Culips Everyday English Podcast

Do you rely on your eyes more than your other senses? In this episode, you’ll hear a real conversation between Andrew and Anna about vision, eyesight, and learning styles. You’ll find out why Andrew wears an eye mask at night, what Anna would do in a zombie apocalypse without her contact lenses, and whether either of them would get laser eye surgery. If you’re at the upper intermediate level, this is the perfect episode to build your English confidence. You’ll learn natural ways to describe habits, talk about effort, and express strong opinions, all with real vocabulary that native speakers use every day. In this episode, you will learn: Learn six natural expressions and idioms, including break the bank, seep through, and hardwired to, with clear context and usage. Hear a real conversation about eyesight, contact lenses, and laser surgery to build vocabulary related to health and the senses. Understand how to describe learning preferences, especially visual learning, using everyday English. Discover how to talk about memory techniques like the “memory palace” and share opinions about study habits. Practice listening to spontaneous, fluent English with common sentence patterns, filler words, and real-life storytelling. The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Don’t forget: Download the study guide to get the interactive transcript, quiz, and vocabulary explanations and examples. Join Culips to get full access. Already a member? Get the ad free version and study materials here. Want to connect with other listeners and practice what you learned? Join our Culips Discord community today Click here to join the community!

11/07/2025 • 33:17

Have you ever worked hard to create something beautiful, only to have uninvited guests show up and ruin it? That's exactly what happened to Andrew when he transformed his little Seoul yard into an urban paradise! In this episode, Andrew shares a funny story about some unexpected "burglars" who discovered his secret garden. You'll discover who these mysterious visitors are and why they've been "terrorizing" his home all week! Along the way, you'll learn over 15 useful expressions that will make your English sound more natural and native-like, all included in the FREE vocabulary glossary. What you'll learn: Essential home and garden vocabulary you'll actually use in real conversations Natural expressions for describing progress and changes over time How native speakers tell personal stories with humor and suspense Vocabulary for talking about nature and wildlife Perfect for intermediate learners who: Want to sound more natural when sharing personal experiences Love learning through entertaining, real-life stories Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule

06/07/2025 • 21:03

In this episode, Andrew and Indiana play a game called Overrated or Underrated, where they share what they think about popular things. They talk about everyday items like vegan cheese, meal prepping, self-help books, and vision boards. You'll learn what the adjectives "overrated" and "underrated" mean, and how to use them naturally when sharing what you think. This is a great lesson for learning natural English and speaking like a native speaker. You'll hear real conversations and pick up expressions that English speakers use every day. In this episode, you will learn: How to use the words overrated and underrated correctly Natural ways to share your opinions about different topics Common expressions for agreeing and disagreeing politely Useful vocabulary for talking about lifestyle and popular trends The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Get the study guide, which comes with an interactive transcript, vocabulary explanations with examples, a quiz, and practice questions. Join Culips to get full access. Already a member? Get the ad free version and study materials here. Want to connect with other listeners and practice what you learned? Join our Culips Discord community today Click here to join the community!

03/07/2025 • 25:31

In this episode, Andrew and Alina introduce the July Challenge, happening on our Discord server. This month, you’ll practice how to share your opinion politely while discussing 14 different controversial topics. It’s a great way to improve your communication skills and learn how to disagree respectfully in English. They also share exciting news about the first-ever Culips meetup in Europe, happening on July 26 in Prague. You’re invited to join us for a free, in-person event where you can meet other Culips listeners, make new friends, and feel part of the Culips community. And of course, there’ll be lots of chances to practice speaking English in a fun, relaxed setting. Click here to sign up for the meetup! Later in the episode, you’ll hear a message from Editke, a Culips listener, who shares how joining the community helped her build real speaking confidence, improve her English skills, and make new friends. Over time, she became more comfortable speaking and now feels like Culips is her second family. How to Join the Culips Discord Server and Participate in the Challenge Create a Discord Account: Sign up for free at Discord. Download the App: Install Discord on your phone or computer for easy access. Join the Culips Server: Click this link to join the Culips English Podcast Discord server: Join Here. Enable the Monthly Challenge Channel: From the menu, select Channels and Roles. Go to the Browse Channels tab. Under the English Learning category, select Monthly Challenge to add it to your menu. Access the May Challenge: Click the pin icon at the top of the Monthly Challenge channel to view the May Challenge (available from May 1st). Join in and start improving your English with the community! Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule Join us for the Culips meetup in Prague on July 26th

