Practice Portuguese
A podcast dedicated to helping learners acquire European Portuguese. It covers vocabulary, grammar, and cultural insights for those studying the language spoken in Portugal.
Episodes
Verdade Ou Mentira?
Who's the better liar, Rui or Joel? 🤥 Today we'll practice using past tense verb conjugations to discuss past experiences. Can you detect which of our stories are true, and which are total lies?
Beijos e Bolas de Berlim (LIVE!)
What do Portuguese people eat for breakfast? Why do we greet women with two kisses on the cheek? And who eats 'Bolas de Berlim' at the beach? In this live-recorded episode, Rui and Joel discuss some of Portugal's most interesting habits.
Uma Conversa Entre Músicos
Joel sits down with João, a fellow musician and also a music teacher. Explore music-related vocabulary as João related to his passion for music, shares his first steps into the music world, and even gives a brief theory lesson!
Como Nos Tempos Antigos
By popular demand, Rui and Joel return to one of their classic podcast formats. They feature one of the 600+ “Shorties” available on our platform and explore vocabulary and expressions. Later, Rui helps Joel fix some of his more subtle pronunciation errors in European Portuguese – are you making the same mistakes?
Estações do Ano
Damiana and Rui chat about what they like to do during different seasons of the year in Portugal.
(Recorded in September 2024)
A Origem do Practice Portuguese
Happy International Podcast Day! It’s a podcast about podcasts! 🤯
Campismo em Portugal
Rui and Joel talk about their experiences and personal preferences when it comes to camping in Portugal.
*A note to clarify the difference between pilha and bateria:
pilhas: Usually smaller/simpler batteries like AA, AAA, 9V, or coin-shaped batteries. Used in things like remote controls, watches, flashlights, toys, etc. May or may not be rechargeable.
baterias: Usually larger, more complex b
Os Jogos Olímpicos
Damiana and Joel discuss the 2024 Olympics!
Conversa ou Confronto?
Rui and Joel discuss the cultural differences in conversation styles between Portugal and North America. Help them resolve their “argument” so that they don’t have to go to couples therapy. 😜
Desafios da Burocracia
Joel and Rui discuss some of Joel’s views on adapting to life in Portugal, from the lack of “real salads” to the differences in work culture.
Adaptação a Portugal
Joel talks about career choices and adapting to life in Portugal.
(Listeners: Rui & Joel are outside filming, so the sound in the background is a nearby water feature.)
Como Ser um Bom Aluno de Português
Damiana’s advice on how to be a good Portuguese student!
A Vida Com Crianças
Rui and Joel discuss how their lives have changed after kids.
Uma Alentejana em Lisboa
A special guest from our Practice Portuguese team, Joana, talks to Joel about her Alentejo culture and traditions. Discover essential vocabulary related to regional differences and expressions unique to the Alentejo region.
Hábitos de Entretenimento
Joel and Rui discuss their social media habits and entertainment choices. Who is more addicted to Instagram? Reddit? Do they prefer in-depth documentaries, or trash TV?
A Vida em Lisboa
Rui and Joel explore the pros and cons of living in Lisbon, their favourite areas to live and where to find the best places in Portugal to actually Practice Portuguese with natives!
Comer Fora ou Mandar Vir?
Do you prefer dining out or ordering in? Join us for a conversation about food, drinks, and dining in Portugal, with a special appearance from Rui's mom who shares a story about the ultimate Portuguese food faux pas.
Carros e Condução
Buckle up and join Joel and Rui for a conversation about car preferences and driving experiences.
Check out our Driving unit for even more European Portuguese vocabulary and expressions related to cars and driving!
A Arte de Oferecer Presentes
Estamos de volta! Returning to the roots of where this all started back in 2013, Rui and Joel are reviving our flagship Podcast!
Although we’re releasing video episodes, we’ll also keep our audio-only listeners in mind, so you can subscribe to our podcast feed in your favourite app and listen while on-the-go.
In this episode, we dive into the art of gift-giving – all in European Portuguese, clar
Perguntas Pessoais
We didn’t know what to talk about, so Practice Portuguese team member, Molly, gave us a list of questions to answer! Topics include: pet peeves, where else in the world we’d live, binge-watching habits, favourite cuisine, biggest fears and much more! We also reveal some behind-the-scenes news of what the Practice Portuguese team has been up to these past few months.
