Language of the Day: Canadian ESL Podcasts

Whether you're a newcomer to Canada, an international student, or simply someone looking to improve your English skills, podcasts are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the language. They offer a flexible, engaging, and often free way to build vocabulary, improve listening comprehension, and get familiar with Canadian culture and accents.

Here are some of the best Canadian podcasts that are helping English learners across the globe:

 

🎧 1. Culips Everyday English Podcast

Location: Montreal, Quebec
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Why it’s great:
Culips is one of the most beloved English-learning podcasts in Canada. It features natural conversations between friendly hosts, covering everyday topics, idioms, and Canadian culture. The episodes are fun, well-paced, and come with helpful learning materials like transcripts and vocabulary explanations.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube [10 Best En...ition 2025]

🎧 2. Learn English with Bob the Canadian

Location: Ontario, Canada
Level: Beginner to Advanced
Why it’s great:
Bob the Canadian is a YouTube sensation turned podcaster. His calm, clear explanations and real-life examples make English learning approachable and enjoyable. He covers everything from grammar and vocabulary to cultural insights and Q&A sessions.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube [10 Best En...ition 2025]

🎧 3. Walk the Talk – English Expressions and Idioms with CELS

Location: Canada
Level: Intermediate
Why it’s great:
This podcast dives into idiomatic expressions and colloquial language used in Canadian English. It’s especially useful for learners who want to sound more natural and understand everyday conversations in Canada.
Listen on: Player FM, Spotify [Best Canad...Player FM]

🎧 4. Learn English – English Lessons from ILAC

Location: Toronto, Ontario
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Why it’s great:
Produced by the International Language Academy of Canada, this podcast offers structured lessons with a focus on Canadian English. It’s ideal for students preparing for life, work, or study in Canada.
Listen on: ILAC website, Spotify [Best Canad...Player FM]

🎧 5. The Secret Life of Canada (Bonus for Advanced Learners)

Location: CBC
Level: Advanced
Why it’s great:
While not specifically an English-learning podcast, this show is a goldmine for advanced learners who want to improve their listening skills while learning about Canadian history and culture. The storytelling is rich, and the vocabulary is diverse.
Listen on: CBC Podcasts, Spotify [10 Great C...stening To]

💡 Tips for Learning English with Podcasts:

  • Use transcripts when available to follow along and improve reading comprehension.

  • Repeat episodes to reinforce vocabulary and pronunciation.

  • Take notes on new words or phrases and try using them in your own sentences.

  • Practice shadowing by repeating what the host says to improve fluency.

Whether you're commuting, cooking, or relaxing at home, these Canadian podcasts can turn your downtime into productive English practice. Which one will you try first?

Zach J