Podcast Summary: All Ears English – "I'll Give You That! How to Concede to Connect in English"

Hosts: Lindsay McMahon & Michelle Kaplan
Date: December 12, 2025
Episode Focus: How to make social connections by conceding points in conversation—even when you disagree—using natural English phrases.

Episode Overview

In this episode, Lindsay and Michelle dive into the subtle art of conceding a point during conversation to foster better connections. Emphasizing their "Connection NOT Perfection" philosophy, they demonstrate how acknowledging others' perspectives—be it through lighthearted agreements or begrudging admissions—can make social interactions smoother and more enjoyable. Through multiple role plays, real-life anecdotes, and practical vocabulary, they coach listeners on essential phrases to use when you want to maintain rapport, even when you don’t fully agree.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Why Making Concessions Matters for Connection

• Opening Anecdote: Lindsay jokes about Times Square being her favorite New York neighborhood, prompting Michelle to gently push back, leading to a discussion on how natives avoid Times Square.
  [02:33 - 03:15]

• It’s natural to disagree at times, but outright contradiction or silence can create awkwardness or tension.

• Finding ways to "give a little" keeps the vibe positive, helps avoid confrontation, and maintains social harmony.

• Social connection thrives when we don’t insist on being right all the time.

  “The worst thing for connection is just not to respond. Because, I mean, I've been around people like that that just kind of don't respond when you say things. They just stay quiet. It's the most awkward thing in the world.”
  — Lindsay McMahon [07:49]

Essential English Phrases for Conceding

1. "I will say that..."

[05:29 - 06:21]

• Used to gently highlight a positive or concede a small point, even if you overall disagree.

  • Example Role Play:
    • Michelle: “I think McDonald's is the best restaurant.”
    • Lindsay: “Oh. I mean, they do have delicious French fries, I will say that.”
      [06:36 - 06:45]

2. "I'll give you that."

[09:56 - 10:55]

• Expresses acknowledgment of a valid point, offering goodwill in conversation.

  • Example Role Play:
    • Michelle: “Charades is always a good idea for a house party.”
    • Lindsay: “It does keep everyone engaged, I'll give you that.”

3. "I have to admit"

[11:23 - 11:58]

• Friendly way to recognize someone’s point, even reluctantly.

  • Example Role Play:
    • Lindsay: “Ooh, they do have good coffee, I have to admit. Sure. Thanks.”
    • Michelle: “You do have to deal with city traffic, I have to admit, but my commute is no picnic either.”

4. "You've got a point (there)"

[14:56 - 15:20]

• Directly acknowledges the validity of the other's argument or concern.

  • Example Role Play:
    • Michelle: “We should wait to call her until tomorrow.”
    • Lindsay: “All right, you've got a point there. She does go to sleep early.”

The Social Value of Conceding

• Using these phrases shows flexibility and empathy, signaling that you care about the relationship more than being "right."

• Conceding does not mean you fully agree—it’s about keeping positive energy and respecting others’ opinions.

  “Oh, my gosh. Yeah. No one wants to talk to the person that has to hammer home their opinion on everything and has to disagree with everyone on everything.”
  — Lindsay McMahon [12:16]

• Real-life pitfalls: Lindsay describes a family member who used to argue every point, creating tension and exhausting conversations.

• Michelle points out that if you stay quiet or only contradict, you don’t build connection: “You gotta say something." [19:39]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Negotiating preferences:

  “I mean, I will say the views are beautiful.”
  — Michelle Kaplan [16:26]

• Illustrating connection over perfection:

  “We're finding the middle space here, which will help you build your relationship with this person. Really good.”
  — Lindsay McMahon [19:58]

• On social awkwardness:

  “Did you hear me? Like, are we okay?... Is this thing on?”
  — Lindsay & Michelle joking about unresponsive listeners [08:03 - 08:05]

Timestamps for Key Segments

• [02:33] – Times Square as a conversation starter; when to concede politely
• [03:52] – Thanksgiving pie story and how to "play along" for social harmony
• [05:29] – Introduction of the phrase: “I will say that...”
• [06:36] – Role play: McDonald's French fries
• [07:49] – The dangers of staying silent in a conversation
• [10:05] – Introducing “I'll give you that” with role play on charades
• [11:23] – Using “I have to admit” in friendly debate
• [14:56] – Introducing “You've got a point (there)” in planning a phone call
• [15:51] – Integrated role play: Planning a NYC trip using all concession phrases
• [19:07] – Emphasizing the episode’s connection lesson: Say something positive to avoid shutting down a conversation

Takeaways for ESL Learners

• Connection, not perfection: The focus is on maintaining a friendly, open conversation rather than winning arguments or always being correct.
• When you disagree or are indifferent, try using:
  • “I will say that...”
  • “I’ll give you that.”
  • “I have to admit...”
  • “You’ve got a point (there).”
• Practice these in role plays to sound more natural and build relationships in English-speaking contexts.
• Always respond—even with something small—rather than staying silent or shutting others down.

Closing Thoughts

Michelle and Lindsay wrap up by reinforcing the value of conceding small points, not just for language learners but for anyone seeking to connect across cultures or personalities. Staying flexible, positive, and attentive in conversations is more likely to win friends and influence people than always being “right.”

“You gotta say something. Don't just stare blankly or don't look away and say nothing. That will kill connection probably faster than totally shutting down the idea, right?”
— Lindsay McMahon [19:39]

For more practical English tips and role play-driven lessons, subscribe to All Ears English and put these connection-building skills into daily practice!