Episodios

  • The Stone of Destiny – Myth or Reality? The Sacred Stone of Scottish Kings
    Apr 7 2025

    In this episode of the Scottish English Podcast, host Claire delves into the intriguing history and legends surrounding the Stone of Destiny, an iconic relic of Scotland's monarchy. Discover the origins of the stone, theories about its authenticity, its theft by King Edward I, the daring 1950 heist by Scottish students, and its return to Scotland in 1996.

    This journey into the heart of Scottish history is not only packed with fascinating stories but also offers a fantastic opportunity to improve your English. Don't forget to download the free transcript for helpful definitions, collocations, and idiomatic phrases. Subscribe now and tune in for a captivating blend of history and language learning!

    Download the FREE transcript from this episode here: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/scottish-english-podcast

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    Are you ready for your B2 First or C1 Advanced Cambridge English Exam? I'm working on a course and community of learners - get involved: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/

    01:30 Origins and Legends of the Stone

    02:45 The Stone's Theft by Edward I

    03:18 Theories and the 1950 Heist

    04:13 Return to Scotland and Modern Use

    The Scottish English Podcast Episode 11 | The Stone of Destiny – Myth or Reality? The Sacred Stone of Scottish Kings

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    5 m
  • Myths of the Scottish Waters: The Secrets of Selkies and Kelpies | E10 The Scottish English Podcast
    Mar 31 2025

    In this episode of the Scottish English Podcast, host Claire delves into the enchanting world of Scottish folklore, focusing on the Selkies and Kelpies. Listeners will discover the tragic love stories surrounding the seal-people Selkies, who can transform into humans by shedding their skins. The episode also explores the sinister tales of the Kelpies, shape-shifting water spirits that often appear as majestic black horses, only to drag unwary victims to a watery grave. The podcast highlights how these myths are deeply rooted in Scotland's connection to the sea and its coastal villages. Tune in to unravel the mysteries of these legendary creatures and their ongoing influence on Scottish culture.

    Trailer for 'Song of the Sea': https://youtu.be/VrhoOzW8oF8?si=jRymESNlbP9zTTFz

    Download the FREE transcript from this episode here: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/scottish-english-podcast

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    Are you ready for your B2 First or C1 Advanced Cambridge English Exam? I'm working on a course and community of learners - get involved: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/

    00:39 The Story of the Selkies

    02:14 The Deadly Kelpies

    03:49 Selkies and Kelpies in Modern Culture

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    5 m
  • E09 The Loch Ness Monster | The Scottish English Podcast
    Mar 24 2025

    Join Claire on the misty shores of Loch Ness as she delves into one of Scotland's most famous legends - the Loch Ness Monster. Discover the ancient origins of the myth, its evolution over time, and why it continues to captivate imaginations worldwide. From Saint Columbus's encounter in the sixth century to modern scientific investigations, explore the fascinating history and enduring allure of Nessie. Perfect for English language learners wanting to improve their listening skills while immersing themselves in Scottish culture and history.

    Download the FREE transcript from this episode here: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/scottish-english-podcast

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    Are you ready for your B2 First or C1 Advanced Cambridge English Exam? I'm working on a course and community of learners - get involved: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/


    00:00 Introduction to Loch Ness

    00:28 Welcome to the Scottish English Podcast

    01:03 Origins of the Loch Ness Monster

    01:51 The Modern Legend of Nessie

    02:41 Why People Still Believe

    03:37 Scientific Investigations

    04:17 Conclusion and Cultural Impact

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    5 m
  • E08 Voices from Scotland | Claire - Edinburgh | The Scottish English Podcast
    Mar 17 2025

    Welcome to the Scottish English Podcast! In this episode, we introduce a new series called 'Voices from Scotland' where we talk to people connected to Scottish culture. Our first guest is another Claire (great name!), the owner of The Edinburgh Experience, a school specialising in cultural immersive experiences. Claire shares her journey from teaching in Spain to running her own school in Edinburgh, her love for Scottish history and literature, and her observations on the accents and social perceptions in Scotland. We also dive into some fun Scottish words, Claire's teaching philosophy, and her favourite lesser-known spots to visit in Edinburgh. Don't forget to subscribe, share, and comment on your favourite part of our discussion!

