PODCAST · education
¡Cuéntame! | Learn Spanish with Comprehensible Input
by Marta Ruiz Yedinak
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!
Episodes
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225. Aventuras en Europa
Join Marta for another episode of ¡Cuéntame! as she continues sharing her European adventures! This time, she's exploring Paris with her family on a very special trip celebrating her parents' 80th birthdays. From famous landmarks and fascinating museums to an unforgettable dinner cruise on the...
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224. ¡De regreso!
🎙️ Episode 224: ¡De regreso! (She's Back!) ¡Cuéntame! is back! 🎉 After a busy summer traveling through Europe, Marta is excited to share her adventures! In this episode, she talks about her French immersion experience in Agen, France, the wonderful family who welcomed her into their home, and…
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223. El mate hoy: Rituales y costumbres
In today’s episode, we explore a tradition that is much more than a drink. Discover the customs, rituals, and social rules that surround mate in South America, and learn why it continues to bring people together every day. Grab a cup of coffee or a mate, and join us! Transcript here!…
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222. Mate: El origen y la historia
In this episode, Marta explores the origins and history of mate, one of South America’s most beloved drinks. Learn how the Guaraní people first used yerba mate, why the tradition spread across countries like Argentina, Uruguay, and Paraguay, and how mate became much more than just a drink....
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221. Las muñecas quitapenas
In this episode, we explore the fascinating tradition of Guatemala’s worry dolls, tiny handmade dolls that are said to take away your worries while you sleep. Where did this tradition come from, and why do so many people still love these little dolls today? Listen to find out! Transcript here!...
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220. Beagles: El rescate
Today we talk about a recent series of protests that resulted in the rescue of over 1,500 beagles. But, before we begin today’s episode, I want to give a small reminder that this story may be emotional for many listeners. It is a story that started a lot of conversations, not only in Wisconsin…
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219. Las cholitas bolivianas
¡Hola, hola! Welcome to ¡Cuéntame! Today we’re traveling to Bolivia to learn about the incredible cholitas bolivianas. Who are they? Why do they wear colorful polleras and bowler hats? And how did they become symbols of strength, pride, and tradition? Stay with us as we explore the history,...
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218. La lucha libre
¡Hola, hola! Welcome back to ¡Cuéntame! Today we’re stepping into the exciting world of las luchas in Mexico! In this episode, you’ll learn about the colorful masks, the dramatic characters, and why lucha libre is such an important part of Mexican culture. Get ready for heroes, villains,...
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217. Aventuras en Ecuador
In this special episode of ¡Cuéntame!, we share all the unforgettable adventures from our school trip to Ecuador! From standing on the equator line in Quito to exploring ancient ruins, hiking through breathtaking mountains, visiting waterfalls, and learning about Ecuadorian culture, this trip was...
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216. ¡Vamos a Ecuador!
🎙️ Episode 216: Let’s Go to Ecuador! In this episode, Marta shares exciting news. She is traveling to Ecuador with a group of students. She talks about the upcoming adventure, the travel itinerary, and the incredible places they will visit, including Quito, the equatorial line, waterfalls in...
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215. La leyenda del Popocatépetl
Welcome to ¡Cuéntame!, the podcast that helps you practice and improve your Spanish through stories from the Spanish-speaking world. In this episode, Marta shares a very special story. Not only is it one of her favorite legends, it is also the final episode in the series of legends from the...
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214. Bad Bunny y el Supertazón
In this episode of ¡Cuéntame!, Marta talks about the Super Bowl halftime show and Bad Bunny’s historic performance. She explores why the show was important for Latino representation, the reactions it generated, and what it reveals about culture, identity, and belonging in the United States....
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213. Un nuevo comienzo
This episode is a very special one. We’re welcoming the start of 2026 and continuing our Legends of the Spanish-Speaking World series with something a little different. Instead of focusing on just one country, today we’ll travel through several Spanish-speaking cultures to explore the beliefs and...
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212. El lago Titicaca
In this episode of ¡Cuéntame!, Marta takes us to Peru to explore a beautiful Andean legend about the origin of Lake Titicaca, one of the highest navigable lakes in the world, located between Peru and Bolivia in the Andes Mountains. Considered a sacred place by Andean peoples, the lake is more…
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211. Tren-Tren y Kai-Kai
In Episode 211 of ¡Cuéntame!, Marta travels to southern Chile to share a powerful Mapuche legend: Tren-Tren and Kai-Kai. This traditional story explains the eternal struggle between the sea and the land, told through two magical serpents—one protecting nature’s balance and the other punishing...
