Learn Spanish with Stories

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• How Can Latin America Be Fixed? (¿Cómo Se Arregla Latinoamérica?)

  Jun 9, 2026 · 30:37

  Honestly, we all love Latin America, but we're not blind to the fact that many things simply don't work or could be better. Whether it's at the political or social level, Latin America has the potential to be a much more developed region. But what is the cause behind all of it? Is it a problem of corruption or bad decisions? Could it even be... a cultural issue? In this special DUAL NARRATOR episode and SEASON FINALE, two friends meet up to discuss how they would address the many issues that affect Latin America and, if possible, even fix the region forever.  Will they be able to find the root of the problem? Find out in the Season 5 finale of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5462

• Avándaro, The Day That Changed Mexican Rock (Avándaro, El Día que Cambió el Rock Mexicano)

  Jun 2, 2026 · 28:43

  Rock music has always been somewhat controversial in conservative societies, and Mexico (a highly religious and Catholic country) held great distrust and contempt towards this music which, according to some, was linked to the "Devil" and "bad behaviors". But then Avándaro happened... an improvised festival which, unexpectedly, blew up and attracted 10x the crowds they had initially expected, and marked the beginning of a new age for rock music in Mexico. In fact, if you've ever listened to Mexican Rock (which we highly recommend, as they've produced some amazing bands), Avándaro could be cited as one of the greatest influences for its development across the decades.  But how did Avándaro cause rock music to be banned? Why did the government and press make up crazy stories that never actually occurred here? And how did it all end up in a literal earthquake? Find out in the latest episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, and enjoy! Rock on! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5429

• How the Internet Changed Spanish (Cómo Internet Cambió el Español)

  May 26, 2026 · 29:04

  The internet has shaped every language it has come in contact with, and Spanish is no different. It doesn't help that Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, with 20 independent countries and one territory (Puerto Rico, if you're curious) speaking it in their own unique ways. But why did this happen, and how have social media and video platforms helped accelerate this shift? And why on Earth do people who have never set foot in Mexico actually say "wey"? Find out this and other life-changing questions in our latest episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast - enjoy! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5396

• Violence in Mexico, The Shadow of El Mencho (Violencia en México, La Sombra de El Mencho)

  May 19, 2026 · 29:49

  Mexico is no stranger to cartel-related violence, and early in 2026, we witnessed how the death of a cartel leader caused an explosion of terror across 12 states - businesses burned, roads blocked off, and even an airport being attacked. Flights were canceled, transport was paralyzed, and kids had to stay home, as the situation was not only unpredictable but also highly volatile, with the cartel presence embedded deeply in each and every local community in one way or another. But who was the leader whose death caused this all? This Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, AKA 'El Mencho'? Why did he command so much respect, and how high had he been not only on Mexico's but the global Most Wanted list? Today, we'll find out in the latest episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5363

• Music Without Translation: The Bad Bunny Phenomenon (Música Sin Traducción, El Fenómeno Bad Bunny)

  May 12, 2026 · 29:26

  Bad Bunny. A name, a personality, a legend (maybe)? Everyone knows him, everybody feels something towards him, whether it's love, admiration, or pure rejection. He's the face for Latin American music right now, and he seems to be skyrocketing towards more and more success as the years pass. But what's the story behind this singer, this "Conejo Malo" whose real name is Benito Antonio? It's about time somebody told the story behind his nickname, his origins, the timeline that took him from school notes to Super Bowl, and why he's now a global phenomenon. And that's exactly what we're doing in this week's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast - enjoy! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5330

• What if...? Latin America Under the British Flag (What if...? Latinoamérica Bajo la Bandera Británica)

  May 5, 2026 · 33:20

  Living in Latin America, you'll hear the following nostalgic phrase at least once in your lifetime (especially if somebody is complaining about laziness or bad habits): "If only we had been colonized by the Brits..." This belief, shared by a certain portion of the Latin American region and often used when looking north at the vastly superior technological development achieved in the United States, is an expression of the infamous frustrations toward everything that is wrong with Latin America and often blamed on the Spanish colonization: corruption, a lack of work ethic, mediocrity, violence... So, in this episode, we actually go ahead and rewrite history - to tell the story of "What if" the British had been the ones to arrive on Caribbean and South American shores instead of the Spanish (actually, we've made Christopher Columbus a British sympathizer here, for the sake of simplicity) - and how that would have affected the entirety not only of the region, but of the world. Enjoy the episode and don't forget - it's all playful fiction! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5297

• How Latin America Has Changed the World (Cómo América Latina Ha Cambiado el Mundo)

  Apr 28, 2026 · 32:20

  Let's do an exercise - since we've already explored how Latin America has been changed by Spanish colonization, by the influence of the United States, and other nations... why don't we spin it around for once, and ask how Latin America has influenced the rest of the world? After all, Italy wouldn't have its beloved tomatoes if not for the Aztecs and Andeans cultivating it; we would not be able to eat fried potatoes if not for Peru and Bolivia; and we have Mexico to thank for corn (which we enjoy in so many ways)! But it isn't just food... it's language, culture, music, metals and other resources, and all of the incredible things that Latin America has shared with the rest of the globe. In this week's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, we discover what all of these things are, and how they came to influence the world. Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5264

