Learn Persian with Chai and Conversation

Latest Episodes:

Interview | Fared Shafinury on Music as a Bridge Between Cultures Jan 17, 2017

Show notes

Speak Lesson 55 | The Etiquette of Being Hosted May 02, 2016

Show notes

If you’re around Iranians often, chances are you’ll be invited to their homes. Iranians love hosting, and it’s common to invite someone over as soon as you meet them. So, let’s learn some of the language and etiquette that goes along with being hosted.

Speak Lesson 54 | Common Persian Sayings and Expressions Apr 19, 2016

Show notes

In this lesson, we learn common Persian sayings that often don't make sense in English. Expressions, idioms- these are what make a language unique! We also learn some common Persian insults.

Speak Lesson 53 | Respect in the Persian Culture Mar 22, 2016

Show notes

Respect is a big deal in Persian culture- respect for your family, respect for elders, among other things. We've learned about tārof- but this type of etiquette is just one aspect of showing respect for others. In this lesson, we learn other ways respect is demonstrated in the Persian culture.

Speak Lesson 52 | Navigating 'Tā'arof' in Different Social Situations Mar 08, 2016

Show notes

In this lesson, we continue our discussion of the Persian concept of 'tārof'- we learn different situation in which 'tārof' comes into play, and how to successfully navigate through these situations. These situations include being paid a compliment, making a financial transaction at a store, interacting with guests and hosts, and much more.

Speak Lesson 51 | Introducing 'Ta'arof' Feb 23, 2016

Show notes

In this lesson, we talk about one of the most important concepts when it comes to learning about Persian culture- the concept of tārof. Tārof is basically the code of etiquette Iranians use in all social situations, and it's quite culturally pervasive. While western culture also has rules of engaging with others, Persians take it to a whole new level. For someone unfamiliar with the concept, sometimes the behavior of Iranians may seem a bit strange, but once these few simple rules are learned, a lot of cultural misunderstanding can be avoided.

LINKS:

We also explored this concept in our popular Youtube video, which you can see here.
In addition, Leyla was interviewed for PRI's The World about the concept- check it out on their webpage.
Or checkout her interview with the LA Times, where again she championed the cause.

Speak Lesson 50 | More about Daily Routines Aug 26, 2014

Show notes

In this lesson, we learn more about how to talk about daily routines, especially routines associated with waking up and going to bed.

Speak Lesson 49 | How to Talk About Daily Routines Jun 25, 2014

Show notes

In Lesson 49, we learn to talk about simple daily routines. These include things like eating breakfast, going to work, having meals, and resting.

Speak Lesson 48 | How To Discuss Travel May 28, 2014

Show notes

In this lesson, we learn the Persian words for different types of transportation, including airplanes, cars, bicycles, and motorcyles.

Speak Lesson 47 | How to Discuss Breakfast May 11, 2014

Show notes

In this lesson, we learn to talk about one of the most important parts of Persian culture- breakfast. We learn how to talk about breakfast- including a list of breakfast foods and important breakfast drinks.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Learn Persian with Chai and Conversation

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected