About Us
Welcome to TalkinIdioms, a fun and practical place where English learners from around the world can explore the rich and often puzzling world of idioms, expressions, and everyday American English.
My name is Michael Patenaude, and I’m an English Language (ESL) teacher at Miami Valley Career Technical Center in Dayton, Ohio. I’ve had the joy of teaching adult learners from all over the globe how to better understand and speak English—and just as importantly, how to connect with the culture behind the language.
I created TalkinIdioms because I believe learning idioms shouldn’t be confusing—it should be engaging, humorous, and useful. Idioms are everywhere in American life: in conversations, movies, TV shows, and even at work. But for English learners, they can be tricky to grasp. That’s where this site comes in.
Here, you’ll find simple explanations, real-life examples, fun stories, and practical tips to help you not only learn idioms—but actually use them. Whether you’re a beginner or a fluent speaker looking to sound more natural, TalkinIdioms is your go-to guide.
I’ve completed TESOL coursework at Wright State University and have also studied German and Spanish. I know what it feels like to be a language learner. That’s why I’m passionate about teaching English in a way that’s clear, cultural, and fun.
Let’s break down barriers, build confidence, and start talkin’ idioms—together.
What We Do