Learn French by Podcast
Publisher: editor@learnfrenchbypodcast.com
Genre: Education
Language: English
Learn French by Podcast is an exciting series of French lessons for everybody. Work with high-quality audio podcasts in your own time and at your own pace. Want to clarify some details? Something you couldn't quite understand? Then download comprehensive PDF Guides which elucidate all the finer points. Learn French the fun way.
Copyright: All rights reserved. Plus Publications, 2009
Website: http://www.learnfrenchbypodcast.com/
Remember: You can download this podcast straight to your iPod with Sherpa.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 141
The economic situation in Greece has slipped off the front pages of newspapers… for the moment. However, Greece's problems and those of Portugal, Ireland, Italy and Spain are largely responsible for recent instability in the Euro zone. In t... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 140
The subject of this lesson - lesson 140 - is the oil spill which occurred in the Gulf of Mexico. President Obama is adamant that B.P. will resolve the problem and pick up the bill. Nonetheless, it represents another environmental disaster. Let’... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 139
In this lesson, lesson 139, we are talking about the phenomenon that is Google. But people have mixed feelings about this commercial entity that has become synonymous with searching for information on the Internet. Is it a monopolistic monster we sho... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 138
In this lesson, our task is to find out how to transfer money to someone elsewhere in France. The Post Office can help us with this task but there are different options available. Let’s study some of the key vocabulary. Let’s begin with a... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 137
In this lesson, lesson 137, Paul and Julie are talking about Julie's friend, Anne, who has moved back to Europe having lived for a decade in the U.S. We examine the verb vivre again and we practise using the expressions s'adapter bien à, s'hab... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 136
The subject of this lesson, lesson 136, is Haïti. Not, in fact, the dreadful tragedy which befell the country in the form of an earthquake, but the reasons why Haïti continues to be such an impoverished country. The dialogue is a rather lon... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 135
The topic of this short lesson is how to explain that you're running late for an appointment. In our role-play, Mr. Morel is stuck in traffic. He has to pull over and make a quick call to say that he'll be a little late. Let's listen. We'll work with... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 134
The subject of this lesson is a remarkable woman, born in the Ukraine but now a resident of the United States. Some say she has raised the bar of musical performance higher than anyone so far. Whether that is indeed true or not, let's hear a role-pla... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 133
In this lesson, lesson 133, we hear a discussion between Sonia and Frédéric about the Polanski affair. His recent arrest in Zurich was an outrage to some and long overdue to others. Discover useful words and expressions, including clore, extrader, si... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 132
In recent weeks, just about every news bulletin has had a mention of swine flu. To pick up some relevant vocabulary, in this lesson, lesson 132, we?ll hear a role-play where Céline tells us how she picked up a virus. We'll discover some useful expres... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 131
In this lesson, lesson 131, we?ll discover how to talk about a concert we?ve been to. In this case, it?s a rock concert. Let?s get started with a role-play between Lucie and Étienne. We'll practice using a range of expressions: 'mettre des boules Qui... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 130
The world of pop music lost one of its most famous exponents in Michael Jackson. His passing was a shock, not least because he was only fifty. In this lesson, let?s talk about some of the things that made Jackson a larger-than-life figure... We?ll st... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 129
In this lesson, lesson 129, we hear a role-play between Sandrine and Yann. They are discussing an article by a journalist who has made some rather unflattering comments about the French on an English website. Though the comments may have been tongue-... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 128
One of our listeners asked that we would do a lesson on opening a bank account. That?s the topic of conversation in this lesson, lesson 128. In fact, opening an account is not so straightforward and sometimes even necessitates an appointment. In any ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 127
Though this lesson, lesson 127, has an Irish flavour, our dialogue relates to a quirky story which hit the headlines worldwide? at the expense of the Irish Prime Minister. Let?s listen to a role-play between Xavier and Amélie. We'll discover some ver... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 126
