Best Vancity Podcasts (2025)

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Culips Community Update – June 2025 13:49

19h ago13:49

13:49

Ready to finally master phrasal verbs? In this episode, Andrew and Alina introduce the Culips June Challenge, designed to help you learn and use 15 high-frequency phrasal verbs in real conversations. You’ll hear how to join the free challenge on Discord, how it works, and why it’s a great way to stay consistent and motivated with your English. They…

1
Bonus episode #147 – We hit the jackpot 25:58

6d ago25:58

25:58

What happens when you visit a dog shelter and find the perfect pet? In this episode, Andrew tells the story of adopting his new dog, O’Wall. Listen as he explains how he and his wife chose their new pet, went through the adoption process, and helped their dog settle into her new home. You’ll hear about visiting shelters, picking the perfect name, a…

1
Irene Gammel and Jason Wang 39:29

7d ago39:29

39:29

In this episode, we are joined by Irene Gammel and Jason Wang from Toronto Metropolitan University. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Irene and Jason held webinar series at the Modern Literature & Culture Research Centre. In this episode Irene and Jason share personal anecdotes and insights on how the pandemic has affected their lives, research, and cu…

1
Viola Tian 46:28

7d ago46:28

46:28

In this episode we are joined by Viola Tian, where she shares her journey from arriving in Canada at the age of 19 as a student in Queen's University, to becoming a leading advocate for anti-racism and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. She discusses her work with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in the U.S., highlighting bureaucrat…

1
Simplified Speech #221 – Adult Friendships 26:41

7d ago26:41

26:41

In this episode, Andrew and Kassy talk about how friendship changes as we grow older, especially when life gets busy with work, relationships, and family. They discuss how marriage and parenthood can shift friendship dynamics, how the media creates unrealistic ideas about friendship, and what real connection looks like today. Listen to this episode…

1
Bonus episode #146 – A month in a week 20:20

13d ago20:20

20:20

Have you ever experienced a week so busy and memorable it felt like a whole month? In this episode, Andrew shares two stories from one incredibly eventful week in his life. Listen in as Andrew talks about special celebrations, cultural traditions in Korea, and thoughtful surprises from loved ones. There’s even a mystery gift involved… but you’ll ha…

1
Chatterbox #335 – Let’s talk taste 38:11

15d ago38:11

38:11

In this Chatterbox episode, Andrew and Anna talk about taste. They discuss how our preferences for food and drinks develop from childhood to adulthood, sharing personal stories about acquired tastes and interesting foods from their home countries. The conversation then shifts to personal preferences in music, fashion, films, and coffee, with both h…

1
Kevin Huang and Kimberley Wong 53:50

18d ago53:50

53:50

In this episode we are joined by Kevin Huang and Kimberley Wong of hua foundation. The conversation centers on the rise of anti-Asian racism during the COVID-19 pandemic, and highlights urgent concerns around community health, public health orders, and hate crimes. Kevin and Kimberley emphasize the importance of recognizing and addressing diverse e…

1
Sibo Chen and Cary Wu 40:31

18d ago40:31

40:31

Julia Aoki hosts a discussion with Dr. Sibo Chen and Dr. Cary Wu on anti-Asian racism during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Chen, assistant professor at Toronto Metropolitan University, discusses his research on media narratives, political polarization, and disinformation. Dr. Wu, an associate professor at York University, highlights the rise of anti-A…

1
Introducing Common Concern: Conversations on Anti-Asian Racism and COVID-19 14:20

18d ago14:20

14:20

Welcome to Common Concern: Conversations on Anti-Asian Racism in the Wake of COVID-19. This is a special Below the Radar series produced in collaboration with Toronto Metropolitan University and SFU’s Vancity Office of Community Engagement. Common Concern is a mini-series that considers the historical context, and short and long term impacts of a r…

1
Bonus episode #145 – My favorite YouTubers 20:36

20d ago20:36

20:36

In this episode, Andrew talks about how he spends his free time and shares his top three YouTube channels. You’ll hear about a Dutch YouTuber exploring Seoul, a British marathon runner living in Tokyo, and a Canadian couple building a quiet life in the Japanese countryside. Andrew explains why he enjoys each channel and how they fit into his daily …

