Best small talk in Japanese Podcasts (2025)

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Azumi’s Easy Japanese Small Talk #568 ロサンゼルスのデモアメリカの政府が軍を出す：National Guard troops deployed in LA on Trump's order 12:57

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29d ago12:57

12:57

🌟グループレッスンをしています🌟クラスメートといっしょに日本語を練習しませんか❓https://www.italki.com/en/group-class/6605894/japanese?classtype%5B0%5D=2 🔗ロサンゼルスのデモアメリカの政府が軍を出すhttps://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/easy/ne2025061012085/ne2025061012085.html 🔗 National Guard troops deployed in LA on Trump's order 🔗Why don't you join⁠⁠ my Group lesson⁠?⁠https://www.italki.com/en/group-class/6605894/j…

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Is Populism On the Rise In Japan? | STJ 283 42:20

1h ago42:20

42:20

Enjoying the show? Please support us on Patreon and get access to our members-only videos! : https://www.patreon.com/smalltalkjapan

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US demands Ukraine pay for weapons to fight Russia 48:23

5h ago48:23

48:23

US President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte have announced that the United States will sell US-made arms to Ukraine, a reversal from Trump's former statements suggesting he wouldn’t transfer any weapons. Also, protests are a hallmark of university life — but on campuses across England, student activism and academic freedom are f…

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2025 Used Combine Market Trends and Machinery Insights 47:08

4h ago47:08

47:08

In today’s episode, machinery expert Dave Mowitz sits down with Andy Campbell, Director of Insights at Tractor Zoom, to break down the latest trends in the used combines equipment market. They explore what auction data is revealing about inventory levels, how depreciation is playing out on high-end machines, and what the future holds for large comb…

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At the Airport — Travel in English with Confidence 3:32

14h ago3:32

3:32

In this episode of 5-Minute English Talk, learn how to handle real-life airport situations in English — from check-in to boarding and beyond. This short lesson is perfect for your English speaking class, language learning goals, or even personal development. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, you’ll get simple, practical phrases to s…

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Saturday Short: How to Diagnose Herbicide Injury 2:28

2d ago2:28

2:28

Herbicides work well when they’re used correctly, but sometimes because of wind, rain and other factors out of your control, they can cause injury to other plants. This disease diagnostician with Purdue University shares tips to diagnose injury. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

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Bosnians mark 30th anniversary of Srebrenica genocide 48:56

3d ago48:56

48:56

This week marks three decades since a massacre in the Bosnian town of Srebrenica where more than 8,000 Bosniak men and boys were systematically killed by Serb forces in 1995. Some survivors and victims’ families say they're still looking for justice. Also, after decades of insurgency against the Turkish government, the PKK has ceremonially laid dow…

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8-4 Play 7/11/2025: SWEET HOME AUSTRALIA 1:01:33

3d ago1:01:33

1:01:33

Mark returns to hawk Lumines Arise and talk about 'Jima's latest, Death Stranding 2; also, Blue Prince bingo speed runs, all that :gestures: Xbox stuff, and obscure Famicom and PC Engine games (because JP) Time — Topic Discussed 01:41 — PC Engine Talk 16:04 — Death Stranding 2 29:20 — Sweet Home 45:01 — News…

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Asking for Directions — Speak with Confidence Anywhere 3:20

4d ago3:20

3:20

In today’s episode of 5-Minute English Talk, learn how to politely ask for and understand directions in English — whether you're lost, exploring a new place, or helping someone else. These simple, real-world phrases will boost your language learning and help you sound natural wherever you go.By 5MM

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The global race to build icebreakers 48:18

4d ago48:18

48:18

The EU has awarded Finland around $105 million to help purchase a new icebreaker ship. It's part of a global race to expand fleets with the capacity to safely move through the Arctic as climate change opens up new pathways through the ice. Also, Houthi rebels strike two ships in the Red Sea. And, Palestinian Christians in the Israeli-occupied West …

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Taking a Taxi or Ride Share – Easy English for Every Ride 2:52

5d ago2:52

2:52

In this episode of 5-Minute English Talk, learn how to confidently speak English while using a taxi or ride app. From giving directions to asking about payment, we’ve got you covered with practical phrases to make your language learning experience more useful and real-world ready.By 5MM

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Youth drive anti-government protests in Kenya 48:31

5d ago48:31

48:31

Thousands of people in Kenya have taken to the streets to protest the government of President William Ruto. The demonstrations are driven by young people who are frustrated with a host of government policies and are demanding change. Also, a look at why fentanyl seizures at the US-Mexico border have dropped sharply. And, Russia launches its largest…

