The Sharing English Podcast

In this episode of The Sharing English Podcast, we explore what the Super Bowl is, how it became one of the biggest events in American culture, and why it matters far beyond football. You’ll learn a short history of the game, which teams have shaped Super Bowl history, and why commercials and the halftime show are almost as important as the sport itself. Whether you love sports or feel confused by all the hype, this episode helps explain why the Super Bowl is such a big deal in the United States.Website: https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic: “Cherish” by Sascha Ende https://ende.app/en/song/498-cherishLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

In this episode of U.S. Government Explained, we examine how the U.S. military fits into the American system of government and national security.We’ll explore the different branches of the military, the unique role of the National Guard, and the principle of civilian control over armed forces. This episode also looks at the military’s role inside the United States, its global presence abroad, and how it works with other government agencies and allied countries.We’ll discuss historical realities, including the military’s role in conflicts with Native Nations, as well as modern national security priorities and oversight. The episode also explains how military law applies to service members and how it interacts with the broader federal legal system.This episode provides essential context for understanding U.S. power, security policy, and the limits placed on military force in a democratic society.Website: https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic: “Liberty Quest” by Sascha Endehttps://ende.app/en/song/293-liberty-questLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

In this episode of The Sharing English Podcast, we explain what Americans mean when they say “holiday,” and how that meaning differs from places like the UK, where the word often means vacation. You’ll learn what a bank holiday is in the U.S., why holidays are scheduled the way they are, and which days many Americans have off work or school. We also look at what holidays mean in real life for workers and parents, including pay, overtime, and childcare.Website: https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic: “Cherish” by Sascha Ende https://ende.app/en/song/498-cherishLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

In this episode of U.S. Government Explained, we explore the unique and often misunderstood relationship between the United States government and Native Nations.We’ll look at the historical foundations of federal–tribal relations, including treaties, broken promises, and policies that deeply shaped Native communities. We’ll explain what tribal sovereignty means, how authority is shared between tribal, state, and federal governments, and why Native Nations hold a legal status unlike any other group in the United States.This episode also examines how tribal interests are represented within the federal government, how courts have defined tribal authority, and the modern issues facing Indian Country today, including public safety, jurisdiction, and violence against Native women.Understanding tribal relations is essential to understanding U.S. government, federal power, and civil rights—both historically and today.Website: https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic: “Liberty Quest” by Sascha Endehttps://ende.app/en/song/293-liberty-questLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

In this episode of The Sharing English Podcast, we explore the broader Civil Rights Movement in the United States — beyond Martin Luther King Jr. We talk about the ordinary people, key figures, and different strategies that helped challenge segregation and discrimination in the 1950s and 1960s. You’ll also hear how this movement led to major legal changes, why its history still matters today, and how you can learn more through films and museums.Website:https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic:"Cherish" by Sascha Endehttps://ende.app/en/song/498-cherishLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

In this episode of U.S. Government Explained, we look at how interest groups and lobbying shape American politics between elections.We’ll explain what interest groups are, what lobbying really means, and how organized groups influence laws, government agencies, and court decisions. Using a real historical example, we’ll show how advocacy works in practice — including how groups interact with lawmakers, use the courts, and work with the media to support policy change.This episode helps explain why voting alone does not determine government outcomes, and how ongoing participation plays a major role in the U.S. political system.Website: https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic: “Liberty Quest” by Sascha Endehttps://ende.app/en/song/293-liberty-questLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

In this episode of The Sharing English Podcast, we ask: Why does Martin Luther King Jr. still matter today? Beyond the famous quotes, we explore MLK’s role in the broader Civil Rights Movement, what he actually fought for, and how his ideas challenged power in his own time. We also reflect on how MLK is remembered today — including current debates over whose histories are highlighted or removed in public spaces. Clear, thoughtful, and accessible listening for English learners.Website: ⁠https://www.sharing-english.com/podcast⁠Music:“Cherish” by Sascha Ende ⁠https://ende.app/en/song/498-cherish⁠License: ⁠https://ende.app/en/standard-license⁠

In this episode of U.S. Government Explained, we explore the role of media in American democracy and how it shapes politics, public opinion, and accountability.We’ll look at what “the media” really means, why freedom of the press is protected by the U.S. Constitution, and how journalism has changed over time — from shared national news sources to cable news and social media. We’ll also discuss how recent changes in government–media relations affect the information the public receives, and why media literacy matters more than ever.This episode helps explain why people often experience U.S. politics so differently, even when they’re talking about the same events — and why access to reliable information is essential for a healthy democracy.Website: https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic: “Liberty Quest” by Sascha Ende https://ende.app/en/song/293-liberty-questLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

In this episode of The Sharing English Podcast, we explore why there is no single “standard” American accent. You’ll learn how history, immigration, and geography shaped different accents across the United States, from the Midwest and the South to major cities and isolated regions. We also discuss African American English (AAVE), accents in movies and television, and why no accent is more correct than another. Clear, calm, and accessible listening for English learners.Website:https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic:“Cherish” by Sascha Endehttps://ende.app/en/song/498-cherishLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

