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:

• What OPOL (One Parent, One Language) is and how it works in daily life
• Why myths like “bilingualism delays speech” are untrue
• Practical strategies to make bilingual learning fun, natural, and effective

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 016 – Alternancia de Código | Code Switching
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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:

• What Spanglish is and why it happens.
• Real-life examples of Spanglish in daily speech, music, and media.
• How learners can recognize Spanglish while keeping languages separate in formal settings.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 281 – ¿Cómo, Cuándo y Qué Se Come en México? | How, When, and What People Eat in Mexico?
• 199 – Rutinas de Ejercicio | Exercise Routines
• 016 – Alternancia de Código | Code Switching
• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
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  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

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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:

• Discover the most common Mexican folk illnesses and what they reveal about daily life.
• Learn how language, tradition, and humor intersect in cultural health expressions.
• Hear our personal experiences and reflections on which of these ailments we’ve felt ourselves. 

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 281 – ¿Cómo, Cuándo y Qué Se Come en México? | How, When, and What People Eat in Mexico?
• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

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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:

• Learn how meal times in Mexico differ from the U.S. and why dinner is eaten much later.
• Discover the cultural importance of la comida as the biggest and most social meal of the day.
• Explore unique food beliefs and traditions, from nighttime coffee to avoiding fruit at night.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 130 – Comidas Mexicanas Que No Conoces | Mexican Foods You Don’t Know About
• 118 – Comidas Callejeras De México | Street Food In Mexico
• 013 – La Comida Mexicana | Mexican Food
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  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
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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:

• How cultural norms around haggling differ across Latin America and Spain
• Practical strategies for negotiating politely and successfully
• Useful Spanish phrases to use when bargaining

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• Shopping in Spanish [YouTube Video]
• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
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  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

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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:

• Discover 7+ must-know Spanish acronyms you’ll see in texts and comments.
• Understand the cultural and historical reasons behind these abbreviations.
• Learn when and how to use these phrases to sound natural in casual Spanish conversations.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 191 – ¿Qué Onda Con Whatsapp? | What’s Up With Whatsapp?
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  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
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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!

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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:

• The recent protests are more about housing inequality and lack of regulation than about foreigners themselves.
• Mexico’s lenient immigration and Airbnb policies have contributed to housing issues in tourist-heavy neighborhoods.
• Responsible tourism and cultural respect are key to creating positive change for both locals and visitors.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 126 – ¿Gringos Gentrificando México? | Gringos Gentrifying Mexico?
• 093 – ¿México Ya No Quiere Más Gringos? | Does Mexico Not Want Any More Gringos?
• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
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  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
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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:

• How suffixes like “II” or “Jr.” are handled differently in Mexico and the U.S.
• Why naming a child in a bicultural marriage can get legally complicated
• What to consider when dealing with international documents and identity

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

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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:

• Narcocorridos are not just music—they’re cultural expressions shaped by Mexico’s social and political history.
• These songs walk a fine line between storytelling and glorifying criminal lifestyles.
• From “Camelia la Tejana” to “Jefe de Jefes,” narcocorridos remain a powerful (and polarizing) part of Mexican musical identity.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 060 – El Santo De Los Narcos | The Saint Of Narcos
• 218 – La Música De Banda – El Sonido De Sinaloa | Banda Music – The Sound Of Sinaloa
• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

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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:

• Learn the multiple meanings and tones behind the word chingar and its many variations.
• Understand when (and when not) to use this type of slang in Mexican culture.
• Discover how El Chingonario became a cult favorite and why it’s a fun tool for Spanish learners.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 261 – Usando Slang Sin Hacer El Ridículo | Using Slang Without Sounding Ridiculous
• Mexican Spanish Slang Phrases To Help You Sound Like A Local
• 086 – Las Groserías Mexicanas Con Mextalki | Mexican Swear Words With Mextalki
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  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
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If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast 

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