How did the Winter Olympics first come into existence and how have they evolved over the years?

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the fascinating history of the Winter Games and discover fun facts and trivia along the way!

In this episode, you'll learn:

• the origins of the Winter Olympics
• about some of the most popular winter sports
• interesting and funny trivia
• advanced English vocabulary and idioms related to sport

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is ideal for learners who want to practice their listening comprehension skills and learn phrases that native speakers use when talking about competition and sport.

👉 You can find the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

How can reading reshape our brain and help us live longer and happier lives? And what makes it a powerful tool to improving your English at B2 and C1 levels?

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore how advanced English learners can benefit from getting into the habit of reading. We also share five classic novels that balance accessible prose with depth so you can build rhythm, tone, and nuance.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• what makes reading a whole-brain process
• how reading in English regularly can take your English to the next level
• about five great books you can pick up and start reading today!
• advanced vocabulary and idioms related to reading and literature

If you are interested in joining a friendly community that reads together, check out my new Book Club course below. This is a great way for advanced learners to get into the habit of reading and gain confidence discussing literature!

https://jackieteachesenglish.com/book-club/

You can access the free annotated transcript for this episode on my website:

https://jackieteachesenglish.com

Why do English speakers often sound vague, indirect, or non-committal — even when they seem to understand the situation clearly?

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore why indirect communication is so common in English and what it actually means in real conversations. Rather than focusing on specific phrases or rules, this episode looks at the social function of indirect language and why it often appears at more advanced levels of communication.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why English speakers often avoid saying things too directly
• How indirect language helps manage pressure and keep conversations open

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is ideal for learners who already understand English well, but want to better interpret tone, intention, and meaning in real-life conversations.

👉 You can find the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

What were Americans most curious about in 2025 — and what do these searches tell us about American culture?

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the top things Americans Googled in 2025 and what these search trends reveal about the biggest concerns, interests, and cultural moments of the year.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• The top Google searches in the United States in 2025
• What these trends say about American culture and society
• Useful English vocabulary and idioms connected to current events
• How to talk about trends, news, and social issues in English

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and better understand modern American culture.

👉 You can access the annotated transcript for this episode at jackieteachesenglish.com

To be or not to be — that is the question! But why is Shakespeare still so important for English learners today?

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the life and legacy of William Shakespeare and how English learners can actually enjoy and learn from his work.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Who Shakespeare was and why his influence still matters
• Why Shakespearean English can feel difficult to understand
• Practical tips for enjoying Shakespeare as an English learner
• Useful vocabulary and idioms inspired by Shakespeare’s language

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and feel more confident reading and understanding classic English.

You can access the annotated transcript for this episode at jackieteachesenglish.com

Why do people say “trick or treat,” and where do Halloween traditions actually come from?

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the origins of Halloween, how it developed into the holiday we know today, and the traditions celebrated in English-speaking countries.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• The origins of Halloween and how the holiday began
• Popular Halloween traditions and what they mean
• Useful English vocabulary and idioms related to Halloween
• How to talk about holidays and traditions naturally in English

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and better understand cultural traditions in English-speaking countries.

👉 You can access the free annotated transcript for this episode at jackieteachesenglish.com

Why do the British love tea so much — and what does “spill the tea” actually mean?

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore the history of tea in Britain and how this famous drink inspired some of the most popular English idioms still used today.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• How tea became such an important part of British culture
• The meaning of “spill the tea” and other tea-related English idioms
• When and how to use these idioms naturally in conversation
• Useful vocabulary connected to British culture and daily life

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to improve their listening skills, expand their vocabulary, and understand British English expressions more confidently.

You can access the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com

Why do we have accents, and is it really possible to change your accent when speaking English?

In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we explore how accents are formed, why everyone sounds different, and what this means for English learners who want to improve their pronunciation.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• How accents develop and why they’re so hard to change
• Whether English learners should try to change their accent
• Common myths about accents and pronunciation
• Useful vocabulary and idioms related to language and speech

This upper-intermediate to advanced English podcast episode is perfect for learners who want to understand accents better, feel more confident speaking English, and improve their listening and pronunciation skills.

Find the free annotated transcript at jackieteachesenglish.com