Episodios

  • Introducing English Plus Season 3
    Oct 1 2021
    Learn about the significant changes coming your way in season 3 of English Plus that will start on Monday, October 4, 2021. I will talk in this episode about the changes in the schedule, the new patron program and everything you need to know about English Plus in the brand-new season. Support me to keep English Plus alive on https://www.patreon.com/dannyballanAccess the full archive of English Plus on https://englishpluspodcast.com/english-plus-podcast-archive/Explore a world on learning on my website https://englishpluspodcast.com Unlock all Premium Episodes on Patreon

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    40 m
  • English Plus Digest 19 | Can We Continue Fighting Each Other?
    Jun 17 2024

    In today's English Plus Digest episode, we dive into thought-provoking discussions and timeless wisdom. We start by questioning the futility of war and imagining a world where peace and cooperation reign. Next, we reflect on the proverb "let sleeping dogs lie," exploring when it's best to leave things as they are and when it's necessary to address unresolved issues.

    We then delve into the power of believing in your impact, inspired by William James' quote, and the journey from novice to expert embodied in the idiom "know the ropes." The importance of showing respect and humility is highlighted through the word "deferential," and we uncover the hidden worlds of uncontacted tribes in the Amazon Rainforest.

    We also explore the surprising benefits of learning new skills on brain health and take a journey through the epic tale of Beowulf. The unyielding spirit of Sojourner Truth inspires us to fight for justice, while the poem "Don't Cry" encourages us to embrace new beginnings.

    We imagine hosting our own talk show and choosing the ultimate guest, and learn valuable lessons from the myth of Icarus and Daedalus. Finally, we appreciate the majestic Sahara Desert and its role in Earth's ecosystem, and answer frequently asked questions about postcolonial literature, highlighting its relevance in understanding contemporary issues.

    Join us for a rich and enlightening episode that challenges our perspectives and inspires us to take meaningful actions in our lives.

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    1 h y 12 m
  • English Plus Digest 18 | Chopin, The Pyramids of Giza, The Power of Gratitude and More
    Jun 10 2024

    Join us in English Express to explore the idiom "Out in the open." Understand when honesty and transparency lead to clarity and resolution, and when it might be wiser to keep things concealed. Learn how to strike the right balance between openness and discretion in various situations.

    The Enchanting Mystery of the Numinous

    In Word of the Day, uncover the mesmerizing word "numinous." Explore its profound meaning and origins, and learn how to recognize these awe-inspiring moments in your life. Discover the beauty and mystery that the numinous encapsulates and how it can deepen your connection to the world around you.

    Chasing Rainbows: The Divine Pathway of Iris

    Explore ancient Greek mythology in Did You Know as we delve into the belief that rainbows were the paths made by the goddess Iris. Understand the mythological significance of rainbows and how these beliefs can inspire us to see challenges as storms that reveal beauty and hope once overcome.

    Tuning Your Mind: The Magic of Binaural Beats

    Discover the science behind binaural beats in Know Yourself. Learn how specific sound frequencies can guide your brain into different states, enhancing focus, relaxation, or creativity. Find practical ways to incorporate binaural beats into your routine for improved mental well-being.

    Mysteries of the Ancient World: The Great Pyramids of Giza

    Join Great Stories as we explore the Great Pyramids of Giza. Uncover the architectural marvels, construction techniques, and symbolic meanings of these ancient wonders. Reflect on how language shapes our understanding of these monumental achievements and their historical significance.

    The Timeless Melodies of Chopin: Master of Romantic Piano

    In Immortal People, delve into the life and legacy of Frédéric Chopin. Learn about his unique ability to convey emotion through the piano, his revolutionary impact on piano technique, and how his music continues to inspire generations.

    Riding the Waves: Unveiling the Poet's Journey

    Explore Phoenix's poem "Being a Writer" in Daily Poem. Discover the metaphorical imagery and themes of perseverance, creativity, and the profound impact of finding meaning in the mundane. Reflect on how the writer's journey can inspire your own life and creative pursuits.

    The Power of Gratitude: Discovering What Truly Matters

    Reflect on the transformative power of gratitude in Daily Spotlight. Learn about the benefits of practicing gratitude and how it can shift your focus from scarcity to abundance. Discover ways to incorporate gratitude into your daily life and transform your outlook and well-being.

    Join us for an episode filled with timeless wisdom, profound insights, and inspiring stories that will enrich your mind and spirit. Tune in to English Plus Digest for an enlightening experience!

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    46 m
  • English Plus Digest 17 | The Early Bird, Durer, Frost's Fire and Ice and More
    Jun 3 2024

    In this episode of English Plus Digest, we embark on a journey through timeless wisdom, powerful quotes, and fascinating myths. Our exploration begins with the classic dilemma of bravery versus caution, encapsulated in Shakespeare's proverb, "Discretion is the better part of valor." Discover the true meaning behind this saying and learn how wise decision-making is a crucial component of true courage.

