Workbooks with scripts are available for all episodes — link below.

Synopsis:

At the annual office mixer, Lyla and Penny discover that small talk can lead to real connection — from hobbies with Chloe to software tips from Mark. When David admits he’s feeling burnt out, Penny gently redirects the conversation, reminding everyone that friendship and balance matter just as much as productivity.

Character Spotlight:

Lyla and Penny navigating small talk with confidence, while Adam and Mark model polite networking. Penny shows empathy and leadership as she helps David shift from stress to connection.

“Small talk builds big bridges.”

Learning Hook (Zoe’s Grammar & Vocabulary Corner):

This episode focuses on small‑talk language, polite requests, and workplace idioms.

Zoe highlights expressions like “talk shop,” “What do you do?”, “get up to,” “I was wondering if…,” and “work‑life balance.”

Learners can practice using small‑talk phrases to build rapport, make polite requests in social settings, and redirect conversations with natural transitions.

They also explore how language reflects cultural expectations around networking, rest, and workplace well‑being.

Tagline:

“Connection starts with a conversation.”

Follow along with the scripts, vocabulary, and seven exercises in each episode’s workbook. Episodes 5 – 8 are available in Lyla’s Winter Collection
https://www.patreon.com/collection/1962951?view=expanded

Workbooks with scripts are available for all episodes — link below.

Synopsis:

Moving day brings its usual mix of stress and surprises as Lyla packs up her old apartment with help from her brother Michael. Between paperwork, traffic worries, and too many teacups, she’s juggling more than she expected. When Adam offers to swing by after work to help her settle in, Lyla discovers that starting fresh is a lot easier with family and friends who show up when it counts.

Character Spotlight:

Lyla is navigating two major life changes at once, supported by Michael’s humor and steady presence. Adam steps in with practical help and kindness, modeling the power of small gestures during stressful transitions.

“A little help goes a long way.”

Learning Hook (Zoe’s Grammar & Vocabulary Corner):

This episode focuses on everyday idioms and phrasal verbs related to moving, settling in, and offering help.

Zoe highlights expressions like “get settled in,” “a head start,” “swing by,” “give a hand,” “unsettled,” and “housewarming.”

Learners can practice using supportive language to offer help, describe stressful transitions, and talk about new beginnings.

They also explore how cultural expectations shape conversations about moving, support, and settling into a new community.

Tagline:

“New places feel like home when people show up.”

Follow along with the scripts, vocabulary, and seven exercises in each episode’s workbook. Episodes 5 – 8 are available in Lyla’s Winter Collection
https://www.patreon.com/collection/1962951?view=expanded

Here are three sites where you can listen to Michael’s favorite song.

Official Johnny Cash YouTube video (Live at San Quentin)

This is the version most people know, and it’s the one folks enjoy.
YouTube (Official):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOHPuY88Ry4

2. Wikipedia page for background + cultural context

Great, if you want to understand the story behind the song.
Wikipedia:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Boy_Named_Sue

3. Johnny Cash official site track page

This is the “official home” of the song online.
Johnny Cash Official Site:
https://www.johnnycash.com/track/a-boy-named-sue-live/

Workbooks with scripts are available for all episodes — link below.

Synopsis:

Lyla explores her new neighborhood with help from Penny — and a standout moment from Kofi, who gives her a rapid‑fire, heartfelt tour of every essential spot near her new apartment. From parks to post offices, bus stops to bookstores, she discovers that clear directions — and a great guide — make any new place feel like home.

Character Spotlight:

Kofi steps into the spotlight in this episode, delivering his most memorable scene yet as he maps out the neighborhood with enthusiasm, humor, and pitch‑perfect clarity. Penny is there, the supportive friend, steady and encouraging as she walks with Lyla through each turn and landmark. Lyla grows more confident as she turns Kofi’s whirlwind of information into real‑world navigation skills.

“You’ll be a local in no time!” — Kofi

Learning Hook (Zoe’s Grammar & Vocabulary Corner):

This episode focuses on prepositions of location and direction words — essential tools for navigating a new city or workplace.

Zoe highlights expressions like “behind,” “across from,” “between,” “down the street,” “turn left,” and “on the corner of.”

Learners can practice giving and following directions using landmarks, street names, and simple step‑by‑step instructions.

They also explore how prepositions connect places together, making it easier to describe routes, find destinations, and help others get oriented.

Tagline:

“Clear directions turn confusion into confidence.”

Follow along with the scripts, vocabulary, and seven exercises in each episode’s workbook. Episodes 5 – 8 are available in Lyla’s Winter Collection
https://www.patreon.com/collection/1962951?view=expanded