Culips Everyday English Podcast

Do you ever feel frustrated after a bad day at work, a test, or a long commute? In this Chatterbox episode, join Andrew and Anna for a conversation about frustration and how to talk about it clearly in English. In this lesson, you will learn how frustration is different from anger and disappointment, hear real stories you can relate to, and pick up useful expressions like “at the end of my rope,”...

In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Indiana chat about Indiana’s surprise 30th birthday trip to Las Vegas. You’ll hear how her husband planned the trip, what Las Vegas is really like, and how she felt when she discovered the big surprise he had prepared for her.  Andrew and Indiana also talk about cultural expressions and ideas linked to Las Vegas, like “Sin City” and “What happens in Ve...

In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Indiana teach you two very common and useful English expressions for making comparisons: “apples to oranges” and “night and day.” These idioms help you describe situations where things are so different that it’s not fair or even possible to compare them. You’ll hear realistic examples, like comparing homemade food to the gorgeous dishes shared by influencers,...

What do you do when your favorite jacket starts to smell really bad? In this episode, Andrew shares a funny story about two expensive jackets that developed a terrible musty odor after being stored under his bed for the summer. He talks about trying different solutions, like leaving them in the sun, putting them in the freezer, and spraying them with fabric spray and even vodka. Listen as Andrew s...

In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew catches up with Kassy, who returns to share exciting updates about her life. She talks about finishing her master’s degree, taking a long trip across the United States with her baby, moving to a new city in Korea, and adjusting to work after maternity leave. Kassy also shares her experience planning her son’s first birthday and explains a special Korean tr...

In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna talk about algorithms, the hidden digital systems that shape what we see online. They discuss how these tools affect what we buy, what we believe, and even how we feel. If you’ve ever wondered why the same ads seem to follow you everywhere, or you’re curious about Andrew’s story of being flooded with hair transplant ads, you’ll enjoy this one. If you’re...

What’s the best way to give money as a gift? In this episode, Andrew tells a story about hosting his wife’s family for Chuseok, the Korean Thanksgiving holiday. You’ll hear him talk about preparing a huge meal, fitting eight people into a small space, and turning gift-giving into fun games with cash prizes. Listen along to supercharge your listening skills. Don’t forget to check...

In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Indiana talk about retirement. They chat about what it means, how it looks in different countries, and what people dream of doing after they stop working. You’ll hear them share real examples from the United States, Canada, and Korea and discuss ideas like second careers, semi-retirement, and common lifestyles for retirees. They also teach several usef...

Have you ever had a day that started off terribly but somehow became unforgettable? In this episode, Andrew shares the story of a rainy half marathon that began in total chaos and ended with a sweet surprise. You’ll hear real, everyday English as he talks about staying motivated, finding focus, and turning frustration into pride. You’ll also learn natural expressions that native speakers use, like...

In this episode, Andrew and Indiana get honest with each other about everyday things that annoy people. They talk about habits that “get on their nerves,” such as loud chewing, people using their phones while talking, overused clichés, bad driving habits, and even dog owners who don’t follow the rules. Along the way, your hosts explain useful expressions like “gets on my nerves,” and “grinds my ge...

In this episode, Andrew and Alina share updates about what’s new at Culips! You’ll learn about the second European meetup happening in Hamburg, Germany on October 18th. They also introduce the October challenge, which is focused on linking words that will help you create better-connected sentences. European Meetup #2 – Hamburg, Germany Date : Saturday, October 18th Time : 4:00 PM...

In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Indiana teach you two very useful English expressions: “cut someone some slack” and “give someone the benefit of the doubt.” These are common phrases that English speakers use to ask for understanding, forgiveness, or trust when someone is under pressure or when we are unsure about their actions. What you’ll learn with this episode: How to use “cut someone so...

