⭐ Feature: The Coast is Clear and The Great Escape from Alcatraz episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 5, 2025 · 32 MIN

⭐ Feature: The Coast is Clear and The Great Escape from Alcatraz

from American English Podcast · host Shana Thompson

In this episode, you'll learn how to use the common English expression “the coast is clear,” which means it’s safe to proceed because no one is watching or in the way. After breaking down the literal and figurative meanings, as well as the origin, you'll hear three vivid examples—one featuring a mama bird, a cheating girlfriend, and shoplifting teens. The cultural spotlight of this episode is on Alcatraz, the infamous island prison off the coast of San Francisco. Once home to criminals like Al Capone, Alcatraz was considered escape-proof—until 1962, when Frank Morris and the Anglin brothers vanished in a daring and ingenious escape involving handmade dummies, a raft made of raincoats, and months of careful planning. Despite debris being found and decades of investigation, the trio was never seen again, making it the longest-running manhunt in U.S. history. In this episode, you'll learn about the prison, and how these three men got out! Mentioned in this Episode ⁠All Premium Content Seasons 1-3⁠ (+ discount on Season 4) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Jun 5, 2025

Embed this episode

NOW PLAYING

⭐ Feature: The Coast is Clear and The Great Escape from Alcatraz

0:00 32:51

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

No similar episodes found.

No similar podcasts found.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of American English Podcast?

This episode is 32 minutes long.

When was this American English Podcast episode published?

This episode was published on June 5, 2025.

Can I download this American English Podcast episode?

Yes. Use the download control on the episode player to save the publisher-provided media file.
URL copied to clipboard!