English Extra - Podcasts and RSS feeds - English as a Second Language Podcast

A podcast for those wanting to learn or improve their English - great for any ESL or EFL learner. Visit us at http://www.eslpod.com.

Права: Copyright Center for Educational Development 2005

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613 - Being a First-Time Parent

Having your first child can be hard on parents. Learn how to talk about all the things you have to do in English on this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:35
Explanations: 3:28
Fast dialogue: 19:21 Zuly: Hello. Ricardo: Hi, Zuly. How are you? Zuly: Oh, Ricardo, it’s you. I’m doing okay. How are you? Ricardo: I wanted to call and congratulate you on the birth of your new baby. Zuly: Thanks a lot. Carla was born three weeks ago, and she was 8 pounds, 3 ounces. Ricardo: That’s great! How does it feel to be a first-time parent? Zuly: It’s really overwhelming taking care of a newborn. I’m learning everything from scratch, everything from how to breastfeed and bottle-feed, to burping her, to putting her to bed, to using a car seat and a stroller. Ricardo: You sound overwhelmed. I remember when Adam, our first child, was born.
There were the feedings in the middle of the night, and all of those diapers! Zuly: Exactly. I’m exhausted all the time. In fact, I find myself dozing off at all hours of the day. Ricardo: I really sympathize with you, but these days will pass quickly, and then you’ll have such great memories. Have you had much sleep? Zuly: Zzzzzzzz! Ricardo: Zuly? Zuly? Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #257

Topics: Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus; New York Fashion Week; predict versus forecast; foretell versus remind versus recall; polite phrases used before meals Words:
circus
acrobat
clown
ringmaster
clean
reach
collection
what’s in/out
star-studded
invitation-only
to sponsor
runway
to predict
to forecast
to foretell
to remind
to recall

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612 - Introducing a Speaker

Introducing someone who is giving a speech is always easier than actually giving the talk. Learn how to do it in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:37
Explanations: 3:07
Fast dialogue: 16:53 Ladies and Gentlemen, may I have your attention, please? It is my great honor to introduce our guest speaker today. Our speaker is actually a person who needs no introduction, since she is well known in our field as one of its great innovators. Edwina Litton has been called a revolutionary thinker by those in our field. That’s because she has strived to bring attention to those issues that we believe are so important. Dr. Litton holds four advanced degrees and has an honorary doctorate from Harward University. In her much-anticipated speech today, she will address what she sees as the future of our field. Without further ado, please join me in welcoming Dr. Edwina Litton. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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611 - Having an Overbearing Father

Parents want to protect their children, even when they grow older. Sometimes the children, however, don’t want the protection. Learn more in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:39
Explanations: 3:29
Fast dialogue: 18:18 Dad: Where are you going? Eva: Out. Dad: Out where? Eva: Dad, I’m nearly a grown woman. You don’t need be so overbearing. You give me the third degree every time I leave the house. Dad: As long as you live under my roof, you’ll live by my rules. Now, where are you going? Eva: I’m going over to Damien’s house to hang out. I’ll be home before curfew. Dad: I don’t like that guy, Damien. He’s not good enough for you. He’s a troublemaker. Mark my words: That kid is going nowhere fast. Is this a date? Eva: No, Dad, we’re just going to watch a movie. Dad: Alone? With no supervision? What is this world coming to? Eva: Dad, we’re not kids anymore. We’re both 17. Dad: That’s exactly the right age to get into the most trouble. Eva: What are you doing? Dad: I’m putting on my coat. Eva: Why? Dad: You and Damien need a chaperon. Eva: No way, Dad! I’m not going over to Damien’s with you tagging along as our chaperon. That would be humiliating. Dad: Good, then you’ll stay home. So, what movie should we watch tonight? Eva: Huh! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #256

Topics: Ask an American: Chocolate; dispute versus disagreement versus conflict; using “times” in comparing amounts; use of infinitive “to” phrases as adjective, adverb, or noun Words:
comfort food
to melt in (one’s) mouth
sensation
hot off the presses
to tend to
refrigeration
prevalent
to secure
delectable treat
delicacy
to speak to (something)
soul
there’s nothing better
dispute
disagreement
conflict
times

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610 - Preparing to Travel

There are lots of things you must do before you are ready to travel. Learn how to talk about them in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:29
Explanations: 3:50
Fast dialogue: 17:54 Shannon: It looks like you’re ready for your trip. You must be psyched. Ignacio: Yeah, I am. I’m almost ready. I’ve gone to the post office and filled out a form so they’ll hold my mail while I’m gone. Shannon: I could pick up your mail for you. Ignacio: Thanks, but it’ll just be easier this way. I’ve also called the newspaper office to have my newspaper delivery suspended. Tomorrow I’ll arrange for my bank to automatically pay my bills so I won’t have my utilities cut off or accrue any late fees. Shannon: I could pay your bills for you. I don’t mind. Ignacio: It’s nice of you to offer, but I’ve got it covered. This morning, I took my plants over to my neighbor’s house. He agreed to water them for me while I’m gone. Shannon: I could have come over and watered your plants. That wouldn’t have been a problem at all. Ignacio: Thanks for being willing to do that. As always, you’re so helpful. Shannon: Oh, I try my best... Ignacio: I was wondering if I could ask just one favor from you. Shannon: Of course you can. Just name it! Ignacio: You know my dog, Rex... Shannon: Oh, no... Ignacio: I could board him at a kennel, but he’s had bad luck at kennels. Could you look after him while I’m gone? Shannon: No way! Ignacio: Why? Shannon: Why don’t you ask the people who worked at those kennels where Rex has been? I’m willing to pitch in, but I’m no sucker! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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609 - Types of Car and Vehicles

Looking to buy a new car? Find out what different types of cars are called in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:10
Explanations: 2:46
Fast dialogue: 16:15 Robert: Hi, I’m Robert. What are you in the market for today? Mary: I want to buy a new car, but I’m not sure what I want. Robert: Well, you’ve come to the right place. We have a very large selection of cars and trucks – just about any type of vehicle you can think of. Why don’t I show you around? Mary: Okay, that would be great. Robert: Over here, we have some nice compacts and mid-size cars. We have 2-door or 4-door sedans, coupes, and hatchbacks. We even have this beautiful convertible sports car. What do you think? Mary: It’s very nice, but I want something a little bigger for my family. Robert: Okay, no sweat. Walk this way and you’ll see our station wagons, mini-vans, and SUVs. These seat anywhere from six to 10 people. We even have pickups. Mary: I’m not sure if any of these will fit my family? Robert: How many children do you have? Mary: Eleven. Robert: Eleven? In that case, you might want to buy two! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #255

Topics: Famous Authors: Laura Ingalls Wilder; college secret societies; no one versus nobody versus anybody; Do you feel as though...?; rent versus lease Words:
pioneer
homesteader
deed
to draw on (one’s) experiences
prairie
drought
rerun
skull
to tap (someone)
old-boy network
rumor
to deny
no one
nobody
anybody
Do you feel as though...?
rent
lease

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608 - Formatting Text

Learn how to format your documents in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:30
Explanations: 3:20
Fast dialogue: 20:11 Chad: Okay, this report is finally finished. Pamela: Oh, not quite. I’m still working on the formatting. Chad: We used the standard formatting for this type of report. I don’t think we should play around with the text. Pamela: Standard is boring. I want our report to be special. I’m putting a nice border on the cover, adding some shading, and centering some of the text. Chad: No, I really think that’s a bad idea. All of the text should be flush left, and nobody else puts shading in their reports. It cuts down on readability. Pamela: Readability is secondary to presentation. Look, I’m just putting some of the titles in caps and underlining them, adding some bullets, and putting some of the important sections in bold or italics. This will all make each page look more professional. Chad: I don’t think it’s going to have your intended effect. Pamela: Really? Chad: Yes, instead of thinking we’re being professional, they’ll think we’ve gone off our rocker. Pamela: Don’t be so stodgy. Hey, I think adding some clip art would really jazz things up, don’t you? Chad: Oh, God! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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607 - Being Pestered on the Phone

Getting too many phone calls? Learn how to fix the problem in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:35
Explanations: 3:24
Fast dialogue: 19:19 Gisele: Our phone has been ringing off the hook all weekend. What’s the deal? Nobu: I think it’s Jeanine. Gisele: Jeanine…Jeanine…Is that the woman you’ve been going out with? Nobu: Yeah, it’s her. I tried to let her down easy, but she’s not taking the hint. Gisele: I see. That’s why you’ve been screening calls. Why don’t you just talk to her and tell her that you don’t think you’re right for each other, take the direct approach? Nobu: I figure if I don’t take her calls for a few more days, she’ll get the message. Gisele: Are you sure? There are 14 new voicemail messages. How many of those do you think are from Jeanine? Nobu: All of them. I let calls go to voicemail if I see her phone number on caller ID. I guess I should listen to those messages – sooner or later. Gisele: Yeah, that’s probably a good idea. Nobu: I was thinking of taking the phone off the hook for the rest of day. What do you think? Gisele: You do that and she’ll be on your doorstep to make sure nothing bad has happened to you. Listen, you don’t want to be honest with her, but you want her to stop pestering you, right? In that case, you only have one option. Nobu: What? Gisele: Tell her you’re moving to Timbuktu! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #254

Topics: Famous Americans: Scott Joplin; American Cities: Memphis; picture versus image versus photo; a versus an Words:
composer
ragtime
talent
to be well-received
largely
posthumous
lumber
mule
these days
cargo
to be associated with
barbecue
picture
image
photo

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606 - Reading a Bus Schedule

Learn how to read a bus schedule in English on this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:18
Explanations: 3:59
Fast dialogue: 18:56 This was my first visit to McQuillanville. I wanted to avoid driving, so I decided to take the bus around the city. However, I was having some trouble figuring out the bus schedule. Louisa: Excuse me, could you help me read this bus schedule? Curt: I can try. Where do you want to go? Louisa: I want to go downtown, but I’m not sure which bus to take. Curt: Let me see that bus schedule. Here’s a listing of the route numbers on the back of this schedule. Look for a bus that goes downtown. Louisa: Oh, I see. That’s great. Tomorrow, I want to arrive at the Podcast Museum at 10 a.m. when it opens. Which bus will I have to take? Curt: Let me look at this bus schedule. That’s simple. All you have to do is find the stop closest to the museum, then look down the column to find the arrival time of 10 a.m. or before, and work backwards to see what time that bus passes the stop at your starting point. Got it? Louisa: I think so, but I don’t think there’s a bus that goes directly from here to downtown. Curt: In that case, it says on the schedule that you’ll need to get a transfer from the driver of the first bus so you can ride for free on the second bus. Just take the additional time into account. Mornings are peak times, and according to this schedule, the buses run more frequently to accommodate commuters, so it shouldn’t take you a lot longer. It also says here that you’ll need to have a bus pass or exact change for the fare when you board. Louisa: Thanks a lot for all the help. Do you know how much the fare is? Curt: I have no idea. I’ve never ridden the bus before in McQuillanville. Louisa: Then how do you know so much about riding the bus? Curt: I can read. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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605 - Talking About Astronomy

Keep reaching for the stars in this episode, while keeping your feet on the ground. Slow dialogue: 1:23
Explanations: 2:52
Fast dialogue: 13:24 Dad: What are you working on, honey? Mariko: It’s a project for school about the Earth and its place in the universe. I have to write a report and build a model of what scientists can see with a telescope in space. Dad: I can help you with that. I was always good in science, especially astronomy. Mariko: Okay, Dad. If I need help, I’ll ask you. Dad: Is that the report you’re writing right now? Mariko: Yes. Dad: Make sure you include all of the planets in the solar system. Mariko: I plan to, Dad. Dad: Don’t forget to talk about the Big Bang. Oh yeah, and talk about traveling through space and how many light years it would take. Are you going to include stars, asteroids, and other galaxies in your model? Mariko: No, the teacher didn’t say we had to. Dad: Yes, but including some of those would set your project apart from the others, don’t you think? Mariko: Sure, Dad. Dad: It would be out of this world! Mariko: Right, Dad. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #253

Topics: Chinatown ; famous songs: "Home on the Range"; that way versus in that way versus in such a way; neither here nor there; suffer versus suffer from Words:
to be inspired by (something
conspiracy
corruption
to reveal
to flee
warrant for (someone’s) arrest
range
antelope
seldom
discouraging
to idealize
state song
that way
in that way
in such a way
neither here nor there
to suffer
to suffer from

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604 - Harming a Professional Reputation

Learn how to protect your good reputation, or fix your bad one, in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:23
Explanations: 3:07
Fast dialogue: 14:57 Alex: Good morning. What’s with the gloom and doom? Paige: Have you seen this morning’s newspaper? Alex: No, I haven’t. Paige: You’d better read this. It’s an article about our company. Alex: Let me see that. This is outrageous! How can anybody print such lies? We’re not on the verge of going under. How did they get a hold of so much misleading and outright wrong information? Paige: What I’m irate about is what it says about you, as the owner. The article is full of innuendos about your background. It’s nothing short of character assassination. We’ll sue the paper for defamation of character. Alex: I’m not worried about my personal reputation. I’m more concerned about the company’s image. I’m going down to that paper and making them print a retraction. Paige: How’re you going to do that? Alex: After I call the reporter a no-good mudslinger, I’ll give him the facts, the ones he neglected to include in this story. Paige: Be careful what you say to him, especially in front of his coworkers. You don’t want him suing you for slander! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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603 - Praising a Performance

Learn how to talk about a great performance in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:18
Explanations: 2:39
Fast dialogue: 14:39 Claudia: Oh, that was so good. I’ve never seen anything better. Bravo! Bravo! Javier: There’s no need for a standing ovation and stop gushing. The performers did a passable job. It was nothing to write home about. Claudia: You are so jaded. That performance was genius. It took my breath away. Javier: I thought the first number was okay, and none of the dancers embarrassed themselves, but that’s all I can say about it. Claudia: I’m sure they’d thank you for that faint praise. Me? I’ve never seen anything better. Javier: Now how can you say that? That’s just over the top. Claudia: If I can’t be effusive, who can? How many times will we see our granddaughter in a school play? Javier: She’s seven years old and she played a tomato! Claudia: Yes, but don’t forget: she played the lead tomato! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #252

Topics: Famous Authors: Raymond Chandler; the Pony Express; to be involved in versus to be involved with; to make sense; hard on its heels Words:
genre
free time
hobby
to make ends meet
screenwriter
unsentimental
cynical
relay
wiry
orphan
can-do
trademark
to be involved in
to be involved with
to make sense
hard on (one’s/someone’s) heels

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602 - Calling an Ambulance

If you have a medical emergency, you may need to call an ambulance. Learn more in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:20
Explanations: 3:22
Fast dialogue: 14:11 Brad: Are you all right? Lydia: What...what happened? Brad: You lost consciousness and someone called 911. My name is Brad and I’m a paramedic. Can you answer a few questions for me? Lydia: I’ll try. Brad: Have you ever blacked out before? Lydia: No, I don’t think so. Brad: Do you have a history of medical problems? Do you have any allergies to medication? Lydia: Not that I know of. Brad: Okay. Where are you hurt? Are you in any pain? Lydia: I think I hit my head when I fell down. Oh, it’s bleeding. Oh my God, I’m bleeding! Brad: Stay calm and let me examine the wound. Lydia: Oh my God, I’m going to bleed to death! Brad: Try to stay still. The wound doesn’t look too serious, but we’ll get you to the hospital to get checked out. We’ll get a stretcher so we can get you into the ambulance and take you to the emergency room. Try to stay clam. Lydia: Calm? How can I stay calm when I’m bleeding to death? I need a helicopter to take me to the hospital right away. Call medivac! Brad: Ma’am, you don’t need a helicopter. I’m just going to give you a little injection to help you with the pain and to help you relax. Lydia: I’m going to die...I’m going to... Brad: Phew! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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601 - Paying an Unexpected Visit

Most people call or write before they visit their friends and family, but some like to go unannounced. Find out why that can be a bad idea in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:24
Explanations: 3:22
Fast dialogue: 15:46 Lorraine: Hi, this is a surprise. To what do I owe this pleasure? Terrance: Can’t I just drop in on my little sister unannounced to see how she is? I was just in this neck of the woods and thought I would pay you a visit. Lorraine: Sure you were. Of course, I’m glad to see you, but this is just a little out of the blue. Terrance: What do you mean? Lorraine: I haven’t seen you in over five months, and you just happened to be in the neighborhood? Terrance: Well, I wasn’t exactly in the neighborhood, but I wanted to see my favorite sister. Lorraine: Your only sister. Okay, out with it. What are you doing here? Terrance: Uh, well, I was thinking of taking a year off from school to pursue my art. I really feel I need to devote some time to my painting to see if I can make it as an artist. Lorraine: Mom and Dad are not going to like that. Terrance: I know and that’s where you come in. Lorraine: You want me to run interference for you with Mom and Dad. Terrance: Yeah, they would take it a lot better coming from you, don’t you think? Lorraine: No, I don’t. Terrance: You’ve always been the responsible one...I’m just saying... Lorraine: And I’m just saying that I’m not going to do your dirty work for you! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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ESL Podcast Special Edition Fifth Anniversary Video Podcast

ESL Podcast's Fifth Anniversary Video Podcast! See a complete transcript at ESLPod.com.

English Cafe #251

Topics: Ask an American: Obsolete ; regarding versus concerning versus as for; can't be bothered; How you doing? Words:
block
soundtrack
to tote
ghetto blaster
forefinger
knob
cultural reference
next door
otherwise
to Tweet
terse
to water down
regarding
concerning
as for
can't be bothered
How you doing?

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600 - Talking About Sight

If you can’t read this, then put on your glasses and listen to this episode on having bad eyes. Slow dialogue: 1:07
Explanations: 2:45
Fast dialogue: 15:19 Sue: This medication I’m taking is messing with my vision. Everything is blurry. Hamed: That’s a good reason for you to stay home from work today. Sue: I can’t. I have to give a presentation this afternoon and I can’t flake out on my coworkers. Hamed: What good are you to them if you’re blind as a bat? Sue: Everybody else will have crystal clear vision, so all I have to do is to put in an appearance. Things may not be as sharp as I’d like them to be, but I can still make out people and objects – as long as they’re really big. Hamed: I don’t think your coworkers are going to want you to blindside them today with your strange behavior. You’re going to do more harm than good. Sue: I can see well enough. I only see double if I move my head like this. Whoa… Hamed: At this point, I don’t care if you have X-ray vision. That medication is affecting more than your vision. It’s impairing your better judgment! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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599 - Shopping for Warm-Weather Clothes

Learn to talk about summertime clothing in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:35
Explanations: 3:01
Fast dialogue: 13:14 Spencer: I would love to see you in this outfit: a tank top and a miniskirt. Lauren: No way! I wouldn’t look anything like that mannequin. I’m too shy and I’d make a fool of myself wearing such revealing clothes. Spencer: That’s where you’re wrong. You would look great on the beach in that outfit with a bikini underneath. Lauren: I haven’t worn a bikini in years. I always wear a one-piece now. In fact, I’d feel more comfortable in a T-shirt, cut-offs, and flip-flops. Spencer: Why would you want to hide that figure? If you want to do that, why don’t you just wear this Hawaiian shirt and these board-shorts. Then no one will know you’re a woman! Lauren: Don’t get mad. Okay, you can pick out an outfit for me and I promise to wear it for you. Okay? Spencer: Fine, but I’m warning you: I want to see some skin! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #250

Topics: Comic-Con; Famous Americans: Houdini; I just versus I have just; suit versus match versus fit; levity Words:
convention
comic book
animation
autograph
fan
magician
escape artist
handcuffs
to debunk
supernatural
medium
séance
to suit
to match
to fit
levity

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598 - Suggesting a Nightcap

How do you end a date that isn’t going well? Find out what to do - and not to do - in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:15
Explanations: 3:15
Fast dialogue: 15:48 Brittany: [slurring her speech] I had a really nice time. Tri: I’m glad to hear it. It was nice of Marie to set us up. Brittany: Yeah, she told me that you would be my soul mate, and she was right! You’re dreamy... Tri: Uh...well, thanks. It was really nice meeting you, but I’d better be going. Brittany: What? Why are you leaving so soon? Don’t you want to come in for a nightcap? Let’s have a drink, or two, or three. I’ll make it worth your while... Tri: I think we’ve both had enough to drink tonight, don’t you? I’ll just take a rain check. Brittany: Don’t go yet. The night is young. Don’t you want to see my apartment? Tri: Sure I do, but let’s make it another time. I really do have to go. Brittany: Spoilsport!
...
Brittany seemed nice when I first met her, but that impression didn’t last long. It only took 15 minutes for me to realize that she and I had nothing in common, and then, I couldn’t get out of there fast enough. You might think I’m crazy because she really was drop-dead gorgeous, but I had no intention of taking advantage of a drunk woman! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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597 - Describing Touch and Textures

Have you ever wanted to describe the way something feels when you touch it? Learn how to do it in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:17
Explanations: 2:58
Fast dialogue: 14:31 Tommy: It’s just our luck that there’s a major power failure while we’re shopping in this outdoor bazaar. Louisa: How are we going to find our way back to the hotel? Tommy: Follow me and stay close. I’ll lead the way. Louisa: This road is so rough. I keep tripping over the stones. Ah! Tommy: What happened? Louisa: I just fell into something wet and sticky. Gross! I don’t know what it is. It has a weird texture. Tommy: Don’t think about it. If you’re not hurt, then try to get up and keep moving. Give me your hand. Ugh, it’s all slimy! Louisa: Yeah, and my dress is all greasy, too. You know what? I think I did hurt myself. My foot feels all tingly, like it’s asleep. Tommy: Try to walk the best you can and let’s try to make it back to the hotel. The road is smooth, not too bumpy, on this side. Let me help you. Louisa: Thanks. I think I’ll be okay. Well, I guess if we don’t get to see very much more of the city, we’ll at least know what it feels like. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #249

Topics: Hate Crime Legislation; State Fairs; shop versus store versus department store; relative to versus related to; Down Under Words:
hate crime
prejudice
criminal offense
sexual orientation
brutality
to trigger
state fair
livestock
ride
funhouse
ribbon
textile
shop
store
department store
relative to
related to
Down Under

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596 - Applying for Unemployment Benefits

Many governments give money to people who lose their jobs. Learn how to get some in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:38
Explanations: 2:50
Fast dialogue: 13:54 Agency Employee: Hello, state unemployment agency. George: Hello, I’d like to apply for unemployment benefits. Agency Employee: Okay, give me your address and I’ll send you an application. George: How much can I get? Agency Employee: That depends. Your benefits are calculated based on your quarterly earnings. You were laid off from your job? George: Yes, I was. I qualify, don’t I? Agency Employee: People who work part-time jobs or are self-employed aren’t eligible. If you worked in a full-time position, you should qualify. Fill out the application and we’ll let you know. George: What else does the application ask for? Agency Employee: You have to affirm that you’re able to work and that you’re actively seeking employment. George: I’m definitely doing that. I’ve been meaning to ask you, are you hiring? Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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595 - Suffering from Allergies

Allergies are no fun, but this episode is! Learn how to talk about this medical condition in English. Slow dialogue: 1:27
Explanations: 2:55
Fast dialogue: 14:40 Victor: Oh, doctor, you’ve got to help me! Doctor: Try to relax. What seems to be the problem? Victor: I’m sneezing all the time, and my eyes are itchy and watery. Doctor: Tilt your head back so I can take a look at your nasal passages. You’re very congested. Victor: My sinuses are killing me! I have headaches all the time and nothing I do seems to help. Doctor: What is this on your skin? Victor: I don’t know. I’ve had red spots all over my body. Doctor: They look like hives to me. Are you experiencing any shortness of breath? Victor: Well, my chest feels constricted and it’s hard to breathe. Doctor: I think you may be experiencing a severe allergy attack. I’m going to refer you to an allergist. What were you doing right before you started experiencing these symptoms? Victor: I started my first job. Doctor: That could be your problem. Victor: I knew it! I’m allergic to work! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #248

Topics: Area 51 and Roswell; American Cities: Baltimore; that versus which; right away versus straightaway Words:
conspiracy theory
civilian
tight-lipped
UFO
extraterrestrial
to recover
cultural center
Midwest
philanthropist
refurbished
black history
Super Bowl
that
which
right away
straightaway

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594 - Competition and Prizes

Learn how to talk about the true nature of competition and games in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:15
Explanations: 2:22
Fast dialogue: 14:22 Olga: Are you going to take me on, or are you chicken? Apollo: Me chicken? No way! Bring it on! Olga: Okay, but get ready to get trounced. I’m going to teach you a thing or two about how this game should be played. Ready for some humiliation? Apollo: Stop trash-talking and get over here. What are we playing for? How about 20 or 30 dollars? Olga: Those stakes are too high. Let’s say that the champion will get bragging rights. Apollo: Bragging rights?! If I can’t have a cash prize, I was hoping for at least a trophy or a medal. Olga: Yeah, right. You want a medal for winning at thumb wrestling?! Apollo: As far as I’m concerned, thumb wrestling should be an Olympic sport! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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593 - Staying Home from School

Most children have to go to school, but some find clever ways to avoid it on certain days. Learn more about it on this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:15
Explanations: 3:06
Fast dialogue: 16:01 Carin: We’re going to be late for school. Hurry up! Hwan: I’m not going to school today. I’m sick. Carin: You’re not sick. You’re playing hooky. You’re not going to put one over on Mom. She’ll know you’re faking. Get up! Let’s go! Hwan: No, she won’t, and why are you giving me such a hard time? It’s not like you’ve never played hooky before. Carin: I may cut class now and then, but I have a foolproof way of doing it so I don’t get caught. Hwan: You mean you forge notes from Mom to let you get out of class for doctor’s appointments and things like that. I know all about that. Carin: Who told you? Hwan: I keep my eyes and ears open. I pick things up. Carin: If you know so much, then you should know that pretending to be sick never works. Mom will make you go to school anyway. There are better ways to get an excused absence. Hwan: How? I have a test in biology today and I have to get out of it. Help me! Carin: I suppose I could, out of the goodness of my heart. Hwan: Come on. If you do, I’ll owe you one, a big one.

Carin: All right. You scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours. Here’s what you have to do... Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #247

Topics: Psycho and Alfred Hitchcock; The Gettysburg Address; to get the most out of versus to take advantage of; who versus whom; status quo Words:
thriller
to adapt
proprietor
swamp
to trace
turning point
cemetery
dedication
to keep (one’s) spirits up
founding fathers
to prevail
patriotic
to get the most out of
to take advantage of
who
whom
status quo

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592 - Dealing with Website Hackers

You can’t run. You can’t hide. There are thieves even on the Internet. Learn how to talk about hackers in English on this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:02
Explanations: 2:26
Fast dialogue: 13:08 Valerie: You’ll never guess what happened over the weekend. Bill: What? Valerie: Our website was attacked by hackers, and nobody could access it. Bill: You’re kidding! What did they do? Valerie: They got access to our server and embedded some malicious code that caused the site to be redirected to their own website. Bill: But I thought our site had really good security. Didn’t we hire a programmer last year to encrypt the database and patch any vulnerabilities? Valerie: That’s what we should have done. So now, we’re paying the price. Bill: The site seems to be back up, though. Valerie: Yeah, we brought in a specialist on Friday and she’s been working on it 24/7. Let’s hope she puts in the security measures we should have had all along, and this will never happen again. Bill: Right, at least until some creative hacker comes up with a new way to wreak havoc. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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591 - Handling a Traffic Stop

Drive carefully, or you may get a ticket from the police. Find out what to say in English if it happens to you. Slow dialogue: 1:08
Explanations: 3:01
Fast dialogue: 16:16 I was having a great day until I saw the police car behind me with its loud siren and lights flashing. I pulled off the road and waited for the officer to approach my car. Officer: May I see your driver’s license, proof of insurance, and car registration, please? Lindsay: Let me get them out of my glove compartment. Here they are. What did I do wrong, officer? Officer: Didn’t you see that stop sign back there? Lindsay: Stop sign? What stop sign? I didn’t see any stop sign. Officer: Sit tight and I’ll be right back.
... I guess he was running my driver’s license and license plate numbers to make sure there are no outstanding warrants for me or for my car. He came back after a few minutes.
... Officer: You ran a stop sign back there and I’m going to have to give you a citation. Lindsay: Is that really necessary, officer? I’m really sorry I ran the stop sign and I’ll be more careful next time. Officer: I suppose I could let you off with a warning, just this once. Lindsay: Oh, thank you so much! Officer: Drive more carefully in the future. Lindsay: I will. I definitely will.
... Phew! That was close. Good thing I tossed the incriminating evidence out the window before I pulled off the road! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #246

Topics: Ask an American: Father Damien and leprosy; bring versus take; And you?; trustworthy versus honest Words:
beacon
to despair
faith
to exile
to shun
legacy
affection
on (one’s) behalf
bottom line
to bring
to take
trustworthy
honest

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589 - Having Skin Problems

The skin is the largest organ in the human body. Find out how to talk about it in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:15
Explanations: 2:54
Fast dialogue: 15:08 Mother: Doctor, this is my son Danny. I brought him in so you could look at his rash. Doctor: Okay, Danny. Have a seat on the exam table. How long have you had the rash? Mother: My son has had that rash for about two weeks. It started out as a blister, and then it got really itchy and turned red. Could it be an infection? Doctor: I’ll need to take a closer look at it first before I can tell you that. Mother: I hope it’s not anything serious. I hope it’s not skin cancer! Doctor: Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Okay, let’s take a look... Mother: While you’re at it, could you look at this bump on Danny’s neck? I think it’s a mole. Doctor: That looks like a birthmark, but I’ll take a look. Mother: And could you look at this wart? If you remove it, will it leave a scar? Doctor: I’m not sure it is a wart. Let me examine it first, and I’ll tell you what treatment I recommend. Mother: Oh, and Doctor, could you look at Danny’s pimples? He just started getting them. I had really bad acne when I was his age. Doctor: Is there anything else? Mother: Well, since you asked... Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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590 - Paying Airline Fees

Flying in an airplane is getting more and more expensive. Find out why in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:14
Explanations: 3:35
Fast dialogue: 15:37 Justine: So that’s the plan. We drive to San Francisco, then to Portland, then to Seattle, and then to Vancouver. Howie: What? Why are we driving to Vancouver instead of flying? Justine: Haven’t you noticed all of the fees the airlines are tacking on these days? First, there were the fuel surcharges and now, there is a whole slew of added fees. Howie: Like what? Justine: Well, there’s a checked baggage fee, for one. On some airlines, you have to pay to check just one bag, and each additional bag is another fee. If you have oversize or overweight bags, that’s another fee. Howie: Okay, I don’t like fees either, but I don’t think that justifies driving all the way to Vancouver. Justine: Well, let me tell you about some of the other fees. Do you want a snack or a meal on the flight? You’re going to have to shell out for those now. Do you want to fly standby? Yes, it used to be free, but not anymore. Do you want to make your reservation by phone instead of on the Internet? That’s another fee. Do you want a pillow or a blanket for your long flight? Okay, but that’s another fee! Howie: Okay, don’t get worked up. I see what you mean. They really know how to nickel and dime you. Once we add all of those fees to the base fare, I guess flying isn’t such a good deal. But do you really want us to drive three days to get to Vancouver? Justine: What’s the problem with driving? Howie: Oh, I don’t know, maybe it’s the fact that I only have a week for vacation? As soon as we get to Vancouver, we’ll have to turn back! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #245

Topics: The Grand Canyon; Famous Americans: Georgia O’Keefe; shanty versus apartment versus tenement; alert the media; now what? Words:
canyon
steep
to erode
outdoorsman
livestock grazing
sightseeing
boundary
discouraged
exhibit
magnifying glass
landscape
desert
shanty
apartment
tenement
alert the media
now what?

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588 - Hiring Business Consultants

Need some extra work done for your business? Learn how to talk about hiring an independent contractor in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:22
Explanations: 3:20
Fast dialogue: 16:31 Erica: So your suggestion is to hire outside consultants to handle the extra work associated with the expansion. Stefan: I think there are a lot of benefits: we get someone with the right expertise quickly, we can use him or her as needed, and we can save on employment taxes and benefits. What’s not to like? Erica: I’m just not sure that’s the right move right now. Stefan: To me, it’s a no-brainer. We call the shots. If we don’t like the consultant’s work, then we can terminate our relationship at any time. Erica: Yes, but that also means that the consultant won’t feel any company loyalty and could quit working with us whenever he or she wanted to, leaving us in a lurch. Stefan: That’s true, but that’s also true of any employee. Company loyalty is a thing of the past. I really think we should move ahead. Erica: Well, I think we should take it one step at a time. Start with contracting consultants for smaller projects and see how they do before we have them work on this big one. Stefan: Okay, I can live with that, as long as we don’t drag our feet in getting people started on the big project. Erica: Don’t worry. If I drag my feet, I know you’ll tow me along. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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587 - Feeling Disillusioned

Not everything is what is seems to be. Learn to express your inevitable disappointment in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:20
Explanations: 3:14
Fast dialogue: 16:39 Daniela: I did it. I finally met Mandy Timpkin. Tony: Mandy Timpkin, your idol? Daniela: Yeah, I stood in line for two days at her book signing and finally met her. It was a big disappointment. Tony: Really? I thought she could do no wrong, as far as you’re concerned. Daniela: Well, that was before I met her. I have always wanted to be just like her. She had everything going for her: a great life and a great career. I emulated her in so many ways. I thought she must be a paragon of virtue and a great person to be around. I walked into that bookstore with all of these preconceived notions. Tony: What happened to shatter your image of her? Daniela: While I waited in line, I saw what kind of person she really was. She was rude to everybody and made ridiculous demands of her assistants. It wasn’t how I pictured her at all. She was a real diva. Tony: So meeting her really burst your bubble. Daniela: Yeah, it really did. I guess it was my own fault for putting her on a pedestal. Tony: Well, you’re not the only one. Celebrities wouldn’t be celebrities if we didn’t idolize them. Daniela: True enough, and I’ve learned my lesson. Nobody’s perfect, least of all celebrities! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #244

Topics: Ellis Island; The Rat Pack; lots of versus a lot of; sleep versus asleep, wake versus awake, rise versus arise; alpha male Words:
immigration
to undergo
inspection
unsanitary
family tree
pop culture
desegregation
impromptu
to sell out
to rule
brat
coming-of-age
lots of / a lot of
sleep
asleep
to wake (up)
awake
to rise
to arise
alpha male

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586 - Getting a Girlfriend or Boyfriend Back

Dreaming of an old love? Find out if she (or he) will ever take you back in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:27
Explanations: 2:58
Fast dialogue: 15:56 Grace: What are you doing? Yuji: I’m working on a plan to get April back. Grace: I think that’s a lost cause. You guys broke up three months ago. There’s no way she’ll take you back. Yuji: Watch me prove you wrong. When I tell April about all of the ways I’m going to change and to make her happy, she’ll let bygones be bygones. Grace: You’re dreaming. She won’t be duped by a bunch of empty promises. Yuji: They’re not empty promises. I really am going to change, within reason. Grace: Do you really think April is going to forget all of the things you’ve done to her in the past? Yuji: I’m not going to rake up the past. I’m going to show her the new me, and she’ll know I’m sincere. After all, she used to be crazy about me. I’m sure it’s just a matter of me making the effort. Grace: Pride comes before a fall, you know. I think you’d have a better chance if you got down on your knees and begged her for mercy! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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585 - Being Clear or Confusing

So I was telling my friend about this thing but then I thought of something else so I…what was I saying? Anyway, learn how to tell a story clearly in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:27
Explanations: 3:03
Fast dialogue: 14:05 Laurent: So I’m confused. Who’s David again? Bethany: David is my roommate’s friend’s brother. Haven’t you been listening? Laurent: I have, but how am I supposed to keep all of these people straight? Your stories are always so convoluted, with too many twists and turns. Why don’t you try telling a straightforward story for once? Bethany: My stories are only confusing for people who don’t pay attention or who can’t deal with complexity. Laurent: Complexity? Is that what you call going off on tangents and including completely irrelevant information? Half the time the end of the story contradicts the beginning! Bethany: You just don’t appreciate intricate plots. My stories are crystal clear to anyone who pays attention. Good stories have lots of detail. Just ask Shakespeare. Laurent: Talk about delusions of grandeur! When you start comparing yourself to Shakespeare, it’s time for you to seek professional help! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #243

Topics: Famous TV Animals; Niagara Falls; closed caption versus subtitle; meanwhile versus meantime; using the colon (:) Words:
to capture (one's) heart
storyline
courage
stunt
warden
hydroelectric power
honeymoon
barrel
mist
chapel
luxury hotel
aphrodisiac
closed caption
subtitle
meanwhile
meantime
colon

