Podcasts are the easiest way to increase your time with English: you can listen while commuting, washing dishes or at the gym. The right choice depends on your level.
For beginners and intermediate learners
Podcasts made for learners speak more slowly, explain vocabulary and usually have transcripts.
| Podcast | Level | Format |
|---|---|---|
| 6 Minute English (BBC Learning English) | A2 to B1 | Short episodes on one topic, with vocabulary explained |
| The English We Speak (BBC Learning English) | B1 | One everyday expression per episode |
| All Ears English | B1 to B2 | Conversations about American English and culture |
| Luke’s English Podcast | B1 to C1 | Long episodes, British English, lots of conversation |
For B2 and above
Podcasts for native speakers train your ear for real speed, slang and overlapping conversation.
| Type | Examples | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| True stories | This American Life | Clear narration, varied topics |
| Daily news | The Daily (New York Times) | Current, more formal vocabulary |
| Curiosities | Stuff You Should Know | Relaxed conversation on many topics |
| Interviews | interview podcasts in your field | Vocabulary you care about |
Shows and formats change over time, so check your podcast app for what is currently available.
How to listen so you learn
- Listen once without pausing to get the general idea.
- Read the transcript for the parts you missed.
- Listen again and notice how the written sentence sounds spoken.
- Write down three expressions per episode and use them in sentences of your own.
- Repeat sections out loud, as in shadowing.
Video podcasts
Many podcasts are also published as videos on YouTube, usually with automatic captions. Watching them that way combines the best of both: the natural conversation of a podcast and subtitles to check what you heard. With Telidioma, the captions become dual subtitles and every word is clickable. To pick channels, see YouTube channels to learn English.
Frequently asked questions
Are podcasts better than TV shows for learning English?
They complement each other. Podcasts are great for training your ear when you cannot look at a screen, like while commuting. Shows have the advantage of visual context and subtitles.
Should I listen to podcasts with a transcript?
At first, yes. Listening once, reading the transcript and listening again is the most efficient way to turn a podcast into learning.
Does listening at a slower speed help?
It helps for difficult sections, but do not use it all the time. Your ear needs to get used to real speed. Alternate between normal and slower playback.