SIX MINUTE RUSSIAN

PODCAST

In this episode, we talk about what awaits first-year students: from meeting the dean and getting the schedule to attending the first lectures, seminars, and meeting classmates. You’ll learn how to behave at university, who to turn to for help, and what to do to make your studies and student life exciting from the very beginning.

In this episode, we talk about the festival “Territory of the Future: Moscow 2030.” You’ll learn about the technologies, projects, and ideas that are already transforming transport, education, healthcare, ecology, and culture in the Russian capital. We share our impressions of the most exciting festival events and show how the future is becoming the present.

In this episode, we talk about how education is organized in Russian universities — from admission and study formats to exams, the exam period, and student traditions. You’ll learn how lectures differ from seminars, how you can get a pass “automatically,” and much more.

How to overcome the language barrier and finally start speaking?
In this episode, we talk about why it can be scary to speak a foreign language — even when we know the words and grammar. We share simple and useful tips to help you start working on your confidence.

Why is Russian so difficult? In this episode, we talk about what usually causes problems: stress, cases, verbs of motion, and cultural differences. This episode helps you understand that everyone faces these challenges — and when you know you're not alone, learning the language becomes easier.

Going to Russia? In this episode, you’ll find out what you absolutely need to pack for your trip — from clothes and a first-aid kit to a power adapter and a phrasebook. We share practical tips and talk about cultural surprises that might catch you off guard. A useful episode for anyone visiting Russia for the first time!

Where should you start when exploring Russian literature?
In this episode, you’ll learn why foreigners love Chekhov’s short stories, which modern book is worth reading, and how reading can help you better understand Russian culture.

How is the Russian language changing on social media? In this episode, we discuss why young people skip periods, what brackets at the end of messages mean, and how "circles" (voice messages) are replacing text.

Tea or coffee? What do people in Russia prefer — the old traditions of tea drinking with a samovar or the trendy latte to go? In this episode, we discuss how Russian tastes have evolved, how these drinks first appeared in Russia, and why the word “coffee” is masculine in Russian.

In this episode, we discuss the most common stereotypes about Russia! You'll find out whether Russians really wear felt boots in winter, why it's uncommon to smile at strangers, and whether it's true that all Russians love vodka.

In this episode, we share the most fascinating facts about Russia — from its borders and cities to natural wonders, peoples, and languages. You'll find out which countries Russia borders, where the most beautiful places are, and how many years it would take to walk through the entire Hermitage!

In this episode, we explain popular youth slang in simple Russian and share real-life examples. What do words like cringe, dushnila, and forsit' mean? What expressions do modern teens use — and how can you understand them correctly?

In this episode, we talk about Russian folk holidays! You'll learn how Easter is celebrated in Russia, what people eat during Maslenitsa, why some take icy plunges in winter, and how young women tell fortunes during Svyatki.

In this episode, you'll learn why Russians rarely smile at strangers, how to talk to Russian grandmothers, and why long toasts are a beloved tradition in Russia.

In this episode, we talk about delicious Russian cuisine! You'll find out which dish is considered the most popular in Russia, learn what pelmeni, vareniki, and syrniki are, and discover traditional drinks like kvass, medovukha, and tea from a samovar.

In this episode, we explore how new digital services are making everyday life more convenient. We discuss how technology can be helpful — and where it might pose risks.

In this episode, you’ll learn about groundbreaking discoveries that are changing our world — from smart crystals to eco-friendly fuel.

In this episode, we talk about the professions of the future! What fascinating new careers might emerge in the coming decades? How can you prepare for the changing job market? And which skills will help you stay in demand?

In this episode, you'll learn about the opportunities available to Russian students, what they do outside of lectures, and how they balance work and leisure.

In this episode, we discuss how digital technologies are changing the modern Russian language. We also talk about how Russian adapts foreign words — and reflect on what to do with it and how to live with these changes.

In this episode, we talk about how artificial intelligence is transforming traditional approaches to learning and work in Russian universities.