One or our listeners asked that we would do a lesson on renting an apartment. It?s an activity which, as one might expect, has its own specific vocabulary. In this lesson, lesson 126, let?s see if we can shed some light. We?ll hear a role-play betwee... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 125
A new sporting chapter has opened for Lance Armstrong, 7-time winner of the Tour de France. This year, after 3 years of retirement, he plans a return to the world?s greatest cycling race. Surely it is a chapter which can only result in frustration fo... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 124
As a consequence of the global financial crisis, unemployment is at the top of the agenda. Being made redundant is one of the themes of this lesson, lesson 124. We'll make use of the verbs 'licencier' and 'délocaliser', we'll examine the expressions ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 123
One of our listeners asked that we would do a lesson focusing on a trip to the local dry-cleaner?s. That?s the topic of conversation in this lesson, lesson 123. We'll discover lots of useful expressions and several versatile verbs, including 'détache... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 122
In this lesson, lesson 122, we hear a conversation about the unexpected ?goodbye kiss? President Bush received in Iraq. The President brushed it off as something insignificant but it will be an incident that many will remember from Mr Bush?s final da... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 121
In our last lesson, we booked our car in to the local garage for a service. This time ? in lesson 121 ? the car is ready. Let?s hear the conversation when Madame Legrand goes to pick up her car. We'll study the French for the adjectives 'rear' and 'f... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 120
This lesson ? lesson 120 ? is a short one. We simply want to make an appointment to book our car into the local garage for a service. Let?s hear a role-play. We'll learn the terms for 'car service' and 'additional costs', we'll make use of the verbs ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 119
In this lesson, lesson 119, we need to have a specific service carried out, that is, to have a puncture repaired. But the expressions used could just as easily apply to a variety of services. Let?s begin with a role-play between Marie and a mechanic.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 118
In this lesson - lesson 118 - we?ll deal with a common situation - calling for a taxi - not such an easy task when you can?t see the other person?s gestures and so on, over the phone. Let?s discover what vocabulary we?ll need. We?ll start with a role... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 117
La crise financière a dominé la rentrée 2008. Les marchés ont vraiment été chahutés en ce mois de septembre. Certains jours, une psychose de ?fin du monde? régnait en bourse. Les grandes banques centrales ont dû injecter des milliards de dollars dans... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 116
One of our listeners, Corrine, asked that we would do a lesson on phrases a mum might need around the home with her children. So, in this lesson, let?s deal with that. This time, Xavier, will play the role of a grumpy teenager while Amélie will be th... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 115
Brian, one of our listeners in Canada, asked that we would do a lesson on the difficulties one experiences nowadays travelling. In particular, the security issues at airports, whether people of colour encounter longer delays, and so on. That?s the to... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 114
One of our listeners asked for a lesson which would help when buying clothes. In this Beginner lesson ? lesson 114 ? that will be the topic conversation. We'll discover how to ask for a garment one size larger or smaller, how to ask if we may try som... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 113
The Tour de France is the world?s premier cycling race. It traces a route ? ?la Grande Boucle? ? through France and certain stages ? des ?étapes? ? are sometimes organised in neighbouring countries. In this Advanced lesson, lesson 113, let?s discuss ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 112
One of our listeners in the U.S. asked if we would create a lesson focusing on larger numbers, for example those found in dates, and so on. That?s the subject of this lesson, lesson 112. We?ll start with a role-play where Sylvie tells us about the re... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 111
In this lesson, lesson 111, we discuss the rejection of the Lisbon Treaty by Irish voters. An event which dominated current affairs in Europe recently. This very complicated document, aimed at facilitating the functioning of the EU, will not come int... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 110
The real race to the White House has begun, after a gruelling campaign for the Democrats. For now Hillary Clinton is out of the picture, leaving Barack Obama and John McCain to slug it out. In this lesson, lesson 110, let?s discover some vocabulary w... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 109
