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¡Cuéntame! | Learn Spanish with Comprehensible Input podcast cover art

¡Cuéntame! | Learn Spanish with Comprehensible Input

ByMarta Ruiz Yedinak
195 episodes

Podcast Summary

Marta Ruiz Yedinak, a Spanish National Board Certified Teacher, uses basic to intermediate level Spanish to tell stories and talk about everyday topics. Second language acquisition takes place through comprehensible input, and when the topics are interesting and compelling to the learner, it happens almost without awareness. Sit back, enjoy, and improve your Spanish listening skills! Join the Facebook group for collaboration!

#1

194. La inteligencia artificial

🎙️ Episode 194: Artificial IntelligenceIn this episode of ¡Cuéntame!, Marta dives into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence. What is AI? How does it work? And more importantly, how do we use it responsibly? From Siri to ChatGPT, this episode explores how AI is part of our daily lives, the benefits it offers, and the concerns it raises.📧 Email us☕ [Buy Me a Coffee]👥 Join our [Facebook Group]📸 Follow us on [Instagram]📞 Send a voice message in English or Spanish: 1-920-361-3329⭐ If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review it—your support helps more people find the show. ¡Gracias!

2025-06-02•13mins
#2

193. Consejos para graduados

🎓 Episode 193: Tips for GraduatesIn this special episode of ¡Cuéntame!, Marta shares six powerful and inspiring tips for graduates—but these lessons are helpful for anyone at any stage of life. From perseverance to self-care and authenticity, each piece of advice is designed to motivate and uplift. Whether you're graduating or just navigating life, this episode is for you!💬 Have a thought or message to share? Call or text us at 1-920-361-3329 in English or Spanish!📄Transcript HERE📩 Email us | ☕ Buy Me a Coffee | 📘 Join our Facebook Group | 📸 Follow us on Instagram⭐ If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate us with stars on the platform you’re using—it really helps others find the show!

2025-05-27•15mins
#3

192. ¿Comprar o adoptar mascotas?

NEWS: HAS WON THE CONTEST!🎙️Episode 192: Adopt or Buy a Pet?In this episode, Marta invites listeners to reflect on the ways we choose to bring a pet into our lives. Is it better to adopt or to buy a pet? Why do we choose one over the other, and what impact does that decision have? Marta shares personal experiences—both buying and later adopting dogs—and challenges some common misconceptions about pet adoption, breeding, and animal health. Whether you're a lifelong pet owner or considering your first companion, this episode offers thoughtful insights and encouragement to make informed, compassionate choices.TRANSCRIPT HERE!💬 We'd love to hear your thoughts! Do you think it's better to adopt or buy a pet?📩 Email us!☕ Support the podcast on Buy Me a Coffee👥 Join our Facebook Group📸 Follow us on Instagram🎙️ Send a voice message in English or Spanish to 1-920-361-3329 — you might be featured in a future episode!⭐ If you enjoy the show, don't forget to rate us with 5 stars on your favorite podcast app!

2025-05-12•15mins
#4

191. ¿Perros o gatos? - Parte 2

🎙️191. ¿Perros o gatos? Parte 2In this episode of ¡Cuéntame!, Marta explores the pros and cons of having a cat as a pet. From their elegant independence to their quirky behaviors, you'll hear what makes cats lovable and sometimes a little challenging. After covering the perks and pitfalls of both dogs and cats in recent episodes, it's time for you to decide: which is the perfect pet? If you enjoy the podcast, please consider supporting it and take a moment to rate it with stars—it really helps us grow! And don’t forget to vote for your favorite pet: or ! We'll reveal the results during the first week of May 2025. 🐶🐱Transcript here!📧 Email us!☕ Buy Me a Coffee👥 Join our Facebook Group📸 Follow us on Instagram📞 Send a voice message in Spanish or English to 1-920-361-3329

2025-04-20•14mins
#5

190. ¿Perros o gatos?