The Verb “Dar” And Its Many Meanings
Did you know the verb “dar” has at least 60 different meanings in Portuguese? 😱 The simplest translation is “to give”, but it also has many idiomatic meanings, which depend on the context. Today, Joel and Rui take a deep dive into “dar”, with some help from one of our Shorty episodes: Dar Uma Mãozinha. Joel also shows off his own study routine for vocabulary building, using Practice Portuguese’s l
Prémios e Roubos
Are Rui and Joel still alive?! After many busy months, we're back to talk about everything that we've been up to, and what's next for Practice Portuguese in 2022.
Special thanks to borderland.pt (@borderland.photo) for the fantastic job on our neon logo!
Despedidas e Parcerias
2021 has already been off to a busy start! Rui & Joel update you on everything that's going on, in Portuguese:
• Rui & Joel get COVID swabs jammed up their noses… for TV
• Rui quits something and joins something else within the same week (Huh?)
• Our mobile app is on the way!
• Appearances from Clara and Avó Odete
Já Somos YouTubers!
Have you been to the dentist lately? In this first-ever video podcast, we feature one of our latest Shorties and discuss useful vocabulary all about… teeth! While recording, we're interrupted by some personal text messages that we reveal and deconstruct for your learning pleasure!
Os Tons do Português
We all have moments where we need some colourful language to express ourselves. (No, we're not talking about swear words, that's for another episode). Today we go through the whole colour spectrum while featuring the Shorty, "Um Lindo Bebé". Do you know how to say your favourite colour in Portuguese?
Maratona de Leitura
Featured Shorty: "Diário de uma Quarent(o)ena II."
A lot has happened, to say the least, since we last recorded a podcast episode!
We start out by challenging your comprehension with casual Portuguese conversation to get you up to speed on what's been happening with us personally as well as in the world... since we know we are definitely your primary resource for all things COVID-19!
We spend the
Segredos da Pronúncia Nativa
In this episode, we once again analyze record audio clips from our brave listeners! We listen to the Shorty, "À Busca de Doces", and explore how to make your Portuguese sound more native with pronunciation subtleties and word choice. We also clarify some other challenging concepts, such as the differences between "aí, ali, & lá".
Como Falam os Nossos Membros?
Today, the tables have turned, because YOU, (our listeners) are the main voices of this special episode! European Portuguese learners from around the world bravely submitted recordings of themselves reading our featured Shorty, "Um Encontro".
We listen to each one, while suggesting subtle improvements for perfecting their pronunciation, including some challenging vowel sounds, and rules of the le
Ninguém Quer Esparguete Doce
'Tis the season… to spread misinformation about the origins of Christmas and Santa Claus! In this special holiday episode, Rui and Joel explore the food and other traditions of Christmas in Portugal, while featuring one of our latest Shorties, "a Consoada". Boas festas a todos! 🎄
Dona Amélia Vai À Farmácia
Dona Amélia, an old-fashioned woman who only believes in natural remedies, pays a visit to the pharmacy. Will the pharmacist be able to help her, despite her hearing difficulties?
Carro Alugado, Caos Instalado
Cláudio and Joana are a Portuguese couple who decide to take a trip to Tomar in a rental car. When it comes to driving, they can't seem to agree on anything. Will they make it to their destination without driving each other crazy?
As Senhoras Que Bebem Cerveja
In this episode, we deconstruct one of our latest "Shorties". We go through some useful food vocabulary, discuss verb and tense choices, and Rui irons out Joel and Molly's "estrangeiro" pronunciation! There's also some exciting news about Practice Portuguese, especially for those of you who might be in the Algarve next weekend.
Dona Gertrudes e a Conta do Gás
Dona Gertrudes, a retired 65-year-old woman, has just a received a surprisingly large bill from her gas company. Upset and nervous, she attempts to sort the matter out on the phone.
Roupa Na Varanda, Afinal Quem Manda?
Monica has just moved to an apartment in the Historic Center of Porto. She meets her neighbour Eduardo who tries to impose some unexpected rules. Will she be able to deal with these strict requirements?
À Caça de Descontos no Supermercado
To prepare for an upcoming birthday party that they'll be hosting, a modern grandma and her jokester husband stock up on groceries at the local supermarket. While taking advantage of every promotion they can, will they actually remember to pick up everything they went there for in the first place?
Perigo na Estrada, Pesadelo na Oficina!
Eduarda, the mechanic, deals with a customer who thinks he knows exactly what's wrong with his car… when in fact, the biggest problem might just be the driver!
(Special guest: Eliana Silva)
Uma Ida Ao Supermercado
While making her way through her lengthy shopping list (containing useful food vocabulary, of course), Sra. Rosa shares her elderly wisdom with a young employee who is eager to help.
Special Guest: Eliana Silva
Um Natal de Crescer Água na Boca
This holiday season, a Practice Portuguese TV reporter takes to the streets to hear directly from Portuguese natives about their family Christmas traditions… until a particularly talkative woman steals the show!
Lançamento: “Passo a Passo” (o Caminho de Santiago)
With the holiday season approaching, Rui and Joel announce a special early gift for members of Practice Portuguese! Listen and find out exactly what is on "the Way"…
Updated December 1, 2018: It's launched!
Cabelos, Tesouras e Desilusões
Salvador and Mariana (– no, Adriana! –) visit a hair salon to freshen up their looks, but quickly find themselves in a hairy situation! In this episode, you'll learn lots of new vocabulary and expressions that should come in handy the next time you find yourself going under the scissors…
Parte II: À Caça de Casa
Today we revisit Diálogo 29 to discuss some of the vocabulary and expressions surrounding the Portuguese housing market. There's also an extra listening challenge waiting for you in the second half, so stick around!
À Caça de Casa
In this episode, we explore the Portuguese apartment rental market with James, a young adult of Portuguese descent looking for a new place. To find some leads, he recruits the help of his friend, Luís. However, Luís happens to be going through a bit of drama with his ex-girlfriend, so let's see if he's able to be of any help…
BONUS: Palavras Japonesas Inspiradas na Língua Portuguesa
After listening to our last podcast on foreign words derived from Portuguese, a Japanese member, Ryoko, came to our rescue with recordings of every Japanese word we mentioned, plus a bunch of new ones for good measure. Join us as we explore surprising similarities between Japanese and Portuguese in this bonus episode!
("Arigato" once again to Ryoko Kawaoka for her generous time in preparing the l
Palavras Inspiradas na Língua Portuguesa
In this unscripted dialogue between Rui and Joel, we discover words in English, Spanish, French and Japanese that apparently derived from Portuguese vocabulary… Come for the comprehension practice, stay for the butchered non-Portuguese pronunciations!
As Sardinhas Que Fumavam
Hoping for a calm, vegetarian dining experience at a local Portuguese restaurant, Sr. John gets thrown off guard by unprofessional service and a problem with his order! Find out how he deals with these challenges, and learn lots of vocabulary and expressions to use the next time you're dining out.
Cristiano Ronaldo: Assim Nasce Um Campeão!
"Ronaldo" is one of the first names that pop up when discussing Portugal, wherever you are in the world. Regarded as one of the most important football/soccer players of all time, he's earned his place as not only a top Portuguese celebrity, but also as an important symbol of the country. Neither Rui nor Joel are fans of the ol' sportsball, which made exploring the new vocabulary and expressions e
O Azulejo Português
Today we learn about one of the most important symbols of Portuguese culture, found all over the walls and buildings throughout the country – azulejos (tiles). As always, we explore new vocabulary and grammar, and correct more of Joel's "pronúncia de estrangeiro!"
A Tartaruga Ninja
Our fabulously fictional Portuguese family is back (with peculiarly different voices 😂) and this time, they're considering adding a new member. We explore new vocabulary surrounding food, animals and more, and also run into some new usage examples of the conjunctive and conditional moods. And just like in the last episode, Rui continues to help Joel identify some more of his "estrangeiro" pronunci
A Rota da Cortiça
In this episode, we learn about one of Portugal's most important symbols and main exports: cork! We explore tons of new vocabulary, and later, for your benefit, Rui humbles Joel by tearing apart his pronunciation skills!
A Mãe Está Doente e o Pai Cuida da Família
Today, our fictional Portuguese family is subjected to some of the grammar you'll find around the B2 Intermediate level, including the "conjuntivo" verb mood. Since the mother is sick, the father has to improvise with preparing dinner himself, all while taking care of the kids. Will it be as easy as he thinks, or will it all go "por água abaixo"?
Resolver Um Problema Ao Telefone: Alô?!
Update: April 10, 2018 – Previously audio-only, this episode has been turned into a fully-animated cartoon. The video is free for everyone to watch, plus our supporting Members get access to a special version with subtitles for improving comprehension.
