We dive into learning French and Spanish in the UK school system, from GCSEs and A Levels to why lessons can feel formulaic and disconnected from real communication. We also share honest stories about miscommunication abroad, language anxiety, and the frustration of people switching to English.

Plus, we explore a big question: are English speakers actually “bad” at languages—or just too reliant on English globally? And what about AI, translation apps, and chatbots—are they changing language learning for better or worse?

If you’re learning a language (or teaching one), this episode is packed with relatable moments and practical tips to help you build confidence and speak more freely.

Join me is this unscripted, real life conversation with native speakers: ideal for advanced English learners! 

You can access the full annotated transcript here!

In this episode you'll learn:

• how to maximise comprehensible input
• the best ways to make passive vocabulary active
• methods to increase your fluency when speaking
• vocabulary and idioms related to language learning

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is ideal for learners who want to practice their listening comprehension skills, pick up new study tips and tricks and discover phrases that native speakers use when talking about learning.

👉 You can find the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

See below for more information from my website:

English Language Podcast Recommendations

How Reading Changes Your English

Spaced Repetition Programs

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we mark International Women's Day by exploring the fascinating life, career and legacy of this Hollywood icon.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• about her involvement in the Dutch resistance in WWII
• how she became the famous Hollywood actress
• about her dedication to humanitarian work
• advanced English vocabulary and idioms related to biographical descriptions and important figures

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is ideal for learners who want to practice their listening comprehension skills and learn phrases that native speakers use when talking about public figures and biographies.

👉 You can find the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the fascinating history of the Winter Games and discover fun facts and trivia along the way!

In this episode, you'll learn:

• the origins of the Winter Olympics
• about some of the most popular winter sports
• interesting and funny trivia
• advanced English vocabulary and idioms related to sport

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is ideal for learners who want to practice their listening comprehension skills and learn phrases that native speakers use when talking about competition and sport.

👉 You can find the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore how advanced English learners can benefit from getting into the habit of reading. We also share five classic novels that balance accessible prose with depth so you can build rhythm, tone, and nuance.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• what makes reading a whole-brain process
• how reading in English regularly can take your English to the next level
• about five great books you can pick up and start reading today!
• advanced vocabulary and idioms related to reading and literature

If you are interested in joining a friendly community that reads together, check out my new Book Club course below. This is a great way for advanced learners to get into the habit of reading and gain confidence discussing literature!

https://jackieteachesenglish.com/book-club/

You can access the free annotated transcript for this episode on my website:

https://jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore why indirect communication is so common in English and what it actually means in real conversations. Rather than focusing on specific phrases or rules, this episode looks at the social function of indirect language and why it often appears at more advanced levels of communication.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why English speakers often avoid saying things too directly
• How indirect language helps manage pressure and keep conversations open

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is ideal for learners who already understand English well, but want to better interpret tone, intention, and meaning in real-life conversations.

👉 You can find the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the top things Americans Googled in 2025 and what these search trends reveal about the biggest concerns, interests, and cultural moments of the year.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• The top Google searches in the United States in 2025
• What these trends say about American culture and society
• Useful English vocabulary and idioms connected to current events
• How to talk about trends, news, and social issues in English

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and better understand modern American culture.

👉 You can access the annotated transcript for this episode at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the life and legacy of William Shakespeare and how English learners can actually enjoy and learn from his work.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Who Shakespeare was and why his influence still matters
• Why Shakespearean English can feel difficult to understand
• Practical tips for enjoying Shakespeare as an English learner
• Useful vocabulary and idioms inspired by Shakespeare’s language

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and feel more confident reading and understanding classic English.

You can access the annotated transcript for this episode at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the origins of Halloween, how it developed into the holiday we know today, and the traditions celebrated in English-speaking countries.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• The origins of Halloween and how the holiday began
• Popular Halloween traditions and what they mean
• Useful English vocabulary and idioms related to Halloween
• How to talk about holidays and traditions naturally in English

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and better understand cultural traditions in English-speaking countries.

👉 You can access the free annotated transcript for this episode at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the history of tea in Britain and how this famous drink inspired some of the most popular English idioms still used today.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• How tea became such an important part of British culture
• The meaning of “spill the tea” and other tea-related English idioms
• When and how to use these idioms naturally in conversation
• Useful vocabulary connected to British culture and daily life

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and understand British English expressions more confidently.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore how accents are formed, why everyone sounds different, and what this means for English learners who want to improve their pronunciation.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• How accents develop and why they’re so hard to change
• Whether English learners should try to change their accent
• Common myths about accents and pronunciation
• Useful vocabulary and idioms related to language and speech

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to understand accents better, feel more confident speaking English, and improve their listening and pronunciation skills.

Find the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the rise of the kidult — adults who enjoy toys, games, cartoons, and other activities traditionally associated with childhood — and what this trend says about modern culture.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• What the word “kidult” means and where it comes from
• Why this trend has become more popular in recent years
• Useful English vocabulary and idioms related to age, lifestyle, and culture
• How to talk about trends and habits naturally in English

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and understand modern cultural trends in English-speaking countries.

You can find the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the origins of this popular American New Year’s tradition and what it represents in American culture.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Why black-eyed peas are considered lucky in the United States
• The history and meaning behind this New Year’s tradition
• Useful English vocabulary and idioms connected to food and celebrations
• How to talk about traditions and superstitions in English

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and better understand American cultural traditions.

👉 You can access the free annotated transcript for this episode at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the history behind Guy Fawkes Night, the famous plot that inspired it, and how this unique British tradition is celebrated today.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Who Guy Fawkes was and why he is remembered
• The origins of Bonfire Night and how it began
• Popular traditions and celebrations in the UK
• Useful English vocabulary and idioms related to history and culture

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and better understand British cultural traditions.

You can find the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the best things about fall (also known as autumn) and the language English speakers commonly use to describe this time of year.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Common English vocabulary related to fall and autumn
• Useful idioms and expressions connected to seasons
• How to describe weather, nature, and seasonal activities in English
• How to sound more natural when talking about everyday topics

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their seasonal vocabulary, and speak more confidently about daily life in English.

You can find the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we discuss an exciting and positive nature news story about beavers returning to parts of London and what this could mean for wildlife and the environment.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Why beavers are returning to areas near London
• How wildlife experts believe humans and animals can coexist
• Useful English vocabulary related to nature and the environment
• Idioms and expressions commonly used in news stories

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and understand real-world news topics in English.

You can find the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the benefits of having a bilingual brain and why learning another language is so good for your mind, memory, and overall well-being.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• What the bilingual brain is and how it works
• The cognitive and mental health benefits of learning languages
• Why bilingualism can improve focus, memory, and problem-solving
• Useful English vocabulary and idioms related to language and learning

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and feel more motivated and confident about learning English.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we focus on breakfast and explore all the different ways you can order eggs in English — so you can feel more confident speaking to waiters in cafés and restaurants.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Common ways to order eggs in English (scrambled, fried, poached, and more)
• Useful restaurant and breakfast vocabulary
• Polite phrases for ordering food confidently
• How to sound more natural when eating out in English

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their everyday vocabulary, and feel more confident ordering food in English-speaking countries.

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, I introduce you to my hometown and explain what makes Austin such a unique and iconic American city.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Key facts about Austin’s history and culture
• Popular attractions and things to do in the city
• Useful English vocabulary related to travel and cities
• How to talk about places and travel experiences in English

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and learn more about American culture through real-world destinations.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the idea of digital detox cafés — cafés where technology is not allowed — and why more people are choosing to take a break from their devices.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• What a digital detox café is and how it works
• Why people are choosing phone-free spaces
• Useful English vocabulary related to technology and modern life
• How to talk about habits, lifestyle choices, and balance in English

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and discuss modern lifestyle trends more confidently in English.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the fascinating history of London Bridge and how this famous landmark became part of British culture and folklore.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• The history of London Bridge and how it has changed over time
• The possible origins of the famous nursery rhyme
• Useful English vocabulary related to history and landmarks
• How to talk about historical places in English

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and learn more about British history and culture.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this second part of our biography series on J. R. R. Tolkien, this episode of Jackie Teaches English explores Tolkien’s academic career, his work as a professor, and how he achieved literary success.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Details about Tolkien’s academic life and teaching career
• How his studies and research influenced his writing
• The success and impact of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings
• Useful English vocabulary related to education, literature, and biography

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and deepen their understanding of classic English literature.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this first part of a biography series on J. R. R. Tolkien, this episode of Jackie Teaches English explores Tolkien’s early life, childhood, and the experiences that shaped one of the most influential writers in English literature.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Key facts about Tolkien’s early life and family
• Important events that influenced his writing
• Background to The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings
• Useful English vocabulary related to biography, history, and literature

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and learn more about classic English literature and its authors.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore how healthcare in the USA works, what makes the American healthcare system different, and what people should expect when seeking medical care.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Key facts about the American healthcare system
• Why healthcare in the USA can be confusing or expensive
• Important English vocabulary related to health and medicine
• How to talk about illness, insurance, and medical care in English

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and better understand everyday life in the United States.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the five love languages — a concept created by Gary Chapman — and how understanding them can help you build stronger, more meaningful relationships.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• What the five love languages are and what they mean
• How love languages affect communication in relationships
• Useful English vocabulary and phrases related to emotions and relationships
• How to talk about feelings and connection more naturally in English

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and communicate more confidently in personal relationships.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the origins of April Fools’ Day, why pranks are so popular, and how this unusual holiday is celebrated in English-speaking countries.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• The history and origins of April Fools’ Day
• Popular pranks and jokes people play on this day
• Useful English vocabulary related to jokes, tricks, and humour
• How to talk about funny experiences naturally in English

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and understand cultural traditions in English-speaking countries.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the science behind sleep, different chronotypes, and why some people naturally wake up early while others feel more alert at night.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• What “early bird” and “night owl” really mean
• How sleep patterns affect health, focus, and energy
• Useful English vocabulary and idioms related to sleep and daily routines
• How to talk about habits and lifestyle in natural English

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and understand everyday health topics in English.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the history behind Doc Martens boots, who the real “Doc” was, and how this famous footwear brand became a symbol of British culture.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Who Dr. Martens was and how the boots were invented
• How Doc Martens became a British fashion icon
• Useful English vocabulary related to fashion and culture
• How to talk about brands and style more confidently in English

This upper intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and learn more about British culture through real-world topics.

You can access the FREE annotated transcript for this episode at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the hidden cost of online shopping returns and what actually happens to items once they are sent back.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• What happens behind the scenes when products are returned
• Why returns can be expensive and harmful to the environment
• Useful English vocabulary and idioms related to shopping and consumer habits
• How to talk about online shopping experiences naturally in English

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and understand everyday topics related to modern life and shopping.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore common New Year’s resolutions in the United Kingdom and the language English speakers use when talking about goals, habits, and fresh starts.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• The most common New Year’s resolutions in the UK
• What people mean when they talk about goals and self-improvement
• Useful English vocabulary and idioms related to resolutions and habits
• How to talk about plans and intentions naturally in English

This intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and start the year feeling more confident using English in everyday conversations.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com