You Don't Say?! artwork

You Don't Say?!

75 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 1 year ago -

Welcome to You Don’t Say!

Ready to practise your English with real English conversation? Join us as we talk about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels.

We're Abigail and Audrey two online English teachers who have learnt different languages and travelled and lived in different countries around the world. We're passionate about helping students feel more confident communicating with the world in English. We want to give English learners the possibility to listen to real-life, spontaneous conversations in English.

Language Learning Education
Homepage Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed

Episodes

Episode 66: What D'ya Mean?

September 09, 2022 14:34 - 10 minutes - 8.65 MB

About this episode: Today we’re talking about the confusion that can happen when you’re talking to another native speaker of your language but you have no idea what they mean. Maybe they’re using expressions you’ve never heard before or words in a completely different way from how you use them. Either way, it can make for some funny, sometimes awkward conversations. Grab your favourite drink, or take us with you when you go for a walk, and join us to improve your English by listening to nat...

Episode 65: Let's Catch Up!

August 19, 2022 06:01 - 13 minutes - 11.9 MB

About this episode: It's exciting times! We have the first new podcast episode of 2022 for you today. And what better way to get started than to have a catch up and share our news.Grab your favourite drink, or take us with you when you go for a walk, and join us to improve your English by listening to natural conversation. Some of the topics we discuss: Audrey’s now a citizen of… Who has been travelling the most recently Why we took a break for so long Thanks for listening to You Don't...

Blondes, Beer and Tea - Episode Flashback

August 05, 2022 06:00 - 12 minutes - 12.6 MB

This is the fifth of our Friday flashbacks where you can relive one of our five favourite episodes. We hope you enjoy listening and look out for brand new You Don’t Say?! episodes coming in August. About this episode: Be ready to laugh with today's episode as we chat about some of the weird and wonderful stereotypes that we've heard about our cultures. Some of the topics we discuss: Kangaroos, koalas and dangerous animals everywhere in Australia Why according to TV and movies Audrey doe...

Don't Embarrass Me! - Episode Flashback

July 22, 2022 16:15 - 13 minutes - 13.7 MB

This is the fourth of our Friday flashbacks where you can relive one of our five favourite episodes. We hope you enjoy listening and look out for brand new You Don’t Say episodes coming in August. About this episode Do you have problems when you travel and you have to assert yourself? Has your personality changed as you have learnt English and travelled or lived abroad? Today we chat about how learning languages and living in another country could influence your personality. Grab your fav...

Crimes Against Food - Episode Flashback

July 01, 2022 16:50 - 15 minutes - 15.6 MB

This is the third of our Friday flashbacks where you can relive one of our five favourite episodes. We hope you enjoy listening and look out for brand new You Don’t Say?! episodes coming soon. About this episode On today’s episode “Crimes Against Food” we’re talking about food and drink rules in different countries. Some topics we discuss are: Food crimes we’ve committed Fruit on pizza. Should it even be allowed? The one rule you must follow at Australian barbeques…. and much more Grab...

World of Weddings - Episode Flashback

June 17, 2022 08:00 - 16 minutes - 17.3 MB

This is the second of our Friday flashbacks where you can relive one of our five favourite episodes. We hope you enjoy listening and look out for brand new You Don’t Say episodes coming soon. About this episode Who doesn’t love going to a wedding, especially when it’s one involving a culture that you might not be very familiar with. On this episode we discuss. Weddings around the world Things that you just wouldn't want to happen at your wedding Pre wedding parties (hen nights and stag ...

Let's Go Dutch - Episode Flashback

June 03, 2022 08:00 - 11 minutes - 10 MB

Welcome to the first of our Episode Flashbacks, our favourite and must-listen to episodes. Grab your favourite drink or take us with you when you go for a walk and join us to improve your English by listening to natural conversation. About this episode Split the bill, pay for everyone, pay in secret, pay only for what you ordered. In this episode of "You Don't Say?!?" In this episode we talk about interesting experiences when it comes to paying the bill in different cultures. We also share...

Tea Time

December 17, 2021 09:00 - 15 minutes - 15.4 MB

About this episode: On today’s listener requested episode we chat about the popular English tradition known as afternoon tea. Yes, afternoon tea is a type of tea but it’s also a meal with an interesting history. Grab your favourite drink (maybe a cup of tea), or take us with you when you go for a walk, and join us to improve your English by listening to natural conversation. Some of the topics we discuss: The two confusing meanings of tea in the North of England What afternoon tea consis...

Guest Interview: Gabriela Casineanu

December 03, 2021 09:00 - 28 minutes - 26.6 MB

About this episode: Gabriela Casineanu is our guest today and joins us from Canada. She’s a coach, award-winning author and university instructor. Gabriela works with immigrant professionals who are to be introverts. Grab your favourite drink, or take us with you when you go for a walk, and join us to improve your English by listening to natural conversation. Some of the topics we discuss: The language isn’t the only thing you need to work on while you learn English How our cultural back...

You Didn't, Did You?

November 19, 2021 09:00 - 19 minutes - 18.6 MB

About this episode: Do people in your country follow rules? Do you think there are too many rules in your country? Have you ever travelled to another place where there were unwritten rules that you didn’t know about? Today we’re talking about rules and laws in other countries and even though this sounds like a serious topic, trust us, you’ll laugh as much as we did recording this episode. Grab your favourite drink or take us with you when you go for a walk and join us to improve your Engli...

Country Spotlight: Zambia

November 05, 2021 09:00 - 19 minutes - 18.5 MB

About this episode: Today Audrey is joined by a special guest, her friend Roisin, for our monthly Country Spotlight. Roisin was born and grew up in Zambia but comes from an Irish family. She has so many interesting things to share about life in Zambia that we are sure you will want to plan a trip there. Grab your favourite drink or take us with you when you go for a walk and join us to improve your English by listening to natural conversation. Some of the topics we discuss: What life was ...

Don't Embarrass Me!

October 22, 2021 08:00 - 14 minutes - 13.8 MB

About this episode: Do you have problems when you travel and you have to assert yourself? Has your personality changed as you have learnt English and travelled or lived abroad? Today we chat about how learning languages, your cultural background or living in other countries could influence your personality and behaviour. Grab your favourite drink or take us with you when you go for a walk and join us to improve your English by listening to natural conversation. Some of the topics we discu...

Guest Interview: Joe Shean

October 08, 2021 10:22 - 20 minutes - 19.9 MB

About this episode: Have you ever visited the Canary Islands? Are you curious about what living on one of them would be like? Joe Shean, an English teacher, is our guest today and will share some of his experiences about life in Spain. Grab your favourite drink, get comfortable and join us today to practise your English by listening to natural conversation. Some of the topics we discuss: Life in Tenerife and how it differs from life in Granada One thing that might surprise you that Joe r...

Back in Action

October 01, 2021 08:00 - 13 minutes - 13.4 MB

About this episode: How was your summer? Did you have any exciting new experiences? Join us today to practise your English by listening to natural conversation as we relive our summer memories. Some of the topics we discuss: Audrey’s trips to Italy and in Spain A delicious dish to try in Ibiza if you are a fish lover The big surprise that Abi received this summer...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in your podcast a...

An Episode With a Difference

July 16, 2021 16:00 - 11 minutes - 11 MB

About this episode: Have you ever wanted to start teaching languages online or have you already started? Maybe you know someone who's curious about becoming an online language teacher. On today’s episode Abi is joined by a previous guest, Lindsay from Lindsay Does Languages. She talks about the programme that she runs to guide and support new and growing online teachers. The programme is open all year round but until the 23rd July 2021 Lindsay is offering some great bonuses when you join th...

Summer Slump

June 25, 2021 09:00 - 22 minutes - 22.3 MB

About this episode: Are you in a summer mood? Are you getting to that point where you’re just ready for a summer break from work or studying? Join us today to practise your English by listening to natural and spontaneous conversation as we talk about all things summer related. Some of the topics we discuss: What exactly is a summer slump? The British experience of going to the seaside Why some cities become ghost towns in the summer...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say...

Country Spotlight: Macau

June 18, 2021 09:00 - 11 minutes - 11.5 MB

About this episode: Have you ever heard of Macau/Macao? Do you know what it’s famous for? Join us today to practise your English by listening to natural conversation as we take a deep dive into our Country Spotlight of the month. Some of the topics we discuss: Macau’s fusion culture Popular national dishes The industry that makes Macau a popular tourist destination...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in your podcast...

Hot to Go

June 11, 2021 09:00 - 14 minutes - 14.5 MB

About this episode: What’s the strangest thing you’ve seen for sale in a vending machine? Why are they so popular in some countries? Join us today to practise your English by listening to natural conversation as we talk about this curious topic. Some of the topics we discuss: Japan, home of the vending machines A favourite Italian dish, now available in a vending machine Our favourite vending machine items from our travels...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you ...

