Argentalk: Stories in Argentine Spanish

What does the FIFA World Cup really mean to Argentines? In this special interview, you'll meet Leandro from Todo a Pedal, who cycled thousands of kilometers to follow Argentina around the world. A fascinating conversation about football, travel, hospitality, and the passion that makes Argentina unique. Argentalk is a podcast for intermediate Spanish learners who want to understand Argentine Sp...

In this second part, we return to Merlo — a small mountain town in central Argentina that quietly pulls people in. What starts as a peaceful place full of nature and community slowly reveals something deeper: a different rhythm of life, a strong sense of connection… and a whole world of experiences you wouldn’t expect. Together with my friend Jesi, we explore what you can actually do there — and w...

In this episode, Mariel talks with Arndt, one of the first listeners of Argentalk. Originally from Germany and now living in the United States, Arndt shares how he began learning Spanish during the pandemic and developed a deep connection with Rioplatense Spanish and Argentine culture. Together, they talk about overcoming the fear of speaking, learning through podcasts and daily habits, and what i...

In this episode, I sit down with my friend Jesi to talk about what it really means to start over in Merlo, San Luis — a small mountain town in the heart of Argentina, about 12 hours from Buenos Aires. Jesi shares why she decided to leave her fast-paced life in the big city of Rosario, while I reflect on what it meant to bring my seven-year nomadic journey to an end and choose one place to call hom...

In this episode, I’m going a little more personal and taking you behind the scenes of Argentalk—how traveling, culture shock, and unexpected moments abroad made me see Argentina (and myself) in a completely different way. You’ll hear the real story of why this podcast was born, the little details that pulled me back toward my own culture, and the “very Argentine” codes you only understand by contr...

In this episode, I sit down in Palermo with Ruslán (“Rusentino”), a Russian immigrant living in Buenos Aires, and he opens up about what it really feels like to start over in Argentina. We talk culture shock, the Russian-speaking community in the city, and how he went from zero Spanish to actually communicating in real life. Just when you think you’ve got the full picture, the conversation takes a...

Discover Patagonia through a human lens: in this episode (in Argentine Spanish), we travel from north to south to explore why Patagonia became such a strategic region to populate, what was at stake, and how different waves of people shaped its towns and landscapes—without forgetting the communities that were already there. It’s perfect if you’re coming to Argentina (or just curious) and want real,...

In this episode of Discover Patagonia , I sit down with Angélica, a Mapuche woman with roots in southern Chile who now lives in Argentina. It’s an intimate conversation about identity, belonging, and life in the south. You’ll hear not only Argentine Spanish, but also Chilean Spanish , so it’s a great listening challenge if you’re at an intermediate level. The entire episode is in Spanish. The idea...

In this second part of our Patagonia series, we continue our road trip along Argentina’s iconic Route 40 — but this time, things get a little more unpredictable. Designed especially for intermediate learners of Argentine Spanish , this episode helps you explore real vocabulary, natural expressions, and authentic Argentine culture through a true travel story. Together with Mariano, we dive into wha...

Get ready for a wild ride! In this episode, join me and my travel buddy as we take you on a thrilling journey along the iconic Ruta 40 , spanning across Argentina from north to south. Buckle up and get prepared for insider tips on the best routes, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences. We'll spill the beans on our six-month adventure, sharing stories of laughter, adventure, and cultural i...

In this episode, we head to the far south of Argentina—a land of wild wind, ice, and horizons that feel endless. We’ll move through Patagonia’s most jaw-dropping corners, from dramatic mountain towns to massive glaciers and the legendary “end of the world,” uncovering why this region hits people on a deeper level than they expect. And just when you think it’s all postcard views, there’s another si...

🎬 Before you pack your bags, hit play! In this episode, I’ll tell you which Argentine series and films can help you understand how we think, talk, and live — from everyday humor to our most intense moments in history. Some are funny, others emotional, all of them 100% Argentine. Curious? Press play and discover which ones made the list. This episode is entirely in Argentine Spanish. ----- ✉️ This...

Get ready to explore Argentina like never before! In this episode, we take you from the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the glaciers of Patagonia, the waterfalls of Iguazú, the colorful mountains of the Northwest, and beyond. Discover the top 10 must-see destinations, hidden gems, local food, and unique experiences that will make your trip unforgettable. As always, the entire episode is in Arg...

