Episodes by Topic
Episode 142: The Top 10 Episodes of 2021
Episode 142
The Top 10 Episodes of 2021
Can you believe the year is almost over?!
In this week's episode, I'll be reviewing the 10 most popular episodes of the year 2021.
Listen to find out if there's an episode you missed, or if your favorites made the list.
Links
Episode 107: Learn Spanish Verbs with Music [El día de mi...
Episode 138: Speaking Caribbean Spanish, Interview with Elle Charisse, Speaking Tongues
Episode 138
Speaking Caribbean Spanish: Interview with Elle Charisse, Speaking Tongues
In this episode of the podcast, you'll get to hear an excerpt of my interview with Elle Charisse from the Speaking Tongues podcast.
She asked me about my earliest experiences learning language and the cultural influences that shape the Spanish spoken in the Caribbean.
We also talk about some of my favorite artists and songs.
Listen to the...
Episode 137: Why Living Abroad Won’t Help You Get Fluent: Andrea’s Story
Episode 137
Why Living Abroad Won’t Help You Get Fluent: Andrea’s Story
Andrea traveled to Central and South America for over a decade and never got beyond speaking ‘survival Spanish' — even after living abroad and studying Spanish in university.
She went from being overwhelmed learning Spanish on her own to consistently speaking Spanish every week and making measurable progress.
We talk about…
the game-changing strategy that helped her gain confidence speaking...
Episode 135: Do You Need a Language Teacher or Coach?
Episode 135
Do You Need a Language Teacher or Coach?
Right now, we're all watching the best athletes in the world compete at the Olympic games in Tokyo.
And while we all know that Olympic athletes rely on coaches to perform at their highest level, you may not know that language coaching can be the best way to accelerate your path to Spanish fluency.
In this episode I talk...
Episode 132: The Music-Lover’s Guide to Becoming Fluent in Spanish (Olly Richards Interview)
Episode 132
The Music-Lover’s Guide to Becoming Fluent in Spanish (Olly Richards Interview)
In this week's episode, I am actually going to be the interviewee so I will not be doing the interview this week but I'm giving you an opportunity to hear someone else interview me.
We talked all about learning Spanish with music, how I came up with this concept, and sort of how Spanish...
Episode 130: Backpacking and Slow Travel in Ecuador and El Salvador (Part 2)
Episode 130
Backpacking and Slow Travel in Ecuador and El Salvador (Part 2)
This week you get to hear part 2 of my conversation with Melissa Neacato from Traveling Wallet.
In our conversation we talk about slow travel, her #1 travel hack to offset costs and get deals on airline tickets, and how to pack for a family of 4 in only 4 backpacks.
Melissa also shares the top places to visit...
Episode 129: Backpacking and Slow Travel in Ecuador and El Salvador (Part 1)
Episode 129
Backpacking and Slow Travel in Ecuador and El Salvador (Part 1)
Imagine if you could spend 4 months traveling to ALL the countries on your bucket list. Our guest this week, Melissa Neacato, did just that with her family of four.
Melissa, her husband, and 2 children took a four month ‘mini-retirement‘ that included a road trip, spending one month in Ecuador, and another month...
Episode 128: How to 10X Your Spanish Vocabulary with Audiobooks
Episode 128
How to 10X Your Spanish Vocabulary with Audiobooks
Learning new words is undoubtedly the foundation of learning any new language.
Expanding your vocabulary enhances your ability to express yourself and understand others.
Most language learners tend to rely on reading alone to grow their vocabulary, but this is a mistake that can hinder progress developing other language skills.
Listen to this episode and learn the exact steps you...
Episode 127: 3 Things You Should Stop Doing at the Intermediate Level
Episode 127
3 Things You Should Stop Doing at the Intermediate Level
Are you spending most of your time watching telenovelas or racking up points on a language app?
If so, and you're no longer at the beginner level — then you might be wasting your time.
Listen to this episode to find out the 3 things you should stop doing right now at the intermediate level.
And...
Episode 126: Learning Spanish through Story (Interview with Olly Richards, StoryLearning)
Episode 126
Learning Spanish through Story (Interview with Olly Richards, StoryLearning)
Our guest this week is polyglot Olly Richards. He is a language educator and author from the UK who speaks 8 languages.
Olly started a blog called I Will Teach You A Language, and since then he’s developed the StoryLearning®️ method – a new way to learn languages through story.
He has published over 30 books, consulted for major institutions across Europe,...
Episode 125: Dancing for a Cause (Interview with Alex Morel and Desiree Godsell)
Episode 125
Dancing for a Cause (Interview with Alex Morel and Desiree Godsell)
Note: This episode is in English & Spanish. To get the full transcript and English translation, sign up to be a show supporter.
Nuestros invitados de este episodio son Alex y Desiree, bailarines profesionales especializados en baile de estilo latino. Se asociaron en 2015 para compartir su pasión con el mundo.
Alex y Desiree se...
Episode 124: The Black Expat: Living in Puerto Rico (Interview with Tennay Davis Porter and Troy Porter)
Episode 124
The Black Expat: Living in Puerto Rico (Interview with Tennay Davis Porter and Troy Porter)
In this episode we continue the Black Expat series with an interview with Tennay Davis Porter and Troy Porter.
In our conversation, Tennay and Troy explain how they started traveling and why they decided to move to Puerto Rico.
They talk about the cost of living in Puerto Rico, where you can find the best food, and which neighborhoods can...
Episode 122: Learning Mexican Spanish through Culture (Interview with Nayeli Mulato, Zaloa Languages)
Episode 122
Learning Mexican Spanish through Culture (Interview with Nayeli Mulato, Zaloa Languages)
En este episodio nuestra invitada es Nayeli Mulato, ella es mexicana y COO en Zaloa languages.
Ella nos cuenta cómo fue que decidió aprender otros idiomas y a enseñarlos a las personas.