Guest Interview: James Levin

June 04, 2021 08:00 - 19 minutes - 20.1 MB

About this episode: It’s guest interview time and today you’ll hear us talk to James. He is a trainer and coach for non-native English speakers who want to advance in their careers in the international workplace. He was born in the United States and has lived in Colombia since 2016. Aside from training professionals for interviews, James hosts a free conversation club every week (the link is below) for general English speaking practice. James enjoys reading, traveling and cooking for his pa...

Superstitions - Part 2

May 28, 2021 08:00 - 14 minutes - 14.7 MB

About this episode: Due to popular demand we’re back with another superstitions episode and this time we’re doing it as a fun quiz and you can play along. Some of the topics we discuss: Bananas on boats, good luck or bad luck? Itchy hands for money Birds looking in your window Babies and fish...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in your podcast app or share it with a friend. Our question for you: Ask us a question...

Country Spotlight: India

May 21, 2021 08:00 - 18 minutes - 18.3 MB

About this episode: We’re featuring our first big country on today’s episode, India. Some of the topics we discuss: India’s cultural diversity Our experiences of southern and northern India If you know how to do one thing you can make instant friends in India...and more! Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in your podcast app or share it with a friend. Our question for you: Have you ever been to India or are you Indian? What else...

Secret Stories?

May 07, 2021 08:00 - 1 minute - 1.7 MB

About this episode: Today is a special day because we’re celebrating our 50th episode, woohoo! But that’s not the only reason why it’s a special episode. Listen and find out why. Episode links: Visit our website and sign up for our newsletter Connect with us links: Follow us on Instagram Join our Facebook group for more English conversation Theme music: Monkeys Spinning Monkeys by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4071-monkeys-spinning-monkeys License: http:/...

A Cup of Joe

April 30, 2021 09:00 - 17 minutes - 15.5 MB

About this episode: Coffee anyone? On today’s episode we’re talking about this popular drink in different cultures. And even if you don’t drink coffee we’re sure that you’ll still find this episode a lot of fun. Some of the topics we discuss: What exactly is a cup of Joe? Coffee dos and don’ts Coffee in Colombia...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in your podcast app or share it with a friend. Our question for you:...

Guest Interview: Kristine from Express to Impress

April 23, 2021 09:00 - 23 minutes - 22.5 MB

About this episode: On today’s episode we’re chatting to our guest Kristine who helps people communicate in English effectively within their environment and within the different cultures that they work in. Some of the topics we discuss: Advice for anyone working with other cultures. A surprising culture shock that Kristine had. Communication styles in different cultures...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in your po...

Good Grub

April 16, 2021 09:00 - 17 minutes - 17.2 MB

About this episode: On today’s episode we’re chatting about the myth that all British food is bad and trying to persuade our lovely listeners that they should try some. Some of the topics we discuss: The meaning of good grub Misconceptions that people have about British food Why British food used to be so flavourful and still is Some top British dishes that you should try...and more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in your podc...

Country Spotlight: Georgia

April 09, 2021 09:00 - 10 minutes - 10.1 MB

About this episode: What comes to mind when you think of the country Georgia besides the fact that there’s a state in the USA with exactly the same name? On today’s episode we take a deep dive into this country situated between Europe and Asia. Some of the topics we discuss: Georgian cuisine The fact that it was the birthplace of something that many people love The Georgian language...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a revi...

A Spring in Your Step

March 26, 2021 10:00 - 11 minutes - 10.5 MB

About this episode: As the days get longer (in Europe anyway) and nature comes to life again, we’re celebrating all things spring on today’s episode. Some of the topics we discuss: What exactly does a spring in your step mean? Why we love Japan so much at this time of year Spanish celebrations that take place at this time of year..and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in your podcast app or share it with a friend. Our ...

Guest Interview: Iranian Life in the UK

March 19, 2021 10:00 - 16 minutes - 15.8 MB

About this episode: We’re joined by Abi’s long-time friend today who happens to be British but of Iranian descent. If you’re curious about Iranian culture then you’ll love this episode. Some of the topics we discuss: Iranian New Year “Eid Nowruz” Iranian parties with an unwritten rule for something you must do when you attend one “Taarof”, the Iranian art of etiquette...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in your podc...

Blondes, Beer and Tea

March 12, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 12.8 MB

About this episode: Be ready to laugh with today's episode as we chat about some of the weird and wonderful stereotypes that we've heard about our cultures. Some of the topics we discuss: Kangaroos, koalas and dangerous animals everywhere in Australia According to TV and movies Audrey doesn’t look like your “typical” Australian One particular drink can make every bad situation better in the UK...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please l...

