English With Grace
By Grace Davis
English With GraceApr 12, 2024
Language Learning Tips and Tricks With Kerstin
Join us on "English With Grace," the ultimate podcast for language enthusiasts and learners alike. Today we explore intricacies, nuances, and cultural significance. Whether you're a beginner looking to build a strong foundation or an advanced learner seeking to refine your skills, this podcast has something for everyone.
Each episode delves into key language topics, answering burning questions such as:
- How can I improve my pronunciation and fluency?
- What are the most effective learning strategies for mastering English?
- How does culture influence language, and vice versa?
- What are the common pitfalls to avoid when learning English?
- Where can I find valuable resources to accelerate my language learning journey?
With Kerstin's expert insights, practical tips, and engaging discussions, she empowers you to unlock the full potential of the English language. Whether you're tuning in during your commute, workout, or downtime, get ready to enhance your language skills and broaden your cultural horizons. Subscribe now and let's embark on this exciting linguistic adventure together!
You can find Kerstin at:
https://www.fluentlanguage.co.uk/
Social Media: @kerstin_fluent
Body Image With Ilona
In this episode of the "English with Grace" podcast, join us for an enlightening conversation on the journey towards positive self-image and combating fatphobia. Ilona shares personal insights and experiences, shedding light on how they, or someone they know, overcame body image struggles. We also delve into the profound influence of the fashion and beauty industries on societal beauty standards and discuss practical ways to actively support body diversity and inclusivity. Together, we explore the concept of fatphobia, and its impact on individuals and communities, and discuss strategies to raise awareness and promote body positivity in today's society. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that encourages self-acceptance and celebrates diversity. You can find Ilona at https://www.ilonaphillips.com/
Don't Worry Be Yoncé With Alex, Coco and Mary
Coco's Viral TikTok - www.tiktok.com/@unapologetically_coco/video/7252702969718672683
Building Connection With Chris
Chris' Quote:
"You have no idea what can happen whenever you choose to step outside your door...all the adventures that can take place."
Grace's Quote:
"The limits of my language are the limits of my world."
You can find Chris on the Talk to People Podcast talktochrismiller.com/
Social Fitness Lab newsletter signup - socialfitnesslab.beehiiv.com/
And here is the link to the study Chris references.
news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2017/04/over-nearly-80-years-harvard-study-has-been-showing-how-to-live-a-healthy-and-happy-life/
The Power of Storytelling With Richard
Welcome to the English with Grace podcast where we dive into the power of language through captivating stories and interviews. In this episode, we chat with Richard, who shares his experiences from popular TV shows like Grey's Anatomy, Chicago Med, This Is Us, and 24, and how storytelling influences communication. Discover the significance of storytelling in language learning and its impact on English language learners. Tune in for valuable insights and tips to enhance your language journey. Richard's Quote: "Hurry up and wait"
Meaning: "Hurry up and wait" is an expression used when you need to do something quickly, but then you have to wait for a long time afterward. It's like rushing to get things done, but then you have to be patient and wait for the next steps or instructions. It's a bit like doing things in a hurry, but then you can't move forward right away. It can be frustrating, but it's a common phrase to describe situations where you need to be both fast and patient at the same time.
You can find Richard at aiexplained.ai
Language Learning With Angel
Join us for another episode of the English With Grace podcast! Today, Angel joins us to discuss language learning. Angel is a French coach and lifelong language learner. We discuss different tips and tricks for language learning and share our own experiences with teaching and learning languages.
Angel's Quote:
Jack of all trades, master of none but still better than master of one.
Meaning: A person who is competent in many different skills or has a wide range of knowledge may not be a master or expert in any single field, but they can still be more versatile and adaptable than someone who is solely specialized in one area.
"L'esprit de l'escalier"
The French expression "L'esprit de l'escalier" translates to "The spirit of the stairs" in English. It refers to the phenomenon of thinking of a clever or witty response too late, usually after leaving a situation or conversation. It's that feeling you get when you come up with the perfect comeback or response only when you've already left the room or the opportunity has passed, like when you're walking down the stairs and suddenly think of the perfect thing to say.
