Speak Italian Like A Local
Speak Italian Like A Local is a language-learning podcast hosted by Lucy, a native Italian tutor behind italialikealocal.com. Each episode presents everyday Italian in context through dialogues or short texts, with free transcripts and translations. Paid subscribers receive detailed explanations of expressions, practice activities, and access to a private community. Lessons follow CEFR levels from A1 upward, making Italian accessible to English-speaking learners. It combines practical language study with travel storytelling about Italy.
Episodi
Ten Italian words I wish English would steal
Italian has plenty of everyday words that carry a whole attitude, a habit, or a social ritual. Here I share ten I wish English would borrow, from the shrug of boh to the late night joy of a spaghettata. By the end, you’ll see why most of them work less like vocabulary and more like permission.The ten wordsBoh, I don’t know, and I don’t care toMagari, maybe, if only, let’s hope soApericena, aperiti
Le Tegole e la Valle d'Aosta
This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit speakitalianlikealocal.substack.comQuesta settimana in Story Club leggiamo un testo sulla Valle d’Aosta. Una regione piccola. Molto piccola. La più piccola d’Italia, in realtà, incastrata tra le Alpi al confine con Francia e Svizzera.Eppure appena ci entri, ti accorgi subito che ha qualcosa che le regioni più grandi non hanno: quella se
Weekly Italian Coffee Break #38: Copione - The Copycat
I’ll be honest with you, today I’m feeling a bit deflated. Actually, deflated and annoyed. The kind of annoyed that makes you want to vent to a friend over coffee, you know?So here’s what happened. A couple of days ago, I got a notification from Substack about a creator I follow who had just published a newsletter. I opened it and... well, let’s just say it felt familiar. Very familiar. Like looki
Weekly Italian Coffee Break #37: Bressanone Christmas Markets - When reality doesn’t live up to the hype
Last weekend, I loaded the family into the car and drove to Bressanone to see what everyone calls “one of the most magical Christmas markets in Italy.”You know how it goes, right? You see the photos on the internet, read the glowing reviews, hear the locals and tourists talking about it with glistening eyes. And you think: “Okay, this is the place. This is going to be special.”Speak Italian Like A
Italian Grammar Hack: Learn 3 Verbs to Speak Italian Without Memorizing Conjugations
Struggling with Italian verb conjugations?Discover the "Modal Verb Hack" that lets you speak Italian confidently without memorizing endless grammar tables! In this episode we'll reveal how mastering just 3 powerful Italian verbs (potere, volere, dovere) can unlock hundreds of natural sentences instantly.Perfect for Italian beginners who want to start speaking faster! Skip the overwhe
Italian irregular verbs: Essere, Avere, and Fare
Learn Italian most used verbs: essere, avere & fare.Unlock the foundation of Italian grammar with this comprehensive guide to the three most important irregular verbs every Italian learner must know.In this episode, you'll discover why these verbs are irregular, how they've evolved from Latin, and most importantly, how to use them like a native speaker. We'll cover everything from basic conjugatio
Italian verbs: present tense -ERE and -IRE conjugations
In this episode, we'll dive deeper into Italian verb conjugations, tackling the second and third verb families that every Italian learner needs to know.You'll learn practical examples, memory tricks that actually work, and get plenty of practice with real sentences you can use immediately.This lesson is part of the "Italian grammar made easy" series - your go-to place for friendl
Learn Italian most common verbs with present tense
In this episode, we walk you through the most common Italian verb family: -ARE verbs.You'll learn the simple two-step method to conjugate any regular -ARE verb, discover memory tricks that actually work, and practice with real-life examples you can use immediately.This lesson is part of the Italian grammar made easy series from Speak Italian Like a Loca Substack, your go-to place for friendly,
Italian verbs made easy: -ARE, -ERE & -IRE explained
I’m so excited to kick off this brand-new grammar series with you.In this first episode, we'll dive into one of the biggest challenges Italian learners face: verbs.Yep, the conjugation tables, the endless endings, the dreaded irregularities… I get it. But don’t worry, we’re breaking it all down together, step by step.In this episode, I walk you through the three main Italian verb families:-ARE
Weekly Italian Coffee Break (Italian version): Le Ferie Italiane
Ciao e benvenuti al Weekly Italian Coffee Break, il podcast che ti accompagna a scoprire la lingua e la cultura italiana, una tazza di caffè alla volta.Io sono Lucia, per gli amici Lucy, e oggi voglio parlarti di un fenomeno tutto italiano: le ferie d'agosto.Ieri sera ho chiamato un'amica per invitarla a cena. La sua risposta?"Impossibile, sono già in ferie fino al 20 agosto.”Benvenuti nel mondo d
Italian Indefinite Articles (un, uno, una, un’)
Ready to make sense of Italian indefinite articles?In this quick, practical episode, I'll teach you how to confidently use "un, uno, una, and un’ " with real-life examples, pronunciation tips, and cultural notes to help you speak Italian like a local.This lesson is part of the Italian Grammar Made Easy series from Speak Italian Like A Local on Substack, your go-to place for friendly,
Stories of Italy: Il Palio Di Siena