Hablamos sobre las principales culturas indígenas de México, las diferentes lenguas y dialectos que se hablan en México e influencia de las culturas indígenas en la lengua que se habla actualmente...
Episode 121: Decoding ‘Despacito': An Oral History of Latin Music (Interview with Leila Cobo, Author and Vice President at Billboard)
Episode 121
Decoding ‘Despacito' (Interview with Leila Cobo, Author and Vice President at Billboard)
Leila Cobo es la autora del libro La Fórmula Despacito y vicepresidenta y líder de la industria latina en Billboard.
Ella comparte una mirada entre bastidores de algunos de los mayores éxitos latinos de los últimos cincuenta años, incluyendo sus historias favoritas de artistas como Selena, Willie Colón, Juan Luis Guerra y Shakira.
En su libro ofrece detalles...
Episode 120: 7 Habits of Successful Language Learners
Episode 120
7 Habits of Successful Language Learners
Do you feel like you will always be a beginner?
Are you afraid to talk to a native Spanish speaker?
Or have you been learning Spanish but are still embarrassed to speak it?
In this episode, we'll give you some tips to help you overcome those fears and how being consistent will help you become a successful language learner.
Jael Torres and Maribel Zapata from the Spanish Con...
Episode 118: Learn 3 Ways to Say ‘To Have' in Spanish with Timba Music [Me Dicen Cuba]
Episode 118
Learn 3 Ways to Say ‘To Have' in Spanish with Timba Music [Me Dicen Cuba]
In English, we use the verb ‘to have’ in many different ways — from ‘I have a new job’ to ‘I have been there before’ or ‘I have to go.’
But in Spanish, there’s more than one verb for ‘to have’ — and in this week’s episode you'll learn 3 different ways to say ‘to have’ in Spanish using a genre...
Episode 117: 10 Palabras españolas que sólo se escuchan en Cuba (Entrevista con Yohenia Irma Mengana: Parte 2)
Episode 117
10 Palabras españolas que sólo se escuchan en Cuba (Entrevista con Yohenia Irma Mengana: Parte 2)
En este episodio centramos nuestra conversación en cómo se habla el español en Cuba, que es de donde es Yohenia. Ella nos comparte 10 palabras y expresiones diferentes que son exclusivamente cubanas.
Note: This episode is in Spanish. To get a copy of the transcript with English translation, sign up to support the show at
Episode 116: Como Yohenia aprendió a hablar cinco idiomas en Cuba (Entrevista con Yohenia Irma Mengana: Parte 1)
Episode 116
Como Yohenia aprendió a hablar cinco idiomas en Cuba (Entrevista con Yohenia Irma Mengana: Parte 1)
Yohenia es una hablante nativa de español de Cuba que ha aprendido a hablar y hacer negocios en 5 idiomas diferentes, nos cuenta cómo aprendió a hablar cinco idiomas y habla sobre lo que la motivó a aprender idiomas y cómo superó su miedo a hablar.
Habla de cómo superó ese miedo y también nos cuenta el error...
Episode 115: Language Stories from One Year of Traveling Around Latin America
Episode 115
Language Stories from One Year of Traveling Around Latin America
When Lindsay Williams decided to spend a year traveling throughout Latin America, she had a desire to connect with people and experience the real culture of every country she visited.
Driven by a desire to learn the lyrics to her favorite Shakira song, Lindsay learned Spanish and talks about how knowing the language enriched her travel experiences. In our conversation, she shares insights from...
Episode 114: Learn How to Use the Preposition ‘De' with Music [Medicina de amor]
Episode 114
Learn How to Use the Preposition ‘De' with Music [Medicina de amor]
We're breaking down the lyrics to the song Medicina de Amor by Dominican singer Raulín Rodríguez. Learn different ways to use the Spanish preposition de, and how to recognize the future tense in Spanish.
Participate in the Escucha Bien challenge and improve your Spanish listening skills.
For the next 2 weeks, I'll walk you through activities to tune...
Episode 113: The Black Expat: City Life in Mexico (Interview with Adalia Aborisade)
Episode 113
The Black Expat: City Life in Mexico (Interview with Adalia Aborisade)
Adalia Aborisade is not your typical expat.
She left the US in 2016 and moved with her daughter and dog to Honduras. She has since settled in Mexico City, opting to retire to city life instead of white sand beaches.
In our conversation, Adalia shares her experiences living abroad while Black, what happened when she had to interact with the police in...
Episode 112: Celebrando el Día de la Independencia en República Dominicana
Episode 112
Celebrating Independence Day in the Dominican Republic
En este episodio, regresa Kesia Sosa para compartirnos como se celebra el día de la independencia en la República Dominicana. Ella explica un poquito sobre la historia de República Dominicana y la relación complicada entre el país y su vecino Haiti que comparten la misma isla.
Esucha temporada 2 del podcast Dominican Spanish 101 at dominicanspanish101.com
Compra el curso...
Episode 110: From Study Abroad Student to Entrepreneur (Interview with Latasha Moore, Tasha Teaches Spanish)
Episode 110
From Study Abroad Student to Entrepreneur (Interview with Latasha Moore, Tasha Teaches Spanish)
Latasha Moore went from waiting anxiously to finding out if she qualified for a study abroad program to applying for her first bilingual job, and finally starting her own business.
Tasha obtained a BA in Spanish from Arkansas State University. After graduation she lived in Spain where she worked as an English teacher assistant. Upon returning to the US, she worked...
Episode 109: The Secret to Unlock Your Spanish Listening Skills (Interview with Daniel Raynaud, Jiveworld)
Episode 109
The Secret to Unlock Your Spanish Listening Skills (Interview with Daniel Raynaud, Jiveworld)
Daniel Raynaud is a linguist, techie, adventurer, and entrepreneur. He spent years traveling the world as a musician, living in different countries, and learning languages along the way.
