Down to Business English: Business News to Improve your Business English

Learn how sports betting went from being a national concern to a booming industry in the USA, all while picking up sports-related idioms and expressions that cross over into business English. Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega look at the world of sports betting in the USA. From the 1919 World Series scandal to the monumental shift in 2018 when sports betting became legal in many states, they cover the evolution of this billion-dollar industry. Along the way, they explore the crossover of sports idioms into business English, enriching listeners' business vocabulary. Listeners looking to enhance their business English, Skip and Samantha’s conversation is a great learning resource. Key points include: The historical backdrop of sports betting in the US. How the internet revolutionized sports betting. The role of fantasy sports in normalizing betting behaviors. Sports and gambling expressions that are commonly used in business English. Do you like what you hear? Become a D2B Member today for to access to audio scripts, bonus vocabulary episodes, and D2B Member-only episodes. Visit d2benglish.com/membership for more information. Follow Down to Business English on Apple podcasts, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

Discover the latest economic developments in Japan, focusing on the Nikkei 225 index reaching a new high and the opening of a TSMC semiconductor plant in Kumamoto. This episode is a great chance to learn business English vocabulary related to important economic changes. Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega examine recent economic milestones in Japan, including the Nikkei index's unprecedented performance and the strategic opening of TSMC's semiconductor fab. They discuss the implications of these events for Japan's economy and what it means for the global economic landscape, all while enhancing listeners' business English skills through insightful commentary. Listeners looking to enhance their business English, Skip and Samantha’s conversation is a great learning resource. Key points include: Why the Nikkei index's high is important for Japan's economy. How TSMC's new factory might affect both Japan and the world. The bigger picture of these events, explained in easy-to-understand business English. Do you like what you hear? Become a D2B Member today for to access to audio scripts, bonus vocabulary episodes, and D2B Member-only episodes. Visit d2benglish.com/membership for more information. Follow Down to Business English on Apple podcasts, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

The Air Cargo and Freight industry has faced many challenges over the past few years. The COVID-19 pandemic, increasing operational costs, and fluctuating customer demand have all been issues the industry has had to deal with. In this episode of Down to Business English we look at all of these factors. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to enhance their understanding of global trade dynamics while improving their business English skills. Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega examine the state of the air cargo and freight industry. Their discussion offers an insightful look into the sector's response to unprecedented times, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the surge in e-commerce, and the evolving needs of global supply chains. For those looking to enhance their business English, Skip and Samantha’s conversation provides a rich source of learning. Topics they discuss include: The distinction between air freight and air cargo, and the specific terms used within the logistics industry. The dramatic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on air transport and how it altered global supply chains. The role of e-commerce growth in increasing demand for air freight services. Strategies airlines have adopted to convert passenger planes to cargo carriers, including the financial and operational implications.. Do you like what you hear? Become a D2B Member today for to access to audio scripts, bonus vocabulary episodes, and D2B Member-only episodes. Visit d2benglish.com/membership for more information. Follow Down to Business English on Apple podcasts, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega explore the world of digital nomads in this enlightening episode of Down to Business English. As the concept of digital nomadism gains traction worldwide, this is a timely and relevant conversation. Listeners will gain valuable insights into this lifestyle choice while improving their business English vocabulary and listening comprehension skills. Ideal for those curious about remote work and eager to refine their English in a business context. Skip and Samantha delve into the digital nomad trend, highlighted by Japan's recent introduction of a 6-month work visa for digital nomads. They cover what it means to live a nomadic lifestyle in the digital age, the technological advancements facilitating this shift, and its broader implications for societies and economies globally. For those looking to enhance their business English, Skip and Samantha’s conversation provides a rich source of learning. Topics they discuss include: The concept and origins of digital nomadism. The surge in digital nomad numbers following the pandemic. Demographics of digital nomads, focusing on age and gender distribution. Preferred destinations for digital nomads and the appeal of these locations. Economic and societal effects of the digital nomad lifestyle on host communities. Do you like what you hear? Become a D2B Member today for to access to audio scripts, bonus vocabulary episodes, and D2B Member-only episodes. Visit d2benglish.com/membership for more information. Follow Down to Business English on Apple podcasts, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

