Learn Spanish and Go

Spanish and Go

Do you want to learn Spanish and travel? Learn Spanish and travel the world with Jim and May from Spanish and Go.

Advance your listening comprehension through incredible travel stories, cultural conversations, Spanish tips, and interviews with Spanish speakers from around the world.

You’ll hear natural conversational Spanish perfect for the intermediate or advanced Spanish learner. With Spanish and Go, not only will you supercharge your Spanish, but you’ll gain the tools to travel abroad with confidence.

May is a Spanish teacher from Mexico, and Jim is a gringo with a passion for adventure. Together they’ll help you take your Spanish to the next level.

Get the most out of each episode by signing up at https://spanishandgo.com.

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Our Editor's Take

May Larios García and Jim Fricker are more than the Learn Spanish and Go podcast hosts. They are also husband and wife. Their love for language learning was the initial catalyst for their romance. It later led to the creation of the podcast. For that reason, this show feels more than a traditional educational podcast. The hosts' passion helps the listeners connect to the language.

Learn Spanish and Go podcast host García is a native of the Pacific Coast of Mexico. She went to school for foreign language education. She sought a way to keep up with her English when she graduated. She knew she wouldn't take English lessons, so she looked for a platform to help her practice. That's where she met Fricker.

On his end, Minnesota resident Fricker didn't want to be monolingual anymore. The future Learn Spanish and Go podcast host wanted to expand his knowledge. He wanted to learn a new language and decided on Spanish. A coworker recommended a site called Italki. It's a place that matches people from all over the world for language exchange.

García and Fricker chatted for months on this website. At some point, they decided it was time to meet, and García invited Fricker down to Mexico. The pair traveled around Mexico, and Fricker learned about the culture. He fell in love with the country, the language, and García all at once.

It was a natural decision for the couple to combine their passions, she, a Spanish teacher, and he, an audio-video professional. Their first thought was a podcast, but somehow, they settled on a YouTube channel instead. Several years later, they decided to go back to the original plan.

The experience of sharing one's culture and language was life-changing for the pair. They wanted to transfer that experience to their listeners, who may not get to travel, through the podcast Learn Spanish and Go. Fans can learn each week by listening to this program. The show discusses everything from culture to cooking.

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EducationEducation
Society & CultureSociety & Culture
Language LearningLanguage Learning
Places & TravelPlaces & Travel

