English Fluency Now Podcast

The English Fluency Now Podcast offers interesting, engaging, relevant and timely content for English as a Second Language (ESL) learners and ESL teachers throughout the world. Listening to the podcast on a regular basis is an excellent way to improve your English listening and speaking skills. My name is Lisa Biskup and I am an experienced ESL teacher and language learner. I create content that will help you build your understanding of a wide-variety of topics, introducing you to important vocabulary, idiomatic expressions and grammatical structures within a context that is engaging and timely. Build your confidence and skill with the English language with regular listening. Good luck!

EFN 78: Memorial Day 05/31/2021

EFN 78: Memorial Day In this episode you will learn about the history of Memorial Day and how it is observed these days. Memorial Day is a day of remembrance. It is a time to honor American military personnel who died in the line of duty, serving their country. Podcast Lesson Guides are available at www.englishfluencynow.com/products /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/19303478

EFN 77: Spring Cleaning 05/24/2021

EFN 77: Spring Cleaning In this episode I discuss spring cleaning. Spring is a time when many people deep clean, declutter, and organize their homes. You will learn many useful words and phrases to talk about this topic. To purchase the Lesson Guide, visit www.englishfluencynow.com /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/19211423

EFN 76: Massage 04/30/2021

EFN 76: Massage In this episode I talk about the different types of massage you can get at various places in the U.S. You will learn useful vocabulary related to massage so you can discuss the differences, know how to book a massage, and know what to expect when you get one. The Lesson Guide is available at www.englishfluencynow.com I hope you enjoy this episode. If you do, please write a positive review. Thanks! /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/18919448

EFN 75: Hobby Farms 04/19/2021

EFN 75: Hobby Farms In this episode I discuss hobby farms. Now that more and more people are working from home, people are choosing to move out of cities and live in the country. They are starting hobby farms, raising animals, growing food, and becoming more self-sufficient. Listen to find out more about hobby farms and the many reasons people are moving back to the land. Lesson guides available at www.englishfluencynow.com /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/18773576

EFN 74: Joshua Tree 04/09/2021

EFN 74: Joshua Tree In this episode I tell you about my recent trip to Joshua Tree National Park and Palm Springs. You will learn a little about this area of Southern California and what types of things you can do if you visit. Named after the unique Joshua Tree, this park encompasses two desert environments, The Mojave and The Colorado. Lesson Guides are available online at www.englishfluencynow.com /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/18661310

EFN 73: CA Universities 03/30/2021

EFN 73: CA Universities In this episode I explain what American high school students and foreigners need to do to plan for college, and what the four options are in California. California has community colleges, the California State University system, the University of California system, and private colleges. Listen to the podcast to learn about the admissions process, costs, and how to choose the best school for you. Purchase the Lesson Guide at www.englishfluencynow.com /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/18530051

EFN 72: Credit Cards 03/22/2021

EFN 72: Credit Cards In this episode I am talking about credit cards. What are they? Why do we use them? What are the pros and cons? How do you get one? Find out all about how credit cards work so you can be able to understand and speak about this topic in English. You will learn lots of useful words and phrases related to this topic. To purchase the Lesson Guide, visit www.englishfluencynow.com /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/18415943

EFN 71: Popular Diets 03/14/2021

EFN 71: Popular Diets In this episode you will learn about a variety of diets that have become quite popular in the U.S. in the past few decades. These diets include vegetarian, vegan, low-car, keto, paleo, and carnivore. Each diet has numerous proponents and followers. In this episode you will learn how these diet plans have changed the way Americans eat. This episode is chock full of useful words to talk about dietary preferences. Lesson Guides are available at www.englishfluencynow.com/products. Enjoy! /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/18313307

EFN 70: First Job 03/07/2021

EFN 70: First Job In the U.S., many teens get their first job between the ages of 14 and 18. Listen to this episode to find out which types of businesses hire teens, how much money they make, and the types of work they do. You will also learn about the minimum wage and what a paycheck will look like after taxes and deductions. To purchase the Lesson Guide, visit www.englishfluencynow.com /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/18221957

EFN 69: Black History Month 03/01/2021

EFN 69: Black History Month Black History Month is celebrated each year during the month of February. It is an opportunity for Americans to learn about the contributions of black Americans in all areas of life: business, leadership, music, art, movies, writing, science, inventions, industry, sports, and philosophy. Learn about important black Americans such as Frederick Douglass, Martin Luther King, Jr., Mae Jemison, Washington Carver, and others. To purchase the lesson guide, visit www.englishfluencynow.com /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/18144278

