Start here to see how the episodes, voices, and tools work together to help you learn English.

✨ Synopsis

“Start Here” is your guide — an engaging introduction about how this podcast works, how to use each episode with confidence, and how to keep learning more over time.

A FREE copy of the script is available at the bottom of this page.

🎙️ What This Episode Covers

• What Words at Work is and who it’s designed for

• How each episode is structured

• How to use the workbooks, transcripts, and pronunciation guides

• Simple explanations by the voices you’ll hear

• Where to begin if you’re brand new

• How to build confidence step by step

📘 Personalities from Our Episodes will explain:

• Why stories help you learn

• How to practice listening and speaking

• Why short episodes work

• How to follow along at your own pace

• How to use the downloadable materials

· Why listening twice works

Here’s what’s in our workbooks for you to use:

* Meet Today’s Cast
* Podcast Script
* Vocabulary List with Definitions
* Matching exercise, words and meaning
* Fill‑in‑the‑blank ( sentences you complete with vocabulary words)
* Comprehension Questions – make you think, and we give Suggested Answers
* Vocabulary with quotes from script – for special episodes
* Extended Vocabulary with Workplace & Cultural Notes
* Tiered Writing Prompts (A2–B2 learners) –
first we make you think, then we make you write LOL

* Pronunciation Practice – a downloadable audio file
* Self‑Assessment Rubric

A gentle Valentine’s Day mystery of trust and new beginnings — with a free workbook bundle as our gift today.

A gentle mystery unfolds as Lyla and Penny discover what Adam has been protecting all along, leading them to a window filled with quiet courage and new beginnings.

This episode is my Valentine’s Day gift to you — the workbook and pronunciation audio file are completely FREE.

Our workbooks include the full script (easy to follow along), seven creative exercises, and pronunciation practice so you can listen, practice, and learn confidently.
Links at BOTTOM of this page.

Synopsis:

Adam has been acting strangely — sending mysterious instructions, avoiding dinners, and insisting that Lyla and Penny arrive at his apartment in “soft shoes.” In this gentle, emotional episode, we follow the mystery from a cozy tea‑filled morning in Lyla’s apartment to the quiet, shadowed hallway outside Adam’s door… and finally to the warm light of the window where Chloe sits for the very first time.

Through a flashback at the animal shelter, we learn how Adam slowly earned Chloe’s trust after she was rescued from a hoarding case. And in the present day, Lyla and Penny discover the truth: Adam hasn’t been hiding from them — he’s been protecting a frightened cat who is learning, moment by moment, how to feel safe again.

This is a story about patience, soft routines, and the quiet courage it takes to heal.

Character Spotlight:

Adam

A steady, gentle presence, he discovers that healing doesn’t happen quickly — it happens quietly. His patience becomes the bridge between Chloe’s fear and her new life.

Chloe

A ginger cat rescued from a hoarding house, learning to trust the world again. Her journey from hiding to sitting confidently in the window is the emotional heart of the episode.

Lyla & Penny

Two friends who bring warmth, humor, and curiosity — and who finally witness the moment Adam has been waiting for.

Learning Hook (Zoe’s Grammar & Vocabulary Corner):

This episode focuses on the present continuous, a structure used to describe actions happening right now or changes still in progress. Throughout the story, you’ll hear phrases like:

• “She’s watching the trees.”

• “She’s discovering what peace feels like.”

• “She’s learning that this is her home.”

• “She’s starting to trust the world again.”

Zoe highlights expressions that show movement, growth, and gentle change — perfect for learners who want to understand how English describes ongoing actions and emotional transitions.

Learners can practice these forms in the workbook’s exercises, using real examples from the story.

Tagline:

“Healing grows in the quiet moments.”

We’d love to hear from you.

If this episode touched you — or if you have your own funny cat stories, questions, or reflections — we’d love to hear from you.

You can email us anytime at:

podcastwordsatwork@gmail.com

Your messages help us shape future episodes and keep this community warm and connected.

Visit a shelter and take your time. But be warned: the Cat Distribution System loves to choose new humans.

© 2026 Lawrence Weiser. All rights reserved.

“Words at Work: ESL for EVERY Day” is a trademark of Lawrence Weiser.

Not for redistribution without written permission.

“Kofi’s ‘hidden hours’ reveal more than study habits — they uncover the power of quiet support.”

Our workbooks include the full script (easy to follow along), seven creative exercises, and pronunciation practice so you can listen, practice, and learn confidently. This episode is just

$3 👉 https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-9d-kofi-150282068

Synopsis: Douglas and Penny head to the Community College Literacy Center, where Kofi gives a heartfelt presentation about how he studies English during the “hidden hours” of his day. After class, a small accident in the parking lot leads to an unexpected moment of kindness — and a reminder that support often arrives when you need it most.

