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cultural differences

k&k episode 368 - the one where they talk about the ins and outs of intercultural relationships... and stuff...

The k&k summer series continues with the adorable SarahTexasSarah in episode 368! In this episode we get into the nitty gritty of intercultural relationships, what it's like to date someone outside of your culture and the differences in the way you interact. We tackle the always entertaining topic of dating in France, we consider the definition of dating, and we swap tales of cultural confusion and hilarity!

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "sortir avec" (to date).

k&k episode 367 - the one where they talk about culture shock, reverse culture shock and everything in between... and stuff...

We continue our summer series with a really interesting and touching episode we recorded a month ago with Tracey & Pierrick for episode 367! We chat with them about their adventure in moving to Australia - what it's been like for Pierrick to live in another country, and the different culture shock experiences he's had, and what it's been like for Tracey to return to her home country after spending a few years living in France.

This episode was brought to you by the word "australie" (Australia).

k&k episode 365 - the one where they talk all about education... and stuff...

We continue our summer series of interesting guests in episode 365 with an episode we recorded a few months ago with Axel and Michelle (of Paris Urban Adventures and Gadabout World)! We talk at great length about the most fascinating topic of education and the differences in schools, teaching styles and learning styles around the world.

This episode was brought to you by the word "apprendre" (to learn).

k&k episode 363 - the one where they talk about clichés and French comedy... and stuff...

In episode 363 we're pleased to present a special episode we recorded with Stephen Clarke a few months ago! We get to chatting about many and various things - what makes a cliché a cliché, the differences between the French and English styles of humour, whether the French are rude or not, whether the customer is always right, how to get what you want in France, drinking habits, French cinema and French comedy.

This episode was brought to you by the word "impoli(e)" (rude, impolite).

k&k episode 359 - the one where they talk truffles and swap suppository stories... and stuff...

For your summer amusement, we're pleased to present an episode we recorded a few months ago with David Lebovitz for episode 359! We talk about things like truffle hunting, visiting markets and whether the French actually get fat. We manage to jump from discussing his favourite desserts to suppository stories, le gastro and food hygiene. We finish off by getting domestic and chat about green beans, laundry, French kitchens, peeling tomatoes and m&ms.

This episode was brought to you by the word "une truffe" (a truffle).

k&k episode 348 - the one where they talk about good luck and badges... and stuff...

In episode 348, Katia reveals the end of the cliffhanger of the previous show! We discuss how difficult it can be to find a rental in Paris and tell some tales, Katia gets very excited about her new apartment/flat/whatever-you-want-to-call-it and Kylie reads an email from Phil(exis). We then tell a tale of badges, Kylie talks about some projects she's working on, then we discuss some of the tv we've been watching lately.

This episode was brought to you by the word "louer" (to rent).

k&k episode 346 - the one where they talk about nudity... a lot... and stuff...

It is with great pleasure that we present something we prepared earlier, with the lovely Steve, for episode 346! Basically, we talk a heckuvalot about nudity and other naughty things : the amount of skin seen on tv and the like, as well as the differences in the perception and acceptance of nudity and swearing in France in comparison to the US, the UK and Australia.

This episode was brought to you by the word "nu" (nude).

Please note : because of Kylie's paper, we're only putting out one episode this week. Stay tuned next week for more exciting adventures!

k&k episode 344 - the one where they talk about accents, words and pretentiousness... and stuff...

In episode 344, after an email from Phil, we spend the entire show talking about language : how our language has changed since living away from our native countries, what we and the people around us think of these changes, the evolution of language, various methods of retaining or keeping up with language changes in our respective countries despite the distance, and what constitutes pretentiousness.

This episode was brought to you by the word "prétentieux" (pretentious).

k&k episode 343 - the one where they talk about old wives tales and movies... and stuff...

Episode 343 starts off with a discussion of a French old wives tale, then we talk about the Apéro Géant scandal, chaos on trains this week, and then we get into a lengthy discussion about whether movies should be remade for different countries or adjusted according to the audience, and round out the episode with a popcorn drama and a confession from Katia.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un film" (a movie).

k&k episode 341 - the one where they talk about love locks, strikes and words... and stuff...

In episode 341 we try to find a solution for Katia's voicemail dilemma, then chat about some things that have been in the news lately - the love lock drama on the Pont des Arts and students striking about a phantom holiday change! Kylie tells us how her paper translation is going, which leads to a lengthy discussion about translating certain words and the misuse and overuse of certain English words in French (and vice versa).

This episode was brought to you by the word "la traduction" (translation).

k&k episode 337 - the one where they talk about flags and patriotism... and stuff...

In episode 337 we get to talking about culture again, Kylie tells us what she is doing this summer, we give an update on the robbery that happened at Opéra a few weeks ago, Katia makes a mess of a story about something that happened with a fnac contest and the French flag, which leads us to speak at considerable length about our respective perceptions of our national flags, national anthems and national pride.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un drapeau" (a flag).

k&k episode 336 - the one where they discuss allergies, may day and movies... and stuff...

Things get heated in episode 336 as we debate the use of the words "allergies" and "hayfever", then we get to chatting about May Day, manifestations, national holidays, itunes and movies. Katia calls out Kyliemac for not having seen any French movies lately, then we get to talking about museums and attempts to get cultured.

This episode was brought to you by the word "une allérgie" (an allergy).

k&k episode 333.5 - the one where they continue to rock the Highlander in Paris... and stuff...

We're SO delighted to present the second show we recorded at The Highlander in Paris : episode 333.5! Frog, Kathryn & Steve start us off with a song (it's awesome de chez awesome), then we get cheeky with stereotypes again, discussing whether real Frenchmen can follow rules, customer service, Paris as the swingers capital of the world, corks vs screwtops, the Parisian survivalist mentality, queues, macarons, French inventions and the Academy Française, then we finish off the episode with "it wouldn't be France if..."!