Telephone and Internet service companies are notoriously painful to deal with, and Portugal is no exception! In this dialogue, a pushy representat
Supermix Interview (with Tatiana, Rui & Joel)
When we launched Diálogo 24 Um Café Em Lisboa (with our special guest, Tatiana from Brazil), it understandably created some controversy with our audience, who normally looks to us for European Portuguese content!
While most members loved exploring the differences between the two dialects, a few members were worried that we were losing our European Portuguese focus. (We’re not!)
To discuss why we
Como Falam Os Algarvios? (Conversa com Eliana)
After our very challenging Diálogo, dedicated to the Algarvian dialect, we decided to record a follow-up discussion with Eliana, (who voiced the Algarvian characters).
She will help us understand a bit better some of the difficult terms and expressions that came up in that episode, and how they're typically used in the region.
Certificado de Residência (Como Pedir… Em Algarvio!)
In what might possibly be our most ambitious Diálogo to date, we explore some of the delightful bureaucracy that surrounds obtaining a residency permit in Portugal. With Michael (our special guest estrangeiro) moving to Algarve, we get a chance to explore some of the vocabulary and pronunciation quirks that set this region apart from the rest of Portugal!
A special "obrigado" to our friends who h
Salvador Sobral Ganha Eurovisão 2017
Discover the beautiful ballad that unexpectedly swept Europe off its feet in the Eurovision 2017 song contest: "Amar Pelos Dois", by Salvador Sobral. After 53 years of competing, this marks Portugal's first victory ever! With the help of a special guest, Rui and Joel explore the meaning behind these Portuguese lyrics as well as what set this performance apart from all the rest.
Note: We only used
Um Café em Lisboa
This episode is a collaboration featuring Tatiana Ribeiro, a Portuguese teacher (and fan of the project) from Brazil, currently living Italy! She recorded with us and also wrote the dialogue, which takes place in a café in Portugal.
Since we all know jokes are funnier after they're explained in exhaustive detail, Rui and Joel discuss the key vocabulary and expressions used throughout. But rather
A Lenda Da Serra Da Nó
We're back with another classic Portuguese tale, this time with the story of a Moorish king after the heart of a humble, female shepherd. Will he win her heart, despite their different religious backgrounds? How will they survive when the Christians come to take over the castle and land? Listen and find out!
Aprender Português? Vejo-me Grego! (Video)
In this video, Joel (o Canadiano) interviews Pedro, a personal trainer in Lisboa. When he saw which videos and website his Greek girlfriend was using to learn Portuguese, he immediately recognized Rui and Joel as members of the gym!
Instead of just taking a photo together, we decided it would be a bigger surprise for her to see her boyfriend pop up in her YouTube activity feed! So we recorded thi
Pizza Na Hora Está a Contratar!
Márcio o Brasileiro calls in once again to everyone's favourite Portuguese pizzeria, but this time to ask the owner for a job. Will they be able to overcome their cultural differences and work together? Have a listen and find out in this 3rd episode of Pizza Na Hora!
Natal e o Ano Novo
What could be better than a holiday episode in January? (Just about anything!)
Listen to find out what happened to Rui that delayed this episode... and be extra prepared for when the holidays come around again in about 355 days!
We also discuss some quirky traditions and superstitions that Portuguese natives take part in during the New Year. Feliz janeiro!
A Lenda da Rapariga com Pés de Cabra
In this Lenda (tale), we explore a famous Portuguese tale of a woman... with goat feet! She manages to keep the secret hidden her entire life, until a nobleman falls in love with her and learns the truth.
(special thanks to Luís Relógio for writing this episode!)
Artigo 23 – António Guterres, A Unir Nações
A few days ago, Joel overheard some enthusiastic Portuguese natives talking about how António Guterres had been chosen as the new secretary-general of the United Nations. So in this episode, we take the opportunity to explore António's life and the experiences that led up to this proud moment in Portugal's history!
Desaparecido no Concerto
Outdoor concert festivals are fun and everything... until someone goes missing! In this dialogue, a Canadian named Fred gets worried when his Portuguese friend João disappears unexpectedly. He attempts to file a police report in the middle of the night with an unhelpful officer who'd rather continue napping.
3 Video Lessons (Special Announcement)
Attention Practice Portuguese podcast subscribers!
This is not a regular podcast episode, but a special announcement to tell you about a 3-part video series we're launching starting today.
