ESL Podcast - Previous Episodes http://www.eslpod.com/past.xml These are the previous episodes of English as a Second Language Podcast from ESLPod.com. For the new episodes, please go to our other feed or visit our website. ESL Podcast is brought to you by Dr. Lucy Tse and Dr. Jeff McQuillan of the Center for Educational Development. (Note: Podcasts #2 - #11 are not yet available.) Feeder 1.5.6(475) http://reinventedsoftware.com/feeder/ http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss en-us 2006 Center for Educational Development, Inc. eslpod@eslpod.com eslpod@eslpod.com Thu, 16 Feb 2006 10:50:13 -0800 Thu, 26 Jan 2006 16:03:41 -0800 http://www.eslpod.com/images/previous.jpg ESL Podcast -Previous Episodes http://www.eslpod.com/past.xml Center for Educational Development These are the old episodes of English as a Second Language Podcast from ESLPod.com. For the new episodes, please go to our other feed or visit our website. ESL Podcast is brought to you by Dr. Lucy Tse and Dr. Jeff McQuillan of the Center for Educational Development. (Note: Podcasts #2 - #11 are not yet available.) Effortless acquisition, TESOL, eigo, ingles, real conversations, englishpod, ESLPodTV, ESLPod.com, ESL podcast, English as as Second Language Podcast, ESLPod, ESL, EFL, TOEFL, English as a Second Language, English language, language learning no Center for Educational Development eslpod@eslpod.com no 350 - A Movie Review http://www.eslpod.com Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0800 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod350.mp3 Center for Educational Development Learn how to talk about movies in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:25 Explanations: 2:59 Fast dialogue: 12:10 Sally: Did you see the new movie, The McQuillan Story? I’m writing a movie review for the school paper. Marcus: I went to the premiere last week. What did you think of it? Sally: I liked it. I thought it was entertaining, although it wasn’t groundbreaking, by any means. Marcus: You thought it was entertaining? I thought it was awful. I almost walked out. The acting was wooden and uninspired, and the direction was amateur. Sally: Aren’t you being too critical? It was the director’s first movie and I thought his directorial debut wasn’t bad. If there was a problem, it was with the screenplay. Marcus: Don’t get me started on the screenplay! The story was so predictable and the dialogue was pretentious. This movie is going to bomb for sure. Sally: Oh, I don’t know. I think some people may enjoy it. Marcus: If you want to do your readers a favor, you’d tell them to skip this movie and save their money! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 13:43 English Cafe #126 http://www.eslpod.com Topics: Famous Americans: Grandma Moses
GED Tests, since versus from, is to do (something), calligraphy versus penmanship

]]> Wed, 27 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0800 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC126.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: Famous Americans: Grandma Moses GED Tests, since versus from, is to do (something), calligraphy versus penmanship Topics: Famous Americans: Grandma Moses GED Tests, since versus from, is to do (something), calligraphy versus penmanship Words: rural folk sporadic postcards to pick apples naïve primitive Moses equivalency dropout home schooling is to do (something) calligraphy penmanship no 22:21 351 - Asking for a First Date http://www.eslpod.com Fri, 29 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0800 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod351.mp3 Center for Educational Development Ah, true love! See the beginnings of a beautiful relationship as you learn how to ask the woman of your dreams on a date. Slow dialogue: 1:36 Explanations: 3:12 Fast dialogue: 11:34 Natalie: Hello. Sergio: Hi, could I speak to Natalie? Natalie: This is she. Sergio: Oh hi, this is Sergio. How are you? Natalie: Good. How about you? Sergio: I’m great. Uh, well, the reason I’m calling is I was wondering if you’d like to go out sometime? Natalie: You mean on a date? Sergio: Yeah, with me. Natalie: I’d love to. Sergio: Really? I mean, that’s great. I was thinking we could grab dinner on Friday and then see a movie. How does that sound? Natalie: Oh, I already have plans for Friday. Sergio: How about Saturday? Natalie: I’m tied up on Saturday, too. I’m free tomorrow, though. I don’t suppose you want to go out tomorrow night? Sergio: Sure, I can make it tomorrow. I’ll pick you up around 7:00. Is that okay? Natalie: Yeah, that works for me. See you tomorrow at 7:00. Sergio: I’m really looking forward to it. Natalie: Me, too. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 13:07 352 - Understanding Interest Rates http://www.eslpod.com Mon, 03 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0800 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod352.mp3 Center for Educational Development If you need borrow, you may want to get a loan from the bank. Find out how to talk about interest rates in English in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:20 Explanations: 3:25 Fast dialog: 15:43 Kerry: I need to take out a small business loan and I’m trying to figure out what the interest rate would be. Do you understand this stuff? Oscar: If it’s the same as a mortgage loan, then I think I understand it in general terms. The interest rate would be the percentage of the amount you plan to borrow. It’s usually calculated as an annual rate. So, for instance, a 10 percent interest rate on $100 would be $10 a year. Kerry: Okay, I see, but how is my monthly payment calculated? Oscar: As the borrower, your monthly payment depends on the term of your loan. Each month, you’ll pay money toward the principal, plus the interest you owe the lender. The bank may also assess other fees for processing your loan, so make sure to read the fine print. Kerry: Thanks. I understand it a little better now. Oscar: Are you sure you want to go down that road? You don’t want to default on your loan and ruin your credit score. Maybe there are other options. Kerry: Maybe there are, but I just don’t see any right now. I have an appointment with an accountant next week and hopefully she can advise me on the best course of action. Oscar: Good luck and let me know if I can help. Kerry: Thanks, I will. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 17:33 English Cafe #127 http://www.eslpod.com Topics: Ask an American: Starving Artists
as a matter of fact, process versus procedure, to haggle