Episodes

Cuándo y Cómo Usar el Pretérito, Imperfecto, y Antepresente - When and How to Use the Preterite, Imperfect, and Present Perfect
2d ago
Cuándo y Cómo Usar el Pretérito, Imperfecto, y Antepresente - When and How to Use the Preterite, Imperfect, and Present Perfect
Learning Spanish grammar doesn’t have to be overwhelming! In this episode, Sharon Villalobos shares her expertise, helping you master three common past tenses. From the concise pretérito used for specific past actions to the detailed imperfecto for storytelling, and the antepresente bridging past and present, this episode is packed with clear examples, conjugation tips, and personal anecdotes. Whether you’re just starting your Spanish journey or refining your skills, you’ll gain practical insights to elevate your understanding of these essential tenses.Key Takeaways:How to use the pretérito tense for past actions and events with specific time markers.When and why the imperfecto tense is essential for storytelling and setting scenes in the past.Understanding the antepresente tense and its role in connecting past actions to the present.Links And Additional Resources:006 – ¿Puedes Aprender Español Sin Estudiar Gramatica? | Can You Learn Spanish Without Studying Grammar?237- El Subjuntivo | The SubjunctiveLevel up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf 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 laSupport the show
La Flor de Cempasúchil - Historia, Cultura y Leyendas - The Cempasúchil Flower - History, Culture and Legends
05-11-2024
La Flor de Cempasúchil - Historia, Cultura y Leyendas - The Cempasúchil Flower - History, Culture and Legends
In this lively discussion, we share our experience celebrating Día de Muertos in Cholula, Puebla, surrounded by the beautiful cempasúchil fields and festive atmosphere. We dive into the origins and uses of the marigold in Mexico, from its practical applications in gardening and health to its presence in cuisine and legend. Discover the touching love story of Xóchitl and Huitzilin, adding deeper meaning to the flower that guides spirits back to their loved ones each year.Key Takeaways:Discover the rich cultural and historical background of the cempasúchil flower in Mexico.Learn about the practical and medicinal uses of the marigold in Mexican communities.Hear the romantic legend of Xóchitl and Huitzilin, symbolizing love that transcends life and death.Links And Additional Resources:028 – Día De Muertos: Lo Que Tienes Que Saber | Day Of The Dead: What You Need To Know029 – Calaveritas De Azúcar: Origen Y Tradición | Sugar Skulls: Origin And Tradition082 – El Pan De Muerto | Bread Of The Dead135 – Día De Muertos: Respondemos Tus Preguntas | Day Of The Dead: We Answer Your Questions136 – Xoloitzcuintle, Perro Sagrado | Xoloitzcuintle, Sacred Dog187 – Día De Muertos: Una Perspectiva Local | Day Of The Dead: A Local PerspectiveLevel up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf 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!Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show
Mejora tu Español Usando Inteligencia Artificial Parte 2 - Improve your Spanish Using AI Part 2
29-10-2024
Mejora tu Español Usando Inteligencia Artificial Parte 2 - Improve your Spanish Using AI Part 2
Discover how tools like ChatGPT and Google's NotebookLM are transforming language learning with AI. We delve into ChatGPT's new conversational features, allowing you to practice Spanish grammar in real-time while choosing regional accents, like Mexican Spanish, for authentic interaction. Plus, learn about NotebookLM, a powerful AI that can turn your notes and vocabulary lists into interactive conversations, offering context-rich explanations that reinforce what you’re learning. These tools not only make Spanish accessible but also keep it engaging and fun. Don’t miss this chance to bring advanced AI into your language practice!Key Takeaways:Practice Spanish in real-time with ChatGPT, using accents from various Spanish-speaking regions.Learn how Google’s NotebookLM personalizes vocabulary and grammar learning for deeper immersion.See how AI tools can make language practice interactive and tailored to your learning needs.Links And Additional Resources:148 – Mejora Tu Español Usando Inteligencia Artificial | Improve Your Spanish Using Artificial IntelligenceLevel up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf 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
Las Momias de Guanajuato - The Mummies From Guanajuato
22-10-2024
Las Momias de Guanajuato - The Mummies From Guanajuato
Discover the eerie history behind the mummies of Guanajuato, a captivating tourist site with roots in Mexico’s rich cultural and historical tapestry. May explains how these mummies were uncovered due to an exhumation law, turning the city’s cemetery into an unexpected museum of natural preservation. From the tragic deaths of miners to the stunning displays in the Museo de las Momias, we discuss what makes this destination both fascinating and unsettling. Whether you’re curious about the history or planning a visit, we’ll help you decide if this museum is for you!Key Takeaways:The unexpected discovery of the Guanajuato mummies.How historical events and mining shaped the city’s past.What to expect when visiting the Museo de las Momias.Links And Additional Resources:080 – La Ciudad Más Bonita De México Con Laura Barrón | The Most Beautiful City In Mexico With Laura BarronThe Mummies Of Guanajuato (Blog Post)Explore the famous Momias de Guanajuato when you join our Spanish Immersion Retreat in Guanajuato!The Mummies of Guanajuato [Inside the Museum, Cemetery, and More] VideoLevel up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf 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!Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show
El Subjuntivo - The Subjunctive
21-10-2024
El Subjuntivo - The Subjunctive
