A podcast for people who use English as a Second or Foreign Language (ESL/EFL) in their work environment and want to improve their overall language skills. In each episode, hosts Skip Montreux, Dez Morgan, and Samantha Vega discuss Business news making headlines around the world. Through their discussions, Skip, Dez and Samantha introduce English vocabulary & phrases related to business, review grammar, and identify cultural differences found in International business situations. An excellent way to improve listening comprehension skills, keep up with business trends, and advance your career.
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This episode explores the widespread phenomenon of "fake news," named Collins Dictionary's Word of the Year for 2017. Hosts Skip Montreux and Dez Morgan provide compelling examples of misinformation, from exaggerated hurricane reports to misidentified shooting suspects, highlighting its sinister motivations for traffic and division. The discussion also critically examines social media companies' responsibility in combating fake news, including Facebook's policy changes and calls for stricter government regulation, urging listeners to be discerning consumers of online information.
Skip Montreux updates Dez Morgan on the EU's decision to trigger Article 7 against Poland, examining the controversial judicial reforms and the unlikelihood of Poland losing voting rights. The hosts also delve into Poland's impressive economic growth as an EU member, especially in manufacturing. Additionally, they announce "Down to Communication," a new self-study product for improving English fluency, and explain essential business vocabulary from the discussion.
Hosts Dez Morgan and Skip Montreux delve into the significant events unfolding in Saudi Arabia. They explore a missile attack launched from Yemen, tying it to the Houthi rebels and the ongoing proxy conflict between Saudi Arabia and Iran. The discussion also covers Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's ascent to power, his reform efforts, and the dramatic 'purge' of prominent figures, questioning whether it's a genuine anti-corruption drive or a consolidation of power.
Dez Morgan and Skip Montreux analyze the German national elections, where Angela Merkel's CDU party saw its worst showing since 1949 and faced a coalition crisis. They discuss the Social Democrats' refusal to partner again and Merkel's difficult choices regarding a minority government or new elections. The hosts also explore the episode's broader implications for EU stability amidst global trends of voter desire for change, such as Brexit and Trump's election. Finally, they break down key business English vocabulary related to political discussions.
The episode uncovers the U.S. opioid crisis, focusing on the Sackler family, owners of Purdue Pharma, and their role in creating and profiting from the highly addictive painkiller, OxyContin. It highlights Arthur Sackler's pioneering medical advertising techniques and the company's aggressive sales strategies, including misbranding and lobbying, which led to a national health emergency and astronomical economic costs. The discussion also touches on the family's continued wealth despite the crisis and potential legal repercussions for the industry.
This episode delves into the Federal Reserve System, explaining its two primary functions: setting interest rates and controlling the money supply. It covers the history of US central banking, from its early iterations to the modern Federal Reserve's establishment in 1913. The discussion also introduces the new Fed Chairman, Jerome Powell, and explores potential shifts in monetary policy.
This episode explores the incredible business comeback of Marvel Comics, from near-bankruptcy in the 1990s to a multi-billion dollar acquisition by Disney. It details the company's early market differentiation, the missteps that led to financial collapse, and the strategic shift towards movie production that ultimately revived its fortunes. Learn how Marvel leveraged its iconic characters to secure financing and dominate the box office.
Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega discuss Venezuela's dire economic and political situation, stemming from Hugo Chavez's socialist policies and exacerbated by Nicolás Maduro's leadership and the collapse of oil prices. They delve into hyperinflation, GDP decline, government corruption, currency manipulation, and the escalating political opposition and international sanctions. The episode concludes with a look at the country's uncertain future and a segment on relevant business English vocabulary.
This episode explores Canada's proposed law to legalize recreational marijuana, distinguishing it from decriminalization and examining the historical context of cannabis prohibition. It delves into the potential for a new business industry, discusses key companies like Canopy Growth and their market dynamics, and considers the challenges of taxation and avoiding a black market. The hosts also reflect on the societal impact and evolving perceptions of marijuana.