Country Spotlight: New Zealand

March 05, 2021 09:00 - 22 minutes - 21.7 MB

About this episode: How much do you know about New Zealand? Is it on your bucket list? Today we chat with a special guest about life in New Zealand. And before you listen, sign up to our newsletter and we’ll send you our guide to essential Maori expressions used in New Zealand. You'll hear each and every one used on this episode One big advantage of living in New Zealand Māori people and their culture The New Zealand accent. It’s quite special… and more Thanks for listening to You Don't...

Abigail's Language Journey (Part 2)

February 26, 2021 10:00 - 14 minutes - 14.8 MB

About this episode: Co-host Abigail shares the second part of her language learning story. We hope you feel inspired while you’re listening. Some of the topics we discuss: China, Chinese and all its surprises Falling in love with Korean in South Korea Tips for maintaining your languages...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in your podcast app or share it with a friend. Our question for you: Which language do you mo...

Abigail's Language Journey (Part 1)

February 19, 2021 10:00 - 16 minutes - 17.1 MB

About this episode: Co-host Abigail shares her love for languages and all the interesting things that can happen when you can speak another language. We hope you feel inspired while you’re listening. We had a lot to discuss, so part 2 of our chat will be out next Friday. Some of the topics we discuss: The first unofficial "language lesson" Abigail took Pen pals, do you remember them? Life and work language goals vs reality...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you ...

Guest Interview: Cara Leopold (part 2)

February 12, 2021 10:00 - 11 minutes - 11.8 MB

About this episode: Special guest Cara Leopold from Leo Listening joins us for the second part of an interview today. Cara is an English listening skills coach who helps adventurous expats and intrepid travellers improve their English listening skills through movies so they can better understand and connect with fast-talking native speakers. Some of the topics we discuss: Cara answers the question “Why do people speak so fast in English?” Recommendations for listening success How watchi...

Guest Interview: Cara Leopold

February 05, 2021 10:00 - 18 minutes - 18.2 MB

About this episode: Special guest Cara Leopold from Leo Listening joins us today. Cara is an English listening skills coach who helps adventurous expats and intrepid travellers improve their English listening skills through movies so they can better understand and connect with fast-talking native speakers. This is part 1 of a 2 part episode. Some of the topics we discuss: Cara’s experience moving to France from the UK Cara’s journey improving her French listening skills through movies an...

Guest Interview: Cara Leopold (part 1)

February 05, 2021 10:00 - 18 minutes - 18.2 MB

About this episode: Special guest Cara Leopold from Leo Listening joins us today. Cara is an English listening skills coach who helps adventurous expats and intrepid travellers improve their English listening skills through movies so they can better understand and connect with fast-talking native speakers. This is part 1 of a 2 part episode. Some of the topics we discuss: Cara’s experience moving to France from the UK Cara’s journey improving her French listening skills through movies an...

Fly the Nest

January 29, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 13.5 MB

About this episode: Today we’re discussing how leaving the family home (flying the nest) is a different experience around the world. Some of the topics we discuss: Multi-generational homes and living at home until you’re married How times are changing in Western culture Our own experiences of flying the nest...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in your podcast app or share it with a friend. Our question for you: Ha...

Country Spotlight: Iceland

January 22, 2021 09:00 - 13 minutes - 13.2 MB

Today’s episode is our first Country Spotlight of 2021 and we’ll be exploring Iceland. Some of the topics we discuss: How the Icelandic language has over 100 words for one particular thing Two outdoor activities that you can’t miss if you visit Iceland Reasons why Icelanders might be so happy...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in your podcast app or share it with a friend. Our question for you: Could you spend 6 m...

How Can I Help You?

January 15, 2021 09:00 - 16 minutes - 16.5 MB

About this episode: Welcome to "You Don't Say?!" the podcast for English learners about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels. On today’s episode we chat about customer service in the different countries that we’ve travelled to. Some of the topics we discuss: Over-attentive shop assistants in some countries Being greeted in shops, should you actually respond in certain countries? One thing you can expect not to receive in a bar at n...

Guest Interview: From Italy to the U.S.

January 08, 2021 09:00 - 24 minutes - 23.1 MB

About this episode: Welcome to "You Don't Say?!" the podcast for English learners about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels. On today’s episode we chat with our special guest Cristina about moving from Italy to the U.S. Some of the topics we discuss: Cristina’s first impressions of life in Texas. It can be really hot! The struggles of having to use and understand real English on a daily basis Cultural differences between Italy and...

Christmas is All Around

December 18, 2020 11:57 - 19 minutes - 18.3 MB

Welcome to "You Don't Say?!" the podcast for English learners about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels. On today’s episode join us as we chat about all things Christmas. Some topics we’ll discuss: A surprising Christmas Day tradition in Japan A fun Christmas breakfast in Finland Our favourite family Christmas traditions...and much more Thanks for listening to You Don't Say?! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review in y...