How do elections actually work in the United States — and why do they sometimes feel so complicated?In this episode of US Government Explained, we take a clear, step-by-step look at elections and voting in the U.S. From the constitutional foundations of voting to modern election practices, this episode explains how Americans choose their leaders at the local, state, and federal levels.We’ll explore who can vote, how voter registration works, the role of political parties, primaries, and general elections, and why the Electoral College exists. We’ll also discuss modern issues surrounding U.S. elections, including voter access, turnout, and debates like gerrymandering — what it is, how it works, and why it matters today.This episode is designed to help listeners understand not just how elections work, but why they work the way they do — and why voting remains one of the most important parts of American democracy.Website:https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic: “Liberty Quest” by Sascha EndeLink: https://ende.app/en/song/293-liberty-questLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

As the year comes to an end, people around the world gather to celebrate new beginnings — but why do we celebrate New Year’s the way we do? In this episode of The Sharing English Podcast, we explore the history and meaning behind New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, from ancient calendars and early celebrations to modern traditions like fireworks, countdowns, resolutions, and the famous ball drop in Times Square.We’ll look at how New Year’s became a major cultural event in the United States, why staying up until midnight matters, and how traditions like making resolutions reflect hope, renewal, and fresh starts. We’ll also compare American celebrations with New Year traditions in other countries, showing how different cultures mark the passage of time in meaningful ways.This episode is designed to help English learners better understand a familiar but often unexplained holiday — and to see how history, culture, and everyday life come together at the start of a new year.Wishing you and your the happiest of New Years!Website: ⁠https://www.sharing-english.com/podcast⁠Music:‘Wundervolle Weinacht (instrumental) feat. Klangkommune’ by Sascha EndeLink: ⁠⁠⁠https://ende.app/en/song/7169-wundervolle-weihnacht-instrumental-feat-klangkommune⁠⁠⁠License: ⁠⁠⁠https://ende.app/en/standard-license⁠⁠⁠

Why does the United States have a two-party system? And how did today’s Democratic and Republican parties become what they are now?In this episode of US Government Explained, we explore the history and evolution of political parties in the United States—from the country’s earliest political divisions to the modern two-party system. We look at how the Democratic and Republican parties were formed, how their ideas and voter bases have shifted over time, and why Abraham Lincoln’s Republican Party looks very different from the Republican Party today.The episode also explains the role political parties play in elections and governing, how parties are organized, and why independents in Congress often still work closely with one of the two major parties. We’ll also touch on third parties, political movements within parties, and why regional history—especially in the American South—played a major role in reshaping U.S. politics in the 20th century.This episode is designed to help listeners better understand how political parties shape American democracy, policy debates, and everyday political life.Website: https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastSources:Library of CongressNational ArchivesEncyclopedia BritannicaMusic:“Liberty Quest” by Sascha EndeLink: https://ende.app/en/song/293-liberty-questLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

Before Santa had flying reindeer… before stockings hung by the chimney… and before Christmas looked the way we imagine it today—there was a poem.In this episode of The Sharing English Podcast, we explore the history and cultural impact of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas” (also known as A Visit from St. Nicholas). We look at who wrote the poem, when and why it was published, and how it helped shape many of the Christmas traditions we now take for granted—including Santa’s sleigh, reindeer, and nighttime gift-giving.Along the way, I’ll pre-teach key vocabulary and grammar from the poem to help English learners follow along more easily, and we’ll talk about why this poem is still so important in American culture today.We’ll finish the episode with a full reading of the poem, just as it’s often shared in homes, classrooms, and holiday gatherings across the U.S.Whether you’re learning English, curious about American Christmas traditions, or simply love classic holiday stories, this episode offers a cozy and meaningful look at one of the most influential poems of the season.Closing question:Have you heard this poem before—or do you have a holiday story or poem that’s special in your culture?Website:https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastSources:https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/43171/a-visit-from-st-nicholasMusic:‘Wundervolle Weinacht (instrumental) feat. Klangkommune’ by Sascha EndeLink: ⁠⁠https://ende.app/en/song/7169-wundervolle-weihnacht-instrumental-feat-klangkommune⁠⁠License: ⁠⁠https://ende.app/en/standard-license⁠⁠Additional Music: “Silent Night” by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

In this episode of US Government Explained, we take a close look at checks and balances, one of the most important ideas at the heart of the U.S. political system. This system is designed to prevent any one branch of government from becoming too powerful—and it shapes how the government works every single day.We explore how Congress, the President, and the courts are able to limit and influence one another, using clear explanations and real historical examples. From presidential vetoes and congressional overrides, to court rulings that reshape national policy, this episode shows how power in the U.S. is intentionally shared, challenged, and balanced.Along the way, we connect the theory to real life, explaining how checks and balances affect laws, elections, and major political moments—both in the past and today. Whether you’re an English learner, a student of civics, or simply curious about how the U.S. government actually functions, this episode makes a complex system understandable.Website: https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic: “Liberty Quest” by Sascha EndeLink: https://ende.app/en/song/293-liberty-questLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