]]> Wed, 05 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0800 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC127.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: Ask an American: Starving Artists as a matter of fact, process versus procedure, to haggle Topics: Ask an American: Starving Artists as a matter of fact, process versus procedure, to haggle Words: to make a living diversity stimulus hard to beat to make it to collaborate to interact gatekeepers density dynamism to cease to exist to push (someone) out as a matter of fact process procedure to haggle no 25:27 353 - Describing the Taste of Food http://www.eslpod.com Fri, 07 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0800 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod353.mp3 Center for Educational Development Cooking can show another person you love them, even when it tastes bad. Learn how to describe the taste of food in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:24 Explanations: 3:37 Fast dialogue: 13:55 Steve, my new boyfriend, decided to cook dinner for me. I was really excited, that is, until I tried his cooking. Steve: What do you think of the soup? I thought: This is so bland, and what are these little lumpy things in the soup? Of course I didn’t say that aloud. Elaine: It’s delicious. It has a very interesting flavor. When Steve served the main course, a baked chicken, he asked, Steve: What do you think of the chicken? Is it too salty or spicy? I thought: Yes! It’s too salty and it’s so spicy I can hardly eat it without breathing fire. The outside of the chicken is overcooked and the inside is raw! But out loud, I said, Elaine: No, not at all! It has an interesting texture and I’m enjoying every bite. I thought: Oh, no. Is there more? Steve went into the kitchen and brought dessert. Steve: What do you think of this cake? I thought: This cake should be sweet, but it has a strange sour taste. Could there be something seriously wrong with Steve’s taste buds? But aloud, I said, Elaine: It’s yummy. It’s the best cake that anyone has ever made for me. And it was true. I didn’t care how bad the meal was. It’s the thought that counts. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 15:55 354 - Being Scared http://www.eslpod.com Mon, 10 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod354.mp3 Center for Educational Development Are you afraid of the dark? Learn how to talk about being scared in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:22 Explanations: 3:07 Fast dialogue: 13:50 Emily: I’m not going into that house. It’s supposed to be haunted. Stephen: Come on. Don’t be a coward. You don’t believe in ghosts, do you? Emily: I don’t, but I’m not taking any chances. Just look at that house! It’s spooky. I’m getting goosebumps just looking at it. Stephen: You’re only freaking out because you’ve watched too many horror movies. It’s just a house. Now, come on! Emily: Why are we doing this anyway? Just because your friends dared you to go in doesn’t mean you have to. This is stupid! Stephen: I took the dare and I told them I’d spend the night in that house. If you’re a scaredy cat, you can go home right now. Emily: And let you go in there by yourself? What kind of girlfriend would I be? I’m scared to death, but I’m not going to chicken out. Okay, let’s go before I change my mind. Stephen: Really? I didn’t think you’d have the nerve. You’re braver than I thought. Don’t worry. Nothing in there can hurt us. Emily: Famous last words! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 15:25 English Cafe #128 http://www.eslpod.com Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC128.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: American cities: Portland, Oregon; Take Me Out to the Ballgame; ocean versus sea, ability versus capability Topics: American cities: Portland, Oregon; Take Me Out to the Ballgame; ocean versus sea, ability versus capability Words: metropolitan area confluence to kayak to hike to snowshoe environmentally conscious anthem seventh-inning stretch to root strike ocean sea ability capability no 28:15 355 - Finding a Bargain http://www.eslpod.com Fri, 14 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod355.mp3 Center for Educational Development Learn how to describe getting a good price at the store in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:10 Explanations: 2:59 Fast dialogue: 11:26 Manuel: Wow, I’ve never seen so many shopping bags in my life. I can guess where you’ve been. Georgia: I did go overboard a bit today. I went to the outlet mall and I found some real bargains. Nearly everything was discounted. I was in shopping heaven! Manuel: I can see that. Georgia: My favorite store had reduced prices for all of its sweaters, so I bought five. They were already on sale, but the store knocked another $5 off the price. I got them at half-price! I was going to buy three, but the store had a special offer: If you buy four, the fifth one is free. Manuel: But doesn’t that mean you spent more money, since you bought five sweaters when you only wanted three? Georgia: How could I resist? They were being sold at bargain basement prices. At another store, the sale items were two for the price of one. I’ve never seen things in that store so cheap. Manuel: Where are you going now? Georgia: I’m going back to the outlet stores, of course. I just came home for a little breather. There’s more shopping to be done! Manuel: Try to leave a few things for the other shoppers! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 13:11 356 - Starting a Franchise Business http://www.eslpod.com Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod356.mp3 Center for Educational Development Get rich while learning some business English in this episode about franchises. Slow dialog: 2:06 Explanations: 5:14 Fast dialog: 17:10 Magdalena: Thanks for meeting with me today. I’ve read through the materials your company sent me, but I still have some questions about opening a franchise. Phil: That’s what I’m here for. What questions can I answer for you? Magdalena: Well, I’m familiar with the franchise fee, but are there recurring fees not listed in these materials? Phil: That’s a good question. In addition to the annual franchise fee and the monthly royalties, we also charge a training fee and an advertising fee. Here’s a list of these and other fees. Magdalena: Oh, that’s very useful, thanks. I was also wondering what kinds of quality controls the franchises are subject to. Phil: As you know, when you start a franchise, you are buying into a proven formula for success. We offer a turnkey operation and you will be trained on how to run your business, down to the smallest details. To maintain these standards, we conduct spot checks of all of our franchises from time to time and we audit the books of each franchise once a year to make sure that our standards are being met. Only in very rare occasions do franchises lose their franchise rights because they’ve failed to meet our standards. Magdalena: What if I have problems along the way? What kind of support does the corporate office provide? Phil: We give our franchises as much support as possible. After all, it’s in our own best interest that you succeed. We provide troubleshooting and training for your management and employees. Magdalena: I think those are all of the questions I have right now. I really appreciate your time. If I have other questions in the future, can I contact you? Phil: Certainly. Here’s my card. I’d be happy to answer any questions you may have. Just give me a ring. Magdalena: Thanks, I’ll do that. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 19:36 English Cafe #129 http://www.eslpod.com Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC129.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: Norman Vincent Peale, Japanese internment camps, straightforward, to tap into, made by versus made of versus made in Topics: Norman Vincent Peale, Japanese internment camps, straightforward, to tap into, made by versus made of versus made in Words: Protestant denominations affiliation interplay technique affirmations civilian to betray ancestry to mitigate internment camps memoir straightforward to tap into made by made of made in no 28:28 357 - Describing Facial Expressions http://www.eslpod.com Fri, 21 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod357.mp3 Center for Educational Development Learn how to describe the expressions on people’s faces in English in this episode. Slow dialog: 2:07 Explanations: 4:24 Fast dialog: 17:21 Marjorie: I wish I could have been there when you told the managers that you were leaving the company and starting your own business! Pedro: Everyone was taken aback. Dan gave me a dirty look, of course. He’s always looked down his nose at me. As for Sanjaya, if looks could kill... Marjorie: Sanjaya? I thought if anyone would understand why you wanted to strike out on your own, he would. I honestly don’t know him that well, but I thought he was a happy-go-lucky kind of guy. Pedro: Maybe I misread him, but he certainly wasn’t grinning ear to ear. He just had a frown on his face the entire time. Marjorie: What about Wendy? How did she react? Pedro: I’m not sure what to make of her reaction. She just raised her eyebrows at me. She sort of winced when I broke the news, and then she had a poker face. I really hope she’s not angry with me. Marjorie: I think you’d know it if she were angry with you. The last time she was mad at me, she was purple with rage. So, aren’t you happy about your big announcement? I don’t get it. Why the long face? Pedro: I just wonder if I did the right thing by making an announcement, rather than telling each manager individually. I thought it would feel good to spring it on them all at once, but now I’m doubting whether I did the right thing. Marjorie: It’s no use crying over spilled milk. Forget about the announcement and focus on your new business. You’re going to be big success! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 19:21 358 - Surfing the Internet http://www.eslpod.com Mon, 24 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod358.mp3 Center for Educational Development Learn how to talk about using the Internet at work in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:25 Explanations: 3:19 Fast dialogue: 14:34 Isaiah: Aren’t you supposed to be working? Nancy: I just thought I would take a break and surf the web a little. Isaiah: You’d better be careful which sites you visit. You know that Big Brother is watching. Nancy: The boss told us that, but I don’t believe it. They’re not going to care if I read a blog or check out a forum once in a while. Isaiah: That may be, but I would suggest clearing your history and your cache after you do that. You never know when someone is going to be checking up on you. Nancy: Listen, I’ve installed plug-ins and downloaded programs I’m not supposed to onto this computer, and I’ve never gotten into trouble. I think the boss is just using scare tactics to keep us from messing around when we’re supposed to be working. Isaiah: Like I said, you can dig your own grave if you want to. Vivian was shopping on the Internet on her work computer a couple of weeks ago, and some questionable pop-ups opened when she moved to a new tab. She didn’t notice it, and when the boss went onto her computer to get a document while she was at lunch, he saw it. She was in hot water. Nancy: Don’t worry. I know what I’m doing. I know how to cover my tracks. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 16:18 English Cafe #130 http://www.eslpod.com Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC130.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: Becoming a lawyer in the U.S., famous lines from American movies, proper versus appropriate Topics: Becoming a lawyer in the U.S., famous lines from American movies, proper versus appropriate Words: attorney state bar admission bar exam to hurt (someone’s) feelings to beg frankly black market to refuse to have class contender bum to be unconscious kid proper appropriate no 25:27 359 - A Fist Fight http://www.eslpod.com Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod359.mp3 Center for Educational Development Fighting is not a good way to solve your problems. Learn more in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:24 Explanations: 3:36 Fast dialogue: 14:39 Isabella: What are you doing?! Why are you trying to hit that guy? Tony: He deserves it. He insulted you. I’m going to knock his block off! Isabella: Stop it! Be civilized. This isn’t some free-for-all. You can’t punch a guy just because he said something offensive. Tony: Oh, yes I can. Let me at him! I’m going to clobber him. Isabella: If you take another swing at him, he’s going to have you arrested for assault. Get a hold of yourself. Tony: I’m just trying to defend my sister’s honor. What’s wrong with that? Isabella: Nothing, but violence isn’t the answer. Let’s get out of here and cool off a little. Tony: All right, but if I ever see that guy again, he’ll get what’s coming to him. Isabella: Okay, okay, let’s go. You said he insulted me. What did he say? Tony: He said you had nice legs. The nerve of that guy! Isabella: That’s it? He said I had nice legs and you tried to hit him? Tony: Isn’t that enough? He can’t say those things about my little sister. Isabella: I think we need to have another talk about you being overprotective. I’m an adult. I can take care of myself. Tony: Yes, but I’m your big brother and I’m making sure that no one messes with you. That’s what big brothers are for. You don’t have to thank me. Isabella: Thank you? Uh! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 16:37 360 - A Management Dispute http://www.eslpod.com Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod360.mp3 Center for Educational Development Try not to get involved in any disagreements at work. Learn how in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:40 Explanations: 4:06 Fast dialogue: 16:41 Jeannie: Have you heard about the new management dispute? Salih: No, what’s happening? Jeannie: Well, the CEO is having problems with the head of one of the subsidiaries. Salih: Which one? Jeannie: Lance Publishing. Apparently, the head, Bill Riker, is saying that he and the CEO differ too much in their business philosophy and they can’t agree on a future direction for the company. Salih: I really hope they can settle their dispute soon. It doesn’t do anybody any good to have so much hostility in the office. Jeannie: I hope so, too. This company can’t afford to have another high-level departure. We’ve lost so many good people already this past year. Salih: We’ve had a lot of bad press, that’s for sure. It doesn’t matter that our employment contracts have confidentiality agreements. When somebody is disgruntled, they talk, and they talk loudly and to whomever will listen. Jeannie: You’ve got that right. I just hope none of us gets caught in the crossfire. I deal with people at Lance Publishing every week. Salih: I’m with you. I’m keeping a low profile and hoping that the whole thing will blow over soon. What the CEO and the head of Lance Publishing need is a good mediator who can find some way for two incompatible personalities to meet in the middle. Jeannie: What do you think the chances are of that happening? Salih: Quite frankly, knowing the people involved, I think it has a snowball’s chance in hell! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 18:36 English Cafe #131 http://www.eslpod.com Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC131.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: FBI history, structure, and duties; Reader’s Digest contents, history and readership; consent versus assent, concord versus accord, the long and the short of it Topics: FBI history, structure and duties; Reader’s Digest contents, history and readership; consent versus assent, concord versus accord, the long and the short of it Words: federal domestic intelligence serial killer child predator Internet hacker conspiracy secretive digest to condense excerpt humor consent assent concord accord the long and the short of it no 25:40 361 - Feeling Lonely http://www.eslpod.com Fri, 04 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod361.mp3 Center for Educational Development Make some new friends in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:23 Explanations: 3:36 Fast dialogue: 13:30 Moving to a new city can be a lonely experience. When I first moved to Los Angeles, I didn’t know anyone and it was hard to strike up new friendships. I’m a pretty sociable person, but it’s still hard meeting new people and even harder to make lasting friendships. I’ve never been a lone wolf, so being in a new city out on my own was a new experience. Sometimes I liked doing solitary things, but after awhile, I yearned to be around other people. I would go to busy places to people-watch. I would see families walking by, groups of friends hanging out together, and couples arm-in-arm, and wished I was walking along with them. When you’re feeling lonely, it sometimes feels like there’s a wall between you and everyone else, a wall that’s not easy to break down. Slowly, I started to meet people at my new job and to see them outside of work. Having this companionship and camaraderie, especially with people I had a good rapport with, was a welcomed change. In time, I made some good friends and I no longer dreaded the weekends. But, I’ve never forgotten how hard it was in those first months to be a stranger in a new place! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 15:22 362 - Getting In-Flight Service http://www.eslpod.com Mon, 07 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod362.mp3 Center for Educational Development Learn how to ask for things on an airplane in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:19 Explanations: 2:53 Fast dialogue: 12:28 I pushed the call button to get the attention of the flight attendant. Flight attendant: Yes? What can I do for you? Hal: It’s very cold in the cabin. Is it possible to get a blanket? Flight attendant: We’re out of blankets, but here’s a pillow. Hal: Okay, thanks. I was asleep during the meal service. Could I get a meal? Flight attendant: We don’t have any more of the Baked Chicken. We only have the Bean Salad left. Hal: Oh, okay, I’ll take that. Could I also get a drink? Flight attendant: What would you like? Hal: What do you have? Flight attendant: The complimentary drinks are listed in our in-flight magazine. Beer, wine, and other cocktails are $4. Hal: I’ll have a diet soda. Flight attendant: We’re out of diet soda. Hal: How about just some water? What’s that? Flight attendant: That’s turbulence. Make sure your seatbelt is fastened. Hal: Could I get an airsickness bag, please? Flight attendant: I’m sorry, but we’re out of those, too. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 25:44 English Cafe #132 http://www.eslpod.com Topics: Ask an American: Working as an actor in Los Angeles
nevertheless versus despite versus even though, to screw up

