this episode. Slow dialogue: 0:57 Explanations: 2:26 Fast dialogue: 14:31 Maggie: Watch out! Are you okay? Conrad: I'm fine, but I almost tripped over that crack in the driveway. We've got to get that fixed. Maggie: I know it's a hazard, but first things first. We should fix those broken front steps, don't you think? Conrad: I see what you mean. Maggie: And we have to repair that part of the fence that's falling down....
3/21/2012

English Cafe #338

Topics: Famous Americans: Ansel Adams; Ben & Jerry's; to find out versus to figure out versus to seek; "too" constructions; dummy versus idiot Words: from that point on to develop portfolio inspiring gift shop yummy correspondence course ice cream parlor pint to sell out cone scoop to find out to figure out to seek
3/19/2012

774 - Describing Height and Build

Learn how to describe someone's height and weight in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:19 Explanations: 3:05 Fast dialogue: 15:31 Gwen: Do you see that heavyset guy over there, the one towering over everyone else? Denzel: Yeah, what about him? Gwen: He's my ex-boyfriend. I haven't seen him in years. When I knew him he was really skinny. He's really put on a few pounds. It's amazing what a few years can do. Denzel: None of us are as svelte as we used to be. Gwen: That's true enough....
3/16/2012

773 - Dealing With Debt

Neither a borrower nor a lender be, Shakespeare said. Ah, but he never had a credit card! Learn how to talk about debt in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:37 Explanations: 3:40 Fast dialogue: 18:03 Kristin: Let’s go shopping! Ed: Wait a second. What are all these? Kristin: They’re bills, but they don’t have to be paid yet. Don’t worry. Let’s go! There’s a new pair of shoes with my name on it. Ed: Hold on a minute. This is a notice saying that you’re behind on your house payments and...
3/14/2012

English Cafe #337

Topics: Famous Authors: Stan and Jan Berenstain and the Berenstain Bears; getting married; to stand for versus to refer to (as); the past simple and the present perfect tenses; especially Words: illustrator anthropomorphic bumbling to backfire franchise civil ceremony to ordain to propose to elope lingerie bachelor honeymoon to stand for to refer to as to refer to especially
3/12/2012

772 - Types of People at Work

How would you describe the people you work with? Learn how to do it in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:06 Explanations: 2:51 Fast dialogue: 15:16 Raul: Thanks for showing me around on my first day. Ursula: It’s no problem. I want to give you the lay of the land and tell you about the people you’ll be working with. For instance, that’s Julie over there. She’s really nice, but she’s also a perfectionist. If you ever work with her, remember that she’s a stickler about everything....
3/9/2012

771 - Commuting by Train

Take the last train to Los Angeles and I’ll meet you at the station. But first, learn how to get to work and back on a train in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:13 Explanations: 3:15 Fast dialogue: 12:36 Lisa: Can you tell me if this is the right platform for the train to Arlington? Omar: Yes, it is. Is this your first time taking the train? Lisa: Is it that obvious? Omar: No, you just look a little lost. Lisa: I’m starting a new job and I have to commute to work for the first time. Omar: Oh,...
3/7/2012

English Cafe #336

Topics: Ask an American: Self-publishing; intrinsic versus native versus innate versus congenital; recently versus currently; soccer Words: route agent to reject courtesy outrageous to fulfill tiresome fraught with distribution editorial support credibility movement trend democratization intrinsic native innate congenital recently currently soccer
3/5/2012

770 - Joining a Tour

Let’s go on vacation with a bunch of people we don’t know and may not like! Find out about taking a tour in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:05 Explanations: 2:52 Fast dialogue: 14:05 Darrel: What are you looking at? Alice: Tours for our vacation. I was thinking that it’d be hard for us to get around on our own, so I think joining a tour is a good idea. Darrel: Really? I thought we’d make our way around leisurely to see the sites. I don’t like the fast pace of tours. I’d rather have the time...
3/2/2012

769 - Trying Unusual Foods

Free your mind, and your mouth will follow. Try some unusual foods in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:04 Explanations: 2:25 Fast dialog: 13:08 Antonio: What is that smell?! It stinks! Candace: This is a dish my roommate taught me to make. It’s really good. Want a bite? Antonio: You’ve got to be kidding me! You actually eat that? You can stomach something that smells that foul? Candace: Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it. I admit that it’s an acquired taste, but once you develop a taste for...
2/29/2012

English Cafe #335

Topics: Spy trials of the 40s/50s: Alger Hiss & Julius and Ethel Rosenberg; Johnny Appleseed; feeling versus emotion; expression versus term; drop dead Words: spy espionage trial to denounce perjury statute of limitations execution cause clbre orchard mosquito barefoot to say grace feeling emotion term expression to drop dead
2/27/2012

