Promotional Spot: Do you understand?

Summary

Down to Business English

Episode: Promotional Spot: Do you understand?
Hosts: Skip Montreux, Dez Morgan, Samantha Vega
Date: March 9, 2010

---

Overview

This special promotional episode of "Down to Business English" serves as an introduction to the podcast's mission: helping professionals using English as a Second or Foreign Language (ESL/EFL) improve their business English listening and communication skills. The hosts describe the format, goals, and unique features of the podcast, emphasizing how regular engagement can enhance career prospects through better English proficiency.

---

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Importance of Business English

[00:34]

• English is described as the universal language of business, necessary for success from "Indonesia to Iceland, Tokyo to Tehran, Mexico to Macau."
• The hosts stress that being able to effectively communicate in English is the single most important skill for advancing in the global marketplace.

Notable Quote

"From Indonesia to Iceland, Tokyo to Tehran, Mexico to Macau, the number one key to business success is being able to effectively communicate in English."
— Host B, [00:34]

---

2. Realistic Approach to Language Learning

[00:47 – 01:05]

• The show counters myths about quick fixes in language learning, stating:

  "I'm sorry to say there is no secret formula, no special pill, no magic potion. What you need is regular, consistent exposure to understandable English."
  — Host A, [00:47]

• Importance is placed on ongoing, manageable learning rather than shortcuts.

---

3. Podcast Format and Learning Features

[01:21 – 01:57]

• Each episode features:
  • Discussion of a current business news story.
  • Explanations of difficult vocabulary and how to use these terms in real business contexts.
  • Encouragement to listen again for better comprehension.
• Additional support includes providing full audio transcripts to allow:
  • Reading while listening.
  • Reinforced learning through review.

Notable Quote

"After our discussion, we will explain difficult words and phrases we may have used and give examples of how you can use them in your business situation."
— Host A, [01:21]

---

4. Measurable Benefits of Regular Listening

[01:57]

• Regular listeners can expect to see tangible improvements:
  • Higher TOEIC (Test of English for International Communication) scores.
  • Increased confidence in real-world business interactions.

  "By following Down to Business English on a regular basis, you will see an improvement in your listening ability and that will undoubtedly lead you to higher TOEIC scores and more confidence when interacting with English speaking colleagues and clients."
  — Host A, [01:57]

---

5. Call to Action

[02:13 – 02:47]

• Listeners are encouraged to visit the podcast’s website and subscribe via iTunes.

• The invitation is personal and motivating:

  "What is stopping you? Let's get D2B down to business with Skip and Destroy and start improving your business English today."
  — Host B, [02:13]

• The episode closes with a playful challenge:

  "So do you understand now?"
  — Host A, [02:23]

---

Timestamps for Important Segments

• [00:34] – The global importance of business English.
• [00:47] – No quick fixes; need for regular, consistent exposure.
• [01:21] – Explanation of the podcast’s format and learning methods.
• [01:57] – How the podcast can boost testing scores and confidence.
• [02:13] – Call to action to join and improve your skills.

---

Memorable Moments & Tone

• The episode uses real-world, headline-style news snippets to frame the urgency and relevance of business English.
• Tone is approachable, motivational, and practical — no exaggerated promises, just honest strategies.
• The playful yet direct ending serves to engage and encourage the listener to take the next step.

---

Summary

This promotional episode introduces "Down to Business English" as a no-nonsense, practical resource for ESL/EFL professionals eager to advance their business English through authentic news-based conversations, vocabulary lessons, and accessible learning tools. Grounded in the realities of language acquisition, the podcast offers consistent value and actionable improvements for international professionals.

For more information or to subscribe: downtobusinessenglish.com

Transcript

[A]

Financial meltdown spreads the globe Stock markets rally third day running bankers bonuses enrage

[B]

public Google threatens closure amid censorship controversy

[A]

Ford bases future on new hybrid vehicle

[B]

unemployment reaches 25 year high. Hunt

[A]

how about you? Do you understand these business headlines?

[B]

English is the language of business. From Indonesia to Iceland, Tokyo to Tehran, Mexico to Macau, the number one key to business success is being able to effectively communicate in English.

[A]

So what is the best way for you to improve your English and get ahead in your career? I'm sorry to say there is no secret formula, no special pill, no magic potion. What you need is regular, consistent exposure to understandable English.

[B]

That is what the down to Business English Podcast offers. By listening to the top business stories in an understandable way, you will improve your language skills whilst keeping up to date with the latest global business trends.

[A]

In each episode of D2B, Des and I will discuss a business story making the news somewhere around the world. After our discussion, we will explain difficult words and phrases we may have used and give examples of how you can use them in your business situation. After listening to the story and vocabulary explanations, you can go back and listen to our conversation again.

[B]

We also provide an audio script of the whole conversation so you can read it again later to reinforce your learning or you can read along while listening.

[A]

By following down to Business English on a regular basis, you will see an improvement in your listening ability and that will undoubtedly lead you to higher TOEIC scores and more confidence when interacting with English speaking colleagues and clients.

[B]

What is stopping you? Let's get D2B down to business with Skip and Destroy and start improving your business English today.

[A]

Visit our site at www.downtobusinessenglish.com or come find us in the itunes store and subscribe to the down to Business English Podcast feed. So do you understand now?

[B]

Sat.