This episode was brought to you by the word "merci" (thankyou).

k&k episode 333 - the one where they rock the Highlander in Paris... and stuff...

We're thrilled to present the highly anticipated episode 333 - recorded in front of a LIVE audience at the Highlander Pub in Paris! Kathryn, Steve and Frog live up to their reputation as The Panel as we cheekily discuss many interesting topics such as PDA in Paris, Suze, french waiters, stinky cheese, public grooming, strikes, Starbucks, tourist attire and the Champs-Elysées. And finally, we round off the episode by announcing the winners to the k&k Scavenger Hunt and the Philexis Contest!!!!

This episode was brought to you by the word "le toilettage" (grooming).

k&k episode 332 - the one where they rant about customer service and allergies... and stuff...

We're rather excited in episode 332 as we discuss the upcoming celebration for episode 333! We chat about the info sheet and the various prizes up for grabs as part of the 333 celebration, and about our brand new mike flags (thanks to Canadian Peter!), then we go on a customer service rant and get sidetracked by a discussion about American English. We chat about Kylie's allergies, then it's updates all around with surgery and university news, followed by tales of robberies, encounters with tech guys and Kylie tells us what the Gruesome Twosome think of the podcast.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un vol de banque" (a bank robbery).

It's your last chance to participate in the k&k Scavenger Hunt!!! the winners will be announced on episode 333!

k&k episode 330 - the one where they talk about the ratp logo and easter grass... and stuff...

In episode 330 we drink the most delicious Sidecars ever as we continue our discussion with Steve. Kylie does a Public Service Announcement regarding the Arc de Triomphe, Steve tells us about going to the rugby, Kylie turns blue as she tries to explain Easter Grass, Steve promises to make us Hot Cross Buns, Katia talks about her new t-key, we talk about the RATP logo, then we nerd out about pop culture (Glee and Twilight, amongst others) and mysterious tours of Paris.

This episode was brought to you by the word "l'herbe" (grass).

Wherever you are in the world, participate in the k&k Scavenger Hunt!!! the winners will be announced on episode 333!

k&k episode 329 - the one where they talk about technical difficulties and macarons... and stuff...

With the lovely Steve in the k&k boudoir for episode 329, we get to chatting about Katia's upcoming surgery, phone calls vs text messages vs emails and heinous technical difficulties. We officially ask Steve to become the k&k correspondent for Eurovision, then we discuss the hot McMacaron vs La Durée debate and decide that the only thing to do is test them out ourselves!

This episode was brought to you by the word "un macaron" (a macaroon).

Wherever you are in the world, participate in the k&k Scavenger Hunt!!! the winners will be announced on episode 333!

k&k episode 326 - the one where they talk about the military and tim tams... and stuff...

Frog is still wreaking havoc in the k&k boudoir in episode 326, as we talk about an email from a lovely listener, the once-obligatory military service in France, tim tam revolutions, Scottish accents the Highlander pub, s&m parties and Suze and how Katia corrupts American men. We finish off the episode with an interesting debate about toilet paper.

This episode was brought to you by the words "le chat" and "la chatte" ("cat" and "female cat" or "pussy").

k&k episode 325 - the one where they talk about stars, scandals and salons... and stuff...

Everyone's favourite Frog is in the k&k boudoir for episode 325, as we talk about who Frog looks like, Marion Cotillard, tittaes, musicals, recognising stars, the Oscars, photoshopping, scandals and the way they're perceived in different countries, food and wine salons and how to drink port.

This episode was brought to you by the word "le sein" (breast).

k&k episode 324 - the one where they talk about cultural differences in the workplace... and stuff...

The adorable SarahTexasSarah and Gui are still with us for episode 324, as we discuss cultural differences in the workplace. Gui tells us some stories from his internships in the US and Sarah talks about her experience as an American working in France! From showering with colleagues to free coffee and taco time, it's not wrong, it's just different!

This episode was brought to you by the word "travailler" (to work).

k&k episode 323 - the one where they talk about texan lurve and moving countries... and stuff...

We've got the lovely SarahTexasSarah and Gui in the k&k boudoir for episode 323 where, after a chat about our recent fascinating descent into the smelly Paris Sewers, we get to talking about how Sarah found herself in France and with a Frenchman. We discuss getting married, what it's like to "move countries", the difficulties of learning the language and deciding what country to live in as an "international couple", and what it's like to live so far away from family.

This episode was brought to you by the word "la famille" (family).

k&k episode 320 - the one where they talk about ice cream and pastries with David Lebovitz... and stuff...

We've still got David Lebovitz (author of many books including the Sweet Life in Paris, The Perfect Scoop, and the soon to be released Ready for Dessert) in the studio with us for episode 320, where we talk about whether the French eat ice cream in the winter, what makes expats so nostalgic about goodies from home, cultural differences in the perception of food and it's value, how French food culture has changed in recent years, why fast food has become so popular here, why coffee tastes SO unbelievably crap in France, then he tells us about his newest book, Ready for Dessert.

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "un boule de glace" (a scoop of ice cream).

k&k episode 318 - the one where they talk about castles and camps... and stuff...

In episode 318 we talk about nights in castles and 3D movies, then we discuss a question about school camps in America (posed by Alexis of Philexis) and reminisce about childhood camping adventures. Katia brings up a PACs present etiquette dilemma, and then things get heated as we discuss the (in)gloriousness of snow.

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "faire du camping" (to go camping).

k&k episode 311 - the one where they talk about bites and billboards... and stuff...

We start off episode 311 by opening a present from a fantastic listener, then Kylie makes an announcement and Katia gives an update on her arm, and we chat about Mario Bros, billboards, movie-watching, rhum-rhums and emails written in capital letters.

Interested in getting cultured with us? Let us know!