EFN 68: Clubhouse 02/21/2021

EFN 68: Clubhouse Have you been invited to Clubhouse? This is a new and exciting way to interact with people around the world, and a great way to improve your English listening and speaking skills. Find out all about Clubhouse in this episode. Learn how to use the app and useful words and phrases related to navigating the app. For $1 you can purchase the Lesson Guide for this episode at EnglishFluencyNow.com. /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/18031301

EFN 67: Mask Debate 02/14/2021

EFN 67: Mask Debate The mask debate has divided Americans for nearly a year. Some people believe masks are common sense strategies for fighting the coronavirus. Those who disagree believe they are ineffective and infringe on a citizen's freedom. Listen to the podcast to learn words and phrases related to this topic so you can understand the issue more deeply and comprehend other articles and videos you might see about it. For $1 you can purchase the Lesson Guide for this episode at EnglishFluencyNow.com. /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/17944007

EFN 66: Route 66 02/07/2021

EFN 66: Route 66 In this episode you will learn about the iconic American highway Route 66. Built in 1926, Route 66 was the first American highway that connected Chicago to Los Angeles, winding its way through states such as Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arizona, and on ending in California. You can still visit Route 66 and have a fun adventure. For $1 you can purchase the Lesson Guide for this episode at EnglishFluencyNow.com. /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/17850785

EFN 65: Short Squeeze 02/01/2021

EFN 65: Short Squeeze In this episode, I talk about the epic Short Squeeze that happened in the U.S. Stock Market the week ending January 29, 2021. Learn how the stock market works, what a short squeeze is, and how a group of Reddit investors got their revenge on billionaire hedge funds. To get the Lesson Guide with the complete transcript and more, go to www.englishfluencynow.com /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/17779415

EFN 64: Trump 05/11/2016

EFN 64: Trump In this episode, I talk about Donald Trump and the fact that he is now the presumptive nominee for the Republican Party. He has been winning primary after primary, but he remains a controversial figure. Many Americans are shocked that he has garnered so much support. How has he done it? Why are so many Americans voting for him? What are his plans? I address these and other questions in the podcast. This podcast will help you better understand just what is has been happening over the past few months regarding the primary/caucus electoral process. You will learn tons of useful vocabulary and expressions that will help you better understand the news. To get the Lesson Guide with the complete transcript and more, go to /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/4362459

EFN 63: Party Nominating Process 01/24/2016

EFN 63: Party Nominating Process This year we will elect a new president. Who will it be? On February 1, 2016, the primary elections and party caucuses will begin throughout the 50 States and Territories. In this episode, I explain how this works with regards to the top two parties: Democrats and Republicans. You will learn key vocabulary related to this topic and be able to better understand news commentators when they are discussing the candidates, the leaders, who might be dropping out, etc. You learn what a party delegate is and how one gets to the National Convention. Listening to this podcast helps you improve your listening comprehension and prepares you for the topics that you'll find on the TOEFL or IELTS exams. If you like the podcast, please leave me a 5-star review! I appreciate your support and it helps other English learners find it as well. Thanks and feel free to contact me if you have any questions. /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/4099510

EFN 62: Dude Ranches 01/10/2016

EFN 62: Dude Ranches In episode 62, I talk about my trip to a dude ranch in Mexico. You will learn about what a dude ranch is, what you can do there and a bit about the history of the dude ranch. This episode is full of great descriptive words that you can use in your own conversations when describing places and destination spots. Listen to the podcast to learn more about this beautiful area of Mexico and this fun way to spend your time riding horses and getting to know a rural area. You can also purchase the Lesson Guide for this episode online at my website www.englishfluencynow.com/products. Thanks for listening! If you liked the episode, please leave a 5-star review on iTunes. The more people who leave positive reviews, the easier it is for others to find it and use it to improve their English! Yeah! /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/4066586

EFN 61: Broadway 12/14/2015

EFN 61: Broadway In episode 61, I talk about my recent trip to New York City and the four Broadway shows that I saw. I talk about how to get to Broadway, how to purchase tickets, and how to access information about the shows on the show's websites. Going to Broadway is an amazing experience and something every visitor to New York should do at least once, but there are some things you should know to get the best deals. Learn about my tips by listening to this episode. I'd love to hear about your experiences in NYC and/or about your favorite Broadway show, so please leave a comment on the blog page. You can also purchase the Lesson Guide for this episode online at my website www.englishfluencynow.com/products. Thanks for listening! If you liked the episode, please leave a 5-star review on iTunes. The more people who leave positive reviews, the easier it is for others to find it and use it to become fluent in English! Yeah! /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/4014543