Struggling with the Spanish subjunctive? You’re not alone! In this episode, we explore how the subjunctive is used in everyday Spanish, why it's so tricky for learners (even for me!), and how it differs from English. May helps simplify the concept by explaining common usage patterns and providing examples that you can immediately apply. Whether you're an intermediate learner or more advanced, this episode will give you a clearer understanding of when and how to use the subjunctive, helping you feel more confident in your Spanish-speaking journey.Key Takeaways:Understand the three main verbal modes in Spanish and how they differ.Learn real-world uses of the subjunctive with practical examples.Discover why the subjunctive is tricky and how to avoid common mistakes.Links And Additional Resources:132 – Frases Más Comunes Del Subjuntivo | The Most Common Phrases Of The Subjunctive Form230 – Aprende De Los Errores De Jaime | Learn From Jim’s Mistakes233 – Aprende De Los Errores De Jaime Parte 2 | Learn From Jim’s Mistakes Part 2Level up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf 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!Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show
Razones para Visitar Colombia - Reasons to Visit Colombia
24-09-2024
Razones para Visitar Colombia - Reasons to Visit Colombia
Join us as we explore the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich musical traditions of Colombia with our guests, Andrea and Nate. We discuss why Colombia is a must-visit destination, from its affordable travel options to its friendly locals and diverse geography. Whether you're curious about Colombian cuisine, want to practice your Spanish, or are considering a trip, this episode offers valuable insights to enhance your travel experience.Key Takeaways:Discover why Colombia is closer and more affordable than you might think.Learn about the warm, welcoming nature of Colombian people and how it enriches travel experiences.Explore Colombia's rich cultural offerings, including music, food, and language immersion opportunities.Links And Additional Resources:014 – Español Colombiano | Colombian Spanish With Andrea From Spanishland School219 – Sobre Colombia | About Colombia220 – La Vida De Pablo Escobar | The Life Of Pablo Escobar229 – Curiosidades Que Aprendimos En Colombia | Curiosities We Learned In Colombia232 – Reflexiones De Colombia | Reflections On ColombiaGet $100 off when you join Nate and Andrea’s language immersion program to boost your Spanish through real-world immersion.Level up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show
Aprende de los Errores de Jaime Parte 2 - Learn From Jim’s Mistakes Part 2
17-09-2024
Aprende de los Errores de Jaime Parte 2 - Learn From Jim’s Mistakes Part 2
Join us for part 2 of our discussion on my language learning struggles! I reflect on the mistakes I'm still making, like mixing up “qué,” “cuál,” and “cuando,” and how I am trying to improve. May shares practical tips for learners, such as focusing on recognizing common triggers for the subjunctive and using the “personal a” correctly. This episode is full of useful advice for anyone looking to sharpen their Spanish skills. Don’t miss out on the insights and encouragement we have to share!Key Takeaways:How to avoid confusing “qué,” “cuál,” and “cuando” in conversation.Why recognizing your mistakes is crucial for language progress.Simple tips to improve your use of the subjunctive and “personal a”.Links And Additional Resources:230 – Aprende De Los Errores De Jaime | Learn From Jim’s MistakesLevel up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf 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 próxiUntethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show
Reflexiones de Colombia - Reflections on Colombia
10-09-2024
Reflexiones de Colombia - Reflections on Colombia
Join us as we share our journey through Colombia, highlighting cities like Bogotá and Medellín, and the stunning small towns of Barichara and Guatapé. We discuss the local architecture, unique accents, and the overall experience of traveling in this diverse country. We’ll also touch on safety tips, cost of living, and what makes Colombia such a memorable destination for travelers.Key Takeaways:Why Bogotá stood out over Medellín.The beauty of Barichara and Guatapé.Tips on safety and affordability when traveling in Colombia.Links And Additional Resources:219 – Sobre Colombia | About Colombia225 – Cosas Que Nos Gustan De Bogotá | Things We Like About Bogotá229 – Curiosidades Que Aprendimos En Colombia | Curiosities We Learned In Colombia189 – Reflexiones De Chile | Reflections About ChileLevel up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf 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!Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show
Choques Culturales a la Inversa | Reverse Cultural Shocks
03-09-2024
Choques Culturales a la Inversa | Reverse Cultural Shocks
Join us as we share our thoughts on returning to the U.S. after years abroad. We talk about the quirks of American life that stand out to us now—like the obsession with ice-filled drinks, constant weather complaints, and massive portion sizes. We also compare driving habits, discuss the higher cost of living, and reflect on how these experiences shape our perspective on life abroad. Whether you’re an expat or just curious about life in another country, this episode offers a relatable and light-hearted look at the contrasts between life in the U.S. and Latin America.Key Takeaways:The surprising cultural differences we noticed returning to the U.S.How living abroad changes your perspective on everyday American habits.Insights on reverse culture shock and adjusting to life back home.Links And Additional Resources:005 – Diferencias Culturales Entre México Y Estados Unidos | Cultural Differences Between Mexico And The USA064 – Choques Culturales En Las Calles De México – Culture Shocks In The Streets Of MexicoLevel up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf 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!Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show
Aprende de los Errores de Jaime - Learn From Jim’s Mistakes
27-08-2024
Aprende de los Errores de Jaime - Learn From Jim’s Mistakes