In this lesson, lesson 109, our conversation centres on oil and, more significantly, the spiralling price of oil. Let's discover some of the vocabulary we'll need in order to talk about prices that are going through the roof, investors, yield, altern... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 108
In this Beginner lesson, lesson 108, we talk about possessive adjectives, that is, words like ?my?, ?your? and ?his? in English. We'll discover that, like regular adjectives, possessive adjectives also must agree in number and gender with the nouns t... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 107
Kaleema, one of our listeners in the U.S. asked if we would talk a little about tennis and Roland Garros. That?s the topic for today?s lesson. We?re coming to the end of the 2008 tournament?: let?s see what vocabulary and expressions would be useful ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 106
The subject we will deal with in this lesson was suggested to us by Maureen, one of our listeners in Australia. This year, Maureen will forsake city life for a holiday in the countryside, in the Dordogne, to be precise. Let's discover this magnificen... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 105
In this lesson we talk about a common physical condition which effects so many people?: back pain. We?ll learn how to describe the pain and we?ll talk about the possible solutions to this problem. Should we visit our GP or our physiotherapist?? Let?s... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 104
In this lesson, lesson 104, we'll discover the vocabulary required to go on a shopping trip for inexpensive jewelry. Sophie wants to buy jewelry which will go with her outfit. Let's hear how her conversation with Jean unravels. The conversation begin... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 103
This lesson is in response to an idea from Brian living in the Hautes-Alpes who was taking some time out from working in his kitchen garden and wanted to know how to talk about vegetables, manure, compost and more? He also mentioned food shortages an... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 102
Lessons 93 and 96 dealt with numbers from 1 - 20 and 21 - 69, respectively. This beginner lesson will take us from 70 to 100, and beyond. We will then know virtually everything we need when dealing with numbers generally.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 101
One of our listeners asked: 'How do you complain about bad service?' In this lesson, we will see how to say we didn't order something, how to say that food is cold, and how to talk about an error in the bill. It all happened during this outing to a r... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 100
Hard though it is to believe, we have reached our hundredth lesson
since we first started in June 2006. So, in this lesson, why not talk
about anniversaries... and learn how to never forget an anniversary
again! Let's start with a role-play between M... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 99
'La Môme' was released into French cinemas recently. It is the story of
France's best known singer ? the artist who made 'Non, je ne regrette
rien' an expression familiar to everyone. In this advanced lesson,
let's discuss film that brought French ac... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 98
Zimbabwe is anxiously awaiting the results of presidential elections. Robert Mugabe, in power for the last 28 years, looks to be in trouble but shows no signs of giving up the reins of power easily. Let?s hear a conversation in this intermediate less... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 97
In this lesson, lesson 97, we'll hear a brief discussion about the Olympics in Beijing. Let's get started with a role-play between Yves and Olive. We'll talk about the pride of the Chinese Olympic Committee, the views of certain sports delegations an... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 96
This short lesson is a follow-on from lesson 93 on the numbers from 1 to 10. This time, we'll proceed as far as the number 69. From 70 onwards, there are another few twists which we?ll deal with in a later lesson. Allons-y!...
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 95
Local and regional elections are about to take place in France. It's all a little complicated, in fact. In this lesson - an advanced leson completely in French! - let's study at least some of the vocabulary and expressions which will shed a little li... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 94
This lesson is in response to a listener who asked about getting fit, going to the gym, avoiding fast food and so on. The possibilities are endless but, in this lesson ? lesson 94 ? we?ll study just some of the key vocabulary. C'est parti!...
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 93
This is a short lesson, for beginners, to recap on one of the basics ? numbers and counting. We'll focus on the numbers 1 to 10 and discuss a few points of pronunciation we?ll need to watch out for in relation to these numbers. Allons-y!
