Learn Persian with Podgap

Episoade

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  Podgap (156) | Persian Conversation (A1): Bahram & Behnoush (Going to the Supermarket) 20.09.2026 7min

  In this episode of Podgap, join Bahrām and Behnoush as they go to the supermarket to buy some things for their home.You’ll first listen to their conversation slowly, learn the most important new words and phrases, and then listen to the dialogue again at a faster pace. Finally, we’ll test your understanding with a few questions about the conversation.In this episode, you’ll learn useful everyday Persian words and expressions such as:• یخچال — fridge• خالی — empty• جدی میگی؟ — Are you serious?• یه کم کار دارم — I have a few things to do• چی لازم داریم؟ — What do we need?• یادم رفت — I forgot• خرید کردن — to buy• برگشتن — to returnYou’ll also learn the Persian words for common supermarket items such as:milk, eggs, canned tuna, tomato paste, yogurt, cheese, and doogh.Looking for the transcription, glossary, and worksheet? You can find them on our Patreon page: patreon.com/podgapIf Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected]
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  Podgap (155) | Culture and Tradition (C1): Iraj, A Legend of Persian Singing 12.09.2026 9min

  In this episode of Podgap, we talk about Iraj Khajeh Amiri, one of the most iconic and memorable voices in Iranian music.Known as the “Pahlavan-e Avaz” (Master of Singing), Iraj had a remarkable career spanning more than seven decades. We talk about his life, his powerful and distinctive voice, his connection with traditional Iranian music, and his memorable performances in classic Iranian films.We also listen to a short part of one of his well-known songs and take a look at how his voice became part of the memories of several generations of Iranians.For Persian learners, we also explain some useful Persian expressions from the episode:🔹 چشم به جهان گشودن — to be born🔹 چشم از جهان فرو بستن — to pass away🔹 ماندگار شدن — to become lasting / remain in people's memoriesWe’ve also added some of Iraj’s famous songs as bonus material on Podgap Patreon, giving you a chance to listen to more of his music and practice understanding older Persian songs.If you’re interested in learning Persian, Iranian music, and Iranian culture, this episode is for you!Support Podgap on Patreon to access the transcript and additional materials for this episodePatreon.com/podgapIf Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected]
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  Podgap (154) | Persian Conversation (B1): Bahram & Behnoush (A Couple’s Argument) 05.09.2026 8min

  Have you ever had a small disagreement that suddenly turned into a serious argument?In this episode of Podgap, Behnoush and Bahram have a little argument after Bahram forgets an important plan they made for Friday lunch!Through their conversation, you'll learn several natural and commonly used Persian expressions that you can hear in everyday conversations, especially when people are arguing or getting annoyed. In this episode, we explain expressions such as:• کارها رو جمع و جور کردن• درست و حسابی• باز شروع کردی• سرت تو گوشیه• آدمو عصبی می‌کنی• حق با توئه• مسخره بازی درآوردن• از دست توThis episode is especially useful if you're learning spoken and colloquial Persian and want to sound more natural in everyday conversations.Want the transcript, vocabulary, exercises, and extra materials?Visit our Patreon page and download the learning materials for this episode:👉 www.patreon.com/podgapListen, learn, and enjoy Persian with Podgap!If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected]
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  Podgap (153) | Quiz (A2): Can You Guess the Word? 22.08.2026 11min

  How good is your Persian vocabulary? Let’s put it to the test!Welcome to Podgap, the podcast that helps you learn Persian (Farsi) through real, simple, and engaging conversations.In today’s episode, we’re doing something a little different. Instead of simply listening and learning new words, you’re going to play along with us!We’re playing Twenty Questions, a fun and easy guessing game that gives you a chance to practice Persian vocabulary, listening, and simple questions at the same time.You’ll learn useful Persian words related to animals, objects, food, and everyday life, while hearing them naturally in context. And the best part? You can play the game yourself and try to guess the answer before we do.So, whether you’re just starting to learn Persian, looking for Persian listening practice, or trying to expand your Farsi vocabulary, this episode is for you.Listen carefully, think in Persian, and see if you can guess the word in fewer than twenty questions.Ready?Let’s play Twenty Questions!If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected] to dive deeper? Joining us on Patreon.com/podgap
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  Podgap (152) | Sport: (C1): Learn Persian Through Football 09.08.2026 10min