You can find Angel on his website frenchfluency.net and on youtube https://youtube.com/@frenchfluency
He is also on social media @frenchfluency.
Transitions With Nesreen
During this episode of English With Grace podcast, I am joined by Nesreen Ahmed, ICF credentialed Professional Certified Life and Grief Coach. Today we discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by transitions. Discover practical strategies and tips for effectively managing transitions, whether it's changing careers, moving to a new city, or starting a new phase of life. Gain insights into the impact of transitions on emotional well-being, common emotions experienced, and techniques to maintain a positive mindset. Explore advice for overcoming fear and hesitation when facing significant life changes. Learn how to maintain a sense of self and stay grounded during periods of transition through self-reflection exercises and practices. Tune in for this enlightening episode and acquire the tools and mindset needed to navigate transitions with Nesreen, embracing change while finding inner stability.
Nesreen's Quote:
"Let go or be dragged"
You can find Nesreen at:
https://www.harborlightcoaching.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/harborlightcoaching/
https://www.facebook.com/harborlightcoaching/
https://www.instagram.com/harborlightcoaching/
Confidence With Karol
Join us for another interesting episode of the English With Grace podcast. Today I discuss confidence with Karol Ward. Discover what inner confidence truly means, debunk misconceptions, and explore the profound impact it has on our personal and professional lives. Gain insights into the factors that influence our inner confidence, learn practical steps to develop it, and witness the positive transformations in various aspects of your life. Engage in an insightful discussion on the nature of confidence itself, contemplating whether it is a trait or a habit. Don't miss this empowering episode that unlocks the secrets to unleashing your inner confidence and building a strong foundation for success.
Karol's Quote:
"To achieve great things two things are needed, a plan and not quite enough time." - Leonard Bernstein You can find Karol's The Confidence to Lead E-Book here https://karolward.lpages.co/theconfidencetolead1/
You can also find more information on her website https://www.karolward.com/
Food Quirks: Vegemite vs. Marmite With Georgia and Bill
Welcome to the English With Grace podcast! In today's episode, we dive into the delicious world of spreads, focusing on two iconic favorites from Australia and the UK: Marmite and Vegemite. If you've ever wondered about these mysterious concoctions and how they are enjoyed, you're in for a treat!
Join us as we welcome two special guests, Georgia and Bill, who bring their unique perspectives and expertise to the table. In this lively discussion, we explore the origins, flavors, and cultural significance of Marmite and Vegemite, giving you a comprehensive understanding of these beloved spreads.
Georgia's expression: "To be a marmite"
The phrase "to be a Marmite" is derived from the brand name of the spread itself, Marmite. In popular culture, "Marmite" has taken on a metaphorical meaning to describe something that elicits extreme and polarized reactions or opinions. Just like the spread, which has a strong and distinctive taste that people either love or hate, being "a Marmite" means that you are someone or something that tends to divide opinions sharply. It implies that people either have a strong affinity for you or strongly dislike you, with little middle ground. This expression is often used in the context of discussing public figures, cultural phenomena, or any topic that generates intense and contrasting reactions among people.
Whether you're a fan of Marmite, Vegemite, or simply curious about these iconic spreads, this episode of English With Grace will provide you with an entertaining and informative journey through the world of Marmite and Vegemite. Tune in, grab a slice of toast, and get ready to satisfy your spread-loving soul!
Vacations - Panama Canal With Lawrence
Join us in this captivating episode of English With Grace as we embark on a journey through the iconic Panama Canal, an engineering marvel that has shaped world history. Today, Lawrence joins us on the podcast and we delve into the significance of this man-made wonder and its profound impact on global trade and transportation.
Lawrence's expression:
"If you have a hammer, everything looks like a nail."