    00:00 Introduction to the Scottish English Podcast

    00:33 Meet Claire: Owner of the Edinburgh Experience

    01:37 Claire's Journey: From Edinburgh to Glasgow and Back

    02:28 Comparing Edinburgh and Glasgow

    04:45 Exploring Scottish Accents

    09:12 Unique Scottish Words and Phrases

    13:03 The Scots Language and Its Cultural Significance

    21:37 Accents and Teaching Qualifications

    22:30 Journey to Becoming a Teacher

    23:18 Teaching in Spain

    25:37 Advanced Teaching and Pronunciation

    27:11 Cultural Immersion and Critical Thinking

    29:22 Issues with the English Teaching Industry

    31:47 Guiding and Storytelling in Scotland

    33:36 Advice for English Learners Visiting Scotland

    34:46 Exploring Edinburgh's Hidden Gems

    39:10 Conclusion and Farewell

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    40 m
  • E07 International Women's Day | The Scottish English Podcast
    Mar 10 2025

    In this episode, host Claire delves into how Scotland commemorates International Women's Day, highlighting key historical figures and ongoing efforts for gender equality. From the origins of the day to the contributions of remarkable women like Mary Queen of Scots and Flora McDonald, discover how Scotland celebrates and recognizes the achievements of women. Claire also discusses the current state of women's rights and efforts to address issues like pay inequality and period poverty. Join us for an insightful journey through Scottish history and culture in celebration of International Women's Day.

    Download the FREE transcript from this episode here: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/scottish-english-podcast

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    Are you ready for your B2 First or C1 Advanced Cambridge English Exam? I'm working on a course and community of learners - get involved: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/

    00:00 Introduction to the Scottish English Podcast

    00:45 History of International Women's Day

    01:52 International Women's Day in Scotland

    04:17 Influential Scottish Women in History

    05:47 The Struggle for Gender Equality Today

    06:58 Celebrating International Women's Day in Scotland

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    9 m
  • E06 The Scottish Parliament | The Scottish English Podcast
    Mar 3 2025

    Join Claire on the Scottish English Podcast as we explore the rich and complex history of Scotland's Parliament, one of the oldest in the world. Discover its origins in the 13th century, its evolution through the Middle Ages, the controversial Act of Union in 1707, and the long road to devolution in the 20th century. Learn about the modern Scottish Parliament and the ongoing debates about Scotland's political future. Perfect for upper intermediate and advanced English learners looking to improve their listening skills while delving into Scottish history!

    Download the FREE transcript from this episode here: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/scottish-english-podcast

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    Are you ready for your B2 First or C1 Advanced Cambridge English Exam? I'm working on a course and community of learners - get involved: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/

    00:00 Introduction to the Scottish English Podcast

    00:52 Origins of the Scottish Parliament

    01:28 Parliamentary Evolution

    02:12 Union of the Crowns and the Act of Union

    03:29 The Long Road to Devolution

    04:05 The Scottish Parliament Today

    04:50 The Future of Scottish Politics

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    6 m
  • E05 Haggis, Neeps, and Tatties | The Scottish English Podcast
    Feb 24 2025

    Join Claire from the Scottish English Podcast as she takes you on a delicious journey exploring the rich history and cultural significance of Scotland's most famous dish - haggis, neeps, and tatties. Learn about the traditional ingredients, the origins of the dish, and its evolution including the rise of vegetarian haggis. This episode also delves into the dish's association with Burns Night and Scotland's national poet, Robert Burns. Perfect for anyone looking to improve their English while diving into Scottish culture and cuisine.

    Download the FREE transcript from this episode here: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/scottish-english-podcast

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    Are you ready for your B2 First or C1 Advanced Cambridge English Exam? I'm working on a course and community of learners - get involved: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/


    00:00 Haggis, Neeps and Tatties

    01:23 Haggis

    02:47 Neeps and Tatties

    03:35  Haggis and its influence over Scottish culture.

    04:18  Haggis changing with the times.

    05:33 A Taste of Scotland's Past and Present

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    6 m
  • E04: Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobite Dream | The Scottish English Podcast
    Feb 17 2025

    This episode of the Scottish English Podcast, hosted by Claire from Kilted English, delves into the history of the Jacobite Uprisings, focusing on the triumph at the Battle of Prestonpans in 1745 and the ultimate defeat at Culloden in 1746. Listeners will learn about the Jacobite cause, the significance of Bonnie Prince Charlie, and the impacts of the Jacobite era on Scottish history and culture. The episode also offers language learners the opportunity to improve their English while exploring Scotland's rich heritage.

    Download the FREE transcript from this episode here: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/scottish-english-podcast

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    Are you ready for your B2 First or C1 Advanced Cambridge English Exam? I'm working on a course and community of learners - get involved: https://kilted-english.mailchimpsites.com/

    01:37 The Jacobites

    02:52 The Jacobite Uprisings

    03:11 Bonnie Prince Charlie

    04:21 The Retreat

    05:04 The Lasting Legacy of the Jacobites

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    6 m