

Duolingo Spanish Podcast
Duolingo
True stories for English speakers learning Spanish. From the makers of Duolingo, the most popular language-learning app, comes a new podcast that delivers fascinating real-life stories in easy-to-understand Spanish with English narration. These are not language lessons; they’re life lessons through language. Hosted by Martina Castro, co-founder of NPR’s Radio Ambulante.
Episodes
Mentioned books

9 snips
Dec 3, 2020 • 32min
Part 6: El juicio (The Trial)
The courtroom drama unfolds as robbers face severe consequences for their heist. Key witnesses share harrowing testimonies, raising questions about memory and truth. The robbers' defense, centered on being unarmed, struggles against the prosecution's case. Sentencing day reveals the stark reality of justice, with varying sentences that reflect the severity of their crimes. As the aftermath unravels, former criminals confront their past, highlighting the ongoing impact of the bank robbery on their lives and the public.

13 snips
Nov 19, 2020 • 29min
Part 5: El golpe (The job)
Join Alberto de la Torre, a former thief involved in the infamous 2006 bank heist in Argentina, as he shares his inside story. Experience the intricate planning and high-stakes execution of the robbery from the robbers' perspective. Alberto discusses the unexpected challenges they faced, including an unnerving security guard. He reveals a moment of surprising humanity by releasing hostages, showcasing layers of character amidst chaos. Finally, hear about their dramatic escape and the surreal aftermath, highlighting the tension between success and impending capture.

5 snips
Nov 12, 2020 • 25min
Part 4: El plan (The Plan)
A mastermind assembles a diverse gang for an ambitious heist, rooted in historical inspiration. As tensions rise, trust becomes a fragile currency among the unlikely collaborators. The team's meticulous planning includes a cleverly dug tunnel and innovative tools. They strategize a nonviolent approach for their daring operation scheduled on Friday the 13th, sparking debates on execution and potential flaws. Will their intricate preparations lead to success, or will distrust unravel their grand scheme?

7 snips
Nov 5, 2020 • 27min
Part 3: Las detenciones (The Arrests)
An unexpected betrayal leads to the downfall of the robbers, sparking a tense investigation. Alicia’s testimony unveils her tumultuous relationship with the mastermind behind the bank heist. Law enforcement’s search turns bizarre with the discovery of nearly $20,000 hidden in a frozen chicken. The narrative explores the intricate ties between suspects and a notorious criminal as the pursuit of a fugitive reveals further links to the crime. The clash between clever criminals and determined officers adds a compelling edge to this riveting tale of deceit and intrigue.

9 snips
Oct 29, 2020 • 26min
Part 2: La caza (The Hunt)
A thrilling investigation unfolds as police uncover a hidden hole in a bank basement related to a high-profile heist. The clever thieves used a fake grenade and an inflatable boat for their daring escape. As journalists race against time for exclusive angles, the emotional fallout on victims adds tension. A mysterious note hints at Robin Hood-like motives, connecting the robbery to Argentina's financial crisis. Amidst mounting pressure and unhelpful leads, the complexities of the investigation keep listeners on the edge of their seats.

10 snips
Oct 22, 2020 • 31min
Part 1: El robo (The Robbery)
In January 2006, a group of thieves entered a bank in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in what appeared to be just a regular theft. But soon, it became clear that this would be unlike any crime Argentina had ever seen. In part one of our first ever serialized story about one of the most shocking robberies in Latin America, you'll hear from several people who investigated the crime: Journalists Rodolfo Palacios and Maria Ripetta, prosecutor Ariel Apolo, and one of the police officers who arrived on the scene. A transcript of this episode is available at https://bit.ly/3ITu0HO.

5 snips
Sep 27, 2020 • 3min
Trailer Season 9
Get ready for a thrilling ride as the series returns with an intriguing tale about the infamous 2006 bank robbery in Buenos Aires. Dive into the mystery surrounding the heist, filled with suspense and engaging bilingual storytelling. Discover the secrets of the elusive perpetrators and experience the adrenaline of a true crime narrative. With new episodes on the horizon, the excitement is just beginning!

Aug 20, 2020 • 24min
Una rana llamada Romeo (A Frog Named Romeo)
A Bolivian biologist studies a lone frog named Romeo,, who's in danger of extinction — until she makes him a dating profile and starts an international fundraising campaign to find his Juliet and save the species. A transcript of this episode is available at https://bit.ly/3s5UXB9.

Aug 13, 2020 • 22min
La abuela superstar (Grandma Superstar)
Irma Silva was born on a ranch, married young, and raised a large family — the traditional life of a rural Mexican woman. At 80 she thought that was it for her…until her grandson made an offer she couldn't refuse, and invited her to be the lead singer of his band. A transcript of this episode is available at https://bit.ly/3rfKVhB.

Aug 6, 2020 • 21min
Un tesoro internacional (International Treasure)
There are two places Teresa Valcarce calls home: Spain and the United States. But after discovering that one of her countries never fulfilled a centuries-old promise to the other, Teresa sets out on a mission to track down a missing portrait, and restore it to its rightful home. A transcript of this episode is available at https://bit.ly/3oa6kXC.