Check out the first lesson now: practiceportuguese.com/words.
In these 3 lessons, we aim to solve a few of the biggest challenges our members run into when learning European Portuguese.
In the first video, w
Uma Viagem a Marraquexe
Today's destination is Morocco, as we cover tons of new vocabulary to prepare you for wherever your future travels take you! Follow our journey through the airport, airplane, and all through the ancient city of Marrakesh.
(Featuring a very special guest, Ana Coimbra, Rui's mãe!)
Portugal Campeão (Part 2)
In this second half of "Portugal Campeão", we continue to celebrate Portugal's futebol victory!
Just like the last few episodes, we discuss vocabulary and grammar useful in every day life, even if (like us) you don't follow sports! Make sure to listen until the end where Rui gets a little bit hyper... and musical! (Too much galão, perhaps?)
(00:55 Slow reading, 07:31 Discussion, 26:38 Fast readi
Portugal Campeão (Part 1)
We celebrate Portugal's futebol victory with a play-by-play of how it all went down, including tons of useful expressions and vocabulary, soccer/football related and otherwise.
With Rui and Joel's lack of sports knowledge (sports experts, you've been warned), we hope this episode is as educational as it is wacky!
Show up for the multiple musical outbursts, stay for the in-depth analysis of Ronal
A Família Vai Ao Supermercado
Marco and Ana take their kids to the "supermercado", giving us an opportunity to learn some new vocabulary surrounding food.
First, Rui reads the entire article all the way through, then Rui and Joel split the text into sections to discuss vocabulary, Portuguese culture, and useful expressions you'll hear on a daily basis while in Portugal. Rui also corrects some of Joel's "estrangeiro" pronuncia
Um Dia na Praia
Are you just starting to learn Portuguese? This episode is perfect for you! It is A1/A2 level with simple vocabulary and grammar, but read by a native speaker, so it's ideal for all levels to practice their pronunciation and listening comprehension! In addition, whenever we comment on the text, we take the opportunity to teach some expressions and review grammar.
Tip: The article is first read wi
Atualidade 3
Whether you're talking about cleaning, or even the extinction of dinosaurs, there is always a good excuse to practice European Portuguese!
Diálogo 20 – O Rui Procura Emprego
You're unemployed in Portugal and you don't know what to say in a job interview? This episode could be for you! The idea came from an email from a member (Obrigado Oleg!) who would like to hear a more formal dialogue in a professional context. This is our version, we hope you like it!
Atualidade 2
At first we had the articles and the dialogues. Then came the legends, and now the "Actualidades" (Current Events):
A boy who can't read
A minister who buys sneakers from a bum
A news story that "puxa a brasa à nossa sardinha"
Pulls what?? Não sabes? Pois, mas podes aprender! Test your Portuguese, and your patience!
A Lenda da Rainha Santa Isabel
Have you heard the legend of the "Holy Queen", one of the most beautiful Portuguese legends? She tells us about a miracle, but the most important thing is the message of solidarity we are left with. (With the participation of Ana Coimbra and Rui Coimbra Sr.!)
Atualidade 1
It's the first episode of current events! In this new format we will share the most discussed news stories of the week. They will be more dynamic episodes, in which Rui and Joel participate simultaneously. Are you ready?
Tradições de Natal
Christmas in Portugal -- the habits, the traditions, and the typical dishes. Discover everything in a two-speed text. Slow so you can understand, fast so you can practice!
A Lenda do Galo de Barcelos
Previously audio-only, this episode has been turned into a fully-animated cartoon.
The truth works miracles. Discover how in another Portuguese legend.
O Joel Vai Ao Hospital
The video is free for everyone to watch, plus our supporting Members get access to a special version with subtitles for improving comprehension.
~~~
Getting sick can cause pain and suffering, but it’s often not as bad as the hours spent in the waiting room of a hospital!
In this episode you’ll find out what to expect from your first Portuguese hospital visit.
Grécia: Passado, Presente e Futuro
How the cradle of Western civilization became one of the greatest concerns of the world at the moment.
Amendoeiras Em Flôr
This episode tells us a story in which love transforms the impossible into the possible. Although it is a legend, we like to believe that love like this can exist.
Sismo No Nepal
In this article you will hear the description in Portuguese of the tragedy that occurred in Nepal. This was the news that arrived in Portugal.
If you want to help those affected by the earthquake, go to the Nepal Red Cross website, nrcs.org, and make your donation.
