Using Podcasts and YouTube to Improve Listening Skills for IELTS

In today’s digital age, improving your English listening skills is easier (and more fun) than ever before. Gone are the days of just textbooks and tapes — now, platforms like YouTube and podcasts bring real-world English directly to your ears. Whether you’re preparing for the IELTS Listening test or just trying to get more fluent, these tools are your secret weapons.

 

Why Listening Practice Matters

The IELTS Listening test is all about how well you can catch important details, understand tone, and follow conversations — all in real time. Regular exposure to natural, unscripted English helps you:

 

-Understand different accents (British, American, Australian, etc.)

-Catch key information quickly

-Get used to real-life speed and flow of English speech

-Improve your pronunciation and speaking rhythm

 

Podcasts: Learn on the Go

Podcasts are like radio shows you can download or stream anytime. They’re perfect for passive learning — while you’re commuting, working out, or just relaxing.

Top Podcasts for IELTS Learners:

The British Council’s ‘Learn English’ – Slow, clear conversations with useful vocabulary

The IELTS Energy Podcast – Daily tips and exam tricks

Luke’s English Podcast – British humor + grammar + cultural insights

All Ears English – Focused on conversation skills and test strategies

TIP: Listen to an episode, then replay it with subtitles or transcript. Pause and repeat tough sections. Gradually move to faster-paced podcasts as you improve.

 

YouTube: Visual + Audio = Better Retention

Visual context makes comprehension easier — that’s why YouTube is a goldmine for English learners. It mixes spoken language with expressions, gestures, and visuals that make everything click.

Best YouTube Channels for Listening Practice:

BBC Learning English – Real-world English with subtitles

English with Lucy – Clear, British accent with practical tips

 

HIGHBROW IELTS – Yes, that’s us. We create short, sharp, and super helpful reels and videos on vocabulary, pronunciation, and listening hacks. Whether you’re aiming for Band 7 or Band 9, our content helps you bridge the gap.

Pro Tip: Watch a video once with subtitles, then again without. Try to note down key points or answer practice questions based on the audio.

 

Combine Both for Maximum Impact

Here’s a simple weekly routine to sharpen your listening:

 

Monday to Friday – Listen to a podcast for 15–20 minutes daily

Weekend – Watch 2–3 YouTube videos, focusing on topics or question types that appear in IELTS

Consistency beats cramming.

 

Want a Boost in Your IELTS Prep?

At HIGHBROW IELTS, we don’t just teach — we train you to perform under real test conditions. Our expert-guided courses include:

-Daily listening practice

-Real exam simulations

-Vocabulary and accent training

-One-on-one doubt-solving

Whether you’re joining us in person or following us online, HIGHBROW is your partner in achieving IELTS success.

Join our coaching today — or just start by following us on Instagram and YouTube for daily reels that make English FUN and easy.

 

🔗 YT- @HighbrowIELTS

Instagram- @HighbrowIELTS

 

Your dream band score is just a habit away. So plug in those earphones and start listening — success is calling.