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!
Last refreshed: ⓘ
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more
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. Transcript here! Click here if you are interested in my virtual classes. If you enjoy ¡Cuéntame!, please leave a review, share the podcast with other Spanish learners, and help us continue creating comprehensi...
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! Email us! Buy Me a Coffee Facebook Group TikTok Instagram Leave your voice message at +1920-361-3329 Click here for information on our virtual class! If you enjoy the podcast, please support us by leaving ...
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, but across the country. Today we are talking about animals, protests, and a situation that made many people ask difficult questions. You may have already heard a little bit about it online or in the news…...
¡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, culture, and amazing stories of these inspiring women. Transcript here! Don’t forget to rate the podcast, leave us a voice message, and check the links below to support the show and join our Spanish-learning ...
¡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, acrobatics, and lots of fun while practicing your Spanish! Here is the transcript! If you enjoy the podcast, please support us by leaving a rating with stars on your favorite podcast platform. Those ratings help...
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 full of surprises, challenges, laughter, and incredible memories with our students. We also talk about the unexpected travel chaos that started our journey, the amazing moments that made it all worth it...
En este episodio, Marta anuncia un emocionante viaje a Ecuador con un grupo de estudiantes, describiendo un itinerario detallado que incluye la exploración de Quito, la visita a la Línea Ecuatorial y el Museo Intiñan, y aventuras en Baños con cascadas y chocolate. También cubrirán las ruinas incas de Ingapirca, la encantadora ciudad de Cuenca y el Parque Nacional Cajas, concluyendo con una prueba de traducción y una lección sobre el futuro simple.
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 Spanish-speaking world. Today’s legend comes from Mexico and tells the tragic and beautiful story behind two of the country’s most famous volcanoes: Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl. According to the legend, the...
Este episodio profundiza en el histórico show de medio tiempo de Bad Bunny en el Super Bowl, destacando su profunda expresión cultural y la representación latina. Se explora la controversia generada por su identidad como “americano” y la importancia de la diversidad cultural y la inclusión en Estados Unidos. El episodio concluye con mensajes de oyentes y un útil quiz de traducción.
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 traditions connected to the New Year. Are they legends or traditions? Sometimes, they’re both—stories that aren’t always told with words, but lived through actions, once a year, as people let go of the ...
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 than just a body of water—it is a powerful symbol of punishment, forgiveness, and new beginnings. ✨ A story of respect, consequences, and rebirth—this legend reminds us why Lake Titicaca holds such deep c...
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 humans for their lack of respect. Through this legend, listeners learn about Mapuche culture, the importance of the Mapudungun language, and a timeless message about respecting nature and living in harmon...
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 feelings between people. This story reminds us that you don’t have to be big to be important. If you enjoy the podcast, please support us by rating and reviewing , and share this episode with someone who loves...
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 the Americas and centers on Anahí , a young Indigenous woman who loved her land, her people, and her community. Through her courage, voice, and resilience, the legend explains why the bright red flower o...
🎧 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 travelers to safety. This simple, engaging story is perfect for Spanish learners and invites us to reflect on respect for nature and the power of helping others. Transcript here! 💬 Did you enjoy the e...
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 animal welfare. Check out the comprehensible book about this story by Nelly Andrade-Huges and share your thoughts about it! If you want info about the virtual class with me, fill out this form! Before we b...
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, classmates, or anyone learning Spanish . Here is the form to complete if you are interested in taking a virtual class with me. You can also support the show through Buy Me a Coffee , join our Facebook ...
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. Transcript HERE! If you love learning through stories, don’t miss my original short novel for Spanish learners , a beginner-friendly book inspired by the legend of the xoloitzcuintle. It includes audio and ac...
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. Listeners are invited to support the podcast by rating it, sharing it with friends, and joining the growing community of Spanish learners. Marta also welcomes participation — send her a voice message (i...
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 of the transcript! If you are interested in taking a Spanish class online with me, complete this form to get more information! If you enjoy the podcast, please take a moment to rate it, share it, and supp...
Marta continúa su serie "Mi vida", detallando su mudanza a Wisconsin tras casarse y los retos legales y de adaptación que enfrentó. Narra su experiencia en empleos poco gratificantes hasta que, por "accidente", descubre el programa de certificación de maestros y se enamora de la docencia, encontrando su trabajo ideal como profesora de español. El episodio concluye con el fin de su serie personal, un mensaje de un oyente y un cuestionario de traducción.
🎙️ 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 best friend’s wedding in Morelia, and soon after, it was her turn to visit him in Wisconsin. She opens up about the cultural challenges of making that decision, her family’s reactions, and how love led...
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 happened next? That’s the story listeners will hear in this episode. 👉 Stay connected with Cuéntame ! ✉️ Email us! ☕ Buy Me a Coffee 💬 Join the Facebook Group 📸 Follow on Instagram Listeners can also send a...
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 are two versions of this episode. First, you'll hear a slower version with some helpful English translations to support your understanding. After that, there's a second version at normal speed — witho...
🎧 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 relatable twists, doubts, and aha moments. She reflects on the friendships she formed, the challenges she faced, and the joy of finally finding a path that truly fit her personality and strengths. Transcri...
🎧 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 movie nights with friends to strict rules at home, listeners get a personal glimpse into her adolescence in coastal Mexico—and how societal expectations shaped her experience. This episode is perfect fo...
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 school—Marta shares it all with honesty and charm. Despite the discipline issues, her childhood was filled with joy, outdoor adventures, and love. This episode is specially designed for Spanish learners. ...
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 . This podcast episodes include two versions to support different learning levels: First, there’s a scaffolded version , where Marta speaks slowly and includes some English to help guide comprehension....
🎙️ 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 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: 1-920-361-3...
🎓 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 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 📩 Ema...