In 2016, Daniel packed up everything to move from the San Francisco Bay Area to Medellín, Colombia. He soon found that having conversations with the locals in Spanish beyond basic interactions was a...
Episode 108: How to Get Started as a Translator or Interpreter (Interview with Jamila Ball, Jamii Linguists)
Episode 108
How to Get Started as a Translator or Interpreter: Interview with Jamila Ball, Jamii Linguists
In this episode I interview Jamila Ball, founder and executive director of Jamii Linguists. Jamila is a Spanish linguist specializing in Black-centric language coaching that promotes intercultural connections in the African diaspora.
In this interview, Jamila talks all about why your identity and cultural competency can be assets that make you more marketable, how to get started as...
Episode 107: Learn Spanish Verbs with Music [El día de mi suerte]
Learn Spanish Verbs with Music [El día de mi suerte]
Episode 107
Learn the lyrics to the salsa song El día de mi suerte by Hector Lavoe. You'll learn how to easily identify Spanish verbs in the future tense and imperfect past tense. Plus, there's some tricky grammar in the song that we'll help you identify and learn how to use in daily conversation.
Get the Full Episode Transcript
Episode 106: The Black Expat: Finding Peace of Mind in the Dominican Republic (Interview with Kayla Rodriguez)
Episode 106
The Black Expat: Finding Peace of Mind in the Dominican Republic (Interview with Kayla Rodriguez)
In this episode we continue the Black Expat series with an interview with Kayla Rodriguez, a member of Spanish Con Salsa who started learning with us and has recently moved to the Dominican Republic.
In this interview, Kayla talks all about why she decided to move to the DR. She tells us a bit about the expat community...
![Learn Spanish Con Salsa Podcast Episode 104: Commonly Confused Spanish Verbs [Baila esta cumbia by Selena]](https://www.learnspanishconsalsa.com/wp-content/uploads/learn-spanish-con-salsa-podcast-episode-104-selena-netflix-baila-esta-cumbia-300x300.png)
Episode 104: Commonly Confused Spanish Verbs [Baila esta cumbia]
Episode 104
Commonly Confused Spanish Verbs [Baila esta cumbia]
Do you know the difference between quedar and quedarse? How about when to use sentir vs. sentirse?
If you're not 100% sure, listen to this week's episode. I'll be breaking down the differences between some of this commonly confused Spanish verbs the the lyrics to the song Baila esta cumbia by Selena.
If you haven't been watching the Selena series on...
Episode 103: Puerto Rican Spanish Greetings
Episode 103
Puerto Rican Spanish Greetings
Have you ever wondered what ‘wepa' means?
Well, you're in luck. Spanish Con Salsa language coach Nahomy Irizarry is from Puerto Rico and she fills us in on the 2 ways this familiar phrase is used. She also shares common Puerto Rican Spanish greetings and how to respond like a native speaker.
Finally, Nahomy shares the unique ways to say goodbye while you're on la isla del encanto.
Episode 102: The Black Expat: Redefining a Successful Life in Colombia (Interview with Jamarr Black, Part 2)
Episode 102
The Black Expat: Redefining a Successful Life in Colombia (Interview with Jamarr Black, Part 2)
Can you imagine living on only $300 USD/month?
That's exactly what Jamarr Black did when he first moved to Cali, Colombia. In part 2 of our conversation, Jamarr shares how much money you need to live comfortably in Cali–including the cost of health care.
I asked him about the best places to dance salsa in the area, and...
Episode 101: The Black Expat: Spanish Language Immersion in Colombia (Interview with Jamarr Black, Part 1)
Episode 101
The Black Expat: Spanish Language Immersion in Colombia (Interview with Jamarr Black, Part 1)
The Black Expat series continues with a spotlight on Colombia. In my interview with Jamarr Black, he shares why he decided to leave his job as a technical writer in Washington, DC to move to Cali, Colombia and how he got there on a $5 flight.
He also talks about how he overcame the frustration of being the only...
Episode 100: Learn Spanish & Japanese with Music [Bachata en Fukuoka]
Episode 100
Learn Spanish & Japanese with Music: Bachata en Fukuoka
This week, we're celebrating our 100th episode!
Our listeners share their favorite moments from the show, and we break down the lyrics to the song Bachata en Fukuoka by Dominican artist Juan Luis Guerra with a very special guest.
Learn about the passive voice in Spanish plus a few Japanese phrases from this multilingual song.
Episode 99: Balancing Business and Motherhood in a Multilingual Household (Interview with Errol de Jesus)
Episode 99
Balancing Business and Motherhood in a Multilingual Household (Interview with Errol de Jesus)
Interview with Errol de Jesus, a trilingual copywriter, author, and translator who speaks English, Spanish, and Japanese.
Errol is the founder of Morenita Mommy, a blog where she shares her experiences as a Black mother raising a multicultural family. She's also the author of the new book Melanintro to Languages, a guide to multilingual parenting, freelancing, and socially-conscious language learning.
In our...
Episode 98: Learn Spanish with Salsa Music: El cura vs. La cura
Episode 98
Learn Spanish with Salsa Music: El cura vs. La cura
Learn about words that are both masculine AND feminine in Spanish with the salsa song La cura by Frankie Ruiz. You'll also learn an easy hack for how to form adverbs–words that describe actions.
...
Episode 97: Learn the Spanish Future Tense with Music [Llorarás]
Episode 97
Learn the Spanish Future Tense with Music: Llorarás
Learn how to use the future tense in Spanish with the salsa song Llorarás by Oscar D'Leon. We'll also review some common phrases in the future tense from the song lyrics, and an opportunity for how you can take your Spanish learning further.
