Could getting dental treatment in Mexico actually be worth it? I share my seven-to-eight-month Invisalign journey, including why I decided to fix my overbite, how much I paid, what the treatment was really like, and the biggest challenge I faced: not being able to snack whenever I wanted! I also explain how Invisalign works, compare it with traditional braces, and talk about the functional benefits I noticed beyond having a better-looking smile. May and I also discuss our experiences with healthcare outside the United States and why a clinic that looks less luxurious doesn’t necessarily provide lower-quality care. If you’ve ever considered getting dental or medical treatment abroad, this episode will give you a firsthand look at what the experience can be like.

Key Takeaways:

• Why I decided to get Invisalign and how correcting my bite improved more than just the appearance of my smile.
• What Invisalign is actually like—including the cost, treatment timeline, discomfort, eating restrictions, and what happens after the active treatment ends.
• What I learned from getting dental treatment in Mexico and why I think it’s worth researching options abroad before assuming treatment in the U.S. is the only choice.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 210 – El Camino A La Visión 20/20 Con Jaime | The Path To 20/20 Vision With Jaime
• 171 – Turismo Médico En México – Experiencias Y Costos | Medical Tourism In Mexico – Experiences And Costs
• 167 – La Cirugía Y Recuperación De May | May’s Surgery And Recovery
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Chiles en nogada are one of Mexico’s most celebrated seasonal dishes, and we’re sharing what makes them so special. We talk about our own experiences trying vegetarian versions in Puebla, explain what goes into preparing everything from the stuffed poblano pepper to the famous walnut sauce, and highlight why this colorful dish is such an important part of Mexican culture. We also discuss the legendary origin story of chiles en nogada, whether it’s history or folklore, and how food and storytelling have shaped Mexican traditions for generations. Along the way, we explain why the dish is only available for a short season, why it’s one of Mexico’s most expensive traditional meals, and even settle the debate over whether it’s better capeado (battered) or without the batter. By the end, you’ll understand why tasting chiles en nogada in Puebla is an experience every food lover should have.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover why chiles en nogada are a symbol of Mexican history, culture, and national identity—not just a delicious meal.
• Learn how this iconic dish is prepared, from roasting and stuffing the poblano pepper to making the rich walnut sauce and assembling its signature flavors.
• Explore the legends, traditions, and seasonal customs surrounding chiles en nogada, and find out why Puebla is the best place to experience them.

Relevant Links And Additional Resources:

• 273 – Mole Poblano – El Sabor Profundo De México | Mole Poblano – The Deep Flavor Of Mexico
• 158 – Técnicas Ancestrales En La Cocina Mexicana Parte 2 | Ancient Techniques In Mexican Cuisine Part 2
• 130 – Comidas Mexicanas Que No Conoces | Mexican Foods You Don’t Know About
• 013 – La Comida Mexicana | Mexican Food
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Becoming parents has given us a whole new appreciation for children’s songs, so in this episode, we’re sharing some of our favorites with Santi and the memories they bring back. We talk about bilingual nursery rhymes, classic Mexican lullabies, interactive songs that make little ones laugh, and why some English nursery rhymes have surprisingly dark (or misunderstood) histories. Along the way, you’ll learn about traditional songs like Los Pollitos Dicen, Martinillo, and Ricky Ran, discover how children’s songs are translated across languages, and hear us compare the games and counting rhymes we grew up with in Mexico and the United States. Whether you’re learning Spanish, raising bilingual kids, or simply feeling nostalgic about your childhood, this episode offers a fun glimpse into the music, traditions, and family moments that connect generations.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover popular Mexican and English nursery rhymes, their meanings, and the traditions behind them.
• Learn how children’s songs are translated across languages while keeping their rhythm, melody, and cultural charm.
• Compare childhood games, counting rhymes, and family traditions from Mexico and the United States through our own experiences.

