Season 2 — Worksheets

This episode of the Carioca Connection podcast is about Foster and Alexia's trip to Valparaíso, Chile. They discuss the city's bohemian atmosphere, its hills (cerros), and the challenges of learning Spanish. Foster shares his experience learning Spanish in Spain, while Alexia talks about her progress in understanding and speaking the language. They also emphasize the importance of immersing oneself in the culture and developing a connection with the language being learned.

This podcast episode discusses the topic of minimalism and the book "The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up." Foster and Alexia talk about their experiences with decluttering and the challenges of letting go of possessions. They mention the concept of "desapego" (detachment) and how it relates to minimalism. They also touch on the idea of finding joy in the things we keep and the benefits of living a more minimalist lifestyle. Overall, it's a quick and informative episode about simplifying and organizing our lives.

This podcast episode discusses the recent conviction of former Brazilian president Lula and its implications. It provides a brief explanation of Lula's background, the Operation Car Wash corruption investigation, and the legal process against Lula. The hosts also mention other potential presidential candidates and express their opinions on the current political situation in Brazil. Overall, it offers an informal and insightful discussion on Brazilian politics.

The episode is about Carnaval in Brazil, the biggest outdoor party in the world. They discuss the different aspects of Carnaval, including the famous Samba School parade, street parties called blocos, and the experience of participating in Carnaval. They also mention some of the most famous Samba Schools and give personal anecdotes about their own experiences with Carnaval. Overall, they recommend experiencing Carnaval at least once in your life.

The hosts discuss the future of work and how it has become more unstable and flexible. They talk about the rise of the sharing economy and how people are embracing freelancing and multiple jobs. They mention examples like Airbnb, Uber, and coworking spaces. They also touch on the challenges and benefits of this new work landscape.

In this episode, Foster and Alexia discuss New Year's resolutions and goals. They talk about how people in Brazil approach resolutions and whether they share them with others. They also discuss the challenges of sticking to resolutions and the superstitions surrounding them. Foster shares his goals for improving his Spanish and his physical health, while Alexia talks about her goal of reading one book per month. Overall, they explore the topic of self-improvement and the different ways people approach it.

This podcast episode is about small talk and introductions in Portuguese. Foster and Alexia discuss different greetings and expressions used in Brazil, as well as the importance of first impressions. They also give tips on how to navigate conversations and make yourself understood, even if you're still learning the language. It's a fun and informative episode that will help you feel more confident in your Portuguese-speaking interactions.

This episode is about Paraty, a beautiful historic city in Rio de Janeiro. Foster and Alexia discuss the history of Paraty, its cobblestone streets, and its status as a tourist destination. They also mention the surrounding areas, such as Trindade and Praia do Sono, and highlight the delicious Brazilian sweets available in Paraty. Overall, they describe Paraty as a relaxing and cultural place to visit, with welcoming locals and plenty to explore.

The hosts discuss their trip to Praia do Sono, a secluded beach near Paraty. They talk about the journey to get there, including the bus ride and the hike through the Atlantic Rainforest. They describe the beach as calm and beautiful, with clear water and a relaxed atmosphere. They recommend visiting Praia do Sono for a day trip and mention that there are options for camping or renting a house. They also mention that there are other attractions nearby, such as waterfalls and the town of Trindade. Overall, they highly recommend visiting Praia do Sono and enjoying its natural beauty.

This episode of the podcast is about Trindade, a small town near Paraty, Brazil. Foster and Alexia discuss the beaches, natural pool, and hiking trails in Trindade. They also compare Trindade to Praia do Sono and talk about the different vibes and experiences in each place. You'll learn about the hippie atmosphere, touristy aspects, and the prices of restaurants in Trindade. They also mention the famous Tobogã waterfall and the cachaça distilleries in the area. Overall, Trindade is described as a great place to visit, especially if you're looking for a mix of nature, beaches, and a lively atmosphere.

In this episode, Foster and Alexia discuss their goals of reading more books and the challenges of finding time to read in the age of social media and constant distractions. They share their favorite Brazilian authors, Nelson Rodrigues and Fernando Pessoa, and highlight the benefits of reading to escape from everyday routines and improve focus and concentration. The conversation explores the magic of literature and the joy of discovering new stories and perspectives.

In this podcast episode, Alexia reads a poem by Carlos Drummond de Andrade called "A Bruxa" which talks about the city of Rio de Janeiro. She expresses her love for the writer and hopes that listeners will read more about him. Foster appreciates the poem and they bid farewell until the next episode.

This podcast episode discusses the current situation in Rio de Janeiro, highlighting the increase in crime and insecurity. The hosts share personal experiences and talk about the challenges faced by residents and tourists. They mention incidents of robbery and violence, as well as the intervention of the military in the city. They express their love for Rio but acknowledge the difficulties of living there. The next episode will explore the potential outcomes of the intervention and the ongoing issues in the city.

