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 2
• 157 – Técnicas Ancestrales En La Cocina Mexicana Parte 1 | Ancient Techniques In Mexican Cuisine Part 1
• Boost your confidence in real-life Spanish conversations with our Spanish Immersion Retreats
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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 alphabet
• How the RAE and the Association of Academies make decisions about the language
• The importance of correct alphabet pronunciation for clearer, more confident Spanish speaking

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• How To Say The Alphabet In Spanish [Blog Post]
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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 situations
• The difference between con permiso, disculpa, and perdón
• Why asking “¿Te puedo tomar una foto?” is a sign of respect and cultural awareness

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 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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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 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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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 Mexico
• 271 – La Vacuna BCG – Un Símbolo De Identidad Mexicana | The BCG Vaccine – A Symbol Of Mexican Identity
• 270 – Padres Primerizos – ¡Bienvenido, Santi! | First-Time Parents – Welcome, Santi!
• 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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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:

• Learn the most common and natural ways to start and end phone calls in Spanish.
• Master useful phrases for different situations, from introducing yourself to fixing connection issues.
• Gain confidence speaking Spanish on the phone with real examples and cultural insights from Mexico.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 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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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:

• Halloween celebrations in Mexico are becoming more common and creative.
• Día de Muertos and Halloween are distinct holidays with different purposes.
• Traditions may change, but their cultural meaning remains deeply rooted.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 240 – La Flor de Cempasúchil – Historia, Cultura y Leyendas | The Cempasúchil Flower – History, Culture and Legends
• 187 – Día de Muertos: Una Perspectiva Local | Day of the Dead: A Local Perspective
• 136 – Xoloitzcuintle, Perro Sagrado | Xoloitzcuintle, Sacred Dog
• 029 – Calaveritas de Azúcar: Origen y Tradición | Sugar Skulls: Origin and Tradition
• 028 – Día de Muertos: Lo Que Tienes Que Saber | Day of the Dead: What You Need to Know
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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:

• How to file a consumer complaint in Mexico through PROFECO’s ConciliaNet platform.
• What your rights are when companies fail to deliver a product or service.
• Why persistence (and knowing the law) can make all the difference when dealing with customer service issues.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 222 – Protégete de las Estafas con la PROFECO | Protect Yourself from Scams with PROFECO
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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:

• Learn the meaning and context behind Mexico’s most common swear acronyms.
• Understand when these phrases are acceptable (and when they’re definitely not).
• Gain insight into real, unfiltered Mexican Spanish to boost your cultural awareness.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 279 – Chatea Como Nativo con Acrónimos | Chat Like a Native Using Acronyms
• 275 – El Chingonario | The Chingonary
• 086 – Las Groserías Mexicanas con Mextalki | Mexican Swear Words with Mextalki
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  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
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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:

• Setting clear goals before traveling makes immersion more effective.
• Surrounding yourself with Spanish-speaking environments helps you grow faster.
• Combining cultural experiences with formal classes creates lasting language progress.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• Thinking about joining a Spanish immersion program? Use our special link to save $100 off your trip.
• Explore Common Ground International website for details on immersion programs and resources
• Follow Common Ground International on Facebook for Spanish tips, cultural insights, and updates on upcoming programs
• Subscribe to Common Ground International YouTube channel for free Spanish lessons and immersion advice
• Boost your confidence in real-life Spanish conversations with our Spanish Immersion Retreats
• 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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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:

• Why most Mexicans avoid drinking tap water and the history behind it
• Practical tips for travelers on how to safely drink water in Mexico
• Eco-friendly alternatives to bottled water that can save money and reduce plastic waste

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 285 – El Agua Parte I | The Water Part I
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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:

• Why agua and similar words use el but are still feminine.
• The real reason tourists are advised not to drink tap water in Mexico.
• How Mexicans store and access safe drinking water through tinacos, cisterns, and garrafones.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• Is Mexico Safe? [The Best Tips for Staying Safe in Mexico]
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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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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?
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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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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]
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  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
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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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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?
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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:

• 270 – Padres Primerizos – ¡Bienvenido, Santi! | First-Time Parents – Welcome, Santi!
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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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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
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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
  • 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
• 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
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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:

• Discover why Mérida’s architecture looks so European and what the henequén industry meant for the region.
• Learn about the most impressive archaeological sites beyond Chichén Itzá, including hidden gems you may not have heard of.
• Get a taste of Yucatán’s unique cuisine—from cochinita pibil to agua de chaya—and why it’s worth the trip alone.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• The Best Cenotes Near Playa Del Carmen
• Visit Chichen Itza in Yucatan, Mexico (YouTube Video)
• Follow Cacomixtle Guanajuato on Instagram
• Connect with Susana on Facebook
• Visit Susana's website and learn more about Guanajuato
• Boost your confidence in real-life Spanish conversations with our Spanish Immersion Retreats
• 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

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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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:

• Learn about the fascinating legends behind the invention of mole poblano and how it evolved over time.
• Discover what goes into making this richly flavored dish—from chiles and spices to chocolate and even tortillas.
• Understand why mole poblano holds such a special place in Mexican culture and how it brings people together during important celebrations.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 192 – Los 7 Moles Oaxaqueños | The 7 Oaxacan Moles
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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:

• The real story behind Cholula sauce—and why it’s not made in Cholula
• Why hot sauce can cost $1 in Mexico but $12 abroad
• How marketing, history, and globalization turned a homemade recipe into an international empire

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 104 – ¡Al Chile! – Chilis: Straight To The Point
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