In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Indiana teach you two very common and useful English expressions for making comparisons: “apples to oranges” and “night and day.” These idioms help you describe situations where things are so different that it’s not fair or even possible to compare them. You’ll hear realistic examples, like comparing homemade food to the gorgeous dishes shared by influencers, or an old, outdated phone to a brand new one.
What you’ll learn with this episode:
How to use “apples to oranges” when two things are too different to compare
How to use “night and day” to describe a major, positive change
The difference in meaning and usage between the two expressions
Real-life examples from conversations about jobs, health, technology, and daily life
This episode is perfect for:
Intermediate English learners who want to use idiomatic expressions to talk about comparisons
Learners trying to sound more fluent and confident in real conversations, at work, school, or in social situations
The Best Way to Learn with This Episode:
Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. Become a Culips member now: Click here.
Members can access the ad-free version: Click here.
Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.
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23:44
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23:44
Bonus episode #160 – My funky jacket
What do you do when your favorite jacket starts to smell really bad? In this episode, Andrew shares a funny story about two expensive jackets that developed a terrible musty odor after being stored under his bed for the summer. He talks about trying different solutions, like leaving them in the sun, putting them in the freezer, and spraying them with fabric spray and even vodka. Listen as Andrew shares his experience and teaches you natural English expressions you can use in real life.
Don’t forget to check out the free interactive transcript and glossary to learn the idioms and expressions Andrew uses in this episode that will help make your English sound more natural and fluent.
Important links:
Become a Culips member
Study with the interactive transcript
Join the Culips Discord server
Small-group speaking class schedule
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30:45
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30:45
Simplified Speech #231 – Hanging out with Kassy
In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew catches up with Kassy, who returns to share exciting updates about her life. She talks about finishing her master’s degree, taking a long trip across the United States with her baby, moving to a new city in Korea, and adjusting to work after maternity leave. Kassy also shares her experience planning her son’s first birthday and explains a special Korean tradition called Doljanchi, where a baby chooses an item that predicts their future.
You’ll learn how to talk about life changes, travel experiences, and family traditions in clear, natural English. Andrew and Kassy also highlight useful vocabulary like caravan, strew, and mat leave, explaining how each one is used in everyday conversations.
What you’ll learn with this episode:
How to describe life updates and big transitions using natural English phrases
Vocabulary for talking about travel, family, and moving to a new home
The meaning of cultural terms like Doljanchi and maternity leave
How native speakers share personal stories and connect emotionally in conversation
This episode is perfect for:
Intermediate English learners who want to understand everyday conversations
Anyone interested in modern Korean culture and family life
Listeners who want to improve their vocabulary and fluency for storytelling and daily English conversations
The Best Way to Learn with This Episode:
Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member.
Become a Culips member now: Click here.
Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here.
Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.
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23:50
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23:50
Chatterbox #340 – How algorithms affect us
In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna talk about algorithms, the hidden digital systems that shape what we see online. They discuss how these tools affect what we buy, what we believe, and even how we feel. If you’ve ever wondered why the same ads seem to follow you everywhere, or you’re curious about Andrew’s story of being flooded with hair transplant ads, you’ll enjoy this one.
If you’re an upper-intermediate English learner who wants to sound more natural when talking about technology and modern life, this episode is for you. You’ll learn useful vocabulary through a real conversation between Andrew and Anna, while building listening confidence along the way.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
Vocabulary: Learn useful expressions and terms related to technology and online behavior, such as echo chamber, rage bait, and
Listening: Understand how algorithms work and how they influence what we see online with an interesting and easy-to-follow discussion.
Speaking: Share your own experiences with algorithms in our speaking classes and on our Discord server.
Fluency: Listening to natural English conversations helps train your brain to think in English, a key skill for fluent speaking. You'll also pick up natural expressions and speech patterns, and get comfortable with how native speakers discuss technology and digital culture.
The Best Way to Learn with This Episode:
Culips members get an interactive transcript, helpful study guide, and ad-free audio for this episode. These tools will help you review new words, check your understanding, and build confidence in speaking and listening. Take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member.
Become a Culips member now: Click here.
Members can access the ad-free version here: Click here.
Join our Discord community to connect with other learners and get more English practice. Click here to join.
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28:19
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28:19
Bonus episode #159 – Full House for Chuseok
What's the best way to give money as a gift? In this episode, Andrew tells a story about hosting his wife’s family for Chuseok, the Korean Thanksgiving holiday. You'll hear him talk about preparing a huge meal, fitting eight people into a small space, and turning gift-giving into fun games with cash prizes.
Listen along to supercharge your listening skills. Don't forget to check out the FREE interactive transcript and glossary to learn the idioms and expressions Andrew uses in this episode that will help your English become more natural.
Important links:
Become a Culips member
Study with the interactive transcript
Join the Culips Discord server
Small-group speaking class schedule
RSVP for the Culips Hamburg Meet-up on October 18th
Culips English Podcast: Practical English Learning Made Fun Learn and Explore: Join Culips for an exciting English learning journey. Our podcast focuses on teaching English idioms, slang, and phrasal verbs through fun and engaging conversations. Each episode helps you master English for real-life situations. Unique Learning Experience: Culips stands out by blending language skills with cultural insights. Our diverse hosts make learning relatable, covering a variety of everyday topics. You’ll pick up practical language skills and gain cultural understanding, enhancing your English fluency in an enjoyable way. Your Path to Fluency: As your ideal learning partner, Culips provides easy-to-understand lessons on daily English usage. Learn from native speakers and immerse in different cultures, making your English learning journey rewarding and effective.
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