Do you want to learn Spanish and travel? Learn Spanish and travel the world with Jim and May from Spanish and Go.
Advance your listening comprehension through incredible travel stories, cultural conversations, Spanish tips, and interviews with Spanish speakers from around the world.
You’ll hear natural conversational Spanish perfect for the intermediate or advanced Spanish learner. With Spanish and Go, not only will you supercharge your Spanish, but you’ll gain the tools to travel abroad with confidence.
May is a Spanish teacher from Mexico, and Jim is a gringo with a passion for adventure. Together they’ll help you take your Spanish to the next level.
Get the most out of each episode by signing up at https://spanishandgo.com.
Chiles en nogada are one of Mexico’s most celebrated seasonal dishes, and we’re sharing what makes them so special. We talk about our own experiences trying vegetarian versions in Puebla, explain what goes into preparing everything from the stuffed poblano pepper to the famous walnut sauce, and highlight why this colorful dish is such an important part of Mexican culture. We also discuss the legendary origin story of chiles en nogada, whether it’s history or folklore, and how food and storytelling have shaped Mexican traditions for generations. Along the way, we explain why the dish is only available for a short season, why it’s one of Mexico’s most expensive traditional meals, and even settle the debate over whether it’s better capeado (battered) or without the batter. By the end, you’ll understand why tasting chiles en nogada in Puebla is an experience every food lover should have.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
Becoming parents has given us a whole new appreciation for children’s songs, so in this episode, we’re sharing some of our favorites with Santi and the memories they bring back. We talk about bilingual nursery rhymes, classic Mexican lullabies, interactive songs that make little ones laugh, and why some English nursery rhymes have surprisingly dark (or misunderstood) histories. Along the way, you’ll learn about traditional songs like Los Pollitos Dicen, Martinillo, and Ricky Ran, discover how children’s songs are translated across languages, and hear us compare the games and counting rhymes we grew up with in Mexico and the United States. Whether you’re learning Spanish, raising bilingual kids, or simply feeling nostalgic about your childhood, this episode offers a fun glimpse into the music, traditions, and family moments that connect generations.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
Summer vacations mean something different depending on where you grew up, and in this episode, we look back on the childhood memories that shaped us—from playing outside in the rain in Mexico to biking through Minnesota during long summer days. We also talk about how owning a home and raising our son, Santi, has changed our relationship with travel, why we’re trying to squeeze in a few more trips before he turns two, and the realities of traveling as parents. Along the way, we compare summer traditions in Mexico and the U.S., explain why “summer” doesn’t always mean hot weather, share travel mishaps caused by unexpected climates, and discuss what an ideal vacation looks like for us today.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
What happens when an entire country jokingly decides to “cancel” English for a day? In this episode, we explain the story behind Operativo No Inglés, the meaning of expressions like ponerse la verde and ¿Y si sí?, and the hilarious ways famous brands translated their names into Spanish to support Mexico’s national team. Along the way, you’ll learn about Mexican humor, internet culture, and some useful vocabulary and expressions that will help you better understand everyday Spanish and life in Mexico.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
Have you ever wondered how much of Nacho Libre is actually true? We talk about what the movie gets right (and wrong), the stereotypes it presents about Mexico, and the remarkable life of Sergio Gutiérrez Benítez—better known as Fray Tormenta—a priest who secretly became a luchador to support hundreds of children through his orphanage. We also celebrate our July Student of the Month, Jaime, whose inspiring language-learning journey reminds us that consistency and enthusiasm are the keys to making progress in Spanish.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
If you’re planning a trip to the Riviera Maya or simply want to understand one of the Caribbean’s biggest environmental challenges, this episode is for you. We explain what sargassum is, why so much of it has been washing ashore, how it impacts local communities and tourism, and what travelers can realistically expect during sargassum season. Along the way, we share our own experiences in Playa del Carmen, practical advice for staying flexible while traveling, and useful Spanish questions you can ask locals to find the best beach conditions and discover other amazing activities beyond the coast.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
A lot can change in just one year! In this episode, we look back on our first year of parenthood, sharing the lessons, challenges, and joyful moments that have shaped our journey with Santi. We talk about how our confidence as parents has grown, the reality of raising a bilingual child, and the cultural differences we experienced while celebrating Santi’s first birthday in both Mexico and the United States. We also share some of our favorite milestones, from his first words and signs to walking, communicating, and developing his own unique personality.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We take a deep dive into the Guelaguetza, Oaxaca’s iconic festival of sharing, community, and cultural pride. We talk about the origins of the celebration, the meaning behind the word “Guelaguetza,” what visitors can expect during the festivities, and how the event showcases the incredible diversity of Oaxaca’s Indigenous communities. Whether you’re planning a trip to Oaxaca or simply curious about Mexican culture, this episode will help you better understand the traditions, history, and spirit that make the Guelaguetza such a unique and unforgettable celebration.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
Pride celebrations are often associated with colorful parades and community gatherings, but there is a much deeper history behind them. We explore how the Stonewall uprising helped spark the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, highlight important milestones in the fight for equality, and examine how Pride is celebrated across Latin America and Spain today. Along the way, we discuss key Spanish vocabulary related to gender identity, sexual orientation, and inclusion, helping you expand your language skills while gaining a better understanding of the experiences, challenges, and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
Have you ever wondered why the axolotl has become such a beloved symbol of Mexico? In this episode, we dive into the history, mythology, and science behind this remarkable amphibian that calls Xochimilco home. We talk about its connection to ancient Mexica culture, its appearance on Mexico’s famous 50-peso bill, and its astonishing ability to regenerate parts of its body. We also discuss the conservation challenges threatening wild axolotl populations, the impact of invasive species and pollution, and the ethical questions surrounding keeping them as pets. Whether you’re interested in Mexican culture, wildlife, or scientific discoveries, this episode will give you a deeper appreciation for one of the world’s most extraordinary creatures.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
Soccer in Mexico is much more than just a sport, and in this episode, we dive into why it feels almost like a religion for so many people. We talk about how soccer first arrived in Mexico through British miners, how teams like América, Chivas, Cruz Azul, and Pumas became symbols of different identities, and why the World Cup creates so much excitement across the country. Along the way, we share popular soccer slang and expressions you’ll hear in Mexico, from echarse una cascarita to árbitro vendido, plus chants and phrases fans scream during matches. Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, this episode will help you better understand Mexican culture, humor, and everyday language connected to soccer.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We dive into the fascinating world of avocados, from their ancient origins in Mesoamerica to their modern global popularity. We share personal stories about growing up with avocados, our favorite dishes like chilaquiles, ceviche, and guacamole, and even reveal some of our secret ingredients for making guacamole at home. Along the way, we explore the meaning behind the word “aguacate,” the story of the famous Hass avocado, Mexico’s role as the world’s top avocado producer, and how this fruit became a worldwide obsession. You’ll also learn fun cultural facts, different names for avocados across Latin America, and practical tips for choosing the perfect ripe avocado at the store.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
In the second part of our series about Mexico’s UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, we dive deeper into some of the country’s most fascinating traditions and cultural expressions. We talk about the Totonac Indigenous Arts Center in Veracruz, the world of charros and charrería, the famous Talavera pottery of Puebla, romantic bolero music, and massive community celebrations like the Romería of the Virgin of Zapopan and the Passion of Christ reenactment in Iztapalapa. Along the way, we share personal stories, cultural observations, and the things that surprised us most while learning about these traditions, helping you better understand the diversity and richness of Mexican culture.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We take you beyond landmarks and into the living traditions that define Mexico’s cultural identity. We explore UNESCO-recognized intangible heritage like Day of the Dead, the Voladores de Papantla, traditional cuisine, and mariachi—breaking down their deeper cultural, spiritual, and historical significance beyond what most people see on the surface. By the end, you’ll gain a richer understanding of how these traditions are preserved, why they matter, and how they continue to shape communities across Mexico today.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
You’ve probably seen the “UNESCO World Heritage Site” label while traveling—but do you actually know what it means? In this episode, we reveal the surprising truth behind UNESCO, from how places earn this prestigious title to the hidden responsibilities that come with it. We also share real examples from our travels in Mexico, uncover lesser-known types of recognitions (yes, even food and traditions!), and explain why this global system plays a much bigger role in culture, tourism, and even protection during war than most people realize.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pand
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We take you through Zacatlán de las Manzanas in Puebla, a lush highland town surrounded by forests, ravines, and cool mountain air. From its rich apple industry—turned into cider, pies, breads, and more—to its vibrant cultural identity shaped by the Pueblos Mágicos program, this town is full of unexpected discoveries. We also share our experience riding a local tram tour that revealed historic landmarks, canyon viewpoints, and the fascinating Callejón del Hueso with its legendary stories and iconic vitromurals. These massive mosaic artworks tell the story of Zacatlán’s creative transformation, blending international influence with local artistry. Along the way, we also explore its food, scenic views, and relaxed atmosphere that makes it a refreshing escape from city life. If you’re looking for a destination near Mexico City or Puebla that combines nature, culture, and authenticity, this episode will show you why Zacatlán deserves a spot on your list.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
We talk about how a simple conversation about Santi’s zodiac sign made us realize we had never explored horoscopes on the podcast before. From growing up with horoscope segments on TV in Mexico to seeing how common they are in media, we reflect on their cultural presence and why people find them so appealing. We also break down the basics of astrology, explore the traits of each zodiac sign, and discuss whether horoscopes are just fun entertainment or something people take too seriously when making decisions about relationships and life.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We take you inside the dramatic Semana Santa celebration in Iztapalapa, where the Passion of Christ is brought to life in a way that’s both emotional and incredibly realistic. We talk about how this tradition started nearly 200 years ago during a cholera outbreak and how it has grown into a massive event recognized by UNESCO, attracting millions of spectators each year. Along the way, we share our thoughts on how religion and culture often overlap in Mexico, what it takes to participate in this intense reenactment, and why even younger generations are still drawn to it today.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
May talks about the novel El Murmullo de las Abejas by Sofía Segovia, a beautiful and emotional story set in Linares, Nuevo León, during the early 1900s. We explore the life of Simonopio, a mysterious child with a deep connection to nature, and how his presence shapes the Morales family through times of revolution, land reform, and the Spanish flu pandemic. Along the way, we share why this novel is so memorable, how it blends history with subtle magical elements, and why it’s a great recommendation if you want to improve your Spanish while learning more about Mexican culture and storytelling.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, ratin
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We share simple and practical ways you can create your own Spanish immersion at home, inspired by ideas from our friend Babbs, who has joined several of our immersion retreats in Mexico. We talk about activities like narrating your daily life in Spanish, cooking using Spanish recipes, and finding small real-world opportunities to practice speaking—even if it’s just asking a question at a restaurant or market. We also explain how teaching someone else, trying a “Spanish day,” and adjusting these activities to your level can help you improve faster. Plus, we address common challenges like feeling shy, not having someone to practice with, or thinking you don’t have enough time—and how to overcome them. By the end, you’ll have realistic strategies to surround yourself with Spanish and build confidence little by little.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We dive into how Arabic influenced Spanish vocabulary through centuries of cultural exchange during the time of Al-Andalus. We share a personal story that sparked our curiosity, explore patterns like the “al-” prefix, and break down common words you probably didn’t know came from Arabic—like almohada, azúcar, and ojalá. By the end, you’ll not only recognize these connections in everyday Spanish, but also gain a deeper appreciation for how languages evolve and reflect history across cultures.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We break down the differences between true cognates, near cognates, and false friends in English and Spanish. We share examples of words that look similar across both languages—some that mean the same thing and others that can easily trick learners into saying the wrong thing. By understanding these patterns and learning from common mistakes, you’ll discover how to build your Spanish vocabulary faster and communicate with more confidence.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
After many of you reached out to ask if we were safe, we decided to dedicate this episode to explaining what really happened during the recent violence in states like Jalisco, Colima, and Michoacán. We break down the timeline of events—from the military operation in Tapalpa to the 250+ road blockades, airport disruptions, burned businesses (including dozens of Oxxos), and the wave of misinformation spreading on social media. We also share our honest thoughts about safety in Mexico, what this means for travelers and our immersion retreats, and reflect on the bigger political picture—including corruption, organized crime, and whether this moment could represent real change. If you’ve seen the headlines and felt unsure about visiting Mexico, this episode will give you context, clarity, and our personal perspective from living here.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We go beyond the music and analyze the deeper meaning behind Bad Bunny’s halftime performance. We share historical context about Puerto Rico’s political status, its colonial past, and what it means to be a U.S. territory without full representation—something many people don’t fully understand. We also unpack key symbols from the show, like the light blue Puerto Rican flag linked to the independence movement, the imagery of the jíbaro and sugar cane fields representing working-class pride, the electrical poles symbolizing ongoing power outages, and the celebration of Latin culture, family, and women’s empowerment. Having lived in Puerto Rico ourselves, we add personal insight to help you better understand why this performance sparked so much pride, debate, and emotion—and why it was about much more than entertainment.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We break down what a piropo actually is and why it’s more than just a romantic line — it’s a mix of language, humor, and culture. We share cute, funny, and cheesy examples you might hear in movies or conversations, and we also explain the street piropos you should understand but probably never use. Most importantly, we help you learn the social rules behind them so you don’t accidentally sound rude or awkward while speaking Spanish. By the end, you’ll not only recognize these expressions in real life and media, but you’ll also know how to navigate flirting and compliments in a culturally respectful way.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
We sit down with Flor, a local Spanish teacher with a background in biology and a master’s focus on ecology, to talk about her journey, her Yucatecan roots, and how she became part of our immersion program in Mérida. Together, we explore fascinating topics like whether coyotes in Yucatán are invasive or naturally expanding, and we highlight emblematic animals of the region such as the jaguar (Balam), pink flamingos, endemic rattlesnakes, white-tailed deer, and the iconic pájaro reloj. We also talk about ethical nature tourism, conservation, and how travelers and locals alike can better understand and respect Yucatán’s ecosystems while connecting more deeply with its culture.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
From figuring out which bus to take to knowing when and how to signal the driver, we walk you through the reality of using urban buses in Mexico. We talk about routes, schedules (or the lack of them), payment methods—from cash to modern app-based systems like Mérida’s Va y Ven—and the essential Spanish phrases you’ll actually need on board. Along the way, we share etiquette tips, safety advice, and personal stories that will help you avoid common mistakes and turn public transportation into a fun, immersive travel experience instead of a stressful one.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
From Cholula to Tabasco, we explore how some of the world’s most famous hot sauces are named after places they don’t actually come from. We break down the real origins of Tabasco sauce, how it was created in Louisiana using Tabasco chilies, and how it became the best-selling hot sauce in the world—traveling everywhere from seafood plates to space missions. We also share our honest take on its flavor, how it’s used differently in the U.S. versus Mexico, and why homemade Mexican salsas still hold a special place in our hearts.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We explore the growing fear that AI and instant translation tools make language learning unnecessary, and we explain why that mindset misses the point. From real-life cultural misunderstandings and gestures to sarcasm, tone, and relationship-building, we share examples that show what technology simply can’t teach. You’ll walk away with a clearer idea of how to use AI as a powerful learning tool—without losing the deeper goal of language learning: connecting with real people and cultures.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
In this episode, we conclude our real-life battle with Sam’s Club after buying a couch that arrived incomplete and went unresolved for months. We share how filing a complaint through PROFECO and ConciliaNet led not only to a full refund, but also to the legally required 20% compensation—despite resistance and delays from the company. If you live in, travel to, or shop in Mexico, this episode shows you that you do have rights as a consumer and that PROFECO is a powerful tool when a business refuses to respond.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