EFN 60: Water Parks 09/14/2015

EFN 60: Water Parks Water Parks are a great place to have fun with your family and friends during the summer. This summer I visited a park called Wild Waves here in Washington and it was really fun. In this episode, you will learn what water parks are like here in the U.S. and you will learn a lot of important words that will help you speak fluently about this topic. I'd love to hear about your experiences with water parks, so please leave a comment on the blog page. You can also purchase the Lesson Guide for all episodes online at www.englishfluencynow.com/products. Thanks for listening! If you liked the episode, please leave a 5-star review on iTunes. The more people who leave positive reviews, the easier it is for others to find it and use it to become fluent in English! Yeah! /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/3797393

EFN 59: Small Town Festivals 06/08/2015

EFN 59: Small Town Festivals Small Town Festivals are taking place all across the U.S. right now. Just this past month we celebrated the Rhody Festival in my town. In this episode, you will learn all about the Rhody Festival and what it's like to participate in a small town celebration. You will learn about the types of parades we have, the carnival rides and the cake picnic! If you ever come to the U.S. in the spring or summer, be sure to find a small town festival to attend. They are really fun and you can learn a lot about the local culture that way. To get the Lesson Guide for this episode, go to my website www.englishfluencynow.com and click on the Products page. /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/3602209

EFN 58: Household Budget 05/08/2015

EFN 58: Household Budget In this episode I talk about the typical expenses that are included in a household budget: a mortgage, property taxes, utilities and insurance. Beyond these fixed expenses, you will have to spend money on groceries, health insurance, car insurance, entertainment, education, exercise and more. Listen to this episode to learn how to talk about this topic in English and learn what some of the average expenses are here in the United States. If you want to get the Lesson Guide, go to the website and go to the products page. Also on the website, you will find other types of free lessons on the blog and my speaking course "Success with Stories". If you like the podcast, please give me a 5-star review on iTunes, so that other people can find out about this podcast. Thanks a bunch! Take care, Lisa /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/3541691

EFN 57: Junie B. Jones 04/21/2015

EFN 57: Junie B. Jones Reading easy chapter books is a great way to improve your understanding of everyday English and help you learn more about the American culture. In this episode, I introduce you to the international bestselling series from American author Barbara Park - Junie B. Jones. Junie B. is a feisty 5-year-old who will crack you up with her unique perception of and commentary on everyday life events: going to school, having a new baby brother, dealing with classmates and the many wonderful experiences that children live. Listen to the episode to learn how reading easy chapter series such as Junie B. Jones will help you improve your English in a fun and entertaining way. To purchase the Lesson Guide, with the complete transcript, comprehension questions and much more, go to my website www.englishfluencynow.com /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/3506641

EFN 56: Neuroplasticity and Brain Games 04/05/2015

EFN 56: Neuroplasticity and Brain Games In this episode, I talk about three books that I've read recently related to the idea of neuroplasticity. You will learn lots of new vocabulary words related to the brain, improving intelligence and overcoming learning disabilities. You will also learn about brain games: what they are and why you might want to play them. To get the Lesson Guide for this episode, with the complete transcript and additional learning materials, go to my website www.englishfluencynow.com - If you like this podcast, please leave a 5-star review on iTunes and share it with your friends. This helps more people find it and use it to help them improve their English. Thank you! /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/3474036

EFN 55: Talking About Your Day 03/15/2015

EFN 55: Talking About Your Day Talking about your day is a very common thing you need to be able to do in English. Why? Because people ask you all the time things like: What did you do today? What did you do this weekend? What did you have for dinner last night? When do you go to work? Being able to speak with ease and confidence about your daily routine is a great skill. In this episode, I help you learn how to use some of the most common phrasal verbs that are used to describe the actions you do all day long. As you listen to me describe one of my typical days, you will learn how to talk about the things you do throughout the day, in the morning, at work, in the afternoon, and in the evening. If you want to learn more about this topic and be able to read along with the entire transcript, get the Lesson Guide on my website at www.englishfluencynow.com. If you like my podcasts, it'd be great if you could leave me a 5-star review on iTunes and elsewhere, as that helps other English learners find this podcast and use it to improve their English. I really appreciate the love and support that I get from my listeners and students. Thank you!! /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/3425749

EFN 54: Talent is Overrated 02/19/2015

EFN 54: Talent is Overrated A lot of people think that world-class peformers have special genes, that they are just born with talent, but recent research proves that this isn't true. Certainly some people are born with interests or they develop a passion for something as they grow, such as a passion for music, sports or academics, but in order to become a world-class musician, athlete or scientist, you must put in a lot of time and practice. In fact, you need to put in something called deliberate practice over many, many years. In this episode, you will learn more about this as I talk about Geoff Colvin's book "Talent is Overrated". Once you hear this podcast, you won't be able to complain that you don't have the language gene or the music gene or the sports gene; you will know what it takes to become an expert in anything. If you like this podcast, please leave me a positive review on iTunes. Also, you can get the Lesson Guide on the website at www.englishfluencynow.com -- Thanks and enjoy! /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/3375317

