Generally American (A Journey in American English)

Christopher M. Chandler, Kris Schauer

Hello, Hola, Guten Tag, Bonjour, こんにちは ! Welcome everyone, this is a podcast for those wanting to learn about U.S. culture through Standard American English, also known as General American. We talk about various different topics related to the U.S. and the U.S.'s relations with other countries. My co-host and I would like to think of this as more of a journey because you never know where it’ll take us. Plus, since the journey’s more important than the end or the start, we hope that you’ll be willing to join us! Let’s see where it takes us! read less
EducationEducation

Episodes

S5E7: Exploring the Evolution of the Gig Economy
May 8 2024
S5E7: Exploring the Evolution of the Gig Economy
SummaryIn this episode, Kris and I  discuss the gig economy from the perspective of food delivery apps like Uber Eats and DoorDash. We explore the definition of a gig and how it has evolved over the years. We also touch on the challenges and risks faced by gig workers, such as low pay, reliance on tips, and lack of benefits. We discuss the gamification of gig apps and the impact of the gig economy on traditional industries like taxis. They also mention other gig platforms like Upwork and Fiverr. Overall, We highlight the convenience and drawbacks of the gig economy.TakeawaysThe gig economy has evolved over the years, with gig work now often involving sporadic and flexible work schedules.Gig workers in food delivery apps like Uber Eats and DoorDash face challenges such as low pay and reliance on tips.The gig economy is often gamified, with apps providing incentives and bonuses to encourage workers to accept more gigs.The gig economy has disrupted traditional industries like taxis, leading to conflicts and regulatory challenges.Other gig platforms like Upwork and Fiverr offer opportunities for freelancers to find work in various fields.While the gig economy offers convenience, it also has drawbacks such as lack of benefits and job security for gig workers.Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction and Overview (06:20) - The Definition and Evolution of the Gig Economy (26:00) - The Gamification of the Gig Economy (38:06) - Disruption of Traditional Industries by the Gig Economy (45:11) - The Impact of Rising Prices on Food Delivery Apps (47:19) - Different Approaches to Tipping in DoorDash and Uber Eats (48:20) - Conclusion and Closing Remarks Transcript:download the transcript at https://generallyamerican.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/s5e3-270224-1652.srtContact:Podcast Team: Poll: https://forms.gle/EDqw565Wus4JHsut8Discord: https://discord.gg/NUUC2QJumvE-mail: podcastteam@generallyamerican.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/generallyamcn
S5E6: Media - Questioning Your Own Biases and Opinions
Apr 18 2024
S5E6: Media - Questioning Your Own Biases and Opinions
SummaryIn this episode, Kris and I discuss the media and the challenges of consuming information in today's world. We  talk about biases in the media, the importance of fact-checking, and the need to be skeptical of information. We  also touch on the influence of social media and the pressure to be the first to report news.  We emphasize the importance of seeking out diverse sources of information and being aware of one's own biases.TakeawaysThe media has biases, and it's important to be aware of them when consuming information.Fact-checking is crucial in today's world where misinformation spreads quickly.Social media has a significant influence on how news is reported and consumed.Seeking out diverse sources of information helps to get a more balanced perspective.Being aware of one's own biases and questioning one's own opinions is essential for critical thinking.Chapters:(00:00) - The Experience of Consuming Media (16:11) - Recognizing and Dealing with Bias (30:44) - The Importance of Waiting for Complete Information (36:53) - No Place or Media Outlet is PerfectTranscript:Check out the website - https://generallyamerican.com/index.php/2024/02/27/s5e3-citizenship-and-board-games/Or download the transcript at https://generallyamerican.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/s5e3-270224-1652.srtContact:Podcast Team: Poll: https://forms.gle/EDqw565Wus4JHsut8Discord: https://discord.gg/NUUC2QJumvE-mail: podcastteam@generallyamerican.com
S5E5:Exploring the Evolution and Diversity of Music Discovery
Apr 1 2024
S5E5:Exploring the Evolution and Diversity of Music Discovery
