Avsnitt
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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 joined 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; andWhy 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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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 shockWhy it’s not the same as going on holidayThe unexpected emotions of moving “home” againFood, supermarkets and missing oat/old milk! 🥲The unique challenges of living in Germany, China, the US, and the UKBUREAUCRACY 😩 and why it might be the biggest shock of allWhether 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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🇬🇧 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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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.
And remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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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.
And remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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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 powerIf 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 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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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.
Got a word you love (or hate)? Let us know!
📖 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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📢 E35: Parenthood Isn’t for Me, and Here’s Why – A Deep Dive into Choosing a Child-Free Life
💡 Why do some people choose not to have kids? A listener asked me about being child-free in my mid-30s, and it got me reflecting on my own reasons—autonomy, sacrifice, fulfilment, and whether parenthood is truly the only path to a meaningful life.
In this episode of English & Beyond, I dive into:
✅ The rising trend of choosing a child-free life
✅ Family pressure & societal expectations around parenthood
✅ The "white picket fence" dream—why I once wanted kids but changed my mind
✅ The pros & cons of a child-free life
✅ A candid discussion with César—do we ever feel FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) about not having children?Plus, unexpected twists, including an awkward baby-holding moment and… sausage dogs. 🐶
📖 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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📢 E34: British vs. American English – Do You Use Americanisms? 🇬🇧🇺🇸
Film or movie? Got or gotten? Autumn or fall?
We all know that British and American English have their differences, but where do you stand?In this episode of English & Beyond, I explore how American culture shaped my English, why my parents hate certain Americanisms, and the surprising truth behind words that many Brits think are "too American"—but actually originated in the UK!
🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
✅ The history behind American vs. British English differences
✅ Words that Brits complain about—but are actually from the UK
✅ The impact of US pop culture on global English
✅ A fun British vs. American English quiz—play along with César!📖 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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Could a burger give you a fatal brain disease? In the 1990s, the UK was rocked by the Mad Cow Disease crisis, a scandal that led to global panic, a total ban on British beef, and lingering fears about food safety decades later.
In this episode of English and Beyond, we dive into the real story behind Mad Cow Disease, from the shocking feeding practices that started it all to the long-term consequences on British farming, government trust, and even blood donations.
👀 What’s in this episode?
✅ Why cows eating cows led to disaster
✅ How this crisis changed food regulations worldwide
✅ The unexpected impact on UK beef exports (banned in some countries until 2020!)
✅ César’s take on food safety scandals in Spain
✅ A mix of intermediate-to-advanced vocabulary, dark humour, and real-life history🔊 Perfect for English learners looking to improve listening skills while exploring British culture and history!
📖 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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🎭 Is anonymity a shield or a weapon? 🎭
In this special first video episode of English and Beyond, we explore anonymity—why some people seek it, how it grants freedom, and how it can also be used for harm.
From masked balls and Banksy to whistleblowers and internet trolls, we discuss:
✅ Why people protect their identities (and when they shouldn’t)
✅ How anonymity enables free speech, creativity, and safety
✅ The dark side—online trolling, misinformation, and ethical dilemmas
✅ How cultural attitudes toward privacy differ across countries
✅ Personal experiences navigating visibility on the internetBut most importantly… why am I wearing a balaclava? 🧐
🔊 This episode is perfect for English learners looking to improve listening skills while discussing thought-provoking topics about society, language, and culture.
📖 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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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 passage.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!
📖 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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🎙️ 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 joins 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 account @BritishEnglishandBeyond!📖 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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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! 🎉
📖 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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👭 What’s the role of a sister in your life? From childhood hero worship to sibling rivalries, our relationships with our sisters shape us in ways we don’t always realise.
This week on English and Beyond, I reflect on the unique bond between siblings, with a special focus on my own older sister—affectionately named Jeanne for this episode. Joined by regular co-host César, we explore the complexities of sibling relationships:
🎧 Inside the episode:
💡 Why are sibling relationships so powerful and long-lasting?
👀 How does having an older sister influence your personality?
🏆 Sibling rivalry: is it all bad, or can it push us to succeed?
🤝 The fine line between being a sibling and a role model
🎭 How do sibling bonds compare to friendships or parent-child relationships?With heartfelt anecdotes, humour, and honest reflections, this episode is a love letter to the people who have known us for a lifetime.