1
Simplified Speech #220 – Semi-destination wedding 34:01

22d ago34:01

34:01

In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Indiana catch up and talk all about weddings. Indiana shares her recent experience traveling to Florida for her husband’s cousin’s wedding, which was held in Miami. She explains what a Jewish wedding is like and describes some unique traditions, such as the chuppah, the ketubah, the breaking of a glass,…

1
Season 2 I Episode 4 - Ed Stulak EXPOSES HIMSELF... 42:34

23d ago42:34

42:34

Special guest, Ed Stulak from Real Broker in New Jersey, shares his life leading up to real estate, what good PERSONAL BRANDING looks like, why DISRUPTIVE CONTENT is so important, and how his book "Expose Yourself" came to realization! The SUBJECT FREE Podcast A light-hearted, AWARD WINNING podcast with four experienced agents (featuring special gu…

1
[Classic] Bonus episode #64 – The mushroom mystery 36:33

27d ago36:33

36:33

Andrew talks about a fascinating and sad news story involving three deaths from eating poisonous mushrooms. Accident or crime? Listen to and decide for yourself! In the vocabulary lesson, you’ll learn about the phrasal verb to feel for (someone). Support Culips and take your English to the next level by becoming a Culips member. To sign up, visit C…

1
Simplified Speech #219 – Day trips, elections, and more! 30:24

29d ago30:24

30:24

In this Simplified Speech episode, Andrew and Kassy catch up and share updates about their lives. Kassy talks about taking short trips with her baby to nearby cities in Korea. She describes visiting a busy flower festival and returning to a town just to eat her favorite vegetable bread. She also talks about her upcoming move and her hope to make he…

1
Culips Community Update – May 2025 16:11

1M ago16:11

16:11

In this episode, Andrew and Alina share the latest Culips community news for May 2025! They read a kind review from a Culips member, announce the winner of the March challenge, and introduce the new challenge for May. This month, the challenge will help you master one of the trickiest parts of English grammar: the difference between the present per…

1
Simplified Speech #218 – How we watch movies in 2025 39:08

1M ago39:08

39:08

In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Indiana talk about how they watch movies, both at the theater and at home. They discuss their personal movie habits, like sneaking snacks into the cinema, watching movies alone, and breaking long movies into smaller parts. You’ll also hear about movie traditions in different countries, how theater ex…

1
Bonus episode #144 – A Little Bit of Everything 20:27

1M ago20:27

20:27

In this episode, Andrew shares a mix of real-life updates and personal stories, from sleeping alone in a queen-size bed to trying to fix a podcast recording disaster. He also talks about replacing social media habits with Japanese reading practice and learning how to do DIY home repairs like caulking the shower. It’s a relaxed and personal episode …

1
Catch Word #284 – A dead ringer 24:47

1M ago24:47

24:47

Have you ever seen someone who looks exactly like someone else? In this Catch Word episode, Andrew and Kassy teach two fun English expressions: “A dead ringer” and “A spitting image.” You’ll hear clear examples, learn the difference between the two, and understand when and how to use each one.This episode is great for learning real English expressi…

1
Bonus episode #143 – The race I’ll never forget 33:58

2M ago33:58

33:58

In this episode, Andrew recaps his experience running the 2025 Seoul Marathon. He shares the fun and challenges of race weekend, from eating lots of carbs before the race to jumping over a bike left on the road. He also talks about what it was like to run with thousands of people and even spot someone from a Korean TV show. This story is full of ex…

1
Real Talk #064 – How to ask for help in a store 21:49

2M ago21:49

21:49

Have you ever wandered through a store for a long time and still couldn’t find what you needed? In this Real Talk episode, Andrew and Kassy teach you how to ask for help in English when you’re shopping. You’ll learn useful phrases and polite expressions that native English speakers use when they can’t find a product in a supermarket or department s…