Links And Additional Resources:

• 325 – Un Año con Santi: Lo Que Hemos Aprendido Como Papás | A Year with Santi: What We’ve Learned as Parents
• 270 – Padres Primerizos – ¡Bienvenido, Santi! | First-time Parents – Welcome, Santi!
• 247 – El Coco, El Ratoncito Pérez, y Otras Creencias de los Niños Latinos | El Coco, El Ratoncito Pérez, and Other Beliefs of Latin Children
• 108 – Errores en la Música en Español | Errors in Spanish Music
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Summer vacations mean something different depending on where you grew up, and in this episode, we look back on the childhood memories that shaped us—from playing outside in the rain in Mexico to biking through Minnesota during long summer days. We also talk about how owning a home and raising our son, Santi, has changed our relationship with travel, why we’re trying to squeeze in a few more trips before he turns two, and the realities of traveling as parents. Along the way, we compare summer traditions in Mexico and the U.S., explain why “summer” doesn’t always mean hot weather, share travel mishaps caused by unexpected climates, and discuss what an ideal vacation looks like for us today.

Key Takeaways:

• How becoming parents and homeowners has changed the way we think about traveling.
• The differences between summer vacations, weather, and school breaks in Mexico and the United States.
• Why some of our favorite childhood summer memories had nothing to do with traveling at all.everyday culture

Links And Additional Resources:

• 326 – Viajar al Caribe en Temporada de Sargazo | Traveling to the Caribbean During Sargassum Season
• 312 – Cómo Crear tu Propia Inmersión en Español Sin Viajar | How to Create Your Own Spanish Immersion Without Traveling
• 294 – Español Útil para un Viaje a México | Useful Spanish for a Trip to Mexico
• 292 – Aprendizajes de Nuestro Primer Viaje con Santi | Learnings From Our First Trip with Santi
• 250 – Tipos de Viajes, ¿Cuál Prefieres Tú? | Types of trips, which one do you prefer?
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What happens when an entire country jokingly decides to “cancel” English for a day? In this episode, we explain the story behind Operativo No Inglés, the meaning of expressions like ponerse la verde and ¿Y si sí?, and the hilarious ways famous brands translated their names into Spanish to support Mexico’s national team. Along the way, you’ll learn about Mexican humor, internet culture, and some useful vocabulary and expressions that will help you better understand everyday Spanish and life in Mexico.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn the meanings and cultural context of the expressions ponerse la verde and ¿Y si sí?
• Discover the funniest Spanish versions of famous international brand names during Operativo No Inglés
• Gain a deeper understanding of Mexican humor, patriotism, and how social media reflects everyday culture

Links And Additional Resources:

• 321 – El Fútbol en México – Soccer in Mexico
• 310 – Cognados y Falsos Amigos en Español e Inglés | Cognates and False Friends in Spanish and English
• 283 – Spanglish: Identidad, Mezcla y Aprendizaje | Spanglish: Identity, Mixture and Learning
• 278 – Fuera Gringo | Gringo Go Home
• 231 – Choques Culturales a la Inversa | Reverse Cultural Shocks
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Have you ever wondered how much of Nacho Libre is actually true? We talk about what the movie gets right (and wrong), the stereotypes it presents about Mexico, and the remarkable life of Sergio Gutiérrez Benítez—better known as Fray Tormenta—a priest who secretly became a luchador to support hundreds of children through his orphanage. We also celebrate our July Student of the Month, Jaime, whose inspiring language-learning journey reminds us that consistency and enthusiasm are the keys to making progress in Spanish.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover the true story behind Nacho Libre and how Fray Tormenta dedicated his life to helping vulnerable children.
• Learn how Hollywood adapted—and simplified—the real events, along with our thoughts on the movie’s portrayal of Mexico and Mexican culture.
• Meet our July Student of the Month and hear practical advice for staying consistent and motivated while learning Spanish.

