Culips Everyday English Podcast

**Bonus episode #126 – Time trap** Nov 17, 2024
In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew tells a funny story about trying to stop wasting time on his phone and computer. He uses an app to block distracting websites so he can focus better. But instead of staying on track, he discovers a new distraction he didn’t expect. Andrew talks about how his plan took an unexpected turn and what he learned from it. He also shares the meaning of the expression, “When God closes a door, he opens a window,” and how it fits his experience. Join him to hear about his ironic adventure with technology and staying productive.

**How this episode will improve your English:**

**Listening practice**: Improve your listening skills by following Andrew’s engaging story about battling digital distractions. Practice understanding natural, conversational English as he shares his personal experiences with technology.

**Vocabulary building**: Learn useful technology and productivity vocabulary like “distractions,” “blocker,” “addictive,” “time suck,” and “productivity.” Expand your word bank with terms you’ll encounter in everyday conversations about apps and staying focused.

**Idioms and expressions**: Pick up natural English expressions like “have a hunch,” “down the rabbit hole,” “rack your brain,” “no going back,” and “scratch that itch.” Understand how these idioms are used in context and add them to your own speech.

**Understanding sayings**: Learn the meaning of the saying “When God closes a door, he opens a window,” and see how Andrew applies it to his own situation. This will help you understand common proverbs used in English.

**Pronunciation practice**: Listen to the correct pronunciation of new words and phrases. Try mimicking Andrew’s speech to improve your own pronunciation and fluency in English.

**Cultural tips**: Learn how people deal with technology and distractions in English-speaking cultures. Understand common challenges and solutions related to productivity.

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

**Important links:**

Become a Culips member

Study with the interactive transcript

Trying playing Connections

Join the Culips Discord server

Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

**Simplified Speech #205 – Learning to scuba with Luke** Nov 14, 2024
In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew is joined by his longtime friend Luke, who recently took up scuba diving! Listen in as Luke shares stories about learning to scuba dive in Bali and the Philippines, including the different kinds of dives he experienced and all the training he went through. Andrew and Luke discuss Luke’s diving adventures and the different sights he saw in the ocean – such as a World War II shipwreck! If you’re interested in scuba diving or just want to enjoy a natural conversation between two native speakers, then this episode is an excellent way to improve your English skills!

**What you will learn:**

Vocabulary related to scuba diving, like “buoyancy,” “wetsuit,” and “oxygen tank”

Information about scuba diving training and essential safety tips

How to talk about personal experiences and new hobbies in English

**How this episode will improve your English:**

Expand your vocabulary with common words used to talk about sports and adventure activities

Improve your listening skills by following a friendly conversation between native speakers

Learn how native speakers discuss experiences and hobbies, making it easier to talk about your own interests in the future

**The best way to learn with this lesson:**

Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, quiz, ad-free audio, and more for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member.

Sign up and become a Culips member now!

Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here.

Listen to Chatterbox 152: An interview with Luke from 2015!

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

**Bonus episode #125 – The perfect crime** Nov 10, 2024
In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew tells a funny yet unfortunate tale about some bad luck that he and his wife both experienced with their favorite gadgets at almost the same time! You’ll hear about exactly what happened, the lessons they learned, and how they dealt with it all.

**How this episode will improve your English:**

**Listening practice**: Follow a real-life story filled with natural speech. Practice understanding a longer, detailed narrative about everyday challenges.

**Vocabulary building**: Learn useful tech and household vocabulary like “frequency,” “static,” “routine,” and “vicinity.” Master words you might encounter in conversations about gadgets and home life.

**Idioms and expressions**: Pick up natural expressions like “pump up,” “crime of opportunity,” and “a baddie.” Learn how English speakers talk about responsibility, accidents, and routines in casual language.

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

**Important links:**

Become a Culips member

Study with the interactive transcript

Simplified Speech 201 – Audiobooks

Join the Culips Discord server

Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

**Simplified Speech #204 – Exploring Germany** Nov 07, 2024
In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew talks with Indiana about her recent trip to Germany. Indiana shares exciting stories about meeting her family in Germany for the first time, seeing amazing castles, and trying new foods. They also talk about the challenges of speaking another language and what it was like to see her family’s culture up close. This episode gives interesting insights into German culture and tips for feeling more comfortable in a foreign country.

**What you will learn:**

Vocabulary for discussing travel, family reunions, and cultural experiences.

Interesting aspects of German culture and history, including food, language, and traditions.

**How this episode will improve your English:**

Expand your travel and cultural vocabulary with real-life expressions.

Improve your listening comprehension through listening to a natural conversation between native speakers.

Build confidence using English to talk about travel, culture, and family experiences.

**The best way to learn with this lesson:**

Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, quiz, ad-free audio, and more for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member.

Sign up and become a Culips member now!

Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here.

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

**Bonus episode #124 – Pushing past pain** Nov 03, 2024
In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew tells the story of what happened after he hurt his knee during a marathon. He talks about his trip to the doctor, getting different treatments, and what it was like walking around with a leg brace.

**How this episode will improve your English:**

**Listening practice:** Follow a natural story about visiting the doctor and dealing with an injury. Practice understanding a longer narrative with real-life details.

**Vocabulary building:** Learn essential medical and health vocabulary like “orthopedic,” “administering,” “brace,” and “treatment.” Master words you might need at the doctor’s office.

**Idioms and expressions:** Pick up natural expressions like “a godsend,” “put weight on,” and “eye-opening.” Learn how English speakers talk about health and recovery.

**Speaking skills:** Learn how to explain symptoms, describe pain, and talk about medical experiences in natural English.

**Real-life English:** Get comfortable with doctor-patient conversations and medical situations in English.

**Grammar in context:** Notice how English speakers tell stories in the past tense and use sequence words to explain events.

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

**Important links:**

Become a Culips member

Study with the interactive transcript

Join the Culips Discord server

Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

**Simplified Speech #203 – Iceland adventures with Indiana** Oct 31, 2024
In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew is joined by Indiana to talk about her recent trip to Iceland. They discuss the stunning landscapes, the unique Icelandic culture, and how she decided to travel to Iceland to go on a nature expedition cruise. Indiana also shares interesting facts about Iceland’s history, local traditions, and the memorable experiences she had while traveling to that special island. If you dream of visiting Iceland or just want to improve your English, this episode is for you! It features a natural conversation that will help you practice listening, build your vocabulary, and increase your fluency.

If you’d like to learn more about Indiana, click here to listen to her interview with Andrew from last year.

**What you will learn:**

**Icelandic geography**: Learn about the natural beauty of Iceland, from its famous waterfalls to its volcanic landscapes.

**Cultural insights**: Discover Icelandic traditions, such as the use of unique surnames and the importance of public pools.

**Travel experiences**: Hear about Indiana’s firsthand experiences visiting Reykjavik, exploring the Arctic Circle, and spending ten nights on a tiny cruise ship.

**How this episode will improve your English:**

**Listening skills**: Improve your ability to follow natural conversations between native speakers.

**Vocabulary expansion**: Learn useful travel-related words and phrases that will build your English vocabulary.

**Cultural understanding**: Increase your knowledge of Icelandic culture and history, making it easier to discuss these topics in English.

**Engaging storytelling**: Listening to real-life stories will help you stay focused and learn English more effectively.

**The best way to learn with this lesson:**

Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, quiz, ad-free audio, and more for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member.

Sign up and become a Culips member now!

Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here.

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

**Bonus episode #123 – Personal worst** Oct 27, 2024
In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about his trip to Gyeongju, South Korea where he participated in the 2024 Gyeongju Marathon. From his pre-race planning and road trip with his friend Jimmy, to the excitement of race day morning, you’ll hear all the details of his marathon experience. Andrew shares what it’s like to be one of the few international runners at the event, introduces us to the traditional Korean music that welcomed runners at the start line, and opens up about dealing with an unexpected knee injury during the race. Despite the challenges, Andrew stays positive and already has his sights set on his next marathon.

**How this episode will improve your English:**

**Listening practice**: Improve your English by following along as Andrew tells a personal story about preparing for and running a marathon in Korea.

**Vocabulary building**: Learn useful sports and fitness terms like “carb loading,” “dialed in” “hit your pace,” and “acting up.”

**Idioms and expressions**: Learn everyday idioms like “wasn’t in the cards,” “to be iffy,” “TMI,” and “empty the tank.” See how these common expressions are used naturally in conversation.

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

**Important links:**

Become a Culips member

Study with the interactive transcript

Join the Culips Discord server

Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

**Chatterbox #329 – What makes you laugh? Part 2** Oct 24, 2024
In this episode, Andrew and Anna continue their chat about the challenges and joys of using humor in different languages. They share stories of failed jokes, moments when humor brought people together, and discuss how different cultures approach comedy. They also share their favorite types of comedy and talk about why some people seem naturally funny while others aren’t.

**What you will learn:**

Vocabulary and expressions related to humor and comedy.

Why some people might be naturally funnier than others.

How language learners can become more comfortable using humor, even when it’s difficult.

**How you will improve your English with this episode**

Grow your understanding of cultural and linguistic differences in humor.

Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between two native speakers.

Learn to recognize different types of humor, such as deadpan and self-deprecating.

**Important links:**

Become a Culips member

Study with the interactive transcript

Join the Culips Discord server

Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

**Bonus episode #122 – Marathon diary** Oct 20, 2024
In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about the highs and lows of preparing for his next race in Gyeongju, South Korea. Along the way, he reflects on how running has impacted his life, and he discusses trying to overcome challenges like injuries and tough weather conditions.

**What you’ll learn:**

**Listening practice**: Improve your English by following along as Andrew talks about his passion for running.

**Vocabulary building**: Learn useful terms related to fitness and running, like “training block,” “runner’s knee,” and “PR” (personal record).

**Idioms and expressions**: Learn new idioms such as “hit a wall” and “tough it out,” and see how they’re used in real-life situations.

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

**Important links:**

Become a Culips member

Study with the interactive transcript

Join the Culips Discord server

Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

**Chatterbox #328 – What makes you laugh? Part 1** Oct 18, 2024
In this episode, Andrew and Anna talk about comedy and what makes them laugh. They share stories about the types of humor they enjoy and discuss the differences in comedy across cultures, from British and American sitcoms to well-known comedians. Tune in to hear their thoughts and add some fun to your English learning!

**What You’ll Learn:**

Vocabulary related to comedy and humour, such as “deadpan,” “roast,” and “sitcom.”

The differences between British and American humour.

Recommendations for popular TV shows and comedians to check out.

**How This Episode Will Improve Your English:**

Expand your vocabulary with words and expressions related to comedy and entertainment.

Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between native English speakers.

Learn how to talk about cultural differences in humour and personal experiences.

**Important links:**

Become a Culips member

Study with the interactive transcript

Join the Culips Discord server

Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Bonus episode #121 – Autumn is awesome Oct 13, 2024

Do you love the fall season as much as Andrew does? In this bonus episode, Andrew lists his top six favorite things about autumn. He talks about everything from the freshness of the crisp air to delicious fall desserts. He also talks about how fall is uniquely celebrated in Korea compared to Canada. What you'll learn: Listening practice: Improve your English listening skills by following along with a native speaker's discussion about the fall season. Vocabulary expansion: Learn specific autumn-related vocabulary like "layered look," "crisp air," and "ablaze with color." Idioms and expressions: Learn idioms such as “ungodly amount of [something]” “double down on [something]” and “knock on wood” and how they are used in everyday conversation. Cultural tips: Discover the differences in autumn celebrations in Canada and Korea, deepening your global cultural awareness. Pronunciation practice: Focus on the pronunciation of new vocabulary and expressions within a natural speaking context, improving your speaking and listening accuracy. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Chatterbox #327 – Kidults and nostalgia Oct 11, 2024

In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna talk about the "Kidult" trend and how strong nostalgia can be. They talk about their favorite childhood toys, like Barbies, Beanie Babies, Legos, and video games. They also discuss how many adults today are returning to these toys by collecting or playing with them again. Plus, they chat about how the toy industry has changed to focus on adults and whether there’s any stigma around adults buying toys for themselves. What You'll Learn: Vocabulary related to childhood toys, nostalgia, and collecting. What the "Kidult" trend is and what Andrew and Anna think about it. Andrew and Anna’s favorite childhood toys and how they feel about them now. How This Episode Will Improve Your English: Learn useful vocabulary and expressions to talk about toys, nostalgia, and childhood memories. Improve your listening skills by following a fun, easy conversation between two native speakers. Build confidence in talking about your own childhood experiences and hobbies in English. Practice speaking English: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Bonus episode #120 – Time to say goodbye Oct 06, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about saying goodbye to an expat friend who is leaving Korea after many years. He shares his opinion about the differences between expats and immigrants, and discusses the challenges of maintaining friendships as a long-term foreign resident in South Korea. Andrew also talks about ever-changing social circles for immigrants and the sad but true reality of friends returning to their home countries. This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways: Listening practice: You'll hear a native English speaker discuss social dynamics and personal relationships, improving your understanding of spoken English in a cultural and relationship context. New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to immigration, expat life, cultural adaptation, and social relationships. Useful expressions: Understand common English idioms such as "chew the fat," "down with that," "plant some roots," and "ghettoize" in real-life contexts. Cultural insights: Learn about the experiences of long-term foreign residents in South Korea, giving you vocabulary to discuss immigration, cultural adaptation, and international friendships in English. Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of expressions and vocabulary related to immigration, cultural differences, and everyday social situations, which you can practice yourself. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Catch Word #280 – Typically, literally, practically Oct 03, 2024

In this episode, Andrew and Suzanne teach you the meanings and uses of three frequently used adverbs: "typically," "literally," and "practically." The hosts also provide practical examples and tips on effectively using these common but confusing adverbs. Learn how to start using these words in your daily English conversations to improve your fluency and sound more natural. What You Will Learn: About adverbs: Understand how and when to use "typically," "literally," and "practically" in English. Common expressions: Learn common phrases that include these adverbs and how they can improve your communication. Context and nuance: Discover how the meaning of "literally" changes based on context, and when to use it for emphasis. How This Episode Will Improve Your English: Vocabulary building: Expand your vocabulary with three essential adverbs and learn their meanings and uses. Listening skills: Improve your listening comprehension by following along with a natural English conversation. Practice speaking English: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Bonus episode #119 – I saw the future Sep 29, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about his experience trying out cutting-edge virtual reality technology, the Apple Vision Pro. He describes his first-hand encounter with immersive 3D environments, watching videos, and playing games in virtual reality. Andrew also talks about the current limitations and future applications of this technology. This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways: Listening practice: You'll hear a native English speaker describe a complex technological experience in detail, improving your understanding of spoken English in a tech-focused context. New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to virtual reality, 3D technology, and futuristic concepts. Useful expressions: Understand common English idioms such as "down the pike," "blow your socks off," "rough around the edges," and "cost prohibitive" in real-life contexts. Technology trends: Learn about current developments in virtual reality and augmented reality technology, giving you vocabulary to discuss these topics in English. Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of tech-related terms, brand names, and colloquial expressions, which you can practice yourself. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Simplified Speech #202 – Kassy’s big life update Sep 26, 2024

In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Kassy share some exciting personal news as Kassy prepares to welcome her first baby. They talk about how she told her family, the prepa-rations she's making, and her experiences during pregnancy. They also discuss how different cultures announce baby news and the use of social media to share family moments. Join An-drew and Kassy as they celebrate this special time in Kassy’s life and help you improve your English skills along the way! What you will learn: Vocabulary related to pregnancy, such as "gestational diabetes," "cloth diapering," and "gender reveal party." Insights into how different cultures celebrate and announce pregnancies. The pros and cons of using social media to share family news. This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways: Grow your vocabulary with common expressions about parenting and family life. Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between two native English speakers. Talk about this episode with other Culips listeners on our Discord server and speaking classes. The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, quiz, ad-free audio, and more for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Sign up and become a Culips member now! Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.

Bonus episode #118 – 10 out of 10 Sep 22, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about exciting adventures from the final leg of his summer vacation in Banff, Alberta. He recounts the challenges of planning a trip to the Rocky Mountains, his awesome visits to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, and a super-cool jazz concert. Plus, he shares a cute story about an impromptu photo session at Lake Louise! This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways: Listening practice: You'll hear a native English speaker tell a detailed story about travel planning, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. This will improve your understanding of spoken English in a real-life context. New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to travel, natural landscapes, and musical performances. Useful expressions: Understand common English idioms such as "smooth sailing," "go with the flow," "up another notch," and "compare notes" in real-life contexts. Canadian culture: Learn about famous Canadian natural attractions, the Banff Center for the Arts and Creativity, and the concept of garage sales in North America. Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of place names, geographical features, and music-related terminology, which you can practice yourself. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Chatterbox #326 – Teen employment Sep 19, 2024

In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna discuss teen employment. They share their personal experiences and explore the reasons behind the increasing number of teen jobs in various countries. They talk about their first jobs, the wages they earned, and how these early work experiences influenced their lives. They also compare teen employment in different cultures and discuss how rising living costs affect young workers. What You'll Learn: Vocabulary related to teen employment and part-time jobs, such as "stock shelves," "wage," "spare,”, and "paper route/round." The reasons why teens start working, including gaining financial independence and helping with increasing living expenses. Personal stories about balancing school and work, and how early jobs can impact academic performance and personal growth. Cultural differences in teen employment between North America, Europe, and Asia. How This Episode Will Improve Your English: Expand your vocabulary with words and expressions used when discussing part-time work and employment. Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between two native English speakers. Increase your cultural knowledge about teen jobs in different countries and how these experiences can shape a person's future. Build confidence in discussing your own experiences and job-related topics in English, including how to describe various entry-level positions and their impact on personal development. Practice speaking English: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Bonus episode #117 – Kelownafornia Sep 15, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about his summer vacation to Kelowna, British Columbia, his hometown. He describes his adventurous flight on a small plane through stormy weather, his experiences staying at his brother's place near the beach, and family activities like mini-golfing. Plus he shares a story about a fun linguistic surprise at a sushi restaurant! This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways: Listening practice: You'll hear a native English speaker tell a detailed story about his travel experiences and family reunions. This improves your understanding of spoken English. New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to air travel, weather conditions, recreational activities, and family gatherings. Useful expressions: Understand common English idioms such as "par for the course," "white knuckling it," "show someone a thing or two," and "hit the spot" in a real-life context. Canadian culture: Learn about popular summer activities in a Canadian town, family recreation spots, and the issue of forest fires in Western Canada. Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of everyday English words, place names, and activity-related vocabulary, which you can practice yourself. Travel English: Learn vocabulary and expressions useful for describing travel experiences, weather conditions, and leisure activities. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Simplified Speech #201 – Audiobooks Sep 12, 2024

In this Culips episode, Andrew and Kassy talk about audiobooks. They discuss how audiobooks have become more popular in recent years. Andrew shares his experience of listening to audiobooks while running, and Kassy talks about why she has limited experience with them. They also talk about the good and bad points of audiobooks compared to reading regular books. This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways: Listening practice: You'll hear two native English speakers have a natural conversation about audiobooks. This will help you get better at understanding spoken English. New vocabulary: Learn words and expressions related to books and technology. Everyday expressions: Hear common English idioms and expressions used in context, such as "Cringeworthy" and "Make it or break it." Cultural knowledge: Learn about how people in English-speaking countries enjoy books in different ways. Pronunciation: Listen to clear English pronunciation, which you can practice repeating. Conversation skills: Talk about this episode with other Culips listeners on our Discord server and speaking classes. The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, quiz, ad-free audio, and more for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Sign up and become a Culips member now! Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.