1
Bonus episode #142 – The best and worst of times in Japan 31:02

2M ago31:02

31:02

In this episode, Andrew tells the story of his recent trip to Japan, where he experienced both the best and worst parts of travel. From enjoying delicious local food and relaxing in traditional hot springs to unexpectedly getting sick in Tokyo, Andrew shares the real ups and downs of his adventure. Listening to natural English through personal stor…

1
Simplified Speech #217 – Veggie Tales 28:14

2M ago28:14

28:14

In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Kassy talk all about vegetables \. They compare shopping at local markets with going to big grocery stores. Kassy shares her experience getting fresh produce from a local market near her house and tells us about a fun new vegetable subscription box she signed up for. Andrew talks about the kinds of v…

1
Culips Community Update – March 2025 18:12

2M ago18:12

18:12

In this episode, Andrew and Alina share updates from the Culips community and introduce the April challenge. They read a thoughtful comment from a listener, announce the February challenge winner, and talk about a helpful new feature that will make learning English with Culips even better for you.How to Join the Culips Discord Server and Participat…

1
Chatterbox #334 – Getting in touch: How we feel the world 37:30

2M ago37:30

37:30

In this episode of Chatterbox, Andrew and Anna talk about textures and the way things feel when we touch them. They share interesting and personal stories about their favorite and least favorite textures, from soft cashmere to slimy foods and scratchy sweaters. They also discuss how touch is important in human relationships and how it’s different i…

1
Bonus episode #141 – Living like a local 23:30

2M ago23:30

23:30

In this episode, Andrew shares a couple more stories from his recent trip to Hawaii and reflects on some unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences he and his wife had during their travels. Listening to authentic, natural English from a native speaker is one of the best ways to improve your English skills and become fluent faster. So tune in to hear a…

1
Simplified Speech #216 – Connecting with your inner child 31:52

2M ago31:52

31:52

Have you ever felt like a kid again while doing something fun? In this episode, Andrew and Kassy talk about how we all have a child inside us. They share stories about playful moments in their lives and discuss why keeping a sense of fun and wonder is important, even as adults. Andrew and Kassy also talk about how staying connected to your inner ch…

1
Bonus episode #140 – Ready, set, relax 18:47

3M ago18:47

18:47

In this episode, Andrew shares his plans for the upcoming Seoul Marathon. He discusses his preparation struggles due to recent illness, travel, and limited training time. You'll hear about his plans with his running buddy, Jimmy, his strategy to enjoy the marathon without stressing about his personal record, and his thoughts about dealing with chal…

1
Chatterbox #333 – The psychology of waiting 34:47

3M ago34:47

34:47

Waiting is a part of everyday life. Whether you’re stuck in traffic, waiting for a job offer, or standing in line at the store, waiting can feel frustrating. In this episode, Andrew and Anna explore the psychology of waiting, discussing why some waiting feels harder than others and how cultural differences affect our patience. They also share perso…

1
Bonus episode #139 – Hawaiian sun 29:03

3M ago29:03

29:03

In this episode, Andrew shares stories from his recent trip to Hawaii. He talks about visiting famous places like Waikiki Beach, snorkeling in Hanauma Bay, and hiking up Diamond Head. Along the way, he reflects on fun moments with his wife, the excitement of exploring new places, and even a few surprises. You’ll feel like you’re right there with hi…

1
Simplified Speech #215 – Indiana’s operation 38:35

3M ago38:35

38:35

In this episode, you’ll hear Andrew and Indiana talk about Indiana’s recent surgery and recovery. They use real-life English to discuss medical vocabulary, including words like “cartilage” and “labrum,” and explain how to describe pain and injuries. Indiana shares her experience of getting a diagnosis, deciding on surgery, and going through recover…

1
Season 2 | Episode 3 - Ray Macklem Shares WHAT KEEPS HIM UP AT NIGHT... 54:24

3M ago54:24

54:24

Special guest, Ray Macklem from Nest Mortgage, SHARES his outlook on real estate, the economy, and Canada's growth in 2025. He also SCARES us with what keeps him up at night! Do we TRUST his predictions? The SUBJECT FREE Podcast A light-hearted, AWARD WINNING podcast with four experienced agents (featuring special guests from around the globe) shar…

