What's Wrong With Calling Latin America, Latin America?

The Mysteries of Latin America Podcast

#Society #History #Andrew Colón #Latin America

1:14:43

Artificial intelligence is evolving at an unprecedented pace—what does that mean for the future of technology, venture capital, business, and even our understanding of ourselves? Award-winning journalist and writer Anil Ananthaswamy joins us for our latest episode to discuss his latest book Why Machines Learn: The Elegant Math Behind Modern AI . Anil helps us explore the journey and many breakthroughs that have propelled machine learning from simple perceptrons to the sophisticated algorithms shaping today’s AI revolution, powering GPT and other models. The discussion aims to demystify some of the underlying math that powers modern machine learning to help everyone grasp this technology impacting our lives, even if your last math class was in high school. Anil walks us through the power of scaling laws, the shift from training to inference optimization, and the debate among AI’s pioneers about the road to AGI—should we be concerned, or are we still missing key pieces of the puzzle? The conversation also delves into AI’s philosophical implications—could understanding how machines learn help us better understand ourselves? And what challenges remain before AI systems can truly operate with agency? If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform. Sign up for our newsletter at techsurgepodcast.com for exclusive insights and updates on upcoming TechSurge Live Summits. Links: Read Why Machines Learn, Anil’s latest book on the math behind AI https://www.amazon.com/Why-Machines-Learn-Elegant-Behind/dp/0593185749 Learn more about Anil Ananthaswamy’s work and writing https://anilananthaswamy.com/ Watch Anil Ananthaswamy’s TED Talk on AI and intelligence https://www.ted.com/speakers/anil_ananthaswamy Discover the MIT Knight Science Journalism Fellowship that shaped Anil’s AI research https://ksj.mit.edu/ Understand the Perceptron, the foundation of neural networks https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perceptron Read about the Perceptron Convergence Theorem and its significance https://www.nature.com/articles/323533a0…

about a year ago 5:34

MP3•एपिसोड होम

Why I Call It "The Mysteries of Latin America" (And Why That Might Be a Problem)

Why is it called ‘Latin America’? I mean, we don’t speak Latin, and critics say the name reduces our vibrant countries to a generic, colonialized label. So why do I use it for my podcast and YouTube channel? Are the critics right? Let’s unpack this together.

70 एपिसोडस

What's Wrong With Calling Latin America, Latin America?

The Mysteries of Latin America Podcast

published about a year ago

साझा करें

MP3•एपिसोड होम

Why I Call It "The Mysteries of Latin America" (And Why That Might Be a Problem)

70 एपिसोडस

#Society #History #Andrew Colón #Latin America

Kaikki jaksot

1
FRANCISCO ORELLANA-CONQUISTADOR AND ACCIDENTALLY FOUND THE AMAZON RIVER AND WOMEN WARRIORS 8:32

17 days ago8:32

8:32

This is the story of a man who got lost in the Amazon, before it was called the Amazon… 🔥 who found a river the size of an ocean… 🔥 Claimed he saw warrior women straight out of Greek mythology… 🔥 And somehow survived the deadliest jungle on Earth. But was any of it real? Or was Francisco de Orellana just another Spanish conquistador willing to lie for gold and glory? Stay with me—because what really happened on this journey might be hard to believe. Welcome to The Mysteries of Latin America! I’m Andrew, and I tell the stories of myths, legends, history, and unsolved mysteries from the Northern border of Mexico to the Southern tip of Argentina and all across the Caribbean. From lost cities to ancient civilizations, we explore the stories that many of us didn’t learn in our history classes—until now.…

1
5 MEXICAN GHOST TOWNS THAT SHOULDN'T EXIST 14:36

4 weeks ago14:36

14:36

Mexico has ghost towns, but not just any ghost towns. One town sank beneath a lake, another was swallowed by fire and rock, one was cut off from the world by a bridge that now leads nowhere, and another? Its goes away,,,and keeps coming back. But the strangest of them all? It was one company’s way of saying, no más. If you love stories like this, hit like, subscribe, and turn on notifications. Let’s dive in!) Welcome to The Mysteries of Latin America! My name is Andrew, and I tell the stories of myths, legends, history, and mysteries everywhere from Northern Mexico to Southern Argentina and all across the Caribbean. And before we get into these wild ghost town stories, I have to give a huge shoutout and thank you to my wife, Gaby—who not only suggested this topic but put all the information right in front of me. Honestly, everyone needs a little Gaby in their lives. Now, let’s get started.…

