Learn Spanish and Go

La Tienda en Cada Esquina de México - The Store on Every Corner of Mexico

We dive into the surprising reach of Oxxo, from its 22,000+ stores across Mexico to its rapid growth in countries like Colombia, Chile, Peru, and Brazil. We discuss the 2,500 products you can find in a single location, the ready-to-eat foods, and the essential services it offers—like paying bills, withdrawing cash, buying bus tickets, and even handling government payments. We also explore Spin by Oxxo, its growing financial service that’s helping millions of people access convenient banking tools. By the end of the episode, you’ll understand why Oxxo is more than a convenience store—it’s a powerhouse woven into the daily rhythm of Mexican life. Key Takeaways: * Why Oxxo is considered one of the most important convenience stores in Mexico. * How its everyday services—from bill payments to cash deposits—make life easier for millions. * The surprising products, expansion, and financial tools behind Oxxo’s massive success. Relevant Links And Additional Resources: * 264 – Medicina Extremadamente Barata en México | Extremely Affordable Medicine in Mexico [https://spanishandgo.com/podcast/extremely-affordable-medicine-in-mexico] * Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership [https://spanishandgo.com/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 [https://spanishandgo.com/support-us]

La Cocina Ancestral Oaxaqueña con Evangelina - The Ancient Oaxacan Kitchen with Evangelina

May talks with Evangelina about the origins of Cocina Nana Vira and how a challenging moment in her family’s life transformed into a project that now welcomes visitors from around the world. She shares the cultural meaning and emotional depth behind Oaxaca’s ceremonial moles—coloradito, mole negro, and mole chichilo—and explains why traditional tools like the metate and fire-based cooking are essential to preserving authentic Zapotec flavors. We also bring listeners into the heart of our Oaxaca immersion experience, where students explore local markets, learn regional traditions, and cook alongside Evangelina in her wood-fired kitchen. Key Takeaways: * The powerful story behind Cocina Nana Vira and how Evangelina’s family revived ancestral cooking traditions. * The cultural significance of Oaxaca’s ceremonial moles and what makes each one unique. * Why traditional tools, native ingredients, and fire-based techniques are essential to preserving Zapotec culinary heritage. Relevant Links And Additional Resources: * 158 – Técnicas Ancestrales En La Cocina Mexicana Parte 2 | Ancient Techniques In Mexican Cuisine Part 2 [https://spanishandgo.com/podcast/ancient-techniques-in-mexican-cuisine-part-2] * 157 – Técnicas Ancestrales En La Cocina Mexicana Parte 1 | Ancient Techniques In Mexican Cuisine Part 1 [https://spanishandgo.com/podcast/ancient-techniques-in-mexican-cuisine-part-1] * Boost your confidence in real-life Spanish conversations with our Spanish Immersion Retreats [https://spanishandgo.com/immersion-retreats] * Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership [https://spanishandgo.com/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 [https://spanishandgo.com/support-us]

¿Qué Pasó con la ch, ll, y rr? - What happened to “ch,” “ll”, and “rr”?

We walk you through why letters like ch, ll, and even rr used to appear in the Spanish alphabet—and why they were eventually removed. We explain the role of the Real Academia Española and the network of language academies that oversee updates to Spanish, including the move to classify these as dígrafos rather than independent letters. You’ll also hear how pronunciation, regional differences, and even the renaming of the letter y impact learners today. Whether you’ve been speaking Spanish for decades or you’re just getting started, this episode will help you understand the modern 27-letter alphabet and avoid common pronunciation mistakes. Key Takeaways: * Why ch, ll, and rr are no longer part of the Spanish alphabet * How the RAE and the Association of Academies make decisions about the language * The importance of correct alphabet pronunciation for clearer, more confident Spanish speaking Relevant Links And Additional Resources: * How To Say The Alphabet In Spanish [Blog Post] [https://spanishandgo.com/learn/how-to-say-the-alphabet-in-spanish] * Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership [https://spanishandgo.com/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 [https://spanishandgo.com/support-us]

Español Útil para un Viaje a México - Useful Spanish for a Trip to Mexico

We’re sharing the essential everyday phrases you’ll hear constantly in Mexico — and how to use them confidently and politely. You’ll learn when to say provecho, por favor, gracias, con permiso, disculpa, perdón, and salud, plus the cultural meaning behind each expression, so you know exactly what feels natural to locals. We also talk about the importance of asking permission before taking photos and how these small habits can help you navigate markets, restaurants, and crowded streets with ease. Whether you’re preparing for a trip or trying to sound more natural in Spanish, these phrases will make every interaction smoother and more respectful. Key Takeaways: * How to use provecho, por favor, gracias, and salud naturally in daily situations * The difference between con permiso, disculpa, and perdón * Why asking “¿Te puedo tomar una foto?” is a sign of respect and cultural awareness Relevant Links And Additional Resources: * Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership [https://spanishandgo.com/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 [https://spanishandgo.com/support-us]

Me Paró la Policía en Puebla - The Police Stopped Me in Puebla

Before heading to Oaxaca, we had a busy week filled with errands, appointments, and last-minute preparations. But the real story happened when I got pulled over by a police officer for having tinted windows — something that’s perfectly normal in other parts of Mexico but not allowed in Puebla. We talk about how the situation unfolded, what we learned about cultural differences when dealing with authority, and how using ChatGPT (yes, right there on the street!) helped clarify the law and calm things down. It’s a mix of nerves, quick thinking, and a few laughs in the end. Key Takeaways: * How traffic laws — and their enforcement — can vary across different parts of Mexico. * Why it’s important to stay calm, polite, and informed when dealing with local authorities. * How technology can help you navigate real-life challenges abroad. Relevant Links And Additional Resources: * Level up your Spanish with our Podcast Membership [https://spanishandgo.com/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 [https://spanishandgo.com/support-us]