  Are you a football fan and learning Persian? Then this episode of Podgap is for you!In this episode, Mohsen and Hanieh talk about an exciting match between England and Argentina while introducing useful and everyday football vocabulary in Persian.You’ll learn words and expressions such as striker, defender, midfielder, winger, cross, assist, possession, counterattack, one-on-one, stoppage time, comeback, and final whistle — all explained in both Persian and English, with practical examples.This episode is perfect for Persian learners who:⚽ love football📚 want to expand their Persian vocabulary🗣️ want to learn natural Persian expressions🌍 want to be able to talk about football in PersianAnd if you’re looking for more football vocabulary and expressions in Persian, visit the Podgap Patreon page. We have more audio lessons and Persian learning materials waiting for you!Listen, learn, and enjoy talking about football in Persian!Ready to master the taste and language of Persia? Subscribe to patreon.com/podgap for your weekly dose of Persian culture and language learning.If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected]
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  Podgap (151) | Persian Culture & Food: (C1): How Persian Flavors Traveled the World 11.07.2026 14min

  Ever wondered why Persian food is considered a global culinary treasure?In this episode of Podgap, we travel back over a thousand years to the heart of the Silk Road to uncover the legendary secrets of three iconic Iranian ingredients:Saffron, Barberry, and Rose Water.Join your hosts, Hanieh and Mohsen, as we blend history, science, and linguistics. Discover how these ingredients didn't just flavor the world—they powered ancient caravans, revolutionized global perfumery, and shaped medicinal history.[What You’ll Learn] The fascinating history of "Red Gold" (Saffron) and its journey from Persia to Europe.Why Barberries (Zereshk: The sour ruby of the desert) were the life-saving superfood of ancient Silk Road merchants. The history of Rose Water (Golab: The scent of paradise)Ready to master the taste and language of Iran?  For the full transcription, worksheet, vocabulary list, pronunciation, meanings, and examples, visit our Patreon page: patreon.com/podgapIf Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected]
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  Podgap (150) | Persian Conversation (A2): Bahram and Behnoush (Visiting an Iranian Home) 27.06.2026 9min

  Have you ever been invited to an Iranian home?In this episode, James visits Bahram and Behnoush for the first timeYou'll learn useful Persian expressions, practice a simple conversation, and discover some interesting facts about Iranian culture.In this episode, you'll learn:• Useful expressions such as "Befarmaayin too", "Chera zahmat keshidin?", and "Ghabel-e shomaa ro nadaare"• Three cultural tips about visiting an Iranian home, including taking off your shoes, Iranian hospitality, and taarof.🎧 Perfect for A2 Persian learners.📚 Patreon members can access the transcript, transliteration, vocabulary list, worksheets, and bonus materials.👉 patreon.com/podgapIf Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected]
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  Podgap (149) | Persian Idioms and Expressions (B2): Why Do Persians Say “Dog” So Much? 06.06.2026 13min

  In this episode of Podgap, we explore one of the most colorful corners of spoken Persian: dog-related idioms and expressions.You'll learn 10 common expressions that native speakers use in real conversations, including:🐾 Sag-joon (سگ‌جون) – someone incredibly tough and resilient🐾 Sag-do zadan (سگ‌دو زدن) – working hard with little result🐾 Mahall-e sag nazaashtan (محل سگ نذاشتن) – completely ignoring someone🐾 Sag sahebesh ro nemishnase (سگ صاحبش رو نمی‌شناسه) – a place that is total chaosBut this episode is more than vocabulary.You'll also discover:🔹 Why animals play such a big role in Persian idioms🔹 How native speakers use these expressions in everyday life🔹 Which expressions are funny, which are offensive, and when NOT to use them🔹 A full dialogue featuring all 10 expressions in contextIf you want to sound more natural, understand Iranian humor, and take your Persian beyond textbooks, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now and tell us:In your language, what animal is used to describe extreme fear, chaos, or a very dirty place?👇 Leave a comment and share your favorite animal-based expression!📚 Patreon members can download:• Full transcript• Vocabulary list with example and transliteration • Worksheet• Bonus dog expressions that didn't make it into the episodeJoin us at patreon.com/podgapEmail: [email protected]
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  Podgap (148) | Culture & History (B2): How Persian Shaped the Language of Chess 31.05.2026 10min