EFN 53: Working with an English Coach 02/10/2015

EFN 53: Working with an English Coach In this episode, I tell you about the importance of working with a coach to achieve success. Successful business people, athletes, scientists, authors and actors all use coaches and mentors to help guide them to success. To achieve high levels of fluency in English, it is beneficial to work with an English coach (tutor, mentor or teacher). However, finding the right coach is just the first step. There are many things that you, as the student/client must do to make sure you use your time (and money) wisely to get the most out of your time with your coach. In this episode, you will learn specific things you must do to work successfully with an English coach. I wish you success in reaching your English fluency goals. To get the Lesson Guide that goes along with this episode, go to the website www.englishfluencynow.com. /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/3356582

EFN 52: Traveling by Plane 02/03/2015

EFN 52: Traveling by Plane In this episode, I tell you about my recent trip from Seattle (SEATAC) to Oakland (OAK) by plane. By listening to my story, you will learn a lot of useful vocabulary related to traveling by plane, plus you will understand the grammar more intuitively (if you pay attention). You will hear how I use a lot of different phrasal verbs while telling the story. As always, you can get the Lesson Guide for this episode online at the website at www.englishfluencynow.com if you would like to read along with the transcript. Listening is really important for improving your English fluency and listening to EFN podcast episodes is a great way to prepare for English exams, such as IELTS and TOEFL. If you like this podcast, please leave a 5-star review for me on iTunes - this helps the rankings, which helps more people find it. I also appreciate active participation, so make sure you comment on the blog page or on the Facebook page for English Fluency Now. Using your English in a real way is the best way to get you motivated to communicate in English. Finally, repetition is key, so remember to listen to the podcast a few times for deeper learning of vocabulary and expressions. /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/3339796

EFN 51: The Rosie Project 01/06/2015

EFN 51: The Rosie Project In this episode, I talk about "The Rosie Project", the best-selling novel from Australian author Graeme Simsion. I think the book would be a great read for advanced English learners and I highly recommend it. It's the story of Don, a socially awkward, 39-year-old professor of genetics and search for love. He is on a mission to find a wife - the Wife Project - and though he doesn't exactly get what he was hoping for, he does have a lot of fun discovering what true love is. Rosie, the unlikely recipient of his confused affections, is a barmaid and Ph.D. student who he gets involved with while using his skills as a geneticist to help her find her biological father - The Father Project. The book deals with the themes of being different (Don shows signs of having Asperger's Syndrome), human relationships and emotions, and the diversity of the human experience. I hope you enjoy this little synopsis of the book and that you have a look at it for yourself. If you do end up reading it, let me know what you think by writing a comment on the blog post page. I read all comments and respond. To get the Lesson Guide for this episode, go to www.englishfluencynow.com - If you are an English teacher, please feel free to share this podcast with your students, as it provides great listening practice for them outside of class. /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/3279513

EFN 50: Goals or No Goals? 12/31/2014

EFN 50: Goals or No Goals? A New Year is here and it is a time to make New Year's Resolutions and set some goals for yourself, or is it? Is this a truly effective way to get things done? Is it even necessary? In this episode, I discuss the pros and cons of setting goals. I discuss how goals can help motivate you to get a desired result and discuss Matt Stone's book "Goals Suck: Why the Obsessions with Goal-Setting is a Flawed Approach to Productivity and Life in General". Ultimately, you have to decide for yourself whether or not you will be setting goals for the new year. I hope you enjoy the podcast and find it useful. The Lesson Guide is available at www.englishfluencynow.com. /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/3269192

EFN 49: 10 Language Learning Tips 12/20/2014

EFN 49: 10 Language Learning Tips Everybody is always trying to figure out what the best way to do something is, and learning a language is no exception. In this episode, I review 10 suggestions that were given by mulitlingual experts in a recent discussion on language learning, reported on in The Guardian. You will hear what these experienced language learners and teachers have to say about language learning, in general, and what I have to add to their suggestions, especially for ESL students. As you know, I believe in comprehensible input and a lot of listening and reading in order to improve your English skills. I hope you enjoy the podcast and find it useful. The Lesson Guide is available at www.englishfluencynow.com. /episode/index/show/englishfluencynow/id/3253238

English Fluency Now Podcast

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