Spain, Despacito

Have you heard of slow radio? Last year, BBC Radio 3 started a programme designed as “an antidote to today’s frenzied world.” I think it’s a great idea. The pace is slow and relaxing, and that’s a welcome change.

Today, I’m launching a new podcast series that I’m calling Hablando con Españoles. In my travels around Spain, looking for story ideas or working on assignment, I often run into people that I wouldn’t have the chance to talk with if it weren’t for the fact I was wearing my reporter’s hat. A fisherman, a shepherd, an avocado farmer. They’re unedited and unscripted and sometimes wander all over the place, as in, you know, a real conversation! Not quite slow radio, but pretty chilled out.

I was going to put them into a whole new podcast because they are, by necessity, in Spanish. But I know that many of you speak Spanish, so while I’m trying them out, I thought I’d include them here. For the rest of you, just so you know, I will continue to do English podcasts as well as more of my binaural soundscapes.

While on the subject of slowing down, I’d like to give a shout out to my friend Ben Curtis, who you probably know from his blog and podcast that teaches people how to speak Spanish like a Spaniard. Ben’s also got a new podcast out and it is fantastic. In Being Happiness, Ben talks about the stresses of modern life and how to approach them to live a happy life. There’s a lot of wisdom there, and you might just be inspired (and happier), so check it out.

I hope you enjoy the first instalment of Hablando con Españoles. I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below, and if you feel like giving me a little support, leaving a comment on Apple Podcasts would be very much appreciated. Thank you.