Best Austen Summers Podcast Podcasts (2025)

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#356 US State Name Stories – Northeast 16:45

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5m ago16:45

16:45

Hi! This is part two of our series about US state names. Today, we’ll explore the Northeast: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont. That’s eleven states in total! And today I’ll focus on: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.…

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The Autumn Shift: Hibernaculums, Snowdrops, and Jane Austen 30:11

43m ago30:11

30:11

As astronomical autumn settles in, the rhythm of our gardens begins to change — plants, fungi, and wildlife all adapting to cooler days and longer nights. This week, horticulturist Tim Smith shows us how to support our hibernating garden visitors by creating your very own hibernaculum at home. Camilla Bassett-Smith shares her expert tips on plantin…

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From Soil to Plate: Raymond Blanc’s Kitchen Garden 32:29

6d ago32:29

32:29

This week we’re heading down to the world famous, double Michelin star Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in deepest Oxfordshire, to speak to chef Raymond Blanc about his ethos towards growing delicious produce, appreciating the soil, and letting veg take centre stage on the plate. From tasty veg to truly enormous ones, Fiona Davison will be telling us abo…

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#355 US State Name Stories – Southeast 13:09

7d ago13:09

13:09

Are you ready for a trip through the United States? Pack your bags — because today we’re starting a special journey! In this first episode, we’ll travel to the Southeast: Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, and Alabama. Next time, we’ll continue our trip to the Northeast, then to the Midwest, and finally we’ll finish in the West and Southwest. Get the tra…

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Pioneering Women Gardeners, Daffodils and Climate Lessons 35:43

14d ago35:43

35:43

This week we’re exploring the lives of the pioneering women gardeners of the 20th century who paved the way for women in horticulture today… through music. Composer Omri Kochavi will be sharing how he was inspired by the book ‘An Almost Impossible Thing’ by Fiona Davison to create what he calls a 'horti-musical'. Now's the perfect time to think ahe…

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#354 Talking About the Weather English 12:31

13d ago12:31

12:31

Let me ask you something: what’s the easiest way to start a conversation in English? If you said the weather, you’re absolutely right! It doesn’t matter where you are—London, New York, or Paris—at some point, people will always talk about the weather. And it makes sense, right? The weather touches everyone’s life. If it’s sunny, people feel cheerfu…

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Autumn Abundance: How to Harvest All Year Round 28:29

20d ago28:29

28:29

Autumn may be here, but your garden’s productivity doesn’t have to slow down! This week, join us as Liz Mooney from RHS Wisley’s World Food Garden reveals how she keeps her allotment bursting with fruit and veg all year round. We’ll also hear from entomologist Dr Hayley Jones, who’s back to shed new light on wasps — the much-maligned but fascinatin…

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Wading into wisteria, managing mildew and an existential conundrum 33:10

27d ago33:10

33:10

Many of us have experienced the surge in powdery mildew, ushered in by the hot, dry summer we’ve had. To find out more about this unwanted fungal force and how to manage it, we’re speaking to RHS Senior Plant Pathologist Dr Jassy Drakulic. Late summer is also the perfect time to prune your wisteria to ensure the best blooms next spring. We’re speak…

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#353 Summer or Winter? It Depends Where You Live 14:16

27d ago14:16

14:16

It’s the end of August, and in many countries in the Northern Hemisphere — like the U.S., Canada,France, Spain, or Japan — that means one thing: summer is ending. The days are still hot, but soon the air will cool down, the leaves will change color, and fall will begin. Get the transcript on my website: https://speakenglishpodcast.com/353-summer-or…

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#352 Dentist Visit in English Phrases + Mini-Story 19:28

1M ago19:28

19:28

I’ll be honest with you—I don’t really enjoy going to the dentist. I think most people feel the same way. It can be a little scary, right? Now imagine you’re not speaking your native language. If you already feel nervous about the dentist, trying to explain everything in English can make the experience even more stressful. So today, let’s go step b…

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Gardening Through Extremes: Survival, Heatwaves & Budget Hacks 32:02

1M ago32:02

32:02

This week we are diving into extremes. Tom Hart Dyke shares his amazing story of misadventure in the Panamanian jungle that led him to the brink of death… and to the founding of a ‘World Garden’ deep in Kent. Guy Barter shares some top tips on how to keep your garden looking luscious in the extreme heat and drought we’ve experienced across the UK t…

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#351 False Friends Every Romance Language Speaker Should Know #2 18:15