Episode 96: The Black Expat: Creating a New Life in Spain Part 2 (Interview with Kai Cesaire, Kai's Foreign Adventures)
Episode 96
The Black Expat: Creating a New Life in Spain Part 2 (Interview with Kai Cesaire, Kai's Foreign Adventures)
This week you get to hear part 2 of my conversation with Kai Ceasire from the YouTube Channel Kai's Foreign Adventures where you can find anything and everything you want to know about moving to Spain.
We talk about how the lifestyle and Spanish spoken in the Canary islands differs from mainland Spain,...
Episode 95: The Black Expat: Creating a New Life in Spain Part 1 (Interview with Kai Cesaire, Kai's Foreign Adventures)
Episode 95
The Black Expat: Creating a New Life in Spain Part 1 (Interview with Kai Cesaire, Kai's Foreign Adventures)
Do you dream about leaving everything behind and moving to a Spanish-speaking country? If you're thinking about taking the leap, then you'll want to hear Kai Cesaire's story. Kai runs a YouTube channel called Kai's Foreign Adventures where you can find out anything you need to know about moving to and living...
Episode 94: Exploring Afro-Latino Culture through Travel: Interview with Kim Haas (Part 2)
Episode 94
Exploring Afro-Latino Culture through Travel: Interview with Kim Haas
This is part 2 of my conversation with Kim Haas, Executive Producer, Host & Creator of Afro-Latino Travels with Kim Haas. (Listen to part 1 here). Kim takes us behind the scenes of her travel series. She shares how it all got started, the history afro-descendants in Central America, and how she got the opportunity to meet the family...
Episode 93: Exploring Afro-Latino Culture through Travel: Interview with Kim Haas (Part 1)
Episode 93
Exploring Afro-Latino Culture through Travel: Interview with Kim Haas
Kim Haas, Executive Producer, Host & Creator of Afro-Latino Travels with Kim Haas. Premiering on PBS during Hispanic Heritage Month, this groundbreaking TV series captures the heart and soul of Afro-Latino culture by exploring the history, art, music, dance, cuisine, and more that African descendants brought to Central and South America and the Caribbean.
In part 1 of our conversation, Kim...
Episode 92: Learn Puerto Rican Spanish with Music [Mi gente]
Episode 92
Learn Puerto Rican Spanish with Music: Mi gente
Learn Puerto Rican Spanish from the lyrics of an amazing salsa song by Héctor Lavoe. Spanish Con Salsa team member Nahomy Irizarry joins us to break down the meaning of the lyrics to Mi gente.
She also gives us the meaning of the uniquely Puerto Rican Spanish words used in the song.
Get the lyrics to Mi Gente when you sign up...
Episode 89: Learn Spanish with Salsa Music [Cali Pachanguero]
Episode 89
Learn Spanish with Salsa Music [Cali Pachanguero]
In this episode, you'll learn new vocabulary from the salsa song Cali Pachanguero by Alberto Barros. We'll explore a few uses of the subjunctive, and different ways to use the word “que” in Spanish.
Get the full lyrics to the song, plus translation and quizzes, at https://yabla.com/salsa
The Learn Spanish Con Salsa podcast is supported by
Episode 87: ¿Para qué? vs. ¿Por qué? [Periódico de Ayer]
Episode 87
¿Para qué? vs. ¿Por qué? con la canción Periódico de Ayer
You probably learned there are 5 question words: who (quién), what (qué), where (dónde), when (cuándo), and why (por qué).
But did you know that there are actually 2 ways to ask the question WHY in Spanish?
In this episode, we'll explore when to use ¿para qué? vs. ¿por qué? with the classic salsa song Periódico de Ayer by Héctor Lavoe. You'll...
Episode 86: Learn Spanish Reflexive Verbs with Music [No Hago Más Na']
Episode 86
Learn Spanish Reflexive Verbs with Music: No Hago Más Na'
Learn how to use reflexive verbs to describe your daily routine in Spanish with the lyrics to the song No Hago Más Na by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico.
Related Episodes
Episode 85: From Beginner to Conversational Fluency in 90 Days
Episode 85: From Beginner to Conversational Fluency in 90 Days (Interview with Ryan Chindavong)
Episode 85
From Beginner to Conversational Fluency in 90 Days (Interview with Ryan Chindavong)
Do you freeze up when talking to a native Spanish speaker? Is it hard to find someone to speak to in Spanish where you live?
If you're struggling to reach conversational fluency in Spanish, or feel nervous about talking to native speakers, this episode is for you.
Ryan shares his story about how he went from not...
Episode 83: Dominican Spanish Greetings [Introducing the Dominican Spanish 101 Podcast]
Episode 83
Dominican Spanish Greetings [Introducing the Dominican Spanish 101 Podcast]
We're excited to feature the premiere episode of the Dominican Spanish 101 podcast. Tamara and Kesia will share common greetings you'll hear in the Dominican Republic (hint it's not ¿Cómo está usted?).
You'll also learn a few phrases you can use to respond so you'll sound more natural speaking Spanish with your Dominican friends, family, and language partners.
Episode 82: Learn Spanish Expressions with Salsa Music [La vida es un carnaval]
Episode 82
Learn Spanish Expressions with Salsa Music [La vida es un carnaval]
Learn how to use the word ‘hay' in Spanish with the lyrics to the song La vida es un carnaval by Celia Cruz.
We'll review several expressions that use hay from the song, and some ways you can incorporate them into your everyday conversations in Spanish.
La Vida es Un Carnaval by Celia Cruz
Episode 81: How to Get Started Raising Bilingual Children, Interview with Dr. Kami Anderson (Bilingual Brown Babies)
Episode 81
How to Get Started Raising Bilingual Children, Interview with Dr. Kami Anderson (Bilingual Brown Babies)
If you're an adult learning Spanish, you might regret that you didn't start when you were younger. And if you have children of your own, you may want them to grow up bilingual so they have an advantage you might not have had.
The good news is, there's no need to wait. In this episode,...