30/06/2025 • 22:25

What are you looking forward to this summer? In this episode, Andrew and Indiana share their summer plans, from music festivals and dream concerts to chill bike rides and travel ideas. You'll get to hear a fun and natural conversation that helps you build real English skills for everyday life. This episode is great for improving your English listening skills. You will hear a natural, clear conversation between native speakers. It’s perfect if you want to understand real spoken English more easily. You will also learn useful vocabulary and expressions for talking about your summer plans, vacations, and events. How this episode will improve your English: Vocabulary: Learn words and expressions related to travel, concerts, weather, and daily life. Listening: Train your ears to understand natural English used in real conversations. Speaking: Use what you hear to talk about your own summer experiences in our speaking classes or on our Discord server. Culture: Discover what summer activities are popular in North America and South Korea, from music festivals to fun outdoor plans. Fluency: Build your confidence by listening to stories that feel personal and relatable. The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. 

27/06/2025 • 28:53

Have you ever tried to buy something online and everything went completely wrong? That's exactly what happened to Andrew when he tried to book a simple plane ticket online! In this episode, Andrew tells you two funny stories: one about his epic battle with credit card verification systems that led to a complete "rage quit," and another about a confusing elevator situation that made him question basic social manners. These stories are full of natural English expressions and vocabulary that you'll hear native speakers use when they're frustrated, telling personal stories, or discussing everyday social situations. What you'll learn: Essential travel vocabulary like "stopover," "verification," "overseas purchase," and "budget airline" that you'll need for real trips How to express frustration naturally with phrases like "at my wit's end," "blood boiling," and "back to square one" The meaning of "rage quit" and other modern slang that native speakers use every day Natural conversation flow - notice how Andrew tells stories, asks questions, and shares his thoughts just like in real conversations Practical expressions for describing technical problems and discussing social situations Perfect for you if: You want to understand how native speakers share personal experiences and ask for opinions You're building confidence with travel, technology, and social vocabulary You love learning through entertaining, relatable stories instead of boring textbook lessons You want to sound more natural when expressing frustration or discussing everyday problems in English You're ready for real English that doesn't feel like studying Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule

24/06/2025 • 26:30

Do you know what to say if you need to report something important but not urgent? In today’s episode, you’ll learn exactly how to handle this type of situation in English. Join Andrew and Kassy as they break down two realistic phone conversations where someone calls the police or fire department’s non-emergency line. You’ll learn the key expressions native speakers use to describe situations that are a little concerning but not emergencies. In this episode, you’ll learn how to: Start a phone call in a polite and clear way Use softening language like “might,” “maybe,” and “a little worried” Explain situations without sounding too dramatic Understand what the phrases “check in on someone” and “wellness check” mean This is a must-listen for anyone living in an English-speaking country—or planning to! By the end of this episode, you’ll feel more confident calling for help in everyday situations. Listen now and be ready for anything—no stress, no panic. Just the right English when you need it. The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Get the study guide, which comes with an interactive transcript, vocabulary explanations with examples, a quiz, and practice questions. Join Culips to get full access. Already a member? Get the ad free version and study materials here. Want to connect with other listeners and practice what you learned? Join our Culips Discord community today Click here to join the community!

20/06/2025 • 26:22

Have you ever had one of those moments where a simple activity turns into a total disaster? That's exactly what happened to Andrew during what should have been a routine evening run! In this episode, you'll follow Andrew through his unexpected adventure with tiny flying bugs, bloodshot eyes, and his first-ever visit to an eye doctor. But here's the thing - this isn't just a funny story. It's packed with real English that you'll actually use when talking about health problems, describing symptoms, and sharing your own mishaps with friends. What you'll learn: Essential medical vocabulary like "bloodshot," "prescription," "irritated," and "artificial tears" that you'll need in real situations The difference between ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians (even native speakers get confused!) Natural speaking flow - notice how Andrew corrects himself, adds details, and changes topics just like in real conversations Practical expressions for describing symptoms and explaining problems to doctors The idiom "keep an eye out" and exactly when to use it in everyday English Perfect for you if: You want to understand how native speakers tell personal stories and share experiences You're building confidence with medical and health-related vocabulary You love learning through entertaining, relatable stories instead of boring textbook lessons You want to sound more natural when describing problems or mishaps in English You're ready for real English that doesn't feel like studying Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule

15/06/2025 • 26:51

Have you ever followed a fashion trend, copied someone’s lifestyle, or tried to match a certain vibe? In Korea, there’s a popular word for that: chugumi. In this episode, Andrew and Kassy break down this buzzword, explain what it means, and show you how to talk about similar ideas in English. You’ll hear real examples, learn useful vocabulary, and get tips for sounding natural when talking about style, identity, and social media trends. This episode is perfect for intermediate English learners who want to speak more fluently about culture, inspiration, and personal expression. In this lesson, you’ll learn: What the word chugumi really means and why it matters How to talk about style, lifestyle, and vibe in clear, natural English Common expressions like role model, poser, and try hard Why this trend is about more than just looks The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Get the study guide, which comes with an interactive transcript, vocabulary explanations with examples, a quiz, and practice questions. Join Culips to get full access. Already a member? Get the ad free version and study materials here. Want to connect with other listeners and practice what you learned? Join our Culips Discord community today Click here to join the community!

12/06/2025 • 29:40

Ever wondered what happens behind the scenes of your favorite English podcast? In this episode, Andrew gives you an exclusive peek into the Culips production process while teaching you natural English expressions and vocabulary along the way. You'll learn useful phrases like "behind the scenes," "put the pedal to the metal," and "down to the wire" as Andrew walks you through each step of creating an episode. This is perfect practice for intermediate to advanced learners who want to improve their listening skills while satisfying their curiosity about how quality English content really gets made! What you'll learn: 10+ useful expressions like "behind the scenes," "put the pedal to the metal," and "down to the wire" - phrases you'll hear in movies, at work, and in daily conversations English vocabulary that's actually useful: "brainstorming," "transcribe," "proofreader," and "on the fly" How to sound more natural when you explain processes or tell stories about your work Real pronunciation - hear how native speakers actually talk (with pauses, corrections, and natural flow) Confidence boost - follow along with a real English story and feel proud when you understand it all Speaking: Discuss this episode with other Culips listeners in our Discord community! Perfect for you if: You want to understand English podcasts and videos without subtitles You're preparing for work or study in English You love learning through interesting stories (not boring textbook lessons!) You want to sound more natural when speaking English Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule

08/06/2025 • 25:31

Do you ever hear native speakers use expressions like “movie buff,” “gearhead,” or “shopaholic” and feel confused? In this episode, Andrew and Indiana break it all down for you. You’ll learn how to sound more natural and expressive when talking about your own passions or anyone else’s. This episode is great for intermediate to advanced English learners who want to build their vocabulary, comprehension, and fluency. In this lesson, you’ll learn: ✅ How to use useful, advanced vocabulary like cinephile, metalhead, and audiophile ✅ The difference between -phile, -head, buff, -holic, and fiend ✅ How to avoid sounding unnatural or overdoing it when using slang ✅ Why these expressions show up in pop culture, podcasts, and movies The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: 🔥 Culips members get everything: interactive transcript, study guide, ad free audio, and bonus content with two extra expressions, holic and fiend. Click here to join and get the most out of this episode! 🧠Members can access the ad-free version: Click here. 🚀Want to level up your speaking? Join the Culips Discord to connect with other learners, share your interests, and practice using today’s expressions in real conversations. Click here to join the community!

05/06/2025 • 25:56

Ready to finally master phrasal verbs? In this episode, Andrew and Alina introduce the Culips June Challenge, designed to help you learn and use 15 high-frequency phrasal verbs in real conversations. You’ll hear how to join the free challenge on Discord, how it works, and why it’s a great way to stay consistent and motivated with your English. They also share details about the first-ever Culips meetup in Europe, happening this July in Prague. If you want to connect with other learners, speak more naturally, and have fun while you study, this episode is for you. How to Join the Culips Discord Server and Participate in the Challenge Create a Discord Account: Sign up for free at Discord. Download the App: Install Discord on your phone or computer for easy access. Join the Culips Server: Click this link to join the Culips English Podcast Discord server: Join Here. Enable the Monthly Challenge Channel: From the menu, select Channels and Roles. Go to the Browse Channels tab. Under the English Learning category, select Monthly Challenge to add it to your menu. Access the May Challenge: Click the pin icon at the top of the Monthly Challenge channel to view the May Challenge (available from June 1st). Join in and start improving your English with the community! Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Watch the video version of this episode Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule

30/05/2025 • 13:49

What happens when you visit a dog shelter and find the perfect pet? In this episode, Andrew tells the story of adopting his new dog, O'Wall. Listen as he explains how he and his wife chose their new pet, went through the adoption process, and helped their dog settle into her new home. You'll hear about visiting shelters, picking the perfect name, and why O'Wall is the luckiest dog around! How this episode will improve your English: Listening: Build fluency by hearing natural storytelling with real pauses, word corrections, and the flow of everyday conversation. Vocabulary: Learn practical words like "agnostic," "shed," "puppy mill," and "hand-me-down" through Andrew's personal story. Expressions: Pick up natural phrases like "hit the jackpot," "rock paper scissors," and "tuckered out" that English speakers use daily. Pronunciation: Hear how English sounds when spoken naturally, including how words connect together in fast speech. Speaking: Share your own pet stories and discuss this episode with other Culips listeners in our Discord community! Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule

25/05/2025 • 25:58

In this episode, Andrew and Kassy talk about how friendship changes as we grow older, especially when life gets busy with work, relationships, and family. They discuss how marriage and parenthood can shift friendship dynamics, how the media creates unrealistic ideas about friendship, and what real connection looks like today. Listen to this episode to hear a natural conversation about adult relationships while building your fluency and learning new vocabulary about friendship, connection, and modern life. How this episode will improve your English: Vocabulary: Learn useful expressions like “on the fence” (not sure about something) and “long-lost friend” (a friend you haven’t seen in a long time). Listening: Practice understanding natural English conversations about everyday life topics like making and maintaining friendships. Speaking: Build your fluency by joining Culips’ small-group speaking classes to talk about your own friendships and experiences. Culture: Discover how adult friendships work in different countries and what influences them. Fluency: Listening to real conversations helps train your brain to think in English and use English more naturally. The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. 

24/05/2025 • 26:41

Have you ever experienced a week so busy and memorable it felt like a whole month? In this episode, Andrew shares two stories from one incredibly eventful week in his life. Listen in as Andrew talks about special celebrations, cultural traditions in Korea, and thoughtful surprises from loved ones. There’s even a mystery gift involved… but you'll have to tune in to find out exactly what it was! How this episode will improve your English: Listening: Build your listening comprehension through Andrew’s natural and engaging storytelling about everyday life. Vocabulary: Expand your vocabulary with practical terms related to birthdays, celebrations, and thoughtful gift ideas. Expressions: Learn authentic English expressions like "the cherry on top," "in hot water," and "make a long story short." Pronunciation: Familiarize yourself with the intonation and rhythm of casual spoken English through clear, conversational speech. Speaking: Practice new vocabulary and expressions by joining conversations with learners from around the world in the Culips Discord community! Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule

18/05/2025 • 20:20

In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna talk about taste. They discuss how our preferences for food and drinks develop from childhood to adulthood, sharing personal stories about acquired tastes and interesting foods from their home countries. The conversation then shifts to personal preferences in music, fashion, films, and coffee, with both hosts talking about how their tastes have evolved over time. They end by questioning if having similar tastes is important for friendships and what our preferences reveal about who we are. How this episode will improve your English: Vocabulary: Learn useful adjectives to describe taste preferences like "refined," "sophisticated," "impeccable," "gaudy," "questionable," and "tacky." Listening: Build your listening skills by following a natural, friendly conversation about physical taste and personal preferences. Speaking: Discuss your own taste in food, music, movies, and fashion on our Discord server and in our weekly speaking classes. Culture: Discover how taste differs across cultures and how it connects to identity and personality. Fluency: Level up your English through acquisition, with support from our helpful study guide with an interactive transcript, quiz, and practice exercises. The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. 