Meaning: "If you have a hammer, everything looks like a nail" is a metaphorical statement that suggests that when someone possesses a specific tool or approach, they tend to apply it to every situation, regardless of its suitability or effectiveness. In other words, it implies that people often have a bias towards using the same solution or method they are most familiar with, even when it may not be the most appropriate or efficient solution for the given problem or circumstance. The expression serves as a cautionary reminder to be open-minded and consider alternative approaches rather than relying solely on one's preferred or habitual way of doing things. Idiom:
"to hit the nail on the head"
Meaning: The idiom "to hit the nail on the head" means to accurately or precisely identify or express the main point or the truth about a situation or issue. It refers to making a statement or observation that is exactly correct or relevant. Just as hitting a nail on the head with a hammer ensures accuracy and effectiveness, using this idiom suggests that someone has perfectly captured the essence or core of a matter. It is often used to acknowledge someone's insightful or astute understanding of a topic or their ability to articulate a point concisely.
Don't miss this episode as we unravel the captivating history, breathtaking experiences, and lasting impacts of the Panama Canal. Tune in and let the journey begin!
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40000418
Personality: Clifton Strengths With Nika
Today on the English With Grace podcast we explore how the Clifton Strengths assessment can help you understand your unique personality.
In today's episode, I have invited Nika who is an expert in Clifton Strengths and has helped numerous individuals discover their strengths.
We start off by discussing what the Clifton Strengths are and how they can be used to improve personal and professional lives. Nika shares examples of how individuals have leveraged their strengths to excel in their careers and personal relationships. As English has become a global language, we also explore how non-native English speakers can use their Clifton Strengths to communicate effectively and navigate cultural differences.
Finally, we discuss some advice for individuals who want to discover their Clifton Strengths but may struggle with language barriers or cultural differences. As we wrap up, Nika leaves us with a quote related to today's topic:
"You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with."
Tune in to this episode to discover how you can leverage your unique strengths to excel in life!
- Discount code - RP9A27UGV ($10 discount)
- This is where a person goes to purchase assessments and can redeem the code upon checkout - https://store.gallup.com/h/en-us
- Top 5 (this is what Grace mentions on the podcast) - https://store.gallup.com/p/en-us/10108/top-5-cliftonstrengths
- Upgrade to 34 (if you already know your top 5) - https://store.gallup.com/p/en-us/10243/cliftonstrengths-34-upgrade
- Top 34 (if you don't have Top 5 yet) - https://store.gallup.com/p/en-us/10003/cliftonstrengths-34
Trash Talking With Maria
In this episode of English With Grace, we explore the topic of waste management and discuss the impact of our daily choices on the environment. Our guest today is Maria. Maria is an expert in sustainability and waste management, and she joins us to shed light on some important questions related to waste management. We begin by asking Maria to explain what happens to our trash once we throw it away. She provides a detailed explanation, highlighting the different stages of waste management and the challenges involved in each stage. We then move on to discuss recycling, what it means and whether all types of plastics and paper can be recycled. Maria gives us some valuable insights, including the differences between different types of plastic and paper and the importance of proper disposal. Next, we ask Maria what individuals can do to reduce the amount of trash they produce. She offers some practical tips and suggestions, emphasizing the importance of being mindful of our daily choices and making small but significant changes. Finally, we turn our attention to food waste and what we can do to reduce it. Maria shares some eye-opening statistics and offers some helpful advice on how we can reduce food waste at home.
Throughout the episode, we learn a lot about waste management and the impact of our actions on the environment. Maria provides us with some valuable insights, and we hope that our listeners will come away from this episode feeling informed and inspired to make a difference.
Maria's idiom:
Trash talking or talking trash is a colloquial expression used to describe a style of speaking that involves making negative or insulting comments about someone or something in order to provoke or intimidate them.
This kind of talk can occur in many contexts, such as in:
- sports competitions
- political debates
- personal arguments
In sports, trash talking is often used as a strategy to try to distract or demoralize an opponent, or to boost the confidence of one's own team. In political debates or personal arguments, it can be used to undermine an opponent's credibility or to ridicule their views.
The term "trash talking" implies that the language being used is of low value or quality, like trash. It can be seen as disrespectful or unsportsmanlike and is generally not appreciated in more formal or polite contexts. However, in certain informal settings, trash talking can be seen as a way to engage in playful banter or to build camaraderie among friends.
You can find Maria and her work at https://www.wastefreetahoe.com/
Enjoy!