1
La Luz Mala: The Mysterious EVIL LIGHT of Argentina 12:08

7 weeks ago12:08

12:08

Welcome to The Mysteries of Latin America! I’m Andrew, and here, we explore the stories that define the different cultures from this part of the world. From unexplained phenomena to ancient stories, these tales connect us to our roots. Today, we’ll unravel the legend of La Luz Mala, The Evil Light, and I’d like to thank Adis from Miami, who sent me this story, along others from a collection of stories she had that might just show up on future episodes. If you have a story you’d like to share of a myth, legend, element of history or unsolved mystery, reach out in the comments or contact me at andy@andycancun.com. Now Let’s go to Argentina and La Luz Mala, The Evil Light.…

1
What's Wrong With Calling Latin America, Latin America? 5:34

9 weeks ago5:34

5:34

Why I Call It "The Mysteries of Latin America" (And Why That Might Be a Problem) Why is it called ‘Latin America’? I mean, we don’t speak Latin, and critics say the name reduces our vibrant countries to a generic, colonialized label. So why do I use it for my podcast and YouTube channel? Are the critics right? Let’s unpack this together.…

1
WHAT REALLY KILLED THE DINOSAURS: THE MYSTERY OF CHICXULUB 7:56

10 weeks ago7:56

7:56

66 million years ago, something hit Earth so hard it ended 75% of all life. Dinosaurs? Gone. Oceans? Boiling. The sky? A choking cloud of ash. And the impact site? It’s right here, beneath the Yucatán Peninsula. What caused it? How did it reshape the planet—and our future? Welcome to The Mysteries of Latin America! I’m Andrew, and today I’ll tell the story of the Chicxulub Crater—the place many believe is ground zero for the event that wiped out the dinosaurs and gave mammals, including us, a shot at survival. This isn’t just a story about destruction; it’s also story about rebirth—and it’s still changing what we know about Earth’s history. If you’re curious about the myths, legends, history, and unsolved mysteries of Latin America, this is your place. Subscribe and share to join the journey as we uncover these that shape the heart of the region—and our world. And if you stay to the end, I’ll have a little surprise for you about Chikxulub! Now… let’s tell the story of a cosmic collision that rewrote the rules of life on Earth.…

1
THE LEGEND OF THE MONKEY MAN OF NICARAGUA 11:26

12 weeks ago11:26

11:26

In 1974, the quiet town of Matagalpa in north-central Nicaragua became gripped by a tale that blurred the line between folklore and reality. It started on a humid evening as Don Julián Estrada, a seasoned farmer known for his no-nonsense attitude, made his way home from his fields, when he encountered a creature many believed to be a myth… Friend, welcome to The Mysteries of Latin America, where I explore the myths, legends, history and unsolved mysteries everywhere from the Northern border of Mexico to the southern tip of Argentina and all across the Caribbean Islands. My name is Andrew, and I want to help reconnect people with Latin American history, folklore and culture while introducing it to others who might not know these stories, you know, so everyone knows a little more of what makes up our cultural DNA…. Now let's take a little trip down to Central America, and if you haven't already make sure to suscribe, follow and share the podcast!…

1
Ancient Maya Treasure Found by Accident: The Uncovering of Valeriana 11:21

17 weeks ago11:21

11:21

Ancient Maya Treasure Found by Accident: The Uncovering of Valeriana Join host Andrew Colón as he dives into the incredible story of Valeriana, an ancient Maya city discovered by accident in the dense jungles of Campeche, Mexico. This city, hidden for centuries and rivaling the legendary Calakmul, reveals over 6,000 structures that may have housed up to 50,000 people. What makes this discovery even more fascinating? It was made not by excavation but through cutting-edge LIDAR technology, which mapped the city's expanse without disturbing a single leaf. Follow along as we explore how a PhD student at Tulane University stumbled upon this forgotten city during a routine data search, turning an environmental survey into one of the greatest Maya findings in recent years. Discover why Valeriana matters for understanding the true scale and interconnectedness of Maya civilization, and learn about the technology reshaping archaeology and conservation efforts in Mexico. This episode of The Mysteries of Latin America will captivate history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and anyone with a passion for untold stories. Listen now to uncover the ancient world through modern eyes and celebrate the enduring legacy of the Maya. Tune in and learn about the power of discovery, technology, and cultural heritage that connects us all.…

