Abandon British English
A podcast for B1–B2 English learners that encourages abandoning strict grammar rules in favor of natural phrases, tricky expressions, and writing-ready vocabulary. The host offers a personalized review schedule based on the forgetting curve for loyal listeners.
Episodes
#39 A Pack Of Lies - The Naked Truth
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1djj25gRWRboCk_xZNjVtnpUH5sLRvUy7vQF0BYvDLSA/edit?usp=sharing
#38 Tales Of The Unexpected - All Stories Are True But Some Of Them Never Happened
This episode is from Headway textbook unit 4. Find full transcript and picture below.https://docs.google.com/document/d/15qT8QuIp8NTD0JAO9YOCzHTkpXKLmVGwK4K9mfSau0w/edit?usp=20250829
#37 My Hectic Day - Juggling Time Zones and a Shared Kitchen
Hello and welcome. Have you ever felt like you're living in two different time zones at once? Today, we're going to talk about a day that’s a real juggling act.In this episode, we'll be learning some fantastic chunks to describe a busy life. We'll be covering: remote, a remote job; notification, a constant stream of notifications; dawn, before dawn; interruption, without interruption; worn out, fe
#36 A Cherished Companion - The Story of My First Puppy
Hello and welcome. Today, we're going to share a personal story, a story about the joy and pain of having a special pet. It’s a journey that many of you might find familiar.https://docs.google.com/document/d/11xHwpNRAH-hsEwjbEV3yXFX42b4H213Ycrd5GikmvNg/edit?usp=sharingIn this story, we'll be learning some wonderful chunks of language. We’ll be looking at: incredibly intelligent, incredibly intelli
#35 City vs Country - A Tale of Two Lifestyles
Hello and welcome. Today, we're going on a journey, exploring two very different ways of life. We're going to compare the peace of the countryside with the energy of the big city. To help us tell this story, we'll be learning some fantastic new words and phrases. We'll be looking at: rural, a rural upbringing; hustle and bustle, the hustle and bustle; close-knit, a close-knit community; livelihood
#34 Digital Dawn - How the Internet Shaped My World
Have you ever really stopped to think about how much the internet has reshaped our world? Today, we're going on a personal journey, exploring the massive impact it's had on one person's life—mine. The language tools we'll be using are: era, a new era; innovation, technological innovation; widespread, widespread adoption; browse, browse the web; opportunity, seize an opportunity; consumer, consumer
#33 My Musical Life - How a primary school performance shaped my greatest passion
Hello and welcome. Today, we're going to talk about something personal and enjoyable: a hobby. We'll explore how a simple interest can grow into a real passion that shapes our daily lives.In this episode, we'll be learning some fantastic chunks. We have: my favourite hobby; be passionate about something, be passionate about something; sing a song; on a massive stage, on a massive stage; in front o
#32 My Best Friend - The Story of a Decade
Hello and welcome. Today, we're going to talk about a very special relationship, one that has lasted a whole decade. It’s a story about friendship, love, and partnership. In this story, we'll be learning some wonderful chunks to help you sound more natural. We'll be covering: decade, a decade; see eye to eye, see eye to eye on everything; pursue, pursue our dreams; pursue, pursue our dreams; dilig
#31 Comprehensive Business English - From Office Roles to Professional Applications
This comprehensive session covers the full spectrum of workplace English. We will define job roles, master formal communication, correct our grammar with the present passive, build vocabulary for hobbies, and finally, deconstruct a professional job application letter to learn essential phrases for your career.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1VZBPJua5FlAmgN5bcPulkigu4YcCAEUS_-ecL2FKess/edit?usp=
#30 A Special Day - A Traditional Wedding Back Home
Hello and welcome. Today, we're going to talk about a very special and personal event: a wedding day. It's a story about love, family, tradition, and the beautiful chaos that comes with a big celebration.In our story, we'll be learning some wonderful chunks of English. Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up: to be overjoyed; a hectic day, a hectic day; well in advance; a wedding ceremony, a weddi
#29 Just A Job - Choose A Job You Love And You Will Never Have To Work A Day In Your Life
This episode features key audio from Chapter 3, “Just a Job?” It includes five sections: 3.2, 3.5, 3.6, 3.9, and 3.10. Together, they explore different perspectives on work, motivation, and meaning in our professional lives. Enjoy listening!For related images from the original book and the full transcript, click the link below.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SwQiTfqmaI6uoGTUBmjiEj-8VN73w-Myuw_
#28 Lost in London - How a Two-Day Trip Became a Week-Long Adventure
Hello and welcome. Have you ever had a plan that completely changed, but for the better? Today, we're going on a trip to London, where a short visit turned into a grand adventure. In this story, we'll be learning some fantastic words and phrases. We'll be hearing: originally, originally planned; tourist, a popular tourist destination; transport, public transport network; vibrant, a vibrant atmosph
#27 Lucrative - A Deep Dive into SaaS Business English
In this session, we'll conduct a detailed analysis of two essays on SaaS companies. We'll read both versions, focusing on the sophisticated vocabulary and phrasing that elevates the writing. This is perfect for anyone looking to transition from conversational to more professional or academic business English.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bFLyxoTOGWd2KZJHqDthuoAEaFFsAJxWdrdM_ey5-ak/edit?usp=g
