English and Beyond - Intermediate English Podcast k1566

Is Tuscany really as perfect as Instagram makes it look? In this episode of English and Beyond: Advanced English Podcast, Oliver and César sit down to share the unfiltered truth about their recent holiday in Italy - and it’s not all rolling hills and Chianti. From postcard-perfect views and delicious dinners to mosquito bites, awkward group dynamics, and way too much sun, this is a real conversation about travel expectations vs. reality. Whether you’ve had a disappointing holiday yourself or just want to hear two English teachers get a little too honest about their summer getaway, this episode is packed with humour, reflection, and the kind of natural English that textbooks never teach. Watch on YouTube for the video version! 📖 Want to improve your English even more? Read the full transcript & vocabulary flashcards → www.morethanalanguage.com Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond Watch us on Youtube → @englishandbeyondpodcast Email your thoughts or questions → [email protected] 🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way. And , if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!

In this episode of English and Beyond: Advanced Edition, Oliver and César explore a question we all secretly ask ourselves: “Do I actually like this… or do I just think I’m supposed to?” From five-star restaurants and summer holidays to podcasts and museums, they take a light-hearted but honest look at things that might be a little overrated, a bit overhyped, or just not all they’re cracked up to be. Along the way, they revisit The Emperor’s New Clothes as a perfect metaphor for modern trends, and unpack the advanced English you need to talk about personal taste, pressure, and public opinion — including words and phrases like pretentious, mainstream, underwhelming, and jump on the bandwagon. This is a funny, reflective, vocabulary-rich episode about honesty, hype, and the freedom of saying “meh.” 📖 Want to improve your English even more? Read the full transcript & vocabulary flashcards → www.morethanalanguage.com Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond Watch us on Youtube → @englishandbeyondpodcast Email your thoughts or questions → [email protected] 🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way. And , if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!

What makes a film critically acclaimed, atmospheric, or even box office poison? In this episode of English and Beyond, César and I (I'm Oliver!) dive into the full cinema experience - from noisy popcorn munching to unexpected plot twists - and explore the vocabulary and expressions you need to talk about movies like a native speaker. Whether you’re a film lover, a language geek, or someone just looking to expand your advanced English, you’ll learn real-life phrases and idioms like suspension of disbelief, scene stealer, Oscar bait, and more - all through natural conversation and laughter. 📖 Want to improve your English even more? Read the full transcript & vocabulary flashcards → www.morethanalanguage.com Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond Watch us on Youtube → @englishandbeyondpodcast Email your thoughts or questions → [email protected] 🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way. And , if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!

Would you know what to say at the doctor’s in English? In this English and Beyond: Advanced English episode, César and I explore some advanced medical English vocabulary, from describing symptoms to understanding key healthcare like prognosis, chronic illness, and comorbidity. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at how the UK’s NHS works (I actually worked in the system for a little bit!), why Brits are so ionate about it, and how healthcare differs around the world. 🩺 What you’ll learn: – How to confidently explain your health problems in English – Essential for doctor visits, hospitals, and prescriptions – Cultural tips for navigating British healthcare Whether you're a hypochondriac (like us!) or just want to be prepared, this episode is packed with useful language for real-life situations. 📖 Want to improve your English even more? Read the full transcript & vocabulary flashcards → www.morethanalanguage.com Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond Watch us on Youtube → @englishandbeyondpodcast Email your thoughts or questions → [email protected] 🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way. And , if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!

Are we on the point of World War III - and what does Ancient Greece have to do with it? In this episode of English and Beyond: Advanced, we explore The Thucydides Trap - a theory from ancient history that's now being used to explain modern tensions between China and the United States. You’ll learn: – Who Thucydides was and what he said about the Peloponnesian War – How Harvard professor Graham Allison revived this idea for the 21st century – Why some people believe war between China and the US is inevitable - and others say it's avoidable – Why fear, not ambition, might be the most dangerous force in international relations – And how studying Ancient Greece can help you understand today's world - and improve your English at the same time. This episode includes natural native English, cultural insight, and advanced vocabulary related to politics, diplomacy, and global conflict. 📖 Want to improve your English even more? Read the full transcript & vocabulary flashcards → www.morethanalanguage.com Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond Watch us on Youtube → @englishandbeyondpodcast Email your thoughts or questions → [email protected] 🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way. And , if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!