DescriptionIn this episode, Kris and I discuss various methods of discovering new music and how it has evolved over time. We touch on the influence of wealth on music discovery, differences in music discovery between countries, the role of soundtracks in music discovery, and the evolution of music mediums. We  also speculate on future music discovery methods and recommend starting a music exchange group to expand one's musical horizons.TakeawaysMusic discovery has changed significantly over time, with streaming services and algorithms playing a major role in how people find new music.The influence of wealth can impact music discovery, as access to certain mediums and technologies may be limited for those with lower incomes.Different countries have unique music discovery cultures, with some relying heavily on radio and others embracing online platforms.Soundtracks to movies and video games can be a popular way to discover new music, as they often feature curated selections that enhance the overall experience.The evolution of music mediums, from vinyl records to cassette tapes to CDs to streaming services, has shaped how people consume and discover music.The future of music discovery may involve technologies like Neuralink, but the emotional connections to music may become weaker as ownership and physical media decline.Starting a music exchange group with friends can be a fun and engaging way to discover new music and expand one's musical horizons.Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction and Weather Complaints (04:31) - Discussion on Discovering New Music (16:11) - The Influence of Wealth on Music Discovery (27:12) - The Role of Soundtracks in Music Discovery (29:58) - The Evolution of Music Mediums (39:04) - Speculation on Future Music Discovery Methods (44:47) - Recommendation to Start a Music Exchange Group (46:09) - Conclusion and FarewellTranscript:download the transcript at https://share.transistor.fm/s/27c2d324/transcript.srt Contact:Podcast Team: Poll: https://forms.gle/EDqw565Wus4JHsut8Discord: https://discord.gg/NUUC2QJumvE-mail: podcastteam@generallyamerican.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/generallyamcnInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/generally_american/
S5E4: About Fast Food and Things
Mar 15 2024
S5E4: About Fast Food and Things
SummaryIn this episode, Kris and I discuss the topic of fast food. We start with a conversation about the weather and moving, then transition into talking about fast food as a part of life in the US. We discuss how fast food was once seen as a treat but has now become a way of life for many people. We also touch on the issue of food deserts and how fast food can be the only affordable option for some. We then discuss the rising prices of fast food and the use of apps and rewards programs. We also mention the concept of dynamic pricing and the lack of trust in the US. Finally, we explore the convenience factor of fast food and how Americans are drawn to anything that makes their lives easier. This conversation explores various aspects of the fast food industry, focusing on the differences between fast food chains in Germany and the United States. The discussion covers topics such as the pink slime scandal, standardization in American chain restaurants, the adaptation of McDonald's to local tastes, the nostalgia for 90s fast food restaurants, the lack of prestige in fast food employment, and the issues with fast food service and employee respect. The conversation also touches on regional fast food chains, the benefits and advancement opportunities in fast food, the quality and consistency of fast food, and the challenges of expansion for certain fast food chains. TakeawaysFast food has become a way of life for many people in the US.Fast food can be the only affordable option for those living in food deserts.The prices of fast food have been rising, making it less accessible for some.Fast food apps and rewards programs are popular and can save money in the long run.Convenience is a major factor in the popularity of fast food. Fast food chains in Germany offer a mix of international and local options, with the big players like McDonald's, Burger King, and KFC present.The pink slime scandal in the US had an impact on the perception of fast food in Germany, but the German branches assured customers that they have separate supply chains.Standardization is a key aspect of American chain restaurants, with most of the food coming in frozen from major distributors.McDonald's adapts its menu to local tastes in different countries, and there are rumors of beer being served at McDonald's in Germany.The fast food industry has evolved from a focus on family fun to convenience, and there is a lack of prestige and respect for fast food employment in the US compared to Germany.Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (00:30) - Weather and Moving (01:29) - Fast Food as a Part of Life (09:21) - Fast Food as a Treat (10:20) - Fast Food in Food Deserts (11:17) - Rising Prices of Fast Food (13:35) - Fast Food Apps and Rewards (20:50) - Fast Food and Convenience (24:41) - Fast Food Chains in Germany (25:36) - Pink Slime Scandal (26:34) - Standardization in American Chain Restaurants (27:43) - Adaptation of McDonald's to Local Tastes (28:11) - Fast Food and Beer in Germany (29:09) - Evolution of Fast Food Restaurants (30:04) - Nostalgia for 90s Fast Food Restaurants (30:59) - Shift in Focus from Family Fun to Convenience (31:26) - Lack of Prestige in Fast Food Employment (32:56) - Issues with Fast Food Service and Employee Respect (33:25) - Working in Fast Food as a First Job (34:20) - Inconsistency in Fast Food Quality (35:24) - Respect for Food Industry Workers in Germany (36:23) - Regional Fast Food Chains (39:12) - Benefits and Advancement Opportunities in Fast Food (42:38) - Quality of Fast Food (43:05) - Consistency as a Selling Point for Fast Food Chains (44:33) - Local Fast Food Chains (45:02) - Expansion Challenges for In-N-Out Burger (46:01) - Fast Food Chains Limited to Specific Regions (46:59) - Concerns about Dynamic Pricing in Fast FoodTranscript: download the transcript at https://generallyamerican.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/s5e3-270224-1652.srtContact:Podcast Team: Poll: https://forms.gle/EDqw565Wus4JHsut8Discord: https://discord.gg/NUUC2QJumvE-mail: podcastteam@generallyamerican.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/generallyamcnInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/generally_american/
S5E3: Citizenship and Board Games
Feb 27 2024
S5E3: Citizenship and Board Games
SummaryIn this episode, we discuss various topics from weather and travel to citizenship and board games. We share personal experiences and insights, including the process of proving citizenship for a newborn, the cost of obtaining documents, and the different ways to become a US citizen. In the latter half, we also talk about their preferences for board games and the excitement of playing tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons. The episode concludes with a discussion on the Super Bowl and a tragic incident that occurred during the celebration parade.TakeawaysProving citizenship for a newborn can be a complex and expensive process.Board games offer a fun and social way to spend time with friends and family.Tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons provide immersive storytelling experiences.The Super Bowl can bring joy and excitement, but tragic incidents can also occur.Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (00:30) - Weather and Small Talk (03:07) - Citizenship and Naturalization (08:01) - Board Games (21:35) - Escape from the Aliens in Outer Space (28:09) - Chess and Dominion (35:28) - Dungeons & Dragons (44:59) - Super Bowl and Tragedy (49:37) - ConclusionTranscript:Check out the website - https://generallyamerican.com/index.php/2024/02/27/s5e3-citizenship-and-board-games/Or download the transcript at https://generallyamerican.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/s5e3-270224-1652.srtContact:Podcast Team: Poll: https://forms.gle/EDqw565Wus4JHsut8Discord: https://discord.gg/NUUC2QJumvE-mail: podcastteam@generallyamerican.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/generallyamcnInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/generally_american/
S5E2 - Copyright Law, Public Domain, and Patent Infringement
Feb 13 2024
S5E2 - Copyright Law, Public Domain, and Patent Infringement
Summary In this episode, we discuss intellectual property and its impact on various industries. We touch on the Super Bowl, the Pal World game and copyright infringement, Disney's role in copyright law, the concept of public domain and lost media, piracy and streaming services, and the issue of artists getting paid for their work. We provide insights into the complexities and challenges surrounding intellectual property and the balance between protecting creators' rights and ensuring access to creative works.TakeawaysIntellectual property is a complex and evolving area of law that impacts various industries.Copyright infringement is a concern in the digital age, with debates over fair use and the boundaries of creativity.Companies like Disney and Nintendo are known for their strict protection of their intellectual property.The concept of public domain allows for the use of creative works after a certain period of time.Piracy and streaming services have changed the way people access and pay for media.Artists and creators face challenges in getting paid for their work in the digital age.Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction and Super Bowl Sunday (10:04) - Introduction to Intellectual Property (17:08) - Pal World and Copyright Infringement (26:18) - Disney and Copyright Law (31:37) - Public Domain and Lost Media (38:43) - Piracy and Streaming Services (46:17) - Artists and Payment (48:43) - Conclusion Transcript:Check out the website - https://generallyamerican.transistor.fm/episodesOr download the transcript at https://share.transistor.fm/s/a3200f02/transcript.srtContact:Podcast Team: Poll: https://forms.gle/EDqw565Wus4JHsut8Discord: https://discord.gg/NUUC2QJumvE-mail: podcastteam@generallyamerican.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/generallyamcnInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/generally_american/