In episode 301, May takes the mic solo to respond to claims that Mexico lacks a true bread culture, using this moment to explore how wheat arrived during the colonial period and evolved into something uniquely Mexican. We walk you through the history of bread in Mexico, its role in everyday life and religious celebrations, and the incredible variety of pan dulce that defines Mexican bakeries today. Along the way, you’ll gain cultural insight, expand your vocabulary, and better understand why food is such a powerful part of Mexican identity. immersion retreats and a community platform to future travel, plus why this kind of reflection can help you appreciate your own progress too.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We reflect on reaching 300 podcast episodes and five years of Spanish and Go, a journey that started during the pandemic in Puerto Rico and led us to where we are today. We talk about the biggest moments of the year—buying a house, becoming parents, favorite podcast episodes, and how slowing down helped us grow in unexpected ways. You’ll also hear what we’re planning next, from new immersion retreats and a community platform to future travel, plus why this kind of reflection can help you appreciate your own progress too.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We walk you through essential Christmas words and traditions in Mexico, from nacimientos and Christmas trees to poinsettias, piñatas, and festive street decorations. We also explore classic holiday food and drinks like tamales, ponche, rompope, and buñuelos, plus the music, posadas, and expressions you’ll hear everywhere. Whether you’re traveling, living in Mexico, or simply want to sound more confident during the holidays, this episode helps you connect language with real-life Christmas experiences.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We break down what la sobremesa really is, why almost everyone in Mexico practices it (even if they don’t name it), and how it contrasts with the fast-paced dining culture many of us grew up with. We also explore its historical roots in Spain, how it blended with Latin American and Indigenous traditions, and why meals often last hours without anyone feeling rushed. Finally, we explain how la sobremesa becomes a powerful, low-pressure space for practicing Spanish, building confidence, and truly connecting with people beyond the classroom.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
We dive into the surprising reach of Oxxo, from its 22,000+ stores across Mexico to its rapid growth in countries like Colombia, Chile, Peru, and Brazil. We discuss the 2,500 products you can find in a single location, the ready-to-eat foods, and the essential services it offers—like paying bills, withdrawing cash, buying bus tickets, and even handling government payments. We also explore Spin by Oxxo, its growing financial service that’s helping millions of people access convenient banking tools. By the end of the episode, you’ll understand why Oxxo is more than a convenience store—it’s a powerhouse woven into the daily rhythm of Mexican life.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
May talks with Evangelina about the origins of Cocina Nana Vira and how a challenging moment in her family’s life transformed into a project that now welcomes visitors from around the world. She shares the cultural meaning and emotional depth behind Oaxaca’s ceremonial moles—coloradito, mole negro, and mole chichilo—and explains why traditional tools like the metate and fire-based cooking are essential to preserving authentic Zapotec flavors. We also bring listeners into the heart of our Oaxaca immersion experience, where students explore local markets, learn regional traditions, and cook alongside Evangelina in her wood-fired kitchen.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community
Support the show
We walk you through why letters like ch, ll, and even rr used to appear in the Spanish alphabet—and why they were eventually removed. We explain the role of the Real Academia Española and the network of language academies that oversee updates to Spanish, including the move to classify these as dígrafos rather than independent letters. You’ll also hear how pronunciation, regional differences, and even the renaming of the letter y impact learners today. Whether you’ve been speaking Spanish for decades or you’re just getting started, this episode will help you understand the modern 27-letter alphabet and avoid common pronunciation mistakes.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
We’re sharing the essential everyday phrases you’ll hear constantly in Mexico — and how to use them confidently and politely. You’ll learn when to say provecho, por favor, gracias, con permiso, disculpa, perdón, and salud, plus the cultural meaning behind each expression, so you know exactly what feels natural to locals. We also talk about the importance of asking permission before taking photos and how these small habits can help you navigate markets, restaurants, and crowded streets with ease. Whether you’re preparing for a trip or trying to sound more natural in Spanish, these phrases will make every interaction smoother and more respectful.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
Before heading to Oaxaca, we had a busy week filled with errands, appointments, and last-minute preparations. But the real story happened when I got pulled over by a police officer for having tinted windows — something that’s perfectly normal in other parts of Mexico but not allowed in Puebla. We talk about how the situation unfolded, what we learned about cultural differences when dealing with authority, and how using ChatGPT (yes, right there on the street!) helped clarify the law and calm things down. It’s a mix of nerves, quick thinking, and a few laughs in the end.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
After months of staying home, we finally took our first trip as a family — and it was quite the adventure! We talk about May’s initial fears of flying with a baby, my rush to get Santi’s passports, and how we handled everything from formula prep to stroller logistics. You’ll also hear what went surprisingly well (spoiler: Santi was a dream traveler!) and what we learned along the way. Whether you’re a new parent planning your first flight or just curious about how it went, this episode is full of honest moments, funny mishaps, and practical tips for making travel with a baby smoother and less stressful.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
Have you ever felt nervous speaking Spanish on the phone? You’re not alone! In this episode, we break down how phone conversations work in Mexico, from answering with “¿Bueno?” to asking “¿Con quién tengo el gusto?” and handling tricky moments like poor connections or giving your address. We also share real-life examples, practical phrases for everyday calls, and funny stories from our own experiences. Whether you’re setting an appointment, calling customer service, or just trying to understand what someone said, this episode will make your next Spanish phone call much easier.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
Halloween in Mexico isn’t quite what you’d expect! In this episode, we explore how the holiday has grown in popularity, how Mexican families have added their own twist to it, and the big differences between Halloween and Día de Muertos. From funny stories about homemade costumes and trick-or-treating adventures to deeper reflections on cultural meaning, this conversation blends laughter and learning. Whether you’ve celebrated one, both, or neither, you’ll come away with a better understanding of how these traditions coexist — and how we’re passing them on to our son, Santi.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
What would you do if you paid for a sofa but only half of it showed up, and the company refused to fix it? In this episode, we tell the full story of our months-long battle with Sam’s Club, from endless customer service runarounds to finally getting justice through PROFECO’s online complaint system. This episode will give you a clear picture of how to protect yourself as a consumer and make sure big companies don’t take advantage of you, whether you live in Mexico or plan to shop here.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
Part two of our acronym series explores the explicit, slang-filled world of texting in Spanish. From ALV and MVV to NMM, we explain what these phrases mean, how locals use them, and when not to use them. Even if you never plan to say these words yourself, understanding them will help you catch the nuances of real Mexican Spanish and sound more culturally fluent.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
Have you ever wondered what makes a Spanish immersion trip truly effective? In this episode, we chat with Rory Foster about his journey building Common Ground International and the lessons he’s learned from running immersion programs in Costa Rica, Ecuador, and beyond. We discuss practical strategies for language learners, including how to prepare before you travel, ways to practice Spanish in real-life settings, and why both cultural experiences and formal classes are key to lasting progress.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
Part 2 of our discussion about water in Mexico explores why tap water is often avoided and how families and travelers manage their water needs. We share our own home filtration setup, explain the use of garrafones, discuss historical events that shaped public distrust, and offer tips for safe drinking water and ice. This episode gives you practical advice and cultural context from traditional filtering methods to modern solutions like LifeStraws. You’ll learn how to stay safe, save money, and reduce plastic waste.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
In this conversation, we start with a fun look at Spanish grammar: why agua takes the article el but still requires feminine agreement, and how this rule applies to words like águila, hacha, and hambre. From there, we shift into something every traveler should know: the truth about drinking water in Mexico. We explain why tap water isn’t recommended, how household systems like tinacos and cisterns work, and why purified water in garrafones is the norm. If you’re curious about the culture, language, and everyday realities of life in Mexico, this episode gives you both useful knowledge and insider perspective.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
Have you ever wondered how to raise a child with two languages without causing confusion? In this episode, we dive into the OPOL method, where each parent consistently speaks one language with the child, and discuss how it can be combined with other strategies like “time and place.” We share scientific studies, clear up common myths about bilingualism, and give practical advice on how to provide enough input, prioritize the minority language, and keep things flexible. As bilingual parents ourselves, we’re learning along the way and invite you to join the conversation about raising confident, bilingual kids.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
We explore the phenomenon of Spanglish and why it’s more than just mixing two languages. From everyday words like postear and textear to full-on code-switching, we share examples that highlight how Spanglish works in real conversations. You’ll hear about its cultural impact in places like Puerto Rico and Mexico, how music and social media are spreading it worldwide, and why younger generations use it more than older ones.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
Have you ever heard of empacho, mal de ojo, or mal del puerco? In this episode, we unpack these common yet culturally rich concepts that aren’t officially recognized by doctors but are widely understood across Latin America. From stomach aches and sudden frights to the infamous post-meal sleepiness, we share stories, remedies, and even a few laughs as we reflect on how these beliefs shape the way people talk about health.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
We break down the daily meals in Mexico, from breakfast on the go with tamales and atole, to the all-important comida shared with family, and even the light late-night dinners that might surprise foreigners. Along the way, we share cultural curiosities, like why some Mexicans avoid fruit at night, how coffee at night is completely normal, and why hot soup on a hot day actually makes sense. If you’re learning Spanish or simply curious about Mexican culture, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of daily life and traditions that shape the way people eat and connect in Mexico.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
Haggling can feel like a cultural minefield. In some places it’s expected, in others it’s frowned upon. In this episode, we break down when and where to negotiate, share the fascinating history of bargaining, and give you insider tips for doing it the right way. From friendly street market interactions in Mexico to knowing when to hold back in Argentina, we’ll help you navigate the dos and don’ts of regateo so you can save money, connect with locals, and avoid awkward moments.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
Support the show
Whether you’re texting a friend, planning a trip, or simply want to level up your Spanish, knowing how native speakers actually type is a game changer. In this fun and practical episode, we share some of the most popular Spanish abbreviations like TQM, NTP, XFA, and more—plus the cultural context behind them. If you’ve ever seen messages like “XQ” or “GPI” and felt lost, this episode will help you feel confident using and understanding them like a native.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Gentrification has become a hot topic in Mexico City—especially in popular neighborhoods like Roma and Condesa. In this episode, we share our perspective as a bicultural couple living in Mexico and unpack the complexities behind the recent protests. We talk about housing concerns, immigration policy, local frustrations, and how foreigners can travel more responsibly while still feeling welcomed in Mexico.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewin
Support the show
Naming our baby should’ve been straightforward—after all, we’d agreed on Santiago Fricker Larios years ago. But thanks to a suffix in my U.S. documents (“II”), things got messy fast. We dive into how this small detail caused major legal confusion in Mexico, how it affects our son’s future documents, and what it means for multicultural families navigating two systems. Along the way, we reflect on suffixes, identity, and how this tiny “II” changed everything. This is the real story behind Santiago’s full name, what it took to register it, and why we might be leaving him a little name drama to deal with at 18.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima
Support the show
Narcocorridos are narrative songs that paint vivid pictures of drug trafficking, organized crime, and the lives of real or fictional figures in the narcotics world. In this episode, we discuss where this genre fits within regional Mexican music, the ethical concerns it raises, and how it reflects deeper social realities in Mexico. We also take a look at the history of narcocorridos, some of the most iconic songs, and how this music intersects with power, reputation, and even violence.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima
Support the show
We’re breaking down the many colorful, confusing, and creative ways chingar shows up in everyday Mexican Spanish. From expressions like chingón, chingadera, and chingadazo to more obscure gems like chingaquedito, we cover the meanings, the contexts, and why they matter. Whether you’re a language nerd, an advanced Spanish learner, or just curious about how locals really talk—this episode will entertain, educate, and probably make you laugh.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast
Support the show
Come along as we sit down with our friend and guide Susana to uncover the many treasures of the Yucatán Peninsula. We dive into the stories behind Mérida’s grand European-style mansions built during the henequén boom, and we share why this crop shaped the region’s fortunes. You’ll also hear about ancient Maya archaeological sites, hidden cenotes perfect for a refreshing swim, and the incredible local dishes you can only truly experience here. Whether you’re curious about Mexico’s cultural diversity or dreaming of your next adventure, this episode will inspire you to discover Yucatán for yourself.
Susana Ojeda Orranti, originally from Guanajuato, Mexico, has developed a distinguished career in tourism and environmental conservation across several regions, including Baja California Sur, Yucatán, and Guanajuato. She has served as a university professor, specializing in tourism studies and heritage interpretation. In the academic sphere, her research has focused on the traditional and festive culinary practices of Guanajuato.
For more than a decade, Susana has also worked as a cultural and nature tourism guide with Cacomixtle, her family’s business. Her expertise spans mining history, regional gastronomy, hiking, and mountain biking, reflecting her commitment to sharing Mexico’s rich cultural and natural heritage with visitors.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
If you’ve ever wondered what mole poblano is—or why it’s considered by many to be Mexico’s national dish—this episode is for you. We talk about the ingredients that make it so complex, its colonial and pre-Hispanic roots, and how it’s typically served during major celebrations like weddings and New Year’s. From our own tasting experiences to the endless variations across regions, we explore what makes mole more than just food—it’s a reflection of Mexico’s history and identity.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
We explore why Cholula sauce, named after our hometown, isn’t actually made here—and why most locals don’t even use it. From its humble beginnings in a Mexican kitchen to its massive $800 million acquisition by McCormick, this episode uncovers the cultural, historical, and economic journey behind one of the world’s most popular hot sauces. Plus, we share personal stories and local perspectives that reveal how much (or how little) this famous sauce matters to everyday Mexicans.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the show
We explore the BCG vaccine and why it’s commonly given to newborns in countries like Mexico. You’ll hear what we learned from our pediatrician, how vaccine practices differ around the world, and why this immunization still plays a critical role in public health. Whether you’re a parent or simply curious about global healthcare, this conversation offers helpful context and cultural insight.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more list
Support the show
We’re officially parents! Just a few days after welcoming baby Santiago into our lives, we’re sharing all the details — from the surprising calm before the cesarean to the emotional rollercoaster of choosing the right doctor and hospital in Mexico. We talk about the decisions we had to make, the challenges we faced, and how it all led to a beautiful and safe birth that changed our lives forever.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxim
Support the show
Have you ever wondered why the dollar sign is used for both U.S. dollars and Mexican pesos? We’ve had students ask if ATMs in Mexico give out dollars or pesos, all because of that same “$” symbol. In this episode, we break down the real history behind the sign—from colonial-era Spanish pesos to silver mines and the American Revolution—and reveal how the U.S. didn’t create the symbol, but actually adopted it from Latin America.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the show
If you’ve ever wanted to read One Hundred Years of Solitude but felt intimidated by its complex narrative, this episode is for you. May breaks down why this novel is more approachable than it seems, especially when paired with the new Netflix adaptation, and how its cyclical structure and recurring themes reflect Latin American history and identity. May also shares tips for navigating the story, from keeping track of the Buendía family to appreciating the magic woven into the everyday.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the show
Saying “yes” or “no” in Mexico isn’t as simple as it sounds. In this episode, we unpack the social and cultural nuances behind these everyday responses, especially when someone offers you food, help, or an invitation. Whether you’re learning Spanish or planning a visit, this episode will help you sound more natural, polite, and culturally aware in real conversations.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próx
Support the show
While choosing wallpaper and curtain rods for our new home studio, we came across color names like “royal blue” and “matte nickel,” sparking a fun conversation about how color terms vary in English and Spanish. From “colorado” to “rosa mexicano,” we unpack the emotional, cultural, and regional meanings behind these colors—and how they don’t always translate directly. Whether you’re into design, language learning, or just love the little quirks of vocabulary, this episode will help you see color in a whole new light.ually enjoying the process!
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
If you’ve ever struggled to understand Spanish shows or movies, you’re not alone — even I still find it hard after 15 years of learning! In this episode, we break down why this happens and how to use Spanish subtitles, re-watching scenes, and shadowing techniques to boost your skills. We’ll also give you fun ideas for what to watch so you can improve your Spanish while actually enjoying the process!
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rati
Support the show
In this episode, we talk about why Farmacias Similares is such a game-changer for healthcare in Mexico — from super cheap medications to quick, easy doctor visits. We also share a personal story about using their services and have some fun chatting about the famous Doctor Simi. If you’ve ever wondered how healthcare really works here, or just want to hear a few funny stories, this one’s for you!
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima
Support the show
We’re diving into a real, unfiltered conversation about pregnancy. May talks about the unexpected physical changes, emotional rollercoasters, and little everyday challenges that no one really prepares you for (like the endless need to pee!). Whether you’re expecting a baby or just curious about what it’s really like, this episode is a candid glimpse into our journey so far, with plenty of laughs, surprises, and a few heartfelt reflections along the way.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the show
What does it really mean to have an accent when speaking Spanish—and should you even try to change it? In this episode, I explore how accents impact communication, connection, and confidence, sharing tips on how to develop a more natural-sounding Spanish accent without striving for perfection. Whether you’re aiming to blend in or simply be better understood, this conversation will help you approach pronunciation with intention and clarity.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la p
Support the show
Have you ever wondered if using slang in Spanish will make you sound more natural or just awkward? In this episode, we answer a listener’s question about our use of Mexican slang and share insights on when it works—and when it doesn’t. Tune in to learn how to incorporate slang into your Spanish while staying true to your own speaking style!