1
The Miracle of the Raining Fish of Honduras 9:48

19 weeks ago9:48

9:48

Join Andrew Colón as he uncovers the bizarre phenomenon of Yoro, Honduras, where fish literally rain from the sky every year, leaving scientists baffled and locals in awe. Dive into this mysterious event in The Mysteries of Latin America, and explore the fascinating blend of folklore, science, and miracles behind the legendary Rain of Fish.…

1
5 TERRIFYING CREEPY CREATURES OF MEXICAN FOLKLORE 14:56

21 weeks ago14:56

14:56

Beware the Shadows: 5 Terrifying Creatures from Mexican Folklore That Will Haunt You! 🌙🔥 Have you ever heard the spine-chilling cry of La Llorona ? Or felt the eerie presence of El Nahual , a shapeshifter lurking in the shadows? 🌑 In this episode of Mysteries of Latin America , join me, Andrew, as we explore five of Mexico's most haunting creatures—from the ghostly Charro Negro to the mischievous Chaneque and the infamous El Coco . Each has its own legend, twisted through time, and is sure to leave you with goosebumps! 🔮 Discover the tales that keep generations awake at night: La Llorona – The Weeping Woman, searching endlessly for her lost children... El Nahual – The shape-shifter, able to transform into any creature, watching and waiting. El Coco – The ultimate boogeyman, lurking in the dark corners of your room. El Chaneque – A forest trickster with a devilish grin, leading the lost deeper into the wild. El Charro Negro – A cursed cowboy, forever searching for someone willing to make a deal they’ll soon regret... Whether you grew up hearing these stories from your abuela or are learning about them for the first time, these legends will pull you into Mexico's rich and mysterious folklore. ✨ Whether you grew up hearing these stories from your abuela or are learning about them for the first time, these legends will pull you into Mexico's rich and mysterious folklore. ✨ 👻 LIKE if you love legends and mysteries, SHARE with friends who appreciate the dark and mysterious, and SUBSCRIBE for more tales from Latin America's haunted history! 👀 Comment below if you have your own version of these legends, or if there are other creatures you want me to explore in a future episode. 🎙️ And if you’re ready for more spine-tingling tales, check out our other episodes on creatures like El Silbón and tales of haunted houses, or email me at andy@andycancun.com for direct links to more episodes!…

1
SOLDADERAS: THE FEMALE SOLDIERS OF THE MEXICAN REVOLUTION 12:06

23 weeks ago12:06

12:06

They fought, bled, and shaped the course of the Mexican Revolution, but their stories have often been left in the shadows. Thousands of women— Soldaderas —stood on the frontlines, rifles in hand, not just following men, but even leading them into battle. One woman even disguised herself as a man to fight and what happened when her secret was revealed was a twist I wasn’t expecting. These women weren’t just supporting the revolution—many would say they were the backbone of it. And today, we’re bringing their stories to light." Welcome to *The Mysteries of Latin America Podcast! I’m your host, Andrew Colón, and today we’re diving into a story you might not have heard before. You see, when we think about the Mexican Revolution, names like Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata often come to mind. We picture men charging into battle for freedom and justice. But there’s a part of the revolution’s story that has been...overshadowed. And that’s the story I’m here to tell today. Here on this podcast, we explore the untold stories, the hidden histories, and the legends that shape Latin America. For those of you who’ve been with me for a while, you know I do this to help reconnect with our cultural roots, to find those stories that shaped our past and still echo in our lives today. If you’re new here, bienvenido o… bienvenida! We’re about to take a journey into a part of history that hopefully will inform and entertain you, and maybe just surprise you. Because today, we’re talking about the Soldaderas and Adelitas —the women who fought, bled, and died in the Mexican Revolution. These women weren’t just cooking or nurses; many also became soldiers, and often the difference between life and death for the men they fought alongside.…

1
Yanga: The African Slave King Who Built Mexico’s First Free Town 12:47

24 weeks ago12:47

12:47

Was There an African King Enslaved in Mexico?!" "Imagine an African king, escaping slavery, leading a rebellion in Mexico, and not just surviving—but building a town that still stands today! What if I told you this story unfolded two years before the Pilgrims even landed at Plymouth Rock? Sounds incredible, right? Today, we’ll uncover the story of Gaspar Yanga—a man whose legacy defied the might of the Spanish Empire and still echoes through the streets of a small town in Veracruz." "Friend, welcome to another episode of **Mysteries of Latin America**. I’m Andrew, and if you’re new here, what we do is dive deep into the myths, legends, history, and unsolved mysteries that span the vast and vibrant lands of Latin America—from the northern border of Mexico to the southern tip of Argentina, and across the Caribbean islands. Whether you’ve got roots in this region or are simply curious about the stories hidden beneath the surface, you’re in for a treat." _"And today’s episode is about the little-known story of Gaspar Yanga, a man whose defiance in the face of oppression laid the groundwork for Mexico’s first free town and became a symbol of resistance against Spanish colonial rule."_…