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "les bébés animaux" (baby animals).

k&k episode 310 - the one where they talk (a lot) about tv and whether the gastro really exists... and stuff...

In episode 310 we talk extensively about television shows (Lost, the Office, How I Met Your Mother, Glee), Katia asks a few burning questions about Glee clubs and cheerleader uniforms, then we talk about the French tv show "Un dîner presque parfait" and whether gastroenteritis really exists.

This episode was brought to you by the word "parfait" (perfect).

k&k episode 309 - the one where they talk about the seasons and public transport... and stuff...

In episode 309 we get mighty chatty about a number of interesting things, including the galette des rois tradition and Christmas presents. We update you all on what's happening with k&k tourist tips & learn french, then get to talking about seasonal confusion and season-centric-ness and unusual public transport experiences.

This episode was brought to you by the word "les quatre saisons" (the four seasons).

k&k episode 307 - the one where they wonder about soup and dead-biters... and stuff...

In episode 307 we are overwhelmed with listener love as we unwrap about a billion presents and cards, and we discuss such things as soup, the babysitters club books, zombies, American goodies, riding in tiny aeroplanes, undertakers and car games!

And don't forget to let us know ASAP if you are planning on coming to episode 333 on April 17 2010 and we'll put you on the pre-list!

This episode was brought to you by the word "croquer" (to bite).

k&k episode 306 UNPLUGGED - the one where they learn MORE about cognac... and stuff...

We're still coasting through the cognac region in episode 306 - you'll hear about our visit to the Bonnin cognac distillery and what else we learned about the art of making cognac and pineau, what we bought at the market in Saint-Jean d'Angely, what we did at Futuroscope, and what we thought of La Rochelle (including the old town, the Aquarium and the road signs).

Oh and make sure you listen carefully to the bumpers - almost all of our parents make an appearance! So if you would like to leave us a bumper, simply make us your friend on Skype and leave us a voicemail, saying something like "Hi this is Mr Magoo from Samoa, and you're listening to Katia and Kyliemac!!"

This episode was brought to you by the word "le cognac" (brandy).

k&k episode 304 UNPLUGGED - the one where they contemplate cadeaux and coal... and stuff...

We're still excited about the holiday season in episode 304, and get to chatting about how Christmas is celebrated in different countries, eating coal, tags on Christmas presents and visiting (or not) private castles.

This episode was brought to you by the word "le charbon" (coal).

k&k episode 288 UNPLUGGED - the one where they discuss horror movies and café culture... and stuff...

We've got more delicious UNPLUGGED action in episode 288 with quite a few random ramblings from the last few months. We chat about The Office and how Kylie has never seen it, horror movies and the pronounciation of this particular genre, café experiences and café culture and falling in the Seine, you'll hear a little bit more from our mini-break in Normandy, we talk more about our (not so) secret hatreds and smoking in airports.

This episode was brought to you by the word "tomber" (to fall).

k&k episode 286 - the one where they get confused about time changes... and stuff...

We get to chatting about many and varied things in episode 286, such as Daylight Savings and time changes across the world, the role that the Babysitters Club has played in Katia's understanding of American culture and the tv shows we watched when we were growing up. Kylie then tells us about going to a concert, how Spotify helped her appreciate it and going to Katiefornia's birthday party, then we talk about All Saints Day, Halloween and Disney, and we finish off with some fruit.

This episode was brought to you by the word "Toussaint" (All Saints Day).

k&k episode 280 - the one where they talk about being on the walk of fame... and stuff...

Episode 280 starts off with a discussion of weather and tears, and then there's the thrill of unveiling a very exciting present from our friend and listener, Dani. We chat about blogging vs podcasting and how much we love listener feedback, and then we talk about some of the listener travel stories we've received lately (such as traveling extensively as a youngster and some of the culture shock involved in moving to another country that speaks the same language). We then discuss the eating of fondue and ice-cream, a dining experience in a Polish crypt (replete with perogies and what can only be described as a "live show"), and announce the opening of our friend's etsy shop, Suis le fil.

This episode was brought to you by the word "une crypte" (a crypt).

k&k episode 276 - the one where they talk about dates and kissing... or not... and stuff...

It's a descent into pure chaos in episode 276 - we talk about alternative meanings of the word "date" and naughtyness in the live chat, la rentrée, post office revolutions, the french kissing ban and we suggest some k&k alternative greetings (with sound effects). We talk about meeting up with listeners and speculate on the bachelorette bidding, finishing off with some exciting voicemails.

This episode was brought to you by the word "une datte" (a date).

k&k episode 274 - the one where Katia talks a bit more about Beirut... and stuff...

Katia's tales of travelling around Lebanon continue in episode 274, as she talks about national pride, rebuilding, cultural differences, safety, currency, food fun, hubbly bubblies, valet services, beaches (or lack thereof), road blocks, learning arabic and being culturally sensitive.
We finish off with a last minute discussion of the PUA Gala-Ball being held on September 19th.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un barrage" (a road block).

k&k episode 273 - the one where Katia talks about Beirut... and stuff...

In episode 273 it's Katia's turn to talk about her summer holidays. You'll get to hear all about her adventures in Lebanon, including unexpected encounters in the airport, crazy driving, party time in Beirut, a visit to the ancient ruins of Byblos, the caves of Jeita and a Lebanese winery, and some of her first impressions of the country, such as what it was like to visit a place that had been so severely hit by civil war.

This episode was brought to you by the word "dépaysant" (exotic/disorienting).

k&k episode 270 - the one where they answer more kritical kuestions... and stuff...

It's very very very late at night, but we continue with the kritical kuestions in episode 270 : our favourite tv shows when we were children, the most dramatic surgeries we've ever had, what music cds are we most ashamed of owning, what was the name of our favourite childhood toys and more!

This episode was brought to you by the word "un jouet" (a toy).

k&k episode 269 - the one where they answer the kritical kuestions... and stuff...

