English Learning for Curious Minds | A More Interesting Way To Learn English

[From The Vault 🔐] Flight 571: Survival in the Andes

Leonardo English — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0200

From The Vault 🔐 — normally a member-only episode, unlocked this month for everyone.

In 1972, a plane carrying a Uruguayan rugby team crashed high in the Andes. Stranded in freezing mountains, the young survivors faced hunger, avalanches, and a terrible moral choice.

It would become one of history’s greatest survival stories.

1972 Andes plane crash of Uruguayan rugby team
Navigation error; early descent; crash into mountain
Survivors shelter in plane body; bitter cold at night
Student doctors treat injuries with improvised tools
Melting snow for water; radio says search is cancelled
Starvation leads to agreement to eat the dead
Deadly avalanche buries shelter; more survivors die
Tail of plane found; batteries fail; sleeping bag created
Parrado and Canessa walk west; find help by note
Helicopter rescue; 16 survive; public debate and aftermath

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/flight-571

🔓 And if you’d like to unlock our entire catalogue (550+ episodes), along with interactive transcripts, instant translations, and study packs, check out membership at https://bit.ly/FromTheVault2025

#602 | AI & Learning English in 2026

Leonardo English — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Ever since ChatGPT was released, people have declared the "death of language learning". It still hasn't happened.

Today, we'll look at how AI can help with reading, writing, listening, and speaking in 2026, and where it still falls short.

Can AI really make you fluent at English in 2026?

AI and English learning: what changed since 2022.
Input versus output: a simpler skills framework.
Reading help: summaries, explanations, but avoid passive learning.
Guess first, then ask AI to check.
Listening: better AI voices, but prefer real human audio.
Use AI to scaffold podcasts into active learning.
Writing: get feedback, not AI-written text.
Self-correct first, then see fixes with explanations.
Speaking: use AI for rehearsal, not as replacement.
Consistency beats tools; do real English daily.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/ai-learning-english

Try FixMyEnglish: www.fixmyenglish.ai

ChatGPT + Podcasts = English Fluency? Try These 12 Prompts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tM0zLtfXVOU

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Keywords: Learn English, vocabulary, lessons, idioms, aprende inglés, idiomas, aprender inglês, apprendre l'anglais, imparare l’inglese, ingilizce öğren,英語を習う, تعلم الإنجليزية

#599 | Man's Best Friend: The Remarkable History of Dogs

Leonardo English — Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Why do dogs understand us so well, and how did the "wild" wolf become man's closest companion? This episode tells the remarkable story of how a partnership thousands of years ago changed both species forever.

From ancient myths to modern living rooms, it shows how dogs helped build human civilisation and captured our hearts.

The story of Argos, Odysseus' loyal hunting dog
Friendlier Ice Age wolves scavenged leftovers and formed a partnership.
Dogs read human signals; puppy dog eyes win care.
Tameness changed bodies and diet, including starch digestion.
Fox experiment proved tameness reshapes bodies within generations.
Working dogs helped herding, travel, and growing settlements.
Dogs used in war and as status symbols.
Ancient grave shows care for a sick dog.
Victorians made dogs pets; Kennel Club set breeds.
After war, pet dogs spread; today ownership and spending soar.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/dogs

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#597 | The Global Housing Crisis Explained

Leonardo English — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0100

House prices have soared across the world, rising far faster than wages and locking many people out of home ownership.

This episode looks at why cheap credit, global investors, short-term rentals, and slow building have pushed prices ever higher.

It also asks whether governments can really fix the problem, or if expensive housing is the new normal.

How house prices have outpaced wages since late 1990s.
Cheap credit and low interest rates drove prices higher.
2008 crisis; policies kept prices from falling much.
Homes treated as a global safe asset for investors.
Demand outstrips supply: planning, NIMBY, limited land.
Rising costs, labour shortages, and developers holding land constrained building.
Population changes, migration, and smaller households increased demand.
Higher interest rates raised mortgages; prices stayed high from lock-in.
Local factors: Airbnb and visa schemes pushed prices up.
Housing wealth passed down; family help now often essential.
Are there any solutions?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/global-housing-crisis

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#594 | Mohammed Bin Salman & The Rise of Saudi Arabia

Leonardo English — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0100

For decades, Saudi Arabia was ruled by ageing princes, until one young royal began changing the system from within.

This episode tells the story of Mohammed bin Salman, and how he rose rapidly to become Saudi Arabia’s most powerful figure.

Saudi royal family is huge; succession once moved between brothers.
Pressure grew to pass power to a younger generation.
Mohammed bin Salman’s early life, connections, and growing ambition.
His father becomes king; MBS controls money and army.
MBS replaces Mohammed bin Nayef as Crown Prince, 2017.
Ritz-Carlton purge targets princes, businessmen; power and assets seized.
Vision 2030: modernise society, move economy beyond oil.
Global investments and NEOM aim to change Saudi image.
Opponents targeted; Khashoggi murder shocks the world.
Women driving, cinemas reopen; activists jailed, Yemen war continues.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/mohammed-bin-salman

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#592 | A Beginner’s Guide To British Politics

Leonardo English — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

British politics can feel confusing, with a king, a Prime Minister, and noisy debates in an old building.

This episode explains how the system works, from Parliament and voting to why two parties have ruled for so long.

Magna Carta and early Parliament shaped British politics.
Westminster: Parliament's home with Commons and Lords.
Parliament: Commons of elected MPs, Lords of appointed members.
Monarch's role: ceremonial, appoints PM, opens Parliament.
Voting system: constituencies and First Past the Post.
Two-party dominance challenged by rising Reform party.
Forming governments, general elections, choosing the Prime Minister.
MPs' duties, constituency work, and Prime Minister’s Questions.
Leadership contests and votes of no confidence.
Devolution: Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland; West Lothian Question.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/guide-british-politics

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#590 | The Unabomber | The Story of Ted Kaczynski

Leonardo English — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

He was a mathematical genius who vanished into the wilderness... and became one of America’s most notorious terrorists.

In this episode, we'll explore the life of the Unabomber, the manifesto that finally exposed him, and the manhunt that lasted 17 years.

1995 newspapers publish manifesto; FBI hopes someone recognises author.
Manifesto argues technology enslaves and crushes freedom.
David Kaczynski recognises his brother’s writing style.
Ted’s childhood genius, social isolation, and a Harvard study.
Leaves academia; Montana cabin life fuels anti-technology radicalisation.
Bombings kill three, injure twenty-three; targets linked to technology.
Long, expensive manhunt; few clues for years.
Language analysis helps arrest; cabin raid finds crucial evidence.
Trial, plea deal, life sentences, death in 2023.
Anti-technology message spreads online, despite his original intentions.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/unabomber

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#587 | The Curious Tradition of Words of the Year

Leonardo English — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

What do “truthiness”, “selfie”, and “goblin mode” have in common?

In this episode, we'll see how Words of the Year are chosen, look at some of the most pertinent from history, and explore the winners of this year's prize.

What "Word of the Year" means
How dictionaries choose: data and expert judgement
Sometimes a public vote decides the winner
Common themes: politics, culture, technology, internet language
2005 "truthiness": feels true, not actually true
2013 "selfie": rise of phone photos of yourself
2016 "post-truth": emotions beat facts in politics
2022 "goblin mode": lazy, messy, not sorry attitude
2025 "6 7": young people's meme with unclear meaning
Collins winner "vibe coding": using AI to write code

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/2025-words-of-the-year

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#585 | Is AI Really Destroying the Planet?

Leonardo English — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Is AI really a disaster for the environment, or are the fears exaggerated?

In this episode, we'll discuss the environmental cost of Artificial Intelligence.

From a water controversy in Scotland to the heat of Arizona, we look at how much energy AI really needs, and whether we should be worried.

BBC report on AI water use in Scotland.
Scotland's data centres use 0.005% of water supply.
What data centres are; cooling also uses energy.
AI requests create answers, needing powerful chips and energy.
Each query uses tiny energy, CO2, and water.
Headlines exaggerate AI's impact; context shows minimal effect.
Data centres use 1.5% of global electricity.
One burger's water equals millions of AI queries.
Energy source matters; location and water scarcity change impact.
AI use growing fast, but efficiency improving a lot.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/ai-vs-planet

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#582 | Piazza Fontana & The Accidental Death of An Anarchist

Leonardo English — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0100

A deadly bomb. A death in a police station. A secret kept from the public.

In 1969, an explosion in Milan killed 17 people. The police accused a group of anarchists, but the story was not that simple.

In part one of this three-part mini-series on "Gli Anni Di Piombo" (The Years of Lead), we look at how this tragedy started one of the darkest times in Italian history.

Italy modernising fast, but divided and tense.
12 December 1969: bomb at Milan’s Piazza Fontana.
Seventeen dead, eighty-eight injured; shock across Italy.
Coordinated Rome bombs; no claim; anarchists blamed.
Anarchist Giuseppe Pinelli dies after police questioning; controversy.
Pietro Valpreda arrested; weak evidence; years before acquittal.
Evidence pointed to far-right group Ordine Nuovo.
Suspected cover-ups by police and secret services.
Strategy of tension; suspected Gladio links; extent unclear.
Impact: fear, ordinary victims, start of the Years of Lead.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/piazza-fontana

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#580 | Operation Valkyrie & The Plot To Kill Hitler

Leonardo English — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

On 20 July 1944, a bomb ripped through a meeting room in Hitler’s Wolf’s Lair.

This episode tells how Operation Valkyrie *almost* managed to kill Adolf Hitler, and the vicious crackdown that came afterwards.

The Wolf’s Lair meeting on 20 July 1944
Claus von Stauffenberg’s injuries and role in the plot
Setting one bomb; briefcase placed near Hitler
Explosion at Wolf’s Lair; Hitler survives due to briefcase moved
Operation Valkyrie: reserve army plan blaming SS
A mixed group’s reasons to remove Hitler
Coup starts; Goebbels phones Hitler; Remer switches sides
Bendlerblock firefight, arrests, executions of plotters
Brutal crackdown: show trials, thousands arrested, many executed
Haunting “what if”: ways the plot almost succeeded

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/operation-valkyrie

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#577 | A Short History Of Universities

Leonardo English — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In part one of a three-part mini-series on the theme of "university", we go on a whirlwind tour of the history of universities, from medieval student guilds in Bologna to the modern day.

The University of Bologna nears its thousand-year anniversary.
Why universities emerged: stability, trade, rediscovered texts, Church needs.
Student guilds hired teachers; papal charters granted privileges, recognition.
Medieval curriculum and university specialisations in law, theology, medicine.
Renaissance humanism broadened studies beyond law and theology.
Scientific Revolution made universities producers of new knowledge.
Humboldt model united teaching and research in modern universities.
Post-war expansion massified higher education around the world.
Today: many universities, 250 million students; degrees often required.
UK participation reaches 50%; rising costs and student debt.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/history-of-university

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#575 | The Science of Happiness: Can It Be Measured?

Leonardo English — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0200

What does happiness really mean, and can it be measured?

In this episode, we move from Aristotle’s eudaimonia to brain scans, surveys, big data, and what truly lifts our mood.

It asks why money only helps so much, why social ties matter, and how trust shapes national well-being.

Pleasure versus purpose happiness: Aristotle and flourishing
Subjective well-being: life satisfaction, positive and negative emotions
Surveys measure happiness; beware the memory and peak-end rule
Experience sampling measures happiness in the moment
Findings: happiest socialising, exercising, flow; least during commuting, illness
Money boosts happiness, then flattens at higher incomes
Social connections increase happiness; loneliness harms, especially during Covid
Household size and eating alone trends in happiness
Trust in others, institutions, and wallet return beliefs
Caring for others versus expecting care from others

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/science-of-happiness

Read the World Happiness Report here: https://www.worldhappiness.report/

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#572 | Caligula | Psychopath, Sadist, Emperor

Leonardo English — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0200

In part one of our three-part series on "Tyrants of the Roman Empire," we'll meet Caligula, the notorious Roman emperor known for his cruelty and excess.

Once hailed as a promising leader, Caligula's reign quickly devolved into a nightmare, filled with public executions and humiliations.

Caligula's chilling dinner party threat
Caligula's background and rise to power
Tiberius's influence on young Caligula
Public approval and the initial Golden Age
Caligula's mysterious illness and recovery
Shift to cruelty and public humiliations
Caligula's obsession with divinity
Extravagant projects and bizarre military orders
Assassination by his own guard
Legacy of despotism and unchecked power

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/caligula

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#570 | DOGE | Elon Musk's Quest to Shrink the US Government

Leonardo English — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0200

The Department of Governmental Efficiency, otherwise known as DOGE, was a radical plan to cut government waste and reduce spending.

Where did the idea come from? How did it work? And crucially, did it do what it set out to do?

Background to DOGE: Department of Governmental Efficiency
Controversial email to federal employees
Elon Musk's influence and Twitter comparison
Restructuring of USDS into DOGE
DOGE's cost-saving objectives and claims
Layoffs and budget cuts in various departments
Criticism over foreign aid cuts and their impact
Accounting errors and inflated savings claims
Public protests and Musk's departure
Future of DOGE and its divisive legacy

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/doge-elon-musk

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#567 | Ross Ulbricht & The Silk Road | Drugs, Bitcoin & Digital Outlaws

Leonardo English — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Was Ross Ulbricht a visionary pioneer or a dangerous criminal?

In part one of our series on "Young American Outlaws", we explore the rise and fall of the Silk Road and how Ulbricht's life sentence, followed by a 2025 presidential pardon, sparked fierce debate over freedom, technology, and the role of government.

Ross Ulbricht's LinkedIn clue
The concept behind The Silk Road
Cryptocurrency's role in anonymity
The structure of The Silk Road
Unexpected listings and control issues
Federal agents' Silk Road investigation
The arrest of Ross Ulbricht
Charges and the trial
Sentencing and pardoning
The wider debate on personal freedom

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/silk-road

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#565 | How I Make Podcast Episodes

Leonardo English — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Ever wondered how the (podcast) sausage is made?

In this slightly "meta" episode, I reveal the step-by-step process to make an episode of English Learning for Curious Minds.

Choosing podcast topics: interest, timelessness, and neutrality
Avoiding controversial topics and current affairs
Researching topics through books, articles, and data
Writing full scripts for natural conversation flow
Using a variety of vocabulary for diverse learners
Rewriting scripts after initial recordings
Aiming for 20-minute episodes, 2,500-3,000-word scripts
Incorporating AI tools for brainstorming and editing
Results from our 2025 listener survey
Thank you!

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/how-i-make-podcast-episodes

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#563 | The Curious Origins of The Nobel Prize

Leonardo English — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Alfred Nobel, the inventor of dynamite, was shocked to read his own obituary branding him the "merchant of death."

While the story might not be entirely true, it pushed him to reconsider his legacy.

His fortune went on to establish the Nobel Prizes, honouring achievements in physics, chemistry, medicine, literature, and peace, ensuring his name is remembered for contributions to humanity.

Overview of the Nobel Prize
Alfred Nobel's mistaken obituary
Nobel's early life and education
Invention of dynamite and its impacts
Nobel's relationship with Bertha von Suttner
Creation of the Nobel Prize in his will
Outcomes and controversies of the Nobel Prize
Notable Nobel laureates
Controversial Nobel Peace Prize awards
Legacy of Alfred Nobel

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/nobel-prize

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#560 | What Makes An Italian?

Leonardo English — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0200

In part one of a three-part mini-series on the theme of citizenship and identity, we'll ask ourselves, "What makes someone Italian?"

We'll explore the topic of citizenship and identity in Italy, and see what the current laws tell us about what it means to be (or not to be) Italian.

Definitions of jus soli and jus sanguinis
Italy's citizenship rules and marriage eligibility
Referendum on easing Italy's citizenship rules
Italy's low birth rate and demographic challenges
Immigration's influence on Italy's citizenship debates
Opposition arguments against easing citizenship rules
Result of Italy’s citizenship referendum
Comparison with Germany and France's citizenship laws
Discussion on Italian citizenship by ancestry
Debate on the meaning of citizenship in Italy

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/italian-identity

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#558 | General Hannibal | Rome’s Greatest Enemy

Leonardo English — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Hannibal of Carthage, one of history's greatest military strategists, almost brought the Roman Republic to its knees.

As a boy, he swore eternal enmity against Rome, leading him to cross the Alps with his diverse army and elephants, stunning the Romans.

Despite his victories, he never managed to capture Rome, but his legacy of brilliance and determination remains.

Hannibal's vow to hate Rome forever
Hannibal's upbringing and education in military tactics
The First Punic War and Carthage's defeat
Hannibal's march across the Alps into Italy
Hannibal's diverse and strategic army composition
Key victories at the Trebia, Lake Trasimene, and Cannae
Rome's Fabian Strategy to counter Hannibal
Hannibal's defeat at the Battle of Zama
Hannibal's later life and exile
Hannibal's enduring legacy and impact on military strategy

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/hannibal

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#555 | Mobutu Sese Seko | The King of the Kleptocrats

Leonardo English — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0200

Meet Mobutu Sese Seko, the man who rose from a lowly army officer to become the autocratic ruler of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Wearing his signature leopard-skin hat, Mobutu rebranded the country as Zaire and himself as a symbol of African pride.

Despite his charismatic persona and lavish lifestyle, his regime left the country impoverished, highlighting the dangers of unchecked power and corruption.

Mobutu Sese Seko's rise to power in Congo
Congo's harsh colonial history under Belgian rule
Mobutu's involvement in Patrice Lumumba's downfall
Mobutu's 1965 coup and 32-year rule
Renaming Congo to Zaire and introducing the Authenticité movement
Mobutu's repressive regime and personality cult
Corruption and Mobutu's embezzlement of state funds
Economic decline and dependency on foreign aid
Mobutu's fall from power and death in exile
Mobutu's enduring legacy in modern-day DRC

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/mobutu-sese-seko

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#553 | A Short History Of The Minimum Wage

Leonardo English — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0200

In this episode, we'll explore the complex world of minimum wage laws, from their surprising origins in Australia and New Zealand to modern debates around their effectiveness.

Do they protect the lowest-paid workers, or do they do more damage than good?

History of the minimum wage globally
Early minimum wage laws in Australia and New Zealand
Introduction of minimum wage in the UK and the US
Arguments for and against minimum wage
Impact of the minimum wage on businesses
Regional variations in minimum wage
Alternatives to the minimum wage
Minimum wage and wage growth in the UK
Comparison of minimum wage with skilled jobs
Political perspectives on the minimum wage

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/minimum-wage

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#550 | The Egyptian Revolution

Leonardo English — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0200

In 2011, Egypt erupted in protest, toppling a 30-year regime.

What began as a grassroots movement against an autocratic leader turned into a complex struggle for democracy and power.

In this episode, we'll travel through the events that led from the hopeful dawn of revolution to the military's return to power, and see how social media and global events played pivotal roles in shaping modern Egypt.

Egypt's conditions ripe for revolution in 2011
Hosni Mubarak's rule and use of emergency laws
Impact of Tunisian Revolution on Egypt
Rise of protests on Egyptian Police Day 2011
Role of social media in Egyptian protests
Mubarak's resignation and military's interim government
Muslim Brotherhood's rise and Morsi's presidency
Morsi's overreach and public dissatisfaction
Army's intervention and Sisi's rise to power
Repression and return to authoritarian rule under Sisi

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/egyptian-revolution

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#548 | The Salem Witch Trials

Leonardo English — Fri, 23 May 2025 00:00:00 +0200

In this episode, we'll explore the eerie events of the Salem Witch Trials, a chilling tale of suspicion, fear, and injustice in 17th-century Massachusetts.

Discover how a village turned against itself, leading to the execution of innocent people amidst accusations of witchcraft, and consider the theories behind what really happened.

The harsh winter of 1692 in Massachusetts
Puritans' fear of the devil and witchcraft
Witch accusations in Salem Village
Tituba's confession and impact
Spectral evidence in Salem court trials
Tragic outcomes of the witch trials
Ergot fungus and mass hysteria theories
Social tensions and personal vendettas in Salem
Aftermath and attempts to right wrongs
Exoneration of Elizabeth Johnson Jr. in 2022

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/salem-witch-trials

Episode about The History of Witches: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/witches
"Weird history" episodes: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcast-tags/weird-history
"Horror" episodes: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcast-tags/horror

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#545 | The Life of Lawrence of Arabia

Leonardo English — Fri, 09 May 2025 00:00:00 +0200

In part one of this three-part mini-series, we'll explore the captivating life of T.E. Lawrence, the British archaeologist and army officer known as "Lawrence of Arabia."

Discover how he fought alongside Arabian tribesmen during World War I in their quest for independence, all while knowing an uncomfortable secret.

The early life and interests of T.E. Lawrence
Lawrence's work as an archaeologist in the Middle East
The Ottoman Empire and World War I context
Lawrence's role with Arab forces against Ottomans
The strategy of guerrilla warfare and victory at Aqaba
Lawrence's experience and trauma in Deraa
The broken promises of the Sykes-Picot Agreement
Lawrence's return to Britain and later life
The lasting impact of Lawrence on the Middle East
Varied perceptions of T.E. Lawrence's legacy

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/lawrence-arabia

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#543 | From Temples to Duty-Free | The Ancient History of Modern Perfume

Leonardo English — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0200

In this episode, we'll explore the fascinating history of perfume, tracing its journey from Ancient Mesopotamia to its artistic development in France.

We'll learn how scents have evolved from practical uses to luxury items, and discover the intriguing world of “grands nez,” the master perfumers who dedicate their lives to crafting these aromatic masterpieces.

Perfume origins: from Mesopotamia to Middle Eastern innovation
Ancient perfume use: religious rituals and practical odour cover
Egypt: Perfume as a status symbol in hot climates
Cleopatra and the power of scent
Roman perfume indulgence and imported fragrances
French perfume evolution: From leather gloves to luxury
Grasse: The perfume capital of the world
Why perfume is expensive: ingredients and branding
Becoming a "grand nez": the perfumer's journey
Perfume's artistic and historical significance across cultures

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/perfume

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#540 | Mustafa Kemal Atatürk | The Father of Modern Turkey

Leonardo English — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0200

In this episode, we'll explore the life of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern Turkey.

Discover how he turned a fragmented resistance into a national movement, established a secular republic from imperial ruins, and why he’s still called "The Father of the Turks."

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk's famous 36-hour speech, Nutuk
Decline and Fall of the Ottoman Empire
Reasons for the Ottoman Empire's decline
The Ottoman Empire's defeat in World War I
Mustafa Kemal's rise as a military leader
Turkish War of Independence overview
Establishment of the Republic of Turkey
Atatürk's radical reforms and modernisation
Introduction of secularism and language reform
Legacy of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/mustafa-kemal-ataturk

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#538 | Percy Fawcett | The Real Life Indiana Jones

Leonardo English — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, we'll explore the incredible story of Percy Fawcett, a daring British explorer who vanished in the Amazon rainforest while searching for the mythical city he called "Z."

Often compared to a real-life Indiana Jones, Fawcett's life was filled with adventure, mystery, and a relentless quest to prove the Amazon held secrets beyond our imagination.

Percy Fawcett: Real-life Indiana Jones
Fawcett's early life and aristocratic background
His fascination with exploration and adventure
His expeditions in the Amazon rainforest
Fawcett's quest for the lost city "Z"
Impact of World War I on Fawcett's views
1925 expedition disappearance with son and friend
Various theories on Fawcett's mysterious fate
Legacy and influence of Percy Fawcett's explorations
The possible existence of advanced Amazon civilisations

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/percy-fawcett

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The Freezer Door [Easy Stories In English]

Leonardo English — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 01:00:00 +0100

A woman has a loving husband and children, and she's great at her job. So why is she sad? One day, she opens the freezer door and sees the way into another world. If she goes, she will lose her husband and children. But could she be happy there?

Go to EasyStoriesInEnglish.com/Door for the full transcript.

Level: Beginner.

Genre: Philosophical.

Vocabulary: Freeze, Freezer, Cheek, Pick at, Kid, Nightmare, Gooseberry, Cliff, Sober, Weigh something up, Parallel universe.

Setting: Modern.

Word Count: 1517.

Author: Ariel Goodbody.

#536 | A Brief History of Mercenaries

Leonardo English — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, we'll explore the fascinating history of mercenaries, taking you from the era of Italian condottieri to the modern day with groups like Blackwater and Wagner.

You'll learn how these soldiers for hire have evolved, the reasons nations use or avoid them, and their impact on 21st-century warfare.

What are mercenaries? Definition and historical context.
Origins and role of freelance knights in Medieval Europe.
Renaissance Italy: The rise of the condottieri.
Impact and decline of the condottieri.
Blackwater: A modern private military company.
Private Military Contractors and international law issues.
The Wagner Group and its ties to Russia.
Wagner's global influence and alleged war crimes.
Mercenaries in business and war: Ethical dilemmas.
Future of warfare with mercenary involvement.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/mercenaries

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#533 | The Science of Leap Years

Leonardo English — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Leap years help keep our calendars in sync with Earth's orbit, but have you ever wondered why we need them?

In this episode, we explore the history of leap years, covering early human calendars, Julius Caesar's reforms, and the adjustments introduced by Pope Gregory XIII.

Why do we need leap years?
Earth's orbit and the solar year explained
How the first calendars were created
Egyptian and Roman calendar systems
The Julian calendar's introduction of leap years
Inaccuracies in Caesar's calendar calculations
The Gregorian calendar and its leap-year rule
Challenges in adopting the Gregorian calendar
Alternative calendar systems proposed over time
The impossibility of changing Earth's orbit for an exact year

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/science-leap-years

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#530 | Vladimir Putin: Russia’s Modern Tsar

Leonardo English — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, we will explore Vladimir Putin's unlikely journey from a rat-catching streetfighter to the modern-day tsar of Russia.

We'll look at his rise to power, some of the accusations about what it took to get there, the key decisions that have defined his 25-year rule, and question how history will remember his legacy.

Vladimir Putin's early life and rise to power
Siege of Leningrad during World War Two
Putin's upbringing in poverty and street life
Putin's early interest in the KGB
Putin's political career and rise in St Petersburg
Connections and corruption allegations in early political life
Putin becomes Russia's Prime Minister in 1999
Controversy surrounding the 1999 apartment bombings
Consolidation of power and suppression of opposition
Putin's use of poison to eliminate opponents

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/putin-modern-tsar

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#528 | The Stanford Prison Experiment

Leonardo English — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, we'll learn about the notorious Stanford Prison Experiment, known for revealing human behaviour's dark side in simulated prison conditions.

We'll discuss its purpose, dramatic events, the ethical concerns it raised, and question what it truly tells us about human nature.

Purpose of the Stanford Prison Experiment
Recruitment and setup of the experiment
Guards' roles and behaviour
Prisoners' arrest and treatment
Escalating conflict and rebellion
Psychological impact on participants
Christina Maslach's intervention
Ethical criticisms and flaws
Impact on psychology and debates
Lessons on human behaviour and power dynamics

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/stanford-prison-experiment

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#526 | Space Mining | The Future or Science Fiction?

Leonardo English — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Space mining sounds like something out of science fiction, but could it soon become reality?
In this episode, we'll explore how the idea of mining asteroids for valuable minerals might work, the challenges it faces, and whether it truly could be a better alternative to mining on Earth.

Discovery of asteroid 16 Psyche and its immense value
Asteroids as sources of precious metals
Challenges of travelling and mining in space
Difference between asteroids, planets, and the asteroid belt
Decline in space travel costs and impact on mining
Technical hurdles of mining on asteroids
Legal and ethical concerns of asteroid ownership
Potential impact on Earth's economy and environment
Possibility of using space resources in space
Future of asteroid mining and recent NASA missions

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/space-mining

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#523 | The Mysterious World of Secret Societies

Leonardo English — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, we'll enter the shadowy realm of secret societies.
We'll uncover the mysterious history, influence, and rituals of three infamous groups: Skull and Bones, the Knights Templar, and the Freemasons.
From elite university clubs to a medieval order with financial power, we'll learn what makes these societies so compelling.

The concept of secret societies
Description of Skull and Bones at Yale University
Famous members of Skull and Bones
Initiation rituals of Skull and Bones
History and role of the Knights Templar
Downfall of the Knights Templar
Knights Templar in modern times and conspiracy theories
Overview of Freemasonry origins and symbolism
Freemasonry's secrecy and global influence
The allure and mystery of secret societies

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/secret-societies

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#521 | “A Heartbeat Away” | The Role Of The US Vice President

Leonardo English — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, we will explore the evolving role of the Vice President of the United States.

We will examine the unique pathway this role offers to the presidency and discuss why the current Vice President may be one of the most influential in history.

Role of the Vice President in U.S. politics
Historical pathway from Vice President to President
Kamala Harris's attempt to go from Vice President to President
Evolution of the Vice Presidency over time
Impacts of the 12th and 25th Amendments
Vice Presidents' influence on American governance
JD Vance as Donald Trump’s Vice President
Prospects for JD Vance in the next presidential election

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/us-vice-presidents

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#518 | Atoms For Peace | The Early Years of Nuclear Power

Leonardo English — Fri, 06 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0100

In part one of our mini-series on nuclear energy, we'll explore the origins of nuclear power as it emerged alongside nuclear weapons.

Learn how President Eisenhower envisioned "Atoms for Peace" and how political events like the 1973 oil crisis propelled nuclear energy into the spotlight.

Development of nuclear power and weapons together
Eisenhower's "Atoms for Peace" speech
How nuclear energy is created
Global cooperation in nuclear technology
1973 oil crisis and nuclear energy rise
France's Messmer Plan for nuclear independence
Protests against nuclear energy in West Germany
Three Mile Island incident raises nuclear safety concerns
Nuclear reactors' efficiency improvements in the 1980s
Preview of next episode: Chernobyl Disaster

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/early-nuclear

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#516 | Journey to the Deep: A Short History of Underwater Exploration

Leonardo English — Fri, 22 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0100

From ancient diving bells to the groundbreaking descent of the Mariana Trench, in this episode, we'll uncover tales of bravery, innovation, and the pursuit of knowledge beneath the waves.

Ancient history of exploring the ocean's depths
Aristotle's theoretical diving concept in the 4th Century BC
Early diving bell inventions and Alexander the Great myth
Magellan's attempt to measure ocean depth in 1521
The invention of the first submarine by Cornelis Drebbel
David Bushnell's "Turtle" and its military attempts
HMS Challenger's oceanographic expedition reveals deep-sea life
Discovery of the Mariana Trench's Challenger Deep
First manned descent into Mariana Trench in 1960
Current understanding and mystery of Earth's deep oceans

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/underwater-exploration

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#513 | The UK University Crisis

Leonardo English — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0100

The UK is home to some of the best universities in the world, but there is a growing crisis happening at British universities

In this episode, we'll explain what this crisis is, why British universities are in this unusual position, and learn about the key challenges facing the British university sector.