Why did Britain fall out of love with Meghan Markle? In this episode of English and Beyond, I take a deep dive into the intense reaction to the Duchess of Sussex, unpacking her rise and fall in British public opinion. From media double standards to cultural differences, race, class, and the emotional shift of Prince Harry, this monologue and conversation with César explore what the backlash really reveals about the UK, the monarchy, and modern identity politics. Is it just about Meghan — or is she a symbol of something bigger? 🎧 Includes: – A clear, comprehensible advanced-level monologue – Real conversation with native/advanced speakers 📖 Want to improve your English even more? Read the full transcript & vocabulary flashcards → www.morethanalanguage.com Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond Watch us on Youtube → @englishandbeyondpodcast Email your thoughts or questions → [email protected] 🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way. And , if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!

An episode featuring a proper pronunciation expert, Emma (from Pronunciation with Emma)! In this episode of English and Beyond, we dive deep into the surprising world of British accents — and why they can cause so much tension, even within the UK. From royal RP to the streets of Newcastle, accents in Britain are more than just a way of speaking — they’re loaded with class, culture, and even controversy. We are ed by our first special guest, the eponymous founder of Pronunciation with Emma, a pronunciation expert and linguist, to unpack the history, politics, and social perceptions of accents in the UK and beyond. We discuss: Why one accent dominated British media for decades; How your accent can still affect your job prospects in 2025; The myth of "the" British accent — and how Americans (and Hollywood) often get it wrong; Emma’s favourite accent (spoiler: it’s not British!); What happens when learners want to sound like the Queen; and Why pronunciation and accent aren't the same thing. 👂 Ideal for advanced English learners interested in real-life language issues, identity, and communication. 🌍 Plus, Emma shares insights from her own journey as a Yorkshire-born pronunciation coach living in Spain. 👋 Connect with Emma: www.pronunciationwithemma.com 🔎 YouTube & Instagram: Pronunciation with Emma 🎙 Podcast: Pronunciation with Emma Podcast 📖 Want to improve your English even more? Read the full transcript & vocabulary flashcards → www.morethanalanguage.com Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond Watch us on Youtube → @englishandbeyondpodcast Email your thoughts or questions → [email protected] 🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way. And , if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!

[I forgot the music! 😩] Have you ever experienced culture shock - that strange, unsettling feeling when you're suddenly living in a completely different country? 🌍 In this episode of English and Beyond, César and I share our real experiences of living abroad and how it affected them emotionally, practically… and even gastronomically. 🎧 I will tell you about moving to Spain, despite speaking the language and knowing the culture well - and still being surprised by how challenging it felt. Meanwhile, César reflects on reverse culture shock after returning to Spain from 10 years in the UK. Together, we talk about: What really causes culture shock Why it’s not the same as going on holiday The unexpected emotions of moving “home” again Food, supermarkets and missing oat/old milk! 🥲 The unique challenges of living in , China, the US, and the UK BUREAUCRACY 😩 and why it might be the biggest shock of all Whether you’re preparing to move country now or are just curious about what it’s really like, this episode will help you understand the emotional ups and downs of building a life somewhere new. 📖 Want to improve your English even more? Read the full transcript & vocabulary flashcards → www.morethanalanguage.com Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond Watch us on Youtube → @englishandbeyondpodcast Email your thoughts or questions → [email protected] 🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way. And , if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!

🇬🇧 Why do Brits have such a reputation for binge drinking? 🇬🇧 In this episode of English and Beyond, César and I dive into British drinking culture, exploring why nights out in the UK start and end so early, the historical reasons behind our binge-drinking habits, and how it all compares to nightlife in Spain. 🍻 From pub culture to the impact of World War I alcohol laws, I share my own experiences of clubbing in London and why the contrast between British and European drinking habits is so stark. Plus, César gives his perspective as a Spaniard who has lived in the UK, and we ask: 👉 Does Britain’s "stiff upper lip" culture contribute to heavy drinking? 👉 Are Brits really the worst binge-drinkers in Europe? 👉 How do history, licensing laws, and social norms shape the way we drink? This episode is perfect for advanced English learners looking to improve listening skills while diving into an interesting cultural discussion. 📖 Want to improve your English even more? Read the full transcript & vocabulary flashcards → www.morethanalanguage.com Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond Watch us on Youtube → @englishandbeyondpodcast Email your thoughts or questions → [email protected] 🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way. And , if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!