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxim
Support the show
Buying a home in Mexico is an adventure—especially as a foreigner! In this episode, we reveal how we found our dream home in Cholula, why searching in Spanish saved us money, and what you need to know about the legal process. Whether you’re thinking about moving to Mexico or just curious about the experience, our story will give you insight into what it’s really like.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Ever wondered why Spanish speakers say cafecito instead of just café? Diminutives are everywhere in Spanish, and they’re not just about size—they add warmth, politeness, and even irony to conversations. We break down how diminutives can completely change the tone of a sentence, depending on context. Plus, we share regional differences and fun examples that will help you use diminutives naturally in your Spanish conversations!
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
What makes a place feel like home? For Diego, it wasn’t where he was born but where he felt most connected—Oaxaca. In this episode, he shares how his Mixtec heritage led him back to his family’s origins, how a chance job offer introduced him to the world of beekeeping, and how working with rural communities shaped his understanding of purpose. Whether you’re interested in cultural identity, unexpected career paths, or the fascinating traditions of Oaxaca, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.
Regarding Diego's project and the honeys of Oaxaca, you can find more information on his Instagram page: @nunduve. You can also contact him directly via email at nunduve@gmail.com.
If you are in Oaxaca or planning to visit, you can find him at:
📍 Casa Biocultural Niyana
Address: Avenida Morelos No. 1306, Centro, Oaxaca. (Very close to Mercado de la Merced).
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like
Support the show
Ever wondered why an avocado is called aguacate or what chocolate originally meant? A lot of the food words we use today actually come from Nahuatl, thanks to the influence of the Mexica Empire. We’re sharing the surprising origins of these everyday words, plus a few funny facts that will make you appreciate your next bite of cacahuates even more!
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Pod
Support the show
Have you ever wondered what life was like in an ancient Mesoamerican city? Today, we’re sharing our experience visiting Monte Albán, a breathtaking site built by the Zapotecs high in the mountains of Oaxaca. From its strategic location and celestial alignments to the theories behind its abandonment, we uncover what makes this site so significant and why it’s a must-visit for history lovers and travelers alike.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Go
Support the show
Have you ever stumbled upon the differences between “cien” and “ciento”? In this episode, we’ll clarify the difference between the two, we'll dive into irregular hundreds, and show you how to tackle thousands effortlessly. Plus, we’ll uncover the surprising distinctions at the billion and trillion levels, which are super important for finance and everyday conversations. This episode is packed with insights that can help you navigate Spanish numbers like a pro and avoid any mix-ups along the way.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxim
Support the show
Why Cholula? That’s a question we get asked a lot, and today, we’re giving you all the details! From its perfect mix of small-town charm and big-city conveniences to its affordability, walkability, and vibrant culture, Cholula checks all the boxes for us. We’ll also talk about its thriving food scene, outdoor adventures, and the unique energy that makes this place feel like home. Whether you’re considering a move or just curious about life in Mexico, this episode is packed with insights!
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the show
We’ve been married for 12 years and spent much of that time thinking kids weren’t in the cards for us. But over the past year and a half, something shifted. In this episode, we reflect on the conversations, experiences, and even a health scare that led us to reconsider parenthood. From our initial doubts to the moment we found out we were expecting, we’re letting you in on all the emotions, surprises, and decisions that brought us here.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
We’re back with part two of our deep dive into uniquely Mexican expressions! In this episode, we explore more fun and fascinating phrases that reveal the heart of Mexican culture. Whether you’re continuing your language journey or just love learning about Mexico, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the show
Understanding when to use “señora” or “señorita” isn’t as straightforward as it seems. These terms carry cultural and social implications that vary based on context, personal preferences, and even regional customs. In this episode, we discuss how to approach these words thoughtfully, avoid uncomfortable interactions, and become more culturally sensitive as you learn Spanish. Whether you’re practicing conversational skills or traveling to a Spanish-speaking country, this episode is packed with insights to help you connect better and communicate with confidence.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la
Support the show
Have you ever wondered what type of traveler you are? In this episode, we dive into adventure travel, cultural explorations, relaxation trips, food-focused adventures, and even business travel. Learn how to blend these styles to create unforgettable experiences, discover inspiring destinations like Mexico’s Copper Canyon and Costa Rica, and get tips on making the most of every trip. Whether you’re planning your next vacation or just dreaming of exploring the world, this episode will help you understand your travel preferences and inspire your wanderlust!
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
What if the first few days of January could tell you the weather for the rest of the year? In this episode, we dive into cabañuelas, an ancient weather prediction method rooted in both Jewish and indigenous traditions. Discover its cultural and historical significance across Spain, Latin America, and even the Philippines. We also discuss how modern technology has reshaped these traditions and how they compare to other global customs like Groundhog Day. Join us for a lighthearted yet insightful look at this unique blend of history, culture, and folklore!
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the show
This year was a whirlwind! We hosted nine immersive Spanish retreats, explored new destinations in Mexico, and celebrated incredible milestones, like reaching listeners in every country worldwide. In this episode, we share our personal reflections on balancing ambitious goals with unexpected surprises, discuss the effort behind our retreats, and give you a sneak peek into exciting plans for 2025, including a new retreat in Mérida. Whether you’re setting your own goals or just curious about our journey, this episode will leave you inspired to chase your dreams!
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more liste
Support the show
Join us as we dive into Mexico’s vibrant holiday traditions, where children eagerly await gifts from Los Reyes Magos instead of Santa Claus, leaving out water and hay for camels. We also discuss the cultural significance of El Ratoncito Pérez and the cautionary tales of El Coco, revealing how folklore shapes childhood experiences in Mexico. Finally, we explore the mischievous world of duendes and how these legends reflect Mexico’s storytelling heritage. This episode is perfect for anyone curious about cultural differences and how traditions influence childhood wonder.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the show
Join us as we sit down with Wylie, an engineer from Texas, who shares his inspiring journey of attending eight of our immersion retreats since 2019. From overcoming nerves to confidently navigating Guanajuato’s streets, Wylie’s story is proof of how immersing yourself in authentic experiences can boost your Spanish skills and deepen cultural connections. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning learner, Wylie’s practical strategies and heartfelt advice will motivate you to embrace the language and make lasting memories along the way.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Have you ever felt taken advantage of while traveling? In this episode, I recount a frustrating experience with a taxi driver and how I used it as inspiration to compile a list of must-know Spanish phrases for travelers. We discuss cultural nuances and practical tips to help you protect your finances and assert yourself respectfully. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, this episode equips you with tools to travel smarter and safer.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This hel
Support the show
This is the exclusive audio breakdown section for episode 245 – Cómo Defenderte Como Viajero en Español I How to Defend Yourself as a Traveler in Spanish.
Get access to the full interactive transcript, quizzes, and more for this and every episode by joining our community, La Escala, at spanishandgo.com/community.
Support the show
Learning Spanish grammar doesn’t have to be overwhelming! In this episode, Sharon Villalobos shares her expertise, helping you master three common past tenses. From the concise pretérito used for specific past actions to the detailed imperfecto for storytelling, and the antepresente bridging past and present, this episode is packed with clear examples, conjugation tips, and personal anecdotes. Whether you’re just starting your Spanish journey or refining your skills, you’ll gain practical insights to elevate your understanding of these essential tenses.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la
Support the show
Have you ever wondered about the colorful alebrijes featured in Mexican culture or how they connect to myths like nahuales and tonales? In this episode, we share the story of how alebrijes originated from a fever dream, their transformation from papier-mâché to wood carvings in Oaxaca, and their global rise to fame. We’ll also dive into the mystical beliefs surrounding nahuales and tonales, uncovering their ties to ancient traditions and personal destiny. Whether you’re a fan of folk art or curious about Mexican heritage, this episode will leave you inspired and informed!
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the show
May introduces listeners to the haunting tale of Pedro Páramo, where a man’s quest to find his father leads him to the eerie town of Comala, filled with lost souls and buried secrets. She unpacks the novel’s themes of power, guilt, and redemption, highlighting its importance in Latin American literature. With a new film adaptation now on Netflix, this episode is a perfect primer for anyone curious about exploring deeper layers of Hispanic storytelling and magical realism.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
We’re back with more surprising facts about things you probably didn’t know came from Mexico! In this episode, discover how ancient indigenous groups used popcorn long before it became a movie-time snack, learn about the rich history behind vanilla’s cultivation, and find out why the poinsettia became a Christmas symbol around the world. This episode is packed with fascinating insights into how Mexican culture has shaped the world in unexpected ways.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the show
In this lively discussion, we share our experience celebrating Día de Muertos in Cholula, Puebla, surrounded by the beautiful cempasúchil fields and festive atmosphere. We dive into the origins and uses of the marigold in Mexico, from its practical applications in gardening and health to its presence in cuisine and legend. Discover the touching love story of Xóchitl and Huitzilin, adding deeper meaning to the flower that guides spirits back to their loved ones each year.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Discover how tools like ChatGPT and Google's NotebookLM are transforming language learning with AI. We delve into ChatGPT's new conversational features, allowing you to practice Spanish grammar in real-time while choosing regional accents, like Mexican Spanish, for authentic interaction. Plus, learn about NotebookLM, a powerful AI that can turn your notes and vocabulary lists into interactive conversations, offering context-rich explanations that reinforce what you’re learning. These tools not only make Spanish accessible but also keep it engaging and fun. Don’t miss this chance to bring advanced AI into your language practice!
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Discover the eerie history behind the mummies of Guanajuato, a captivating tourist site with roots in Mexico’s rich cultural and historical tapestry. May explains how these mummies were uncovered due to an exhumation law, turning the city’s cemetery into an unexpected museum of natural preservation. From the tragic deaths of miners to the stunning displays in the Museo de las Momias, we discuss what makes this destination both fascinating and unsettling. Whether you’re curious about the history or planning a visit, we’ll help you decide if this museum is for you!
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Struggling with the Spanish subjunctive? You’re not alone! In this episode, we explore how the subjunctive is used in everyday Spanish, why it's so tricky for learners (even for me!), and how it differs from English. May helps simplify the concept by explaining common usage patterns and providing examples that you can immediately apply. Whether you're an intermediate learner or more advanced, this episode will give you a clearer understanding of when and how to use the subjunctive, helping you feel more confident in your Spanish-speaking journey.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Ever wondered how to protect yourself financially while traveling in Latin America? In this episode, we discuss key strategies to avoid unnecessary charges and stay safe while exploring new destinations. Tune in to learn practical tips you won’t want to miss, from handling currency exchanges to using credit cards wisely!
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Join us as we explore the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich musical traditions of Colombia with our guests, Andrea and Nate. We discuss why Colombia is a must-visit destination, from its affordable travel options to its friendly locals and diverse geography. Whether you're curious about Colombian cuisine, want to practice your Spanish, or are considering a trip, this episode offers valuable insights to enhance your travel experience.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the show
Join us for part 2 of our discussion on my language learning struggles! I reflect on the mistakes I'm still making, like mixing up “qué,” “cuál,” and “cuando,” and how I am trying to improve. May shares practical tips for learners, such as focusing on recognizing common triggers for the subjunctive and using the “personal a” correctly. This episode is full of useful advice for anyone looking to sharpen their Spanish skills. Don’t miss out on the insights and encouragement we have to share!
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxi
Support the show
Join us as we share our journey through Colombia, highlighting cities like Bogotá and Medellín, and the stunning small towns of Barichara and Guatapé. We discuss the local architecture, unique accents, and the overall experience of traveling in this diverse country. We’ll also touch on safety tips, cost of living, and what makes Colombia such a memorable destination for travelers.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Join us as we share our thoughts on returning to the U.S. after years abroad. We talk about the quirks of American life that stand out to us now—like the obsession with ice-filled drinks, constant weather complaints, and massive portion sizes. We also compare driving habits, discuss the higher cost of living, and reflect on how these experiences shape our perspective on life abroad. Whether you’re an expat or just curious about life in another country, this episode offers a relatable and light-hearted look at the contrasts between life in the U.S. and Latin America.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the Show.
Join us as we explore the pitfalls that even experienced Spanish learners like Jim encounter, from tricky subjunctive usage to gender agreement issues. We’ll not only pinpoint where Jim slips up but also offer insights on how to avoid these mistakes yourself. Whether you're struggling with similar challenges or just want to refine your Spanish, this episode will help you speak more naturally and confidently.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the Show.
During our stay in Bogotá, we discovered fascinating aspects of the city’s culture, including its history, climate, and unique Spanish dialect. We talk about the vibrant Chapinero neighborhood, local fruits like lulo and feijoa, and the special words and phrases that make Colombian Spanish stand out. You'll also hear about cultural events like the Septimazo, the meaning behind terms like "rolo" and "pola," and some tips on navigating the local dining scene, including how to handle payments at restaurants. If you're curious about Colombian culture or planning to visit, this episode will give you valuable insights.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the Show.
Join us as we share a lighthearted conversation about eggcorns, malapropisms, and folk etymology. We explore how linguistic slip-ups—like confusing "Alzheimer's disease" with "old-timers disease" or "in one fell swoop" with "in one foul swoop"—become part of everyday language. We'll also take you through some amusing Spanish examples, from national anthem mix-ups to everyday misunderstandings. This episode is all about embracing the fun side of language evolution, reminding us that making mistakes is just part of the journey.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the Show.
Michael Babb, affectionately known as Babbs, shares his inspiring journey from being a hesitant Spanish speaker to confidently using the language in everyday situations. Listen to his experiences from our immersion retreats in Oaxaca and Guanajuato, and learn how he overcame his fear of making mistakes to fully embrace the language. Babs’ story is a testament to the power of perseverance and offers valuable insights for anyone looking to improve their Spanish skills.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the Show.
Join us as we explore the controversial topic of learning Spanish while sleeping. We discuss two scientific studies suggesting the potential for sleep learning and emphasize the crucial role of sleep in consolidating information. Discover our own experiment, where we combine a soothing audio recording with a pre-sleep study routine, and hear our thoughts on the importance of active practice and study. Tune in to find out if you can really learn a language in your sleep and how you can apply these insights to your own learning journey.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the Show.
We dive into Bogotá's unique charm, from its moderate temperatures to its vibrant international food scene. Learn about the city's bustling social events, including language exchanges and cultural fairs, and enjoy our insights into the walkable, green neighborhood of Chapinero. Plus, hear how Bogotá's historical tours and well-connected airport enhance our travels. This episode is packed with practical tips and cultural insights for anyone interested in Colombia.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
Support the Show.
In this episode, we explore the intriguing story of Gran Colombia, a political entity envisioned by Simón Bolívar to unify South American territories into a powerful state. We'll discuss the motivations behind this ambitious project, the internal and external challenges it faced, and the legacy of Bolívar's dream. By understanding the complexities of Gran Colombia, you will gain insights into the historical and cultural factors that continue to shape South America today.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the Show.
Discover the true story behind the legend of El Dorado, a tale that has fascinated explorers and treasure hunters for centuries. We'll discuss the Muisca people's golden rituals, how the Spanish conquistadors embellished the myth, and the cultural misunderstandings that fueled its enduring allure. This episode offers insights into the historical and cultural significance of El Dorado, revealing why it remains a powerful metaphor for unattainable wealth and human ambition.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the Show.
This provides an insightful look into how PROFECO protects consumers in Mexico. We delve into common scams, explain your rights, and offer practical tips on resolving disputes and ensuring fair treatment. Learn how to handle issues like unfair pricing, unauthorized charges, and discriminatory practices, empowering you to confidently navigate the consumer landscape in Mexico.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our
Support the Show.
We are thrilled to discuss "Como Agua Para Chocolate," a novel that beautifully intertwines Mexican culture, cuisine, and magical realism. Discover the story of Tita, whose forbidden love and emotional journey are expressed through her magical culinary creations. This episode will provide you with insights into the novel's themes of love, family, and tradition, and how they reflect broader societal issues. Perfect for literature lovers and anyone interested in Mexican culture, this episode offers a captivating exploration of a beloved literary work.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the Show.
We take you through Pablo Escobar's journey from humble beginnings to becoming the leader of the Medellín Cartel. Discover how he built a billion-dollar empire, his influence in politics, and the violent conflicts that marked his reign. Learn about his complex legacy, both as a feared criminal and a controversial benefactor, and the lasting impact on Colombia and beyond.
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing o
Support the Show.
In this episode, we dive into the vibrant country of Colombia, exploring its rich history, diverse geography, and bustling economy. We'll guide you through must-visit cities like Cartagena and Medellín, highlight Colombia's famous coffee and cuisine, and offer insights into the best times to visit. Plus, we'll share our personal tips and experiences to help you make the most of your own adventure. Tune in to get inspired for your next trip!
Key Takeaways:
Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the Show.