UK university funding crisis explained
Role of tuition fees in university income
Impact of Brexit on EU student numbers
Importance of international students in university finances
Risks of relying on limited countries for students
Universities running at a financial deficit
Impact of financial strain on less prestigious universities
Debate on course offerings based on economic value
Long-term sustainability of the UK university system
Role of universities in the 21st century education debate

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/uk-university-crisis

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#511 | The Death Of Princess Diana

Leonardo English — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0200

In August 1997, a tragic car crash in Paris claimed the life of Princess Diana, a beloved figure known for her compassion and humanitarian work.

In this episode, we'll explore the events leading up to the accident, the role of the paparazzi, and the lasting impact on the world.

Death of Princess Diana
Car crash in Paris
Chase by paparazzi
Immediate aftermath and public grief
Diana's early life and marriages
Diana's humanitarian work
British Royal Family's reaction
Diana's funeral and public response
Theories and official inquest on her death
Legacy and lessons from her tragedy

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/princess-diana

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#508 | A Short History of Crime and Punishment in Britain

Leonardo English — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0200

In part one of a three-part mini-series, we'll explore the fascinating history of crime and punishment in Britain, from medieval justice to the infamous Bloody Code.

In this episode, you'll learn how the harsh consequences for even minor crimes evolved over the centuries, leading to the modern justice system.

Jean Valjean's punishment in Les Miserables vs. Britain.
The Bloody Code and its severe punishments.
Justice system in early medieval Britain.
William the Conqueror's legal reforms in 1066.
Development of trial by jury in Britain.
Punishments in the late medieval and Tudor periods.
Rise and fall of the Bloody Code.
Enlightenment thinkers’ impact on justice.
Shift towards imprisonment and rehabilitation.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/crime-punishment-britain

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#506 | Citizens of Nowhere: The Stateless Bidoon of Kuwait

Leonardo English — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0200

What happens when your country refuses to grant you citizenship?

This is the reality for the Bidoon, a group of nomadic people in Kuwait who claim to be Kuwaiti but remain stateless and are forced to live on the margins of society.

Who are the Bidoon of Kuwait?
Why the Bidoon are stateless
Kuwait's history and its impact on Bidoon
The Bidoon’s nomadic lifestyle
Kuwaiti citizenship laws
The plight of the Bidoon today
Challenges faced by Bidoon families
Kuwait’s reasons for marginalising the Bidoon
International pressure on Kuwait
Possible future for the Bidoon

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/bidoon

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#504 | Liquid Gold | The Great Canadian Maple Syrup Robbery

Leonardo English — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Discover the incredible story of The Great Canadian Maple Syrup Robbery, where cunning criminals stole $18 million worth of maple syrup.

In this episode, we'll learn about the surprising details of this sticky crime and the unusual fight between the free market and government regulation in the world of Canadian maple syrup.

Maple syrup: liquid gold from maple trees
Quebec's maple syrup market dominance
FPAQ's role in regulating syrup production
Quotas and the strategic maple syrup reserve
The emergence of a maple syrup black market
Convicted fraudster Avik Caron and his plan
Coordination among thieves to steal maple syrup
The execution of the year-long theft operation
Discovery and investigation of the $18 million theft

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/maple-syrup

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#501 | George Best: The Wild Life of Football's Lost Star

Leonardo English — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0200

George Best is seen as one of the most naturally talented footballers ever, but off the pitch, he battled demons.

From his glittering career at Manchester United to his struggles with alcoholism, in this episode, we'll learn about the wild life of one of football's greats.

Life and career of George Best
Comparison with modern footballers
George Best's early career
His rise to fame in the 1960s
Best's off-pitch controversies and lifestyle
Struggles with alcoholism
Decline in football career and final years
Financial issues and generosity
Legacy and what went wrong
Final reflections on his life

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/george-best

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#500 | This is Episode #500

Leonardo English — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0200

In this milestone episode, we will deviate from the usual style of weird and wonderful stories.

Instead, I'll take you behind the scenes of the podcast, share some never-before-revealed information, and tell you about an update to our programming schedule.

Introduction & Milestone Celebration
Starting the Podcast Journey
Behind the Scenes: Research & Production
Listener Demographics & Podcast Growth
Expanding Beyond the Podcast
Changes to the Production Schedule
Reasons for the New Schedule
Conclusion & Community Engagement

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/500

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#498 | Ozempic - The Weight Loss Miracle Drug?

Leonardo English — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Some call it a miracle drug, others warn of its potentially damaging long-term effects on people and society.

In this episode, we'll look at the history of this drug, how it works, why it's popular, and what it reveals about American food and healthcare systems.

Introduction to Ozempic
American obesity and food issues
How Ozempic works
History and approval of Ozempic
Ozempic’s impact on weight loss
Popularity among celebrities
Criticisms and side effects
FDA approval concerns
Long-term dependency on Ozempic
Ultra-processed American food impact

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/ozempic

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#496 | Labour Won The Election. Now What?

Leonardo English — Fri, 09 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0200

The UK has a new Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, and Labour is back in power.

We discuss what this means for Britain, including Starmer's background, his proposed policies, and the challenges that lie ahead.

Results of the UK general election
New Prime Minister: Keir Starmer
Labour Party’s winning manifesto
Background on Keir Starmer
Proposed policies of the Labour Party
Challenges facing the new government
Housing crisis and proposed solutions
Explanation of NIMBY
Public spending and potential tax changes
UK’s future relationship with the EU

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/labour-election

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#494 | The Haitian Revolution

Leonardo English — Fri, 02 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0200

The Haitian Revolution is a story of extreme violence, hope, and human rights.

Learn how slaves in Saint-Domingue fought against brutal conditions and multiple European powers to establish the first free black-led nation in the world.

Overview of the Haitian Revolution
Toussaint L’Ouverture’s early life and significance
Colonisation of Saint-Domingue by the French
Brutal conditions for slaves in Saint-Domingue
Different social groups in Saint-Domingue
Impact of the French Revolution
Initial uprisings led by Vincent Ogé
1791 slave uprising initiated by Dutty Boukman
Toussaint L’Ouverture’s rise to power
Haitian independence declared in 1804

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/haitian-revolution

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#492 | Cool Britannia | 1990s Britain

Leonardo English — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0200

In this episode, we'll travel back to the 1990s and uncover the story of "Cool Britannia," a time when Britain experienced a cultural renaissance.

From Oasis to Tony Blair, The Spice Girls to Damien Hirst, we'll learn how politics, music, fashion, and art intertwined to create one of the most vibrant eras in recent British history.

Cool Britannia: A 1990s British cultural renaissance
Vanity Fair's iconic 1997 cover: Liam Gallagher, Patsy Kensit
Tony Blair's "New Labour" and political change in 1990s
Blair's 1997 Downing Street party with cultural icons
Britpop bands: Oasis, Blur, Pulp
The Spice Girls' impact and Union Jack symbolism
Young British Artists: Tracy Emin, Damian Hirst
London as the creative and affordable cultural hub
Economic influence of Britain's creative industries
Criticisms and nostalgia for the Cool Britannia period

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/cool-britannia

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#490 | JK Rowling & Transgenderism

Leonardo English — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0200

JK Rowling, famous for Harry Potter, is now at the centre of a controversial debate on transgender rights.

We'll explore her views, why they've sparked so much outrage and support, and the impact on free speech laws in the UK.

JK Rowling and her views on transgenderism
Tweet supporting Maya Forstater’s views on sex and gender
Public reaction: support and death threats
Her article explaining her five reasons for speaking out
Impact on education and safeguarding
Freedom of speech concerns
Personal experiences influencing her opinion
Criticism from Harry Potter actors
Scottish Hate Crime and Public Order Act of 2024
Ongoing role in the public debate on transgender issues

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/rowling-transgenderism

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#488 | John Stonehouse | The Politician Who Faked His Death

Leonardo English — Fri, 12 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0200

John Stonehouse, a promising British politician, disappeared off the Miami coast.

Had he drowned in a swimming accident? Had he been eaten by sharks?

To everyone's surprise, he turned up in Australia a few weeks later with a new identity...

John Stonehouse: Charismatic British politician
Disappeared from a Miami beach in 1974
Mysterious reappearance in Australia
Stonehouse's financial and personal troubles
Speculation about Stonehouse being a Czech spy
John Stonehouse's affair with his secretary
Impersonation and multiple fake identities
Legal trial and prison sentence
Impact on British politics and the Labour party
Stonehouse's final years and death

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/john-stonehouse

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#486 | North vs. South | The Great English Divide

Leonardo English — Fri, 05 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0200

What's the difference between the North and the South of England?

And when does the "North" end and the "South" start?

In this episode, we'll explore these questions, and touch on differences in accents, lifestyles, and even what people call their evening meal.

The origins of the north-south divide in England
The fuzzy line dividing north and south
Common stereotypes of northerners and southerners
The impact of the Industrial Revolution on the north
The decline of northern industries in the 20th century
Margaret Thatcher's role in closing northern coal mines
Economic and educational disparities between North and South
Regional differences in life expectancy and health
Variation in vocabulary and accents across regions
Institutional prejudice against Northern accents

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/north-vs-south

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#484 | Robert Fortune: The Man Who Stole Tea From China

Leonardo English — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Robert Fortune, a Scottish botanist, pulled off one of history's greatest acts of corporate espionage: stealing the secrets of tea production from China.

In this episode we'll explore his daring adventure, the fascinating world of 19th-century tea trade, and how his actions forever changed the global tea industry.

Robert Fortune's theft of tea from China
Importance of tea to Britain
Opium trade with China
Impact of Opium Wars
Restrictions on foreign travel in China
Fortune's disguise and exploration
Discovery of tea production methods
Transportation of tea plants to India
Success of the Indian tea industry
Robert Fortune's legacy

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/robert-fortune

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#482 | Ayn Rand & The Philosophy of Objectivism

Leonardo English — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Ayn Rand is one of the most controversial thinkers of the 20th century.

In this episode, we'll explore her philosophy of Objectivism, which champions rational self-interest and free-market capitalism, and discuss why her ideas remain divisive today.

Ayn Rand's life and background
Philosophy of Objectivism
"The Fountainhead" and its themes
Success and controversy of "Atlas Shrugged"
Core beliefs of Objectivism
Role of government in Objectivism
Rational self-interest explained
Controversies and criticisms of Objectivism
Ayn Rand's impact and legacy
Rand's personal life contradictions

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/ayn-rand

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#480 | Marcus Aurelius | The Philosopher Emperor

Leonardo English — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Meet Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor who combined power with philosophy.

In this episode, we'll learn about his famous work, "Meditations", and explore five key ideas that still resonate today.

Introduction to Marcus Aurelius
Importance of his book "Meditations"
Control what you can, ignore what you can't
Live according to nature and rationality
Continuous self-reflection and self-examination
Embrace and welcome fate
Awareness of impermanence and mortality
Authenticity and practical advice
Aurelius' personal struggles and resilience
Modern resurgence of Stoicism and its relevance today

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/marcus-aurelius

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#478 | The UK General Election (2024)

Leonardo English — Fri, 07 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0200

The British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has called an early general election in the UK, surprising many.

We'll explore why he made this decision, the main themes of the election, and who could be the next Prime Minister.

Rishi Sunak calls an early election for July 4th.
History of Conservative leadership since 2010.
British Prime Ministers’ unpopularity and challenges.
Reasons behind Rishi Sunak's early election call.
Overview of the UK’s “first past the post” system.
Key candidates: Rishi Sunak vs. Keir Starmer.
Keir Starmer’s political strategy and criticisms.
Conservative Party’s campaign focus on trust and economy.
Labour’s campaign focus on change and social issues.
Embarrassing moments during Sunak's election announcement.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/uk-general-election

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#476 | The Glasgow Ice Cream Wars

Leonardo English — Fri, 31 May 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Ice cream vans can be a sweet memory for many, but for Glasgow in the 1980s, they were anything but.

From selling drugs to inciting gang wars and even murder, we'll uncover the dark and shocking tale of the Glasgow Ice Cream Wars.

Background to The Glasgow Ice Cream Wars
Ice cream vans in Glasgow
Living conditions in Glasgow schemes
Ice cream van territory fights
Criminals entering the ice cream trade
Organised crime and drug dealing
Andrew Doyle's resistance to intimidation
Doyle family fire and deaths
Wrongful conviction of Campbell and Steele
Campbell and Steele's exoneration after 20 years

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/glasgow-ice-cream-wars

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#474 | The Trial Of Amanda Knox (pt1)

Leonardo English — Fri, 24 May 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Amanda Knox's study abroad adventure turned into a nightmare when her housemate was brutally murdered and she found all police attention pointed at her.

In this episode, we'll learn about the twists and turns of this murder case that gripped Italy, the UK and the United States.

Overview of Amanda Knox case
Perugia as a popular student city
Meredith Kercher and Amanda Knox's background
Discovery of Meredith Kercher's body
Initial police investigation and Knox's interrogation
Beliefs and contradictions in police findings
Media sensationalism and "Foxy Knoxy" persona
Presentation of evidence in court
Appeals and ultimate acquittal of Knox and Sollecito
Rudy Guede's involvement and continuing developments

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/amanda-knox-trial

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#472 | Nayib Bukele | “The World’s Coolest Dictator”?

Leonardo English — Fri, 17 May 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Nayib Bukele is the self-proclaimed "world's coolest dictator", and he has managed to do what many people thought was impossible in El Salvador.

In this episode, we'll learn about his rise to power, his controversial treatment of gang members, and explore what comes next for the small Central American nation.

President Nayib Bukele of El Salvador
Bukele legalises Bitcoin as currency
High crime rates in El Salvador
Bukele's controversial policies on gangs
Bukele's rise to power and strategies
International vs domestic opinions on Bukele
Criticisms of Bukele's authoritarian tendencies
Bukele's landslide victory in re-election
Bukele's popularity and domestic support
Challenges ahead for Bukele in El Salvador

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/nayib-bukele

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#470 | The Collapse Of Venezuela

Leonardo English — Fri, 10 May 2024 00:00:00 +0200

In this episode, we'll explore how the country with the largest oil reserves in the world managed to implode, plunging its citizens into extreme poverty.

We'll discover how a mixture of economic decisions, political ideologies, and external pressures contributed to the country's current situation.

Rise and collapse of Venezuela
Chavez's presidency and socialist policies
Control over currency and economy
The impact on inflation and poverty rates
Maduro's presidency and worsening conditions
Mass exodus and economic devastation
Various viewpoints on causes of collapse
Legacy of hope turned into despair
Venezuelan citizens' anger and sadness
Reflection on the future of Venezuela

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/venezuela-collapse

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#468 | I Lived In Malta For 7 Years (Part 1)

Leonardo English — Fri, 03 May 2024 00:00:00 +0200

I lived in Malta from 2017-2024. In part one of this two-part series, I'll talk about some of my experiences living there, and try to answer a question I'm asked multiple times a week: "Should I come to Malta to study English?"

We'll talk about what types of people come to Malta to study English, how this changes over the year, and what life is really like on a Mediterranean rock.

Why I moved to Malta in 2017
Brief introduction to Malta
Introduction to learning English in Malta
The three different categories of English learner in Malta
Why you should come to Malta to learn English
Why you shouldn't come to Malta to learn English
How Malta has changed in the past 15 years
Life in Malta for foreigners
Why so many foreigners are coming to Malta
How much does life cost in Malta

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/malta-pt1

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#466 | Adnan Khashoggi | The Richest Man On Earth?

Leonardo English — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0200

He became known as “The Great Gatsby of The Middle East”, and once claimed to be the richest man on Earth.

From facilitating lucrative business deals between the West and Saudi Arabia to his lavish lifestyle and controversial ventures, in this episode, we'll explore the intriguing life of Adnan Khashoggi.

Adnan Khashoggi: businessman, arms dealer, "The Great Gatsby of The Middle East"
Wealth exaggerated: $10bn fortune, luxurious lifestyle, major debts
Background: born in Saudi Arabia, privileged upbringing, early business ventures
Connection: broker between West and Saudi Arabia, arms deals
Lockheed ties: agent for arms sales, earned $150 million
Lifestyle: opulent spending, pleasure wives, extravagant yacht
Financial downfall: bad investments, debts, legal issues
Death: in 2017, controversial figure in Saudi and US politics
Legacy: related to Jamal Khashoggi, starkly different paths
Conclusion: contrasting lives, implications of wealth and power

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/adnan-khashoggi

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#464 | Will Scotland Ever Be Independent?

Leonardo English — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Scotland has had a long and complicated relationship with its southern neighbour.

But will it ever break free? In this episode, we explore the key arguments for and against Scottish independence and look at whether it will ever become an independent nation.

Scottish independence movement history
Reasons for Scottish independence
Economic arguments for and against independence
Impact on Scotland's global standing post-independence
Cultural identity and political reasons for independence
The younger generation's inclination towards independence
Brexit's effect on the independence push
Current status of the independence movement
Likelihood of a future independence referendum
Potential concessions before a new vote

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/scotland-independence

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#462 | Fried Mars Bars, Bagpipes & Unusual Scottish Traditions

Leonardo English — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0200

In part one of a four-part mini-series on Scotland, we'll explore some unusual Scottish traditions.

From the mythical haggis "creature" to the Highland Games, the deep-fried Mars bar to the mysterious taste of Irn-Bru's, and finish up with five intriguing facts about Scotland's national instrument the bagpipes.

Unusual Scottish traditions and facts
Haggis: a Scottish dish, not an animal
Burns Night: reading "Address to a Haggis"
Highland Games: sports, music, celebrations
Tossing the caber, hammer throw, haggis hurling
Deep-fried Mars bar: calorific treat
Irn-Bru: Scotland's iconic fizzy drink
Bagpipes: national Scottish instrument
Bagpipe facts: ancient origins, global presence, Nero's bagpiping
Glenmorangie whisky: aged to bagpipe music

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/scottish-traditions

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#460 | Prince Andrew | The Black Sheep of The Royal Family

Leonardo English — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Today, we uncover the controversial story of Prince Andrew, the black sheep of the British royal family.

From his ties to Jeffrey Epstein to his car crash interview, we explore the life of Queen Elizabeth's second son, Prince Andrew, The Duke Of York.

Prince Andrew's controversial involvement with Jeffrey Epstein
The infamous BBC interview with Emily Maitlis
The questionable alibi involving Pizza Express in Woking
Being stripped of his military titles and royal patronages
His scandalous post-Falklands War public image
His role as Special Representative for International Trade
Lavish spending and nickname "Airmiles Andy"
his association with Epstein and subsequent fallout
Potential legal implications for Prince Andrew following Epstein's crimes
Unlikely prospects of Prince Andrew facing criminal charges

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/prince-andrew

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#456 | Fredric Tudor | The Ice King

Leonardo English — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, we'll explore the story of Fredric Tudor, the man who revolutionised the global ice transportation market in the 19th century.

We'll learn about Tudor's bold vision, his struggles, the enduring legacy he left behind, and why he fully deserves the name of "The Ice King".

Frederic Tudor, "The Ice King"
The invention of the global ice transportation market
Challenges of transporting ice
From Boston to the Caribbean and India
Technological advances in ice transportation
Importance of insulation and ventilation
Monopolies in Martinique & Calcutta
Competition and technological developments
Legacy of Fredric Tudor
Ice industry in decline due to artificial ice plants

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/ice-king

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#454 | The Future of Fertility

Leonardo English — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0100

In part three of our mini-series on fertility, we'll explore the intriguing world of future fertility possibilities.

From creating eggs out of skin cells to the concept of artificial wombs, we'll explore the groundbreaking technologies that could revolutionise how we reproduce.

IVF: In vitro fertilisation
Future of fertility technology
IVG: In-vitro gametogenesis
Artificial wombs for premature babies
Implications for single-sex couples
Ethical concerns about technology
End of traditional reproduction?
Implications for society
Book "The End of Sex"

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/future-fertility

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#452 | The World’s Shrinking Population

Leonardo English — Fri, 08 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0100

In part one of a three-part mini-series, we'll look at the global trend of shrinking populations and what it signifies for the future.

Is the world's population really in decline, what are the reasons for this, and what does it mean for the world?

Global population trends and downward fertility rates
Demographic shifts and the replacement rate for stability
Factors influencing declining birth rates globally
Increasing gender equality and delayed childbearing
Cost of raising children and economic implications
Decreasing optimism and focus on convenience affect birth rates
Global population decline and potential consequences
National strategies to counter population decline
Challenges in incentivising more childbirth
Technological solutions and environmental implications

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/shrinking-population

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#450 | The 1978 World Cup in Argentina

Leonardo English — Fri, 01 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, we'll learn about the dramatic story behind the controversial 1978 FIFA World Cup in Argentina.

From political corruption to unexplained favours, we'll explore what has come to be called the "Dirtiest World Cup in History".

1978 FIFA World Cup in Argentina
Dirty tactics off the pitch
Brutal military dictatorship backdrop
Political influence on the games
Allegations of bribery and corruption
Controversies around hosting the cup
Victory marred by suspicions
Notable protests and criticisms
Unfair advantage allegations in matches
Legacy of the "Dirtiest World Cup in History"

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/1978-world-cup

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#448 | Modern Slavery

Leonardo English — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

In the final part of our mini-series on slavery, we'll explore the unsettling reality of modern slavery, exploring its prevalence and forms in our world today.

From deceptive promises to exploitation and control, we uncover how slavery lurks in the shadows, but there are more slaves in the modern world than at any point in human history.

Growth and abolition of historical slavery
Overview of modern slavery
Statistics on modern slavery
Prevalence and hotspots of modern slavery
Categories of modern slaves
Causes of thriving modern slavery
Illustrative example of modern slavery in Malta
Legal frameworks against modern slavery
Adaptation of slavery through the ages

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/modern-slavery

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#446 | Slavery In The Ancient World

Leonardo English — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

In part one of a three-part series on slavery, we'll explore the role of slavery in the ancient world.

We'll explore how slaves were treated legally, some moral objections to slavery, and how forced labour powered many ancient civilisations we look up to.

Legal codes regarding slaves
Different ways people became slaves
Role of philosophy in justifying slavery
Varied tasks of ancient slaves
Female slaves' dual role
The economic significance of slaves
The absence of opposition to slavery
Comparison to modern societal norms
Evolution of slavery post Ancient Rome

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/ancient-slavery

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#444 | The Amazing Story of Christian The Lion

Leonardo English — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

It's a short, feel-good tale about a lion called Christian.

In this episode, we'll be telling the heartwarming true story of Christian's unique journey and his special bond with his owners.

London in the 1960s: Description of 1960s Chelsea as a cultural hub
John Rendall and Ace Bourke, Australians in London
Encounter at Harrods "Pet Kingdom": Lion cub for sale
Lack of regulations for owning a lion in 1960s London
Life with Christian in London: Challenges of raising a lion in a flat
Desire to send Christian to Africa, his natural habitat
Negotiations with the Kenyan government for Christian's entry
Plans to introduce Christian to the wild, the challenge of a city lion
Formation of a new lion pride with Boy and Katania
Emotional reunion of John, Ace, and Christian in Kenya

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/christian-the-lion

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#442 | Shamima Begum | ISIS Bride

Leonardo English — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

It is a fascinating story that gets you thinking about the age of responsibility, the nature of citizenship, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding the fate of individuals who joined extremist groups.

In this episode, we'll be talking about Shamima Begum, a young lady who had her British citizenship revoked after leaving the country to join the Islamic State.

Shamima Begum's departure to Syria at 15
Begum's life in ISIS, marriage, and involvement in enforcing strict standards
Begum's reappearance in a Syrian refugee camp in 2019.
Pregnancy, loss of children, and desire to return to the UK
British government's decision to revoke Begum's citizenship
Shamima Begum's return: National security concerns and legal aspects
Media coverage: Front-page headlines, public and political responses
Challenges of being stateless and rejection by potential countries
Shamima Begum's TV interviews, lack of remorse, and sympathy for ISIS
Broader implications for policies on citizenship and terrorism

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/shamima-begum-isis-bride

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#440 | The Korean Wave: How K-Pop Conquered the World

Leonardo English — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0100

It's the story of how artists from a small, somewhat unexpected country became global music sensations, amassing devoted fans and making billions in the process.

In this episode, we'll be talking about the rise of K-Pop, the strategic role of the Korean government, and the global phenomenon that is BTS.

Introduction to K-Pop: Impact on global music and pop culture
South Korea's unlikely rise to a musical powerhouse
Post-Korean War, the influence of American soldiers on Korean music
Government Intervention: Formation of Cultural Industry Bureau to boost pop culture
Seo Taiji and Boys to PSY
BTS: The Global Phenomenon
Factors Behind Success: Effective use of social media, especially by BTS
Influence and activism demonstrated by K-Pop fans
Impact of K-Pop on fashion, language, and lifestyles worldwide
Parallel between K-Pop and Beatlemania

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/kpop

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#438 | Bad Science | When Scientists Got It Wrong

Leonardo English — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0100

Millions worldwide dedicate their lives to research, striving for medical breakthroughs and enhancing our understanding of the human body. But occasionally, they make mistakes.

In this episode, we'll explore three instances where scientific breakthroughs were announced but later proven to be mistakes.

Scientific Studies in Media
Case 1: Faster Than Light Neutrinos
2012 CERN press conference: Einstein was wrong
Investigation reveals a fault in the fibre optic cable
Case 2: Cold Fusion Fiasco
1989 claim of "cold fusion" by electrochemists Fleischmann and Pons
Experiment flaws exposed; Fleischmann and Pons discredited
Case 3: Chocolate and Weight Loss Hoax
2015 false claim: Eating chocolate aids low-carb diet weight loss
Researcher John Bohannon exposes the ease of making outrageous claims

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/bad-science

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#436 | Transhumanism & The Rise of The Superhumans

Leonardo English — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0100

It's the idea that humans can enhance our bodies with the use of technology, all in a bid to allow us to break free from our biological reality.

In this episode, we'll be talking about the roots of transhumanism, the quest for radical life extension, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding the enhancement of human abilities.

Introduction to Transhumanism
Historical Roots of Transhumanism
Medical Technology Advancements
Core Concepts of Transhumanism
Radical Life Extension
Cognitive Enhancement through Technology
Ethical Considerations
Transhumanism in Popular Culture
Real-Life Example: Brian Johnson
Philosophical Questions on Transhumanism

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/transhumanism-superhumans

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#434 | Edward Snowden | American Patriot or Traitor?

Leonardo English — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0100

He is probably the most famous whistleblower in the world after having leaked vast amounts of sensitive US government information back in 2013.

In this episode, we'll be telling the story of Edward Snowden, asking ourselves whether he is a great American patriot or a traitor.

Edward Snowden's background and early life
Snowden's disillusionment with the CIA and government practices
Snowden's decision to leak classified information
Size and significance of the leaked data
Snowden's escape to Hong Kong and the publication of revelations
Impact of Snowden's leaks on global surveillance debate
Two contrasting perspectives on Snowden: hero or traitor
Snowden's asylum in Russia and ongoing impact on privacy laws
Changes and debates triggered by Snowden's revelations
Unanswered questions about the role and protection of whistleblowers

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/edward-snowden

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#432 | The Most Unusual New Year's Eve Traditions

Leonardo English — Fri, 29 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0100

A New Year's Eve celebration isn't always fireworks. Sometimes it's colourful underwear, dark-haired men rushing into Scottish houses, and smashing plates.

In this episode, we'll explore the most unusual New Year's Eve traditions around the world.

Origins of Unusual Traditions
Italian Red Underwear Tradition
Scottish First Footing Ritual
Scottish Hogmanay Celebrations
Dangerous Johannesburg Tradition
Spanish Twelve Grapes Tradition
Japanese Temple Bell Ritual
Danish Plate Smashing

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/unusual-new-year-traditions

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#430 | What Is Effective Altruism?

Leonardo English — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0100

It's an idea and a way of life that is all about doing good, helping others, and improving the world in the most efficient way possible.

In this episode, we'll be talking about Effective Altruism, its core principles, and its unique approach to addressing the world's most pressing problems.

Effective Altruism Defined
Thought Experiment: Drowning Child
Peter Singer's Famine, Affluence, and Morality Essay
William MacAskill: Effective Altruism Co-Founder
Effective Altruism's Goal and Approach
Impact Maximization: Notable Examples
Funding Disparities: Pandemics vs. Terrorism
Animal Welfare: Factory Farming vs. Shelters
Sam Bankman-Fried: Effective Altruist in Action
Criticisms and Peter Singer's Moral Philosophy

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/effective-altruism

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#428 | Sanctions: Do They Even Work?

Leonardo English — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0100

From export and import controls to asset freezes and travel restrictions, there are various methods for imposing sanctions. But how effective are they?

In this episode, we will discuss sanctions, how they work, and pose the perhaps controversial question: do they truly work?

PhD Program Rejection
Types of Sanctions: Embargoes, Controls, Freezes, Restrictions
Historical Context: Ancient Greece to Modern Era
Effectiveness Debate: Agathe Demarais' Analysis
Case Study: US Sanctions on Cuba
Success Case: Sanctions on South Africa
Contemporary Example: Sanctions on Russia
Challenges in Assessing Sanctions' Efficacy
Human Impact: Siavash's Wife's Story

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/do-sanctions-work

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#426 | K-Pop, Zelensky & Cricket | 21st Century Soft Power

Leonardo English — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0100

K-Pop, Volodymyr Zelensky, and Indian Cricket – what do these three things have in common? Soft power, of course.

In this episode, we're going to be talking about Soft Power in the 21st century and the unusual but fascinating displays of it.

Global Soft Power Index: Brand Directory's annual survey.
Soft Power according to Joseph Nye in 1990.
Soft Power's non-military, non-economic influence.
Korea's rise in soft power ranking.
K-Pop's Soft Power: BTS and the Korean Wave.
Zelenskyy's Soft Power Amid Conflict: Ukraine, Russia conflict.
Transforming soft power into hard power.
Cricket as soft power: Origin in England, spread by the British Empire.
Cricket's popularity in former colonies.
Cricket as a bridge in India-Pakistan relations.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/kpop-zelensky-cricket

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#424 | A Brief History of Salt

Leonardo English — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0100

We all know salt as a simple white seasoning to add to our cooking, but it's much more than that.

In this episode, we'll be exploring salt's fascinating role throughout history – from how it served as a catalyst for revolutions to how it is featured in society.

Salt's role in history and its surprising impact.
Preservation: Salt's role in preserving meat, fish for months.
Essential nutrient: Human dependence on salt in diets.
Early trade routes based on the salt trade.
La Gabelle: Infamous French salt tax causing regional disparities.
Connection to French Revolution and discontent.
American Revolution: British blockade, salt smuggling, victory.
Societal impact: Salt shaping trade routes, language, culture.
Recap of salt's multifaceted historical significance.
Reflection on salt's impact on trade, language, and culture.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/salt

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#422 | Jeffrey Epstein | American Sex Offender

Leonardo English — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0100

It is a story that brings together billionaires, presidents, princes, private islands, and unfortunately, decades of sexual abuse of underage girls.

In this episode, we will be talking about the disgraced American financier, Jeffrey Epstein.