Bonus episode #116 – Whale of a time Sep 08, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about his recent trip to Canada, focusing on his visit to Victoria, British Columbia. He describes his journey from Vancouver to Victoria by ferry, a whale-watching adventure with his wife and an old friend, and a barbecue party with his former bandmates. Andrew shares details about seeing orca and humpback whales, visiting Race Rocks to observe sea lions and seals, and an unexpected change of plans due to COVID-19. This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways: Listening practice: You'll get to hear a native English speaker tell a detailed story about his travel experiences and reunions with friends. This helps improve your understanding of spoken English, especially in story form. New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to travel, marine life, and social gatherings. Useful expressions: Understand common English idioms and colloquialisms such as "hightail it," "spitting fire," "give someone their flowers," and "call it a night" in context. Canadian culture: Learn about popular tourist activities in British Columbia, Canadian wildlife, and social customs like summer barbecues. Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of everyday English words, place names, and wildlife-related vocabulary, which you can practice yourself. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Catch Word #279 – Over my dead body Sep 05, 2024

In this episode of Catch Word, Andrew and Suzanne explore two strong English expressions that you can use when you want to say, "absolutely not!" or when something is completely impossible. They are "Over my dead body" and "When hell freezes over." These expressions are used to show firm refusal or to say that something will never happen. What you will learn in this episode: Understanding idioms: Learn how to use the expressions "Over my dead body" and "When hell freezes over" to show strong disagreement or to describe something that is impossible. Vocabulary in context: Learn the different contexts in which these expressions can be used, including both serious and playful situations. Cultural tips: Learn how these expressions are used in everyday conversations and when it is appropriate to use them. How you will improve your English with this episode: Expand your vocabulary: Learn and practice using new expressions that will help you sound more natural and fluent in English. Improve your listening: Build your skills so you can understand and follow native speakers discussing real-life situations. Boost your confidence: Feel more confident using strong language in English to express your opinions or stand your ground in conversations. Practice speaking English: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Bonus episode #115 – Hot spring heist Sep 02, 2024

In this episode, Andrew tells a story about camping in British Columbia, Canada. He went with his brother and talks about their journey on logging roads, setting up camp in the rain, and enjoying a natural hot spring. Andrew also talks about an incident with his stolen sandals, describes the beautiful Kalamalka Lake, and explains why this trip was so special to him. This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways: Listening practice: You'll get to hear a native English speaker tell a detailed story about his outdoor experience. This helps improve your understanding of spoken English. New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to camping, nature, and travel, like "logging road," "raging river," and "hot spring." Useful expressions: Understand common English idioms such as "better safe than sorry," "stone's throw away," and "slept like a baby" in context. Canadian culture: Learn about outdoor activities in Canada, small-town experiences, and popular natural attractions. Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of everyday English words and nature-related vocabulary, which you can practice yourself. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Real Talk #063 – How to talk about being unemployed Aug 30, 2024

In this Real Talk episode, Andrew and Kassy help you learn how to talk about being unemployed in an optimistic way. They teach you how to discuss your job status in a way that’s both positive and professional. You’ll learn how to have conversations about finding a new job or changing career with their helpful explanations! What you will learn in this episode: Positive talk: Learn how to talk about being unemployed in a positive way. Useful expressions: Discover useful expressions like “I’m in between jobs” and “I’m at a career crossroads.” Real-Life examples: Hear simple conversations that show how to use these phrases in everyday situations. How you will improve your English with this episode: New vocabulary: Build your English vocabulary with useful words and expressions for discussing unemployment. Better communication: Gain confidence in talking about your job status without feeling awkward or negative. Fluency in context: Practice using these expressions to make your English sound more fluent and natural in real-life conversations. Practice speaking English: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Bonus episode #114 – Osaka was awesome Aug 25, 2024

Episode description: In this episode, Andrew recaps his recent 48-hour trip to Osaka, Japan. He shares his experiences from the first-ever Culips meetup, his shopping adventures for running shoes and vinyl records, and his nighttime run around Osaka Castle. Andrew also describes his encounters with local cuisine, an exceptional coffee shop, and the challenges of exercising in Japan's summer heat. This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways: Listening comprehension: Practice understanding a native English speaker as he gives a detailed account of his travel experiences. Vocabulary building: Learn new words and expressions related to travel, shopping, and running, such as "layover," "hustle and bustle," "tax-free plan," and "running crews." Idioms: Understand and learn useful English idioms like "put some faces to the community," "all set for," and "it is what it is" used in context. Pronunciation: Hear the correct pronunciation of everyday English, which you can then practice on your own. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Chatterbox #325 – Overtourism Aug 22, 2024

In this episode of Chatterbox, Andrew and Anna explore the topics of overtourism and tourist shaming. They share their thoughts on a recent protest in Barcelona where demonstrators used water guns to express their frustration with the high number of tourists. Andrew and Anna also compare different cities’ approaches to managing tourism and discuss the impact of tourism on local communities. What you will learn about in this episode: Overtourism: Find out what overtourism is and how it causes problems in cities like Barcelona, impacting the lives of local residents. Tourist shaming: Learn about tourist shaming and its effects on both visitors and locals. How you will improve your English with this episode Build your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to tourism and social issues. Strengthen your listening skills: Strengthen your ability to follow and understand natural conversations between native speakers. Refine your pronunciation: Listen to and mimic native speaker pronunciation to sound more natural. Increase your cultural knowledge: Learn about cultural and social issues that will help you communicate more effectively in English. Practice speaking English: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Catch Word #278 – Left to your own devices Aug 17, 2024

In this episode of Catch Word, Andrew and Kassy teach you two useful expressions for describing situations where you are left alone without support: "Left to your own devices" and "High and dry." With several helpful example conversations, they discuss the meaning and nuance of these expressions and provide easy-to-understand explanations to help you know how to use them in different real-life situations. What You Will Learn Key expressions: Learn the meaning of "Left to your own devices" and "High and dry." How to speak like a native: Learn about different situations where these expressions are commonly used. Cultural tips: Hear about popular songs that use these expressions and the maritime origins of “High and dry.” Practical examples: Listen to conversations that show you how to use these expressions naturally. How This Episode Will Help You Expand Vocabulary: Add new idiomatic expressions to your English vocabulary. Improve Comprehension: Understand how and when to use these expressions in real-life situations. Cultural Knowledge: Learn about cultural references and popular music that feature these expressions. Listening Practice: Upgrade your listening skills with clear and easy-to-understand examples. The best way to learn with this lesson Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips Member now! Members can access the ad-free version here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice.

[Classic] Bonus Episode #031 – A sweet mystery Aug 13, 2024

Andrew is away this week visiting family and friends in Canada, so we thought it would be the perfect time to revisit a classic bonus episode from 2022, titled ‘A Sweet Mystery.’ This episode quickly became a Culips fan favorite for its interesting story. In the episode, Andrew talks about a mystery he has discovered in his neighborhood and about visiting a Christmas market in Seoul. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you the expression to not hold water. Enjoy! Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Real Talk #062 – What to say when you’re misunderstood Aug 09, 2024

In this episode of Real Talk, Andrew and Kassy teach you how to handle misunderstandings in English conversations. They focus on common situations where people might get confused, such as unclear pronunciation or vague statements. Through practical examples, you'll learn how to ask for clarification and how to correct yourself politely when you've been misunderstood. What you will learn in this episode: Clarification expressions: Learn useful expressions to help you handle misunderstandings easily. Practical examples: Listen to two real-life conversations that show how to use these expressions in different situations. Pronunciation tips: Understand the difference between similar-sounding numbers, like 15 and 50, to avoid confusion. How you will improve your English with this episode: Better vocabulary: Build your English vocabulary with new expressions for handling misunderstandings. Improved understanding: Improve your listening skills so you can understand and solve unclear statements or pronunciation issues. Fluency and confidence: Practice using these expressions in real-life situations to sound more fluent and confident in English. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Bonus episode #113 – Off the bucket list Aug 04, 2024

In this episode, Andrew shares a story about crossing an item off his bucket list. He talks about his long-standing goal to cook a dish that would genuinely impress his wife. Andrew describes his experience preparing miyeokguk, a traditional Korean seaweed soup, for his wife's birthday. He talks about searching for a great recipe, cooking the dish, and his wife's reaction to the meal. This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways: Listening comprehension: Practice understanding a native English speaker as he shares a personal story and explains cultural customs. Vocabulary building: Learn new words and expressions related to cooking, cultural practices, and personal goals, such as "bucket list," "reconstituting," and "customary food." Idioms: Understand and learn useful English idioms like "kick the bucket," "whip up," and "blow you out of the water" used in a natural context. Pronunciation: Hear the correct pronunciation of everyday English, which you can then practice on your own. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Simplified Speech #200 – Decluttering your life Aug 02, 2024

In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Indiana talk about the topic of “decluttering” – in other words, removing and tidying up disorganized objects in your home. They discuss different methods of decluttering, including the concept of Swedish death cleaning, and share their own experiences with organizing their homes and lives. On a scale of 1 to 10, how organized do you think Andrew and Indiana’s workspaces are? Listen and find out! What you will learn Decluttering techniques: Discover different methods of decluttering, including the unique concept of Swedish death cleaning. Personal experiences: Hear Andrew and Indiana share their personal stories and challenges with decluttering. Practical tips: Learn practical tips and strategies to help you organize your own space and minimize clutter. How this episode will improve your English Vocabulary building: Learn key words and expressions related to decluttering and organization. Listening skills: Improve your listening by hearing native English speakers talk in a natural, conversational setting. Real-life learning: Understand how to use the new vocabulary and expressions in real-life situations and conversations. Cultural Insights: Learn about what Canadians and Americans think about decluttering and organization. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking and communication practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Bonus episode #112 – Visiting Osaka Jul 29, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about his upcoming trip to Osaka, Japan. He discusses the top three things he's looking forward to: the first-ever Culips meetup, shopping, and exploring Osaka through running. Andrew also looks back on his previous visits to Osaka and his travel style, focusing on personal interests rather than typical tourist activities. This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways: Listening comprehension: Practice understanding a native English speaker as he talks about real-life experiences and plans. Vocabulary building: Learn new words and expressions related to travel, shopping, and running, such as "layover," "dire need," "abusing," and "want list." Idioms: Understand and learn useful English idioms like "been there, done that," "talking into the void," and "hit up" used in context. Pronunciation: Hear the correct pronunciation of everyday English, which you can then practice on your own. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Participate in the Osaka meetup on July 30th! Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Chatterbox #324 – Childhood discipline and punishment Jul 25, 2024

Have you ever thought about how different cultures and generations handle child discipline at home? In this episode, Andrew and Alina discuss the kinds of punishments they experienced as children and explore how these methods have changed over time. They share personal stories and reflect on what worked, what didn't, and the impact these punishments had on their lives. What you will learn about in this episode: Types of punishments: Learn about the different kinds of punishments children receive at home across various cultures, particularly in Canada and Russia. Effectiveness and impact: Understand how the hosts reflect on the long-term impact of different kinds of punishments they received growing up. Personal stories: Hear personal stories about childhood punishments and their effects. Current trends: Learn about current trends in child discipline and how they differ from past generations. How you will improve your English with this episode Build your vocabulary: Learn new words and phrases related to child discipline and punishment. Better understanding: Improve your understanding of English by using the context and usage of new vocabulary through real-life examples. Natural conversation skills: Listen to a natural conversation, which will help you speak more like a native. Cultural insight: Learn about cultural differences in child-rearing practices, improving your skills to communicate with people from different cultures. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only)

Bonus episode #111 – Things I’m looking forward to Jul 21, 2024

In this episode, Andrew shares his excitement about an upcoming trip to his home country, Canada. He discusses three main things he's looking forward to: reuniting with old friends in Victoria, enjoying lake swimming in his hometown of Kelowna, and visiting Banff in the Rocky Mountains. He also shares personal stories about Canadian summer activities and the beauty of the country. This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways: Listening comprehension: Practice understanding a native English speaker discussing personal experiences and future plans in detail. Vocabulary expansion: Learn new words and expressions related to travel, outdoor activities, and Canadian geography, such as "swimmable," "high dive," and "scenic spot." Idioms and expressions: Learn helpful English expressions like "crack my list," "don't get me wrong," and "I'm all over that" used in context. Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of spoken English, including place names and casual speech patterns, which you can then practice on your own. Cultural insights: Improve your understanding of Canadian geography, summer activities, and cultural events, providing context for future conversations about travel and leisure. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Participate in the Osaka meetup on July 30th! Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) Special Offer: Save 20% on Culips Memberships! For one week only, until July 22nd, we're offering a 20% discount on yearly Culips memberships! Get access to helpful study guides, interactive transcripts, ad-free episodes, member-only series, weekly speaking classes, and more. Sign up now and reach your English goals with Culips! If you’re a current member, you can take advantage of the sale by renewing your membership at the discounted price. Sign up now and save 20% until July 22nd.

Simplified Speech #199 – Bike lanes Jul 17, 2024

Have you ever wondered about the pros and cons of bike lanes in cities? In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Suzanne discuss the topic of bike lanes, sharing their personal experiences and opinions on cycling infrastructure. They talk about the pros and cons of bike lanes, how different cities approach cycling, and the impact on pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers. What you will learn in this episode: Bike lane basics: Understand what bike lanes are and their purpose in city infrastructure. Different perspectives: Hear from both a casual cyclist and a more experienced cycling hobbyist about their views on bike lanes. City comparisons: Discover how bike infrastructure varies between cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Seoul. Cycling culture: Learn about cycling culture and how it influences city planning and transportation. How you will improve your English with this episode: Grow your vocabulary: Learn new words and expressions related to cycling and city infrastructure. Listening practice: Improve your listening skills with natural, engaging conversations. Fluent conversation skills: Practice understanding and using English in discussions about everyday topics like transportation and safety English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) Expressions included in the study guide You gotta do what you gotta do Don’t get me started To push one’s luck Not all [noun] are created equal To hog A me thing

Bonus episode #110 – Too good to be true Jul 14, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about the pros and cons of running’s growing popularity. He highlights the challenges runners face, especially the difficulty of finding good running shoes due to high demand. Andrew shares a personal story about trying to save money by purchasing discounted shoes online, only to discover they were counterfeits. Listen to hear about his experience with these fake shoes, the frustrations of marathon sign-ups, and other downsides of the running boom. This episode will help you improve your English in the following ways: Listening comprehension: Practice understanding a native English speaker discussing real-life situations in detail. Vocabulary expansion: Learn new words and expressions related to running and fitness, such as "endurance," "training cycle," "counterfeit," and "foam cushioning." Idioms: Learn helpful English idioms like "a grain of salt," "touch grass," and "missed the boat" used in context. Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of spoken English, which you can then practice on your own. Cultural insights: Improve your understanding of the running culture and fitness trends in different parts of the world, especially in Seoul. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) Osaka meet-up registration

Chatterbox #323 – Recognizing anxiety Jul 11, 2024

Do you sometimes feel anxious without knowing why? In this Chatterbox English learning podcast, Andrew and Anna dive deep into the topic of anxiety. They explain what anxiety means, how it affects people, and share their personal experiences. From nervous feelings before a presentation to intense panic attacks, this episode covers it all. If you want to improve your English while learning about mental health, this episode is perfect for you! What you will learn: Understanding Anxiety: Learn what anxiety is and its different forms. Personal Experiences: Hear Andrew and Anna share their own anxiety stories. Practical Tips: Discover effective ways to manage and reduce anxiety in daily life. How you will improve your English with this episode: New Vocabulary: Learn words and phrases about emotions and mental health. Listening Practice: Improve your skills by following a natural English conversation. Contextual Learning: Understand how to use new words in real situations. Speaking Practice: Discuss the episode with other learners on the Culips Discord Server. What’s included in the study guide: Interactive transcript In-depth explanations and examples of the key expressions Vocabulary quiz Comprehension quiz Speaking and writing practice questions The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now. Members can access the ad-free version here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice.

Bonus episode #109 – The lovebugs Jul 07, 2024

In this episode, Andrew discusses the recent lovebug outbreak in Seoul. He describes these insects, explains their unusual name, and talks about his experience dealing with them this summer. Andrew also explores the bigger topic of how people approach killing insects, and shares his own opinion about this issue. This episode will help improve your English in the following ways: Listening comprehension: Practice understanding a native English speaker discussing a real-life situation in detail. Vocabulary expansion: Learn new words and expressions related to insects and pest control, such as "proliferating," "symbiotic relationship," "keep in check,” and "creepy crawly." Idioms: Learn helpful English idioms like "out of the blue," "attached at the hip," and "it's on" used in context. Pronunciation: Listen to the correct pronunciation of spoken English, which you can then practice on your own. Cultural insights: Improve your understanding of how people in different cultures deal with household pests. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule (member only) Episode notes: The scientific name of the lovebug is plecia nearctica. Contrary to what Andrew mentions, a centipede can have between 15 pairs to 191 pairs of legs and a millipede can have between 40 and 1,306 pairs of legs.

Chatterbox #322 – The Stoicism explosion Jul 03, 2024

Curious about the growing popularity of Stoicism but not sure what it's all about? In this engaging episode of Chatterbox, hosts Andrew and Anna dive into the philosophy of Stoicism. They unpack its principles, discuss why it has gained traction in recent years, and share practical ways to apply Stoic ideas in everyday life. Key topics include managing emotions, embracing challenges, and learning from renowned Stoics like Marcus Aurelius and Seneca. What you'll learn in this episode: Key principles: Discover the main ideas of Stoicism, including controlling your emotions, choosing to let go of anger and stress, and embracing challenges. Practical applications: Hear about real-life examples of how to use Stoic principles to reduce stress and improve your daily life. Popular figures: Learn about the origins of Stoicism and its founding fathers, Marcus Aurelius and Seneca, as well as popular YouTubers and podcasters that discuss this philosophy. How this episode will improve your English: Vocabulary Building: Learn new words and phrases related to philosophy and self-improvement. Listening Skills: Improve your listening comprehension with a clear and interesting discussion between two native speakers. Cultural knowledge: Understand the modern popularity of Stoicism and its influence on today's self-help trends. Improve your speaking and communication skills: Use the study guide and connect with the member community to practice speaking about Stoicism in English. The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now. Members can access the ad-free version here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Episode references: An introduction to Stoicism by Ryan Holiday: https://youtu.be/s27_2jlQq8U

Bonus episode #108 – Odds and ends Jun 30, 2024

In this episode, Andrew shares a story about trying to clean out his junk drawer and exchange some of the coins he's been saving up for the past few years at the bank. What seemed like a simple task turns out to be surprisingly complicated. Tune in to hear all the details of this everyday adventure and improve your English at the same time! This episode will help you improve your English in several ways: Listening Skills: Practice understanding naturally spoken English through Andrew's engaging story about cleaning his junk drawer and exchanging coins at the bank. Vocabulary Building: Expand your vocabulary with new words and expressions related to household tasks and banking, such as "odds and ends," "spare change," "cash out," and "paid off." Pronunciation Practice: Improve your pronunciation by shadowing Andrew's speech throughout the episode, helping you become a clearer and more confident speaker. English Speaking Practice: Enhance your speaking skills by joining discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule Simplified Speech 189 - Company’s coming

Simplified Speech #198 – Leaving Thailand Jun 27, 2024

In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Kassy discuss the big changes in Kassy's life as she prepares to move from Thailand back to Korea. They talk about her experiences living and working in Thailand, her future plans, and the cultural differences she has encountered along the way. Listening to this fun and easy-to-understand conversation is a great way to work on your English and learn some useful vocabulary! What You Will Learn: Vocabulary and expressions related to life changes, international moves, and daily routines. Cultural insights into living and working abroad, especially in Thailand and Korea. Personal stories about adjusting to new environments and making life decisions. How This Episode Will Improve Your English: Expand your vocabulary with words and expressions used in everyday conversation about moving and living abroad. Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between two native English speakers. Learn about cultural differences and similarities between Thailand and Korea, improving your cultural knowledge. Build confidence in discussing your own experiences and future plans in English. Practice your English speaking and communication skills by sharing your own experiences on our Discord server. The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, quiz, ad-free audio, and more for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Sign up and become a Culips member now! Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.

Bonus episode #107 – Adventure time Jun 24, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about his day exploring Seoul with his wife. He shares their experiences of finding something fun to do on a free Sunday. Andrew describes visiting a crowded restaurant, enjoying Korean rice cakes at a special cafe, and checking out outdoor reading spaces in the city. He talks about spontaneous plans, dealing with the summer heat, and the awesome surprises of big-city life. Enjoy the episode and happy English learning! This episode will help you improve your English in several ways: Listening skills: Practice understanding naturally spoken English through Andrew's storytelling about his day in Seoul. Vocabulary building: Learn new words and phrases related to city exploration and Korean culture. You will learn useful idioms like "jam-packed," "flash forward," and "something clicked." Pronunciation practice: Use the episode to shadow Andrew's pronunciation to become a clearer speaker. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group discussion class schedule Chatterbox 318 - Digital modesty

Simplified Speech #197 – The rat race Jun 20, 2024

In this Simplified Speech episode, hosts Andrew and Kassy talk about the "rat race." They discuss what it means, whether their jobs feel like a rat race, and how people might escape it. Kassy chose this topic because of a book she recently read called "Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop." The conversation turns into an interesting discussion about modern life, competition, goals, dreams, and personal happiness. What You Will Learn: What "rat race" means and how it relates to a busy life. How pressure from society makes people feel stuck in competition. Personal stories about being in or escaping the rat race. New words and expressions related to the topic. How This Episode Will Improve Your English: Learn vocabulary, expressions, and idioms about work-life balance and social pressure. Improve your listening skills with a natural conversation. Understand expressions like "to be in the thick of something" and "to be cut out for.” Practice your English speaking and communication skills by sharing your own experiences on our Discord server. The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, quiz, ad-free audio, and more for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Sign up and become a Culips member now! Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.

