PODCAST · education
Jason's Easy English
by Jason Jolley
Jason’s Easy English provides understandable, intermediate-level English listening comprehension practice, with special support for Portuguese and Spanish speakers. Episodes feature easy-to-understand stories and explanations about American culture, everyday words and phrases in English, and pronunciation tips. Designed for A2-B2 learners, the style is relaxed and natural—easy to listen to. Jason’s Easy English helps you improve your listening comprehension, expand your vocabulary, and enjoy a clear, comfortable path to better English, one episode at a time.
Episodes
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Episode 45: The Unwritten Rules of American Get-Togethers
You're invited to an American get-together at 7:00. Should you arrive at 7:00, 7:15, or 8:00? In this episode, I compare social customs in the U.S. and Brazil. We'll talk about responding to invitations, arriving on time, bringing another guest, taking something for the host, knowing when to…
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Episode 44: More Than Burgers: The American Family Meal
American food is more than hamburgers, fries, and fast food! In this episode, I explore the tradition of home-cooked family meals in the United States. We'll talk about Sunday dinners, special occasions, old family recipes, potlucks, and dishes passed down through generations. You'll also learn...
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Episode 43: How Popular is Soccer in the United States?
Millions of American kids grow up playing soccer, so why isn’t it one of the biggest sports in the U.S.? With the World Cup as our backdrop, I explore soccer’s unusual place in American culture. We’ll talk about youth soccer, die-hard fans, America’s crowded sports calendar, and competition from...
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Episode 42: A Night at the Ballpark: Beyond the Rules of Baseball
Do you really need to understand baseball to enjoy a night at the ballpark? In this episode, I take my Brazilian friend Ronaldo to his first minor league baseball game. I try to explain the rules, but we soon decide to enjoy the experience instead. Come along for hot dogs, nachos, team caps, foul...
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Episode 41: U.S. National Parks: Know Before You Go
Dreaming about visiting Yellowstone, Yosemite, the Grand Canyon, or another U.S. national park? A little planning can prevent some big surprises! In this episode, I explain what international visitors should know about park passes, campsite reservations, busy seasons, crowds, and changing…
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Episode 40: Meals in the U.S. Compared to Brazil
In this episode, I explain breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the United States and compare them with Brazil. Why is lunch so fast in the U.S.? What do people eat? And what is brunch? You’ll learn useful vocabulary and understand real cultural differences in a clear, simple way. Great for English...
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Episode 39: False Friends That Trick Brazilian Learners
Some English words look very similar to Portuguese—but their meanings are different. These are called false friends, and they can cause funny misunderstandings. In this episode, I share a story about my Brazilian friend Renata during a night out with friends. You'll learn confusing words like...
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Episode 38: Does the United States Have an Official Language?
When my Spanish friend Javier visits Boston, he notices something surprising: signs and conversations in many different languages. Chinese, Spanish, Italian, and more. Why does this happen in an English-speaking country? In this episode, I tell the story of our walk through the city and explain…
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Episode 37: What do American Families Look Like Today?
What does an American family look like today? Many people imagine a mom, a dad, and two kids, but real life in the United States is much more diverse. In this episode, I explain common family structures in American culture, including nuclear families, blended families, step-siblings, same-sex...
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Episode 36: Share the Road? The Reality of Biking in the U.S.
Is it safe to ride a bicycle in the United States? The answer is: it depends. In this episode, I explain how car culture shapes American cities and why bike lanes are sometimes an afterthought. We’ll talk about dedicated bike lanes, scenic bike paths, and the meaning of “share the road.” You’ll...
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Episode 35: Do Americans Really Do That? Fact or Influencer Myth?
Do Americans really drink milk with dinner? Do they bathe babies in the kitchen sink? In this episode, I share a funny story about meeting my Brazilian friend Ronaldo and fact-checking common influencer myths about American culture. We explore exaggeration, viral content, and how regional...
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Episode 34: Complaining in the U.S.: Indirect is Best!
In this episode, Jason shares a story about his Brazilian friend Renata, who gets surprising reactions when she complains very directly in the United States. Through situations in a restaurant, hotel, and store, you’ll learn how Americans often criticize in a more indirect and polite way.…
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Episode 33: 10 Foods That Were "Born in the USA"
Many people say the United States has no real national cuisine. Is that true? In this episode, I talk with my Spanish friend Javier about ten foods that are truly American. We explore how immigration and regional culture shaped dishes like hamburgers, barbecue, jambalaya, lobster rolls, chili…
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Episode 32: Majors, Football, and Fraternities: American College Life Explained
Have you ever wondered what college life is really like in the United States? In this episode, I explain how students enter college, what dorm life is like, how majors and minors work, and why football games are such a big deal. You’ll also learn about semesters, student clubs, fraternities, and...
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Episode 31: One Crazy Week: American Spring Break Explained
What is Spring Break in the United States? In this episode, I explain when it happens, why students look forward to it, and where they travel — from Florida to Cancun and even Europe. We talk about beach parties, group trips, hookups, and safety. If you’re curious about American university…
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Episode 30: Teens at the Wheel: Getting an American Driver's License
In this episode, I explain how people get a driver’s license in the United States. You’ll learn about the learner’s permit, the written test, the vision test, and the road test. I also compare the process to Brazil and Mexico and explain why driving is so important for independence in many parts…
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Episode 29: That's Lit! American Social Media Slang
Have you ever read a text in English and felt confused? In this episode, Jason tells a funny story about his Brazilian friend Ronaldo, who needs help understanding American texting and social media slang. Learn real expressions like “lit,” “mid,” “#goals,” and “red flag,” with simple explanations...
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Episode 28: Black History Month: A 100-Year Story
In this episode, Jason explains Black History Month in clear, simple English. Learn how it began in 1926 as Negro History Week and why it is celebrated every February. Discover important historical figures like Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and…
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Episode 27: Groundhog Day: The Tradition and the Movie
Did you know that every year, Americans watch a groundhog to predict the weather? In this episode, I explain the fun tradition of Groundhog Day in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania. We talk about Punxsutawney Phil, six more weeks of winter, media coverage, and the famous movie Groundhog Day with Bill...
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Episode 26: Valentine’s Day: Love, Cards, and Big Expectations
Have you ever seen Valentine’s Day in American movies and wondered what it’s really like? In this episode, I explain how Americans celebrate February 14. We talk about romantic dinners, marriage proposals, busy restaurants, and the expectations couples sometimes feel. I also share a sweet school...
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Episode 25: Why Americans Put Ice in Everything
Why do Americans put ice in everything they drink — even in winter? In this episode of Jason’s Easy English, I explain the everyday American obsession with ice. We talk about giant sodas, iced coffee all year long, ice water at restaurants, and why saying “no ice” can make you sound foreign. A…
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Episode 24: Why Americans Drive Everywhere
Why do Americans drive everywhere? In this episode, Jason tells a story about a friend from Brazil who visits the United States and is surprised by how much Americans depend on cars. You’ll learn why towns are spread out, how parks and walking trails work, and why big cities feel more walkable. A...
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Episode 23: American Restaurants: Little Surprises
Eating at a casual restaurant in the U.S. can feel confusing if you’re not used to American habits. In this episode, Jason explains common restaurant quirks like free water and refills, servers checking on you, daily specials, customizing your order, taking leftovers home, splitting the check…
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Episode 22: Casual English Between Friends
How do Americans really speak with friends? In this episode of Jason’s Easy English, I share a short, natural story about friends meeting after a long week. You’ll hear common expressions like “no big deal,” “that’s rough,” and “go for it,” explained clearly and naturally. This episode helps you...
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Episode 21: The Super Bowl and American Football Culture
In this episode of Jason’s Easy English, I explain American football and the Super Bowl in a clear and simple way. You’ll learn why the Super Bowl is such a big cultural event in the United States, how the basic rules of football work, and what people do on Super Bowl Sunday. This episode helps...
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Episode 20: Don't Use These Translations in English!
Do you translate directly from Portuguese or Spanish into English? In this episode, I share seven common direct translations that sound strange in American English. You’ll learn what Americans really say, why these mistakes happen, and how to sound more natural and confident. This episode is...
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Episode 19: Visiting a U.S. Mexican Restaurant
Are Mexican restaurants in the U.S. really authentic? In this episode, I tell a story about taking a friend from Spain to a typical American Mexican restaurant. We explore Tex-Mex food, free chips and salsa, big portions, margaritas, and cultural expectations. This episode helps you understand...
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Episode 18: Let’s Talk Weather: Seasons and Expressions
In this episode of Jason’s Easy English, we talk about weather and seasons in the United States and why Americans love weather small talk. You’ll learn common weather expressions used in daily life, at work, and in casual conversations. Jason explains winter, spring, summer, and fall in clear,...
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Episode 17: When Weekend Plans Change
In this episode of Jason’s Easy English, I tell a short, friendly story about friends making weekend plans when one friend visits another city. You’ll hear what happens when plans change and how people roll with it. Along the way, you’ll learn common English expressions like “hang out,” “call it...
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Episode 16: A First Time at the Movies in the U.S.
In this episode of Jason’s Easy English, I share a story about taking my Mexican friend to an American movie theater for the first time. You’ll learn useful everyday expressions and discover how movie culture in the U.S. can feel very different. This episode is perfect for A2–B1 learners who want...
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Episode 15: Job Interview English: Culture, Confidence, and Nerves
In this episode of Jason’s Easy English, I share a story about helping my Brazilian friend Renata prepare for a job interview with an American company. We talk about common interview questions, how to manage nerves, punctuality, cultural differences, and mistakes to avoid. This episode is perfect...