What if you could speak with anyone, in any language, in real time? In this bonus episode, Andrew explores that idea with a clear, step-by-step look at live translation. He reads a news article and explains the key ideas and terms in easy to understand English, showing how Apple, Google, and Meta are pursuing the “universal translator” and what it could mean for travel, work, and daily life. What...

In this episode of Chatterbox, Andrew and Anna talk about street smarts: the practical skills and awareness people should have in order to stay safe and confident in cities. They share personal stories about living in places like Madrid, London, Seoul, and Canada, and explain how experiences such as pickpocketing or mugging can change the way people think about safety. The hosts also compare life...

In this episode, Andrew and Indiana continue their fun conversation about things that are overrated or underrated. They share their opinions on topics like walking 10,000 steps a day, biohacking, pineapple on pizza, vinyl records, and even the idea of being famous. They compare their different views, tell stories, and explain why some things deserve more love while others are praised too much. 👉...

Do bad things really come in threes? In this episode, Andrew tells you four mini stories from his week that will make you wonder about this old superstition. From unexpected moments during his evening run to tech troubles that tested his patience, you’ll hear authentic English storytelling that takes you from frustrating lows to feel-good highs. You’ll improve your listening skills by...

In this episode, Andrew and Indiana talk about Indiana’s recent trip to Colorado. She shares stories about all of the activities she enjoyed during her time there, such as attending a wedding, spotting mountain goats on a hike, and adjusting to the thin air of “the Mile High City.” Indiana also tells Andrew about trying local craft beers and visiting the surreal art installation called Meow Wolf....

In this episode, Alina recaps the Culips meetup that happened in July, introduces the next Culips meetup, and tells you all about the September challenge! September Challenge: Let’s talk about work Theme : Work-related English (interviews, dress codes, workplace situations) How it works : New tasks every other day throughout September Answer work-related questions and scenarios Great chance to rev...

In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Indiana teach you two very useful English idioms: to go off the rails and to get out of hand. These are common expressions that English speakers use to describe situations that become chaotic, unmanageable, or out of control. You’ll hear Andrew and Indiana explain the meaning, give background, and share many everyday examples. They also act out short conversa...

In this episode, Andrew talks about his recent trip to Sapporo, Japan. He tells you about exploring the Susukino district, visiting the coastal town of Otaru, and discovering beer and sake festivals throughout the city. You’ll also hear about many of his other adventures including witnessing a car accident and navigating the city without Google Maps for an extra challenge! This episode is pe...

Why do some people do foolish things even though they’re smart? And why do some things that are obvious to you seem difficult for others to understand? In this episode, Andrew and Anna explore the idea of “common sense.” They discuss what it means, where it comes from, and why people sometimes seem to lack it. As they chat, Andrew and Anna share funny real-life stories from their lives and compare...

In this episode, Andrew tells the story of his quick one-day visit to Osaka. You’ll hear about his record shopping plans, an unexpected tsunami alert, and how he had to make some tough decisions about his travel plans. This is perfect for English learners because you’ll hear natural storytelling with everyday vocabulary and expressions. Andrew speaks clearly and shares real experiences...

In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Indiana explore a topic everyone can relate to – the things we’re bad at. They share funny and honest stories about their struggles with tasks like assembling IKEA furniture, drawing, handling insects, recalling movie details, parking while chatting, and even stretching. Through your hosts’ lighthearted conversation, you’ll hear how these challenges sh...

Do you ever get a feeling that something is right or wrong, even if you can’t explain why? In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna explore the idea of the sixth sense, also known as intuition. They talk about what it means, how it works, and when they’ve relied on it in real life. You’ll hear personal stories, learn common expressions, and improve your listening skills while enjoying a fun, na...

August Challenge – Vocabulary Boost! In this episode, Andrew and Alina introduce the August Challenge, happening on our Discord server. This month, you’ll focus on expanding your vocabulary by learning and using 15 advanced adjectives that have been featured in Culips episodes. It’s a great way to make your English sound more colorful, expressive, and natural like a native speaker. The...