By the way (por cierto, a propósito)

Changing the subject with por cierto

When catching up with friends, use por cierto ("by the way") to smoothly introduce a new topic or add a side note.

By the way, we need to catch up today.
Por cierto, necesitamos ponernos al día hoy.
By the way, today I heard a bombshell in the office.
Por cierto, hoy escuché un bombazo en la oficina.

Connecting topics with a propósito

A propósito can also mean "by the way," but often translates to "speaking of which." Use it when something in the current conversation triggers a related thought or reminds you of some juicy gossip.

Speaking of which, you are not going to believe what happened.
A propósito, no vas a creer lo que pasó.
Speaking of which, there is a huge mess with that rumor.
A propósito, hay un lío enorme con ese rumor.

Sharing rumors with al parecer

Use al parecer ("apparently") to share unverified rumors you've heard, like a shocking hint (una indirecta) or a sudden breakup (una ruptura).

Apparently, she hinted at what really happened.
Al parecer, ella insinuó lo que realmente pasó.
Apparently, the bombshell ruined the party last night.
Al parecer, el bombazo arruinó la fiesta anoche.