    Next, we dive into Steve Jobs' impactful advice: "Your time is limited, don't waste it living someone else's life." We'll discuss how to break free from societal expectations, listen to your inner voice, and take control of your own story.

    Moving on, we uncover the secret of early bird success with the proverb "The early bird catches the worm." Learn how being proactive and prepared can open up opportunities and lead to success in various aspects of life.

    Then, we delve into the mythological world of the Rainbow Serpent from Aboriginal Australian Dreamtime. Understand the significance of this majestic being and how its story weaves through the culture and beliefs of Aboriginal Australians.

    We'll also introduce you to the fascinating word "panoply," a powerhouse word from ancient Greece that describes a grand display or collection. Discover how to use this word to enrich your vocabulary and impress your friends.

    Next, we take a surprising turn into the world of science with a fun fact about mushrooms and their closer relation to humans than plants. Explore the amazing similarities between fungi and animals, and how this revelation changes our understanding of the natural world.

    We'll also tackle the mysterious workings of our memory with a deep dive into the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve. Learn strategies to fight memory loss and make your knowledge stick longer using spaced repetition techniques.

    Lastly, we immerse ourselves in the rich mythological story of the Rainbow Serpent, a majestic being from Aboriginal Australian Dreamtime that symbolizes creation, fertility, and the endless cycle of life. Understand its significance in Aboriginal culture and its enduring impact on art and storytelling.

    Join us for this episode of English Plus Digest, packed with intriguing stories, insightful wisdom, and fascinating facts. Whether you're pondering the balance between bravery and caution, seeking inspiration to live your own life, or eager to expand your vocabulary and knowledge, this episode has something for everyone.

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    34 m
  • English Plus Digest 16 | A Shot in the Dark, The Samurai, Power Plays and Hidden Hands, and more.
    May 28 2024

    In this episode of English Plus Digest, we delve into a rich tapestry of topics, each offering unique insights and engaging narratives:

    1. Live Within Your Means: Unpacking an Old Adage We explore the timeless wisdom of the proverb "Cut your coat according to your cloth." Discover how this adage teaches financial responsibility, creativity, and the importance of aligning your desires with your reality. Learn how living within your means can reduce stress, improve credit, and help you build genuine wealth while appreciating the simpler things in life.
    2. The Art of Self-Creation: Unraveling a Powerful Idea Dive into George Bernard Shaw's empowering quote, "Life isn't about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself." This discussion shifts the focus from passive self-discovery to active self-creation, emphasizing the power of our choices and experiences in shaping who we become. Embrace a sense of direction, self-acceptance, and boundless possibilities with this transformative idea.
    3. "A Shot in the Dark": Decoding a Curious Phrase We decode the idiom "a shot in the dark," which represents taking risks with slim chances of success. Through examples and historical insights, we uncover the essence of hopeful daring and the potential rewards of calculated risks.
    4. "Invective": When Words Become Weapons Discover the power and pitfalls of invective—harsh, insulting speech or writing intended to wound. Recognize the destructive nature of invective and learn how to promote respectful communication, using words to uplift rather than harm.
    5. Buttons Gone Wild: Why Your Shirt Buttons Backwards Unravel the historical reasons behind the opposite button placement on men's and women's shirts. From the days of maids dressing wealthy women to theories about swordsmen, this quirky detail in fashion reveals a fascinating link to social norms and battlefield tactics of the past.
    6. The Power of Belief: Can Expectations Change Your Reality? Explore the Rosenthal effect, where the expectations of others can significantly influence our performance and outcomes. Learn how positive expectations can boost performance and the importance of fostering an environment of growth and self-belief.
    7. Blades of Honor: The Story of the Samurai Journey back to ancient Japan to uncover the legacy of the samurai, legendary warriors bound by the code of bushido. Discover lessons of unwavering dedication, balance, and self-mastery from these fascinating historical figures.
    8. The Mastermind Behind the Periodic Table: Dmitri Mendeleev Celebrate Dmitri Mendeleev, the brilliant scientist who organized the elements into the periodic table. Learn about his bold predictions, pattern recognition, and the power of curiosity and determination in revolutionizing chemistry.
    9. Power Plays and Hidden Hands: Unraveling "A Game of Cards" Analyze the poem "A Game of Cards" by Phoenix, which metaphorically explores the ruthless dynamics of power and strategy. Examine the games we play in our own lives and the cost of seeking temporary power.
    10. Right or Wrong, By Whose Rules? Unraveling Moral Dilemmas Dive into the philosophical debate of objective versus subjective morality. Challenge your understanding of right and wrong and explore the balance between sticking to principles and considering context in moral dilemmas.

    Tune in to English Plus Digest for these thought-provoking discussions and much more. Subscribe, share, and let us know your thoughts on these fascinating topics!