In this episode, we're in Mazatlán, Sinaloa, where banda music fills the air. We discuss the genre's origins, its wide appeal, and its growth beyond Mexico, especially in U.S. communities with Mexican heritage. Learn about the different instruments, famous bands, and how banda music has shaped local and international cultures. Whether you're a fan or new to the genre, this episode offers fascinating insights into the lively sounds of banda.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the Show.
Get an in-depth look at Mexico's upcoming presidential election as I and Nat discuss the leading candidates: Claudia Sheinbaum from MORENA, Xóchitl Gálvez from the PRI, PAN, and PRD coalition, and Jorge Álvarez Máynez from Movimiento Ciudadano. We explore their political backgrounds, campaign strategies, and the challenges they face, including cartel violence and economic issues. Learn how these candidates’ ideologies and tactics are shaping the electoral landscape and what it means for the country.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the Show.
Curious about the political landscape in Mexico? This episode is perfect for you! We discuss the dominant political parties, historical shifts, and notable figures like Vicente Fox. Learn about the PRI's long-standing influence, the conservative stance of the PAN, and the emergence of newer parties like MORENA and Movimiento Ciudadano. Our conversation with Nat provides a clear comparison of Mexican and U.S. politics, highlighting the strategic alliances that shape election outcomes. Tune in to understand the unique aspects of Mexican political campaigns and propaganda, setting the stage for a deeper dive in our next episode.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Backroad Odyssey
Traveling America's backroads, history lovers - Noah and Noodles - uncover...
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the Show.
Join us as we dive into the tipping customs in Mexico. Drawing from May's experience in hospitality, we delve into the discretionary nature of tipping, emphasizing its basis on service quality rather than obligation. With insights into regional variations and practical tips for travelers, this episode offers invaluable guidance for navigating tipping customs with sincerity and respect.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the Show.
Discover the heart of Spanish-speaking culture as we delve into family terminology in this episode. From "tatarabuelo" to "bisnieto," unravel the familial connections and learn how to navigate conversations about family in Spanish-speaking communities, starting from generations past to present. Join us as we explore the richness of familial relationships and language, offering insights into the cherished traditions and customs that define Spanish-speaking cultures.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Hometown Ghost Stories
Hometown Ghost Stories dives into the history of haunted locations and investigates why...
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the Show.
Join us as we reminisce about our wedding day journey, from navigating planning challenges to embracing the beauty of Mayan traditions. Experience the serendipity of our impromptu ceremony in Playa del Carmen and discover the magic of blending authenticity, community involvement, and love. Tune in for insights on infusing cultural integrity and genuine connections into your own celebrations.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the Show.
In this episode, we emphasize the significance of understanding and being understood in Spanish conversations, especially in critical situations like dealing with immigration paperwork. We share a variety of useful phrases for seeking clarification, ranging from simple inquiries to more detailed requests. Additionally, we offer tips for politely asking for slower speech to aid comprehension in noisy environments or when confronted with unfamiliar accents. Through personal stories, we highlight the potential consequences of misunderstandings and stress the importance of active engagement in conversations. You will walk away with practical language tools to enhance your Spanish communication skills.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this episode, May and I delve into our proactive approach to using Spanish movies and series for language learning. From selecting suitable content to utilizing Spanish subtitles and actively engaging with the material, we share valuable insights and practical tips to help you make the most out of your language learning experience. We also offer recommendations of must-watch Spanish-language shows and films, providing a diverse range of options to suit various preferences and proficiency levels. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced learner, this episode offers actionable advice and inspiration to take your Spanish skills to the next level.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Discover the decision-making process behind seeking LASIK surgery south of the border and the experience of navigating through multiple clinics in Guadalajara and Tijuana. Learn about the surgical procedure, from initial hesitation to immediate post-operative results, and gain insights into the costs and affordability of medical treatments in Mexico.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
We delve into the colorful "La Feria del Ponche, Pan y Café" discussing its significance in preserving the gastronomic traditions of Comala and promoting community cohesion. From the bustling atmosphere of the main square to the diverse array of local products showcased, we paint a vivid picture of this cherished event. Get ready to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and tastes of one of Mexico's most beloved cultural festivals.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Explore the remarkable journey of Benito Juárez from adversity to becoming Mexico's first indigenous president, as we reflect on his enduring impact on Mexican society and governance. Additionally, immerse yourself in Mexican idioms influenced by Juárez's legacy, enhancing your understanding of the cultural nuances of the Spanish language.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this episode, we delve into the complexities of multiple citizenships, shedding light on the various ways individuals can acquire citizenship and the countries where it's granted automatically. We discuss the practical benefits, such as increased job opportunities and easier travel, while also addressing potential drawbacks like administrative complexities.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Dive into the behind-the-scenes journey with us as we unravel the intricate art of producing the Learn Spanish and Go Podcast while navigating the globe. Delve into the technicalities of our recording setup, the reliability of our equipment, and the collaborative efforts with our amazing team. Uncover the nuances of crafting engaging content on the go, sprinkled with humorous anecdotes and insights into the challenges of recording in diverse environments. From editing to translating, witness the meticulous process that brings the Learn Spanish and Go podcast to life. Whether you're a fellow traveler or a podcast enthusiast, this episode offers an authentic peek into the fascinating world of audio creation.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxim
Support the show
Join us for the third installment of our Airbnb Nightmares series, where we share the recent escapades from our travels. In this episode, we recount our adventures in two South American cities, navigating stormy weather, relocation surprises, and unmet expectations. If you've ever wondered about the untold side of Airbnb stays, this episode is your backstage pass to the unpredictable world of temporary homes.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Explore the enchanting world of Cuenca's real estate with us! Liliana and Roberto spill the beans on property prices, ranging from opulent residences to affordable apartments. Get the lowdown on Airbnb regulations, cultural nuances, and the significance of "alícuota" (HOA fee). Whether you're dreaming of a penthouse or a cozy home, this episode is your ticket to understanding the diverse opportunities awaiting you in Cuenca. Don't miss out on practical advice for a seamless transition, shared by experienced real estate experts. Tune in, and let Cuenca charm you into calling it home.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In the first part of the episode with guests Roberto and Liliana from REMAX Destiny, dive into the world of Ecuadorian real estate. They guide us through the typical buying process, shedding light on necessary documents, legal nuances, and financial considerations. Learn about the role of an attorney, taxes associated with property purchases, and discover the perks of working with professional agents like those from REMAX. Whether you're dreaming of a new home or just curious about international real estate, this episode is your passport to a wealth of knowledge.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Have you ever pondered the roots of machismo and its influence on gender roles in Hispanic and Latino cultures? In this episode, we engage in a thought-provoking conversation, tracing the historical origins of machismo and delving into its modern-day implications. From the persisting gender wage gap to evolving language dynamics, discover the complex layers of machismo and gain insights into the ongoing efforts to challenge societal norms. This episode promises a captivating exploration of a nuanced issue that resonates in various aspects of society, leaving you with a deeper understanding of cultural norms and language nuances.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Discover the lesser-known attractions, including rural areas and festivals like Las Fallas, in this fascinating episode with Sara. Sara's candid insights into the Mediterranean diet and transportation in Spain provide a genuine perspective, dispelling myths and offering practical tips. Explore the rich cultural diversity and daily traditions like mascletàs as this episode promises to offer a compelling peek into the heart of Spain. Plus, enhance your Spanish vocabulary with Sara's linguistic tidbits straight from the lively streets of Spain.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡
Support the show
Join us as we share essential tips and tricks for stress-free travel. Discover the transformative power of noise-canceling headphones, the efficiency of packing organizers, and must-have items for a nomadic lifestyle. Hear firsthand from the students who joined podcast membership about their favorite episodes, language learning strategies, and how the podcast membership has benefited them. Tune in for an unforgettable celebration of 200 episodes, 400 pieces of content, and countless shared adventures.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this episode, we share our exercise tales – the good, the sweaty, and the downright funny. We're breaking down yoga, Zumba, and calisthenics, giving you the lowdown on what's worth a try. Get ready for some exercise vocabulary, goofy stories, and tips on making workouts a joy. Tune in for inspiration and encouragement to kickstart your own fitness adventure.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more list
Support the show
Are you familiar with the Spanish expression "mande"? Join us as we delve into the historical roots of this term, tracing it back to the arrival of Spanish colonizers in Latin America. Discover the societal dynamics and regional variations that make "mande" more than just a phrase, offering practical insights for navigating diverse Spanish-speaking environments. Tune in for a concise exploration that enhances your language learning journey.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Ever pondered the idea of adopting a new name when speaking Spanish? I, who embraces the name Jaime in Spanish-speaking settings, share my journey, emphasizing the voluntary nature of this decision. Discover the significance of two names and two surnames, laugh along with anecdotes of name confusion, and glean practical advice for your own language-learning journey. Dive into the captivating dialogue and find inspiration to navigate a new language and culture with a refreshed identity.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this first episode of 2024, we reflect on extensive travels through Mexico and beyond, exploring vibrant landscapes in Costa Rica, Argentina, and Chile. Candidly sharing personal challenges and unexpected moments, we create an engaging and relatable atmosphere. From the most popular episodes to personal resolutions, join the conversation as we reveal dreams of unplugging, prioritizing passions, and the pursuit of Mexican citizenship. Our goals for the year promise an immersive experience, leaving you connected to our journey.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Get ready to dive into Mexican Christmas vibes with us! We're chatting about Ponche, the cozy holiday drink that's a must in every celebration. Join us as we unfold its story, cultural awesomeness, and spill the secrets on how to whip up this heartwarming sip. From its cool origins to why it's the perfect winter go-to and the fun of grabbing ingredients, this episode is a laid-back journey through festive flavors. Get comfy, hit play, and let's explore Ponche together.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Explore the ins and outs of buying a house in Mexico with Joel Zárate and real estate agent Patricia Graveley. Get practical insights into negotiations, interest rates, down payments, and property taxes, offering valuable advice for potential buyers navigating Mexico's real estate market. This conversation sheds light on the challenges and essential considerations for those looking to own a home in a new country. Tune in for a discussion that equips you with the knowledge needed for a smooth transition into Mexican homeownership.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the show
Jump into the third installment of funny Spanish sayings with us! We're tossing around expressions that caution against unnecessary drama, advocate for actions over words, and spill the beans on bending societal norms. Stroll that talk with us, savoring the quirky phrases that add a real-life kick to your language-learning adventure. Stick around as we wrap it up with a gem about embracing joy today, because life's too short not to! Join us for a relaxed exploration that's more than just language – it's a glimpse into the heart of the Spanish spirit.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple
Support the show
Uncover the secrets of crafting traditional Mexican mole. May delves into its origins, sparking a lighthearted conversation about its complexity. Explore Oaxaca's mole varieties, from the daily Mole Amarillo to the festive Mole Manchamantel. Gain insights into their preparation, flavors, and cultural importance. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds and explore Oaxacan moles.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Explore the dominance of WhatsApp in Latin American communication, its features beyond texting, and its role in daily life. From prepaid plans to personal anecdotes, we dissect its influence. Gain practical tips for travelers, discover why we're moving our group to WhatsApp, and tune in for insights that go beyond the expected.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Dive into a linguistic journey with us as we explore the diverse landscape of Spanish learning for expatriates. From decoding slang to mastering regional variations, we navigate through the complexities, sharing practical advice and relatable anecdotes. Gain a deeper understanding of speech speed nuances and the art of effective communication, especially in phone interactions. This episode is a treasure trove of strategies, anecdotes, and encouragement for anyone navigating the Spanish language landscape.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcas
Support the show
In this episode, we guide you through the diverse landscapes, culinary adventures, and unique cultural nuances of our recent travels in Chile. From the fusion of German and Chilean traditions to navigating linguistic subtleties and discovering the humor in Chilean "hand rolls," join us for a detailed and immersive experience that goes beyond the typical travel narrative. Gain practical insights into safety, economics, and the lively fabric of Chilean life
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this episode, we delve into Spanish tongue twisters, sharing popular examples and explaining their linguistic intricacies. Discover the value of practicing these twisters to improve your Spanish-speaking skills. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced Spanish learner, our playful banter and practical exercises will make your learning experience enjoyable and rewarding. So, grab a pen and get ready to impress your amigos with your newfound tongue-twisting skills!
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this episode, we reunite with Oliba, May's mom, for a second insightful interview, delving into Día de Muertos, a treasured Mexican tradition celebrated across regions, including Comala, Mexico. Explore the emotional and cultural richness of this tradition, its pre-Hispanic roots, and the distinctive fusion of indigenous and Spanish customs. Join us to grasp the deep connection between the living and the departed, and to trace the evolution of this celebration over time. Don't miss this illuminating exploration of the Day of the Dead and its profound cultural importance in Mexico.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Get to know me, Jim, on a deeper level as I open up about my childhood, adolescence, and the pivotal moments that led me to the world of Spanish and Go. From my early days exploring the outdoors to my transition into music and my life as a digital nomad, I'll provide personal stories and insightful reflections. You'll also learn about my favorite dishes, my affinity for mountains and city life, and the daily routines that keep me grounded while on the go. Plus, I'll share practical advice for effective Spanish language learning and reveal the book and film that have had a profound impact on my perspective.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links And Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this insightful episode, we take a deep dive into May's life, her changing views on the beach versus the mountains, her love for city life, and her favorite foods and drinks. May also shares her thoughts on music, movies, and the profound influence of Mexican culture on her worldview. Don't miss her valuable advice for Spanish learners and the joys of being a digital nomad. Tune in to be inspired and entertained.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Get ready for an exciting virtual journey to Mendoza, Argentina, where we explore vineyards on rented bicycles, indulge in mouthwatering alfajores, and soak in the natural beauty of Cerro de la Gloria and Parque General San Martín. Discover the magic of Mendoza through our eyes as we recount affordable adventures and diverse culinary experiences, making it a must-visit destination for your next travel escapade.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this entertaining part 2 of the episode “Dichos Graciosos en Español”, we continue to decode the meaning and origin of various Spanish sayings, shedding light on the playful yet profound nature of these expressions. Discover how these sayings reflect cultural nuances and the art of communication in Spanish-speaking countries. Tune in to broaden your understanding of Spanish idioms and deepen your appreciation for the Spanish-speaking world's linguistic charm.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Get ready for an exhilarating journey with us as we guide you through the enchanting and historically significant Mexico City. From its transformation over the centuries to its vibrant cultural scene, we uncover the city's treasures, including world-renowned museums, the bustling Zócalo, and lesser-known gems like the Metropolitan Cathedral and Ruins of the Templo Mayor, offering a glimpse into Mexico's pre-Hispanic past. Glide along the charming canals of Xochimilco for a unique experience, explore Chapultepec, a green oasis in the heart of the city, and savor the diverse culinary delights that make Mexico City famous. Join this audio expedition and let the allure of Mexico City inspire your next travel adventure.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Ever wondered what lies beyond the horizon in the world's longest country? Get ready to discover the wonders of Chile with us! Join us as we delve into Chile's captivating culture, geography, economy, and so much more. From the mysteries of Easter Island to the flavors of Chilean cuisine, this episode has it all.
Whether you're planning your own Chilean adventure or simply curious about this extraordinary land, you won't want to miss this insightful journey. So, what makes Chile truly remarkable? Tune in to find out!