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 92
It seems that one quick way of becoming a cult hero is to blow over 7 billion dollars on financial trading. That?s what has happened in the case of Jérôme Kerviel, France?s most famous - or most infamous - trader. Let?s hear a role-play between Sévri... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 91
This lesson, lesson 91, centres on a job interview. We'll study the verbs 'to apply (for)', 'to specialise' and 'to spread oneself too thin'; we'll also discover adjectives we might use about ourselves to emphasise why we're suited to this particular... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 90
It has been a while since we have had a basic lesson so this lesson -
our 90th lesson - is just that. Let?s talk a little about directions.
We?ll also learn how to say ?I don?t speak French well? and how to ask
that someone repeat something again, mo... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 89
Despite the fact that such events are becoming more anachronistic with each passing year, there is still no shortage of enthusiasm for events like the 'Miss France' competition. In this lesson let's hear a role-play between Amélie and Xavier on that ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 88
Though France could not be described as a religious country, Christmas is widely celebrated in French towns and cities, with children eagerly anticipating the arrival of Santa Claus. But what about the vocabulary related to this festive season? Chris... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 87
This time, we?ll hear a conversation between two people who meet in the park and have a general chat about their dogs. We'll study lots of new vocabulary - discussing the breed of dog, commenting on his coat, describing his personality, and more. Our... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 86
This lesson is in response to a suggestion made by Gene who will be looking after an 8-month-old baby on New Year's Eve for friends. But what about all those baby terms? Changing diapers, burping the baby, putting the baby to sleep, cooing, crawling?... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 85
It seems nobody can organise strikes quite like the French. In recent weeks, President Sarkozy has had his first real test since coming into office with the public transport system grinding to a halt. For now, though, the public are on his side ? and... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 84
In the last lesson, we called a plumber and spoke to him over the phone. This time, in lesson 84, the plumber calls ?round to conclude the job. Let?s see how the conversation unfolds.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 83
This lesson is based on a request from one of our listeners who needed
the assistance of a plumber while in France. So, what happens if the
bath drain gets blocked? How do we convey this to the plumber ? Let?s
see in this two-part lesson.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 82
In this lesson, lesson 82, we talk about a recent court ruling in the U.S regarding Jammie Thomas, found guilty of downloading and illegally re-distributing copyrighted music. Let?s study some of the relevant vocabulary in this exchange. On y va!...
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 81
The scene of this lesson is the forest of Fontainebleau where Amélie and Xavier are having a stroll, and picking up a few delicious mushrooms along the way. Let?s listen to their conversation unravel on a beautiful autumnal afternoon?
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 80
In this, our 80th lesson, we talk about a change which will soon apply to all new French car registrations. The distinctive French number plate which tells us which department a car comes from, will take a new form. We'll learn several useful express... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 79
In this lesson, lesson 79, we will learn how to simply ask if someone would fancy a cup of coffee that we are about to make. And, while we are at it, we will learn some trivia about a former Phillipine First Lady!?
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 78
This month, Italy lost one of her great musicians and personalities in Luciano Pavarotti. In this lesson, let?s talk about what made him a household name and such a popular figure the world over. We'll learn how to say someone has passed away, how to... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 77
Some people love them, others hate them. Still more cannot do without them. But, what if someone asks you if it is ok to light up a cigarette in your presence? Let?s listen to a role-play and see how such an exchange might unravel.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 76
It?s an issue none of us likes to talk about but one we occasionally confront in the workplace. So what about the delicate subject of personal hygiene ? How do we discuss it in French ? In this lesson we'll find out. Allons-y!...