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    33 m
  • English Plus Digest 15 | Mindfulness, Dreams, Curiosity, The Power Within and More.
    May 20 2024

    Welcome to today's Digest Episode of the English Plus Podcast! In this episode, we delve into a variety of thought-provoking topics, each designed to spark curiosity and provide valuable insights.

    Did Curiosity Really Kill the Cat? We start by challenging the old saying "Curiosity killed the cat" and uncovering its lesser-known second half: "but satisfaction brought it back." Learn why curiosity, when balanced, is a powerful force for discovery and innovation.

    The Power Within: Unlocking the Emerson Quote Next, we explore Ralph Waldo Emerson's profound quote, "What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." Discover how focusing on inner strength can transform your life.

    Stop Beating Around the Bush! Deciphering a Quirky Idiom Ever wondered why we say "beating around the bush"? We trace this idiom back to its hunting origins and discuss how being direct can enhance communication.

    Rescind: The Word That Can Take It All Back We dive into the meaning and usage of the word "rescind," exploring its power to revoke or cancel decisions and highlighting the importance of thoughtful actions.

    Did You Know: Baseballs Can Break the Sound Barrier? Uncover the science behind the fastest pitches in Major League Baseball and appreciate the incredible biomechanics that make them possible.

    Breathe In, Stress Out: Can Mindfulness Really Help? Learn how mindfulness can reduce stress and anxiety by bringing your focus to the present moment. Discover practical tips for incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine.

    The Kalevala: A Journey into Finland's Mythical Heart Journey into the world of the Kalevala, Finland's national epic, and explore its rich tapestry of myths, heroes, and cultural insights.

    Emily Dickinson: The Belle of Amherst's Enduring Voice Step into the life of Emily Dickinson, whose revolutionary poetry continues to inspire and challenge readers with its unique style and profound themes.

    "Dreams" by Langston Hughes: Holding Onto Hope Reflect on Langston Hughes' powerful poem "Dreams," which emphasizes the importance of holding onto our aspirations and the impact of letting them fade.

    Beyond the Frame: Would You Live Inside a Masterpiece? Imagine living inside your favorite painting and consider what kind of masterpiece you are creating in your own life.

    Join us for this enlightening episode, filled with wisdom, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of the world around us. Happy listening!

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    43 m
  • English Plus Digest 14 | The Road not Taken, Mona Lisa’s Secret and More.
    May 13 2024

    In this thought-provoking episode of The English Plus Digest, we unpack a variety of insightful topics. We start with the nuanced interpretation of the proverb 'Charity begins at home,' questioning whether charity should indeed start within our household or extend beyond to global concerns. We then tackle motivational insights from 'Hustle Today, Thrive Tomorrow?' and decode the idiom 'Putting the cart before the horse.' The episode also explores the deeper meanings of the word 'restive,' the emotional connections people make with art like the Mona Lisa, and the challenges of imposter syndrome. We clarify common language confusions between 'hard' and 'hardly,' reevaluate the misunderstood intentions behind Robert Frost's 'The Road Not Taken,' and dive into the ethical and theoretical dilemmas of time travel paradoxes. Each segment provides a rich blend of cultural wisdom and linguistic intrigue, perfect for those who love to reflect on language, history, and personal growth.

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    33 m
  • English Plus Digest 13 | Is Blood Thicker than Water? Is AI Taking over? And much more
    May 8 2024

    In this thought-provoking episode of English Plus Podcast, we delve into the layers of common proverbs, navigate the complexities of personal challenges, and explore the subtleties of language that shape our understanding of the world around us. Join us as we dissect the true meaning behind the age-old saying, "blood is thicker than water," and challenge its relevance in today's diverse familial structures.

    Dive deeper into personal resilience with a reflection on Jimmy Dean's inspiring quote about adjusting our sails in the face of life's unpredictable winds. We also tackle the quick judgments encapsulated in the idiom "jump to conclusions," offering strategies to foster patience and clarity in everyday interactions.

    Our exploration doesn’t stop at phrases and idioms. We unlock the profound depths of the word "profundity," examine the peculiar properties of helium that defy freezing, and dissect the subtle art of persuasion through the "foot-in-the-door" technique. Language enthusiasts will enjoy a detailed clarification of commonly confused coastal terms and a tutorial on avoiding common blunders in using the past continuous tense.

    The episode culminates with a stirring discussion on the future of artificial intelligence—pondering whether AI will complement or surpass human intelligence. Whether you're a language lover, a philosophical thinker, or someone curious about the psychological aspects of interaction, this episode offers rich insights and practical advice to navigate the complexities of life and language.

    Tune in to English Plus Podcast for an enriching journey that promises to expand your perspectives and provoke thoughtful reflection on everyday wisdom and beyond.

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    36 m