Pride celebrations are often associated with colorful parades and community gatherings, but there is a much deeper history behind them. We explore how the Stonewall uprising helped spark the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, highlight important milestones in the fight for equality, and examine how Pride is celebrated across Latin America and Spain today. Along the way, we discuss key Spanish vocabulary related to gender identity, sexual orientation, and inclusion, helping you expand your language skills while gaining a better understanding of the experiences, challenges, and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn the history behind Pride Month and the events that sparked the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement.
• Discover how Pride is celebrated throughout Latin America and Spain, along with useful Spanish vocabulary related to these events.
• Understand the differences between gender identity, sexual orientation, and gender expression, and learn ways to be a supportive ally.

Links And Additional Resources:

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

Support the show

Have you ever wondered why the axolotl has become such a beloved symbol of Mexico? In this episode, we dive into the history, mythology, and science behind this remarkable amphibian that calls Xochimilco home. We talk about its connection to ancient Mexica culture, its appearance on Mexico’s famous 50-peso bill, and its astonishing ability to regenerate parts of its body. We also discuss the conservation challenges threatening wild axolotl populations, the impact of invasive species and pollution, and the ethical questions surrounding keeping them as pets. Whether you’re interested in Mexican culture, wildlife, or scientific discoveries, this episode will give you a deeper appreciation for one of the world’s most extraordinary creatures.

Key Takeaways:

• The axolotl is an iconic Mexican amphibian known for its unique ability to remain in a juvenile state throughout its life and regenerate complex body parts.
• Deeply connected to Mexica mythology and the history of Xochimilco, the axolotl has become a cultural symbol featured on Mexico’s award-winning 50-peso banknote.
• Despite its popularity, the axolotl is critically endangered in the wild, highlighting the importance of conservation efforts and habitat protection.

Links And Additional Resources:

• 306 – Flor y Fauna en Yucatán con Flor Peraza | Flor & Fauna in Yucatan with Flor Peraza
• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community

Support the show

Soccer in Mexico is much more than just a sport, and in this episode, we dive into why it feels almost like a religion for so many people. We talk about how soccer first arrived in Mexico through British miners, how teams like América, Chivas, Cruz Azul, and Pumas became symbols of different identities, and why the World Cup creates so much excitement across the country. Along the way, we share popular soccer slang and expressions you’ll hear in Mexico, from echarse una cascarita to árbitro vendido, plus chants and phrases fans scream during matches. Even if you’re not a huge sports fan, this episode will help you better understand Mexican culture, humor, and everyday language connected to soccer.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how soccer became deeply connected to Mexican identity and culture
• Discover common Mexican soccer slang, chants, and expressions used by fans
• Understand the history behind famous teams and rivalries like América vs. Chivas

Links And Additional Resources:

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

✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community

Support the show

We dive into the fascinating world of avocados, from their ancient origins in Mesoamerica to their modern global popularity. We share personal stories about growing up with avocados, our favorite dishes like chilaquiles, ceviche, and guacamole, and even reveal some of our secret ingredients for making guacamole at home. Along the way, we explore the meaning behind the word “aguacate,” the story of the famous Hass avocado, Mexico’s role as the world’s top avocado producer, and how this fruit became a worldwide obsession. You’ll also learn fun cultural facts, different names for avocados across Latin America, and practical tips for choosing the perfect ripe avocado at the store.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn about the history and cultural importance of avocados in Mexico and Latin America.
• Discover different avocado varieties, including Hass, Fuerte, and Criollo, and how they differ.
• Get tips for picking ripe avocados and hear our favorite ways to enjoy them in Mexican cuisine.

Links And Additional Resources:

• 257 – Palabras del Náhuatl que Forman Parte de tu Vocabulario | Nahuatl Words That Are Part of Your Vocabulary
• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community

Support the show

In the second part of our series about Mexico’s UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, we dive deeper into some of the country’s most fascinating traditions and cultural expressions. We talk about the Totonac Indigenous Arts Center in Veracruz, the world of charros and charrería, the famous Talavera pottery of Puebla, romantic bolero music, and massive community celebrations like the Romería of the Virgin of Zapopan and the Passion of Christ reenactment in Iztapalapa. Along the way, we share personal stories, cultural observations, and the things that surprised us most while learning about these traditions, helping you better understand the diversity and richness of Mexican culture.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn about several of Mexico’s UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural traditions and why they are culturally important.
• Discover how traditions like charrería, Talavera, and bolero music continue to be preserved and passed down through generations.
• Explore how religion, community, music, craftsmanship, and indigenous knowledge all play an important role in Mexican identity.