#26 Uggy From Nonsense to Nuance - Your Weekly English Review
Welcome. This session is designed to solidify your recent English learning. We will revisit key vocabulary from professional contexts, untangle tricky prepositions, explore word formation with 'act', and clarify the distinction between 'make' and 'do' collocations. Let's begin sharpening your language skills.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1K-VDK1JjfDQF_K74aj2z1tcd8sahjD9paKLHpc_YG_0/edit?usp=s
#25 An Informal Email - Upgrading Your Everyday English
Today, we're going to take a piece of writing and polish it. We will analyse some common mistakes related to prepositions, word choice, and sentence structure. By the end, you will see how small changes can make your English sound much more natural and sophisticated.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NnXtbAEJqBR4huxB5AXb8DBsbD_8Jf1MYqyOUZo59Jg/edit?usp=writingin20250815
#24 Everyday Situations - How to Reply Like a Native Speaker
Today, we're diving into practical, everyday English conversations. We will explore key phrases you can use in common places like a hairdresser's, a hotel, or when you need to make an urgent appointment, helping you to respond confidently and naturally in real-life situations.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1n8YwVAXBmaFy76-fpzSduEwfZaLu1w7PCGWIGIf3HKA/edit?usp=20250814
#23 Languages Matter - A Deep Dive into British Language Learning
We're going to break down an insightful article about why languages matter. We'll start with the introduction, looking at the general attitude towards language learning in Britain, and then explore the personal stories of two famous learners, focusing on the specific vocabulary and phrases they use.https://docs.google.com/document/d/197rHGHpjPN8ScRCnhZbWEoI8NYcoC8AhXkCwuAqPN_4/edit?20250814-inspec
#22 Having a Baby - Mastering Phrases for Life's Big Moments
Today, we're diving into a story about a couple expecting their first child. Through their journey, we will break down essential English phrases about time, duration, and expectations. This lesson will help you sound more natural when discussing ongoing situations and future plans.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1DFwtQMPizeMcOIJHbDLVnsEbXQNzg08dMB_wDdjKSLo/edit?usp=sharing
#21 What's Your Story - A Multi-Part Guide to Description
This podcast is structured in seven parts based on your learning materials. We will cover personal introductions, advertisements, word combinations, special adjectives, personality traits, and two short stories, all to improve your descriptive English.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1e-iyLYe5U1PbyiDLbO-vkWa5y2s-hLcH-Wq4FcndjIg/edit?20250808-affaf-class
#20 Smell Of - Creating Atmosphere with Senses and Symbolism
This lesson explores how to create vivid scenes using sensory language. We will focus on the phrase "smell of" to describe not just literal scents, but also abstract feelings and symbolic meanings, turning simple descriptions into powerful, atmospheric moments that connect with the reader on a deeper emotional level.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1FSvyzLqLUzMNSmlzDeW5a0NV6cfrzzoYt91-HQFq4IA/ed
#19 Transport Writing - Elevate Your Descriptions
Welcome to the show. Today, we are focusing on a topic many of us deal with every day, public transport. We'll look at how to describe and compare our transport experiences by analyzing two versions of a short essay. This will help make your own writing and speaking more detailed and expressive.https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ImRm_Q9z9RcSqghCmkJQI1DBWhWvLmFg-DVM8Dn2yXA/edit?olivia-class-202508
#18 I Think - How to Sound More Confident in Your Writing
Today, we focus on a very common phrase, "I think". While it's perfectly fine in casual conversation, in more formal or academic writing, we can do much better. We will explore powerful alternatives to make your writing stronger, more persuasive, and more professional.https://telegra.ph/I-Think---How-to-Sound-More-Confident-in-Your-Writing-08-01https://docs.google.com/document/d/19_U2cAQsky_FsuThC
#17 Prepositions for Verbs and Adjectives
In this episode, we will master common English prepositions that follow verbs and adjectives. We will use a special learning method with lots of repetition to help you remember phrases like 'apologize for', 'argue with', and 'be famous for'. Through clear, real-life examples repeated for practice, you'll improve your grammar, sound more natural, and build your overall listening skills. This lesson
#16 Take Advantage Of - How to Use It Right
Hello and welcome to the show. Today, we are going to look at a very common English phrase: "take advantage of." You hear this phrase a lot, but it can be tricky because it has two very different meanings. One meaning is positive, and the other is quite negative. In this podcast, we will break down both meanings so you can understand them perfectly. We will practice with examples from daily life t
#15 Mastering English Articles - A, An, and The Explained
Hello and welcome to the show. Today, we are going to tackle a topic that can be tricky for many English learners. We are talking about articles. That’s right, the small words, a, an, and the. When do you use them, and when do you not use them at all? It can be confusing, but don't worry. In this episode, we will break it down with simple rules and plenty of real-life examples. We’ll look at the i
#14 Mastering English for Transport and Traffic
Stuck in a traffic jam? Or just want to talk more confidently about how you get around? In this episode, we focus on essential English for transport and traffic. We'll start by learning the names of different vehicles, from a lorry to a tram. Then, we’ll master important on-the-road vocabulary like 'rush hour,' 'seat belt,' and 'traffic lights.' Finally, we'll practice key phrasal verbs you need f