🎙️ Hello! In this episode, Marta is diving into a classic debate: dogs 🐶 vs. cats 🐱. Dog owners say dogs are the best, while cat owners argue that cats reign supreme. But who’s right? In this episode, we’ll focus on dogs—their pros, cons, and what makes them such beloved companions. Next time, it’ll be the cats’ turn, and at the end, you will decide! Yes, get ready to vote!!Before we start, take a moment to rate this episode—it really helps! Transcript here!📩 Email us!☕ Buy Me a Coffee👥 Join our Facebook Group📸 Follow us on Instagram🎤 Send a voice message to 1-920-361-3329Let’s get started! 🐶

2025-04-07•16mins
#6

189. Las salas de ira

In this episode of ¡Cuéntame!, Marta shares her exciting experience visiting a rage room, a place where people can safely break objects like plates, bottles, and even computers! She tells us about going to the rage room to celebrate the birthday of one of the exchange students that she and her husband are hosting this year. While rage rooms can be a fun way to release stress, are they really beneficial for mental health? Marta reflects on the pros and cons of these spaces and asks: Do you think rage rooms are a positive way to cope with emotions?Stay tuned until the end for a quiz to test your comprehension!If you enjoy the podcast, please take a moment to rate and review it—your support helps others find us! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Transcript here!Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Instagram

2025-03-08•15mins
#7

188. Pelé, el rey del fútbol

In this episode, we explore the life and legacy of Pelé, one of the most iconic soccer players in history! Learn how a young boy from Brazil with big dreams became a global football legend. You'll hear about his career, achievements, and impact on the sport and culture, all in clear and accessible Spanish to help improve your comprehension.If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate the podcast and share your thoughts! Your support helps us continue creating fun and engaging content for Spanish learners. Thanks for listening!Transcript here!Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Instagram

2025-02-27•14mins
#8

187. Celia Cruz: La reina de la salsa

In this episode, we explore the life and legacy of Celia Cruz, the Queen of Salsa. From her humble beginnings in Cuba to becoming an international icon, we discuss her incredible career, personal life, activism, and generosity. Discover how her music and message continue to inspire generations. If you enjoy this episode, don't forget to rate and leave a comment on your favorite podcast platform!Transcript Here!Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Instagram

2025-02-23•15mins

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#9

186. Afrolatinos

In this episode, Marta celebrates Black Heritage Month by exploring the history and contributions of Afro-Latinos. She explains how African people were forcibly brought to Latin America during European colonization and how their presence has shaped the region's culture. From music genres like salsa and reggaetón to culinary and artistic influences, Afro-Latinos have played a vital role in Latin American identity. Marta also highlights the countries with significant Afro-Latino populations and previews upcoming episodes featuring notable Afro-Latinos.Transcript HERE!Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Instagram

2025-02-14•15mins
#10

185. Infierno en California

In this episode, we delve into the devastating wildfires in California, examining their possible causes, widespread destruction, and the heroic efforts of firefighters battling the flames. We also highlight ways you can help prevent future fires and support those impacted by this disaster. Don't miss this important and eye-opening discussion. Transcript ⁠HERE!⁠ ⁠Email us!⁠ ⁠Buy Me a Coffee⁠ ⁠Facebook Group⁠ ⁠Instagram

2025-01-17•14mins
#11

184. Controversias de Navidad

In this episode, we explore two intriguing and controversial topics surrounding Christmas. First, we discuss the idea that giving gifts during the holidays may encourage materialism and distract from the true spirit of Christmas: love and spirituality. Then, we delve into the debate over whether traditions like Santa Claus, Los Reyes Magos, and El Niño Jesús are harmless fun or misleading lies for children. While respecting all opinions, we also share personal reflections on the joy of gift-giving and cherished childhood memories of the Día de Reyes. Tune in for a thoughtful and balanced conversation about these festive traditions! Transcript HERE Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Instagram

2025-01-03•9mins
#12

183. El Día de los Inocentes

In this podcast episode, we explore the origin and rich Mexican tradition of the Day of the Holy Innocents, celebrated on December 28th. Throughout the episode, we unravel the biblical story behind this commemoration, which remembers the massacre of children ordered by King Herod, as told in the Gospel of Matthew. However, in Mexico, this date has taken on a more festive tone, transforming into a day of jokes and pranks, similar to April Fools' Day in other countries. With a mix of humor and reflection, we discuss how families, friends, and the media participate in this tradition, bringing with them a series of customs and popular anecdotes that make this day uniquely Mexican. We also analyze how this celebration reflects aspects of Mexican culture, such as community spirit, humor, and resilience. Join us in understanding why December 28th remains a date that, beyond the pranks, is a symbol of Mexico’s history and folklore. TRANSCRIPT HERE Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Instagram

2024-12-28•12mins
#13

182. La empatía

Join Marta as she dives into the transformative power of empathy, exploring how it shapes our world and enhances overall well-being. Packed with practical tips to help you cultivate more empathy in your daily life, this episode also introduces something new: comprehension questions at the end—an idea inspired by one of our listeners, Gyan Hylton! If you find this episode valuable, please take a moment to rate the podcast, share it with your friends, and help spread the message of empathy far and wide! Transcript here Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Instagram

2024-12-21•16mins
#14

181. Jánuca | La celebración

Marta continues celebrating Hanukkah, and this time, she talks about the rituals and events in general that the Jewish community holds in honor of this important holiday. Transcript here! Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Instagram

2024-12-16•9mins
#15

180. Jánuca | La historia

Marta talks about the history behind Hanukkah, and why it is such an important celebration for the Jewish people. Transcript HERE Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Instagram

2024-12-16•12mins
#16

179. ¡Gracias!