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#332 I Hate Mondays... 41:06

5d ago41:06

41:06

How do you feel about Mondays? If you're like most people, it's probably your least favourite day of the week. Many of us hate waking up and realising it's Monday, and that means we have to get up early and go to work. It's a universal feeling, so in this episode, I'll be sharing some common Monday expressions that you can use to express your sad f…

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Ordering Food in English — Like a Local! 3:13

6d ago3:13

3:13

In this episode of 5-Minute English Talk, we’ll help you confidently order food in English — at cafés, restaurants, or food trucks. Learn real phrases, simple sentence structures, and polite expressions to make your language learning more practical and fun. Short, useful, and perfect for your everyday conversations. 🎯 Let’s order like a native — in…

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Generations-old historic hotel in Haiti burns to the ground 47:56

6d ago47:56

47:56

Hotel Oloffson in Port-au-Prince, which has survived political upheaval, weather events and the devastating 2010 earthquakes, was burned to the ground by gangs over the weekend. Also, Yemen's Houthi rebels have attacked ships in the Red Sea for the first time this year. And, experts raise concerns about the legal and ethical implications of Israel’…

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From Cattle to Consumers with Elizabeth Thomas of Thomas Cattle Co 33:29

7d ago33:29

33:29

Shipping a 30 lb perishable product overnight to Florida is not a cheap thing for Thomas Cattle Company - yet they ship their beef nationwide every Monday! In this episode, Elizabeth Thomas shares how the family-run ranching business has grown into a direct-to-consumer beef business and the lessons they've learned along the way. From the steep lear…

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Shopping in English — Speak Naturally in Stores! 3:05

7d ago3:05

3:05

Welcome back to 5-Minute English Talk — your daily podcast for real-life, everyday English that’s simple, practical, and confident. In today’s episode, we’re heading to the store! Whether you’re shopping for clothes, groceries, or gifts, this episode will teach you how to: ✅ Start a conversation in a store ✅ Ask about sizes, prices, colors, and ret…

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Challenges for flood early warning systems 48:14

7d ago48:14

48:14

Flood disasters around the world continue to grow as climate change fuels intense and erratic rainfall. We look at what hurdles remain in ensuring early warning systems are effective and what disparities exist for those who are and are not warned in time. Also, the 14th Dalai Lama, who just turned 90, has announced that he will be reincarnated and …

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Foliar Disease Risks and Fungicide Decisions in Corn and Soybeans 25:25

7d ago25:25

25:25

In this episode of the Successful Farming Podcast, Lorrie Boyer talks with Dr. Mandy Bish, about managing foliar diseases in corn and soybeans. Dr. Bish breaks down common fungal threats like tar spot, southern rust, and frogeye leaf spot. She shares expert advice on when to scout, how to identify disease symptoms, and how to time fungicide applica…

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Expressing Opinions Without Offending “I Think” Alternatives 3:56

8d ago3:56

3:56

Sharing your opinion in English doesn’t have to sound too direct or harsh. In this episode, we’ll explore natural alternatives to “I think” that help you express yourself clearly and politely. From softening phrases like “It seems to me…” to more confident ones like “From my point of view…,” you'll learn how to speak your mind without sounding rude…

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Saturday Short: How to Select a Quality Ram 1:57

9d ago1:57

1:57

Maintaining a quality flock of sheep is highly dependent on the ram. Select the ram by a visual appraisal and his performance records. Follow this guidance from a Purdue Extension specialist. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesBy Successful Farming

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SD Darmono - Is Trump's Economic Plan a Wakeup Call? 16:25

10d ago16:25

16:25

In this episode, of the Asia Pacific Business Forum Podcast, we speak with SD Darmono, one of Indonesia’s influential business figures and the architect of the country's Special Economic Zone strategy. As founder of the Jababeka Group, Darmono helped transform a vision from the early 1990s into a thriving industrial city—creating over a million job…

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A show full of comedy and laughs 49:04

10d ago49:04

49:04

Come have a good laugh during our special comedy show. We bring you quips from a Zimbabwean comedian making a splash in the United States. Also, Syrian comedians tell jokes that were unthinkable under the former regime in their country. And, Venezuelans find humor in exile. Plus, an AI bot that beats phone scammers at their own game. Listen to toda…

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Filler Words Are Your Friends - Pausing Naturally 3:57