Episode 80: [Q&A] How do I understand the natural speed of Spanish?
Episode 80
Q&A: How do I understand the natural speed of Spanish?
In this episode, I answer a listener question about how to understand Spanish when it's spoken at a natural, conversational pace.
I review the 6 stages of listening comprehension and what to expect during each phase. I also explain which strategies are the most effective for each stage to get you to the next level.
¡No te lo pierdas!
Episode 79: 7 Cuban Expressions from the Telenovela Celia
Episode 79
7 Cuban Expressions from the Telenovela Celia
Learn 7 Cuban Expressions from the first episode of the telenovela about iconic Afro Cuban salsa singer Celia Cruz.
You'll also learn the lyrics to the opening song, and my best tips for learning Spanish with TV series and telenovelas like Celia.
Aprende 7 expresiones cubanas del primer episodio de la telenovela acerca de la icónica cantante de salsa afro-...
Episode 78: 15 Africanismos en el idioma español
Episode 78
15 Africanismos en el idioma español
¿Sabías que hay palabras españolas que vienen de África?
Y que, además, el español es un idioma oficial de Guinea Ecuatorial, que queda en la costa oeste de África.
En el episodio de hoy, hablamos sobre los africanismos–palabras africanas que aparecen en el idioma español.
Did you know there are Spanish words that come from Africa?
Spanish is also an...
Episode 77: Un cubano con pasión por los viajes (entrevista con Andy Guitierraz de Arriba de la bola)
Episode 77
Un cubano con pasión por los viajes (entrevista con Andy Guitierraz de Arriba de la bola)
En este episodio, les traigo una entrevista con Andy Guitierraz.
Él es Youtuber, tiene un canal llamado Arribadelabola, el cual tiene que ver con sus viajes por todo el mundo.
Andy es de Cuba, así que hablamos sobre la situación en la isla, el racismo, y sus experiencias en otros países.
Guantanamera by Playing...
Episode 76: Learn Spanish Expressions with Salsa Music [Valió la Pena]
Episode 76
Learn Spanish Expressions with Salsa Music [Valió la Pena]
Learn Spanish expressions with the salsa song Valió la Pena by Marc Anthony.
This is an upbeat song that's fun to dance to, plus you'll learn some useful expressions you can use in daily conversation.
I also give a few tips to understanding Puerto Rican Spanish.
Coro con letra (Chorus with lyrics)
Episode 75: 5 Rookie Mistakes Spanish Beginners Should Avoid
Episode 75
5 Rookie Mistakes Spanish Beginners Should Avoid
Do you feel like you'll always be a beginner? Or have you been
learning Spanish but are still too embarrassed to speak Spanish?
It may be because your current learning strategy is keeping you stuck at the dreaded beginner phase.
In this episode, I explain 5 common mistakes Spanish beginners make
and, more importantly, how to avoid them. I also give you tips to...
Episode 74: Explore Latin American Culture through Stories Pt. II (Interview with Carolina Quiroga, Tres Cuentos)
Episode 74
Explore Latin American Culture through Stories Pt. II (Interview with Carolina Quiroga, Tres Cuentos)
In this episode, I interview Carolina Quiroga–storyteller, performer, author, and host of the bilingual podcast Tres Cuentos.
Tres Cuentos explores historical and literary narratives of Latin America. Last year, the podcast was mentioned by Oprah magazine as one of the best Latino and Spanish podcasts for learning and laughing.
In our conversation, Carolina shares the power...
Episode 73: Explorando la cultura de América Latina a través de sus cuentos (entrevista con Carolina Quiroga, Tres Cuentos)
Episode 73
Explorando la cultura de América Latina a través de sus cuentos (entrevista con Carolina Quiroga, Tres Cuentos)
In this episode I interview Carolina Quiroga–storyteller, performer, author, and host of the bilingual podcast Tres Cuentos.
Tres Cuentos explores historical and literary narratives of Latin America. Last year, the podcast was mentioned by Oprah magazine as one of the best Latino and Spanish podcasts for learning and laughing.
In our conversation,...
Episode 71: How to Stop Mixing Up Masculine and Feminine Words
Episode 71
How to Stop Mixing Up Masculine and Feminine Words
Are you confused when trying to decide the correct article, la or el, to precede a noun in Spanish?
How do you decide which one to use?
In Spanish, nouns are either masculine or feminine. It's easy to picture gender when we talk about animals or people, but the names for inanimate objects also have a gender.
So, how do we tell them...
Episode 70: 5 Quick Tips to Reboot Your Spanish Study Routine
Episode 70
5 Quick Tips to Reboot Your Spanish Study Routine
Have you been feeling that your motivation is decreasing recently? Maybe you feel as if your study routine has turned completely upside down these days and that makes you feel… bored.
There's nothing to worry about. It is totally normal to feel a little stressed out, a bit anxious or energyless in the situation we are all currently facing.But it doesn't need to...
Episode 69: 10 Tricky False Friends Every Spanish Learner Should Know
Episode 69
10 Tricky False Friends Every Spanish Learner Should Know
Have you ever read or listened to a word in Spanish that sounds or seems really similar to a word in English?
Have you also wondered if that word actually means the same thing in both languages?Well, sometimes they do, but sometimes they differ significantly in meaning.
In this episode, I'm sharing...
Episode 68: Learn Spanish and Travel the World (Interview with Jim and May from Spanish and Go)
Episode 68
Learn Spanish and Travel the World (Interview with Jim & May from Spanish and Go)
In this episode, I interview Jim and May from Spanish and Go. We talk about how they met, why they started Spanish and Go, and how they're adjusting to life since they moved to Puerto Rico.
They also talk about the differences between Mexican and Puerto Rican Spanish, and the most beautiful place they've visited in...