Character Spotlight: Kofi — Dedicated. Dependable. Professional.

In this episode, Kofi shows how determination can turn ordinary moments into learning opportunities. His presentation reveals the discipline behind his progress, and his vulnerability in the parking lot highlights the strength of community.

Learning Hook (Zoe’s Grammar & Vocabulary Corner):
This episode focuses on Interrupted Action — how the Past Progressive and Simple Past work together when one action is happening and another suddenly interrupts it.

Zoe highlights expressions using Advice Modals — should, could, and would — to help learners talk about good habits, possibilities, and goals.

Learners can practice vocabulary such as dedicated, dependable, professional, and more..

Tagline:

“Hard work creates progress. Kindness carries you the rest of the way.””

Follow along with the scripts, vocabulary, and seven exercises in each episode’s workbook.

Our workbooks include the full script (easy to follow along), seven creative exercises, and pronunciation practice so you can listen, practice, and learn confidently. This episode is just $3, or the four‑episode collection is $9.

$3 👉 https://www.patreon.com/posts/149046122?collection=1962951

Set of 4👉 https://www.patreon.com/collection/1962951?view=expanded

Synopsis:

At the annual office mixer, Lyla and Penny discover that small talk can lead to real connection — from hobbies with Chloe to software tips from Mark. When David admits he’s feeling burnt out, Penny gently redirects the conversation, reminding everyone that friendship and balance matter just as much as productivity.

Character Spotlight:

Lyla and Penny navigating small talk with confidence, while Adam and Mark model polite networking. Penny shows empathy and leadership as she helps David shift from stress to connection.

“Small talk builds big bridges.”

Learning Hook (Zoe’s Grammar & Vocabulary Corner):

This episode focuses on small‑talk language, polite requests, and workplace idioms.

Zoe highlights expressions like “talk shop,” “What do you do?”, “get up to,” “I was wondering if…,” and “work‑life balance.”

Learners can practice using small‑talk phrases to build rapport, make polite requests in social settings, and redirect conversations with natural transitions.

They also explore how language reflects cultural expectations around networking, rest, and workplace well‑being.

Tagline:

“Connection starts with a conversation.”

Follow along with the scripts, vocabulary, and seven exercises in each episode’s workbook. Episodes 5 – 8 are available in Lyla’s Winter Collection
https://www.patreon.com/collection/1962951?view=expanded

Our workbooks include the full script (easy to follow along), seven creative exercises, and pronunciation practice so you can listen, practice, and learn confidently. This episode is just $3, or the four‑episode collection is $9.

$3 👉 https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-6d-move-149045122

Set of 4👉https://www.patreon.com/collection/1962951?view=expanded

Synopsis:

Moving day brings its usual mix of stress and surprises as Lyla packs up her old apartment with help from her brother Michael. Between paperwork, traffic worries, and too many teacups, she’s juggling more than she expected. When Adam offers to swing by after work to help her settle in, Lyla discovers that starting fresh is a lot easier with family and friends who show up when it counts.

Character Spotlight:

Lyla is navigating two major life changes at once, supported by Michael’s humor and steady presence. Adam steps in with practical help and kindness, modeling the power of small gestures during stressful transitions.

“A little help goes a long way.”

Learning Hook (Zoe’s Grammar & Vocabulary Corner):

This episode focuses on everyday idioms and phrasal verbs related to moving, settling in, and offering help.

Zoe highlights expressions like “get settled in,” “a head start,” “swing by,” “give a hand,” “unsettled,” and “housewarming.”

Learners can practice using supportive language to offer help, describe stressful transitions, and talk about new beginnings.

They also explore how cultural expectations shape conversations about moving, support, and settling into a new community.

Tagline:

“New places feel like home when people show up.”

Follow along with the scripts, vocabulary, and seven exercises in each episode’s workbook. Episodes 5 – 8 are available in Lyla’s Winter Collection
https://www.patreon.com/collection/1962951?view=expanded

Here are three sites where you can listen to Michael’s favorite song.

Official Johnny Cash YouTube video (Live at San Quentin)

This is the version most people know, and it’s the one folks enjoy.
YouTube (Official):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOHPuY88Ry4

2. Wikipedia page for background + cultural context

Great, if you want to understand the story behind the song.
Wikipedia:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Boy_Named_Sue

3. Johnny Cash official site track page

This is the “official home” of the song online.
Johnny Cash Official Site:
https://www.johnnycash.com/track/a-boy-named-sue-live/

Our workbooks include the full script (easy to follow along), seven creative exercises, and pronunciation practice so you can listen, practice, and learn confidently. This episode is just $3, or the 4‑episode collection is $9.