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this episode, we delve into the heart of Argentina. Discover the unique linguistic variations, from Mendoza's distinct accent to the warm embrace of its people. We unveil the convenience of Argentina's transportation system and the affordability that makes it a dream destination. Get ready to savor the flavors of European-influenced cuisine, explore cultural gems, and find out why Argentina has captured our hearts.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Discover the history and culture of Argentina's national beverage, yerba mate, in this episode. Learn about its Guarani origins, its role in South American society, and its unique regional variations. Join us as we explore the lush Paraná Rainforest, delve into its health benefits, and anticipate another insightful interview with Diego, an Argentinean, who shares mate's cultural nuances and etiquette.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Join me as I sit down with Diego, my former Spanish teacher, to explore the captivating nuances of Argentine Spanish. Discover how the use of "voseo" instead of "tú" shapes communication, and explore the impact of Italian influence on the language. Dive into the intriguing expressions like "che" and "boludo" that add flair to conversations. Learn about the intensifier "re" and how it amplifies expressions. This episode provides a glimpse into Argentine culture and language, offering valuable insights for language enthusiasts and those curious about the nuances of Spanish dialects.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Step into our travelogue as we touch down in Argentina after globetrotting from Mexico to Bogotá. Explore Argentina's rich cultural tapestry, diverse climates, and top tourist destinations, including the bustling Buenos Aires, picturesque Patagonia, and the awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls. Discover the secrets behind the unofficial "blue rate" currency exchange, feast your imagination on traditional Argentine foods, and immerse yourself in the rhythmic origins of tango. Whether you're planning a trip or just curious, join us for an exciting journey through Argentina's unique charm.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Join us as we step into the ring of lucha libre, Mexico's traditional wrestling spectacle. From the thrill of the matches to the colorful personas of "técnicos" and "rudos," we uncover the intricacies of this sport that's part athleticism and part performance art. Explore the various match types, like the legendary "máscara contra cabellera," where wrestlers risk their masks and hair. We'll also share the rich history of lucha libre, its cultural significance, and how it's evolved over time. Tune in to immerse yourself in the world of high-flying acrobatics, dazzling masks, and a uniquely Mexican form of entertainment.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Discover how the encounters of Moctezuma II, the emperor of Mexico-Tenochtitlan, with the Spanish during the conquest led to the infamous Moctezuma's Revenge, a traveler's diarrhea that continues to affect foreigners visiting Mexico. Uncover his role in shaping the Aztec empire, while also gaining practical insights to protect yourself from this historical traveler's affliction. Delve into the timeless legacy of this enigmatic historical figure and join us on this engaging journey into the past, filled with intriguing stories and valuable takeaways for your cultural exploration.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Discover the intriguing differences in pronunciation, vocabulary, and verb tenses between Spanish spoken in Latin America and Spain as we take you on a language journey, exploring regional variations that make each variant unique and valuable. Learn how embracing diverse accents and idioms enriches your language experience. Whether you're a language enthusiast or a Spanish learner, this episode will broaden your understanding of the rich tapestry of the Spanish language.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Building on the insights from the previous episode, we address the concerns raised about the expat lifestyle and aim to inspire you to embrace the world with curiosity and openness. We highlight the benefits of living in places with a vibrant expat community, including the diverse cultural exposure and the supportive network available to newcomers. Tune in to gain a broader perspective on expat life and its impact on local cultures and traditions.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this insightful episode, we candidly discuss the downsides of residing in cities teeming with expatriates. From the soaring cost of living to overcrowding, we shed light on the impact of tourism and the loss of cultural authenticity. Tune in to gain a balanced perspective on expatriate life in multicultural cities, and stay tuned for Part 2 where we explore the advantages of such vibrant environments.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Join us in this episode as we discuss our visits to doctors and clinics in Mexico, including dental appointments, consultations with specialists, and experiences in emergency situations. We share insights into the cultural perspectives on healthcare, the affordability of medical treatments, and the quality of care received in different settings. Gain valuable insights into the healthcare system and discover why Mexico is a popular destination for medical treatments.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this captivating episode, we delve into a world of weather-related idiomatic expressions in Spanish. Through entertaining examples and cultural insights, you'll gain a deeper understanding of these expressions and expand your language skills. Whether you're a language enthusiast or simply curious about the richness of idiomatic expressions, this episode will enlighten, entertain, and broaden your linguistic repertoire.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Discover the frosty side of Mexico as we uncover the icy charm of its coldest towns. While Mexico is often associated with warm weather, there are regions that offer a refreshing change. Join us as we discuss our personal preferences, essential tips, and the surprises that await in these chilly paradises.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Making local friends can be the key to unlocking the true essence of a Spanish-speaking country. In this episode, we share personal stories and insights on the power of forging connections with locals. From the rich tapestry of cultural experiences to the profound understanding gained, this episode offers practical strategies for making friends abroad, such as language exchanges and community engagement. Join us as we inspire you to embrace the local community and nurture friendships that will enhance your journey in Spanish-speaking countries.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this episode, May shares her firsthand experience of undergoing surgery and her journey to recovery. We discuss the symptoms that prompted medical intervention, the procedure itself, and the challenges faced during the healing process. Gain valuable insights into medical conditions, learn medical vocabulary, and discover the importance of prioritizing one's health.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Join us on an intriguing exploration as we delve into the distinctions and meanings behind the terms "expat" and "immigrant." Through personal anecdotes and thought-provoking discussions, we explore the complexities of global mobility, identity, and the power of language. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of these terms and the ongoing conversations surrounding them in this enlightening episode.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this captivating conversation, we share valuable insights on navigating Mexico with grace and respect. From practical tips for safe exploration to understanding local customs, we cover topics such as cautionary walking, carrying essential supplies like toilet paper, cultural norms around toilet paper disposal, drinking tap water concerns, and the importance of embracing Mexican traditions and customs. Tune in to gain valuable insights that will enhance your trip and help you navigate Mexico with confidence and respect.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Mexican humor as we explore its unique characteristics and cultural significance. From playful teasing to clever wordplay and cultural references, we uncover the diverse elements that make Mexican jokes so intriguing. Join us as we delve into the Mexican attitude towards death, the role of memes in capturing popular culture, and the art of albures, the clever double entendre jokes that require skillful understanding. Along the way, we share a series of hilarious jokes that showcase the linguistic nuances and cultural richness of Mexican humor. Tune in to this laughter-filled episode and discover the joy of understanding humor in a different language while gaining valuable insights into Mexican culture.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
Support the show
In this episode, we delve into the diverse aspects of Mexican and Spanish culture, unveiling intriguing disparities and captivating commonalities. From birthday celebrations and family dynamics to culinary traditions and language variations, we traverse the nuanced landscapes of these vibrant nations. Discover the contrasting customs of birthday parties, such as the unique Mexican "mordida" cake tradition and Spain's multi-party extravaganzas. Explore the cultural influence on holidays, from Spain's Catholic-inspired festivities to Mexico's rich indigenous roots in celebrations like Día de Muertos. Delight in the linguistic disparities, including accents, vocabulary, and even Generation Z's impact on language evolution. Immerse yourself in this engaging conversation that unravels the threads connecting Mexico and Spain while offering valuable insights into their respective cultures.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
Support the show
Tune in as we embark on a lively conversation about the pros and cons of the digital nomad lifestyle. We kick things off by discussing the downsides, including the precarious nature of internet connectivity and the financial unpredictability during unexpected events like the pandemic. But it's not all negative! We'll also explore the enticing benefits, such as the flexibility to work from anywhere and the freedom to shape your schedule around personal interests and events. Whether you're considering the digital nomad lifestyle or simply curious about its intricacies, this episode is a must-listen.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Let’s dive into an unforgettable wedding story on this episode! From navigating the process of getting married in Mexico to losing May's wedding ring, we share our hilarious and heartwarming journey. We also talk about our quest to buy pure gold coins and create our own anniversary rings as well as our trip to a town we’ve never been to as unique ways to celebrate our ten years of marriage. Join us as we recount the challenges we faced during our wedding and during the celebration of our ten-year anniversary, and how we turned these challenges into unforgettable experiences.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Join us in the second part of our interview with Joel where he shares his experience creating content for Spanish learners, including his new novel “Los Diamantes de Esmeralda." As a language learner himself, Joel understands the importance of accessible and useful content for learners, and he shares his tips on language acquisition, emphasizing the value of regular listening and understanding of the language. This conversation is a must-listen for all language learners who want to improve their skills and gain valuable insights into language acquisition. Check this out!
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In the first part of this podcast episode, Joel Zárate, a passionate Spanish language teacher and producer of several podcasts, including "Conversations in Spanish and Other Languages," "Help me Learn Spanish, Joel," and "Mini Stories to Learn Spanish," shares about his background, education, and language learning journey. From growing up in Mexico City and moving to the United States to becoming fluent in several languages, Joel's personal experiences have shaped his love for teaching and learning languages. This episode is packed with great resources to help you practice and learn more Spanish, so join us to be inspired and gain valuable insights to take your Spanish learning to the next level.
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In the second part of the episode, we continue to delve into the world of traditional Mexican cooking techniques. From using quick lime to unlock the full potential of corn, to underground cooking in pits, and the art of grinding and milling ingredients, we uncover the secrets that make Mexican cuisine truly special. Don't miss this captivating episode packed with culinary wisdom from ancient Mexican traditions that will leave you eager to try these techniques in your own kitchen!
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
In this episode, we explore the ancient techniques and practices that have made Mexican cuisine famous around the world. From the traditional agricultural system called milpa and the floating gardens of chinampas to the unique utensils and gadgets called artefactos, we reveal the secrets of the centuries-old Mexican cooking methods.
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and enrich your knowledge about Mexican cuisine in this week’s episode!
Key Takeaways:
Relevant Links and Additional Resources:
If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!
Support the show
Join us as we explore the vibrant celebrations of Holy Week, Easter, and Lent in Mexico. We'll uncover the religious origins and share how these traditions merged with indigenous customs during the colonial era. Discover with us the captivating processions, Passion of Christ reenactments, beautiful sawdust and flower carpets, and traditional dances that enrich these festivities. Plus, we can't wait to tell you about the delicious seasonal dishes, from seafood to unique desserts like capirotada. Come along and dive into Mexico's rich history and traditions during this special time of year with us!
Links:
Support the show
Discover the fascinating world of deceptive masculine words in Spanish! Join us as we reveal the trick to remembering words that end in -ma. Learn how these Greek-origin words break the rules and challenge expectations, but don't worry, we'll provide you with a list of examples and exceptions so you can master these unique words. Plus, explore the Greek influence on Spanish culture and language. Learn, practice, and immerse yourself in the Spanish-speaking world with us!
Links:
Support the show
Are you curious about Mexican Spanish and its many uses of the word "pedo"? Well, buckle up, amigos, because in this episode of Learn Spanish and Go, we're getting gassy! That's right, we're exploring the hilarious, confusing, and surprising world of "pedo", from its literal meaning to its figurative expressions that will make you laugh or scratch your head. You'll discover how Mexicans use "pedo" to describe everything from being drunk to being a likable person, and you'll learn some tricks to avoid awkward situations when you use "pedo" in the wrong way. So, grab your gas mask and join us for a fart-tastic adventure!
Links:
Support the show
In this episode of Learn Spanish and Go, we interview Verónica Cubillo, who works for Mi Cafecito Coffee Tour, a project of Coopesarapiqui, a cooperative of small coffee producers in northern Costa Rica. Verónica shares the history of the cooperative and the coffee industry in Costa Rica, including how the cooperative started as a way for coffee farmers to have more opportunities and guarantees. She also explains how Mi Cafecito Coffee Tour offers visitors a unique experience, where they can learn about coffee production from seed to cup, and even try their hand at coffee picking and tasting. The tour focuses on promoting rural and community tourism, and helping families in the area by providing employment opportunities and a chance to learn about tourism. Listeners will also learn about the different characteristics of Costa Rican coffee and how it varies by region, altitude, and climate. This episode is perfect for coffee lovers and anyone interested in learning about Costa Rican culture and rural tourism.
Links:
Support the show
In this episode we share our top nine things we loved about our recent trip to Costa Rica. From the beautiful beaches to the friendly locals, we recount our favorite experiences and explain why Costa Rica is a must-visit destination. Listen in as we talk about the delicious food, exciting outdoor activities, and rich culture of this amazing country. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting to plan your next adventure, you won't want to miss this episode. Tune in and start dreaming about your own trip to Costa Rica!
Links:
Support the show
This is the exclusive audio breakdown section for episode 151 - El Español Costarricense con Freddy de Tico Lingo | Costa Rican Spanish with Freddy from Tico Lingo. Get access to the full interactive transcript, quizzes, and more to this and all of our episodes at https://spanishandgo.com/membership.
Support the show
Join us as we explore Costa Rican Spanish with Freddy, a native Tico and teacher at Tico Lingo in Costa Rica. In this interview, we delve into unique slang words and the significance of the "Pura Vida" expression in Costa Rican culture. Freddy shares his experience teaching Spanish and tips to improve language skills. Whether you're planning a trip or interested in learning Costa Rican Spanish, tune in to discover what makes this variety of Spanish unique.
Links:
Support the show
In this eye-opening episode of Learn Spanish and Go, we delve into the cultural differences that give away a gringo abroad. We discuss the challenges of adapting to new environments and how our luxuries and entitlements can affect our travels. With funny anecdotes and insightful observations, we explore the nuances of cultural differences and offer valuable insights into being a traveler in the Spanish-speaking world. Join us for a fascinating conversation that is sure to make you reflect on your own travels and the role culture plays in shaping our experiences.
Links:
Support the show
Join us on this week's episode of Learn Spanish and Go as we delve into the captivating and dark history of William Walker, the American filibuster who attempted to conquer Nicaragua. Discover the story behind his audacious invasion and learn how this event affected the Spanish-speaking world. Get ready to be transported back in time and learn a new piece of history while improving your Spanish skills. ¡No te lo pierdas!
Links:
Support the show
In this episode of Learn Spanish and Go, we explore how to improve your Spanish with the help of ChatGPT. Discover how this cutting-edge technology can assist you in mastering the Spanish language, from understanding grammar to practicing conversation skills. Join us as we dive into the world of AI language learning and take your Spanish to the next level.
Links:
✅ Use code SPANISHANDGOfor $25 off your Lingoda Sprint registration.
✅ Click here to sign up: https://try.lingoda.com/SpanishandGo_Dec
Support the show
Join Jim and May on the Learn Spanish and Go Podcast as they share their favorite Spanish music. Jim, a metalhead with a soft spot for Gipsy Kings and Spanish pop/rock, will surprise you with his love for Spanish hits. May shares her favorite pop and powerful female singers like Natalia Lafourcade, Elsa y Elmar, and a her new favorite band from Argentina. Not only will you discover new music, but you'll also learn Spanish through natural conversation, music vocabulary and phrases. Improve your Spanish while learning about some of the most iconic Spanish songs out there!
Links:
✅ Use code SPANISHANDGOfor $25 off your Lingoda Sprint registration.
✅ Click here to sign up: https://try.lingoda.com/SpanishandGo_Dec
Support the show
In this episode, we're tackling something that's been on our minds lately... filler words! Specifically, we've noticed that we've been saying "así es" a little too often, and we want to mix it up a bit for our own benefit and for all of you out there who are learning Spanish with us. So, we decided to share some alternative filler words that you can use to say "that's right" in Spanish! And as always, if you have any other suggestions for filler words or phrases, let us know in the comments.
Links:
✅ Use code SPANISHANDGOfor $25 off your Lingoda Sprint registration.
✅ Click here to sign up: https://try.lingoda.com/SpanishandGo_Dec
Support the show
In today's episode, we're talking about Spanish nicknames. Our guest is Paulísima, a teacher at Spring Languages who is originally from Cancún, Mexico. Paulísima shares some common Spanish nicknames and explains the stories behind them. She'll also discusses some nicknames that are commonly used in Spanish-speaking countries but might be considered inappropriate or offensive in other countries, such as prieto or gordo. In addition, Paulísima shares some tips for how to appropriately use nicknames with friends and family in a Spanish-speaking setting. Join us as we explore the fascinating world of Spanish nicknames with Paulísima!
Links:
✅ Use code SPANISHANDGOfor $25 off your Lingoda Sprint registration.
✅ Click here to sign up: https://try.lingoda.com/SpanishandGo_Dec
Support the show
Costa Rica is a tropical paradise located between the Caribbean and Pacific oceans. From its white sand beaches to its lush rainforests, Costa Rica has something for everyone. In this episode of the podcast, we explore what makes Costa Rica such an incredible destination. We will learn about the country’s history, culture, and attractions that make it one of Central America’s most popular tourist destinations.
Links:
✅ Use code SPANISHANDGOfor $25 off your Lingoda Sprint registration.
✅ Click here to sign up: https://try.lingoda.com/SpanishandGo_Dec
Support the show
Start the year off with a routine that will help you stay focused and productive. In this episode, we explore how exercise, writing, reading, meditation, and affirmations can improve our productivity and self-esteem. And somehow, we manage to tie it all together to learning Spanish and accomplishing whatever you put your mind to. 😅 Let’s start the year off right together with successful routine to keep us on track to accomplish our goals. ¡Feliz Año Nuevo!
Links:
✅ Use code SPANISHANDGOfor $25 off your Lingoda Sprint registration.
✅ Click here to sign up: https://try.lingoda.com/SpanishandGo_Dec
Support the show
La Rama is a traditional celebration that takes place throughout Mexico during the Christmas season. It is a festive event that usually occurs during the nine-day Posada processions, when villagers parade through their town singing villancicos and carrying a decorated branch. La Rama has been an important part of Mexican culture for centuries, representing joy and togetherness within communities. Learn how this unique tradition is celebrated in this episode.
Links:
✅ Use code SPANISHANDGOfor $25 off your Lingoda Sprint registration.