#13 When Success Beckons
In this episode, we explore the powerful and versatile verb: beckon. Join us as we go beyond its simple definition of gesturing someone closer. We will uncover how this single word can bring sentences to life, describing the pull of attraction, the temptation of a city's lights, and the promise of a bright future. By the end, you'll understand why "Success beckoned him forward" is such a beautiful
#12 Level Up Your Writing - Essential Phrases for Impact
Today, we are going to master a set of these essential phrases. We’ll learn how to talk about your mood, describe how people are perceived, and argue a point even when there are challenges. This is not about memorizing grammar; it's about learning the practical structures that will make your writing and speaking more dynamic and persuasive.https://telegra.ph/Level-Up-Your-Writing-Essential-Phrases
#11 Strong Adjectives - Mastering Vocabulary from Base to Powerful
Boost your English with strong adjectives and natural listening practice.https://telegra.ph/English-Listening-Practice--BASE-VS-STRONG-ADJECTIVES--Episode-1-07-28
#10 Food and Cooking Guides
Welcome to your guide for learning English. In today's episode, we will fill your kitchen with new vocabulary. We're going to talk all about food, from seafood to meat and vegetables, and I'll describe each one so you get a clear picture. We will also master essential cooking terms and some very common phrasal verbs you can use every day. My goal is to be your personal English coach, guiding you t
#9 What's Your Angle? Mastering the 'Standpoint' Phrase
Tired of always saying 'from my point of view'? In this episode, we dive deep into a single, powerful sentence structure to make you sound more precise and analytical. We'll focus on the phrase 'from a... standpoint'. You'll learn not just what 'standpoint' means, but how to use it naturally in different contexts—from academic discussions to casual chats about movies or food. Plus, we'll explore e
#8 Unpacking the Story - How Language Builds a World on Snowdrop Lane
In this episode, we're doing a deep dive into a story about a home renovation. But it's more than just a story. It's a masterclass in using simple language to create powerful images and emotions. We'll go through the text section by section, pausing to analyze the most interesting vocabulary and phrases. You will learn about personification, vivid verbs, and idioms that will make your own English
#7 How to Use "Account For"
Want to sound more professional and persuasive in English? In this episode, we unlock the power of the simple but effective phrase "account for." You'll learn the two key ways to use this versatile phrase: to explain the reasons behind a situation and to describe what portion of a whole something makes up. Through clear examples and repetition, we'll help you master "account for" so you can use it
#6 From Daily Challenges to Life's Rhythm
Welcome to our English learning podcast. Today, we're moving beyond simple vocabulary and grammar. We will explore how to sound more natural and insightful in your conversations. Language learning is a journey, and a big part of that journey is understanding the deeper, more subtle parts of a culture. In this episode, we will focus on two fantastic phrases that will help you express yourself more
#5 Weaving Words - How to Master the Phrase 'Woven Into'
Are you ready to make your English sound more natural and descriptive? In this episode, we go beyond simple vocabulary to explore the powerful and elegant phrase "woven into."Join us as we break down a fascinating sentence about culture and daily habits. You will learn how "woven into" can transform your expressions, making them more vivid and memorable. We'll also master key vocabulary like "ligh
#4 Brick and Mortar Stores
Welcome to our English learning podcast. In this episode, we will improve your vocabulary by analyzing one powerful sentence: "Despite the rapid growth of online shopping, Indians are still heavily dependent on brick and mortar stores." This single sentence is packed with fantastic, professional vocabulary. We will break down four key terms: "despite," "rapid growth," "heavily dependent on," and t
#3 Personality Adjectives - How to Describe People
Welcome to our session on describing people. We will explore twenty-one common adjectives to talk about personality, from positive traits like 'honest' and 'charming' to more complex ones like 'stubborn' and 'moody'. This lesson will help you build your vocabulary and describe the people in your life with more confidence and detail.https://docs.google.com/document/d/193ay0L8LjWSL8-y0e-HrrXVLTF6p_h
#2 Master the Phrase "Hustle and Bustle"
Are you tired of just saying "the city is busy"? Do you want your English to sound more vivid, natural, and confident?In this episode, we will master the fantastic phrase hustle and bustle. It's the perfect way to describe the energetic, noisy, and busy atmosphere of city life. But we won't stop there. We'll also break down the tricky little words that native speakers use naturally.https://telegra
#1 Why Do Chinese People Live Abroad? Two Very Different Reasons
In this episode, we explore why many Chinese people choose to live abroad. Some are here to enjoy life without stress. Others are trying to escape pressure and build a better future. This slow-paced podcast keeps the original meaning, with a more natural and spoken tone. Suitable for B1–B2 learners looking to train their ears.https://telegra.ph/Why-Do-Chinese-People-Live-Abroad-Two-Very-Different-
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