1
MISSING: WHAT HAPPENED TO THE 43 STUDENTS OF AYOTZINAPA MEXICO? 13:47

27 weeks ago13:47

13:47

Imagine waking up to a world where 43 young men have vanished, seemingly into thin air, leaving only unanswered questions and unbearable anguish for their loved ones. This is not a story from some distant past or a legend this time, but a haunting reality that has gripped Mexico for a decade. This is the story of the disappearance of the 43 students from Ayotzinapa. ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Friends, thanks for joining me on *Mysteries of Latin America*, where I explore myths, legends, mysteries, and history from the northern border of Mexico to the southern tip of Argentina and across the Caribbean Islands. My name’s Andrew, and today, we delve into the unresolved enigma of the Ayotzinapa disappearance—a case that has become a symbol of Mexico's ongoing struggle with truth, corruption, violence, and justice. September 26, 2014, began like many other days in the small town of Ayotzinapa, located about four hours from the tourist city of Acapulco, in Guerrero on Mexico’s Pacific Coast. Students from the Escuela Normal Rural Raúl Isidro Burgos, also known as the Ayotzinapa Rural Teachers' College, were preparing for a trip to Mexico City. They intended to commemorate the Tlatelolco massacre of 1968, where the Mexican government brutally suppressed student protests, resulting in hundreds of deaths just days before the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City. The students had no inkling that this trip would culminate in a tragic and ironic echo of that historical violence in the 21st century. In this episode, I’ll present the official story from the government, explore alternative theories involving corruption, drug trafficking, political motives, a massive cover-up, and discuss how the election of a leftist president has influenced the ongoing investigation. I’ll also provide updates on the current status and prevailing theory of what really happened. If you haven’t subscribed yet, I invite you to do so on your preferred platform to get episodes as soon as they’re released and access nearly 60 other episodes I’ve prepared for you. If you have comments or an idea for an episode, reach out to me at andy@andycancun.com—I’d be honored to read you and consider your suggestion. Now, let’s get to the 43……

1
American Civil War Town Hidden in Brazil: "Americana's" Untold Story 13:34

29 weeks ago13:34

13:34

A charming town was born from the ashes of America’s Civil War...in Brazil…and its name is Americana. And to this day, they celebrate their American and Confederate history…and in a really positive way. What drove former Confederate soldiers to travel thousands of miles away to a new country, culture and way of life? What legacies did they leave? What is Americana like today? We’ll get into all that and more shortly--- and I tell the story of a town called Americana. Friends, Welcome to The Mysteries of Latin America ! I’m Andrew, your guide through the myths, legends, history and mysteries all around us here in Latin America, from the northern border of Mexico to the southern tip of Argentina, and all across the Caribbean Islands. I tell these stories so people like me, who have roots in a few different parts of Latin America, can know the stories of our people and our neighbors too, and also so people who don’t know a lot about the region can know a little more of what makes up our cultural DNA. Now Let’s tell the story of Americana… Here is a link to a previous podcast episode referenced in this episode...it's about the Nazi Cult Colony in Chile...very different, but also compelling! https://acovoice.podbean.com/e/the-nazi-cult-colony-in-chile/…

1
2 Secret Societies of Latin American Revolution: Los Guadalupes and the Logia Lautaro 12:31

31 weeks ago12:31

12:31

It’s 1810, and Latin America is on the brink of revolution. Behind the scenes, two secret societies—Los Guadalupes and Logia Lautaro—are orchestrating the fight for freedom and plotting huge upheavals that led to the formations of countries in what we know as North, Central and South America. Welcome to an episode I’ve called "2 Secret Societies of Latin American Revolution," where we uncover the hidden roles and dramatic impacts of these clandestine groups. Stay tuned as we dive into their stories of intrigue, danger, and the pursuit of liberty.…

1
Naia: The Lost Girl Who Changed Our History Forever 13:03

32 weeks ago13:03