Join us as we explore the pitfalls that even experienced Spanish learners like Jim encounter, from tricky subjunctive usage to gender agreement issues. We’ll not only pinpoint where Jim slips up but also offer insights on how to avoid these mistakes yourself. Whether you're struggling with similar challenges or just want to refine your Spanish, this episode will help you speak more naturally and confidently.Key Takeaways:The importance of correctly using the subjunctive mood in Spanish.How to improve gender agreement in everyday conversation.The risks of direct translation from English to Spanish and how to avoid them.Links And Additional Resources:050 – Errores Comunes Del Español | Common Mistakes In Spanish132 – Frases Más Comunes Del Subjuntivo | The Most Common Phrases Of The Subjunctive Form139 – Errores Comunes Del Español Parte 2 | Common Mistakes In Spanish Part 2Level up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf 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!Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show
Curiosidades que Aprendimos en Colombia - Curiosities We Learned in Colombia
20-08-2024
Curiosidades que Aprendimos en Colombia - Curiosities We Learned in Colombia
During our stay in Bogotá, we discovered fascinating aspects of the city’s culture, including its history, climate, and unique Spanish dialect. We talk about the vibrant Chapinero neighborhood, local fruits like lulo and feijoa, and the special words and phrases that make Colombian Spanish stand out. You'll also hear about cultural events like the Septimazo, the meaning behind terms like "rolo" and "pola," and some tips on navigating the local dining scene, including how to handle payments at restaurants. If you're curious about Colombian culture or planning to visit, this episode will give you valuable insights.Key Takeaways:Bogotá's unique blend of history, climate, and culture.Key differences between Colombian and Mexican Spanish.Tips on navigating Colombian customs and dining practices.Links And Additional Resources:219 – Sobre Colombia | About Colombia225 – Cosas Que Nos Gustan De Bogotá | Things We Like About BogotáLevel up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf 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!Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show
Eggcorns, Malapropismos, y la Etimología Popular - Eggcorns, Malapropisms and Popular Etymology
13-08-2024
Eggcorns, Malapropismos, y la Etimología Popular - Eggcorns, Malapropisms and Popular Etymology
Join us as we share a lighthearted conversation about eggcorns, malapropisms, and folk etymology. We explore how linguistic slip-ups—like confusing "Alzheimer's disease" with "old-timers disease" or "in one fell swoop" with "in one foul swoop"—become part of everyday language. We'll also take you through some amusing Spanish examples, from national anthem mix-ups to everyday misunderstandings. This episode is all about embracing the fun side of language evolution, reminding us that making mistakes is just part of the journey.Key Takeaways:Discover the concept of eggcorns and how they shape everyday language.Learn about malapropisms and their impact on communication in both English and Spanish.Hear amusing examples of how language mistakes become widely accepted over time.Links And Additional Resources:225 – Cosas Que Nos Gustan De Bogotá | Things We Like About BogotáLevel up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf 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!Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show
De Bombero a Bilingüe: El Camino de Babbs - From Firefighter to Bilingual: Babb’s Journey
06-08-2024
De Bombero a Bilingüe: El Camino de Babbs - From Firefighter to Bilingual: Babb’s Journey
Michael Babb, affectionately known as Babbs, shares his inspiring journey from being a hesitant Spanish speaker to confidently using the language in everyday situations. Listen to his experiences from our immersion retreats in Oaxaca and Guanajuato, and learn how he overcame his fear of making mistakes to fully embrace the language. Babs’ story is a testament to the power of perseverance and offers valuable insights for anyone looking to improve their Spanish skills.Key Takeaways:Overcoming the fear of making mistakes is crucial to language learning.Immersing yourself in the language through travel and practice leads to unexpected and rewarding experiences.Consistent practice, even through daily conversations and media consumption, significantly enhances language proficiency.Links And Additional Resources:Overcome your fear like Babbs did and sign up for Spanish Immersion RetreatsLevel up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show
¿Puedes Aprender Español Mientras Duermes? - Can You Learn Spanish While You Sleep?
30-07-2024
¿Puedes Aprender Español Mientras Duermes? - Can You Learn Spanish While You Sleep?
Join us as we explore the controversial topic of learning Spanish while sleeping. We discuss two scientific studies suggesting the potential for sleep learning and emphasize the crucial role of sleep in consolidating information. Discover our own experiment, where we combine a soothing audio recording with a pre-sleep study routine, and hear our thoughts on the importance of active practice and study. Tune in to find out if you can really learn a language in your sleep and how you can apply these insights to your own learning journey.Key Takeaways:Scientific studies indicate some potential for learning during sleep, highlighting the importance of pre-sleep study.Sleep plays a vital role in consolidating new information, making it essential for effective learning.While unconventional methods like sleep learning can complement your study routine, active practice and mindful studying remain essential for mastering a new language.Links And Additional Resources:Can You Learn Spanish While You Sleep? [Does it Work?] (YouTube Video)Learn Spanish While You Sleep | 66 Essential Beginner Phrases (YouTube Video)167 – La Cirugía Y Recuperación De May | May’s Surgery And RecoveryLevel up your Spanish with our Podcast MembershipGet the full transcript of each episode so you don’t miss a wordListen to an extended breakdown section in English going over the most important words and phrasesTest your comprehension with a multiple choice quizIf you enjoy Learn Spanish and Go, please consider subscribing, rating, and reviewing our podcast on Apple Untethered & Wanderwise: Female Travel Over 45A travel podcast for women over 45 who want to explore this big beautiful world.Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the show