Podcast Powerhouse: Transform Your Language Skills with These Top English Learning Shows

English podcasts are a perfect example of learning resources that can be interesting and useful at the same time. You can listen to the ones that focus on language nuances or find the topics that interest you, but both benefits will be very exciting. Today, we’ll explore plenty of unique podcasts to help you choose the one that will be ideal. So, without further ado, let’s jump right into it!

Learning English Podcast Examples for Different Levels

The key to making the most out of podcasts is to choose the ones that suit your current proficiency level. It will help you avoid being overwhelmed by too complex vocabulary and grammar structures or, conversely, being bored with too simple topics. Therefore, we’ve prepared a list of excellent podcasts for learners with different fluency levels.

Beginner

If you’re just starting your language-learning journey, don’t think there is nothing for you. Conversely, there are plenty of podcasts created specifically for beginners. Whether you aim to master British or American English, expand your vocabulary, or learn basic grammar structures, there is something for everyone. In our comprehensive list, you can find a beautiful English podcast for beginners worthy of your attention.

• Coffee Break English.

Like a good cup of coffee, this remarkable podcast can significantly boost your energy at the beginning of your studying path. It is perfect for A1-A2 proficiency levels. The podcast covers various topics, while the hosts use simple vocabulary and moderate speech speed. You can listen to the discussion of the weather, movies, music, animals, and other exciting themes while mastering grammar tenses and other helpful language nuances.

Available on: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Deezer, Coffee Break English website, etc.

• All Ears English.

This is another example of a good podcast in English. Since it covers a wide range of topics, it is perfect for all proficiency levels. But beginners can take advantage of multiple subjects, including listening, speaking, reading, pronunciation episodes, and much more. There are also numerous conversation podcasts, the ones focused on vocabulary, etc., so you can find anything you need within one platform.

Available on: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify, the official website, etc.

• Podcasts in English.

This platform contains numerous podcasts for various levels, starting from A0. You can listen to multiple topics, from shapes and numbers to the Winter Olympics and Christmas markets. Each episode is short, ranging from 2 to 5 minutes, making implementing them into your busy schedule easy. In addition, the platform offers transcripts for each episode and amazing worksheets and vocabulary tasks, allowing you to make the most out of them.

Available on: Apple Podcasts, Deezer, YouTube, Google Podcasts, the official website, etc.

Intermediate

Language learners with B1-B2 fluency levels might consider listening to more challenging podcasts. It is a great time to choose platforms focusing on more complex vocabulary, grammar, idioms, or a wider range of topics. Here are some of good podcasts in English you might consider for your learning process.

• 6 Minute English.

If you have an intermediate level, you should try this fantastic podcast from the BBC. As you can tell from the name, each episode is about six minutes long, so you can listen to it anywhere and anytime, even when waiting in line or being stuck in traffic. The topic range is also impressive – culture, psychology, news, social issues, science, and more. It is an excellent podcast for those aiming to comprehend the British accent and enjoy exciting subjects.

Available on: Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Player.fm, the official website, etc.

• The English We Speak.

This one is also from the BBC, and honestly, it is probably one of the best podcasts for intermediate to advanced levels. Each episode here is even shorter than in the previous one, so you can spend less time listening to them. The peculiarity of the podcast is that it focuses on common idioms and useful expressions, especially popular in the UK. If you aim to learn the phrases used by locals in Britain, this one is a superb choice.

Available on: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, the official website, etc.

• Voice of America: Learning English.

For those interested in mastering American English, this podcast is definitely worth checking. Here, you can find numerous episodes covering a wide range of topics. Some of the most popular ones include discussions of arts, culture, current events and news, technologies, lifestyle, and much more. There are also episodes for Beginner and Advanced levels, so you can easily find something that suits you best.

Available on: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Americanenglish.state.gov, Deezer, the official website, etc.

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Advanced

When you have C1-C2 proficiency, you can listen to any podcast. However, the sky is the limit, and tons of materials can be interesting even for native speakers, providing unique speaking strategies, complex grammar, new vocabulary, slang, idioms, and other essential things. So, here is our list of the best advanced-level podcasts.

• Splendid Speaking. 

This outstanding and unique podcast differs from other similar platforms. Here, you don’t just listen to native people speaking English. Conversely, each episode involves a conversation between non-native speakers and the language professional providing expert feedback. It is a great option to expand your knowledge by listening to interesting topics, seeing how other non-fluent speakers interact, and even trying to find possible mistakes in their speech by yourself.

Available on: Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, the official website, Player.fm, etc.

• This American Life.

This podcast doesn’t focus on language learning. However, it is still a perfect podcast to learn English. If you feel a bit confused, let us explain it. The main purpose of this podcast is to share the remarkable, touching, and inspiring stories American citizens tell. Hence, in addition to listening to locals, it helps you to hear various accents, local idioms and catchphrases, intonations, and much more. And, of course, most of the shared stories won’t leave you indifferent.

