8 podcasts for learning English

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

From books you can learn how to read and write correctly in any language. But they do not train pronunciation and do not learn to comprehend speech by ear. Therefore, Lifehacker has chosen podcasts that can complement your English textbooks.

1. Learn English with BBCRussian

• Subscription: site,,.
• English version: British.
• Frequency: one issue per week.

Programs of the BBC Russian Service in the format of radio shows with Russian-language commentary by the announcer. Episodes of this podcast come out as part of series on a particular topic. For example, the December episodes consistently introduced the 500 most popular words in the English language, while the previous episode series focused on everyday phrases.

2. English as a Second Language

• Subscription:,,.
• English version: American.
• Frequency: not observed.

One of the most respected English podcasts. English as a Second Language is a huge library of lessons from professional linguist Dr. Jeff McQuillan. Each issue belongs to one of two headings: stories and dialogues in spoken English or lessons in American culture, which help to better understand the peculiarities of the language environment.

Some of the episodes are available for free in iTunes and via RSS, the rest, along with the texts and explanations of the author, can be bought on the official website.

3.6 Minute English

• Subscription:,,.
• English version: British.
• Frequency: one issue per week.

The 6 Minute English episodes feature six-minute conversations from BBC hosts on topics ranging from Pokémon GO to Egyptian Pharaohs. The vocabulary you hear on this show will help you keep up almost any conversation.

4. Business English Pod

• Subscription:,,.
• Frequency: one issue per week.

Business English Pod broadcasts for those who want to use English effectively in a business environment. The podcast touches on a long list of business topics, skills, and situations. Among them are presentations, business negotiations, meetings, interviews and much more.

A typical episode contains an introduction and dialogue with subsequent analysis. After completing a paid subscription, listeners have access to a variety of supporting materials.

5. The English We Speak

• Subscription:,,.
• English version: British.
• Frequency: one issue per week.

The hosts of this BBC podcast discuss everyday expressions and elements of slang in English. What is Clickbait? What does the phrase To Have an Ax to Grind mean? These and other questions are answered by The English We Speak. The episodes are very short - only 2-3 minutes.

6. Luke's English Podcast

• Subscription:,,.
• English version: British.
• Frequency: up to three issues per week.

For this show, Briton Luke Thompson combines the knowledge and skills of an English teacher with a talent for humor. The result of his labors is a fun and educational podcast that has surpassed 16 million downloads. Luke's English Podcast consists of the host's monologues on grammar, vocabulary and English culture, supplemented with tips and instructions for learning the language.

7. Effortless English Podcast

• Subscription:,,.
• English version: American.
• Frequency: not observed.

The author of the educational method Effortless English, A. J. Hoge, believes that the best way to learn a language is to immerse yourself in it, rather than learn words and rules from books. It is on this principle that his lessons are based. On Hodge's website, you will find paid English courses, and the podcast contains the author's selected secrets and strategies for a relaxed language learning.

8. Daily English Easy Expression Podcast

• Subscription:,,.
• English version: American.
• Frequency: not observed.

Energetic coach Shane explains the meaning of colloquial expressions from everyday English and shares examples of their use. Each episode includes analysis of a new phrase with moderate portions of humor and charisma of the presenter - a teacher with 28 years of experience.