DiscoverAll Ears English PodcastAEE: We Don't Mean to Brag but This Episode Is to Die For
AEE: We Don't Mean to Brag but This Episode Is to Die For

AEE: We Don't Mean to Brag but This Episode Is to Die For

Update: 2024-06-0111
Share

Digest

This episode of the All-Ears English Podcast focuses on self-promotion in a social context, offering five phrases to help listeners navigate the delicate balance between sharing their achievements and avoiding sounding boastful. The hosts, Lindsay and Michelle, discuss the nuances of phrases like "I don't mean to brag," "not to toot my own horn," "pat oneself on the back," "gloat," and "boast." They emphasize that these phrases are best suited for casual conversations with friends, where a playful tone is appropriate. The episode concludes with a roleplay demonstrating how these phrases can be used in everyday situations, highlighting their effectiveness in softening self-promotion and creating a more comfortable atmosphere. Listeners are encouraged to try out these phrases in their own conversations and to leave a review of the podcast.

Outlines

00:00:00
Introduction

This Chapter introduces the All-Ears English Podcast and its mission to help listeners become fearless and fluent in English. It also highlights the podcast's popularity, with over 200 million downloads. The hosts, Lindsay and Michelle, are introduced, and listeners are encouraged to download the All-Ears English app for real-time transcripts and personalized vocabulary lists.

00:00:59
Self-Promotion Phrases

This Chapter delves into the topic of self-promotion in a social context, providing listeners with five phrases to use when they want to share their accomplishments without sounding boastful. The hosts discuss the nuances of each phrase, including "I don't mean to brag," "not to toot my own horn," "pat oneself on the back," "gloat," and "boast." They emphasize that these phrases are best suited for casual conversations with friends, where a playful tone is appropriate.

00:13:24
Roleplay: Self-Promotion in Action

This Chapter features a roleplay between Lindsay and Michelle, demonstrating how the self-promotion phrases discussed earlier can be used in everyday situations. The scenario involves planning a party and sharing their culinary skills, showcasing how these phrases can soften self-promotion and create a more comfortable atmosphere.

00:16:10
Call to Action

This Chapter concludes the episode with a call to action, encouraging listeners to leave a review of the podcast and share their thoughts. The hosts emphasize the importance of connection and encourage listeners to try out the self-promotion phrases in their own conversations.

Keywords

Self-promotion


The act of promoting oneself or one's skills, achievements, or work. It can involve highlighting one's accomplishments, sharing expertise, or building a personal brand. Self-promotion is often necessary for career advancement, networking, and personal growth.

Bragging


The act of boasting or showing off about oneself or one's accomplishments in a way that is considered arrogant or excessive. Bragging can be off-putting and can damage relationships. It is important to find a balance between self-promotion and humility.

Toot one's own horn


An idiom meaning to brag or boast about oneself. It is often used in a humorous or self-deprecating way to acknowledge that one is promoting oneself but trying to do so in a less offensive manner.

Pat oneself on the back


An idiom meaning to praise oneself for a job well done. It is often used in a self-deprecating way to acknowledge that one is proud of their accomplishment but trying to avoid sounding arrogant.

Gloat


To express excessive pride or satisfaction in oneself or one's achievements, often in a way that is considered arrogant or insensitive. Gloating can be seen as rubbing one's success in the face of others and can be hurtful.

Boast


To talk with excessive pride about oneself or one's achievements. Boasting can be similar to bragging but often implies a more assertive or aggressive tone.

All-Ears English Podcast


A popular podcast hosted by Lindsay McMahon and Michelle Kaplan, focusing on helping listeners improve their English skills. The podcast offers a variety of content, including vocabulary lessons, grammar explanations, cultural insights, and conversation practice. It is known for its engaging and humorous approach to language learning.

Connection, not perfection


A core philosophy of the All-Ears English Podcast, emphasizing the importance of focusing on communication and building connections rather than striving for perfect English. This approach encourages listeners to embrace their mistakes and to see language learning as a journey of growth and discovery.

Q&A

  • What are some phrases to use when you want to share your accomplishments without sounding boastful?

    The podcast suggests five phrases: "I don't mean to brag," "not to toot my own horn," "pat oneself on the back," "gloat," and "boast." These phrases can help soften self-promotion and make it more palatable in casual conversations.

  • When are these phrases most appropriate?

    The hosts emphasize that these phrases are best suited for casual conversations with friends, where a playful tone is appropriate. They are not recommended for professional settings or formal situations.

  • What is the main takeaway from this episode?

    The episode highlights the importance of connection in communication, encouraging listeners to focus on building relationships and sharing their experiences in a way that is both authentic and engaging. It also provides practical tips for self-promotion, helping listeners navigate the delicate balance between sharing their achievements and avoiding sounding boastful.

  • How can I use these phrases in my own conversations?

    The podcast encourages listeners to try out these phrases in their own conversations, starting with friends and family. They suggest using them in situations where you want to share something you're proud of but don't want to come across as arrogant.

Show Notes

Listen to the Business English Podcast to get tips on vocabulary, presentations, meetings in English, and more

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Comments (2)

Givanilson Reis

Brazilian here! I love your podcast. It's helping me a lot! Thanks!

Jun 6th
Reply

sadoon AH

hi good morning I hope you are doing well my name is sadoon from Iraq I listen to you guys most of the time in my workplace and I would like to thank you for all your hard work take care

Jun 1st
Reply
00:00
00:00
x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

AEE: We Don't Mean to Brag but This Episode Is to Die For

AEE: We Don't Mean to Brag but This Episode Is to Die For

Lindsay McMahon and Michelle Kaplan