In this festive episode of The Sharing English Podcast, we explore three major holidays celebrated across the United States in December: Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa. Whether you’re an English learner curious about American culture or someone who loves learning about global traditions, this episode gives you a clear, friendly introduction to each celebration.We look at the history, origins, and key figures behind the holidays; explain common symbols, foods, and traditions; and share how each one is celebrated in modern American life. From the story of Hanukkah’s miraculous oil, to the African American cultural roots of Kwanzaa, to the global evolution of Christmas, you’ll see how each holiday adds something unique to the rich cultural mix of December in the U.S.By the end, you’ll understand not only what these holidays mean to the people who celebrate them, but also why they matter—and how knowing about them can help you connect with others during the holiday season.Website: https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic:‘Wundervolle Weinacht (instrumental) feat. Klangkommune’ by Sascha EndeLink: ⁠⁠https://ende.app/en/song/7169-wundervolle-weihnacht-instrumental-feat-klangkommune⁠⁠License: ⁠⁠https://ende.app/en/standard-license⁠⁠

In this episode of U.S. Government Explained, we take a clear, engaging tour through the Judicial Branch—the part of the U.S. government responsible for interpreting laws and protecting constitutional rights. We break down how the court system is structured, from local courts all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court. You’ll learn what each level of court actually does, how cases move through the system, and how the courts interact with the other branches of government.We also explore landmark Supreme Court cases that have shaped American life—from Brown v. Board of Education to Gideon v. Wainwright—and discuss how the Court hears arguments, issues rulings, and writes majority, concurring, and dissenting opinions. You’ll even get a brief look at the judicial philosophies of Justices, and how those philosophies influence real decisions.If you’ve ever wondered why courts hold so much power, how judges are chosen, or how ordinary people can witness the Supreme Court in action, this episode gives you the essential, easy-to-understand overview.Website: https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic: “Liberty Quest” by Sascha Ende Link: https://ende.app/en/song/293-liberty-questLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

In this festive episode of The Sharing English Podcast, we explore the movies that shaped how many people imagine Christmas in the English-speaking world. From the heartwarming classics of the 1940s, like It’s a Wonderful Life and Miracle on 34th Street, to the beloved animated specials of the 1960s—including Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, A Charlie Brown Christmas, and How the Grinch Stole Christmas—we trace how film and television helped define the modern holiday season. We also look at family favorites like Home Alone, musical versions such as The Muppet Christmas Carol, and nostalgic cult films that have become traditions for generations.Along the way, we break down the cultural impact of these movies, explain why they continue to resonate with American audiences, and highlight the vocabulary and expressions English learners will hear again and again during the holidays. Whether you’re new to Christmas movies or grew up watching them, this episode will help you understand the stories, themes, and traditions that make these films so iconic.Website: https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic:‘Wundervolle Weinacht (instrumental) feat. Klangkommune’ by Sascha EndeLink: ⁠https://ende.app/en/song/7169-wundervolle-weihnacht-instrumental-feat-klangkommune⁠License: ⁠https://ende.app/en/standard-license⁠

What exactly does the President of the United States do—and how did the office become so powerful? In this episode of US Government Explained, we break down the role of the presidency, from constitutional responsibilities to the real-world influence presidents wield today. We explore how presidential power has expanded during national crises, how the executive branch is organized, and how the Cabinet and federal agencies carry out the work of the government. You’ll also learn about the unique role of the Vice President, famous historical examples of presidential action, and how different administrations shape the nation in ways big and small. If you’ve ever wondered what the “executive branch” really means, this episode has the answers.Music: “Liberty Quest” by Sascha EndeLink: https://ende.app/en/song/293-liberty-questLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

In this week’s episode of The Sharing English Podcast, we unwrap the real history behind one of the world’s most beloved holiday figures: Santa Claus. From the true story of St. Nicholas, a generous bishop in the ancient Mediterranean, to the Dutch tradition of Sinterklaas, to the creation of the modern red-suited Santa we know today, we explore how centuries of legends, cultures, and creativity shaped this global icon. We also look at Santa traditions around the world and the surprising influence of Coca-Cola on the modern image of Santa. This episode is full of history, culture, and holiday cheer—perfect for English learners curious about where our Christmas stories come from.Website:https://www.sharing-english.com/podcastMusic:‘Wundervolle Weinacht (instrumental) feat. Klangkommune’ by Sascha EndeLink: https://ende.app/en/song/7169-wundervolle-weihnacht-instrumental-feat-klangkommuneLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license

In this episode of US Government Explained, we take a deep dive into Congress, the lawmaking branch of the United States federal government. We break down the structure of the House of Representatives and the Senate, explain how seats are divided across the country, and explore the powerful leadership roles—from the Speaker of the House to party Whips and caucuses—that keep Congress running.You’ll also hear about how committees function, how members build their careers, and how everyday people can interact directly with their Representatives and Senators. Along the way, we look at real historical examples, influential lawmakers, and dramatic moments that have shaped Congress into what it is today.Whether you're an English learner, a government student, or someone trying to make sense of American politics, this episode gives you a clear, accessible understanding of how Congress works—and why it matters.Music: “Liberty Quest” by Sascha EndeLink: https://ende.app/en/song/293-liberty-questLicense: https://ende.app/en/standard-license