Links And Additional Resources:

• 321 – El Fútbol en México – Soccer in Mexico
• 318 – México Vivo: Los Trece Patrimonios Inmateriales de la UNESCO Parte I | Mexico Alive: The Thirteen Intangible Cultural Heritage Sites of UNESCO, Part I
• 314 – La Semana Santa en Iztapalapa | The Holy Week in Iztapalapa
• 243 – Alebrijes, Tonales, y Animales Fantásticos | Alebrijes, Tonales, and Fantastic Animals
• 211 – Cine y Series Para Mejorar tu Español | Movies and Series to Improve your Spanish
• 176 – La Lucha Libre | The “Lucha Libre”
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If you’re planning a trip to the Riviera Maya or simply want to understand one of the Caribbean’s biggest environmental challenges, this episode is for you. We explain what sargassum is, why so much of it has been washing ashore, how it impacts local communities and tourism, and what travelers can realistically expect during sargassum season. Along the way, we share our own experiences in Playa del Carmen, practical advice for staying flexible while traveling, and useful Spanish questions you can ask locals to find the best beach conditions and discover other amazing activities beyond the coast.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn what sargassum is, why it has become more widespread, and the environmental factors contributing to its growth.
• Discover practical tips for traveling during sargassum season, including how to check beach conditions and adjust your plans.
• Practice useful Spanish phrases to ask locals for recommendations and confidently navigate unexpected changes during your trip.

Links And Additional Resources:

• 306 – Flor y Fauna en Yucatán con Flor Peraza | Flor & Fauna in Yucatan with Flor Peraza
• 294 – Español Útil para un Viaje a México | Useful Spanish for a Trip to Mexico
• 213 – Nuestra Boda Maya | Our Mayan Wedding
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A lot can change in just one year! In this episode, we look back on our first year of parenthood, sharing the lessons, challenges, and joyful moments that have shaped our journey with Santi. We talk about how our confidence as parents has grown, the reality of raising a bilingual child, and the cultural differences we experienced while celebrating Santi’s first birthday in both Mexico and the United States. We also share some of our favorite milestones, from his first words and signs to walking, communicating, and developing his own unique personality.

Key Takeaways:

• How parenting changes during the first year and the lessons we learned along the way
• The joys and challenges of raising a bilingual child in a bicultural family
• Cultural differences between birthday celebrations in Mexico and the United States

Links And Additional Resources:

• 284 – Un Progenitor, Un Idioma | One Parent, One Language
• 270 – Padres Primerizos – ¡Bienvenido, Santi! | First-time Parents – Welcome, Santi!
• 263 – Lo Que Nadie Nos Dijo del Embarazo – Sorpresas, Retos y Momentos Reales | What No One Told Us About Pregnancy – Surprises, Challenges, and Real Moments
• 253 – ¡Bebé a Bordo! | Baby on Board!
• 138 – Las Mañanitas | The Little Mornings
• 089 – El Curioso Origen de las Piñatas – The Curious Origins of Piñatas
• 016 – Alternancia de Código | Code Switching
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We take a deep dive into the Guelaguetza, Oaxaca’s iconic festival of sharing, community, and cultural pride. We talk about the origins of the celebration, the meaning behind the word “Guelaguetza,” what visitors can expect during the festivities, and how the event showcases the incredible diversity of Oaxaca’s Indigenous communities. Whether you’re planning a trip to Oaxaca or simply curious about Mexican culture, this episode will help you better understand the traditions, history, and spirit that make the Guelaguetza such a unique and unforgettable celebration.

Key Takeaways:

• The meaning of Guelaguetza goes far beyond a festival—it represents reciprocity, generosity, and community.
• The modern celebration grew from Indigenous traditions and helped Oaxaca recover after a devastating 1931 earthquake.
• The Guelaguetza offers a unique opportunity to experience Oaxaca’s cultural, linguistic, and artistic diversity in one place.

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?
• 296 – La Cocina Ancestral Oaxaqueña con Evangelina | The Ancient Oaxacan Kitchen with Evangelina
• 258 – Las Mieles Oaxaqueñas | The Oaxacan Honeys
• 256 – Monte Albán – La Ciudad Sagrada de Oaxaca | Monte Albán – The Sacred City in Oaxaca
• 192 – Los 7 Moles Oaxaqueños | The 7 Oaxacan Moles
• Explore Oaxaca and boost your confidence in real-life Spanish conversations with our Spanish Immersion Retreats
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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:

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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
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