Jackie Teaches English

Why do so many language learners freeze in real conversations—even after years of study? In this episode, I’m joined by two experienced language teachers to unpack the gap between classroom learning and real-world speaking. We dive into learning French and Spanish in the UK school system, from GCSEs and A Levels to why lessons can feel formulaic and disconnected from real communication. We also sh...

Do you already have an advanced level of English but are looking for ways to build on it and keep your revision interesting? In this episode, I share five learning habits that I've built into my personal language learning routines that can help you increase your vocabulary, build fluency, and improve your speaking. In this episode you'll learn: how to maximise comprehensible input the be...

We know her for her films, but who was the real Audrey Hepburn beyond the screen?  In this episode of Jackie Teaches English, we mark International Women's Day by exploring the fascinating life, career and legacy of this Hollywood icon. In this episode, you'll learn: about her involvement in the Dutch resistance in WWII how she became the famous Hollywood actress about her dedication to...

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 En...

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,...

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 a...

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 •...

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...

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...

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-re...

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...

What is a “kidult,” and why are so many adults embracing their inner child? In this episode of Jackie Teaches English , we explore the rise of the kidult — adults who enjoy toys, games, cartoons, and other activities traditionally associated with childhood — and what this trend says about modern culture. In this episode, you’ll learn: • What the word “kidult” means and where it comes from • Why th...

Why do many Americans eat black-eyed peas for good luck on New Year’s Day? In this episode of Jackie Teaches English , we explore the origins of this popular American New Year’s tradition and what it represents in American culture. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why black-eyed peas are considered lucky in the United States • The history and meaning behind this New Year’s tradition • Useful Engli...

What is Guy Fawkes Night, and why is it also called Bonfire Night? In this episode of Jackie Teaches English , we explore the history behind Guy Fawkes Night, the famous plot that inspired it, and how this unique British tradition is celebrated today. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Who Guy Fawkes was and why he is remembered • The origins of Bonfire Night and how it began • Popular traditions an...

What makes fall such a special season — and how do we talk about it naturally in English? In this episode of Jackie Teaches English , we explore the best things about fall (also known as autumn) and the language English speakers commonly use to describe this time of year. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Common English vocabulary related to fall and autumn • Useful idioms and expressions connected...

Could humans and beavers live alongside each other again in the future? In this episode of Jackie Teaches English , we discuss an exciting and positive nature news story about beavers returning to parts of London and what this could mean for wildlife and the environment. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why beavers are returning to areas near London • How wildlife experts believe humans and animal...

You speak more than one language — but have you ever wondered what makes the bilingual brain so powerful? In this episode of Jackie Teaches English , we explore the benefits of having a bilingual brain and why learning another language is so good for your mind, memory, and overall well-being. In this episode, you’ll learn: • What the bilingual brain is and how it works • The cognitive and mental h...

Do you feel nervous when ordering food in an English-speaking country? In this episode of Jackie Teaches English , we focus on breakfast and explore all the different ways you can order eggs in English — so you can feel more confident speaking to waiters in cafés and restaurants. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Common ways to order eggs in English (scrambled, fried, poached, and more) • Useful re...

Have you ever visited Austin , Texas? In this episode of Jackie Teaches English , I introduce you to my hometown and explain what makes Austin such a unique and iconic American city. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Key facts about Austin’s history and culture • Popular attractions and things to do in the city • Useful English vocabulary related to travel and cities • How to talk about places and...

Do you ever feel tired of always being connected to your phone? In this episode of Jackie Teaches English , we explore the idea of digital detox cafés — cafés where technology is not allowed — and why more people are choosing to take a break from their devices. In this episode, you’ll learn: • What a digital detox café is and how it works • Why people are choosing phone-free spaces • Useful Englis...

Have you ever wondered about the story behind the song “London Bridge Is Falling Down” ? In this episode of Jackie Teaches English , we explore the fascinating history of London Bridge and how this famous landmark became part of British culture and folklore. In this episode, you’ll learn: • The history of London Bridge and how it has changed over time • The possible origins of the famous nursery r...

How did J.R.R. Tolkien become one of the most influential writers in English literature? In this second part of our biography series on J. R. R. Tolkien , this episode of Jackie Teaches English explores Tolkien’s academic career, his work as a professor, and how he achieved literary success. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Details about Tolkien’s academic life and teaching career • How his studie...

Who was the man behind The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings ? In this first part of a biography series on J. R. R. Tolkien , this episode of Jackie Teaches English explores Tolkien’s early life, childhood, and the experiences that shaped one of the most influential writers in English literature. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Key facts about Tolkien’s early life and family • Important events tha...

What happens if you get sick or injured in the United States? In this episode of Jackie Teaches English , we explore how healthcare in the USA works, what makes the American healthcare system different, and what people should expect when seeking medical care. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Key facts about the American healthcare system • Why healthcare in the USA can be confusing or expensive •...

Do you and your partner or friends speak the same love language? In this episode of Jackie Teaches English , we explore the five love languages — a concept created by Gary Chapman — and how understanding them can help you build stronger, more meaningful relationships. In this episode, you’ll learn: • What the five love languages are and what they mean • How love languages affect communication in r...