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 75
It is perhaps the most hated word in the French language. In fact, the noun itself - 'la rentrée' - means simply, 'the return' but, for secondary school students it means the end of 'les grandes vacances' and the return to a new school year. In this ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 74
In this lesson, Amélie will tell us about 'les Vélib' (vélos libres), an initiative in the French capital which puts bicycles at the disposal of those looking for a healthier option for getting around. We'll learn new expressions including 'Ça marche... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 73
Continuing our theme of the last lesson, this time we look at the promises made by President Sarkozy in relation to the environment during the run-up to the French presidential elections. Let?s examine what he said ? and what he promised. We'll hear ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 72
Though he wasn?t in the final reckoning for the French presidential election, the participation of Nicolas Hulot, a prominent environmentalist, drew the attention of many French voters to the precarious state of our planet. In this lesson, let?s focu... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 71
The number of hours worked per week by French employees has been a hot topic in France recently. In this lesson, let?s study some of the vocabulary which will enable us to talk about overtime, in particular. Let's listen to a conversation between Chr... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 70
Perhaps the first thing tourists to the French capital must think about is how best to get around. In this lesson, lesson 70, let?s hear a conversation which takes place at the ticket counter to find out how to approach this task. We'll revise the ex... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 69
In the last lesson, we were talking about hiring a car. In this second part of the two-part lesson, let?s complete the task. We?ll hear the final part of the discussion between the customer and agent of the car hire company. We'll study the expressio... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 68
It's summer vacation time. In this lesson, let's discover how to carry out a common task for tourists - to hire a car. We'll learn how to ask the basic questions related to this undertaking, as well as some more specific vocabulary including 'car ins... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 67
Antoine and Linda are visiting the Louvre Museum in this lesson. Though it should be an enjoyable outing, Antoine is unhappy about a number of things and is doing his fair share of moaning and groaning. So, let's learn how to say 'You never stop moan... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 66
A listener recently asked us: 'Which lesson deals with 'Ça va?'!?' Though it's a simple expression, it's an essential one. As it?s been a while since we?ve had a beginner lesson, let's visit some of the basics in this short lesson. We?ll see how to a... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 65
It?s a physical feeling we experience frequently, after sport, a day?s gardening, whatever. We?ll be talking about feeling stiff in this lesson ? lesson 65. We'll see how to say 'What's the matter?', 'What did you do to yourself!?', 'You should have.... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 64
A good deed - giving blood, to be precise - is the topic of this lesson, lesson 64. We'll study a variety of expressions, including 'I did a good deed...' and 'It's for that (very) reason that...'. We'll also learn the meaning of an amusing expressio... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 63
We're looking for someone to help us with a specific task, once again, in this lesson. The job in question is electrical work: we'll discover some electricity-related vocabulary and we'll revise some key expressions from previous lessons including: '... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 62
We're looking for someone to help create a website in this lesson - Lesson 62. We'll learn some useful computing-related vocabulary. In addition to this, we'll study the useful expressions 's'y connaître en', 'donner un coup de main (à quelqu'un)' an... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 61
When we bump into someone we haven?t met for a while, we?ll commonly ask them what they?ve been up to. That?s the topic of this lesson. We'll work with a variety of useful expressions including: 'Ça fait??', 'pas mal de' and 'Ça a mis?'. We'll also s... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 60
In this lesson, we'll study the vocabulary needed to ask someone how he or she is progressing at an art course. We'll examine a range of useful expressions, including 'avoir peur de', 'il y a toutes sortes de' and 'se moquer de (quelqu'un)'. We'll al... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 59
We'll discover how to discuss a programme from last night's TV schedule in this lesson. In particular, Xavier talks about a documentary he saw on the life of Henri Troyat, a prolific French writer. We'll meet - and practice - new expressions includin... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 58
In our recent discussion of American politics, we mentioned Barack Obama. This time our role-play will focus on whether America is ready for a woman to take the top job at the Oval Office. Let's hear what Caroline, in particular, thinks of Hillary Cl... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 57
France will soon have a new President. So, too, will the U.S. In London, Tony Blair will be leaving 10 Downing Street after 10 years as British Prime Minister. In this lesson, let's study some vocabulary and expressions related to the political scene... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 56
Hardly a day passes without the terrible conflict in Iraq making the news headlines. In this lesson, lesson 56, we'll study vocabulary which will allow us to offer an opinion on a situation for which a solution seems more elusive than ever.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 55
This time, our dog is in trouble and requires a trip to the vet. We'll learn how to say that something is wrong and we'll study a number of useful verbs, including 'rester', 'se mettre à', 's'attarder' and 'se rétablir'. It's a longer lesson this tim... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 54