16/05/2025 • 38:11

In this episode, Andrew talks about how he spends his free time and shares his top three YouTube channels. You'll hear about a Dutch YouTuber exploring Seoul, a British marathon runner living in Tokyo, and a Canadian couple building a quiet life in the Japanese countryside. Andrew explains why he enjoys each channel and how they fit into his daily routine. How this episode will improve your English: Listening: Improve your listening skills by spending time with Andrew and following clear, real-life English. Vocabulary: Learn useful words and phrases about daily life, hobbies, travel, and online content. Expressions: Learn everyday English expressions like “recharge your batteries,” “walk the walk,” and “on the edge of your seat.” Pronunciation: Get used to the sound and rhythm of natural spoken English to build better speaking habits. Speaking: Join our Culips Discord community and practice using new words and expressions in your own sentences! Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule YouTube channels mentioned by Andrew: iGoBart Ran to Japan Maigomika

11/05/2025 • 20:36

In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Indiana catch up and talk all about weddings. Indiana shares her recent experience traveling to Florida for her husband’s cousin’s wedding, which was held in Miami. She explains what a Jewish wedding is like and describes some unique traditions, such as the chuppah, the ketubah, the breaking of a glass, and the fun dance called the hora. Andrew and Indiana also compare weddings in Canada, the United States, and Korea, talking about receptions, wedding cakes, group photos, and gift-giving traditions. How this episode will improve your English: Vocabulary: Learn useful words and expressions related to weddings, travel, and cultural traditions. Listening: Develop your listening skills by following a natural, friendly, and unscripted conversation between native English speakers. Speaking: Talk about wedding customs in your country on our Discord server or in a Culips small-group speaking class. Culture: Learn about real-life wedding experiences in different countries and cultures. Fluency: Level up your fluency by spending time with real, everyday English that native speakers use in daily life, with support from the study guide to help you practice. The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. 

09/05/2025 • 34:01

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: Click here. Join the Culips Discord server: Click here. Read the news article about the mushroom mystery: Click here.

04/05/2025 • 36:33

In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Kassy catch up and share updates about their lives. Kassy talks about taking short trips with her baby to nearby cities in Korea. She describes visiting a busy flower festival and returning to a town just to eat her favorite vegetable bread. She also talks about her upcoming move and her hope to make her new place feel more like home. Andrew talks about how voting by mail works in Canada and the recent Canadian election. He also shares a funny story about planting trees and decorating his front yard with his wife. How this episode will improve your English: Vocabulary: Learn everyday words and expressions that native speakers use when talking about daily life, moving, elections, and hobbies like gardening. Listening: Improve your listening skills by following a clear and natural conversation between native speakers. Speaking: Share your own life updates on our Discord server or in our Culips small-group speaking classes. Culture: Hear about real-life topics like voting in Canada, Korean flower festivals, and home projects. Fluency: Get more confident by hearing repeated examples and practicing with our study guide. The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. 

02/05/2025 • 30:24

In this episode, Andrew and Alina share the latest Culips community news for May 2025! They read a kind review from a Culips member, announce the winner of the March challenge, and introduce the new challenge for May. This month, the challenge will help you master one of the trickiest parts of English grammar: the difference between the present perfect and past simple tenses. Everyone is welcome to join the free challenge on our Discord server. You will get a video lesson from Andrew, lots of practice activities, and a chance to win a Culips swag bag! Improve your grammar and become part of our fun and friendly community. Join us today! How to Join the Culips Discord Server and Participate in the Challenge Create a Discord Account: Sign up for free at Discord. Download the App: Install Discord on your phone or computer for easy access. Join the Culips Server: Click this link to join the Culips English Podcast Discord server: Join Here. Enable the Monthly Challenge Channel: From the menu, select Channels and Roles. Go to the Browse Channels tab. Under the English Learning category, select Monthly Challenge to add it to your menu. Access the May Challenge: Click the pin icon at the top of the Monthly Challenge channel to view the May Challenge (available from May 1st). Join in and start improving your English with the community! Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule

27/04/2025 • 16:11

In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Indiana talk about how they watch movies, both at the theater and at home. They discuss their personal movie habits, like sneaking snacks into the cinema, watching movies alone, and breaking long movies into smaller parts. You’ll also hear about movie traditions in different countries, how theater experiences are changing, and the pros and cons of enjoying films with friends, family, or just by yourself. How this episode will help you improve your English: Vocabulary: Learn common expressions and everyday words like matinee, concession, installments, and immersive. These are useful for talking about entertainment, culture, and daily habits. Listening: Practice understanding natural English with clear speech, casual conversation, and real opinions from native speaker movie fans. Speaking: Get better at sharing your own thoughts by hearing how Andrew and Indiana express likes, dislikes, and personal routines with enjoying films and series. Culture: Discover movie-watching habits and movie theater experiences from around the world, including Canada, the U.S., and Korea. Learn how movie culture is different depending on where you live. Fluency: Improve your overall English skills by listening to a friendly conversation full of opinions, everyday grammar, and common slang. The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. 

24/04/2025 • 39:08

In this episode, Andrew shares a mix of real-life updates and personal stories, from sleeping alone in a queen-size bed to trying to fix a podcast recording disaster. He also talks about replacing social media habits with Japanese reading practice and learning how to do DIY home repairs like caulking the shower. It’s a relaxed and personal episode where Andrew talks about real-life moments, challenges, and habits in clear, natural English. How this episode will improve your English: Listening: Improve your listening by following a natural, unscripted story told in clear, easy-to-understand English. New vocabulary: Learn words and phrases related to language learning, technology mistakes, and home improvement. Idioms and expressions: Hear everyday English expressions like “work your magic,” “wasn’t meant to be,” “doom scrolling,” “DIY,” and “know a thing or two.” Pronunciation: Listening to real spoken English helps you get used to natural sounds and rhythm. This makes it easier for you to speak clearly and with better pronunciation. Speaking: Join our Culips Discord community and practice using new words and expressions in your own sentences! Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule

20/04/2025 • 20:27

Have you ever seen someone who looks exactly like someone else? In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Kassy teach two fun English expressions: “A dead ringer” and “A spitting image.” You’ll hear clear examples, learn the difference between the two, and understand when and how to use each one. This episode is great for learning real English expressions used by native speakers. Andrew and Kassy break everything down in a way that’s easy to follow, and they include example conversations that make the meaning of each expression clear. They also share personal stories, cultural tips, and bonus expressions like “two peas in a pod,” “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree,” and “doppelganger.” How this episode will improve your English: Vocabulary: Learn natural English phrases to talk about people and things that look very similar. Listening: Practice understanding clear and natural English through real conversation. Speaking: Use the expressions you learn to describe lookalikes and practice talking about your own family in Culips small-group English classes. Culture: Discover how these expressions are used in everyday life and where they come from. Fluency: Get more confident by hearing repeated examples and practicing with our study guide. The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member.Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. 

17/04/2025 • 24:47

In this episode, Andrew recaps his experience running the 2025 Seoul Marathon. He shares the fun and challenges of race weekend, from eating lots of carbs before the race to jumping over a bike left on the road. He also talks about what it was like to run with thousands of people and even spot someone from a Korean TV show. This story is full of exciting moments, personal thoughts, and useful English. How this episode will improve your English: Listening: Improve your listening by hearing a real story told in clear, natural English. New vocabulary: Learn useful words and phrases about running, eating, weather, and daily life. Idioms and expressions: Hear everyday English expressions like “recap,” “soak up the atmosphere,” “guilty pleasure,” “full send,” and “double take.” Pronunciation: When you listen to clear and natural English, your ears get used to the sounds. This helps you speak more clearly too. If you can hear how native speakers talk, it becomes easier to copy them and have a better accent. Speaking: Join our Culips Discord community and practice using new words and expressions in your own sentences! Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule

13/04/2025 • 33:58

Have you ever wandered through a store for a long time and still couldn’t find what you needed? In this Real Talk episode, Andrew and Kassy teach you how to ask for help in English when you’re shopping. You’ll learn useful phrases and polite expressions that native English speakers use when they can’t find a product in a supermarket or department store. The episode includes example conversations and clear explanations to help you understand and use the language with confidence. How this episode will improve your English: Vocabulary: Learn common phrases like “I’m having trouble finding…” and “Do you know if you carry…?” Listening: Train your ears to understand natural, clear English conversations in retail settings like grocery stores or shopping malls. Speaking: Build confidence by joining small-group English classes and practicing how to use polite and useful phrases for real-world shopping situations. Culture: Understand how people ask for help in North American shopping culture. Fluency: Spending time with real English conversations will improve your ability to respond naturally and politely in everyday situations. The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. 