Bonus episode #106 – Crazy train Jun 16, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about his recent train journey from Boryeong to Seoul. He shares his experiences of traveling on a crowded train, where he came across a mother and her young children who brought unexpected chaos to the trip. Andrew describes how the children’s behavior affected the other passengers and the surprising reactions from everyone on board. He reflects on the importance of being polite in public places and the challenges of handling difficult situations while traveling. Enjoy the episode and happy learning! This episode will help you improve your English in several ways: Listening skills: Practice understanding spoken English through Andrew's storytelling about his train ride. Vocabulary building: Learn new words and phrases related to travel and public behavior. You will learn useful idioms like "stuffed/packed to the gills," "paint someone in a bad light," and "within earshot." Pronunciation practice: Use the episode to shadow Andrew's pronunciation to become a clearer speaker. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server

Chatterbox #321 – A talk about Australian wildlife with Joey Clarke Jun 12, 2024

In this special episode, Andrew is joined by Australian wildlife expert Joey Clarke, Senior Science Communicator at the Australian Wildlife Conservancy. They talk about Australia's unique animals, conservation efforts, and fire management. Listen to hear fascinating stories about the wildlife of Australia and how it is being protected while improving your English skills! What You Will Learn in This Episode: The unique features of various Australian wildlife species, including tree kangaroos and numbats. The differences between marsupials and placental mammals and why marsupials are common in Australia. The major threats to Australian wildlife, such as habitat loss, feral animals, and invasive plants. The role of fire in the Australian ecosystem and traditional Indigenous fire management practices. Success stories of conservation efforts by the Australian Wildlife Conservancy. Tips for being a responsible tourist in Australia and supporting conservation efforts. How This Episode Will Improve Your English: Learn new vocabulary related to wildlife, conservation, and ecosystems. Hear both Australian and Canadian accents, helping you understand different ways of speaking English. Understand and discuss complex topics like conservation strategies and the impact of invasive species. Discuss the episode with other English learners on the Culips Discord Server. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction 04:05 – Chapter 1: Introduction to Joey Clarke 07:19 – Chapter 2: The Australian bush 10:23 – Chapter 3: Unique Australian wildlife 15:33 – Chapter 4: Marsupials and Placental Mammals 20:28 – Chapter 5: Threats to wildlife 25:44 – Chapter 6: Fires in Australia 32:20 – Chapter 7: Conservation Success Stories 38:38 – Chapter 8: Responsible tourism 40:51 – Chapter 9: Learning more about the Australian Wildlife Conservancy 43:04 – Conclusion Links: Australian Wildlife Conservancy Australian Wildlife Conservancy on Instagram Australian Wildlife Conservancy on YouTube Donate to the Australian Wildlife Conservancy Culips Discord Server Become a Culips member: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now! Members can access the ad-free version here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice.

Bonus episode #105 – Weekend away Jun 09, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about his weekend trip to Boryeong, a small city on the west coast of South Korea. He shares his experiences of traveling by train, staying with friends, and participating in the Boryeong Half Marathon. Andrew describes the city's famous mud festival and the enjoyable moments he had running and spending time with his friends. He also discusses the challenges of the race and the satisfaction of achieving personal goals. This episode will help you improve your English in several ways: Listening skills: Practice understanding spoken English through Andrew's storytelling about his trip and race. Vocabulary building: Learn new words related to travel and cultural and sporting events. You will learn some useful idioms like "stand corrected," "infamous," "have your hands full," and "draw the shortest straw." Pronunciation practice: Use the episode to shadow Andrew's pronunciation to become a clearer speaker. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Enjoy the episode and happy learning! Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:28 - Announcement of the Culips small-group discussion classes 00:04:30 - Announcement of a meet-up in Japan 00:06:17 - Introduction to the "Weekend Away" story 00:13:48 - Arriving in Boryeong 00:16:36 - Nightmare train ride 00:18:54 - The night before the race 00:21:01 - The morning of the race 00:23:10 - Race report 00:32:15 - Conclusion Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server

Bonus episode #104 – Cup quest Jun 02, 2024

Episode Description: In this episode, Andrew talks about following his favorite hockey team, the Vancouver Canucks, during the NHL playoffs. He shares his passion for the team and the highs and lows he felt throughout the season. Andrew also discusses the thrill of watching last-minute victories and the disappointment of their eventual elimination. This episode will help you improve your English in several ways: Vocabulary building: You'll expand your vocabulary with terms related to sports and everyday life. Idioms and expressions: You'll understand idiomatic expressions like "come full circle" and "live up to your potential" in context, making them easier to remember and use. Listening comprehension: You'll hear natural English conversation, helping you improve your listening skills and comprehension. Cultural insight: Gain a deeper understanding of personal celebrations and traditions. Pronunciation and intonation: Improve your pronunciation by listening to Andrew's natural speech patterns. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.

Simplified Speech #196 – Heat waves and cold snaps May 31, 2024

In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Kassy talk about dealing with extreme weather, such as heat waves and cold snaps. They discuss their favorite methods for staying cool during heat waves. Then, they share experiences about staying warm during cold snaps, including the use of heating gadgets. By listening to this episode, you will learn how to talk about weather and temperature. You’ll also pick up new vocabulary and learn about cultural differences in a fun and easy-to-follow discussion. Join Andrew and Kassy as they share stories and tips about coping with extreme temperatures, helping you improve your English skills along the way! What You Will Learn: Vocabulary related to weather and temperature, such as "heat wave," "cold snap," and more! Cultural differences in dealing with extreme weather conditions in countries like Canada, the USA, South Korea, Australia, and Thailand. Comparisons between Eastern and Western approaches to dealing with extreme temperatures. How You Will Improve Your English with This Episode: Expand your vocabulary with weather-related terms and expressions used in everyday conversations. Learn to describe personal experiences related to different weather conditions. Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between two native English speakers. Enhance your communication skills by sharing your own experiences with extreme weather on our Discord server. The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.

Bonus episode #103 – Wild May May 26, 2024

In this episode, Andrew reflects on the busy month of May, and talks about personal celebrations like his birthday and anniversary, and describes how he and his wife celebrated these special occasions. Andrew also talks about buying a new espresso machine and the joys (and challenges) of perfecting his coffee-making skills. As you listen to Andrew's stories, you'll learn practical vocabulary and expressions that you can use in your daily English conversations. This episode will help you improve your English in several ways: Vocabulary building: Learn new words and phrases related to celebrations, coffee making, and daily activities. Listening comprehension: Enhance your ability to understand natural, conversational English. Cultural insight: Gain a deeper understanding of personal celebrations and traditions. Pronunciation and intonation: Improve your pronunciation by listening to Andrew's natural speech patterns. English speaking practice: Join discussions with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for additional speaking practice. Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript: Join the Culips Discord server Simplified Speech #194 – Double birthday bash

Catch Word #277 – Hit the fan May 24, 2024

In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Suzanne introduce two expressions to help you describe challenging situations in English: "To hit the fan" and "Everything's gone south." These phrases are helpful for expressing when things aren't going well. By listening to this episode, you’ll learn what they mean, how to use them, and where they come from. Join Andrew and Suzanne to master these expressions and boost your English skills! What You Will Learn What "To hit the fan" and "Everything's gone south" mean. How these expressions are used in everyday conversations, especially at work or in personal situations. Discover why English speakers use these expressions and how they reflect everyday experiences. Get advice on using these expressions correctly in your own English conversations. How This Episode Will Help You Add useful expressions to your English vocabulary. Practice using these idioms naturally, making your English sound more fluent. Understand the cultural context behind these expressions, helping you connect better with English speakers. Practice talking about these topics with our community on Discord. Use the study guide to learn even more related expressions, test your knowledge with a quiz, and practice using the new vocabulary in various contexts. The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.

Bonus episode #102 – Andrew gets interviewed May 19, 2024

In this episode, Andrew is interviewed about his life in South Korea by Alastair Budge, host of the English for Curious Minds podcast. Andrew discusses his journey from Canada to Korea, his initial experiences teaching English in a small mountain city, and how he handled cultural differences and embraced the unpredictability of life abroad. As you listen to Andrew's interview, you'll gain insights into South Korean culture and the challenges and rewards of living in a foreign country. This episode will help you improve your English in several ways: Vocabulary building: Learn new words and expressions related to interviews, cultural experiences, and teaching abroad. Listening comprehension: Practice understanding spoken English in a natural, conversational setting. Cultural insight: Gain a deeper understanding of South Korean culture and the life of a foreigner who lives there. Pronunciation and intonation: Improve your pronunciation by listening to Andrew's natural speech patterns. Interactive learning: Discuss the episode with other listeners on the Culips Discord server for speaking practice. Study with the interactive transcript: Join the Culips Discord server: Become a Culips member: Bonus episode 54: Click here. Listen to the full interview on Alastair’s Youtube channel:

Chatterbox #320 – Connecting through conversation May 18, 2024

In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna are trying out something new – they’re playing a conversation game! The goal of the game is to make deeper conversations, moving beyond small talk. The hosts go through a range of questions, from light-hearted to deep and thought-provoking, and then discuss each other’s responses. As they answer these questions, they share their personal experiences, memories, and take time to reflect on their lives. Make sure to give this episode a listen to find out more and improve your communication skills! What You Will Learn: How to discuss hypothetical situations using conditional sentences. How to effectively participate in a conversation, ask follow-up questions, and express your opinions respectfully. How to make your speech more engaging by using descriptive adjectives, adverbs, and figurative language. How This Episode Will Help You: Grow your vocabulary with vocabulary related to conversation, communication, and relationships. Build your listening skills by following a natural conversation between native English speakers. Learn idiomatic expressions like "think on your feet" and "Goldilocks." Gain a deeper understanding of British and Canadian cultures. Use the study guide and join the member community on Discord to practice asking and answering similar open-ended questions. The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.

Bonus episode #101 – Perfect Picnic May 14, 2024

In this episode, Andrew shares a story about going on a picnic with his wife to the Han River Park in Seoul, South Korea. He describes their preparation process, the convenient amenities available at the park, and the awesome time they shared together. As you listen to Andrew's story, you'll learn new vocabulary related to picnics, outdoor activities, and more. Plus, you’ll also improve your listening skills and ability to follow a long-form story in English. This episode will help you improve your English in several ways: Vocabulary: You'll learn new words and phrases about picnics, adventures, and outdoor experiences. This will help you discuss these topics more effectively in English. Listening: By focusing on Andrew's story, you'll practice understanding spoken English and following the main points of a narrative. Speaking: Andrew's picnic experience might inspire you to share your own stories about enjoying outdoor activities with friends and family. You can also practice your English by discussing this episode with other Culips listeners on our Discord server. Pronunciation: Listening to Andrew's natural English will help you improve your own pronunciation and intonation, as you become more familiar with the rhythm and flow of the language. Study with the interactive transcript: Join the Culips Discord server: Become a Culips member:

Catch Word #276 – Spruce it up May 10, 2024

In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Kassy will teach you two fun expressions to make your English even better: "spruce up" and "deck out." You will learn how English speakers use these expressions to talk about making something look or work better. For example, you might spruce up your clothes for spring or deck out a game room with cool new gadgets. Get ready to "spruce up" your English and "deck out" your vocabulary with this fun and informative episode! What You Will Learn: The meaning of "spruce up" and "deck out" How to use these expressions in real life Where these expressions come from and why we use them Tips for using "spruce up" and "deck out" in your own English conversations How This Episode Will Help You: Learn two new expressions to make your English more natural Become more fluent by using expressions English speakers use every day Discover how people in the U.S. and Canada "deck out" their houses with lots of lights and decorations for holidays like Halloween and Christmas Practice talking about these topics with our community on Discord Use the study guide to learn even more related expressions, test your knowledge with a quiz, and practice using the new vocabulary in various contexts The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.

Chatterbox #319 – Interview with Jesús Florez May 05, 2024

Episode description: In this episode, Andrew interviews Jesús Florez, a Culips listener originally from Colombia. Jesús talks about his journey of becoming a highly proficient English speaker with an American-like accent. He discusses his background story of meeting his wife online and moving from Colombia to the United States. He tells Andrew all about the intensive work he did to improve his pronunciation and the resources he used to achieve fluency, plus he shares some valuable tips with English learners! If you want to know how to become a fluent English speaker and perfect your pronunciation, this episode is for you! What you'll learn in this episode: Effective strategies for mastering an American-like accent. The importance of input (listening) in working on pronunciation. Helpful tips for improving pronunciation in a foreign language. Benefits of learning from both native and non-native English teachers. The importance of the visual aspect of pronunciation. How this episode will help improve your English: Expand your vocabulary related to language learning Improve listening skills by following a natural unscripted conversation. Learn useful expressions like "get [something] off the ground" and "take precedence". Improve speaking by discussing your own language learning journey using the study guide questions. The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.

Bonus episode #100 – Your stories Apr 28, 2024

Episode description In this very special episode, we celebrate hitting the 100-episode milestone of the bonus series. And we do so by flipping the script. Instead of hearing Andrew share a story with you, you'll get to listen to stories sent in by Culips listeners from around the world. Tune in to hear them share funny moments, discuss their English study routines, and talk about how they've leveled up their language skills with Culips. A huge thank you to everyone who participated in the creation of this episode. Without our amazing community, Culips wouldn't exist. We hope you enjoy this special edition of the bonus series, and here's to many more episodes to come! Study with the interactive transcript: Click here. Join the Culips Discord server: Become a Culips member: Chapters: [00:00:00] Introduction - Andrew explains the special 100th bonus episode [00:05:51] Story from Sodam about moving to the U.S. [00:06:51] Story from Sandra about an extraordinary experience at the Musée d'Orsay [00:08:09] Story from Ray about learning English through Pokémon and practicing shadowing [00:10:04] Story from Jin about discovering Culips and using the interactive transcript [00:12:54] Story from Shun about the power of shadowing [00:17:16] Story from Mery about a trip to London with her boyfriend [00:20:44] Story from Edit about sleep talking [00:25:23] Story from Pijon about why pronunciation is important [00:27:41] Story from Navid about improving his English after immigrating to Canada [00:30:44] Story from Suhavi about being forced to listen to Culips by her mom [00:35:07] Story from WangJae about becoming a father [00:37:58] Story from Grimes about learning English with Culips [00:39:29] Story from Kalléu about improving English skills through Culips [00:39:29] Story from Dominika about a Czech tradition [00:42:53] Story from Jiwoo and Chloe about their mom's passion for Culips [00:44:33] Story from Sarah comparing school life in two different countries [00:46:50] Story from Usako about decluttering and playing table tennis [00:48:52] Story from Kelvin about his English learning journey [00:50:24] Story from Mina about returning to work after maternity leave [00:52:33] Story from Sergey about Culips in his daily routine [00:53:38] Story from Muhammed about learning with Culips [00:54:32] Story from Anthony about improving his English for business [00:58:04] Story from Zahra about finding Culips during the pandemic [00:58:56] Story from Diana about mistaking chrysanthemum tubers for ginger [01:02:51] Story from Darkhan about a blessing in disguise [01:04:19] Story from Thea Yang about learning languages every day

Simplified Speech #195 – Live sports Apr 26, 2024

Episode description: In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Kassy share their experiences attending live sporting events in various countries, including Canada, the USA, Korea, Thailand, and Taiwan. They discuss the exciting atmosphere, food options, ticket prices, and cultural differences between watching sports in different parts of the world. By listening to this episode, you will gain a better understanding of how to talk about sports and live events in English. You'll also pick up new vocabulary words and learn about cultural differences in an engaging and easy-to-follow discussion. Join Andrew and Kassy as they share their passion for sports and help you improve your English skills along the way! What you will learn Vocabulary related to sports and live events, such as "seeded," "concession," and "jumbotron" Insights into the sports culture and fan experiences in different countries Comparisons between the cost and availability of food and drinks at stadiums around the world Opinions on watching sports on TV versus attending live events How you will improve your English with this episode Expand your vocabulary with sports-related terms and expressions Learn to discuss and compare cultural experiences using clear language Improve your listening skills by following a natural conversation between two native English speakers Improve your communication skills by discussing this episode with other Culips listeners on our Discord server The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.

Bonus episode #099 – Trail talk Apr 21, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about running a trail race in Jangsu, a small village in South Korea. He describes the challenges of running on mountain paths, the beautiful scenery he saw, and the great feeling of finishing the race. As you listen to Andrew's story, you'll learn new vocabulary about running, nature, and facing difficulties. You'll also improve your listening skills and ability to understand a story in English. Study with the interactive transcript: Join the Culips Discord server: Get the comprehension quiz:

Chatterbox #318 – Digital modesty Apr 19, 2024

Episode description: In this episode, Andrew and Anna discuss the concept of digital modesty – the idea of being mindful about how much personal information you share online. They explore the benefits and drawbacks of sharing on social media and the importance of setting boundaries to protect your privacy. What you'll learn in this episode: The meaning of digital modesty and why it's an important topic Different perspectives on sharing personal information online The potential risks of oversharing on social media The importance of setting personal boundaries and limits for online sharing How cultural differences can influence what is considered modest or acceptable to share How this episode will improve your English: Expand your vocabulary with words and phrases related to online behavior and social media, such as: digital modesty, non-negotiables,off-putting, oversharing, and boundaries. Improve your listening comprehension by following a natural, unscripted conversation between native English speakers. Learn idiomatic expressions like strike a chord and play devil's advocate. Gain insight into cultural differences and how they can impact online behavior Improve your speaking and communication skills by using the study guide and connecting with the member community to practice speaking about digital modesty in English. The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. Episode references: Mary Harrington interviewed on the Modern Wisdom podcast: Click here. The geography game Andrew mentioned, GeoGuesser: Click here. The story of the missing van lifer: Click here. Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Kaique Rocha (pexels.com)

Bonus episode #098 – Lifestyle change Apr 14, 2024

In this episode, Andrew shares a simple yet powerful change he made to his daily routine that has left him feeling more rested, productive, and less stressed. He explains how keeping his phone away from his bed at night and reading a book first thing in the morning has made a big difference to his well-being. Andrew also talks about the Korean book he's currently reading and the inspiring journey of its translator. This episode will help improve your English communication skills in several ways: You'll get great practice listening to and understanding natural, conversational English as Andrew shares a personal story. You'll learn useful vocabulary related to daily routines, reading habits, sleep, productivity, and language learning. By listening to Andrew’s story, you'll build your ability to understand spoken English and grasp main ideas. The topic of making positive changes might inspire you to think about your own habits and discuss them with others in English. Study with the interactive transcript: Join the Culips Discord server: Try the comprehension quiz:

Simplified Speech #194 – Double birthday bash Apr 12, 2024

Episode description: Join Andrew and Kassy as they talk about their upcoming milestone birthdays. Kassy is turning 30, and Andrew is turning 40! They'll chat about their favorite ways to celebrate birthdays, common birthday traditions in the United States and Canada, and the customary foods enjoyed on birthdays in South Korea. This episode is perfect for English learners who want to improve their listening skills and expand their cultural knowledge. What you will learn: Birthday celebrations: Discover how people in North America typically celebrate their birthdays. Cultural traditions: Learn about birthday customs and traditions in the United States, Canada, and South Korea. Personal experiences: Hear Andrew and Kassy share their own birthday memories and preferences. Milestone birthdays: Understand the significance of turning 30 and 40 in Western culture. How this episode will improve your English: Vocabulary building: Learn essential words and phrases related to birthdays and celebrations. Listening skills: Improve your ability to understand native English speakers in a natural, conversational setting. Cultural awareness: Gain insights into birthday celebrations and traditions in different countries. Relatable content: Connect with the hosts' personal stories and experiences, which can help you retain the language more effectively. Speaking practice: Use the study guide and connect with the member community to practice discussing birthday-related topics in English. The best way to learn with this lesson: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Thirdman (pexels.com)

Bonus episode #097 – Binge-watching Apr 07, 2024

In this episode, Andrew shares about his experience binge-watching the new Netflix sci-fi series "The Three-Body Problem." He discusses the show's interesting premise, engaging storyline, and characters. By listening to this episode, you'll learn vocabulary related to TV shows, books, and the phenomenon of binge-watching. This episode will help improve your English communication skills in several ways: You'll hear natural, casual English spoken at a conversational pace as Andrew discusses the show's premise, characters, and his overall impressions. You'll expand your vocabulary with words and phrases related to TV/movie plots, acting, adaptations from books, and giving opinions. By listening to Andrew's story, you'll get practice understanding spoken English and comprehending someone's thoughts and viewpoints. The topic of a popular sci-fi series provides cultural insight into this entertainment genre loved by many English speakers. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: Become a Culips member:

Simplified Speech #193 – Only children Apr 05, 2024

Learn about what it's like to be an only child in this interesting episode of the Culips Everyday English Podcast. Andrew and Kassy will share their personal experiences growing up with siblings. They will also talk about their thoughts on not having any brothers or sisters. This is a great episode for listeners who want to understand more about family life in the United States and Canada. What You Will Learn Family Experiences: Hear different stories about growing up with siblings versus being an only child. Cultural Views: Understand how people in North America view families without brothers or sisters. Personal Stories: Listen to personal stories from Andrew and Kassy about their childhoods and family lives. Family Relationships: Learn about the special challenges, benefits, and relationships in families with only one child. How This Episode Will Improve Your English New Vocabulary: Learn common words and expressions related to family in a conversational way. Listening Skills: Practice understanding how people really speak in casual conversations. Cultural Understanding: Learn the cultural views on family structures in North America. Relatable Content: Become motivated by hearing real personal stories and experiences you can relate to. Speaking Practice: Use the study guide and join the member community to practice speaking about family topics. The best way to learn with this lesson Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Vitaly Gariev (pexels.com)

Bonus episode #096 – Perfect day, perfect date Apr 01, 2024

In this episode, Andrew shares stories designed to help you build your English fluency, increase your cultural knowledge, grow your vocabulary, and become a better communicator. Andrew shares about a perfect day out he had with his wife, exploring a historic neighborhood in Seoul. He talks about uncovering the city's history, observing its architecture, and their lunch at a traditional Korean restaurant where they enjoyed boiled pork with kimchi and rice wine. Andrew also shares a funny incident involving the rice wine and concludes the story with their quest for a café on a busy Sunday. Join the Culips Discord server: Become a Culips member: Submit an audio story for bonus episode #100:

Catch Word #275 – Debbie Downer Mar 29, 2024

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you were feeling excited and enthusiastic, only for someone to say something that made you feel bad? In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Kassy introduce several useful expressions that you can use to describe these situations. They provide detailed explanations, different usage scenarios, and offer advice on when to avoid using these phrases. You’ll also hear four example conversations featuring these new expressions, which will help you learn how to use them naturally and sound more like a native speaker. What you will learn New Expressions: Learn expressions that communicate the feeling of someone making you less happy or excited. Usage and Context: Understand how and when to use these expressions through detailed explanations. Practical Examples: Listen to four dialogues that use these new expressions, teaching you to apply them in real-life situations. Do's and Don'ts: Learn important advice on situations where these phrases might not be appropriate. How you will improve your English with this episode Bigger vocabulary: Add expressions and phrases to your English vocabulary. Improved understanding: Learn about subtle emotional nuances in English conversations. Natural conversation skills: Practice these expressions through examples, making your English sound more fluent and native-like. The best way to learn with this lesson Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.

Bonus episode #095 – I did it! Mar 24, 2024

In this episode, Andrew shares about his experience running the Seoul Marathon. He talks about his preparation, the race day, and achieving his goal of finishing under 3 hours. Andrew describes the atmosphere, his emotions before and during the race, and celebrating afterwards with his friend Jimmy. You will learn useful running and exercise vocabulary as well as common English expressions and phrasal verbs related to challenges, determination, and perseverance. By studying with this episode, you can improve your listening comprehension, English fluency, and understanding of casual, authentic English speech. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Become a Culips member: click here

Chatterbox #317 – Trend Predictions for 2024 from the USA Mar 22, 2024

In this episode, Andrew and Anna continue exploring trend predictions. This time, they’re looking into five trend predictions coming out of America. They talk about all the details and share their own opinions and attitudes towards these trends. By studying with this audio lesson, you can improve your listening skills and learn vocabulary related to trends, personal well-being, technology advancements, chatbots, consumerism and second-hand shopping. For Culips members, an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio are available to improve your learning experience. Members can access the ad-free version: Click here. Sign up for a Culips membership: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. What you will learn: Vocabulary related to consumer trends, personal well-being, technology, shopping habits, and more. Words like "neo-hedonism", "augmented reality", "secondhand", etc. Useful expressions and idioms like "the writing is on the wall", "one man's junk is another man's treasure", etc. Perspectives on societal shifts and changing consumer behaviors in the Western world. The hosts' personal experiences with things like smart watches, online shopping, and prioritizing sleep/health. How it will improve your English: Listening practice with two native speakers having a natural conversation using casual language. Exposure to different accents - one Canadian and one British. Comprehending reasons/opinions from contextual clues when new vocabulary is used. Learning common phrasal verbs like "chime in", "harp on", "deep dive into", etc. used in discussions. Noting differences in vocabulary between American/British English like "thrift store" vs "charity shop". Overall, by listening attentively, you will improve your vocabulary, idiom knowledge, listening comprehension of casual speech, and understanding of Western societal/consumer trends - all while being immersed in a natural conversation between two native speakers. For Culips members, an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio are available to improve your learning experience.

Bonus episode #094 – What I’ve been dreaming of Mar 18, 2024

Join Andrew as he gets ready for the Seoul Marathon. He shares his feelings of excitement and nervousness as he prepares for this big race. You'll hear all about Andrew's training - the hard workouts he has been doing to get ready. He talks about meeting up with his running buddy, Jimmy, and about his goals for the marathon, like trying to run it in under 3 hours. Andrew also tells some funny stories, like his struggle over whether to buy expensive new "super shoes" that are supposed to help runners go faster. Listening to his stories will keep you entertained while exposing you to real English conversation. You'll learn useful vocabulary related to running, racing, and other athletic activities. This episode provides an immersive English listening comprehension Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Become a Culips member: click here

Simplified Speech #192 – Visiting the spa or sauna Mar 15, 2024

Join Andrew and Kassy for a fun and fascinating conversation about spas, saunas, and bathhouses. In this episode for intermediate-level English learners, our hosts will discuss their experiences visiting these relaxing places around the world. You'll learn useful vocabulary and expressions for describing spa treatments, facilities, and the overall experience. The natural conversation style will help improve your English listening comprehension, conversational fluency, and vocabulary building. Immerse yourself in real English as Andrew and Kassy share stories, compare cultural traditions, and chat about the benefits of a good sauna session. Learn tips on how to talk about visiting spas, saunas, and bathhouses in your daily English conversations. For Culips members, an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio are available to improve your learning experience. Members can access the ad-free version: Click here. Sign up for a Culips membership: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. Fun facts Tampere, Finland is the sauna capital of the world. It is a city of 250,000 people with over 60 public saunas. The whole country of Finland is estimated to have more than 3 million saunas! Expressions included in the study guide All-inclusive To sweat [something] out To be pampered To be catered towards Fancy-schmancy A shock to one’s system Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: The Anam (unsplash.com)

Bonus episode #093 – Singapore Stories Mar 10, 2024

In this episode, join Andrew as he takes you on a journey through Singapore, sharing his adventures and misadventures in one of Southeast Asia's most vibrant and diverse destinations. Learn useful English vocabulary and expressions related to travel, sightseeing, food, and cultural experiences while improving your listening comprehension with his interesting stories from Singapore. Andrew's stories are interesting, easy to understand, and packed with everyday English vocabulary and expressions. Listening is like hanging out with a native English speaking friend. With the bonus episodes, you’ll be able to: Improve your ability to hear and understand authentic English conversations. Build your vocabulary with useful everyday words and expressions. Learning interesting facts about English-speaking cultures. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Become a Culips member: click here

Chatterbox #316 – Interview with Matthew Skidmore Mar 08, 2024

Improve your English listening comprehension and communication skills with Culips. In this special episode, Andrew interviews Matthew Skidmore. Matthew shares his experiences growing up in Dudley, England, and his opinions about British food and music. He discusses his background in acting and drama school and his decision to move to Korea. He also reflects on his time in Korea and the memories he made there. He then talks about his unique hobbies that include dancing, tabletop gaming, and exercising, and the benefits they bring to his life. By listening to this episode, you’ll learn English vocabulary related to accents, music, food, hobbies, education, life abroad and cultural differences. If you’re looking to improve you English speaking skills and learn more about different cultures, this episode is for you! Fun facts In this episode, Andrew and Matthew discuss various accents throughout the UK. Did you know that there are about 40 distinct regional accents across the country? Black Country dialect is spoken in the area where Matthew is from. Expressions included in the study guide That’s a tough one To crunch the numbers Rose-colored glasses To take a leap of faith To have it all figured out To blow [one’s] own trumpet Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Culips

Bonus episode #092 – Exploring Melbourne Mar 03, 2024

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about one of the highlights of his time in Melbourne: a visit to the State Library Victoria. He then tells a funny story about a disagreement with his wife regarding eSIMs. Finally, he shares his opinion regarding travel-style compatibility and why it’s important to consider when going on a trip with other people. Andrew's stories are interesting, easy to understand, and packed with everyday English vocabulary and expressions. Listening is like hanging out with a native English speaking friend. With the bonus episodes, you’ll be able to: Improve your ability to hear and understand authentic English speech. Build your vocabulary with useful everyday words and expressions. Learning interesting facts about English-speaking cultures. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Become a Culips member: click here

Simplified Speech #191 – Kassy’s campaigns and Andrew’s audio Mar 01, 2024

Andrew and Kassy are back with another one of their famous catch-up chats. Kassy talks about how she’s been spending some of her free time doing something she never imagined herself doing. And Andrew shares a story about a new purchase he is very excited about unboxing. Listen to hear all the details and to improve your English communication skills with these real-life stories! Fun facts Catching up with friends or coworkers over coffee dates back to coffee houses in the Middle East in the 15th century. They were called “Schools of the Wise” because people had lively conversations and shared ideas while they were there. These gatherings were the start of today’s coffee culture, where cafés are popular places to hang out and chat. This tradition shows how important it is for people to connect and talk, even in simple ways like catching up over coffee. Expressions included in the study guide To sync up Stigma A slog Standoffish To stick to [oneself] To put [something] behind you Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Culips

Bonus episode #091 – Little penguins Feb 25, 2024

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about his recent trip to Australia. He shares stories from his time in Melbourne and about some wildlife encounters he experienced on Phillip Island. He also talks about returning to a snowstorm back home in Seoul. Andrew’s stories are fun, easy to follow, and full of everyday English words and expressions. Listening to them is like hanging out with an English-speaking friend. It will help you: Hear and understand English as it's really spoken Learn new words used in everyday life Discover fun facts about English-speaking cultures Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Become a Culips member: click here

Simplified Speech #190 – Catchin’ up with Suzanne Feb 23, 2024

In this episode of Simplified Speech, join Andrew as he warmly welcomes back Suzanne, who has been away from the podcast for some time. Andrew talks with Suzanne about her recent wedding in France and becoming a Canadian citizen. She shares the challenges of planning a wedding from abroad and the process of gaining dual citizenship, including a Zoom citizenship ceremony. By listening to this conversation, you can learn English vocabulary related to weddings, travel, and citizenship. This episode is great for improving your listening skills and learning about different cultures! Fun facts As of 2024, the most powerful passports in the world are from Japan, Singapore, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. People holding these passports can enjoy visa-free travel to 194 places around the world, out of 227 destinations in total. Expressions included in the study guide To go down There’s something to be said for To put [someone] on the spot To throw in [something] Take-home (message) How’s life treating you? Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Jaimie Harmsen (Unsplash.com)

Bonus episode #090 – Afternoon at the opera Feb 19, 2024

In this episode, Andrew takes you on an adventure through Sydney, Australia! Discover the famous Sydney Opera House through Andrew's eyes as he talks about his experience watching a live opera performance. Lace up your running shoes and go with him across Sydney's scenic routes, including the Seven Bridges Run and the popular trails of Centennial Park. Hear about Andrew's visit to the Sydney Fish Market and the funny challenges he faced while eating seafood with curious birds. In addition to these stories, Andrew shares about more exciting activities he did in Sydney, and talks about what's to come from his time in Melbourne next. Listening to this episode is a great way to build your English skills. As you listen to Andrew's stories, you'll pick up new expressions and vocabulary, and improve your English communication in a fun and entertaining way. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Become a Culips member: click here

Chatterbox #315 – Interview with David Flynn Feb 15, 2024

Embark on a deeper exploration of Irish culture with Part 2 of our engaging interview series, tailored for English learners on the Culips English Podcast. After our insightful conversation with Alina in Part 1, we're thrilled to introduce David, Alina's husband and our first Irish native speaker guest. This episode is packed with unique insights into Irish history, sports, and music, designed to enrich your English study experience. As you join Andrew and David, you'll not only dive into Ireland's captivating cultural heritage but also enhance your English learning with practical idioms and slang from both Canada and Ireland. This special episode is crafted to improve your understanding of English nuances, boost your vocabulary, and introduce you to authentic expressions, making your learning journey both educational and enjoyable. Listen to Chatterbox #314 – Interview with Alina Morozova Join the Culips Discord server: click here Fun facts There are many stereotypes about Ireland out there, and a lot of them aren’t true. For example, many people associate the Irish with red hair but, in reality, only 10% of the Irish population has red hair, as it is the rarest natural hair colour in the world. Expressions included in the study guide To give [someone] a heads-up To be on the brink of [something] To look down on [someone] To punch above [one’s] weight To do well for [oneself] Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Photo: David Flynn

Bonus episode #089 – Sunshine and Swims in Sydney Feb 12, 2024

In this episode, Andrew shares stories from his trip to Sydney, Australia. He talks about his first impressions of the city and how he fell in love with it. Andrew also discusses his swimming adventures, including his wife's swimming lessons and their visits to the hotel pool and various beaches. He highlights their experience at the Bondi Icebergs Pool and the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk. By listening to his stories, you can improve your English communication skills, learn idiomatic expressions and vocabulary, and immerse in English-speaking culture, all while exploring one of Australia's most iconic cities. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Become a Culips member: click here

Simplified Speech #189 – Company’s coming Feb 08, 2024

Kassy and Andrew are having company over! No, the companies they work for aren’t coming to their houses—“having company” means having guests such as friends and family come and visit your home. In this episode, Kassy and Andrew talk about how they prepare their homes when they have company over. They discuss cooking, cleaning, sleeping accommodations, and an attempt of Kassy’s to make a homemade air freshener that went horribly wrong. Listen and find out what happened! Fun facts Although the first thing that may pop into your head when you hear the word “company” is your workplace, there are many idioms that use the word “company” to mean “being with other people.” For instance, have you ever heard the old saying “misery loves company”? This means that people who are unhappy get comfort in spending time and talking to other people who are unhappy. Expressions included in the study guide To have company [over] To stroke [someone’s] ego To overstay [one’s] welcome To couch surf To impose Your mileage may vary (YMMV) Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: fauxels (pexels.com)

Bonus episode #088 – On the road… again Feb 05, 2024

In this episode, Andrew tells you all about his latest trip. He’s in a country that has great weather, a relaxed vibe, and a high cost of living. Can you guess where he is? Listen in to find out the answer and improve your English fluency. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Listen to bonus episode 38: click here Become a Culips member: click here

Catch Word #274 – Cream of the crop Jan 31, 2024

In your opinion, which player is the cream of the crop on your favourite sports team? Who would you say is the poster child of success in the business world? If you’re not quite sure how to answer, Andrew and Kassy will help you understand the meanings and usages of these idioms in this Catch Word episode. They explain the origins of these helpful expressions and provide many example scenarios and synonyms. Fun facts One synonym for “cream of the crop” is “crème de la crème,” a saying that has been borrowed from French and means “the cream of the cream.” It’s similar to saying “the best of the best.” You can use this pattern to emphasize other adjectives, too. For instance, a really suave actor might be described as “the coolest of the cool” or a trillionaire could be called “the richest of the rich.” Try playing around with this structure and coming up with some creative ways to express superlative adjectives! Expressions included in the study guide Cream of the crop Poster child To cover for [someone] Stacked First-rate Politically incorrect Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: RDNE Stock project (pexels.com)

Bonus episode #087 – Dog days Jan 29, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about his heartwarming and occasionally challenging adventures in dog sitting Gabby Girl, a dog he and his wife unexpectedly agreed to care for. Tune in to hear about their unique experiences and grow your English fluency along the way! Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Listen to bonus episode 81: click here Become a Culips member: click here

Chatterbox #314 – Interview with Alina Jan 25, 2024

In this episode, you’ll be introduced to Culips Discord moderator and study guide writer Alina Morozova! She shares the story of how she became fluent in English, how she met her husband and moved to Ireland, and her personal tips and recommendations for learning English. Fun facts Alina’s hometown, Komsomolsk-on-Amur, used to be a part of China during its last imperial dynasty (the Qing dynasty). It was ceded to Russia in 1858. Expressions included in the study guide To throw shade To click (with/for) To light a fire under [somebody] Aha moment To have egg on [one’s] face With [one’s] eyes closed Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Photo: Alina

Bonus episode #086 – Worlds collide Jan 22, 2024

In this episode, Andrew shares a story about his podcasting and personal lives colliding. He describes a lunch meeting that highlights the smallness of our world. Listen, learn, and improve your English fluency with this real-life story. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here

Simplified Speech #188 – Class clown or teacher’s pet? Jan 19, 2024

Were you a good student in school, or a badly behaved one? In this episode, Andrew and Kassy discuss ways to discipline and punish school students. They share stories from their own school days and their time as teachers. They also discuss how punishment in schools has changed over time. Listen to learn more and improve your English fluency. Fun facts Interestingly, in the past, one form of punishment involved students memorizing and repeating lengthy texts and lists containing irrelevant and impractical data. Most people would agree that studying random information without context and practical examples indeed sounds like a punishment! Expressions included in the study guide To goof off To rough up To burst into To be frowned upon To mock Eye-opening Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Photo: Monstera Production (Pexels.com)

Bonus episode #085 – Bonked and zonked Jan 14, 2024

In this episode, Andrew shares a story about a physical challenge he completed with his friend Jimmy to start off the new year. He shares all the details, including how a planning mistake made the challenge more difficult than expected. Listen, learn, and improve your English fluency with this real-life story. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here

Chatterbox #313 – K-trend 2024: What’s Next from Korea? Jan 12, 2024

Andrew and Anna discuss trend predictions for 2024 in South Korea.They share their thoughts and talk about if these trends might apply to other parts of the world as well. Join in to practice your listening skills, improve your vocabulary, and learn something new along the way! Fun facts Have you ever heard about fads? Unlike a trend, a fad is something that’s very fashionable and popular, but only for a short period of time. For example, fidget spinners: they were so big about 10 years ago, but then everyone just forgot about them. Check out our Chatterbox episode #139 – Fads and trends to learn a bit more about fads! Articles referenced in this episode: Key consumer trends for 2024 Trend Korea 2024 Expressions included in the study guide My take on it To make the most of [something] Each to their own To take off A foot in the door Don't quote me on that Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Photo: Mikael Blomkvist (Pexels.com)

Bonus episode #084 – Random rules Jan 07, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about how a surprise change in his plans led him to a wonderful discovery. He explains how sometimes, when things don't go as expected, it can turn out to be a good thing. Join Andrew to improve your English fluency with this real-life story. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here

Catch Word #273 – The expressions “To cave” and “To fold” Jan 05, 2024

In this episode of Catch Word, hosts Andrew and Kassy explore the idioms "to cave" and "to fold." In short, “to cave” means to give in to pressure and “to fold” means to give up when you feel defeated. They sound pretty alike, right? Using several example scenarios and dialogues, Andrew and Kassy explain the differences between these two similar verbs, so you don’t mix them up! Fun facts The verb “to fold” originates from the popular card game poker. There are actually a lot of other expressions that originate in this classic game! For instance, “poker face” – this refers to a facial expression that doesn’t reveal any emotion or reaction. Similarly, “calling one’s bluff” means deciding that the cards someone has aren’t as good as they’re pretending. In everyday use, when you "call someone's bluff," it means you suspect they are not being honest or exaggerating something, and you confront them to prove if what they're saying is true or not. Essentially, it's like saying, "I don't believe you. Prove it!" Expressions included in the study guide To cave To fold To guilt trip [someone] To call [someone] out To cut one’s losses To throw in the towel Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Photo: Kohji Asakawa (Pixabay.com)

Bonus episode #083 – New year, new you Jan 03, 2024

In this episode, Andrew talks about his New Year's experiences. He shares stories about the holidays, a big snowfall, and fun moments with his wife. Andrew also describes their New Year's Eve celebration at home with music and dancing. Listen to this episode to enjoy a holiday story and improve your English fluency! Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here

Simplified Speech #187 – Happy new year! Dec 28, 2023

In this special episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Kassy reflect on the highlights of 2023 and share their exciting plans for 2024. Plus, they talk about some of the exciting new things happening at Culips in the new year. Join them for a heartfelt and forward-looking conversation as they say goodbye to 2023 and look ahead to a promising 2024. Happy new year, everyone! Fun facts Did you know that New Year's resolutions date back over 4,000 years to ancient Babylon? The Babylonians would make promises to the gods at the start of each year, hoping to earn favor for the year ahead. So, if you're making resolutions for the New Year, you're continuing a tradition that's been going strong for millennia! Expressions included in the study guide To put out feelers To get a competitive edge To throw a number out there To be stuck in the groove Cup of tea To brave [something] Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Photo: Mikael Blomkvist (Pixabay.com)

[Classic Bonus] Simplified Speech #168 – The ballet Dec 25, 2023

Do you like ballet? In this episode, Andrew and Suzanne talk about this unique style of dancing. They discuss its origins and characteristics, and explain some specific vocabulary along the way. Suzanne, a former professional dancer, shares her own story and what ballet means to her. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Become a Culips member: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Fun facts In this episode, Suzanne mentions breaking new ballet shoes. The process can include soaking them in water, pounding them with a hammer, and shaving the sole with a razor. However, despite all the effort, ballet shoes don’t last long before they need to be replaced: they lose their shape and wear out within a few weeks or sometimes even days! Expressions included in the study guide Intricate To eat, breathe, and sleep [something] To get sucked into [something] I’ll tell you what To break in [something] To dig deep

Simplified Speech #186 – Christmas 2023 Dec 21, 2023

Christmas is coming! In this festive episode, Andrew and Kassy discuss Christmas preparations and traditions. Join our hosts as they share their childhood memories, discuss gifts, and explore how Christmas is celebrated in different countries. Get into the Christmas spirit and take your English fluency to the next level! Fun facts In this episode, Andrew and Kassy talk about Christmas lights. Interesting fact: the world record for the most lights on a house was set on November 28, 2014. This happened in LaGrangeville, New York, USA. A family - Tim, Grace, Emily, Daniel, and John Gay - decorated their home with 601,736 lights. That's a lot of Christmas spirit! Expressions included in the study guide To get into the spirit Is that the case? To follow in [someone's] footsteps To stick with [something] Decked out To go hard Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Photo: Brett Sayles (Pexels.com)