In our last lesson, a trip to the dentist resulted in a filling. The dentist and patient had a brief chat at the end of the appointment. Let's see how their conversation ended up. We'll study the expressions 'to finish [doing]', 'to be in agony' and ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 53
In our last lesson, we saw how to make an dental appointment. This
time, we?re in the dentist?s chair? The drill, fillings, injections,
cavities ? we?ll meet them all in this first part of a two-part lesson.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 52
We'll see how to make an appointment to see the dentist in this lesson. We'll meet a variety of useful expressions, including 'prendre rendezvous avec quelqu'un', 'ressentir (une douleur)' and 'le plus rapidement possible'. To see what all these mean... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 51
Our task is a simple but common one in this lesson - that is, to make a restaurant reservation. We'll learn to recognise some common questions which are likely to be put to us by the receptionist and we'll revise how to spell some words, including on... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 50
A ski-wear shop is the setting for this, our 50th Learn French by Podcast lesson. We'll see how to make effective use of the verbs 'aimer', 'suivre', 'passer' and 'essayer' and we'll also learn revise the object pronouns 'le', 'la' and 'les'.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 49
A hotel guest makes contact with the front desk in relation to a problem in his room. We'll discover how to say 'I can't get it to work'. We'll also practice using several verbs, including 'se mettre en marche', 'appuyer' and 'arriver à'. We meet a n... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 48
We'll learn how to carry out a common task in this lesson - to book a hotel room. We'll see how to ask the receptionist how we should pay, if we can have our luggage taken up to our room, if we can be called early for breakfast, and more.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 47
With the presidential elections in France just around the corner, it?s time to learn some vocabulary related to politics and voting, in general. That will be the topic of this lesson. We'll learn how to say 'I'm exhausted!' and 'They really get my ba... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 46
In lessons 21 and 22 we spoke about a vacation we?d had. This time, in lesson 46, we?ll hear about a winter vacation and, with the World Ski Championships taking place at the moment, it's an opportune time to learn a few key terms related to skiing. ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 45
In this lesson, lesson 45, a father brings his son to playschool for the first time. Let's hear the conversation between Mr. Jones and the playschool teacher. We'll meet the expressions ?Je vais faire en sorte que? and ?jusqu'à ce que?, both of which... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 44
The French tendency to drive fast will form the basis of our lesson this time - our conversation will deal with a near miss on the road. We'll learn how to say 'I had a narrow escape', we'll meet the expression 'il m'a mis hors de moi' and we'll see ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 43
An incident in a shop where a customer drops and breaks something is the subject of this lesson. The reaction of the shop assistant will bring up the topic of the subjunctive and one particular situation in which this form of the verb is required.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 42
Our food is almost prepared. But we want to ask when exactly it will be ready and when we should sit at the table. Let's see how to do that in this lesson. We'll also meet the expressions 'Je meurs de faim!' and 'passer à table'.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 41
We'll be talking about someone who is quite religious in this lesson. We'll meet the adjectives 'croyant' and 'pratiquant' to describe such a person, we'll see how to use 'ne... jamais', we'll use the verb 'se souvenir de', and we'll practice other i... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 40
Relationship problems are the topic of this lesson! We'll learn how to ask someone what's wrong, we'll meet the reflexive verb se séparer and we'll ask ourselves the question, How am I going to explain it to him? We'll also distinguish between ne... ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 39
We'll deal with a common scenario in this lesson: we've lost our keys. We'll learn how to say we can't find them and where to look for them. We'll also meet the expression 'jeter un coup d'oeil'. Let's get started.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 38
'annuler', 'reporter' and 'modifier' are three verbs we'll meet in this lesson, as well as the expression 'C'est (vraiment) pas de chance!' In this lesson, lesson 38, we'll be examining the vocabulary we would need in order to cancel or postpone a me... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 37
Hello and welcome back to Learn French by Podcast. We sometimes find ourselves in a position where we need to borrow money from someone. In this lesson - lesson 37 - let's find out how to do just that. We'll meet the verbs 'prêter', 'rembourser' and ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 36
Some people choose to pay their mobile phone bills by monthly standing order. Many others, however, simply choose a pay-as-you-go option, buying credit whenever necessary. In this lesson, let's see what vocabulary we'll need in order to purchase that... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 35
Putting on weight is a topic we'd sometimes prefer not to think about but that's the topic of conversation in this lesson, lesson 35. We'll meet the verbs grossir (to put on weight) and voir (to see) in the Past, as well as the expression être à deu... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 34
We often pass comment on fragrances - food, perfume, flowers, nature, and so on. Let's study, in this short lesson, some expressions which will allows us to do that. We'll meet the verbs sentir and mettre, in particular. We'll also see how to say tha... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 33
Whether we like it or not, our modern lives are ruled by the clock. Let's study one of the basics in this lesson: how to tell the time. We'll also meet the expressions: I'm going to be late!, I'm going to be early! and I'm going to be on time!
