Episode 1: Natives NEVER Say “I’m Fine” – Do This Instead!
Amber:
Hello English learners, and welcome to the very first episode of ESL Hour Podcast!
I’m Amber.
Paul:
And I’m Paul. Thanks for joining us today. If you’re new here, this podcast is all about helping you sound fluent, natural, and confident in English.
Amber:
Today’s topic is so important because almost every English learner makes this mistake: replying with “I’m fine” when someone asks, “How are you?”
Paul (playful tone):
Yeah, and here’s the secret: natives almost never say “I’m fine.” It sounds robotic, a little outdated, and honestly… it makes you sound like a textbook.
Amber:
Exactly! But don’t worry — by the end of this episode, you’ll have at least 10 better answers you can use instead. Ready?
Paul:
Let’s dive in.
Part 1 – Why “I’m fine” doesn’t work
Amber:
So, Paul, why do you think learners keep using “I’m fine”?
Paul:
Well, because most English classes and textbooks teach it as the default answer. But in real conversations, it sounds too formal. Imagine meeting a friend who says, “How are you?” and you answer, “I’m fine.” It feels cold, right?
Amber (laughs):
Yeah, it’s like you’re shutting down the conversation. English is not just about grammar — it’s about connection.
Part 2 – Natural Alternatives
Paul:
Okay, let’s share some real alternatives. Here are 5 casual replies you can use with friends:
“I’m good, thanks! How about you?”
“Pretty good!”
“Not bad, can’t complain.”
“Doing great, thanks for asking.”
“I’m okay, just a bit tired.”
Amber:
And here are 5 more natural replies for slightly more formal or polite situations, like work or meeting new people:
“I’m doing well, thank you.”
“Things are going really well.”
“I’m well, how about yourself?”
“Everything’s good, thanks.”
“Can’t complain — life’s good.”
Part 3 – Mini Practice
Paul:
Okay, listeners, let’s practice together. I’ll ask “How are you?” and you answer out loud — not “I’m fine,” but with one of these new replies. Ready?
Amber (enthusiastic):
Alright, Paul, go for it.
Paul (pause after each):
“How are you?” …
“How’s it going?” …
“How are things?” …
Amber:
Nice! If you actually answered out loud, great job. The more you practice, the more natural it will sound in real life.
Part 4 – Culture Tip
Paul:
Here’s another quick tip: In English-speaking countries, “How are you?” is often just a greeting. People don’t always expect a long answer.
Amber:
Right. So keep it short, friendly, and natural. Save your detailed answers for when someone really wants to know.
Wrap-up
Amber:
So, today you learned why “I’m fine” doesn’t work — and you’ve got 10 better replies to use instead.
Paul:
Practice them, mix them up, and you’ll instantly sound more fluent.
Amber:
If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe to ESL Hour Podcast on YouTube and check out our website at eslhour.com for more free lessons.
Paul:
And remember, fluency is built step by step, one conversation at a time.
Amber & Paul (together):
See you in the next episode!