English Learning for Curious Minds is a podcast for intermediate to advanced English learners who want to learn weird and wonderful things about the world at the same time as improving their English. Find more episodes at leonardoenglish.com.

English Learning for Curious Minds

In the 1920s the boss of the Ford Motor Company, Henry Ford, attempted to build a huge rubber plantation in the Amazon jungle. It didn't quite go to plan…

Fordlandia

Spices are an integral part of almost every cuisine in the world and are something that most of us now take for granted. Yet spices used to be an incredibly valuable commodity and were the preserve of only the very richest in some societies. Learn more about how they went from being the preserve of the very richest in society to something that we sprinkle on our dishes without worrying about the cost.

The Curious History of Spice

It's the world's most famous book on military strategy. Learn about its fascinating history, about the lessons in the book, and discover how you can apply some ideas from this 2,500-year-old book to your English learning.

The Art of War

It's the area of the Atlantic Ocean that some people think is incredibly dangerous for ships, and people have claimed that giant squids, large storms, and even the ancient underground city of Atlantis are responsible for countless sailors' lives. In this episode we lift the curtain on the mystery of The Bermuda Triangle.

The Mystery of The Bermuda Triangle

British food has a bad reputation. It's often considered boring, uninspiring, and tasteless. But it hasn't always been this way. Discover what role William the Conqueror, Henry VIII, The French Revolution and Colonialism all played in making British food taste the way it does.

The Curious Taste of British Food

Whales are some of the most amazing animals that have ever existed. From where they come from to how they live their lives, through to the threats that they have faced and how they bring new life in death, it's time to learn more about the amazing life these animals lead.

The Amazing Life of Whales

People in Britain have a unique sense of humour. For lots of foreigners, it's difficult to understand and confusing. But British people are fiercely proud of their sense of humour, and the UK has produced some of the world's best comedies. In this episode, we take a look at what makes Brits laugh, and tell a few jokes along the way.

The British Sense of Humour

In August 1995 Britain's two biggest bands battled for the number one position. Discover what happened, how the battle divided the nation, and why the story is about much more than just music.