Marta gives an update on her breast cancer diagnosis and expresses her gratitude to all who reached out to her in solidarity. Transcript HERE Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Instagram

2024-12-02•11mins
#17

178. Octubre: El Mes Rosa

Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Instagram Marta talks about October being the month to raise awareness for breast cancer worldwide, how it began, what are the objectives and activities around it. She also shares some not-so-good news about her own health... Transcript HERE

2024-10-22•9mins
#18

177. Celebrando a Juan Gabriel

To close the celebration of HIspanic Heritage Month, Marta celebrates the life and legacy of Juan Gabriel. Transcript here! Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Instagram

2024-10-14•10mins
#19

176. Celebrando a Selena Quintanilla

Continuing the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Marta talks about the life and legacy of Selena Quintanilla, the Queen of Tex-Mex. Our amazing caller for this episode is Monty, from Texas, but who lives in Florida :) Gracias, Monty! Leave your voice message at +1 (920)361-3329 Transcript here! Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Instagram

2024-09-29•11mins
#20

175. Celebrando a Sonia Sotomayor

Continuing with the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Marta talks about Sonia Sotomayor, the first Hispanic woman to become a US Supreme Court Justice. Transcript here! Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2024-09-24•10mins
#21

174. El Mes de la Herencia Hispana

Marta talks about Hispanic Heritage Month in the USA, how it began, why is it in this particular timeframe, and why it is important to celebrate it. This month, we will celebrate SHM by publishing episodes talking about some of the many amazing Hispanic people who contribute to the growth of this country.​Transcript here!Follow us on Instagram! @cuentame.podcastEmail us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group Send us your voicemail in English or Spanish to +1 (920) 361-3329 and participate in this podcast!

2024-09-16•10mins
#22

173. Los chismes

Marta talks about gossip and how it is not a good habit to have! Transcript here! Follow us in Instagram, @cuentame.podcast Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2024-09-06•8mins
#23

172. La prisa

Marta talks about the difficulty of switching her lifestyle from calm, without schedule, to more rigid timings… She thinks that during the school year, time flies and she is always in a hurry! Transcript here! Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2024-08-29•8mins

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#24

171. Las elecciones presidenciales

Marta talks about the current presidential election in the US. Transcript here! Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2024-08-23•9mins
#25

170. Los cambios

Marta talks about change, and how some are nice, some not so nice, some permanent and some temporary.Transcript here!Email us at [email protected] Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook GroupFollow us on Instagram! @cuentame.podcast

2024-08-12•11mins
#26

169. El acoso - Parte 2

Marta shares possible solutions to harassment. Transcript here! Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2024-07-08•8mins
#27

168. El acoso - Parte 1

Marta talks about the meaning of harassment and defines three specific types. ⁠Transcript Here!⁠ ⁠Email us!⁠ ⁠Become a supporter!⁠ ⁠Buy Me a Coffee⁠ ⁠Facebook Group⁠

2024-07-05•7mins
#28

167. Juneteenth

Marta joins the celebration of Juneteenth by telling a little bit about its origin, and why it is important to observe it. Transcript HERE Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2024-06-19•9mins
#29

166. Guanacaste

Marta talks about the province of Guanacaste, in Costa Rica, and the origin of its the name. Transcript here! ⁠Email us!⁠ ⁠Become a supporter!⁠ ⁠Buy Me a Coffee⁠ ⁠Facebook Group

2024-06-15•8mins
#30

165. El eclipse

Marta is excited because tomorrow there will be a total eclipse! She explains the general idea of how eclipses happen, and also how important it is to watch them properly. ⁠Transcript here⁠ Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2024-04-08•9mins
#31

164. ¡Costa Rica!