Bonus episode #081 – Gabby Girl Dec 17, 2023

In this episode, Andrew tells a story about receiving a sudden and mysterious DM on Instagram, which led to him and his wife agreeing to watch a dog named Gabby for five days. Listen in to hear all the details while improving your English fluency in a fun and effective way! Study with the interactive transcript: click here Become a Culips member: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here December live stream: click here

Real Talk #61 – Asking for a recommendation letter Dec 13, 2023

Have you ever had to ask for a recommendation letter? In this episode, Andrew and Kassy teach you many useful expressions that are helpful not only in that situation but also in many other everyday scenarios. This episode is designed to improve your vocabulary and boost your confidence in English. You don’t want to miss it! Fun facts Did you know that recommendation letters have been around for a long time? In ancient Rome, people used recommendation letters to obtain jobs or positions of influence. During the Renaissance era, students began using these letters for admission to universities or higher education institutions. Even today, the purpose of recommendation letters remains the same, providing a personal endorsement of someone’s skills and character, just as it did hundreds of years ago. Expressions included in the study guide Are you available to talk one on one? Undecided To major in [something] What extracurriculars are you involved in? Is there a deadline? With a fine-tooth comb Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free

Bonus episode #080 – Christmas market chaos Dec 10, 2023

Join Andrew as he talks about unseasonably warm weather, the challenge of running down stairs, overheating, a chaotic Christmas market, Glühwein, and a winning hockey team! Improve your English fluency with these entertaining stories. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Become a Culips member: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Bonus 31 - A sweet mystery: click here

Chatterbox #312 – Gaslighting Dec 07, 2023

Have you ever heard the term “gaslighting”? The verb “to gaslight” has become a very popular word over the past several years. Gaslighting is a manipulation tactic where someone makes another person doubt their own experiences and memories. In this episode, Andrew and Anna have a thought-provoking discussion about this concept. They introduce the definition of the term, its history, and their personal thoughts and experiences with gaslighting in their own lives. It’s a great episode for Culips listeners who are interested in psychology! Fun facts The word has become so popular that online dictionary Merriam-Webster announced that “gaslighting” was its word of the year in 2022! According to its search data, searches for the term “gaslighting” increased 1,740% from the year before. Expressions included in the study guide A dark place To take credit for [something] More than [adjective] to To go back on [something] To second-guess oneself To butter [somebody] up Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Photo by RDNE Stock project

Bonus episode #079 – Life is weird Dec 03, 2023

In this bonus episode, Andrew tells two stories about coincidences. He talks about buying a Nintendo, meeting one of his favorite podcast hosts, cold winds, closed stores, Hongdae cults, and meeting a Culips listener. Listen for fun and surprising tales! Study with the interactive transcript: click here Become a Culips member: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Chatterbox 251 - Interview with Jonson Lee: click here Simplified Speech 185 - Nintendo power: click here

Fluency Files #67: Mood boosters Dec 02, 2023

Today, we're sharing a special episode from our Fluency Files series, which is usually for Culips members only. In this one, Andrew talks about the 5 ways he boosts his mood to feel better when he’s tired or stressed. Culips members get a study guide for this episode which includes an interactive transcript, vocabulary glossary, detailed vocabulary explanations with example sentences, listening comprehension questions, and prompts for speaking and writing practice. Click here to sign up and become a Culips member. Click here to join our Discord community for free to practice your English speaking with our community: This episode includes a performance by the Musicians from Marlboro (string quartet), originally published by the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston. The clip has been edited for this episode. This work is used under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 3.0 License. To view a copy of this license, click here. What is the Fluency Files? The Fluency Files is our special series for Culips Members. Each episode features a short audio story and comes with a transcript and study guide. The Fluency Files is perfect for deep studying and intensive English learning. We recommend it to anyone who wants to make big breakthroughs with their English skills. To get access to the entire Fluency Files library, sign up and become a Culips Member on culips.com. Or check out this page to learn more about the Culips Fluency Files.

Bonus episode #078 – Home alone Nov 26, 2023

In this bonus episode, Andrew shares his experience of spending a week alone at home while his wife was away in Japan. He also discusses their reunion and the amazing gifts she brought back for him. Tune in to hear all the details! Study with the interactive transcript: click here Become a Culips member: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here

Simplified Speech #185 – Nintendo power Nov 24, 2023

In this fun episode, Kassy and Andrew share their love of video games with each other. They mostly talk about games from the Nintendo franchise, which is famous for characters like Mario and Pikachu. Kassy chats about the cooperative game she has been playing with her husband on her Nintendo Switch recently and Andrew mentions his desire to buy a Switch himself. If you have nostalgia for classic Nintendo games, then this is the episode for you! Fun facts Nintendo did not start out as a video game company – in fact, it was founded in 1889 as a producer of playing cards. Its first at-home console was called the Color TV-Game and it was first released in 1977. Expressions included in the study guide toss-up to mull something over to drop the ball one’s jam to trash talk / trash talker in one’s wheelhouse Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Alvarordesign (Unsplash.com)

Bonus episode #077 – The spontaneous chef Nov 20, 2023

In this episode, Andrew shares a story about finding the perfect sofa for his living room. He talks about the challenges of finding In this bonus episode, join Andrew as he tells a story about an unplanned cooking adventure. Listen as he talks about deciding to make homemade pizza, sharing his experiences from selecting ingredients to the final delicious outcome. This episode is perfect for improving your English fluency and learning new vocabulary, all while enjoying a lighthearted story about kitchen experiments and culinary surprises. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Become a Culips member: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here

Chatterbox #311 – The Taylor Swift effect Nov 18, 2023

In this episode, Andrew and Anna explore the 'Taylor Swift effect,' which refers to Taylor Swift’s influence on her fans and society in general. They discuss the impact of her work, her personality, and the factors contributing to her remarkable success. If you’re a Taylor Swift fan or simply want to learn more about her, give this episode a listen! Fun facts Did you know that you can now study Taylor Swift at universities? Some colleges and universities offer classes dedicated to analyzing her songs, influence, and impact on pop culture. Could you picture yourself majoring in the subject of Taylor Swift? Expressions included in the study guide To live under a rock To relate to [someone/something] The girl/boy next door To hit in a different way To hold [one’s cards close to [one’s] chest To have a bone to pick Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Nickpanek620 (Pixabay.com)

Bonus episode #076 – Daisy’s big day Nov 12, 2023

In this episode, Andrew shares his experience of attending a unique wedding at a beer brewery. Tune in for a fun story that will help boost your English fluency. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Become a Culips member: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Check out Armchair Expert: click here

Simplified Speech #184 – Andrew and Kassy catch up (again) Nov 11, 2023

After a couple of weeks apart, hosts Andrew and Kassy reunite in this episode to catch up! They talk about Kassy's recent trip to South Korea and a health issue that Andrew has been facing. They also share their love for Korean food and discuss the dishes they crave the most when they’re out of the country. Fun facts Mudeungsan is a beautiful mountain located in a national park. It provides stunning views of Gwangju city and has many hiking trails to explore. South Korea is home to twenty-two national parks, covering a remarkable 6.6% of the country's total land area! Expressions included in the study guide Someone’s neck of the woods To rest up To be wiped out To clog up To compensate for A cliffhanger Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Pexels.com

Bonus episode #075 – A sofa story Nov 05, 2023

In this episode, Andrew shares a story about finding the perfect sofa for his living room. He talks about the challenges of finding the right size, fabric, and color. Listen to hear all about the ups and downs of his sofa saga and improve your English fluency along the way. Study with the interactive transcript: click here Become a Culips member: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here

Real Talk #60 – How to ask for a recommendation at a bookstore Nov 03, 2023

Are you a bookworm? Do you enjoy reading books? In this episode, Andrew and Kassy discuss how to ask for a book recommendation at a library or a bookstore. They teach you many useful expressions that you can use in this situation and in various other everyday conversations. Make sure to listen to this lesson to improve your vocabulary and boost your speaking confidence! Fun facts Did you know that silent reading, which is a common thing today, wasn’t always normal in the history of reading? Back in ancient times, people typically read aloud, and silent reading was considered quite unusual. Traditionally, one reader would read texts out loud to an audience, because not many people could read, and books were rare as well. It’s fascinating how our reading habits have evolved over time! Expressions included in the study guide Can you recommend something? I’m open to anything To check something out It wouldn’t be my first choice To catch [one’s] interest To be up for [something] One of my top [number] reads You won’t regret it Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Tima Miroshnichenko (Pexels.com)

Bonus episode #074 – Memories of a marathon Oct 29, 2023

In this week's bonus episode, Andrew recounts the story of running in the Gyeongju Marathon. Listen along to hear about the highs and lows of the experience, including getting stuck in a traffic jam, being caught on live TV in an embarrassing moment, smashing a personal record, and feeling too old to celebrate! Study with the interactive transcript: click here Become a Culips member: click here Verify your Culips membership: click here Bonus episode 61: click here

Simplified Speech #183 – Regions of the USA Oct 27, 2023

As you can imagine, a country as large as the United States has many regions with their own distinct personalities. In this episode, Andrew and Kassy chat about all of the different regions in the United States. They discuss things like food, culture, accents, natural features, and demographics. If you’d like to learn more about culture in the United States, then this episode is for you! Fun facts The United States contains a multitude of dialects. Depending on the resources you’ve taken advantage of in your English learning journey, you may be using a blend of different linguistic styles! Expressions included in the study guide Waspy To be built up To lump together Indigenous To push back Overrated/underrated Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Raghavendra V. Konkathi (Unsplash.com)

Bonus episode #073 – History lesson Oct 22, 2023

In this episode, Andrew talks about the history of Culips from its early days as one of the first English-language education podcasts, to where it’s at today! Plus, he answers a very frequently asked question: What does the word “Culips” mean? Become a Culips member: click here Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Listen to Confident Business English with Anna: click here

Simplified Speech #182 – Time versus money Oct 19, 2023

Join Andrew and Kassy as they discuss the timeless debate of Time vs. Money. They share their perspectives, talk about how age changes our views on that matter, and discuss what they prefer to spend money on. Also, they chat about what they would do if there were more than 24 hours in a day in the bonus part of the episode. Fun facts Recent studies show that, after the pandemic, more people prefer spending their money on experiences rather than material possessions. According to research by Consumer Reports in 2023, 66% of people between the ages of 25 and 34 would choose experiences over physical items, which is a significant change from the 12% reported in 2021. Respondents claim that memories last longer than material possessions. Expressions included in the study guide At the end of the day To beat around the bush To work your way up Sign me up Back to the grind Let's put it this way Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Karolina Grabowska (Pexels.com)

Bonus episode #072 – Cherry on top Oct 16, 2023

In this episode, Andrew discusses a moment of truth and recounts a comical visit to a local clinic in his neighborhood. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the expression, "the cherry on top." Become a Culips member: click here Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here

Simplified Speech #181 – Doin’ the chores Oct 13, 2023

Nobody likes to do chores, but we all have to do them. In this episode, Andrew and Kassy discuss how they split chores in their households, and chat about cleaning services while sharing some useful cleaning tips and life hacks. Join in to improve your listening and speaking skills while picking up essential vocabulary! Fun facts Most of us aren’t fans of doing chores, but there are actually numerous benefits to them. Cleaning can boost your immune system, reduce stress, improve your mood, increase productivity, help burn calories, and even contribute to better heart health. So, the next time you don’t feel like cleaning, just remember all these positive effects! Expressions included in the study guide The bane of my existence To jump the gun Errand To swear by [something] TMI Day in, day out Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Karolina Grabowska (Pexels.com)

Bonus episode #071 – Train to Busan Oct 09, 2023

In this episode, Andrew talks about a trip he took over the weekend with his wife to Busan. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the expression “I’m on dinner duty.” Become a Culips member: click here Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Visit the Le Meets brunch cafe Instagram: click here

Simplified Speech #180 – Fast fashion Oct 05, 2023

Andrew and Kassy tackle a big topic in this episode – the problem with fast fashion. Fast fashion is when clothes are made quickly and cheaply, so people can buy new styles often and at low prices. Although this sounds like a good thing, it’s bad for the workers who make the clothing and it’s bad for the environment. Give this episode a listen and learn about the topic of fast fashion and Andrew and Kassy’s personal relationships to fashion. Fun facts In response to the fast fashion industry, some people have called for a “slow fashion” movement. Slow fashion means making and buying clothes more thoughtfully and carefully. Instead of buying cheap apparel in high quantities, slow fashion is about buying sustainably made clothing that can be reused for a long time. Expressions included in the study guide to be in tune with to size someone up to catch someone doing something fear of missing out (FOMO) to fork over to get behind something Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: freestocks (unsplash.com)

Bonus episode #070 – A real nice surprise Oct 01, 2023

In this episode, Andrew shares a story about a surprise visit from an old friend. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the idiom not your first rodeo. Become a Culips member: click here Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here

Real Talk #059 – How to deal with noisy neighbours Sep 29, 2023

Andrew and Kassy discuss how to handle noisy neighbours in this Real Talk episode. Dealing with noisy neighbours can be challenging, but with the right approach you might be able to solve the problem without losing your cool. This episode features several useful expressions for bringing up topics that aren’t easy to discuss and for addressing conflict. Fun facts There are often local laws called noise ordinances. These limit how much noise you are allowed to make at certain times of day, such as between 10 PM and 7 AM. You should always try to communicate with your neighbours and solve noise problems among yourselves first. However, in extreme cases, you may be able to file a complaint that your neighbour is violating your area’s noise ordinance. Expressions included in the study guide To bother [someone] I wanted to talk to you about something What’s on your mind? To wind down To appreciate [something] Don’t hesitate to [verb] Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Pablo de Haro (pexels.com)

Bonus episode #069 – Goodbye King Pinky Sep 24, 2023

In this episode, Andrew talks about saying goodbye to his pet dog, Pinky. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you the expression to set off your alarm bells. Become a Culips member: click here Study with the interactive transcript: click here Join the Culips Discord server: click here Bonus episode 57: click here Culips Instagram: click here

Simplified Speech #179 – How Kassy spent her summer in Europe Sep 21, 2023

In this episode, Kassy and Andrew talk about Kassy’s trip to Europe. Kassy shares her adventures in Sweden, Italy, and Scotland. During this trip, she visited her family, went hiking, stayed in a 15th-century castle, and volunteered at an Eco Lodge. Listen to this Simplified Speech episode to hear all the exciting details! Fun facts Did you know that around 80% of Scandinavians speak English fluently? English is prioritized in their education, starting from a young age. But there’s something else: instead of dubbing movies and TV shows, as is common in many other countries, Scandinavians use subtitles. This means that even as children, they get to hear the original English dialogue. This practice improves their listening skills and helps them develop authentic English pronunciation and intonation from an early age. Expressions included in the study guide To buckle up A red-eye (flight) An acquired taste To fill [someone] in on [something] Hit-or-miss To hit [someone] up Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Ali Elliott (Unsplash.com)

Bonus episode #068 – The sixth spot Sep 18, 2023

The bonus series is back! Join Andrew as he shares a story about his recent adventure down south in Gwangju, where he caught up with friends and tackled a challenging half marathon along a scenic forest road. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, Andrew will teach you a useful English idiom: "To snore your head off." Study with the interactive transcript here: Listen to the interview with Indiana here: Join the Culips Discord server here: Details about the Culips course:

Chatterbox #310 – The troubling world of deep fakes Sep 14, 2023

In our modern world, technology is changing our lives all the time, and mostly, it’s making things better. But there are some tech innovations that can be a little worrying, even scary. In this episode, Andrew and Anna dive into the world of deepfakes. They explore their pros and cons and discuss how they might affect our future. If you’re interested in the world of modern technology and its hidden dangers, this episode is for you! References in this episode: Savages by Alltta: click here Miles Fisher: click here Pentagon attack deep fake: click here South Korean documentary, Meeting You: click here Fun facts In this episode, Andrew and Anna explore both the dangers and the positive aspects of deepfakes. An interesting example of deepfake entertainment takes place at the Dalí Museum in Florida, where visitors can virtually meet the famous surrealist painter, interact and take selfies with him. Expressions included in the study guide To have got [something] down In the limelight To reap the benefits To an extent A hard sell To take [something] with a pinch of salt Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Sander Sammy (Unsplash.com)

Catch Word #272 – Bear with me Sep 08, 2023

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you needed someone to wait patiently while you handled something? In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Kassy teach you two expressions you can use in such situations: bear with me and hang tight. Catch Word is a Culips series that teaches you idioms, phrasal verbs, and expressions used in everyday life. With Catch Word, you learn common phrases used by native English speakers while listening to casual, natural conversations. Fun facts Did you know that waiting can be quite stressful for our bodies? Studies have shown that while waiting, our heart rate can increase, stress and anxiety levels go up, muscles get tense, and our perception of time changes. On the bright side, if we’re waiting for something exciting, our bodies releases endorphins, which make us feel happy. Expressions included in the study guide Bear with me Hang tight To line up [something] To come across as To get [something] across Can’t bear [something] Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Ben White (Unsplash.com)

Bonus episode #067 – Early in the morning Sep 05, 2023

Andrew talks about a new app that he’s become addicted to and how he used that app to make an early morning purchase. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson he teaches you how to use the idiomatic expression to put words in [someone’s] mouth. Study with the interactive transcript here: Listen to the interview with Indiana here: Join the Culips Discord server here: Details about the Culips course:

Simplified Speech #178 – Interview with Indiana Sep 01, 2023

In this episode, Andrew interviews one of Culips’ study guide writers, Indiana! He asks her about how she got interested in languages, how she became an English teacher, and what her hobbies are. Plus, Andrew and Indiana share an exciting piece of news – a free Culips course that starts in October! Listen to this episode to find out more about this exciting English learning opportunity. Join our first live course to study Simplified Speech episodes with a native English-speaking teacher for free! Click here for more details. Fun facts Indiana mentions that she lives in New York State, but not New York City. The State of New York has a total area of 54,555 square miles. Meanwhile, NYC only consists of 472 square miles! Expressions included in the study guide The floor is yours Drip Beta To drop in To cap [something] at To pat oneself on the back Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Indiana

Bonus Episode #066 – Let’s clear the air Aug 28, 2023

Andrew shares a story about a miscommunication, meeting up for lunch with his brother-in-law, a funny thing that happened at the Apple store, and more in this edition of the bonus episode. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the idiom to clear the air. Study with the interactive transcript here: Join the Culips Discord server here:

Simplified Speech #177 – Museums and galleries Aug 25, 2023

How often do you go to museums and art galleries? In this episode, Andrew and Kassy chat about the different kinds of art exhibits they enjoy visiting. They also talk about some of the reasons they do not always enjoy spending time at art galleries, including anxiety and the behaviour of other gallery-goers. Join the Culips Discord server here: Fun facts Did you know that there is a special word in the United States to refer to museum tour guides? Individuals who lead guided tours through art or science museums are sometimes called docents (pronounced doe-sents). Expressions included in the study guide Poser To be bogged down Can’t help but [verb] To lose [one’s] cool Over the top To touch base with Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Snow White (pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #65 – Sandwich day Aug 21, 2023

Andrew talks about forest fires raging in his hometown, marathon training, gifts from his mother-in-law, and more. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, you’ll learn about the phrasal verb: to ramp up. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here: Join the Culips Discord server here: Check out the cake quest and marathon test episode here: Check out the mushroom mystery episode here:

Simplified Speech #176 – Quality or quantity? Aug 18, 2023

Do you prefer quality over quantity, or the other way around? Your answer will probably vary depending on the situation. In this Simplifies Speech episode, Andrew and Kassy talk about the idea of quality versus quantity when it comes to making choices in life. They share their preferences and discuss when quality matters more than quantity, and vice versa. Listen in to find out more and learn useful vocabulary to express your thoughts on quality and quantity in English! Fun facts When it comes to studying English, you will achieve better results if you focus on the quality of your learning over how much—or the quantity—you are learning. Spending shorter, concentrated study sessions on specific language skills is usually more effective than studying for long hours without a clear goal. Expressions included in the study guide To slip through the cracks To come down to [something] More bang for your buck It goes to show The real deal When/if push comes to shove Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Romain Briaux (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #064 – The mushroom mystery Aug 13, 2023

Andrew talks about a fascinating and sad news story involving three deaths from eating poisonous mushrooms. Accident or crime? Listen to and decide for yourself! In the vocabulary lesson, you’ll learn about the phrasal verb to feel for (someone). Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here: Join the Culips Discord server here: Participate in the live stream here: Read the news article about the mushroom mystery here:

Simplified Speech #175 – Game changers Aug 11, 2023

Have you ever tried something new that completely changed the way you live your daily life? These new technologies and experiences are often called game changers. In this episode, Andrew and Kassy discuss game changers, such as having a GPS in your car, AI assistants like ChatGPT, and streaming services like Netflix. Fun facts When you call something a game changer, it usually sounds positive. However, it can also be used neutrally or negatively. In any case, the most important criteria for a game changer is having a significant impact on a situation. Expressions included in the study guide Status quo Could you imagine Fallout To plug into To go on and on about [something] In the blink of an eye Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Brecht Denil (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #063 – Heat wave Aug 07, 2023

In this edition of the bonus episode, Andrew talks about his weekend of cancelled plans. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the word copycat. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here: Join the Culips Discord server here:

