Learn Lebanese Arabic with weekly transcribed podcasts exploring Lebanon and its people | تعلم اللغة العربية باللهجة اللبنانية مع البودكاست الأسبوعي والمكتوب الذي يعرفك على لبنان وشعبه
The Lebanese music icon Fairuz is widely considered as one of the leading vocalists and most renowned singers in the Arab world. Just like many others in Lebanon, Khaled and Rana are two of her adoring fans. In this episode, the two friends discuss different aspects of Fairuz’s life and career, including her musical collaborations, … Continue reading Episode 81 – Fairuz
When Khaled is not sure what he should get Hala for her birthday, Rana suggests an unusual gift; traditional Lebanese soap. At first he questions if it is a good idea, but Rana reassures his doubts. Their conversation about Lebanese soap extends from its history to its applications and commercial revamps. Mainly made of olive … Continue reading Episode 79 – Traditional hand soap
Two flatmates, Rana and Dalia, are inviting some friends over for dinner. They are discussing what food to prepare. They will be a big group so the two need to plan what dishes to make and take into consideration their friends' tastes and dietary restrictions. Once they agree, they will need to go to the … Continue reading Episode 78 – Skit: Dinner Party Planning
Graffiti art has witnessed a renaissance in Lebanon in the past several years. New colorful works of street art celebrate the country’s resilience and shed light on its social and political challenges. In this episode, Rana and Khaled discuss their views on this art, explore influences on modern Lebanese graffiti, and share their favorite local … Continue reading Episode 77 – Graffiti
Rea and Mariam are leaving work early when Rea suggests that they get shawarma for lunch because she is craving meat after the end of the Christian fasting period. Mariam, who is a Muslim, reminds Rea that Ramadan has begun and she is fasting. The two colleagues and friends discuss Christian and Muslim fasting traditions … Continue reading Episode 76 – Religious fasting
Lebanese movies are recently achieving a growing success and many have been nominated for international awards. These movies are a great way to know more about the local society. In this episode, Rana and Khaled are trying to decide what movie to watch. They suggest different titles and highlight what they like best about each … Continue reading Episode 73 – Lebanese movies
Dabke is a popular Levantine folk dance and often performed at weddings and other happy celebrations. It is a major part of Lebanese heritage that continues to evolve over time. Rana and Khaled both love this traditional dance, despite Khaled having two left feet! Learn more about Dabke as Rana tries to teach Khaled how … Continue reading Episode 72 – Dabke dance
Mother's day in the Middle East is celebrated on March 21. In this episode, Mariam hosts her mom and asks about her early years raising a family during the dark chapters of Lebanese history that included the 25-year Civil War and 15-year Israeli occupation in Lebanon. It was a difficult period of violence and economic … Continue reading Episode 71 – Mother’s Day
Ziad Rahbani, the talented son of Lebanese musical icons Fairouz and Assi Rahbani, grew up to be a composer, playwright, pianist, and political commentator. He directed his first play Sahriyye when he was only 17 years old. In this episode, Rana and Khaled discuss his artistic contributions, as well their favorite songs, plays, and books … Continue reading Episode 69 – Ziad Rahbani
The delicious maté drink is quite popular in Lebanon and the Levant region. Maté is traditionally a Latin American drink. As Lebanese emigration to the Western Hemisphere increased towards the end of the 19th century, the culture of drinking maté took root in Lebanon. In this episode, Rana and Khaled, both maté lovers, chat about … Continue reading Episode 66 – Maté