1
Bonus episode #138 – Epic winter hike 35:55

3M ago35:55

35:55

In this episode, Andrew shares the exciting conclusion of his hiking trip in South Korea with his best friend, Luke. After a chaotic morning rushing to catch a bus, they finally arrive in Taebaek, a small mountain town. Their adventure continues with beautiful snowy trails, a surprise trail closure, and an unexpected challenge at the top of the mou…

1
Catch Word #283 – Off the cuff 27:01

3M ago27:01

27:01

In this episode of Catch Word, Andrew and Indiana teach you two useful English expressions: "knee jerk reaction" and "off the cuff." These expressions describe spontaneous reactions, one for quick emotional responses and the other for acting without preparation. Through fun conversations and clear examples, you'll learn how to use these expressions…

1
Culips Community Update – February 2025 15:16

3M ago15:16

15:16

In this episode, Andrew and Alina share updates about the Culips community. They talk about the fun activities happening recently including small-group speaking classes and monthly challenges. They read a nice review from a listener named Coco, who joined the classes and loved them. They also spin a prize wheel to pick a winner from the January cha…

1
Chatterbox #332 – The soundscape of our lives 38:32

3M ago38:32

38:32

In this episode, Andrew and Anna explore the impact of sound on our daily lives. From the noises that wake us up in the morning to the background sounds that shape our work, relaxation, and social interactions, they discuss how these sounds affect our mood, focus, and overall well-being. Tune in to learn how sound impacts daily life and boost your …

1
Bonus episode #137 – The adventure before the adventure 22:04

3M ago22:04

22:04

In this episode, Andrew shares a funny but stressful story about how a hiking trip almost went wrong before it even started. He talks about losing his wallet, missing a subway, and rushing to catch a bus just in time. This real-life story is easy to understand and will help you improve your English while enjoying an exciting adventure.How this epis…

1
Becoming Anarchival — with Kate Hennessy 47:49

3M ago47:49

47:49

On this episode of Below the Radar, our host Am Johal is joined by Kate Hennessy, Associate Professor at SFU’s School of Interactive Arts & Technology and member of anti-patriarchal, anti-colonial folk inspired punk band, The Saltlicks. Together, they chat about Kate’s practice in anthropology and contemporary art, the experience of working collabo…

1
Simplified Speech #214 – Catching rays and climbing days 27:22

4M ago27:22

27:22

In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Kassy share stories about their latest travels. Kassy talks about her trip to Thailand with her four-month-old son. She explains what it was like to ride a speedboat and go through airport security with a baby. Andrew describes his plan to visit Taebaek, the small Korean city where he first lived. He…

1
Playlist: A Profligacy of Your Least-Expected Poems — with Michael Turner 46:23

4M ago46:23

46:23

On this episode of Below the Radar, our host Am Johal is joined by Michael Turner, a Vancouver-based writer and musician. Am and Michael discuss the release of his latest book Playlist: A Profligacy of Your Least-Expected Poems. They also talk about the Hard Rock Miners, as well as programming work at the Malcolm Lowry Room, the Railway Club, and t…

1
Simplified Speech #213 – Beating the winter blues 24:41

4M ago24:41

24:41

Episode description:In this episode of Simplified Speech, Andrew and Indiana talk about winter and how it can make people feel sad or tired. They share their own winter experiences from places like Korea and the United States. Andrew and Indiana explain why winter can be hard and give simple tips to feel better, such as getting enough sunlight, exe…

1
Star Stories — with Lisa Jackson 43:25

4M ago43:25

43:25

On this episode of Below the Radar, our host Am Johal is joined by Lisa Jackson, an award-winning filmmaker, whose work spans hybrid documentary, installation, VR, and more. Am and Lisa discuss her latest work, Wilfred Buck, a portrait of Cree Elder Wilfred Buck, an Indigenous star lore expert. They also talk about her time as an undergraduate stud…

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