Episode 67: Aprende español con la música [Bajo la tormenta]
Episode 67
Aprende español con la música: Bajo la tormenta
Let's learn Spanish with an uplifting salsa song by Salsa Giants called Bajo la tormenta (Under the Storm). We'll explore how to use el que in Spanish with the letra (lyrics) from the song's chorus.
I'll also give a few phrases you can use in conversations with your language exchange partners as we're all dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic.
Episode 66: Conversación: Las diferencias entre Colombia y Venezuela [Nivel intermedio]
Episode 66
Conversación: Las diferencias entre Colombia y Venezuela [Nivel intermedio]
In this episode, we're going to listen to a conversation between Laura (from Colombia) and Lino (from Venezuela). They talk about the differences between the culture, food, and life in the 2 countries.
This conversation comes from our friends at Español en 3000.
To hear the full conversation, sign up for the course at
Episode 65: What is the Difference Between Spanish in Latin America vs. Spain?
Episode 65
What is the Difference Between Spanish in Latin America vs. Spain?
In this episode, we're going to explore the differences between how Spanish is spoken in Spain and Latin America.
Learn the pronunciation and vocabulary differences in this conversation with Carlos (from Colombia) and Xavi (from Barcelona).
Get the full transcript of their conversation at yabla.com/salsa (sign up for a 15-day free trial).
Episode 64: Aprende español con la música: pronombres posesivos con el tema musical de Narcos
Episode 64
Aprende español con la música: pronombres posesivos con el tema musical de Narcos
If you're stuck in the house, now is the perfect time to improve your Spanish.
After you binge watch some Spanish-language shows on Netflix, check out this week's episode of the podcast where I break down the lyrics to one of the most addictive theme songs for a Netflix series: Tuyo by Rodrigo Amarante.
Plus, you'll learn all about possessive...
Episode 63: 3 Spanish Immersion Mini-Missions You Can Try at Home
Episode 63
3 Spanish Immersion Mini-Missions You Can Try at Home
Do you want to immerse your Spanish but you're afraid to travel because of the COVID-19 corona virus?
Or maybe your budget and schedule just don't allow for a 3-month full immersion trip to Latin America right now.
In this episode, I'll give you 3 simple Spanish immersion mini-missions you can do right now. These are actionable tips that will...
Episode 61: Learn Spanish through Immersion (Interview with Jessica Taylor, For the Love of Bachata)
Episode 61
Learn Spanish through Immersion
Interview with Jessica Taylor, For the Love of Bachata
Do you have to move to a Spanish-speaking country to achieve Spanish fluency? In this episode, I sit down with Jessica Taylor, widely known as DJ Tay, who shares how immersion helped her improve her conversational Spanish fluency beyond formal education. She also gives her advice for creating immersion experiences if you don't have the time and money...
Episode 60: Learn Spanish with Reggaeton Music [Corazón]
Episode 60
Learn Spanish with Reggaeton Music: Corazón
Song Breakdown with Desta Haile, Languages through Music
In this episode, we're translating the lyrics to a bilingual reggaeton hit with Desta Haile from Languages through Music. We give you a breakdown of the meaning of the song Corazón by Maluma featuring Brazilian artist Nego do Borel. You'll also learn Spanish vocabulary related to relationships.
Transcript
...
Episode 59: Effective Language Learning Habits and Venezuelan Spanish
Episode 59
Effective Language Learning Habits and Venezuelan Spanish
Interview with Mari Polyglot
In this episode, I interview polyglot Mari Salvestrini. Mari is originally from Venezuela and speaks Spanish, English, Dutch, Portuguese, Italian, and German. In our conversation, Mari shares her advice for creating effective habits for language learning and enjoy the learning process. She also shares some Spanish words and expressions you'll only...
Episode 58: Learn Spanish with Bachata Music [Vocales de Amor]
Episode 58
Learn Spanish with Bachata Music Vocales de amor
In this episode, we'll be reviewing the lyrics of one of my favorite bachata songs by Joan Soriano: Vocales de amor (Vowels of Love). Learn how reflexive verbs are used in Spanish and the differences between the present continuous in both languages.
Full song with lyrics & translation
Episode 57: Learn Spanish with Merengue Music [Tu sonrisa]
Episode 57
Learn Spanish with Merengue Music Tu sonrisa
Learn how to use verbs like gustar and other Spanish expressions from the lyrics to the song Tu sonrisa by Elvis Crespo. You'll also learn about a different genre of Latin music from the Caribbean
Full song with lyrics & translation
Episode 56: Learn Spanish with Salsa Music [Todo tiene su final]
Episode 56
Episode 56: Learn Spanish with Salsa Music Todo tiene su final
In this episode, I'm sharing the lyrics to one of my favorite salsa songs: Todo tiene su final by Hector Lavoe and Willie Colón. You'll learn new vocabulary from the song lyrics and how to use possessives in Spanish. Enjoy!
Episode 55: The Top 7 Funniest Stories of 2019 [One Year Anniversary Episode!]
Episode 55
The Top 7 Funniest Stories of 2019 [One Year Anniversary Episode!]
In this episode, we share this funniest stories from the podcast over the past year. Thanks for listening and subscribing to the show! We hope to continue bringing you more valuable content in the years to come.
Episode 51: El atajo para mejorar tu comprensión auditiva
Episode 51
El atajo para mejorar tu comprensión auditiva
The Shortcut to Improve Your Listening Comprehension
This episode is provided in both Spanish and English
Most Spanish learners struggle with listening comprehension. It can be so difficult that it leaves them feeling frustrated and hopeless. If you’re going to overcome this problem, you need a plan that works. Put these steps...
Episode 50: Cómo convertirse en un maestro de conversación
Episode 50
Cómo convertirse en un maestro de conversación
How to Become a Master Conversationalist
This episode is provided in both Spanish and English
Have you spent a considerable amount of time studying Spanish but you're still not confident in your ability to speak Spanish? Does the idea of having a conversation with a native speaker give you anxiety, and you're...