]]> Wed, 09 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC132.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: Ask an American: Working as an actor in Los Angeles nevertheless versus despite versus even though, to screw up Topics: Ask an American: Working as an actor in Los Angeles nevertheless versus despite versus even though, to screw up Words: to be driven craft rejection to get crushed headshot casting submissions studio eye contact to prep to be off nevertheless despite even though to screw up no 25:44 363 - Using the Telephone http://www.eslpod.com Fri, 11 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod363.mp3 Center for Educational Development Learn how to talk about telephones in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:02 Explanations: 2:51 Fast dialog: 12:57 Charles: I don’t know how long this power outage is going to last. Do you think we should call Elizabeth to tell her we’ll be late for dinner? Jane: That’s a good idea. Do you know her phone number offhand? Charles: No, I don’t, and I can’t look it up in my address book or in the phone book without any lights. Oh, wait. I have it programmed into my cell phone. I should be able to use speed dial to call her. Oh, no. Jane: What’s the matter? Charles: My cell phone battery is dead. Jane: Maybe we can use the landline to call directory assistance. The operator should be able to give us her number. Charles: I doubt it. There must be more than one Elizabeth Bennett in our area code. Jane: You’re probably right, but I’ll try anyway. Where’s the phone? Oh, here it is. Why aren’t I getting a dial tone? Charles: Try listening through the earpiece instead of the mouthpiece. Jane: Oh, right. How do I dial 411 if I can’t see the keypad? Charles: Hey, the power is back on! Jane: Not a moment too soon! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 14:37 364 - Filing Taxes http://www.eslpod.com Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod364.mp3 Center for Educational Development Mark Twain said the only things certain in life are death and taxes. Learn some vocabulary related to paying your taxes in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:45 Explanations: 3:18 Fast dialogue: 15:15 Ricky: Aren’t you done with your taxes yet? Shawn: No, not yet. Ricky: Can I help? Shawn: That would be great. I think I’m almost done, but it’d be great if you could look it over. This is the first year I haven’t been exempt or filed an EZ tax return. Ricky: No problem. What are brothers for? Okay, you’ve entered your earnings, including your salary and dividends. You have no dependents... Shawn: I just hope I picked the right number of withholdings. I’d like to get a tax refund, rather than have to pay. Ricky: Well, you can take the standard deduction here, but I suggest itemizing your medical expenses and your charitable contributions. It may make a big difference in the calculations. Shawn: Thanks. I’ll crunch the numbers to find out. So what do I owe you for all of this help? Ricky: That depends on the size of your refund check! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 16:50 English Cafe #133 http://www.eslpod.com Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC133.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: dishonest political strategies; the Black Dahlia; treatment versus therapy; ending intimate letters and emails; you’re entitled to your opinion Topics: dishonest political strategies; the Black Dahlia; treatment versus therapy; ending intimate letters and emails; you’re entitled to your opinion Words: primaries platform push poll misleading illegitimate attack ad print smear campaign mud slinging dahlia mutilated treatment therapy XOXOXO you're entitled to your opinion no 26:51 365 - Putting the Children to Bed http://www.eslpod.com Fri, 18 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod365.mp3 Center for Educational Development If you have young children, you know how difficult it is to get them to go to bed. Learn about one way to do it in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:07 Explanations: 2:58 Fast dialogue: 12:45 Andrea: It’s your turn to put the kids to bed. Marlon: No, I put them to bed last night, didn’t I? Andrea: Nope, I did that. Don’t forget their bedtime story. Marlon: The kids won’t let me forget it. Okay, time for bed! Go brush your teeth and put on your pajamas. It’s lights out in 15 minutes. Andrea: What are you doing? Marlon: I’m finishing my newspaper. Andrea: Aren’t you going to watch over them to make sure they’re getting ready for bed? Marlon: Nope. You have your methods and I have mine. Andrea: Okay, this I’ve got to see. Marlon: I don’t hear anyone brushing their teeth. If everyone isn’t in bed in five minutes, they’re going to get a cuddle from Norman. Andrea: Who’s Norman? Marlon: Norman is just a little scary monster I told them about. Norman eats little children who aren’t in bed when they’re supposed to be. It’s my way of making sure they stay in bed through the night. Andrea: That’s terrible! That’ll give them nightmares. Marlon: Nonsense. It won’t do them any harm. As my father told me, Norman only eats bad children. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 14:27 366 - Talking About Prices http://www.eslpod.com Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod366.mp3 Center for Educational Development When the economy is bad, everyone complains. Learn to talk about prices in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:25 Explanations: 2:54 Fast dialogue: 14:04 Rosalba: Can you believe these prices? I know we’re in a recession, but the cost of everyday necessities shouldn’t skyrocket overnight. William: I think it has something to do with the shortage of produce. I don’t know why I’m surprised that stores like this one try to gouge customers at the drop of a hat. I guess it’s par for the course – anything to make a little extra money. Rosalba: You said it! Even when there’s a good supply, the prices are never dirt cheap. Any savings the stores get are never passed on to the customers. William: I have a mind to stop buying fruits and vegetables until the prices go down. Rosalba: You mean a boycott? William: Yeah, I won’t eat any fruits and vegetables until these high prices come down. Rosalba: How long do you think you can keep that up? William: I don’t know, but let’s find out! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 15:32 English Cafe #134 http://www.eslpod.com Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC134.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: American Author: F. Scott Fitzgerald; cigarette and alcohol advertising; pronouncing -ed, someone’s John Hancock Topics: American Author: F. Scott Fitzgerald; cigarette and alcohol advertising; pronouncing -ed, someone’s John Hancock Words: to regard (someone or something) as (something) to break off to resume Jazz Age Prohibition lavish to bootleg to degrade prominent in moderation designated driver self-regulation minor (someone’s) John Hancock no 27:03 367 - Going into the Military http://www.eslpod.com Find out about how to talk about the military services in this episode.Slow dialog: 1:23
Explanations: 2:52
Fast dialog: 14:30

Chantelle: Attention! Aren’t you supposed to salute?

Robert: You’re not my superior officer. Stop goofing around. I’m busy.

Chantelle: You’re packing already? You don’t need to report to duty for two days. Are you afraid they’ll think you went AWOL?

Robert: I just want to be prepared. Now, leave me alone so I can finish packing.

Chantelle: Am I dismissed? Maybe I want to enlist, too? I think I would look good in camouflage make-up and fatigues.

Robert: Being in the military is no laughing matter. Do you really think that the most desperate recruiter would want you?

Chantelle: That’s not very nice. I have as much discipline as you do...about some things. You may find yourself in a foxhole with me someday.

Robert: Whatever deployment you’d get, I’d make sure I’m on the other side of the world!

