Learn Spanish and Go

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) t...

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:

• Why the BCG vaccine is st...

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:

• Why we chose a sche...

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 T...

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 fa...

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:

• Learn fun and informal ways to say “yes” in Mexi...

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 l...

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:

• Why using Spani...

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:

• How Farmacias Simil...

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 refl...

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 ...

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:

• Why slang isn’t one-size-fits-all and how it reflects personal speaking hab...

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:

• Why searching for homes in Spanish helps you fi...

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 Ta...

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 fascinati...

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:

• The hidden Nahuatl roots behind common Spanish words
• Fun facts about ...

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:

• The ...

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 na...

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 ab...