As ridiculous as it sounds, I think this is my favourite episode ever. 💬 Are British teeth really as bad as the stereotype suggests? This episode of English and Beyond is perfect for advanced English learners looking to improve their comprehension and expand their vocabulary! We explore the long-standing myth about British teeth, using real statistics, personal anecdotes, and cultural comparisons. Plus, you’ll learn useful English vocabulary related to dentistry, health, and stereotypes. 📌 What you’ll learn in this episode: ✔ The origins of the "bad British teeth" stereotype ✔ Key English vocabulary for talking about teeth and dental care ✔ How British and American attitudes to dental aesthetics differ ✔ Why the NHS and private dentistry create big differences in dental care ✔ Funny personal stories and real-life experiences 📖 Want to improve your English even more? Read the full transcript & vocabulary flashcards → www.morethanalanguage.com Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond Watch us on Youtube → @englishandbeyondpodcast Email your thoughts or questions → [email protected] 🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way.

Why is frustration so difficult to manage? In this episode of English and Beyond, César and I explore how we deal with everyday setbacks—from minor inconveniences to major stress triggers. I confess my struggles with patience (and his frustration with technology), while César explains why he tries to stay calm—even when Spanish bureaucracy tests his limits. Expect honest reflections, a few laughs, and plenty of useful vocabulary along the way. 📖 Want to improve your English even more? Read the full transcript & vocabulary flashcards → www.morethanalanguage.com Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond Watch us on Youtube → @englishandbeyondpodcast Email your thoughts or questions → [email protected] 🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way.

The British Royal Family is one of the most famous institutions in the world, but is it still relevant today? In this episode of English and Beyond, we explore the monarchy’s role in modern Britain, its history of scandals, and how it continues to shape the UK’s global image. We discuss: 👑 César’s journey to becoming a British citizen and his thoughts on the monarchy ⚖️ The contradictions of a hereditary royal system in a modern democracy 📜 The historical impact of Henry VIII—divorces, beheadings, and a major religious upheaval 🎭 How the monarchy remains a source of global fascination and soft power If you're an advanced English learner interested in British culture, politics, and history, this episode is for you! 📖 Want to improve your English even more? Read the full transcript & vocabulary flashcards → www.morethanalanguage.com Follow us on Instagram → @BritishEnglishandBeyond Email your thoughts or questions → [email protected] 🎙 New episodes every week! Subscribe now to practise listening, expand your vocabulary, and learn English in a natural, fun way.

Have you ever wondered where certain words disappear to? Why do some expressions vanish from everyday speech, only to reappear centuries later? And which words could be on the verge of extinction right now? In this episode of English and Beyond, we uncover the hidden history of lost English words—from ‘eftsoons’ to ‘unfriend’—and explore how cultural shifts, technology, and slang shape the way we speak. We’ll also discuss why English is seemingly more adaptable than other languages and why it keeps borrowing, evolving, and even ditching words at an alarming rate. Plus, we debate words that should make a comeback and those that should probably disappear forever. Got a word you love (or hate)? Let us know! 🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (Link: English and Beyond) or Instagram (Link: @BritishEnglishandBeyond) or by email: [email protected] 📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources (including Quizlet flashcards), check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

In this episode, I’m tackling a big question: Why don’t I want kids? A listener asked me about being childless in my mid-30s, and - honestly? - I hadn’t thought about it in a while! But it got me reflecting on my reasons, from autonomy (I love my freedom), to sacrifice (do we really have to give up everything for the next generation?), to fulfilment (can’t life be meaningful without children?). I also chat with César about family pressure, whether I ever feel FOMO about parenthood, and - most importantly - we talk about sausage dogs, awkward baby-holding moments, and unsolicited parenting advice. If you’ve ever thought about whether kids are for you, or just want to hear a fun and honest discussion while you improve your English, don’t miss this one! 🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (Link: English and Beyond) or Instagram (Link: @BritishEnglishandBeyond) 📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources (including Quizlet flashcards), check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

We all know that British and American English have their differences, but where do you stand? Do you say film or movie? Got or gotten? Autumn or fall? In the latest episode of English & Beyond, I explore how US culture shaped my language growing up and why my parents (big fans of the USA) absolutely hate certain Americanisms. Plus, did you know that some of these so-called "American" words actually originated in Britain centuries ago? I also put César to the test in a fun British vs. American English quiz—see if you can get them right too! 🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (Link: English and Beyond) or Instagram (Link: @BritishEnglishandBeyond) 📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources (including Quizlet flashcards), check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