768 - Negotiating Price

Everyone wants to buy low and sell high. Find out about negotiating prices in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:11 Explanations: 3:14 Fast dialogue: 16:34 Justin: Hello. Rachel: Hi, Justin. It’s Rachel from McQ Corp. Justin: Oh hi, Rachel. Did you get our bid for the job? Rachel: Yes, we did. We like your proposal, but we still need to come to terms on the price. Justin: We’ve already given you our rock-bottom price because we want to get this job, but we always try to be flexible....
2/24/2012

767 - Taking Care of Your Teeth

Ignore your teeth, and they’ll go away. Find out how to keep your dental bills down by listening to this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:20 Explanations: 3:17 Fast dialogue: 16:10 Martha: Oh, I have a toothache! George: It sounds like you’re in for a visit to the dentist. Martha: That would be the last resort. I hate going to the dentist. I don’t like needles and the sound of the drill scares me to death. I’m hoping the toothache will just go away. George: You really should get that checked out....
2/22/2012

English Cafe #334

Topics: Grand Teton National Park; Famous Songs: "She'll Be Coming 'Round the Mountain"; congratulations versus thanks versus kudos; literally; to take the time Words: range intact stunning glacier lodge snowshoeing to come around spiritual second coming chariot howdy rooster congratulations thanks kudos literally to take (the) time
2/20/2012

766 - Describing Shapes and Sizes

Looking to change the look of your living room? Find out what not to do in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:14 Explanations: 3:16 Fast dialogue: 16:19 Carson: Your apartment is going to look fabulous once I’m finished decorating it! Brooke: I really appreciate you taking the time to help me choose some furniture, but I’d really like to keep the look conservative and traditional. Carson: Nonsense! You have a fabulous new apartment and I’m going to help you make the most of it. Look at that oval...
2/17/2012

765 - Annulling a Marriage

Marriage is forever, except when it isn’t a marriage at all. Learn how to get unmarried in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:05 Explanations: 2:51 Fast dialogue: 16:41 Courtney: Did you hear? Kate and Christopher are trying to annul their marriage. Ray: What?! They’ve only been married for two months! What brought this on? Courtney: I have no idea. Neither of them is underage or bigamists and they married of their own free will, so I don’t know how they can ask for an annulment. Ray: I’ve heard...
2/15/2012

English Cafe #333

Topics: Movie: Star Wars; the Security and Exchange Commission; shame versus pity; reading numbers aloud; to be left cold Words: trilogy prequel outer space extraterrestrial droid to harness box office security commission broker scope disclosure shame pity to be left cold

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Location United States
Genres Language Learning
Language English
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English as a Second Language Podcast is for anyone who wants to improve their English speaking and listening skills - great for any ESL or EFL learner.

English as a Second Language

Recent Shows

897 - Cooking a Meal

English Cafe #399

896 - Preparing a Speech

895 - Government Reactions to Protests

English Cafe #398

894 - Understanding Modern Art

893 - Sports-Related Injuries

English Cafe #397

892 - Preparing for a Busy Season

891 - Checking on the Status of an Application

English Cafe #396

890 - Enjoying Nature

889 – Taking Up a New Hobby

English Cafe #395

888 – Advertising in TV and Movies

887 – A Destructive Storm

English Cafe #394

886 – Driving Through a Speed Trap

885 – Talking to a Bank Teller

English Cafe #393

884 – Types of Meetings

883 – Taking Care of a Willful Child

English Cafe #392

882 - Playing a Practical Joke

881 – Eating Genetically Modified Foods

English Cafe #391

880 - Forming a Union

879 - Saying No

English Cafe #390

878 - Recovering From an Illness or Injury

877 - Cheering Someone Up

English Cafe #389

876 - Preparing a Professional Portfolio

875 - Shopping at the Supermarket

English Cafe #388

874 - Poor Road Conditions

873 - Avoid Giving an Opinion

English Cafe #387

872 - A Publicity Stunt

871 - Listening to Club Music

English Cafe #386

870 - Using Caffeine as a Stimulant

869 - Touring Celebrity Homes and Filming Locations

English Cafe #385

868 - Mergers and Aquisitions

867 - Talking About Attractive Men and Women

English Cafe #384

866 - Using Renewable Energy

865 - Believing in Predictions

English Cafe #383

864 - Going to Business School

863 - Limiting Free Speech

English Cafe #382

862 - Getting a Massage

861 - Planning a Children's Party

English Cafe #381

860 - Insider Trading

859 - Attending an Ex's Wedding

English Cafe #380

858 - Donating an Organ

857 - Being Arrested by the Police

English Cafe #379

856 - Training Salespeople

855 - Learning Fire Safety

English Cafe #378

854 - Singing Christmas Carols

853 - Reading an Obituary

English Cafe #377

852 - Working in a Factory

851 - Finding a House to Buy

English Cafe #376

850 - Betting on Sports

849 - Bargaining with Store Owners

English Cafe #375

848 - An Unscrupulous Partner

847 - Experiencing a Blackout

English Cafe #374

846 - Donating Blood