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Generally American (A Journey in American English)

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!

109 - S5E4: About Fast Food and Things
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  • 109 - S5E4: About Fast Food and Things

    Summary

    In 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.


     
    Takeaways

    Fast 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 Food

    Transcript:

    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.srt

    Contact:
    Podcast Team:
    Poll: https://forms.gle/EDqw565Wus4JHsut8
    Discord: https://discord.gg/NUUC2QJumv
    E-mail: podcastteam@generallyamerican.com
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/generallyamcn
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/generally_american/
    Fri, 15 Mar 2024
  • 108 - S5E3: Citizenship and Board Games

    Summary
    In 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.


    Takeaways

    Proving 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) - Conclusion

    Transcript:

    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.srt

    Contact:
    Podcast Team:
    Poll: https://forms.gle/EDqw565Wus4JHsut8
    Discord: https://discord.gg/NUUC2QJumv
    E-mail: podcastteam@generallyamerican.com
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/generallyamcn
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/generally_american/
    Tue, 27 Feb 2024
  • 107 - 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.


    Takeaways

    Intellectual 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/episodes
    Or download the transcript at https://share.transistor.fm/s/a3200f02/transcript.srt

    Contact:

    Podcast Team:

    Poll: https://forms.gle/EDqw565Wus4JHsut8
    Discord: https://discord.gg/NUUC2QJumv
    E-mail: podcastteam@generallyamerican.com
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/generallyamcn
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/generally_american/
    Tue, 13 Feb 2024
  • 106 - S5E1: Happy New Year - Kris' House and Chris' Daughter

    Summary

    In this episode, Kris and I catch up after a long break. We discuss their New Year's resolutions, the recent cold wave and weather conditions, their experiences with moving and settling into new places, becoming dual citizens and raising bilingual children, the importance of owning a house, playing the game Pal World, and the process of decluttering.  

    Takeaways

    New Year's resolutions can serve as guidelines rather than strict rules.Moving can be challenging, especially in extreme weather conditions.Becoming a dual citizen can offer various benefits, including the ability to live and work in different countries.Owning a house is seen as an important milestone for many people.Decluttering can help create a more organized and stress-free living space.

    Chapters:

    Transcript:
    Check out the website - https://generallyamerican.transistor.fm/episodes
    Or download the transcript at https://share.transistor.fm/s/36ab0f81/transcript.srt

    Contact:

    Podcast Team: Poll: https://forms.gle/EDqw565Wus4JHsut8
    Discord: https://discord.gg/NUUC2QJumv
    E-mail: podcastteam@generallyamerican.com
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/generallyamcn
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/generally_american/

    Thu, 01 Feb 2024
  • 105 - S4E42: Season Finale - Recapping the Season

    Summary
    In 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! 


    Takeaways

    The 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 Remarks

    Transcript:

    Check out the website - https://generallyamerican.transistor.fm/episodes

    Or download the transcript at https://share.transistor.fm/s/36ab0f81/transcript.srt

    Contact:

    Podcast Team: Poll: https://forms.gle/EDqw565Wus4JHsut8
    Discord: https://discord.gg/NUUC2QJumv
    E-mail: podcastteam@generallyamerican.com
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/generallyamcn
    Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/generally_american/

    Sun, 17 Dec 2023
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