11d ago3:57

3:57

Ever say “uh,” “um,” or “you know” while speaking English? Don’t worry — everyone does it! In this episode, we explore how native speakers use filler words to sound more natural, buy thinking time, and keep conversations flowing. You'll learn when these little pauses help — and when they don’t. Plus, we’ll practice using common fillers the right wa…

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Delicious dishes from around the world 48:13

11d ago48:13

48:13

Today’s show brings you flavorful food from across the globe. We discuss a new book with special Asian-style barbecue recipes. Also, a look at the healthy “African heritage diet” that can boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. And, a cookbook that's been hailed as the first comprehensive guide to home cooking from all six regions of Niger…

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Talking About Hobbies in English Naturally 3:44

12d ago3:44

3:44

Talking about hobbies is one of the easiest ways to start a fun and friendly conversation in English. In today’s episode of 5-Minute English Talk, you’ll learn how to speak naturally about what you love doing in your free time — whether it’s playing sports, reading, cooking, or watching movies. We’ll share useful phrases, real-life examples, and a …

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Stories of families from around the world 48:46

12d ago48:46

48:46

Today’s show focuses on families. We take a look at motherhood across the globe. Also, dads in Japan struggling to reform fatherhood. Meanwhile, Turkey names 2025 the “Year of the Family,” unveiling financial incentives for new parents and urging couples to have more children. Plus a look at the life of Andrée Blouin, who helped lead independence m…

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#331 How to Make Better Decisions 57:14

12d ago57:14

57:14

In this episode, we'll be talking about making decisions and the idea of being an indecisive person. I'm sure, like me, this is something that you have also struggled with at least some point in the past, and whether we're talking about life-changing decisions, or simple everyday choices, getting better at deciding on what to do will improve our li…

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What to Say When You Don’t Understand – Speak Confidently in Any Situation 3:17

13d ago3:17

3:17

Have you ever been in a conversation where someone spoke too fast or used a phrase you didn’t understand? Don’t worry — it happens to everyone! In this episode of 5-Minute English Talk, you'll learn natural and polite ways to ask someone to repeat or explain — without feeling embarrassed or awkward. ✅ Real phrases used by native speakers 🎯 Challeng…

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A show dedicated to sports 47:30

13d ago47:30

47:30

In today's sports-themed show, we take a look at a study that's trying to reduce soccer knee injuries in women. Also, universities are now offer crash courses in American football for international students to not only understand the sport, but also learn about American culture. And, a deadly fungal disease is threatening to wipe out ash trees used…

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How to Interrupt Someone — Politely and Confidently 4:28

14d ago4:28

4:28

Have you ever wanted to say something during a conversation but didn’t know how to interrupt without sounding rude? In this episode of 5-Minute English Talk, we’ll teach you simple and polite phrases to help you jump into conversations with confidence — whether you’re in a meeting, class, or casual chat. ✅ Learn real expressions used by native spea…

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#66 Bruce Dickinson - Tattooed Millionaire 1:03:40

14d ago1:03:40

1:03:40

Send us a text [email protected] patreon.com/listentoironmaidenbaby Support the showBy Ash and Ante

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A special show focusing on Japan 48:59

14d ago48:59

48:59

In today's special looking at all things Japan, we bring updates on two key trade deals with China and the United States. Also, a look at how Tokyo’s massive public transit system bucks the trends of traffic and air pollution. And, experiencing the country’s “listening lounges” that offer pure music, with a side of drinks. Plus, a peek into Hello K…

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Where Conservation Takes Root: Prairie Seeds and Purpose-Driven Farming 18:33

14d ago18:33

18:33

In today’s episode, host Lorrie Boyer is joined by Nicholas Lerio, coordinator of Hoxie Native Seeds and co-host of the Prairie Farm podcast. Nicholas shares how his upbringing on a prairie farm and background in pastoral ministry led him back to the land to serve through native seed work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/…

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Giving Directions in English 2:54

15d ago2:54

2:54

Knowing how to give simple directions in English is super helpful in daily life — whether you're helping a tourist, a friend, or guiding someone on a call. In this episode, you’ll learn natural phrases, key verbs, and examples to sound clear and friendly when giving directions. You’ll also learn what to say if you’re not sure, and get a fun speakin…

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Expressing Excitement in English — Sound Natural, Not Fake! 3:52

16d ago3:52

3:52

Want to sound more real and confident when you're excited? In this episode of 5-Minute English Talk, we explore fun and natural ways to express excitement in everyday English — just like native speakers do. Learn phrases like “No way!” and “That’s amazing!”, understand how tone makes a difference, and discover how to show excitement in texts too. P…

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Saturday Short: How to Balance Inventory 1:57