Epstein's background and early career
Epstein's rise in the world of finance
Initial arrest and charges related to sexual abuse
Controversial plea deal in 2008
Epstein's second arrest in 2019 on sex trafficking charges
Allegations of Epstein's involvement with powerful people
Epstein's death in jail and conspiracy theories
The impact of Epstein's case on society

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/jeffrey-epstein

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#420 | The Economics of Chicken

Leonardo English — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0100

How has a small bird from the jungles of southeast Asia gone on to be the most popular source of protein in the world?

In this episode, we are going to talk about the economics of chicken, and how farmers have managed to drastically reduce its price.

The transformation of chicken from a luxury to a cheap protein source
Origin of domesticated chickens in Southeast Asia
Historical chicken sizes and uses
Development of efficient egg incubators
The post-war competition to breed bigger and cheaper chickens
The modern broiler chicken's rapid growth and engineered characteristics
The use of hormones and genetic modification in chicken farming
The impact on chicken prices and its popularity
The economics behind the low cost of rotisserie chicken
Ethical concerns related to chicken consumption and alternatives

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/chicken-economics

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#418 | The Race To The South Pole

Leonardo English — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0100

It is the most amazing story of success, failure against the odds, and a race to get to the bottom of the world.

In this episode, we will be talking about explorers Roald Amundsen and Robert Falcon Scott, and their intense Race to the South Pole.

Antarctic expedition in 1911
Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen
British explorer Robert Falcon Scott
Different approaches: dogs vs. ponies
Harsh conditions, frostbite, and scurvy
Tragic sacrifices: Oates and Scott's last diary entries
Norwegian victory and Amundsen's legacy
Lessons learned from the race
Impact of Norwegian explorers on Arctic and Antarctic exploration

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/race-to-south-pole

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#416 | The Quest To Find The Origin of The River Nile | Henry Morton Stanley

Leonardo English — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 00:00:00 +0100

He embarked on a perilous journey to explore the Great Lakes of Africa and unravelled the mystery of the Nile's origin.

In the final part of our mini-series, we are going to talk about Henry Morton Stanley and his quest to find the origin of the River Nile.

Introduction to the quest for the source of the Nile
Recap on explorers: Burton, Speke, and Livingstone
Henry Morton Stanley's life and background
Stanley's successful discovery of Dr. Livingstone
Stanley's mission to find the Nile's source
Challenges and dangers of the expedition
Stanley's successful navigation around Lake Victoria and Tanganyika
Identification of the Lualaba River as a key clue
Stanley's final journey to prove Lake Victoria as the Nile's source
The legacy of the quest and the possibility of the Rwenzori Mountains as the "mountains of the moon" source.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/henry-morton-stanley

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#414 | The Quest To Find The Origin of The River Nile | Burton vs. Speke

Leonardo English — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0200

It's an amazing story of exploration, near-death experiences, and the most almighty feud.

In part one of our mini-series on The Quest To Find The Origin of the River Nile, we'll be telling the story of the first major expedition by British explorers, Sir Richard Burton and John Hanning Speke.

Introduction to the search for the Nile's origin.
Meet British explorers Burton and Speke on their mission.
Challenges of Nile Exploration
Burton's belief in Lake Tanganyika as the Nile's source.
Speke's argument for Lake Victoria as the Nile's source.
Intense Rivalry and Feud between Burton and Speke.
Tragic Turn of Events: Speke's tragic death before the Nile's source could be confirmed.
Unsolved Mystery: the Nile's true origin.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/burton-vs-speke

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#412 | A Short History of Mental Health

Leonardo English — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0200

Mental health – it is a sensitive subject that affects every single one of us, with some of us struggling more than others.

In this episode, we are going to explore how mental health has been perceived throughout history and look at some of the reasons that led a top UN official to declare that we are living in a mental health crisis.

History of mental health treatments
Trepanning as an ancient "cure"
Transition from religious defect to medical condition
Grim conditions in early "mad houses"
Introduction of The Lunacy Act in 1845
Controversial treatments like lobotomy and electroshock therapy
Rising awareness and reporting of mental health issues
Factors influencing modern mental health problems
Debate over the validity of the mental health crisis
Michel Foucault's quote on human behavior and consequences

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/mental-health-history

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#410 | (Keeping Up With) The Kardashians

Leonardo English — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0200

Over the past two decades, this one family has shaped not just American but global culture – but how did they become so influential?

In this episode, we'll be telling the story of the Kardashians and their rise to fame, the influence they have on culture, and whether it is all about to come crumbling down.

The Kardashians' impact on global culture
Initial public reception and ratings of "Keeping Up with the Kardashians"
The family's history and members
How Kris Jenner's idea led to the reality TV series
Overview of the TV show's content
The Kardashians' relatability and luxury lifestyle
The family's strategic use of social media
The Kardashians' successful product endorsements and businesses
The question of authenticity and appearance
The Kardashians' influence on fashion and beauty trends
Speculations about their future in the evolving social media landscape

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/keeping-up-with-kardashians

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#408 | Upstairs, Downstairs: The Lives of British Servants

Leonardo English — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 00:00:00 +0200

It was at one point the most popular job in Britain, surpassing professions such as coal mining and factory work.

In this episode, we'll be talking about the servant class, the hierarchy of different types of servants, and the decline of household service in Britain.

Most popular job in Britain: Household service in 1901
Reasons for high servant numbers: Supply and demand factors
Experiences of female servants were generally worse
Hierarchy among servants: Butler and housekeeper at the top
Decline of domestic service: Supply, demand, and technological changes
Modern view: Live-in servants are mostly limited to the very wealthy
Recommended media: Downton Abbey, Gosford Park, The Remains of the Day

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/british-servants-lives

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#406 | What Does “Lord” Really Mean? An Exploration Of The British Aristocracy.

Leonardo English — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0200

"Duke", "Earl", "Lord", and "Baron" – what do these titles actually mean?

In part one of our mini-series on British social class, we'll be talking about the origins of the British aristocracy and the roles they have in modern Britain.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/lord-meaning-british-aristocracy

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#404 | The Rise And Fall Of The Vanderbilts

Leonardo English — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0200

It's a story of how one family went from almost literal slavery to being the richest in the world – before losing it all.

In this episode, we'll be talking about the rise and fall of one of the most influential families in American history – the Vanderbilts.

Jan Aertson's Journey to the New World
Cornelius Vanderbilt: The Commodore's early career in transportation
Vanderbilt's expansion during the California Gold Rush
Vanderbilt's transition to the railway industry
Vanderbilt's immense wealth and his legacy
The character of Cornelius Vanderbilt, The Commodore
The inheritance and financial management of the Vanderbilt family
The extravagant lifestyles and lavish spending of Vanderbilt descendants
The decline of the Vanderbilt fortune and its causes
Notable Vanderbilt legacies: Vanderbilt University, Biltmore Estate, and Grand Central Station

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/vanderbilts

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#402 | The French Foreign Legion

Leonardo English — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0200

It is, by some measures, the toughest fighting force in the world – yet it continues to attract people from across the globe through the promise of a fresh start and adventure.

In this episode, we'll be talking about the origins of the French Foreign Legion, how you join it, and what life is like as a Legionnaire.

French Foreign Legion: Toughest fighting force, attracts diverse recruits worldwide.
Origins: Founded in 1831 to manage foreign soldiers in France.
Recruitment: Open to all nationalities, minimal requirements, new identity.
Training: Physically demanding, intense, discipline enforced, harsh conditions.
Deployments: Legion serves French interests globally, long history of conflicts.
Unique Composition: Multinational units, French language requirement.
Rewards: Basic salary, housing, meals, new identity, path to French citizenship.
Sacrifices: High risk, thousands of Legionnaires have died for France.
Fascinating History: From Algeria to modern deployments, rich legacy.

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/french-foreign-legion

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#400 | Degrowth vs E/Acc | How To Save The World

Leonardo English — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0200

Degrowth and Effective Accelerationism - two outlooks about the direction in which humanity needs to go to stay alive. But they couldn't be any more different.

In this episode, we'll be exploring these two ideas and perhaps, come to some conclusions on how to save the world.

Degrowth vs E/Acc: Exploring opposing visions for humanity's future
Historical global economy trends: Growth, challenges, and environmental impact
Degrowth concept: Reducing production, consumption for sustainability and equality
E/Acc approach: Technological advancement, energy, AI, interplanetary development
Divergence in ideologies: Brake vs. accelerate, limits vs. market expansion
Degrowth momentum: European Parliament conference and impact on policy
E/Acc's grassroots movement: Unconventional solutions, influential supporters
Unprecedented futures: Revisiting the past, accelerating progress, potential consequences
Finding common ground: Both emphasize radical action away from status quo

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/degrowth-vs-eacc

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#398 | Ernest Shackleton | Antarctic Explorer

Leonardo English — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 00:00:00 +0200

Courageous, resilient, and an incredible leader. Ernest Shackleton was an Antarctic explorer who never gave up in the face of adversity.

In this episode, we'll be talking about the Endurance expedition, the challenges he and his crew faced, and their extraordinary feats of survival in one of the harshest environments on Earth.

Introduction to Ernest Shackleton and his quest to cross Antarctica
Background on the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration
Competing expeditions to the North and South Poles
Shackleton's previous attempt to reach the South Pole in 1909
The Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition and its objectives
The journey of the ship Endurance and its entrapment in ice
Struggles faced during the Antarctic winter on the ice
Abandonment of the Endurance and survival on Elephant Island
Shackleton's dangerous journey to South Georgia for help
Rescue and survival of the crew members on Elephant Island

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/shackleton

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#396 | The Extraordinary Life of Kim Dotcom: Hacker, Entrepreneur, Fugitive

Leonardo English — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0200

An internet pioneer or a criminal mastermind? The answer depends on who you ask.

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary story of Kim Dotcom, the man behind Megaupload.com, and the rise and fall of his empire.

Internet pioneer or criminal?
Childhood and early involvement with computers
Hacking exploits and self-publicity
Kim Dotcom's legal troubles and escape to Thailand
Megaupload.com: The birth of a controversial website
Megaupload's massive popularity and piracy concerns
Kim Dotcom's move to New Zealand and his new life
The dramatic police raid on Kim Dotcom's mansion
Legal charges against Kim Dotcom and extradition battle

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/kim-dotcom

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#394 | What Is Hell?

Leonardo English — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0200

For some people, hell is a place of eternal punishment. For others, it's merely a stepping stone on the way to redemption.

In this episode, we'll be exploring the idea of hell, its different interpretations, and what happens in each one.

Defining hell and its interpretations in different religions
Ancient Egyptian beliefs: judgment in the afterlife, weighing of the heart
Ancient Greek beliefs: the Underworld and Tartarus
Jewish beliefs: Sheol and Gehinnom as places of the dead and purification
Christian beliefs: multiple interpretations of hell, references in the Bible
Dante's Inferno
Islamic beliefs: Jahannam, seven circles of hell, fiery punishments
The ethical "Problem of Hell" and its theological implications
Alternative perspectives: Buddhism, Hinduism, Confucianism and the absence of hell

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/what-is-hell

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#392 | Homes, Homelessness & Evolving English

Leonardo English — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0200

As time goes by, language continues to evolve.

In this episode, we explore the question of evolving English, and the specific question of how we refer to people without a permanent and stable place to live, as this example highlights the politicisation of language.

Language's purpose: communicate information between people
Language changes over time, often for political reasons
Referring to people without a permanent home
Difference between "house" and "home"
"Homeless" as the most commonly used term
Push to replace "homeless" with "houseless" or "unhoused"
Critics argue "homeless" implies streets are a legitimate home
Question of whether it matters to homeless individuals
Homelessness is a complex issue

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/evolving-english

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#390 | Edward VIII | The King Who Said No

Leonardo English — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 00:00:00 +0200

He was King of Britain, but only for 325 days before dramatically quitting the job to be with the woman he loved.

But was it the ultimate love story, or was it an act of treason and selfishness?

Edward VIII: King of Britain for 325 days
Love story or treason and selfishness?
The message that shocked the British public
Early life and rise to the throne
Edward's reputation as a dandy and playboy
Disapproval from the Prime Minister and King George V
Edward meets Wallis Simpson
Challenges with marrying Wallis Simpson
Edward's abdication and life after leaving the throne

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/edward-viii

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#388 | Vardy vs. Rooney | The Battle Of The Footballers’ Wives

Leonardo English — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0200

It was a fierce football rivalry fought not on the pitch but on social media and at the High Courts of Justice in London.

In this episode, we'll delve into the fierce rivalry between football wives Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy, the libel case that followed, and the rise of WAG culture in Britain.

The cult of the “wag”
Who were Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy?
Coleen Rooney’s revelation
The feud between Coleen Rooney & Rebekah Vardy
Rebekah Vardy takes Coleen Rooney to court
Trademarking Wagatha Christie

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/vardy-vs-rooney

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#386 | The Creation of The Modern Office

Leonardo English — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0200

From cramped cubicles to collaborative open-plan setups, a lot has changed since the creation of the modern office – but it doesn't stop there.

In this episode, we'll be exploring the question of why and how the modern office was created and look at some of the developments that led us to this place.

The concept of the modern office and its prevalence worldwide
The historical absence of dedicated indoor workspaces
The emergence of the first large offices in the late 17th and early 18th centuries
The Old Admiralty Office and its significance as the headquarters of the British Navy
The paperwork-dominated tasks of early offices
The impact of the typewriter on office work and the increased presence of women in offices
The layout of offices during the typewriter era
The invention of the cubicle and its popularity in office design
Alternative office arrangements, including open-plan offices and their criticisms

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/modern-office

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#384 | Napoleon Bonaparte

Leonardo English — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0200

He is a figure who, 200 years after his death, is still held as an example of the glories of France.

In this episode, we'll talk about the rise and fall of Napoleon, the establishment of the French empire, and Napoleon's complex legacy.

Early life and Corsican heritage
Rise to power during the French Revolutionary Wars
Military successes and establishment of the French Empire
Napoleon as a strategic genius
The disastrous invasion of Russia and downfall
Exile and brief return to power
Defeat at the Battle of Waterloo and final exile
Complex legacy and varying views on Napoleon

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/napoleon

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#382 | Geli Raubal | Hitler’s Murdered Lover?

Leonardo English — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 00:00:00 +0200

When Adolf Hitler's half-niece was found dead in a pool of her own blood, the Nazi party rushed to cover up the scene.

But who killed Geli Raubal, why, and did she take some very dark secrets with her to the grave?

The discovery of Geli's body
Who was Geli Raubal
What was the nature of Hitler and Geli's relationship?
What happened to Geli Raubal?
Why did Geli Raubal kill herself?
Did Hitler kill his niece?
Hitler's reaction to the death

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/geli-raubal

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#380 | Marc Rich: The King of Oil

Leonardo English — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0200

He was a secretive billionaire who would earn the nickname of "The King of Oil".

In this episode, we'll be talking about the early life of Marc Rich, how he made his fortune, how he got on the wrong side of the US authorities, and the controversial presidential pardon.

The Clinton pardon
The early life of Marc Rich
The work of a commodities trader
The global rise of mercury
The Trans-Israel pipeline
Creating Marc Rich + Co
Selling Iranian oil
Being charged with tax fraud

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/marc-rich

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#378 | [2023] Meet the English Learning for Curious Minds podcast

Leonardo English — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0200

Wondering what The "English Learning for Curious Minds podcast" is all about?

Here's an update on how things have been going, almost 400 episodes and 5 million downloads after we started...

Introduction to the host of English Learning for Curious Minds
Deciding to start the podcast
My language-learning journey
Publishing the first episode
English Learning for Curious Minds today
Going “full-time”
Why starting a podcast is more complicated than pressing record
How the sausage is made
Where to start?
Should you use the interactive transcripts?
It’s still day 0

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/meet-elfcm

#376 | Porn & Big Money

Leonardo English — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0200

What do some of the biggest porn websites in the industry have in common? They are all owned by a media and technology company named MindGeek.

In this episode, we'll be taking a look at the history of the porn business, the role of MindGeek in the evolution of porn and money, and the current state of the adult industry.

Introduction to the topic of porn and the porn industry
MindGeek's acquisition of major adult entertainment properties
The evolution of the porn industry and the impact of the Internet
Challenges in accepting online payments for porn websites
VISA and Mastercard's role in regulating the industry
Rise of tube sites and their impact on the business model
Fabian Thylmann's recognition of the financial potential of tube sites
The power of tube sites in attracting viewers and advertisers
Challenges faced by payment companies and the case of OnlyFans
Uncertainty and secrecy surrounding MindGeek's ownership and control

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/porn-big-money

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#374 | The Rise And Fall of “The Fake Sheikh”

Leonardo English — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0200

Dubbed "The King of the Sting" or "The Fake Sheikh", Mazher Mahmood was a journalist who posed as a Middle-Eastern prince and exposed the rich and famous.

But it turned out that his methods and fact-checking weren't always as honest as he claimed...

The Sarah Ferguson Sting
Who was Mazher Mahmood?
CAUGHT! Match-fixer pockets £150k as he rigs the England Test at Lord’s
The story to kidnap Victoria Beckham
Criticism of Mahmood’s methods
The Tulisa Contostavlos cocaine expose
Legacy of Mazher Mahmood

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/fake-sheikh

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#372 | The War on Milk

Leonardo English — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 00:00:00 +0200

Milk–this widely common, seemingly unproblematic drink–has become the subject of recent controversy.

In this episode, we’ll look into the war on milk, why people stopped drinking it, and the future of the dairy industry.

The early history of milk drinking
Why people are stopping drinking milk
The growth of raw milk
The state of milk in 2023
The future of the dairy industry

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/war-on-milk

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#370 | FIFA: The Most Corrupt Name in Sport

Leonardo English — Fri, 26 May 2023 00:00:00 +0200

It's the official body responsible for regulating the world's most popular sport, but it is regularly accused of corruption.

In this episode, we'll look at why this is, some of the biggest scandals in FIFA history, and see what the organisation is doing to clean itself up.

Sepp Blatter & North Korea
The early history of football
The founding of FIFA
Culture of corruption
FIFA scandals
How does FIFA choose what country hosts a World Cup?
Accepting bribes to give South Africa the World Cup
The 2010 decision to award the World Cup to Russia and Qatar
The man at the top: Sepp Blatter

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/fifa-corruption

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Killing Hitler [episode 1 of Pioneers Of The Continuum]

Leonardo English — Tue, 23 May 2023 00:00:00 +0200

Listen to the all of Pioneers Of The Continuum 👉 https://link.chtbl.com/pioneers

In episode one of Pioneers Of The Continuum, Winston travels back to 1939 and comes face to face with Adolf Hitler.

Will he put a bullet in his brain and change the course of history?

Guest starring Luke Thompson from Luke's English Podcast.

Free interactive transcript, subtitles & translations in 12 languages at: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/pioneers/killing-hitler

#368 | Britain's Tabloid Culture: A Love-Hate Relationship

Leonardo English — Fri, 19 May 2023 00:00:00 +0200

British tabloids are notorious for being exaggerated, sensationalist, and stopping at nothing to get a good story.

In this episode, we’ll talk about the origins of tabloid culture, its early history, and how it persists in the modern day.

Tabloids & Oscar Wilde
What is a tabloid?
The early history of tabloids
The difference in reporting style between tabloids & broadsheets
Gossip in British tabloids
Phone hacking
The future of British tabloids
The digital transition of British tabloids

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/british-tabloid-culture

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#366 | New York’s Five Families and The Business of Crime - Part I | History & Creation

Leonardo English — Fri, 12 May 2023 00:00:00 +0200

In the early 20th century, a disorganised bunch of criminals transformed into a criminal empire and made billions in the process.

In this episode, we'll learn how it all got started and why you didn't want to get on the wrong side of Charles "Lucky" Luciano.

The Murder of Giuseppe Masseria
Italian History
Migrational context
Early criminal gangs
The Castellammarese War
The formation of “The Commission”

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/new-york-five-part-one

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⚡️Trailer: Pioneers Of The Continuum

Leonardo English — Tue, 09 May 2023 12:48:06 +0200

Big news. On May 23rd, we are launching a new audio-drama starring your favourite English-language podcasters.

Win a limited-edition Pioneers Of The Continuum t-shirt:

Go to Pioneers Of the Continuum on your podcast app (https://link.chtbl.com/pioneers)
Subscribe, follow or leave a review (5x your chance of winning by leaving a review)
Take a screenshot
Send it to pioneers@leonardoenglish.com
That's it!

Everyone who takes part in this competition will also receive a special surprise...

#364 | Do Idioms Really Matter?

Leonardo English — Fri, 05 May 2023 00:00:00 +0200

There are thousands of idioms in the English language. Idioms are often present in the books we read, the shows we watch, and in everyday conversations.

In this episode, we’ll look into the different types of idioms, how to learn them effectively and ask ourselves whether idioms really matter.

Do people really say, “It’s raining cats and dogs”?
Alastair vs Kris
The four types of idioms
Do categories of idioms matter?
How native speakers decide to use an idiom
The two real categories of idioms that matter
How to think about idioms in English
Alastair vs Kris (the verdict)

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/do-idioms-matter

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#362 | Anna Delvey | The Fake German Heiress

Leonardo English — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0200

Charming, glamorous, and ambitious. Anna Delvey was a wealthy German heiress who would one day inherit a large trust fund from her father who was a wealthy entrepreneur. But it was all just a facade.

In the final part of our mini-series on Great American Con Artists, we’ll learn about the fake German heiress who managed to trick New York City.

The Trial of Anna Sorokin
Anna Delvey arrives in New York City
The trip to the Venice Biennale
The Anna Delvey Foundation
Life at 11 Howard
Anna & Neff
The warning signs start
Things start to go wrong
The trip to Marrakech
Who really was Anna Delvey?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/anna-delvey

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#360 | Fyre Festival | The Worst Festival In The World

Leonardo English — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0200

Imagine paying for an exclusive music festival where you get to party with celebrities and supermodels on a private island, only to find out upon arrival that you got scammed.

In part one of our mini-series on Great American Con Artists, we’ll learn about Billy McFarland and Fyre Festival, the festival in the Caribbean that went terribly wrong.

Celebrities post on Instagram
Background to The Fyre Festival
Celebrity endorsements
The marketing of the Fyre Festival
Running out of money
Arriving at Fyre Festival
The fallout of the Fyre Festival

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/fyre-festival

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#358 | Poker Island | How Malta Became A Gambling Hub

Leonardo English — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0200

It's a tiny rock in the Mediterranean that has become a global hub for online gambling.

In this episode, we look at how this happened, what it means, and how it has fundamentally changed one of Europe's smallest countries.

An early morning on Poker Island
Introduction to Malta
The early history of online gambling in Malta
Online gambling regulation in Malta
Scandinavians flock to Malta
Where does the money go in online casinos?
How online casinos make money
Impact on Malta
Impact on Malta’s reputation
The future of online gambling in Malta

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/poker-island

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#356 | The Ku Klux Klan: A History of Hate

Leonardo English — Fri, 07 Apr 2023 00:00:00 +0200

It has been called America's most famous hate group and has been terrorising the country for 150 years.

In this episode, we look at the history of the Ku Klux Klan, examining its three distinct phases and murderous ideology.

The three distinct phases of the KKK
Phase I - The Reconstruction
Phase II - the 1920s revival
Phase III - 1960s civil rights
The Ku Klux Klan in the modern day

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/ku-klux-klan

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#354 | The Disappearance of Lord Lucan

Leonardo English — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0200

He was a wealthy English aristocrat who disappeared after the family nanny was found brutally murdered.

In this episode, we look at the life and disappearance of the famous gambler and socialite, Lord Lucan.

The evening of 7th November 1974
The early life of Lord Lucan
His life as a wealthy aristocrat
Lord Lucan’s gambling addiction
His deteriorating marriage
Sandra Rivett: the nanny
The murder
The disappearance of Lord Lucan
Sightings and theories about what happened
Parallels with Cluedo

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/lord-lucan

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#352 | Lee Harvey Oswald | The Man Who Killed A President

Leonardo English — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0100

He was a former American marine who would go on to assassinate one of the most popular presidents in American history.

In this episode, we look at the unhappy life of Lee Harvey Oswald and ask ourselves why he pulled the trigger.

The assassination of JFK
The early life of Lee Harvey Oswald
Joining the US Marines
Developing left-wing views
Leaving for the Soviet Union
Returning to the USA
Buying the gun and having a test run
Preparation for the assassination
The assassination of JFK
Why did he do it?
The death of Lee Harvey Oswald
JFK conspiracy theories

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/lee-harvey-oswald

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#350 | The Unusual Names of Cocktails

Leonardo English — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0100

Whether it's Carrie from Sex and the City or the advertising executives in Mad Men, people are drinking more cocktails than ever before.

In this episode, we take a look at the fascinating stories behind six popular cocktails, from the Bloody Mary to the White Russian.

The early history of cocktails
Fredric Tudor - “The Ice King”
Cocktail #1: The Margarita
Cocktail #2: The Bloody Mary
Cocktail #3: The Sidecar
Cocktail #4: The Singapore Sling
Cocktail #5: The White Russian
Cocktail #6: The Screwdriver

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/cocktails

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#348 | The Cambridge Five Part III | Beer & Betrayal

Leonardo English — Fri, 10 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0100

The British and Americans were suspicious that there was a mole. They were right; in fact, there were five double agents.

In the final part of this three-part mini-series, we see what happened when the net started closing in, and why some people think that the Cambridge Five got away unpunished.

Kim Philby realises their cover is blown
Recap of parts one and two
The alcoholic downfall of The Cambridge Five
Burgess & Maclean’s defection to the USSR
The confession of Kim Philby
The defection of Kim Philby
The life of Burgess & Maclean in the USSR
How many double agents were there?
Why they got away with it for so long

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/cambridge-five-iii

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#346 | The Cambridge Five Part I | The Recruitment

Leonardo English — Fri, 03 Mar 2023 00:00:00 +0100

In the early 1930s, five high-flying Cambridge University students were recruited to become Soviet spies.

These five men enjoyed decades-long careers at the top of the British establishment and were some of the most successful double agents in history.

In part one of this three-part mini-series, we see how it all got started.

The recruitment of Kim Philby
Background to The Cambridge Five
Life at Cambridge University
The political climate of the 1930s
Arnold Deutsch: Soviet Recruiter
The first jobs of The Cambridge Five

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/cambridge-five-i

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#344 | Adolf Hitler | Der Führer

Leonardo English — Fri, 24 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0100

He was the leader of Nazi Germany and was responsible for the most deadly war in human history.

In this episode, we'll explore the murderous life and legacy of Adolf Hitler.

The last hours of Adolf Hitler
The early life of Adolf Hitler
Moving to Munich
Serving in the First World War
The politics of Adolf Hitler
The Beer Hall Putsch
Writing Mein Kampf
The death of Angela Raubal
Hitler seizes power
Getting ready for war
The Third Reich
Assassination attempts
Hitler’s reported opiate use

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/hitler

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⚡️ Bonus episode from Easy Stories in English // Sisters, Sisters

Leonardo English — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 08:12:41 +0100

Enjoy this bonus episode from Easy Stories in English.

Angeline and Annabelle are a classic sister act. Annabelle writes the songs and they sing together, but Angeline gets all the compliments. When a music producer offers a deal to Annabelle, she realises she can’t let the opportunity go. But what starts as a harmonious collaboration soon turns into a discordant nightmare…

You can find the transcript for this episode at: https://easystoriesinenglish.com/sisters/

#342 | Josef Stalin | The Grey Blur

Leonardo English — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0100

He was credited with defeating Hitler and industrialising Russia. But he was also a ruthless dictator who was responsible for tens of millions of deaths.

In this episode, we explore the brutal life and legacy of "The Grey Blur".

The capture of Yakov Dzughashvili, Stalin's son
The early life of Josef Stalin
His radicalisation
Where does the name “Stalin” come from?
The 1917 Revolution
The death of Vladimir Lenin
Stalin’s industrial plans
The purges
Stalin in World War II
The defeat of Nazism
The drawing of The Iron Curtain
The death of Josef Stalin

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/stalin

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#340 | Catherine The Great | Russia’s Fearless Empress

Leonardo English — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0100

She seized power from her weak husband and would go down in history as a strong and powerful Empress.

In this episode, we look at how Catherine The Great managed it, and how she was a victim of terrible double standards against women.

The arrival of a 14-year-old princess
The early life & character of Catherine the Great
Her relationship with her husband, Peter
Her miscarriages & the birth of Paul
Taking steps to ensure her own protection
The death of Empress Elizabeth
The coup & overthrowing of Peter
Becoming empress of Russia
Leading the country & national reforms
Her attempts to reform serfdom
The Pugachev revolt
Expanding Russian territories
The lovers of Catherine I (and inherent sexism)
The tater reforms of Catherine I
The death and legacy of Catherine I

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/catherine-the-great

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#338 | The Tragic Life of Anne Boleyn

Leonardo English — Fri, 03 Feb 2023 00:00:00 +0100

She was the second wife of King Henry VIII of England but fell out of favour after failing to produce a male heir.

In this episode, we look at the fascinating life of Anne Boleyn and ask ourselves whether things could have ended differently.

The early life of Anne Boleyn
Henry declares his love for Anne
Appealing to Rome
The birth of Elizabeth
The affairs of Henry VIII
The downfall of Anne
Anne is arrested
The execution of Anne Boleyn
The aftermath of her execution
Who is responsible for the fate of Anne Boleyn?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/anne-boleyn

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#336 | “The British Disease” | A Short History of Football Hooliganism in the UK

Leonardo English — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0100

British football fans have a well-deserved bad reputation for hooliganism and violence.

In this episode, we explore where this comes from, why British football stadiums have historically been violent places, and why things have started to change.

A scene at a football riot
The British claim to have invented football
12th-century versions of “football”
When the king banned football
The term “kick off”
Early hooliganism with Preston North End supporters
Why do football fans fight each other?
Glasgow: Rangers vs. Celtic
The post-war growth of hooliganism
Organised hooliganism in the 1970s
The names of the most famous football hooligan groups
The British Disease spreads to Europe
The birth of the “football casual”
Hooliganism & the National Front
The Heysel & Hillsborough disasters
Crackdown on football hooliganism
Football hooliganism today

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/british-football-hooliganism

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#334 | The Magical Life of Roald Dahl

Leonardo English — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0100

He was best known for being the author of books such as "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and "Mathilda", but he was also a critically acclaimed poet and adult fiction writer.

In this episode, we explore how this former airforce pilot went on to become one of the best-loved children's authors of all time.

Extract from "Boy"
The early life of Roald Dahl
The mischievous childhood of Roald Dahl
The Second World War
Moving to the United States
Roald Dahl as a spy?
His first work "The Gremlins" & Walt Disney
Switching to writing children's fiction
The impact of Roald Dahl's lived experience on his writing
The storytelling of Roald Dahl
The working life of Roald Dahl
His legacy

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/roald-dahl

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#332 | The Bizarre Life of Lewis Carroll

Leonardo English — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0100

He was the author of "Alice in Wonderland", and has gone down in history as one of the greatest children's writers of all time.

