10 Podcasts to Improve Your Listening Skills

Podcasts are one of the best ways to practise your English skills while on the go – whether you’re procrastinating on your studies by deep-cleaning your bedroom or bored of spamming Duolingo on your morning commute. They’re accessible, clearer than movies and TV, and span an almost limitless variety of topics.

Since London’s annual Podcast Festival was this month, we’ve collected some of the best podcasts for ESL students, from total beginners to advanced learners.

Here’s your guide to the best English-language podcasts 🎤🗯️

Beginners 🌱

LearnEnglish by the British Council 🎧

Made specifically for English learners, with everyday topics, transcripts, and comprehension exercises, this is the perfect starting point for listening to native English speakers.

Espresso English Podcast ☕

Espresso English focuses on short titbits of English phrases and grammar rather than long explanations or conversations. As the name suggests, this is a great accompaniment to your coffee break, since episodes are only a couple of minutes long and don’t overload you with information.

BBC 6 Minute English ⏱️

With more natural conversations, 6 Minute English bridges the gap between beginner and intermediate. While some episodes can be difficult, the hosts always explain more unusual vocabulary and cultural information you might not know.

Intermediate 🌿

TED Talks Daily 💡

TED Talks are a great step up if you’re moving from podcasts designed for ESL students to authentic English material. Because of the format, TED Talks tend to be clearer and more understandable than more conversational podcasts. You can also find something genuinely interesting to listen to on a range of different topics, from science to self-help and everything in between.

Culips English Podcast 🗣️

Start listening to more natural English with these 30-minute episodes designed for ESL learners, with topics ranging from personal stories to language-learning tips and inspiration.

Luke’s English 🇬🇧

With some episodes lasting more than three hours, Luke’s English is by far the longest podcast on our list – so there’s plenty to sink your teeth into. Comedian and English teacher Luke introduces listeners to authentic British English, with episodes covering everything from Sherlock Holmes and London accents to the World Cup (including, inevitably, England losing). Stick it on during your next deep clean and let your English improve itself.

Stuff You Should Know 🧠

Improve your listening skills while becoming weirdly knowledgeable about a tonne of niche topics. Stuff You Should Know isn’t designed specifically for English learners, so it’s a good choice if you’re ready for more of a challenge, or simply tired of the same old language-learning topics. You could find yourself learning about anything from how peanut butter is made to why we enjoy being scared.

Advanced 🌳

You’re Dead to Me ☠️

Ready for the final boss of listening practice? You’re Dead to Me brings comedians and academic experts together to explore fascinating moments from history. The result is a hilarious blend of facts and British humour, making it the perfect way to challenge your listening skills while picking up some British slang along the way.

BBC World Service 🌍

If you already listen to the news in your native language, try listening in English instead. The BBC World Service releases daily podcasts covering news and current affairs from around the world.

Serial 🔪

If you’re feeling confident and love true crime, try Serial, a killer podcast telling true crime stories across multiple episodes. It’s like listening to your favourite series – just without the screen.

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