La Cocina Ancestral Oaxaqueña con Evangelina - The Ancient Oaxacan Kitchen with Evangelina
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:The powerful story behind Cocina Nana Vira and how Evangelina’s family revived ancestral cooking traditions.The cultural significance of Oaxaca’s ceremonial moles and what makes each one unique.Why traditional tools, native ingredients, and fire-based techniques are essential to preserving Zapotec culinary heritage.Relevant Links And Additional Resources:158 – Técnicas Ancestrales En La Cocina Mexicana Parte 2 | Ancient Techniques In Mexican Cuisine Part 2157 – Técnicas Ancestrales En La Cocina Mexicana Parte 1 | Ancient Techniques In Mexican Cuisine Part 1Boost your confidence in real-life Spanish conversations with our Spanish Immersion RetreatsLevel up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizSupport the show
--------
32:12
--------
32:12
¿Qué Pasó con la ch, ll, y rr? - What happened to “ch,” “ll”, and “rr”?
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:Why ch, ll, and rr are no longer part of the Spanish alphabetHow the RAE and the Association of Academies make decisions about the languageThe importance of correct alphabet pronunciation for clearer, more confident Spanish speakingRelevant Links And Additional Resources:How To Say The Alphabet In Spanish [Blog Post]Level up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizSupport the show
--------
25:52
--------
25:52
Español Útil para un Viaje a México - Useful Spanish for a Trip to Mexico
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:How to use provecho, por favor, gracias, and salud naturally in daily situationsThe difference between con permiso, disculpa, and perdónWhy asking “¿Te puedo tomar una foto?” is a sign of respect and cultural awarenessRelevant Links And Additional Resources:Level up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizSupport the show
--------
25:02
--------
25:02
Me Paró la Policía en Puebla - The Police Stopped Me in Puebla
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:How traffic laws — and their enforcement — can vary across different parts of Mexico.Why it’s important to stay calm, polite, and informed when dealing with local authorities.How technology can help you navigate real-life challenges abroad.Relevant Links And Additional Resources:Level up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizSupport the show
--------
33:30
--------
33:30
Aprendizajes de Nuestro Primer Viaje con Santi - Learnings From Our First Trip with Santi
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:Traveling with a baby is easier when you’re organized — think pre-measured formula and the right stroller.Babies often handle flights better than car rides thanks to white noise and comfort.Preparation and flexibility turn stressful trips into meaningful family memories.Relevant Links And Additional Resources:277 – El Nombre Más Complicado En México | Most Complicated Name In Mexico271 – La Vacuna BCG – Un Símbolo De Identidad Mexicana | The BCG Vaccine – A Symbol Of Mexican Identity270 – Padres Primerizos – ¡Bienvenido, Santi! | First-Time Parents – Welcome, Santi!Level up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizSupport the show
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.
New Zealand