  Did you know that “checkmate” comes from the Persian phrase “Shah Mat”?It means the king is helpless — and it’s one of the many ways Persian has left its mark on the world of chess.In this episode of Podgap, we explore the fascinating story of chess: where it began, how it entered Iran during the Sasanian era, and how Persian culture helped shape the game the world knows today.We also talk about the chess pieces in Persian — shah / king, vazir / queen, rokh / rook, fil / bishop, asb / knight, and piyadeh or sarbaz / pawn — and discover which words and expressions traveled from Persian into other languages, including English.Chess is not just a game of strategy. It is a story of language, history, culture, and the journey of words across borders.So, what’s your next move? Listen to the new episode of Podgap and learn Persian through stories, culture, and real conversations.Tell us: Do you play chess? And who taught you your first move?If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected] to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgap
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  Podgap (147) | Speak Persian Naturally (A-C): Mastering the Sound /q/ 09.05.2026 7min

  Are you struggling with the Persian /q/ sound?You’re not alone! This episode of Podgap focuses on the Persian sound /q/ — one of the most unique and tricky sounds in the language.Join Hanieh and Mohsen for an easy, guided practice that will help you master this Persian sound with confidence.Follow along, repeat with your hosts, and strengthen your pronunciation skills.If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected] to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgap
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  Podgap (146) | Persian Grammar (A1): Simple Present Conjugation of “Want” and “Come” 25.04.2026 4min

  Do you know the spoken form of “want” and “come” in the present tense in Persian?In this episode, we break down two of the most essential verbs — khaastan (to want) and aamadan (to come) — and show you how they’re actually used in everyday conversation.Forget the formal textbook versions — you’ll learn the real spoken forms like mikhaam and miyaam, practice them step by step, and hear them in natural dialogues. Perfect for learners who want to sound more natural and understand native speakers with ease.🎁 Bonus: Get your free conjugation poster for these two verbs on our Patreon page.If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected] to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgap
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  Podgap (145) | Persian Discussion (B2): There's No Place Like Home 18.04.2026 8min

  In this episode of Podgap, we explore the concept of “home” — not merely as a physical space, but as a source of identity, memory, and emotional connection.While many of us experience a sense of comfort when returning home after a short trip, this feeling takes on deeper meaning for those who have lived abroad for many years.Today, we examine why some individuals choose to return to their homeland even in challenging or uncertain times and what drives this enduring attachment to the place where their roots lie. Through conversation and personal stories, we seek to understand how the idea of home continues to shape our sense of belonging.We host a new Podgap meeting the day after each episode is published. All Patreon members are welcome to join! Even free members can participate. Visit www.patreon.com/podgap to receive the Google Meet details.***If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected] to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgap
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  Podgap (144) | Persian Conversation (B1): Bahram & Behnoush (Nature Day) 11.04.2026 7min

  In this emotional and powerful episode of Podgap, Mohsen and Hanieh speak directly to their listeners during a difficult time, sharing heartfelt reflections on resilience, loss, and hope.As Iran faces the challenges of war, they honor the memory of innocent lives and express gratitude to their loyal audience who continue learning Persian despite the circumstances.Through the familiar storytelling of Bahram and Behnoosh, this episode also brings you a meaningful dialogue set on Sizdah Bedar (Nature Day). What begins as a simple plan for a day out turns into a deeper story about courage, community, and the reality of living through uncertain times.This episode is not only a Persian learning experience, but also a window into culture, humanity, and strength in the face of adversity.If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected] to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgap
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  Podgap (143) | History (B2): The Hasanlu Golden Bowl – A 3,200-Year-Old Story 14.03.2026 14min

  In this episode of Podgap, Mohsen and Hanie explore one of Iran’s most fascinating archaeological treasures: the Hasanlu Golden Bowl. Discovered in 1958 in northwestern Iran, this remarkable artifact dates back more than 3,200 years and is covered with symbolic engravings that reflect ancient myths and beliefs.We talk about the discovery of the bowl, the ancient civilization that lived near Lake Urmia, and the stories behind the figures carved on its surface. In the episode, we explain each character and symbol on the bowl. To make it easier to follow, the images of these figures are included in the Patreon transcript for free. you can just join to the patreon.com/podgap in order to access the transcription of this episode. If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected] subscribing to us at www.patreon.com/podgap you will get access to Persian Transcription & Glossary list of all the episodes that were published.
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  Podgap (142) | Persian Conversation (B2): Getting a Ride Online 28.02.2026 9min

  This week on Podgap, we’re going to talk about ride-hailing services.We have a dialogue about how a woman requests an online taxi and the conversations that take place between her and the driver.You’ll also become familiar with the new vocabulary from this dialogue, along with some cultural tips.If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected] to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgapFull Persian transcriptions of every episodeA glossary & worksheets to practice withPlus extra learning goodies like Persian news, proverbs, vocabulary challenges, videos, and more!Let’s keep learning and growing together — one word at a time
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  Podgap (141) | Persian Vocabulary (A2): losing and finding things in Persian. 14.02.2026 8min