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584 - Calling in Sick to Work

If you’re sick, you need to take a day off from work. Find out how to tell your boss in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:06
Explanations: 2:51
Fast dialogue: 12:50 I was fed up with work and wanted the day off. I decided to call in sick. I wasn’t prepared, though, to be peppered with questions. Peter: Hello, this is Peter. Is this Magda? Magda: Yes. This is Magda. Peter: Hi, Magda. I won’t be coming in today. I’m not feeling well. I think I’ve come down with something. Magda: Hmm, what seems to be the problem? Peter: The problem? Oh…I’ve been up all night throwing up and I feel terrible. Magda: Didn’t you have something like this two weeks ago when you called in sick? Peter: Two weeks ago? No, I had food poisoning two weeks ago. Magda: And what about a month ago when you called in sick? Peter: That was a 24-hour bug. Magda: Didn’t you just take a day off from work because of a death in the family? Peter: Yes, I had to go to the funeral. Magda: I see. That’s one day off from work a week, four weeks in a row. [long silence] Peter: Uh, I’ll be in within the hour. Magda: I’m glad you’ve had a miraculous recovery. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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583 - Going to a Spa

It’s time to relax, and there’s no better place than a spa. Learn how to talk about it in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:12
Explanations: 2:59
Fast dialogue: 13:58 Jan: This is the life! Spending the day at a spa is my idea of paradise. Tim: Yeah, it’s great. Jan: Aren’t you enjoying yourself? Tim: The massage was okay, but why do I have to get a facial and a body wrap? I’m a guy! Jan: Men need rejuvenating, too. These are all holistic treatments and you’ll feel like a new man when you’re done. Just enjoy the pampering. Tim: I feel like an idiot. How am I supposed to relax? Jan: Why don’t you get a body scrub or a scalp massage instead? Maybe that’ll calm your nerves. Tim: I don’t need a body scrub or another massage. I just want to get out of here. When will we be done? Jan: After this, all we have left are manicures and pedicures. Tim: What?! I’m not getting a manicure or a pedicure. Jan: You did promise to go with me to the spa if I agreed to have your four college friends stay in our house for two weeks, remember? Tim: Yes, I remember. All right, let’s get this over with. Jan: Just be glad I didn’t sign you up for waxing! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #242

Topics: Preventing Violence in Schools Post Columbine; American Territories: U.S. Virgin Islands; although versus even though; lite; rate versus rank Words:
campus
massacre
outcast
bullied
minor
to claim
clique
to retaliate
Caribbean
inhabitant
exotic
diving
destination wedding
cruise
although
even though
lite
to rate
to rank

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582 - A Parent-Teacher Conference

Go to a parent-teacher conference to talk about your child’s performance in school in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:29
Explanations: 3:35
Fast dialogue: 15:46 Ms. Vasquez: Hello, Mr. Polo. I’m Ms. Vasquez. Please have a seat. Mr. Polo: Thank you. Ms. Vasquez: In this parent-teacher conference, I want to go beyond Marco’s report cards and his standardized test scores to talk about his general performance in the classroom. Mr. Polo: That’s great. I want to know how he’s doing. Ms. Vasquez: Marco is a good student. He’s attentive in class, a hard worker, and hands in his homework on time. Here’s his portfolio, if you want to take a look at his classroom work. Mr. Polo: This is great. Are there any areas he needs to work on? Ms. Vasquez: Marco is a good student, but he does sometimes misbehave. He often has disagreements with other students and loses his temper. I think he needs to work on his social skills. Mr. Polo: Well, I don’t think that’s the most important thing, do you? His academics are the most important and he seems to be doing well in his subjects. Ms. Vasquez: It’s true that academics are important, but learning to work cooperatively with other people is important, too, if he wants to get ahead in life, don’t you think? Mr. Polo: I’ll have a talk with him. I’m sure you’ll see an improvement. Ms. Vasquez: I appreciate you taking this seriously. Again, Marco is a good student and it’s a pleasure to have him in my class. Mr. Polo: I’m glad to hear that. Good-bye. Ms. Vasquez: Have a good afternoon. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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581 - Reading a World Map

It helps to be able to read a map if you’re going to travel. Learn how in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:30
Explanations: 3:30
Fast dialogue: 15:34 Greg: What are you doing with that map and that globe? Julianna: I’m trying to keep track of Carmen as she travels from country to country. I just got another postcard from her today. Greg: I’m not sure I like the idea of my daughter traveling around the world with a group of people for three months. It’s not safe. Julianna: She can take care of herself. You know she’s the adventurous type. Give her a compass and she can find her way around anywhere. Help me find Nauru on this map. I don’t even know what continent it’s on. I was never any good at geography. Greg: All right. You look above the equator and I’ll look below it, but couldn’t you just look it up on the Internet? It would be easy to find the latitude and longitude of this place. Julianna: This is more fun. I sort of feel like I’m on an adventure myself. Greg: I can’t make heads or tails of this map. It’s not to scale and this legend is all wrong! Julianna: It doesn’t matter. We just need to find the place name, and then I can put a pin in this map showing where’s she’s been. Greg: I have a better idea. I’ll look it up on the Internet and get you all of the vital statistics you’d want, like its location, okay? Julianna: Forget it. Sometimes it’s more fun doing things the hard way. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #241

Topics: Ask an American: The Princess and the Frog; pronouncing “address”; to cut the bull/ bullshit; outspoken versus vocal Words:
fairy tale
extension of (one’s) disbelief
dreamland
hand-drawn
down here
to break (someone’s) heart
merger
to bring back
the norm
period
Americana
to open a new chapter
to address
to cut the bull/bullshit
outspoken
vocal