Episode 47: Dominican Spanish Dialogue (Introducing a New Friend)
Episode 47
Dominican Spanish Dialogue: Introducing a New Friend
In this episode we'll review a dialogue from the Dominican Spanish 101 course. Maria introduces her friend Christian to her friend Lucia on the beach. Watch the video below for a full transcript of the conversation (Dominican words appear in red).
Episode 46: Conversational Spanish (How to Ask for Directions)
Episode 46
Conversational Spanish: How to Ask for Directions
Do you want to improve your Spanish conversation skills?
To help you build your Spanish conversation skills, in this episode we'll review a dialogue covering a common situation when you're traveling or even just going to a new place for the first time. In this conversation, you'll learn how to ask for and give...
Episode 40: El mejor lugar para aprender español
Episode 40
El mejor lugar para aprender español
Entrevista con Andrea Alger, Spanishland School (Parte 2)
¿Quieres saber el mejor lugar para aprender español? En parte 2 de la conversación con Andrea Alger de Spanishland School, hablamos sobre los acentos de español y cual es lo más fácil de entender. Luego Andrea nos cuenta un poquito sobre su pueblo y comparte algunas palabras colombianas.
Episode 39: 3 Claves para llegar al siguiente nivel de español
Episode 39
3 Claves para llegar al siguiente nivel de español
Entrevista con Andrea Alger, Spanishland School (Parte 1)
¿Quieres mejorar tu español, pero te sientes estancado? En esta entrevista con Andrea Alger de Spanishland School, hablamos sobre las 3 claves para superar los obstáculos y llegar al siguiente nivel de español. Si tu nivel es principiante y quieres ser intermedio, o si ya eres estudiante intermedio...
Episode 37: Aprende español con la música (Rebelión por Joe Arroyo)
Episode 37
Aprende español con la música (Rebelión por Joe Arroyo)
En este episodio, revisamos la letra de la canción Rebelión por Joe Arroyo. Aprende vocabulario nuevo, un poquito sobre la historia de Colombia, y como se usa el imperfecto en español.
Links
Enroll in the Learn Spanish with...
Episode 36: From English-Speaking Latina to Confident Solo Traveler: Kayla's Story
Episode 36
From English-Speaking Latina to Confident Solo Traveler: Kayla's Story
Interview with Kayla Rodriguez, Winner of Spanish Con Salsa Challenge Puerto Rico Vacation (Part 2)
In this episode, we talk about a how Kayla went from responding in English to gaining the confidence to speak Spanish with native Spanish speakers. She also shares…
How solo travel can improve your language learningWhat made her choose an online Spanish...
Episode 35: Are You Nervous Talking to Native Spanish Speakers?
Episode 35
Are You Nervous Talking to Native Spanish Speakers?
Interview with Kayla Rodriguez, Winner of Spanish Con Salsa Challenge Puerto Rico Vacation (Part 1)
In this episode I'll be sharing a conversation with Kayla who joined the Spanish Con Salsa community and started our Learn Spanish with Music course when we first got started. What surprises me about her story is that she's from...
Episode 32: 5 Travel Tips to Create the Perfect Spanish Immersion Experience
Episode 32
5 Travel Tips to Create the Perfect Spanish Immersion Experience
Do you want to travel to Latin America, immerse yourself in the culture, make new friends, and practice your Spanish?
In this episode, I give you 5 expert tips to turn your next trip into an authentic travel experience, not just a normal vacation.
Find out how to prepare in advance to take advantage...
Episode 31: What's Different about Puerto Rican Spanish?
Episode 31
What's Different about Puerto Rican Spanish?
Interview with Jen Ruiz: Travel Blogger, Amazon Bestselling Author, and TEDx Speaker
This is part 2 of a 2-part conversation with Jen Ruiz (listen to part 1 here), travel blogger and bestselling author. In this episode, we'll review some Spanish words you'll only hear in Puerto Rico and what to do when you want to practice speaking Spanish...
Episode 30: Puerto Rico Beyond San Juan (8 Must-See Destinations)
Episode 30
Puerto Rico Beyond San Juan: 8 Must-See Destinations
Interview with Jen Ruiz: Travel Blogger, Amazon Bestselling Author, and TEDx Speaker
In this episode of the podcast I'll be talking to Jen Ruiz, a lawyer turned solo travel blogger and Amazon bestselling author. She is also a TEDx speaker and has been featured by The Washington Post, Huffington Post and ABC News. Jen documents her adventures...
Episode 29: The Best Way to Reach Conversational Fluency
Episode 29
The Best Way to Reach Conversational Fluency
Interview with Shay Spence, Español en 3000
Struggling to go from the beginner level to conversational fluency? In this episode, I talk to Shay Spence, the founder of Español en 3000. We talk all about how he improved his conversational Spanish and some...
Episode 27: Build Your Spanish Conversation Skills
Episode 27
Build Your Spanish Conversation Skills
One of the hardest skills to build as a Spanish learner is the ability to have a conversation with a native Spanish speaker. In episode 26, we talked about how to lose your fear of speaking Spanish. This week, we'll give you some practical tips for building your Spanish conversation skills by listening to a conversation.
Eavesdropping on native...
Episode 26: How to Lose Your Fear of Speaking Spanish
Episode 26
How to Lose Your Fear of Speaking Spanish
Interview with Translator Lindsay Griffiths
Lindsay Griffiths is a doctoral student in the English department at Princeton University. She earned her BA in English Literature and Spanish/English Translation from CUNY Hunter College. She is a published translator and is currently pursuing her studies in African-American and Afro-Latinx literature.
In this episode, Lindsay talks about the #1 challenge to successfully translating...
Episode 25: La fugitiva negringa en Rio
Episode 25
Travel Stories: La fugitiva negringa en Rio
This is part 1 of the new series: Historias de viaje (Travel Stories). I'm sharing my real life (crazy) travel stories. In this first installment, I talk about my trip to Rio de Janerio.