In this episode, Foster and Alexia discuss the military intervention in Rio de Janeiro. They talk about the current situation in the city, the measures visitors can take to stay safe, and emphasize that Rio is still a beautiful place to visit despite the challenges. They also mention the importance of learning Portuguese and share some personal experiences. Overall, it's a conversation about the reality of the situation and a reminder to take precautions while appreciating the beauty of Rio de Janeiro.

This podcast episode is a game of "Would you rather?" where the hosts ask each other fun and challenging questions. They discuss topics such as choosing between a dog or a cat, listening to music or podcasts while walking, and deciding between a cheeseburger or a taco. They also talk about the differences between Mexican food in Brazil and the United States. Throughout the episode, they share their preferences and provide humorous explanations for their choices. Listeners will learn about the hosts' personal preferences and get a glimpse into their dynamic and entertaining conversations.

In this podcast episode, Foster and Alexia talk about Caetano Veloso, a renowned Brazilian artist known for his diverse talents and his role in fighting against the military dictatorship in Brazil. They discuss Caetano's music, his influence on Brazilian culture, and share some interesting anecdotes about him. Overall, it's a fun and informative conversation about one of Brazil's most iconic figures in music.

This episode of the podcast discusses the city of Bonito, located in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The hosts talk about the natural beauty of the region, including clear rivers, caves, and waterfalls. They also mention the wildlife, such as alligators and snakes, that can be found there. The hosts share their personal experiences, including rappelling, floating in the Rio da Prata, and going on a rafting adventure. They highlight the importance of visiting Bonito with a tour guide due to its environmental reserves. Despite some humorous anecdotes about potential dangers, they emphasize that Bonito is an incredible place to visit and support the local community.

In this episode, Foster and Alexia talk about feijoada, the national dish of Brazil. They discuss the origins of feijoada, its ingredients, and how it is traditionally eaten. They also share recommendations on where and when to eat feijoada and emphasize the importance of trying homemade feijoada. The hosts also mention the significance of feijoada in Brazilian culture and invite listeners to send in their questions and topic suggestions for future episodes.

In this episode, Foster and Alexia talk about Teresópolis, a city in the mountains of Rio de Janeiro. They discuss the natural beauty of the city, including the Serra dos Órgãos National Park and the famous Dedo de Deus mountain. They also mention the craft market and the training center for the Brazilian national football team. Teresópolis is described as a calm and relaxing place to visit, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Overall, it's a great option for those who want to enjoy nature and have a more peaceful experience in Brazil.

In this episode, Foster and Alexia discuss the impact of technology on mental health. They share tips on using apps to reduce phone dependency and improve mental well-being. They also talk about their own experiences and the challenges of finding a balance between staying connected and maintaining a healthy relationship with technology. Overall, it's a conversation about the need to be mindful of our phone usage and find ways to prioritize mental health in the digital age.

In this episode, Foster talks about how he learned Portuguese and his experience living in Brazil. He shares that he already spoke Spanish and decided to learn Portuguese because he was studying in Rio. Foster mentions that the sounds and rhythm of Portuguese are different from Spanish, but the grammar is similar. He also discusses the challenges of learning a new language and gives advice to beginners. Overall, it's a fun and informative episode about language learning and the differences between Spanish and Portuguese.

This podcast episode features Renato, a Brazilian musician, discussing his love for Brazilian music and his journey as a self-taught guitarist. He talks about the importance of lyrics in Brazilian music and recommends songs by Vinicius de Moraes, including his children's music album "A Arca de Noé." Renato also shares his website, Learning Brazilian Guitar, where people can find Brazilian guitar lessons. Overall, it's a fun and informative conversation about Brazilian music and the passion behind it.

In this podcast episode, Foster and Renato discuss Brazilian music, specifically the Bossa Nova genre. They talk about the influence of Bossa Nova on Brazilian culture, the unique characteristics of Bossa Nova music, and the importance of Tom Jobim in the genre. They also touch on the relationship between music and language, and how music can be a great tool for learning Portuguese. Overall, it's an interesting conversation that highlights the richness and depth of Brazilian music beyond the well-known hits.

In this episode, Foster and Alexia talk about Vinicius de Moraes, a famous Brazilian poet, songwriter, and diplomat. They discuss his life, his friendships with other renowned poets and musicians, and his love for women. They also mention some of his famous songs and poems, such as "Garota de Ipanema" and "Eu sei que vou te amar." Overall, it's a fun and informative conversation about Vinicius and his contributions to Brazilian culture.

The hosts discuss a poem by Vinicius de Moraes called "Se Você Quer Ser A Minha Namorada" and express their admiration for its sentimental nature. They invite listeners to comment, leave reviews, and give five stars.

This podcast episode discusses the concept of coworking and focuses on WeWork, a well-known coworking space worldwide. The hosts talk about their experiences with coworking and the benefits it offers, such as a sense of community and access to infrastructure. They also mention the WeWork buildings in Rio de Janeiro and New York, highlighting the networking opportunities and events provided by WeWork. The episode provides insights into the coworking culture and its growing popularity.