Marta is about to travel to Costa Rica with her students! She shares some of the facts about this beautiful country. Transcript here! Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2024-03-13•7mins
#32

163. La envidia

Marta talks about envy, and proposes 4 ideas to turn it into something positive. Transcript here Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2024-03-06•7mins
#33

162. Los celos

Marta talks about jealousy, and how it can be a destructive emotion. ⁠Transcript here⁠ Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2024-02-29•7mins
#34

161. Los malentendidos

Marta talks about misunderstandings, and how she deals with them in her life. Transcript here Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2024-01-17•7mins
#35

160. La depresión posvacacional

Marta talks about the apathy and lack of energy that follows the Christmas break, and shares her strategies to overcome it. ⁠Transcript here⁠ ⁠Email us!⁠ ⁠Become a supporter!⁠ ⁠Buy Me a Coffee⁠ ⁠Facebook Group⁠

2024-01-02•8mins
#36

159. El Día de la Virgen: ¿Manipulación?

Marta talks about how skeptical people who don't believe that there was a miracle in the story of Juan Diego and la Virgen de Guadalupe. Instead, they think it was all a trick from the Spanish Catholic Church to help the evangelization of Mexico. This is the last of three episodes dedicated to the Day of our Lady of Guadalupe. If you haven’t listened to the previous two, it is recommended to do it before you listen to this one, because here we have vocabulary and ideas that have been covered before, and your comprehension will not be easy without the previous knowledge. Transcript here! Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2023-12-23•8mins
#37

158. El Día de la Virgen: La celebración

Last episode, Marta talked about the origins of the Day of our Lady of Guadalupe, in Mexico. Today, she is talking about how it is celebrated. It is for students at the novice-mid and above levels, because of length of sentences, uses of tenses and variety of vocabulary. Transcript HERE Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2023-12-19•7mins
#38

157. El Día de la Virgen: La historia

Marta talks about the history behind the celebration of La Virgen de Guadalupe, on December 12th in Mexico. This episode is for novice-high as it has a variety of new vocabulary, different tenses and conjugation forms. Transcript here! Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2023-12-17•7mins
#39

156. ¡Hola, Keeley!

Marta talks about the new addition to her family: a 4-month-old goldendoodle puppy who they rescued from an unethical breeder. This episode is intermediate level for the number of new vocabulary words, the use of past tenses and subjunctive and also because it is over a minute longer than the normal episode length. Follow the transcript here to aide in comprehension, and also to see pictures of puppies! Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2023-12-03•9mins
#40

155. El monstruo del armario-Advanced

Marta tells once more this scary story written by Pablo Conde. Find the YouTube video here! In this version specially recorded for advanced students, Marta uses higher level grammar and vocabulary. You will listen to Marta tell the story in preterit and imperfect and also use "If" clauses, and subjunctive. Even if you are an advanced student, it is recommended that you listen to the previous episode 2:54, where the same story is told in present tense. It is important to be familiarized with the vocabulary used there, because here, Marta uses it again. However, this time she doesn't translate those words, as they were introduced in the previous episode. Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2023-11-06•9mins
#41

154. El monstruo del armario

Marta tells the scary story created by Pablo Conde, and that you can find in YouTube here Transcript Here Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2023-10-31•9mins
#42

153. Adiós, Mila

Marta talks about the heartbreak of losing Mila, her beloved dog. Transcript Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2023-10-16•8mins
#43

152. Amor a primera vista

Marta talks about how she found love at first sight during her trip to Europe. Transcript here:

2023-09-28•8mins
#44

151. Viajes de verano -Parte 2

Marta concludes her summer travels with Keith. She is happy for the opportunity she had, but she is also happy to be back home! Transcript here Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2023-09-18•7mins
#45

150. Viajes de verano - Parte 1

Marta talks about the places she visited with her husband after her Paris immersion program ended. She starts in Belgium, France and Spain. She talks about the origin of Tapas, one of the staples of Spanish cuisine. Transcript here! Email us! Become a supporter! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group

2023-08-23•9mins
#46

149. El final del curso de francés

Marta talks about the end of her experience in the French course and what she learned. She also looks forward to celebrating with her husband. Transcript:

2023-07-30•8mins
#47

148. Mi primera clase en la escuela de francés

Marta talks about how her first day in French school went, and the postcards that she and her classmates had to write. Transcript:

2023-06-30•8mins
#48

147. París: El día de orientación en la escuela

Marta talks about the orientation day at the French school in Paris. Transcript here:

2023-06-27•7mins
#49

146. En el metro de París

Marta talks about her exploring the subway in Paris didn’t go as smooth as she would have liked it, and how she met Geraldine, a lovely girl who helped her out! Transcript:

2023-06-24•8mins
#50

145. Abrumada en París

Marta talks about how on her first day in Paris, the difficulty communicating in French made her feel overwhelmed (abrumada), and what gave her the inspiration to continue with her adventure. Transcript here!

2023-06-21•8mins

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