Delve into the complex scandal surrounding the impeachment of South Korean President Park Geun-hye. The episode details how an initial personal dispute, known as the "puppy incident," led to revelations of confidante Choi Soon-sil's immense political influence. This unravelled into a major corruption investigation involving corporate giants like Samsung, accused of bribery in exchange for government favors, ultimately resulting in Park's removal from office and key figures facing legal action.
Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega explore the global issue of brand counterfeiting, defining knockoffs and pirated goods while highlighting their staggering economic impact, estimated at half a trillion dollars. They discuss how the internet has accelerated distribution, with China being the primary origin of fake goods, and the complex challenges faced by governments in clamping down on this pervasive market, including the economic implications for local populations. The episode also includes a valuable vocabulary segment for business English learners.
Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega delve into the fascinating story of Jack Ma, the visionary founder of Alibaba, from his humble beginnings as an English teacher to building a global e-commerce empire. They discuss his meeting with Donald Trump, Alibaba's distinct business model, and Ma's ethical approach to business, illustrated through his inspiring quotes. The episode also includes a segment on key business vocabulary and an explanation of the podcast's audio script system, capped off with Ma's personal career advice.
Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega delve into the climate change crisis, contrasting differing views on its severity and political responses, including Donald Trump's skepticism. They examine international efforts like the Paris Agreement and various carbon reduction policies, such as Canada's carbon tax and cap-and-trade systems. The hosts emphasize the pivotal role of the private sector, discussing how big businesses, venture funds like Bill Gates' Breakthrough Energy Coalition, and Fortune 500 companies are investing in and committing to clean energy innovations. The episode concludes with optimism for market-driven solutions to climate challenges.
Skip Montreux and Samantha Vega discuss the complex history of the international ivory trade, from its origins and the impact of the CITES ban, to the disastrous "one-off" sales that fueled poaching. They examine what drives current demand for ivory, global efforts to combat illegal trade, and the challenges faced by conservation. The episode concludes with a practical business English vocabulary lesson.
This episode delves into the extensive history of Nintendo, tracing its origins as a playing card company in 1889 through its transformation into a video game pioneer. It highlights key innovators and blockbuster titles, leading up to the creation of Pokémon Go with Niantic, discussing the vision of former CEO Satoru Iwata and the game's immediate market effects.
Explore Donald Trump's turbulent business dealings in Atlantic City, from partnering with Harrah's to his high-risk financing of the Trump Castle and Taj Mahal with junk bonds. The episode details the subsequent financial collapses, multiple bankruptcies, and his strategic methods for personally profiting despite his companies' failures, including transferring debt and charging his own businesses.
Skip and Dez pivot from a brief Brexit tease to the significant troubles in Brazil, detailing President Rousseff's impeachment due to corruption and fabricated economic figures, and the subsequent rise of Michel Temer. They discuss Brazil's harsh recession and the new government's plans, such as freezing public spending, linking it to a broader trend of countries shifting right in Latin America. The episode concludes with a "Down to Vocabulary" segment, explaining essential business English terms like "bring it on," "cynical," "fabrication," "harsh," and "freeze" within the context of the day's news.
Skip and Samantha delve into the millennial generation, defining their demographic and analyzing their growing presence in the global workforce compared to Baby Boomers and Gen X. They discuss millennials' distinct traits, shaped by their upbringing and technological immersion, including their desire for quick advancement, constant feedback, and focus on experience over financial reward. The hosts also examine how their work-life integration and the "participation trophy" mentality influence workplace dynamics.
Skip and Samantha delve into the complex history of US-Cuba trade relations, exploring the longstanding embargo and President Obama's recent efforts to normalize ties. They discuss the political hurdles, Cuba's internal changes, and draw parallels with Puerto Rico's economic struggles to illustrate the complexities of international trade and aid. The episode concludes with a review of key business English vocabulary.
Advertisement for Down to Business English Visit iTunes to subscribe to Down to Business English , rate the show, and leave a comment. Visit our website or Facebook page to ask a question, post a comment, and sign up for the Down to Business English Newsletter. Contact Skip, Dez, and Samantha at downtobusinessenglish@gmail.com Follow Skip & Dez Skip Montreux on Twitter Skip Montreux on Instagram Skip Montreux on Facebook Dez Morgan on Twitter RSS Feed...