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

]]> Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod367.mp3 Center for Educational Development Find out about how to talk about the military services in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:23 Explanations: 2:52 Fast dialog: 14:30 Chantelle: Attention! Aren’t you supposed to salute? Robert: You’re not my superior officer. Stop goofing around. I’m busy. Chantelle: You’re packing already? You don’t need to report to duty for two days. Are you afraid they’ll think you went AWOL? Robert: I just want to be prepared. Now, leave me alone so I can finish packing. Chantelle: Am I dismissed? Maybe I want to enlist, too? I think I would look good in camouflage make-up and fatigues. Robert: Being in the military is no laughing matter. Do you really think that the most desperate recruiter would want you? Chantelle: That’s not very nice. I have as much discipline as you do...about some things. You may find yourself in a foxhole with me someday. Robert: Whatever deployment you’d get, I’d make sure I’m on the other side of the world! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 16:03 368 - A Corporate Takeover http://www.eslpod.com Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod368.mp3 Center for Educational Development You never know when someone may decide to buy your company. Be prepared to talk about it in English by listening to this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:20 Explanations: 3:24 Fast dialogue: 13:30 Lee: Hello, Lee Williams. Bruce: Hi, Lee. This is Bruce Eng. The reason I’m calling is to find out if there is any news about your company’s takeover bid for Shamrock Corp. It’s been a week and I was wondering what’s happening. Lee: Hi, Bruce. I’m glad you called. I was just about to call you with an update. Here’s where we are. The offer we made to Shamrock was rejected by the board on Tuesday. Our company’s board of directors has been meeting all week to decide the next course of action. Bruce: Is there any chance that this could turn into a hostile takeover? Lee: There is a distinct possibility. Our company is hoping to avoid that since we had hoped to do extensive due diligence, but a hostile takeover may be the only option right now if we decide to move ahead with this. Bruce: Would the banks go for little or no due diligence? I thought that their support of the takeover bid was contingent on getting more information about the state of Shamrock’s finances. Lee: You’re right and that may be the stumbling block. Bruce: Okay, well, call me if you get more information. Lee: I will. You can count on it. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 15:12 English Cafe #135 http://www.eslpod.com Wed, 30 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC135.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: Types of vocational education in the U.S.; American Cities: Miami; to have a monkey on (one’s) back; to administer; to execute; to be off Topics: Types of vocational education in the U.S.; American Cities: Miami; to have a monkey on (one’s) back; to administer; to execute; to be off Words: vocation apprenticeship trade home economics community college associate degree to look down upon (someone or something) port boom retiree proximity gateway to have a monkey on (one’s) back to administer to execute to be off no 26:33 369 - Going to Happy Hour http://www.eslpod.com Fri, 02 May 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod369.mp3 Center for Educational Development Working 9 to 5? What a way to make a living! Relax after a long day at work at your local bar’s happy hour in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:44 Explanations: 3:45 Fast dialogue: 15:00 Gary: Hey, over here. I’m glad you could make it. This place has a great happy hour. Let me get the waitress, Brenda, so we can order our drinks. Shanise: Hi, Gary. You sound like a regular. Do you come here a lot? Gary: Yeah, I like stopping by on my way home now and then to wind down. Shanise: Is there another barstool? Gary: Oh, sorry. Let me get another one for you. Have a seat. What will you have? Shanise: I’ll have a scotch, straight up. I usually don’t drink very much. Alcohol sometimes doesn’t agree with me. I’ve had a tough day, though, and I need to loosen up. Gary: Okay, one scotch coming up. Here comes the waitress. Okay, that’s one scotch for Shanise and a draft beer for me. On second thought, bring a pitcher of the draft beer, would you? Thanks, Brenda. Shanise: I’m starving. The sign outside says that they have all-you-can-eat appetizers during happy hour. Is that right? Gary: Right you are, and they have specials on everything on their menu. Shanise: I don’t usually go to happy hours, but I like this place. I’m glad you invited me to come. Gary: Would I steer you wrong? Now let’s get some grub. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 16:49 370 - Describing a Bad Experience http://www.eslpod.com Not everything can go perfectly. Find out about how to describe bad experiences in English in this episode.Slow dialogue: 1:14
Explanations: 3:12
Fast dialogue: 15:36

Caterina: I can’t believe I let you rope me into seeing this performance. It was so lame!

Oliver: Okay, you’re right, it was the pits. I had no idea it was going to be amateur hour. When I saw the ad in the paper describing this as an experimental play, I thought it might be interesting. Was I wrong!

Caterina: I didn’t understand that play at all. The music, if you can call it that, was atrocious. How can anyone be expected to listen to that for more than three seconds without going crazy? I wish I could get those two hours of my life back!

Oliver: Yeah, it’s left a bad taste in my mouth, too. Let’s go see something else. I want to put this whole experience behind me.

Caterina: Benjamin’s Bar is having open-mic tonight. Do you want to check it out?

Oliver: No way! Wild horses couldn’t drag me to another amateur show. How about a movie instead?

Caterina: Okay, I’d go to a movie.

Oliver: You’d better pick one, though. Look what happened when I was left to pick a play.

Caterina: Forget about it. We’ll just chalk it up to temporary insanity.

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

]]> Mon, 05 May 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod370.mp3 Center for Educational Development Not everything can go perfectly. Find out about how to describe bad experiences in English in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:14 Explanations: 3:12 Fast dialogue: 15:36 Caterina: I can’t believe I let you rope me into seeing this performance. It was so lame! Oliver: Okay, you’re right, it was the pits. I had no idea it was going to be amateur hour. When I saw the ad in the paper describing this as an experimental play, I thought it might be interesting. Was I wrong! Caterina: I didn’t understand that play at all. The music, if you can call it that, was atrocious. How can anyone be expected to listen to that for more than three seconds without going crazy? I wish I could get those two hours of my life back! Oliver: Yeah, it’s left a bad taste in my mouth, too. Let’s go see something else. I want to put this whole experience behind me. Caterina: Benjamin’s Bar is having open-mic tonight. Do you want to check it out? Oliver: No way! Wild horses couldn’t drag me to another amateur show. How about a movie instead? Caterina: Okay, I’d go to a movie. Oliver: You’d better pick one, though. Look what happened when I was left to pick a play. Caterina: Forget about it. We’ll just chalk it up to temporary insanity. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 17:20 English Cafe #136 http://www.eslpod.com Topics: The Betty Ford Center; poker; to be short on time versus time is running out, past year versus last year, supervisor versus manager

Words:
addiction
rehab
painkiller
intervention
residential
counselor
hand
tournament
champion
endorsement
to show (one’s) hand
poker face
to raise the stakes
to be short on time
time is running short
past year
last year
supervisor
manager

]]> Wed, 07 May 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC136.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: The Betty Ford Center; poker; to be short on time versus time is running out, past year versus last year, supervisor versus manager Topics: The Betty Ford Center; poker; to be short on time versus time is running out, past year versus last year, supervisor versus managerTopics: The Betty Ford Center; poker; to be short on time versus time is running out, past year versus last year, supervisor versus manager Words: addiction rehab painkiller intervention residential counselor hand tournament champion endorsement to show (one’s) hand poker face to raise the stakes to be short on time time is running short past year last year supervisor manager no 25:46 371 - A Scandal http://www.eslpod.com Slow dialogue: 1:34
Explanations: 3:23
Fast dialogue: 13:31

Caridad: Look at this! The president of McQuillan University is stepping down. He submitted his resignation this morning after an undergraduate student made allegations that they had an affair and that she’s pregnant with his baby.

Nate: That’s terrible. Maybe they were in love.

Caridad: In love? He’s married and has four kids, and when she first went public about the affair, he denied it and said that she had made up the whole story. Would someone in love try to cover up something like this?

Nate: Who knows? The president of a major university is a person with a lot to lose. I’m not making excuses for him, but maybe he lost his head.

Caridad: Of course he had a lot to lose. Anyone who is in the public eye like he is shouldn’t be playing with fire. He’s an embarrassment to his family and to his university.

Nate: I still think there could be extenuating circumstances. All you know you’ve learned from one newspaper article.

Caridad: That much is true, but I know one thing: Whatever happens to him, it serves him right!

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

]]> Fri, 09 May 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod371.mp3 Center for Educational Development Did you hear the news? Learn about another scandal and how to talk about it in English in this episode. Did you hear the news? Learn about another scandal and how to talk about it in English in this episode.Slow dialogue: 1:34 Explanations: 3:23 Fast dialogue: 13:31 Caridad: Look at this! The president of McQuillan University is stepping down. He submitted his resignation this morning after an undergraduate student made allegations that they had an affair and that she’s pregnant with his baby. Nate: That’s terrible. Maybe they were in love. Caridad: In love? He’s married and has four kids, and when she first went public about the affair, he denied it and said that she had made up the whole story. Would someone in love try to cover up something like this? Nate: Who knows? The president of a major university is a person with a lot to lose. I’m not making excuses for him, but maybe he lost his head. Caridad: Of course he had a lot to lose. Anyone who is in the public eye like he is shouldn’t be playing with fire. He’s an embarrassment to his family and to his university. Nate: I still think there could be extenuating circumstances. All you know you’ve learned from one newspaper article. Caridad: That much is true, but I know one thing: Whatever happens to him, it serves him right! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 15:16 372 - A Bully at Work http://www.eslpod.com Slow dialogue: 1:20
Explanations: 4:28
Fast dialogue: 15:36

Wanda: I can’t take it anymore. I try to put up with Robert, but I’ve had enough!

Dana: I’m not surprised. That guy is a big bully and it’s time somebody stood up to him. What has he done now?

Wanda: This was the last straw. We’re both managers and we’re supposed to work together, but Robert looks for every opportunity to put me down in front of our employees. This morning, I presented an idea about upgrading our computer equipment and he jumped down my throat.

Dana: What did he do?

Wanda: He said that the idea was stupid and that he couldn’t understand how anyone could propose it. He said this in front of everybody. I was too stunned to respond, so I just stood there.

Dana: That’s totally inappropriate and unprofessional.

Wanda: He’s arrogant to everybody, but especially to me. He always says he’s just being honest when he makes a biting remark, but I’m realizing that that’s just his excuse to be rude. He treats everyone with contempt. I really don’t know what to do.

Dana: I know people like Robert. They’re so insecure that they have to belittle everyone else to make themselves feel better. They have really poor social skills and don’t know how to have a conversation or to disagree without being a jerk.

Wanda: That may be, but what should I do about him?

Dana: There’s only one way to handle a bully.

Wanda: How?

Dana: You have to call his bluff. If he criticizes your plan, ask him to back it up with evidence or a specific reason. If you disagree with him, keep your cool, but tell him why. Most bullies back down when someone stands up to them.

Wanda: Okay, it’s worth a try. I’ve been trying to keep calm and maintain a professional atmosphere in the office, so I haven’t confronted him, but I will if you think it’ll help.

Dana: I do. And if that doesn’t work, tell him to act his age, not his shoe size!

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

]]> Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod372.mp3 Center for Educational Development Don’t let another person try to control you at work. Find out about how to talk about office bullies in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:20 Explanations: 4:28 Fast dialogue: 15:36 Wanda: I can’t take it anymore. I try to put up with Robert, but I’ve had enough! Dana: I’m not surprised. That guy is a big bully and it’s time somebody stood up to him. What has he done now? Wanda: This was the last straw. We’re both managers and we’re supposed to work together, but Robert looks for every opportunity to put me down in front of our employees. This morning, I presented an idea about upgrading our computer equipment and he jumped down my throat. Dana: What did he do? Wanda: He said that the idea was stupid and that he couldn’t understand how anyone could propose it. He said this in front of everybody. I was too stunned to respond, so I just stood there. Dana: That’s totally inappropriate and unprofessional. Wanda: He’s arrogant to everybody, but especially to me. He always says he’s just being honest when he makes a biting remark, but I’m realizing that that’s just his excuse to be rude. He treats everyone with contempt. I really don’t know what to do. Dana: I know people like Robert. They’re so insecure that they have to belittle everyone else to make themselves feel better. They have really poor social skills and don’t know how to have a conversation or to disagree without being a jerk. Wanda: That may be, but what should I do about him? Dana: There’s only one way to handle a bully. Wanda: How? Dana: You have to call his bluff. If he criticizes your plan, ask him to back it up with evidence or a specific reason. If you disagree with him, keep your cool, but tell him why. Most bullies back down when someone stands up to them. Wanda: Okay, it’s worth a try. I’ve been trying to keep calm and maintain a professional atmosphere in the office, so I haven’t confronted him, but I will if you think it’ll help. Dana: I do. And if that doesn’t work, tell him to act his age, not his shoe size! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 18:07 English Cafe #137 http://www.eslpod.com Topics: Ask an American: Bluegrass music; résumé versus curriculum vitae, the number 0 versus the letter O, one over the other

Words:
to bring over
to pass down something
to flatten
bridge
basically
roots
origins
melody
acoustic
fiddle
banjo
bass
résumé
curriculum vitae

]]> Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC137.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: Ask an American: Bluegrass music; résumé versus curriculum vitae, the number 0 versus the letter O, one over the other Topics: Ask an American: Bluegrass music; résumé versus curriculum vitae, the number 0 versus the letter O, one over the other Words: to bring over to pass down something to flatten bridge basically roots origins melody acoustic fiddle banjo bass résumé curriculum vitae no 23:56 373 - Ordering Food Delivery http://www.eslpod.com Slow dialogue: 1:16
Explanations: 3:17
Fast dialogue: 12:03

Order clerk: Hello, Torino’s Restaurant.

Nancy: Hello, I’d like to place a delivery order.

Order clerk: Can I have your address and the major cross streets, please?

Nancy: It’s 1212 Main Street, and the nearest cross streets are Speedway and Highland.

Order clerk: Okay, it looks like you’re in our delivery area. What would you like to order?

Nancy: I’d like an order of spaghetti. Does that come with any sides?

Order clerk: You have a choice of soup or salad.

Nancy: I’ll have the salad.

Order clerk: Is that all? We have a $15 minimum for delivery orders.

Nancy: In that case, I’ll also take an appetizer sampler plate.

Order clerk: Okay, that’s one order of spaghetti and an appetizer sampler plate. You’re still $3 short. Would you like a drink or some dessert?

Nancy: I’ll take an iced tea.

Order clerk: All right, but you’re still a dollar short.

Nancy: What can I get for a dollar?

Order clerk: There’s nothing on the menu for a dollar, ma’am.

Nancy: And you won’t deliver my $14 order?

Order clerk: That’s our policy, ma’am.

Nancy: All right, you win. Give me an order of bread. How long will that take?

Order clerk: You should get your food in about an hour.

Nancy: An hour?!?

Order clerk: Yes, ma’am. You’ve ordered a lot of food and it takes time for us to prepare it.

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

]]> Fri, 16 May 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod373.mp3 Center for Educational Development Ordering food to be delivered to your home is usually a great convenience, but not always. Find out about how to order food for delivery in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:16 Explanations: 3:17 Fast dialogue: 12:03 Order clerk: Hello, Torino’s Restaurant. Nancy: Hello, I’d like to place a delivery order. Order clerk: Can I have your address and the major cross streets, please? Nancy: It’s 1212 Main Street, and the nearest cross streets are Speedway and Highland. Order clerk: Okay, it looks like you’re in our delivery area. What would you like to order? Nancy: I’d like an order of spaghetti. Does that come with any sides? Order clerk: You have a choice of soup or salad. Nancy: I’ll have the salad. Order clerk: Is that all? We have a $15 minimum for delivery orders. Nancy: In that case, I’ll also take an appetizer sampler plate. Order clerk: Okay, that’s one order of spaghetti and an appetizer sampler plate. You’re still $3 short. Would you like a drink or some dessert? Nancy: I’ll take an iced tea. Order clerk: All right, but you’re still a dollar short. Nancy: What can I get for a dollar? Order clerk: There’s nothing on the menu for a dollar, ma’am. Nancy: And you won’t deliver my $14 order? Order clerk: That’s our policy, ma’am. Nancy: All right, you win. Give me an order of bread. How long will that take? Order clerk: You should get your food in about an hour. Nancy: An hour?!? Order clerk: Yes, ma’am. You’ve ordered a lot of food and it takes time for us to prepare it. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 13:59 374 - A Graduation Ceremony http://www.eslpod.com Slow dialogue: 1:27
Explanations: 3:30
Fast dialogue: 15:43

Rafael: They’re playing Pomp and Circumstance and the graduates are filing in. Do you see your daughter? I don’t see my son.

April: No, we’re too far from the field and everybody is wearing a cap and gown. It’s hard to see who’s who.

Rafael: Oh, there’s the dean and I think that’s the commencement speaker behind her. You must be really proud of your daughter. I know I would be if my son were valedictorian.

April: I’m very proud of her, but your son is graduating cum laude, with honors. Those are great accomplishments.

Rafael: It’s a proud day for both of us. I just hope that the graduates will keep this a dignified ceremony. I don’t want to see any shenanigans.

April: What do you mean?

Rafael: Last year when my other son graduated, a group of rowdy students started singing an offensive song as the graduates went up to get their diplomas.

April: Hey, what’s that over there?

Rafael: Where? Oh, that’s a beach ball! How dare they throw a beach ball around while the dean is speaking!

April: Don’t look now. Those students are doing something strange with their tassels.

Rafael: Shame on them! Shame on every one of them!

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse

]]> Mon, 19 May 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod374.mp3 Center for Educational Development Walk down the aisle and get your diploma at your school’s graduation ceremony in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:27 Explanations: 3:30 Fast dialogue: 15:43 Rafael: They’re playing Pomp and Circumstance and the graduates are filing in. Do you see your daughter? I don’t see my son. April: No, we’re too far from the field and everybody is wearing a cap and gown. It’s hard to see who’s who. Rafael: Oh, there’s the dean and I think that’s the commencement speaker behind her. You must be really proud of your daughter. I know I would be if my son were valedictorian. April: I’m very proud of her, but your son is graduating cum laude, with honors. Those are great accomplishments. Rafael: It’s a proud day for both of us. I just hope that the graduates will keep this a dignified ceremony. I don’t want to see any shenanigans. April: What do you mean? Rafael: Last year when my other son graduated, a group of rowdy students started singing an offensive song as the graduates went up to get their diplomas. April: Hey, what’s that over there? Rafael: Where? Oh, that’s a beach ball! How dare they throw a beach ball around while the dean is speaking! April: Don’t look now. Those students are doing something strange with their tassels. Rafael: Shame on them! Shame on every one of them! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 17:27 English Cafe #138 http://www.eslpod.com Topics: Monster truck shows and races; blue jeans and Levi Strauss, to be up against the wall, liability versus responsibility, pronouncing “either”

Words:
monster
pickup truck
destructive
to crush
track
obstacle
freestyle
to root
blue jeans (or jeans)
denim
ranch
Gold Rush
miner
durable
to be up against the wall
responsibility
liability

]]> Wed, 21 May 2008 00:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC138.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: Monster truck shows and races; blue jeans and Levi Strauss, to be up against the wall, liability versus responsibility, pronouncing “either Topics: Monster truck shows and races; blue jeans and Levi Strauss, to be up against the wall, liability versus responsibility, pronouncing “either” Words: monster pickup truck destructive to crush track obstacle freestyle to root blue jeans (or jeans) denim ranch Gold Rush miner durable to be up against the wall responsibility liability no 22:48 300 - Arriving for an Appointment http://www.eslpod.com/ Mon, 03 Sep 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod300.mp3 Center for Educational Development What should you say when you arrive for a business appointment? Find out in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:31 Explanations: 3:46 Fast dialog: 15:29 I arrived a little early for my sales appointment with the office manager of Lyon Industries, and spoke to the receptionist. Juri: Hello. I’m here for my 11:30 appointment with Sue Gibbons. Receptionist: What is your name? Juri: It’s Juri Lakoff. Receptionist: I’ll let her know that you’re here. [Speaking into the telephone] Sue, this is Rhonda. Your 11:30 appointment is here. Should I send him up? Okay, I’ll do that. [Hangs up the telephone] Ms. Gibbons says that she’s running a little late and is tied up in another meeting right now. She should be wrapping things up very quickly and will be free in a few minutes. Would you like to wait in the reception area right over there? Juri: Sure. No problem. Receptionist: Can I get you something? Coffee or tea? Juri: No, I’m fine. I was just wondering how many employees you have in this office. Receptionist: I don’t know precisely, but I think we have about 80. Juri: Oh, that’s a lot. Is the company planning on expanding? Receptionist: I’m sorry, but I really don’t know. I’m sure Ms. Gibbons can answer those questions for you. Juri: Right, right. I didn’t mean to pump you for information. I was just trying to get the inside scoop on the company before my meeting. Receptionist: I understand. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to answer this call. Ms. Gibbons should be finished with her other meeting in no time. Juri: Oh, sure. I didn’t mean to keep you. Sorry. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 17:39 English Cafe #101 http://www.eslpod.com/ Topics: American cities: Honolulu
fantasy sports camps, to freeze a bra, coupon versus voucher, illicit versus illegal

]]> Wed, 05 Sep 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC101.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: American cities: Honolulu fantasy sports camps, to freeze a bra, coupon versus voucher, illicit versus illegal Topics: American cities: Honolulu fantasy sports camps, to freeze a bra, coupon versus voucher, illicit versus illegal Words: monarchy to annex to overthrow territory palace harbor fantasy to coach all-star autograph bra slumber party coupon voucher illicit illegal no 28:07 301 - Buying a Men's Suit http://www.eslpod.com/ Fri, 07 Sep 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod301.mp3 Center for Educational Development Buying a formal business suit requires knowing some special terms in English. Learn more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:23 Explanations: 3:41 Fast dialog: 16:23 Sales clerk: Good afternoon. What can I help you find? Bo: I’m looking for a suit for work. Sales clerk: I’m sure we have something for you. Are you looking for a traditional or contemporary suit? Bo: I’m not sure. I’d like to try on some different ones. Sales clerk: That’s no problem. Let me show you a few over here. This is a two-button pinstripe suit that’s made of 100% wool and has a flat front. What do you think? Bo: It looks nice. How about this one? Sales clerk: Oh, this is a very fine suit. As you can see, it’s double-breasted and is fully lined. The pants are pleated. Would you like to try it on? Bo: Sure. Sales clerk: Just follow me to the dressing rooms in the back. Here you are. My name is Caroline. Just let me know if you need anything. Bo [comes out of the dressing room wearing one of the suits]: I like this single-breasted one. I like the side vents. All of these suits need to be dry cleaned, is that right? I travel a lot in my job and I worry about my suits getting dirty on the road. Sales clerk: Yes, they all need to be dry cleaned, but since both of these suits are a dark color, that shouldn’t be too big of a problem. How does that feel? Bo: It’s a good fit and it’s very comfortable. Okay. I’ll take this one. Sales clerk: Certainly. I’ll ring you up. Do you need anything else? A vest, suspenders, or a garment bag to store the suit? Bo: No, thanks. I’ll just take the suit. Sales clerk: No problem. Just follow me. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 18:28 302 - A Problem with a Restaurant Check http://www.eslpod.com/ Mon, 10 Sep 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod302.mp3 Center for Educational Development Learn how to talk about problems with your restaurant bill in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:29 Explanations: 3:08 Fast dialog: 12:55 I waved my hand to get the waiter’s attention. Waiter: Yes? Leslie: The check, please. Waiter: Would you like any dessert, or some tea or coffee? Leslie: No, just the check. Thanks. Waiter: Here you are. I’ll ring that up for you when you’re ready. Leslie: Thank you. Oh, there seems to be a mistake on our bill. We didn’t order this appetizer. Waiter: Let me check this and I’ll be right back...Here you are. I’ve adjusted the check. I took off the appetizer. Leslie: Thanks, but there still seems to be a problem. We had a two-for-one coupon, but we’ve been charged for both meals. Waiter: I’m sorry, but you needed to present the coupon to me when you placed your order, not when you’ve finished your meal. Leslie: That isn’t stated on the coupon. I don’t want to be a pain, but could I see the manager, please? Waiter: I’ll see if she’s available...I talked to the manager and she said to make an exception in this case and to give you the discount. Leslie: Okay, thanks. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 14:33 English Cafe #102 http://www.eslpod.com/ Wed, 12 Sep 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC102.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: the Pledge of Allegiance, tomato as fruit versus vegetable, to be raised versus to grow up, buy versus purchase, to take the bull by the horns, can versus may versus could when asking for permission Topics: the Pledge of Allegiance, tomato as fruit versus vegetable, to be raised versus to grow up, buy versus purchase, to take the bull by the horns, can versus may versus could when asking for permission Words: pledge allegiance unison to stand for indivisible tariff duty to rule on unanimously to be raised in to grow up in buy purchase to take the bull by the horns no 26:11 303 - A Traditional Wedding http://www.eslpod.com/ Fri, 14 Sep 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod303.mp3 Center for Educational Development Here comes the bride! Find out what the happy couple says when they get married in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:15 Explanations: 3:54 Fast dialog: 17:33 I arrived at my friend Karin’s wedding a little late and the ceremony had already begun. I’ve been to a lot of civil ceremonies, but it had been a while since I’d attended a religious one. They had asked a minister to officiate. When I arrived, Karin and her fiancé, Jan, were standing in front of the church. Minister: We are gathered here today to join Jan and Karin in holy matrimony. If there is anyone here who knows of a reason why these two should not be joined in marriage, speak now or forever hold your peace. Fortunately, no one said anything. Minister: Jan and Karin, please face each other and join hands. Minister: [To Jan] Do you, Jan Casanova, take Karin Valentine, to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, to love and to cherish, for better and for worse, for richer and for poorer, in sickness and in health, ‘till death do you part. Jan said, “I do,” and the minister asked Karin the same question, and she said, “I do,” as well. Minister: May I have the rings? [To Jan] Please place this ring, a symbol of your love, on Karin’s hand and say, “With this ring, I thee wed”. Jan put the ring on the fourth finger of Karin’s left hand. Karin said the same thing and put a ring on Jan’s finger. Minister: I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride. Jan and Karin kissed and we all applauded. Minister: Ladies and gentleman, it is my great honor to present to you for the very first time the happy couple, Jan and Karin. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 19:56 304 - A Potential Partnership Meeting http://www.eslpod.com/ Mon, 17 Sep 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod304.mp3 Center for Educational Development Working with another company can be difficult. Learn about forming a business partnership in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:27 Explanations: 3:40 Fast dialog: 15:08 Flavio: Thanks for meeting with me. Marcia: It’s my pleasure. We’re eager to hear your ideas about our companies doing business together in the future. Flavio: Well, I wanted us to meet because I think our two companies can create great synergy. Marcia: I agree. What do you have in mind? Flavio: We seem to have core capabilities that complement each other, and I want to see how we can create a partnership that would be to our mutual benefit. Marcia: Yes, that’s why I’m here. I think we’re thinking along the same lines. Flavio: Good. I’m glad to hear that. If we can pull off a partnership, we could really dominate the market. Marcia: Yes, I think that’s true, too, but let’s get beyond the preliminaries. What kind of business model do you have in mind? Flavio: Well, that’s why I wanted to meet with you. I’d like to get your perspective on that. Marcia: I see. When your company approached us about working together, we were under the impression that you had some concrete ideas to present. Flavio: Oh, we do. I just wanted to get your suggestions before we present a formal proposal. Marcia: Let’s do this. Why don’t you send me a proposal in writing and I’ll make sure that we give it our full consideration. Flavio: We’ll do that. Thanks for your time. Marcia: Don’t mention it. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 17:05 English Cafe #103 http://www.eslpod.com/ Topics: Ask an American: Raising children
one of those, reply versus answer, customer versus purchaser