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 32
In this lesson, lesson 32, we'll be talking about Amélie's new colleague at work. Let's see what his responsibilities are and discover a little about his linguistic abilities. We'll meet the verbs s'occuper de and apprendre as well as the expression ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 31
Let's listen to Xavier tell us a little about his home town in this
lesson. We'll work with a number of useful expressions which could be
used in a wide variety of situations. We'll discover the verb
'appartenir à', the expression 'à la rigueur', as ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 30
In this lesson, we'll be talking briefly about wine, and the kinds of food we might eat with the various types of wines. We'll meet some useful vocabulary and expressions related to food, too. It's an intermediate lesson because there's quite an amou... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 29
In this lesson, lesson 29, we'll find out how to say It's been a while! or It's been a long time! We'll also see how to ask what someone's been up to recently.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 28
In this lesson, we'll be dealing with some internet-related vocabulary. We'll meet some other useful expressions, too, including I don't want to complicate my life!, I'm not promising anything and It would be good if... This last expression will requ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 27
In this lesson, we're talking about someone's new hairstyle. We'll discover some technical terms in relation to hairstyling, we'll look at two different uses for chez, and we'll see how to say we're bored by or fed up with something. Allons-y!
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 26
In this lesson, our goal is to find out how to ask someone to do a favour for us. We'll meet the expression rendre un service à quelqu'un. We'll also re-visit the expression il y a but in the Immediate Future form. Finally, we'll study how to deal wi... (more)
Learn French by Podcast: Announcement
Hello from Learn French by Podcast. This is a special announcement regarding our audio French lessons and accompanying Lesson Guides. Those of you who have been following our lessons since we started in June 2006 will be aware that both our podcasts ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 25
You're in a restaurant, looking forward to your meal. That menu, however, is a little confusing: what about all those ingredients... and the names of those dishes! How can we make sense of it? We'll need to know how to ask some key questions. Let's f... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 24
It's a situation we find ourselves in regularly. We're in a bar or an auditorium looking for a seat. But... is the one we have our eye on actually free? How should we ask? Let's find out in this short, but practical, lesson.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 23
In this lesson we'll discover how to postpone an appointment we've made. We'll study the expression Je ne vais pas pouvoir ... [+ infinitive] and we'll work with the verb décevoir, to disappoint (someone).