In episode 269 you'll get to know Katia and Kyliemac just a little bit better, as we answer some of the kritical kuestions that we made people answer during the episode 200 celebrations : favourite m&m flavour, favourite Parisian landmark, favourite French food, what we don't miss about our respective countries and much, much more!

This episode was brought to you by the words "le goût" and "la saveur" (the flavour, the taste).

k&k episode 267 - the one where they discover that's what friends are for... and stuff...

Inspired by our lovely friend Dani who spent a few months in Paris in 2008, we chat with Kathryn about friendship in episode 267 : making friends as expats, what constitutes friendship for anglophones vs the french, keeping in touch with friends back home and across the world, permanency vs temporaryness as expats, talking to new people, making new friends, how the internet has helped us make friends, and how the expat experience has changed us all.

This episode was brought to you by the word "l'amitié" (friendship).

k&k episode 260 - the one where they talk about going on a summer holiday... and stuff...

We're very excited in episode 260, as we chat all about what we've got planned for the summer - Kylie is returning to "her America" for some fun in the sun, and Katia is heading back to Australia via Lebanon. We discuss what we're planning to see, do and eat, including reassimilating our respective languages, spending time with family and friends and shopping on Sundays!

This episode was brought to you by the word "l'été" (summer).

k&k episode 259 - the one where they talk about medical dramas, porn cups and compliments... and stuff...

In episode 259 we ham it up as we chat about pinheads, lights, lentils (and how katia and kyliemac saves lives), what to do with x-rays, weird weather and indian tours of Paris, the ultimate lame-o beach (Paris Plage), porno cup adventures, French KFC, and how to take a compliment.

This episode was brought to you by the word "la lumière" (light).

k&k episode 258 - the one where they talk about education and lentils... and stuff...

In episode 258 we talk about zombies, camping out for concerts, Kylie gives us a University Update (which derails into a long conversation about the differences in educational opportunities in different countries), then we chat about the tour de France, glasses and contact lenses.

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "les lentilles de contact" (contact lenses).

k&k episode 255 - the one where they talk about bikinis, speedos and comme elle est chaude... and stuff...

Things are heating up in episode 255, as we recount our travels across the French countryside with the delicious Frog (and the Muffin Man), visiting some very special people and recording in "our" fancy new country studio. With much excitement, we talk about traffic jams on long weekends, how to entertain yourself during long car rides, turkish toilets, families, bikinis, speedos, pool temperatures, names and national holidays.

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "une fête nationale" (national holiday).

k&k episode 253 - the one where they talk about the world challenging Kylie to Bejewelled... and stuff...

We're exhuberant in episode 253, as we discuss the presence of parental figures in the chat, July birthdays and American birthday celebrations, the Bejewelled war, water balloons, school holidays and scheduling in our respective countries, broken bones and dramatic head injuries, the Abbey Bookshop's 20th Anniversary celebration (with scribes, medieval dancers and wine), the "heatwave" in Paris and why this city is so ill-equipped for hot weather (including reminiscing about swimming as kids, power outages and fire safety).

This episode was brought to you by the word "la canicule" (a scorching heatwave).

And don't forget about the 3rd Annual K&K Bastille Day picnic!!!

k&k episode 252 - the one where grandma mac comes out to play... and stuff...

We've still got the lovely Kathryn with us for episode 252, where we chat extensively about the fête de la musique, featuring a lively Grandma Mac moment, then Kylie tells us about visiting the Château de Vincennes (or not?) and Hard Rock Café. We digress into discussions about pulled pork, scuba diving and the Père-Lachaise cemetary, and finish off with a HUGE rant about drafts, working naked, cold water, ice cubes, catching cold and boogery fingers.

This episode was brought to you by the word "la plongée" (scuba diving).

k&k episode 247 - the one where they talk about naughty awards... and stuff...

You know when we get Heather Stimmler-Hall on the show things are going to get cheeky, and episode 247 is no exception! We chat about our sexy new studio, the award she won for the Naughty Paris Guide, Sacre Coeur and medal-wearing. We have a very interesting discussion abou sexual conservatism and the differences between Paris, London and New York, then we get onto the topic of dressing-up, exclusive white picnics, limo services for our guests, what movies parents should show their children before they travel to Paris to make sure they behave, taxi horror stories, and some more on the book fair.

This episode was brought to you by the word "une médaille" (a medal).

k&k episode 235 - the one where they yell mayday... and stuff...

There are many and varied subjects on the board in episode 235 : tiaras, pouting and picnics, weather, public holidays, May Day, buying flowers, the suicidal platypus, Labour Day arguments, cult films like "Brice de Nice", cultural references across the world, time travel and university updates.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un ornithorynque" (a platypus).

k&k episode 233 - the one where they argue over what a beach is... and stuff...

We chat for quite some time in episode 233 about our respective summer holiday plans and everything in between - Kylie tells us why she's going back to the US in summer and not in winter, there's a heated debate about the definition of a "beach", Katia talks about their upcoming trip to Lebanon and Australia and we discuss plane ticket prices, travel agents and different types of tickets.

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "un billet d'avion" (a plane ticket).

k&k episode 232 - the one where they talk about what it's REALLY like to be away from home... and stuff...

Episode 232 is a reflective one. After a discussion about our different ways of speaking (again), we talk about some people we met from London and their expat experiences, which leads us to revisit the topic of expats versus immigrants, what makes some people decide move overseas, accents and homesickness.

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "avoir le mal du pays" (to be homesick).

k&k episode 228 - the one where they tell terrifying tales of travel and trauma... and stuff...

In episode 228 we lay out yet another interesting topic on the coffee table - how prudent should you really be when you're travelling and what sorts of precautions should you take? We tell some pretty interesting travel tales and spend a whole lot of time wondering what we would do in a sticky situation. We also talk a bit about the power of Twitter. Cos it really is cool.

This episode was brought to you by the word "une précaution" (a precaution).

k&k episode 226 - the one where they wonder about uprooting and replanting... with kids... and stuff...

Things get very reflective in episode 226, as we talk about what it would take to uproot a family and live in another country and everything in between - what has to be done to really "experience" another country and the difference between a migrant and an expat, and we talk about some of our experiences and the experiences of people we know.

This episode was brought to you by the word "une racine" (root).

k&k episode 224 - the one where they talk about birthday obligations and how to eat hot dogs... and stuff....

There's a lot of rantage happening in episode 224, as we discuss the superstitions around Friday 13th and birthday obligations, and we cover Kyliemac's public shaming. We also talk about getting your fingers caught in the métro doors and experiences with ticket controllers, the way we've seen French people eat hot dogs and hamburgers, and the best job in the world.

This episode was brought to you by the word "une superstition" (a superstition).

k&k episode 222 - the one where they realise that the cameras are still running... and stuff...

After a chaotic start, Animesh continues to tell us about the highlights of his adventures in India in episode 222, and makes some interesting reflections about the way things have changed since he last visited. In true k&k style, we derail on everything from arranged marriages to indian-chinese food to old school teachers to infomercials!

This episode was brought to you by the word "l'Inde" (India).

k&k episode 221 - the one where they talk about planes, trains and elephants... and stuff...

We're terribly excited to welcome Animesh back into the coffee table studio for episode 221, as he regales us with tales of his recent trip back to his homeland of India. We get to hear all about welcoming committees and train rides, and gleefully open some presents.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un éléphant" (elephant).

k&k episode 220 - the one where Katia decides that Americans discriminate against the "H" and Kylie decides that Italians discriminate against side dishes... and stuff...

We listen to a few voicemails, then things get heated in episode 220 as sweeping delcarations are made about Americans and Italians. It all quickly goes to heck as we discuss doors, drafts, neighbours and peeing habits. And moose. It's seriously classy. We also throw out the challenge to figure out a Secret Sound that mysteriously popped up in a recent k&k Learn French.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un/e voisin/e" (neighbour).

k&k episode 219 - the one where they try to name the kid... and stuff...

As requested, things get gossipy in episode 219 when as we talk about Carla Bruni's plans to have a baby, which leads to a lengthy discussion about our friend Kimmeh's current dilemma - trying to choose a baby name that is pronouncable in both English and French. We also get to chatting about refrigerators and food expos.

This episode was brought to you by the word "choisir" (to choose).

k&k episode 217 - the one where they talk about the Queen Mum Filter... and stuff...

Episode 217 (featuring Frog with a Blog) starts off with a bit of zombie talk, then we discuss doing the show live via ustream and we react to some feedback on our k&k learn french episodes. Kylie then tells us about getting her carte de séjour renewed, which leads to some serious rantage regarding encounters with French administration and the adventures behind procuring birth certificates. We finish off the episode by discussing what type of glasses Kyliemac should get next.

This episode was brought to you by the term "un acte de naissance" (birth certificate).

k&k episode 216 - the one where they talk about pretzels and bretzels... and stuff...

We start off episode 216 by discussing the logistics of having people watch us live on ustream as we record the show, then we talk about Disney and knitted hats. We then compare cakes and gateaux with what we're familiar with "back home", and talk about cupcake shops and pretzels, and the way that access to stuff from "back home" has changed in the time we've lived in France. We listen to a voicemail that a listener left, having been inspired by a tourist tip. And we giggle a lot.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un chapeau / un bonnet" (a hat).

k&k episode 214 - the one where they discuss valentines and friday the 13th... and stuff...

With The (soon to be named something else) Justin still hanging about the Coffee Table Studio, we tackle a number of serious issues in episode 214 : how to deal with zombie invasions (via email), how things come to be named, Valentines Day and Friday the 13th and how they're viewed in France, when and how one should bise the bar girl and how to deal with telemarketers. And then, as silliness continues to abound, we make a special announcement.

This episode was brought to you by the letters S and K and the number 13.

k&k episode 211 - the one where they rant about courants d'air... and stuff...

Episode 211 is one of those episodes where one derailment leads to another which leads to another and then it all goes downhill from there. We talk about all sorts of things : snow, scarves, mini-skirts, courants d'air (drafts), overheating and slippers. This all leads to a tutoyer and vousvoyer debate, which leads to a discussion of how people should correct us when we speak French. We then talk about webbed toes, work doctors and strike days. It's a little bit of everything!

This episode was brought to you by the word "médecin du travail" (work doctor / occupational doctor).

k&k episode 210 - the one where they decide they'll have to go back to Burgundy... and stuff...

It is our great pleasure, in episode 210, to actually pay attention to the Pity Guest we found lurking in the Coffee Table Studio, The Justin (also known as "That Guy Who Leaves Us Voicemails About Sandwiches" or "Little J"). He doesn't tell us much about what he's doing in Paris, but he does tell us all about what he's doing in France - how he got here, why he's here, and what his corner of France is like. It's a fascinating glimpse into a part of France that we've visited but not actually visited...

This episode was brought to you by the word "la Bourgogne" (Burgundy).

k&k episode 199 - the one where kylie gives katia permission to put the christmas decorations up... and stuff...

It's pure k&k goodness in episode 199, as we engage in discussions about our favourite m&ms, the advantages of carrying around a crutch, thanksgiving in France and how to find a turkey in Paris. We revisit the hugging and kissing debate, then Kyliemac tells Katia all about Black Friday sales, and we talk about snow, Christmas decorations, caroling at Notre Dame and Christmas wishlists. We also chat a bit about Tracey & Pierre, get excited about international k&k meetups, hear from a listener then giggle excessively in anticipation of the shenaniganery surrounding episode 200!