]]> Wed, 19 Sep 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC103.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: Ask an American: Raising children one of those, reply versus answer, customer versus purchaser Topics: Ask an American: Raising children one of those, reply versus answer, customer versus purchaser Words: to be in competition stressed out to get someone into something to pause to build self-esteem competent capable it’s all about the (x) spoiled narcissistic one of those reply answer customer purchaser no 30:30 305 - Describing People’s Body Types http://www.eslpod.com/ Fri, 21 Sep 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod305.mp3 Center for Educational Development Learn how to describe people’s physical shape in English in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:38 Explanations: 3:54 Fast dialog: 15:19 Remi: We need to get these costumes sorted out. I’m not sure we have ones that will fit each person in this play. Bryan: Let’s see. We need a shirt for Hector. He’s broad-shouldered, so this one would be too small. Any luck finding one over there? Remi: No, but I think I found a dress for Lee Ann. She’s petite and thin, and I hadn’t been able to find anything that would fit someone that slender. All of the other dresses are for women with either pear-shaped or hourglass figures. Bryan: Okay, at least that’s some progress. What about Malcolm? Unlike his brother who is tall and skinny, he’s big and fat. How are we going to find one to fit him? Remi: He’s not fat! He’s stocky. He is really muscular and not at all flabby. Oh, here’s a pair of pants that would fit Pierre. These are perfect, since he’s not long-legged like all of the other men. Bryan: We’re actually doing pretty well, I think. Remi: We just need a costume for you. Bryan: Me?! What do you mean? I’m not in this play. Remi: Oh yes, you are. Ike dropped out, so they need a replacement and you’re the only one who isn’t already in the play. Bryan: Oh, no. I thought I could avoid being in the play by volunteering to help with the costumes! Remi: Sorry, but I don’t think you can get out of it this time. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 17:25 306 - Giving First Aid http://www.eslpod.com/ Mon, 24 Sep 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod306.mp3 Center for Educational Development Help! You’ll find out how to describe common medical emergencies in English in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:29 Explanations: 3:17 Fast dialog: 17:45 Jeng: What did you do this summer? Cynthia: I worked at a summer camp as a nurse’s aide. I thought we would be giving simple first aid, but you wouldn’t believe the kinds of injuries the kids came in with. Jeng: You mean like poison ivy, bee stings, bug bites, and scraped knees? Cynthia: Yeah, we had those, but we also had some pretty serious cases. For instance, the second day of the camp, one of the boys who didn’t know how to swim fell into the lake. He must have hit his head because he was unconscious when they brought him in. We couldn’t find his pulse and the nurse did CPR. Luckily, we got him breathing again right away, but that little boy had a concussion. Jeng: Wow! You’re kidding. That’s serious. Cynthia: That wasn’t all. It’s true that most of the kids came in with superficial scrapes, but some of them had some major wounds. We had to stop the bleeding and bandage them up. We had one girl who needed 12 stitches after she fell out of a tree. Jeng: Geez, I never knew going to camp could be so hazardous to your health! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 19:31 English Cafe #104 http://www.eslpod.com/ Topics: American cities: Nashville
Grand Ole Opry, school fund-raisers, to hold on to your hat, to be put inside, a blow-by-blow account

]]> Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC104.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: American cities: Nashville Grand Ole Opry, school fund-raisers, to hold on to your hat, to be put inside, a blow-by-blow account Topics: American cities: Nashville Grand Ole Opry, school fund-raisers, to hold on to your hat, to be put inside, a blow-by-blow account Words Hall of Fame to be inducted into dialect fund-raiser funds raffle to grow weary to do away with to get rid of burdensome to hold on to your hat to be put inside blow-by-blow account to punch no 23:52 307 - Cable and Satellite TV http://www.eslpod.com/ Fri, 28 Sep 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod307.mp3 Center for Educational Development Do you like watching TV? You’ll find out about cable and satellite television in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:33 Explanations: 4:11 Fast dialog: 14:14 Marion: I’m trying to decide whether to get cable or satellite TV. Which one do you have at your apartment? Cesar: I have satellite, but I used to have cable. Marion: What’s the difference? Cesar: Not a lot. With satellite, you have to have a satellite dish installed on the roof and you don’t with cable. Otherwise, you get similar options. You can get basic channels and choose from a lot of different premium channels. I have a package that includes the basic channels and some premium movie channels, and I also have a sports package so I can watch all of the soccer matches I want. Marion: How much is the monthly fee? Cesar: I think I pay $59.99 a month, excluding the taxes and fees, but the basic service is probably cheaper. When I had cable, I had to pay a deposit for the cable box, but with satellite, I had to buy the dish outright, but it wasn’t too expensive. Marion: What I want are pay-per-view channels, so I don’t need to run to the video rental store every time I want to watch a movie. Cesar: That’s not a problem. There’s video on demand on both cable and satellite, and there are a lot of movies to choose from. Marion: That’s great. I’ll check out whether my local cable company or satellite service has better packages and make a decision this weekend. Cesar: You could always start with the basic channels and then add services as you go along. Marion: That’s a good idea, especially since I know someone who has premium channels and round-the-clock soccer. Cesar: You bet. Drop by anytime, but don’t forget the beer and popcorn! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 16:29 Special Announcement - New Blog, New Memberships, and New Premium Course http://www.eslpod.com/ Sat, 29 Sep 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/Announcement_09_28_07.mp3 Center for Educational Development Special Announcement: New Blog, Memberships, and Premium Course Now Available on ESLPod.com! Special Announcement Hello, this is Jeff McQuillan from the Center for Educational Development in beautiful Los Angeles, California, with a special announcement about ESL Podcast. First, I want to thank all of you for listening and supporting our podcast. We have three new features we want to tell you about. First, ESL Podcast now has a blog. This blog allows us to post messages for our listeners about topics that we don’t have time for in our regular podcasts or English Cafes. It also gives you information that helps you better use our podcasts and also what we might call “insider information” about what is happening at ESL Podcast and with us—Jeff and Lucy. Go to our website today to take a look, at ESLPod.com. Click on the Blog item in the menu to see our new blog. Another exciting change is in our ESL Podcast Memberships. We now have two memberships you can choose from: a Basic Membership and a Premium Membership. The Basic Membership gives you 12 new Learning Guides each month, and you have two weeks to download each Learning Guide. The Premium Membership gives you access to all of our Learning Guides, over 250! And, you can download, with our Premium Membership, the Learning Guides anytime, as long as you remain a member. The Basic Membership is $10 each month; the Premium Membership is $60 for the first month and $10 for each month after that. So, the first month the Premium Membership is $60, the second month is $10, and the third month is $10, and so on, until you cancel. We are very excited to be able to give listeners these two options. To find out more, go to ESLPod.com and click on “Learning Guides” in the menu for more information. Finally, we have a new course in our ESL Podcast Store. As many of you already know, we have very special Premium Courses on different topics in the ESL Podcast Store for both business and daily English. Our new course is called “English for Business Meetings.” This course teaches you both formal and informal business English needed to participate in business meetings. The course follows two meetings from start to finish, and you’ll hear different speakers giving information, asking questions, discussing topics, and running the meetings. The formal business English is appropriate for important meetings, such as for presentations at conferences or annual company meetings. The informal business English used is useful for smaller meetings, such as daily office meetings or for talking with or interacting with your co-workers. We’re very excited about these new features. Lucy and I hope that you will visit our website today to check out our new blog, our new memberships, and our new Premium Course, English for Business Meetings. From Los Angeles, California, I’m Jeff McQuillan. Thanks for listening. no 4:40 308 - Formatting a Document http://www.eslpod.com/ Mon, 01 Oct 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod308.mp3 Center for Educational Development Learn how to make your documents look the way you want in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:20 Explanations: 3:56 Fast dialog: 15:11 Franz: I’ve just switched over to this program and I can’t figure out how to format my document. Can you help me? Helen: I can try. Let’s take a look. What do you want to do? Franz: I want to change the margins so that I can fit more on a page. I don’t know how to change the default settings. I also want to put this section on a separate page. Helen: Okay, you can adjust the margins by moving this up and down, or from side to side. If you want this section on a separate page, just add a page break. Franz: Oh, I see. What if I want to add a header or a footer? Helen: You go to this pull-down menu and select the header and footer option. Then, you can type in the text you want. If you want to add a page number, just insert one by selecting it from this menu. Franz: That seems easy. What if I want to change the font? Helen: You can change the font style or size by selecting the text and then making the change on the toolbar. See? Franz: Yeah, that seems simple enough. I also want to change the orientation of the page. How do I do that? Helen: Right now your document is portrait. To make it landscape, you just go to “Page Setup” and change it. Franz: That all seems pretty easy. I think I’ve got it. Helen: Good. Give it a try. If you get stuck, I can try to help. Franz: Okay, great! Now, can you go over again how to change the margins, insert a page number, change the page orientation, and add a footer? Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 17:18 English Cafe #105 http://www.eslpod.com/ Wed, 03 Oct 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC105.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: Why Americans don’t use the metric system, how to dress in Los Angeles versus New York, yutz, to go back to square one, what to call your cousin’s son, I’m done with you Topics: Why Americans don’t use the metric system, how to dress in Los Angeles versus New York, yutz, to go back to square one, what to call your cousin’s son, I’m done with you Words: signatory to establish commission competitive dress code to crack the code underdressed to try too hard to look smart the Industry financial sector flyover country first cousin distant relative no 26:15 309 - Describing Distances and Giving Directions http://www.eslpod.com/ Fri, 05 Oct 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod309.mp3 Center for Educational Development Feeling a little lost? Learn how to ask for directions in English in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:26 Explanations: 3:28 Fast dialog: 15:00 Daniella: Could you tell where I can find a drugstore? Hotel clerk: Sure. There’s one up the street near the corner of Selma and Main. If you get to Abreu Avenue, you’ve gone too far. It’s set back from the street so it’s a little hard to find. Daniella: Oh, that’s okay. I’ll keep an eye out for it. Hotel clerk: You know, I just remembered that there’s a bigger and better drugstore around the block. It’s no more than a three-minute walk. Go out the main doors of the hotel, hang a left, go straight for about a quarter of a mile, and then make another left at the first street. Daniella: Okay. I think I’ve got that. Thanks. Hotel clerk: Now, if you want a drugstore with a pharmacy, you’ll need to walk a little farther. Go out these doors, walk roughly three blocks until you get to a dead end, turn right, cross the street, and you’ll see a bank. It’s kitty-corner from the bank. You should be able to walk there in five minutes, give or take. Daniella: Thanks. Thanks a lot. I think I’m all set. See you later. Hotel clerk: You know, I just remembered that there’s another drugstore... Daniella: Thanks, but I’ve really got to get going. Bye. Hotel clerk: Well, some people just don’t appreciate other people’s help! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 16:49 310 - Shopping for Furniture http://www.eslpod.com/ Mon, 08 Oct 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod310.mp3 Center for Educational Development Learn the names of different types of furniture for your house in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:20 Explanations: 3:34 Fast dialog: 14:10 Tobias: I really don’t understand why we need new furniture. After we’re married, we’ll just take the things from each of our two apartments and that should do the trick. Renee: We each have some things we can keep and use, but it would be nice to have pieces that match. Right now, we have six dining chairs, each in a different style, and none of them are in the same style as the dining table your uncle is giving us as a wedding present. Tobias: Yeah, that’s true. At least, we won’t have to shop for bedroom furniture. We’re lucky that your parents are giving us some hand-me-down things, including a dresser, two nightstands, a headboard, and a wardrobe. All we need is a bed. Renee: Yeah, we got lucky when they decided to get new furniture and to give us their old pieces. That just leaves the living room. Tobias: But we already have a couch and a love seat. Renee: That’s true, but we still need a coffee table, two side tables, and at least two table lamps and a floor lamp. Tobias: Do we really need all of that? Renee: If we plan to entertain, we do. Tobias: All right. I was just hoping to get home in time for the game this afternoon. Renee: No problem. We only have six more stores to visit after this one. Tobias: Six?! Renee: Yes, now come on. How are you going to get home in time for the game if you don’t hurry up? Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 16:16 English Cafe #106 http://www.eslpod.com/ Topics: American folklore: Bigfoot
Who’s on First?, to tear apart, Cliff Notes, to fall out of love