Here is an unusual episode discussing food safety, fear, and the unexpected stories that shape our world. In this week’s episode of English and Beyond, César and I tackle the eerie tale of Mad Cow Disease—a terrifying health scare from the 90s that shaped the UK’s food industry and left lasting psychological scars. 👀 What’s in the episode? The origins of Mad Cow Disease and its shocking connection to cows eating cows. How it transformed the global perception of British beef (and even restricted blood donations!). A glimpse into César’s perspective on food safety scandals in Spain and the infamous horse meat controversy. With plenty of (darkly) humorous moments, personal anecdotes, and unexpected tangents—including a noisy dishwasher and an elderly pug—this episode sheds light on the fragile relationship between trust, health, and what we eat. 🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (Link: English and Beyond) or Instagram (Link: @BritishEnglishandBeyond) 📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources (including Quizlet flashcards), check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

🎭 Why the Balaclava? The Freedom and Fear of Anonymity 🎭 In this very first video episode of English and Beyond, I discuss anonymity—why some people choose it, how it grants freedom, and how it can also lead to negative consequences. From masked balls and street artists like Banksy to whistleblowers and internet trolls, this episode explores the tension between wanting to be seen and choosing to remain hidden. But why am I wearing a balaclava in the video for this episode? Is it a disguise or an experiment? me and César as we discuss privacy in the digital age, cultural differences in data privacy, and how fame—no matter how small—can change how you're perceived. 🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (Link: English and Beyond) or Instagram (Link: @BritishEnglishandBeyond) 📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources (including Quizlet flashcards), check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

In this week’s episode of English and Beyond, I'm venturing into the captivating world of tattoos with our first returning guest, Franziska, whose personal journey with body art has been nothing short of transformative. 💡 What you’ll discover: The ancient history of tattoos: From Ötzi the Iceman to Polynesian rites of age. Shifting perceptions: Why tattoos were once taboo but are now mainstream in places like Britain. Franziska’s story: How she went from ink-free to nearly fully covered, and the meaning behind her designs. My tattoo dilemma: Can I overcome my indecision and make my New Year’s resolution a reality? (Spoiler: I will, I promise!) This episode blends intriguing history, cultural insights, and personal anecdotes, all delivered with our signature dry humour (we hope). and thoughtful reflections (we hope as well). Whether you’re tattooed, tattoo-curious, or just a fan of unique stories, this episode has something for you! 🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (English and Beyond) or Instagram (@BritishEnglishandBeyond) 📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources, check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

🎙️ New Year, Fresh Goals | English and Beyond Happy 2025! In this episode, I struggle though a bad cold as I reflect on the magic of fresh starts and New Year's traditions, from my family's Hogmanay celebrations in Scotland to the quiet introspection that winter invites. I share my ambitious (and not-so-ambitious) resolutions for the year, including continuing to learn French, reading for pleasure, and finally getting that long-awaited tattoo. César s the conversation to discuss his more laid-back approach to resolutions, the challenges of building new routines after their move to Spain, and why sometimes just "being human" can be a valid goal. There’s also plenty of banter about morning grumpiness, journaling attempts, and... health conditions? Whether you're someone who meticulously plans your resolutions or just wings it, this episode is packed with relatable moments and some light-hearted inspiration. And, of course, we would love to hear from you: 💬 What are your 2025 resolutions? Share them via email at [email protected], or leave a comment on Spotify, YouTube, or our new Instagram @BritishEnglishandBeyond! 📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources, check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

As the year draws to a close, I’m excited to share the final episode of English and Beyond for 2024. This festive episode is all about Christmas! It’s a nostalgic dive into personal traditions, some ancient history, and the quirks of celebrating the season across different cultures. 🎙 What’s Inside? My reflections on chaotic childhood Christmases (spoiler: black bin bags instead of wrapping paper!) The fascinating Roman origins of modern Christmas traditions. How César and I navigate the cultural differences of Christmas in Spain versus the UK. A heartfelt look at why the imperfections make the holidays so special. 🎁 A Small Christmas Request If you’ve enjoyed English and Beyond this year, I’d love it if you could share this episode or the podcast with a friend learning English. Word of mouth is the best gift for growing this community! Let me know about your own Christmas traditions! Do you embrace the chaos or prefer the polished? I’d love to hear from you—email me at [email protected] or leave a comment on the website. Thank you for being part of this journey in 2024. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a fantastic New Year. See you in 2025! 🎉 📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources, check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com