16d ago1:57

1:57

Keeping track of your goods and services can make or break the farm. Sound inventory methods will save you time and money in the long run — including tracking goods on hand and also the cost of storage space, handling, and risk and service. Use this advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

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Fun Friday 30: Interview with Timothy Reid 1:21:51

17d ago1:21:51

1:21:51

Podcast Guest: Timothy Reid – From English Teacher to Award-Winning Musician and Game Industry Pro in Japan This week on the podcast, I’m thrilled to welcome Timothy Reid, a multi-talented artist and creator whose journey to success in Japan is nothing short of inspiring. Originally from North Yorkshire in the UK, Timothy moved to Japan in 2011 aft…

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How to Say “No” Politely in English 3:26

17d ago3:26

3:26

Saying “no” can feel uncomfortable — but in English, there are simple and polite ways to do it! In this episode, learn natural phrases to turn down invitations, offers, or requests without sounding rude. We’ll practice soft responses, give real-life examples, and show how to stay kind and confident while saying “no.” A great episode for anyone look…

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The Most Random Show Yet | STJ 282 44:07

17d ago44:07

44:07

Enjoying the show? Please support us on Patreon and get access to our members-only videos! : https://www.patreon.com/smalltalkjapan

1
US schools create contingency plans for international students 49:15

17d ago49:15

49:15

Colleges abroad are stepping in to help international students at US campuses who are caught up in political havoc as the Trump administration announces enhanced scrutiny of student visa applications. Also, a look back at the legacy of Argentine American film score composer Lalo Schifrin who died at the age of 93. And, the Chilean government adds t…

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8-4 Play 6/27/2025: SUMMER REVUE 1:12:18

18d ago1:12:18

1:12:18

Summer is the time for love, Takarazuka, and Death Stranding 2 early access. Plus the latest Switch 2 impressions, Japan life updates, and thoughts on the DK Direct. 00:58 – Nicknames 12:36 – Death Stranding 2: On the Beach 27:30 – Grandia 33:54 – Mario Kart World 54:09 – News: Donkey Kong Bananza Direct, Marathon delayed, and more!…

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How to Give Compliments Naturally 3:52

18d ago3:52

3:52

A kind word can make someone’s day! In this episode, you’ll learn how to give natural, friendly compliments in English — for someone’s look, work, or personality. You’ll also hear the right tone and practice with examples that sound genuine, not awkward.By 5MM

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Thailand seals border with Cambodia 48:51

18d ago48:51

48:51

Thailand has closed off its border with Cambodia — delivering a sharp blow to its economy. It’s the latest strike in a dispute centered around a remote piece of border land that both countries claim. Also, UNICEF warns that Sudanese children affected by war are increasingly malnourished. And, a new tourist destination is opening up — in North Korea…

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How to Agree or Disagree Politely in English 4:00

19d ago4:00

4:00

In this episode, you’ll learn how to agree or disagree with someone in a polite and natural way — without sounding too strong or rude. Discover phrases like “I see what you mean” and “I’m not so sure about that,” along with tone tips and real-life examples to sound confident and respectful in conversations.…

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Kenyans mark one year since deadly anti-tax protests 47:39

19d ago47:39

47:39

Demonstrations mark the one-year anniversary of anti-tax protests that left 60 people dead in Kenya, while others remain missing. They come on the heels of last week's protests against police brutality in the country. Also, NATO allies agree to a dramatic boost in defense spending — pledging to invest 5% of their economic output by 2035. And, Vietn…

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#330 How to Prioritise Your Life 44:26

19d ago44:26

44:26

I feel passionate about the topic of priorities because understanding how they work can have a big and positive impact on your life. Once you decide on what your priorities in life are, every choice you make becomes so much easier. You'll stress less other trivial, small decisions, and you'll start seeing faster progress in your English learning, a…

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How to Say “I Don’t Know” — Naturally 4:22

20d ago4:22

4:22

In real life, we don’t always have the answers — and that’s okay! In this episode, learn how to say “I don’t know” in casual, polite, and confident ways. From “I’m not sure” to “No idea, honestly,” discover how native speakers express uncertainty without sounding awkward. Includes real examples and a fun speaking challenge!…

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A shaky ceasefire between Israel and Iran 48:46

20d ago48:46

48:46

US President Donald Trump has claimed that a ceasefire is holding between Israel and Iran, though each side claims the other has already violated the agreement. Also, a group of international legal experts signs onto a letter warning that private military contractors and others working with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation may be criminally liable …

Small Talk In Japanese Podcasts