Looping You In

Francesca Ling & Laura Clayton

English at work isn’t the same as English in textbooks. This podcast explains the phrases, idioms, and unspoken rules of English-speaking offices — especially American workplaces — so non-native speakers can stop guessing and start understanding what’s really being said.

Episodes

  1. Mar 31

    Ep 3 - They Said ASAP. Was I Supposed to Panic?

    Mastering Workplace Acronyms: A Quick Guide to PTO, ETA, OOO, FYI, and ASAPIn today’s fast-paced work environments, understanding common acronyms can significantly improve communication and reduce misunderstandings. Join us as we explore five essential workplace abbreviations—what they really mean, how to use them appropriately, and tips for non-native speakers navigating workplace jargon. Main topics covered:The true meaning and regional differences of PTO (Paid Time Off)How ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) is used beyond travel contextsClarifying the purpose of OOO (Out of Office) in digital statusesThe tone and clarity needed when using FYI (For Your Information)Interpreting ASAP (As Soon As Possible) and managing expectations around urgencyTimestamps: 02:37 - Why do English workplaces love acronyms, and cultural implications 03:29 - Deep dive into PTO: Definition, regional differences, and cultural significance 04:53 - How PTO can bleed into daily life and potential confusion 08:19 - Exploring ETA: From travel to generic project deadlines 09:24 - When ETA can seem confrontational or overly abrupt 11:00 - Better ways to ask for project status updates 12:09 - The meaning and usage of OOO in work statuses and common misunderstandings 13:52 - The difference between being OOO and offline presence 15:15 - The nuances of FYI: When tone matters and how to avoid misinterpretation 17:15 - The risks of brief or curt FYI emails and how to improve clarity 19:06 - The function of out-of-office autoresponders and tips for effective messages 21:24 - Use of FYI in formal vs. informal communication and industry differences 24:02 - Demystifying ASAP: How urgency is perceived and managing expectations 25:01 - Common miscommunications with ASAP and when to be specific 27:44 - Risks of overusing ASAP and losing its impact 28:34 - Quick summary of the five acronyms and their practical usage tips 29:52 - Personal reflections: Which acronyms resonate most and common pitfallsResources & Links:Book: "The Elements of Office Language" by William G. Davis — For clear workplace communication adviceWorkplace Acronyms Guide — Additional workplace jargon explanationsEffective Email Communication Tips — Improve your professional emailsConnect with the Hosts:Francesca Ling — LinkedInLaura Clayton — LinkedIn

  2. Mar 7

    Ep 2 - Polite English, Hidden Meaning

    The conversation decodes three phrases commonly used in American offices: 'let's align,' 'can you walk us through that,' and 'I'll defer to you.' Each phrase carries a subtle power dynamic and can be used to influence decision-making and collaboration in meetings. The discussion explores the hidden meanings and subtext behind these phrases, emphasizing the importance of tone and context in communication. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:01 Let's Align 03:36 Can You Walk Us Through That? 07:22 I'll Defer to You 09:56 Scenario Analysis: How Do These Phrases Sound? 16:55 Recap and Homework Assignment Did you enjoy this content? Make sure to like and subscribe so you never miss an episode. Want us to cover something specifically? Leave a comment!

  3. Feb 7

    Ep 1 - 3 English Office Idioms No One Ever Explains

    In this episode of 'Looping You In', hosts Francesca and Laura explore three common idioms used in business English: 'looping you in', 'read between the lines', and 'circle back'. They discuss the meanings, origins, and practical applications of these phrases in workplace communication, providing insights for intermediate to advanced English learners. The episode also includes a mini quiz to reinforce understanding and concludes with homework assignments to practice using the idioms in real-life scenarios. Takeaways -Looping you in means including someone in a conversation or update. -Be careful not to overuse the phrase 'looping you in'. -Reading between the lines involves understanding the implied meaning behind words. -Cultural differences can affect communication styles in the workplace. -Circle back is a polite way to defer a discussion to a later time. -Understanding idioms can enhance workplace communication. -Context is crucial when using idiomatic expressions. -Using idioms can help you sound more natural in English. -Listening for idioms in conversations can improve comprehension. -Practice using new phrases in emails and meetings to build confidence. Got questions or suggestions for the next episode? Write to us at loopingyouinpod@gmail.com and be sure to follow up on Instagram @loopingyouinpod See you next time!

  • 3 Episodes

About

English at work isn’t the same as English in textbooks. This podcast explains the phrases, idioms, and unspoken rules of English-speaking offices — especially American workplaces — so non-native speakers can stop guessing and start understanding what’s really being said.

Information

  • Creator
    Francesca Ling & Laura Clayton
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Francesca Ling & Laura Clayton
  • Show Website
    Looping You In