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210: La leyenda del colibrí
In this episode we travel to Ecuador to discover a beautiful and meaningful legend: La leyenda del colibrí. Learn why this tiny, colorful bird is considered a powerful symbol of love, hope, and connection, and how—according to legend—the colibrí became the secret messenger of thoughts and…
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209: La flor del ceibo
In this episode of ¡Cuéntame!, listeners travel to Argentina as the podcast continues its series of legends from the Spanish-speaking world. Marta tells the beautiful and inspiring legend of the ceibo flower, a powerful national symbol of Argentina. The story takes place before the conquest of…
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208: El Aparecido del Nevado del Ruiz
🎧 Episode 208 – El Aparecido del Nevado del Ruiz In this episode of ¡Cuéntame!, Marta takes us to the cold, mysterious heights of Colombia to explore a fascinating legend from the Nevado del Ruiz. Surrounded by snow, fog, and danger, you’ll meet El Aparecido: a protective spirit who guides lost...
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207. Keiko
Welcome back to ¡Cuéntame! I’m so glad you’re here. In today’s episode, we’re taking a break from our legends series to explore the real-life story behind one of the most famous animals in the world: Keiko, the orca from Free Willy. It’s a story full of emotion, hope, and big questions about…
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206. La Santa Compaña
Welcome back to ¡Cuéntame!, friends! I’m so glad you’re here for another episode. Before we jump into today’s mysterious legend, I want to remind you that your support helps this podcast keep growing. If you enjoy these stories, please rate the episode, leave a review, and share it with friends,...
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205. El Xoloitzcuintle
In this episode of ¡Cuéntame!, Marta dives into one of Mexico’s most fascinating legends—one filled with history, culture, and a very special kind of dog. Whether you’re a Spanish learner, a teacher, or simply someone who loves a good story, this episode will take you somewhere unexpected....
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204. El Silbón
In this first episode of a new ten-part series on Latin American legends, Marta takes listeners to Venezuela to discover a mysterious and chilling tale just in time for Halloween. Using clear and comprehensible Spanish, this episode is perfect for learners who love stories, suspense, and culture....
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203. ¡Hola, Poska!
In this heartwarming episode, Marta shares a story especially close to her heart — one filled with compassion, second chances, and the unexpected ways love finds us. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most beautiful connections happen when we least expect them. Look for the pictures at the end…
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202. Mi vida-Parte 7: Profe...¡¿yo?!
Hey friends, it’s Marta! In this episode, I take you into a chapter of my life I never saw coming. Let’s just say… one small decision turned my world upside down and opened a door I swore I would never walk through. 🤔✨ 👉 Want to know what happened? Hit play, share this episode with a friend…
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201. Mi vida-Parte 6: ¡Hola, Wisconsin!
🎙️ Episode 201: My Life – Part 6: Hello, Wisconsin! In this episode of ¡Cuéntame!, Marta continues sharing the story of her life. After meeting Keith in Ixtapa, their long-distance relationship grew through phone calls and emails (back in the days before cell phones!). Marta invited Keith to her...
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200. Mi vida-Parte 5: ¡Hola, Keith!
Previously, Marta talked about life after university—living with her parents and teaching in two schools while searching for new opportunities. But everything began to change when a trip to Ixtapa with friends led her to Señor Frog’s… and that’s where she first locked eyes with Keith. What…
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199. Mi vida - Parte 4: ¿Productiva?
Welcome to another episode of ¡Cuéntame!, the Spanish podcast created especially for beginner learners. In this episode, host Marta shares part 4 of her personal story in Spanish — this time, focusing on her life after college and the challenges she faced trying to be productiva. As always, there...
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198. Mi vida-Parte 3: La universidad
🎧 Episode 198: Mi vida – Part 3: La universidad In this episode of ¡Cuéntame!, Marta shares the ups and downs of her college years. From exploring dentistry and chemistry to discovering a passion for computer science—and ultimately finding her calling in Communications—her journey is full of...
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197. Mi vida - Parte 2: La adolescencia
🎧 Episode 197: Mi vida - Part 2: La adolescencia In this episode of ¡Cuéntame!, Marta continues sharing her life story—this time focusing on her teenage years. She reflects on the joys of high school, her love of language learning, and the challenges of growing up in a conservative family. From...
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196. Mi vida-Parte 1: La infancia
In this episode of ¡Cuéntame!, Marta takes Spanish learners on a heartfelt and humorous journey through her childhood in the coastal city of Lázaro Cárdenas, Mexico. From being a top student to getting into a bit of mischief—like passing notes, saying bad words, and even bringing cigarettes to...
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195. La esperanza
Welcome to ¡Cuéntame!, a podcast designed especially for Spanish learners who want to improve their listening skills through real stories and authentic topics—in real Spanish! In Episode 195, host Marta talks about a powerful emotion that keeps us going during difficult times: hope—la esperanza....
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194. La inteligencia artificial
🎙️ Episode 194: Artificial Intelligence In 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…
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193. Consejos para graduados
🎓 Episode 193: Tips for Graduates In 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...
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192. ¿Comprar o adoptar mascotas?
NEWS: #EQUIPOGATO 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?...
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191. ¿Perros o gatos? - Parte 2
🎙️191. ¿Perros o gatos? Parte 2 In 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…
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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,...
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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...
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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…
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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.…
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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…
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
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!
HOSTED BY
Marta Ruiz Yedinak
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