In a time when geopolitical tensions play a crucial role in shaping global economics, this episode of Down to Business English is very pertinent. Join co-hosts Dez Morgan and Skip Montreux as they explore the intricate dynamics of Russian gas exports to Europe. This discussion offers insights into current events while providing an opportunity to enhance your business English vocabulary and listening comprehension skills. Perfect for anyone eager to understand the complexities of international trade and energy dependency while improving their English proficiency. Dez and Skip discuss the complex issue of Russian gas exports to Europe, a topic central to current geopolitical and economic debates. They examine Europe's reliance on Russian gas and its impact on both politics and the economy, focusing on European strategies to reduce this dependency. Listeners aiming to enhance their business English will find Skip and Dez’s discussion particularly useful. In this episode they discuss: The consequences of European countries reliance on Russian gas. The creative measures taken to circumvent current challenges in energy supply. The strategic importance of weaning off dependency on a single energy source for achieving autonomy in energy policy and security. Do you like what you hear? Become a D2B Member today for to access to audio scripts, bonus vocabulary episodes, and D2B Member-only episodes. Visit d2benglish.com/membership for more information. Follow Down to Business English on Apple podcasts, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

In today's world, where all of us are trying to be more environmentally responsible, this episode of Down to Business English is very timely. Co-hosts Samantha Vega and Skip Montreux not only talk about the important topic of carbon capture technology but also help you to improve your business English vocabulary and listening comprehension skills. Perfect for anyone wanting to learn about the balance between technology and taking care of our environment while at the same time developing their English listening fluency. Samantha and Skip talk about carbon capture, a method that could greatly reduce the carbon footprint of industries. They look at two main types: Point Source Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) and Direct Air Capture (DAC). CCS focuses on capturing carbon from places like factory smokestacks, while DAC aims to remove CO2 that's already in the air. Listeners wanting to get better at understanding business English will find the discussion about the costs of carbon capture very useful. Skip and Samantha talk about: How much CCS and DAC cost now, and how these costs might go down as the industry grows. How ANA is working with 1PointFive to reduce its carbon emissions using DAC technology. What governments in the United States and Europe are doing to support carbon capture technology. Do you like what you hear? Become a D2B Member today for to access to audio scripts, bonus vocabulary episodes, and D2B Member-only episodes. Visit d2benglish.com/membership for more information. Follow Down to Business English on Apple podcasts, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

The start of 2024 brings with it not only new resolutions but also new insights into one of the most dynamic sectors of global tourism - the cruise line industry. After weathering the storms of the pandemic, this industry has emerged not just afloat but thriving. The Cruise Line Industry industry has a history of making waves — from its transformation from a niche holiday for newlyweds and retirees to a mainstream vacation choice. In this episode of Down to Business English, Samantha Vega and Skip Montreux discuss the fascinating world of the cruise line business. They explore the industry's exponential growth from the 1970s, propelled in part by pop culture influences like 'The Love Boat', to its present state, where mega-ships like Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas redefine maritime luxury. They also navigate through the crucial aspects of market dynamics, environmental impacts, and the shifting demographic of cruise passengers. Join Skip and Samantha and learn the answers to these questions: How has the cruise line industry evolved since the 1970s? What impact did the COVID-19 pandemic have on the cruise line industry? What is the current market structure of the cruise line industry? How is the cruise line industry trying to be more environmentally friendly? Follow Down to Business English on Apple podcasts, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

The Eurozone presents a variety of contrasting economic stories. Germany and France, the bloc's largest economies, are navigating through a period of uncertainty that reflects broader trends impacting the region. Meanwhile, smaller economies like Ireland and Belgium are experiencing growth, highlighting the diverse economic conditions within the Eurozone.  Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan look closely at how different economies are faring across the Eurozone and talk about whether or not Brexit was the right step for the UK. Join Skip and Dez and learn the answers to these questions: What are the economic challenges currently faced by Germany? What specific issues are affecting key French corporations? Why has it been difficult for the EU to make trade deals around the world? Has Brexit had a positive or negative impact on the UK’s economy? Follow Down to Business English on Apple podcasts, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