But he had some very unusual habits, preferred the company of children to adults, and took his secrets to the grave.

ln this episode, we explore the bizarre life of Lewis Caroll.

The famous boat ride of 4th of July of 1862
The early life of Lewis Caroll
His speech impediment
Winning a place at Oxford University
Teaching at Oxford
Publishing his first literary work
Lewis Carroll's photography
Meeting Alice
His relationship with Alice & her sisters
The writing of Alice in Wonderland
Why Alice in Wonderland was such a big success
The controversies of Lewis Caroll

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/lewis-carroll

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#330 | A Short History of Measurements

Leonardo English — Fri, 06 Jan 2023 00:00:00 +0100

Modern life would be impossible without standardised measurements.

In this episode, we look at the development of measurements through history, explaining they evolved over time and why some succeeded where others failed.

Imagining a world without measurements
English measurement of distance: The Furlong
Early measurement in France: The Setier
Egyptians measurements of time
The metric system & France
Robespierre & The Festival of the Supreme Being
Container ships
UK mixing measurements
United States' National Institute of Standards and Technology
Why water doesn’t freeze at 100C

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/measurements

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#328 | The Unusual British News of 2022

Leonardo English — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0100

A lot has happened in 2022.

In this episode, we look at some of the most unusual British news stories of the year, including footballer's wives, the crime of treason, and the shifting demographics of the United Kingdom.

Being convicted for treason for trying to kill the Queen
The Wagatha Christie Trial
Boris Johnson’s misbehaviour
Neil Parish and the “tractors”
Chris Pincher: “Pincher by name, pincher by nature”
The shifting demographics of the UK
The record-breaking Rishi Sunak

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/unusual-british-news-2022

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#326 | How TikTok Took Over The World

Leonardo English — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0100

It went from nothing to billions of users in the space of a few years.

In this episode, we look at the rise of TikTok, the criticisms it has faced, and how it is changing technology patterns all over the world.

What is TikTok?
Early history of Tiktok
Growth in the United States
Design of TikTok algorithm
Tiktok’s machine learning
Controversy in the United States
Security concerns
American vs. Chinese technology companies
Influence on US culture
TikTok in the present day

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/tik-tok

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#324 | Artificial Intelligence & Language Learning

Leonardo English — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0100

Artificial Intelligence technology is more advanced than ever before.

What does this mean for language learners, and how can you, as an English learner, use AI to supercharge your language learning?

An AI's answer to the question of “What impact will AI have on language learning?”
Introduction to ChatGPT
A brief overview of Artificial Intelligence
Existing forms of Artificial Intelligence
Increasing possibilities of technology in language learning
AI as a tool to correct mistakes
AI as a 24/7 private tutor
AI to correct writing
Why you shouldn't rely on AI to write for you
How to use AI as a tool for learning
Preview of attempting to get an AI to write a podcast script

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/ai-language-learning

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#322 | A King in Waiting | The Life of Charles III

Leonardo English — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0100

He has been waiting to become king for 70 years, and was the longest king-in-waiting in British history.

In this episode, we look at the life of King Charles III.

The early life of Charles III
School & university
The duty of finding a wife
Meeting Lady Diana Spencer
"Whatever "in love" means"...
Charles' approval rating
Criticism in the media
Charles' affair with Camilla
Divorce from Diana
Post Diana death
The long preparation to become king
The contradictions of King Charles III

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/life-charles-iii

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#320 | The Florida & Munich Hostage Disasters

Leonardo English — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, we look at two of the most famous hostage crises of the 20th century: the Florida Hostage Crisis and the Munich Hostage Crisis.

Both took place within a year of each other and went on to have a lasting impact on the world of hostage negotiation.

Introduction to the Florida Hostage Crisis of 1971
The unusual trio arrive on the runway
The situation turns nasty
The FBI is alerted
Arriving in Jacksonville
The end of the hostage crisis
Why did this hostage crisis go so badly wrong?
The 6-Day War & Black September
The Israeli block is attacked
The kidnappers make their demands
Errors in the German response
The hostages are taken to Furstenfeldbruck airfield
The crisis goes terribly wrong
The aftermath of the Munich Hostage Crisis

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/florida-munich-hostages

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#318 | A Job From Hell | Slaves in Ancient Rome

Leonardo English — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0100

Ancient Rome was powered by the blood, sweat and tears of millions of slaves.

In this episode, we look at what life was like for really like people unlucky enough to be sold into slavery in Ancient Rome.

The capture of a slave in Ancient Rome
Aristotle & Slavery
How slaves were recruited
How many slaves were there in Ancient Rome?
Who could become a slave?
What happened to slaves after they were captured?
The different roles of male vs. female slaves
How much did slaves cost in Ancient Rome?
What jobs did slaves do?
The most unfortunate type of slave: the actor
The better roles for slaves
Working in the mines
Slave uprisings
Improving rights for slaves
How slaves could be freed

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/ancient-roman-slaves

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#316 | The World Cup’s Five Biggest Controversies

Leonardo English — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0100

The FIFA World Cup is full of controversy, on and off the pitch.

In this episode, we look at five of the most controversial episodes in World Cup history and finish up with five interesting facts about the world's most popular football tournament.

Controversy #1: Diego Maradona & The Hand of God
Controversy #2: The murder of Andres Escobar
Controversy #3: The Kuwait Goal Scandal
Controversy #4: Zinedine Zidane headbutt
Controversy #5: Italy decide to play in black
Trivia point #1: The unusual location of the first world cup
Trivia point #2: How much beer is drunk
Trivia point #3: How many people watch the world cup
Trivia point #4: Pickles the trophy-finding dog
Trivia point #5: The controversy of the Qatar World Cup

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/world-cup-controversies

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#314 | Michael Jackson | The Troubled Life of The King of Pop

Leonardo English — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0100

He was the undisputed King of Pop, with 13 number-one hits, hundreds of millions of fans and a legacy that will continue to inspire artists for generations to come.

But beneath the surface, Michael Jackson's life was plagued by insecurity, loneliness, and deep-rooted demons that would ultimately lead to his untimely and tragic death.

The early life of Michael Jackson
His relationship with his father
The early success of The Jackson 5
"I Want You Back" - the first big hit
The first number one & becoming a child prodigy
Breaking away from his brothers
Becoming the global King of Pop
His unusual private life
His accident and physical changes
Releasing "Bad"
Allegations of child abuse
Marriage and children
His death and subsequent inquiry
The legacy of Michael Jackson

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/michael-jackson

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#312 | A History of Witches | Misogyny, Magic and Murder

Leonardo English — Fri, 04 Nov 2022 00:00:00 +0100

For centuries, a woman could be accused of being a witch for the simple crime of being too poor, too rich, or too old.

For those accused, the trials were deeply unfair, and the punishment was often torture and death.

In this episode, we explore the unfair and bloody history of witches.

The Salem Witch Trials
The punishments given for witches at Salem
What actually was a "witch"?
Reasons people could be accused of being a witch
Black vs. White magic
Witches & the Black Death
Malleus Maleficarum: The Catholic Church's witch instruction manual
How witch trials worked
King James VI & witches
Why witch fears declined
Witches in modern culture

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/witches

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#310 | A History of Vampires | Fangs, Fear and Fiction

Leonardo English — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0200

For hundreds of years, people have been afraid of blood-sucking creatures that rise from the dead.

But where does the vampire myth actually come from, what happened to the people accused of being a vampire, and what if there was a simple, biological explanation for it all?

The start of Bram Stoker's Dracula
The fundamental characteristics of vampires
Vampires in ancient European folklore
Why people might have thought vampires needed to drink blood
Vampires being blamed for the plague
The Great Vampire Epidemic
The story of Petar Blagojević
John Polidori’s The Vampyre
Vampires & Vlad The Impaler
Vampires on film
Modern vampires

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/vampires

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#308 | The Murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia Part 3 | A Culture of Impunity

Leonardo English — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0200

It has been 5 years since the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia.

In part three of this three-part mini-series, we look at what has happened since then and ask ourselves whether we are any closer to knowing the truth.

Recap of the story so far
Vince Muscat starts talking to the police
Melvin Theuma: the middleman
Yorgen Fenech & 17 Black
The phantom job
Melvin Theuma starts getting paranoid
The arrest of Melvin Theuma
The letter to be passed to Yorgen Fenech
Keith Schembri's lost phone
The public inquest
Political changes since Daphne's death
The corruption and scandal involved in Daphne's murder investigation
Will the killers ever be brought to justice?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/daphne-caruana-galizia-part-3

#307 | The Murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia Part 2 | Crooks Everywhere You Look

Leonardo English — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0200

A few months after Daphne's brutal assassination, the Maltese police raided a potato shed.

They would "find" three men who would later admit to being involved in the murder, but were they really any closer to the truth?

The initial investigations of Daphne's murder
The December raid on the potato shed
Vince Muscat & The DeGiorgio Brothers
How the police caught the hitmen
November 2019: when everything changed
The arrest of Yorgen Fenech
The power goes out and Keith Schembri is arrested
Yorgen Fenech promises to "spill the beans"
Fenech's pardon request is refused
The resignation of the Prime Minister, Joseph Muscat

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/daphne-caruana-galizia-part-2

#306 | The Murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia Part 1 | Cocaine, Corruption, and Filthy Money

Leonardo English — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0200

On October 16th, 2017, a 52-year-old journalist was blown up in a car bomb outside her home in Malta.

In part one of our three-part mini-series, we'll learn about who she was, and who might have wanted her dead.

The assassination of Daphne Caruana Galizia
Introduction to Malta
Why small island countries are more prone to corruption
The early career of Daphne Caruana Galizia
Why Daphne Caruana Galizia was so popular
Economic growth in 21st-century Malta
“Malta is 17 miles by nine and flooded with cocaine, corruption, and filthy money”
Daphne's corruption allegations in Malta
Why Daphne was very unpopular with some Maltese citizens
The attacks and harassment she faced
Claims against Konrad Mizzi, Keith Schembri & Joseph Muscat

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/daphne-caruana-galizia-part-1

#304 | The Life of Donald Trump

Leonardo English — Fri, 07 Oct 2022 00:00:00 +0200

He was the 45th President of the USA and the most controversial in recent history.

In this episode, we look at the life of Donald J. Trump and examine how he went from real estate developer to the leader of the free world.

The early life of Donald Trump
His paternal and maternal influences
Accusations of racism against Fred Trump
Avoiding getting drafted in the Vietnam War ("bone spurs")
Getting into business with The Trump Organization
Early business controversies
Going upmarket and entering the casino business
A small loan of 1 million dollars
Developing the family business and becoming a (self-reported) billionaire
Business problems in the 1990s
Becoming a TV celebrity after "The Apprentice"
Donald Trump's business failures & controversies
Trump's political alliances over the years
His path to The White House
A return to politics?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/donald-trump

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#302 | The Bloody History of Bullfighting

Leonardo English — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0200

It's one of the most controversial topics in modern Spain; some say it's a cultural art form, and others say it's a brutal form of torture.

In this episode, we look at the history of bullfighting through the ages and ask ourselves what lies ahead.

The matador looks up to the crowd
What happens in a bullfight
The early history of bullfighting
Bullfighting in the Iberian peninsula
The first "anti-bullfighting" legislation in the 16th Century
The development of "modern" bullfighting
The different styles of bullfighting
General Franco & bullfighting
The opposition to bullfighting
Bullfighting today
Will bullfighting ever be banned in Spain?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/bullfighting

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#300 | Plastic Recycling - Is It Worth It?

Leonardo English — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0200

We have been recycling for decades, yet only 9% of the world's plastic has ever been successfully recycled.

In this episode, we ask ourselves the heretical question, "is plastic recycling actually worth it?"

A brief history of plastic usage
How much plastic do we really use?
The uses (and advantages) of plastic
Plastic's advantages in food production
Plastic's usage in medicine
Plastic as a way to reduce energy usage?
The durability of plastic
The problem of what to do with plastic after we have finished using it
What proportion of the world actually recycles?
The environmental "cost" of recycling
Plastic vs. cotton bags: the numbers
Recycling + reducing + reusing
Simple acts to reduce plastic usage
Technological developments with recycling

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/plastic-recycling

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#298 | A Brief History of Climate Change

Leonardo English — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0200

For thousands of years, humans have had ideas about mankind's potential impact on the climate.

In this episode, we look at how these ideas have changed, the men and women who have contributed to them, and ask ourselves why it has taken so long to start paying attention.

Ancient ideas about mankind's impact on the climate
The North American "rain follows the plough" theory
Joseph Fourier & The Greenhouse Effect
Eunice Newton Foote's discovery about CO2
The theory that burning coal might be causing temperatures to rise
Svante Arrhenius & global heating
Guy Callendar, the amateur meteorologist
The fear of a return to the Ice Age
The Great Smog of 1952 in London
Charles David Keeling attributes human activity to climate change
Were rising CO2 levels good or bad?
The establishment of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
Modern climate change theories
The role of the oil & gas industry
Climate change deniers in US politics

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/history-climate-change

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#296 | Osama Bin Laden | The World's Most Wanted Man

Leonardo English — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0200

He was put on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives" list in 1999, and he would only be removed after he was hunted down and killed by US operatives in 2011

In this episode, we will tell the story of how Osama bin Laden went from a shy, religious young boy to the world's most famous terrorist.

The early life of Osama bin Laden
His time at university
Deciding not to join the family business
The Iranian Revolution of 1979
The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan
Fighting in the Afghanistan War
The invasion of Kuwait by Iraqi forces
Why Osama bin Laden didn't want US forces in Saudi Arabia
Losing his Saudi citizenship
Launching Al Qaeda
The 9/11 attacks
Osama bin Laden's whereabouts after 9/11
The killing of Osama bin Laden
What was found in Osama bin Laden's compound
Popular misconceptions about Osama bin Laden
The legacy of Osama bin Laden

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/osama-bin-laden

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#294 | By Ballot Or By Bullet | The Life of Malcolm X

Leonardo English — Fri, 02 Sep 2022 00:00:00 +0200

He was the American civil-rights leader who was a prominent spokesman for the Nation of Islam. Yet he grew too powerful and was killed by the same organisation he had represented.

In this episode, we look at the amazing life, impact and legacy of Malcolm X.

The assassination of Malcolm X
The early family life of Malcolm X ("Little")
The death of Malcolm's father
The teenage years of Malcolm X
Going to prison and finding religion
Joining The Nation of Islam
Becoming Malcolm "X"
Converting Americans to the Nation of Islam (including Mohammed Ali)
Clip of Malcolm X speaking
The attack on Hinton Johnson
Becoming known to the press (and the police)
Going on a global tour
Malcolm X vs. Martin Luther King
Breaking with the Nation of Islam
The murder of Malcolm X
His legacy on the civil rights movement

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/malcolm-x

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#292 | Chess & The Cold War

Leonardo English — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0200

The game of chess played a vital role during the Cold War, allowing Russia and the United States to fight intellectual battles over a board game.

In this episode, we'll explore how the game of chess was used in a world where nuclear weapons could not.

The modern-day political impact of Chess
The life of Anatoly Karpov
The start of the Cold War
Why chess was the battleground for the Cold War
History of chess & statesmanship
The "Fried Chicken Tournament"
Why the USSR had a head start on the USA
The early popularity of Chess in the USSR
The fighting of "proxy wars" in the 1960s
The relationship between KGB & chess players
The bizarre 1978 Chess Championship in Manilla
The arrival of Garry Kasparov
Chess in the modern day

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/chess-cold-war

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#290 | Sigmund Freud | Father of Psychoanalysis

Leonardo English — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0200

To some, he was a visionary who helped us understand our unconscious mind. To others, he was a sex-crazed maniac who made no contributions to psychiatry.

In this episode, we'll explore the fascinating life and works of Sigmund Freud.

The early life of Sigmund Freud
Theories of the mind in 19th century Europe
Meeting the love of his life, Martha Bernays
Freud's first medical "treatment": cocaine
Moving to Paris and studying with Jean-Martin Charcot
The idea of the unconscious mind
"The plunging of sexuality in theory and practice is not to my taste’"
Opening his own "talking therapy" practice
Coining the term "psychoanalysis"
The publication of The Interpretation of Dreams
Freud & The Oedipus Complex
The publication of The Psychopathology of Everyday Life, and the idea of "Freudian slips"
His friendship with Carl Jung
The First World War breaks out
Deteriorating health and final years
The complicated legacy of Sigmund Freud

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/freud

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#288 | Albert Pierrepoint | Britain’s Most Famous Executioner

Leonardo English — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0200

He was Britain's most famous hangman and was responsible for the executions of up to 600 prisoners.

In this episode, we'll explore the curious life of a man who ended people's lives for a living.

The unusual boyhood dream of Albert Pierrepoint
Executions running in the family
Capital punishment in the UK in the early 20th century
Becoming an assistant executioner and working with his uncle
Conducting his first execution
The "long drop"
Executing Nazi war criminals
Becoming a pub landlord
Why Albert Pierrepoint was so successful
Controversial hangings in the 1950s
Was he really a kind and gentle man?
Retiring from his job as an executioner
The beliefs of Albert Pierrepoint about capital punishment
Legacy in books, films & TV

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/albert-pierrepoint

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#286 | The Atomic Bomb Part 3: The Aftermath

Leonardo English — Fri, 05 Aug 2022 00:00:00 +0200

Part three of our three-part mini-series on The Atomic Bomb.

Ever since the atomic bomb was dropped, people have been asking whether it was actually necessary.

In this episode, we'll explore the arguments for and against the use of atomic weapons in World War II, and look at how this has changed the world we live in.

Recap of the journey to dropping the bombs on Hiroshima & Nagasaki
The American reasons for dropping the bomb
“It seems to be the most terrible thing ever discovered, but it can be made the most useful…”
Arguments against dropping the bomb on Hiroshima & Nagasaki
#1: Drop a demonstration bomb somewhere else
#2: Japan would have surrendered without a bomb
#3: The use of atomic weapons is ethically unacceptable
American counterarguments
The scientists who were against dropping the atomic bomb
Post-war theories about why the atomic bomb was used
Was Japan really close to surrendering?
Nuclear proliferation since 1945

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/atomic-bomb-aftermath

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#284 | The Atomic Bomb Part 1: The Manhattan Project

Leonardo English — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0200

Part one of this three-part mini-series on The Atomic Bomb.

In this episode, we explore the discovery of nuclear fission, the key scientists involved, The Manhattan Project and the race to develop a functioning atomic bomb.

Early ideas about atomism
Modern atomic theory in the 19th and 20th centuries
The discovery of nuclear fission
War breaks out in Europe
Einstein and Szilárd's letter to President Roosevelt
The Manhattan Project
The first atomic test in Nevada
“Now I am become Death, the destroyer of worlds”

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/manhattan-project

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[BONUS: REPLAY] The Rise of Air Conditioning

Leonardo English — Wed, 27 Jul 2022 10:50:04 +0200

It has gone from luxury to necessity, and there are over 2 billion air conditioning units in the world today.

In this episode, we'll take a look at how air conditioning got started, why people didn't mind being hot in the past, and what the true cost of staying cool might be for future generations.

Staying cool is nothing new: Romans & Egyptian methods
Ding Huan & the rotating fan
Why people were afraid of creating cold artificially
How the Dutch magician Cornelis Drebbel tricked King James I in 1620
Benjamin Franklin getting sweaty one July in Philadelphia
Primitive air conditioning by pumping air over ice
Did people actually mind that there was no air conditioning?
Willis H. Carrier & the first air conditioning unit
Convincing the US public that it was something they needed
1920s sweaty American cinemas
Spending $600,000 on an air conditioning unit in 1932
The boom of air conditioning in the US
How many households around the world have air conditioning in 2021?
The impact of air conditioning: the good, the bad & the unexpected
Environmental impact of air conditioning
Future of air conditioning in the developing world
New air conditioning technologies: high & low tech

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/air-conditioning

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#282 | Joe Rogan & Spotify | The Most Expensive Podcast In The World

Leonardo English — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0200

He is the world's highest-paid podcaster, and his podcast was acquired by Spotify for a reported $200 million in 2020.

But who actually is Joe Rogan, and what does this deal mean for independent podcasts?

Introduction to Spotify
A time when you couldn't listen to podcasts on Spotify
How Spotify works (as a business)
The business model of most podcasts
The Joe Rogan Experience podcast
Who is Joe Rogan?
Why Spotify decided to buy the Joe Rogan Experience
The commentator's opinion of the acquisition
Controversies of the Joe Rogan Experience
The Platform vs. Publisher debate
The future of independent podcasters & Spotify

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/joe-rogan-spotify

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#280 | The Tower of London

Leonardo English — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0200

It is one of London's most famous tourist attractions, and it has an amazing history that not all tourists are aware of.

In this episode, we'll explore the bloody but fascinating history of London's oldest standing building.

The arrival of William The Conqueror in 1066
How The Tower of London was built
What The Tower of London was used for in the Middle Ages
The country's most famous prison
"Being sent to The Tower"
Famous people who were executed at The Tower of London
The Beefeaters of The Tower of London
The Tower of London as a zoo
The Royal Mint
The first prisoner to escape from The Tower of London

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/tower-of-london

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#278 | Londongrad: Why Russian Oligarchs Fell In Love With Britain’s Capital

Leonardo English — Fri, 08 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0200

Since the collapse of the USSR, London has become the city of choice for Russian oligarchs.

In this episode, we'll explore how the UK's capital welcomed Russian money and why London became nicknamed "Londongrad".

Roman Abramovich buys Chelsea
Definition of "oligarch"
Why was London the destination of choice for Russian oligarchs?
London's cultural appeal
The English legal system
The English libel laws
London as a financial hub
Company ownership in the UK
The "Golden Visa" scheme
Links between Russian oligarchs and British politics
Evgeny Lebedev becomes "Baron Lebedev"
London doesn't ask questions about the origin of money
The Russian invasion of Ukraine
The future of "Londongrad"

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/londongrad

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#276 | Oxbridge: Why Two Universities Dominate Britain

Leonardo English — Fri, 01 Jul 2022 00:00:00 +0200

Despite only educating 1% of the population Oxford and Cambridge University have a tight grip over everything from UK politics to business.

In this episode, we look at what life at Oxbridge is like, why graduates often go on to such powerful positions, and see what these two universities have been doing to improve access to disadvantaged children.

Global rankings of Oxford & Cambridge university
Influence and power of Oxbridge
How Oxbridge is divided (the "college" system)
How much students at Oxbridge need to work
The most prestigious of the Oxbridge colleges
Christ Church Oxford: the college that has produced 13 Prime Ministers
Trinity College Cambridge: the college that has produced 34 Nobel prize winners
Famous alumni of Oxbridge
Why are graduates of Oxbridge so successful?
Is access to Oxbridge fair?
Private schools & Oxbridge
Getting into Oxbridge vs. American universities
The Varsity Blues scandal
Curiosities of Oxbridge: Harry Potter, a library with 13 million books, the head of Oliver Cromwell and a tortoise race

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/oxbridge

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#274 | The Rise of The Great Fashion Houses

Leonardo English — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0200

The 20th century saw the creation of world-famous luxury fashion houses.

In this episode, we'll explore the stories of Chanel, Dior, Gucci and Versace, and look at how they changed what we wear.

The first fashion designer: Charles Frederick Worth
The concept of "off the peg" clothes
Coco Chanel
Chanel & The Duke of Westminster
The founding of Gucci
The role of sanctions on Italy
The later life of the Gucci family
Christian Dior - designing in post-war Paris
"This is a new look"
Gianni Versace
Versace's approach to using celebrities
"Quality is remembered long after the price is forgotten" - Aldo Gucci

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/rise-great-fashion-houses

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#272 | Apollo 13

Leonardo English — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0200

It was meant to be a simple space mission to the moon, but 56 hours into the flight tragedy struck.

In this episode, we'll learn how three astronauts managed to use teamwork and quick thinking to escape death and return to Earth alive.

Background to the Apollo programme
The objective of the Apollo 13 mission
The pilots of the Apollo 13 mission
The three parts of the Apollo 13 spacecraft
The importance of ground control at Houston
The uneventful first 56 hours of the mission
A piece of routine maintenance goes wrong
"Houston, we've had a problem"
What actually went wrong?
Losing all power and being 330,000 km away from Earth
How quick thinking turned this lunar mission into a rescue mission
Figuring out the path back
Conserving oxygen and water and going around the moon
Fixing the spacecraft to avoid getting carbon dioxide poisoning
Returning to Earth
The legacy of Apollo 13

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/apollo-13

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#270 | The Inimitable Charles Dickens

Leonardo English — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0200

He was the Victorian era's most famous social writer, and his novels were loved by everyone from Queen Victoria to street children.

In this episode we'll learn about Charles Dickens shone a light on the injustices of 19th century Britain and invented the modern idea of Christmas.

Definition of "inimitable"
The early life of Charles Dickens
His early experience with grinding poverty
Becoming a legal clerk and then reporting on parliamentary debates
His talent for writing sketches
His first book: The Pickwick Papers
The serial publication style of Charles Dickens
The private life of Charles Dickens
His vast literary output
The social activism of Charles Dickens
Going on tour in his later years
The fame of Charles Dickens
His universal appeal
Charles Dickens & the modern idea of Christmas
The legacy of Charles Dickens

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/charles-dickens

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#268 | Grigori Rasputin - The Mad Monk

Leonardo English — Fri, 03 Jun 2022 00:00:00 +0200

He was the peasant who went from a village in Siberia to the centre of the Russian imperial court, befriending the Tsar and Tsarina, and playing a role in the downfall of Russia’s longest-serving dynasty, The Romanovs.

In this episode, we'll learn about the unlikely but fascinating life of Grigori Rasputin.

Russia in 1900
Overview of the fall of the Romanov Dynasty
The early life of Grigory Yefimovich Novykh ("Rasputin")
Discovering the "Khylsts" and “sinning to drive out sin”
Earning the nickname of "The Mad Monk"
Rasputin's personal hygiene (or lack of)
Curing the Tsar's son, Alexei
Securing a place within the imperial family
Rasputin's relationship with the Tsarina, Alexandra
An assassination attempt by a noseless peasant
The plot to kill Rasputin
The (very long) murder of Rasputin
Russia after Rasputin's death
The legacy (and importance) of Grigori Rasputin on Russian history

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/rasputin

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#266 | What’s Happening In San Francisco?

Leonardo English — Fri, 27 May 2022 00:00:00 +0200

It is one of the most influential cities in the United States but has recently been accused of falling into disrepair, with rising homelessness and open drug dealing.

In this episode, we'll look at what is happening in San Francisco, what has caused this, who and what is thought to be responisble, and what is being done to change it.

The mothers' billboards: “Unfortunately, we’re just as famous for our dirt-cheap fentanyl”
A brief history of San Francisco
The tech boom contributes to an increase in house prices
San Francisco's growing homeless population
Drug use and petty crime
The election of Chesa Boudin
Chesa Boudin's personal experience with imprisonment
Proposition 47: The Safe Neighborhoods and Schools Act
Theories about the causes of San Francisco's decline
The San Francisco budget: more per capita than any other US city
The use of fentanyl in San Francisco
The recall Chesa Boudin campaign

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/san-francisco

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[BONUS] A Conversation with Lindsay from All Ears English

Leonardo English — Mon, 23 May 2022 00:00:00 +0200

An interview with Lindsay McMahon from All Ears English.

We discuss why learners should focus on "connection, not perfection", why this can be difficult for people, and Lindsay gives three practical tips on what you can do about this.

What is All Ears English?
What does "Connection Not Perfection" mean?
Where does the idea of Connection Not Perfection come from?
What is the problem with perfectionism?
How does this apply to language learners?
3 practical tips that learners can use to better "connect" with English

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/all-ears-english-interview

Listen to the All Ears English podcast: https://podfollow.com/all-ears-english-podcast

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#264 | Meyer Lansky: The Mafia's Accountant

Leonardo English — Fri, 20 May 2022 00:00:00 +0200

He was a famous organised criminal known for his superior mathematical skills.

In this episode, we'll learn how Meyer Lansky took the American criminal underworld by storm, built an empire and managed to evade the authorities.

The early life of Meyer Lansky
Befriending Bugsy Siegel & Lucky Luciano
The relationship between the Jewish & Italian mobs
The mob & The Prohibition Era
The Atlantic City Conference & the United Crime Syndicate
The end of Prohibition & starting in the casino business
Getting a reputation for "honesty"
Moving to Florida and setting up casinos
His relationship with Batista in Cuba
Las Vegas & the Flamingo Hotel
Returning to Cuba & The Havana Conference
Fidel Castro takes power and Lansky loses everything
His last years
Where did all the money go?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/meyer-lansky

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#262 | JK Rowling & The Battle To Publish Harry Potter

Leonardo English — Fri, 13 May 2022 00:00:00 +0200

On 26 June 1997, an unknown author published a book called Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.

Harry Potter would go on to become the best-selling series in literary history, selling over 500 million copies worldwide.

The journey to get there, however, was far from simple.

The early life of JK Rowling
Her mother's illness
Getting the idea for Harry Potter
Losing her mother, moving to Porto and her unhappy first marriage
Escaping to Edinburgh
Writing Harry Potter in a cafe while her daughter slept
Trying to find a publisher for Harry Potter
Why Harry Potter was rejected by so many publishers
The daughter of the boss of Bloomsbury Publishing reads one chapter
Getting her first book deal
The reception of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
Seeing JK Rowling's personal story in Harry Potter
Taking the book to the USA

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/publishing-harry-potter

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#260 | The Cambridge Analytica Scandal

Leonardo English — Fri, 06 May 2022 00:00:00 +0200

In March of 2018, it was revealed that 50 million Facebook profiles had been "hacked" and used to target American voters.

The story involved Donald Trump, a supposed Russian spy, a Cambridge researcher and a political consulting company.

The only problem was, how much of it was actually true?

The breaking of the story on March 18th 2018
A summary of the Cambridge Analytica report in The Guardian
The academic: Aleksandr Kogan
The role of Facebook in 2012
Quiz apps on Facebook (and their real purpose)
The role of Cambridge Analytica (the company)
Building "This Is Your Digital Life"
How many people took the quiz?
Was there really a "data breach"?
What was Aleksandr Kogan's involvement in the story?
The results come in: was the Facebook data effective at guessing someone's personality?
Cambridge Analytica's message to its clients: "5,000 data points on over 220 million Americans"
Working for Ted Cruz
Working for the Donald Trump Campaign
The news breaking in 2018
Was Cambridge Analytica involved in Brexit?
Conclusion: Did Cambridge Analytica actually have any involvement in the US election?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/cambridge-analytica

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#258 | The War Of The Currents

Leonardo English — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0200

In the late 19th century there was fierce competition to provide electricity to the rapidly industrialising USA. The winner would be rewarded with huge wealth and fame.

But who would claim the prize, and how dirty would the fight get?

Difference between AC & DC
The Golden Age in America
Early electrical inventions
The race to invent indoor electric lighting
Thomas Edison's incandescent electric light bulb
Why Edison pushed for DC
The problems with DC
The opportunity for a monopoly
Creating a challenge for Edison's employees
Breaking with Tesla
What was better: AC or DC?
The arrival of George Westinghouse
The battle gets dirty as Edison fears he is losing
The creation of the first electric chair
The execution of William Kemmler
Westinghouse's AC system wins the contract for the 1893 World Fair
The legacy of The War of Currents

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/war-of-the-currents

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#256 | Where Does All Our Rubbish Go?

Leonardo English — Fri, 22 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0200

Worldwide we produce over 2 billion tonnes of rubbish every year.

In this episode, we explore the history of rubbish collection and look at what happens to our rubbish after the truck comes to take it away.

How much rubbish does the average person throw away?
Iceland vs. Lesotho
How much is actually recycled
A brief history of rubbish disposal
Rubbish disposal in Ancient Greece
Monte Testaccio & disposal of amphorae in Ancient Rome
The four categories of rubbish disposal
"Frank" & his rubbish disposal
The incineration vs. landfill debate
Recycling: how much actually ends up being recycled?
Recycling throughout history
Perverse incentives with recycling
Developments in recycling

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/rubbish

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#254 | En Garde! A History Of Duelling

Leonardo English — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0200

For much of human civilisation, people have fought each to the death as a way of resolving arguments.

In this episode, we'll explore the curious and bloody history of one-on-one combat, from ancient Rome to 20th century France.

The most recent "modern" duel (1967, France)
The ancient concept of "champion warfare"
Trial by combat: a legal way to resolve a dispute
How trial by combat worked: a practical perspective
Why trial by combat died out
Trial by combat in Scandinavia: "Holmgang"
Renaissance duelling for honour
The role of the "second"
The two French officers who duelled against each other 30 times in 19 years
Duelling in the USA
Duelling goes all the way to The White House: Andrew Jackson & Alexander Hamilton
Why (and when) duelling stopped being popular
The legacy of duelling in books, poetry and film

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/duelling

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#252 | Five Surprising Food Origins

Leonardo English — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0200

In this episode, we'll explore the weird and fascinating origins of five foods that you know and (perhaps) love.

From the sandwich to tomato ketchup, chicken tikka masala, fish & chips and even the teabag, discover the weird and wonderful stories behind these well-known dishes.

Weird origin story #1: The Sandwich
Weird origin story #2: Tomato ketchup
Weird origin story #3: Fish & chips
Weird origin story #4: Chicken tikka masala
Weird origin story #5: The tea bag

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/unusual-food-origins

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#250 | A History of Smoking

Leonardo English — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 00:00:00 +0200

There are over a billion smokers across the world, and over 7 trillion cigarettes are smoked every year.

In this episode, we'll look at the history of smoking, from the "discovery" of tobacco by Christopher Columbus to how tobacco companies keep us smoking, even when we know the dangers to our health.

Tobacco in indigenous societies in the Americas
1492 - the year Christopher Columbus discovers tobacco
The etymology of "tobacco"
Jean Nicot finds a tobacco plant in Lisbon
Catherine de Médici tries "snuff" for the first time
Smoking sweeps across Europe
The invention of the cigarette
The invention of the cigarette rolling machine
Smoking during World War I & II
The 1964 headline: "Cigarettes Peril Health, U.S. Report Concludes."
Smoking & society
Cigarette advertising
Legal cases against Big Tobacco
The future of smoking - can it really be "smoke-free"?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/history-of-smoking

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#248 | The Antarctic Treaty

Leonardo English — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100

It's an amazing piece of legislation that protects the Earth's most isolated continent.

In this episode, we'll learn all about the history of Antarctica, which countries tried to claim it as their territory, and how the situation was resolved to benefit all humankind.

Background to Antarctica
The early history of Antarctic exploration
Antarctica and whaling
The rush to discover the magnetic South Pole
The Sixth International Geographical Congress
Land claims on Antarctica
The Cold War & Antarctica
The International Geophysical Year
The signing of the Antarctic Treaty
What the Antarctic Treaty actually does
The future of the Antarctic Treaty

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/antarctic-treaty

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#246 | Cornish Smugglers

Leonardo English — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100

In the 18th century, a small region of southwest England was the national centre for the illegal importing of goods such as tea and rum.

In this episode, we'll discover how smuggling really worked, who was involved, and why it was so successful for such a long period of time.

Cornwall today
Cornwall's relationship with London
The Cornish identity
Britain in the 18th century
The reason that import taxes were so high
Why Cornwall was such a centre for smuggling
How smuggling worked in practical terms
Why smuggling was so tolerated by the local population
Honest vs. dishonest smugglers
The strange English law about what you could do to goods found on a shipwreck
John Carter: the "King of Prussia"
How big a problem was smuggling in Britain?
The end of smuggling in Britain
The legacy of Cornish smugglers today

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/cornish-smugglers

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#244 | The Scandalous Life of Lord Byron

Leonardo English — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100

He was the Romantic poet famously described as "mad, bad, and dangerous to know".

In this episode, we'll learn about his scandalous life, how he shocked the nation so badly he had to leave, and how England's first "rock star poet" became a national hero in Greece.

The early life of Lord Byron
His time at Harrow school
Going to Cambridge University, sleeping around, and keeping a bear as a pet
His first poetic scandal
Embarking on The Grand Tour and discovering Europe's more relaxed attitude
Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage and returning to England a hero
Returning to England and becoming a hero overnight
His affairs and sexual exploits in England
His relationship with Augusta, his half-sister
Getting married and being a father to Ada (Lovelace)
Running away to Europe
A dark, moody summer writing Gothic horror with Percy and Mary Shelley
His exploits in Venice
Finding some order to life with Countess Teresa Guiccioli
Moving to Greece and becoming caught up with Greek independence
His early death aged 36
The legacy of Lord Byron

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/byron

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#242 | Operation Pied Piper: The Evacuation of British Cities in World War II

Leonardo English — Fri, 04 Mar 2022 00:00:00 +0100

In September 1939, the British government embarked on the biggest civilian operation in British history when it moved over a million children out of British cities to live with strangers in the countryside.

In this episode, we'll learn about this amazing mission and the mark it left on the country.

September 1st, 1939 - the start of Operation Pied Piper
Why children were sent away before the first bomb had even fallen
Which cities were affected by evacuation?
Dividing the country into three separate zones for evacuation
Why it was called Operation Pied Piper
Who was actually evacuated?
Sending gold to Canada and paintings to Wales
How the children were chosen to stay with host families
How urban children reacted to countryside life
Why the children returned after a few months of "the phoney war"
Government propaganda: "Don't Do It, Mother. Leave the Children Where They Are"
The Blitz starts and the children return to the countryside
The mixed reaction of the evacuated children
Psychological effects on evacuated children
The mark Operation Pied Piper left on the country

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/operation-pied-piper

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#240 | The Rise and Fall of Boris Johnson

Leonardo English — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0100

From a young age, he believed he was destined for greatness, and he became the UK's prime minister at the age of 55.

Discover how Boris Johnson's rise to power was unusual and full of contradictions, and how his fall was entirely predictable.

Similarities between Donald Trump & Boris Johnson
The early life of Boris Johnson
A clever-but-lazy student
His early career as a journalist
Getting sacked for inventing quotes
Breaking into politics
Making lots of money (but never enough)
His romantic life (what we know of it)
Presenting TV programmes and being in the public eye
Becoming Mayor of London
Boris Johnson's attention to detail
The decision to support Brexit
Finally becoming Prime Minister of the UK
Why Boris Johnson was so popular
Boris Johnson's government during COVID
"Partygate" and the ongoing fall of Boris Johnson
“Nothing matters very much and most things don’t matter at all”
The character of Boris Johnson

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/rise-and-fall-boris-johnson

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#238 | A Short History Of Tea

Leonardo English — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0100

It's the second most popular drink in the world after water, with 3.7 billion cups drunk every single day.

In this episode, we explore tea's fascinating history, how it changed global politics, caused countries to go to war with each other, and literally changed the world.

How much tea do we really drink every year?
Myths about the discovery of tea
Early tea consumption in East Asia
Tea first being brought to Northern Europe
Catherine of Braganza: the woman who brought tea to Britain
Tea and The East India Company
The Brits adding sugar to tea
Britain struggling to find a product to exchange with China for tea
Flooding China with opium
The Opium Wars
Sending spies deep into China to discover how tea was made
Tea cultivation in British colonies
Curious tea fact #1: The three different word groups for "tea" (and what they tell us)
Curious tea fact #2: The invention of the teabag
Curious tea fact #3: How to make the perfect cup of tea (advice from an expert)

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/history-of-tea

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#236 | How To Use Podcasts To Improve Your English [My Favourite Strategies]

Leonardo English — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0100

Learn how to actually use podcasts to improve your English listening, vocabulary, speaking, and even writing.

This is a special episode packed full of tips & tricks to help you use podcasts in a more effective way.

What most people do when listening to podcasts to learn a language
Listening tip #1: How to become a more attentive listener
Listening tip #2: Listening out for word/phrase use
Listening tip #3: Listening out for sounds of English
Podcast superpowers: how to use them as a learning exercise
Vocabulary tip #1: How to go from passive to active vocabulary
Speaking tip #1: Recording yourself, techniques to do so (and why this works)
Speaking tip #2: Shadowing (and why this works)
(Bonus) Speaking tip #3: Simultaneous translation (warning: advanced)
Writing tip #1: Summaries & reflections
The importance of writing in English as a way to clarify thoughts

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/how-to-use-podcasts-improve-english

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#234 | The Future of The British Royal Family

Leonardo English — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 00:00:00 +0100

On February 6th, the 95-year-old Queen Elizabeth will celebrate her 70th anniversary of being the queen of the United Kingdom.

In this episode, we’ll ask ourselves what happens next, how will the next king be different, and what the future holds for the British Royal Family.

The British royal family as a family business
Practical question: who will the next monarch be?
The popularity of Queen Elizabeth II
The problems ahead for Prince Charles
The public perception of Prince Charles
Why the British royal family will reduce in size
The Prince Andrew scandal
How might Prince ("King") Charles deal with Prince William?
Prince William & Princess Kate: the future of the British monarchy?
Allowing more access to the British royal family
Relationship between the British monarchy and the British parliament
The successes of Queen Elizabeth II
Charles I vs. Charles II vs. Charles III

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/future-british-monarchy

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#232 | When Britain Killed Its King

Leonardo English — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0100

In the 17th century, Britain decided to kill its king and experiment with life without a monarch.

In this episode we'll learn about the English Civil War, the 11 years the country spent without a monarch, why the monarchy was eventually restored, and the impact this had on the country.

The background to the English Civil Wars
The Divine Right of Kings
The errors of judgment of Charles I
Dissolving Parliament in 1629
Religious divisions in Great Britain
Trust breaking down between the King and Parliament
Civil War breaks out
The nature of The First English Civil War
The rise of Oliver Cromwell
The trial and execution of King Charles I
The second and third English Civil Wars
The Interregnum
The death of Oliver Cromwell and the return of Charles II to the throne
What was life like when Britain didn't have a king
The influence of "life without a king" on the country
The legacy of Oliver Cromwell
How to punish a man who had already died

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/britain-killed-its-king

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#230 | The Opioid Crisis

Leonardo English — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0100

Over the past twenty years, over half a million Americans have died of opioid overdoses.

In this episode, we'll explore how this happened, who is responsible, and ask ourselves whether the USA will ever be able to kick its addiction to prescription opioids.

Origin of "opioid"
Opioid overdoses in the US vs Western Europe
What caused the boom in opioid use in the United States?
Morphine & heroin during the American Civil War
The arrival of OxyContin
Purdue Pharma sales representatives' tactics to sell the drug to doctors
Increasing the doses for patients
The "less than 1% of patients become addicted" claim
People start abusing the drug
Senior executives are aware but do nothing
The cycle of addiction that doctors saw
Moving onto heroin & fentanyl
Why fentanyl is so powerful and dangerous
Who has been held responsible for the opioid crisis?
The Sackler Family (and its quest for immunity)
Opioid prescriptions are down, but overdoses are up
Is a solution for the opioid crisis possible?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/opioid-crisis

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#228 | The Crazy Life of Elvis Presley

Leonardo English — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0100

He was told by countless people that he would never make it as a star, yet by his mid-20s he was the most successful musician in the world.

In this episode, we'll learn about how Elvis Presley defied all his critics, became the biggest star of the 1960s, created the category of rock and roll but then lost the battle with his personal demons.

The USA that Elvis Presley was born into
Being given his third choice of birthday present: a guitar
Coming fifth place in a singing competition
Moving to Memphis and developing his own style
Recording his first song at the studio of Sun Records
Failing to achieve success and being told to continue driving a truck
His first hit: "That's All Right"
The musical style of Elvis Presley
His first tour in 1954, aged only 19
Thrusting his hips and causing controversy
Letter to the FBI: "Presley is a definite danger to the security of the United States"
Meeting Colonel Tom Parker, his exploitative manager
Going on the Ed Sullivan show
How much of his own music did Elvis actually write?
Trying to make it as a Hollywood star
Joining the army
Meeting the 14-year old Priscilla Beaulieu
Discovering prescription drugs
Returning to music after a 7-year break
The Elvis comeback
The Las Vegas years & a changed image
His marriage breaking up
His two addictions: prescription drugs & fast food
His love for "Fool's Gold"
How he died, and how it was covered up by his family
The rise of the Elvis impersonator
The legacy of Elvis Presley

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/elvis-presley

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#226 | The Amazing Life Of Ray Charles

Leonardo English — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 00:00:00 +0100

His early life was full of tragedy and misfortune, but Ray Charles never let this get in his way.

In this episode, we'll learn about how Ray Charles overcame adversity to become one of the most loved musicians in American history.

The early life of Ray Charles: born to a teenage mother in an institutionally racist country
Ray Charles: "Even compared to other blacks we were on the bottom of the ladder looking up at everyone else. Nothing below us except the ground"
The death of Ray Chales' younger brother
Going blind and being sent to a school for the blind
Learning to play the piano (while blind)
The death of his mother and moving to Jacksonville
Trying to make ends meet playing music
Copying the style of Nat King Cole
Deciding to move to Seattle
Making a name for himself in Seattle and meeting Quincy Jones
Getting his first record deal & "I Got A Woman"
Ray Charles' style: a combination of blues, jazz & gospel
Why Ray Charles was unpopular with many pastors
Ray Charles as an excellent businessman
Where his confidence comes from - “you’re blind, you ain’t stupid”
Battling his heroin addiction
Ray Charles and women
Later life and legacy

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/ray-charles

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#224 | Predictions Of The Future From The Past

Leonardo English — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0100

As a general rule, people are very bad at predicting the future.

In this episode, we'll take a look at some predictions of the future from the past, looking at what people thought our "today" would be like, the times they got it wrong, the times they got it eerily correct, and we'll also look at some predictions about what the future holds for future generations.

Why there was never a great need to "predict" the future until recently
A Roman born in 100BC being transported 1,000 years into their future
The prediction of Robert Malthus in 1798 about population
Paul Ehrlich's 1968 prediction: "The Population Bomb"
John Maynard Keynes's 1930 prediction about a reduced working week
Predictions from 1900 about what cities would look like: flying cars, roofs, driving ships
The Millennium Bug prediction
The man who could predict the future: Nikolas Tesla
Tesla predicting self-driving cars
Tesla predicting video calling
Tesla incorrectly predicting fashion choices
Tesla predicting an increasing expenditure on scientific discovery vs. war
Predictions today about our future: cancer, multi-planetary, metaverse
The terrible predictions top 3: computers, silent films & everything being invented

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/predictions-of-future

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#222 | John Dillinger - American Bank Robber

Leonardo English — Fri, 24 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0100

He was the most famous bank robber in American history and is still thought of as a Robin Hood-type figure in popular culture.

Learn about how John Dillinger went from a quiet life to becoming America's Public Enemy Number One, and how the law finally caught up with him.

The early life of John Dillinger: a naughty but not inherently bad boy
Moving out of the city to stay out of trouble
Being arrested for car theft and joining the navy
Briefly getting his life back on track
Meeting Ed Singleton and planning his first robbery
The robbery that went wrong and subsequent arrest
Being advised badly and going to prison for 9 years
"I will be the meanest bastard you ever saw when I get out of here"
Learning how to rob banks while in prison
Being released from prison and returning to a life of crime
Being arrested again and then rescued by friends from prison
Going on the run and starting the bank-robbing spree
Being arrested (again) and breaking out of prison by making a fake gun
Being chased by the FBI
Making front-page news
Growing a moustache, dyeing his hair, then having plastic surgery
Being betrayed by Anna Sage
The final cinema trip of John Dillinger
The legacy of John Dillinger

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/john-dillinger

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#220 | The Real Peaky Blinders

Leonardo English — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0100

The Peaky Blinders were a violent gang that terrorised the streets of Birmingham in the late 19th century.

Who actually were these men, what did they do, to who and why, and were the "real" Peaky Blinders anything like the ones in the TV series?

The start of the TV series "Peaky Blinders"
Life in Victorian England
Life in 19th century Birmingham
Petty crime and drinking in urban areas
The creation of the police force
The "sloggers" of Birmingham
The first "Peaky Blinders"
Did the Peaky Blinders put razor blades in their caps?
The genius of the Peaky Blinders TV series: transport the gang into the 1920s
The real Peaky Blinders of the 1920s
Billy Kimber, Alfie Solomons & Charles Sabinin
Criminal activity at the race tracks
The Epsom Road Battle

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/real-peaky-blinders

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#218 | The Rise Of Fast Food Part 3: Today & Tomorrow

Leonardo English — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0100

In the space of fewer than 100 years, fast food has fundamentally changed the global culinary landscape.

In this episode, we explore how it has managed to grow so much and what it is doing to our societies, world and bodies, and ask ourselves whether we'll ever kick our fast-food addiction.

1% of the world's population will eat at McDonald's today
The entire population of Scotland is flipping burgers in the United States
The power of the fast-food lobby
How the US government pays for Big Macs
Why the fast-food industry won't stop growing
Fast food during COVID-19
Changing dining habits during the pandemic
The rise of "fast-casual"
The rise of environmentally friendly fast food
How fast-food restaurants are changing (or not changing) to accommodate changing tastes
Impact of fast food on our bodies and health
Future of the fast-food industry

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/fast-food-3

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#216 | The Rise Of Fast Food Part 1: The Early Years

Leonardo English — Fri, 03 Dec 2021 00:00:00 +0100

Every day 1% of the world's population will eat at McDonald's, and hundreds of millions more will eat burgers, chips and all sorts of different fast food.

But just how popular is it, how is it so cheap and where did it come from in the first place?

Ancient "fast food"
The first modern fast food at White Castle in 1921
Bringing the automobile assembly line to the kitchen
Why there was an early emphasis on cleanliness
The 5 cents "Slider"
Why White Castle didn't expand all over America
The arrival of The Great Depression
Richard & Maurice McDonald & the birth of the modern McDonald's restaurant
The "Speedee Service System"
The fast-food boom of the 1950s
Ray Kroc discovers (and then buys) McDonald's
Why McDonald's is so successful
Adapting fast food to fit American culture

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/fast-food-1

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#214 | Robert Baden-Powell & The Boy Scouts

Leonardo English — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0100

Within the course of a few years, Robert Baden-Powell created a global movement that united children from all over the world.

In this episode, we'll take a look at how he came up with the idea, why it was so appealing, and the legacy that he has left on the world.

The early life of Robert Baden-Powell
Doing what was expected of an upper-class Englishman in the Victorian era
Baden-Powell in The Boer War
The Siege of Mafeking
Returning to the UK a hero
The first-ever scouting trip
The publication of Scouting for Boys
The 1909 Jamboree and the arrival of girl scouts
The Scouts as a socially-progressive organisation
The appeal of the Boy Scouts
The Scouts Promise
The Scouts during World War I
The Scouts in the post-war period
Creating a mass global movement & becoming “Chief Scout of The World”
The death of Baden-Powell and his legacy
Scouting today
The controversies The Scouts have faced
The future of The Scouts

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/baden-powell-scouts

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#212 | A Short History of Childhood

Leonardo English — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0100

Although there have always been children, the concept of "childhood" is more recent than many people think, with one French historian declaring that childhood didn't exist until the 17th century.

In this episode, we'll explore how ideas of childhood have changed, from John Locke to Jean-Jacques Rousseau, from the English Romantic poets right through to the creation of the teenager in post-war America.

What exactly is a child? What is childhood? When do you stop being a child, and for what reasons?
Phillipe Ariès: the author of “Centuries of Childhood”
Infant mortality in the Medieval era
Medieval ideas of childhood
Childhood in the Enlightenment
John Locke's idea of childhood: a tabula rasa
Jean-Jacques Rousseau's idea of childhood: innate and natural, guided by emotions
The Romantics on childhood: a blissful innocence
Childhood during the Industrial Revolution
Working 68 hours a week in Victorian Britain
The Victorians develop children's literature
The invention of the teenager
Childhood today: better, worse, or just different?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/history-of-childhood

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#210 | The Illogicality of The English Language

Leonardo English — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0100

There is a lot about the English language that makes very little sense at all.

In this episode we look at some of these illogicalities, paying close attention to homonyms, homographs, homophones, and even something called lonely negatives.

How many words are there in English?
English: The Mongrel Language
A quick history of the English language: Anglo-Saxons, Vikings & French
The scribes making English spelling very complicated
The typesetters introducing new spellings
Finding classical ancestry for words in English
Confusing English #1: Homophones
Fork candles vs. Four candles
Confusing English #2: Homophonyms
Confusing English #3: Homophographs
Confusing English #4: Lonely Negatives
An extremely confusing sentence

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/illogicality-of-english

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#208 | A History of James Bond

Leonardo English — Fri, 05 Nov 2021 00:00:00 +0100

He is the most famous spy in the world and has been drinking vodka martinis and driving fast cars since 1952.

In this episode, we'll look at the history of 007, his creator Ian Fleming, how Bond has changed over the years, and the fascinating family business behind the UK's most famous special agent.

The classic image of James Bond
Ian Fleming: the creator of the James Bond novels
The first hit: Casino Royale
How the James Bond novels are different from the James Bond films
Why did he choose the name "James Bond" for 007?
The very English death of Ian Fleming
Why Sean Connery was a controversial choice to play James Bond
Roger Moore, Pierce Brosnan & Daniel Craig
How the James Bond character has changed
The (family) business of James Bond
The future of James Bond
The accents of James Bond
James Bond speaking Russian & German

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/history-of-james-bond

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#206 | Queen Elizabeth II

Leonardo English — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0200

She is the longest-serving monarch in British history and has lived through 14 British prime ministers and 13 US presidents.

In this episode, we'll take a look at the remarkable life of Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Windsor, and ask ourselves how she, the monarchy, and the country have changed since she became queen almost 70 years ago.

Why Elizabeth was an unlikely queen
King Edward VIII and his abdication
The death of King George VI
The young life of Elizabeth
Becoming queen in 1952
The changing world in 1952
The personal life of Queen Elizabeth
How much do we actually know about her views?
How has the British monarchy changed since she took the throne?
Is Queen Elizabeth still popular in Britain?
The controversies of Queen Elizabeth
1992: her "annus horribilis"
Recent controversies: Windsor Castle, Diana, Harry & Meghan, Prince Andrew
The language of Queen Elizabeth: "The Queen's English"

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/queen-elizabeth-ii

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#204 | Brexit: Part 2

Leonardo English — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Part Two of our Brexit mini-series focuses on the Brexit vote itself.

In this episode, we'll look at why the UK held a referendum in the first place, how the campaign was fought, who voted for and against Brexit (and for what reasons), and why it was ultimately the vote to leave the European Union that proved successful.

Recap of Britain's complicated relationship with Europe
Why did the UK hold a referendum on EU membership in the first place?
The rise of Euroscepticism & UKIP
David Cameron & the Conservative Party
Did people care about the EU before the Brexit vote?
"Indescribably selfish recklessness"
The Brexit campaign: Leave vs. Remain
Reluctant Remainers
Messaging of the Remain campaign ("An Unnecessary Risk")
Messaging of the Leave campaign ("Take Back Control")
Who voted to remain?
Who voted to leave?
“I think the people of this country have had enough of experts”

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/brexit-part-2

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#202 | A History of Fake News

Leonardo English — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0200

The term "fake news" came to prominence in late 2016, but the idea of fake news is as old as time.

In this episode, we explore how fake news has been created over the years, for what purpose and by who, and ask ourselves whether it is harder than ever to tell the truth from a lie.

"Fake News" in 2016
What does "fake news" actually mean?
The three reasons that people create fake news
Fake News & Mark Anthony
Fake News in Trento in 1475
Fake News & the Nazis
The British government and Fake News in the First World War
How has news changed over the years?
Life on the moon in 1835
Macedonian teenagers and Donald Trump
Sensational News vs. Fake News
Russian troll farms
Deep Fakes in 2021

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/history-of-fake-news

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#200 | Stéphane Breitwieser: The Greatest Art Thief of All Time

Leonardo English — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0200

From 1995 to 2001, a man from eastern France stole 239 different pieces of art from 172 museums, an average of one theft every 14 days.

It's estimated that the value of all the stolen art was over 1 billion Euros, but he never sold a single piece of it.

The early life of Stéphane Breitwieser
Breitwieser's life falls apart
Meeting (and falling in love with) his accomplice
The first theft
Why he was such an unusual art thief
How the thefts would take place
Why he was a billionaire with no money
Being arrested for the first time
Promising to do things differently
Becoming even bolder
Breaking promises
Getting caught
The aftermath of the crime
Breitwieser's hopeless addiction to theft

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/stephane-breitwieser

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#198 | A History of Pirates

Leonardo English — Fri, 01 Oct 2021 00:00:00 +0200

"Let's jump on board and cut them to pieces!" - Blackbeard.

"A merry life and a short one" - Captain Bartholomew Roberts.

Pirates have a special place in our imagination. They are both heroes and villains, their lives attractive but scary.

In this episode, we'll take a closer look at pirates through history, the situations that allowed them to exist and prosper, what life as a pirate was actually like, what caused the Golden Age of Piracy to come to an end, and the legacy that they left behind.

The classic idea of a pirate
Pirates throughout history
The Golden Age of Piracy
Why was there a boom in piracy in the 17th century?
Captain Kidd: was he even a real "pirate"?
State-sanctioned pirates
The life of a pirate
Pirate hierarchies
What was a pirate attack really like?
Pirates: early masters of the power of image
The story of Blackbeard
What caused the end of the pirates?
The legacy of pirates
Pirate myth-busting: parrots, pirate language, hooks and treasure

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/history-of-pirates

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#196 | Ferdinand Magellan & The First Voyage Around The World

Leonardo English — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0200

In September 1519, a Portuguese explorer and a crew of 270 men set sail from Spain trying to find a sea route west, through the Americas.

Three years later, 18 of the men returned, tired and hungry, but becoming the first people to have successfully completed a full circle of the Earth.

Introduction to The Age of Exploration
The Treaty of Tordesillas
Seeking a route west to The Spice Islands
Magellan presents his idea to King Charles V of Spain
Why was the Spanish king listening to a Portuguese explorer?
The early life of Ferdinand Magellan
A “career-minded daredevil"
Why were spices in such high demand?
Why did Magellan sail for Spain, not Portugal?
The start of the expedition
The first mutiny
Finding a passage through South America
Crossing The Pacific Ocean
Arriving at Guam
Magellan's death in The Philippines
Arriving at The Spice Islands
The journey back to Spain
The legacy of the expedition
Who was the first person to have circumnavigated the globe?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/ferdinand-magellan

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#194 | Occupy Wall Street

Leonardo English — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0200

On September 17th, 2011, hundreds of people descended on a park in the heart of New York's financial district.

Their aim? To protest against the global financial system and its effects on 99% of the population.

On this 10th anniversary of the protests, we take a look at what happened, what they achieved, and what impact they might have in the future.

The United States in 2011
The 1% vs. the 99%
A global sense of uprising
The idea behind Occupy Wall Street
Meeting in Zuccotti Park in New York's Financial District
What did the protestors actually want to change?
Famous article by economist Joseph Stiglitz
The public perception around the need for change
A different model of decision-making
The end of the protests
What actually happened during the protests?
Criticisms of Occupy Wall Street
Disorganisation & being tricked about Radiohead playing
Did it really represent the 99%?
Pushing the idea of the 1% vs. 99% into the public consciousness
Legacy of Occupy Wall Street

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/occupy-wall-street

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#192: A History of Wikipedia

Leonardo English — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0200

It is one of the most popular websites in the world and has the goal of being a comprehensive collection of all of the knowledge in the world.

In this episode, we'll learn about the history of this amazing website, why it succeeded where others failed, how it actually works, and its importance as a source of truth.

Some statistics about how big Wikipedia is
History of encyclopedias
Bomis.com and the dot-com-boom
The founding of Nupedia
Why Nupedia didn't work
Launching Wikipedia
Why (and how) Wikipedia was different
Wikipedia's early growth
Early criticisms of Wikipedia
Who pays for Wikipedia?
The surprising second and third most popular languages on Wikipedia
Automating article creation
Criticisms of Wikipedia's trustworthiness
Trump vs. Biden on Wikipedia
Influence of the contributors on what is published on Wikipedia
Why you should edit Wikipedia

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/history-of-wikipedia

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#190: The National Rifle Association

Leonardo English — Fri, 03 Sep 2021 00:00:00 +0200

It's one of the United States' most powerful advocacy groups and is a fierce defender of gun rights.

But it hasn't always been like this.

In this episode, we'll discover how it went from helping create gun control laws to becoming the most powerful pro-gun organisation in Washington D.C.

The early years of the NRA
Helping introduce gun control laws in the 1930s
Passing the Gun Control Act of 1968
The 1970s: A change in the NRA
What does the NRA actually do? 5 key activities
How the NRA reacts after a mass shooting
The effect on the NRA of mass shootings
Barack Obama: "the best gun salesman in America"
The controversy within the NRA
How many Americans live in a household with guns?
American perceptions towards gun ownership

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/nra

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#188: Bonnie Prince Charlie

Leonardo English — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0200

In 1745 Charles Stuart arrived on the west coast of Scotland with the aim of taking back the throne of England, Scotland and Ireland.

It didn't go as planned and resulted in the last battle fought on British soil.

In this episode, we'll learn about his failed rebellion, and the legacy he has left on Great Britain.

The early life of Bonnie Prince Charlie
Relationship Bonnie Prince Charlie and Mary Queen of Scots
Meaning of "Pretender" in English
The Divine Right of Kings
Arriving in Scotland in 1745
Life in Britain under the Hanoverians
The Highland Clans
Marching towards Edinburgh
Marching south towards London
Stopping at Derby and turning back north
What if the French had come to help?
Who actually was in the Jacobite and government armies?
The night before Culloden
The Battle of Culloden
The aftermath of the battle
“Run, you cowardly Italian”
The life of Bonnie Prince Charlie after Culloden
Suppression of Highlandism after the battle
Three unusual facts about Bonnie Prince Charlie

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/bonnie-prince-charlie

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#186: William Wallace

Leonardo English — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0200

He was the Scottish rebel who fought against the English and has become the most famous freedom fighter in Scottish history.