Food Quirks With Scott- Ranch
Welcome back to another episode of the English With Grace podcast! Today, Scott and I discuss another food (or dressing) that is common in the MidWest of the USA, RANCH! We redefine the word "quirk," (also discussed in Food Quirks With Robbie: Peanut Butter). We explain what ranch is, share common foods you might eat with ranch, Scott's obsession with this dressing/sauce and more! Scott's expression
Food Quirks With Robbie - Peanut Butter
Welcome back to another episode of the English With Grace podcast. Robbie joins us today for the first time to discuss a very popular food in the US, Peanut Butter! We define the word "quirk," Robbie shares some food quirks from his upbringing, specifically peanut butter, and explains the meaning of creamy versus crunchy.
Robbie's Expression: "You are the peanut butter to my jelly"
Meaning: You complete me.
PB&J Song - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRBOgtp0Hac
Learning English With Duoen
On today's episode of the English With Grace podcast, Duoen joins us to discuss her experiences learning English! We discuss the following questions:
1) Is it common to learn English in China and at what age do people usually start? When did you start?
2) What are the three most common mistakes Chinese learners make or what are the 3 most difficult things about learning English?
3) What has been the most helpful for you to learn English?
Duoen's expression:
"To get/have butterflies in your stomach" is an idiomatic expression that means you are anxious and have a nervous feeling in your stomach.
Example: I get butterflies in my stomach before I have to present or give a speech.
Music With Bill
Today on the English With Grace podcast Bill returns to discuss one of his favorite topics, music! If you haven't listened already, you can also hear Bill on the sports episode. Bill and I discuss the importance of music, some of Bill's favorite songs, artists, concerts, and Australian musicians. Enjoy!
Book recommendation: The Resilience Project by Hugh van Cuylenburg
Bill's quote:
There are three things that can change your mood really quickly:
1) Laughter
2) Exercise
3) Music
Song Recommendations:
The Summer by Josh Pyke
But time is like the ocean
You can only hold a little in your hands
So we swim before we're broken
Before our bones become
Black coral on the sand
Distant Sun by Crowded House
Still so young to travel so far
Old enough to know who you are
Wise enough to carry the scars
Without any blame, there’s no one to blame
It’s easy to forget what you learned
Waiting for the thrill to return
Feeling your desire burn
And drawn to the flame
Give Bill's playlist a listen! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/77ZE1BhqcfnwikMrd26QF5?si=e994LNJUSS2v48UmXrGAzw
Titanic With Coco
Have you seen the movie Titanic? Today Coco joins us again to discuss the movie, our favorite characters, scenes, and quotes. We also discuss the controversial door dilemma. Could Jack have fit on the door? Let us know all your thoughts, comments, and questions as you listen to this episode.
You can find Coco on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube all linked here. https://linktr.ee/unapologetically_coco?utm_source=linktree_profile_share
Celebrities With Coco
Welcome back to another episode of the English With Grace podcast. Today Coco joins us again to discuss Celebrities (please see Coco’s previous episodes titled Cultivating Resilience and the Non-Binary). We define pop culture, discuss fame and our favorite celebrities.
Coco’s Quote: “It’s my job to keep up with pop culture and what the kids are into because you don’t want to sound like an old man trying to write for kids. I spend a lot of my time spying on them.” -R.L. Stine.
You can find Coco on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube all linked here. https://linktr.ee/unapologetically_coco?utm_source=linktree_profile_share
The Non-Binary With Coco
On this episode of the English With Grace podcast, Coco joins us again to discuss the non-binary. You can also find them on the "Cultivating Resilience" episode. Coco and I discuss and define what it means to be non-binary and Coco shares their story with us. You can also see more about this topic on their YouTube channel found here https://youtu.be/4iPGehSeQEw. We also want to stress that one person's story is not everyone's story, as Coco mentions on the podcast. Please don't hesitate to share your questions and comments with us!
You can find Coco on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube all linked here. https://linktr.ee/unapologetically_coco?utm_source=linktree_profile_share
Coco's Quote:
"The things that make us different, those are our superpowers — every day when you walk out the door and put on your imaginary cape and go out there and conquer the world because the world would not be as beautiful as it is if we weren’t in it."