1M ago18:15

18:15

Last time, we talked about false friends—words that look similar in English and your native language, but mean something very different. Get the text on my website: https://speakenglishpodcast.com/351-false-friends Example 1: Actual This one’s a classic false friend. In Spanish, “actual” or in Portuguese “atual” means “current” or “present.” But in…

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Allotments: Spaces that Grow Us 31:32

1M ago31:32

31:32

Allotments are powerful spaces of regeneration, nourishment, and community, and this National Allotment Week we’re celebrating these impactful sanctuaries. Mike Farrell, Chair of the National Allotment Society talks us through how they have evolved and why in a fractured world, the diverse communities they serve are more vital than ever. Garden des…

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#350 False Friends That Confuse Romance Language Speakers 13:36

2M ago13:36

13:36

Hi! I want to talk about something that can really help you understand English vocabulary better — especially if you speak a Romance language like Spanish, Portuguese, French, Italian, or Romanian. These languages all come from Latin — you know, the language spoken by the Romans a long time ago. That’s why we call them Romance languages. Get the tr…

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Get Gardening this Summer Holidays 26:32

2M ago26:32

26:32

School’s out and summer’s in full swing, which means it’s the perfect time for the next generation of green thumbs to dig in and discover the joys of gardening! The always-inventive Lee Connelly, better known as the Skinny Jean Gardener, joins us with some fantastic garden projects to keep little hands busy. We also hear from keen gardener and pare…

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#349 Learn English with Small Daily Habits 16:14

2M ago16:14

16:14

Some students like to read while they listen. Others prefer to read afterward. It’s totally up to you. You might find it helps connect the sounds and the spelling—or just gives you more confidence. And one last thing before we jump in: Even if it feels like you’re learning slowly… you’re not. Small steps really do add up. Read the full text on my w…

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Plants for Pollinators 29:58

2M ago29:58

29:58

A third of British pollinator species are now in decline — but there’s still hope, and gardeners can be part of the solution. This week, the RHS launched its updated Plants for Pollinators list: over 10,000 plants scientifically shown to support pollinating insects throughout the year. Dr Andy Salisbury, head of plant health at the RHS, will take u…

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Saturday Night Fever (A Complete History): John Travolta, Nik Cohn, John Badham, & Robert Stigwood 1:21:15

2M ago1:21:15

1:21:15

Book Vs. Movie: “Saturday Night Fever” Margo D’s Book About the Classic Film! This episode is special because we're releasing it on the same day Margo P is having her birthday and Margo D is celebrating the upcoming release of Fever: The Complete History of Saturday Night Fever! The book is a celebration of the movie that made the world want to dan…

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#348 Little Women - Learn Grammar in Context 12:22

2M ago12:22

12:22

Today, I want to tell you about a book that I really love—Little Women, by Louisa May Alcott. To be honest, it’s one of my all-time favorite stories. It’s warm, emotional, and full of life. I’ve listened to the audiobook version, and what makes it extra special is that it’s a full-cast recording. That means each character has a different voice. It’…

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Dead Hedges, Magical Mints and a Mycelial Menace 29:30

2M ago29:30

29:30

This week Sam Southgate from RHS Garden Rosemoor is teaching us how to rethink garden waste by transforming it into amazing structures for both you and your garden wildlife to enjoy. Mary Coates who’s doing her summer studentship with the plant health team at the RHS tells us about her research into the dreaded honey fungus, and how you can help he…

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Goldfinger (1964) Ian Fleming, Sean Connery, Gert Frobe & Honor Blackman 1:09:59

2M ago1:09:59

1:09:59

Book Vs. Movie: “Goldfinger” The 1959 Ian Fleming Novel Vs the 1964 Sean Connery Film Ian Fleming’s Goldfinger (1959) and its 1964 film adaptation featuring Sean Connery present one of James Bond’s most iconic villains, but in very different styles. The novel is a gritty Cold War spy thriller, showcasing a vulnerable Bond who relies on his wits rat…

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#347 Be Patient With Your English – And With Yourself 20:14

2M ago20:14

20:14

Today, I want to talk to you about something really simple—but very important. Be patient with yourself. This episode has three short parts: Why learning takes time How to stop being too hard on yourself A small mindset shift that can help you feel better Before we get started, don’t forget to get the transcript at SpeakEnglishPodcast.com/podcast.…

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RHS Wentworth: A celebration of great northern gardens and growers 30:41

2M ago30:41

30:41

This week, we’re coming to you live from the very first RHS Flower Show at the magnificent Wentworth Woodhouse in South Yorkshire. We’ll be chatting with the rising stars of garden design – young talents competing for the coveted RHS Young Designer of the Year award. We’re also shining a light on some of the North’s finest growers, showcasing their…

