Learn Persian with Podgap

What is inflation? How does purchasing power work? And what are interest rates, budget deficits, and government debt? In this episode, Mohsen and Hanieh explore the world of economics in simple, accessible Persian. Learn essential economic vocabulary, improve your listening skills, and discover how economics affects our everyday lives. Get the accompanying learning materials and support Podgap on...

Welcome to Learn Persian by Podgap, a podcast designed to help you learn Persian through natural, everyday conversations. In today’s episode, Hanieh and Mohsen are talking about a one-day autumn trip into nature. You’ll learn useful Persian vocabulary and everyday expressions related to hiking, nature, weather, walking trails, safety, clothing, and outdoor activities. This episode is especially us...

In this episode of Podgap, we follow another conversation between Bahram and Behnoush. Their current home is too small, so they decide to move to a bigger apartment. In their conversation, they talk about the new home, its location, size, number of rooms, kitchen, floor, and rent. This is a practical conversation for Persian learners who want to learn how to talk about apartments and homes in ever...

In this episode of Podgap, you'll learn real-life Persian through an authentic story about a car accident in Iran. We present the same situation in two different styles: Telling the story to spouse (friendly, intimate Persian) A short news report from a newspaper (journalistic Persian) This episode is perfect for Persian learners who want to: Expand their Persian vocabulary with practical, everyda...

In this episode of Podgap, you'll learn real-life Persian through an authentic story about a car accident in Iran. We present the same situation in two different styles: Casual conversation between two drivers after a crash (colloquial Persian) Formal conversation with police at the accident scene (official Persian) This episode is perfect for Persian learners who want to: Expand their Persian voc...

In this episode of Podgap, we explore one of Iran’s most beloved accompaniments: Shirazi salad. Hanieh and Mohsen guide you through the basics in a clear, practical way, making Persian language learning tasty and approachable. From ingredients to preparation steps and flavor tips, follow along with simple language and actionable guidance. You’ll also find practical exercises and a quick review of...

In this episode of Podgap, join Bahrām and Behnoush as they go to the supermarket to buy some things for their home. You’ll first listen to their conversation slowly, learn the most important new words and phrases, and then listen to the dialogue again at a faster pace. Finally, we’ll test your understanding with a few questions about the conversation. In this episode, you’ll learn useful everyday...

In this episode of Podgap, we talk about Iraj Khajeh Amiri, one of the most iconic and memorable voices in Iranian music. Known as the “Pahlavan-e Avaz” (Master of Singing), Iraj had a remarkable career spanning more than seven decades. We talk about his life, his powerful and distinctive voice, his connection with traditional Iranian music, and his memorable performances in classic Iranian films....

Have you ever had a small disagreement that suddenly turned into a serious argument? In this episode of Podgap, Behnoush and Bahram have a little argument after Bahram forgets an important plan they made for Friday lunch! Through their conversation, you'll learn several natural and commonly used Persian expressions that you can hear in everyday conversations, especially when people are arguing or...

How good is your Persian vocabulary? Let’s put it to the test! Welcome to Podgap, the podcast that helps you learn Persian (Farsi) through real, simple, and engaging conversations. In today’s episode, we’re doing something a little different. Instead of simply listening and learning new words, you’re going to play along with us! We’re playing Twenty Questions, a fun and easy guessing game that giv...

Are you a football fan and learning Persian? Then this episode of Podgap is for you! In this episode, Mohsen and Hanieh talk about an exciting match between England and Argentina while introducing useful and everyday football vocabulary in Persian. You’ll learn words and expressions such as striker, defender, midfielder, winger, cross, assist, possession, counterattack, one-on-one, stoppage time,...

Ever wondered why Persian food is considered a global culinary treasure? In this episode of Podgap, we travel back over a thousand years to the heart of the Silk Road to uncover the legendary secrets of three iconic Iranian ingredients: Saffron, Barberry, and Rose Water. Join your hosts, Hanieh and Mohsen, as we blend history, science, and linguistics. Discover how these ingredients didn't just fl...

Have you ever been invited to an Iranian home? In this episode, James visits Bahram and Behnoush for the first time You'll learn useful Persian expressions, practice a simple conversation, and discover some interesting facts about Iranian culture. In this episode, you'll learn: • Useful expressions such as "Befarmaayin too", "Chera zahmat keshidin?", and "Ghabel-e shomaa ro nadaare" • Three cultur...

In this episode of Podgap, we explore one of the most colorful corners of spoken Persian: dog-related idioms and expressions. You'll learn 10 common expressions that native speakers use in real conversations, including: 🐾 Sag-joon (سگ‌جون) – someone incredibly tough and resilient 🐾 Sag-do zadan (سگ‌دو زدن) – working hard with little result 🐾 Mahall-e sag nazaashtan (محل سگ نذاشتن) – completely...

Did you know that “checkmate” comes from the Persian phrase “Shah Mat”? It means the king is helpless — and it’s one of the many ways Persian has left its mark on the world of chess. In this episode of Podgap, we explore the fascinating story of chess: where it began, how it entered Iran during the Sasanian era, and how Persian culture helped shape the game the world knows today. We also talk abou...

Are you struggling with the Persian /q/ sound? You’re not alone! This episode of Podgap focuses on the Persian sound /q/ — one of the most unique and tricky sounds in the language. Join Hanieh and Mohsen for an easy, guided practice that will help you master this Persian sound with confidence. Follow along, repeat with your hosts, and strengthen your pronunciation skills. If Podgap makes your Pers...

Do you know the spoken form of “want” and “come” in the present tense in Persian? In this episode, we break down two of the most essential verbs — khaastan (to want) and aamadan (to come) — and show you how they’re actually used in everyday conversation. Forget the formal textbook versions — you’ll learn the real spoken forms like mikhaam and miyaam, practice them step by step, and hear them in na...

In this episode of Podgap, we explore the concept of “home” — not merely as a physical space, but as a source of identity, memory, and emotional connection. While many of us experience a sense of comfort when returning home after a short trip, this feeling takes on deeper meaning for those who have lived abroad for many years. Today, we examine why some individuals choose to return to their homela...

In this emotional and powerful episode of Podgap, Mohsen and Hanieh speak directly to their listeners during a difficult time, sharing heartfelt reflections on resilience, loss, and hope. As Iran faces the challenges of war, they honor the memory of innocent lives and express gratitude to their loyal audience who continue learning Persian despite the circumstances. Through the familiar storytellin...

In this episode of Podgap, Mohsen and Hanie explore one of Iran’s most fascinating archaeological treasures: the Hasanlu Golden Bowl.  Discovered in 1958 in northwestern Iran, this remarkable artifact dates back more than 3,200 years and is covered with symbolic engravings that reflect ancient myths and beliefs. We talk about the discovery of the bowl, the ancient civilization that lived near Lake...

This week on Podgap, we’re going to talk about ride-hailing services. We have a dialogue about how a woman requests an online taxi and the conversations that take place between her and the driver. You’ll also become familiar with the new vocabulary from this dialogue, along with some cultural tips. If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends...

In this episode, you will learn how to talk about losing and finding things in Persian. We will teach you useful words and simple sentences to explain what you lost or where you left something behind. You will also learn the difference between gom kardan (to lose) and jā gozāshtan (to leave something behind), and hear a short conversation about real-life situations. At the end of the episode, you...

The Shahnameh by Ferdowsi is one of the greatest epic poems in Persian literature It tells the story of Iran’s history, myths, and heroes. In this episode, we talk about 8 famous characters from Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh. You’ll get to know these characters, and in each section we’ve included a few selected verses from the Shahnameh to give you a feel for the book. Our goal is to introduce you to the w...

Hello and welcome back to PadGap! In today’s episode, Hanieh and Mohsen dive into a very simple yet incredibly powerful Persian word—one you’ll hear everywhere. It’s a true magic word: short, polite, and surprisingly flexible. Through short, everyday dialogues—from cafés and homes to classrooms, shops, phone calls, and friendly conversations—you’ll learn eight different real-life uses of this esse...

Welcome to Podgap. In this episode, Hanieh and Mohsen discuss the theme of friendship—what defines a true friend, how friendships change over time, and why maintaining them requires trust, communication, and healthy boundaries.  The conversation also highlights cultural aspects of friendship in Iran and introduces useful Persian expressions related to relationships. Designed for Persian learners,...