Episode notes
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 begin, I’d love your support!If you enjoy the podcast, please rate it, leave a review, and share it…
Podcast
¡Cuéntame! | Learn Spanish with Comprehensible Input
Marta Ruiz Yedinak · Learning · Spanish
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
More from ¡Cuéntame! | Learn Spanish with Comprehensible Input All episodes →
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29 Dec 2025 · 15 min
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 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 cultural meaning. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it , rate the podcast , and help others…
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24 Dec 2025 · 17 min
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 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 harmony with the world around us. Transcript here! If you enjoyed this episode, please support the…
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22 Dec 2025 · 16 min
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 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 legends and Spanish stories. Your support helps the podcast grow ❤️ Transcript HERE! Click here…
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18 Dec 2025 · 17 min
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 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 of the ceibo tree became a symbol of love for the land, strength, and remembrance. Transcript here!…
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16 Dec 2025 · 14 min
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 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 episode? Please support us by rating and reviewing the podcast and sharing it with friends, students,…
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25 Nov 2025 · 16 min
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, 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 Group , or follow us on TikTok and Instagram for more content and updates. And of course, email us…
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17 Nov 2025 · 18 min
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. 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 accessible language perfect for learners. We’d love to hear from you! Email us anytime, join our…
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30 Oct 2025 · 16 min
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. 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 (in Spanish or English) at 1-920-361-3329 , or email her your thoughts and questions! 💬 Get…
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19 Oct 2025 · 15 min
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 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 support it so Marta can continue creating meaningful stories like this one. You can find all the links…
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25 Aug 2025 · 18 min
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, and don’t forget to leave me a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating so more Spanish learners can discover ¡Cuéntame! 💌 Email us! ☕ Buy Me a Coffee 👥 Facebook Group 📸 Instagram 📞 Send me a voice message in Spanish or English at 1-920-361-3329 to participate in an upcoming episode!
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