Links And Additional Resources:

• 318 – México Vivo: Los Trece Patrimonios Inmateriales de la UNESCO Parte I | Mexico Alive: The Thirteen Intangible Cultural Heritage Sites of UNESCO, Part I
• 317 – ¿Qué es la UNESCO y Por qué Importa Cuando Viajamos? | What is UNESCO and Why Does it Matter When We Travel?
• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community

Support the show

We take you beyond landmarks and into the living traditions that define Mexico’s cultural identity. We explore UNESCO-recognized intangible heritage like Day of the Dead, the Voladores de Papantla, traditional cuisine, and mariachi—breaking down their deeper cultural, spiritual, and historical significance beyond what most people see on the surface. By the end, you’ll gain a richer understanding of how these traditions are preserved, why they matter, and how they continue to shape communities across Mexico today.

Key Takeaways:

• Intangible cultural heritage focuses on living traditions like rituals, music, and food that are actively practiced and passed down through generations.
• Iconic traditions like Day of the Dead and mariachi have deeper cultural and historical roots beyond their popularized versions.
• Preserving these traditions helps protect indigenous identity, language, and community connections in modern Mexico.

Links And Additional Resources:

• 319 – México Vivo: Los Trece Patrimonios Inmateriales de la UNESCO Parte II | Mexico Alive: The Thirteen Intangible Cultural Heritage Sites of UNESCO, Part II
• 317 – ¿Qué es la UNESCO y Por qué Importa Cuando Viajamos? | What is UNESCO and Why Does it Matter When We Travel?
• Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership
  • Get the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a word
  • Listen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrases
  • Test your comprehension with a multiple choice quiz

✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community

Support the show

You’ve probably seen the “UNESCO World Heritage Site” label while traveling—but do you actually know what it means? In this episode, we reveal the surprising truth behind UNESCO, from how places earn this prestigious title to the hidden responsibilities that come with it. We also share real examples from our travels in Mexico, uncover lesser-known types of recognitions (yes, even food and traditions!), and explain why this global system plays a much bigger role in culture, tourism, and even protection during war than most people realize.

Key Takeaways:

• UNESCO protects more than landmarks—it also preserves traditions, knowledge, and cultural practices.
• Becoming a UNESCO site involves a strict process and long-term responsibility, not just prestige.
• UNESCO recognition helps protect global heritage while promoting cultural pride and meaningful travel.

Links And Additional Resources:

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

If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pand

✈️ Join La Escala, our online Spanish and Go community for Spanish learners who want more practice, structure, and connection. Annual plans include 2 months free.
👉 Learn more: spanishandgo.com/community

Support the show

We take you through Zacatlán de las Manzanas in Puebla, a lush highland town surrounded by forests, ravines, and cool mountain air. From its rich apple industry—turned into cider, pies, breads, and more—to its vibrant cultural identity shaped by the Pueblos Mágicos program, this town is full of unexpected discoveries. We also share our experience riding a local tram tour that revealed historic landmarks, canyon viewpoints, and the fascinating Callejón del Hueso with its legendary stories and iconic vitromurals. These massive mosaic artworks tell the story of Zacatlán’s creative transformation, blending international influence with local artistry. Along the way, we also explore its food, scenic views, and relaxed atmosphere that makes it a refreshing escape from city life. If you’re looking for a destination near Mexico City or Puebla that combines nature, culture, and authenticity, this episode will show you why Zacatlán deserves a spot on your list.

Key Takeaways:

• Why Zacatlán de las Manzanas is one of Mexico’s most unique and scenic Pueblos Mágicos
• How apples shaped the town’s culture, economy, and everyday life
• The story behind its famous vitromurals and the cultural transformation they represent

Links And Additional Resources:

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

If you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or Pandora. This helps us reach more listeners like you. ¡Hasta la próxima!

Support the show