Chatterbox #309 – Quiet quitting Aug 03, 2023

In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna discuss quiet quitting. This term gained popularity during the COVID pandemic, and it refers to a situation where workers do the bare minimum of their employment responsibilities and do only the job that they’re being paid to do. Through this, employees refuse to engage in hustle culture. The question is, is quiet quitting a problem or a solution? Tune in to find out what our hosts think about it! Fun facts Quiet quitting is a popular topic these days, but have you heard of quiet firing? Quiet firing is when an employer tries to get rid of an employee without directly firing them. They make the employee's job less important or exclude them from important tasks, hoping that the employee will leave voluntarily. It seems like both employees and employers have found their own indirect ways of dealing with workplace challenges! Expressions included in the study guide Fed up To put [one’s] best foot forward Stiff upper lip To get on board with [something] Laid-back Ripped off Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Gustavo Fring (Pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #62 -Tourist in your town Jul 31, 2023

In this edition of the bonus episode, Andrew talks about the trip he took without even leaving the city! Intrigued? Listen to find out the details. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the idiomatic expression to rub shoulders with someone Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here: Join the Culips Discord server here:

Chatterbox #308 – The life and legacy of Alan Turing Jul 27, 2023

In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna explore the fascinating life of Alan Turing, a visionary mathematician and codebreaker whose genius has shaped our modern world of technology. Join our hosts as they discuss the remarkable achievements and personal struggles of this legendary figure. Chatterbox is the Culips series designed for intermediate and advanced English learners, featuring two native English speakers having natural conversations. Learning with Chatterbox will help you improve your listening and speaking skills and expand your cultural awareness. Fun facts Did you know that Alan Turing was the one who came up with the idea of differentiating humans from machines? He played a key role in developing CAPTCHA, those little puzzles we solve online to prove we're human. CAPTCHA stands for Completely Automated Public Turing Test to tell Computers and Humans Apart. So, the next time you see a CAPTCHA, remember Turing's innovative idea behind it! Expressions included in the study guide Savvy To wreak havoc Mind-blowing Legend has it Big deal Ahead of the pack Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Christian Lendl (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #061 – Cake quest and marathon test Jul 24, 2023

In this edition of the bonus episode, Andrew shares two stories about what he did last week. The first is about his wife’s birthday party and the second is about starting to train for a marathon. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about a useful English idiom: to put your money where your mouth is. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here: Join the Culips Discord server here:

Simplified Speech #174 – What do you think about remakes? Jul 20, 2023

Do you like remakes, or do you believe that nothing can beat the original? In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Kassy discuss remakes of movies and video games, and whether the remakes can be better than the originals of our childhoods. They also talk about why remakes have become so popular lately and share their own opinions on this matter. Tune in to find out what they think while improving your English conversation skills! Fun facts “Perfect Strangers”, a 2016 Italian comedy-drama directed by Paolo Genovese, is holding the Guinness World Record for the most remade movie in the history of cinema. Within three years since it was first released, it was remade 18 times in many different languages! Expressions included in the study guide To drive someone up the wall Let alone Right up [one's] alley Off the top of [one's] head Top-notch Up to snuff Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Evan (Pexels.com)

Bonus episode #60 – Round 2 Jul 17, 2023

In this week’s edition of the bonus episode, Andrew talks about teaching Korean for the first time, catching COVID for the second time, and how he spent his 5-day bedroom quarantine. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the expression: to chalk [something] up to [something]. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here: Join the Culips Discord server here: Listen to Catch Word #271 here:

Catch Word #271 – Seen better days Jul 13, 2023

There are many different ways to talk about things that are old and worn out in English. In this episode, Andrew and Suzanne teach you two idiomatic expressions you can use to describe these things: seen better days and worse for wear. Catch Word is the Culips vocabulary series designed for intermediate and advanced English learners. This series teaches you how to use everyday expressions, idioms, and slang to improve your speaking and listening skills. Fun facts In this episode, Andrew and Suzanne talk about giving old things new life by fixing them up. What’s interesting is that sometimes people do just the opposite: they buy new things and intentionally make them look old. This technique is known as distressing. It involves creating artificial signs of wear and tear in order to give items a vintage appearance. Expressions included in the study guide Seen better days Worse for wear TLC Heyday Past its prime Wear and tear Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Pixabay (Pexels.com)

Chatterbox #307 – Setting boundaries Jul 07, 2023

In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna talk about the concept of setting boundaries. Setting boundaries means creating limits between ourselves and others. For instance, one example of a boundary you could set is to not respond to work-related calls after dinner time. You can set boundaries for yourself, your friends, family, and even your coworkers and boss. Setting boundaries is an important way to take control in your life and show respect for yourself. If you’d like to hear about how Andrew and Anna set boundaries in their own lives, then this is the episode for you! Fun facts The term “work-life balance” became popular in the 1980s. Setting boundaries between your personal life and your professional life is an important strategy for taking care of your mental health. One simple way to set a boundary between working hours and after hours is to turn off e-mail notifications from your work e-mail during that time. Expressions included in the study guide to cross a line/boundary to set a precedent to run the risk to count as to have one’s [noun] hat on to walk all over [someone] Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Paolo Chiabrando (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #059 – Books and buddies Jul 03, 2023

In this week’s edition of the bonus episode, Andrew talks about having some guests over to his house, professional development, and a new book by one of his favorite writers. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the expression to stay on your toes. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Join the Culips Discord server here:

Simplified Speech #173 – Kassy’s European summer Jun 29, 2023

In this episode, Andrew and Kassy discuss Kassy’s plans for the summer. Kassy and her husband are going to Europe to volunteer at an Eco Lodge in Scotland. Tune in to find out all the details! Simplified Speech is a Culips series that features two native English speakers having clear and natural conversations about fascinating topics. These episodes are designed to help you improve your English listening and speaking skills in a fun and exciting way. Fun facts An interesting aspect of volunteering abroad is that it often offers an immersive language learning experience. Volunteers often improve their language skills and cultural understanding by interacting with hosts and fellow volunteers in foreign countries. Expressions included in the study guide The sky is the limit To stick out To be in the same boat To play by ear Hustle and bustle On the flip side Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Paolo Chiabrando (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #058 – One step forward, two steps back Jun 26, 2023

In this week’s edition of the bonus episode, Andrew talks about some trials and errors he went through when trying to upgrade the storage drive in his old computer. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the phrasal verb to swap out. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here. Join the Culips Discord server here: Listen to Simplified Speech #172 here:

Catch Word #270 – Bottom of the barrel Jun 23, 2023

We’ve all been in situations where our options were limited, and we had to accept something less than what we wanted. In this episode, Andrew and Kassy explain two idiomatic expressions that you can use to describe these situations, bottom of the barrel and slim pickings. Catch Word is the Culips vocabulary series designed for intermediate and advanced English learners. By listening to these audio lessons, you can learn idioms, expressions, and phrasal verbs that native speakers use all the time. Tune in to take your fluency to the next level! Fun facts Andrew mentions the expression “slim chance” in this episode. Did you know that the phrase “fat chance” means the exact same thing, even though “slim” and “fat” are opposites? English can be quite fascinating, don't you think? Expressions included in the study guide Bottom of the barrel Slim pickings To settle for [something] To inch towards [something] Decent What can you do? Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Mauro Lima (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #057 – The good, the bad, and the ugly cry Jun 19, 2023

In this week’s edition of the bonus episode, Andrew talks about what he’s been up to over the last couple of weeks, including moving to his new house and a health scare with his pet dog Pinky Boy. Listen, learn, and improve your English fluency with real-life stories. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here: Join the Culips Discord server here: Watch the Discord tutorial here:

Simplified Speech #172 – What kind of web surfer are you? Jun 16, 2023

Do you use tabs a lot? Do you prefer to use keyboard shortcuts or mouse clicks? In this episode, Andrew and Suzanne talk about the different ways to browse the internet. They share their different styles of surfing the internet and explore the pros and cons of each approach. Simplified Speech is the Culips series for beginner and intermediate English language learners that features easy to understand conversations about everyday topics. These episodes are designed to help you improve your listening skills and expand your vocabulary. We have quality study guides and transcripts available for all Culips members. Fun facts Do you know these handy Windows shortcuts that can make your browsing more efficient? To open a new tab, press Ctrl + T To close a tab, press Ctrl + W To open a previously closed tab, press Ctrl + Shift + T Expressions included in the study guide One thing led to another Quirk Now that we’ve established Facade Willy-nilly Funky Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Cottonbro studio (Pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #056.5 – Status update Jun 11, 2023

Andrew quickly checks in to give you a status update about what’s new at Culips this week. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Join the Culips Discord server here: Watch the Discord tutorial here: Listen to Chatterbox #306

Chatterbox #306 – Stepping outside your comfort zone Jun 10, 2023

Stepping outside of your comfort zone can be scary, but it helps you grow as a person. In this episode, Andrew and Anna explore the science of stepping outside of your comfort zone, talk about why it’s important to push yourself, and share their own stories of personal growth and overcoming challenges. Culips’ Chatterbox series is designed for intermediate and advanced English learners. Chatterbox episodes feature two native English speakers having natural conversations. Listening to these audio lessons is a great way to improve your grammar, vocabulary, and listening skills so that you can build your fluency. Fun facts Stepping outside of your comfort zone has a lot of benefits that include personal growth, improved self-confidence, and a greater sense of fulfillment and satisfaction in life. By embracing new experiences and facing fears, you create memorable moments and a richer, more vibrant life. Expressions included in the study guide In [one’s] element Second nature Sweet spot To put [oneself] out there In the long run In the deep end Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Cottonbro studio (Pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #056 – False alarm Jun 05, 2023

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew makes a big announcement about the new Culips Discord server. Plus, he tells you a story about a false alarm and teaches you the idiomatic expression ‘like a champ.’ Study with the interactive transcript here: Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here. Join the Culips Discord server here: Watch the Discord tutorial here: Listen to Simplified Speech 170, The little joys in life here:

Real Talk #058 – How to compliment someone’s appearance Jun 02, 2023

It feels great to give compliments, but do you know how to do it in English? When done correctly, it can help you create warm connections with others. In this Real Talk episode, Andrew and Kassy guide you through effective and easy-to-understand ways to compliment someone's appearance. By learning these expressions, you'll be able to make your friends feel good and appreciated while also improving your own English fluency and cultural understanding. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to improve your conversational English in a fun and meaningful way! Fun facts A fun and simple expression to remember is “You look like a million bucks!” This is a great way to compliment someone on their makeup, clothes, or hairstyle. Expressions included in the study guide To be pretty [adjective] oneself To make something pop Don’t make me blush To make waves All dolled up To pull something off Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Hiển Nguyễn [pexels.com]

Bonus Episode #055 – Rain, shine, and moving time May 29, 2023

In this week’s bonus episode, talks about celebrating his anniversary and getting ready for his upcoming move. Plus, he teaches you a useful English expression that will improve your listening and speaking, ‘to be in flux.’ Study with the interactive transcript here: Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Listen to Simplified Speech 122 here: Listen to Simplified Speech 171 here:

Catch Word#269 – Move mountains May 26, 2023

Have you ever had to move mountains to achieve something? In this episode, Andrew and Suzanne teach you two useful idiomatic expressions that mean to work extra hard: to bend over backwards and to move mountains. Give this episode a listen to learn how to use these expressions! Catch Word is the Culips vocabulary series for intermediate and advanced English language learners. With this series you will learn idioms, expressions, and phrasal verbs that will help improve your English listening and speaking skills. Fun facts In this episode, Andrew and Suzanne agree that moving mountains is a nearly impossible task. But hypothetically, what would happen if someone did that? It would very likely result in environmental chaos: disturbed plants and animals, drastic climate change, and natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes. Expressions included in the study guide To bend over backwards To move mountains In a nutshell It was meant to be That’s the spirit To do/work wonders Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: ervenur Yelkenci (Pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #054 – Pioneers of the Continuum May 22, 2023

In this week's bonus episode, Andrew chats with Alastair Budge. Alastair is the creator of the English for Curious Minds podcast. They discuss an exciting new audio drama that Alastair has created called Pioneers of the Continuum, which features voice actors from the English language podcast community. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Pioneers of the Continuum: English Learning for Curious Minds:

Simplified Speech #171 – What’s your house like? May 19, 2023

What’s unique about your home? In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Suzanne take Culips listeners on an audio tour of their homes. They discuss size, rooms, amenities, renovations, and memories. How do you think a Korean apartment in the middle of Seoul will compare to a duplex in Montreal? Listen and find out! Fun facts If you want to buy an apartment in Seoul, the average cost in 2023 is over one billion won (or over $750,000). Interestingly, the average cost of a detached home is about $25,000 less than that! Expressions included in the study guide To flex Man cave In retrospect To air out Game changer Nothing/not anything to write home about Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Naomi Hébert (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #053 – Dark horse May 15, 2023

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about a dead mic, a failed recording session, and a new technology. Plus, he and Kassy teach you two interesting idiomatic expressions, black sheep and dark horse. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Simplified Speech #170 – The little joys in life May 11, 2023

Daily life can often feel hectic and stressful. It’s easy to get caught up in the chaos and focus on your responsibilities and the future. However, it’s also important to slow down once in a while and reflect on the little joys in life. In this episode, Andrew and Suzanne do just that—they chat about the small but lovely things they enjoy during daily life, such as the smell of coffee in the morning and gazing at a bouquet of fresh-cut flowers. Fun facts My Favorite Things is a song about the little joys in life from the classic 1965 musical drama The Sound of Music. Look it up on YouTube and practice your listening comprehension with the help of Julie Andrews’ soothing voice! Expressions included in the study guide To get [something] going To venture into/out into To poke around To slam back In the dark To crack [someone] up Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Everton Vila (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #052 – The anniversary episode May 08, 2023

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about how he spent the weekend celebrating Children’s Day and Parents’ Day. And in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you a useful English expression: R and R. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Simplified Speech #169 – Andrew and Kassy catch up May 04, 2023

In this episode, Andrew and Kassy have a catch-up and share what’s been happening in their lives lately. They talk about reading challenges, useful reading and productivity apps, and Kassy’s recent sports adventures. The Simplified Speech series features native speakers having clear, natural, and easy-to-understand conversations. By studying with this Simplified Speech episode, you’ll improve your English listening skills, increase your vocabulary, and learn how to talk about recent events happening in your life. Fun facts In this episode, Andrew talks about reading in Korean, the language he’s learning. Although reading in a foreign language is often undervalued by many learners, it’s actually a very effective way to improve your language skills. It can help you learn new vocabulary, improve grammar and sentence structure, and understand the cultural nuances better. Expressions included in the study guide And all that jazz To fangirl out Smack dab in the middle To bow out To crave Hooked Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Katerina Holmes (Pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #051 – There’s an app for that Apr 30, 2023

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about playing the drums and selling furniture. Plus he talks about the awesome Culips member live stream from last week and teaches you a useful idiomatic expression: to be in the market for something. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Simplified Speech #168 – The ballet Apr 27, 2023

Do you like ballet? In this episode, Andrew and Suzanne talk about this unique style of dancing. They discuss its origins and characteristics, and explain some specific vocabulary along the way. Suzanne, a former professional dancer, shares her own story and what ballet means to her. Simplified Speech is a Culips series that features two native English speakers having clear, natural, and easy-to-understand conversations about interesting topics. These episodes are designed to help you improve your English listening and speaking skills in a fun and exciting way. Fun facts In this episode, Suzanne mentions breaking new ballet shoes. The process can include soaking them in water, pounding them with a hammer, and shaving the sole with a razor. However, despite all the effort, ballet shoes don’t last long before they need to be replaced: they lose their shape and wear out within a few weeks or sometimes even days! Expressions included in the study guide Intricate To eat, breathe, and sleep [something] To get sucked into [something] I’ll tell you what To break in [something] To dig deep Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Pixabay (Pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #050 – The lost episode Apr 24, 2023

Join Andrew as he tells a story about a surprising discovery he found while organizing some files on his hard drive last week. Then after the story, Andrew teaches you a must-know phrasal verb that will improve your English fluency: to get around [something]. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Chatterbox #305 – Online anonymity Apr 20, 2023

In this Chatterbox episode, Anna and Andrew talk about online anonymity. They share their own stories about using the internet and discuss the pros and cons of being anonymous online. They discuss how being anonymous can help people talk honestly but can also cause problems like cyberbullying and false information. Chatterbox is the Culips series designed for intermediate and advanced English learners. The series features fascinating conversations between native English speakers, covering a variety of topics such as culture, current events, everyday life, and more. By listening to Chatterbox, you can build your vocabulary, improve your pronunciation, develop your fluency, and gain insights into native speakers' perspectives and experiences. Fun fact Fun facts The online group Anonymous, known for its hacktivist activities, gained international attention in 2008 when they launched a series of cyber attacks against the Church of Scientology. This operation, called Project Chanology, aimed to expose the organization's alleged abuse of its members. Expressions included in the study guide A whistleblower To have your cake and eat it too Yin yang A burner Tribal School of thought Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: pexels.com

Bonus Episode #049 – Lamp, lamb, luck Apr 17, 2023

Join Andrew as he talks about how a normal day doing some errands with his wife had a surprise ending. Along the way, he’ll also give you some updates about what’s new at Culips and teach you a helpful English idiom, to weigh your options. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Simplified Speech #167 – Emotional support animals Apr 13, 2023

Andrew and Suzanne discuss emotional support animals (also known as ESAs). They chat about Suzanne’s process with registering her dog as an ESA for her upcoming travel plans. This is a great episode for listeners interested in learning more about the ESA registration process and practicing pet and air travel vocabulary! Simplified Speech is the Culips series for beginner and intermediate English learners. It includes easy-to-understand conversations between two native speakers, helping you build vocabulary and improve your listening skills in English. Fun facts Service animals have to be trained to perform certain tasks, while ESAs typically do not need any special training. There are an estimated 500,000 service dogs working in the United States, and any breed of dog can be a service animal. Meanwhile, any type of animal can be an ESA in the U.S.! Expressions included in the study guide to put someone through something to vouch for someone to check the boxes to weed out fingers crossed to rest on one’s laurels Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Helena Lopes (pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #048 – Walking and talking Apr 09, 2023

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about the last-moment trip he took to Jeju Island to meet up with one of his oldest and best friends. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the useful English idiom to throw a wrench into [someone’s] plans. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Catch Word #268 – I cracked under the pressure Apr 06, 2023

Have you ever been so nervous or stressed about a presentation that you forgot everything you had prepared? Have you ever performed well during sports practice but made mistakes during the big game? There are lots of great idioms to describe these nightmare scenarios in English and, in this episode, Andrew and Kassy introduce listeners to two of the most common ones: to crack under the pressure and can’t take/handle the heat. Fun facts One of the best things you can do with a heavy, stressful workload is to break your responsibilities into manageable tasks. Try the Pomodoro Technique to stay focused and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Work on a task for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. Repeat this pattern three or four times, and then take a 15-minute break. You’ll be surprised at how much you can get done! Expressions included in the study guide To crack under [the] pressure Can’t take/handle the heat [One’s] mind goes blank To egg on Gut feeling To suck the joy out of Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Khwanchai Phanthong (pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #047 – Big plans, little oven Apr 03, 2023

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew shares two stories about his ongoing house renovation, one that’s funny and one that’s interesting. In the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the idiom to butt heads. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Chatterbox#304 – Burnout Mar 30, 2023

Do you ever feel exhausted and overwhelmed with work or other aspects of your life? If so, you're not alone. Burnout is a common experience that can happen to anyone. In this episode, Andrew and Anna explore what burnout is, how to recognize it, and most importantly, what you can do to prevent it. Chatterbox is a series for intermediate and advanced English learners that features native English speakers having natural conversations on interesting topics. Studying with this series will help you build your fluency, sharpen your listening skills, and expand your vocabulary. Fun facts Did you know that during the pandemic, a new term “Zoom fatigue” started being used to describe the tiredness and burnout caused by overuse of video conferencing? Many people have experienced higher levels of stress and burnout as a result of remote work, social isolation, and the constant use of video conferencing platforms like Zoom. Expressions included in the study guide To go the extra mile To [one’s] detriment Dread To grit and bear it Ins and outs To grind it into the ground Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Cup of Couple [pexels.com]

Bonus Episode #046 – Dinner party Mar 26, 2023

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about a unique dinner party he had with his friends over the weekend. Along the way, he teaches you about some interesting expressions like: to tip your hat to somebody, to let something slide, and to be shouldered with something Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here. Check out Sebastian Maniscalco’s comedy here:

Simplified Speech #166 – Table manners Mar 24, 2023

Table manners are an important part of many different cultures. Something that may be considered rude in one country may actually be polite in another. In this episode, Andrew and Suzanne talk about what is generally considered polite in the U.S., Canada, and U.K., their personal opinions on table manners, and a few horror stories about some really uncomfortable eating situations. Fun facts If you have the opportunity to enjoy a meal at a fancy restaurant in the U.S., here’s an etiquette tip that will help you and your waiter. When leaving your seat for a short period of time, leave your napkin on your chair to indicate that you haven’t finished your meal yet. When you’re ready to leave the restaurant and you want to signal to the waitstaff that you’re finished, place your napkin on top of the table. Expressions included in the study guide In the zone Spic and span Doesn’t fly To be glued to [something] To show [someone] the ropes To cut [something] out Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: fauxels [pexels.com]