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580 - Retiring From a Job

Learn how to talk about retirement in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:21
Explanations: 3:12
Fast dialogue: 15:53 Meredith: Are you going to Stanley’s retirement party? Oscar: Sure, I want a glimpse of the future. I can’t wait to retire. Meredith: It’ll be a long time before you get the golden handshake. Me? I may be ready for early retirement. Oscar: Are you seriously thinking about taking the early retirement package the company is offering? Meredith: I’m thinking about it. My health isn’t getting any better, and I don’t want to spend the rest of my days in this office. Oscar: But can you afford it? Meredith: The early retirement package is pretty generous, and I’ve saved up a nice little nest egg over the years. Oscar: Then what are you waiting for? If I were in your shoes, I wouldn’t hem and haw about it. I’d make the decision to retire now – today! Meredith: Why are you getting all worked up? Are you after my job? Oscar: No way! I just can’t stand to see someone who can retire stay at this job. I’d trade places with you in a minute. Meredith: I doubt that – not if it meant being a card-carrying member of AARP. You’re too young to be thinking about retirement. Oscar: I didn’t say I was ready for retirement. I’m just thinking about it – all the time! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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579 - Telling People Where You’re From

Learn how to ask in English where someone is from, and to introduce yourself in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:36
Explanations: 3:14
Fast dialogue: 16:23

Cora: Hi, I’m Cora. Antonio: I’m Antonio. Nice to meet you. Cora: Same here. Are you from around here? Antonio: No, I’m originally from Arkansas. How about you? Cora: I’m a native Californian, but I grew up in the Middle East. My parents were in the military, so we moved quite a bit, but mainly around the Middle East. Antonio: That’s really interesting. I spent some time in Jordan myself a few years ago doing research for my company. But I’ve lived in Los Angeles for over 10 years and consider it my adopted hometown. Cora: Isn’t that funny? Even though I was born here, I only moved back here two months ago. I’m sure you know the city much better than I do. Antonio: I’d be happy to show you around, to help you get reacquainted with L.A. Cora: I was only eight years old when my family moved away, so I have a lot of catching up to do. Antonio: Let’s start next weekend. I’ll show you some of the places where the locals like to hang out. Cora: That sounds great. Is this how all Angelinos treat newcomers? Antonio: Absolutely! I’m the city’s one-man welcome wagon. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #240

Topics: DUIs and Mothers Against Drunk Drivers; Famous Americans: Martha Stewart; traffic versus transit; at all versus not at all; describing someone who works from home Words:
influence
impaired
sobriety
penalty
to lobby
non-profit
fatality
business magnate
empire
homemaking
insider information
perfectionism
traffic
transit
at all
not at all
telecommuter

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578 - Eating a Home-Cooked Meal

Eat some good food made by Chef Mom in this episode. It’s delicious! Slow dialogue: 1:25
Explanations: 3:26
Fast dialogue: 16:36 Louise: What’s the matter with you? Gil: I just got off the phone with my mom and she says they’re planning a welcome-home party for me next week – at a restaurant! Louise: What’s wrong with that? Gil: After living abroad for a year, I was really looking forward to a home-cooked meal. Louise: Why didn’t you just tell your mother that? Gil: I didn’t have the heart to do that. She was so excited about the party, and who am I to tell her she has to slave over a hot stove to cook me a lavish dinner? Louise: I’m sure she wouldn’t mind. It’d be a labor of love. Gil: You don’t know my mother. She doesn’t cut corners and makes everything from scratch. She uses these recipes that were passed down to her from her mother. She can make the most intricate dishes, but what I’m craving are the comfort foods she always made for us when we were kids. It makes my mouth water just thinking about her cooking. Louise: After a year of living on instant noodles and take-out food, I’m not surprised you want something home-cooked. I tell you what. After the party, come over to my house and I’ll have a home-cooked meal ready for you. Gil: You, cook for me? Thanks, but no thanks! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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577 - Magic and Illusions

Let’s go to a magic show and talk about it in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:18
Explanations: 2:47
Fast dialogue: 13:18 Patricia: This is the best magic show I’ve ever seen. Have you ever seen so many amazing magic tricks in your life? They’re blowing my mind! Sergio: They’re all just illusions. It’s nothing but smoke and mirrors. Patricia: I don’t know how you can say that. We’ve seen some really impressive sleight of hand tricks and that escape artist seemed to do the impossible. Sergio: Couldn’t you see that it was just misdirection? While you weren’t looking, the magician left through the trap door. Patricia: Maybe that’s how that trick was done, but how do you explain the mind reader? How did he know what I was thinking if he couldn’t really read my mind? Sergio: I’m sure any supernatural powers these magicians and entertainers claim to have have been debunked by somebody. Maybe he used the power of suggestion. Who knows? Patricia: And maybe you’re just jaded. Sergio: And maybe you’re the most gullible person who ever lived! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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English Cafe #239

Topics: The CIA; The Wizard of Oz ; deliverable; stress versus pressure; “you had me at ‘hello’” Words:
intelligence
peacetime
secretive
speculation
espionage
covert
torture
regime change
wizard
tornado
scarecrow
plot
deliverable
stress
pressure
“you had me at ‘hello’”

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576 - Using Unfair Influence

Corruption is a fact of life in some places. Learn about how to avoid it in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:26
Explanations: 3:30
Fast dialogue: 15:10 Josey: Hello, I’m Josey Kim. Curt: Hi, I’m Curt West. Thanks for agreeing to meet with me. Josey: You mentioned on the phone that you can help us get that government contract we’re bidding on, is that right? Curt: Absolutely. I’m sure I can be of service to your company and secure that contract without too much difficulty. Josey: I appreciate your confidence, but can you tell me more about how you plan to do that? Curt: I think the less said the better. Let’s just say that I have friends in high places. Josey: I’m not sure I understand you. Curt: Come on, you know how business is done on Capitol Hill. If you line the right pockets, it’s not difficult to pull some strings to get what you want. Josey: Are you suggesting that our company use bribery to get preferential treatment on our bid? Curt: I’m simply saying that backroom deals are business as usual in the government. Josey: If you’re suggesting that we hire you to do influence peddling, I can tell you now that we’re not interested. Corruption may be rampant in government, but we’re not willing to do anything unethical to get a contract. Curt: Suit yourself, but without somebody like me doing your dirty work, there’s no way you’re going to win that contract. Josey: That may be, Mr. West, but that’s a chance we’re willing to take. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

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ESLPodcast Introduction - What is ESLPodcast?

Begin with this introduction to ESLPod.com's English as a Second Language Podcast.

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ESLPodcast #100 - An Interview with Dr. Jeff McQuillan

Happy birthday, ESL Podcast! Listen to an interview of Dr. Jeff McQuillan by Dr. Lucy Tse.

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