Recently in the category :
cultural differences

k&k episode 489 - the one where they wonder if it's ok to stray in France... and stuff...

In episode 489 we chat with Frog about whether the French are natural seducers (and we give lots of examples), and we debate whether or not it's socially acceptable to have affairs in France.

k&k episode 488 - the one where they wonder if ketchup should be banned... and stuff...

In episode 488 we chat with Steve about the recent ban on ketchup in French schools. We debate the relationship France has to fast food and whether things have changed in recent years.

k&k episode 482 - the one where they talk about Christmas excitement & making people try unusual things... and stuff...

In episode 482 we get very excited about the arrival of the Christmas season and discuss what Katia's parents should eat when they're in France.

k&k episode 460 - the one where they talk about the day in the life of a pastry chef... and stuff...

In episode 460 we're pleased to present a show we recorded a few months ago with Camille the Pastry Chef! She tells us about a day in the life of a Parisian pastry chef, what it's like to be part of a very male industry, what she loves about her work, her favourite pastries to make and eat, special ingredients and French vs American techniques.

k&k episode 459 - the one where they talk about unusual food from around the world... and stuff...

In episode 459 we present a show recorded a few months ago with the delightful Ann Mah, author of Kitchen Chinese. We talk at length about getting married at McDonalds, localisation in fast food restaurants, unusual food from around the world and missing food from home.

k&k episode 458 - the one where they talk about eating on the métro and happy birthday songs... and stuff...

In an episode 458 we recorded a few months ago with Steve, we somehow manage to spend the entire episode talking about celebrity sightings, eating on public transport and in the car and how we sing happy birthday. And that's it.

k&k episode 457 - the one where they dive back into the cocktail glass... and stuff...

In episode 457 we are pleased to present an episode we recorded a few months ago with Forest of 52 Martinis! We talk about the cocktails that have been invented in Paris, why Paris appears to be a little behind the rest of the world in terms of cocktail drinking, cultural perceptions of cocktails, whether tourists are interested in serious cocktail bars, what the German and Japanese cocktail scenes are like, whether cocktails go well with food and nice (and not-so-nice) bartenders!

k&k episode 455 - the one where they talk about a different type of travaux castor... and stuff...

In episode 455 Katia describes a visit to the beauty salon and we discuss cultural differences in personal grooming habits. We also talk about linguistic differences, wifebeaters and plans for the summer holidays. WARNING: this episode may be slightly inappropriate for younger ears and we discuss some subjects that are NSFW (particularly the wikipedia page we discussed on the show).

k&k episode 449 - the one where they get girly, talking about hats and sales... and stuff...

In episode 449 Katia recounts the happy ending to the Hatastrophy, we talk about the "sales" in France, the laws behind them and the appeal (or lack thereof) of the giant Parisian department stores.

This episode was brought to you by the word "un grand magasin" (department store).

k&k episode 445 - the one where they discuss Baghdad and touching the Queen... and stuff...

We're jumping back in time in episode 445 and bring you an episode we recorded a few months ago with the delightful Ann Mah and her diplomat husband Chris, who tells us about the fascinating experience of serving as for a year a diplomat in Baghdad. We chat about the intensive language training program, learning languages and making mistakes, how to be culturally sensitive and the importance for diplomats to learn about cultural differences, then he explains his current role for the Embassy in France and tells us about some of the interesting people he's rubbed shoulders with over the years.

k&k episode 440 - the one where they discuss PDA in Paris... and stuff...

In episode 440 we bring you a conversation we recorded a few months ago with Naughty Heather and Victoria the Pleasure Coach! We tackle the subject of s(ch)wag, shoes, Public Displays of Affection (or Arousal) in Paris, Sex Aptitude Tests, awkward moments in public, the importance of kissing and communicating what we want, affairs, being creative in a relationship, comfort zones and exploring yourself in a new city.

k&k episode 432 - the one where they decide to let YOU tell the world what adventurousness means... and stuff...

