WeSpeak Idiomas

One important part of my language learning journey is listening to podcasts. I’m now learning Portuguese and find podcasts to be an amazing FREE, easy-to-access resource great for improving listening comprehension and expanding vocabulary, and, did I mention they are free? Yes! I like free stuff, just like you do!

Podcasts offer authentic, real-world language usage. You hear how native speakers naturally express themselves, including their pronunciation, intonation, and conversational nuances. This exposure helps you develop more natural language skills. Listening comprehension is a crucial aspect of language learning and podcasts challenge your listening skills by exposing you to different accents, speaking speeds, and dialects, helping you become a better listener. Furthermore, podcasts often introduce new vocabulary and expressions within context. I always say to my students what a bad idea it is to learn/memorize isolated words, don’t do that! What will aid in vocabulary retention and comprehension is hearing words used in context, not trying to cram words and expressions that have nothing to do with each other and podcasts help a lot with that.

You don’t have time to invest in your learning? How about listening to a podcast while you’re washing the dishes? How about you cut down on Netflix and replace that hour of watch-time with a podcast? How about you wake up earlier to listen to a 30-minute podcast? or go to bed later? Have you thought about listening to a podcast instead of listening to music while your driving? Where there’s a will, there’s a way!

So, now that you know why it is a great idea to listen to podcasts as an English learner, read my curated list of podcast recommendations according to your level:

For basic English learners:

1. “ESL Pod”: This podcast offers daily episodes that cover a wide range of topics at a slow and clear pace, making it ideal for beginners. Each episode includes a conversation between two people, followed by a thorough explanation of vocabulary and grammar used in the conversation.
2. “English as a Second Language (ESL) Podcast”: This podcast provides English lessons with a focus on real-life situations and common phrases. The hosts discuss various topics, and each episode includes explanations and examples of key vocabulary and expressions.
3. “Simple English Listening”: This podcast is designed specifically for English learners. It features short stories and conversations spoken slowly and clearly to help listeners improve their listening comprehension skills. The host also provides explanations and exercises to reinforce learning.
4. “BBC Learning English”: The BBC offers a variety of English language learning podcasts, such as “6 Minute English” and “The English We Speak.” These podcasts cover a wide range of topics, are short and easy to follow, and include explanations of key vocabulary and expressions.
5. “Learn English with EnglishClass101.com”: This podcast series offers lessons for learners at all levels, including beginners. It covers various aspects of the English language, including grammar, vocabulary, and cultural insights. The hosts provide clear explanations and examples.

For intermediate English learners:

1. “The English We Speak” by BBC Learning English: This podcast from the BBC focuses on everyday English phrases and idioms. Each short episode explores a common phrase or expression, providing explanations and examples to help learners understand and use them in everyday conversations.
2. “English Class 101” by Innovative Language: English Class 101 offers a series of podcasts tailored to learners of all levels. They provide lessons on various aspects of the English language, including grammar, vocabulary, and cultural insights. You can choose podcasts that match your proficiency level.
3. “English Across the Pond”: This podcast features conversations between two English teachers from the UK and the US. They discuss various topics, helping learners understand the differences in vocabulary, pronunciation, and culture between British and American English.
4. “Culips ESL Podcast”: Culips offers episodes designed for learners who want to improve their listening and speaking skills. They cover a wide range of topics in a conversational format, providing explanations and opportunities for listeners to practice their English.
5. “A Plain English Conversation”: This podcast focuses on clear and simple English conversations, making it perfect for basic English learners. It covers various everyday topics, and each episode includes explanations and vocabulary lists to aid comprehension.

For advanced English learners:

1. “TED Talks”: TED Talks feature experts and thought leaders discussing a wide range of topics. Listening to these talks can expose advanced learners to complex vocabulary and ideas. TED also offers transcripts, which can be helpful for understanding challenging content.
2. “The Hidden Brain”: The Hidden is hosted by Brain Shankar Vedantam, who uses science and storytelling to reveal the unconscious patterns that drive human behavior, shape our choices and direct our relationships. This is one of my top 5 podcasts!
3. “The New Yorker: Fiction”: This podcast features famous authors reading and discussing short stories from The New Yorker magazine. It offers advanced learners the opportunity to engage with literature and explore literary analysis and interpretation.
4. “The Economist Radio”: This podcast offers in-depth coverage of global current events, economics, and politics. It’s an excellent resource for advanced learners looking to improve their understanding of complex topics and develop a more extensive English vocabulary.
5. “The Moth”: The Moth is a storytelling podcast where people share personal, real-life stories in front of a live audience. These stories can be humorous, touching, or thought-provoking, providing advanced learners with a diverse range of language and narrative styles.

These podcasts offer challenging content and can help advanced learners expand their vocabulary, improve their listening comprehension, and deepen their understanding of various subjects.

Remember to choose podcasts that match your level of English proficiency, and don’t hesitate to pause and replay sections to fully understand the content. Additionally, consider using transcripts or accompanying materials, if available, to enhance your learning experience.

Now what? Well, choose a podcast and start listening!

Happy learning!