-Lena Waite
The 4 Agreements With Kadi
Today on the English With Grace episode, Kadi joins us to discuss the book The 4 Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. Kadi was previously on the podcast to discuss the book Atomic Habits if you haven't already listened. During this episode, Kadi and I discuss each one of the 4 agreements as well as which agreements are the easiest and hardest for us to follow! If you've read the book, we would love to hear which agreements are the easiest and hardest for you as well!
Kadi's Quote:
"Life is very simple and easy to understand but we complicate it with the beliefs and ideas that we create."
-Don Miguel Ruiz
New Year's Resolutions With Erick
Happy New Year! During this episode of English With Grace Erick joins us again to share some of his favorite New Years' Eve traditions and experiences. We also discuss what it means to set a resolution and Erick and I share some of our own!
Erick's idiom: To turn over a new leaf
Meaning: To change your behavior in a positive way.
Example: "She turned over a new leaf and began getting to work on time."
Sports With Bill
During this episode of English With Grace, Bill explains some popular sports in Australia and shares some of his personal favorites. He also explains what a "specky" is in AFL (Aussie Rules League) and a "big hit" in Rugby.
Bill's Chant #1:
Here come the Tigers wearing black and gold
Stout hearted men
All fit and bold
Watch them make a break and see them score a try
Their motto is do or die
They tour our famous field with many a name
Of players from Balmain
Hooray up the Tigers
Hear the mighty roar
It¹s the team from Balmain just watch them score
They¹ll keep playing till they hear the whistle blow
And show the crowd what they know
They tour our famous field with many a name
Of players from Balmain
In this year¹s premiership they are doing well
Because they play like hell
They play like hell
You know darn well they play like hell
Their motto is do or die
They tour our famous field with many a name
Of players from Balmain
Chant #2
Cheer cheer the red and the white
Honour the name by day and by night
Lift that noble banner high
Shake down the thunder from the sky
Whether the odds be great or small
Swans will go in and win overall
While her loyal sons are marching
Onwards to victory
Thanksgiving With Grace
Time Management With Alex
Book recommendation! 168 Hours: You Have More Time Than You Think by Laura Vanderkam.
Alex's Idiom:
Once in a blue moon.
Example: I see my family once in a blue moon because I live in California and they live in Iowa.
Cultivating Resilience with Coco
Are you resilient? Can you think of someone who cultivates resilience on a daily basis? I can! Enjoy this conversation I had with Coco on about cultivating resilience. You can find Coco on TikTok, instagram and youtube all linked here. https://linktr.ee/unapologetically_coco?utm_source=linktree_profile_share
Coco's Quote:
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear in that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our Light, not our Darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the World. There is nothing enlightening about shrinking so that other people won’t feel unsure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It is not just in some of us; it is in everyone. As we let our own Light shine, we consciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” Marianne Williamson We also mention the different generation names in this episode.
More on those below:
The Greatest Generation (GI Generation): Born 1901–1924.
The Silent Generation: Born 1928–1945.
Baby Boom Generation: Born 1946–1964.
Generation X: Born 1965–1980.
Millennial Generation or Generation Y: Born 1981–1996.
Generation Z or iGen: Born 1997–2010.
Generation Alpha: 2011-present
Atomic Habits With Kadi
Kadi's Quote: "Inch by inch, life's a cinch.”
St. Patrick's Day With Sylvia
Sylvia's Idiom:
Screaming like a banshee. This word comes from Irish word beansi, meaning woman.
Meaning: to yell or to scream in distress or sadness.
Vocabulary:
co-opt
burst your bubble
belron
banjo
"the crack"
Guiness
New City New Life with Erick
Erick's idiom:
Water under the bridge
Meaning:
Water under the bridge is an idiom used to refer to something over and gone and so not worth thinking about. Forgive and forget.
Friends & Family with Emily
Are friends more important than family? Do you prefer to have many friends or just a few that you are close to? How do you think family life is changing in your country? Emily and I discuss these questions during today's episode of English With Grace. Have a listen and see if you can relate!
Emily's quote: "Blood is thicker than water"
Meaning: Family relationships are more important than other relationships or that family comes first above all other relationships.