S4E42: Season Finale - Recapping the Season
Dec 17 2023
S4E42: Season Finale - Recapping the Season
SummaryIn this episode, Kris and I dive into a season reflection, sharing tales of illness, discussing the COVID-19 impact, and trading stories about odd weather in our locations. From navigating ethical buying to exploring AI's rise, and even talking about on Kris' recent Green Bay Packers game adventure, we cover it all. Join us as we wrap up with plans for the season break, emphasizing goal-setting importance, offering effective strategies, and dishing out motivation tips, all with a touch of celebrating success and learning from failures—packed with insights for your goal-chasing journey! TakeawaysThe impact of COVID-19 and the challenges of staying healthyThe unusual weather patterns and the effects of climate changeThe challenges of buying ethically and the rise of AI in various industriesThe future of actors and residuals in the entertainment industryThe unique experiences of traveling and attending a Green Bay Packers game Setting goals is crucial for personal and professional growth.Effective goal setting involves being specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).Accountability partners or groups can help keep you motivated and on track.It's important to celebrate your successes and learn from your failures.Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction and Recap (06:16) - Season Recap and Looking Ahead (12:08) - The Impact of AI (20:57) - Ethical Consumption and Buying Habits (30:55) - The Role of AI in Art and Entertainment (37:46) - The Future of Actors and Residuals (43:09) - Traveling and the Green Bay Packers (51:23) - Conclusion and Season Break (05:30) - The Importance of Setting Goals (15:45) - Strategies for Goal Setting (25:10) - Overcoming Obstacles and Staying Motivated (35:20) - The Role of Accountability (45:30) - Celebrating Success and Reflecting on Failure (51:52) - Closing RemarksTranscript:Check out the website - https://generallyamerican.transistor.fm/episodesOr download the transcript at https://share.transistor.fm/s/36ab0f81/transcript.srtContact:Podcast Team: Poll: https://forms.gle/EDqw565Wus4JHsut8Discord: https://discord.gg/NUUC2QJumvE-mail: podcastteam@generallyamerican.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/generallyamcnInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/generally_american/
S4E41: American Scandals in Action
Nov 26 2023
S4E41: American Scandals in Action
SummaryIn this episode, Kris and I discuss various scandals, ranging from Thanksgiving mishaps to high-profile political controversies. We touch on scandals involving The Completionist, Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky, Anthony Weiner, Hurricane Katrina, George W. Bush and 9/11, and Kanye West.  We explore the impact of scandals on public figures and the varying reactions from the public. We also reflect on the fascination with scandals and the role of media in perpetuating them.TakeawaysScandals can have a significant impact on public figures, affecting their reputation and careers.The public's reaction to scandals can vary, with some scandals leading to long-lasting consequences while others are quickly forgotten.Media plays a crucial role in perpetuating scandals and shaping public opinion.Scandals often involve a range of topics, including politics, entertainment, and personal behavior.Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction (03:17) - Thanksgiving and Turkey Frying (09:17) - Scandals: The Completionist (19:17) - Scandals: Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky (25:24) - Scandals: Anthony Weiner (30:49) - Scandals: Hurricane Katrina (36:01) - Scandals: George W. Bush and 9/11 (39:40) - Scandals: Kanye West (45:31) - ConclusionTranscript:Check out the website - https://generallyamerican.transistor.fm/episodesOr download the transcript at https://share.transistor.fm/s/26d3733e/transcript.srt Contact:Podcast Team: Poll: https://forms.gle/EDqw565Wus4JHsut8Discord: https://discord.gg/NUUC2QJumvE-mail: podcastteam@generallyamerican.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/generallyamcnInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/generally_american/