Bonus Episode #045 – Talking with strangers Mar 19, 2023

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about an interesting conversation he had while riding the bus in Canada. He also gives you some exciting updates about some projects were working on at Culips. Along the way, he teaches you the vocabulary: a handful of something, to bite, curt, blunt, and to play favorites. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Chatterbox #303 – Could you live in a micro apartment? Mar 17, 2023

Have you ever considered living in a micro apartment or tiny home? In this episode, Andrew and Anna discuss the rising trend of micro apartments in the real estate and housing industry. They explore why tiny living is becoming more popular and share their opinions on the matter. Chatterbox is a series designed for intermediate and advanced English learners where you can listen to native English speakers having natural conversations on fascinating topics. Learning with our Chatterbox series will help you improve your English listening and speaking skills and expand your vocabulary. Fun facts The tiniest house ever made is only 1 square metre. It was created by architect Van Bo Le-Mentzel. It’s a do-it-yourself house that costs around €250 to build and includes a bed, a desk, a chair, and a small shelf. Expressions included in the study guide To be partial to [something] To sacrifice [something] for [something] To do with A cliché To get a foothold into [something] Biased Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Patrick Perkins (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #044 – He speaks! Mar 12, 2023

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about a shocking event his wife witnessed this week. He also gives you some Culips updates, and teaches you about the idiomatic expression to rub someone the wrong way. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Real Talk #057 – How to apply for a part-time job Mar 10, 2023

Applying for a part-time job can be stressful, and it’s always a good idea to be prepared before you walk into a store and ask for an application. In this episode, Andrew and Kassy teach you some of the common phrases and etiquette involved with applying for a part-time job in person. The example conversation presented by our hosts is applicable to many different kinds of part-time jobs, including food service, retail, or hospitality. If you’re unsure what to say or ask when trying to get an interview, then this is the episode for you! Fun facts These days, many large franchises or chains will not allow you to apply for a job in person – they require you to fill out an online application and submit your resume on their website. However, if you’d like to make a good impression, you can try following up on the status of your application in person after you’ve applied online! Many of the expressions featured in this episode can be used in this situation as well. Expressions included in the study guide Can I speak to the manager? Do you have any experience? What’s your availability? Valid form of ID / government issued ID Does [time] work for you? Thank you for the opportunity Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Eric Prouzet (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #043 – Pizza Parlor Mar 05, 2023

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about a cool aspect of big city life and shares some stories about what he did last week. Along the way, he teaches you some useful English vocabulary like to congregate, to pass the baton, and to be taken aback. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.:

Simplified Speech #165 – What were you like as a teenager? Mar 03, 2023

We all have stories about our teenage years – some funny, some awkward. In this episode, Andrew and Kassy take a look back at their teenage selves and share their personal stories. Tune in to find out more! Simplified Speech is the Culips series designed for beginner and intermediate English language learners. The series features natural, easy-to-understand conversations between two native speakers. By following along, you'll increase your vocabulary and improve your listening skills in English. Fun facts Did you know that just like humans, animals go through a rebellious phase during their teenage years as well? Elephants and monkeys have been observed showing similar behaviors as human teenagers, such as disobeying their parents, showing aggression, and being more adventurous. Expressions included in the study guide Angsty Slob To go [your] own way To blossom into Social butterfly Make it up as [you] goes along Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Cottonbro Studio (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #042 – Whistle while you work Feb 27, 2023

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew lets you know what he’s been up to over the last week and how he’s getting ready for spring. Along the way, he teaches you some interesting vocabulary and expressions, like menial, in the pipeline, and to be on a [something] kick. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here. Listen to “Whistle While you Work”:

Chatterbox #302 – What is cancel culture? Feb 24, 2023

In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna discuss the controversial topic of cancel culture. Cancel culture refers to the recent culture of mass criticism and ostracization of people in power after they have said or done something offensive. Because of social media, word spreads quickly when famous people commit a crime or even simply say something inappropriate. The responses to these behaviours can happen so fast that an actor could go from beloved celebrity to hated figure overnight. But is this culture helping or hurting us? If you’ve got an opinion on this topic, this is the perfect episode for you— listen and see if you agree with Anna and Andrew’s thoughts! Fun facts One of the first notable uses of “cancelled” meaning “to force someone out of a position of power” is in the 1991 Wesley Snipes action movie New Jack City. Since then, the verb “to cancel” gradually grew in popularity, but the term “cancel culture” only became popular in the late 2010s. Expressions included in the study guide Behind the scenes To not sit well with In the spotlight To shut someone out To bounce back To push the limit Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Rodolpho Zanardo (pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #041 – Back to life, back to reality Feb 20, 2023

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about his battle with jet lag and how his house renovation project is going. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the expression to be thrown out of whack. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Chatterbox #301 – Queen Elizabeth II Feb 16, 2023

Queen Elizabeth II was an important figure both in Britain and around the world. She was the longest-reigning monarch in British history and died at the age of 96 on September 8th, 2022. In this episode, Andrew and Anna talk about the Queen’s life and her legacy. Tune in to learn more about one of the most famous women in the world! Chatterbox is a series for intermediate and advanced English learners in which native English speakers have natural conversations about interesting topics. Learning with our Chatterbox series will help you improve your English listening and speaking skills and expand your vocabulary. Fun facts Royal funerals are planned out in advance, but did you know that Queen Elisabeth’s funeral had been in preparation since the 1960s? The plan was called “Operation London Bridge”, and the code phrase for the Queen’s death was “London Bridge is down”. Expressions included in the study guide Well-off Fair share By no means The dust settles Top Trumps Down to a T/tee Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Wiki Images (Pixabay.com)

Bonus Episode #040 – There’s no place like home Feb 13, 2023

Join Andrew for the thrilling conclusion to his visit to Canada and his journey back to Seoul! He shares some stories about his brother’s birthday party and how he kept himself entertained on the plane. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the expression to float your boat. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Simplified Speech #164 – Socializing with coworkers Feb 10, 2023

Have you ever gotten together with your coworkers on the weekend? In this episode, Andrew and Kassy talk about their experiences spending time with their colleagues socially. They discuss the kinds of activities they participate in, cultural differences regarding socializing with coworkers, and the idea of drinking alcohol with the boss. What do you think English teachers living abroad do for fun with their colleagues? Give this episode a try and find out! Fun facts While many Americans would feel uncomfortable with the idea of going out to the bars with their boss and coworkers, this is an important part of business culture in both South Korea and Japan. It’s called hoesik in Korean and nomikai in Japanese. Expressions included in the study guide To talk shop Slowly but surely Next level Common ground To not be one’s thing At play Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Jopwell (pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #039 – Two days, two doughnuts Feb 06, 2023

Join Andrew for an exciting update on his travels and adventures in this bonus episode! He'll share some stories of his latest adventures, from exploring Vancouver and Victoria, to creating unforgettable memories. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Simplified Speech #163 – Kassy’s trip to Korea Feb 03, 2023

In this special episode, Kassy and Andrew get the chance to meet and chat in person! Our reunited hosts discuss Kassy’s unexpected three-week trip to South Korea and how she has been spending her time there. Be sure to check this one out if you’d like to hear stories about funny travel mishaps, different kinds of cuisine, and extreme weather conditions. Fun facts Did you know that Incheon International Airport offers live music performances to visitors of the airport in different terminals throughout the day? If you ever have the chance to travel through this airport, check out one of their classical, jazz, or gugak (Korean folk music) performances! Expressions included in the study guide To fall through Everything under the sun For the ages To count on To white-knuckle Coulda woulda shoulda Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Daniel Bernard (unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #038 – On the road Jan 29, 2023

In this bonus episode, Andrew gives an update from the road and shares a few stories about what he’s up to during his trip back home to Canada. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Chatterbox #300 – The metaverse Jan 27, 2023

Is the metaverse our future reality or just a dystopian fantasy? In this episode, Andrew and Anna talk all about virtual reality and share their opinions on how they see the future of the metaverse. Chatterbox is a Culips series designed for intermediate and advanced English learners. This series features native speakers having natural conversations about fascinating topics that help you improve your English listening and speaking skills. Plus, you might learn something interesting along the way! Fun facts You might think that the concept of the metaverse is recent, but did you know that the idea of virtual reality, or VR, dates all the way back to 1838? That’s when the VR headset of the 19th century—the stereoscope—was invented by an English scientist, Charles Wheatstone. Expressions included in the study guide To attribute [something] to [something/someone] A late adopter/an early adopter Out of the loop To block out To jump/dive headfirst into [something] To change [one’s] tune Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Sound On (Pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #037 – Silly hamster Jan 22, 2023

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about buyers remorse and his regret for buying a phone case. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you a useful idiomatic expression: To check all your boxes. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Chatterbox #299 – Brain drain Jan 20, 2023

Brain drain sounds like a mental health condition, but it actually means the mass migration of educated and skilled people from one place to another. In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna have a discussion about some of the reasons for this phenomenon. The hosts describe some of the brain drain trends they’ve witnessed in Canada, the UK, South Korea, and more. Check out the episode and learn why nurses are moving from Canada to the United States! Chatterbox is the Culips series designed for intermediate and advanced English learners. This series features native English speakers having natural conversations about fascinating topics. Learning with our Chatterbox series is a great way to improve your English listening and speaking skills. Fun facts Some states in the United States that are suffering from the effects of economic emigration are offering remote workers money to relocate there. Two cities in West Virginia are offering up to $20,000! Expressions included in the study guide Greener pastures No brainer To blend in To not do as/so hot Bottom line To put down roots Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Milad Fakurian (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #036 – A chance encounter Jan 16, 2023

In this bonus episode, Andrew shares a story about seeing a couple from a reality TV dating show at a coffee shop in his neighbourhood. He also talks about his upcoming trip to Canada. In the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you the idiomatic expression to put two and two together. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Simplified Speech #162 – What do your facial expressions say about you? Jan 13, 2023

Do you consider yourself an expressive person? Can you usually tell how someone feels by looking at their face? In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Kassy chat about how people communicate with facial expressions. Simplified Speech is a Culips series designed to help beginner and intermediate English language learners improve their listening skills. In this series, you can listen to native speakers having natural conversations about everyday topics using language that is clear and easy to understand. Fun facts According to the Guinness World Records, Gary Pearlman from the USA set a world record for the largest outdoor free floating soap bubble on July 20, 2015. That bubble had a volume of 96.27 m³! Expressions included in the study guide To be written all over (one’s) face Ticked off Seething RBF (resting bitch face) To save face To suck up to (someone) Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Muhammad-taha Ibrahim (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #035 – Skate time! Jan 08, 2023

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about going ice skating with his wife. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you a useful English idiom: to set the bar high/low. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Catch Word #267 – Burst your bubble Jan 05, 2023

Nobody likes to be disappointed, but it happens to all of us at some point of our life, so it’s good to know how to talk about it. In this episode, Andrew and Kassy teach you two useful expressions used when talking about disappointing someone. Catch Word is the Culips vocabulary series designed for intermediate and advanced English learners. With this series you’ll learn common everyday idioms and expressions and improve your listening and speaking skills. Fun facts According to the Guinness World Records, Gary Pearlman from the USA set a world record for the largest outdoor free floating soap bubble on July 20, 2015. That bubble had a volume of 96.27 m³! Expressions included in the study guide To burst [someone’s] bubble To dash [someone’s] hopes Tongue-in-cheek To be left on read To get over [something/someone] Worst-case scenario Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Sebastian Pichler (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #034 – Bye, ‘22! Dec 31, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew looks back on 2022 and talks about his goals and plans for 2023. Are you ready to seriously improve your English in 2023? We’re here to help you reach your goal. Become a Culips member now: Study with the interactive transcript here:

Bonus Episode #033 – Biennial health check Dec 26, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about going for a health checkup. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you a useful idiomatic expression: a shock to your system. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Chatterbox #298 – Christmas in Canada and the UK Dec 21, 2022

It’s the most wonderful time of the year – it’s Christmas! There are many different traditions and ways to celebrate this holiday around the world. In this episode, Andrew and Anna talk about the way they used to celebrate Christmas in their home countries and how they do it now that they live abroad. Chatterbox is the Culips series designed for intermediate and advanced English learners. This series features native English speakers having natural conversations about fascinating topics. Learning with our Chatterbox series is a great way to improve your English listening and speaking skills. Fun facts Have you ever seen an upside-down Christmas tree? Hanging Christmas trees from the ceiling is a trend that has been growing in popularity over the last few years. And while the tradition has religious origins, nowadays people do it for a more practical reason: this way a tree takes up less space. Expressions included in the study guide Lead-up To resign [oneself] to [something] For starters To spoil [someone] At the crack of dawn To seep into Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke for Free Image: Kevin Bidwell (Pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #032 – Attending a funeral Dec 18, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about what it’s like to attend a funeral in South Korea. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Simplified Speech #161 – Do you practice self-care? Dec 15, 2022

Self-care is a term that has been around for a long time. However, it has become more popular recently because people are paying more attention to taking care of their physical and mental health in a fast-paced world. In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Kassy chat about their personal self-care routines and some tips for listeners. If you’ve been feeling stressed out lately, then this is a great episode to check out! Simplified Speech is a Culips series that features easy to understand conversations that help beginner and intermediate English learners improve their listening skills. We have quality study guides and transcripts available for all Culips members. Fun facts It can be very difficult to practice self-care when you’re stressed out. The next time you want to relax and calm down, try this grounding technique that uses all of your senses: Notice and name five things you can see Notice and name four things you can feel Notice and name three things you can hear Notice and name two things you can smell Notice and name one thing you can touch This simple exercise can help you disconnect from your stress and pay more attention to your body and environment. Try it out! You just might feel a little bit calmer afterwards. Expressions included in the study guide To take a toll on To squeeze in To go out on a limb Love-hate relationship To take full advantage of Band-aid Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Opening music from Pixabay.com Image: Lesly Juarez and madison lavern (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #031 – A sweet mystery Dec 12, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about a mystery he has discovered in his neighborhood and about visiting a Christmas market in Seoul. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you the expression to not hold water. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Catch Word #266 – Not make a dent in it Dec 08, 2022

Are you the type of person who gets work done quickly and easily? Sometimes we may work on a task for a long time but still not make a lot of progress on it. In this episode, Kassy and Andrew teach two expressions you can use in situations where you’re stuck or not making progress. These expressions are to not make a dent in something and to go round in circles. Catch Word is the Culips vocabulary series for intermediate and advanced English learners who want to improve their English fluency. You’ll learn idioms and useful expressions to help you have more natural-sounding conversations. Fun facts The tallest rollercoaster in the world is Six Flags’ Kingda Ka rollercoaster. It first opened in 2005 and is 456 feet tall (almost 139 metres) at its highest point. Expressions included in the study guide To not make a dent in (something) To go round in circles To be tapped To feel (someone’s) pain To take over a contract To come to a consensus Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Opening music from Pixabay.com Image: Ran Berkovich (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #030 – 34 days of music Dec 04, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about the music he listened to this year. Plus, he teaches you about a useful English expression, to reign supreme. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Chatterbox #297 – Personal finance Dec 02, 2022

Are you a saver or a spender? In this episode, Andrew and Anna share their experiences handling finances and give some tips on how to spend less money. If you’re interested in personal finance, be sure to give it a listen! Chatterbox is a series that features natural conversations between native speakers. This series is designed for intermediate and advanced learners. Listening to our Chatterbox series is a great way to improve your vocabulary and listening skills. Take your English fluency to the next level! Fun facts The tallest rollercoaster in the world is Six Flags’ Kingda Ka rollercoaster. It first opened in 2005 and is 456 feet tall (almost 139 metres) at its highest point. Expressions included in the study guide To have a handle on [something] Night and day To kick the bucket To push the boat out Peace of mind To delve into [something] Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Opening music from Pixabay.com Image: Karolina Grabowska (Pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #029 – For the best Nov 27, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew shares the story about how his half marathon went last week. He also talks about the World Cup and who he’s cheering for. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you the expression slim to none. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Simplified Speech #160 – Amusement parks Nov 24, 2022

Most children in the U.S. and Canada have had at least a few experiences visiting amusement parks. In this Simplified speech episode, Andrew and Kassy describe their childhood experiences going to amusement parks and theme parks. They discuss their opinions on them and offer several tips on getting the most fun out of your visit. Listen to the episode and decide for yourself whether you think these classic summertime destinations sound like fun! Simplified Speech is the Culips series that features easy to understand conversations that help beginner and intermediate English learners improve their communication skills. We have quality study guides and transcripts available for all Culips members. Study with the interactive transcript here. Fun facts The tallest rollercoaster in the world is Six Flags’ Kingda Ka rollercoaster. It first opened in 2005 and is 456 feet tall (almost 139 metres) at its highest point. Expressions included in the study guide To not be a fan of [something] To pay off Claim to fame To get butterflies To date [oneself] Once in a lifetime Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Matt Bowden (unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #028 – Come back to haunt me Nov 21, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about a decision he made in the past that has come back to haunt him. He also shares a story about a website that helped him to relive some childhood memories. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you about the expression to pay the price. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Simplified Speech #159 – Kassy’s new hobbies Nov 18, 2022

It is always a great time picking up a new hobby! In this episode, Kassy talks with Andrew about some new hobbies of hers. Listen in to find out what they are! Simplified Speech is a Culips series where native speakers have natural conversations about everyday topics using clear and easy to understand language. These episodes are designed to help beginner and intermediate English language learners improve their listening skills. Study with the interactive transcript here. Fun facts In this episode, Andrew mentions Alex Honnold, a famous free solo climber. In 2017, he climbed El Capitan in Yosemite National Park, a 3000 feet tall rock formation, without ropes or any other protective equipment. The climb took him 3 hours and 56 minutes. Expressions included in the study guide If I recall correctly To get where [someone] is coming from To have a hard time [doing something] To blow [one’s] socks off Notorious To be on the verge of [something] Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Karolina Grabowska (Pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #027 – A dumpster fire Nov 13, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about the drama that’s unfolding at Twitter. Plus, he gives you some behind the scenes updates about some new things happening at Culips and teaches you a funny idiomatic expression: a dumpster fire. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Chatterbox #296 – Anna’s trip to Scotland Nov 10, 2022

Have you ever travelled abroad during summer vacation? Depending on where you travel, summer can be one of the best times to take a trip. In this episode, Andrew and Anna talk about Anna’s trip to Scotland during the summer. Listen to this Chatterbox episode to hear about the food, sites, weather, and more that Anna experienced on her trip. Chatterbox is a series of natural conversations between two native English speakers about diverse and interesting topics. This series is designed to help intermediate and advanced English learners improve their listening and speaking ability in a fun and engaging way. Fun facts In this episode, Anna and Andrew talk about haggis, one of Scotland’s most iconic foods. There is a myth about haggis that some travellers may hear, which is that haggis is a small four-legged creature with a mane that is hunted in the Highlands of Scotland. Most people know this is not true, but if you ever have the opportunity to eat haggis you may also end up hearing this legend! Expressions included in the study guide To recharge (one’s) batteries To take it away Picky and choosy Quite the hike Bucket list Achilles’ heel Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image:Andrew Ridley (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #026 – My strong suit Nov 06, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about why his dog Pinky is a conversation starter and shares some stories about what he did over the weekend. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you the idiomatic expression to be someone’s strong suit. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Simplified Speech #158 – Have you ever been in an emergency? Nov 03, 2022

Emergencies can be extremely stressful, but they certainly make for some good stories. In this Simplified Speech episode, hosts Andrew and Kassy recount several stories from their childhoods about emergency situations. You’ll hear stories about stubborn children, bee stings, and getting stuck in theatre chairs. Listen to their tales and find out if you’ve gone through anything similar! Simplified Speech is a Culips series that features easy to understand conversations that help beginner and intermediate English learners improve their listening skills.. Fun facts Did you know that 911 (in North America) and 112 (in the European Union) are the most common emergency service numbers? Even if you can’t remember the right emergency number for the country you’re in, dialing either of these numbers on your smartphone should connect you to an emergency line immediately. Expressions included in the study guide Lighthearted To storm out Alas To go nuts Bad influence To be bound to happen Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image:Roger Brown (pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #025 – A fixer-upper Oct 31, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about some exciting news! Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you a useful English expression: a fixer-upper. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Chatterbox #295 – Life as a digital nomad Oct 26, 2022

Where is your office? Is it located in a big building owned by the company you work for, or are you a digital nomad, able to work anywhere in the world? Andrew and Anna talk about what it must be like being a digital nomad and discuss the good and the bad that comes with this lifestyle. Culips’ Chatterbox series is designed for intermediate and advanced English learning. All Chatterbox episodes feature natural conversations between two native English speakers. Listening to these audio lessons helps to improve your grammar, vocabulary, and listening skills so that you can become fluent. You’ll be able to speak English naturally while also learning what it’s like to be a digital nomad. Fun facts As of 2021, there are over 35 million digital nomads in the world. Curious about where they live? Well, 51% live in hotels, 41% live with friends or family, 36% live in Airbnbs, and 16% live in hostels. Expressions included in the study guide Living the dream Not all it's cracked up to be i.e. Location freedom Never say never Hit the nail on the head Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Avi Richards (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #024 – Pick up where you left off Oct 23, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about getting a 24-hour bug, visiting an industrial office tower, and failing the exercise portion of the Sober October Challenge. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you an idiomatic English expression: To lose it. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Real Talk #056 – Calling 911 in an emergency Oct 20, 2022

No one ever expects to be in an emergency, but sometimes we may be in a situation where we need to call for help. In this Real Talk episode, Andrew and Kassy teach you common expressions you can use when talking to a 911 dispatcher. Real Talk is a series that helps you learn practical English expressions that you can use in every day natural conversations. Be sure to listen carefully to this episode for all the useful expressions! Fun facts 911 is an emergency phone number used globally in many North, Central & South America countries. It first began being used by the fire department in the United States in 1957 because it had never been used as an area code. Other regions of the world use different universal emergency phone numbers such as 112 in Europe and 119 in many Asian countries. Expressions included in the study guide Hit and run Blow through Stay on the line What's (someone's) condition Yada yada Clog up the line Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: JOSHUA COLEMAN and Charanjeet Dhiman (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #023 – A glimmer of hope Oct 17, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew shares a few stories about what he got up to last week. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson he teaches you about the expression a grind. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Chatterbox #294 – The highs and lows of living abroad Oct 13, 2022

Have you ever thought about living abroad? That’s the discussion topic for this Chatterbox episode. Join Andrew and Anna as they share their experiences of living in a foreign country and talk about the ups and downs of living abroad. Chatterbox is a series for intermediate and advanced English learners in which native English speakers have natural conversations on interesting topics. This series is designed to help you improve your English listening and speaking fluency in a fun way. Fun facts Did you know that the United Arab Emirates’ population mostly consists of foreigners? Expats constitute over 88% of this country’s population. That means only 12% are native-born residents. Expressions included in the study guide Red tape To bend over backwards A loophole To keep [someone] on [their] toes To be on the fence YOLO Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Images: GeoJango Maps and Clay Banks (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #022 – Sober October Oct 09, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about the Sober October challenge and shopping for new shoes. Plus, he teaches you a useful idiomatic expression out of pocket. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Catch Word #265 – Take the fifth Oct 08, 2022

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where it was best to just remain quiet? In English, there are many ways to say, “I don’t want to talk about it”. In this episode, Andrew and Kassy teach you two idiomatic expressions you can use to talk about being quiet and not talking. The Catch Word series helps intermediate and advanced English language learners understand idioms, phrasal verbs and expressions that you may encounter in daily life. This Culips audio lesson will help you improve your listening skills, build your vocabulary, and give you interesting conversation topics to use every day. Fun facts Some people enjoy being in the spotlight and having the attention of an audience, but research has reported that about two-thirds of people say that they feel anxious and struggle to speak in front of large groups. Expressions included in the study guide To take the fifth To clam up In a jovial manner [Someone’s] eyes pop out of [their] head In the running Goody two-shoes Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Image: Jelleke Vanooteghem (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #021 – French hotdog Oct 02, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about visiting an international festival in his neighborhood and about trying some cuisine from a couple different countries. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson he teaches you about the idiom for the time being. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here. Also, check out The Daily that we mentioned in this episode here.