Do you agree with this quote?
From Kazakhstan to Poland with Sofia Grace
Listen to the most recent episode of English With Grace as Sofia Grace shares her experiences traveling from Kazakhstan to Poland. During this episode, Sofia Grace shares some poetry which can be found on her Instagram. Follow her here: https://www.instagram.com/poetry_sofiagrace/
Sofia's Idiom:
"To look at something from a different angle." This means to look at something from a different point of view.
Online Dating With Avery
Today Avery returns to discuss the topic of Online Dating on the English With Grace podcast. We define online dating and discuss some popular online dating apps in Norway and the US. We also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of online dating and define what it means to "catfish" someone.
Avery's quote for online dating:
"If I know what love is, it is because of you." -Herman Hays
From Spain to the US With Miguel
Miguel's expression: Holy shit! A very informal way to express surprise or amazement. I would recommend only using in informal situations and amongst your close friends. You could also say holy moly which is not considered a cuss word.
Comparing Life in Norway and China with Avery
Today on English With Grace, Avery and I discuss her experience living and working in Norway as someone from China. We hope you enjoy our conversation and learn some new English words and expressions along the way!
Avery's quote from SKAM:
"Everyone you meet is fighting a battle you know nothing about, so remember to be kind."
Culture Shock With Lauren
Have you ever experienced culture shock? During this episode of English With Grace, Lauren shares her experiences living in both China and France. Listen to hear more about the culture shock she experienced as well as some advice she has for language learners!
Study Abroad With Merey
Are you interested in studying abroad? During this episode of English With Grace, Merey gives some great reasons to study abroad and her future plans for studying abroad. She also shares some great reasons to study in or visit Aktobe, Kazakhstan. Enjoy!
Vocab:
study abroad
eye-opening
Idiom: To know something by heart
Example: "Do you know this song by heart?"
Influencers With Tereza
Are you interested in learning more about social media influencers? Look no further! Tereza is a social media influencer and
in this episode, she shares her journey as an influencer in China. Pro tip from Tereza-"Focus on your passions and what you're good at!"
KOL- Key opinion leader
Moving From China to the UK With Alison
Are you considering studying abroad in the UK? Listen to this episode to hear Alison's experience moving from China to the UK and some of the cultural differences she has experienced living in Bristol.
Alison's quote from this episode:
"Cultural differences should not separate us from each other, but rather cultural diversity brings a collective strength that can benefit all of humanity” - Robert Alan.
Travel With Aram
Ramadan With Heba
Ramadan is a special holiday for Muslim communities all around the world. During this episode of English With Grace, Heba and I discuss Ramadan, its significance, and other customs and traditions during this important Muslim holiday.
Superstitions With Cal Powers
Superstitions mentioned:
Knock on wood
Fingers crossed
Lift your feet as you cross railroad tracks
Don't split poles when walking
Lucky pennies
Sustainability With Maria
Stress With Rae
Enjoy this episode of English With Grace as Rae and I discuss stress, what causes stress, and ways to reduce stress in our lives. I also mention a documentary during this episode. Here is the link to the film, A Social Dilemma.
https://www.thesocialdilemma.com/the-film/
Cultural Experiences With Jan - Part 2
Welcome back for Cultural Differences Part II with Jan. During this episode of English With Grace, Jan and I continue our conversation about his experiences living and volunteering in Kenya.
Cultural Differences With Jan Havlicek
Join this conversation on the English With Grace podcast as Jan and I discuss some cultural differences he experienced while living in the US, specifically in California. Jan is originally from the Czech Republic and has also spent time in Kenya and Sub-Saharan Africa.
International Women's Day With Daisy - Part II
Daisy's definition of a "baddie" is- someone who doesn't care what others think, someone who strives to be their authentic self and encourages others to do the same.
Beauty and Make-Up With Nancy
Listen to this conversation about beauty and make-up between me and my student, Nancy Zang. Nancy has been a student in my English With Grace speaking classes for over a year and brings an interesting take to any conversation.
International Women's Day With Daisy Gonzalez- Part 1
Mental Health With Isaiah
Risks With Isaiah Foulks