Struggling to improve your English while juggling deadlines, meetings, and an endless to-do list? We get it. While nothing beats personalized language training with a professional instructor, podcasts can be an excellent complement to your learning journey.
They’re on-demand, engaging, and perfect for learning on the go—whether you’re commuting, cooking, or taking a break. Best of all, there’s a podcast for every level and goal. So, whether you’re preparing for your next big presentation or looking to master casual conversations, there’s a podcast for you.
We’ve curated the six best podcasts to learn English, so you can focus on learning instead of searching. Ready to find your new favorite to subscribe to? Keep reading!
1. Talaera Talks
🎧Best for: Mastering business English, workplace culture, and etiquette
Talaera is one of the top language-learning platforms for business professionals, so you can trust that they know what they’re doing. Their podcast, Talaera Talks, is one of the best podcasts to learn English while gaining insights into workplace culture and etiquette.
Each episode dives into the ins and outs of English communication in the corporate world, with topics ranging from how to speak up in business settings to choosing the perfect email subject line. English learners will enjoy expert advice, real-life examples, and actionable tips all wrapped up in easy-to-follow listening material.
If you’re looking for a personal business English teacher + career coach you can bring anywhere, Talaera Talks is the perfect choice!
2. The History of English Podcast
🎧Best for: Understanding why the English language works the way it does
To non-native speakers, English can often feel like a puzzle with missing pieces—irregular verbs that follow no pattern, words that sound nothing like their spelling, and grammar rules full of exceptions. The History of English Podcast hosted by Kevin Stroud is one of the best podcasts to learn the evolution of the English language by uncovering the history behind these quirks.
Stroud’s speaking style leans toward professional or academic, so it’s a great reference for advanced and intermediate learners who want to polish their formal speaking skills. It’s particularly useful if you frequently give presentations or attend international conferences.
3. Stuff You Should Know (SYSK)
🎧Best for: Expanding vocabulary and general knowledge
Ever noticed how easily you remember English words when you're genuinely interested in what you're hearing? That’s what makes SYSK one of the best podcasts to learn English for beginners and beyond.
For more than 1,500 episodes (and counting), hosts Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant address entertaining topics across a wide range of subjects—from pop culture and history to everyday situations and quirky stories. Their conversational style, clear pronunciation, and moderate pace make it easy to follow along and pick up new vocabulary and expressions naturally.
Tip: SYSK provides transcripts for their English podcasts, so you can pause, take notes, or read along as you like. We recommend saving new words and expressions in your Personal Dictionary to review and practice later.
4. Voice of America Learning English Podcasts
🎧Best for: Building listening comprehension with current events
Is your work connected to U.S. markets or do you frequently discuss American business trends with colleagues? Voice of America’s podcasts are one of the best ways to learn English while getting your daily news story simultaneously.
The podcast episodes cover global news, business updates, and cultural stories, all delivered at a speed that works for international English learners. They also have some of the best podcasts to learn English grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, often in bite-sized chunks.
5. 6 Minute English
🎧Best for: Bite-sized language learning
Got six minutes to spare? That’s all you need to boost your English language skills with this gem from the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). Meant for busy intermediate students, this podcast features a combination of interesting topics, practical advice, and vocabulary lessons all at the same time.
It's a perfect example of microlearning done right—short, focused English lessons you can easily fit into your day. Plus, you'll get plenty of exposure to British English pronunciation and expressions, which is particularly valuable if you work with UK-based teams or clients.
6. Culips ESL Podcast
🎧Best for: Practicing conversational English
One of the hardest parts of English learning is sounding natural in real conversations. Slang, idioms, and fast-paced exchanges can leave even advanced learners feeling lost, especially if they don’t have many opportunities to practice with fluent English speakers.
Not sure where to listen to podcasts for everyday English practice? The Culips team has your back. Their podcast is specifically created by professional English teachers and language enthusiasts to help learners build fluency. Topics range from common slang to study tips, but one thing they have in common is a clear, well-paced delivery that even beginners can follow.
Pro tip: Follow along and take notes while listening, then practice new expressions in low-pressure situations like quick chats before meetings or coffee breaks with colleagues to boost your confidence.
Join Real English Conversations with Talaera
Podcasts are fun, but results are even better. The best podcasts to learn English are most effective when paired with consistent practice and expert guidance feedback. Join Talaera's English Speaking Club to build your skills and confidence through real conversations every week. Enjoy:
Personalized support from our native English-speaking teachers with business and academic backgrounds.
Weekly sessions available in all time zones to fit your schedule
Real conversations with professionals from around the world
Access to the best English learning programs for business professionals
Turn listening to fluency with Talaera. Sign up now to start learning for free!