In this episode, we'll learn all about his battles against the English, and the legacy that William Wallace left on the country.

Introduction to mini-series on Scottish heroes
The brutal execution of William Wallace
Introduction to Scotland (as a part of the British Isles)
William Wallace "the man" vs. William Wallace "the legend"
The death of Alexander II
Gaining a reputation as a hater of the English
Raising a small army and fighting the English
The battle of Stirling Bridge
Being rewarded with the position of The Guardian of Scotland
Edward II marching north to teach William Wallace a lesson
The battle of Falkirk
"The machine gun of the Middle Ages"
Becoming a diplomat and going to Europe
Capture and execution
Legacy of William Wallace within Scotland
1995 film "Braveheart"

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/william-wallace

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#184: Banned Books

Leonardo English — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0200

It's often said that the pen is mightier than the sword, and throughout history there are books that have been considered too dangerous to be read.

In this episode, we'll take a look at the times when governments have banned books, the reasons for this, and ask ourselves what this tells us about society.

What's the link between The Bible, William Shakespeare, Harry Potter, The Quotations of Chairman Mao and Mickey Mouse?
What does "banning" actually mean?
Correlation between banning books and restricting civil liberties
“….where they burn books, they will also ultimately burn people.“
The invention of the Gutenberg Printing Press
Indulgences of the Catholic Church
Growth of printing (and importance of censorship)
Reasons for banning books: political, sexual, moral & religious
The banning of Mein Kampf
The trial of Lady Chatterley's Lover
What banning books does for book sales
The debate around The Catcher in the Rye
Religious bans & The Satanic Verses
Banning books in 2021

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/banned-books

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#182: The Crazy Life of John McAfee

Leonardo English — Fri, 06 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0200

He was an internet security pioneer, and his McAfee Antivirus software was used on hundreds of millions of computers all around the world.

But privately, he lived a crazy life that ended in tragedy.

In this episode, we'll learn all about the wild, wild, life of this cybersecurity legend.

The early life of John McAfee
Finding talent for mathematics
Early vices: drink & drugs
Being kicked out of his PhD programme
Working in high-powered technology jobs (and developing a terrible drug addiction)
Creating McAfee Antivirus and making money from paranoia
Walking away with $80 million
Becoming a target for hackers
Losing all of his money in the financial crash
Moving to Belize
Claiming he was being extorted by the Belizean government
The murder of George Faull
Fleeing Belize
Running for US President
Attacking McAfee Antivirus
Promoting cryptocurrency
Being chased by the IRS and FBI
The final chapter: The Spanish jail cell
Conspiracy theories about his death

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/john-mcafee

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#180: Winston Churchill & The English Language

Leonardo English — Fri, 30 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0200

He is considered by many to be the greatest public speaker in British history, and his words and speeches were a defining force in the British war effort.

In this episode, we'll learn all about how Winston Churchill used the English language to inspire a nation.

Winning the 1953 Nobel Prize for literature
Early obstacles to being a great orator
Completing his education on his own
Studying the great English orators
Spending four decades as a member of parliament
Churchill's gift for storytelling
The medium: the radio
My grandfather's memories of Churchill's speeches
Background to Churchill's speeches
How Churchill wrote
Writing more words than William Shakespeare and Charles Dickens combined
Speech #1: "I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat“
Speech #2: "We shall never surrender"
Speech #3: "Give us the tools, and we will finish the job"
Why Churchill's words are so powerful
Churchill's wit (and some funny jokes)

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/winston-churchill-language

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#178: The Space Race - Part Three | The New Space Race

Leonardo English — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0200

In 2019, former Vice President Mike Pence said "Make no mistake about it - we're in a space race today".

Discover who the key players are, why there is a renewed interest in going to space, why it is now cheaper than ever before, and what the future of space exploration might look like.

Enthusiasm for space post moon landing
What was the next step in the first space race?
Mike Pence's view on the new space race
US, Russia and China
The emergence of private space companies
Why has going to space become cheaper?
Space mining: what is it, and how does it work?
Space junk?
The benefits of space exploration for life on Earth
Privacy and space
The laws of space
Reasons to be excited about a new space race
Differences between the new and the old space race

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/space-race-3

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#176: The Space Race - Part One | The Early Years

Leonardo English — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0200

After the end of the Second World War, the US and the USSR were locked in a race to get to space first.

Discover how the race started, who scored all the early points, and why going to the moon first was the biggest prize in space history.

End of World War II & Nazi V2 rockets
The head of the USA space programme: Wernher von Braun
The head of the USSR space programme: Sergei Korolev
The early years of The Space Race
Why there was such a desire to get to space
Communism vs. Capitalism
The first Sputnik Satellite
Confusing The Americans
First animals into space
Yuri Gagarin: The first man in space
1962: A bold claim from President John F. Kennedy
Next step "the moon"
The alternative "man on the moon" plans

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/space-race-1

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#174: 3D Printing

Leonardo English — Fri, 09 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0200

It's a technology that some have said will bring in a Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Discover how 3D printing actually works, what industries it is revolutionising, and how it will (or won't) change every aspect of the world we live in.

A brief history of the creation of objects
3D printing vs. traditional manufacturing
Should we really call it "printing"?
Early versions of 3D printing
Patents & 3D printing
Lowering of costs of 3D printing
3D printing & prototyping
Recent cost reductions in 3D printing
Revolutionising the global supply chain
Example of a British car manufacturer
3D printing "anything"
3D printing in space
Settlements on Mars
3D printing a cup, a new ear, and a full English breakfast
The implications of 3D printing on the world we live in
3D printing guns & criticisms of 3D printing

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/3d-printing

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#172: The Curious Taste of British Food

Leonardo English — Fri, 02 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0200

British food has a bad reputation. It's often considered boring, uninspiring, and tasteless.

But it hasn't always been this way.

Discover what role William the Conqueror, Henry VIII, The French Revolution and Colonialism all played in making British food taste the way it does.

The current reputation of British food
The arrival of the Normans in 1066
Henry VIII and the Reformation
Making fish taste better in Medieval England
Stopping eating dangerous "Catholic" dishes
The Industrial Revolution's effect on food
Preserving food in cans
Not having enough time to cook properly
"We may find in the long run that tinned food is a deadlier weapon than the machine gun."
The arrival of French chefs in British aristocratic homes
The British Empire
The history of curry
“Mrs Beeton's Book of Household Management”
When (and why) British food lost its taste
The Second World War & austerity
Modern British food (& TV cooks)
British food in 2021
The biggest takeaway market in Europe

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/curious-taste-british-food

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#170: A Brief History of Scientology

Leonardo English — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0200

It is, by some standards, the most successful modern religion.

Discover how Scientology went from the pseudo-medical ideas of an out-of-luck science fiction writer to a religion that counts some of the world's most famous film stars among its believers.

The early life of L. Ron Hubbard
Discovering a talent as a science fiction writer
L. Ron Hubbard's naval career
Moving to Los Angeles and developing a self-help system
The publication of Dianetics, a book that contained "more promises and less evidence per page than any publication since the invention of printing"
L. Ron Hubbard's theory about how the brain worked
Turning Dianetics into a religion
Charging large amounts of money to believers
Making extravagant purchases all over the world
Scientology's legal troubles
Launching the Sea Org
Adding to the doctrine of Scientology
The disappearance and death of L. Ron Hubbard
David Miscavige: a new leader arises
How many Scientologists are there?
Advertising at The Super Bowl
Hollywood Scientologists: Tom Cruise & John Travolta
Criticisms of Scientology
Scientology's tax battle in the United States
What actually is a religion?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/scientology

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#168: The Curious History of Spice

Leonardo English — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0200

Spices are an integral part of almost every cuisine in the world and are something that most of us now take for granted.

Yet spices used to be an incredibly valuable commodity and were the preserve of only the very richest in some societies.

In this episode, we'll learn more about how they went from being the preserve of the very richest in society to something that we sprinkle on our dishes without worrying about the cost.

What do we actually mean by "spice"?
Is salt a spice?
Theories about why hotter countries have spicier food
Spices in Ancient Egypt
Salt in Ancient Rome
Pepper in the Middle Ages
Spices as a status symbol
King Edward I's spice bill in the 13th century
Why were spices so expensive?
Vasco Da Gama's trip to India
Competition for spice in Asia
The Spice Islands
Swapping Manhattan for a tiny spice island
The spice market today

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/history-of-spice

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#166: Theranos: When Blood Testing Goes Bad

Leonardo English — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0200

It was a revolutionary idea: being able to conduct fast, cheap, and effective blood tests with only a tiny drop of blood.

But it turned out that the company behind it was one, huge fraud.

This is the fascinating story of how a Stanford dropout went from the youngest self-made female billionaire in history to facing 20 years in prison.

Background of Elizabeth Holmes
Problem with blood testing
Dropping out of Stanford
Telling a fantastic story
The atmosphere inside Theranos
Was there any technology really being developed?
Attracting influential investors and board members
Too much pressure for scientists within the company
The public launch of Theranos
Becoming the youngest self-made female billionaire in history
Idolising Steve Jobs
The arrival of John Carreyrou
Things starting to unravel for Theranos
Dropping to zero
Elizabeth Holmes today
Reflecting on what went wrong

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/theranos

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#164: The Rise And Fall Of WeWork

Leonardo English — Fri, 04 Jun 2021 00:00:00 +0200

It is the coworking company that was once valued at over $50 billion, but then came spectacularly crashing down.

In this episode, we'll learn about the amazing rise and fall of the company that tried to make office space cool.

The questions that WeWork gets us thinking about
WeWork at its peak
The founding of WeWork in 2010
Who was Adam Neumann?
Who was Miguel McKelvey
How WeWork as a business worked
Making office space cool
WeWork attracting billions of dollars in investment
Meeting Mayoshi Son
The vision continues to grow, and The We Company is born
Was WeWork a tech company?
Burning through money
Things start to go wrong
Looking under the hood
The collapse of WeWork
The phoenix to rise from the flames?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/wework

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#162: The Genius of William Shakespeare

Leonardo English — Fri, 28 May 2021 00:00:00 +0200

He is the most famous playwright in history and has been translated into every major living language.

In this episode, you'll learn about this fantastic man's life, his works, and why he is still called "the world's greatest living playwright".

An exhibition celebrating Shakespeare's 450th birthday
The two most common questions people have about Shakespeare
“He was not of an age, but for all time"
“The words of a dead man/are modified in the guts of the living.”
Shakespeare's universality
The life of William Shakespeare
Did Shakespeare really write the plays (and does it even matter)?
Shakespeare's global influence
Bardolators: ultra-keen Shakespeare fans
Why Shakespeare is responsible for bringing starlings to North America
Shakespeare's contribution to the English language
How Shakespeare created words
How Shakespeare worked
Shakespeare's group of actors
Why women didn't act
Boys playing women characters
Twelfth Night & ideas of gender
King Lear in Romania
Julius Caesar in Trump's America
The Globe Theatre in London

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/shakespeare

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#160: Politics & The Olympic Games

Leonardo English — Fri, 21 May 2021 00:00:00 +0200

The Olympics are meant to be a politics-free zone.

But is this ever really possible?

In this episode, we'll learn about the history of The Olympics, and analyse five times politics was at the heart of the games.

History of The Ancient Olympics
When The Olympics were banned by the Romans
Revival of Olympics in 19th century
Baron Pierre de Coubertin & The first modern Olympics in 1896
1936 Olympics in Berlin
1972 Olympics in Mexico City
1976 Olympics in Montreal
1980 Olympics in Moscow
2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi
Politics and The Olympics in the age of social media
Can politics ever be kept out of the games?
Sport: War, minus the shooting

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/politics-and-olympics

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#158: George Orwell

Leonardo English — Fri, 14 May 2021 00:00:00 +0200

For many, he is the greatest writer in the history of the English language.

Outside the UK, he is known as the author of two of the most important political fiction books in history: Animal Farm & 1984.

Learn about the amazing life of this fantastic man and the events that shaped his worldview.

Reasons to learn about George Orwell
The statue of George Orwell outside the headquarters of the BBC
Orwell's honesty & genius with language
The early life of George Orwell
Seeing the injustices of The British Empire
Discovering for himself how ordinary people lived
A description of cooking a steak in a Parisian restaurant
The Spanish Civil War
Writing Animal Farm
Retreating to a Scottish island and writing 1984
The legacy of 1984
The relevance of 1984 today
The “The People Will Believe What the Media Tells Them They Believe” meme
What George Orwell teaches us about the English language
Three curious facts about George Orwell

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/george-orwell

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#156: The Grand Tour

Leonardo English — Fri, 07 May 2021 00:00:00 +0200

“A man who has not been in Italy, is always conscious of an inferiority, from his not having seen what it is expected a man should see.”

It was the trip of a lifetime, where young, aristocratic British men would travel across Europe and open their eyes to new worlds.

Discover why these men would do this, how they travelled, what they got up to, and what it tells us about our relationship with tourism today.

Reasons to learn about The Grand Tour now
Who went on The Grand Tour?
Where did they go?
Italy: The place to not be missed
Understanding the classics
The role of The Cicerone (personal guide)
Collecting works of art as souvenirs
Thomas Howard: "The Collector Earl"
Canaletto selling paintings to the travellers
Non-cultural reasons for travelling: gambling, sex, and drinking
Influence of classical world on the British imagination
Practicalities of travel during The Grand Tour
Partying in Naples with Lady Hamilton
The Napoleonic Wars stopping The Grand Tour (and the consequences for British tourism)
Influences of The Grand Tour
Reflections on modern tourism

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/the-grand-tour

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#154: Las Vegas

Leonardo English — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0200

It's the world's Sin City, where fortunes and made and lost.

In this episode, you'll learn about the history of this unlikely city, from its early days as a desert oasis to its links with the Mafia, from eccentric entrepreneurs right through to atomic bombs.

Geographic location of Las Vegas
Discovering Las Vegas ("The Meadows")
1905: A sleepy railway town
Construction begins on The Hoover Dam
Providing entertainment for construction workers
1930s and 1940s: Bugsy Siegel and The Mafia arrive
Bugsy Siegel's early life
Building The Flamingo
Post World War II: "cheap luxury"
Watching atomic bombs explode
Howard Hughes arrives and never leaves
Pushing the mafia out of town
1980s: Las Vegas revival
Las Vegas today

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/las-vegas

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#152: The French Revolution

Leonardo English — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0200

It is the most famous revolution in Europe and saw the continent's most populous country execute its monarch and restructure its society.

From guillotines to out of touch queens, the French Revolution is the story of how France became the country of "liberté, égalité, and fraternité".

French society before the revolution
Louis XVI & Marie Antoinette
Raising taxes & The Estates General
The impact of Enlightenment ideas on France
Being "intoxicated with liberty and enthusiasm"
The storming of The Bastille
Declaration of The Rights of Man and The Citizen
Robespierre
Louis XVI trying to escape
War with Austria
The abolition of the French monarch & execution of Louis XVI
Marie Antoinette & "Let them eat cake"
The Reign of Terror
The arrival of Napoleon Bonaparte and the end of the revolution
Impact of The French Revolution on France
Impact of The French Revolution on the world
A tale of two French families and their reactions on Bastille Day

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/french-revolution

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#150: The Industrial Revolution

Leonardo English — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0200

It was the period in the mid-18th century where Britain experienced a radical transformation.

The Industrial Revolution saw huge improvements in manufacturing, millions of people move to the cities and the fabric of British society change forever.

Evolution or Revolution?
Pre-industrial life in Britain
The inventions in The Industrial Revolution
James Watt's Steam Engine
The textile industry
The canal system
The productivity increases: 500 times better
Changes in British family life
Urbanisation in Britain
Population increases & The Malthusian Catastrophe
Infant mortality improvements
Child labour
Status of women
Why did it happen in Britain?
Impact on our modern world

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/industrial-revolution

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#148: Tax

Leonardo English — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0200

"In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes"

Tax might not sound interesting or exciting to most people, but it affects all of us.

In this episode, we explore what paying taxes actually means, and how it affects our relationship with the government and society.

And we'll do all of this through the story of two pen-pals, Arlette from Paris, France, and John from Austin, Texas.

A very brief history of tax
Focussing on income tax
Example #1: John in Austin, Texas
Example #2: Arlette in Paris, France
The real cost of employing someone in France
What lower/higher taxes mean in terms of government expectations
Texas winter storm in 2021
The social safety net in France
The Gilet Jaunes
Thomas Piketty & the idea of a wealth tax

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/tax

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#146: Diego Maradona

Leonardo English — Fri, 02 Apr 2021 00:00:00 +0200

He is considered by many to have been the greatest footballer to have ever lived, yet off the pitch his life was full of tragedy.

Learn about the fascinating history of this amazing man, and discover why he arrived in Naples as a hero and left as the most hated man in Italy.

Diego vs. Maradona
Early life in Buenos Aires
Being spotted by a talent scout and joining Argentinos Juniors
An uneasy life in Barcelona
Fighting with Athletico Bilbao
His surprise move to Naples
Naples vs. the rest of Italy
Maradona being welcomed as a demi-god in Naples
Becoming a national hero for Argentina
The 1990 World Cup in Italy
Maradona's life in the Neapolitan underworld
Cocaine and prostitutes
Failing drug tests and leaving Naples
His tragic later life
Response to his death in 2020

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/maradona

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#144: Whaling

Leonardo English — Fri, 26 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0100

It has been called the "bloodiest business in history", and cost the lives of 3 million whales.

In today's episode, we take a look at the amazing history of whaling, from how it really worked to the reasons it went on for so long.

History of pre-industrial whaling
How pre-industrial whaling worked
Whaling during the Renaissance era
How whale hunting in 19th Century America worked
The men who killed the whales
What whale products were used for
Sailing further and further away on the hunt for whales
Whaling in the 20th century
Introducing quotas on whales
Dangers for whales in the 21st century
What is today's "whaling"?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/whaling

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#142: Scotland

Leonardo English — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 06:20:01 +0100

It's one of the four countries that form part of The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and has a fantastic history of invention, rivalry with its neighbour, and fierce pride.

In this episode, we take a look at the fantastic history of Scotland and ask ourselves how long it will remain part of the UK.

“We look to Scotland for all our ideas of civilisation.” - Voltaire

“Of all the small nations of this earth, perhaps only the ancient Greeks surpass the Scots in their contribution to mankind.” - Winston Churchill

Statistics about Scotland (geographically large, but has a small population)
Scotland's great history of inventors
Early Scottish rivalry with England
The story of William Wallace
The unification with England
The role of Panama
Scotland getting limited powers of independence in 1999
Brexit & Scottish independence
Would Scotland be allowed back into the European Union?
How long will Scotland remain in the UK?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/scotland

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#140: Cockney Rhyming Slang

Leonardo English — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0100

It's a dialect from a small area of London's that might sound impossible to understand.

In this episode, you'll learn what "apple and pears" means, what you should do if a friend asks if you want to go to the "battle", and who your "trouble and strife" might be...

Example clip of Cockney Rhyming Slang
How Cockney Rhyming Slang is formed
Funny connections between Cockney Rhyming Slang and the meaning of words
Why does Cockney Rhyming Slang exist?
Theories about how Cockney Rhyming Slang was created
Is Cockney Rhyming Slang useful?
Cockney Rhyming Slang in pop-culture
Similarities with Verlan in French
Why you should learn some Cockney Rhyming Slang (even if it isn't useful at all)

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/cockney-rhyming-slang

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#138: Disney Part III: The Magic

Leonardo English — Fri, 05 Mar 2021 00:00:00 +0100

In the last part of our three-part series on Disney, we take a look at the magic of Disney and ask ourselves what ingredients are in its special, magic sauce.

Can you really explain the 'magic' of Disney?
The Hero's Journey
The 5 core themes: narrative, characters, morale, humour, songs
Theme #1: Narrative
Theme #2: Characters
Theme #3: Morale
Theme #4: Humour
Theme #5: Songs
Bonus magic factor #1: Beautiful animation
Bonus magic factor #2: Easy to internationalise
Bonus magic factor #3: Nostalgia
A missing 'secret' ingredient?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/disney-magic

Looking for parts I & II of this mini-series?

Part I: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/disney-history
Part II: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/disney-business

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#136: Disney Part I: The History

Leonardo English — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0100

In the first part of our three-part series, we take a look at the fascinating history of Disney.

From why Mickey Mouse isn't a rabbit through to what Walt Disney was like as a person, the history of Disney is as interesting as it is magical.

Early life of Walt Disney
Setting off to California
The "Alice Comedies"
Setting up Disney Brothers Cartoon Studio
Oswald the Lucky Rabbit (and why you probably haven't heard of him)
Walt Disney's first big lesson
The arrival of Mickey Mouse
Merchandising
Starting to make longer films (Snow White and The Seven Dwarves)
Almost going bankrupt
Starting to make nature documentaries
Dreaming of an adventure park
What was Walt really like as a man?
Post-Walt Disney
Films you might not know are ultimately Disney
The Disney spending spree

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/disney-history

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#134: A Short History of The English Language

Leonardo English — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 08:34:08 +0100

From a small, wet island, English has come to be the world's dominant language.

How did this actually happen, where does English actually come from, and how has the language changed over the years?

How many people speak English
Why English isn't a 'pure' language (English as a mongrel dog, and as a soup)
Anglo-Saxons & "Old" English
Anglo-Saxon words in English today (and why you should use them)
“Short words are best, and old words when short are best of all.”
Invasion by the Vikings (and the impact on the English language)
Invasion by the Normans (and their linguistic impact)
How French words became 'fancier' versions of the original English
The French linguistic influence on how we talk about food in English
William Shakespeare & the 1,700 words he added to English
"Borrowing" words from the colonies
How many countries speak English today
English's incredible ability to change (and why some people still don't like that)

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/history-of-english-language

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#132: Valentine's Day

Leonardo English — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0100

It's the day of the year where we celebrate love and desire.

But where does it actually come from?

The origins of Valentine's Day are mysterious, and not even that closely related to love at all.

"One of those mysterious historical or antiquarian problems which are doomed never to be solved.”
Theory #1: St Valentine of Rome
Theory #2: St Valentine of Terni
Alternative legends of St Valentine
Why is Valentine's Day on 14th February?
The traditions of the Roman feast of Lupercalia
The tradition of romance in the Medieval era
Valentine's Day & Shakespeare
The commercialisation of Valentine's Day
How much we spend on Valentine's Day every year
Alternatives to Valentine's Day

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/valentines-day

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#130: Rose Island

Leonardo English — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 00:00:00 +0100

Discover the story of what happened when an Italian engineer decided to build an island off the coast of Italy..and then declare it to be an independent country.

Giorgio Rosa - the ambitious engineer
The law about who owns the sea
How he built the island
Declaring Rose Island to be an independent country
The political situation in the 1960s
Why people were worried when he declared independence
The reaction of the Italian government
Declaring The Republic of Minerva in The Pacific Ocean
Libertarianism & declaring new nation-states
What will the countries of the future look like?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/rose-island

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#128: The Art of War

Leonardo English — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0100

It's the world's most famous book on military strategy.

Learn about its fascinating history, about the lessons in the book, and discover how you can apply some ideas from this 2,500-year-old book to your English learning.

What we know (and don't know) about the book
Sun Tzu: military strategist and general
Other authors & editors of The Art of War
Being brought by Europe (and used by Napoleon?)
#1 Lesson from The Art of War: Avoiding War
#2 Lesson from The Art of War: Being Prepared
#3 Lesson from The Art of War: Being Adaptable
#1 English Learning Lesson from The Art of War: Change your strategies
#2 English Learning Lesson from The Art of War: Have both a strategy and tactics
#3 English Learning Lesson from The Art of War: Take opportunities when you see them
Why you should ignore all of the advice in the book (when it comes to learning English)

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website:

https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/art-of-war

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#126: Chocolate

Leonardo English — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0100

It's the world's favourite sweet snack, and the chocolate industry is worth over $100 billion.

Discover the fantastic history of where it comes from, how it became so popular, and learn about some of the economics of chocolate production.

The Theobroma Cacao tree: where it all starts
Aztecs & the early years of drinking chocolate
The arrival of the Spanish Conquistadors & a ‘bitter drink for pigs’
Arriving in Europe
How cacao trees grow (and why it can't in Europe)
The invention of the cacao press
The golden era of chocolate
The industrialisation of the chocolate process
Chocolate manufacturing & poverty
Cacao trading & buying futures
Chocfinger: the man who cornered the world cacao market

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/chocolate

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#122: Bitcoin

Leonardo English — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0100

It's the most famous cryptocurrency in the world, and went up in value by 269% in 2020.

In this episode, we take a look at what it actually is, how it works, why some people think it is the future of money and others think it is a giant bubble.

How 'traditional' money works
Banks and storing money
1971 and leaving the gold standard
Inflation
Satoshi Nakamoto & the Bitcoin whitepaper
Principles of bitcoin
How bitcoin payments work
How the blockchain works
Bitcoin and inflation
Why the bitcoin price goes up and down
Buying things with bitcoin
The first pizzas bought with bitcoin
Why people don't like bitcoin
The US Federal Reserve & bitcoin

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/bitcoin

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#120: Vespa

Leonardo English — Fri, 01 Jan 2021 00:00:00 +0100

It's the iconic Italian scooter that has conquered the world.

Learn about how it started, how it got its name, and why it has become such a huge, global success story.

“A completely Italian product, such as we have not seen since the Roman chariot”
1884 and the founding of Piaggio
World War I and making aeroplanes
World War II and being bombed by the Allies
Rebuilding the factory and deciding to build a scooter
Version 1: Donald Duck
Version 2: The Vespa
Designing a scooter from the ground up
Selling 1 million scooters by 1956
Vespa and Hollywood
Vespa as an aspirational symbol
Vespas in the UK: Mods vs. Rockers
Vespa in Italy today
Weird records in a Vespa

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/vespa

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#118: 9 Things That Happened on Christmas Day

Leonardo English — Fri, 25 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0100

You might think that nothing of historical importance ever happens on Christmas Day, but you'd be wrong.

Here are 9 weird and wonderful events.

The one thing they have in common? They all happened on December 25th.

Jesus of Nazareth - born on December 25th?
Event #1 - Crowing of Charlemagne as Holy Roman Emperor
Event #2 - Coronation of William the Conqueror as King of England
Event #3 - Discovery of Celcius as a measure of temperature
Event #4 - Andrew Johnson pardoning Confederate soldiers
Event #5 - The ceasefire of World War I
Event #6 - The Apollo 8 space shuttle leaves Earth's orbit
Event #7 - The execution of Ceaușescu
Event #8 - The first live testing of the World Wide Web
Event #9 - The resignation of Mikhael Gorbachev

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/9-things-happened-christmas-day

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#116: Jeremy Bentham & Utilitarianism

Leonardo English — Fri, 18 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0100

He was the creator of utilitarianism, a philosophical framework for how societies should be structured, based on the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people.

Learn about the fascinating life of this interesting character, how this theory impacted the law, and how he was true to his beliefs even in death.

Bentham's early life as a child prodigy
Enlightenment principles
Introduction to the Principles of Morals and Legislation
Measuring pleasure vs. pain
The six different measurements of pleasure and pain
Rejecting existing laws
The Panopticon and treatment of criminals
Why should someone be killed for stealing?
Problems with utilitarianism
Defining the true meaning of happiness
Applying utilitarianism to economics, sexuality and animal rights
Bentham's wishes for his body when he died
The theft of Jeremy Bentham's head

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/jeremy-bentham

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#114: Charles Darwin & On the Origin of Species

Leonardo English — Fri, 11 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0100

He is the father of modern biology, and his 1869 book On the Origin of Species presented a revolutionary new idea about how species evolve.

Discover the amazing story of Charles Darwin, and the journey of how he developed this groundbreaking theory.

Early life of Charles Darwin
Being sent to medical school aged 16
Developing an early interest in the natural world
Moving to Cambridge and starting the journey of becoming a priest
What happens when you put a beetle in your mouth
Creationism & evolution
The trip of a lifetime
5 weeks in the Galapagos Islands
Returning to Britain and working in secret
Publishing On the Origin of Species
Modern theories of evolution

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/charles-darwin

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#112: Personality Tests

Leonardo English — Fri, 04 Dec 2020 00:00:00 +0100

The personality industry is worth billions, and promises to help us better understand ourselves.

But how did it start? How does it actually work?

And most importantly, does it actually work?

What are personality tests?
Historical ideas of personality & character: The four humours
Sigmund Freud & Carl Jung
Katharine Cook Briggs & Isabel Briggs-Myers: the mother and daughter pair from Michigan
The Myers-Briggs Personality Indicator
Personality within a family environment
How The Myers-Briggs Personality Indicator works
Corporate America & personality tests
Personality testing: a billion dollar industry
Problems with the personality test industry
The Forer effect
Why The Myers-Briggs Personality Indicator has remained so popular

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/personality-tests

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#110: Black Friday & A Short History of Discounting

Leonardo English — Fri, 27 Nov 2020 01:00:00 +0100

It's the biggest shopping day of the year. How did it start, what actually happens, and how much do people really spend?

Plus, learn about the history of discounting, and how companies trick you into buying things you don't need.

How much people spend on Black Friday
How Black Friday has developed over the years
The history of Black Friday (it doesn't come from 'going into the black')
Coca-Cola and the first mass discount
The business of discounting
Tricks companies use to get you to buy stuff you don't need
Trick #1 - The Rule of 100
Trick #2 - Using prices with fewer syllables
Trick #3 - Phased discounting
The Black Friday alternative: Buy Nothing Day
What Leonardo English is (or isn't) doing for Black Friday

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/black-friday-history-of-discounting

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#108: Penal Colonies

Leonardo English — Fri, 20 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0100

Starting in the 17th century, Britain sent hundreds of thousands of people to America and Australia for crimes as small as stealing a loaf of bread.

Learn about why this happened, how it worked, and the legacy it has left on the countries where these prisoners were sent to.

Sending criminals away as a punishment - as old as time
The Bloody Code & being killed for stealing a rabbit
Impact of the Agricultural and Industrial Revolutions on society
Prison boats
Sending criminals to America
What life was like in America as a prisoner
The American Revolution & finding a new place for prisoners
The discovery of Australia
The convicts' journey to Australia
1 in 5 Australians is a descendant of a convict
Penal colonies in other countries
The cultural impact of sending prisoners to the colonies

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/penal-colonies

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** More about Leonardo English and the English for Curious Minds podcast **

Learning English shouldn't be boring. It should open your mind.

English Learning for Curious Minds is a podcast aimed at intermediate level English speakers and above, where listeners learn fascinating things about the world while learning English.

There's no small-talk, no boring grammar exercises or vocabulary drills.

You'll learn English by listening, by hearing real conversations and real English, spoken by native speakers, and at a speed you can understand.

You can become a member of Leonardo English and get access to every podcast, transcripts, key vocabulary, an exclusive community, and be able to participate in members-only live sessions.

