All Ears English Podcast – Episode 2453: "Double Your Connection By Doing a Thing"

Release Date: July 31, 2025

In Episode 2453 of the All Ears English Podcast, hosts Lindsay McMahon and Michelle Kaplan delve into the trendy and versatile English phrase “I did a thing.” Aimed at intermediate to advanced English learners, this episode explores how this expression can enhance personal connections and make conversations more engaging.

Introduction to “I Did a Thing”

The episode kicks off with Michelle Kaplan sharing a personal anecdote about her upcoming 10th anniversary celebration. She mentions booking her partner’s favorite restaurant despite financial constraints, saying, “I did a thing and I booked his favorite restaurant” ([02:05]). This statement serves as the catalyst for exploring the phrase “I did a thing” and its significance in everyday English.

Lindsay McMahon introduces the phrase as a modern, trendy way to share exciting or noteworthy actions, emphasizing its role in making conversations more dynamic:

“I did a thing right and there's a little intonation that goes along with that, too” ([03:03]).

Understanding the Nuances

Michelle points out that “I did a thing” shouldn’t be overused, as it’s intended for special or unique actions:

“You have to reserve this for something, you know, really special. If you're saying this for everything, like, I did a thing. I ate lunch today... that's not a thing” ([03:53]-[04:10]).

Lindsay adds that the phrase often signifies stepping out of one’s comfort zone or doing something out of the ordinary:

“It’s signifying that you’re a little on the edge. Right. You’re living on the edge for you... you want to say that kind of” ([06:13]-[06:31]).

Contextual Usage and Examples

The hosts discuss various scenarios where “I did a thing” aptly conveys significant personal milestones or surprises. For instance:

• Booking a special event: “I did a thing and I booked his favorite restaurant” ([02:05]).
• Registering for a class: “I did a thing. I registered for French classes” ([05:06]).
• Making a big purchase or change: “I did a thing. I bought...” ([08:11]).

Michelle emphasizes the importance of context and the relationship between the speakers:

“It’s about doubling the connection because if you're just saying the thing, that's fine, too. But this just adds a little something” ([17:46]-[18:05]).

Alternative Phrases

The conversation also covers alternative expressions that serve similar purposes, such as:

• “Guess what I did” – with variations in intonation to change meaning ([12:24]).
• “I have news” or “I have big news” – straightforward announcements ([13:11]).
• “Are you sitting down?” – to prepare someone for surprising news ([13:45]-[14:06]).

Lindsay highlights how these alternatives can also create anticipation and ensure the listener is fully engaged:

“It gives you a little bit of a platform for someone's ears to perk up and they're gonna listen and tune into you” ([18:05]).

Role-Play Demonstration

To illustrate the practical application of “I did a thing,” Lindsay and Michelle engage in a role-play scenario where they simulate a conversation between good friends sharing significant news.

Example Dialogue:

• Michelle: “I did a thing.” [15:21]
• (Reveals a tattoo)
• Lindsay: “Michelle, that is awesome. I love it.” [15:29]
• Lindsay: “I’m good, but you should be sitting down for this. I sold the house.” [15:46]
• Michelle: “Your childhood house. Wow. I can't believe it.” [16:02]
• Lindsay: “I’m moving.” [16:00]

This role-play underscores how the phrase sets the stage for impactful and emotionally charged revelations, strengthening the bond between speakers.

Final Takeaways

Michelle wraps up by reiterating the power of “I did a thing” in fostering deeper connections:

“This is really powerful. Again, you're not going to use it for everything. I did a thing. I ate a sandwich... it's very personal” ([19:00]).

Lindsay concurs, emphasizing the phrase’s ability to create a compelling narrative and ensure that significant news is both noticed and appreciated:

“These are very, very useful for these surprising things in life to share.” ([17:46]-[18:05]).

Additional Recommendations

Towards the end, Michelle recommends another episode focused on emotions:

“On a Saturday episode on All Ears English, we did find your happy place in this episode.” ([18:35]).

Lindsay encourages listeners to stay connected by subscribing to the podcast, ensuring they don’t miss out on future insightful discussions.

Conclusion

Episode 2453 of the All Ears English Podcast offers learners a nuanced understanding of the phrase “I did a thing,” showcasing its potential to enhance conversational fluency and deepen personal connections. Through engaging dialogue, practical examples, and a relatable role-play, Lindsay and Michelle provide valuable insights into using this trendy expression effectively in everyday English.

Key Quotes:

• “I did a thing right and there's a little intonation that goes along with that, too.” – Lindsay McMahon ([03:03])
• “You have to reserve this for something, you know, really special…” – Michelle Kaplan ([03:53])
• “These are very, very useful for these surprising things in life to share.” – Michelle Kaplan ([17:46])

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