to not be (oneself)

Welcome to English as a Second Language Podcast number 820: Performing Poorly at Work.

This is English as a Second Language Podcast episode 820. I’m your host, Dr. Jeff McQuillan, coming to you from the Center for Educational Development in beautiful Los Angeles, California.

Our website is eslpod.com. You know what to do. Go there. Become a member. Support this podcast.

This episode is a dialogue – what a surprise! – between Cora and Doug about not doing your best at your job. Let’s get started.

Cora: What’s up with Rob? He hasn’t been himself lately.

Doug: You’ve noticed, too, huh?

Cora: Yeah, he’s been missing work and letting things slip through the cracks. I’ve been cutting him some slack and filling in for him, but things haven’t improved.

Doug: I know what you mean. I’d never known Rob to drop the ball on anything until recently. I heard a rumor that he’s having financial problems.

Cora: No, not Rob! He has more clients than anyone around here.

Doug: Well, he’s been off his