Discover a more interesting way to improve your English at leonardoenglish.com/subscribe

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#106: Superstitions

Leonardo English — Fri, 13 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0100

From black cats to Friday the 13th, superstitions exist in cultures all over the world.

Where do they come from? Why do so many people believe them? And is there any evidence to suggest that they are actually true?

Definition of 'superstition'
Superstitions in Ancient Rome
Superstitions + religion
The Catholic Church + superstitions
Why are so many superstitions about 'bad' luck?
Superstition Story 1: Why you shouldn't open an umbrella inside
Superstition Story 2: Salt over your shoulder
Superstition Story 3: Knocking on wood
Superstition Story 4: Saying 'bless you' after sneezing
Superstition Story 5: Friday 13th

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/superstitions

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English Learning for Curious Minds is a podcast aimed at intermediate level English speakers and above, where listeners learn fascinating things about the world while learning English.

There's no small-talk, no boring grammar exercises or vocabulary drills.

You'll learn English by listening, by hearing real conversations and real English, spoken by native speakers, and at a speed you can understand.

You can become a member of Leonardo English and get access to every podcast, transcripts, key vocabulary, an exclusive community, and be able to participate in members-only live sessions.

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#104: Survivalism

Leonardo English — Fri, 06 Nov 2020 00:00:00 +0100

It's the belief that the world is unstable and unpredictable, and that we should all be prepared for what happens when catastrophe strikes.

Learn about where this idea came from, what survivalists do, and why the USA is the world's survivalist capital.

What is survivalism?
Different types of survivalist
1960s and the birth of survivalism
Reasons that survivalism has grown
Doomsday Preppers TV show
Survivalism is big business
COVID-19 and survivalism
Survivalists: rich and poor
Why is the US the global capital of survivalist?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/survivalism

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English Learning for Curious Minds is a podcast aimed at intermediate level English speakers and above, where listeners learn fascinating things about the world while learning English.

There's no small-talk, no boring grammar exercises or vocabulary drills.

You'll learn English by listening, by hearing real conversations and real English, spoken by native speakers, and at a speed you can understand.

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#102: Daylight Saving Time

Leonardo English — Fri, 30 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0100

In 70 countries around the world we change the time twice a year, giving us longer evenings in summer.

Why did we start doing this? Why do some people love it, others hate it, and will we ever stop doing it altogether?

Early ideas about timekeeping
Romans & hours that were longer or shorter than 60 minutes
When every town had its own time zone
The invention of standard time zones
The Earth's tilt and the reason days are longer and shorter by season
The proposals to create Daylight Saving Time: collecting insects & playing golf
Starting to use Daylight Saving Time
Daylight Saving Time in the 20th century
Reasons to keep Daylight Saving Time: wellbeing, reducing crime, reducing accidents, businesses that benefit from it
Reasons to get rid of Daylight Saving Time: doesn't save energy, it's annoying to change, lost productivity, health disadvantages, businesses that don't like it
Farmers in the north of Scotland
When the UK kept Daylight Saving Time all year round
Complications with Daylight Saving Time when communicating between time zones
Getting rid of Daylight Saving Time?
Changing the clocks twice a year at the Queen's residences

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/daylight-saving-time

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There's no small-talk, no boring grammar exercises or vocabulary drills.

You'll learn English by listening, by hearing real conversations and real English, spoken by native speakers, and at a speed you can understand.

You can become a member of Leonardo English and get access to every podcast, transcripts, key vocabulary, an exclusive community, and be able to participate in members-only live sessions.

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#100: Leonardo Da Vinci

Leonardo English — Fri, 23 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0200

He has been called 'the most relentlessly curious man in history', and was the quintessential Renaissance man.

Learn all about the fantastic life of the genius after whom Leonardo English is named, from his talents as an artist to his skills as an engineer, and get inspired by his insatiable curiosity about how the world works.

His early life in Vinci
Apprenticeship in Verrocchio's workshop
Keeping notebooks
"The most relentlessly curious man in history"
How everything in the world is connected
Writing a letter to the Duke of Milan
Painting The Last Supper
Later life & moving to France
Leonardo Da Vinci as a misfit in Florentine society: illegitimate, left-handed, uninterested in fame, homosexual, vegetarian
Love for animals
Work as an anatomist
Work as an engineer
The Mona Lisa
"I haven't achieved enough"

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/leonardo-da-vinci

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There's no small-talk, no boring grammar exercises or vocabulary drills.

You'll learn English by listening, by hearing real conversations and real English, spoken by native speakers, and at a speed you can understand.

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#98: GDP & Measuring Growth

Leonardo English — Fri, 16 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0200

“It measures everything in short, except that which makes life worthwhile.” - Robert Kennedy

It's the number that world leaders constantly talk about, using it as proof of what a great job they are doing.

But what does it actually mean? What does it tell us, and what doesn't it tell us? And what would happen if we stopped using it altogether?

Measuring growth in history
Simon Kuznets & the invention of GDP
John Maynard Keynes & popularising GDP after WWII
How to calculate GDP
Why GDP started being used & when it was useful
Criticism of GDP #1: What is (and isn't) counted as part of GDP
Criticism of GDP #2: Positive and negative contributions to GDP
Criticism of GDP #3: Unpaid work & GDP
GDP per capita as a measure of 'how well we are doing'
Is all consumption good?
Bhutan & measuring happiness
Alternative #1: The Human Development Index
Alternative #2: The Human Capital Index
Alternative #3: The Genuine Progress Index
Abandoning measuring GDP altogether?

Full interactive transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/gdp

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English Learning for Curious Minds is a podcast aimed at intermediate level English speakers and above, where listeners learn fascinating things about the world while learning English.

There's no small-talk, no boring grammar exercises or vocabulary drills.

You'll learn English by listening, by hearing real conversations and real English, spoken by native speakers, and at a speed you can understand.

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#96: The Vikings

Leonardo English — Fri, 09 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0200

For almost 300 years the vikings terrorised large parts of Europe, arriving in boats and killing anyone that got in their way.

But they were also traders, inventors, and storytellers, and they have had a lasting legacy on the world we live in.

In this episode we cover:

The oversimplification of the vikings
The first viking attack in 793
Why did the vikings invade in the first place? Overpopulation, the search for brides, revenge, or they sensed an opportunity?
Settling alongside the local population
Technological advances with boats
How the vikings fought
Valhalla & what happened when a viking died in battle
Trading in the middle east
Viking social classes
A viking symbol you probably have on your phone
The vikings' linguistic legacy
How did the vikings end?
The Victorians and the vikings
The viking ancestral legacy

Full interactive transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/the-vikings

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English Learning for Curious Minds is a podcast aimed at intermediate level English speakers and above, where listeners learn fascinating things about the world while learning English.

There's no small-talk, no boring grammar exercises or vocabulary drills.

You'll learn English by listening, by hearing real conversations and real English, spoken by native speakers, and at a speed you can understand.

You can become a member of Leonardo English and get access to every podcast, transcripts, key vocabulary, an exclusive community, and be able to participate in members-only live sessions.

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#94: Cryptozoology | The Hunt for Mystery Animals

Leonardo English — Fri, 02 Oct 2020 00:00:00 +0200

You've heard of zoology, but you might not have heard about its pseudoscience cousin, cryptozoology, the subculture that attempts to prove the existence of mysterious animals from folklore and popular culture.

In today's episode we cover

Origins of Cryptozoology
1960s and conspiracy theories
The discovery of the komodo dragon and the giant panda
Problem with cryptozoology #1: lack of professionalism
Problem with cryptozoology #2: problems with sightings of monsters
Problem with cryptozoology #3: where do their remains go?
Problem with cryptozoology #4: geological problems with cryptids
Can you be a 'normal' cryptozoologist?
We are still discovering 'real' species every year
How cryptozoology can help us
Discovering animals before they become extinct

Full interactive transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/cryptozoology

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Learning English shouldn't be boring. It should open your mind.

English Learning for Curious Minds is a podcast aimed at intermediate level English speakers and above, where listeners learn fascinating things about the world while learning English.

There's no small-talk, no boring grammar exercises or vocabulary drills.

You'll learn English by listening, by hearing real conversations and real English, spoken by native speakers, and at a speed you can understand.

You can become a member of Leonardo English and get access to every podcast, transcripts, key vocabulary, an exclusive community, and be able to participate in members-only live sessions.

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#92: The English of Boris Johnson

Leonardo English — Fri, 25 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0200

The Prime Minister of the UK has a unique way of using language, which shows his privileged upbringing and elite education.

Learn about how he uses language, why he talks in this way, why this appeals to the British people, and what similarities he has with Donald Trump.

In today's episode we cover:

The early life of Boris Johnson
Johnson's classical language
Clip of Johnson in an Ancient Rome vs. Ancient Greece debate
Johnson's carefully maintained image
Johnson's struggle to use simple language
British tradition of upper-class rulers
Why Johnson makes no apologies for himself
A £250,000 a year 'second job' that is 'chicken-feed'
Johnson's human flaws
Johnson's ability to use language to create vivid, memorable images
Johnson as a breath of fresh air vs. status quo politicians
Using comedy to avoid questions
Similarities and differences between Boris Johnson and Donald Trump
Did Boris Johnson attempt to manipulate the Google search results?

Full interactive transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/english-of-boris-johnson

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English Learning for Curious Minds is a podcast aimed at intermediate level English speakers and above, where listeners learn fascinating things about the world while learning English.

There's no small-talk, no boring grammar exercises or vocabulary drills.

You'll learn English by listening, by hearing real conversations and real English, spoken by native speakers, and at a speed you can understand.

You can become a member of Leonardo English and get access to every podcast, transcripts, key vocabulary, an exclusive community, and be able to participate in members-only live sessions.

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#90: The House of Medici

Leonardo English — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 00:00:00 +0200

"He it is who decides peace and war… He is king in all but name.”

Quote about Cosimo de' Medici

The Medici family rose to power in Florence in the 1400s, and controlled the city for a large part of the Renaissance. Their legacy lives on through much of the art, culture, and architecture that we now take for granted.

In this episode we tell the story of how they rose to power and developed the idea of modern philanthropy.

In today's episode we cover:

The founding of the Medici bank
The bank and the Vatican City
Cosimo de Medici: "The Father of The Fatherland"
Patronage of the arts
Lorenzo The Magnificent
The attempted assassination of Lorenzo in front of 10,000 people
Being held prisoner by the King of Naples
The Medici entering the Vatican City
Making marriage matches
The legacy of The Medici

Full interactive transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/the-house-of-medici

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More about Leonardo English and the English for Curious Minds podcast

Learning English shouldn't be boring. It should open your mind.

English Learning for Curious Minds is a podcast aimed at intermediate level English speakers and above, where listeners learn fascinating things about the world while learning English.

There's no small-talk, no boring grammar exercises or vocabulary drills.

You'll learn English by listening, by hearing real conversations and real English, spoken by native speakers, and at a speed you can understand.

You can become a member of Leonardo English and get access to every podcast, transcripts, key vocabulary, an exclusive community, and be able to participate in members-only live sessions.

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#88: The Amazing Life of Whales

Leonardo English — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 01:00:00 +0200

“The whales do not sing because they have an answer, they sing because they have a song.”- Gregory Colbert

Whales are some of the most amazing animals that have ever existed.

From where they come from to how they live their lives, through to the threats that they have faced and how they bring new life in death, it's time to learn more about the amazing life these animals lead.

In today's episode we cover:

What really is a 'whale'?
The great variety of whales
How whales feed
How whales migrate to find food and mate
How whales communicate
Whales: one of only 6 animals in the world that 'learn' to vocalise
A whale song
Whale hunting
What happens when a whale dies

Full interactive transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/the-amazing-life-of-whales

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#86: Electric Cars

Leonardo English — Fri, 04 Sep 2020 01:00:00 +0200

The history of electric cars goes back a lot further than Tesla and Elon Musk.

Indeed, the 'golden age' of electric cars was over 150 years ago.

Discover how electric cars have evolved, why some people say they aren't as green as people think they are, and we run the calculations to see what the true environmental cost of electric car ownership is.

Electric vs. Petrol vs. Steam
The Golden Age of the electric car
Electric: The lady's choice
The arrival of the Ford Model T
The oil crises
Tesla & The Roadster
Criticisms of electric cars: production, usage, and resource extraction
Calculating the true environmental cost of an electric car
Tesla's share price
Betting against electric?

Full interactive transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/electric-cars

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#84: Tito | The Man Who Stood Up To Stalin

Leonardo English — Fri, 28 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Tito, the former president of Yugoslavia, survived 21 assassination attempts, fought in two world wars, and managed to stand up to Josef Stalin and live to tell the tale.

In this episode we tell the tale of the fascinating life of Josip Broz, 'Tito'.

In today's episode we cover:

Birth and early life of Josip Broz
Joining the Austro-Hungarian army & World War One
Being captured by the Russians
Returning home to a different country
World War II & the partisan underground
Beating the Nazis
Struggling with Stalin & death threats
Post-Stalin years
Authoritarian rule within Yugoslavia
What was Tito's legacy?

Full interactive transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/tito

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#82: The English of Donald Trump

Leonardo English — Fri, 21 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0200

The former President of The United States of America uses a kind of English you won't find in a textbook.

Here we take a look at how he speaks, why he speaks like he speaks, and what Donald Trump can teach you about speaking English effectively.

In today's episode we cover:

"I have the best words"
The vocabulary that Trump uses
The coherence of Donald Trump
The problems that translators have with Donald Trump
The vulgar language that Trump uses
Linguistic techniques that Trump uses
Why Trump is so effective
What you can learn from Donald Trump

Full interactive transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/english-of-donald-trump

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#80: 1MDB & The Missing Malaysian Billions

Leonardo English — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0200

It's one of the biggest financial frauds in history, and involves bankers, politicians, Hollywood celebrities, and The Wolf of Wall Street.

It's time to find out what happened to the missing Malaysian billions.

In today's episode we cover:

Najib Razak comes to power in 2009
Malaysia and the role of a development fund
Enter Jho Low
From $1 billion to $10 billion
Lavish shopping sprees
“Big-spending Malaysian is the mystery man of city club scene”
The wildest party in Vegas
The Wolf of Wall Street
How the fraud really worked
Offshore companies
Goldman Sachs
How everything came crashing down
Najib Razak, Jho Low, and Goldman Sachs in 2020

Full interactive transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/1mdb

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#78: Modern Pirates

Leonardo English — Fri, 07 Aug 2020 00:00:00 +0200

The pirates of the 21st century don't have parrots and swords, but night-vision goggles and AK47s.

Discover why pirates have re-emerged, how they work, and what the effect of piracy is on the areas in which they operate.

In today's episode we cover:

Somalia - the world's piracy hotspot
Why pirates emerged in Somalia
How fisherman became pirates
How pirates are organised
Ransoms and getting paid
The pirate stock market
The effect on the community on land
The 'new' pirate hotspot

Full interactive transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/modern-day-pirates

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#76: The World Bank

Leonardo English — Fri, 31 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0200

It's one of the world's most important financial institutions, but also one of the most controversial.

Discover what the World Bank actually is, how it works, what happens when it gets things right, and what happens when things go badly wrong.

In today's episode we cover:

The creation of the World Bank
The difference between the World Bank and the IMF
The ambitious aims of the World Bank
The first World Bank loan, to France
Structural Adjustment (or "you do what we say")
The Cochabamba Water War in Bolivia
Why the World Bank imposes conditions
What happens to all this debt?

Full interactive transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/world-bank

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#74: QAnon | America's Most Dangerous Conspiracy Theory?

Leonardo English — Fri, 24 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0200

This far-right conspiracy theory has gone from niche internet forums to President Trump's Twitter account.

Discover the story behind QAnon - where does it come from, what do they believe, and is it really the most dangerous conspiracy theory in America?

In today's episode we cover:

The first Q message
PizzaGate
Hillary Clinton
What does Q actually believe?
Donald Trump & QAnon
QAnon & social media companies
Why is QAnon so popular?
US politicians & QAnon

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/qanon

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#72: The War on Drugs

Leonardo English — Fri, 17 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0200

In 1971, Richard Nixon declared The War On Drugs. Almost 50 years later, and a war that has cost the US over a trillion dollars, we take a look at the effect that this war has had on society.

Why was it declared, what actually happened, and who are the real winners?

In today's episode we cover:

History of drug use in the United States
Sherlock Holmes & cocaine
The prohibition era
Why was The War on Drugs launched?
Hippies + black community
What actually happened
Are drugs harder to buy now?
Are drugs more expensive now?
The balloon effect
Prescription opiates
The future for the War on Drugs

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website http://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/the-war-on-drugs

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#70: Human Rights

Leonardo English — Fri, 10 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0200

In 1948 the United Nations signed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which set out the 30 'inalienable' rights that all humans on Earth should get at birth.

But where did this come from? How effectively does it actually work?

And what comes next for human rights?

In today's episode we cover:

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights
The 'first' human rights
Human rights vs. Natural rights
The French Revolution & United States Declaration of Independence
Slavery & human rights
Human rights & the law
Ignoring human rights
The countries that didn't vote for human rights
Human rights as a western invention
Environmental human rights
The future of human rights

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/human-rights

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#68: What Happens When Languages Die?

Leonardo English — Fri, 03 Jul 2020 00:00:00 +0200

There are 7,000 languages spoken across the world.

Yet 80% of the population speaks just 1.1% of the languages, and 43% of the languages are endangered.

What happens when they die out?

In today's episode we cover:

How people feel differently when speaking different languages
The 12 'dominant' world languages
Why have certain languages dominated?
Why do languages die out?
When the last two speakers of a language hate each other
Dying languages in the UK
Hawaiian - a revival success story
Reviving a dead language
Written vs. oral languages
Should we save languages?
Why language is a part of culture

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/dying-languages

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#66: The Weird History of Madame Tussauds

Leonardo English — Fri, 26 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Discover the amazing story of how a young woman from France befriended the royal family, escaped the guillotine, made death masks of revolutionaries, and then created the world's most successful waxworks museum.

The story of Madame Tussauds has a lot more to it than meets the eye.

In today's episode we cover:

What is wax-working?
Going to Paris to seek fortune
Teaching art to King Louis XVI’s sister
The arrival of the revolution
Death masks
The trip to London
The UK tour
Why Brits loved it
Madame Tussauds in modern times

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/madame-tussauds

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#64: The Hidden Cost of Food Delivery Apps

Leonardo English — Fri, 19 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0200

Food delivery apps have taken over cities across the world, promising delicious food at the tap of a button.

But is it really that simple?

In this episode we discuss what the rise of food delivery apps means for us, for restaurants, and for the people who do the deliveries.

In today's episode we cover:

How food delivery apps work
Why restaurants use them
The early years of food delivery apps
Unfair tactics
Charging $9 for a phone call
Offers and commissions
Chicago Pizza Boss
Racing to the bottom
Dark kitchens
The people who deliver the food

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/the-hidden-cost-of-food-delivery-apps

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#62: The Resource Curse

Leonardo English — Fri, 12 Jun 2020 00:00:00 +0200

When a country finds gold, oil or diamonds, you might think this would be a good thing.

But in many cases, it is a curse for that country, and it would have been better off leaving its natural resources in the ground.

In today's episode we cover:

Expression: "to strike gold"
Wars & conflict
What happens to your currency when you export natural resources
Government accountability & politicians
Equatorial Guinea (and the $600M president)
Prices that change a lot
Did the resource curse cause the fall of the Spanish empire?
Countries that disprove the rule
"The devil's excrement"

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/the-resource-curse

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#60: The British Sense of Humour

Leonardo English — Fri, 05 Jun 2020 00:30:00 +0200

People in Britain have a unique sense of humour.

For lots of foreigners it's difficult to understand and confusing. But British people are fiercely proud of their sense of humour, and Britain has produced some of the world's best comedies.

In this episode we take a look at what makes Brits laugh, and tell a few jokes along the way.

Introduction to British humour
What do British people laugh about?
Sarcasm ("No sh*t Sherlock")
What happens when you tell a joke about pasta to an Italian
Self-deprecation (and putting yourself down)
How to deliver a joke
British vs. American humour
Laughing at the mundane (and some classic British TV shows)
Innuendo and double-entendre
British stereotypes (and the Englishman, Scotsman and Irishman jokes)
It takes a while, but it's worth it

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/the-british-sense-of-humour

Links mentioned:

Carry On Series
Fawlty Towers
Gavin And Stacey (funniest moments)
The Office
Monty Python

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#58: Plastic

Leonardo English — Fri, 29 May 2020 00:30:00 +0200

It has revolutionised our lives, made cars lighter, food fresher, and water safer.

But at what cost?

In this episode we take a look at the history of plastic, and ask ourselves what comes next.

In today's episode we cover:

Elephants, combs and billiard balls - how plastic was invented
Throwaway living in the 1950s
How much plastic waste exists in the world?
How much plastic do we eat?
Recycling plastic
The 5 countries that are responsible for the plastic in the oceans
New non-plastic options
A simple solution to the plastic problem

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/plastic

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#56: Turkmenistan

Leonardo English — Fri, 22 May 2020 00:30:00 +0200

It's one of the most isolated countries in the world, ruled by an authoritarian leader with a passion for horses and Guinness World Records.

It's time to find out about the weird and wonderful country of Turkmenistan.

In today's episode we cover:

The cult of personality under Niyazov
No dogs allowed in the capital
The golden statue that turned to face the sun
Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow and the love for horses
Firing a gun from a bicycle
The resource curse
Changing money on the black market
COVID-19
Guinness World Records

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/turkmenistan

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#54: Harrods | The Playground of London's Rich & Famous

Leonardo English — Fri, 15 May 2020 00:30:00 +0200

It's one of the most famous department stores in the world, catering to the world's rich and famous.

But it hasn't always been this way.

In this episode we take a look at the story of Harrods, and discover the fascinating and unusual history of this iconic London location.

In today's episode we cover:

How it all started, back in 1824
The Great Exhibition
When it all burned down
Harrods' famous customers
Brandy on the escalator
The Mohamed Al-Fayed years
The lawsuit with Harrods New Zealand
The cash for questions scandal
The feud with The British Royal Family
Selling lions and tigers
Spending £32,000 on chocolates
The Russian hoodie

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/harrods

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#52: The Guinness World Records

Leonardo English — Fri, 08 May 2020 01:00:00 +0200

It's a collection of the biggest, fastest, and weirdest things in the world.

But how much do you really know about The Guinness World Records?

Today we look at the story behind the book, and discover how an argument about a bird turned into one of the best selling books in the world.

Here's what you have to look forward to in today's episode:

Finding out the answers to things before the internet
How the idea for the Guinness Book of Records came about
The McWhirter twins and their photographic memory
Record-breaking is big business
Three strange records (Big Macs, Star Wars, and tall men)
How to become a record-breaker (and how much it costs)
Why there are so many 'strange' records (and who pays for them)
Guinness gets all the free publicity

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/guinness-world-records

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#50: A Service Announcement

Leonardo English — Tue, 05 May 2020 01:00:00 +0200

A quick announcement of some exciting developments at Leonardo English.

New memberships, request an episode, and exclusive Q&A sessions for members.

Find out more at www.leonardoenglish.com/subscribe

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#49: Fair Trade

Leonardo English — Fri, 01 May 2020 01:05:00 +0200

You recognise the name. You recognise the label.

You've seen it on bananas, chocolate, coffee, and all over thousands of everyday products.

But how much do you really know about Fairtrade?

In today's episode we take a look at how it really works, who benefits, and why some companies are starting up alternatives to Fairtrade.

In today's episode we cover:

A brief history of 'trade'
Why farmers get a bad deal
Max Havelaar & the first fair trade coffee
The Dutch in Indonesia
The mission of Fairtrade
How Fairtrade works
Why it works
The criticisms of Fairtrade
Alternatives to Fairtrade
The future of Fairtrade

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/fair-trade

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#47: Fox News // The Presidential Propaganda Machine

Leonardo English — Fri, 24 Apr 2020 01:05:00 +0200

It's one of the most powerful television channels in the United States, the current US president’s preferred news channel, and referred to by some as 'state TV'.

In today's episode we take a look at Fox News: who watches it, how it really makes money, and what event could cause its downfall.

In today's episode we cover:

The growth of Fox News
Fox News & Donald Trump
News vs. opinion
Very good, excellent, or superb - North Korean TV in America
Advertisers on Fox News
How Fox News really makes money
Is Fox News really American?
The Fox News viewer
The Coronavirus & Fox News

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/fox-news

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#45: Guy Fawkes // The Man Who Tried To Blow Up Parliament

Leonardo English — Fri, 17 Apr 2020 01:05:00 +0200

In the early hours of November 5th, 1605, a man was found in a cellar under The Houses of Parliament. He was moments away from blowing everything up, killing the King, and changing the course of British history forever.

Today we tell the story of Guy Fawkes, and how we went from religious terrorist to anti-establishment icon.

In today's episode we cover:

November 5th celebrations in the UK
The persecution of Catholics in Britain
The plan to blow up parliament
The anonymous letter
Who really was Guy Fawkes?
The execution of Guy Fawkes
Was it all a conspiracy?
Impact on the English language
Weird Guy Fawkes traditions
Guy Fawkes in popular culture

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/guy-fawkes

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#43: Tulipmania // When Flowers Cost More Than Houses

Leonardo English — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 01:05:00 +0200

In Holland in the 1600s the price of tulips rose so much that a single bulb reportedly cost more than a townhouse on Amsterdam's grand canal.

Today we look at the real story behind one of the greatest bubbles in history.

What is a tulip?
Why are things expensive?
Why were tulips so expensive in Holland?
Why were some people in Holland so rich?
How tulips grow
Tulip contracts
The greater fool theory
When the market crashed
What really happened
Have we learned our lesson?
(BONUS) How to not lose all your money in a financial bubble

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/tulipmania

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#41: The Great Train Robbery

Leonardo English — Fri, 03 Apr 2020 01:05:00 +0200

In 1963 a criminal gang managed to stop a Royal Mail train, steal £2 million pounds in cash (£55 million in today's money), and escape. It took them just 15 minutes.

Today we tell the story of this infamous robbery, and the hunt to find the men who did it.

The train carrying all the money
Why was it carrying so much money?
The story of the robbery
The hunt for the suspects
The discovery of the farm
The Monopoly piece and the fingerprints
The arrest of the suspects
Who were the robbers?
The escape from jail
Ronnie Biggs in Brazil
The victim of the robbery
The Great Train Robbery in popular culture

Key vocabulary: Robbery, Equivalent, Thefts, Miss a trick, Fantastic, Royal Mail, Cash, Whole load, Circulation, Grabbed, Harsh, Tied up, Carriage, Detach, Track, Rear, Routine, Gang, Robbers, Overpowered, Embankment, Accomplices, Fellow, Getaway, A matter of, Thieves, Alerted, On the hunt for, Robbery, Squad, Underground, Associates, Infamous, Tip-off, Coming and going, Abnormal, Deserted, Be onto something, Wipe sth down, Fingerprints, Clues, Track down, Tracking, Consisted, Motley crew, Threaten, The muscle, Man inside, Get away with something, Passed away, Sentence, Most certainly, Escapee, Fled, Plastic surgery, Extradition, Treaty, Deport, Tried, Caipirinhas, Deteriorated, Longed to, CommittedServe, Compassionate, Grounds, Romanticised, Victim, Iron bar, Severe, Victimless, Theft, Eclipsed, Pop culture, Lyrics, Manhunt, Inspire

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/the-great-train-robbery

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#39: The Story Of A Fantastic Dictionary

Leonardo English — Fri, 27 Mar 2020 01:05:00 +0100

In 1755, Samuel Johnson published an English dictionary that has gone down in history.

Not only was it the first of its kind, it was full of funny jokes.

Today we tell the story of this fantastic dictionary.

Dictionaries before 1755
Why Johnson's was so famous
Why was a dictionary needed?
Why was the English language a mess?
'Fixing' English
Johnson's dictionary: 40,000 words of fine scholarship
Hidden joke 1: the definition of 'oats'
Hidden joke 2: the definition of 'lexicographer'
Hidden joke 3: the definition of 'lunch'
Why writing a dictionary is so hard

Key vocabulary: Scholarship, Intriguing, Politically correct, Authoritative, Captured, The masses, Painting a picture, Linguistic, Reflecting on, Estimated, Mess, Literacy, Formal, All-encompassing, Collate, Unsatisfactory, Fast-forward, Scene was set, Stabilise, Anomalies, Peculiarities, Set things straight, Hang on, Exceptions, Convoluted, Messy, Organism, Gargantuan, Rivalry, Harmless, Busies, Tracing, Unpleasant, Unappreciated, Extensive, Buried, Highlighted, Adapt, From scratch, Evolving

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/the-story-of-a-fantastic-dictionary

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#37: London’s Gin Craze // Mother’s Ruin

Leonardo English — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 01:05:00 +0100

300 years ago, London experienced a gin craze of epic scale, with the average Londoner drinking 10 times the amount of gin that the world's biggest gin drinking country does now.

Today, it's time to learn about how gin almost destroyed London.

We'll learn about:

👀 Why 'gin' is called 'gin'
⚡ The perfect storm that made caused the gin boom
🍸 The gin shops
🌡 The ingredients of the 'gin'
☠ "Drunk for a penny; dead drunk for two pennies; clean straw for nothing.”
💊 Gin craze = crack cocaine epidemic?
👶 Poor Mary Defour
⚖ The Gin Act of 1751
📈 Gin today & the resurgence of gin

Key vocabulary: Epidemic, Epic, Bear in mind, Customary, Sophisticated, Phenomenon, Spirit, Juniper, Variant, Liquor, Brandy, Fate, Imported, Patriotic, Domestic, Reliance, Unlicensed, Boom, Legislation, Disposable income, Perfect storm, Establishments, Sipping, Emerge, Fiendishly, Sulphuric acid, Turpentine, Impotent, Sterile, Exceeded, Vast, Pass out, Monotonous, Drawn parallels, Impurities, Hopelessly, Wake-up call, Passed, Consumption, Resurgence, Craze, Stronghold

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/londons-gin-craze

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#35: Is The World Really Running Out Of Sand?

Leonardo English — Fri, 13 Mar 2020 01:00:00 +0100

After water and air, it's the most used natural resource in the world. But are we really running out of it?

If so, why? And what happens if we do?

In today's episode we cover:

🌡 What do we use sand for?
🏘 How much sand goes into a house?
🇨🇳 How much sand China uses
⏳ Where does this sand come from?
👮‍♂️ Sand mafias
🤷‍♂️ Can we avoid using sand?
🗼 Sand in Dubai (it doesn't come from where you think it does)

Key vocabulary: Rolling, Dunes, Trekking, Infinite, Implausible, Run out, Pace, Consume, Crucial, Small-fry, Concrete, Asphalt, Aggregate, Runways, Gravel, Foundation, Cubic, Inhabitants, Urbanisation, Phenomenal, Reiterate, Vast, Embarked, Infrastructure, Trucks, Fine, Grains, Spherical, Barefoot, Cement, Angular, Sucks it up, Finite, Emergence, Mafias, Bribing, Turn a blind eye, Extracting, Corrupt, Suck up, Sucked up, Ecosystem, Ecological, Over the course, Outstrips, Particles, Temporary, Reinforce, Clocking in, Imported, Excess, Sink, Bunkers, Gargantuan, Uplifting,

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/is-the-world-really-running-out-of-sand

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#33: Universal Basic Income

Leonardo English — Fri, 06 Mar 2020 01:05:00 +0100

What would happen if the government just gave everyone money?

