The Sharing English Podcast

Harriet Tubman is one of the most admired figures in the history of the United States, but many people only know part of her story. In this episode, we explore Tubman's journey from slavery to freedom, her work on the Underground Railroad , her role during the American Civil War , and her lifelong fight for justice. Along the way, you'll learn important English vocabulary, discover the rem...

In this special Sharing English Podcast series, we explore the United States through the lens of American football, using NFL teams, rivalries, cities, and traditions to learn about geography, history, culture, and everyday life. How is the NFL organized? What are the AFC and NFC? Why do divisions matter so much, and how does a team reach the playoffs and the Super Bowl? In the first episode of ou...

In 2026, the United States of America celebrates its 250th birthday. But what does it mean for a country to have a birthday? In this episode, we explore the history of July 4, 1776 , the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence , and how Americans have celebrated major national anniversaries over the past 250 years. From the Centennial and the Statue of Liberty to the Bicentennial...

Who is Mary Poppins really? In this episode, we explore the story behind one of the most famous characters in children’s literature. Learn about author P. L. Travers , the differences between the original books and Disney’s adaptation, and the broader traditions of British children’s storytelling. Along the way, we discuss imagination, childhood, British culture, and why stories like Mary Poppins...

From skyscrapers and blues music to deep-dish pizza and baseball rivalries, Chicago is one of the most important cultural cities in the United States. In this episode, we explore Chicago’s history, architecture, immigration, sports culture, famous gangsters, food traditions, and modern identity. Learn why Chicago became a center of industry and transportation, how the Great Chicago Fire transforme...

Cricket is one of the world’s most popular sports—but many people still know very little about it. In this episode, we explore the origins of cricket in England, how the sport spread around the world through the British Empire, and why countries like India, Australia, and England are so passionate about the game today. Learn the basics of how cricket works, the different formats of the sport, the...

What makes California road trips so iconic? In this episode, we explore the history and culture of U.S. Route 101 , one of the most famous highways on the American West Coast. Learn the difference between Route 101 and the Pacific Coast Highway, discover the geography and cities along the route, and explore how California’s car culture helped create the dream of the American coastal road trip. Web...

Why do Americans care so much about prom and graduation? In this episode, we explore some of the biggest high school traditions in the United States and why they matter culturally. Learn about prom, graduation ceremonies, yearbooks, senior year, and the transition into adulthood in American culture. We also discuss how movies compare to reality—and why finishing high school can be such an importan...

Where did Winnie-the-Pooh come from? In this episode, we explore the real story behind one of the English-speaking world’s most beloved children’s characters. Learn about A. A. Milne , the real Christopher Robin , the stuffed animals that inspired the stories, Disney’s adaptations, and why Pooh’s gentle world continues to comfort generations of readers and viewers. Website : https://www.sharing-en...

Between the early 1900s and the 1970s, millions of Black Americans left the Southern United States in search of better opportunities in Northern and Western cities. In this episode, we explore the historical context, the push and pull factors behind the movement, and the lasting cultural impact of the Great Migration. Featuring the story of Langston Hughes and the Harlem Renaissance, this episode...

Cinco de Mayo is widely celebrated in the United States—but what does it actually commemorate? In this episode, we explore the history of the Battle of Puebla , how the holiday is observed in Mexico, and how it became popular in the U.S. We also discuss common misconceptions and the importance of understanding cultural context. Website : https://www.sharing-english.com/podcast Music : “Cherish” by...

New York City wasn’t always "New York"—it began as a Dutch settlement called New Amsterdam. In this episode, we explore how the Dutch arrived, how the English took control, and how the city’s early diversity shaped what it is today. We also take a closer look at the famous “purchase” of Manhattan and what it meant from different cultural perspectives. Website : https://www.sharing-englis...

The NFL Draft is one of the most important events in American football—but how does it actually work? In this episode, we follow the journey from college football to draft night, including the combine, team interviews, and the emotional moments when players are finally selected. You’ll learn key vocabulary, understand why the draft exists, and see how it shapes the future of the NFL. Website: http...

Every April 22, people around the world celebrate Earth Day —but how did it begin? In this episode, we explore the origins of Earth Day in the United States, the environmental challenges of the 1960s, and how one national movement became a global event. Along the way, you’ll learn key vocabulary and gain a deeper understanding of why Earth Day still matters today. Website: https://www.sharing-engl...

Tipping is one of the most confusing parts of visiting the United States. In this episode, we explain how tipping works, why it exists, and what can happen if you don’t tip. We’ll also compare tipping culture in the U.S. to other English-speaking countries and share useful vocabulary to help you navigate real-life situations with confidence. Website: https://www.sharing-english.com/podcast Music:...

What does the word America really mean? In this episode of the Sharing English Podcast, we explore the history behind the name, why it can refer to both a continent and a country, and why people around the world understand it differently. We’ll look at the origins of the word, the naming of the United States of America, and the ongoing debate about what to call people from the country. Along the w...

March is Women’s History Month in the United States, a time to highlight the achievements and contributions of women. In this episode, we explore the life and legacy of Dolly Parton — from her childhood in the Appalachian Mountains to her success as a songwriter, performer, businesswoman, and philanthropist. Along the way, we’ll discuss the story behind “Jolene,” the pronunciation of “Appalachia,”...

What exactly is Spring Break — and why has it become such a famous part of student life in the United States? In this episode of the Sharing English Podcast, we explore the origins of Spring Break and how a simple week off from school turned into a major cultural and tourism phenomenon. From early college trips to Florida beaches to today’s international travel destinations, Spring Break offers a...

Why does the United States celebrate St. Patrick’s Day so enthusiastically? In this episode, we explore how a quiet Irish religious feast day became one of the most visible cultural celebrations in the U.S. From 19th-century Irish immigration to modern-day parades in cities like Chicago and New York City, you’ll learn how history, identity, and community shaped this holiday. We’ll talk about: Who...

Why is the road trip such a powerful symbol in American culture? In this episode, we explore the history of Route 66 — from its creation in 1926 to its golden age and eventual decline — and look at why driving across the United States became such a defining experience. Along the way, we’ll talk about roadside attractions, pop culture, pronunciation, and the deeper meaning behind the “open road.” W...

**This episode is designed for A2–B2 learners who want clear and natural English listening practice through real cultural topics. Why do American diners hold such a powerful place in U.S. culture? In this episode, we explore the history of diners — from their origins as railroad-style dining cars to their role in industrial cities and postwar road trips. We’ll look at the food, the atmosphere, and...

In this final episode of U.S. Government Explained , we step back and reflect on the bigger picture. Throughout this mini-series, we’ve explored how the United States government is designed to work — the Constitution, the three branches of government, checks and balances, federalism, elections, foreign policy, and more. In this episode, we bring those pieces together and summarize the core princip...

*** This episode is designed for A2–B2 learners who want clear and natural English listening practice through real cultural topics. *** Mardi Gras is often seen as a party—but in New Orleans, it’s a reflection of history, culture, food, and music. In this episode, we explore where Mardi Gras comes from, why it became so central to New Orleans, and how French, Creole, and African influences shaped...

In this episode of U.S. Government Explained , we explore how U.S. foreign policy works and why it matters far beyond Washington, D.C. This episode explains what foreign policy is, the long-term goals that have shaped U.S. decisions across multiple administrations, and how diplomacy, soft power, and military strategy fit together. We’ll look at the role of the president, the State Department, Cong...

**This episode is designed for A2–B2 learners who want clear and natural English listening practice through real cultural topics. In this episode of The Sharing English Podcast , we explore why the Olympics are such a big event in the United States, even for people who don’t normally watch sports. We look at the history of U.S. involvement in the Games, the role of community and storytelling, and...