This episode was brought to you by the word "commander" (to order).

k&k episode 198 - the one where they talk about arranged marriages... and stuff...

There is more Animesh to be had in episode 198! Animesh picks on Katia a bit, then, after we get distracted by the topic of kleptomania and Kyliemac, he talks about some of his "culture shock" experiences in moving to France, such as what he thinks of hugs and kisses, then we discuss arranged marriages, greetings, smoking, public transport, small business ownership and m&ms.

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "un mariage arrangé " (an arranged marriage).

k&k episode 197 - the one where they discuss the beauty of live streaming audio and free speech... and stuff...

We're thrilled that Animesh stuck around for episode 197 (seriously, we didn't handcuff him to the coffee table, he handcuffed himself there)! We start off with some dream analysis and chat about some alternative submissions to the contests for episode 200, after which Animesh talks more about the "culture shock" (or lack thereof?) he experienced when he moved to America - including mixed messages from the media, the atm card phenomenon, the beauty of live streaming audio, different teaching methods, drinking habits, theatre groups, improv troupes and free speech. We finish off the episode by opening yet another present from a very lovely listener! Hoorah!
Do you guys feel lucky? An extra episode this week? ooooh...

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "liberté d'expression / de parole" (free speech).

k&k episode 196 - the one where they learn about temples of sex and that america is NOT fraught with debauchery... and stuff...

We're thrilled to welcome yet another new guest, the charming Animesh with the enchanting accent, into the Coffee Table Studio for episode 196! We cover such topics as international k&k meetups, continued dramas in French Emergency Rooms, temples of sex and Indian geography, then Animesh tells us a little about what brought him to France (via America), which includes tales of flutes, trojans and whether America is really like it is portrayed in the movies. And, of course, there is some culture shock. We finish off the episode by opening a very exciting present sent to us by a listener, and reveal some details about how you will be able to see the events surrounding episode 200, even if you're not in Paris!

This episode was brought to you by the word "un préservatif" (a condom).

k&k episode 195 - the one where they talk about hugs and kisses... and stuff...

In episode 195 Katia gets excited about her new phone, the topic of Christmas decorations comes up again, Kyliemac gets excited about powerpoint presentations, and then we rant for quite some time about the differences between hugging and kissing and greetings in France and our respective countries, as well as acceptable kissing (as a greeting) techniques. And of course, because apparently we can't let an episode go by without discussing zombies, we ... discuss zombies. Again.

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "faire la bise" (a kiss (hello or goodbye) on the cheek).

k&k episode 190 - the one where they argue about how early is too early to put up christmas decorations... and stuff...

In episode 190 we spend a considerable amount of time talking about when Christmas decorations should be put up (october? november? december? what do YOU think?), and we talk about some of the ways that people like to decorate their abode for Christmas. Katia does a toe update then asks Kylie if she can shed some light on the way Americans make phone calls in tv and movies. This leads us into a discussion of the way we communicate across the world has changed in the last couple of years, and we reveal the intern showdown that may be happening in episode 200, then Kylie tells us about her upcoming holiday to Normandy and we talk about some book signings we're going to this week.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un coup de fil" (a phone call).

k&k episode 189 - the one where they wonder how to tell if men are being sleazy or sweet... and stuff...

As she recounts her plans for Halloween this year, we start off episode 189 with some psychoanalysis into Kylie's deepseated fear of zombies. We talk about where we're recording from, Kylie gives us a university update and we chat about Heather's book tour of the east coast of America. We get into a lively discussion about how to tell if a guy is being sleazy or not, then talk about our feeling for snow.

This episode was brought to you by the word "la psychanalyse" (psychoanalysis).

k&k episode 175 - the one where they discuss being helpful... and stuff...

In episode 175, accompanied again by the delicious Frog with a Blog, we talk about what we've got planned for episode 200, then Frog starts bombarding Kylie with questions about the US, such as what's with the "adopt-a-(fill-in-the-blank)" scheme? We discuss the possibility of time-sharing the Scottish castle, then we address how Katia feels about actors, which turns into a tale of Lego and woe. We wonder whether Parisians and New Yorkers can be considered "helpful" as Frog continues to tell us about his adventures in New York.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un(e) comédien(nne)" (an actor/actress).

k&k episode 174 - the one where they sing off-key over the music... and stuff...

We've got music in our hearts in episode 174, as Frog continues to tell us his stories about travelling in North America and we interrupt a million times with our own stories as well. These include (but are not limited to) gay karaoke in New York, adventures at toll booths, confusion about toilet doors, the ice phenomenon and ads on US tv.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un péage" (a toll booth).

k&k episode 173 - the one where they try to decide between cocktails and chocolate... and stuff...

We're thrilled to have the (in?)famous Frog with a Blog back in the Coffee Table Studio for episode 173, and of course he and Kyliemac have to open up some birthday presents! Frog then tells us all about his summer holiday trip across Canada and the US, and he gives us some of his perceptions about things such as what people smell like in different countries, how good he is at babysitting, dramas in the Greyhound bus and adventures on Broadway.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un lévrier" (a greyhound).

k&k episode 171 - the one where they talk about hunting mushrooms, cheese spiders and squirrels... and stuff...

In episode 171 we talk all about the things we learned when we visited the Muffin Man's parents, such as what skills are required when hunting mushrooms, how to identify cheese spiders and how to spot squirrels in the gardens of a château. We spend quite some time discussing our adventures in the forest and at the market, how Kyliemac felt being part of a "French family", and we talk about how we felt about eating outside, the importance of long mealtimes for the French and what it was like to discover childhood toys in France.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un écureuil" (a squirrel).

k&k episode 157 - the one where they end up ranting randomly... and stuff...