That's the idea of Universal Basic Income, and it's an idea that has supporters from all across the political spectrum.

In today's episode we cover:

✍ History of Universal Basic Income
🤖 Are the robots coming?
💸 Who should get the money?
💰 Who should pay for it?
👏 Who supports Universal Basic Income?
👍 Advantages of Universal Basic Income
👎 Disadvantages of Universal Basic Income
🇫🇮 The experiment in Finland - what happens when you give 2,000 people €560 a month?
🇱🇷 The experiment in Liberia - what happens when you give alcoholics and drug addicts money?
❓ Future of Universal Basic Income

Key vocabulary: Traction, Entrepreneurs, Programmers, Shareholders, Counteract, Bureaucracy, Poverty line, Corporations, Majority, Shareholdings, Spectrum, Libertarians, Pushing for, Proponent, Signature, Regardless, Neoliberal, Top-up, Extensively, Outcomes, Outspoken, Widespread, Adoption, Touched on, Dishing out, Assessing, Better off, Vehemently, Handing out, Implementing, Factor in, Welfare, Backsides, Handout, Incentive, Vicious cycle, Inflation, Get by, Vicious circle, Subsistence, Counter argument, Persuasive, Deemed, Compelling

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/universal-basic-income

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#31: How Google Works

Leonardo English — Fri, 28 Feb 2020 01:05:00 +0100

It's the most visited website in the world, with 80,000 searches per second. But have you ever actually wondered how it really works?

In today's episode we'll take a look at how this technology giant really works.

🔠 Alphabet & Google
🖥 What does 'The Internet' actually mean?
🕷 Google Spider
🤔 How does Google decide what results to show you?
❓ How does Google decide how websites are good or bad?
📊 Relevance, Quality, and User Experience
💵 How Google makes $6,000 a second
🛎 How Google Ads work
💍Why advertisers pay almost $1,000 for one click
📍 3 weird facts about Google - 1) How many new queries are asked every day, 2) How far a search travels and 3) How many computers are used in a single Google search?

Key vocabulary: On the hunt, Junk, Crawlers, Algorithm, Scanning, Adopt, Straightforward, Obscure, Trustworthy, Likewise, Popups, Tend, Tradeoff, Delicate, Distinctive, Rank, Auction, Bid, Indicate, Asbestos, Bidding, Implications, Round trip, Scratched the surface

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/how-google-works

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#29: Palantir: The Most Important Company You’ve Never Heard Of

Leonardo English — Fri, 21 Feb 2020 01:05:00 +0100

You might know nothing about it. But certainly does (or could do) know a huge amount about you.

Let's take a look at this incredibly powerful company that has the power to see everything we do.

In today's episode we cover:

Animating transcripts
Peter Thiel - founder of Palantir
What does Palantir actually do?
Big data
What if the technology wasn't used for good?
Minority Report in real life - the crime prediction tool
Palantir & ICE
The successes of Palantir
Lord of the Rings

Key vocabulary: Poses, Libertarian, Doublespeak, Anything but, Connect the dots, Insider trading, Buzzword, Gargantuan, Piece together, Scratching their head, Crack, Infinitely, Hardware, Weigh up, Erosion, All-seeing, Comb, Speak out, Monitor, In inverted commas, Eerily, Algorithm, Creepy, Bias, Weighted, Deport, Pleas, Back down, Treasonous, Cynics, Lucrative, Web, Intrusion, Fraudster, Omnipotent, Orb, Blinding

****

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/palantir-the-most-important-company-youve-never-heard-of

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#28: Help!

Leonardo English — Wed, 19 Feb 2020 01:05:00 +0100

Today is a bit of a change from the normal.

It's time to ask for your help.

Let's build the best podcast in the world together.

Animated transcripts
Update on the podcast after 2 months
What do I know?
How you can help
What you get in return

Key vocabulary: Animated, Browser, For one, Condense, Ether, Hand in hand, Pile, Operation, Shape, Priority, Shaping, Ray of light, Pleading

****

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/help

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#27: North Korea - The Hermit Kingdom

Leonardo English — Tue, 18 Feb 2020 07:05:00 +0100

The media might portray it as just a failed state run by a mad dictator, but today we'll find out that things might be just a little bit more complicated than they seem.

In today's episode we cover:

Post Second World War - US vs. USSR in the Korean Peninsula
The Korean War
The post-war years
North Korea & China
Nuclear weapons (and why do they really have them?)
Kim Jong-un
North Korea in 2020
4 weird facts about North Korea (haircuts, marijuana, holes in one & the calendar)

Key vocabulary: Isolated, Feature, Animates, Neat, Slap bang in the middle, Powerhouse, Pariah, Hermit, Dictator, Recapping, Peninsula, Annexed, Colony, Guerilla, Construct, Jurisdiction, Backing, Stronghold, Armistice, Thriving, Polar, Unwind, Dissolution, Toppled, Precarious, Cozy up, Buffer, Affiliated, Perished, Enriching, Uranium, Volatile, Ruthless, Erratic, Counterpart, , Offensively, Reprisal, Offensive, Deterrent, Bargaining, Diplomatic, Concessions, Dismal, Prestige, Credentials, Longevity, Portrayed, Missile, Legitimacy, Gestures, Surreal, Brutal, Sentenced, Lighthearted, Curtail, Trivia, Feats, Sank, Hole in one, Phenomenally, Enlightening

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/north-korea-the-hermit-kingdom

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#25: What's The Difference Between Great Britain and The United Kingdom?

Leonardo English — Tue, 11 Feb 2020 01:05:00 +0100

Confused about the difference between Great Britain and The United Kingdom, and always wondered when to call someone British instead of English, Scottish, Welsh or Irish? Let's clear it up, and explain how we got to this, admittedly, pretty complicated situation.

In today's episode we cover:

Bye bye European Union
Do people in the UK know the difference?
The UK vs. Great Britain
England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland - countries or not?
Key events in the history of the formation of The United Kingdom
The British Isles (actually 6,000 islands)
Why is Great Britain 'Great'?
Why does England play at the football World Cup but Great Britain compete at the olympics?
When should you call someone British vs. English, Scottish, Welsh or Irish?
What might happen after Brexit?

Key vocabulary: Listing out, Tricky, Interchangeably, Generalise, Stereotype, In light of, Admittedly, Synonyms, Sovereign state, Counties, I wouldn't blame you, Parliament, Ultimately, Key, Unification, Tribes, Effectively, Withdrew, Recap, Comprised, Bailiwick, Conflicting, Distinguish, Ego, Abundantly, Compete, Catchy, Branding, Fiercely, Heritage, Offended, Bet, Long story short, Phenomenally, Plausible, Referendum, Inevitably, Misuses

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/whats-the-difference-between-great-britain-and-the-united-kingdom

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#24: Part 2: The Most Common Mistakes People Make When Learning English (and How To Avoid Them)

Leonardo English — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 01:05:00 +0100

It's time for Part 2 of our most common mistakes people make when learning English.

In today's episode we cover:

Recap of Part 1
Why you shouldn't focus on grammar (and how to actually learn grammar)
Why you shouldn't just do 'survival' listening
Why you don't need to go to an English-speaking country (and how to create your own immersion course)
How to set aside time for English learning
Why you should set yourself goals
How to set yourself goals
How to avoid getting disheartened

Key vocabulary: Hacks, Rid, Right up your street, Standalone, Discipline, Tricky, Bonus, Genders, Conjugations, Discouraged, Motivation, Heads down, Masochist, Classify, Base, Conjugated, By all means, Embrace, Quirkiness, Pet peeve, Combat, Gist, Core, Starting out, Purely, Turn of phrase, Switch, Interaction, Close to my heart, Hats off to you, Assuming, Immersive, Enroll, Hate on, Setting foot, Kudos, Dedicate, Postpone, Skip, Overused, Shinier, Chore, Motivation, Vicious circle, Slot, Routine, Ambitious, Penultimate, Motivate, Annotate, Flowing, Elaborate, Disheartened, Roller coaster, Uphill, Pack everything in, Uplifting, Interlude, Pointless

****

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/part-2-the-most-common-mistakes-people-make-when-learning-english-and-how-to-avoid-them

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#23: Part 1: The Most Common Mistakes People Make When Learning English (and How to Avoid Them)

Leonardo English — Tue, 04 Feb 2020 01:05:00 +0100

It's time to take a look at the most common mistakes people make when learning English, and how to avoid them.

In today's episode we cover:

📍 Strategic vs. Specific mistakes
📕 Why you shouldn't use traditional language learning content
👀 Why you shouldn't judge your progress against that of others
📈 Are there really any English learning hacks?
😍 How to embrace the English learning process
🤞 How to get over your fear of making mistakes
👨🏻 Francesco, the fearless Sicilian English learner
🗣 Why you shouldn't speak too fast
🧠 Barack Obama as an orator
🔍 Sneak peek at Part 2

Key vocabulary: Deviation, Avoiding, Specifics, Strategic, Pat on the back, Disheartened, Hacks, Squeeze, Boosting, Specific, Without further ado, Artificial, Staged, Motivate, Chore, Dulled down, Over and above, Small-talk, Motivation, Pace, Engage, By all means, Tactics, Zero-sum, Endlessly, Core, Caught up, Shiny, Pains me, Prominent, Miraculously, Minimise, Framing, Embrace, At ease, Tedious, Relish, Elusive, Degree, As useful as being hit in the face with a wet fish, Patronise, Literate, Nod, In all probability, Scholarship, Implausible, Aptitude, Moustache, Prestigious, Single out, Equate, Orators, Hesitate, Comes across, Proxy, Linguistic, Nuanced, Accomplished, Bite-sized, Call this a day, Sneak peak, Detrimental, Momentum

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/part-2-the-most-common-mistakes-people-make-when-learning-english-and-how-to-avoid-them

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#21: Conspiracy Theories

Leonardo English — Tue, 28 Jan 2020 01:05:00 +0100

Do you believe in conspiracy theories?

Millions of people around the world do.

Today we're going to ask ourselves why, talk about why they can be so seductive, and zoom in on some of the wackiest ones out there.

This episode covers:

👀 What is a conspiracy theory?
👄Why conspiracy theories can be so seductive
🧠Why do we seek connections between events?
📈Why are conspiracy theories growing in popularity?
🍕Pizzagate & the danger of conspiracy theories
❄Why people believe Disney made Frozen
🦖Why people believe the dinosaurs built the pyramids
⛩Who people think advised on the building of Stonehenge
🐰The internet rabbit warren of conspiracy theories

Key vocabulary: Seductive, Faked, An inside job, Deep state, Fictional, Narratives, Goodies, Baddies, Institution, Baddy, Overplay, Assume, Narrative, Underlying, Intentionally, Deceived, Niche, Recesses, Mainstream, Attribute, Ease, Engaged in, Fanning the flames, Serial, Legitimises, Given the light of day, Laughable, Child sex ring, Spread, Surfaced, Harassed, Debunked, Airtime, Wackiest, Without further ado, Extinct, Tamed, Domesticated, Supposedly, Tenuous, Policy line, Distract, Cryogenically frozen, Franchise, Prehistoric, Piled up, Estimated, Blocks, Quite a stretch, Rabbit warren, Slippery slope

****

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/conspiracy-theories

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#19: British Food Part 4 - The (Earl of) Sandwich

Leonardo English — Tue, 21 Jan 2020 01:05:00 +0100

Britain's biggest contribution to gastronomy, the sandwich, was invented 250 years ago. How it was invented may surprise you though. Today it's time for part 4 of our mini-series on British food, where we go for a journey into sandwich history.

In today's episode we cover:

10 days left to get promotional price for transcripts & key vocabulary
Earl of Sandwich (and his gambling problem)
Did the Earl of Sandwich really invent the sandwich?
Growth of sandwich eating in the UK
Invention #1 - sliced bread
Invention #2 - pre-packed sandwiches
Science of sandwich making
Sandwiches in the USA (and why they didn't adopt sandwiches immediately)
My favourite sandwich
Conclusion of British food mini-series

Links:
List of notable sandwiches: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_sandwiches

Key vocabulary: Sojourn, Lock in, Gastronomy, Popularised, Earl, Serial, Habitual, Binge, Wrapped, Biography, Commitment, Culinary, Genius, Fillings, Predate, Out of thin air, Mezze, Platters, Sandwiched, Likelihood, Took off, First men, Boosted, The best thing since sliced bread, Fiddly, Iconic, Leftover, Wrapped them up, Hit, On the go, Nowadays, Soggy, Travel hack, Travel hack, Affordable, For want of, Adopt, Founding fathers, Stuffy, Archaic, Afresh, Held off, Aristocratic, Morals, Upheld, Iconic, Notable, Peruse, Bucket list, Boxing day, Pardon, Pun, Reputation, Aristocracy, For that matter.

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/british-food-part-4-the-earl-of-sandwich

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#18: British Food Part 3 - The English Breakfast

Leonardo English — Fri, 17 Jan 2020 01:05:00 +0100

The English Breakfast is a truly British institution, and its history goes back 700 years. In today's podcast we go into the story behind the meal, and reveal how it went from favourite of lords and ladies to the way the working classes started the day.

Different types of English breakfast
The Gentry and their breakfasts
Breakfasts for normal British people (and how they weren't very exciting)
The emergence of a new merchant class (and how they tried to emulate the gentry)
The Victorian concept of breakfast
The emergence of the modern 'English breakfast'
When half of Britain started the day with an English breakfast
Where to find the best English breakfasts
When can you eat an English breakfast?
What's the difference between a wedding breakfast and an English breakfast?

Key vocabulary: Penultimate, Fueled, Dodgy, Batch, Institution, Deviations, Cornish, Ulster, Bursting at the seams, Mortified, Stuffing their faces, Reserved, Prevalent, Pauper, Nobles, Lavish, Ale, Better off, Stretch to, Dripping, Toiling, Besides, Inheriting, Aspire, Seeking, Enthusiastically, Notion, Flaunt, Go to huge lengths, Secure, Cured, Offal, Sumptuous, Banquets, Precious, Copious, Accessible, Take for granted, Emerge, Bed and breakfasts, Black pudding, Peak, Aspiring, Staple, Decline, Hipster, Natural selection, Longevity, Age-old, Hangover, Pre-reformation, Bride, Groom, Fasted, Communion, Stomach, Comfort foods

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/british-food-part-3-the-english-breakfast

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#17: British Food Part 2 - Fish & Chips

Leonardo English — Tue, 14 Jan 2020 01:05:00 +0100

It's a British classic, but how much do you really know about it? Today we are diving into the fascinating history of fish and chips, and we'll discover that it might be not quite so British as you might think.

In today's episode we cover:

How famous people liked their fish and chips
Why people think fish and chips helped the Allies win World War I and World War II
Why French housewives might be key to fish and chips
Did Jewish immigrants to Britain invent the fried fish?
Or was it a Northern entrepreneur?
Why fish and chips was so popular
The factors that meant that fish and chips could be eaten up and down the country
Why fish and chips used to be wrapped in newspaper (and why they aren't anymore)
Fish and chips today
Preview of the next episode: The History of The English Breakfast

Key vocabulary: Fateful, Greasy, Smothered, Mushy peas, Payday, Safeguarding, Vital, Home front, Regime, Snooty, Staving off, Disaffection, Tolerate, Home comforts, Averted, Bent over backwards, Rationed, Iconic, Humble, Substitute, Resourceful, Coated, Breadcrumbs, Shabbat, Anti-semitism, In accordance, Marry, Controversy, Rage, Hut, Wildfire, Deviation, Arithmetic, Staple, Advent, Trawl, Inland, Ruled, Greaseproof, Portions, Plummeted, Plethora, Self-respecting, Cliché, Transition, Aristocracy

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/british-food-part-2-fish-chips

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#16: British Food Part 1 - Oysters

Leonardo English — Fri, 10 Jan 2020 01:05:00 +0100

Today is the first of our 4-part mini-series on British food, and we're going to talk about something you might not expect to appear in a series on British food: the oyster.

In today's episode we cover:

Introduction to the mini-series on British food
Oysters in Roman times (and how Romans were crazy about oysters)
Oysters as a poor man's food
How people used to eat oysters (with beer, salt and pepper, and in pies)
A time when Londoners used to eat 1 oyster per day
The meal (and scandal) that destroyed the oyster industry
The future of oysters in Britain

Key vocabulary: Hot off the heels, Culinary, Oysters, Pearl, Fell completely out of favour, Distrusted, Slurping, Sitting, Prospect, Think much (of), Delicacy, Drift, Plucked, Cultivation, Ale, Flat, Drumming up business, Era, Heyday, Slimy, Substitute, Stretch, Banquet, Transpired, Batch, Contaminated, Dignitary, Typhoid, Esteemed, Sewers, Piped, Moguls, Sewage, Bitter, Litigation, Press charges, Amounted to, Nutrients, Award, Testified, Compensation, Clubbed together, Inscribed, Dodgy, Stocks, Depleted, Bolstered, On the off chance, Next in store, Cunning, Albeit, Cult, Allies

****

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/british-food-part-1-oysters

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#15: Why Is All The News So Negative? And What If It Wasn't?

Leonardo English — Tue, 07 Jan 2020 01:10:00 +0100

Episode #015 - English Learning for Curious Minds

Why Is All The News So Negative? And What If It Wasn't?

****

Why is the news always full of disasters? What would the world be like if it wasn't?

Let's take a look at some of the theories about why the news is always so negative, and imagine what kind of world might exist if it wasn't.

In today's episode we cover:

What is the point of the news?
What is the role of journalism?
Who decides the news?
If it bleeds, it leads (and why bloody stories always come first)
Why are people attracted by negative stories?
News organisations as commercial entities
What negative news does to our brains
The Gandhi Thought Experiment
What if our news wasn't so negative? An introduction to solutions-based journalism
How to avoid the negative news cycle

Key vocabulary: Famine, Tuning in, Bleak, Commonplace, Untold, Accountable, Noble pursuit, Lead with, Editorial, Prominence, Gravitate, Mortality, Gore, Gloating, Taken for granted, Captivate, Numerous, First and foremost, Eyeballs, Bursting your bubble, Revenue, Gravitating, Skewed, Mindset, Exposed to, Bombarded, Empathise, Bombardment, Perception, Perceived, Minuscule, Recalibrating, Anchoring, Implausible, Glued, Contradictory, Unwed, Back of our minds, Bushfires, Helpless, Advocating, Inspire, Uplift, Strike fear into, Optimistic, Fed up, News cycle, Retreat, Intake, Longer form, Fearmonger, Flicking through, Nutrition, Cut yourself off, Out of the loop, Outweighed, Freshness

Jodie Jackson's website: https://www.jodiejackson.com/

****

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/why-is-all-the-news-so-negative-and-what-if-it-wasnt

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#13: Why is New Year, New Year?

Leonardo English — Tue, 31 Dec 2019 01:10:00 +0100

Have you ever wondered why January 1st is the start of the new year?

In today's episode we cover:

History of the celebrations of New Year
When New Year used to be in mid-March
How the Romans tried to fix the calendar
The longest year in history
The Julian calendar (why it worked, and why it didn't)
The pope who brought things back to January 1st
New year today

Key vocabulary: Pressing, Conversation starter, Bringing in, Topical, Timely, Observed, Festivity, Falling out of sync, Toasted, Implemented, Leap year, Pagan, Befitting, Abolished, Circumcision, Circumcised, Reticent, Colonies, Millennia, Custom, Neglected, Myriad, Skipping over

****

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/why-is-new-year-new-year

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#11: The Book That Made Christmas, Christmas

Leonardo English — Tue, 24 Dec 2019 01:10:00 +0100

Episode #011 - English Learning for Curious Minds

The Book That Made Christmas, Christmas

****

Today we take a look at the book that is fundamental to our modern understanding of what makes Christmas, Christmas. No, it's not the Bible. It was written in Victorian London, and tells the story of an old miser who discovers the Christmas spirit.

In today's episode we cover:

The publication of A Christmas Carol
When and why the British stopped celebrating Christmas
Summary of the story of A Christmas Carol
Dickens' moral tale about the importance of Christmas
The cultural importance of A Christmas Carol
The linguistic importance of A Christmas Carol
How the Christmas card was invented
Merry Christmas

Key vocabulary: Dare say, Tables may be turned, Instrumental, Enduring, Further afield, Consensus, Puritanical, Sabbath, Headed off, Inherently, Sinful, Degenerate, Reluctant, Wholeheartedly, Underlying, Vivid, Seized upon, Recap, Squeezing, Wrenching, Grasping, Scraping, Clutching, Covetous, Sinner, Self-serving, Fate, Befallen, Paralysed, Infamous, Alter, Resonated, Utterly, Horrific, Rallying call, Stamped, Crippled, Vulnerable, Smash hit, Inexorably, Frantically, Civil servant, Caught on, (give) a shot, Deed

****

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/the-book-that-made-christmas-christmas

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#9: Who Owns Space (And Why Does It Matter)?

Leonardo English — Tue, 17 Dec 2019 01:30:00 +0100

Part 3 of the 3-part series on "Who owns the sea, sky, and space?"

We humans do a pretty good job of dividing up ownership of the world. But what about beyond that? Who owns space? Who decides who owns that, and why does it matter?

In today's episode we cover:

Why nobody used to even think about space ownership
The Cold War (and what people thought it meant for weapons in space)
The Space Treaty (and what its real intention was)
Where does space start?
What happens if a shuttle crashes when in space?
Why you can't really buy a piece of the moon

Key vocabulary: Customary, Captivated, Realm, Supernatural, Implausible, Into orbit, Realms of possibility, Logical, Implied, Figurative, Catchy, Side note, Ban, Vice versa, Loose, Demarcation, Provision, Mine, Proliferation, Framework, Untapped, Sovereign territory, Interpreted, Set up, Grab yourself, Holding up, Plough, Lunar, Tycoon, Congested, Thorny

****

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/who-owns-space

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#8: Who Owns The Sky (And Why Does It Matter)?

Leonardo English — Fri, 13 Dec 2019 10:05:00 +0100

Part 2 of the 3-part series on "Who owns the sea, sky, and space?"

Ever wondered who actually owns the sky?

Today we'll discuss who owns it, why it's still not clear who does own most of it, and why that doesn't actually really matter.

What does 'the sky' actually mean?
Different parts of 'the sky'
Why only the very bottom of the sky matters
The 13th Century law upon which western laws are based
How do countries use ownership of the sky to help their political goals
Where does the sky end?

Key vocabulary: Contextualise, Extends, Slice, Stick with, Round off, Lump, Soil, Stood the test of time, Encroach on, Amendments, Advent, Trespassing, Infinite, Extract tariffs, , Routine, Hard and fast, Obscure, Proportion, Stretch out, Come in pretty handy, For starters, Revenue, Air traffic control, Nice little earner, Handy, Exert, Leader on, Consensus, Bypass, Crises, Frontier

****

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/who-owns-the-sky

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#7: Who Owns The Sea (And Why Does It Matter)?

Leonardo English — Tue, 10 Dec 2019 12:10:00 +0100

Part 1 of the 3-part series on "Who owns the sea, sky, and space?"

Who Owns The Sea (And Why Does It Matter)?

***

Ever wondered who actually owns the sea? Learn about who owns 2/3 of the surface area of the world, why countries want to claim ownership of rocks in the middle of nowhere, and why this matters.

In today's episode we cover:

Introduction to the 3-part mini series
Who owns the world's land?
History of sea ownership & the cannon shot rule
The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea
Why the US hasn't signed the convention
Different types of ownership of different parts of the sea
Why countries are rushing to claim ownership of the Arctic ocean
What happens in the 'high seas' (spoiler alert: pirates not allowed)
Why countries in East Asia are fighting over abandoned rocks
The man who orchestrated it all: Arvid Pardo

Key vocabulary: Frontier, Sovereign, Straightforward, Enshrined in law, Come in pretty handy, Glossing over, Cannon, Cannonball, Anomalies, Consensus, A body of water, Demarcate, Zero-sum, Gargantuan, Undermines, Open up, Dent, In short, Boil this down, Impinges, , Submerged, Ended up, Recap, Ratified, Scrambling, Prevalent, Abide by, Engaged in, Piracy, Get round, Violating, Maritime, Claim jurisdiction, Unintended, Uninhabited, Prized, Flare up, Single out, Gives you the measure, Orphaned, Penniless, Tirelessly, Impassioned, Treacle, Heritage

****

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/who-owns-the-sea

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#5: What Is Soft Power (And Why Does It Matter)?

Leonardo English — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 15:00:00 +0100

"Political power grows out of the barrel of a gun" - Mao Zedong, 1927

"In the 21st century, culture is power" - Park Geun-hye (ex President of South Korea, home of Gangnam Style)

How do other countries win the political game without force? Why is language such a fantastic tool to project power across the world? What is Donald Trump doing for US interests outside the US?

Learn about how soft power is a vital tool in the global diplomatic toolbox, and how countries use it to advance their diplomatic aims.

Topics covered:

The history of soft power
Why it is no longer acceptable to attack other countries
What components go into soft power
Why language is the ultimate example of soft power (and why countries promote the learning of their language)
The UK's soft power across the world
The Soft Power Report (and who came top in 2019)
Why the UK, France, Italy, the US, Sweden and Estonia all do well in terms of soft power
China's soft power initiatives
Why you can't buy soft power
Why politicians neglect soft power
What Europeans think of the US since 2016

Key vocabulary: Self-proclaimed, Geopolitics, Zero-sum, Projected, Coercion, Sanctions, Aspirational, Coined, Lingua franca, Dominant, Packs a sizeable punch, Prevalence, Gradual, Decline, Institutions, Slipped, Footprint, Republican, Imprint, Mastery, Amplifies, Deemed, Agenda, Funding, Portray, Toolbox, Timeframes, Reap, Foster, Blossom, Soundbites, Hostile, Struggle, Ranked, Bound, Dividends, Set in motion, Shift, Packs a substantial soft power punch, Neglect

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/what-is-soft-power-and-why-does-it-matter

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#4: How To Use Podcasts To Learn English (Like A Boss)

Leonardo English — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 14:25:00 +0100

In today's podcast we go in depth into why you should use podcasts to learn English, and explain some of the best techniques to maximise your English learning with podcasts.

We'll explain how you can take a 10 minute English podcast and turn it into an intensive 2 hour lesson, where you work on your English listening, speaking, reading and writing.

Then you can decide whether you're a serious English learner and want to test it, or you'd rather just put on Netflix and trick yourself into thinking that you're learning.

In today's episode we cover:

Why listening is underrated
Why learners find English podcasts hard
Understanding language without visual cues
Detailed explanation of how to use a 10 minute podcast to create a 2hr lesson
How this compares to a 2hr film in English
Final 2 tips on listening to podcasts in English

Key vocabulary: Dear to my heart, Underrated, Turbocharge, Toolkit, Attuned, Exposed, Superficial, Comes down to, Indulging, Switch off, Revert, Cues, Get by, First things first, Tend to, Spellcheck, Beneficial, Fundamental, Does wonders for, Akin to, Pastime, Inbuilt, Set aside a time, Brainlessly, Flicking, In your heart of hearts

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/how-to-use-podcasts-to-learn-english-like-a-boss

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#3: The Most Amazing Prison Escapes in History

Leonardo English — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 12:30:00 +0100

Today we're going to be taking a look at 5 of the most amazing prison escapes in history.

We'll travel to South Korea, Mexico, Germany, and the US, and discover some of the ingenious ways in which prisoners evaded their guards.

Escape 1: John Herbert Dillinger and the wooden pistol
Escape 2: Choi Gap Bok, the South Korean yoga expert
Escape 3: The Alcatraz escape - but did it really happen?
Escape 4: The Great Escape - how 600 men managed to keep an escape plan hidden from their guards
Escape 5 (and 6): El Chapo, $2.5 million, laundry baskets, tunnels, and motorbikes

Key vocab: Protagonists, Ingenious, Dummies, Without further ado, Ringing a bell, Notorious, Carved, Lured, Shootout, Brute, Wriggle, Perished, Cult, Shark-infested, Tides, Feat, Raft, Intriguing, Immortalized, Squadron, Sheer, Barbed wire, Implicated, Evade, Extradited, Bribe

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Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/the-most-amazing-prison-escapes-in-history

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#2: The Places In The World Where Planes Can't Fly

Leonardo English — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 11:00:00 +0100

Ever wondered if there are places in the world where planes can't fly?

From mountainous regions to hostile states, from theme parks to ancient temples, it's time to find out where planes can and can't fly.

A time when Western aeroplanes couldn't go over all of Russia and China
How countries use their airspace as a political tool
Why planes can't go over Tibet
Why planes don't fly over Antarctica (hint, it's probably not why you think)
What do Disney World, Disney Land and Buckingham Palace have in common?
Why are there no planes over Paris?

Key vocabulary: Airspace, Ally, Ban, Revenue, Detour, Booming, Desirable, Lofty, Elevation, Regulation, Warrant, Prohibited, Inhabitants, Ostensibly

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/the-places-in-the-world-where-planes-cant-go

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#1: Meet the English Learning for Curious Minds podcast

Leonardo English — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 10:20:00 +0100

Wondering what the English Learning for Curious Minds podcast is all about, who is behind it, and whether it's for you?

In today's inaugural episode, we'll cover who should be listening to the podcast (hint - if you want to improve your English and learn interesting things about the way the world works, this is you), who is behind the podcast (an English native speaker and avid language learner), and talk about some of the quick things you can do to get the most out of the podcast.

Who is behind the podcast (introduction to Alastair Budge)
Why you need to listen to native speakers
Where the English for Curious Minds podcast came from
What you can expect from the podcast
What does a 'curious mind' mean
2 quick and easy tips for how to use podcasts to learn English

Key vocabulary: Inaugural, Maximise, Let's get cracking, Trilingual, Avid, Exposing, Unforgiving, For starters, Scripted, Must, Whirring away, Innate, Absorb, Squarely, Condense, Dulled down, Artificially, Authentic, Non-trivial, Carve out, Mammoth, Touch on, Come round, A taster, Faceless, Corporation.

Full transcript and key vocabulary available on the website: www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/meet-the-english-for-curious-minds-podcast

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Trailer: English Learning for Curious Minds

Leonardo English — Tue, 26 Nov 2019 11:05:00 +0100

Learning English doesn't need to be boring. You don't need to drown in grammar books, you don't need to spend hours memorising phrasal verbs.

English Learning for Curious Minds is the podcast that teaches you English through teaching you fascinating things about the world.

No boring listening exercises, no drills, no scripted conversations.

Just thoroughly researched, utterly fascinating stories.

It's English learning, but just not as you knew it.