✅ Click here to sign up: https://try.lingoda.com/SpanishandGo_Dec
Support the show
In this episode of the podcast, we take a look at the importance of Spanish Christmas carols and some notable examples of these songs. By listening to popular carols such as "Campana sobre Campana" or "Los Peces en el Rio" you’ll not only pick up useful vocabulary but also gain insight into the history and culture of Spanish-speaking countries.
Links:
✅ Use code SPANISHANDGOfor $25 off your Lingoda Sprint registration.
✅ Click here to sign up: https://try.lingoda.com/SpanishandGo_Dec
Support the show
Jo Franco is an entrepreneur, traveler, and polyglot. She's a first-generation immigrant from Brazil who has carved out a name for herself on social media in the travel, self-care, and language spaces.
In this episode, Jo shares her story of how she has used language to create cultural bridges and navigate the world as someone who grow up surrounded by multiple cultures. She talks about how she has dealt with the conflicting emotions that come with being an immigrant, such as feeling disconnected from both her old and new cultures. Jo also shares how learning new languages gives her a sense of purpose and community while allowing her to express herself in meaningful ways.
Finally, she shares how she motivates her community to use journaling as a tool for language learning and as a form of self-care and connection. Through this episode, you'll gain insight into the individual experiences of first-generation immigrants, as well as tips for using language learning for personal growth.
Links:
✅ Use code SPANISHANDGOfor $25 off your Lingoda Sprint registration.
✅ Click here to sign up: https://try.lingoda.com/SpanishandGo_Dec
Support the show
Making mistakes is part of learning a new language. Often these errors include using the wrong verb tense, forgetting to use gender agreement, or translating a phrase literally. While these mistakes can be frustrating, they are also opportunities to learn and improve your language skills. With a little practice and patience, you can avoid making these common errors and become a more confident Spanish speaker. In this episode, we take another look at some of the most common errors Spanish students make.
Links:
Support the show
If you want to fit in at a Mexican birthday party, there are a few things you need to know. One is the “mordida,” another is the piñata chant, and perhaps the most important is the traditional Mexican birthday song! In this episode, we share the lyrics and the meaning behind this unique song so that you can be prepared the next time you’re at a Mexican birthday party.
Links:
Support the show
Learning one new language is hard, but what about learning six? Does language learning get easier the more languages you learn? What’s the best way to learn quickly? In this episode, we sat down with interview Benny Lewis, world renowned polyglot and founder of Fluent in 3 Months, to find out.
Links:
Support the show
Hairless dogs aren’t often people’s first choice when adopting a new pet, but to the Aztecs, a curious breed of canine helped them cross into the underworld. In this episode, we explore the topic of the Xoloitzcuintle; the curious Mexican hairless dog breed with a fascinating history.
Links:
Support the show
Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday that’s often misunderstood. Every autumn, people around the world turn to the internet to ask if it’s Mexican Halloween, where it comes from, and how it’s celebrated. So in this episode, we decided to answer some of the most commonly searched for questions about this fascinating celebration.
Links:
Support the show
Mexico is rich in pre-hispanic traditions that you can still experience to this day. One of our favorites is a beverage you can taste in Oaxaca called “tejate.” This delicious corn and cacao-based drink has been used to help energize people for hundreds of years. Find out more in this episode where we interview doña Lucrecia, maker of some of the best tejate in Oaxaca.
Links:
Support the show
Airbnb can be a breath of fresh air from hotels or an absolute nightmare. We should know. We’ve stayed in over sixty of them. In this episode, we share our worst experience with Airbnb yet. It’s a harrowing tale about a filthy house, an out-of-state landlord, and two vengeful admins. This is an experience no one should ever have to go through.
Links:
Support the show
It’s every Spanish students’ worst enemy: the dreaded subjunctive form. This beast of a grammatical concept is too big to fit in one episode, but you would do well to know about and practice some of its most common uses in every day conversation. In this episode, we cover ten or so of the most common phrases that use the subjective mood in Spanish.
Links:
Down Under Investigations – The Truth
Australia's best Private Investigators providing investigations, surveillance, process...
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
For most, chocolate is a sweet made for enjoying as a dessert or in a candy. But for some communities in Oaxaca, it’s a cultural tradition passed down from generation to generation, where even the question “when are we going to drink chocolate” has a deeper meaning. Find out what cacao and chocolate means to Ervit from Chimalapa Cacao con Origin in this interview.
Links:
Three Fates Decide - Women Opining on Pop Culture
Pop Culture Topics of all kinds. What will we talk about next? We decide.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Tacos, burritos, and guacamole - these are foods that everyone thinks of when they think of Mexican food. But Mexican cuisine goes much deeper than just tortillas and tomatoes. In this episode, we take a look at some of the Mexican dishes you’ve probably never heard of before.
Links:
Support the show
One of the funnest things about learning a new language is learning new words that don’t have an easy translation into English. In part three of our of our “Words in Spanish That Don’t Translate” series, we dive into even more uniquely Spanish vocabulary.
Links:
Support the show
Even if you’ve never been to Mexico before, you’ve probably still heard all about their giant sombreros, Cinco de Mayo, and the afternoon siesta… but how much of this is actually true? In this episode, we take a closer look at eight of the most common myths about Mexico.
Links:
Build Your Own Fairytale
The podcast for women who aren’t willing to settle for status quo.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Ecuador really surprised us. It’s a country that seems to have a little bit of everything. Unique flora and fauna, food, culture, and history. It also has something else that most other countries do not… the equator! In this episode, we take a deeper dive into what really stood out to us about this incredible country.
Links:
Smells Like Humans
Like spending time with funny friends talking about curious human behavior.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Travel and migration can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, you can enrich yourself with unique experiences, pursue happiness abroad, and help the local economy by spending your limited resources in a new-to-you part of the world. On the other hand, too much tourism or immigration to a specific area can raise prices, pressuring the locals to move out, and dilute cultural elements that made the a place desirable to visit in the first place.
This is a conversation that’s happening a lot right now in Mexico, and it’s something us travelers should be conscious of if we seek to minimize the potential harm we may cause to local economies. In this episode, we discuss gentrification in Mexico and what we can do to help protect the places we visit and migrate to.
Links:
The Jordan Harbinger Show
Apple Best of 2018-Learn the stories, secrets & skills of the world’s most fascinating ppl
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Thanks to our sponsor, italki, the website for 1-on-1 language classes.
Sign up for free on italki: https://go.italki.com/spanishandgo
Download italki app:https://italki.app.link/spanishandgo
Support the show
Travel doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, now it’s cheaper than ever... as long as you know how to take advantage of the these travel hacks. With our tips, you’ll learn everything from how to pay as little as $10/mo on cellphone service, how to fly for free, to how to pay little to nothing on accommodations. In this episode, we explore 10 unusual ways of saving money while traveling.
Links:
Smells Like Humans
Like spending time with funny friends talking about curious human behavior.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Women in Tech Podcast
Inspiring women in tech share their stories on how they got to where they are today.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Thanks to our sponsor, italki, the website for 1-on-1 language classes.
Sign up for free on italki: https://go.italki.com/spanishandgo
Download italki app:https://italki.app.link/spanishandgo
Support the show
Ecuador is an incredibly beautiful and diverse country. During our time there, we learned a lot about what makes it special. Not only were the people warm and welcoming, but we learned quite a bit about the Ecuadorian way of speaking Spanish, including their sing-song tonality and unique slang. In this episode, we sat down with Kevin Maldonado from Free Walking Tours Cuenca to chat about Ecuadorian Spanish.
Links:
Women in Tech Podcast
Inspiring women in tech share their stories on how they got to where they are today.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Thanks to our sponsor, italki, the website for 1-on-1 language classes.
Sign up for free on italki: https://go.italki.com/spanishandgo
Download italki app:https://italki.app.link/spanishandgo
Support the show
Perhaps the most important rite of passage for women in Latin American countries is the Quinceañera. The time when a “girl becomes a woman” at the tender age of… 15. In this episode, we talk about where the tradition comes from, and whether they should bump the age back a few years.
Links:
Smells Like Humans
Like spending time with funny friends talking about curious human behavior.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Thanks to our sponsor, italki, the website for 1-on-1 language classes.
Sign up for free on italki: https://go.italki.com/spanishandgo
Download italki app:https://italki.app.link/spanishandgo
Support the show
When we tell people we travel around the world full-time, they often assumed we’re loaded. But travel doesn’t need to be expensive. In fact, it can be even cheaper than living in one spot if you do it right. House sitting has been a major resource for us when it comes to visiting new countries. Not only has it allowed us to get to visit exotic countries around Latin America, it has also saved us thousands of dollars. In this episode, we share how you can do the same.
Links:
Smells Like Humans
Like spending time with funny friends talking about curious human behavior.
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Thanks to our sponsor, italki, the website for 1-on-1 language classes.
Sign up for free on italki: https://go.italki.com/spanishandgo
Download italki app:https://italki.app.link/spanishandgo
Support the show
We love taking a deeper look at differences in language, whether it’s comparing the accents of two different countries, or the words that one language has that another does not. In this episode, we take another look at some words that exist in Spanish that don’t have an exact single-word translation in English.
Links:
Support the show
Learning a language is more than just studying textbooks and grammar rules. At some point, you have to get out there and practice! Fred is a friend and student of ours who embodies this idea. He’s not afraid to get our of his comfort zone and practice his Spanish all over the world. And he’s done just that with us on our immersion retreats as well as with other Spanish schools in several different countries. Learn about his journey learning Spanish, the techniques he has used, and his mission to find the perfect place to retire in this special episode.
Links:
FedBiz'5 is Your Definitive Resource to Accelerating Government Sales
Series of 5-minute podcasts designed to help federal contractors find and win business
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Before we arrived in Cuenca, Ecuador, we didn’t really know what to expect. We had heard that it was a fairly popular expat destination, but that was about it. We weren’t expecting the beautiful rivers, clean walkways, excellent public transit, and variety of restaurants. It’s safe to say that this city is worth a visit, and for us, maybe even a place to live in the future. In this episode, we discuss some of our favorite things about Cuenca, Ecuador.
Links:
FedBiz'5 is Your Definitive Resource to Accelerating Government Sales
Series of 5-minute podcasts designed to help federal contractors find and win business
Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify
Support the show
Mexican street food comes in many shapes, sizes, and degrees of spiciness. Sure, a lot of it has a corn base, a guiso, and salsa, but there’s much more to it than that. In this episode, we talk about some of the most popular Mexican street food - some of which may surprise you.
Links:
Support the show
One of the most beautiful things about learning a different language is discovering new words that don’t have an easy translation into English. Sometimes, one word in Spanish can translate into three or four words in our mother-tongue. In this episode, we’re sharing part one of some of of our favorite words in Spanish that don’t exist in English.
Links:
Support the show
Listening to real Spanish conversations is really one of the best ways to learn the language. That’s why we were thrilled to meet Alba and Joel, hosts of the podcast Conversations in Spanish and Other Languages.
In this episode, we talked to Alba, who is from Spain, about working and teaching online, as well as learning and working through cultural and linguistic challenges.
At the end of the interview, we share one of their podcast episodes about Alba’s breakfast routine in Spanish. We know you’ll enjoy it, so stick around until the end!
Links:
Support the show
Fathers around the world are known to say some typical “dad” things. But what do dads say to their kids in Mexico? In this episode, we’re celebrating Father’s Day by sharing seven common things Mexican dads say. ¡Feliz día del Padre! Happy Father’s Day!
Links:
Support the show
Ecuador is a country that seemingly has it all. Located on the equator on the west cost of South America, the Republic of Ecuador is full of biodiversity. It’s home to beaches, mountains, volcanos, the Amazon, and the Galapagos Islands. It’s also where you’ll find the highest capitol in the world (Quito), a variety of climates, and ciudad “mitad del mundo,” the halfway point between the north and south poles. Find out more in this episode!
Links:
Support the show
Nicaragua is a country that caught us by surprise. After spending a month just outside of the city of Granada, we learned a lot about the people, culture, food, flora, and fauna of this not-so-touristy nation. We saw monkeys, people shaking their cars at the gas station, a lake in the crater of a volcano, and much more. Find out what we really thought about life in this Central American country in this episode.
Links:
Support the show
If you’re trying to get around in Mexico, you have plenty of options. From luxury buses that go from state to state, to colectivo shuttles that’ll take you around town or between cities, there’s option to suite your needs. In this episode, we cover the different types of transit in Mexico and how to use them.
Links:
Support the show
The saying goes that “travel changes you.” Well, living in Latin America has certainly changed me. I never thought I’d be taking a special pill once a year, checking my shoes before I put them on, or a number of other things that have now become habit. In this episode of the podcast, we explore seven ways that living in Latin America has changed the way I live.
Links:
Support the show
What do you imagine when you think of the word “travel?” If you’re like me, thoughts of laying on the beach with a cold drink come to mind, or perhaps a hike in an exotic location. But there are many different types of travel, and our beach example is just one type: the care-free vacation. In this episode we explore other travel options that will not only enrich your life, but the lives of the places you visit. Join us as we talk to Camilo, our Chilean friend from Worldpackers, about traveling to make a difference and much more.
Links:
Support the show
Tough love can sound pretty tough… especially if you’re a kid in trouble with your Mexican mom. While a lot of things that moms say to their children are fairly universal in any language, you’ll be shocked to hear what some moms say in Mexico to get their children to behave. In honor of Mother’s Day, In this episode we explore 15 of the most common things Mexican moms say to their kids.
Links:
Support the show
Learning Spanish by listening to music can be a powerful tool in your toolbox, but you can't necessarily trust everything you hear. Musicians make mistakes too... sometimes on purpose. In this episode, we explore ten different Spanish songs with grammatical errors.
Links:
Support the show
While Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America, it’s often overlooked as a tourist destination. In this episode of the podcast, we dive into tons of interesting facts about Nicaragua, including some of the best things to do in the country.
Links:
Support the show
What’s crunchy, spicy, and the perfect cure for a hangover? The answer might surprise you. It’s chilaquiles! And for whatever reason, they’re not nearly as common in the U.S. as they are in Mexico. Learn how to prepare this traditional Mexican dish with May’s mom Oly in this special episode of the podcast.
Links:
Support the show
Ever since we got married, we wanted both of us to be able to travel to and live freely in each other’s country. That’s one of the main reasons why we decided to take the first step towards getting my Mexican citizenship, and that’s by getting Mexican residency. In this episode, we tell you more about the process, the cost, our experience, and everything you need to know about becoming a Mexican resident through marriage. Check it out here!
Links:
Support the show
Chili pepper is so common in Mexican food, that the first question many people ask before taking a bite is “It is spicy?” In this episode, we explore Mexican chili peppers, where they come from, which ones are the hottest, and much more. ¡Al chile!
Links:
Support the show
¡Aguas! Mexican Spanish is well-known for its peculiar slang and unique sayings. In this episode, we go beyond “chido” and explain fifteen of the most common Mexican words and phrases.
Links:
Support the show
Have you ever caught yourself saying “I’d love to… I just don’t have the time”? I know I have. But the truth is, it’s likely not true at all. We have time for the things that are important to us. Or put another way, we make time for the things that are important to us. In this episode, we dive deep into how to find and make time for what’s important to us.
Links:
Support the show
Spanish is a diverse language, so it’s no surprise that Guatemala would have its own unique vocabulary and phrases. Located just south of Mexico, we expected to hear a lot of similarities with Mexican Spanish, but I wasn’t expecting to learn about a whole different way of addressing people. Vos tenés? Find out about some of the most popular Guatemalan Spanish words and phrases, or chapinismos, in this episode with our friend and Guatemalan hostess, Krista Perez.
Links:
Support the show
Doing 100 of just about anything non-stop is a lot, which is why this week we’re celebrating 100 episodes of the Learn Spanish and Go podcast! We’ve crossed a number of major milestones since we’ve started, and it’s all thanks to you. So in this episode, we let you guys choose your favorite episodes from the past couple of years. Special thanks to Adrian, Rob, Linda, and Kavan for your submissions! And thank you for your support. Here’s to the next 100!
Links:
Support the show
Guatemala is a country in Central America known as the “Land of the Eternal Spring.” Join us for our third episode in our Country Spotlight series as we take a look at this incredible country full of culture, volcanos, coffee, and so much more.
Links:
Support the show
1¢ per year of college?! Register early or get stuck with night school? In this episode, we explore what the Mexican education system, and what May and our Membership Manager Natalia’s experience was like going through it.
Links:
Support the show
There’s a lot more going on with the Mexican flag than meets the eye. In this episode, we talk about some curious facts about Mexico’s flag, its evaluation, and what’s going on with the eagle eating a snake at the center of it all. Find out more in this episode.