In this episode, Foster and Alexia discuss Alexia's experience getting vaccinated for yellow fever due to an outbreak in Rio de Janeiro. Alexia shares her fear of needles and her dislike for the vaccination process. They also talk about the importance of vaccines and the crowded healthcare system in Brazil. Overall, it's a lighthearted conversation with some humorous moments.

The hosts discuss the future of cable TV and the rise of streaming services like Netflix. They talk about their own viewing habits and how they prefer internet-based platforms over traditional cable. They mention the popularity of Netflix and the emergence of other streaming services. They also mention the transition of traditional TV channels like Globo to online platforms. The hosts discuss the cost and convenience of streaming services compared to cable TV. They mention the challenges of canceling cable subscriptions and the dominance of cable companies in Brazil. Overall, they believe that the future of TV is moving towards streaming services and online platforms.

This podcast episode discusses Easter traditions in Brazil, including the religious aspects, the custom of eating fish, and the exchange of chocolate eggs. The hosts also talk about the high prices of chocolate eggs and suggest alternative ways to celebrate Easter, such as a chocolate carrot or an Easter egg hunt. Overall, it's a fun and informative conversation about Easter in Brazil.

In this episode, Foster and Alexia discuss the service in restaurants in Brazil compared to the United States. They talk about their experiences with the service in Rio de Janeiro and how it can be frustrating. They also discuss the culture of tipping in Brazil and how it affects the service. Overall, they recommend leaving a 10% tip in cash directly to the waiter and highlight the importance of treating waiters with respect.

The hosts discuss the importance of national anthems, focusing on the Brazilian and American anthems. They share personal experiences and emotions associated with singing the anthems and discuss the controversy surrounding athletes not standing during the American anthem. They also mention the significance of the anthems in fostering a sense of unity and solidarity. The hosts conclude by expressing the value of learning and understanding national anthems as a way to connect with the culture and history of a country.

This podcast episode discusses the cultural differences between Brazilians and Americans when it comes to living with parents. The hosts share their perspectives and experiences, highlighting that it is common for Brazilians to live with their parents until a later age compared to Americans. They also touch on economic factors and the sense of independence that comes with living on your own. Overall, it's an interesting conversation that sheds light on the topic.

In this episode, Foster and Alexia discuss the Brazilian culture of physical contact, such as kissing and hugging. They explain that Brazilians are very intimate and curious about others, which leads to quick friendships and warm interactions. They also mention the different customs of greeting in different regions of Brazil, with some places having two kisses, others having one, and a few having three. Overall, they emphasize that the Brazilian way of physical contact is not invasive or disrespectful, but rather a way of showing affection and making connections.

This episode discusses the topic of Brazilians being the coolest people in the world. Foster and Alexia talk about the friendly and welcoming nature of Brazilians, their diversity, and their ability to make tourists feel at home. They also mention rankings that highlight Brazil's positive attributes and share personal anecdotes that showcase the kindness and helpfulness of Brazilians.

This podcast episode discusses the different schedules and meal times in Brazil compared to other countries. They talk about dinner time, work schedules, and going out at night. You'll learn that dinner in Brazil is usually later, around 8 or 9 pm, and that going out at night can last until the early morning hours. The hosts also mention the importance of breakfast and the informal nature of work in Brazil. Overall, it's a fun conversation about Brazilian schedules and habits.

In this episode, Foster and Alexia discuss different accents in Brazil, focusing on the Carioca accent. They talk about the pronunciation of certain sounds, such as "s" and "r", and how it differs in various regions of Brazil. They also touch on the importance of understanding accents and how it can vary from person to person. Overall, it's a fun conversation about the diversity of accents in Brazil and how they shape the way we speak Portuguese.

The hosts discuss their experience in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and the rivalry between Brazilians and Argentinians. They talk about the friendliness of the people, the cultural vibrancy of the city, and the architectural beauty. They also mention the economic and political challenges the country faces. Overall, they recommend visiting Buenos Aires and practicing Spanish or "portuñol" while there.

In this episode, Foster and Alexia talk about their experiences with house sitting and taking care of pets. They discuss the benefits of using platforms like Trusted House Sitters to find free accommodation and spend time with animals. They also share their love for dogs and their preference for adopting rather than buying. Overall, it's a fun and emotional conversation about their love for pets and the joy they bring to their lives.

This podcast episode is about the hosts' experience in Montevideo, Uruguay. They talk about their journey, the city, the food, and the people. They recommend visiting Montevideo and trying the delicious Uruguayan cuisine, such as the Chivito sandwich. They also mention a unique restaurant called Primuseum, where you can enjoy a fantastic tango show while having a delicious meal. Overall, they had a great time in Montevideo and highly recommend it to travelers.

In this episode, Alexia and Foster discuss why they love Brazil. They talk about the friendly and happy nature of Brazilians, the diverse and delicious food, the beautiful beaches and beach culture, the rich and vibrant music scene, the acceptance of foreigners, the optimism of the Brazilian people, and the unique Portuguese language. They express their love for Brazil and encourage listeners to visit and experience the country's culture firsthand.