Jorge Rodriguez: Slang and Cultural Expressions

Approx. time Expression Explanation
4:26 Pueblo chico, infierno grande. Translation: Small town, big hell.
4:44 protagonist the “good guy” in a story
5:52 strength training, cardio-training improving both the muscles and the heart fitness
8:46 varsity kids students participating in inter-school athletics
11:12 dealt a rough blow suffered very bad event
11:37 naturopathic alternative form of healthcare, including “natural” treatments like acupuncture, herbal medicine, and healthy diet
11:57 esophageal cancer cancer of the esophagus (connection between mouth and stomach)
13:08 recuperation recovery, getting better
14:26 with chin up not sad or defeated, optimistic and proud
14:37 chemotherapy treatment with strong drugs to kill the cancer (can make a person feel extra sick)
14:55 the currency of love paid for by the strength of love
15:21 remission [cancer] gone and staying away

Alan Headbloom

Alan advises Americans how to be global citizens and expats how to fit in to Michigan culture without annoying their native coworkers and clients. He also tweets and blogs at the intersection of language and culture. Over decades, he's traveled, studied, or lived on six continents, putting strange foods into his mouth and emitting strange sounds from it. His use of English, German, Spanish, Portuguese, French, Swedish, Hausa, and Japanese all improve with alcohol use. He gives invited public presentations on culture and unsolicited private advice on English grammar and usage; the latter isn't always appreciated. Visit his website for information on consulting, coaching, or speaking engagements.