In this episode, I’m tackling a big question: Why don’t I want kids? A listener asked me about being childless in my mid-30s, and - honestly? - I hadn’t thought about it in a while! But it got me reflecting on my reasons, from autonomy (I love my freedom), to sacrifice (do we really have to give up everything for the next generation?), to fulfilment (can’t life be meaningful without children?).

I also chat with César about family pressure, whether I ever feel FOMO about parenthood, and - most importantly - we talk about sausage dogs, awkward baby-holding moments, and unsolicited parenting advice.

If you’ve ever thought about whether kids are for you, or just want to hear a fun and honest discussion while you improve your English, don’t miss this one!

🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (Link: English and Beyond) or Instagram (Link: @BritishEnglishandBeyond)

📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources (including Quizlet flashcards), check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

We all know that British and American English have their differences, but where do you stand? Do you say film or movie? Got or gotten? Autumn or fall?

In the latest episode of English & Beyond, I explore how US culture shaped my language growing up and why my parents (big fans of the USA) absolutely hate certain Americanisms. Plus, did you know that some of these so-called "American" words actually originated in Britain centuries ago?

I also put César to the test in a fun British vs. American English quiz—see if you can get them right too!

🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (Link: English and Beyond) or Instagram (Link: @BritishEnglishandBeyond)

📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources (including Quizlet flashcards), check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

Here is an unusual episode discussing food safety, fear, and the unexpected stories that shape our world. In this week’s episode of English and Beyond, César and I tackle the eerie tale of Mad Cow Disease—a terrifying health scare from the 90s that shaped the UK’s food industry and left lasting psychological scars.

👀 What’s in the episode?

• The origins of Mad Cow Disease and its shocking connection to cows eating cows.
• How it transformed the global perception of British beef (and even restricted blood donations!).
• A glimpse into César’s perspective on food safety scandals in Spain and the infamous horse meat controversy.

With plenty of (darkly) humorous moments, personal anecdotes, and unexpected tangents—including a noisy dishwasher and an elderly pug—this episode sheds light on the fragile relationship between trust, health, and what we eat.

🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (Link: English and Beyond) or Instagram (Link: @BritishEnglishandBeyond)

📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources (including Quizlet flashcards), check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

🎭 Why the Balaclava? The Freedom and Fear of Anonymity 🎭

In this very first video episode of English and Beyond, I discuss anonymity—why some people choose it, how it grants freedom, and how it can also lead to negative consequences. From masked balls and street artists like Banksy to whistleblowers and internet trolls, this episode explores the tension between wanting to be seen and choosing to remain hidden.

But why am I wearing a balaclava in the video for this episode? Is it a disguise or an experiment? Join me and César as we discuss privacy in the digital age, cultural differences in data privacy, and how fame—no matter how small—can change how you're perceived.

🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (Link: English and Beyond) or Instagram (Link: @BritishEnglishandBeyond)

📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources (including Quizlet flashcards), check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

In this week’s episode of English and Beyond, I'm venturing into the captivating world of tattoos with our first returning guest, Franziska, whose personal journey with body art has been nothing short of transformative.

💡 What you’ll discover:

• The ancient history of tattoos: From Ötzi the Iceman to Polynesian rites of passage.
• Shifting perceptions: Why tattoos were once taboo but are now mainstream in places like Britain.
• Franziska’s story: How she went from ink-free to nearly fully covered, and the meaning behind her designs.
• My tattoo dilemma: Can I overcome my indecision and make my New Year’s resolution a reality? (Spoiler: I will, I promise!)

This episode blends intriguing history, cultural insights, and personal anecdotes, all delivered with our signature dry humour (we hope). and thoughtful reflections (we hope as well). Whether you’re tattooed, tattoo-curious, or just a fan of unique stories, this episode has something for you!

🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (Link: English and Beyond) or Instagram (Link: @BritishEnglishandBeyond)

📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources (including Quizlet flashcards), check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

🎙️ New Year, Fresh Goals | English and Beyond

Happy 2025! In this episode, I struggle though a bad cold as I reflect on the magic of fresh starts and New Year's traditions, from my family's Hogmanay celebrations in Scotland to the quiet introspection that winter invites. I share my ambitious (and not-so-ambitious) resolutions for the year, including continuing to learn French, reading for pleasure, and finally getting that long-awaited tattoo.

César joins the conversation to discuss his more laid-back approach to resolutions, the challenges of building new routines after their move to Spain, and why sometimes just "being human" can be a valid goal. There’s also plenty of banter about morning grumpiness, journaling attempts, and... health conditions?

Whether you're someone who meticulously plans your resolutions or just wings it, this episode is packed with relatable moments and some light-hearted inspiration. And, of course, we would love to hear from you:

💬 What are your 2025 resolutions?
Share them via email at oliver@morethanalanguage.com, or leave a comment on Spotify, YouTube, or our new Instagram account @BritishEnglishandBeyond!

🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (Link: English and Beyond) or Instagram (Link: @BritishEnglishandBeyond)

📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources (including Quizlet flashcards), check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

As the year draws to a close, I’m excited to share the final episode of English and Beyond for 2024. This festive episode is all about Christmas! It’s a nostalgic dive into personal traditions, some ancient history, and the quirks of celebrating the season across different cultures.

🎙 What’s Inside?

• My reflections on chaotic childhood Christmases (spoiler: black bin bags instead of wrapping paper!)
• The fascinating Roman origins of modern Christmas traditions.
• How César and I navigate the cultural differences of Christmas in Spain versus the UK.
• A heartfelt look at why the imperfections make the holidays so special.

🎁 A Small Christmas Request
If you’ve enjoyed English and Beyond this year, I’d love it if you could share this episode or the podcast with a friend learning English. Word of mouth is the best gift for growing this community!

Let me know about your own Christmas traditions! Do you embrace the chaos or prefer the polished? I’d love to hear from you—email me at oliver@morethanalanguage.com or leave a comment on the website.

Thank you for being part of this journey in 2024. Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a fantastic New Year. See you in 2025! 🎉

🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (Link: English and Beyond) or Instagram (Link: @BritishEnglishandBeyond)

📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources (including Quizlet flashcards), check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com

This week on English and Beyond, we explore the unique and lifelong connection between siblings, with a special focus on sisters. From hero worship in childhood to sibling rivalries and touching moments of mutual support, this episode is packed with relatable anecdotes and heartfelt reflections.

Host Oliver shares stories about his older sister, affectionately named “Jeanne” for the podcast, and the profound impact she’s had on his life. Joined by regular co-host César, the duo also discuss the complexities of sibling dynamics—from being role models to navigating the challenges of sibling rivalry and trust.

You’ll learn new English phrases like “your reputation precedes you” and “sounding board”, while enjoying a mix of humour and sentimentality.

Have your own sibling stories? Share them with us at oliver@morethanalanguage.com. Don’t forget to rate, review, and share the podcast with your friends!

🖊 What’s your take? Share your thoughts on your podcast app or on our Youtube (Link: English and Beyond) or Instagram (Link: @BritishEnglishandBeyond)

📖 Read Along: For a full and accurate transcript and additional learning resources (including Quizlet flashcards), check out our website at the following link: morethanalanguage.com