10/04/2025 • 21:49

In this episode, Andrew tells the story of his recent trip to Japan, where he experienced both the best and worst parts of travel. From enjoying delicious local food and relaxing in traditional hot springs to unexpectedly getting sick in Tokyo, Andrew shares the real ups and downs of his adventure. Listening to natural English through personal stories like this is a great way to improve your fluency and build confidence. Tune in to hear about culture, food, travel tips, and an unforgettable ending to the trip. How this episode will improve your English: Listening: Build your listening comprehension by hearing a native speaker tell a real story using clear and natural English. New vocabulary: Learn practical and useful expressions related to travel, food, feeling sick, and daily experiences. Idioms and expressions: Pick up common idioms and casual phrases that English speakers use in everyday conversations. Pronunciation: Improve your speaking and rhythm by shadowing or repeating after Andrew. Speaking: Join our Culips Discord community and practice using new words and expressions in your own sentences! Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule

06/04/2025 • 31:02

In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Kassy talk all about vegetables \. They compare shopping at local markets with going to big grocery stores. Kassy shares her experience getting fresh produce from a local market near her house and tells us about a fun new vegetable subscription box she signed up for. Andrew talks about the kinds of vegetables he misses from back home and why he sometimes grows his own herbs and veggies. You’ll also hear about the benefits of shopping local, supporting small businesses, and trying farm-to-table food. How this episode will improve your English: Vocabulary: Learn useful words and expressions about food, markets, and money, like “produce,” “haul,” and “stretch your dollar.” Listening: Practice understanding real, natural English as Andrew and Kassy have a fun and friendly conversation. Speaking: Build confidence by joining small-group English classes by practicing how to talk about shopping and growing vegetables. Culture: Discover cultural differences in food shopping habits and learn about the farm-to-table movement. Fluency: Listening to real conversations will help you think in English and express yourself more easily. The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. 

04/04/2025 • 28:14

In this episode, Andrew and Alina share updates from the Culips community and introduce the April challenge. They read a thoughtful comment from a listener, announce the February challenge winner, and talk about a helpful new feature that will make learning English with Culips even better for you. How to Join the Culips Discord Server and Participate in the Challenge Create a Discord Account: Sign up for free at Discord. Download the App: Install Discord on your phone or computer for easy access. Join the Culips Server: Click this link to join the Culips English Podcast Discord server: Join Here. Enable the Monthly Challenge Channel: From the menu, select Channels and Roles. Go to the Browse Channels tab. Under the English Learning category, select Monthly Challenge to add it to your menu. Access the April Challenge: Click the pin icon at the top of the Monthly Challenge channel to view the April Challenge (available from April 1st). Join in and start improving your English with the community! Important links: Become a Culips member Study with the interactive transcript Join the Culips Discord server Small-group speaking class schedule

30/03/2025 • 18:12

In this episode of Chatterbox, Andrew and Anna talk about textures and the way things feel when we touch them. They share interesting and personal stories about their favorite and least favorite textures, from soft cashmere to slimy foods and scratchy sweaters. They also discuss how touch is important in human relationships and how it’s different in cultures around the world. You’ll learn useful English expressions and vocabulary to talk about touch, feelings, and personal preferences. How this episode will improve your English: Vocabulary: Learn everyday words and expressions like soft, firm, fluffy, scratchy, and touchy-feely that will help you talk about textures and feelings. Listening: Train your ears with real, natural English as Andrew and Anna share fun, friendly stories and opinions. Speaking: Boost your speaking skills by practicing how to describe your personal likes and dislikes with textures and materials. Culture: Discover how people from different countries think about touch in daily life and social situations. Fluency: Improve your overall English by listening to a full conversation with clear examples, real emotions, and natural grammar. The Best Way to Learn with This Episode: Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here. Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here. Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join. 

28/03/2025 • 37:30