  In this episode, you will learn how to talk about losing and finding things in Persian.We will teach you useful words and simple sentences to explain what you lost or where you left something behind.You will also learn the difference between gom kardan (to lose) and jā gozāshtan (to leave something behind), and hear a short conversation about real-life situations.At the end of the episode, you will learn cultural expressions that Iranians use when someone loses something.This episode is perfect for beginner Persian learners who want to speak more naturally in everyday situations.If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected] to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgapFull Persian transcriptions of every episodeA glossary & worksheets to practice withPlus extra learning goodies like Persian news, proverbs, vocabulary challenges, videos, and more!Let’s keep learning and growing together — one word at a time
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  Podgap (140) | Persian Literature (B1): Eight famous characters in the Shahnameh 31.01.2026 11min

  The Shahnameh by Ferdowsi is one of the greatest epic poems in Persian literature It tells the story of Iran’s history, myths, and heroes.In this episode, we talk about 8 famous characters from Ferdowsi’s Shahnameh.You’ll get to know these characters, and in each section we’ve included a few selected verses from the Shahnameh to give you a feel for the book.Our goal is to introduce you to the world of the Shahnameh and hopefully inspire you to read more of this epic in the future.If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected] to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgapFull Persian transcriptions of every episodeA glossary & worksheets to practice withPlus extra learning goodies like Persian news, proverbs, vocabulary challenges, videos, and more!Let’s keep learning and growing together — one word at a time
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  Podgap (139) | Persian Vocabulary (A1): 8 Real-Life Uses of “Befarmāyin” 27.12.2025 4min

  Hello and welcome back to PadGap!In today’s episode, Hanieh and Mohsen dive into a very simple yet incredibly powerful Persian word—one you’ll hear everywhere. It’s a true magic word: short, polite, and surprisingly flexible.Through short, everyday dialogues—from cafés and homes to classrooms, shops, phone calls, and friendly conversations—you’ll learn eight different real-life uses of this essential word and how tone can completely change its meaning. If you want to sound more natural and confident in Persian, this episode is a must-listen. Let’s get started! If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected] to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgapFull Persian transcriptions of every episodeA glossary & worksheets to practice withPlus extra learning goodies like Persian news, proverbs, vocabulary challenges, videos, and more!Let’s keep learning and growing together — one word at a time
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  Podgap (138) | Persian Discussion (C2): Understanding Friendship 13.12.2025 14min

  Welcome to Podgap.In this episode, Hanieh and Mohsen discuss the theme of friendship—what defines a true friend, how friendships change over time, and why maintaining them requires trust, communication, and healthy boundaries. The conversation also highlights cultural aspects of friendship in Iran and introduces useful Persian expressions related to relationships. Designed for Persian learners, this episode offers clear, natural dialogue, thoughtful questions, and practical language input to support listening comprehension and cultural understanding.Let’s begin.If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected] to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgapFull Persian transcriptions of every episodeA glossary & worksheets to practice withPlus extra learning goodies like Persian news, proverbs, vocabulary challenges, videos, and more!Let’s keep learning and growing together — one word at a time
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  Podgap (137) | Persian Discussion (B2): Talking About Air Pollution 29.11.2025 9min

  Hello and welcome to a new episode of Podgap!Today, we’re talking about a topic that affects millions of people in Iran and in many other countries around the world: air pollution.In this episode, Hanieh and Mohsen discuss why air pollution happens, how it affects daily life, and what factors—like traffic, old vehicles, factories, drought, and dust storms—make the situation worse.They also explain some useful vocabulary related to the environment and talk about how people and the government are trying to deal with this problem. And of course, they invite you to think about your own country: Do you experience air pollution or drought where you live?So, stay with us, listen carefully, and enjoy learning Persian while exploring one of the most important environmental issues in Iran today. Let’s get started!If Podgap makes your Persian learning journey easier and more enjoyable, share it with your friends — it truly means the world to us!We’d also love to hear from you: drop us a message anytime at [email protected] to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgapFull Persian transcriptions of every episodeA glossary & worksheets to practice withPlus extra learning goodies like Persian news, proverbs, vocabulary challenges, videos, and more!Let’s keep learning and growing together — one word at a time