In a week marked by unexpected turns and twists, OpenAI, the leader in AI development, witnessed a whirlwind of leadership changes that captured the attention of the business and tech world. In this episode of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega take listeners through the riveting series of events at OpenAI, beginning with a sudden boardroom decision that shook the foundations of the company. From the initial surprising text message to CEO Sam Altman to his sudden firing and the subsequent fallout, this story unfolds like a corporate drama, highlighting the intricate balance between ethical AI development and business strategy. Join Skip and Samantha and learn the answers to these questions: Why did OpenAI’s Board of Directors decide to fire Sam Altman? How did Microsoft, as a major investor, react to Sam Altman's firing from OpenAI? How did OpenAI’s staff react to the news? Follow Down to Business English on Apple podcasts, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

Rupert Murdoch, the titan behind global media empire News Corp and Fox Broadcasting, has announced he is stepping down. This marks the end of a staggering 70-year career that has had far-reaching influences in business, entertainment, and politics. Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan take you on a comprehensive retrospective of Murdoch's illustrious and often polarizing career. Spanning seven decades, his influence has not only shaped the media landscape but also had a profound impact on public opinion worldwide. Join Skip and Dez and learn the answers to these questions: How did Rupert Murdoch initially get involved in the media industry? How did Murdoch grow his media empire, expanding from Australia to span the globe? Who will succeed Murdoch and what potential challenges could arise? Follow Down to Business English on Apple podcasts, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

Become a D2B Member Today and get a  25% discount on an annual membership plan. Visit the Down to Business English website and use the discount code: D2B252023 at checkout Kit Kat, a chocolate bar that has transcended borders and cultures, offers an intriguing lesson in business English. From its humble beginnings in a 17th-century pie shop to its current status as a global brand, the Kit Kat story is a fascinating case study in international business strategies and language. Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega take you on a journey through the complex and fascinating world of Kit Kat. They discuss its origins, its dual manufacturing by Hershey's and Nestlé, and how it became a global phenomenon. Join Skip and Samantha and learn the answers to these questions: What is the history behind this chocolate bar that is beloved world wide? Why are flavored Kit Kats only available in some regions of the world and not others? And what is the story behind Kit Kat’s famous slogan? Follow Down to Business English on Apple podcasts, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

Nvidia, a name synonymous with cutting-edge technology, has a compelling story that spans from its early focus on gaming graphics to its current role as a leader in artificial intelligence. In this episode of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega take you through the company's fascinating history, groundbreaking technologies, and its meteoric rise in the tech industry. You'll learn about the company's unique naming story, its game-changing technologies like GPUs and CUDA, and its strategic moves that have made it a trillion-dollar enterprise. Join Skip and Samantha and learn the answers to these questions: Who are the key figures behind Nvidia's founding, and what motivated them to start Nvidia? What is the story behind Nvidia's unique name? How did Nvidia transition from a company focused on gaming graphics to become the dominant player in the field of artificial intelligence? Become a D2B Member today and get a 25% discount!! Choose the D2B Executive Plan (recurring or 1 year only plan) and use this discount code at checkout D2B252023 Visit Apple Podcasts to subscribe to Down to Business English, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

This is a sample of a D2B Member’s only podcast. To get a FREE audio script for this episode, visit https://downtobusinessenglish.com/274-sample/ To become a D2B Member, visit the D2B Membership Page. Choose the D2B Executive Plan (recurring or 1 year only plan) and use this discount code at checkout D2B252023 In this Members-only Bonus Vocabulary episode of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega go through bonus vocabulary explanations and examples for words and phrases used in D2B 273 — Congestion Charges: A Deep Dive into Urban Traffic Solutions. The words and expressions they explain are: The crux of something (noun phrase) To be exempt (adjective) In conjunction with (phrase) A toll (noun) To sue (verb) After explaining the words and expressions in the context of how they were used in D2B 273 — Congestion Charges, they demonstrate how these words ad phrases can be used in a model business conversation. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

