The English Learning Podcast for queer English Learners

Learn English through a queer lens with topics, exerices and scenarios tailored to the LGBTQ+ community

Colourful figures representing LGBTQ+ diversity and inclusive English learning
Coming Out: In Your Own Words - Reported Speech
11 October 2026

Coming Out: In Your Own Words - Reported Speech

This episode marks National Coming Out Day with a compassionate, wide-ranging look at what it means to come out. Justin explores the phrase's origins –...

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The Queer Canon: Anne Lister - Simple Past
29 September 2026

The Queer Canon: Anne Lister - Simple Past

In this podcast episode, host Justin delves into the fascinating life of Anne Lister, an iconic figure in queer history. Born in 1791, Lister was...

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Read the Room: The Secret Language of Queer Fashion – Adjectives
28 July 2026

Read the Room: The Secret Language of Queer Fashion – Adjectives

In this episode, Justin explores the fascinating world of queer fashion, highlighting how clothing and symbols have served as covert communication tools for the LGBTQ+...

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Host and Content Curator

Justin Hillier is the Host and Content Curator of the English As Folk Podcast. A lifelong language geek and a translator, Justin wanted to create an inclusive space for queer English learners offering topics, examples and scenarios that all members of the LGBTQ+ community can relate to.

This podcast is completely self-funded, so donations are welcome – leave one here.

Justin Hillier, host of the English As Folk podcast, smiling outdoors with rainbow face paint
Hand-drawn speech bubbles saying Hello and Hi
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Episode Listings

Browse the complete episode archive, including free transcripts and exercises with each episode

Episode 4: The Queer Canon: Anne Lister – Simple Past

In this podcast episode, host Justin delves into the fascinating life of Anne Lister, an iconic figure in queer history. Born in 1791, Lister was a trailblazer who documented her life and love for women in extensive diaries. Despite societal constraints of her time, she led a life of financial independence and had notable relationships with women such as Eliza Raine and Mariana Belcom. Her diaries, written partly in code, were decoded to reveal intimate details of her life. The episode ties this historical narrative with a grammar lesson on the simple past tense, offering a unique learning experience.

Episode 3: Read the Room: The Secret Language of Queer Fashion — Adjectives

In this episode, Justin explores the fascinating world of queer fashion, highlighting how clothing and symbols have served as covert communication tools for the LGBTQ+ community. Beginning with historical icons like Oscar Wilde and extending through to the modern carabiner and rainbow flags, the episode delves into the intricate codes and symbols used to express identity. Additionally, it discusses the grammatical role of adjectives in describing fashion and identity. This podcast celebrates the courage and ingenuity of those who have paved the way for today’s more open expressions of queer identity, as well as offering insight into how fashion can serve as a form of clandestine communication.

Episode 2: Out and About in Brighton — Prepositions of Place

Welcome to the latest episode of English AF, where host Justin guides queer English learners through the challenging world of prepositions, specifically prepositions of place. Dive into the linguistics amidst the vibrant scene of Brighton, widely considered the UK’s queer capital. From the iconic piers to the heart of Kemptown, listeners will enjoy a colourful narrative interwoven with practical grammar lessons. Mastering prepositions becomes an engaging experience, underlining the city’s dynamic queer culture. Enjoy a grammar journey that mingles travel and storytelling, supported by expert tips to enrich your English language fluency and confidence.

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