Apparently we just can't tire of the topic of adventurousness, and in episode 432 we decide to let YOU GUYS tell us what adventurousness means to YOU. We chat about the comments left by all the people who filled out our Adventurousness Survey - how different cultural perspectives, risk (perceived or real), age and health can all influence our idea of adventure - and then we reveal some of the adventurous things people told us they've done! We were gobsmacked, and we're sure you will be too!

k&k episode 431 - the one where they talk about national identity... and stuff...

In episode 431 we continue talking about national identity, which leads to a discussion about how our feelings about our country of origin have changed since we've been away, the concept of patriotism and the different perceptions of national pride, which leads us to talk about the definition of expat versus immigrant and how we classify ourselves as foreigners living in France.

k&k episode 430 - the one where they talk about apps and guilt... and stuff...

In episode 430 we are thrilled to reveal some exciting news (not episode 500 related but it IS app-tly amazing and awesome!), then we get to chatting about an article we came across recently written by a guy who was feeling guilty about taking on another nationality. It's a fascinating conversation that leads us to discuss feelings of betrayal, the reasons behind acquiring citizenship, how it might feel to give up nationality, and what it means when you take on another nationality and how do you identify yourself when this happens.

k&k episode 425 - the one where they wonder how to eat locally when you travel... and stuff...

In episode 425 Frog continues to regale us with tales of his trip to Argentina and Chile. We chat about his Argentinean private supper club experience (and talk at LENGTH about how to truly experience local cuisine, and whether such private supper clubs allow you to do this), and he tells us all about a most unusual scam he encountered whilst in South America!

k&k episode 424 - the one where Frog channels Evita... and stuff...

With the inimitable Frog in the studio for episode 424, we get into the South American spirit, as we drink Picot Sours and chat about Frog's recent visit to Argentina and Chile: preconceptions of Buenos Aires, Evita moments, bus travel, his favourite city in Chile (Val Paraiso), why he loved Chile, and comparisons between the two countries.

k&k episode 420 - the one where they talk about passports and adventurousness... and stuff...

As we sip White Ladies in episode 420, we talk about the relaunch of k&k learn french, then we do an update on the passport discussion we had a few weeks ago, and get to chatting about which nationality could be considered the most adventurous according to a recent survey.

k&k episode 417 - the one where they talk about exchanges... of all sorts... and stuff...

As we drink our second sidecars we get to chatting in episode 417 about an email we received from a listener, who is a teacher in a school in Australia, describing all the ups and downs of a student exchange between her school and a school in France. This leads to a lengthy discussion about different sorts of exchanges and the things we all learn from these experiences.

k&k episode 414 - the one where they talk Valentines and holidays... and stuff...

In episode 414 we're thrilled to chat to our lovely friend Steve, and whilst we sip mimosas and munch on oatmeal cookies, we discuss a wide range of topics such as Valentines Day, declarations of love and the worst presents we've ever received (or given), then we chat about Sarkozy's recent decision that all French ministers should give priority to holidaying in France.

k&k episode 412 - the one where they discuss hats and citizenship... and stuff...

We are feeling rather beautiful in episode 412 as we discuss our headgear, and Kylie tells us all about participating in the graduation ceremony at the Sorbonne, somehow we get onto the topic of Justin Beiber, then we discuss the details Katia's future application for French nationality.

k&k episode 411 - the one where they talk about finding love around the world... and sexpats... and stuff...

In episode 411 we continue our chat with Janet Skeslien Charles, author of Moonlight in Odessa, and she tells us all about the most exciting news of her book being featured on posters in train stations around the UK! We get back to the fascinating topic of (e)mail order brides, she shares some feedback she has received from men and women who have used these services, we talk about the "socials" organised by agencies and whether these sorts of marriages can work in the long run, then we discuss what inspired her to write this novel and how being an expat in France helped her in this project.

k&k episode 410 - the one where they talk about grizzly bears and (e)mail order brides... and stuff...