Simplified Speech #157 – Adjusting to life as a newlywed Sep 30, 2022

What is life like after marriage? Andrew and Kassy have both had their weddings recently and, in this episode, they talk about adjusting to married life and share their experiences dealing with it. In our Simplified Speech series, Native speakers have natural and easy-to-understand conversations about everyday topics. These episodes are designed to help you improve your listening skills and expand your vocabulary. Fun facts According to New Statistics, 53% (20 million) of marriages that happen around the world are arranged. In an arranged marriage, a person doesn’t choose who they marry; their relatives do it instead. Expressions included in the study guide To embark on To bring up [something] [Something]-wise To see eye to eye Under the gun Dire Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Image: Drew Coffman (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #020 – Mosquitos and juice Sep 25, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew shares talks about getting attacked by mosquitos and a near disaster. Sound intriguing? Listen to the episode to learn the whole story. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, you’ll learn how to use the adjective stricken to describe negative situations. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here:

Simplified Speech #156 – First impressions of Thailand Sep 22, 2022

Greetings from Thailand! Kassy and her husband have finally arrived in Thailand and are starting to get settled in Bangkok. In this episode, Kassy tells Andrew about her first impressions of the new country and shares a couple of funny and interesting stories from her first days there. Tune in to hear about Kassy’s adventures in Bangkok. Simplified Speech is the Culips series that is designed to help you improve your English listening and speaking fluency in a fun and exciting way. Fun facts Drinking tap water is not safe in Thailand. Drinking beer, on the other hand, is. The high level of alcohol content in Thai beer makes it impossible for the germs to survive. Apart from that, the cost of Thai beer is relatively low, which is why the drink is so popular around the country. Expressions included in the study guide To go hand in hand Apart from Piping hot To have no words To take [something] in stride To be drowned out by [something] Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Image: Evan Krause and Waranont (Joe) (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #019 – Flexing my detective skills Sep 18, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew shares some stories about what he got up to last week, including searching for his wife’s wallet and selling his PS4. He also tells you about an awesome new Culips feature, the interactive transcript. Then, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you a great phrasal verb: to piece [something] together. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com. Study with the interactive transcript here.

Simplified Speech #155 – Getting ready for an international move Sep 15, 2022

Have you ever wanted to pack up and move to a whole new country? Kassy recently did just that, moving from South Korea to Thailand. In this episode, Andrew and Kassy talk about her recent move and share their stories about what it’s like to prepare for an international move. Simplified Speech episodes are designed to help you improve your English listening and speaking skills. Listen as two native English speakers have a natural conversation using clear and easy to understand language. Fun facts In 2020, it was estimated that 3.6% of the world’s population (281 million people) were migrants. Migrants are people who live in a country different from the one in which they were born. Expressions included in the study guide So to speak Gold standard Flood the market Get/kick into high gear Good sport Live vicariously through [someone] Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Image: Karolina Grabowska (Pexels.com)

Bonus Episode #018 – A roller-coaster week Sep 11, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about commuting to work in a typhoon, celebrating Chuseok, and the passing of Queen Elizabeth. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you how to use the expression to go into [something] mode. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com.

Chatterbox #293 – The history and culture of tea in the UK Sep 07, 2022

Who doesn’t love a hot cup of tea? Most countries have some kind of tea culture. However, the British think of tea as especially important to their culture. In fact, many people think of tea when they think of elements of British culture. In this Chatterbox episode, Anna talks with Andrew about her country’s relationship with tea and how important it is. So put the kettle on and sit back for an interesting conversation! Chatterbox is a Culips series for high and intermediate English learners in which native English speakers have a conversation on an interesting topic. Listening to this series will help to improve your listening skills and to expand your vocabulary. Fun facts In this episode, Anna mentions that Turkey is the country with the highest consumption of tea in the world. The average Turkish person drinks 3.16 kg of tea per year, whereas people in the #2 country, Ireland, drink 2.19 kg of tea per year. Every other country surveyed consumes, on average, under 2 kg of tea per year. There must be some amazing tea in Turkey! Expressions included in the study guide To come on the scene Fabric of social culture [Something] tea Criminal Just a splash To dress up Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Sincerely Media and Rachel Cheng (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #017 – Goodbye, summer! Sep 04, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew talks about some of the highlights from the past week and teaches you a useful expression you can use when you’re tired: wiped out. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com.

Simplified Speech #154 – Kassy’s trip home Aug 31, 2022

In this episode Kassy and Andrew talk about Kassy’s trip home to the United States of America. On this trip, she finally got a chance to spend some time with her family and friends that she had not been able to see in person for years. Kassy talks about how she and her husband got to travel to different states, visiting attractions, eating local delicacies, and most importantly, partying at their long-planned second wedding reception. Simplified Speech is a Culips series that features clear, natural, and easy to understand conversations about interesting topics. Listen in to improve your listening and speaking skills, as well as to expand your vocabulary with many useful expressions that will help you to become more fluent in English. Fun facts Did you know that travelling makes you smarter? Not only do you get to tour new destinations—making memories of the unique sights, smells, and tastes—but travelling also stimulates your brain to think more creatively as you navigate new locations. Expressions included in the study guide To keep up with [something] To digress If I had to pick one, it would be… To digest [information] You can thank us later To be antsy Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Jason Pischke and Timothy Klingler (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #016 – Let the games begin Aug 28, 2022

In this bonus episode, Andrew shares some stories from the monster of a week he had last week. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you a useful English expression: on point. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com.

Catch Word #264 – In stitches Aug 23, 2022

Who doesn’t like to have a good laugh? In this Catch Word episode, Kassy and Andrew teach you some useful expressions that help you to talk about comedy and things in your life that make you laugh a lot. Catch Word is the Culips vocabulary series for intermediate and advanced English language learners that will help you improve your listening and speaking skills. At the same time, you’ll be able to increase your vocabulary by learning some useful and important expressions that English speakers use in their everyday lives. Fun facts Most laughter is not about humor, but rather about relationships between people. We are 30 times more likely to laugh in a social situation than when we are alone (with no books, TV, or other gadgets around to make us laugh). Expressions included in the study guide In stitches To crack [someone] up To overexert oneself To catch one’s breath To take [something] to heart A real character Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Priscilla Du Preez (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #015 – A really random day Aug 21, 2022

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about a random day he had last week where he registered his marriage and got an IV drip. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you an extremely common idiomatic expression: for good. Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips Member. To sign up, visit Culips.com.

Simplified Speech #153 – Zombies! Aug 18, 2022

Zombies are everywhere! From movies and TV shows to video games and more, zombies are supernatural monsters that appear in almost every culture’s folklore. In this episode, Andrew and Kassy talk about everything they know about these undead creatures. Simplified Speech episodes feature two native English speakers having clear, natural, and easy-to-understand conversations about interesting topics, like zombies. Studying with this series helps you to improve your English listening skills and speak English naturally.. Fun facts The word “zombie” first appeared in 1819 when poet Robert Southey used it in his book History of Brazil to refer to a rebel leader named Zumbi. Expressions included in the study guide My [something] Game over To blank on [something] For days on end To the bitter end If you can’t beat them, join them Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Nathan Wright (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #014 – A week in bed Aug 14, 2022

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about how he kept himself entertained while being sick at home with COVID. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you an expression you can use when you regret saying something: to eat your words. For information about becoming a Culips Member, visit Culips.com

Chatterbox #292 – Let’s get physical and talk about HIIT Aug 10, 2022

Have you ever heard of high intensity interval training? That’s quite a mouthful, isn’t it? Luckily, we usually just call this type of workout HIIT. It’s a training style that has recently gained a lot of popularity. In this Chatterbox episode, hosts Andrew and Anna explain the entire concept of HIIT and share their stories related to it. Chatterbox is a Culips series where two native English speakers have a quick and natural conversation about interesting topics. This series is designed to be beneficial for intermediate and advanced English language learners. Fun facts Although HIIT has been gaining in popularity recently, the concept has been around for a long time. Famously, British athletics coach Peter Coe used the principles of HIIT to help train his son, Sebastian Coe, who would later go on to win several Olympic medals as a middle distance runners! Expressions included in the study guide A mouthful Hard to pinpoint To resonate with [someone] To be beat To be plausible There’s a time and a place To fall into place To fall by the wayside Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Element5 Digital (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #013 – Don’t cry over spilt milk Aug 07, 2022

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about why he had to cancel his trip to Canada at the last moment. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you a useful expression for telling bad news: all around. For information about becoming a Culips Member, visit Culips.com

Catch Word #263 – Turn a blind eye Aug 05, 2022

There’s always someone in a friend group that’s not very observant. Maybe it takes them too long to understand a joke, or maybe they always say the wrong thing at the wrong time. There are many different phrases in the English language to describe these oblivious kinds of friends. Today, Kassy and Andrew explain two of these expressions: tone-deaf and turn a blind eye. Culips’ Catch Word series teaches you idioms, phrasal verbs, and expressions that help improve your English listening and speaking skills. With Catch Word, you learn common phrases used by native English speakers while listening to a casual, natural conversation. Fun facts When travelling the world, it is very easy to commit a faux pas or act tone-deaf. That’s because each culture has unique social rules and etiquette. Before you travel, it’s always a good idea to look up the common mistakes that tourists make at your destination so that you won’t be a tone-deaf tourist, or accidently commit a faux pas! Expressions included in the study guide Tone-deaf Turn a blind eye Faux pas To be/get roasted Average Joe Grain of truth Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Naomi Suzuki (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #012 – Heading home Aug 01, 2022

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew shares some stories about what he got up to last week and talks about his upcoming trip to Canada. Plus he teaches you a useful expression: to wait it out. For information about becoming a Culips Member, visit Culips.com

Simplified Speech #152 – Do you celebrate any international days? Jul 27, 2022

Everyone knows about Christmas and Valentine’s Day, but do you know there’s a Strange Music Day and a Burger Day? In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Kassy explore the wonderful world of international days. Give it a listen and you might discover a special day just for you! Simplified Speech is a Culips series where our hosts have a clear and natural conversation designed to help beginner and intermediate English language learners improve their skills. Fun facts Most special international days are joyful events meant to focus interest in some area of life. However, International Workers’ Day has a long political history of protests and riots aiming to improve the rights of workers across the world. It is celebrated on May 1st in most countries. In North America, it is celebrated on the first Monday of September and is called Labour Day. Expressions included in the study guide To raise awareness To be a riot Just because Avant-garde/cutting edge To be out there To do some digging It just so happens To stand out Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Blessing Ri (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #011 – The birthday cake experiment Jul 24, 2022

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew shares a story about celebrating his wife’s birthday and baking her a cake. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you how to use a common idiomatic expression: to have your work cut out for you. The Culips Member July live stream is happening on Tuesday July 26th, at 7:30PM KST. To join the live stream, follow this link: For information about becoming a Culips Member, visit Culips.com

Real Talk #055 – How to order flowers in English Jul 20, 2022

A beautiful flower arrangement can help to change the whole look of a room. But how do you order flowers at a flower shop in English? Don’t worry! In this Real Talk episode, hosts Andrew and Kassy walk you through the expressions and vocabulary you will need when buying flowers to decorate your home or give to a loved one. Real Talk is the Culips series for beginner and intermediate English learners, which teaches you practical English expressions for real-world situations. Fun facts If you like big flower arrangements, you might like one at the Dubai Miracle Garden. At roughly 72,000 square meters, and shaped like an Airbus A380, it holds the record for biggest flower arrangement in the world. Expressions included in the study guide Florist Bouquet/arrangement I’d like to buy I can help you with that Did you have anything particular in mind? What are you thinking for the budget? [Something] would be fine To ring [someone] up Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Waldemar Brandt and Uljana Borodina (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #010 – A quick trip south Jul 17, 2022

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew talks about a short road trip he took to a small city at the southern tip of South Korea called Tongyeong. Plus in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you how to use a common idiomatic expression: to bad-mouth [someone]. Visit Culips.com to get the 100% free transcript for this episode.

Simplified Speech #151 – What’s your most prized possession? Jul 12, 2022

Everyone owns special and precious things, things they think of as valuable and unique. In this episode, Kassy and Andrew get together to talk about the things that they value the most and, in fact, can’t imagine their lives without. Listen in to learn about what things both Andrew and Kassy consider to be their most prized possessions. Simplified Speech episodes feature two native English speakers having clear, natural, and easy to understand English conversations about interesting topics. By listening to Kassy and Andrew talk about their most prized possessions, you’ll improve your English listening skills and increase your vocabulary. Fun facts How much would you pay to buy a feather? The most expensive feather in the world was found in New Zealand and belongs to an extinct bird called the huia. It was sold at an auction for almost $10,000 US. Expressions included in the study guide TMI Sentimental value Safety blanket Think back on Using time as countable/non-countable noun To be particular about (something) Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Clay Bank (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #09 – Movie marathon Jul 10, 2022

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew shares some stories about what he did last week. Plus, he teaches you a useful and common idiomatic expression that native speakers use all the time: to be at the top of your game. Visit Culips.com to get the 100% free transcript for this episode.

Chatterbox #291 – Decision paralysis Jul 06, 2022

Making decisions isn’t always easy, especially these days, when there are so many options for us to pick from. If you’ve ever felt stuck when faced with choices, you’re not alone! This sensation is called decision paralysis and many people face it, including Culips hosts Andrew and Anna. Listen in as they talk about this sensation and how they work through it. Culips’ Chatterbox series is designed for intermediate and advanced English learners. All Chatterbox episodes feature natural conversations between two native English speakers. Listening to these audio lessons helps to improve your grammar, vocabulary, and listening skills so that you can build your fluency. You’ll be able to speak English naturally with Culips, and you might even learn something interesting along the way. Fun facts Studies show that decision paralysis, also known as choice paralysis or analysis paralysis, often leads to procrastination. Those who experience this become so overwhelmed with the options available that they avoid making a decision, and instead do something else Expressions included in the study guide To let the world pass you by In the heat of the moment On a whim Click of a finger Put one’s finger on it Grass is always greener Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Victoriano Izquierdo (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #08 – The search for the lost ring Jul 03, 2022

In this week’s bonus episode, Andrew tells a story about losing his wedding ring. Plus, he teaches you an idiomatic expression that native speakers use all the time: on and off. Visit Culips.com to get the 100% free transcript for this episode.

Simplified Speech #150 – Have you ever been obsessed with something? Jun 29, 2022

There are things that we like, and then there are things we really obsess over! But watch out: you don’t want your obsession to turn into an addiction. In this Simplified Speech episode, hosts Andrew and Kassy explore expressions dealing with our obsessions. Simplified Speech is a series featuring easy and natural English conversations. Both beginner and intermediate language learners can benefit from this series. So be sure to go through our full catalogue online! Fun facts As our hosts mention in this episode, Obsession is also the name of a famous perfume from Calvin Klein. It became extremely popular in the ’80s and ’90s, largely due to its iconic marketing campaign. Expressions included in the study guide Flippantly Well put To the detriment of [something] [One’s] thing To trigger Thought experiment Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Clay Bank (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #07 – Here comes the rain Jun 27, 2022

In this week’s update episode, Andrew shares some stories about the monsoon season and dog sitting a poodle! Plus, he teaches you about an extremely useful phrasal verb: to stick with [something]. Visit Culips.com to get the 100% free transcript for this episode.

Catch Word #262 – Doomscrolling Jun 22, 2022

At some point, we’ve all found ourselves scrolling through the news or social media for hours on end. Sometimes the things we discover make us feel good (cute puppy videos!), and other times we find things that makes us feel bad (most news article about the world nowadays!). In this episode, Andrew and Kassy teach you two idiomatic expressions that you can use to talk about spending time on the Internet. The Culips Catch Word series teaches you idioms, phrasal verbs, and expressions used in everyday life. Listening to this Catch Word audio lesson will help you improve your English listening and speaking skills, while also giving you interesting new ways to talk about the internet and social media. If you’d like to watch the video Andrew mentions in this video, you can find it here. Fun facts While people have used doomscrolling to describe their internet usage since early 2018, it only became popular and entered everyday usage in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. Expressions included in the study guide Doomscrolling Break the internet Apt Doom and gloom Pack If I do say so myself Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Adrian Swancar and LinkedIn Sales Solutions (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #06 – Spontaneous photo shoot Jun 19, 2022

In this week’s update episode, Andrew shares a story about getting his picture taken in a photo booth. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you a useful expression: unbeknownst to [someone]. Visit Culips.com to get the 100% free transcript for this episode.

Chatterbox #290 – Is bread the world’s favourite food? Jun 15, 2022

Bread is a staple around the world. Every culture has its own version or style, from India’s naan to Brazil’s pão de queijo. In today’s episode, Andrew and Anna chat about bread and what makes it so delicious (and popular). The Chatterbox series is designed for intermediate and advanced English learners. Each episode features natural, unedited conversations between native speakers, so you can build your English vocabulary while learning about interesting topics, like bread. Fun facts Bread was once used as an eraser. Prior to the 1770s—and the creation of today’s modern erasers—people would use de-crusted, moistened, balled-up bread to erase unwanted pencil marks. Expressions included in the study guide Happy to report On the [adjective] end/side Bad press Stumped Nerve racking Across the pond Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Wesual Click (Unsplash.com)

Bonus Episode #05 – Adventures in cooking Jun 12, 2022

In this week’s update episode, Andrew shares a story about the highs and lows of learning how to cook Korean food. Plus, in the vocabulary lesson, he teaches you a useful expression: there’s never a dull moment. Visit Culips.com to get the 100% free transcript for this episode.

Chatterbox #289 – What’s your MBTI? Jun 08, 2022

Do you really know yourself? Sometimes you think you know your own personality, but you might think differently after taking the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator! The MBTI is a test designed to evaluate what kind of personality you have, based on 8 sets of traits. In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna explore the MBTI as they talk about their own test results! Give it a listen. The results may surprise you! Here’s a free personality test for you! Fun facts If you’ve taken the MBTI assessment and don’t like the results, don’t worry about it. On the organization’s official website, the Myer-Briggs company admits that the traits that they use in their assessment exist on a spectrum. Most people don’t fit perfectly into each of the personality types. And that’s okay! We’re all individuals after all. Expressions included in the study guide To not picture [something] Self-fulfilling prophecy To wear different hats To be on the same wavelength A broad brush A double-edged sword Copyright: Culips.com For more information about this episode, visit culips.com. Music Credit: Something Elated by Broke For Free, Step On by Jahzzar Image: Andrea Piacquadio (Pexels.com)

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