Country Spotlight: Barbados

December 11, 2020 10:00 - 15 minutes - 15.7 MB

About this episode: Welcome to "You Don't Say?!" the podcast for English learners about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels. On today’s episode we’re back with another Country Spotlight. Join us as we explore the tropical island of Barbados. Some topics we’ll discuss: Some interesting influences in the local food, One way you could spend a whole year in Barbados There’s more to Barbados than beaches...and much more. Thanks for li...

Warm and Cosy

December 04, 2020 12:39 - 13 minutes - 13.3 MB

About this episode: Welcome to "You Don't Say?!" the podcast for English learners about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels. On today’s episode we chat about the Danish word Hygge, the word to describe anything that would make you feel content and your life a bit cosier.  Some topics we’ll discuss: Is there an art to being cosy? What being warm and cosy means to us Food and drinks that make life much cosier at this time of year......

Guest Interview: Christina from Speak English with Christina

November 27, 2020 10:00 - 19 minutes - 19.1 MB

About this episode: Welcome to "You Don't Say?!" the podcast for English learners about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels. On today’s episode we have another special guest, Christina Rebuffet-Broadus creator of Speak English with Christina. Christina is from the USA but has been living in France for 15 years. She coaches managers, executives, and entrepreneurs to grow their business, and feel confident speaking English. Some topics...

Festive Time

November 20, 2020 11:00 - 13 minutes - 13.7 MB

About this episode: Welcome to "You Don't Say?!" the podcast for English learners about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels. As autumn approaches there are so many festivals and celebrations happening in different parts of the world. Today we’re sharing our experiences of some of our favourite ones. Some topics we’ll discuss: Festivals for people that just love food Festivals that revolve around fire and fireworks The strange reas...

Country Spotlight: The Czech Republic

November 06, 2020 10:00 - 27 minutes - 26.9 MB

About this episode: Welcome to "You Don't Say?!" the podcast for English learners about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels. We’re back with another listener voted Country Spotlight episode and today’s location is The Czech Republic. We’re also joined by a special guest, a fellow English teacher, who just happens to be Czech. Some topics we’ll discuss: Classic Czech food and why it might not be so healthy Something you could do for...

Come Dine with Me

October 30, 2020 10:00 - 13 minutes - 13.3 MB

About this episode: Welcome to "You Don't Say?!" the podcast for English learners about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels. On today’s episode we’ll be chatting about how we socialise with friends in different cultures, specifically whether it’s common or not to invite them over for dinner. Some topics we’ll discuss: The pros and cons of inviting friends over for a meal Countries where you’ll rarely be invited to someone’s house f...

Episode 26: Guest Interview - Lindsay Williams

October 23, 2020 10:00 - 27 minutes - 27.1 MB

About this episode: Welcome to "You Don't Say?!" the podcast for English learners about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels. On today’s episode we have another special guest, Lindsay from Lindsay Does Languages. Lindsay is from the UK and loves everything related to languages, from learning them to inspiring people to become independent language learners and online teachers. Some topics we’ll discuss: What it’s like to be an indepen...

Episode 26: Guest Interview - Lindsay from Lindsay Does Languages

October 23, 2020 10:00 - 27 minutes - 27.1 MB

About this episode: Welcome to "You Don't Say?!" the podcast for English learners about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels. On today’s episode we have another special guest, Lindsay from Lindsay Does Languages. Lindsay is from the UK and loves everything related to languages, from learning them to inspiring people to become independent language learners and online teachers. Some topics we’ll discuss: What it’s like to be an indepen...

Abi and Audrey

October 16, 2020 09:00 - 16 minutes - 16.7 MB

About this episode: Welcome to "You Don't Say?!" the podcast for English learners about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels. On today’s episode we let you get to know us a bit more by discussing our cultural backgrounds. Some topics we’ll discuss: Abi’s Jamaican and Audrey’s Dutch family Some of our favourite food from our different cultures Being influenced to travel by our grandparents...and much more Thanks for listening to Yo...

Country Spotlight: Norway

October 09, 2020 09:00 - 20 minutes - 20.7 MB

About this episode: Welcome to "You Don't Say?!" the podcast for English learners about life around the world, cultural differences and things that have surprised us on our travels. We’re back with another Country Spotlight. We’ll spend the whole of this episode talking about all the surprising, interesting and challenging things about living in a country voted for by our Instagram and Facebook followers. This episode is focused on the Scandinavian country Norway. Some topics we’ll discus...