Send us a textEver wondered how an unexpected encounter at the gym can turn into a cherished friendship? Join me, Matt Chambers, as I sit down with my dear friend and Spanish Professor, Violeta Bernal and reminisce about our unique and humorous meeting in Medellín, Colombia. We laugh about how I mistakenly thought we met at a coffee shop, only to be corrected by Violeta who vividly remembers our first interaction at the gym. Discover the story behind her serious workout demeanor and how it led to our rare connection, all while highlighting the joy of making unexpected friendships.From there, we journey through the gripping and resilient childhood of growing up in Medellín during the infamous Pablo Escobar era. Violeta shares vivid memories of living in neighborhoods marked by violence and crime, offering a raw and powerful glimpse into life during those tumultuous times. We reflect on the positive changes brought by President Álvaro Uribe's policies and the persistent dangers of guerrilla warfare, painting a comprehensive picture of Medellín's past and gradual return to safety and normalcy.Finally, we explore the fascinating world of language learning and teaching. Hear how a chance encounter at the Tiger Paw hostel sparked her passion for teaching Spanish and led to the development of an efficient method for expats to learn the language. From understanding the differences between "ser" and "estar" to practical safety tips for travelers, this episode is packed with insightful advice for anyone keen on cross-cultural connections. Don't miss our heartfelt thank you to Violeta for her wonderful contributions and join us in staying connected through our various platforms.Follow me on Social: https://linktr.ee/mattchambersIf you'd like to support the show, use the links below.https://www.buzzsprout.com/2296085/supporthttps://paypal.me/mcconnectshttps://cash.app/$mattchambers11Support the show

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