Frog with a Blog is still with us episode 157 (like, as if we could get rid of him once he'd ensconced himself on the couch), and chaos continues to reign. We chat about m&ms (AGAIN!), Kyliemac tells us all about an unexpected meeting with k&k listeners (and we get distracted by Playboy bunnies), and then Katia talks about her summer holiday plans. We finally get around to talking about rhum-rhums, which leads to a discussion of bars and guillotines, then an argument about left vs right bank sentiments, arrondissement envy and Frog gives us a brief history lesson. Amidst complete and utter chaos, we round up the episode with a rant about ice cream, drafts and slippers.

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "un courant d'air" (a draft).

k&k episode 156 - the one where they break into song more often than not... and stuff...

As is usual when Frog with a Blog is in the Coffee Table Studio with us, chaos reigns. In episode 156, we talk about everything from superpowers (Kylie has discovered that she has a new one! what ever could it be?), WITWATAP, how to exclaim "ye-haw", Bastille Day and the meaning of national holidays in different countries, mystery boxes and m&ms, Mamma Mia, postcards and high school photos.

This episode was brought to you by the word "une montagne" (a mountain).

k&k episode 153 - the one where katia talks about visiting every pharmacy in Paris... and stuff...

It's all highly dramatic in episode 153, as Katia recounts a recent near-death experience and her subsequent visits to every single pharmacy in Paris, and we talk a bit about our different adventures with medical services in France. Katia then tells about a Japanese cooking class she did with the Muffin Man for his birthday, then we chat about a very nice review that was done of the podcast (who was the listener who told them about us? come on, 'fess up!), and finally Kylie tells us all about an unexpected Nouvelle Star sighting (definitely worthy of the BFF to the Stars group).

This episode was brought to you by the word "une pharmacie" (a pharmacy).

k&k episode 150 - the one where, for once, they are not the instigators of a rant... and stuff

We've managed to convince Vivi to stay with us in the coffee table studio for episode 150. In this special episode we get all excited and worked up about a post on Doc's blog that's got the French expat community buzzing, and we have a very interesting chat about the way foreigners view life in France, especially in relation to childcare, parking, driving and unemployment, as well as the different stages of culture shock.

This episode was brought to you by the word "la maternelle" (kindergarten).

k&k episode 149 - the one where they discuss their superpowers... and stuff...

As we share some peanut butter m&ms with Vivi, we tackle an interesting and diverse range of topics in episode 149, such as k&k mini-meetups across the world, diabolical plans, pseudo-picnics, superpowers, Nouvelle Star and more baby bottle adventures, then Vivi talks a little bit about her experiences so far as a mother-to-be in France.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un biberon" (a baby bottle).

k&k episode 148 - the one where they talk about whinging... and stuff...

Everything is back to normal in episode 148 (that is, chaos reasserts itself), as we get settled in for a good chat with the lovely Vivi. We have a bit of a catch-up session and spend some time discovering the contents of yet another Mystery Box (this time full of Australian goodies), then Vivi tells us about her recent trip to Spain, and we talk a little bit about how people with disabilities are integrated into schools and workplaces in France, then Kyliemac tells us all about finishing her thesis!

This episode was brought to you by the word "la menthe" (mint).

ps. You can get an avant-première of some of the highlights of the June picnic over on the forum. And if you took photos of the event, make sure you put them up on the k&k flickr group!
pps. Due to circumstances out of our control, we won't be putting any learn french or tourist tips for the next two weeks - but never fear, when we do manage to catch up on ourselves, we'll be putting up the episodes we missed!

k&k episode 147 - the one where they talk about international, intercultural relationships... and stuff...

Whilst Kyliemac is on house arrest finishing her thesis, we bring you yet again something we prepared earlier - in superepisode 147, we have Michelle and Axel with us, talking about dating, and the good and bad sides of international, intercultural relationships, and everything in between! (we'll be back to our normally scheduled programming next week!)

This episode was brought to you by the word "le rhum" (rum).

k&k episode 140 - the one where they declare their reign as karaoke queens... and stuff...

We're thrilled to welcome the delightfully English Rhino75 to the Coffee Table Studio for episode 140. We cover topics such as Gay Karaoke, the advantages of watching Nouvelle Star, musicals, cool listeners, dreams featuring k&k and birthday months (and we get interrupted by a hyperactive Symphony about 300 times). Rhino tells us a bit about how he found himself in France and how he learned French, then we take a slight detour and talk about Grange Hill, prefects and uniforms, then Katia shares some of her boarding school adventures and Kylie tells us all about what she did in the marching band.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un rêve" (a dream).

And we've got lots of adventures planned! We're having an apéro-picnic on Saturday 24 May and we're going to see Mamma Mia in July - if you want to join in on any or all of these adventures (and more on our events page), let us know!

k&k episode 139 - the one where they wonder when they'll get their medals... and stuff...

Axel and Michelle are still with us for episode 139, where we cover topics such as twitter, Kylie Minogue's new medal, reverse culture shock, work visas, the Green Card Lottery, detention centres, graph paper, public nudity, pig farming, tourists vs travelers, brunch & bloody marys, Meetups and Paris Urban Adventures, all the while eating crispy mint m&ms (again) and drinking mojitos (again).

This episode was brought to you by the word "un cochon" (pig).

k&k episode 133 - the one where they talk about culture shock and reverse culture shock... and stuff...

We reach back in time in episode 133 - it's one that we recorded a few months ago with the lovely Tracey and Pierre (of the WITWATAP fame). We talk with them about their move back to Australia, and we get into topics like culture shock, reverse culture shock, francophiles, what it's like to be a bi-cultural couple, language and making friends... (There is only one episode up this week, but we'll be back to our normally scheduled programming next week!)

This episode was brought to you by the word "démenagement" (moving).

k&k episode 126 - the one where they talk about presents and pacsing... and stuff...

As promised, the lovely Vivi is hanging out with us for episode 126, where we talk about some of the specialties from her region (such as bouchon, andouillettes and cheese), she tells us a story about her train ride to Paris, then we spend quite a bit of time talking about a listener that recently got PACsed, what you have to do when you get married here, some our experiences getting a carte de sejour or a residency card, and how to prove you're "integrated".

