Learn Persian with Podgap

Podgap
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  • Every two weeks

Podgap provides engaging Persian conversations for learners from beginner to advanced levels. In each episode, you’ll expand your vocabulary, improve your grammar, explore Persian literature, and enjoy interviews with interesting guests.  You’ll also get familiar with colloquial Persian, Iranian culture, and traditions through our special Iran Facts segments.  With Podgap, you won’t just study Persian — you’ll learn how to speak it naturally in real-life, everyday situations. You can contact us via email: podgapp@gmail.com

  1. Podgap (149) | Persian Idioms and Expressions (B2): Why Do Persians Say “Dog” So Much?

    17 min ago

    Podgap (149) | Persian Idioms and Expressions (B2): Why Do Persians Say “Dog” So Much?

    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 chaos But 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/podgap Email: podgapp@gmail.com

    13 min
  2. Podgap (148) | Culture & History (B2): How Persian Shaped the Language of Chess

    6 days ago

    Podgap (148) | Culture & History (B2): How Persian Shaped the Language of Chess

    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 podgapp@gmail.com Want to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgap

    10 min
  3. Podgap (147) | Speak Persian Naturally (A-C): Mastering the Sound /q/

    9 May

    Podgap (147) | Speak Persian Naturally (A-C): Mastering the Sound /q/

    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 podgapp@gmail.com Want to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgap

    8 min
  4. Podgap (146) | Persian Grammar (A1): Simple Present Conjugation of “Want” and “Come”

    25 Apr

    Podgap (146) | Persian Grammar (A1): Simple Present Conjugation of “Want” and “Come”

    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 podgapp@gmail.com Want to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgap

    4 min
  5. Podgap (145) | Persian Discussion (B2): There's No Place Like Home

    18 Apr

    Podgap (145) | Persian Discussion (B2): There's No Place Like Home

    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 podgapp@gmail.com Want to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgap

    8 min
  6. Podgap (144) | Persian Conversation (B1): Bahram & Behnoush (Nature Day)

    11 Apr

    Podgap (144) | Persian Conversation (B1): Bahram & Behnoush (Nature Day)

    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 podgapp@gmail.com Want to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgap

    8 min
  7. Podgap (143) | History (B2): The Hasanlu Golden Bowl – A 3,200-Year-Old Story

    14 Mar

    Podgap (143) | History (B2): The Hasanlu Golden Bowl – A 3,200-Year-Old Story

    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 podgapp@gmail.com By subscribing to us at www.patreon.com/podgap you will get access to Persian Transcription & Glossary list of all the episodes that were published.

    15 min
  8. Podgap (142) | Persian Conversation (B2): Getting a Ride Online

    28 Feb

    Podgap (142) | Persian Conversation (B2): Getting a Ride Online

    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 podgapp@gmail.com Want to dive deeper? By joining us on Patreon.com/podgap Full 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

    9 min
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About

Podgap provides engaging Persian conversations for learners from beginner to advanced levels. In each episode, you’ll expand your vocabulary, improve your grammar, explore Persian literature, and enjoy interviews with interesting guests.  You’ll also get familiar with colloquial Persian, Iranian culture, and traditions through our special Iran Facts segments.  With Podgap, you won’t just study Persian — you’ll learn how to speak it naturally in real-life, everyday situations. You can contact us via email: podgapp@gmail.com

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