We're thrilled to welcome Janet Skeslien Charles, author of Moonlight in Odessa, to the studio in episode 410! After discussing what part of the world she comes from, what brought her to France and why she has stayed, we chat about her adventures living in the Ukrainian city of Odessa, and what inspired her to write the book, which leads us to talk at length about the fascinating phenomenon of (e)mail order brides.

k&k episode 409 - the one where they decide the game matters here... and stuff...

In episode 409 we continue our discussion with Heather, of Naughty Paris and Secrets of Paris, and Victoria the Pleasure Coach, as we get to chatting about getting in touch with our intimate side and being somatically aware of ourselves, and the possible differences between anglophone and francophone perceptions of romance, seduction and, of course, the final result. We discuss the influence of pop culture in the way we see our sexuality, and Victoria shares some fascinating case studies with us from her work. We talk about why Paris is an ideal city for foreigners to explore the many different facets of themselves and why the French don't appear to be so keen on such a service, which leads to an interesting debate about how people are taught about sexual pleasure and cultural views on therapy.

k&k episode 408 - the one where they talk about Paris, the sexy city, and the culture of pleasure... and stuff...

We're thrilled to have Heather, of Naughty Paris and Secrets of Paris, as well as Victoria the Pleasure Coach join us for episode 408! After a chat about what each of these ladies do in life, we talk about whether Paris merits it's title as a romantic and sexy city, which leads us to a lengthy discussion of perceptions surrounding nakedness, sexyness and the culture of pleasure, and what influences the different ways we perceive these things according to our cultural background.

k&k episode 407 - the one where they talk about jetlag and touching jellyfish... and stuff...

In episode 407 Katia postulates a theory about jetlag, then tells all about her trip back to Australia over the holiday period, including what movies she watched on the plane, how awesome it was to hug her niece, what they ate for Christmas, hanging out with Philexis, New Years Eve, whether the Muffin Man resisted touching weird Australian creatures, spending time with Tracey & Pierrick, how her mum called her out on certain "un-Australian" vocabulary, cultural cringe, and playing a HUGE amount of Sequence.

k&k episode 403 - the one where they learn about cottage country and canoes... and stuff...

In episode 403 we have the pleasure to talk to Lily Heise of Context Travel again. We talk about where she comes from in Canada and some fascinating things about her childhood, like living in "cottage country" and doing bilingual classes. We chat about the relationship Canada and Quebec have with France, as well as with each other, the differences between French-Quebecois and French. After a brief discussion about Anne of Green Gables, she tells us about her various working experiences, such as working in an eccentric art gallery and a canoe museum in Canada and the Vimy Ridge memorial in France.

k&k episode 399 - the one where they talk about where they come from and nerdism... and stuff...

We're delighted to present something we recorded a few months ago with our dear friend PH for episode 399! We chat about what it means to be a "true parisian", our respective nationalities and origins, how we each define where we're from, nerdism and tv shows, how we watch tv.

k&k episode 381 - the one where they talk about beer, salted butter caramel and jinxing... and stuff...

We get into an enthusiastic discussion about beer in episode 381, which leads to some interesting suggestions for some future k&k Get Cultured adventures, Katia makes an apology, then talks about her recent trip to Nantes and the region of the Pays de la Loire, including the discovery of caramel au beurre salé and the usual mushroom dramas. Then we talk at great length about the childhood games like "jinx" and "punch buggy" and their equivalents in Australia, the US and France, as well as unusual customs in different countries, then Katia reveals some strange Australian childhood customs.

k&k episode 374 - the one where the discuss the finer points of volcano kicking... and stuff...

We've still got the tasy Frog in the studio for episode 374, where he tells us about his recent trip to Iceland (hot springs, camping and lava fields), he gives us a most fantabulous present and we talk about naming babies and planets. We then get into a very deep conversation about cross-national intercultural relationships beyond French/Anglo relationships and our "solid entity" where we "all agree with each other" in the our anglo experience in France, and Frog asks us if all anglos (being from different parts of the world) really do have all that much in common beyond our shared experience and language in France.

k&k episode 371 - the one where they talk about couchsurfing and german weddings... and stuff...