In an era where urban landscapes are plagued with traffic snarls, excessive vehicle emissions, and deteriorating air quality, cities worldwide are exploring innovative measures to alleviate or ease these challenges. One such solution, which has become more popular in recent years, is the concept of 'congestion charges.' In this episode of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan discuss the controversial topic of traffic congestion charges. The conversation kicks off with a look back at Singapore, the pioneer in this area, and segues into London's ULEZ system. But the core discussion? New York City's potential leap into this traffic-reduction system. Join Skip and Dez and learn the answers to these questions: Which cities around the world have previously implemented congestion charges? What potential impact could congestions charges have on the New York City's traffic and revenue? What are criticisms faced by NYC’s congestion pricing system, especially in the context of New York and its neighboring states like New Jersey? Visit Apple Podcasts to subscribe to Down to Business English, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

In today's rapidly evolving financial landscape, traditional banking institutions are no longer the sole players. Enter Neobanks and Challenger Banks, two terms that have been making waves in the fintech industry. But what exactly are they, and how do they differ from each other? In this episode of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan discuss Neo and Challenger banks and demystify the world of digital banking. In the ever-evolving world of fintech, understanding these new-age banking solutions is not just beneficial; it's essential. Join Skip and Dez and learn the answers to these questions: What are the primary differences between Neobanks and Challenger Banks? Which regions or countries are seeing the most significant adoption of Neo and Challenger Banks? Are Neobanks profitable entities? Visit Apple Podcasts to subscribe to Down to Business English, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

The Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, Canada is renowned for its stunning landscapes and abundant orchards. But the valley also boasts one of Canada’s best kept secrets—a thriving wine industry. In this episodes of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega explore the rich history of grape cultivation in the region, the transformation of the wine industry through government subsidies, and the challenges faced by local wineries. From the initial planting of Labrusca grapes by French Catholic missionaries to the formation of the Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA), they unravel the key events that have defined the Okanagan Valley's wine industry.  Join Skip and Samantha and learn the answers to these questions: How did the Okanagan Valley's wine industry evolve from its humble beginnings in the 1860s? What role did government subsidies and the establishment of the Vintners Quality Alliance play in transforming the wine industry in the Okanagan Valley? What impact does the wine industry have on the local economy and job market? Visit Apple Podcasts to subscribe to Down to Business English, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

India's economy, now the fifth largest globally, is in a state of rapid expansion and transition. This growth is not only reshaping the Indian economy but also redefining its role on the global stage. In this episode of Down to Business English, Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan take a dive deep into India's demographics, the overall health of its economy, and what the future could potentially hold. Visit Apple Podcasts to subscribe to Down to Business English, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

Dez Morgan and Skip Montreux take a deep dive into the concept of a debt ceiling, a term often thrown around in financial news but rarely fully understood. They start by defining what a debt ceiling is, then explore how some countries have set hard limits on their borrowing, while others base their debt ceilings on their GDP. Dez and Skip also discuss the history of the US debt ceiling and shed light on the reasons behind its creation and why it still exists today, despite the changing economic landscape. Visit Apple Podcasts to subscribe to Down to Business English, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

The ongoing Writers Guild of America (WGA) strike has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. The WGA, a labor union representing over 11,500 writers in the US, is locked in a dispute with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), a trade association of more than 350 US television and film production companies. The core issues at the heart of the strike have been brewing for quite some time, with the evolution of the entertainment industry playing a significant role. Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega discuss the ongoing writer's strike in the entertainment industry. They provide an overview of the key players involved, explain the evolution of the industry due to technological advancements, particularly the rise of streaming services, the internet, and artificial intelligence (AI), and discuss how streaming has changed the production process. Visit Apple Podcasts to subscribe to Down to Business English, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed

Jack Ma, the founder of Alibaba and one of China's most prominent businessmen, has recently returned to China after spending two years maintaining a low profile abroad. This event has not only reignited interest in Ma's activities but also coincides with a series of important changes within the Alibaba Group. Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan discuss Jack Ma's return to China and Alibaba's restructuring. Why was Jack Ma keeping a low profile over the past two years? What are the details behind Alibaba’s restructuring? What prompted Softbank to sell off their position in Alibaba? Listen in to learn the answers to these questions and more. Visit Apple Podcasts to subscribe to Down to Business English, rate the show, and leave a comment. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Linkedin Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed