3. What is Magical Banana? Japanese Word...

I’ll be taking a short break from the podcast and website until mid-May. In this episode, I explain why I decided to go to India—to focus on yoga in Rishikesh and experience South Indian food and Ayurveda. I also reflect on my previous sabbatical and why intentionally stepping aw ... Show More

Did you know Japan has had bicycle traffic rules for years but almost nobody enforced them? That's changing in April 2026. Police can now issue on-the-spot fines (called 青切符 ao-kippu) for violations like running red lights, riding the wrong way, or using your phone while cycling. ... Show More

Many people picture grilled fish, miso soup, and rice — but is that really what Japanese people eat every morning? In this cozy, casual episode, I share what breakfast actually looks like in Japan, and in my own kitchen! Think clay pot rice, TKG, natto, ochazuke, and simple miso ... Show More

Learn a phrase about talking too much. 

<p>Practice speaking English with me, as your friend today in a "repeat after me" English lesson. I'll teach you some common phrases that English speakers use to make their speech sound quicker and you will repeat the phrase.</p> <p>In this English lesson, I am not going to be sp ... Show More

<p style="color:#333333;font-weight:normal;font-size:16px;line-height:30px;font-family:Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;hyphens:auto;text-align:justify;" data-flag="normal"><span>说话是一件不容易的事。</span><br></p> 

‏Conversation m3a Atra The Algerian in Japan. Enjoy:) 

<p>Listening to natural conversational English is the most effective way to understand and replicate native English speakers.</p> 

<p>If you're working on improving your spoken English, you might have a problem with <strong>pauses</strong>. <br /> <br /> Maybe you start a sentence, but you hesitate because <strong>you're not sure how exactly to express your thought</strong> in English. You know how to say it ... Show More

<p>Starting or having a conversation in English (or any language) can be difficult so in this episode I wanted to give you some tips to help!</p>