I wanted to go to Carnival, but I ended up taking an unexpected detour to another country after being detained by federal police...
Episode 24: My 5 Favorite Resources for Intermediate Spanish Learners
Episode 24
My 5 Favorite Resources for Intermediate Spanish Learners
In this episode, I share my favorite resources for intermediate Spanish learners. Once you get beyond the beginner phase, you'll need resources to help you get to the next level and make continuous improvement. Listen for how to use the best tools that will work for you at this stage in learning.
Transcript
Episode 23: The 5 Best Spanish Resources for Beginners
Episode 23
The Best Resources for Spanish Beginners
If you're just getting started with Spanish and aren't sure what to do first, this episode is for you. I break down my 5 favorite free and low-cost Spanish resources for beginners, and why you should use them. I also talk about things you should avoid and what to focus on at your level. See...
Episode 22: The Fastest Way to Learn Spanish (Interview with The Urban Eve)
Episode 22
The Fastest Way to Learn Spanish: An Interview with The Urban Eve
You may know my guest in this episode from her YouTube channel The Urban Eve where she talks all about travel and language learning. Eve speaks 8 languages and she’s going to share with us her secret to learning languages quickly and how to deal with mistakes in language learning.
She also...
Episode 19: [Cultural Immersion] Exploring Dominican Bachata with Carlos Cinta
Episode 19
Cultural Immersion: Exploring Dominican Bachata with Carlos Cinta
This week, we're continuing our theme of cultural immersion in our conversation with Carlos Cinta. Carlos is dance instructor, DJ, and music editor. He's most known in the dance community for his expertise in musicality, especially when it comes to Bachata music from the Dominican Republic and staying true the genre's roots.
He's not known for biting...
Episode 18: Immerse Yourself in Latin Music, Dance, and Culture (Interview with Moshe Rasier from Aventura Dance Cruise)
Episode 18
Immerse Yourself in Latin Music, Dance, and Culture
Interview with Moshe Rasier from Aventura Dance Cruise
Have you ever wanted to learn how to dance, visit the Dominican Republic, or go to the concert of your favorite Latin music artist?
What if I told you that you could do all of the above in one event? Enter Aventura, the world’s largest Latin Dance cruise.
In...
BONUS Episode: Song Breakdown of Inmortal by Romeo Santos
BONUS Episode
Song Breakdown of Inmortal by Romeo Santos
In this episode, I breakdown the lyrics of the song “Inmortal” by Romeo Santos featuring Aventura. I also give you some vocbulary and grammar tips along the way. Enjoy!
Episode 14: How to Fast Track Your Fluency with Music (Interview with Desta Haile, Languages through Music)
Episode 14
How to Fast Track Your Fluency with Music: Interview with Desta Haile, Languages through Music
Is your Spanish progress slow because you’re learning in a way that’s boring, ineffective, or culturally irrelevant? In this episode, Desta Haile from Languages through Music shares lessons from her 15 years of experience as a language teacher and musician.
She talks about how...
Episode 13: Aprende español con la música: Cómo expresar deseos con el subjuntivo
Episode 13
Aprende español con la música: Cómo expresar deseos con el subjuntivo
[Nivel Intermedio]
Aprender cómo se usa el subjuntivo en español para expresar deseos. Vamos a ver ejemplos de la canción “Ojalá que llueva café” por Juan Luis Guerra.
Transcript
Time
Transcript
English Translation
00:00-02:09
...
Episode 12: Lost in Translation: How to Avoid Confusion and Communicate Effectively in Intercultural Relationships
Episode 12
Lost in Translation: How to Avoid Confusion and Communicate Effectively in Intercultural Relationships
An Interview with Maribel Quezada-Smith from the podcast Diferente
Learning Spanish goes hand-in-hand with learning about Latino culture. As we learn the language, we meet new people, make friends, and even start dating people outside of our own culture.
In this episode, we're going to talk about intercultural relationships...
Episode 11: 7 Cuban Spanish Words You Didn’t Know
Episode 11
7 Cuban Spanish Words and You Didn’t Know
Like most dialects of Spanish from the Caribbean, Cuban Spanish is different than other forms of the Spanish language. Cubans have a unique accent and also words and expressions that are unique to the island. In this episode, you’ll learn 7 Cuban Spanish words and expressions from a dialogue between native Spanish...
Episode 10: 5 Must-See Attractions to Experience the Real Cuba (Interview with Devyn and Tracey Benson from Conocer Cuba Travel)
Episode 10
5 Must-See Attractions to Experience the Real Cuba: Interview with Devyn and Tracey Benson from Conocer Cuba Travel
If Cuba is on your travel bucket list, this episode is for you. In our conversation with Devyn and Tracey Benson from Conocer Cuba Travel, we talk about some must-see Cuban attractions to experience the real Cuba. Find out the right way to...
Episode 09: 7 Dominican Spanish Words and Expressions You Didn’t Know
Episode 09
7 Dominican Spanish Words and Expressions You Didn’t Know
It’s not only the accent that makes Dominican Spanish unique. There are hundreds of words and expressions that you’ll only hear in the DR. In this episode, we’re joined again by Kesia from the Spanish Con Salsa team to review 7 Dominican words and expressions you probably don’t know. So let’s get...
Episode 08: Learn Spanish with Bachata Music: Talking about Future Plans (Voy Pa’lla by Antony Santos)
Episode 08
Learn Spanish with Bachata Music: Talking about Future Plans (Voy Pa’lla by Antony Santos)
Did you know you can learn Spanish grammar with music? In this episode, we’ll explore how to use the Spanish future tense with the Dominican music genre bachata. We’ll review 2 ways to talk about future plans, give you some vocabulary that you can use in day-to-day conversation, and talk about...
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