🎙️ Learn new English expressions like:
🔹 "Your reputation precedes you"
🔹 "Sounding board"
🔹 "Get on with it"📖 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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🤝 What makes someone a best friend? Is it time, shared experiences, or just luck?
In this special episode of English and Beyond, I sit down with my old university friend Chris, who joins from the USA, to explore the complex world of friendship. From childhood best friends to party buddies, we reflect on how friendships evolve and why some last while others fade.
🎧 Inside the episode:
🔍 Why do some friendships last a lifetime while others stay at the acquaintance level?
🤝 How does friendship compare to romantic relationships or sibling bonds?
🍻 Are “going-out” friends real friends, or just party acquaintances?
🇬🇧 Why do Brits make weekend “best friends” after a few drinks—only to never speak again?
💡 Do only children value friendships more than those with siblings?This is a warm, reflective, and honest discussion about what friendship truly means. Whether you’re a social butterfly or an introverted deep-connection type, this episode will get you thinking about the people in your life in a whole new 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.
And remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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☕ "Sorry!" "Thank you!" "Oh, sorry again!" The British are famous for their politeness—but is it all genuine, or just world-class passive-aggressive fakery?
In this episode of English and Beyond, César & I unpack the quirks of British social etiquette, from excessive apologies to queuing obsessions and the mysterious art of ordering a pint the right way. 🍺
🎧 Inside the episode:
🔍 Why do Brits say "sorry" when THEY get bumped into?
🚇 The fine-tuned etiquette of public transport & queuing
🥂 Ordering drinks in a British pub—why "I want a beer" is NOT okay
🏖️ The bizarre contrast between polite Brits at home and rowdy Brits abroad
🇪🇸 How does Spanish directness clash with British subtlety?💡 Are the British genuinely polite, or is it all just social survival? Let us know your thoughts!
📖 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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👩🎓 Single-sex schools—progressive choice or charmingly outdated tradition? 🏫
In this episode, César & I take a deep dive into British single-sex education—those schools where boys & girls are kept apart for (supposedly) better focus, higher grades, and fewer distractions.
As a former teacher in an all-boys school, I share the surprising behaviours I observed, while César compares it to his own experience in co-educational Spanish schools. Together, we explore:
🔍 Do single-sex schools actually lead to better academic results?
🎭 The impact on social skills, confidence & gender dynamics
📚 Are these schools preparing kids for real life—or shielding them from it?
👨🏫 My personal experience with misogyny in all-boys education💡 Join the debate! Do you think boys & girls should be educated separately?
📖 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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🏝️ Stranded on a desert island… but with music, books & one ridiculous luxury item?
This week, César & I are taking a lighthearted twist on the classic British radio show Desert Island Discs! With zero time to overthink, I’m choosing the songs, book & one over-the-top item I’d bring to my imaginary deserted island—all while César reacts in real-time.
🎧 Tune in to hear:
🎶 The song that instantly transports me to childhood
🎵 The track that reminds me of César (spoiler: it’s from a musical)
📖 The book that had a huge impact on César’s life (hint: it’s deep)
🎹 My luxury pick—because obviously, a fully equipped gym or piano is essential on a desert island💡 Expect personal stories, music nostalgia & a lot of laughs. It’s casual, unscripted, and hopefully just chaotic enough to keep you entertained.
📖 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
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💪 Can lifting weights actually change your mindset? 💪
In this episode of English & Beyond, I sit down with my friend Martha, a powerhouse in urban gardening and actualStrongwoman competitions 🏋️♀️, to chat about fitness, self-image, and what ‘strength’ really means.
💡 What’s inside:
✔️ My childhood fear of the word ‘muscles’ (seriously!) 😱
✔️ Why many women quit sports in their teens—and how that’s changing
✔️ Gym culture & masculinity—how it shapes men and women differently
✔️ Martha’s inclusive Strongwoman competition (feat. a drag queen compère!) 🌈
✔️ The psychology of fitness—why patience, progress & self-discipline matter in both lifting weights & learning languages!📖 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 remember, if this podcast is a little too tough for you, we have "English and Beyond: Intermediate English Podcast" too!
- Visa fler