Links:
Support the show
France, Italy, Argentina… These are some of the countries most people tend to think of when they think of a romantic getaway. But why not Mexico? We always say there’s something for everyone in Mexico, and there’s no shortage of romantic locations to visit just south of the U.S. border. In this episode, we explore Mexico’s top romantic locations, as well as a few of our personal favorites.
Links:
Support the show
Feeling stuck? No matter what the skill you try to master, there comes a point for everyone where they plateau. It’s normal. But unless you’re determined to take action, you’ll probably just stay there. So if you want to get unstuck and overcome the dreaded plateau, this episode is for you.
Links:
Support the show
It was bound to happen. We got COVID-19. After two years of avoiding getting ill from the pandemic that has affected everyone’s lives, we too caught the bug. In this episode, we share our experience getting COVID-19 and overcoming the illness.
Links:
Support the show
Mexico has a long standing reputation of being extremely welcoming to tourists. After all, how many other countries do you know of that will let you stay for up to 180 days without submitting any prior paperwork? Well, it appears that those days may be coming to an end. Mexico has begun cracking down on people who routinely take advantage of the FMM entry pass into Mexico by limiting the days some visitors can stay significantly. Find out what you can do to get the most amount of time possible in Mexico, and what it means for us in this episode.
Links:
Support the show
After the holidays, many people who live in Spain and Latin America have to deal with the “January Slope” or “January Struggle.” This cultural phenomenon in Spanish-speaking countries is an interesting difference that many people in the U.S., myself included, don’t have to deal with. But what’s the deal? Why is this notorious month of financial overwhelm a thing? Listen as we explore La Cuesta de Enero in-depth in this episode.
Links:
Support the show
We couldn’t be more ready for a new year. 2021 left us with so many gifts that left us feeling freer than ever to pursue our dreams and to accomplish our mission of sharing every Spanish-speaking country with you.
And now with 2022 here, it’s the perfect time to put the pedal to the metal. It’s the perfect time to pursue your own dreams and take steps for a happier and healthy you. In this episode, we talk about our goals for 2022, and how we plan to help you on your journey to learn Spanish and travel the world. Join us, and let us know what you’re excited about this year!
Links:
Support the show
2021 has been a year of incredible growth. It was an opportunity for us to get out and start exploring again, and it was a massive year for the podcast. This week, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on our favorite episodes and accomplishments of the year. Don’t miss our favorites and a chance to share yours for episode 100!
Links:
Support the show
Piñatas are without a doubt one of Mexico’s most well known traditions. They are present in many of the most common celebrations in the country like birthdays, posadas, Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and even baptisms and baby showers.
Although most people in the world immediately associate piñatas with Mexico, they likely came from a rather unexpected place. Find out more in this episode.
Links:
Support the show
Platforms such as Airbnb have revolutionized travel, making it more affordable than ever to stay awhile in exotic locations around the world. But it’s not all sunshine and roses. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you could end up staying at a dump with cockroaches and bed bugs. Believe us. We’ve stayed at dozens of Airbnbs, and our first experience turned out to be one of our worst experiences.
Links:
Support the show
Is the Virgin of Guadalupe the same person as the Virgin Mary? This is a question that I’ve had for years, but it wasn’t until May and I sat down to record this episode of the podcast that it all made sense. Religion plays such an important role in Mexican culture, so even if you’re not Catholic or even religious for that matter, it’s helpful to understand the significance of this important Mexican figure: La Virgin de Guadalupe.
Links:
Support the show
This is a free audio of the Breakdown Section for episode 086 of the podcast.
If you'd live to get access to the PDF document that accompanies this audio and all the other materials for this episode, check out our Podcast Membership here:
https://spanishandgo.com/membership
Support the show (https://spanishandgo.com/support-us)
Swearing. Cursing. Slang. These are common elements of language that don’t get a lot of attention in academia for being “improper,” “overly casual,” or just plain old rude. But this is the type of language you’ll likely encounter on the streets, in movies, and on social media. While you don’t need to use these words to be fluent in Spanish, it’s certainly still useful to know what they mean. Vulgar as it may be, this is the way many people speak, so we’d be doing you a disservice to not explain at least some Mexican groserias. So in this episode, we sit down with Diego and Efraín from Mextalki to dive in to their favorite subject: Las groserias mexicanas.
Links:
Support the show
Learning a new language can be intimidating. The journey is full of twists and turns. Some days you feel like you’re making progress, and others feel like you’ve forgotten everything you’ve been studying. I’ve been there. I’ve never considered myself a “language guy,” but through hard work and persistence, I became fluent in Spanish.
In this episode we go over a brief history of how I learned Spanish, but more importantly we talk about what I would do differently if I were starting from scratch. This is what I wish someone had told me when I was first getting started.
Links:
Support the show
Tacos: The definitive Mexican food. And we’re not talking about the hard-shell with shredded cheese variety. We’re talking about the authentic Mexican soft tortilla with all the fixings kind. But where do they come from? What are the most popular ones? How much does a typical taco cost in Mexico? Which ones are our favorites? Find all that out and more in this episode.
Links:
Support the show
Travel doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, it’s possible to travel for $50 a day or less in most countries. May and I regularly travel around Mexico for as little as $40 a day. How is this possible? Over the years we’ve discovered a number of resources and methods for lowering our costs while maximizing our experiences around the world. In this episode, we share four of our best tips for traveling on a budget.
Links:
Support the show
Who knew bread could have such a colorful and creepy history? In this episode we talk about pan de muerto or “bread of the dead.” Where does it come from? What does it mean? Where can I get the chocolate filled kind? We answer all these questions and more.
Links:
Support the show
Have you heard about the Llorona (The Weeping Lady)? Legend has it that if you listen carefully, you might just hear her crying in the distance for her deceased children. Latin American culture is full of stories that are passed down from generation to generation. All of these tales were new to me when I first visited Mexico, and if you’re a believer, some are enough to make your hair stand on end. In this episode, we take a deep dive into some of the most popular legends in Mexico and Latin America.
Links:
Support the show
Mexico is a big country with a variety of foods, cultures, and climates. But what do we think is the most beautiful city in the country? For us, it’s Guanajuato! A UNESCO World Heritage city located in the heart of the country with the best of everything Mexico has to offer. Learn a bit about this incredible part of Mexico, what makes it so special, and how you can experience it yourself. In this episode, we sit down with Laura Barrón, our assistant teacher and guide on our Spanish Immersion Retreats to talk about this magnificent city.
Links:
Support the show
Improving your Spanish pronunciation is an important part of your language journey. Not only does speaking clearly greatly improved your chances of being understood correctly, but it will also help you sound more natural when you speak and help build your confidence. In this episode, May and I talk about how to improve your Spanish pronunciation.
Links:
Support the show
Puerto Rico is an incredible place to visit, but what is it like to live in “La Isla del Encanto?” After three years of living on the island, we share our thoughts about the pros and cons of life in paradise.
Links:
Support the show
From Bigfoot to the Loch Ness Monster, mythical creatures have been a source of intrigue worldwide for millennia. Are there creatures that exist just outside of view? In this episode, we explore the ever-evasive chupacabras, a creature that has both terrified and baffled populations in Latin America and beyond. Is it real? Where does it come from? Find out that and much more in this episode.
Links:
Support the show
Ever learn something new in Spanish, only to find what you “learned” has gone out the window the moment you try to use it in a regular conversation? Who hasn’t!? If you’re like most people who don’t automatically remember new concepts or vocabulary right away, then this episode is for you. Learn how to make what you learn in Spanish really stick so you can use it in everyday conversations.
Links:
Support the show
Did you know there are almost 70 languages recognized as “National Languages” in the country? But that’s not all, it’s estimated that there are around 364 languages spoken all over Mexico! For our second episode in the series about Spanish-speaking countries, we decided to highlight May’s country and share some valuable and interesting information with you. So, this episode is all about Mexico; Its population, geography, most important cities, money, weather, and much more!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Hispanic Heritage Month was established to recognize what Hispanic and Latinos have brought to the world in terms of culture and history, but it isn’t without its critics. Often such holidays that are meant to honor different groups of people become overcommercialed and don’t do much to advance general knowledge about what these groups actually contribute to the world. So in this episode, we dive into what this holiday means for some, and how you can better celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Spanish is difficult to learn for a number of reasons. Not only are there differences in word order and accents when compared to English, but you also need to keep track of which words are masculine and feminine. In this episode, we talk about how to overcome these struggles to make the learning process easier. Stay tuned for part two…
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Street animals are a common sight in many Spanish-speaking countries. And it seems no matter where we go, we either find them, or they find us. We’ve both helped to foster and find forever homes for many animals over the years, and in this episode, we wanted to share some of those stories with you as well as a number of ways you can help. Whether you’re on the road or flying home, you can help animals in need find their way off the streets and into a caring family.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Travel is an exciting opportunity, but it’s not risk-free. Scammers have come up with clever ways to take advantage of unsuspecting visitors abroad. Unfortunately, running into someone who’s looking to take advantage of you is a matter of when, not if. But such a situation doesn’t have to end up with you getting ripped off. In this episode, we explore some of the most common travel scams, and what you can do (and say) to keep you and your money safe.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Do you know when to use Hispanic or Latino? What about Latinx or Chicano? If you don’t, you’re not alone. Even Latinos get confused! In this episode, we take a deep dive into what these different terms actually mean and when to use them. But the answer isn’t always black and white.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Puerto Rico is fascinating place with a complicated history and unique culture. For whatever reason, it’s not often a topic that’s covered in schools in the U.S… even though it’s a U.S. territory. As part of a new “country overview” series on the podcast, we share a brief rundown of Puerto Rico – a place we’ve called home for the past two and a half years.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Nothing says “Mexico” like tequila. In this episode, we talk about the origins of this quintessential Mexican drink, where it’s produced, how it’s made, how it compares to its cousin mezcal, and more. ¡Salud!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Are you superstitious? If you’ve ever gone out to shew away an owl or flipped a saint figure up-side-down, you just might be Mexican. As a skeptic myself, I was shocked by how superstitious Mexican culture can be. Many Mexicans go out of the way to hedge their bets against the forces of evil in some fascinating ways. In this episode, you’ll learn about 10 different popular superstitions in Mexico.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Shamanism isn’t just lore from thousands of years ago–it’s still practiced today in Mexico and in many other countries throughout the world. In this episode, we talk about four of the most prominent modern shamans from Mexico, what they were known for, and our thoughts on the custom.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
There’s a common path for becoming skilled and knowledgeable for practically every profession. Usually this means a degree from an accredited University. But what if you could learn anything you put your mind to on your own?
In this episode, we talk about what it means to be self-taught. Are you an autodidact?
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
In this episode, we take a look at some of the culture shocks of experiencing Mexico as a foreigner when it comes to observing life from the streets. Learn about topes, pedestrian right of way, J-walking, and much more.
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
In this episode, May and I pick up where we left off in talking about May’s journey towards becoming a US citizen. After years of going through the various stages of immigration, this episode details the conclusion of an eight-year process. So, how long does it really take to become a US citizen? Listen to find out that and much more.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Maybe you don’t think of local markets as places full of culture and history, but Jim and May are here to change your mind.
This week, they chat about the definitions and differences between Mexican “mercados” and “tianguis,” which basically are two common types of markets.
You can learn a ton from the local farmers and artisans. Check out the episode to discover more!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Annette Baesel, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Jim and May, who have travel down to a science, share their tips and advice with others who might need a little help planning a big trip!
Sure, we all can agree that the first step is to decide where you want to go, but when do I buy flights? Where do I stay and how do I know what activities to do? And how can I do all this on a budget?
Get the most out of your trip with a little planning! Create beautiful memories that you’ll never forget. Check out the episode for more details.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
This week Jim and May cover an interesting topic, Jesús Malverde, better known as a saint of the narcos, or drug traffickers in Mexico.
Malverde, who many people pray to, is not in fact recognized by the Catholic Church like most saints, but a saint that people come to in a time of need for not necessarily “pious” matters. It’s grown to be a cultural thing.
Check out the episode to learn more about Malverde and the story of his supposed assassination.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Ok, so you’re having a conversation in your target language. What's the most necessary component of conversation?
Having an extensive vocabulary? Understanding how grammar works? Perfect pronunciation? Or maybe….comprehension!
Jim and May agree that comprehension is what’s most important because if you don’t understand what someone is asking you, you can’t even begin to reply!
This week they go over a bunch of ways to improve comprehension.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Although some of us are with the times and know that being a digital nomad is completely possible, picking up your living and traveling the world - all while making money on your time, a lot of people don’t have a clue where to start!
This episode is for you guys! Jim and May not only break down how they became digital nomads, but they list over 14 very specific ways to make money while living abroad.
The age of the Digital Nomads is here.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Most of the time, we think of people moving to the US to see their “American Dream” fulfilled.
But more and more, people are leaving places like the US and Canada for countries with a lower cost of living. Like Mexico!
We figure that if you’re learning a new language then you probably have double the interest in a potential move. Check out the episode to hear all the details!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Cinco de Mayo is upon us yet again. Do you have plans with your friends to celebrate at your favorite Mexican restaurant with mountains of tacos? Or possibly at home with lots of margaritas and maybe a sombrero or two?
May 5th commemorates the Mexican victory over the French in 1862 in the Battle of Puebla.
Jim and May give us the run-down on the history behind Cinco de Mayo. If you think it’s all about Mexican Independence Day, you’d be wrong, so check out the episode to find out more!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
This week Jim and May take on a topic that isn’t discussed enough - the long, stressful road to American citizenship!
Join them as they reveal the beginning half of their journey, from May, getting tourist visas and eventually her green card in 2013, to just a few weeks ago when they finally sent in the paperwork to apply for full citizenship.
Find out why Ciudad Juarez is so important to this particular process, and who had to sign papers for May to represent her as a potential caretaker in case of financial emergencies.
And stay tuned for Part 2!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
At last, it’s been 10 years since Jim and May met in Mexico for the first time. They reminisce on how far they’ve come and also offer advice to couples on a similar path.
Learn about how they met online, their marriage story, and getting “lost in translation” when meeting each other’s families in the beginning.
If you are in a similar situation with your partner, it could help to hear about their journey. Check out the episode to hear more!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Meet Olly Richards, polyglot and founder of the StoryLearning method. Olly, who is originally from England, explains that his path as a polyglot began when he was 19 with French as his second language.
Jim and May pose the question of the psychological fears surrounding adults and language learning, while Olly shares his opinions on how kids actually learn vs what he considers a myth.
Check out his “I Will Teach You a Language” platform - website, YouTube channel, podcast.
Just another gentle reminder, there is a method out there for everybody. You have to search for it. If you are still trying to find a resource that works for you- maybe this is the one!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Wow! It’s been a whole year since the team started this podcast journey!
This week we simply take a step back to review the process. Jim and May reflect on the top 5 most popular episodes over the last year.
It’s like a little blast from the past. Tune in for little snippets of the episodes, while Jim and May chat about what each episode meant to them.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
This week we discuss the life and success of Selena Quintanilla, the Mexican-American singer and probably one of the biggest Latina stars ever!
She met a tragic fate in 1995 at the age of 23, but she managed to garner an incredible amount of fame before that. Her path is an interesting one partly because growing up in Texas, being Mexican-American made her occupy a unique space.
Learn all about her journey and also the facts of how someone close to her ultimately ended her life.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Get ready to learn 9 of the most common mistakes that students make when they are learning Spanish. Maybe you're making them too?
In English, sometimes we use certain verbs interchangeably, but it doesn't always work the same in Spanish.
Jim points out how patient May has been while helping him on his Spanish journey since he used to make a lot of these mistakes all the time, but she confirms that if you're making mistakes, then you're learning.
Not only do they review these mistakes, but they also provide tips on how to fix them. Check out the episode and let us know what other mistakes you used to make in the past.
And that’s so true! Don’t get discouraged by your mistakes, just get motivated to improve your speaking!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
As March is Women's History Month, it's only right that we highlight some pretty badass women's achievements, both in the past and in the current moment.
Most of us know about Frida Kahlo, Salma Hayek, and maybe even Kate del Castillo, but Jim and May share their list of 5 Mexican women that you need to know.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Tune in this week as Jared and Diana from Speaking Latino joins Jim and May to chat about their Spanish learning resources for Spanish students and teachers alike.
One of their biggest hits is a work called "Speaking Boricua," which is all about Puerto Rican Spanish.
In the episode, both parties remark about how Puerto Rican Spanish is full of African influence, how the letter "R" becomes an "L" a lot of the time, and why Spanglish is such a big deal in everyday life.