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I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997) Replay Jennifer Love Hewitt, Sarah Michelle Geller, & Freddie Prinze 1:23:38

2M ago1:23:38

1:23:38

Book Vs. Movie: I Know What You Did Last Summer (Replay!) The 1973 Lois Duncan YA Novel Vs the 1997 Movie "I Know What You Did Last Summer" revolves around a group of friends —Julie, Helen, Ray, and Barry —who accidentally hit a stranger with their car on a dark, lonely road. In a panic, they make a harrowing decision to hide the accident, believin…

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The Girl Can't Help It (1956) Jayne Mansfield, Tom Ewell, & Little Richard! 56:44

3M ago56:44

56:44

Book Vs. Movie: “The Girl Can’t Help It” The Garson Kanin Play Vs. the Jayne Mansfield Movie The 1956 Technicolor film The Girl Can’t Help It is often remembered for Jayne Mansfield’s curves and Little Richard’s title song, but it originated from Garson Kanin's short story Do Re Mi. This satirical piece critiques the music industry and the manufact…

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#346 Anxiety when Speaking English 13:23

3M ago13:23

13:23

In today’s episode, we’re going to talk about something very real—but often hidden: 👉 Why speaking English feels stressful… 👉 And how you can feel calmer, more focused, and more confident when you speak. Before we start, you can get the transcript at SpeakEnglishPodcast.com/podcast

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The Story of Strawberries 29:49

3M ago29:49

29:49

Nothing captures the spirit of a British summer quite like Wimbledon and the iconic pairing of strawberries and cream. This week we’re diving into the fascinating history of strawberry cultivation with the RHS Head of Libraries and Exhibitions Fiona Davison, who uncovered a hidden story of pioneering strawberry-focused citizen science. Wisley’s Liz…

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Growing Ideas: Highlights from RHS Hampton Court 47:15

3M ago47:15

47:15

This week, we're coming to you from the stunning RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival 2025; the UK’s most spectacular summer celebration of all things green, growing, and gloriously garden-inspired! Join us as we dive into the cutting-edge sustainability solutions, and thought-provoking exhibits that reveal how gardening connects us to nature, …

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Alice's Restaurant (1969) Arlo Guthrie, Arthur Penn, Pat Quinn, & James Broderick 1:10:55

3M ago1:10:55

1:10:55

Book Vs. Movie: “Alice’s Restaurant” Arlo Guthrie’s 1967 18-minute Song Vs the 1969 Movie Arlo Guthrie’s “Alice’s Restaurant” is an 18-minute satirical folk monologue and song that became an anthem for the 1960s counterculture. Officially titled “Alice’s Restaurant Massacree,” it was released in 1967 on his debut album. The piece tells a true, albe…

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Aphids, Earwigs & Allies: Insect Week with the RHS 32:37

3M ago32:37

32:37

This week we’re diving head-first into the long grass, under the flowerpots, and behind the compost bin to celebrate National Insect Week! The Wildlife Trusts’ collaborator and garden designer Zoe Claymore shares her top tips on wildlife friendly gardening. RHS Principal Entomologist Dr Hayley Jones will be busting some myths around one critter whi…

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#345 Stop Apologizing So Much in English! 13:50

3M ago13:50

13:50

Today’s episode is about something many English learners do too often: Saying “sorry” all the time—even when they don’t need to. Let me give you some examples: “Sorry, can I ask a question?” “Sorry, my English is bad.” “Sorry for bothering you.” “Sorry for my pronunciation.” Maybe you’ve said these before. Maybe you say them often. Read the text on…

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"Pride and Prejudice" & 2022's "Fire Island" Joel Kim Booster, Bowen Yang, Margaret Cho & Jane Austen 1:23:59

3M ago1:23:59

1:23:59

Book Vs. Movie: For Pride Month 1813’s “Pride and Prejudice” Vs. 2022's "Fire Island" June is Pride Month worldwide, and the Margos are excited to celebrate with some of the best LGBTQIA-centric books and movies. One highlight is the 2022 film *Fire Island*, directed by Andrew Ahn and written by Joel Kim Booster. This clever and heartfelt adaptatio…

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Blooms, Beaks & Beets: Summer in the Garden 29:32