This is a free preview of a paid episode. To hear more, visit speakitalianlikealocal.substack.comThis is the first episode of “Stories of Italy: your listening gym to learn Italian!”Every week I will upload a new story related to Italian culture and traditions to help you learn Italian through these short tales.The stories are completely in Italian, but don't worry if you don't catch every word at
Italian greetings: How to say hello in Italian beyond "ciao"
In today's episode, we'll be exploring how to greet in Italian.But, before we dive into the most common Italian greetings, there is one thing you may need to know, and is that in Italy, we have two different ways of addressing people, a formal and an informal way.We use the formal address with people that we are meeting for the first time, or that we already know, but we want to show some respect
10 Italian Idiomatic expressions
Learn fun Italian idiomatic expressions to sound like a local.Transcripts will be uploaded on my blog: https://speakitalianlikealocal.substack.com/p/10-italian-idiomatic-expressions This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit speakitalianlikealocal.substack.com/subscribe
How to say "Thank you" in Italian
In this episode we'll see the various ways to say thank you in Italian. We'll cover common phrases such as "grazie," "grazie mille," and "grazie tante," as well as more heartfelt expressions like "grazie di cuore."Transcript on the blog: https://www.italialikealocal.com/category/learn-italian/Follow on Instagram: @explorewith_lucy Join our community
How to ask what time is it in Italian
Learn how to talk about the time in Italian and enhance your language skills for your next trip to Italy.Transcripts and more Italian related content at: https://www.italialikealocal.com/learnitalian This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit speakitalianlikealocal.substack.com/subscribe
Months and seasons in Italian
In this episode of "Speak Italian like a Local" podcast we'll learn how to say months and seasons in Italian.We'll discover how to discuss travel dates and future adventures like a native Italian speaker.My blog: Italia Like A LocalJoin me on Instagram: @Explorewith_lucy Facebook group: Italia like a local | Travel tips & Language learning This is a public episode. If you'd l
Days of the week in Italian
Visit our blog for transcript: Italian with LucyMeet me on Instagram: @Explorewith_lucyGet in touch with me on Telegram: Italian with LucyJoin our Facebook group to learn Italian: Italian with LucyIn this episode we learn the days of the week in Italian, and will discover how to ask what day it is and use time words like yesterday, today, and tomorrow. This is a public episode. If you'd like to di
Talk about your Family in Italian
Meet me on Instagram: @Explorewith_lucyJoin our facebook group: Italia like a localIn this episode we’re gonna discuss the topic of "la famiglia" (the family) in Italian.We will learn the vocabulary of various member of the family such as parents, siblings, grandparents and so on. As well, I am going to come up with conversational sentences that deal with family relations and some tips o
How to say Please in Italian
In this episode, you'll learn the different ways to say "please" in Italian and discover how important context is when using these expressions appropriately.Get the written version of the episode and more materials: Italialikealocal.com! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit speakitalianlikealocal.substac
How to talk about age in Italian
Join me on Patreon to practice Conversational Italian!In this episode you'll learn how to talk about age in Italian.You'll discover how to ask someone's age, reply with your own age, and even discuss how old someone is turning on their birthday. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit speakitalianlikealocal.s
How to count from 1 to 100 in Italian
Speak and start learning Italian today!Download this episode's free summary chart for a handy reference: Speak Italian Like A LocalToday we're diving into counting from one to one hundred. We'll start small with the basic numbers from one to ten. Once you've got those under your belt, we'll level up to eleven through twenty. With the first twenty numbers locked in, we're re
How to ask questions in Italian
In this episode, we will explore the various question words and their use in determining specific information from listeners. I will give several examples from simple yes or no questions to the ones that contain more options and explain what is the right word order. Learn conversational Italian with me and learn how to ask question in Italian today.Join me in our facebook group!Download your free
How to pronounce the letters "C" and "G" in Italian
In this episode we will learn how to pronounce the “c” and also "g" in Italian.We will look at the rules of when these letters get a hard or soft pronunciation depending on what vowels are following them, and we will give examples of words containing both "c" and also ”g”. In addition, we will find the cases when rules are not following which include situations in the case of &
Italian Subject Pronouns: When and How to use them
Discover the ins and outs of Italian subject pronouns in this new episode of "Speak Italian Like a Local."Learn about the eight pronouns, including their unique twists and when to use them.Find out why subject pronouns are often dropped in Italian and when to use them for emphasis, contrast, or clarity.Join our Facebook group where you'll connect with me and a community of fellow Ita
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
In this bonus episode I wanted to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, the Italian way.Buon Natale e Felice Anno Nuovo! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit speakitalianlikealocal.substack.com/subscribe
Brushing Up on Italian Grammar: "C'è" and "Ci sono" Made Easy
In this episode, we talk about two commonly used phrases in Italian: "C'è" and "Ci sono." Have you ever wondered when and how to use them?Fear not, as we unravel the mysteries and provide practical insights to help you navigate these expressions like a native speaker.Discover the fundamental differences between "C'è" and "Ci sono" and when to use eac
How to Ask for Directions in Italian Like a Local
In this latest lesson of the "Speak Italian Like a Local" podcast, we’ll be talking about how to ask for directions in Italian and understand some simple answers. You'll learn some useful terms and phrases for getting around. If you want more in-depth lesson notes, bonus audio recordings and video versions with "synchronized flashcards" to see words written out, you can acc
Mastering the Flexible and Useful Italian Word "Magari"
In this episode, we discuss the Italian word "magari" and its various meanings depending on the context.I explain that "magari" can be translated as "maybe" when talking about future plans.It can also express a wish or desire, either indicating a positive response or regretful inability.Additionally, "magari" can be used to mean "if only" when foll
Italian Words Misused In English
In today's episode, we'll discuss some Italian words and phrases that are easily confused by English speakers. We'll highlight the differences in meaning between English and Italian, providing helpful tips to avoid misunderstandings. We'll cover words that might sound the same in both Italian and English but their meanings are different.I will explain the correct use of these word
How to Say "To Leave" in Italian!
In this episode, I'll teach you how to say the very common phrase "to leave" in Italian.Whether you need to say you're leaving a party, leaving your house, or leaving the country, this essential verb will come in handy.I'll break down the right verb to use in different context.I'll also provide some sample sentences so you can practice your new Italian vocabulary right aw
How to Like and Dislike things in Italian
In this episode, we'll explore how to use the verb "piacere" to express likes and dislikes in Italian."Piacere" means "to like", and it works a bit differently than in English.We will learn how to conjugate "piacere" correctly and use it to say what you like and dislike doing, eating, wearing and more.You'll gain practical vocabulary and phrases cent
Dining out in Italy
Welcome to this new podcast episode, where we’ll explore everything you need to know about dining out in Italy. Join me as I delve into the different types of restaurants you'll find in Italy, from trattorias to osterias, and learn about the traditional Italian meal courses, including antipasti, primi, secondi, contorni, and caffè.Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor
What's the difference between essere and stare in Italian?
In this episode, we unravel the mysteries of "essere" and "stare" - two essential verbs that often confuse learners. I’ll guide you through the various uses, contexts, and nuances of these versatile verbs, empowering you to communicate more effectively in Italian. Discover the key differences between "essere" and "stare" in expressing states, locations, and
Italian Train Travel Vocabulary
Join me as we explore the fascinating world of Italian train travel vocabulary. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip to the land of romance and pasta, understanding the language used in Italian train stations and on board trains is essential for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.In this episode, we delve into the rich vocabulary related to Italy's extensive
How to Say "Happy Mother's Day" in Italian
In this special episode, we'll explore the beautiful tradition of Mother's Day in Italy and teach you how to say "Happy Mother's Day" in Italian.Join me as we dive into the history and significance of this heartfelt celebration and learn the perfect phrase to express your love and gratitude to the amazing mothers in your life.Don't miss this opportunity to add a touch of
How to order coffee in Italy
In this episode, we spill the beans on how to order coffee in Italy like a true local!Join me as I cover the dos and don'ts of ordering coffee in Italy and teach you the Italian terms and etiquette you need to know to enjoy your perfect cup of coffee, from macchiato to cappuccino.Don't miss out on this caffeine-fueled adventure through Italian culture and language. Tune in now to learn how
How to introduce yourself in Italian?
In this episode, you will learn the essentials for introducing yourself in Italian, from basic phrases to useful expressions.Discover the correct pronunciation and improve your Italian speaking skills with this comprehensive episode.With plenty of examples and tips, you will have the confidence to introduce yourself in Italian in no time.Download this episode's free guide here!Join our faceboo
How to Say Happy Easter in Italian: Greetings and Traditions
Happy Easter to all!Today's episode is all about Easter traditions. We're going to explore how to say "Happy Easter" in Italian, and talk about some of the most common traditions that you might encounter on this holiday.Read the transcript and the free guide here!Join our facebook group here! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get ac
Basic Italian Greetings
"Ciao tutti! 🇮🇹In this episode, we'll take a deep dive into the wonderful world of Italian greetings. From the ubiquitous "Ciao" to the more formal "Buongiorno," we'll explore the nuances of each greeting and discuss when and where to use them. Download this episode's free guide here! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscriber