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "confiture de lait" (milk jam).

k&k episode 125 - the one where they compare facts... and stuff...

Frog with a Blog is still with us for episode 125, where we discuss all sort of interesting topics, such as dreams, m&m research and , following a listener voicemail, the number of continents in the world. We also wonder where in the world are Tracey and Pierre, Kyliemac tells us about her recent trip to England, Katia reveals where she and the Muffin Man have decided to go for their wedding anniversary, and we talk about the latest shenanigans of Carla Bruni in GQ then discuss where Katia's parents should go when they come to France later this year.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un rêve" (a dream).

k&k episode 118 - the one where they reminisce about boy bands... and stuff...

With Kim still in the Coffee Table Studio, we talk about all sorts of interesting things on episode 118: boy bands, comebacks, crêpes (again), chandeleur (candlemas) vs. mardi gras, pancakes, bacon, french toast and other breakfast food, childhood snacks, toilet encounters, explicit ratings on itunes, and the next Nouvelle Star and Star Academy.

This episode was brought to you by the word "créver" (to die/to cark it).

Don't forget to share your favourite (and grossest) childhood snack with us on the forum!

k&k episode 116 - the one where kyliemac proves why she is the resident peepologist... and stuff...

Episode 116 starts off with a yet another debate about numbers, then we talk about cricket, schoolhouse rock, candy (peeps and sugary beans), visitors, time differences, accents, and working holiday visas. We finish off with a rant about a recent photo spread with Cecilia vs. Carla and evolutions in French media.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un blaireau" (a badger).

k&k episode 114 - the one where they consider their acceptance speech... and stuff...

We couldn't get rid of Frog with a Blog, so he's still around in episode 114, where we open presents, then talk about awards ceremonies, the various ways of celebrating mardi gras and theatrical adventures.

This episode was brought to you by the word "cracher" (to spit. because according to the Muffin Man, "hock a loogie" can't be translated into French. If there is someone out there who can verify this, that would be LOVELY.).

k&k episode 113 - the one where they learn how to take compliments... and stuff...

Chaos always ensues when Frog with a Blog is in the Coffee Table Studio, and episode 113 is no exception. We talk about rogue traders, whether the French have any ability to smile, regional differences in behaviour, and taking and giving compliments.

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "faire un compliment" (give a compliment).

k&k episode 112 - the one where they talk about neighbourly manners... and stuff...

The lovable Vivi is with us again in episode 112, yet another episode that is well and truly fuelled by m&ms. We talk about things like typical Parisian apartment buildings, maid rooms, neighbourly behaviour (and not so neighbourly behaviour), creaking doors, toilet talk, Sarkozy and the wedding rumours, Hell, the new smoking laws and the SOS Helpline book sale.

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "fermez la porte" (close the door).

k&k episode 111 - the one where they learn the alphabet... and stuff...

With everyone's favourite Vivi back in the coffee table studio, we start off episode 111 with an impromptu sing-a-long, Vivi tells us a TNT story, then we debate a bit about ads on public television again, and then we derail completely and start talking about dubbing and French game shows on television. We also chat about pizza, beer, spice levels and the French inability to queue (or stand in line, for those Americans out there).

This episode was brought to you by the word "abécédaire" (alphabet book).

k&k episode 110 - the one where they celebrate the non-smoking laws... and stuff...

In episode 110 we wax poetic about the fabulous new non-smoking laws, revisit the topic of Sarkozy, his girlfriend and his son, then chat about ads on tv and television tax, visiting the doctor and the phenomenon of over-medication in france, the juice bar and a perplexing situation involving vous, tu and kisses, and an outing at the movies.

This episode was brought to you by the word "respirer" (breathe).

k&k episode 108 - the one where they learn a few manners... and stuff...

When in France, do as the French do - or everyone is going to laugh at you. In episode 108, we take a closer look at some of the more common rules of French social etiquette, and tell many an anecdote in the hopes that you guys are either a. able to learn something from it and not make the same mistakes as us, or b. entertained, or c. a little bit of both.

This episode was brought to you by the phrase "les bonnes manières" (good manners).

k&k episode 107 - the one where frog finds out if they've learned anything... and stuff...

It is our very special pleasure to welcome Frog with a Blog back into the coffee table studio for episode 107! In a very scary world première (punctuated by the singing of random French christmas carols and childrens songs), he takes the reins on the podcast and interrogates Katia and Kyliemac on how much they know about France and life in France.

This episode was brought to you by the word "la glace" (ice cream).

k&k episode 105 - the one where they talk about French Christmas traditions... and stuff...

This week we bring you the k&k Christmas special! From upside down Christmas trees to creepy Santon (you'll just have to listen to find out what we're on about), in episode 105 we talk about a few of the more interesting French Christmas traditions, past and present. Now, in light of the holiday season, we're only putting up one episode this week and one next week, but they're extra long ones, so you shouldn't miss us too much! (Show links) This episode was brought to you by the word "un arbre de Noël" (a Christmas tree).

k&k episode 104 - the one where they talk about learning English... and stuff...

We tend to make some sweeping generalisations about France and the French on this show, so it's nice to get a "real" Frenchman in to set us straight occasionally. With Tracey and Pierre back in the CTS, we chat about some interesting topics in episode 104, such as the pronounciation and choice of names in English and French, English classes and learning English in France, and for some strange and unknown reason, we deviate completely from the topic in true k&k style and talk about the phenomenon that is "French judge school".

This episode was brought to you by the word "un juge" (a judge).

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There will be no live shows until Kylie gets back from holidays in September! But never fear, the show will go on because we'll still be putting out heaps of interesting stuff for you in August!
Next one : TBA
Time : TBA

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