• Venezuela and the Fall of a Dictatorship (Venezuela y la Caída de una Dictadura)

  Apr 21, 2026 · 33:04

  On January 3, 2026, Venezuela's dictator, Nicolás Maduro, was removed from power. Plenty of us already know this headline, and many are already aware of how this looked from the outside - Donald Trump's government prepared the attack meticulously before executing, and Maduro ended up in chains, headed to New York aboard the USS Iwo Jima. However, very few have wondered what it felt like for Venezuelans - who, either inside or outside the country, had to deal with the information blackout and the uncertainty that followed... Would this mean the liberation of their country, or would vengeance from Maduro's allies soon follow? In this episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, we explore both the events leading up to and the aftermath of Maduro's removal from a Venezuelan point of view and attempt to understand how people in the crisis-stricken feel today about this sudden and violent change in their daily lives. Enjoy! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5231

• Life in Latin America’s Most Dangerous Neighborhoods (Cómo Se Vive en los Barrios Más Peligrosos de Latinoamérica)

  Apr 14, 2026 · 30:27

  We like to highlight the beauty and magic of Latin America in as many episodes as we can... but sometimes, there is "another" truth that is not as pretty: Latin America, for all its magic, can be a very dangerous place. In today's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, we're heading to the region's most dangerous neighborhoods (places commonly known as barrios or favelas, depending on the country), where being alert is the default status, and life is typically shorter. These are places where poverty reigns, danger lurks around every corner, and nights are the moment for quiet reflection - and yet... the neighbors still somehow make their existence work, living relatively normal lives, and trying to work their way to a better life, like the rest of us.  Let's take a glimpse at a more authentic side of life in Latin America, past the tourism and the rich neighborhoods... Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5198

• The Names That Shaped Latin America (Los Nombres que Construyeron América Latina)

  Apr 7, 2026 · 29:24

  Where do names come from, and most importantly, where do country names come from? Usually, they have some sort of historic link with tribes who already lived there, with a great historic figure, or simply as a description of something that explorers saw. But in Latin America, quite a few names were given due to transcription or translation errors, such as "Costa Rica" being literally from the explorers noting "this coast looks rich, let's come back and plunder it". Yes, country names can carry quite a funny history, and Latin America is a good example - but there's more than just humor in this week's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast... you are about to learn a lot of fascinating history, and finally get the grasp of why Venezuela is based off a beautiful European city, why Honduras is actually a 'deep' country, and what the "guay" means in Paraguay and Uruguay. Enjoy the episode, and don't forget to subscribe! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5165

• Latin American Lullabies (Historias de Cuna Latinoamericanas)

  Mar 31, 2026 · 31:27

  Do you remember the first lullabies that were sung to you as a baby? Probably not, but there definitely is a song in your mind that brings you back to your earliest, most innocent days. Latin America, a cultural mix, has plenty of lullabies with interesting origins. Some came to arrive all the way from Africa, with the slaves that crossed the oceans and worked tirelessly under colonial rule; others were passed down from the ancestral peoples who called Latin America their home (and certainly did not call it "Latin America", of course). While another group of songs were brought by the Spanish colonizers, who had their own beliefs, their own dreams and worldviews. In this special DUAL NARRATOR episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, we listen to those songs that marked our childhoods, sing them out loud, and travel across the region to discover the origins, tunes, and meanings of all of these wonderful expressions of life. Enjoy! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5132

• María Corina Machado, The Woman Who Stole Donald Trump's Nobel Prize (María Corina Machado, La Mujer que le Quitó el Nobel a Donald Trump)

  Mar 24, 2026 · 31:03

  Unless you've missed a lot of the recent news, you'll probably have heard about María Corina Machado's Nobel Peace Prize award, and how US President Donald Trump soon became the recipient of her winning medal... but what is the backstory behind all of this? Too much has been spoken about Venezuela from sides that are extremely politically driven (on both sides of the spectrum), but who really is María Corina Machado? And what did she do to earn her Nobel Prize? In this week's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, we dive into her political journey, why her efforts have mattered so much, how she fought a literal dictatorship without violence, and how she ended up "stealing" Donald Trump's Peace Prize before generously donating it. Enjoy the episode! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5099

• San Basilio de Palenque, The First Free Town in America (San Basilio de Palenque, El Primer Pueblo Libre de América)

  Mar 17, 2026 · 28:36

  There are some really amazing stories regarding independence and freedom in Latin America, but what if I told you that the episode you're about to listen to is about the first settlement to gain freedom in ALL of the Americas (North AND South America): San Basilio de Palenque. Located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, Cartagena was one of the main slave hubs of the continent, and a place where thousands of African men and women disembarked every year to be sold to colonists that needed manpower for their land and homes. And this slavery was brutal - these peoples from the Congo, Angola, Guinea, and Senegal. But a ray of hope appeared in the form of a man: a rebel leader named Benkos Biohó, who decided to take a group of slaves (including his family) and escape to a new place, a new village, where freedom would be born in the Americas, and inevitable change would begin in a place called San Basilio de Palenque... find out more in this week's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5066

• The Kidnapped Truth, The Mystery of Jesús de Galíndez (La Verdad Secuestrada, El Misterio de Jesús de Galíndez)

  Mar 10, 2026 · 29:17

  Latin America has suffered under fascism throughout its history, and right-wing dictators have made a strong negative impact on the region throughout several decades of the region's existence. These, perhaps, have been the more bloodthirsty of past and present dictators, willing to harm citizens to effectively further their goals. One of the most terrible dictators Latin America ever had was Rafael Leónidas Trujillo, who we featured in a past season of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, but this episode isn't centered on him - it tells the mysterious, chilling tale of Jesús de Galíndez, a Spanish intellectual who stood up to fascism in both Europe and Latin America, before disappearing... forever. In this episode, we attempt to understand the events surrounding his disappearance, what happened to him later, and what legacy this brave man left behind in a world of darkness. Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5033

• The Flags That Changed Latin America (Las Banderas que Cambiaron América Latina)

  Mar 3, 2026 · 28:32

  Some of the most interesting and curious flags in the world are those in Latin America; after all, aren't some, like, almost identical to each other? And why would that be? Besides, what's with Paraguay having a two-sided flag (the ONLY one in the world to have this characteristic)? Or Brazil having "Ordem e Progresso" stamped across the center of its flag? And why do Uruguay and Argentina both have tributes to the Sun? Well, all of these mysteries, the history of these flags, and why they're so awesome will become clear in the latest episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast: enjoy! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/5000

• Manuela Sáenz, The Liberator of the Liberator (Manuela Sáenz, La Libertadora del Libertador)

  Feb 24, 2026 · 27:46

  History tells too many tales of great men, but what about the incredible women that liberated countries and fought valiantly in wars where they were overpowered and outnumbered? Manuela Sáenz was such a woman who, despite being seen at the time as little more than "Simón Bolívar's love interest" was actually a political and military mastermind in freeing the colonies from Spanish rule. A courageous woman who was not afraid of putting herself at risk to cooperate and coordinate the independentist forces to fight back against their oppressors, she was a rebel from her early years, and in today's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories Podcast, we reflect on how exactly she contributed to this crucial war. Enjoy the episode, and find out why Manuela Sáenz de Vergara y Aizpuru became known as the "Liberator of the Liberator", why she earned so many military awards, and how instrumental she became to the freedom of millions of South Americans. Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4967

• Daniel's Journey, A Road Trip Through Latin America (El Viaje de Daniel, Un Camino por Toda América Latina)

  Feb 17, 2026 · 27:00

  One of the most exciting plans you can have for traveling across Latin America is by road trip. After all, it is one of the most biologically, climatologically, and socially diverse regions in the world, with over 670 million people spread across 20+ countries, and there is so much to see. In today's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, our protagonist Daniel finally embarks on the trip of a lifetime: going from the east of Mexico all around Latin America, and returning to the west of the same country. Join him in this special episode where, through exciting human experiences and becoming one with nature, Daniel learns why Latin America is such a wonderful, magical, and very warm place. [Note: This story is inspired by so many travelers who have had similar road trips, getting to know Latin America's true spirit through immersion]. Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4934

• Rubén Blades, From the Barrio to Harvard (Rubén Blades, Del Barrio a Harvard)

  Feb 10, 2026 · 28:38

  Latin America has produced some of the most amazing artists, and today's star of our podcast is no exception. Rubén Blades, born to two musicians in a humble neighborhood, grew rapidly to become one of the world's household names when it comes to salsa and other tropical music. However, he didn't stay limited to being recognized as a world-class "salsero", oh no... he studied at Harvard, also became a movie and series star, featuring in massive Hollywood hits (Predator 2, Fear the Walking Dead), and eventually came back home to Panama to launch his race for the presidency. In this episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, we explore the life of one of the world's most recognized Latin American artists, and discover just how he accomplished so much, so quickly. Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4901

• The American Footprint in Latin America (La Huella Estadounidense en América Latina)

  Feb 3, 2026 · 30:22

  The United States and Latin America are connected in a massive amount of ways, and it's not just a matter of geography: generations have grown up listening to American music, watching American TV and Hollywood productions, and receiving a heavy inflow of cultural influences in every aspect. But it hasn't just been culture - it's been technology, politics, worldviews, and so much more. The truth is that United States and Latin America are not just two separate entities but an ecosystem that, previously, was heavily skewed towards the US providing most of the influence, but which seems to be gradually reversing... Find out more about the U.S. influences Latin America and how this trend might be changing as we speak in this week's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4868

• Spanglish, Portuñol, and Llanito: How These Hybrid Languages Came About (Spanglish, Portuñol y Llanito, Cómo Nacen Estos Híbridos)

  Jan 27, 2026 · 28:09

  Hybrid languages - have you ever heard of them? Spanish has at least two main hybrid languages: Spanglish (which you've probably come in contact with at some point) and Portuñol, which features heavily in the border areas between Brazil and other South American nations. But I'm sure you've never heard of Llanito, and other variations of the Spanish language. In this fun episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, we go back to our roots, which is language learning, and explore Spanglish (the mix of Spanish and English), Portuñol (Portuguese and Spanish) and Llanito (an entertaining mix of Andalusian Spanish and British English), so that you can understand how they came to exist, WHY they came to exist, and where they're evolving towards. Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4835

• Guantánamo From the Inside (Guantánamo Desde Adentro)

  Jan 20, 2026 · 31:08

  One of the scariest and most controversial places on the planet is located in Cuba, in a city of the same name: Guantánamo Bay detention camp. Established by President George W. Bush in 2002, following the Islamist attacks of September 11, it was created to house terrorism suspects and "illegal enemy combatants". However, the reality is that this prison has held many an innocent, those simply falsely accused of belonging to a terrorist organization by others who decided to 'sell' them in exchange for a bounty paid by the United States. Not to mention the amount of torture and mistreatment that prisoners have received while captive... In this special DUAL NARRATOR episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, we cover a realistic interview between an international reporter and a captive of Guantánamo, as he tells his tale, not only so that the entire world may know what occurs within its walls, but also so that they may never forget.  Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4802

• Occult Rituals, From Pachamama to Caribbean Voodoo (Rituales Ocultos, de la Pachamama al Vudú Caribeño)

  Jan 13, 2026 · 31:58

  Latin America is a melting pot of cultures, as you'll already know - Spanish culture mixing with Amerindian tradition, and with African rituals combining with Aztec, Mayan, British and... Dutch(?) influences, somehow - so you already know that there's going to be very bold and unique ways of perceiving life, death, religion and belief systems in general. So, it comes as no surprise that the occult features so heavily in Latin American culture, especially in the daily lives of certain sectors of society. Part of this is as mysterious and scary as voodoo, while other traditions, such as Pachamama and Sunday Mass, are considered more harmless. In this episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, we explore just exactly what it means to believe in Latin America, and how each individual approaches their connection with the beyond... enjoy! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4769

• Juana Azurduy, A Forgotten Heroine (Juana Azurduy, Una Heroína Olvidada)

  Jan 6, 2026 · 28:58

  They say that crisis and pain create great men and women, but life really went a bit too far with Juana Azurduy - first, she lost her parents, and then she would go on to lose her children... but it's what happened in the middle of these things that would mark her remarkable story as a heroine in the fight for Bolivia's independence. A curious girl during her infancy, she developed a courageous and free-spirited personality that would lead her to great things and make her challenge the preconceptions of life under Spanish rules, pushing her to join the guerrillas in fighting for their country's independence and freedom from colonization. But tragedy, as I already mentioned, would strike again and again, and as strong as Juana was, her life would end in a somewhat unfortunate way, with even Simón Bolívar making an appearance towards the very end. Find out more about Juana Azurduy in our latest episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4736

• Trained for War, Used for Crime (Entrenados para la Guerra, Usados por el Crimen)

  Dec 30, 2025 · 29:23

  As a soldier in Latin America, what happens when you retire? One could think that each state would have a great retirement plan for each soldier who has risked their life for their nation: a decent home, a dignified compensation, health benefits... but this couldn't be further from reality.  The reality is that soldiers are practically discarded - thrown aside, left to fend for themselves in a job market that has no interest in hiring men and women who were trained for violence... and this is where the Cartel steps in. In this story, the latest episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, we listen to the story behind Julián Ramírez, a soldier who, after dedicating his life to protecting Colombia from the guerrilla and illegal armed forces, is simply cast aside, shortly before he is tricked into becoming a member of the Cartel in Mexico... and all of the tension, dilemmas and internal chaos that this will soon cause him. Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4703

• Pepe Mujica, The President Who Was Just Another Neighbor (Pepe Mujica, El Presidente que Era un Vecino Más)

  Dec 23, 2025 · 28:47

  Despite the traditionally sketchy leaders we've had in Latin America in the past century, one of the most memorable and internationally loved Latin American presidents in recent times has been José Alberto "Pepe" Mujica. Even though he was quite unconventional in his origins, the way he spoke, and especially the fact that he was jailed for his participation as a guerrilla fighter (among the ranks of the Tupamaros), Pepe Mujica managed to convince even some of the most conservative citizens to vote for him and support his leadership, and even after his death, he is still remembered and appreciated. But who was he, really? Why did he forsake riches and luxuries? And what did his life look like behind the scenes? Find out in this week's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, all while learning Spanish! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4671

• One Español and a Thousand Accents, A Trip Without a Dictionary (Un Español y Mil Acentos, Un Viaje Sin Diccionario)

  Dec 16, 2025 · 28:25

  Spanish is just like English - everyone speaks it in the same way. I'm kidding: we know that English has tons of dialects, and Spanish is just the same in this aspect. Even more complicated is the fact that Spanish is an official language in 21 countries and is spoken widely across 6 continents (with Oceania, not Antarctica being the one where it isn't). So, what I'm getting at here is that there's bound to be confusion at some point when a Spaniard speaks with a Chilean, or a Mexican travels to Bolivia. And this last point is exactly what happens in our episode, when 40-year-old Esteban travels from Mexico City to a number of other countries and cities, and starts meeting new people. Join him as he navigates geographically, but also culturally across Latin America, learning new words and experiencing wonderful new moments that help him explore the Spanish language - all while you also learn cool and unique new vocabulary in this new episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4637

• La Pola, The Young Woman Who Defied an Empire (La Pola, La Joven que Desafió a un Imperio)

  Dec 9, 2025 · 30:30

  There have been some wonderful female heroes throughout history, and South America is no exception. Policarpa Salavarrieta (La Pola) is one of the most famous cases of them all: a woman who defied a massive colonizing force to wake the people of Colombia to the desire for freedom and independence, and whose story ended in an ambiguous (positive) way. In this episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, we are going to explore the life of La Pola, what drove her to fight the Spanish colonization of her nation, how she managed to stay "low-key" while others were rapidly caught and arrested, and how she left a lasting mark on the history of Colombia. Enjoy the episode - we always make sure you learn Spanish while discovering more about Latin America! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4604

• When Central America Said Enough Is Enough, The Fall of William Walker (Cuando Centroamérica Dijo Basta, La Caída de William Walker)

  Dec 2, 2025 · 30:49

  The US and other international powers have been meddling in Latin America for as long as we can remember, but one of the worst cases of foreign intervention (ever) occurred in Nicaragua, in the mid-19th Century (and may explain Nicaragua's strong apprehension towards the US today). William Walker. Manifest Destiny. Have you ever heard of these terms? William Walker was a military man with ambitions to rule, who took advantage of a civil war in Nicaragua to offer his help and show up as the heroic savior of the country... But things soon turned ugly as he decided he had more plans than just earning a living as a mercenary, and decided to take power as the ruling leader of Nicaragua, soon expanding his plans to take over other countries in Central America, and an international war broke out! However, his plans didn't end up as he wished they had, and an ugly surprise was awaiting Walker in the conclusion of this tale... but you'll have to listen to the latest episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast to find out how exactly is all went down! Enjoy! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4571

• Uruguay 1930, the First Football World Cup (Uruguay 1930, El Primer Mundial de Fútbol)

  Nov 25, 2025 · 29:43

  The FIFA World Cup is probably the world's biggest sport event, viewed by over 1 BILLION people worldwide, but how did it begin, and why did a tiny South American country, Uruguay, get the honor of hosting its first ever edition? In this episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories Podcast, we travel all the way back to the late 1920s, when preparations were just starting for the first ever FIFA World Cup, and discover why the United Kingdom (and England, especially) ended up feeling bitter about this competition. Also, we learn about the legendary Jules Rimet, and why the first version of the World Cup trophy was dedicated to him. Enjoy the history of this wonderful sporting event while learning Spanish with our latest episode! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4539

• José Antonio Páez, The Peasant Who Became President (José Antonio Páez, El Peón Que Se Volvió Presidente)

  Nov 18, 2025 · 30:18

  Though controversial, it would be plausible to say that Venezuela has always had controversial leaders, with some bringing glory to the nation, and others bringing sorrow and pain. In the case of José Antonio Páez, both things were simultaneously true, and this strongman and farmer-turned-soldier is an often discussed individual in the history not only of Venezuela, but all nations belonging to "La Gran Colombia" (Colombia, Ecuador, Panama, and Venezuela). Famously credited for one of the most incredible military successes ever - at the Battle of Las Queseras del Medio - where he led 153 mounted soldiers against a force of 1,500 Spaniards and won (losing less than 5 men in the process!), Páez's story is one worth talking about... and that's what today's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories Podcast is about. Dictator? Hero? You decide... Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4505

• Is Latinidad Innate or Acquired? (¿La Latinidad Nace o Se Hace?)

  Nov 11, 2025 · 31:12

  What makes somebody "Latin American?" (or Latino*?) Is it being born in Latin America? Is it being born to Latino parents? Or is it adopting the culture and actually feeling Latino? In this special DUAL NARRATOR episode, we go over this frustration that so many Latinos and non-Latinos can go through, especially those who have been born to Latino parents outside of Latin America, or who have left Latin America at a young age. Starring Elisa, a young Dominican Lady who left DR at a very young age, and Tobias, born and raised in the UK but now living in Argentina, we learn how the "Latinidad" is something that can be as easily born into as it can be acquired, and why Latino pride goes beyond blood. Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4472 *NOTE: In this episode, our host Anthony also explains why "Latinx" is actually not a thing, and why you should stop using this aberration of a word. Give it a listen!

• Guaraní, Paraguay's Hidden Heart (Guaraníes, El Corazón Escondido de Paraguay)

  Nov 4, 2025 · 31:06

  There is a country in South America that is particularly "different" from its neighbors in many ways, but the most interesting is its language and culture: I'm talking about Paraguay. Not only is the only nation where the most-spoken language is an indigenous language (Guaraní), but it also has a very strong "mestizo" presence (over 93%), making it one of the most homogeneous demographies in Latin America.  But who are the Guaraní, and what makes them so special - and more importantly, what does the future hold for this unique culture, language, and Paraguay as the world evolves? Find out the answers and gain more Spanish fluency in the latest episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4439

• The Crisis that Sunk Latin America (La Crisis que Hundió a Latinoamérica)

  Oct 28, 2025 · 33:15

  Economic crises are nothing new to us, especially in these times of unpredictability and instability, but Latin America took it to a WHOLE new level in the 1970s. During a particularly wealthy economic period, banks in the US and other rich nations began to lend billions in cash with few conditions (really, all they asked was "pay it later"), with Latin American governments siphoning it all up to modernize their nations and invest in the future... sadly, the prices of raw materials that these countries exported soon fell, and the Federal Reserve decided to raise interest rates. Soon, leaders of these nations started to tremble, and when banks arrived to demand their money and the first of these countries simply said: "We can't pay", all hell broke loose. Find out how it happened and what happened next in this weeks¡ episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories Podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4406

• Backpacking with Sayings, A Trip through Latin America (Refranes con Mochila, Un Viaje por Latinoamérica)

  Oct 21, 2025 · 28:12

  Latin America, a region of almost 700 million people, speaks mostly one language (Brazil will have to forgive us for this generalization), but we're not talking of one single Spanish language that everyone understands. In fact, each country has its own dialects, sayings, and differences that can be as crucial as they can be careful - after all, some completely normal words in one nation could sound rude or weird in others. So how do you, as a Spanish learner, avoid making a mistake and/or seeming non-native as soon as you open your mouth? Find out the best sayings in each country, how to use them and sound like you've been there for years, and the differences from one dialect to the next, in the latest Learn Spanish with Stories podcast by Lingo Mastery. Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4373

• The Thousand Day War (La Guerra de los Mil Días)

  Oct 14, 2025 · 32:26

  We rarely hear about the local wars in South America, but some were just as ugly and crude as the historical wars in Europe and the US - and the Thousand Day War (technically, the 1,130 Day War, but the given name sounds catchier) was no different. A conflict that initiated when Colombia's Liberals decided that enough was enough, and that they would not stand for the corruption and impoverishment committed by the Conservatives, and picked up their tools and makeshift weapons to fight. A war that started small but soon lit up across the nation like wildfire, this horrible civil conflict destroyed homes, lands, and families. But who won, and why is this story so linked to the birth of Panama as a nation? Find out in the latest episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories Podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4341

• Spain in Free Fall, The New Latin America? (España en Caída Libre, ¿La Nueva Latinoamérica?)

  Oct 7, 2025 · 30:34

  Spain, just like Latin America, has been a popular place to visit and move to as an expat, due to its beautiful beaches, modern cities, and great food. However, also like Latin America, it is affected by corruption, a lack of opportunities, and overall, bad policies that are making life harder for its citizens. And while many of its ministers and politicians flock to social media to make claims on how well the country is doing, the youth of the country is questioning if it's worth it to continue living there, with 60% of the younger generation claiming that they don't think their lives will be better than their parents'. In this episode, we do a deep dive on just what is holding Spain back and, ironically, what might gradually turn Spain into a European version of Latin America if they don't make the right fixes now. Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/4076

• To Stay or to Go? The Latin American Dilemma (¿Quedarse o Partir? El Dilema Latinoamericano)

  Jun 3, 2025 · 33:13

  Life in Latin America can be stressful or it can be the most comfortable existence you'll ever have - it all depends on how you look at it. In today's DUAL NARRATOR episode and Season 4 finale, we fly over to warm, sunny Cali to join Daniel (a Colombian looking to move to Spain) and Sofia (a Spaniard looking to move to Colombia) as they spend a few months together and explore the next step of their lives and careers. Is Latin America a place worth living in, or is it only good enough for a short vacation? Find out in this amazing season finale - enjoy! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/3482

• The Worst Kind of Impunity, The Atrocious Case of Linda Loaiza (La Peor Impunidad, El Atroz Caso de Linda Loaiza)

  May 27, 2025 · 31:38

  One of the saddest things about crime in Latin America is that even the worst criminals can benefit from impunity. In the case of Linda Loaiza, this was demonstrated in the most brazen and shameless way possible. Linda was a young woman from the west of Venezuela who moved to the capital, Caracas, to study and become a veterinarian. But one day, she was kidnapped by a wealthy and well-connected individual who decided to make her his latest victim; what followed was months of pain and humiliation, and it would not end once she was rescued. In this episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, we discover the story of Linda Loaiza, a woman who went through some of the worst events possible to come out a stronger, determined individual who would go on to fight injustice for the rest of her life. Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/3450

• Rigoberta Menchú, Courage in the Form of a Woman (Rigoberta Menchú, El Coraje Hecho Mujer)

  May 20, 2025 · 31:11

  Guatemala has a Nobel prize winner who you've probably never heard of, but she's one of the most incredible cases of a small voice being powerful enough to topple giants: Rigoberta Menchú. A poor indigenous woman in a nation where belonging to any of those three conditions reduces you to background noise, Rigoberta lost multiple family members in the terrible events of the 36-year Guatemalan Civil War, and knew that she had to speak up if nobody else would. What followed was a journey of legend, as this woman broke each and every barrier, becoming unstoppable despite the opposition, and eventually leading her to become world-famous and recognized as a true freedom fighter. Discover her story in this week's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/3317

• The Revolution of “Rock en Español” (La Revolución del Rock en Español)

  May 13, 2025 · 30:33

  Rock music is no longer as popular in the world as it once was (and what a loss THAT has been, am I right?) - but rock "in español" has a very important place in world history. Not only was it super difficult to produce and promote (thanks to the fact that Latin American dictatorships would read the lyrics with magnifying glasses to ensure it wasn't "inciting violence"), but also because labels looked to fund more traditional Latin American music. In this episode, we discover how exactly the top Latin American rock bands of all time managed to overcome these endless obstacles, carve their place as musical legends, and remain in the collective memory of global citizens forever. Rock on! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/3251

• El Mozote, The Massacre the U.S. Knew About and Kept Quiet (El Mozote, La Masacre que Estados Unidos Conocía y Calló)

  May 6, 2025 · 30:24

  The US has done incredible things in its history, but it has also been involved in some of the most tragic events, too. The El Mozote Massacre that occurred on December 11, 1981, is among the worst of these US-sponsored tragedies. With communist guerrilla movements spreading across El Salvador, both the American and Salvadoran governments knew that they had to quickly put a stop to this before it got out of their control, so they planned "Operación Rescate" (Operation Rescue), a so-called "anti-guerrilla" operation that would end up costing many hundreds of lives of innocents along the way. But the worst of the operation occurred in a small rural community known as El Mozote, where demons dressed as men (so to speak) committed horrific crimes on men, women, and children. Find out more about this terrible tragedy and how the inhabitants of both El Mozote and El Salvador finally got justice for it recently in this episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/3185

• Dictatorship in Venezuela, The Country without a Future (Dictadura en Venezuela, El País que se Quedó sin Futuro)

  Apr 29, 2025 · 34:12

  Today's episode is different. And it's different not because it's a true story (because we always feature those on our podcast), but because your narrator, Anthony, went through the events expressed in the tale. This is the reality of how Venezuela collapsed, of what led 7 million people to flee the country and seek a better life elsewhere. It's an account of how any average family (in this case, a family that supported the government at its beginning) lost all its net worth and soon struggled to combat starvation. This is the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, where we help you learn Spanish while showing you the reality of life in Latin America (both good and bad). So let's dive in, and we hope it helps you understand why so many Venezuelans are now spread across the globe.  Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/3086

• Blood, Sweat, and Silver, Latin America's Resources (Sangre, Sudor y Plata, Recursos de Latinoamérica)

  Apr 22, 2025 · 34:38

  The lithium in your phone's battery, maybe the device you're using to read this - it may probably have come from Chile, and the copper in the wires of your charger may have come from Peru... Latin America is and has always been one of the main provider of precious metals in the world. And this didn't begin with the Spanish and Portuguese colonization, either... the natives had been mining long before the arrivals of Europeans, and knew how to keep these operations sustainable (something we struggle with today). However, when these outsiders arrived, production took the main stage, and millions of tons were extracted and taken from the Americas to Europe. But returning to the present: how does Latin America help keep the world running with its resources, and what is the story behind this? Let's dive in, in this week's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/3020

• Legends of Latin America, the Journey of Quetzalcoatl (Leyendas de Latinoamérica, el Viaje de Quetzalcóatl)

  Apr 15, 2025 · 33:08

  The gods of ancient Latin American belief were very interesting and different from what we have to come to know in Asia, Europe, and North America... they were somewhat more human, said to walk among us when they felt like it, and collaborated closely with animals and nature to make things occur. Quetzalcóatl, the Feathered Serpent, is one such example, perhaps the greatest of them all... disguised as a noble but aging traveler, he walked among men and taught them the marvels of science and engineering, until he was targeted by Tezcatlipoca, the god of conflict. Today, we tell their stories. And the coolest thing about this episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast? It's not just about what was going on in Mesoamerica, but also what was happening in the Inca Empire, when Inti (the Sun) and Mama Quilla (the Moon), made their appearance and began to influence life itself. Check it out and enjoy! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/2888

• Retiring in Latin America, a Dream Retreat? (Jubilación en Latinoamérica, ¿Retiro Soñado?)

  Apr 8, 2025 · 28:41

  Retiring in Latin America as a foreigner = 👍​ Retiring in Latin America as a Latin American = ​☠️​ Let's face it - when you think of the Caribbean, Brazilian beaches, the Angel Falls in Venezuela, Mexican resorts and Argentine plains, there's a feeling of relief and joy that you can spend your final years just exploring the land and living for cheap. But what does it look like for a native, and how they survive while receiving a pension that is probably 30% (on average) of what they used to earn while working?  In this episode, we find out more first-hand from Juan, a new retiree who, after doing his initial paperwork, has just found out the sad reality of being a native retiree in Latin America. Enjoy this week's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/2756

• José Rizal, An Unarmed Hero (José Rizal, Un Héroe Sin Armas)

  Apr 1, 2025 · 30:31

  There is a Filipino hero who, despite raising his voice and an entire nation against the Spanish colonizers, is so respected globally that he has his own monument in the center of Madrid, Spain's capital. His name is José Rizal - but what's the story behind this incredible figure, who, unlike Simón Bolívar or José de Martín (among others), never raised his arms against the Spanish and instead led with beautiful words, such as:  "Justice is the foremost virtue of the civilizing races. It subdues the barbarous nations, while injustice arouses the weakest". And what spark did Rizal light that eventually led him to his untimely and premature end at the hands of a Spanish firing squad? Find out in this week's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/2723

• Left vs. Right, The Battle for Latin America (Izquierda vs. Derecha, La Batalla por Latinoamérica)

  Mar 25, 2025 · 31:51

  If you think only North American politics get crazy around, before or after election season, then you're very mistaken: Latin America has a serious problem with political polarization. And the worst part, frankly (as a Latin American myself), is that both sides are very poor at doing their job. Because sadly, both the left and the right wing of politics have failed to follow through with their promises, and have let their voters down, every single time. Whether it's the left giving away money until nations plummet into crisis and dictatorships like Maduro and Ortega come into power... Or the right wing actually going out and hunting people because they supported the other side - committing atrocities that we also covered extensively in the Operation Condor episode - Latin America's politics need a real fix. If you want to learn more, then listen to this  week's special DUAL NARRATOR episode, where two friends decide to debate on which side is worse: Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/2690

• Should Spain Apologize to Latin America? (¿Debería España Pedir Perdón a América Latina?)

  Mar 18, 2025 · 30:31

  "Spain should ask for forgiveness" - these were the words of Mexico's new president, Claudia Sheinbaum, shortly after being elected. She took it a step further and decided not to invite Spain's King Felipe VI after he failed to respond, and this initiated a grand debate: should Spain apologize for what their ancestors did 500 years ago? Some claim it is a fair demand by a number of Latin American groups, while others believe it to be excessive - after all, who from today was alive back then? - but everybody has their own opinion. In this week's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast, we follow a young man named Armando, as he explores this subject and digs deep into what Latin Americans and Spaniards really think about colonization and the consequences it has had until this day. Enjoy the episode! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/2591

• Trump vs. Latin America (Trump vs América Latina)

  Mar 11, 2025 · 31:03

  Donald Trump is back in power, and he is already taking action to bring mass migration into the US from the south to a screeching halt (understandable based on the numbers we were witnessing, but not a popular decision). But he's also affecting Latin America in many other ways, several of which are extremely harmful for local economies. You see: Donald Trump is "America First", through and through, and though Latin America has been a geographical and philosophical ally for a long time, it seems that this may be about to change. Still, how is Trump going head to head with the Latin American region, and how will this affect every country south of el Río Bravo? Find out in this week's episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast! Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/2460

• Edmundo Chirinos, The Case that Shocked Venezuela (Edmundo Chirinos, El Caso que Estremeció a Venezuela)

  Mar 4, 2025 · 29:23

  If you think about a psychiatrist, you usually associate this with someone of very high social standing, and if it's somebody who even served the president, then there's no way they could be a wrongdoer, right? Right...? Wrong. Edmundo Chirinos, despite even being President Hugo Chavez's psychiatrist at one point, led a despicable double life in which he sedated and abused his female patients, committing terrible acts to hundreds of women, the enormous majority of which were unware of what he was doing. But when things got out of control with one particular patient and he ended up taking her life, a countdown began for this horrible individual, and a significant amount of things were about to change in his life and in the lives of those around him. Find out more in this week's chilling episode of the Learn Spanish with Stories podcast: Transcript of this episode is available at: https://podcast.lingomastery.com/listen/2327