$3 👉 https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-7d-149044147

Set of 4👉https://www.patreon.com/collection/1962951?view=expanded

Synopsis:

Lyla explores her new neighborhood with help from Penny — and a standout moment from Kofi, who gives her a rapid‑fire, heartfelt tour of every essential spot near her new apartment. From parks to post offices, bus stops to bookstores, she discovers that clear directions — and a great guide — make any new place feel like home.

Character Spotlight:

Kofi steps into the spotlight in this episode, delivering his most memorable scene yet as he maps out the neighborhood with enthusiasm, humor, and pitch‑perfect clarity. Penny is there, the supportive friend, steady and encouraging as she walks with Lyla through each turn and landmark. Lyla grows more confident as she turns Kofi’s whirlwind of information into real‑world navigation skills.

“You’ll be a local in no time!” — Kofi

Learning Hook (Zoe’s Grammar & Vocabulary Corner):

This episode focuses on prepositions of location and direction words — essential tools for navigating a new city or workplace.

Zoe highlights expressions like “behind,” “across from,” “between,” “down the street,” “turn left,” and “on the corner of.”

Learners can practice giving and following directions using landmarks, street names, and simple step‑by‑step instructions.

They also explore how prepositions connect places together, making it easier to describe routes, find destinations, and help others get oriented.

Tagline:

“Clear directions turn confusion into confidence.”

Follow along with the scripts, vocabulary, and seven exercises in each episode’s workbook. Episodes 5 – 8 are available in Lyla’s Winter Collection
https://www.patreon.com/collection/1962951?view=expanded

Our workbooks include the full script (easy to follow along), seven creative exercises, and pronunciation practice so you can listen, practice, and learn confidently. This episode is just $3, or the 4‑episode collection is $9.

$3 👉 https://www.patreon.com/posts/episode-8d-task-149037759

Set of 4👉 https://www.patreon.com/collection/1962951?view=expanded

Synopsis:

In the middle of a busy quarter, Adam asks Lyla to help with vendor files — but his instructions are vague, leaving her unsure what “look into it” actually means. By guiding the conversation toward clear actions, defined scope, and a specific deliverable, Lyla shows how precise communication turns delegation into real teamwork.

Character Spotlight:

Adam juggling competing deadlines and learning how clarity strengthens collaboration. Lyla stepping into her growing confidence, modeling how to ask for strong action verbs, set boundaries, and confirm expectations so a task becomes manageable instead of overwhelming.

“When you replace ‘look into it’ with a clear action, everything gets easier.”

Learning Hook (Zoe’s Grammar & Vocabulary Corner):

This episode focuses on workplace language for delegation — especially how to replace vague phrases with strong, precise action verbs.

Zoe highlights expressions like “compile,” “analyze,” “draft,” “define the scope,” and “confirm the deliverable.”

Learners can practice asking clarifying questions, setting boundaries, and summarizing tasks using professional confirmation language.

They also explore how clear communication prevents confusion, saves time, and builds trust in collaborative environments.

Tagline:

“Clear tasks create confident teams.”

Follow along with the scripts, vocabulary, and seven exercises in each episode’s workbook. Episodes 5 – 8 are available in Lyla’s Winter Collection
https://www.patreon.com/collection/1962951?view=expanded

Workbooks with scripts are available for all episodes — link below.

Synopsis: Adam’s dedication keeps him at the office long into the night, but Douglas reminds him that balance matters as much as deadlines. With Penny and Lyla offering support, the team learns that health and teamwork are stronger than overtime.

Character Spotlight: Adam wrestling with deadlines, while Douglas models leadership by prioritizing health and balance.

“Burning the midnight oil isn’t the same as doing your best work.”

Learning Hook (Zoe’s Grammar & Vocabulary Corner):

This episode focuses on idioms and phrasal verbs about time, deadlines, and balance. Zoe highlights expressions like "burn the midnight oil", "tight deadline," "hit the sack", and "work‑life balance". You can practice using idioms about time, deadlines, and balance to describe workplace stress. As well as explore how language reflects cultural attitudes toward health and productivity.

Tagline: “Strong teams know when to rest.”

Follow along with the scripts, vocabulary, and seven exercises in each episode’s workbook. All four workbooks are available now for members —

Visit our “Episodes with Workbooks” Collection.

https://www.patreon.com/collection/1900861