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American English Podcast

American English Podcast

Written by: Shana Thompson
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About this listen

 The American English Podcast teaches the language and culture of the United States. Through common expressions, pronunciation tips and interesting cultural snippets or stories, I hope to keep this fun, useful and interesting! All bonus material can be accessed at http://americanenglishpodcast.com/© 2024 American English Podcast Foreign Language Audiobooks Social Sciences Travel Writing & Commentary World
Episodes
  • 207 - Expression: In a Sticky Situation

    207 - Expression: In a Sticky Situation
    Feb 25 2026
    In this engaging (and slightly sticky) episode, we explore the common American English idiom “to be in a sticky situation.” After a real-life kitchen disaster involving spilled honey, we break down what the expression means, where it comes from (it dates back over 200 years!), and how Americans actually use it in everyday conversation. You’ll hear relatable examples—from accidentally hitting “Reply All” at work to public mix-ups at the Academy Awardsand even the New Coke decision by Coca-Cola. We’ll also compare similar expressions and practice pronunciation so you can say it naturally and confidently. And don’t miss Part Two, where we cover the unforgettable Great Molasses Flood. ⭐ Get the full transcript, vocabulary list, quizzes, and more by signing up for Premium Content— available inside ⁠the Academy⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    20 mins
  • ⭐ Feature: Hangry, Bromance & Spam: Everyday Portmanteaus with Liz!

    ⭐ Feature: Hangry, Bromance & Spam: Everyday Portmanteaus with Liz!
    Feb 18 2026
    In this playful and spontaneous episode, Liz and I play a fast-paced guessing game using common English portmanteaus—words created by blending two others together. From hangry and bromance to Spam and chillax, we break down their meanings, origins, and how Americans actually use them in conversation. Along the way, you’ll hear natural dialogue, cultural references, and plenty of examples to help these words stick. If you want to sound more natural in everyday American English, this one’s for you. ⭐ Get the full list, as well as the full episode by signing up to Premium Content. Now available as part of the Academy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    27 mins
  • 206 - Let's Talk about Hair! (with Julia)

    206 - Let's Talk about Hair! (with Julia)
    Feb 11 2026
    In this cozy winter episode, Shana is snowed in with her daughters on the East Coast after a big snowstorm. While it looks like a magical winter wonderland outside, things feel a little chaotic inside the house. Then Julia, who's seven, decides she wants to be a guest on the podcast. Julia chooses a fun and unexpected topic: hair and hairstyles. Together, they talk about different types of hair, popular hairstyles, and even facial hair vocabulary — all in a relaxed, natural conversation. ⭐ Sign up to the Academy to Learn English with Pictures Useful Vocabulary To be snowed in – when so much snow falls that you can’t leave your homeStraight hair – hair with no curl or waveCurly hair – hair that forms curlsWavy hair – hair that forms loose wavesSilky smooth – very soft and smoothBangs – short hair cut to fall over the foreheadFringe – the British English word for bangsPonytail – hair tied back in one sectionPigtails – two ponytails, one on each sideBraid – three sections of hair crossed over each otherFrench braid – a braid that begins at the top of the head and continues downwardBun – hair twisted and tied into a round shapeMohawk – short on the sides, long in the middleMullet – short in the front, long in the backAfro – a full, rounded hairstyle worn with natural curly or coily hairHair down – wearing your hair looseLice – tiny insects that live in hair and cause itchingHair tie / elastic band – used to hold hair backSalon – a place where people get their hair cut or styledHighlights – lighter streaks added to hairLowlights – darker streaks added to hairDye – to change the color of your hairPeach fuzz – very soft, light facial hairMustache – hair above the upper lipBeard – hair on the chin and jawGoatee – hair on the chin onlyCowlick – a section of hair that grows in a different direction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    22 mins
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