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 22
In the second part of this two-part episode we'll meet the verb profiter (de), we'll use the verb devoir to say things like It must have been [difficult, shocking, fantastic] and we'll revise the verb prendre in the Perfect tense, in relation to food... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 21
You're just back from a fantastic vacation. The first question you'll be asked, of course, is How did it go? There's so much to talk about: the weather, the food, the people, the location. Let's try out some of the vocabulary you're likely to need. (... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 20
A trip abroad can often lead to some unexpected physical condition - an upset stomach, itching from insect bites, blistered feet, or whatever. That, in turn, can lead us to the local pharmacy. But, what do we say when we get there? Let's find out.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 19
My cell phone isn't working. I'd like to have it repaired, please... In this lesson, we'll find out what to say if we need to have something repaired. First, we'll describe the problem. Then we'll see how long it will take to sort everything out.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 18
In this lesson, let's find out how to buy a train ticket. The vocabulary we'll meet will be just as useful when purchasing inter-city bus tickets, plane tickets, and so on. Let's see, also, how to say we'd prefer a window or aisle seat, or travel in ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 17
You make a phone call, but the person you're looking for isn't there. Should you leave a message? Or maybe that's not necessary - you'll call back later. Let's see, in this lesson, how the conversation might unravel.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 16
People are usually very accommodating when we wish to take a photograph with them in it. But it's often advisable to ask first. Let's see how to do that in this lesson. We'll also see how to have them take our picture, using our camera.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 15
If you've been in France or another French-speaking country, chances are that you've found yourself in a shop asking for something in French. But how do we say "I'll have that one... no, sorry... the one on the right..."? In this lesson, le... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 14
Whether you're an avid creator of wonderful, four-course dishes or incapable of boiling an egg, in this lesson you'll find a range of vocabulary which will take a meal through from preparation to completion. Don't worry - Amélie will tell us what to ... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 13
You're on a vacation in France but, unfortunately, you develop an earache while you're there. There's nothing for it but a visit to the doctor. But how will you explain the problem? Furthermore, will you be able to understand what the doctor is sayin... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 12
Type the word hangover into Google and it will return millions of hits. Remedies, cures, avoidance strategies, explanations - someone out there has all the answers. We can't pretend to have the ultimate cure, but we can, on the other hand, provide so... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 11
Wherever we are, whatever we're doing, the weather seems to have an effect on our general state of mind. In this lesson, we'll meet some expressions which will provide the basics, whether it's a beautiful day or raining cats and dogs.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 10
Learn how to talk about a movie you saw last night - what it was about, where it was filmed, some adjectives to describe the plot, the way in which it was filmed - it's all in this lesson. If you haven't seen a particular movie, study the questions y... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 9
You watched a match on TV last night with friends. Everybody is talking about it today. Your team played well and deserved their victory. But how do we talk about it all in French? Let's learn how to describe last night's atmosphere as well as some s... (more)
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 8
How do we propose going to the cinema, or the theatre? Or choosing between Thai or Chinese food? For that matter, how do we say I don't mind - that's up to you! Let's find the answers and learn a few colloquial expressions, too.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 7
In our previous lessons, we've confined ourselves mainly to the Present tense. But how do we talk about what we'll be doing next week, or for our summer vacation? We'll find out in this lesson.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 6
In French, there are many ways of discussing the things that interest us. In this lesson, we'll meet a variety of verbs which will allow us to do that. We'll also look at faire, a key verb in a wide range of activities.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 5
Whether you're opening a bank account, or sending something by registered mail, chances are that someone is going to ask you to spell you name, your address, or whatever. But, how do you do that in French?! Let's find out.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 4
Martin arrives in Charles de Gaulle airport, Paris. His luggage doesn't, however! Can you follow the directions he receives? Learn about the verb DEVOIR, the pronoun Y, talking about things in the past, and more. It's all in this lesson.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 3
Learn how to say where and for whom you work. Discuss colleagues. Discover some French acronyms, as well as the adverbs bien and mal. See how to use the verb pouvoir; in a variety of situations. Are the French hard workers? Find out now.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 2
In this lesson, learn how to say you get on well with someone. Speak about things in general and talk about playing musical instruments. Learn about adjectives ending in -if, as well as the key verb avoir.
Learn French by Podcast, Lesson 1
Welcome to Learn French by Podcast! In this first lesson, learn how to introduce yourself, saying where you live and what you do. Learn some new verbs. Then take a test to see how well you are doing.