Want to avoid embarrassing yourself on your first trip to Argentina? This episode reveals 8 crucial unwritten rules that could save you from awkward situations—from words that sound innocent but mean something very different in Argentina, to the real reason you should never arrive on time to a party. Whether it's navigating Argentine greetings, understanding their passionate approach to certai...

¿Sabías que en Argentina hay una pizza que los italianos no reconocen, una pasta que se cocina distinto, y un día del mes donde es obligatorio poner un billete debajo del plato? La comida italiana llegó hace más de un siglo a Buenos Aires, pero lo que pasó después es una historia de transformación total. Desde las pizzerías históricas de Corrientes hasta los ñoquis del 29, en este episodio descubr...

En este episodio de Argentalk nos metemos en la historia del vino argentino: desde las primeras viñas de la colonia hasta las bodegas que hoy son orgullo nacional. Con anécdotas insólitas, leyes que cambiaron el rumbo y personajes que dejaron su huella, el vino nos cuenta mucho más que su sabor. ¿Te animás a descorchar esta historia con nosotros? ----- Argentalk is a podcast for intermediate Spani...

En este episodio de Argentalk te invito a meterte de lleno en uno de los rituales más poderosos de nuestra cultura: el asado. Pero ojo, no se trata solo de carne a la parrilla. Detrás del humo, los fuegos y las brasas, se esconden sabores inesperados, costumbres que dicen mucho de quiénes somos y secretos que hacen que este encuentro sea mucho más que una comida. ¿Querés descubrir qué es lo que re...

Argentine empanadas didn’t originate here—but Argentina is where they truly found their forever home. In this episode, I trace how a recipe that traveled thousands of miles became a patriotic tradition, a neighborhood staple, a reason to celebrate, and a symbol of identity. Get ready to dive into one of the flavors that best explains what it means to be Argentine—through history, culture, and the...

For years, tango and rock were seen as complete opposites. Tango was labeled old people’s music —born in the arrabales, carried by a weeping bandoneón. Rock, on the other hand, came in loud and electric: youth, rebellion, sharp guitars, and attitude. But over time, something unexpected happened. The kids who had grown up around tango—often without choosing it—started letting traces of that music s...

In Argentina, there are two rhythms you don’t just listen to—you live them: Cuarteto and Argentine cumbia . One was born in the hills of Córdoba, the other in the working-class neighborhoods of Greater Buenos Aires. Together, they move massive crowds, shift the mood of an entire city, and even sneak their way into everyday language. It doesn’t matter if you’re in a packed club, hanging out on the...

What is Argentine folclore, really? In the first episode of the Sounds of Argentina series, we dive into the history, the sounds, and the symbols of a tradition that pulses across the country—region by region. You’ll hear short song clips featuring bombo drums , sikus (panpipes) , zapateo footwork , and guitars. And you’ll also discover something surprising: these rhythms weren’t always seen as “t...

Buenos Aires was founded twice—and neither attempt went smoothly. In this episode, we dive into the city’s chaotic early years, marked by conflict, hunger, illegal trade, and bold decisions that shaped its future. How did a forgotten settlement at the edge of the empire turn into one of South America’s most important cities? Hit play and find out. The episode is entirely in Argentine Spanish. Arge...

Ever wondered what porteños do when they’re not hanging around the Obelisco or Caminito? In this episode, I’ll show you a side of Buenos Aires most postcards never mention—local corners, under-the-radar spots, and neighborhoods that have changed a lot in recent years, revealing new vibes and new stories. We’ll also explore historic places that hide surprising details, so you can understand why Bue...

Why is Buenos Aires a city that no one ever describes as “normal”? In this episode, we dive into the intense love-hate relationship that Argentina’s capital sparks in everyone who experiences it. From its unforgettable nightlife to the complex, opinionated personalities of the people who live there, we explore what makes Buenos Aires such a deeply polarizing city. I’ll walk you through its hidden...

In this episode, we dive into the world of Argentine gestures—the hand movements, facial expressions, and body language we use nonstop (often without realizing it) and that can say more than words ever could. From everyday “what’s up?” energy to the classic gestures for “no idea,” “seriously?”, or “that’s the truth,” you’ll learn how Argentines really communicate beyond vocabulary and grammar. We’...