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Episode 14: From Pre-School to PhD: The U.S. School System Explained
In this episode of Jason’s Easy English, I explain the levels of the American school system, from pre-school and kindergarten to high school, college, and PhD programs. You’ll learn typical ages, grade levels, and the difference between public and private schools. I also explain an important…
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Episode 13: Pronouncing the "TH" Sound in English
In this episode of Jason’s Easy English, I explain the two different “TH” sounds in American English. You’ll learn how voiced and unvoiced “TH” work, how to feel the difference in your throat, and why learners often replace these sounds with others. With clear explanations and simple examples…
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Episode 12: U.S. Politeness in Two Regions
In this episode of Jason’s Easy English, I share a short story about a visitor traveling through the Northeast and the Midwest of the United States. We explore how politeness can sound very different, from no-nonsense and direct communication to friendly small talk and compliments from strangers....
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Episode 11: Do Americans Really Tip for Everything?
Tipping culture in the United States can be confusing for visitors and new residents. In this episode, I explain how tipping works in American restaurants, bars, coffee shops, Uber rides, hotels, and even barbershops and salons. You’ll learn when tipping is expected, how much people usually tip,...
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Episode 10: Five Polite Ways Americans Say “No”
In this episode, you’ll learn five polite and very common ways Americans say “no” without using the word “no.” Jason explains what these expressions really mean and compares American politeness with Brazilian and Latin American communication styles. You’ll better understand invitations, work...
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Episode 9: Speaking Up at the Coffee Shop
Ordering coffee in English can feel stressful at first. In this episode of Jason’s Easy English, I tell a relatable story about a learner in an American coffee shop. You’ll hear real-life expressions, cultural tips, and a clear explanation of what “to speak up” really means — all in easy, natural...
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Episode 8: Hey, That's Not What I Ordered!
Have you ever ordered food on a delivery app and received the wrong order? In this episode, I share a real-life story about ordering Chinese food, feeling unsure about complaining, and solving the problem using simple English. You’ll learn natural expressions, polite language, and how Americans...
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Episode 7: An Oscars Watch Party in the U.S.
In this episode of Jason’s Easy English, I share a fun, fictional story about going to an Oscars watch party in the United States. You’ll learn how people prepare, why ballots and friendly competition are part of the experience, and what these parties are really like. Along the way, I explain...
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Episode 6: Small Talk in American Culture
Why do Americans talk to strangers in elevators, stores, and waiting lines? In this episode of Jason’s Easy English, I tell a short, relatable story that explains how small talk really works in the U.S. You’ll learn why Americans “make conversation,” how small talk helps avoid awkward silence…
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Episode 5: My Bad! You're good! No Worries.
Ever hear Americans say “my bad,” “you’re good,” or “no worries” and feel confused? In this episode, I explain what these everyday expressions really mean in American English. Using a simple convenience store situation, you’ll learn when to use “sorry, my bad,” how “you’re good” replaces “it’s...
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Episode 4: At the Airport: An Early Morning Flight in the U.S.
In this episode, I tell a short, relatable story about taking an early morning flight in the U.S. From waking up sleepy and crabby to going through airport security, grabbing coffee, dealing with a short delay, and boarding in Group 3, you’ll hear real airport English in context. I explain common...
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Episode 3: Referring to Americans in English, Portuguese, and Spanish
Why do English speakers say American, while Portuguese and Spanish often use estadunidense or estadounidense? In this episode, Jason explains the historical and linguistic reasons behind these different nationality terms. You’ll learn how the word American became standard in English, why…
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Episode 2: You're Kinda Sorta Gonna Wanna Listen!
In this episode, I share a classroom story that shows how Americans use fast, connected forms like gonna, wanna, gotta, hafta, kinda, and sorta in everyday conversation. You’ll hear how these expressions work, why some of them mean the same thing, and how understanding them can make real spoken...
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Episode 1: So Many Springfields
In this episode, I explore why so many towns in the United States are named Springfield — and why people often think of The Simpsons when they hear the name. I explain how early settlers chose simple place names, how U.S. states name their own cities independently, and why names like Madison,...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Jason’s Easy English provides understandable, intermediate-level English listening comprehension practice, with special support for Portuguese and Spanish speakers. Episodes feature easy-to-understand stories and explanations about American culture, everyday words and phrases in English, and pronunciation tips. Designed for A2-B2 learners, the style is relaxed and natural—easy to listen to. Jason’s Easy English helps you improve your listening comprehension, expand your vocabulary, and enjoy a clear, comfortable path to better English, one episode at a time.
HOSTED BY
Jason Jolley
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Jason's Easy English have?
Jason's Easy English currently has 45 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Jason's Easy English about?
Jason’s Easy English provides understandable, intermediate-level English listening comprehension practice, with special support for Portuguese and Spanish speakers. Episodes feature easy-to-understand stories and explanations about American culture, everyday words and phrases in English, and...
How often does Jason's Easy English release new episodes?
Jason's Easy English has 45 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Jason's Easy English?
You can listen to Jason's Easy English on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Jason's Easy English?
Jason's Easy English is created and hosted by Jason Jolley.
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