In episode 371, whilst eating m&ms (of course), we talk about celebrating Kylie's birthday, and meeting up with a couple of k&k listeners! We discuss the bribe Katiefornia brought us in her bid to get her submission chosen as the new name of the studio, and the fact that Sir Peter rode his bike to Paris, all the way from Oxford, and had some very interesting couchsurfing experiences. Katia also talks about a bicultural French-German wedding she attended in Hamburg over the summer, as well as some of the interesting people she met and experiences she had there!

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!

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.

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.

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.

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 chatting about green beans, laundry, French kitchens, peeling tomatoes and m&ms.

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 apartment renting in Paris and tell some tales, Katia gets very excited about her new flat 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 tv.

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

It is with great pleasure that we talk to 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 differences in the perception and acceptance of nudity and swearing in France in comparison to the US, the UK and Australia.

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, and what constitutes pretentiousness.

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 whether movies should be remade for different countries or adjusted according to the audience, then discuss a popcorn drama and hear a confession from Katia.

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 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).

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 and we talk about our respective perceptions of our national flags, national anthems and national pride.

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 talk about museums and attempts to get cultured.

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..."!

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!!!!

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.

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, pop culture (Glee and Twilight, amongst others) and mysterious tours of Paris.

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 chat 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!

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, how Katia corrupts American men and toilet paper.

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.

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!

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 talk 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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).

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.

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, k&k alternative greetings, meeting up with listeners, bachelorette bidding and some exciting voicemails.

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.

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 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.

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!

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!

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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, 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).

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, 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, drafts, working naked, cold water, ice cubes, catching cold and boogery fingers.

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

We always get cheeky with Heather Stimmler-Hall, and episode 247 is no exception! We chat about our sexy new studio, the award she won for the Naughty Paris Guide, Sacre Coeur, medal-wearing, sexual conservatism and the differences between Paris, London and New York, 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 & what sorts of precautions should you take? We tell some pretty interesting travel tales & wonder what we would do in a sticky situation.

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 - what has to be done to really "experience" another country and the difference between a migrant and an expat.

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.

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. We derail on everything from arranged marriages to indian-chinese food to old school teachers to infomercials

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.

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.

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.

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 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, & we discuss French administration and the adventures behind procuring birth certificates, then wonder what type of glasses Kyliemac should get next.

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, knitted hats, cakes and gateaux, 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.

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

With The Justin still hanging about the Coffee Table Studio, we tackle a number of serious issues in episode 214 : how to deal with zombie invasions, 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 we make a special announcement.

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: 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.

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. 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.

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!

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.

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! 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.

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) - 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!

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.

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 talk 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 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.

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 talk about how to tell if a guy is being sleazy or not, then discuss our feeling for snow.

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 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 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.

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, 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.

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.

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

In episode 171 we talk about visiting the Muffin Man's parents and the skills required when hunting mushrooms, how to identify cheese spiders and how to spot squirrels in the gardens of a château. We discuss our adventures in the forest and at the market, how Kyliemac felt being part of a "French family", and we talk about eating outside, the importance of long mealtimes for the French and discovering childhood toys in France.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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!

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!

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.

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).

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...

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".

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 dreams and m&m research.

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, like boy bands!

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.

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

Frog with a Blog is still around in episode 114, where we open presents!

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

Chaos always ensues when Frog with a Blog is with us, and episode 113 is no exception.

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

Vivi is with us again in episode 112, fuelled by m&ms.

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!

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 and revisit the topic of Sarkozy, his girlfriend and his son.

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

In episode 108 we talk about the fact that when in France, do as the French do - or everyone is going to laugh at you.

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!

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

In episode 105 we bring you the k&k Christmas special!

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

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!

We have some Apps coming out, in collaboration with the awesome Phil of Philexis! Stay tuned for more details!

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Next one : Saturday 15 January
Time : TBA

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