Jared and Diana give their opinion on code-switching and even give some advice for new Spanish students.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
This week, Jim and May catch everyone up with their personal experiences traveling during the pandemic and compare the different cities they’ve visited during this difficult time.
Get an idea of how Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the US, differ from each other when it comes to handling the pandemic.
Also, listen for a few tips for those eager travelers who plan on catching flights soon. Travel responsibly!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
“Help! I’m studying Spanish, but I can’t understand native speakers when they ask me something!” or the classic, “I don’t have anyone to practice with!”
Don’t worry, we’ve all been there.
Learning to have a natural conversation is probably the hardest part of learning a language.
What the process is really about is finding a balance between genuinely advancing your target language vocabulary (and grammar too of course!) and allowing your brain to do its job.
A lot of communication is subconscious. Remember how you learned your first language as a child. You listened and listened and listened….until one day you tried to speak. And then some words, and then sentences, and then out of nowhere - you were a pro.
As long as you practice consistently, your brain will do the rest.
Jim and May share a few funny stories this week about having difficulties understanding each other’s families while learning their target language. And they provide tips on comprehension when it comes to dealing with natives!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
We started off this week with Valentine’s Day, or “El Día del Amor y la Amistad” in Mexico. Of course, most of us are familiar with celebrating love on this day with gifts or romantic gestures, but how did Valentine’s day come to be?
Jim and May run down the list of stories surrounding the origin of Valentine’s Day.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Where do we find the motivation to do things we want to accomplish in life? How do we stay consistent in order to reach our goals?
Jim and May give advice about how to overcome the mental blocks that everyone has.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Out of the foods that we know and cherish today, how many do we actually know the origins of?
Take tamales for example - they are so important to Latin American gastronomy, especially in Mexico. But where did they come from? When were they first introduced to society?
Learn about the history and importance of this traditional food in this episode!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Join Jim and May as they chat with Tica Carlota Morales, who breaks down everything you need to know about her country - from ecotourism and typical food, to what makes Costa Rican Spanish so different from other Spanish-speaking countries.
If you’ve never been to Costa Rica, you’ll definitely add it to your bucket list by the end of the episode!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Are you having a hard time expressing yourself in Spanish? Do you get nervous or feel embarrassed about having to speak the language? Have you struggled to find a way to use your Spanish in a real context?
Don’t worry, these are common concerns of most people learning a second language and in this week’s episode, Jim and May share their 5 tips to success when it comes to achieving Spanish fluency.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Learning multiple languages when you’re young is hard enough, but can you imagine at 70?
In this episode, Jim and May interview Steve Kaufmann, linguist, polyglot, and co-founder of LingQ, a platform designed to expand your language skills.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
January 6th pretty much wraps up the holiday season in most Spanish-speaking countries with Día de Reyes, or Three Kings’ Day.
It’s a holiday that’s an important part of Mexican culture, showing us how important religion, tradition, and family are to so many across the country.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Got any New Year’s resolutions, anyone? Maybe getting back into the gym, taking that trip you’ve always wanted, or even starting a business?
People bring in the new year differently all over the world, but the one thing most countries have in common is making New Year’s resolutions.
Jim and May chat about different traditions that people have and compare how they celebrated the holiday growing up.
Links:
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Linda Easthope, and DJ Brasier.
Support the show
Christmas is finally here after a very long year. Ever wonder how people in Mexico celebrate the holidays? Jim and May compare their own holiday traditions growing up.
After listening to the episode, can you name any more differences? How does your personal experience compare?
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, and Kenneth Revelson.
Support the show
Around Christmastime in Mexico, you’ll start to hear a lot about “las posadas navideñas” - all the little Christmas parties leading up to Christmas Eve. Learn about these Mexican Christmas parties and how they’re celebrated in this episode.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, and Kenneth Revelson.
Support the show
Meet Ana and David, creators of How to Spanish. Originally from Mexico City, they have a podcast and two YouTube channels, all focusing on improving your Spanish-speaking skills.
Jim and May chat with them this week about online entrepreneurship in their experience, and what it's like to be an entrepreneur in Mexico.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
For all the history buffs out there, we have a fascinating topic this week: The Mexican Revolution.
Jim and May dive into the reasons behind the movement and the prominent figures like Porfirio Diaz, Francisco I. Madero, and Pancho Villa.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
This week Jim and May chat with Héctor and Beto from No Hay Tos about the Mexican state of Veracruz.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
Where does the word gringo come from? Is it offensive? Learn about six popular theories about the origins of the word “gringo.” Which one do you think is true?
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
In this episode, Jim and May share what their motto means to them, and why they created Spanish and Go. The process of anything can be beautiful and sometimes people lose sight of that because they’re focused on racing towards the end goal - the destination.
Learn to appreciate the journey. It's ultimately what matters most.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
Did you know that there’s a country in Africa where Spanish is the official language? Learn all about Equatorial Guinea in this week’s episode featuring YouTuber and Equatoguinean, Monanga Bueneke.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
One symbol you can see a lot in Mexico around this time of year is the skull. But death is not the only meaning behind it.
Learn about the history and origins of the famous Mexican sugar skulls in this week's episode.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
El Día de Muertos is celebrated across Mexico on November 2nd. It is believed that around this time, the veil between this world and the spirit world is thinner.
Jim and May talk about the significance of the holiday in Mexico and how it’s celebrated.
There’s more depth to this holiday than a lot of people realize, so check out the episode to learn a little more!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
Have you heard of telenovelas? They’re similar to soap operas, but with a couple of key differences. Of course, there are crazy plot twists, unrealistic romances, and unexpected drama. But this week, Jim and May go deeper and chat about the origins of these shows and their impact on Latin culture today.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
Moving to another country is something that not nearly enough people get to experience in their lifetime.
Jim and May explore some of the pros and cons of living in another country in this week’s episode. They have lived in the US together, and now Puerto Rico, with substantial time in between traveling throughout Mexico.
After hearing their experience, hopefully, you can try it out for yourself in the future.
Vale la pena.
Where would you go? Or, if you already live abroad, can you relate?
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
Everyone’s favorite dulce, chocolate, is running the show this week.
In this episode, Jim and May cover the history and cultural origins of one of the world’s favorite foods.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
Is it possible to learn a language in a month?
Connor Grooms, the CEO of Baselang, certainly seems to think so. One of the programs his company offers was founded on the guarantee that you can go from “zero to conversational in one month.”
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
Ever heard of “El Grito?” Does “¡Viva México!” sound familiar? How about Miguel Hidalgo or “el Pípila?”
Learn about these important figures in the history of Mexico’s Independence Day in this week’s episode.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
Tuba, tejuino, tepache... These are just a few of some of the most refreshing drinks you can find in Colima, Mexico.
Colima may be tiny, but it’s full of surprises. There’s a drink for everyone here and hope you get a chance to taste each of them.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
This week, Jim and May talk about the Spanish from the streets, not from textbooks.
How people actually talk in everyday life is not the same as what you tend to find with traditional language study material.
Mentioned in this episode:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Dennis Knappe, Mark Wilson, and Josue.
Support the show
Can you have an entire conversation without saying “um” or “like?”
These words are examples of filler words, or muletillas, that people use all the time in order to organize their thoughts as they speak.
It’s completely natural and learning how to use them in Spanish will actually help you sound more like a native!
This week, Jim and May share popular filler words that are used throughout Latin America, and also words specific to certain countries.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Dennis Knappe, Mark Wilson, and Josue.
Support the show
Obviously, this year has been one for the history books. Both Jim and May check in with everyone this week to reflect on their journey through the pandemic and quarantine.
They recognize that the ability to adapt is key in times like this, where the impact of COVID-19 has been felt in everyone’s life.
Tune into this week’s episode to check out the details and more!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, Dennis Knappe, Mark Wilson, and Josue.
Support the show
Birthday or block party?
There’s always a reason to celebrate, especially in Mexico! This week, Jim and May run down the ways that set Mexican birthdays apart.
From the music and food, to the piñatas and cake, check out the latest episode to see how everything goes down.
Having just celebrated her birthday a few days ago, listen as May gets nostalgic and looks back on the very first birthday she can remember. She also sings some of the popular songs you typically hear at a Mexican party, including Las Mañanitas and the piñata song!
Jim laughs as he recalls the first time he realized getting your face smashed into your cake is a classic move at these parties. He also clarifies how birthdays in the States are totally different!
May shares the process of setting up the piñata for the kids, and the importance of karaoke for the adults.
Maybe you’ll even add one of these traditions to your next party!
Related links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
Burritos. Nachos. Chimichangas. Fajitas. Ever wonder where these dishes came from? Although a lot of Americans tend to think of these items as “Mexican food,” they are in a category of their own: Tex Mex.
Find out this week what exactly brought the southern States and northern Mexico together in a way that resulted in its own regional cuisine.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
When you hear people speaking Spanish, do you often hear them slip in any English words or words that sound just like something you’d say in English? Well, it’s probably code-switching you are hearing, which is the topic of the week!
In this episode, Jim and May compare code-switching to “Spanglish” in order to teach us the difference. They in fact are very similar, but not quite the same.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, Kenneth Revelson, and Dennis Knappe.
Support the show
We all know that feeling when someone asks you a question in Spanish that you don’t understand. Or that feeling of anxiety when you want to say something, but you don’t know the words.
The good news is, it doesn’t always have to be this way. But you have to take the necessary steps to get over your fear.
And that is exactly what Jim and May break down in this episode. How to get over your fear of speaking Spanish. Listen to their struggles about getting over the fear of speaking, and get some solid advice about how to conquer those fears.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, and Kenneth Revelson.
Support the show
This week Andrea from Spanishland School and the Españolistos podcast joins us to shed some light on the Spanish spoken in her country: Colombia.
May and Andrea discuss regional differences and accents across Colombia, popular expressions, and even a few ways that this accent is different from those you’ll find in Mexico or Puerto Rico.
Links:
Support the show
In this episode, we discuss everyone’s favorite topic: FOOD.
Jim and May jump right into what authentic Mexican food is. They cover typical ingredients that you might already know: corn, chiles, avocado; and some that you might not think about like hominy, cactus, and pumpkin.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, and Kenneth Revelson.
Support the show
What does it mean to be fluent in a language? How long does it take?
In this episode, Jim and May dissect what it means to be fluent and how to get there.
Jim goes into depth about his own journey and what methods he used to achieve fluency in less than 2 years.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Kim Kaleta, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, and Kenneth Revelson.
Support the show
Have you heard the phrases “la carne de burro no es transparente” or “la suerte de la fea, la bonita la desea” before?
Literally, the first one translates to “the donkey meat isn’t transparent,” and the other, “the ugly’s luck, the beautiful want.” But what do they truly mean?
In this episode, Jim and May break down multiple Spanish idioms: common phrases that native speakers use that might be hard to understand for Spanish learners.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Kim Kaleta, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, and Kenneth Revelson.
Support the show
This week, Ben and Marina from Notes in Spanish join Jim and May to talk about the differences between Spanish and culture in Mexico and Spain.
Ben, an Englishman, and Marina, a Madrileña (from Madrid, Spain), started the first Spanish learning podcast back in 2006. Not only do they host an incredibly popular podcast, but their work also inspired Jim and May to start an online business. Needless to say, it's is a huge honor to have them on the podcast.
In the episode, the two couples discuss the distinctive dialects of Mexican and Spain Spanish, as well as their similarities and differences.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Kim Kaleta, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, and Kenneth Revelson.
Support the show
In this episode, Jim and May talk about some of the biggest differences they've noticed between living in Mexico and Puerto Rico.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Kim Kaleta, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, and Kenneth Revelson.
Support the show
In this episode, Jim and May discuss the advantages and disadvantages of living the small town life in Mexico.
Learn about the typical routine of people living in these pueblos, and how different the lifestyle can be from the big city.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Kim Kaleta, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, and Kenneth Revelson.
Support the show
In this episode, Jim and May discuss how COVID-19 has made an impact in Puerto Rico and the world, and also how they predict it will affect the future of the tourism industry.
They go into detail regarding the toque de queda, or curfew, placed on the streets of Puerto Rico from 7 pm- 5 am.
The mission of Spanish and Go has always been bringing you closer to every Spanish speaking country in the world through videos and the podcast. And travel is necessary to make that happen.
Obviously, COVID-19 has paused this mission and led to the cancellations of immersion retreats, travel plans, and experiences.
Find out what direction they think the whole tourism industry will take, and how the way people travel will likely change. Topics include everything from destinations that they believe will become more popular, to hospitality amenities, to prices.
Hear the details by tuning into the newest episode!
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Kim Kaleta, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, and Kenneth Revelson.
Support the show
Do you dread studying grammar, or do you embrace it? In this episode, Jim and May discuss whether or not grammar is necessary to learn a language.
Listen as May describes the five stages of language acquisition so that you can identify the stage you are currently in.
Jim explains so many key tools that he used in his Spanish learning journey, including Margarita Madrigal’s Magic Key to Spanish and his completion of one of Lingoda’s Language Marathons (now Sprint).
Tune in to find out if the grammar is as important as people think, and what that means for you.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Kim Kaleta, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, Joseph Scriba, and Kenneth Revelson.
Support the show
Standing before the bus stops? The check at the restaurant never comes? In this episode, Jim and May talk about what cultural differences are and the ones that they have noticed between Mexico and the United States.
Listen as they share stories of their experiences and interactions with each other’s cultures. They tackle differences in lifestyle, values, and even public transportation. Some things you might be familiar with, but others are sure to surprise you.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Rajano Gray, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Kim Kaleta, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, and Joseph Scriba.
Support the show
In this episode, Jim and May discuss the concept of “neutral Spanish.” Does it exist? Who speaks it? Do some countries have a more neutral accent than others? Find out here.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Rajano Gray, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Kim Kaleta, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, and Joseph Scriba.
Support the show
In this episode, Jim and May talk about Mexico’s Pueblos Magicos. What they are, their differences and similarities, some advantages and disadvantages of the Pueblos Magicos Program, and cultural aspects of life in these towns.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Rajano Gray, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Kim Kaleta, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, and Joseph Scriba.
Support the show
In this episode, Jim shares some of his tips on what to do when a Spanish native speaker only talks to you in English.
Listen in to practice your Spanish, and get even more tips so that you know what to do when you find yourself in a similar situation.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Rajano Gray, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Kim Kaleta, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, and Joseph Scriba.
Support the show
In this episode, Jim and May talk about how it all started.
May is a teacher with a bachelor’s degree in Foreign Languages Education. She was born in Manzanillo, a small port city of the state of Colima in Mexico. When May had just graduated from college she was looking for a way to keep practicing her English and improving her pronunciation. A friend told her about a website where she could do just that.
Jim is a gringo with a passion for adventure. Born in Rochester, Minnesota. Jim is an audio and video producer who had built a fascinating career in the music scene of his city. Recording all kinds of musicians in his studio he felt like he needed a new challenge. That’s when a friend told him about the same website May has just signed up for italki.
That’s how Jim and May met back in 2010. After months of chatting and Skyping, they finally met in real life in Guadalajara, Mexico for the first time.
Traveling together through Mexico, Jim and May decided to combine their passions of traveling, teaching, and audio-video production to create Spanish and Go. Although they had the idea of starting a podcast back then, they decided to move to Minnesota and save some money before they could officially start their website. They created their YouTube channel where they inspire people to learn Spanish and travel the world.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Rajano Gray, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Kim Kaleta, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, and Joseph Scriba.
Support the show (https://spanishandgo.com/support-us)
Welcome to the Learn Spanish and Go podcast! In this episode, we talk about who this podcast is for, what topics we'll cover, and how to get the most out of each episode.
Sign up for our Podcast Membership here!
Follow us on social media to stay connected and up to date about new episodes @SpanishandGo.
Links:
Thank you to our patrons for making this podcast possible:
Tiansheng Lian, Jennifer Wilson, Nicolas Romano, Rajano Gray, Adrian Major, Jenny, Christy Warne, Marisol, Russ Moore, Sallie Boden, Annette Baesel, Christian Gonzalez, Jill Heichelbech, Kim Kaleta, Jean Lorio, Cindy Sanchez, Rebecca D Robison, Simon Larsson, Wylie Hargrove, Kristin Royer, Deb Shroyer, Adam Tinkoff, RamPandaPuss, Amy, Hal Brookins, Josh Powell, Hoy Shih, Neil Moore, Craig Stenger, Jennifer Wilson, Paula Lisowsky, and Joseph Scriba.
Support the show (https://spanishandgo.com/support-us)