3M ago29:32

29:32

As the UK bursts into bloom, we celebrate British Flowers Week with flower farmer Georgie Newbery, who shares how to create stunning, sustainable bouquets from your own garden. At RHS Garden Wisley, Liz Mooney guides us through successional sowing for a summer full of salad crops, and at RHS Bridgewater, Carolyne Jones reveals how to turn your gard…

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#344 How to Stay Calm and Aware While Speaking English 15:39

3M ago15:39

15:39

In today’s episode, I want to talk about a very helpful idea for your English and your life. How to be more aware when Speaking English? Being aware means that you notice what is happening—inside of you and around you. You stop and ask: “How do I feel right now?” “What is my body doing?” “Am I breathing fast or slow?” “Am I nervous, or tired, or re…

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"Breakfast with Scot" (2007) Michael Downing, Tom Cavanagh, Ben Shenkman, & Noah Bernett 1:08:37

3M ago1:08:37

1:08:37

Book Vs. Movie: Breakfast with Scot The 1999 Novel Vs the 2007 Movie Michael Downing’s 1999 novel Breakfast with Scot and the 2007 film adaptation of the same name both follow the story of a gay couple who unexpectedly become the guardians of a precocious and flamboyant eleven-year-old boy named Scot. But while they share a common setup, the tone, …

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#343 Saying No Politely and Clearly - Assertiveness 4 17:36

3M ago17:36

17:36

Today, we are continuing our Assertiveness Series, and we’ll focus on something very important: how to say "no" in English without feeling guilty. Hi! I’m Georgiana, and I’m back with a new episode of the Speak English Now podcast—the podcast that helps you speak English fluently, with no grammar and no textbooks. Before we start, get the transcrip…

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From Rainforests to Garden Borders: Nature’s Wild Edges 36:22

4M ago36:22

36:22

This week, we journey into one of Britain’s rarest and most magical landscapes — the temperate rainforest. Designer Zoe Claymore joins us to reveal how she captured the enchanted atmosphere of these ancient woodlands at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, and how you can recreate that wild, mossy magic at home. Then, we turn our attention to a true Britis…

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Finding God in the Book of Creation | Msgr. Charles Pope 48:24

4M ago48:24

48:24

Msgr. Charles Pope discovered his vocation to the priesthood through his work as a church musician, serving as an organist, cantor, and choir director. He entered Mt. St. Mary’s Seminary in 1985, earning a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Moral Theology, and was ordained on June 24, 1989, by James Cardinal Hickey. Named a Monsignor in 200…

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The Catholic Artist in the 21st Century | Dr. Daniel McInerny 42:28

4M ago42:28

42:28

McInerny is an associate professor and chair of the philosophy department at Christendom College. As a philosopher, author, and playwright, he explores the intersection of faith, culture, and the human experience. He earned his Ph.D. in philosophy from The Catholic University of America and has taught at institutions including the University of Not…

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Panel | Frank La Rocca, Dr. Kurt Poterack, Dr. George A. Harne, Dr. Conor Sweeney 47:47

4M ago47:47

47:47

Harne is the fourth president of Christendom College. A widely respected and accomplished scholar of music history and the liberal arts, Harne earned his Ph.D. from Princeton University and received master’s degrees from Princeton, St. John’s College, and the University of Washington. La Rocca, Composer-in-Residence at the Benedict XVI Institute fo…

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Homily | Msgr. Charles Pope 13:08

4M ago13:08

13:08

Msgr. Charles Pope discovered his vocation to the priesthood through his work as a church musician, serving as an organist, cantor, and choir director. He entered Mt. St. Mary’s Seminary in 1985, earning a Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts in Moral Theology, and was ordained on June 24, 1989, by James Cardinal Hickey. Named a Monsignor in 200…

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Surprised by Jane Austen: Moments of Beauty in "Pride and Prejudice” | Dr. Kathleen Sullivan 38:36

4M ago38:36

38:36

Sullivan is an Associate Professor of English Language and Literature at Christendom College. She holds a B.A. in Liberal Arts from Thomas Aquinas College, an M.A. in English from the University of Dallas, and a Ph.D. in English from The Catholic University of America. Dr. Sullivan specializes in 19th-century British literature, particularly the wo…

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Man Is Born to Behold Beauty | Dr. James Matthew Wilson 52:18

4M ago52:18

52:18

Wilson is the Cullen Foundation Chair in English Literature and founding director of the MFA program in Creative Writing at the University of Saint Thomas. The author of fourteen books, including Saint Thomas and the Forbidden Birds (2024), his works have earned accolades such as the Hiett Prize, Parnassus Prize, and Catholic Media Award for poetry…