]]> Wed, 10 Oct 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC106.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: American folklore: Bigfoot Who’s on First?, to tear apart, Cliff Notes, to fall out of love Topics: American folklore: Bigfoot Who’s on First?, to tear apart, Cliff Notes, to fall out of love Words: UFO folklore Pacific Northwest hoax sighting creature comedy routine duo nickname play on words to tear apart (someone) Cliff Notes to fall out of love love at first sight no 23:26 311 - A Mid-life Crisis http://www.eslpod.com/ Fri, 12 Oct 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod311.mp3 Center for Educational Development Getting older is not always the same as getting wiser. Learn about a man’s mid-life crisis. ESL Podcast 311 – A Mid-life Crisis Slow dialog: 1:21 Explanations: 3:38 Fast dialog: 14:08 Bella: I think my husband is going through a mid-life crisis. Russell: What makes you think that? Bella: He just traded in his car for a very expensive sports car, and he’s filling the house with gym equipment. Russell: Uh oh, that’s a bad sign. Do you know what may have triggered this? Bella: I’m not sure, but he was passed over for a promotion at work a couple of months ago, and his new boss is 15 years younger than he is. Russell: That would do it. Bella: What really worries me is that he’s been talking about quitting his job altogether and becoming a full-time writer. He always wanted to become a successful writer. Russell: That’s sounds familiar. When my brother went through a mid-life crisis, he spent a lot of time reflecting on his life and regretting giving up music to get a full-time job. He saw himself as being washed up and he was fed up with everything. Bella: What did he do? Russell: Well, he’s probably not a good example of what your husband would do. Bella: Don’t beat around the bush. Just tell me. Russell: Well, if you must know, he got a divorce, married a woman half his age, and tried to start a rock band. Bella: Oh, no! That’s just what I was afraid of. Russell: I’m sure that won’t happen with your husband. You two have a great marriage. Bella: I thought so, too, but you never know. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 16:11 312 - Different Work Styles http://www.eslpod.com/ Mon, 15 Oct 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod312.mp3 Center for Educational Development What kind of employee are you at your job? Find out how to describe different work styles in this episode. Slow dialogue: 1:42 Explanations: 4:36 Fast dialogue: 17:05 Before I started my new job, I didn’t know that I would be working so closely with another employee of the company. I was used to a lot of autonomy in my last job, and I have always been self-directed. I didn’t need close supervision and the boss never had to worry about me slacking off. To tell the truth, I was a little apprehensive about working in a team after having had so much independence. To my surprise, though, I liked the collaborative environment and I think I actually do better work because of it. Of the two of us, Delilah is the creative one. While I’m a little adverse to risk, Delilah is always challenging the status quo. She often has good ideas, and because I’m pretty resourceful, we often find a way to put those ideas to work. Delilah has great follow-through, too, and I never need to worry that things will fall through the cracks. I think the key to our success in working together is that neither one of us tries to exercise authority over the other. We respect each other’s abilities and we know when to take charge and when to back off. If you had told me a year ago that I would be working in a team environment and enjoying it, I would have told you that you were crazy. But I guess the old saying isn’t true: You can teach an old dog new tricks. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 19:03 English Cafe #107 http://www.eslpod.com/ Topics: Ask an American: Socially Responsible Companies
case study, to be at sea, to knock someone’s socks off, to take one’s time

]]> Wed, 17 Oct 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC107.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: Ask an American: Socially Responsible Companies case study, to be at sea, to knock someone’s socks off, to take one’s time Topics: Ask an American: Socially Responsible Companies case study, to be at sea, to knock someone’s socks off, to take one’s time Words: bottom line impact sustainable shareholder stakeholder to inch up behind the scenes pension investors commonplace to engage array case study to be at sea to knock someone’s socks off to take one’s time no 25:08 313 - A Suspicious Neighbor http://www.eslpod.com/ Fri, 19 Oct 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod313.mp3 Center for Educational Development What do you really know about your neighbor? Find out more in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:14 Explanations: 3:26 Fast dialog: 15:21 Patricia: What do you think of our new neighbor? Ray: I don’t know. I haven’t met him yet. Patricia: Me neither, but I think he’s a shady character. Ray: Why do you think that? Patricia: Well, when he was moving in, I tried to shoot the breeze with him and he was shifty. When I asked him what line of work he was in, he was very evasive. Ray: Maybe he just didn’t want to talk to a busybody when he was busy moving boxes. Have you thought of that? Patricia: I wasn’t being a busybody. I was just being neighborly. When I offered to help him, he practically kicked me out of his apartment. Ray: Okay, you must be right. He’s probably a serial killer. Patricia: I wouldn’t put it past him. Ray: Come on. My guess is that he just wants some peace and quiet. Patricia: He wants peace and quiet to do what? That’s what I want to know. Ray: I think we should just mind our own business. Patricia: You can do what you like, but I’m going over there and I’m getting some answers. If I have live next to him, I’m entitled to know something about him. Ray: Why don’t you leave the man alone? He’s entitled to some privacy. And plus, he probably won’t let you in. Patricia: That’s what you think. I’m not taking no for an answer. Ray: That poor man! Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 17:12 314 - Buying a Digital Audio (MP3) Player http://www.eslpod.com/ Mon, 22 Oct 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod314.mp3 Center for Educational Development Confused about which portable MP3 player to buy? Learn what questions to ask in English in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:28 Explanations: 3:39 Fast dialog: 14:36 Clerk: Can I help you? Sandy: I’m looking for an MP3 player, but I don’t know a lot about them. Clerk: We have a large selection, as you can see. Sandy: Wow, I really don’t know where to begin. Clerk: What do you want to be able to do? Sandy: I just want something small and portable that I can use to listen to music that I rip from CDs. I also want to be able to download songs off the Internet. Clerk: Most of the players you see here can do that. One thing you have to watch out for is that some music websites are proprietary. That means that you can only listen using certain types of players. Sandy: That’s what I’m worried about. Clerk: Well, this one plays music in a lot of different file formats and is compatible with most of the major music download sites, both proprietary and open-source. It comes with an FM tuner, a built-in battery charger, and good quality headphones. Sandy: What about it’s storage capacity and charge time? Clerk: It has 30 gigabytes of memory and can hold about 7,500 songs. You get about 15 hours of music playback on one charge and it charges up in about four hours. It has a nice screen, too, that’s backlit. Sandy: It looks like what I’ve been looking for. I’ll take it. Script by Dr. Lucy Tse no 16:27 English Cafe #108 http://www.eslpod.com/ Wed, 24 Oct 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/EC108.mp3 Center for Educational Development Topics: Route 66, playground games for children, on time versus in time, counting seconds using Mississippi, to knock yourself out Topics: Route 66, playground games for children, on time versus in time, counting seconds using Mississippi, to knock yourself out Words allergies a frog in your throat route interstate prosperous to get your kicks to celebrate to be “it” playground to freeze chalk footwork in time on time to knock yourself out no 23:22 315 - Going to the Park http://www.eslpod.com/ Fri, 26 Oct 2007 18:00:00 -0700 http://libsyn.com/media/eslpod/ESLPod315.mp3 Center for Educational Development Take a pleasant walk in the park and make new friends in this episode. Slow dialog: 1:16 Explanations: 3:20 Fast dialog: 14:39 I arrived at the park a little early for our neighborhood baseball game and I needed to kill some time. I decided to take a walk along one of the trails so I could look at the scenery. Suddenly, I came across a woman sitting under a tree. Octavi: What a beautiful day to be at the park! Irene: Oh, hi. Yes, it’s a nice day, isn’t it? Octavi: You look comfortable sitting on the grass in the shade reading. Irene: It’s a quiet spot away from the playground. Octavi: Do you come here often? Irene: Not too often. I come here every so often on the weekends. Octavi: This is a great spot for a picnic. I saw a lot of people on the other side near the fountain, but this is