Available on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, the official website, Pandora, Radio Public, etc.

• Stuff You Should Know.

Have you ever wondered how disgust works? Or do zombies exist? Or what is the motion sickness? If yes, this podcast is definitely for you. Each episode covers one extremely exciting topic, like the ones we’ve mentioned or many others. It is a perfect opportunity for advanced learners to expand their general knowledge, learn technical language, and have a good time. 

Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Podbean, the official website, Google Podcasts, etc.

Podcasts for Learning English on Different Topics

We get it – not everyone wants to spend their precious weekends on educational pursuits. The good news is, if you’ve already reached an Intermediate, Upper-Intermediate, or Advanced level, you can seamlessly integrate English podcasts into your downtime and still derive significant benefits. No need to sacrifice your leisure; you can enjoy podcasts covering various topics. And, of course, we’re here to share our favorites with you.

Travel

Listening to travel podcasts is great for learning related vocabulary, hearing some people’s travel stories, and understanding how to act in common situations that might appear during your trips abroad. Here’s our selection of amazing podcasts that are fun, interesting, and helpful at the same time.

• Flight of Fancy. If you have any travel-related questions, from the border crossing to what to pack on your next trip, you can surely find an answer in one of the episodes of this podcast. It is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and other resources, making it easy to access and useful for avid travelers.
• JUMP with Traveling Jackie. This podcast is a treasure for those seeking inspiration for travel destinations and practical tips on low-budget travel. Hosted by Jackie Nourse, this podcast is a great way to explore new places to visit and master essential vocabulary.

These two are our ultimate favorites, but we will be happy to hear about the ones you like the most. Please share them in the comments section, and try the ones we highly recommend.

Business

Mastering Business English is vital to anyone starting or having a career in any English-speaking country. And since English is a lingua franca of global business, it is also used in many areas besides the UK and the USA. So, if you are interested in learning it, take a look at these exciting podcasts.

• 10 Minute MBA. This daily podcast hosted by the CEO and famous investor Scott D. Clary is a treasure for anyone aiming to start or grow a business. Each episode is ten minutes or less long so that you can receive priceless information in a very short time. Here, you’ll find anything you need: strategies, tools, advice, vocabulary, and much more.
• The BizChix Podcasts. Created specifically for female entrepreneurs. This podcast covers many topics, from successful leadership to work-life balance. In addition to that, it allows you to learn corporate vocabulary and enhance your business English level.

These and other business podcasts expand your vocabulary and give you many useful pieces of advice to reach your corporate goals and become successful no matter what. So, if that’s what you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to listen to them!

Pop Culture

While success and reaching goals are important for many people, let’s admit it – we all like to spill the tea. Pop culture tea is usually the hottest, so it is vital to have someone to discuss it with or at least to listen to others’ opinions. Of course, we can’t leave this topic behind. For kicks and giggles, here are some astonishing podcasts related to this topic.

• Sentimental Garbage. Hosted by the incredible Caroline O’Donoghue, this podcast is perfect for anyone obsessed with pop culture. Whether discussing the problem of Mr. Big from SATC, Edward from Twilight, or the secrets of Gossip Girl, here you’ll find something for your taste.
• Shameless. This fun and exciting podcast is a great way to stay updated with current events. Here, you’ll find the hottest tea about celebrities, discussions of controversial trendy stories and situations, and much more.

Listening to pop culture podcasts is a great way to stay updated with the latest news and is also beneficial for language learning. It can help you master new and trendy slang terms, understand popular expressions, and see how local speakers talk in relaxed and casual circumstances.

Find the Best Podcast for Learning English with Promova

Listening to English podcasts is a great way to immerse yourself in the language. However, if you need a more personalized approach to your learning, you might need some help. We are excited to introduce you to Promova – your one-stop solution for fluency in English. 

Created with language learners in mind, Promova offers several benefits for people of various fluency levels and needs. You can try our one-on-one lessons with professional tutors or join group classes and study with fellow language enthusiasts. If hesitating, you can book a free trial personal lesson to peek at the learning process at Promova.

For those who prefer studying alone, Promova offers a convenient application available for iOS and Android devices. Spending a few minutes a day, you can learn English, Spanish, French, Korean, and many other languages anywhere and anytime. If your goal is to master speaking skills, remember to attend our free Conversation Club, where we discuss exciting topics with English learners and speakers.

Conclusion

To sum up, we can say that listening to podcasts is a great opportunity to learn a language. Whether you choose episodes focused on English nuances or prefer the ones discussing other topics, it can help you master your listening skills, improve comprehension, and much more. We hope that this article helps you find your new favorite podcast. And meanwhile, share some that you like in the comments!